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The Mannies #2
Manny Get Your Guy
The Mannies
Starting over and falling in love.
Tino Robbins’s sister, Nica, and her husband, Jacob, are expecting their fifth child. Fortunately, Nica’s best friend, Taylor Cochran, is back in town, released from PT and in need of a job.
After years in the service and recovering from grave injury, Taylor has grown a lot from the callow troublemaker he’d been in high school. Now he’s hoping for a fresh start with Nica and her family.
Jacob’s cousin Brandon lives above the garage and thinks “Taylor the manny” is a bad idea. Taylor might be great at protecting civilians from a zombie apocalypse, but is he any good with kids?
Turns out Taylor’s a natural. As he tries to fit in, using common sense and dry wit, Brandon realizes that Taylor doesn’t just love their family—he’s desperate to be part of it. And just like that, Brandon wants Taylor to be part of his future.
Starting over and falling in love.
Tino Robbins’s sister, Nica, and her husband, Jacob, are expecting their fifth child. Fortunately, Nica’s best friend, Taylor Cochran, is back in town, released from PT and in need of a job.
After years in the service and recovering from grave injury, Taylor has grown a lot from the callow troublemaker he’d been in high school. Now he’s hoping for a fresh start with Nica and her family.
Jacob’s cousin Brandon lives above the garage and thinks “Taylor the manny” is a bad idea. Taylor might be great at protecting civilians from a zombie apocalypse, but is he any good with kids?
Turns out Taylor’s a natural. As he tries to fit in, using common sense and dry wit, Brandon realizes that Taylor doesn’t just love their family—he’s desperate to be part of it. And just like that, Brandon wants Taylor to be part of his future.
236 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 1, 2017
35 people are currently reading
339 people want to read
About the author
Amy Lane
205 books3,490 followersAmy Lane dodges an EDJ, mothers four children, and writes the occasional book. She, her brood, and her beloved mate, Mack, live in a crumbling mortgage in Citrus Heights, California, which is riddled with spiders, cats, and more than its share of fancy and weirdness. Feel free to visit her at www.greenshill.com orwww.writerslane.blogspot.com, where she will ride the buzz of receiving your e-mail until her head swells and she can no longer leave the house.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews
June 11, 2017
~3.5~
If you haven't read the first Mannies book, you'll be lost from page 1.
Manny Get Your Guy is set approximately 10 years after the first book ends, and the characters from that story are ever present here: Tino and his husband Channing, as well as their son (Channing's nephew) Sammy, now all grown up; Nica (Tino's sister) and her husband Jake (Tino's best friend), plus their four children and a fifth (!) on the way; and Tino and Nica's amazing parents.
There's a huge focus on family in this book, which isn't shocking at all, considering Amy Lane writes about families: families you're born into and families you make, messy families, supportive families, and families with kids (lots and lots of kids).
In The Virgin Manny, Taylor was Nica's best friend, and he still is. But Taylor is no longer the guy stringing his best friend along while secretly screwing every willing boy in a 100-mile radius. Nope. Now Taylor is broken and wounded, with a bum leg and sporting a "dead sexy" eye patch.
Brandon doesn't much trust Taylor when Nica decides to hire Taylor as her manny. I wasn't really sure why. Maybe because when Brandon looks at Taylor, his dick goes PING? In any case, the animosity lasts like 10.5 seconds, and then Brandon is ALL OVER that.
But Taylor doesn't think he has anything to offer Brandon. What does Brandon even see in him? Taylor, truly a changed man, doesn't feel worthy.
This is a very, VERY sweet story—cute and fun and enjoyable. I adored the easy banter between Brandon and Taylor, and I absolutely loved that while Brandon, at Taylor's urging, attempts to make amends with his homophobic family, he refuses to play the doormat.
Truth be told, I felt the emotions between the MCs more than I felt the sexual ZING. The men are attracted to each other; they tell us they are. But I wanted to SEE it. They go from Maybe Not to YES and We're Moving in Together! in the blink of an eye.
I didn't mind the insta love, truth be told, but I still wanted more relationship development.
The next story in the series belongs to Sammy. I'm thinking Sammy was crushing hard on Brandon but will find the perfect man all on his own. Maybe the new manny (there's gotta be a new manny!) will be the one for him.
If you haven't read the first Mannies book, you'll be lost from page 1.
Manny Get Your Guy is set approximately 10 years after the first book ends, and the characters from that story are ever present here: Tino and his husband Channing, as well as their son (Channing's nephew) Sammy, now all grown up; Nica (Tino's sister) and her husband Jake (Tino's best friend), plus their four children and a fifth (!) on the way; and Tino and Nica's amazing parents.
There's a huge focus on family in this book, which isn't shocking at all, considering Amy Lane writes about families: families you're born into and families you make, messy families, supportive families, and families with kids (lots and lots of kids).
In The Virgin Manny, Taylor was Nica's best friend, and he still is. But Taylor is no longer the guy stringing his best friend along while secretly screwing every willing boy in a 100-mile radius. Nope. Now Taylor is broken and wounded, with a bum leg and sporting a "dead sexy" eye patch.
Brandon doesn't much trust Taylor when Nica decides to hire Taylor as her manny. I wasn't really sure why. Maybe because when Brandon looks at Taylor, his dick goes PING? In any case, the animosity lasts like 10.5 seconds, and then Brandon is ALL OVER that.
But Taylor doesn't think he has anything to offer Brandon. What does Brandon even see in him? Taylor, truly a changed man, doesn't feel worthy.
This is a very, VERY sweet story—cute and fun and enjoyable. I adored the easy banter between Brandon and Taylor, and I absolutely loved that while Brandon, at Taylor's urging, attempts to make amends with his homophobic family, he refuses to play the doormat.
Truth be told, I felt the emotions between the MCs more than I felt the sexual ZING. The men are attracted to each other; they tell us they are. But I wanted to SEE it. They go from Maybe Not to YES and We're Moving in Together! in the blink of an eye.
I didn't mind the insta love, truth be told, but I still wanted more relationship development.
The next story in the series belongs to Sammy. I'm thinking Sammy was crushing hard on Brandon but will find the perfect man all on his own. Maybe the new manny (there's gotta be a new manny!) will be the one for him.
June 11, 2017
Wow, *5* kids? Really??? I have to agree with Brandon when he said:
“For God’s sake, Jakey, get off of her!”
This story picked up 10 years after book 1, where Taylor had been hitting on Tino, while he was falling in love with Channing, and being manny to 7 y.o. Sammy.
Tyler had since spent 6 years in the military and, after being partially blown up, grown up a lot. But he still had tons of doubts about his self-worth and floundering as to what would make his life feel complete.
Turns out, being part of his best friend Nica's large family was just what he needed. And Jacob's cousin, Brandon.
After a short-lived initial distrust of Taylor on Brandon's part, possibly too short, Taylor gave in pretty easily to Brandon's none-too-subtle advances and decided to give "the kid" a chance for them to be together.
One thing that I truly enjoyed about this story was the power dynamic between Taylor and Brandon. At 29, Taylor was used to being forceful and in charge, and Brandon was only 22 and still trying to prove himself, on several fronts. But here, each MC stepped up to take the lead, to make sure the other got what they needed, when they needed it, whatever the situation demanded.
Both Brandon and Taylor have come from pretty crappy family situations, which we actually see in Brandon's case, but are only told about with Taylor, which I kind of wanted to be *shown* as well.
I wasn't quite as fully sold on the emotions between Brandon and Taylor as I was in the first book, between Tino and Channing, but I did still really enjoy them as a couple.
Plus, the naughty bits in book 1 were a bit steamier, if I'm remembering correctly. Still pretty decent here, just not quite *as much so*.
The one thing that I did miss a bit in this story was the actual kids. Yes, while there were spots here and there with the kids, the premise was that Taylor was a manny to 5 kids, so I expected a bit more on-page time with them and their hijinks. It was sort of like reading a shifter book, where there was very little shifting. I just wanted a bit *more* inclusion of that main premise.
As with many of the stories that I've read from Amy lately, this one was sweet, cute and mostly fluffy, with some mild angst to overcome, but not enough to feel heavy.
Regarding the ability to be read as a standalone, I suppose this story *could* be read that way; however, my friend Belen had problems getting into this story, since she felt a bit thrown in the proverbial deep end character-wise, as all of the previous characters immediately made on-page appearances. Even I was mentally scrambling for the first few pages, as it had been 7 months (and tons of books ago) since reading book 1.
Book 2 of this series rated around 3.5 stars for me and I'm looking forward to book 3, which Amy told me would be Sammy's HEA. *rubbing-hands-together*
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My ARC copy of the book was provided by the publisher in exchange for a fair, unbiased review.
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January 23, 2021
3 Stars
As per the blurb, Taylor comes back from the military a lot broken, and when his bff Nica, asks him to help manage her large brood, Taylor can’t say no to her or the much needed job despite not having any experience. Thing is, he’s way in over his head, and no one agrees more wholeheartedly than Nica’s husband's cousin Brandon.
Look, this is from the Dreamspun Desires line. It’s going to be fluffy. It’s going to be a bit heavy on the cheese. There’s another virgin, a lightning quick progression from enemies to lovers, all tied up neatly with love proclamations in a hot second. To say the least, my head was spinning.
Fans of Lane should know this has plenty of hurt comfort, a surprising amount of explicit sexy, lots of kid shenanigans, and families that range from totally awesome to completely awful. This was a complete mixed bag for me that made for an incongruent inconsistent read, but I think many will have fun with this and overlook my unimportant quibbles. Enjoy!
As per the blurb, Taylor comes back from the military a lot broken, and when his bff Nica, asks him to help manage her large brood, Taylor can’t say no to her or the much needed job despite not having any experience. Thing is, he’s way in over his head, and no one agrees more wholeheartedly than Nica’s husband's cousin Brandon.
Look, this is from the Dreamspun Desires line. It’s going to be fluffy. It’s going to be a bit heavy on the cheese. There’s another virgin, a lightning quick progression from enemies to lovers, all tied up neatly with love proclamations in a hot second. To say the least, my head was spinning.
Fans of Lane should know this has plenty of hurt comfort, a surprising amount of explicit sexy, lots of kid shenanigans, and families that range from totally awesome to completely awful. This was a complete mixed bag for me that made for an incongruent inconsistent read, but I think many will have fun with this and overlook my unimportant quibbles. Enjoy!
dnf-or-hated
June 7, 2017DNF @ 20% - no rating
I'm going to DNF - it's been three days of trying to read this, with very little success, and I just haven't had luck engaging with the story.
Maybe it's because I was a bit lost with the introduction of so many characters that have obviously already been developed, and I wouldn't really classify this (at this point) as a standalone.
Maybe it's a mood I'm in. I don't know, but I'm really not enjoying it and don't want to continue. Maybe I'll read the first book one day and then try this again, but for now I'm packing it in.
I'm going to DNF - it's been three days of trying to read this, with very little success, and I just haven't had luck engaging with the story.
Maybe it's because I was a bit lost with the introduction of so many characters that have obviously already been developed, and I wouldn't really classify this (at this point) as a standalone.
Maybe it's a mood I'm in. I don't know, but I'm really not enjoying it and don't want to continue. Maybe I'll read the first book one day and then try this again, but for now I'm packing it in.
October 19, 2017
Amy Lane and her life lessons...*sigh*
I was a little bit overwhelmed by 'the kids' Nica and Jacob have. I can't imagine having five kids and counting...OMG LOL!
They need an education of 'family planning' stat!
This book cannot read as a stand alone, because, there's so many things and people from book one and I think this is like a sequel, sequel. So, read about Tino and Channing the you can read this one.
When Tino in the previous book taking care of one child, imagine how Taylor manage taking care of five.
I liked the bonding Taylor made with Jacob, Nica, and Brandon's family. I think he need to be needed, you know, considering how shitty his family was.
And as for Brandon, Taylor is all he need to call home.
I cannot understand why family treated their kids like that. When all they need is love and acceptance.
I think this one talked a lot about acceptance, love, and family. Mostly a life lesson a fun way, Amy's style.
Recommended.
I was a little bit overwhelmed by 'the kids' Nica and Jacob have. I can't imagine having five kids and counting...OMG LOL!
They need an education of 'family planning' stat!
This book cannot read as a stand alone, because, there's so many things and people from book one and I think this is like a sequel, sequel. So, read about Tino and Channing the you can read this one.
When Tino in the previous book taking care of one child, imagine how Taylor manage taking care of five.
I liked the bonding Taylor made with Jacob, Nica, and Brandon's family. I think he need to be needed, you know, considering how shitty his family was.
