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Ames Bridge #1
Down on the Farm
Down on the Farm, a sexy, enemies-to-lovers, small town romance, is the first book in the Ames Bridge series.
After quitting his teaching job on the heels of a scandal, Beck Davis moves to the house his grandmother left him in Ames Bridge. He finds the town stifling, but it’s a quiet place to hide while he regroups. Or so he thought.
His neighbor Cal McMurtry shows up, demanding to buy Beck’s land. Cal is as infuriatingly sexy as he was ten years ago when he and his jock friends spent their summers taunting Beck.
Beck expects to hate Cal as he did back then, but Cal isn’t who Beck thought he was: he’s hardworking, passionate about revamping and diversifying his family’s farm, and—far more shocking—he’s gay, and interested in Beck.
But as much as they want each other, Beck has no intention of staying in Ames Bridge, and while Cal is technically out, he refuses to date openly. A real relationship seems doomed from the beginning, but love can be a powerful motivator for those willing to take a chance.
After quitting his teaching job on the heels of a scandal, Beck Davis moves to the house his grandmother left him in Ames Bridge. He finds the town stifling, but it’s a quiet place to hide while he regroups. Or so he thought.
His neighbor Cal McMurtry shows up, demanding to buy Beck’s land. Cal is as infuriatingly sexy as he was ten years ago when he and his jock friends spent their summers taunting Beck.
Beck expects to hate Cal as he did back then, but Cal isn’t who Beck thought he was: he’s hardworking, passionate about revamping and diversifying his family’s farm, and—far more shocking—he’s gay, and interested in Beck.
But as much as they want each other, Beck has no intention of staying in Ames Bridge, and while Cal is technically out, he refuses to date openly. A real relationship seems doomed from the beginning, but love can be a powerful motivator for those willing to take a chance.
196 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 1, 2017
102 people are currently reading
229 people want to read
About the author
Silvia Violet
169 books1,190 followersSilvia Violet writes fun, sexy stories that will leave you smiling and satisfied. She has a thing for characters who are in need of comfort and enjoys helping them surrender to love even when they doubt it exists. Silvia's stories include sizzling contemporaries, paranormals, and historicals. When she needs a break from listening to the voices in her head, she spends time baking, taking long walks, and curling up with her favorite books. Keep up with her latest ventures by signing up for her newsletter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
July 13, 2017
I love a good enemies-to-lovers story. The set-up for ‘Down on the Farm’ piqued my interest: the city boy and the cowboy who couldn’t stand each other as teens find love. I was expecting some angst, some sweetness, and a good amount of sexy. This book delivered!
I wasn’t fond of Cal at first. The way he treated Beck when they were younger was appalling. Cal had dealt with his conflicted sexual feelings by bullying Beck.
But, as the story progressed, it became obvious that Cal’s past wasn’t who he really was. He may not be the best with words, but he goes out of his way to make amends.
Once Beck decides to give Cal a chance, he realizes that he can’t stay mad at Cal forever. Beck and Cal slowly become friends. Both find that when they put aside the animosity, they just click in a way they’ve never with anyone else.
And underneath that tentative friendship, there’s a strong physical attraction that the two can’t deny for long. And once they finally gave in, these two were on fire.
The scene in the barn was particularly steamy!
The big stumbling block in their relationship is Cal’s refusal to be in a relationship out in the open. Cal may be out, but being in an actual relationship in a rural town has its challenges. Cal doesn’t want to deal with the hate, and he doesn’t want his farm to suffer.
It would be easy to get frustrated with Cal’s refusal to own his feelings for Beck, but I could understand where he was coming from. In the end, it takes a huge leap of faith, for both Beck and Cal, for them to get their happy ever after.
Overall, I enjoyed ‘Down on the Farm.’ The main characters are engaging, the country setting was romantic, the relationship was sweet, and the sex was hot. If you’re looking for something easy to read, give this book a try!
I wasn’t fond of Cal at first. The way he treated Beck when they were younger was appalling. Cal had dealt with his conflicted sexual feelings by bullying Beck.
But, as the story progressed, it became obvious that Cal’s past wasn’t who he really was. He may not be the best with words, but he goes out of his way to make amends.
Once Beck decides to give Cal a chance, he realizes that he can’t stay mad at Cal forever. Beck and Cal slowly become friends. Both find that when they put aside the animosity, they just click in a way they’ve never with anyone else.
And underneath that tentative friendship, there’s a strong physical attraction that the two can’t deny for long. And once they finally gave in, these two were on fire.
The scene in the barn was particularly steamy!
The big stumbling block in their relationship is Cal’s refusal to be in a relationship out in the open. Cal may be out, but being in an actual relationship in a rural town has its challenges. Cal doesn’t want to deal with the hate, and he doesn’t want his farm to suffer.
It would be easy to get frustrated with Cal’s refusal to own his feelings for Beck, but I could understand where he was coming from. In the end, it takes a huge leap of faith, for both Beck and Cal, for them to get their happy ever after.