And as for Brandon, Taylor is all he need to call home.
I cannot understand why family treated their kids like that. When all they need is love and acceptance.
I think this one talked a lot about acceptance, love, and family. Mostly a life lesson a fun way, Amy's style.
Recommended.
September 3, 2017
So apparently this book is part of a series, and I didn't bother to read the first one (and I won't, either, because I have absolutely no interest in doing so after reading this book). Normally, I read series in order and give a little leeway in the rating to the few that I don't read in order, but...I really think the book would be something that I disliked intensely regardless of whether I had read the first book or not.
My first problem is that this book doesn't really feel like a romance. Oh, granted, there's some sex and they take the express train to InstaLoveVille, but I honestly came away from the book feeling as I barely "knew" the two "main" characters at all. I put quotations around main because this didn't feel like Taylor and Brandon's book; instead, it felt more like a book about two men who are "adopted" into another family because their families sucked. Much of the book focused on Nica and Jakey's (ugh god every time I saw the name Jakey I died a little inside because it's just so awful of a name) children and extended relatives.
So many characters were thrown into the first few chapters (five children, their parents, the mom's parents and best friend and brother and brother's family and brother's kids, the dad's cousin, etc) that it was impossible for me to keep them apart. I kept forgetting who the main characters even WERE in the first few chapters because it was name overload. And a good quarter of the book progressed before we escaped from the new character onslaught.
And when we finally got to the romance, it was so rushed. They fell in love with one another only two weeks after having met. No. Please stop doing that, romance authors, because it is one of my most annoying pet peeves when it comes to romance novels. I love the slow burn, the subtle shifts, the build up.
I never really understood why Brandon disliked Taylor, and then he got over it incredibly fast without much explanation either. Was it because Taylor (who is ex-military) is a hulking kind of guy with an eye patch? That's...stupid. I'll say it. That's stupid, especially since Brandon is also a hulking kind of guy (but without the eye patch). I also get that Jakey (ugh that NAME) didn't like Taylor, which may have caused a bit of distemper from Brandon, but Brandon's reaction to Taylor seems completely over the top. And then, poof, it was gone, never to be seen again.
The author's writing style just felt off to me, as well. I'm not saying it's bad, necessarily, but I found it impossible to engage with for the entire book. Everything felt flat, if that makes any sense, and they all sounded pretty much the same.
But the thing that I most disliked about the whole book is going to be under a spoiler tag.
And that is why I ended up giving this book one star instead of two.
My first problem is that this book doesn't really feel like a romance. Oh, granted, there's some sex and they take the express train to InstaLoveVille, but I honestly came away from the book feeling as I barely "knew" the two "main" characters at all. I put quotations around main because this didn't feel like Taylor and Brandon's book; instead, it felt more like a book about two men who are "adopted" into another family because their families sucked. Much of the book focused on Nica and Jakey's (ugh god every time I saw the name Jakey I died a little inside because it's just so awful of a name) children and extended relatives.
So many characters were thrown into the first few chapters (five children, their parents, the mom's parents and best friend and brother and brother's family and brother's kids, the dad's cousin, etc) that it was impossible for me to keep them apart. I kept forgetting who the main characters even WERE in the first few chapters because it was name overload. And a good quarter of the book progressed before we escaped from the new character onslaught.
And when we finally got to the romance, it was so rushed. They fell in love with one another only two weeks after having met. No. Please stop doing that, romance authors, because it is one of my most annoying pet peeves when it comes to romance novels. I love the slow burn, the subtle shifts, the build up.
I never really understood why Brandon disliked Taylor, and then he got over it incredibly fast without much explanation either. Was it because Taylor (who is ex-military) is a hulking kind of guy with an eye patch? That's...stupid. I'll say it. That's stupid, especially since Brandon is also a hulking kind of guy (but without the eye patch). I also get that Jakey (ugh that NAME) didn't like Taylor, which may have caused a bit of distemper from Brandon, but Brandon's reaction to Taylor seems completely over the top. And then, poof, it was gone, never to be seen again.
The author's writing style just felt off to me, as well. I'm not saying it's bad, necessarily, but I found it impossible to engage with for the entire book. Everything felt flat, if that makes any sense, and they all sounded pretty much the same.
But the thing that I most disliked about the whole book is going to be under a spoiler tag.
And that is why I ended up giving this book one star instead of two.
September 25, 2017
*** DNF @ 20% ***
The beginning of this book was filled with background story and baggage and a million extraneous details that I'm sure the author thought was folksy or quirky or mimicking the chaos of 'real life' but that I just found supremely irritating.
I hate to give up on the book before the main characters really start to interact, but... Nope. Can't do it. I cannot read another 200 pages of this nonsense.
The beginning of this book was filled with background story and baggage and a million extraneous details that I'm sure the author thought was folksy or quirky or mimicking the chaos of 'real life' but that I just found supremely irritating.
I hate to give up on the book before the main characters really start to interact, but... Nope. Can't do it. I cannot read another 200 pages of this nonsense.
July 15, 2017
*** Terrific tale of a wounded Warrior finding a "family" and an unlikely love !
Young Brandon, 22, has been with Jacob and Nica's family for awhile, and works construction.
They took him in when his folks kicked him out for being gay.
Taylor, 29, had a violent childhood and was injured overseas.
Nica, his best friend from grade school, has always been there for him. He's scarred and struggles every day with his ravaged muscles and only one eye. He'll be babysitting Nica and Jacob's 4 kids because Nica is pregnant again, overwhelmed and needs assistance.
This cast of characters in the blended family is crazy but lovable. They are full of energy, love and acceptance. I felt like I fit right in as I read about there issues. This is well written by Amy Lane, who really knows how to reveal family ties.
Several things are happening, as Brandon's crap family is pressuring him, wanting to take advantage of him, and Nica becomes bedridden, while the construction of the addition to their house is going on, and Taylor keeps the kids rounded up. There's hot sex, a great plot, and lots of heart. Small scenes along the way give us insight to our MCs, as well as the supporting folks. No one is perfect, but they love and care intensely.
This book can stand alone. I didn't read the 1st book, and was right on board.
It's heartwarming and fabulous. ENJOY !
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Young Brandon, 22, has been with Jacob and Nica's family for awhile, and works construction.
They took him in when his folks kicked him out for being gay.
Taylor, 29, had a violent childhood and was injured overseas.
Nica, his best friend from grade school, has always been there for him. He's scarred and struggles every day with his ravaged muscles and only one eye. He'll be babysitting Nica and Jacob's 4 kids because Nica is pregnant again, overwhelmed and needs assistance.
This cast of characters in the blended family is crazy but lovable. They are full of energy, love and acceptance. I felt like I fit right in as I read about there issues. This is well written by Amy Lane, who really knows how to reveal family ties.
Several things are happening, as Brandon's crap family is pressuring him, wanting to take advantage of him, and Nica becomes bedridden, while the construction of the addition to their house is going on, and Taylor keeps the kids rounded up. There's hot sex, a great plot, and lots of heart. Small scenes along the way give us insight to our MCs, as well as the supporting folks. No one is perfect, but they love and care intensely.
This book can stand alone. I didn't read the 1st book, and was right on board.
It's heartwarming and fabulous. ENJOY !
===========================
October 4, 2017
When I saw the title Manny Get Your Guy, I admit I figured it for the kind of sweet and easy comfort read Amy Lane does so beautifully. On one hand that is completely true, but nestled in amongst the banter between old friends, some scorching sexual tension, and several just plain adorable scenes with the kids, Lane slips in a powerful message. Duty, family, honor, and appreciating what we have.
Manny Get Your Guy is the second in The Mannies Series but can definitely be read as a standalone.
There are some very poignant moments when Taylor looks back at his life before being wounded in the Army. He says his life was full of one want after another - a job, an education, leisure time, hot sex “I wanted it all and I wanted it now.” Then his unit was attacked and he woke up in a hospital bed, which slammed everything into perspective.
The Taylor who returns to his home-town is a very different man from the guy who left years before.
He’s burned some bridges with actions from his past, but it’s not long before people see him for who he is now.
As the story progresses Taylor develops a relationship with Brandon, cousin to the family who’s given Taylor a manny job.
Brandon, with his open and honest nature, is able to coax Taylor out of his shell.
Brandon’s support helps Taylor start to recover from the injuries he sustained, both physical and emotional. It broke my heart how starved for affection Taylor was after spending a year in rehab, and Brandon is the perfect guy to give Taylor a start on a new life.
Amy Lane’s character descriptions are so vivid, and listening to them read in John Solo’s beautifully expressive voice is the perfect combination.
Solo’s Taylor is gruff and a little bit unsure of himself, while his Brandon is macho with a huge side of sweet and tender. One of my favorite narrators, Solo has an incredible variety of voices which he needs in this story. There are quite a few women and kids, which he did very well. I was especially impressed with the voice he uses for Mitchell Grayson, Brandon’s father, who is ill and old. He has the crotchety old codger down pat.
Manny Get Your Guy sure gave me something to think about. It wasn’t what I was expecting but I was incredibly pleased. Amy Lane really gets into the heart of these characters and delivers an intense message without coming off preachy. I highly recommend this story and I’m going to look into book one in the series, The Virgin Manny.
Manny Get Your Guy is the second in The Mannies Series but can definitely be read as a standalone.
There are some very poignant moments when Taylor looks back at his life before being wounded in the Army. He says his life was full of one want after another - a job, an education, leisure time, hot sex “I wanted it all and I wanted it now.” Then his unit was attacked and he woke up in a hospital bed, which slammed everything into perspective.
The Taylor who returns to his home-town is a very different man from the guy who left years before.
He’s burned some bridges with actions from his past, but it’s not long before people see him for who he is now.
As the story progresses Taylor develops a relationship with Brandon, cousin to the family who’s given Taylor a manny job.
Brandon, with his open and honest nature, is able to coax Taylor out of his shell.
Brandon’s support helps Taylor start to recover from the injuries he sustained, both physical and emotional. It broke my heart how starved for affection Taylor was after spending a year in rehab, and Brandon is the perfect guy to give Taylor a start on a new life.
Amy Lane’s character descriptions are so vivid, and listening to them read in John Solo’s beautifully expressive voice is the perfect combination.
Solo’s Taylor is gruff and a little bit unsure of himself, while his Brandon is macho with a huge side of sweet and tender. One of my favorite narrators, Solo has an incredible variety of voices which he needs in this story. There are quite a few women and kids, which he did very well. I was especially impressed with the voice he uses for Mitchell Grayson, Brandon’s father, who is ill and old. He has the crotchety old codger down pat.
Manny Get Your Guy sure gave me something to think about. It wasn’t what I was expecting but I was incredibly pleased. Amy Lane really gets into the heart of these characters and delivers an intense message without coming off preachy. I highly recommend this story and I’m going to look into book one in the series, The Virgin Manny.
September 20, 2018
I like this universe very much and it was lovely to revisit Tino and Channing and Nica and Jake.
I liked the man Taylor became and while Brandon seemed pushy at the beginning I loved how they were there for each other when it counted and when it was needed.
I like Amy Lane's families of choice. And while I don't think Brandon's family deserved the second chance I liked how Brandon put his foot down and was willing and able to fight for his actual family. I also loved them with the kids.
It was a very sweet book.
So a third one is in order, right? I mean the poor boy living in his car deserves all the love in the world.
I liked the man Taylor became and while Brandon seemed pushy at the beginning I loved how they were there for each other when it counted and when it was needed.
I like Amy Lane's families of choice. And while I don't think Brandon's family deserved the second chance I liked how Brandon put his foot down and was willing and able to fight for his actual family. I also loved them with the kids.
It was a very sweet book.
So a third one is in order, right? I mean the poor boy living in his car deserves all the love in the world.
July 1, 2017
I definitely think you need to have read “The Virgin Manny” for this to make a lot of sense. While I suppose there’s enough information for it to be a standalone, really, the first part of the story and all the background is found in the earlier book.
We met Taylor when he was young and dumb and full of … well, spunk and attitude.
He didn’t make any friends with the way he was hiding and that sense of self-loathing has lingered. Now he’s a new man with a ton of baggage. It wouldn’t be an Amy story if we didn’t have some baggage, right?
Well, Brandon has his own issues, but really, he’s quite stable and he’s definitely the rock in this relationship.
Because the Dreamspun genre really supports this type of plot, our guys get together and fall in love with ridiculous ease. However, there are some really great moments between them and their families. It’s not just “blink and it all goes away.” This story, as compared the “The Virgin” has a lot more steam in it (much appreciated!!) and our MCs have a ton of chemistry.