Overall, I enjoyed ‘Down on the Farm.’ The main characters are engaging, the country setting was romantic, the relationship was sweet, and the sex was hot. If you’re looking for something easy to read, give this book a try!
December 12, 2017
Oh my gosh, that was excellent! The only reason it took me so long to read it was because of that damn ugly cover! So I definitely recommend Down on the Farm ,for when you need a very low-angst story with lots of good Violet-esque sex scenes - a super fast and fun read, YAY!
not-interested
July 12, 2017Read the sample: pet-peeves, pet-peeves EVERYWHERE. Ridiculous sudden forgiveness and douchebag characters, no thanks.
June 9, 2020
Ok, I loved this book. I’m always a sucker for enemies to lover storing and this one was certainly a winner. Cal was the ultimate jock in school who picked on the nerdy Beck. However, the real reason was that he was always in love with Beck, but was too closeted to admit it.
When Beck comes back to Ames Bridge he finds out the whole town knows that Cal is gay, but Cal is afraid to have a relationship in this small conservative town. This was a sweet love story with low angst. So if that’s what you’re looking for, this is the book for you.
When Beck comes back to Ames Bridge he finds out the whole town knows that Cal is gay, but Cal is afraid to have a relationship in this small conservative town. This was a sweet love story with low angst. So if that’s what you’re looking for, this is the book for you.
July 30, 2017
FAN-DAM-TASTIC !!!
This was such a cool romance. So thrilled the town bigots were made to take a step back. Sex was good, too.
This was such a cool romance. So thrilled the town bigots were made to take a step back. Sex was good, too.
August 31, 2020
This started out so good. Friends turned enemies to friends again to lovers. The both Mc's really deserved a second chance at having each other in their lives. I loved this book for the first 50-60% of it. Then however, DRAMA. So much drama. Tons of drama. And it lasted until the 90% mark. Just too much for me. It didn't even add that much to the story. The ending was a bit too quick for my liking. I needed more. Maybe I'll get some of that from the other two books in the series? I don't know. Guess I'll find out if I get around to read those books.
July 13, 2017
3.75 stars
This was kind of cute and good. Cal was
Kind of an idiot even towards the end but I am willing to forgive his idiocy because of the HEA.
This was kind of cute and good. Cal was
Kind of an idiot even towards the end but I am willing to forgive his idiocy because of the HEA.
July 23, 2017
Rating: 3.25 stars
This is one is one of those it's not the book it's me kind of situations. I liked the idea, the characters, and the location, but something was missing. I'm a big fan of this author, so I'm looking forward to the next one in the series.
This is one is one of those it's not the book it's me kind of situations. I liked the idea, the characters, and the location, but something was missing. I'm a big fan of this author, so I'm looking forward to the next one in the series.
January 27, 2018
This was a cute reading!
The book has not too much angst and is not very original also... Beck go to his aunt farm after a bad job experience, and there found out that his neighboor is his chilhood enemy. But surprisingly, Cal is openly gay now.
So yes, they start something... but I really don´t understand why, Cal don´t want they relationship to be public ¿?¿ At the end he must choose of courseee ;)
The book has not too much angst and is not very original also... Beck go to his aunt farm after a bad job experience, and there found out that his neighboor is his chilhood enemy. But surprisingly, Cal is openly gay now.
So yes, they start something... but I really don´t understand why, Cal don´t want they relationship to be public ¿?¿ At the end he must choose of courseee ;)
January 27, 2018
I always like it when authors start a new series and it seems that Silvia Violet’s Ames Bridge series is off to a great start.
Down on the Farm isn’t exactly a “friends to lovers” book, or a “reunited lovers” book. It’s not even an “unrequited lovers” book. It’s closer to an “enemies to lovers” book, but not quite.
Beck spent some time at his grandmother’s house growing up. Enough time that she left him the house and property to him in her will because she knew that he loved it there. He may have loved it, but he had no idea what to do with it and he had no intention of living in Ames Bridge for the rest of his life. Fate has a way of changing plans though and it was the perfect escape when he needed a place to get his life back on track.
Cal had come a long way since Beck thought he knew him. Turns out he was just as infatuated with Beck back then as Beck was with him. They both had their personal issues to overcome though and more than a little miscommunication (both past and present) came into play. Town gossip, nosy neighbors, well meaning friends and small town craziness all kept things more than a little interesting.
Regardless, I really liked the first book in the Ames Bridge series and I’ve already got the second book, The Past Comes Home, ready and waiting on my Kindle. Stay tuned!
Down on the Farm isn’t exactly a “friends to lovers” book, or a “reunited lovers” book. It’s not even an “unrequited lovers” book. It’s closer to an “enemies to lovers” book, but not quite.
Beck spent some time at his grandmother’s house growing up. Enough time that she left him the house and property to him in her will because she knew that he loved it there. He may have loved it, but he had no idea what to do with it and he had no intention of living in Ames Bridge for the rest of his life. Fate has a way of changing plans though and it was the perfect escape when he needed a place to get his life back on track.