I think I like this book better than book 1 because the characters felt more solid to me and the situation, while still a bit predictable, was unique enough and had some very “real life” elements in it that made it feel authentic.
As always, it was great to revisit the characters from book 1, and I found it fascinating how different Jacob was in this story versus the first book. Besides the passage of time, I think fatherhood absolutely shaped him a lot!
If I have any problems at all it’s that the initial reaction of Brandon to Taylor never made sense to me – I wasn’t ever quite sure where his anger came from, so I was glad it went away quickly.
All in all, highly recommended to fans of the author, book 1, sweet but hurt veterans, and stories with kids.
4.5 of 5 stars
We met Taylor when he was young and dumb and full of … well, spunk and attitude.
He didn’t make any friends with the way he was hiding and that sense of self-loathing has lingered. Now he’s a new man with a ton of baggage. It wouldn’t be an Amy story if we didn’t have some baggage, right?
Well, Brandon has his own issues, but really, he’s quite stable and he’s definitely the rock in this relationship.
Because the Dreamspun genre really supports this type of plot, our guys get together and fall in love with ridiculous ease. However, there are some really great moments between them and their families. It’s not just “blink and it all goes away.” This story, as compared the “The Virgin” has a lot more steam in it (much appreciated!!) and our MCs have a ton of chemistry.
I think I like this book better than book 1 because the characters felt more solid to me and the situation, while still a bit predictable, was unique enough and had some very “real life” elements in it that made it feel authentic.
As always, it was great to revisit the characters from book 1, and I found it fascinating how different Jacob was in this story versus the first book. Besides the passage of time, I think fatherhood absolutely shaped him a lot!
If I have any problems at all it’s that the initial reaction of Brandon to Taylor never made sense to me – I wasn’t ever quite sure where his anger came from, so I was glad it went away quickly.
All in all, highly recommended to fans of the author, book 1, sweet but hurt veterans, and stories with kids.
4.5 of 5 stars
June 30, 2017
This book is a sequel of sorts to The Virgin Manny, set about 10 years after the first book. If you've read the first book, you'll remember Nica, Tino's sister, and her now-husband Jacob/baby-daddy, who can't seem to stop procreating, as kid number five is on the way. And Nica needs help.
Thankfully, her best friend Taylor (he who was sort of dating Nica while hitting on Tino in book 1 while Tino was falling for Channing) is back in town, and 10 years is enough time to forgive and forget, right? Nica needs help with the kids, Taylor needs a job - voila, a new manny.
Except Brandon, Jacob's cousin, old enough at the time to remember Taylor being a douche, didn't get the "forgive and forget" memo, so he has some initial doubts about Taylor's good-guy persona and makes his concerns known. In his face. Multiple times
For some reason though, Brandon changes his mind quickly about Taylor and it's on like Donkey Kong.
I quite liked both Taylor (29 here) and Brandon (22) because they actually really seemed to care about each other. Yeah, the love is pretty insta, but this is a Dreamspun Desires title so I kind of expect that. They did both step up to the plate though, providing each other what they needed, and Brandon, though younger, is certainly all in from the moment he gets his head out of his ass. Taylor is a bit more reluctant to jump in with both feet, and has some doubts that he's right for Brandon. Persistence pays off nonetheless, and eventually Taylor jumps too.
There's some cute banter too, and a lot of family time is woven into the plot as well, so much so that the romance almost took a backseat. The steam is within the limits set for this series, though I'm only mentioning this for those readers that like a lot of sexy times in their books - this isn't one of those. I myself don't care either way, as long as the relationship makes sense, and I don't miss the steam if it's not present.
I would have liked there to be more interactions with the actual kids, considering Taylor is the manny, but with the exception of a few moments, it was mostly adults on page.
This is billed as a standalone, but I wouldn't recommend reading this book on its own without having read the first one. Most of the characters in this book were established in the first one, and I think it's important for the reader to know the relationships since they're not explained in this book.
Manny Get Your Guy is pure sugary-sweet fluff, and as such a perfect addition to this mostly fluffy series. I had a great time reading this.
** I received a free copy of this book from its publisher. A positive review was not promised in return. **
Thankfully, her best friend Taylor (he who was sort of dating Nica while hitting on Tino in book 1 while Tino was falling for Channing) is back in town, and 10 years is enough time to forgive and forget, right? Nica needs help with the kids, Taylor needs a job - voila, a new manny.
Except Brandon, Jacob's cousin, old enough at the time to remember Taylor being a douche, didn't get the "forgive and forget" memo, so he has some initial doubts about Taylor's good-guy persona and makes his concerns known. In his face. Multiple times
For some reason though, Brandon changes his mind quickly about Taylor and it's on like Donkey Kong.
I quite liked both Taylor (29 here) and Brandon (22) because they actually really seemed to care about each other. Yeah, the love is pretty insta, but this is a Dreamspun Desires title so I kind of expect that. They did both step up to the plate though, providing each other what they needed, and Brandon, though younger, is certainly all in from the moment he gets his head out of his ass. Taylor is a bit more reluctant to jump in with both feet, and has some doubts that he's right for Brandon. Persistence pays off nonetheless, and eventually Taylor jumps too.
There's some cute banter too, and a lot of family time is woven into the plot as well, so much so that the romance almost took a backseat. The steam is within the limits set for this series, though I'm only mentioning this for those readers that like a lot of sexy times in their books - this isn't one of those. I myself don't care either way, as long as the relationship makes sense, and I don't miss the steam if it's not present.
I would have liked there to be more interactions with the actual kids, considering Taylor is the manny, but with the exception of a few moments, it was mostly adults on page.
This is billed as a standalone, but I wouldn't recommend reading this book on its own without having read the first one. Most of the characters in this book were established in the first one, and I think it's important for the reader to know the relationships since they're not explained in this book.
Manny Get Your Guy is pure sugary-sweet fluff, and as such a perfect addition to this mostly fluffy series. I had a great time reading this.
** I received a free copy of this book from its publisher. A positive review was not promised in return. **
December 16, 2022
4.5 Stars ~ One of the first things that I loved about book one in this series, is how full of family it is. That feeling of no matter what happens in your life, you can ask for help, and it'll be given immediately, no questions asked. How sometimes your family consists of more than just blood relatives, people who have become family because they've been there for so long. I grew up in a family like that and I'm grateful every day for it. Taylor didn't. Neither did Brandon. That's okay, though, because they're members of the Robbins-Grayson and Robbins-Lowell families, respectively.
I can't believe it has been ten years since Tino and Channing fell in love. They have a houseful of kids and are still just as much in love as ever. Tino’s best friend, Jacob, married his sister, Nica, and now they're expecting a fifth child. No matter how many times Jacob apologizes and swears they tested him after his vasectomy and he had no “swimmers”, he and Nica are going to have to make some changes. Taylor is Nica’s best friend from grade school on, and Brandon is Jacob’s cousin. See what I mean about family?
“He’d seen a happy family, and he’d seen a young man with a future. These things were not for him.”
Taylor tore my feelings to shreds. He sees himself as completely broken and not worthy of this family, regardless that they consider him a member already. As far as he is concerned, Brandon is a kid, and has no business wanting to get involved with Taylor. Brandon feels exactly the opposite, of course! Taylor, in his heart of hearts, desperately wants someone to take care of him, be in charge, love him for himself, and be a true partner. He grew up in an abusive household with an über-macho father. Brandon has an instinctive need to take care of the people he loves, so this sounds perfect to me. Brandon grew up in an emotionally cold environment and has spoken to his parents four times in two years since he left and moved in with Jacob and Nica. Both of these men know about emotional baggage and pain.
“Brandon’s furious desire to care for Taylor surprised him, but it also invigorated him. He’d been waiting all his adult life to have a prince come sweep him off his feet. Imagine his shock to find that he was the prince, and he had a job to do.”
This is only my second Dreamspun Desires read, and just like the first, it is like sinking back to the days when I first discovered romance books as a teenager. I liked Brandon and Taylor even more than Tino and Channing, and I didn't realize that could happen. I liked the emotional neediness (not in a bad way) of both men and I adored the way they communicated. It was truly a dance of love from the moment they met. There was some drama with Brandon’s family, and everything going on with Nica and Jacob, but overall, this was all about Brandon and Taylor.
Absolutely adored this book and I can't wait for more in the series. There's so much joy in reading something so wonderfully romantic with two amazing main characters!
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews
I can't believe it has been ten years since Tino and Channing fell in love. They have a houseful of kids and are still just as much in love as ever. Tino’s best friend, Jacob, married his sister, Nica, and now they're expecting a fifth child. No matter how many times Jacob apologizes and swears they tested him after his vasectomy and he had no “swimmers”, he and Nica are going to have to make some changes. Taylor is Nica’s best friend from grade school on, and Brandon is Jacob’s cousin. See what I mean about family?
“He’d seen a happy family, and he’d seen a young man with a future. These things were not for him.”
Taylor tore my feelings to shreds. He sees himself as completely broken and not worthy of this family, regardless that they consider him a member already. As far as he is concerned, Brandon is a kid, and has no business wanting to get involved with Taylor. Brandon feels exactly the opposite, of course! Taylor, in his heart of hearts, desperately wants someone to take care of him, be in charge, love him for himself, and be a true partner. He grew up in an abusive household with an über-macho father. Brandon has an instinctive need to take care of the people he loves, so this sounds perfect to me. Brandon grew up in an emotionally cold environment and has spoken to his parents four times in two years since he left and moved in with Jacob and Nica. Both of these men know about emotional baggage and pain.
“Brandon’s furious desire to care for Taylor surprised him, but it also invigorated him. He’d been waiting all his adult life to have a prince come sweep him off his feet. Imagine his shock to find that he was the prince, and he had a job to do.”
This is only my second Dreamspun Desires read, and just like the first, it is like sinking back to the days when I first discovered romance books as a teenager. I liked Brandon and Taylor even more than Tino and Channing, and I didn't realize that could happen. I liked the emotional neediness (not in a bad way) of both men and I adored the way they communicated. It was truly a dance of love from the moment they met. There was some drama with Brandon’s family, and everything going on with Nica and Jacob, but overall, this was all about Brandon and Taylor.
Absolutely adored this book and I can't wait for more in the series. There's so much joy in reading something so wonderfully romantic with two amazing main characters!
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews
January 16, 2022
3.5 stars
August 6, 2017
Note: This book was provided to me by the publisher through Hearts on Fire Reviews in exchange for an impartial review.
Amy Lane can tug my heartstrings better than any other author in the history of ever! I love connecting with the personalities of her MCs, getting their family backgrounds, their emotional struggles—past and present—and watching as they meet, and hopefully, connect with a man who will be perfect for them in every way, despite the fact they often can’t see that for themselves.
This story is no exception, other than it was more emotionally compelling, with more endearing characters, and family, family, family—another thing she does so well. Ahh…loved it!
If you’ve read book one, you may recall Tino Robbins, the manny who met and was hired by Channing Lowell, a stunning and wealthy man, when Tino was doing his sister Nica a favor by delivering a home-cooked meal—a business she started as a teen. Well, we do get a quick peek at both Tino and Channing again, now together ten years, married, and with another child besides Sammy, who’s now a teen. But this story is about Nica and her family, and in particular, her former boyfriend and BFF, Taylor, who never told her he was gay until they graduated from high school and he broke her heart. Thankfully, Jacob Grayson was there to pick up the pieces and they’ve been happily married for years now, with baby #5—surprise!—now on the way and Nica finally admitting she needs help. Taylor Cochran is now back in town after spending two years recovering from a roadside bombing where he lost his eye and suffered major burns and muscle loss all along one side of his body. Taylor doesn’t think much of himself, but Nica is about to prove him wrong. First of all, he is indeed good-looking—even with the eye patch he’s sporting—but mainly because he has a good heart and an excellent work ethic and she trusts him with her children. Repeat for him a few times—she trusts him with her children. It takes him awhile to agree to do the job and to trust in her trust, but eventually he capitulates.
Jacob’s cousin Brandon, on the other hand, does not trust Taylor. All the younger man knows is what he observed when he was a teen and saw the heartbreak Jacob suffered when Nica didn’t look his way, and the heartbreak she suffered when Taylor left. He doesn’t trust the former soldier as far as he can be thrown, and he doesn’t fail to let Taylor know about it the day Taylor shows up to meet the family. Taylor takes one look at the big and brawny, wide-shouldered, handsome man, and after he gets his pulse under control, he allows himself to get angry at being judged so harshly. A poor start for this couple, but don’t worry—in the hands of this incredible author, we’re in for a treat.