Cal had come a long way since Beck thought he knew him. Turns out he was just as infatuated with Beck back then as Beck was with him. They both had their personal issues to overcome though and more than a little miscommunication (both past and present) came into play. Town gossip, nosy neighbors, well meaning friends and small town craziness all kept things more than a little interesting.
Regardless, I really liked the first book in the Ames Bridge series and I’ve already got the second book, The Past Comes Home, ready and waiting on my Kindle. Stay tuned!
January 13, 2018
I want to be an adventurous reader, so I picked up a genre that I've never read before (romance/erotica)... and it went as I expected.
The plot was painfully predictable and for the most part it was a cringe fest. The ending was ridiculous and made me roll my eyes so much they hurt.
The only slightly good thing in this book was the characters, they were likable and cute.
Now I can say for sure, that this genre is just not for me.
The plot was painfully predictable and for the most part it was a cringe fest. The ending was ridiculous and made me roll my eyes so much they hurt.
The only slightly good thing in this book was the characters, they were likable and cute.
Now I can say for sure, that this genre is just not for me.
October 27, 2017
Updated for audiobook review:
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
One of the things Silvia Violet excels at, and what keeps drawing me to her books, is characterization. Her MCs just leap off the page and the chemistry between them is palpable. So I knew going in to this book that I would enjoy myself. And I certainly did. There’s a realness to both Beck and Cal I really enjoyed. They are not without flaws, but they work together so well. They have chemistry in spades, and even when I wanted to smack them both, I knew they’d find their happily ever after.
These guys aren’t perfect. Cal is hung up on the way he’s seen by the town, and only focuses on the bad things and how that can affect him and his business. I understood exactly what he was going through, even as I wished he’d open his eyes and see things differently. Beck has been through the wringer himself, and when he chooses to keep something a secret from Cal, I could have smacked him. But the magic Violet has is that she makes me care about her characters, even when I disagree with them, and even when I think they’re being fools. Most of all, we have two solid guys who just want to find their HEA. They don’t know how to get it, exactly, but it’s clear from the start that they are made for each other.
I liked the growth we saw in both characters, especially Cal. He’s come a long way from the boy that Beck remembers, and the past we hear about is definitely colored by his perspective. And we get to see some of that behavior in the beginning of the book as Cal comes to terms with his feelings for Beck. But more than that, he finds the strength to stand up for himself and go after what he wants. It takes a big act in order for him to find it…and a few nosy neighbors…but it totally works for the character Cal is.
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
One of the things Silvia Violet excels at, and what keeps drawing me to her books, is characterization. Her MCs just leap off the page and the chemistry between them is palpable. So I knew going in to this book that I would enjoy myself. And I certainly did. There’s a realness to both Beck and Cal I really enjoyed. They are not without flaws, but they work together so well. They have chemistry in spades, and even when I wanted to smack them both, I knew they’d find their happily ever after.
These guys aren’t perfect. Cal is hung up on the way he’s seen by the town, and only focuses on the bad things and how that can affect him and his business. I understood exactly what he was going through, even as I wished he’d open his eyes and see things differently. Beck has been through the wringer himself, and when he chooses to keep something a secret from Cal, I could have smacked him. But the magic Violet has is that she makes me care about her characters, even when I disagree with them, and even when I think they’re being fools. Most of all, we have two solid guys who just want to find their HEA. They don’t know how to get it, exactly, but it’s clear from the start that they are made for each other.
I liked the growth we saw in both characters, especially Cal. He’s come a long way from the boy that Beck remembers, and the past we hear about is definitely colored by his perspective. And we get to see some of that behavior in the beginning of the book as Cal comes to terms with his feelings for Beck. But more than that, he finds the strength to stand up for himself and go after what he wants. It takes a big act in order for him to find it…and a few nosy neighbors…but it totally works for the character Cal is.
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
July 19, 2017
*Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by Signal Boost Promotions for my reading pleasure in hopes of an unbiased opinion, a review was not a requirement.*
Down on the Farm is the first book in Silvia Violet's new series, Ames Bridge. The town of Ames Bridge is a small town that draws tourists because of its covered bridge. It was an interesting concept setting a town up around a covered bridge! I live in an area with many covered bridges, and there are two covered bridge festivals held in our state every year. But, until reading Down on the Farm, I never gave much thought to our covered bridges.
Living in small towns can be different, especially when you're a gay person. After winning a settlement with the school he taught at, Beck needs some time to figure out what's next for him. He decides to head to his grandma's house in Ames Bridge and handle everything required with her death. Beck has no interest in staying in Ames Bridge long-term. But Beck has some residual childhood angst to deal with regarding his neighbor Cal. Cal bullied him whenever he stayed with his grandmother, and made Beck's life miserable. Now Cal's shown up wanting to rent or buy the unused farmland on Beck's property, but Beck isn't going to cave and let him have his way. Cal needs the land to continue expanding his farm, but just like old times, he reverts to being a jerk when around Beck. These two men might have aged, but in behavior they have not. Finally, with intervention from other town folks, Beck and Cal interact with each other and step outside their own head to see what's going on with the other. Even though Beck finds out Cal returns his attraction, Cal refuses any relationship other than one hidden from everyone else.
I both liked and disliked the MC's in this story. They both had their childhood issues that they wallowed in, and reverted back to that behavior often. Cal was still a bully to Beck even as an adult, even though he apologized for his behavior afterward. Beck spent a little too much time wallowing and feeling sorry for himself, and hating Cal for his childhood. And, though he was interested in a relationship, he still allowed Cal to treat him terribly and just did what Cal wanted. I hate when an MC comes across as so desperate for another person that they're willing to be treated bad. It wasn't just that Cal only wanted sex from Beck, if anyone else was around Cal treated Beck awfully. I would have respected Beck more if he had stood up for himself and accepted no less than he deserved. If he had said, hey, no naked time if you can't treat me like more than a nuisance when others are around. But that's why I'm the reader and not the author. :)
I think for anyone who likes an enemy to lovers trope, they'll love this! Though I don't hate the trope, sometimes the enemies parts sways my like/dislike of characters too much! This story was full of great characterization that really brought the small town to life. The gossip, knowing everyone else's business, judgement is so accurate for small town life. I thought this was a great start to a new series and I can't wait to see what awaits the people of Ames Bridge!
Rating: 4 stars
Down on the Farm is the first book in Silvia Violet's new series, Ames Bridge. The town of Ames Bridge is a small town that draws tourists because of its covered bridge. It was an interesting concept setting a town up around a covered bridge! I live in an area with many covered bridges, and there are two covered bridge festivals held in our state every year. But, until reading Down on the Farm, I never gave much thought to our covered bridges.
Living in small towns can be different, especially when you're a gay person. After winning a settlement with the school he taught at, Beck needs some time to figure out what's next for him. He decides to head to his grandma's house in Ames Bridge and handle everything required with her death. Beck has no interest in staying in Ames Bridge long-term. But Beck has some residual childhood angst to deal with regarding his neighbor Cal. Cal bullied him whenever he stayed with his grandmother, and made Beck's life miserable. Now Cal's shown up wanting to rent or buy the unused farmland on Beck's property, but Beck isn't going to cave and let him have his way. Cal needs the land to continue expanding his farm, but just like old times, he reverts to being a jerk when around Beck. These two men might have aged, but in behavior they have not. Finally, with intervention from other town folks, Beck and Cal interact with each other and step outside their own head to see what's going on with the other. Even though Beck finds out Cal returns his attraction, Cal refuses any relationship other than one hidden from everyone else.
I both liked and disliked the MC's in this story. They both had their childhood issues that they wallowed in, and reverted back to that behavior often. Cal was still a bully to Beck even as an adult, even though he apologized for his behavior afterward. Beck spent a little too much time wallowing and feeling sorry for himself, and hating Cal for his childhood. And, though he was interested in a relationship, he still allowed Cal to treat him terribly and just did what Cal wanted. I hate when an MC comes across as so desperate for another person that they're willing to be treated bad. It wasn't just that Cal only wanted sex from Beck, if anyone else was around Cal treated Beck awfully. I would have respected Beck more if he had stood up for himself and accepted no less than he deserved. If he had said, hey, no naked time if you can't treat me like more than a nuisance when others are around. But that's why I'm the reader and not the author. :)
I think for anyone who likes an enemy to lovers trope, they'll love this! Though I don't hate the trope, sometimes the enemies parts sways my like/dislike of characters too much! This story was full of great characterization that really brought the small town to life. The gossip, knowing everyone else's business, judgement is so accurate for small town life. I thought this was a great start to a new series and I can't wait to see what awaits the people of Ames Bridge!
Rating: 4 stars
September 6, 2017
~ 3.5 Stars ~
Down on the Farm is a well-written and engaging story, and when I finished, I can say I enjoyed it quite a bit.
Cal and Beck have known each other since they were kids, and upon Beck’s return to Ames Bridge, they can’t really avoid each other, with it being such a small town and them being neighbors. They start out disliking one another for their past, but quickly find common ground and attraction. The only problem? Cal is scared out of his mind about how the people in town will react after he has done so much to modernize and grow his farm, and Beck has no idea what his future holds—other than the fact he knows it won’t be in Ames Bridge.
One of my favorite things about stories set in small towns is the secondary characters. I love the whole “everyone knows what everyone else is doing, and can’t help but be nosy and be all up in the MCs’ business”, and oftentimes, the supporting characters play fairly big roles in the ongoing plot and ultimate romance. Small towns, set in certain areas, can create their own angst and almost become their own character. The key is making the town still somewhat desirable enough so the reader can understand why the protagonists would even want to remain in that kind of life and location in the first place. Especially when there is bigotry and hate in the community. In this case, I found it was a healthy balance of accepting, caring people, and intolerant homophobes, keeping the town negative aspects from becoming one of those places I can’t imagine someone wanting to stay.