Over the course of the book, longer than most Dreamspun Desires books I’ve read, the men change their opinions and do fall in love. In fact, they realize they are each exactly what the other needs and are there to offer love, support, and companionship when each needs it. And when Taylor unconsciously proves how much he truly wants Brandon when Brandon returns from helping his family, the big guy simply melts. There’s lots of sweet moments and life lessons learned and underlying it all is the importance of family.
I have tons of passages marked in this story, yet I can’t pick only one to quote in this review, so I’ll just say that this story is a keeper. It’s all good. It’s amazing. It’s highly recommended!
Amy Lane can tug my heartstrings better than any other author in the history of ever! I love connecting with the personalities of her MCs, getting their family backgrounds, their emotional struggles—past and present—and watching as they meet, and hopefully, connect with a man who will be perfect for them in every way, despite the fact they often can’t see that for themselves.
This story is no exception, other than it was more emotionally compelling, with more endearing characters, and family, family, family—another thing she does so well. Ahh…loved it!
If you’ve read book one, you may recall Tino Robbins, the manny who met and was hired by Channing Lowell, a stunning and wealthy man, when Tino was doing his sister Nica a favor by delivering a home-cooked meal—a business she started as a teen. Well, we do get a quick peek at both Tino and Channing again, now together ten years, married, and with another child besides Sammy, who’s now a teen. But this story is about Nica and her family, and in particular, her former boyfriend and BFF, Taylor, who never told her he was gay until they graduated from high school and he broke her heart. Thankfully, Jacob Grayson was there to pick up the pieces and they’ve been happily married for years now, with baby #5—surprise!—now on the way and Nica finally admitting she needs help. Taylor Cochran is now back in town after spending two years recovering from a roadside bombing where he lost his eye and suffered major burns and muscle loss all along one side of his body. Taylor doesn’t think much of himself, but Nica is about to prove him wrong. First of all, he is indeed good-looking—even with the eye patch he’s sporting—but mainly because he has a good heart and an excellent work ethic and she trusts him with her children. Repeat for him a few times—she trusts him with her children. It takes him awhile to agree to do the job and to trust in her trust, but eventually he capitulates.
Jacob’s cousin Brandon, on the other hand, does not trust Taylor. All the younger man knows is what he observed when he was a teen and saw the heartbreak Jacob suffered when Nica didn’t look his way, and the heartbreak she suffered when Taylor left. He doesn’t trust the former soldier as far as he can be thrown, and he doesn’t fail to let Taylor know about it the day Taylor shows up to meet the family. Taylor takes one look at the big and brawny, wide-shouldered, handsome man, and after he gets his pulse under control, he allows himself to get angry at being judged so harshly. A poor start for this couple, but don’t worry—in the hands of this incredible author, we’re in for a treat.
Over the course of the book, longer than most Dreamspun Desires books I’ve read, the men change their opinions and do fall in love. In fact, they realize they are each exactly what the other needs and are there to offer love, support, and companionship when each needs it. And when Taylor unconsciously proves how much he truly wants Brandon when Brandon returns from helping his family, the big guy simply melts. There’s lots of sweet moments and life lessons learned and underlying it all is the importance of family.
I have tons of passages marked in this story, yet I can’t pick only one to quote in this review, so I’ll just say that this story is a keeper. It’s all good. It’s amazing. It’s highly recommended!
July 1, 2017
*Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by Dreamspinner Press for my reading pleasure in hopes of an unbiased opinion, a review was not a requirement.*
Manny Get Your Guy is Book 2 in Amy Lane's The Mannies series. I don't think this book can be read as a standalone. I read the first book, and it was hard for me to keep characters straight at the beginning of this book. I actually went back to my review and the synopsis of Book 1 to remind myself of who everyone was. Do yourself a favor and start with book one; and, really, these books are enjoyable so it's not a hardship. 😊
Taylor was introduced in book 1 and was not a very likable guy. But years later he's returned to his hometown and has grown up while away in the military. He loves Nica and her family, and though he never considered being a manny, he was willing to do what was needed to help Nica out. Though Taylor has grown up, he still has some old issues and new to work through, and fortunately, he has Nica's very involved family to help him. The only person not supportive of Taylor acting as the manny, is Brandon. Brandon is Jacob's (Nica's husband) cousin, who lives over their garage. Jacob, Nica and their family is the only family Brandon has and he's very protective of them. He's harsh in judgmentment of Taylor, but soon learns that Taylor is great with the kids. Brandon was a jerk to Taylor at first, and I didn't like him. His behavior toward Brandon made no sense, except he was attracted to him, and instead of acting like an adult, he was the bully on the playground who was mean to his crush. But, don't hold that against Brandon, he gets his head on straight thanks to a talk with a family friend, and once that happens, the relationship between Brandon and Taylor is like lightening!
This series is really about family (in all variations), love, and acceptance. I absolutely love the extended family in this series, starting with Nica and Tino's parents. They accept their children for who they are, and that love extends beyond to their spouses, children, extended family and friends. They welcome everyone with the same love, care and acceptance and you can see how that support affects Taylor and Brandon, who did not experience this from their own families. They are all involved in each other's lives, and draw together to provide whatever support is needed. This is especially important for Taylor, who came from an abusive family. Nica's family has been his support almost all of his life, and that allows him to finally work through what happened when he was a teen (a lot of this was in Book 1). And, Taylor is definitely someone you want to have your back. He was a wonderful support to Brandon when it was needed most.
I absolutely loved this book and these characters! And I loved that the kids in this book was just kids, they were funny and normal kids. Sometimes books have to have the smartest, or the brattiest, or the most annoying. These were just normal kids that most parents could relate to with their little idiosyncrasies. This is not a light, fluffy read, but it's not heavy in angst and heartbreak either. I think the author had done a fantastic job with this book, and I highly recommend reading the series.
Rating: 5 stars!
Manny Get Your Guy is Book 2 in Amy Lane's The Mannies series. I don't think this book can be read as a standalone. I read the first book, and it was hard for me to keep characters straight at the beginning of this book. I actually went back to my review and the synopsis of Book 1 to remind myself of who everyone was. Do yourself a favor and start with book one; and, really, these books are enjoyable so it's not a hardship. 😊
Taylor was introduced in book 1 and was not a very likable guy. But years later he's returned to his hometown and has grown up while away in the military. He loves Nica and her family, and though he never considered being a manny, he was willing to do what was needed to help Nica out. Though Taylor has grown up, he still has some old issues and new to work through, and fortunately, he has Nica's very involved family to help him. The only person not supportive of Taylor acting as the manny, is Brandon. Brandon is Jacob's (Nica's husband) cousin, who lives over their garage. Jacob, Nica and their family is the only family Brandon has and he's very protective of them. He's harsh in judgmentment of Taylor, but soon learns that Taylor is great with the kids. Brandon was a jerk to Taylor at first, and I didn't like him. His behavior toward Brandon made no sense, except he was attracted to him, and instead of acting like an adult, he was the bully on the playground who was mean to his crush. But, don't hold that against Brandon, he gets his head on straight thanks to a talk with a family friend, and once that happens, the relationship between Brandon and Taylor is like lightening!
This series is really about family (in all variations), love, and acceptance. I absolutely love the extended family in this series, starting with Nica and Tino's parents. They accept their children for who they are, and that love extends beyond to their spouses, children, extended family and friends. They welcome everyone with the same love, care and acceptance and you can see how that support affects Taylor and Brandon, who did not experience this from their own families. They are all involved in each other's lives, and draw together to provide whatever support is needed. This is especially important for Taylor, who came from an abusive family. Nica's family has been his support almost all of his life, and that allows him to finally work through what happened when he was a teen (a lot of this was in Book 1). And, Taylor is definitely someone you want to have your back. He was a wonderful support to Brandon when it was needed most.
I absolutely loved this book and these characters! And I loved that the kids in this book was just kids, they were funny and normal kids. Sometimes books have to have the smartest, or the brattiest, or the most annoying. These were just normal kids that most parents could relate to with their little idiosyncrasies. This is not a light, fluffy read, but it's not heavy in angst and heartbreak either. I think the author had done a fantastic job with this book, and I highly recommend reading the series.
Rating: 5 stars!
Read
July 5, 2017 5 Hearts
Amy Lane and the Dreamspun Desires formula is amazing pairing that I am hooked on.
While this book is listed as the second in a series and yes it does add to the story IF you have read The Virgin Manny, in my opinion Lane gives enough background information on everyone involved you don’t need to read it first. BUT it’s nice to see Tino, Channing and Sammy again and yeah, to know how it all went down with Taylor and Nica and just knowing the players in the story as they show up. SO while you could read this as a stand alone, it is best to read the books in order to get the full experience.
But enough about that. It’s time for a review.
So…Let me set this all up quickly.
Brandon is living over the garage of his cousin Jacob's house as he attends college at night working towards his Engineering degree and working construction during the day. His cousin Jacob is married to Nica and they have four kids with one on the way. That’s a lot of kids but I am the youngest of eleven children so it’s not THAT many. *shrugs* Nica is the sister of Tino from book one and the best friend of Taylor Cochran who broke her heart back in high school when she thought she was in love with him but Taylor was busy living in the closet.
When Jacob and Nica decide they are going to need help with the new baby on the way, Tino suggests they hire Taylor to help out since he is Nica’s BFF and Taylor happened to go to their mom asking for a job.
At first, Brandon is against hiring Taylor and letting him be around his little cousins at all. He’s heard stories about Taylor’s past but has never met the man and let’s others judgments become his own. When the whole gang heads to Tino’s and Channings for a BBQ, Brandon has one thought on his physical reaction to Taylor but still has another thought on not wanting him to be the Manny. Of course, knee jerk reactions and Brandon lacking a filter makes for an awkward situation but it’s nothing a couple beers and some butterscotch can’t put into perspective.
Taylor is pretty much a mess when we meet him. Having been in the Army for 6 years and then basically being blown up, losing his right eye and all that comes with recovery from such an injury, his life is at a standstill. He knows he wants to go back to school to become a teacher but waiting for grants to come in requires down time and he goes to Nica and Tino’s mom asking for a job. He’s reluctant to take the manny position because Taylor carries a lot of guilt around for what he put his friends though when they were younger and he hates that he led Nica on for so long. But after meeting the kids, he knows it’s the right place for him to be it’s just he now has to deal with Brandon and his unjustified disdain.
I love that Brandon took one look at Taylor and felt lust but also a distrust because of what he’d heard over the years. I thought the teasing about Taylor being a sexy pirate with his eyes patch was adorable and gave Brandon an early glimpse into how his family sees Taylor. When Jacob and Taylor sort their drama out and Jacob lets Brandon know he’s fine with Taylor taking the job, Brandon starts to look at the new manny differently.
Yeah, this moves a bit fast with how fast Brandon downshifts from Hell No to Fuck Yeah when it comes to Taylor but Brandon is a good guy with a natural caretaker gene in him so it makes sense he would gravitate to Taylor. Plus, I mean… Taylor is hot and grumpy so what’s not to love?
Getting both POV’s in this was helpful so you could see how each man quickly fell for the other. I love Taylor getting Jacob to chaperone to protect Brandon’s virtue and then defending Brandon’s honor when Brandon and his lack of filter combined with a morbid sense of humor gets him into trouble. I LOVED how Brandon could read Taylor so quickly and how his first love of Kinesiology allows him to help Taylor with his recovery. Taylor with his cat Marilyn was super sweet and his driving dangerously down windy roads with cliffs just because he knew Brandon would call but didn’t… was sigh worthy. Watching these two fall head over feet for one another and just get lost so fast was fun while being ridiculously romantic and Lane adds in her signature punch you in the gut feels a few times that had me tearing up at the beautiful intimacy of the moments.
I had a blast hanging out with everyone in the book. It was great to see Tino, Channing and Sammy again and see how much they have really grown into a family. Tino sounding just like Channing was hilarious but the unconditional love and acceptance that comes from all of them – Nica, Jacob and all the kids included – was beautiful because as it’s been said so many time, your true family isn’t always the one you’re born into. That’s what this story is about at the heart, family. Both Brandon and Taylor are born into ones that don’t accept them to find their new family that wants them exactly how they are and won’t take no for an answer.
Manny Get Your Guy is a great addition to the Dreamspun line as well as the The Mannies series from the author. I heard a rumor that Sammy will be the next book and just the thought of that puts my heart in a blender. I am curious if Sammy becomes a manny or if he falls for one, just like his dad did?
Amy Lane and the Dreamspun Desires formula is amazing pairing that I am hooked on.