Both Cal and Beck were flawed individuals with baggage. They are dimensional and their emotions are mostly understandable. I was totally Team Beck! He truly wanted to help, out of the goodness of his heart, in the way he saw potential in Cal’s farm, and a way to make the farm more profitable and also add to the community. He didn’t want the glory of the ideas, he was just a genuinely good person with the ability to think outside the box. I had a little trouble connecting with Cal because of his desire to have Beck but refusing to be the one to make any sacrifices. Cal plain frustrated me. He was so caught up in his own head, in his own fears, and always wanted Beck to be the one to give, so much so that he never tried to think about how his decisions were affecting Beck in the long run. Sure, he noticed when he hurt Beck but would then grab hold of his own dread and focus on that instead. When Beck would put his foot down, Cal would push him away or create distance. It was immature and I felt for Beck so much as he tried to navigate what was happening, all the while trying to figure out what to do for his future.
This wasn’t quite the enemies-to-lovers story I had hoped for, but I suppose it still could be classified as one. That’s more just a personal preference on this particular trope—I salivate for lots and lots of disagreements, confrontations and anger on the part of the MCs. One of my favorite things is to read the explosive confrontations and drama, all the while having a nice slow-burn as the characters grow to something more, and slowly figure out their attraction to one another. Though Beck and Cal, in the beginning of the story, feel anger towards each other (from their time as teenagers), and there is one main confrontation, the dynamic changes very quickly from antagonistic and volatile to sweet moments. There really are only two real instances where the enemies part shows itself in the present, and the internal dialogue has both of them thinking about how good looking the other happened to be from the get-go. I guess, for me, the anger and tension just wasn’t quite believable to the whole being adversaries in the present. Maybe if there was a wee bit more exploration and time spent on page in their treatment of each other during their teenage years, I would have found that aspect more believable.
That’s not to say there isn’t a fair amount of drama, though. There is, it just wasn’t as focused on the enemies part as I had thought. Cal and Beck face intolerant townsfolk, nosy yet well-meaning friends, plenty of misunderstandings, as well as just straight up stubbornness by one of the protagonists.
Though not what I had expected, I still found the story to be well written and entertaining, with engaging characters and a nice foundation for a new series.
Reviewed by Lindsey for The Novel Approach
Down on the Farm is a well-written and engaging story, and when I finished, I can say I enjoyed it quite a bit.
Cal and Beck have known each other since they were kids, and upon Beck’s return to Ames Bridge, they can’t really avoid each other, with it being such a small town and them being neighbors. They start out disliking one another for their past, but quickly find common ground and attraction. The only problem? Cal is scared out of his mind about how the people in town will react after he has done so much to modernize and grow his farm, and Beck has no idea what his future holds—other than the fact he knows it won’t be in Ames Bridge.
One of my favorite things about stories set in small towns is the secondary characters. I love the whole “everyone knows what everyone else is doing, and can’t help but be nosy and be all up in the MCs’ business”, and oftentimes, the supporting characters play fairly big roles in the ongoing plot and ultimate romance. Small towns, set in certain areas, can create their own angst and almost become their own character. The key is making the town still somewhat desirable enough so the reader can understand why the protagonists would even want to remain in that kind of life and location in the first place. Especially when there is bigotry and hate in the community. In this case, I found it was a healthy balance of accepting, caring people, and intolerant homophobes, keeping the town negative aspects from becoming one of those places I can’t imagine someone wanting to stay.
Both Cal and Beck were flawed individuals with baggage. They are dimensional and their emotions are mostly understandable. I was totally Team Beck! He truly wanted to help, out of the goodness of his heart, in the way he saw potential in Cal’s farm, and a way to make the farm more profitable and also add to the community. He didn’t want the glory of the ideas, he was just a genuinely good person with the ability to think outside the box. I had a little trouble connecting with Cal because of his desire to have Beck but refusing to be the one to make any sacrifices. Cal plain frustrated me. He was so caught up in his own head, in his own fears, and always wanted Beck to be the one to give, so much so that he never tried to think about how his decisions were affecting Beck in the long run. Sure, he noticed when he hurt Beck but would then grab hold of his own dread and focus on that instead. When Beck would put his foot down, Cal would push him away or create distance. It was immature and I felt for Beck so much as he tried to navigate what was happening, all the while trying to figure out what to do for his future.
This wasn’t quite the enemies-to-lovers story I had hoped for, but I suppose it still could be classified as one. That’s more just a personal preference on this particular trope—I salivate for lots and lots of disagreements, confrontations and anger on the part of the MCs. One of my favorite things is to read the explosive confrontations and drama, all the while having a nice slow-burn as the characters grow to something more, and slowly figure out their attraction to one another. Though Beck and Cal, in the beginning of the story, feel anger towards each other (from their time as teenagers), and there is one main confrontation, the dynamic changes very quickly from antagonistic and volatile to sweet moments. There really are only two real instances where the enemies part shows itself in the present, and the internal dialogue has both of them thinking about how good looking the other happened to be from the get-go. I guess, for me, the anger and tension just wasn’t quite believable to the whole being adversaries in the present. Maybe if there was a wee bit more exploration and time spent on page in their treatment of each other during their teenage years, I would have found that aspect more believable.
That’s not to say there isn’t a fair amount of drama, though. There is, it just wasn’t as focused on the enemies part as I had thought. Cal and Beck face intolerant townsfolk, nosy yet well-meaning friends, plenty of misunderstandings, as well as just straight up stubbornness by one of the protagonists.
Though not what I had expected, I still found the story to be well written and entertaining, with engaging characters and a nice foundation for a new series.
Reviewed by Lindsey for The Novel Approach
July 19, 2017
This is the type of story that has weaving tropes. It’s an enemies to lovers but also a friends to lovers. At least that’s how I read it. The title for this book is apt. As warm as it sounds is as warm as it is. There’s a tiny bit of romantic suspense but not too much.
Cal has never left Ames Bridge. Even when his folks left, he stayed and turned the farm into something. And it’s the farm that he loves more than anything. He has his dog, Katie, some awesome folks in town, and even though he’s out he’s certainly not proud.
Beck did leave home and after a scandal he’s come home to decompress. He never intended to stay. He wanted to put his grandmother’s house in order, sell it, and move on. But when he sees Cal (the boy he always wanted but who was always mean to him) showing interest his life changes direction.
This book shows that bigotry is alive and well in many areas in the US. Yes, we are progressing but for many they are still fighting a battle to love who they want without persecution.
There’s some silly moments, beautiful moments, and some teary moments but it all shapes this book into a delightful read that makes you smile in the end.
Cal has never left Ames Bridge. Even when his folks left, he stayed and turned the farm into something. And it’s the farm that he loves more than anything. He has his dog, Katie, some awesome folks in town, and even though he’s out he’s certainly not proud.
Beck did leave home and after a scandal he’s come home to decompress. He never intended to stay. He wanted to put his grandmother’s house in order, sell it, and move on. But when he sees Cal (the boy he always wanted but who was always mean to him) showing interest his life changes direction.
This book shows that bigotry is alive and well in many areas in the US. Yes, we are progressing but for many they are still fighting a battle to love who they want without persecution.
There’s some silly moments, beautiful moments, and some teary moments but it all shapes this book into a delightful read that makes you smile in the end.
July 12, 2017
I received a copy of this title to read and review for Wicked Reads
4 Sweet Stars
Beck returns home to a rural town after he left his job, deciding to take care of his grandmother's home for a few months while he looked for another job.
Cal grew up in the farm adjacent. As childhood friends, Beck & Cal didn't get along as teens. Cal athletic from farming, Beck artistic and out & proud.
Beck felt Cal bullied him, pushing him away, not realizing it was because Cal had a crush on him.
Years later, after a lifetime of growth, the men are next door neighbors in a town where if you think it, it's already spreading down the gossip chain.
Cal is terrified to lose the family farm due to being gay. He's out and not proud- it's okay to be gay as long as he never dates.
Beck just quit a job due to bigotry, so this adds fuel to Cal's fire.
The book was a quick, sweet read. Perfect way to spend the afternoon reading, without too much angst or conflict, but obviously miscommunication.
Living in a small town myself, I know things aren't as 'dramatic' as portrayed. There is a soap-opera, dramatized for TV small town mentality, which while okay for fiction, is not at all the mindset in small-town USA 2017. Little bit over-the-top, but suspending belief added on top of the fact that this is warm & fuzzy romance, had me overlooking this.
4 Sweet Stars
Beck returns home to a rural town after he left his job, deciding to take care of his grandmother's home for a few months while he looked for another job.
Cal grew up in the farm adjacent. As childhood friends, Beck & Cal didn't get along as teens. Cal athletic from farming, Beck artistic and out & proud.
Beck felt Cal bullied him, pushing him away, not realizing it was because Cal had a crush on him.
Years later, after a lifetime of growth, the men are next door neighbors in a town where if you think it, it's already spreading down the gossip chain.
Cal is terrified to lose the family farm due to being gay. He's out and not proud- it's okay to be gay as long as he never dates.
Beck just quit a job due to bigotry, so this adds fuel to Cal's fire.
The book was a quick, sweet read. Perfect way to spend the afternoon reading, without too much angst or conflict, but obviously miscommunication.
Living in a small town myself, I know things aren't as 'dramatic' as portrayed. There is a soap-opera, dramatized for TV small town mentality, which while okay for fiction, is not at all the mindset in small-town USA 2017. Little bit over-the-top, but suspending belief added on top of the fact that this is warm & fuzzy romance, had me overlooking this.
January 21, 2018
Cal &Beck
Living in small town America is hard when being gay, worst being a gay farmer.
For Cal who always knew he was gay was afraid to have any relationship that would jeopardise his farm.
Beck came back to regroup after losing his job.
Small town gossip already had him and Cal hooking up even before they started.
All Beck knew was Cal wanted to buy land off him.
Little that they both knew that there was an attraction for each other.
What got me mad was Cal's willingness to hide his relationship even though he knew Beck was out and proud.
I get the whole gist but the mixed signals was frustrating.