While this book is listed as the second in a series and yes it does add to the story IF you have read The Virgin Manny, in my opinion Lane gives enough background information on everyone involved you don’t need to read it first. BUT it’s nice to see Tino, Channing and Sammy again and yeah, to know how it all went down with Taylor and Nica and just knowing the players in the story as they show up. SO while you could read this as a stand alone, it is best to read the books in order to get the full experience.
But enough about that. It’s time for a review.
So…Let me set this all up quickly.
Brandon is living over the garage of his cousin Jacob's house as he attends college at night working towards his Engineering degree and working construction during the day. His cousin Jacob is married to Nica and they have four kids with one on the way. That’s a lot of kids but I am the youngest of eleven children so it’s not THAT many. *shrugs* Nica is the sister of Tino from book one and the best friend of Taylor Cochran who broke her heart back in high school when she thought she was in love with him but Taylor was busy living in the closet.
When Jacob and Nica decide they are going to need help with the new baby on the way, Tino suggests they hire Taylor to help out since he is Nica’s BFF and Taylor happened to go to their mom asking for a job.
At first, Brandon is against hiring Taylor and letting him be around his little cousins at all. He’s heard stories about Taylor’s past but has never met the man and let’s others judgments become his own. When the whole gang heads to Tino’s and Channings for a BBQ, Brandon has one thought on his physical reaction to Taylor but still has another thought on not wanting him to be the Manny. Of course, knee jerk reactions and Brandon lacking a filter makes for an awkward situation but it’s nothing a couple beers and some butterscotch can’t put into perspective.
Taylor is pretty much a mess when we meet him. Having been in the Army for 6 years and then basically being blown up, losing his right eye and all that comes with recovery from such an injury, his life is at a standstill. He knows he wants to go back to school to become a teacher but waiting for grants to come in requires down time and he goes to Nica and Tino’s mom asking for a job. He’s reluctant to take the manny position because Taylor carries a lot of guilt around for what he put his friends though when they were younger and he hates that he led Nica on for so long. But after meeting the kids, he knows it’s the right place for him to be it’s just he now has to deal with Brandon and his unjustified disdain.
I love that Brandon took one look at Taylor and felt lust but also a distrust because of what he’d heard over the years. I thought the teasing about Taylor being a sexy pirate with his eyes patch was adorable and gave Brandon an early glimpse into how his family sees Taylor. When Jacob and Taylor sort their drama out and Jacob lets Brandon know he’s fine with Taylor taking the job, Brandon starts to look at the new manny differently.
Yeah, this moves a bit fast with how fast Brandon downshifts from Hell No to Fuck Yeah when it comes to Taylor but Brandon is a good guy with a natural caretaker gene in him so it makes sense he would gravitate to Taylor. Plus, I mean… Taylor is hot and grumpy so what’s not to love?
Getting both POV’s in this was helpful so you could see how each man quickly fell for the other. I love Taylor getting Jacob to chaperone to protect Brandon’s virtue and then defending Brandon’s honor when Brandon and his lack of filter combined with a morbid sense of humor gets him into trouble. I LOVED how Brandon could read Taylor so quickly and how his first love of Kinesiology allows him to help Taylor with his recovery. Taylor with his cat Marilyn was super sweet and his driving dangerously down windy roads with cliffs just because he knew Brandon would call but didn’t… was sigh worthy. Watching these two fall head over feet for one another and just get lost so fast was fun while being ridiculously romantic and Lane adds in her signature punch you in the gut feels a few times that had me tearing up at the beautiful intimacy of the moments.
I had a blast hanging out with everyone in the book. It was great to see Tino, Channing and Sammy again and see how much they have really grown into a family. Tino sounding just like Channing was hilarious but the unconditional love and acceptance that comes from all of them – Nica, Jacob and all the kids included – was beautiful because as it’s been said so many time, your true family isn’t always the one you’re born into. That’s what this story is about at the heart, family. Both Brandon and Taylor are born into ones that don’t accept them to find their new family that wants them exactly how they are and won’t take no for an answer.
Manny Get Your Guy is a great addition to the Dreamspun line as well as the The Mannies series from the author. I heard a rumor that Sammy will be the next book and just the thought of that puts my heart in a blender. I am curious if Sammy becomes a manny or if he falls for one, just like his dad did?
May 15, 2018
I admit when I first met Taylor i wanted to punch him. He was a punk. But he was a kid so you had to overlook it somewhat. When you learn all he's been through in this one.... Yeah I cried. I cried every time someone was mean to him. He grew up so much and he needed someone to love him. And need him. And he got his story ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
August 23, 2017
Review to follow at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words.
ARC provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
ARC provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
February 11, 2020
Chaotisch und liebenswert, so könnte man Nicas und Jacobs Familie bezeichnen. Als sich dann das 5. Kind anmeldet, suchen beide händeringend nach einem Babysitter. Ihre Wahl trifft auf Taylor Cochran, einen langjährigen Freund von Nica, der im Krieg schwer verwundet wurde und dabei ein Auge verlor. Brandon, Jacobs Cousin, ist von der Wahl anfangs nicht begeistert. Das ändert sich schnell, als er Taylor näher kennen lernt.
Bei dem Titel habe ich hauptsächlich eine Story über die Betreuung von Nicas Kindern erwartet. Aber die blieb ziemlich im Hintergrund. Stattdessen erzählt die Autorin eine überzeugende Liebesgeschichte, die mir gut gefallen hat. Brandon und Taylor sind ein Paar, das auf den ersten Blick nicht viel gemeinsam hat. Dazu kommt, dass Taylor aufgrund seiner Narben und des fehlenden Auges nicht mehr an die Liebe glaubt. Umso schöner ist es, dass er ausgerechnet in Brandon den Mann fürs Leben findet.
Bei dem Titel habe ich hauptsächlich eine Story über die Betreuung von Nicas Kindern erwartet. Aber die blieb ziemlich im Hintergrund. Stattdessen erzählt die Autorin eine überzeugende Liebesgeschichte, die mir gut gefallen hat. Brandon und Taylor sind ein Paar, das auf den ersten Blick nicht viel gemeinsam hat. Dazu kommt, dass Taylor aufgrund seiner Narben und des fehlenden Auges nicht mehr an die Liebe glaubt. Umso schöner ist es, dass er ausgerechnet in Brandon den Mann fürs Leben findet.
July 9, 2017
3½ Stars
I don't really know what to say, somehow though I rooted for these two I had a hard time with the way the relationship progressed. Taylor and Brandon started hating each other on sight, though both felt the desire under the surface, in a day flat, when Brandon realizes he's being a douche he more than apologizes, he grabs Taylor for the taking and he won't take no for an answer.
We've met most of the characters in this one in the previous installment. Taylor was Nica's best friend, the one she wanted so much more with but realized too late that though they ARE best friends, they could never be more because Taylor is absolutely and totally gay. Heart broken she falls into Jacob's arms and now, 10 years later they are about to have their 5th kid. That's A LOT - even they realize it so they ask for Taylor's help in being the Manny - like Tino, Nica's brother was to Channing. Don't worry we meet these two as well as Sammy.
Taylor is a little freaked out but he is also relieved, he doesn't have any connection with his abusive family and Nica and Tino were all he had for YEARS. Now, after servicing in the military and coming back quite damaged he wants to rebuild his life.
Brandon jaw drops when he sees Taylor for the first time. The attraction mixed with the "no nonsense" vibe he gets makes him act like a douche, not believing this rough around the edges guy can be the Manny for his cousin Nica who means the world to him (Jacob and the kids included). He too has a difficult relationship with his family and has been living with Jacob and Nica for 2 years during his studies.
I liked Taylor. He totally redeemed himself to me. He was wounded but not just in the physical sense. He needed someone who would love him unconditionally, someone who will see him and care for him but that's not something he is used to so he tries to resists Brandon's attempts though it's not easy with how much he is attracted to him as well.
I did and didn't like the interaction between the two. There was hot-cold at the beginning that totally threw me off, but then it worked out in the end and I LOVED seeing them together. Brandon is SUCH a loving and caring guy, he was EXACTLY what Taylor needed.
I think it was just too short? I mean, if it was longer, maybe the beginning would have made more sense to me which is why this book mostly felt like a 4 star kinda book. Yet when we started getting more of Brandon's family I got annoyed. I mean, in a way it was just so damn realistic! I don't think that anything else would have been as believable but because of that I wasn't sure why we got the whole interaction. I really wanted to see something else than what he did. For the better OR the worse but it somehow didn't deliver. I usually love Amy's books so I'm not sure what happened with this one. I gotta say, I have a feeling I know who the next one is going to be about and I CAN'T WAIT!
One last thing - Don't be discouraged about the fact Taylor is the Manny of 4 kids, I was a bit worried at the beginning, but as the story progressed it was obvious they were just the background and not the main issue which was great.
More Reviews HERE
I don't really know what to say, somehow though I rooted for these two I had a hard time with the way the relationship progressed. Taylor and Brandon started hating each other on sight, though both felt the desire under the surface, in a day flat, when Brandon realizes he's being a douche he more than apologizes, he grabs Taylor for the taking and he won't take no for an answer.
We've met most of the characters in this one in the previous installment. Taylor was Nica's best friend, the one she wanted so much more with but realized too late that though they ARE best friends, they could never be more because Taylor is absolutely and totally gay. Heart broken she falls into Jacob's arms and now, 10 years later they are about to have their 5th kid. That's A LOT - even they realize it so they ask for Taylor's help in being the Manny - like Tino, Nica's brother was to Channing. Don't worry we meet these two as well as Sammy.
Taylor is a little freaked out but he is also relieved, he doesn't have any connection with his abusive family and Nica and Tino were all he had for YEARS. Now, after servicing in the military and coming back quite damaged he wants to rebuild his life.
Brandon jaw drops when he sees Taylor for the first time. The attraction mixed with the "no nonsense" vibe he gets makes him act like a douche, not believing this rough around the edges guy can be the Manny for his cousin Nica who means the world to him (Jacob and the kids included). He too has a difficult relationship with his family and has been living with Jacob and Nica for 2 years during his studies.
I liked Taylor. He totally redeemed himself to me. He was wounded but not just in the physical sense. He needed someone who would love him unconditionally, someone who will see him and care for him but that's not something he is used to so he tries to resists Brandon's attempts though it's not easy with how much he is attracted to him as well.
I did and didn't like the interaction between the two. There was hot-cold at the beginning that totally threw me off, but then it worked out in the end and I LOVED seeing them together. Brandon is SUCH a loving and caring guy, he was EXACTLY what Taylor needed.
I think it was just too short? I mean, if it was longer, maybe the beginning would have made more sense to me which is why this book mostly felt like a 4 star kinda book. Yet when we started getting more of Brandon's family I got annoyed. I mean, in a way it was just so damn realistic! I don't think that anything else would have been as believable but because of that I wasn't sure why we got the whole interaction. I really wanted to see something else than what he did. For the better OR the worse but it somehow didn't deliver. I usually love Amy's books so I'm not sure what happened with this one. I gotta say, I have a feeling I know who the next one is going to be about and I CAN'T WAIT!
One last thing - Don't be discouraged about the fact Taylor is the Manny of 4 kids, I was a bit worried at the beginning, but as the story progressed it was obvious they were just the background and not the main issue which was great.
More Reviews HERE
June 27, 2017
*sigh* Settled in with this book on the first page. I love these characters so much. There’s a wide gap between the first book, Virgin Manny, and this book, Manny Get Your Guy. The adults have matured into really good, family oriented people. The children are amazingly polite (usually), well behaved (usually), and respectful (mostly). Sammy, who was 7 years old in the first book, grief stricken by the death of his mother, is now 17 and the oldest child of three in his family, and such a good boy. I mean, really good.
Even though I read the first book and loved it, I had to draw out a family tree to keep up with all of the adults and children in this one. It helped a lot and was easy to do. Just add a branch every time a new character is mentioned for the first chapter or so and you’ll be fine. Jacob is married to Nica, who is pregnant with their fifth (unplanned) child. Jacob’s cousin Brandon lives in an apartment above their garage because his parents washed their hands of him when he came out as a gay man.
When Nica’s BFF from high school, Taylor, comes home badly injured from the war in Afghanistan, he takes an apartment nearby while making plans for his future. As it happens, with Nica pregnant with a fifth child (all under age 9), trying to work with Jacob in their businesses, and exhausted, they’ve decided they need a nanny to help her. Reluctantly, Taylor takes the job, even though he considers it temporary.