It took nosey people for them to get their HEA.
All in all not a bad read.
Living in small town America is hard when being gay, worst being a gay farmer.
For Cal who always knew he was gay was afraid to have any relationship that would jeopardise his farm.
Beck came back to regroup after losing his job.
Small town gossip already had him and Cal hooking up even before they started.
All Beck knew was Cal wanted to buy land off him.
Little that they both knew that there was an attraction for each other.
What got me mad was Cal's willingness to hide his relationship even though he knew Beck was out and proud.
I get the whole gist but the mixed signals was frustrating.
It took nosey people for them to get their HEA.
All in all not a bad read.
July 24, 2017
Hate to Love
I loved this book. Another cliche enemies to lovers. But it was done so well and several hot button issues were covered as well. It's so sad to think that on 2017 there are still close minded people walking around. I like how the author addresses the issues of bigotry and homophobia. The best way to handle it is really not to care what people think. In the end you end up so much happier and it's no one's business but your own who you choose to be with.
I loved this book. Another cliche enemies to lovers. But it was done so well and several hot button issues were covered as well. It's so sad to think that on 2017 there are still close minded people walking around. I like how the author addresses the issues of bigotry and homophobia. The best way to handle it is really not to care what people think. In the end you end up so much happier and it's no one's business but your own who you choose to be with.
January 15, 2018
Silvia has done it again! a fantastic book with good sex and a compelling story! I love Cal and Beck
September 16, 2017
Going against the majority it seems, but I really hated these guys.
January 2, 2018
Nach einer beruflichen Niederlage zieht sich der jungen Lehrer Beck in das Haus seiner Großmutter zurück um dort seine Wunden zu lecken. Wenig hilfreich ist die Anwesenheit seines Nachbar Cal, der nach dem Tod von Beck Großmutter das zum Haus gehörende Land kaufen möchte um seine Farm zu erweitern. Beck, der in seiner Kindheit und Jugend, immer wieder Zielscheibe des Spotts von Cal und seinen Freunden war, ist nicht gut auf Cal zu sprechen und versucht ihm aus dem Weg zu gehen.
Zu dumm nur, dass aus Cal ein echt heißer Farmer geworden ist und er ihn einfach nicht los wird. Dazu kommen auch noch wohlmeinende Freunde und Bekannte, die Cal und Beck verkuppeln wollen. Dabei wollen sie gar nicht verkuppelt werden und ihre Lebensentwürfe passen auch so gar nicht zusammen. Zudem Cal zwar als schwul bekannt ist, durch diese Offenheit aber in der engstirnigen Gemeinde und dem Umland damit immer wieder Probleme bekommt. Probleme, die sich auch auf seine Farm und sein Einkommen auswirken könnten.
Aber da gibt es diese Gefühle, die schon seit Ewigkeiten in ihnen brodeln und irgendwann nicht mehr zu unterdrücken sind. Cal und Beck kommen sehr schnell an einen Punkt, wo sie sich entscheiden, aber auch Kompromisse eingehen müssen.
Enemies to Lovers Geschichten sind meistens sehr schwierig und auch problembeladen. Das ist hier nicht anders, doch Silvia Violet hat das ganz gut gelöst und erzählt die Geschichte von Beck und Cal sehr humorvoll, leicht und spannend. Natürlich gibt es die üblichen Konflikte und Probleme, die guten Freunde und die zu erwartenden bigotten Mitmenschen, die vor allem Cal das Leben zur Hölle machen wollen.
Angesiedelt ist die Geschichte im Süden der USA, in einer Kleinstadt. Hier kennt ja wirklich jeder jeden und die Autorin greift auch die Religion auf, die die Menschen so prägt und für sich vereinnahmt. Es ist für Cal wirklich nicht einfach so zu leben, dass er sich, aber auch Beck gerecht werden kann. Seine Mutlosigkeit und seine Resignation sind immer greifbar und auch bedrückend. Beck versucht ihm zu helfen, aber ihre Mitmenschen machen es ihnen wirklich nicht leicht.
Trotzdem hat mir die Geschichte sehr gut gefallen. Trotz des ernsten Hintergrundes, war sie sehr witzig, romantisch und auch sexy. Cal und Beck passen wirklich sehr gut zusammen und auch wenn es zu einigen sehr heißen Szenen kommt, ist es doch kein Porno und bleibt doch eine liebenswerte Kleinstadtgeschichte.
Zu dumm nur, dass aus Cal ein echt heißer Farmer geworden ist und er ihn einfach nicht los wird. Dazu kommen auch noch wohlmeinende Freunde und Bekannte, die Cal und Beck verkuppeln wollen. Dabei wollen sie gar nicht verkuppelt werden und ihre Lebensentwürfe passen auch so gar nicht zusammen. Zudem Cal zwar als schwul bekannt ist, durch diese Offenheit aber in der engstirnigen Gemeinde und dem Umland damit immer wieder Probleme bekommt. Probleme, die sich auch auf seine Farm und sein Einkommen auswirken könnten.