This is a very, very sweet book. The kids are not rebellious and they love their family. Brandon and Taylor have a little problem accepting that they could have a relationship but this is an Amy Lane story, so it’s no spoiler to tell you there is an HEA. Getting there isn’t easy, but it never is. The only angsty part is when Brandon decides to try to reunite with his parents and brothers. I sat there yelling at my Kindle, “No! No, no, no! These are horrible people! Stay away, Brandon!” But Brandon is a good man and Taylor encourages him so Brandon won’t have regrets. Agh!
A wonderful story, one I encourage you to purchase and read.
Even though I read the first book and loved it, I had to draw out a family tree to keep up with all of the adults and children in this one. It helped a lot and was easy to do. Just add a branch every time a new character is mentioned for the first chapter or so and you’ll be fine. Jacob is married to Nica, who is pregnant with their fifth (unplanned) child. Jacob’s cousin Brandon lives in an apartment above their garage because his parents washed their hands of him when he came out as a gay man.
When Nica’s BFF from high school, Taylor, comes home badly injured from the war in Afghanistan, he takes an apartment nearby while making plans for his future. As it happens, with Nica pregnant with a fifth child (all under age 9), trying to work with Jacob in their businesses, and exhausted, they’ve decided they need a nanny to help her. Reluctantly, Taylor takes the job, even though he considers it temporary.
This is a very, very sweet book. The kids are not rebellious and they love their family. Brandon and Taylor have a little problem accepting that they could have a relationship but this is an Amy Lane story, so it’s no spoiler to tell you there is an HEA. Getting there isn’t easy, but it never is. The only angsty part is when Brandon decides to try to reunite with his parents and brothers. I sat there yelling at my Kindle, “No! No, no, no! These are horrible people! Stay away, Brandon!” But Brandon is a good man and Taylor encourages him so Brandon won’t have regrets. Agh!
A wonderful story, one I encourage you to purchase and read.
October 23, 2017
Updated for audiobook review
Read Veronica’s audio review in its entirety here.
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.75 stars
I’m going to start by telling you Amy Lane is an automatic buy for me. I have loved everything she’s written, and she’s never disappointed me. She keeps up with that streak with Manny Get Your Guy. This book had everything. Damaged hero? Check. Jealous conflict? Check. A rowdy supportive family? Check. Two men who start off of the wrong foot but discover they’re perfect for each other? Check and double check!
This is the perfect book to have around after you’ve had a difficult day. You’ll have all the warm fuzzies. There’s only the teeniest amount of angst…just enough to keep the story flowing. It’s sweet, funny, and sexy. Brandon and Taylor are charming and play perfectly off each other, and the background characters all played their roles in just the right way, including the brood of children.
I liked Brandon from the start. He was all about family. Jacob and Nica supported him when he needed it, so he wanted to be there for them. If an author wants to hook me, that’s exactly the sort of character they should write. I love loyalty, and I love someone who wants to help people. I do confess to being a bit put off by him in the beginning. His hostility toward Taylor seemed to be over the top. For a man who’d been given a chance to make something of himself in the wake of adversity, he was a tad on the unpleasant side. It didn’t take long for him to change, though. In fact, it was nearly a blink of an eye. Just as I was ready to reach through the kindle and shake him a bit, BOOM! Instead of shaking, I wanted to start hugging.
Read Kenna’s review in its entirety here.
Read Veronica’s audio review in its entirety here.
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.75 stars
I’m going to start by telling you Amy Lane is an automatic buy for me. I have loved everything she’s written, and she’s never disappointed me. She keeps up with that streak with Manny Get Your Guy. This book had everything. Damaged hero? Check. Jealous conflict? Check. A rowdy supportive family? Check. Two men who start off of the wrong foot but discover they’re perfect for each other? Check and double check!
This is the perfect book to have around after you’ve had a difficult day. You’ll have all the warm fuzzies. There’s only the teeniest amount of angst…just enough to keep the story flowing. It’s sweet, funny, and sexy. Brandon and Taylor are charming and play perfectly off each other, and the background characters all played their roles in just the right way, including the brood of children.
I liked Brandon from the start. He was all about family. Jacob and Nica supported him when he needed it, so he wanted to be there for them. If an author wants to hook me, that’s exactly the sort of character they should write. I love loyalty, and I love someone who wants to help people. I do confess to being a bit put off by him in the beginning. His hostility toward Taylor seemed to be over the top. For a man who’d been given a chance to make something of himself in the wake of adversity, he was a tad on the unpleasant side. It didn’t take long for him to change, though. In fact, it was nearly a blink of an eye. Just as I was ready to reach through the kindle and shake him a bit, BOOM! Instead of shaking, I wanted to start hugging.
Read Kenna’s review in its entirety here.
May 30, 2018
More of a 3.5 stars but still very enjoyable. This one takes place 10 years after the last book and all the characters from that book play a huge part in this one so I wouldn't recommend reading this one until you've finished the other. Taylor is just back from the military and an extensive stay in the hospital after being blown up and Brandon is already in place at Nica's house helping out and staying in their garage apartment. Taylor is going to be a nanny to Nica's kids and Brandon is not okay with that. This was not the best first meeting. Things seem to move quickly after that and reading about Taylor getting his first touches from Brandon was heartbreaking. Brandon's family is shitty, Taylor's is even shittier but their new family is awesome. Cute read, not too sad or angsty.
July 5, 2017
*4.5 stars*
I'll admit, I'm a total sucker for Amy Lane's angst. I love it, crave it, revel in it. But that being said, there is something special about her brand of sweet and charming and funny that just hits you right where you live, and it hits hard and stays there. Manny Get Your Guy is the second book in Amy's wonderful The Mannies series and *whispers* I truly believe this could wind up being my very favorite series of Amy's. Just don't tell Deacon and Crick, okay? But all joking aside, I fall more and more in love with these characters and this family and I really wish if there was a way, that I could experience these amazing people in real life.
A caveat though, in order to truly appreciate all of the family and friend dynamics going on in Manny Get Your Guy, you need to have read book 1, The Virgin Manny. Brandon is a new character, but Taylor Cochran, oh boy, he's so not and there's a good possibility that, if you're like me, your impression of him wasn't the very best. Expect that to change. Immediate like. From Taylor's first appearance in this newest book, you'll fall in love with him so hard. Manny Get Your Guy takes place ten years after the end of The Virgin Manny so Tino, Channing, Sammy, Nica, Jacob, and the rest are older, their lives are full of kids and new jobs and they've changed as people do as they get older and life happens. Thus is the case for Taylor. Lots of life has happened, most not so good, and he comes back from the military damaged, scarred, and mostly broken. This is not the confident flirt from the first book at all. Taylor has been though a lot, has suffered a disfiguring and painful injury and thanks to his steadfast best friend, Nica, has a place where he can breathe. Though there won't be a lot of time for breathing since he's on board to be the new manny for Jacob and Nica since they're expecting child number five. Taylor really has no idea what he's doing, but he's out of choices and he can't deny the pull of Jacob and Nica's huge, rambunctious, loving family. There's just one problem, or one main one anyway, and that's none other than Brandon. He's Jacob's cousin and lives above the garage. He's younger, gorgeous, and their first meeting could have gone better.
Brandon Grayson is Jacob's cousin and has been living in the small apartment above Jacob's garage while he goes to school and works in construction. He loves Jacob, Nica, and all of the kids, is close to Sammy, Tino, and Channing, and is not a happy camper when Taylor Cochran appears on the scene. After some pretty harsh words for Taylor and then quite the dressing down from Tino, Brandon admits that maybe all is not what it looks like on the surface. It doesn't take long for Brandon to see just how much Taylor loves and cares about not only his best friend since grade school Nica, but there's lots of history there between Taylor and Tino and Jacob as well. And, that Taylor isn't quite as horrible a manny as Brandon thought he'd be ... in fact he's pretty great. Following close behind those revelations comes the attraction to scarred but still beautiful Taylor and Brandon isn't at all subtle about it either. It was so fun to watch Taylor try, though I don't think he tried ALL that hard, to resist Brandon's advances and it doesn't take long before Brandon gets Taylor to agree to go on a date. There might be seven years between them, but Brandon knows who he wants, and he wants Taylor, broken though he may be.
This book is so full of family and friendships and all these moments that just make you smile and your heart warm. So many. And there isn't anyone better at showing how family is often the one you make, not the one you're born into than Amy Lane. I read this just wanting to be invited over to Channing and Tino's for a barbecue so I could hang out with all these fabulous characters. Nica and her no-nonsense approach to parenting and being a wife, Jacob so laid back and completely adoring of his wife and kids. Channing and Tino, the older, wiser ones that impart wisdom with grace and subtlety. And then we have Brandon and Taylor who SO belong with one another. Their connection might not be the thing of sparks and fire, but it's a gentle, soft connection that fits these two so well. Yeah, there's a bit of insta-love going on, but that doesn't mean it's not believable, because it is. I just loved these two together so much. Taylor desperately needs that safe place to be, to heal from the trauma of war and injury, and Brandon so desperately wants to be that person for Taylor.
It wouldn't be a true Amy Lane book if she didn't hurt your heart a little bit, so there is some angst, but it's minor and doesn't last long. Just long enough to show how great Taylor and Brandon are for one another. Mostly, this was a sweet, charming book that left me with one hell of a smile of my face ... and a message to Amy begging for Sammy's book. It's coming and I can't wait!
*this review will also be posted on www.diversereader.blogspot.com*
I'll admit, I'm a total sucker for Amy Lane's angst. I love it, crave it, revel in it. But that being said, there is something special about her brand of sweet and charming and funny that just hits you right where you live, and it hits hard and stays there. Manny Get Your Guy is the second book in Amy's wonderful The Mannies series and *whispers* I truly believe this could wind up being my very favorite series of Amy's. Just don't tell Deacon and Crick, okay? But all joking aside, I fall more and more in love with these characters and this family and I really wish if there was a way, that I could experience these amazing people in real life.
A caveat though, in order to truly appreciate all of the family and friend dynamics going on in Manny Get Your Guy, you need to have read book 1, The Virgin Manny. Brandon is a new character, but Taylor Cochran, oh boy, he's so not and there's a good possibility that, if you're like me, your impression of him wasn't the very best. Expect that to change. Immediate like. From Taylor's first appearance in this newest book, you'll fall in love with him so hard. Manny Get Your Guy takes place ten years after the end of The Virgin Manny so Tino, Channing, Sammy, Nica, Jacob, and the rest are older, their lives are full of kids and new jobs and they've changed as people do as they get older and life happens. Thus is the case for Taylor. Lots of life has happened, most not so good, and he comes back from the military damaged, scarred, and mostly broken. This is not the confident flirt from the first book at all. Taylor has been though a lot, has suffered a disfiguring and painful injury and thanks to his steadfast best friend, Nica, has a place where he can breathe. Though there won't be a lot of time for breathing since he's on board to be the new manny for Jacob and Nica since they're expecting child number five. Taylor really has no idea what he's doing, but he's out of choices and he can't deny the pull of Jacob and Nica's huge, rambunctious, loving family. There's just one problem, or one main one anyway, and that's none other than Brandon. He's Jacob's cousin and lives above the garage. He's younger, gorgeous, and their first meeting could have gone better.
Brandon Grayson is Jacob's cousin and has been living in the small apartment above Jacob's garage while he goes to school and works in construction. He loves Jacob, Nica, and all of the kids, is close to Sammy, Tino, and Channing, and is not a happy camper when Taylor Cochran appears on the scene. After some pretty harsh words for Taylor and then quite the dressing down from Tino, Brandon admits that maybe all is not what it looks like on the surface. It doesn't take long for Brandon to see just how much Taylor loves and cares about not only his best friend since grade school Nica, but there's lots of history there between Taylor and Tino and Jacob as well. And, that Taylor isn't quite as horrible a manny as Brandon thought he'd be ... in fact he's pretty great. Following close behind those revelations comes the attraction to scarred but still beautiful Taylor and Brandon isn't at all subtle about it either. It was so fun to watch Taylor try, though I don't think he tried ALL that hard, to resist Brandon's advances and it doesn't take long before Brandon gets Taylor to agree to go on a date. There might be seven years between them, but Brandon knows who he wants, and he wants Taylor, broken though he may be.
This book is so full of family and friendships and all these moments that just make you smile and your heart warm. So many. And there isn't anyone better at showing how family is often the one you make, not the one you're born into than Amy Lane. I read this just wanting to be invited over to Channing and Tino's for a barbecue so I could hang out with all these fabulous characters. Nica and her no-nonsense approach to parenting and being a wife, Jacob so laid back and completely adoring of his wife and kids. Channing and Tino, the older, wiser ones that impart wisdom with grace and subtlety. And then we have Brandon and Taylor who SO belong with one another. Their connection might not be the thing of sparks and fire, but it's a gentle, soft connection that fits these two so well. Yeah, there's a bit of insta-love going on, but that doesn't mean it's not believable, because it is. I just loved these two together so much. Taylor desperately needs that safe place to be, to heal from the trauma of war and injury, and Brandon so desperately wants to be that person for Taylor.
It wouldn't be a true Amy Lane book if she didn't hurt your heart a little bit, so there is some angst, but it's minor and doesn't last long. Just long enough to show how great Taylor and Brandon are for one another. Mostly, this was a sweet, charming book that left me with one hell of a smile of my face ... and a message to Amy begging for Sammy's book. It's coming and I can't wait!
*this review will also be posted on www.diversereader.blogspot.com*
July 4, 2017
4 heart review for Love Bytes Reviews!
A copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review. Please visit www.lovebytesreviews.com for many more reviews, interviews, and giveaways!
Manny Get your Guy takes place ten years after The Virgin Manny, the first book in this series. This is not a stand alone book, you have to have read the first one to have any hope of understanding who these characters are.
The first book was about Tino and Channing, as they met and fell in love. Tino’s sister Nica, had a crush on a boy named Taylor. Taylor had a crush on Tino. Taylor came out, broke Nica’s heart, which was repaired shortly after by Jacob, whom she married and has had maaaaaany babies with. So Taylor became a man whore, joined the Army, got blown up, spent a year recovering, and is now living in a crappy apartment waiting for school funding to come in so he can go to school to become a teacher. Meanwhile….
Jacob’s younger cousin Brandon, has been living over Jacob and Nica’s garage while he goes to school, helping out with the kids, and working a construction job. Brandon’s family wasn’t overly excited about the gay, and told him to take a hike, so it’s worked out quite well to have Brandon with Jacob and Nica. Then, Nica and Jacob manage to get pregnant AGAIN! They decide the solution to the housing situation is to build on to the house, and hire the company Brandon works for to do the job, but that means Brandon needs to work on the house, not watch the kids. Still with me?
Soooooo…. Nica and Jacob, with the help of Nica’s mom who owns a domestic help management company, hire Taylor, who seriously needs a job, to be the manny for the four kids. Taylor is concerned, since he’s got some physical issues, and he’s also not sure he would be a good addition to the family. But Nica and Jacob are very insistent that he be part of the family. But Brandon, being a total dick, takes an immediate dislike to Taylor and thinks he would be horrible as the family’s manny. Brandon is overridden, and Taylor becomes the manny. This gets Taylor the family support he needs, the job he needs, and as Brandon comes around, the love that he needs. Yes, there’s lots more to it than that, but you’ll have to discover that on your own!
This story is all about family. We see the insane but loving family focusing around Nica and Jacob, but we also see Channing and Tino and their little family. They are raising Channing’s nephew, but also have a daughter now. They pop in and out frequently in this book, so lots of good family and kid activity. Then we have the opposite type of family. There is some drama with Brandon’s family, and we see quite clearly why he left. What we don’t see much of, but is mentioned briefly, is Taylor’s family. We know they are awful, but we don’t get much detail. So it’s an interesting mix of families, the good, the bad and the ugly.
So I had some issues with this story. First, I found myself wanting a better understanding of Taylor. We are told he’s got some issues, but we don’t ever really see that. We know his family was awful, and he was a man whore, and he had trauma from his military service, but I didn’t feel like I got to know him that well. I liked him quite a bit, but he seemed pretty calm and stable, when I think he was supposed to be more traumatized. My BIG issue was Brandon’s animosity towards Taylor. I could see absolutely no reason for it. It felt fake and contrived, and was over and gone so quick, it didn’t even make sense why it was there. He wants nothing to do with Taylor, doesn’t think he should have anything to do with Jacob and Nica and their kids, then bam! He realizes Taylor is hot, he’s good with the kids, and we have an insta-love romance. I was actually fine once we got to that part, I’m always up for some insta-love, but I had a hard time letting go of my strong dislike of Brandon for a long time. I wish the beginning hadn’t gone that way, and I could have just liked Brandon from the beginning.
Once the two get started on falling in love, I enjoyed the story. I liked the interaction with the various families, both good and bad. I liked the care that Brandon shows Taylor with his injuries. I liked the bond that forms between them, and that even though Brandon was younger, he was the more dominant partner quite often. I liked the banter between them, and the lack of filter that Brandon displayed. I loved the relationship between Nica and Taylor, by rights she should not like him, but instead she’s the only person initially who cares for him. I loved how Taylor opens up as the story progresses, and he is more comfortable with his acceptance by the family, and by Brandon. I think the ending was a little rushed, but it still worked for me.
This is an Amy Lane book, so it’s obviously well written, and overall I liked it. I had a couple of issues, and I didn’t enjoy it as much as the first book, but it’s still a good book! If you have read The Virgin Manny, you have to read this one to see what happens next. If you haven’t, you really need to before you read this one. I do recommend reading them both!
A copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review. Please visit www.lovebytesreviews.com for many more reviews, interviews, and giveaways!
Manny Get your Guy takes place ten years after The Virgin Manny, the first book in this series. This is not a stand alone book, you have to have read the first one to have any hope of understanding who these characters are.
The first book was about Tino and Channing, as they met and fell in love. Tino’s sister Nica, had a crush on a boy named Taylor. Taylor had a crush on Tino. Taylor came out, broke Nica’s heart, which was repaired shortly after by Jacob, whom she married and has had maaaaaany babies with. So Taylor became a man whore, joined the Army, got blown up, spent a year recovering, and is now living in a crappy apartment waiting for school funding to come in so he can go to school to become a teacher. Meanwhile….
Jacob’s younger cousin Brandon, has been living over Jacob and Nica’s garage while he goes to school, helping out with the kids, and working a construction job. Brandon’s family wasn’t overly excited about the gay, and told him to take a hike, so it’s worked out quite well to have Brandon with Jacob and Nica. Then, Nica and Jacob manage to get pregnant AGAIN! They decide the solution to the housing situation is to build on to the house, and hire the company Brandon works for to do the job, but that means Brandon needs to work on the house, not watch the kids. Still with me?
Soooooo…. Nica and Jacob, with the help of Nica’s mom who owns a domestic help management company, hire Taylor, who seriously needs a job, to be the manny for the four kids. Taylor is concerned, since he’s got some physical issues, and he’s also not sure he would be a good addition to the family. But Nica and Jacob are very insistent that he be part of the family. But Brandon, being a total dick, takes an immediate dislike to Taylor and thinks he would be horrible as the family’s manny. Brandon is overridden, and Taylor becomes the manny. This gets Taylor the family support he needs, the job he needs, and as Brandon comes around, the love that he needs. Yes, there’s lots more to it than that, but you’ll have to discover that on your own!
This story is all about family. We see the insane but loving family focusing around Nica and Jacob, but we also see Channing and Tino and their little family. They are raising Channing’s nephew, but also have a daughter now. They pop in and out frequently in this book, so lots of good family and kid activity. Then we have the opposite type of family. There is some drama with Brandon’s family, and we see quite clearly why he left. What we don’t see much of, but is mentioned briefly, is Taylor’s family. We know they are awful, but we don’t get much detail. So it’s an interesting mix of families, the good, the bad and the ugly.
So I had some issues with this story. First, I found myself wanting a better understanding of Taylor. We are told he’s got some issues, but we don’t ever really see that. We know his family was awful, and he was a man whore, and he had trauma from his military service, but I didn’t feel like I got to know him that well. I liked him quite a bit, but he seemed pretty calm and stable, when I think he was supposed to be more traumatized. My BIG issue was Brandon’s animosity towards Taylor. I could see absolutely no reason for it. It felt fake and contrived, and was over and gone so quick, it didn’t even make sense why it was there. He wants nothing to do with Taylor, doesn’t think he should have anything to do with Jacob and Nica and their kids, then bam! He realizes Taylor is hot, he’s good with the kids, and we have an insta-love romance. I was actually fine once we got to that part, I’m always up for some insta-love, but I had a hard time letting go of my strong dislike of Brandon for a long time. I wish the beginning hadn’t gone that way, and I could have just liked Brandon from the beginning.
Once the two get started on falling in love, I enjoyed the story. I liked the interaction with the various families, both good and bad. I liked the care that Brandon shows Taylor with his injuries. I liked the bond that forms between them, and that even though Brandon was younger, he was the more dominant partner quite often. I liked the banter between them, and the lack of filter that Brandon displayed. I loved the relationship between Nica and Taylor, by rights she should not like him, but instead she’s the only person initially who cares for him. I loved how Taylor opens up as the story progresses, and he is more comfortable with his acceptance by the family, and by Brandon. I think the ending was a little rushed, but it still worked for me.
This is an Amy Lane book, so it’s obviously well written, and overall I liked it. I had a couple of issues, and I didn’t enjoy it as much as the first book, but it’s still a good book! If you have read The Virgin Manny, you have to read this one to see what happens next. If you haven’t, you really need to before you read this one. I do recommend reading them both!
July 5, 2017
So I was laid up with a bad back yesterday and I needed some distraction. How nice of Dreamspinner to release this latest Dreamspun book from Amy Lane - the second in her Manny series!
We met most of these players in the first Manny book - The Virgin Manny. Tino and Nica Robins and their whole family make appearances again in this book. NOTE! Spoilers for the first book abound in this one! Read at your own risk of spoiling a LOT of that story.
Our MCs are a returning player - Taylor Cochran, Nica's best friend, first crush and guy who kept trying to get into Tino's pants - and Brandon, Jacob's cousin who is currently living in their garage apartment going to school and working and helping out with Nica and Jacobs growing family where he can. A lot has happened to Taylor in the years between high school and Nica expecting her 5th child - including a pretty bad injury that resulted in a year long hospital stay and the loss of an eye. When Nica asks him to help with the kids as a manny until his school GI money comes through, he's reluctant and Brandon is beside himself with what a bad idea he thinks this is. Luckily the rest of the entire family disagrees and of course no one will be crossing Nica.
Brandon realizes he's been a complete asshole to Taylor and he does apologize. He also hits on Taylor who tells him he's too young, he doesn't want a wreck like Taylor, etc. Of course that has zero effect on Brandon's desire to have Taylor. But Brandon's gonna have his work cut out for him with a guy like Taylor who doesn't have his own family - and looks to the Robins family for some safety - although he feels he in no way deserves it.
Brandon does his best - and so do all of the other family members - to get Taylor to see that he is values and loved. When Taylor steps up to the plate when Brandon has a family emergency, it seems like all might be smooth sailing for them. But of course that never happens ;-)
I really enjoyed these two characters. They are both good guys and together they have a shot at getting what they really want and having a real family to support them too. Very sweet - but not sappy - and I can't wait for the next one :)
We met most of these players in the first Manny book - The Virgin Manny. Tino and Nica Robins and their whole family make appearances again in this book. NOTE! Spoilers for the first book abound in this one! Read at your own risk of spoiling a LOT of that story.
Our MCs are a returning player - Taylor Cochran, Nica's best friend, first crush and guy who kept trying to get into Tino's pants - and Brandon, Jacob's cousin who is currently living in their garage apartment going to school and working and helping out with Nica and Jacobs growing family where he can. A lot has happened to Taylor in the years between high school and Nica expecting her 5th child - including a pretty bad injury that resulted in a year long hospital stay and the loss of an eye. When Nica asks him to help with the kids as a manny until his school GI money comes through, he's reluctant and Brandon is beside himself with what a bad idea he thinks this is. Luckily the rest of the entire family disagrees and of course no one will be crossing Nica.
Brandon realizes he's been a complete asshole to Taylor and he does apologize. He also hits on Taylor who tells him he's too young, he doesn't want a wreck like Taylor, etc. Of course that has zero effect on Brandon's desire to have Taylor. But Brandon's gonna have his work cut out for him with a guy like Taylor who doesn't have his own family - and looks to the Robins family for some safety - although he feels he in no way deserves it.
Brandon does his best - and so do all of the other family members - to get Taylor to see that he is values and loved. When Taylor steps up to the plate when Brandon has a family emergency, it seems like all might be smooth sailing for them. But of course that never happens ;-)
I really enjoyed these two characters. They are both good guys and together they have a shot at getting what they really want and having a real family to support them too. Very sweet - but not sappy - and I can't wait for the next one :)
June 9, 2017
Manny Get You Guy (ARC) was graciously provided to me by Gay Book Reviews for an honest review.
"The Strength and Love of a Manny.."
YESSS! *fist pump* A new book by one of my favorite authors, Amy Lane. I have read many of her other books; Country Mouse, City Mouse, It's Not Shakespeare, and, have really liked them. Having already read the first book in this particular series, The Virgin Manny, and loved it, and, I do recommend it to be read first, I knew that the second book of the Mannies Series, would be just as good. And, much to the chagrin of Ross from Friends...there, thankfully is such a thing as..a Manny. ;)
When this book first became available for me to review, I quickly jumped at the chance to read a fun and light-hearted read. Because to me, I equate Amy Lane with these types of books. And, I really needed a light read. I was looking for a fluffy read with some workable angst, good character development, an adequate amount of background, as well as great chemistry.
Well. *long sigh* As I sit back in my chair, having just finished, Manny Get Your Guy, I now feel like lead weight, so, I need to take another deep breath because..that was most definitely not what I had encountered when I read this very long book. It was unfortunately not a fun and light-hearted read. It was an exhausting read. It broke my heart. I began to see the plot, a beautiful heart-warming plot, but then, my heart broke again. I bawled my eyes out, and, I frequently felt the need to throw my fists up into the air and ask, "Whyyyyyyyyyyy did this happen?" But, I never found an answer.
It all started when that imaginary light bulb clicked on, as to which characters from, The Virgin Manny, would be making cameos in this particular book. *cheering* I remembered that I had adored Taylor and Jacob when I first met them in the first book. So, all bets were off when I had realized that two of my most favorite characters would be in this book too. But, low and behold, my heart broke within the very first chapter. So, fortunately or unfortunately, because of this, I have a lot to say about this book..*sighing again*
Manny Get Your Guy, by Amy Lane, is about Brandon Grayson and Taylor Cochran. Two beautiful men with difficult pasts, who have been welcomed, as adopted family members, into Jacob and Mica's loving families. Both men quickly found themselves, ten years after the end of book one, in quite the predicament. Brandon, a kind, caring, hard-working, family-oriented young man, who has been taking care of Jacob's children, is immediately attracted to this intriguing new person at a weekly family get-together. And Taylor..*sniff*..an already broken and lost young man, with a heart of gold, who had recently returned from war, as a now severely damaged young man as well, finds himself needing to beg for a job from his adoptive family, just so that he could simply survive once again. And, nothing more. That's all he wanted to do. But, instead of life becoming a bit easier for him, he was met with consternation, anger, and, disbelief in the form of an angry brick wall. As the thought of taking over Brandon's job, by Taylor, abounds, Brandon, for some reason, immediately erected this huge and ugly wall of defiance, that was unfair, mean, and unjust. And, that broke my heart..
I couldn't believe how detailed the plot was already, even within the first couple of chapters. If it wasn't someone's harsh words for a Veteran, who somehow quickly developed this strong need to become prince charming to be able to save the other individual from a dark and sad life, to the existence of individuals, who, while their hearts were in the right place, kindly took over that same individual's life for the better of that other person. Huh? Can we say whiplash? *Scratches head*
From that moment onward, the book was just not what I had envisioned it out to be. And, I was just so sad that it had taken that route. Instead of a book about a..manny and giggling little children, it was one filled with seemingly always present secondary characters, as well as unnecessary stress and many subplots. There was just too much going on. While I truly did love the secondary characters, I just felt that the plot, which did have some beautiful, tender, sad, and heart-warming moments, was just so overly-shadowed by everything else that was going on. With all of the secondary characters, the unbelievable pushiness and dominance of one individual, and the various subplots, this book seemed to be never-ending. And, that was painful to say.
There was so much potential for this to be a really great book, with a decent pace that wasn't so slow and overly-detailed. Since this book had contained someone who I had hoped would appear in future books, so that his incredibly painful past, could be dealt with, I was beyond disappointed that it never really was. I felt that for someone who had a past as such, and, in addition to that, had added feelings of such inadequacy, who had yearned for the simple touch of another human being, and for the love of a family, it should have been a substantial part of the plot. All of this should have been clearly taken care of within the story. I should have been able to feel the release and the closure of this horrific past. And, I didn't. With such a detailed plot, it was also difficult for me to completely connect with Brandon, and, also with their relationship, as a whole, as well. It was difficult to believe in their insta-love. I needed more. I needed to feel it throughout the book and not just barely at the very end of it. They did have chemistry, but, by the time they got together, I just couldn't connect with it as I should have. And, I really, really wanted to...
Suffice to say, this book was absolutely exhausting with its heart-breaking and tense moments, lots of crocodile tears, and pain. The writing seemed to be verbose, and seemed to be filled with words and phrases that, to me, made no sense within the surrounding context, and, therefore did take away from the overall meaning.
Soo..this was a tough review. It was really difficult for me to put into words how I felt about, Manny Get Your Guy. I think I sat here as I read and thought, "Ohhhh, nooooo. Pleeease..." because I had hoped that things would magically change for the remainder of the book. There were sooo many beautiful, touching, and, heart-warming scenes, and I just loooved seeing many of the characters again, and many new ones. I only truly wish, that, this beauty was more prevalent..because..it's the beauty of the now that is the greatest beauty of all...:)
"The Strength and Love of a Manny.."
YESSS! *fist pump* A new book by one of my favorite authors, Amy Lane. I have read many of her other books; Country Mouse, City Mouse, It's Not Shakespeare, and, have really liked them. Having already read the first book in this particular series, The Virgin Manny, and loved it, and, I do recommend it to be read first, I knew that the second book of the Mannies Series, would be just as good. And, much to the chagrin of Ross from Friends...there, thankfully is such a thing as..a Manny. ;)
When this book first became available for me to review, I quickly jumped at the chance to read a fun and light-hearted read. Because to me, I equate Amy Lane with these types of books. And, I really needed a light read. I was looking for a fluffy read with some workable angst, good character development, an adequate amount of background, as well as great chemistry.
Well. *long sigh* As I sit back in my chair, having just finished, Manny Get Your Guy, I now feel like lead weight, so, I need to take another deep breath because..that was most definitely not what I had encountered when I read this very long book. It was unfortunately not a fun and light-hearted read. It was an exhausting read. It broke my heart. I began to see the plot, a beautiful heart-warming plot, but then, my heart broke again. I bawled my eyes out, and, I frequently felt the need to throw my fists up into the air and ask, "Whyyyyyyyyyyy did this happen?" But, I never found an answer.
It all started when that imaginary light bulb clicked on, as to which characters from, The Virgin Manny, would be making cameos in this particular book. *cheering* I remembered that I had adored Taylor and Jacob when I first met them in the first book. So, all bets were off when I had realized that two of my most favorite characters would be in this book too. But, low and behold, my heart broke within the very first chapter. So, fortunately or unfortunately, because of this, I have a lot to say about this book..*sighing again*
Manny Get Your Guy, by Amy Lane, is about Brandon Grayson and Taylor Cochran. Two beautiful men with difficult pasts, who have been welcomed, as adopted family members, into Jacob and Mica's loving families. Both men quickly found themselves, ten years after the end of book one, in quite the predicament. Brandon, a kind, caring, hard-working, family-oriented young man, who has been taking care of Jacob's children, is immediately attracted to this intriguing new person at a weekly family get-together. And Taylor..*sniff*..an already broken and lost young man, with a heart of gold, who had recently returned from war, as a now severely damaged young man as well, finds himself needing to beg for a job from his adoptive family, just so that he could simply survive once again. And, nothing more. That's all he wanted to do. But, instead of life becoming a bit easier for him, he was met with consternation, anger, and, disbelief in the form of an angry brick wall. As the thought of taking over Brandon's job, by Taylor, abounds, Brandon, for some reason, immediately erected this huge and ugly wall of defiance, that was unfair, mean, and unjust. And, that broke my heart..
I couldn't believe how detailed the plot was already, even within the first couple of chapters. If it wasn't someone's harsh words for a Veteran, who somehow quickly developed this strong need to become prince charming to be able to save the other individual from a dark and sad life, to the existence of individuals, who, while their hearts were in the right place, kindly took over that same individual's life for the better of that other person. Huh? Can we say whiplash? *Scratches head*
From that moment onward, the book was just not what I had envisioned it out to be. And, I was just so sad that it had taken that route. Instead of a book about a..manny and giggling little children, it was one filled with seemingly always present secondary characters, as well as unnecessary stress and many subplots. There was just too much going on. While I truly did love the secondary characters, I just felt that the plot, which did have some beautiful, tender, sad, and heart-warming moments, was just so overly-shadowed by everything else that was going on. With all of the secondary characters, the unbelievable pushiness and dominance of one individual, and the various subplots, this book seemed to be never-ending. And, that was painful to say.
There was so much potential for this to be a really great book, with a decent pace that wasn't so slow and overly-detailed. Since this book had contained someone who I had hoped would appear in future books, so that his incredibly painful past, could be dealt with, I was beyond disappointed that it never really was. I felt that for someone who had a past as such, and, in addition to that, had added feelings of such inadequacy, who had yearned for the simple touch of another human being, and for the love of a family, it should have been a substantial part of the plot. All of this should have been clearly taken care of within the story. I should have been able to feel the release and the closure of this horrific past. And, I didn't. With such a detailed plot, it was also difficult for me to completely connect with Brandon, and, also with their relationship, as a whole, as well. It was difficult to believe in their insta-love. I needed more. I needed to feel it throughout the book and not just barely at the very end of it. They did have chemistry, but, by the time they got together, I just couldn't connect with it as I should have. And, I really, really wanted to...
Suffice to say, this book was absolutely exhausting with its heart-breaking and tense moments, lots of crocodile tears, and pain. The writing seemed to be verbose, and seemed to be filled with words and phrases that, to me, made no sense within the surrounding context, and, therefore did take away from the overall meaning.
Soo..this was a tough review. It was really difficult for me to put into words how I felt about, Manny Get Your Guy. I think I sat here as I read and thought, "Ohhhh, nooooo. Pleeease..." because I had hoped that things would magically change for the remainder of the book. There were sooo many beautiful, touching, and, heart-warming scenes, and I just loooved seeing many of the characters again, and many new ones. I only truly wish, that, this beauty was more prevalent..because..it's the beauty of the now that is the greatest beauty of all...:)
June 30, 2017
I’m so happy this series is a thing (and that there’s one more to come)! Ten years have passed since the events in The Virgin Manny, and Amy Lane is giving Taylor Cochran a chance to redeem himself after his selfish teenage boy actions back then. A lot has changed, but a lot is still the same. Taylor’s done some hard growing and learning; Nica’s little family unit has done its own growing (and growing). The love, laughs, and general craziness that typified the Robbins family is alive and well in their offspring in Manny Get Your Guy.
Also, can we all just pause a moment to laugh about this title, because—*snort*.
Brandon is a new character in this book, but he fits right into the big-hearted group of familiar characters. He’s the perfect counterpart for Taylor. Taylor just needs to be convinced of that, and the whole relationship dance the two do as they circle into each other is lovely, touching, and ultimately satisfying. The whole book really is focused on these two getting together against the backdrop of their crazy, beautiful, messy, perfectly imperfect family.
God Bless the Dreamspun Desire category. The guaranteed happy endings are such a relief right now. I’ve really enjoyed knowing that lighthearted romance is on the menu as I dive into these books. Manny Get Your Guy gives that lightheartedness the typical Amy Lane treatment, meaning there’s angst, but it’s all off page and mostly on its way to resolved. We’re just privileged to watch the dangling happiness threads get tied up into a satisfying bow. It’s wonderfully sweet, and a perfect summer read. So, grab a towel (or a hammock!), pull up some sand and sunscreen, and while away an afternoon with these guys.
Reviewed by Cassie for The Novel Approach
Also, can we all just pause a moment to laugh about this title, because—*snort*.
Brandon is a new character in this book, but he fits right into the big-hearted group of familiar characters. He’s the perfect counterpart for Taylor. Taylor just needs to be convinced of that, and the whole relationship dance the two do as they circle into each other is lovely, touching, and ultimately satisfying. The whole book really is focused on these two getting together against the backdrop of their crazy, beautiful, messy, perfectly imperfect family.
God Bless the Dreamspun Desire category. The guaranteed happy endings are such a relief right now. I’ve really enjoyed knowing that lighthearted romance is on the menu as I dive into these books. Manny Get Your Guy gives that lightheartedness the typical Amy Lane treatment, meaning there’s angst, but it’s all off page and mostly on its way to resolved. We’re just privileged to watch the dangling happiness threads get tied up into a satisfying bow. It’s wonderfully sweet, and a perfect summer read. So, grab a towel (or a hammock!), pull up some sand and sunscreen, and while away an afternoon with these guys.
Reviewed by Cassie for The Novel Approach
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