Aber da gibt es diese Gefühle, die schon seit Ewigkeiten in ihnen brodeln und irgendwann nicht mehr zu unterdrücken sind. Cal und Beck kommen sehr schnell an einen Punkt, wo sie sich entscheiden, aber auch Kompromisse eingehen müssen.
Enemies to Lovers Geschichten sind meistens sehr schwierig und auch problembeladen. Das ist hier nicht anders, doch Silvia Violet hat das ganz gut gelöst und erzählt die Geschichte von Beck und Cal sehr humorvoll, leicht und spannend. Natürlich gibt es die üblichen Konflikte und Probleme, die guten Freunde und die zu erwartenden bigotten Mitmenschen, die vor allem Cal das Leben zur Hölle machen wollen.
Angesiedelt ist die Geschichte im Süden der USA, in einer Kleinstadt. Hier kennt ja wirklich jeder jeden und die Autorin greift auch die Religion auf, die die Menschen so prägt und für sich vereinnahmt. Es ist für Cal wirklich nicht einfach so zu leben, dass er sich, aber auch Beck gerecht werden kann. Seine Mutlosigkeit und seine Resignation sind immer greifbar und auch bedrückend. Beck versucht ihm zu helfen, aber ihre Mitmenschen machen es ihnen wirklich nicht leicht.
Trotzdem hat mir die Geschichte sehr gut gefallen. Trotz des ernsten Hintergrundes, war sie sehr witzig, romantisch und auch sexy. Cal und Beck passen wirklich sehr gut zusammen und auch wenn es zu einigen sehr heißen Szenen kommt, ist es doch kein Porno und bleibt doch eine liebenswerte Kleinstadtgeschichte.
July 10, 2017
4.5 Stars for this sexy enemies to lovers romance.
Beck Davis is mired in misery, settling into his late-grandmother's farmhouse in rural Ames Bridge, North Carolina. He'd just won a settlement from his discriminating Georgia school district, and he just wants to lick his wounds and sort his grandma's belongings. He surely doesn't want to reconnect with his neighbor, Cal McMurtry, subject of his teen fantasies and all-over mean boy. Unfortunately, Cal wants to rent or purchase Beck's grandma's property so he can expand his farm. And seeing Cal while Beck is still so raw and vulnerable isn't a great experience.
At first.
Cal McMurtry is isolated and bitter since he came out. He's heard the talk around his small town, and knows that his best chance at making his organic farm operation successful is to expand, work hard and keep his head down. It's that much harder to ignore his physical and emotional needs when he sees how Beck has filled out. It's even harder when Beck brings up what a giant prick he'd been as a confused kid trying to deny his attraction to the skinny boy Beck had been back then.
The chatter from mutual friends in the town turns, Beck's head however. He'd never guessed Cal was gay, and it's more than a little intriguing to discover that the searing looks he flashes Beck are filled with lust, not hate. Still, if they are going to make a life together, it has to be in the open--that's why Beck left Georgia after all. And, it's also why he never planned to much time in Ames Bridge. Too small town, too narrow-minded, or so Beck expected. But, being there he's meeting out-gay men and women who are having success. It leads Beck to believe that he and Cal could really build a life together. If only Cal would consider being out in public with him.
I really liked this one! It's not a spicy as some other books Violet's written, but it had an authentic feel, with a sweet story. Beck and Cal have a lot of passion, in general, for each other and for their life plans. I got swept away in their romance, and loved the supporting characters who assured them that they could make it, together. It was fun to see the homophobes get shut down, and the grannie brigade to ride into the fray. I look forward spending more time in Ames Bridge.
Beck Davis is mired in misery, settling into his late-grandmother's farmhouse in rural Ames Bridge, North Carolina. He'd just won a settlement from his discriminating Georgia school district, and he just wants to lick his wounds and sort his grandma's belongings. He surely doesn't want to reconnect with his neighbor, Cal McMurtry, subject of his teen fantasies and all-over mean boy. Unfortunately, Cal wants to rent or purchase Beck's grandma's property so he can expand his farm. And seeing Cal while Beck is still so raw and vulnerable isn't a great experience.
At first.
Cal McMurtry is isolated and bitter since he came out. He's heard the talk around his small town, and knows that his best chance at making his organic farm operation successful is to expand, work hard and keep his head down. It's that much harder to ignore his physical and emotional needs when he sees how Beck has filled out. It's even harder when Beck brings up what a giant prick he'd been as a confused kid trying to deny his attraction to the skinny boy Beck had been back then.
The chatter from mutual friends in the town turns, Beck's head however. He'd never guessed Cal was gay, and it's more than a little intriguing to discover that the searing looks he flashes Beck are filled with lust, not hate. Still, if they are going to make a life together, it has to be in the open--that's why Beck left Georgia after all. And, it's also why he never planned to much time in Ames Bridge. Too small town, too narrow-minded, or so Beck expected. But, being there he's meeting out-gay men and women who are having success. It leads Beck to believe that he and Cal could really build a life together. If only Cal would consider being out in public with him.
I really liked this one! It's not a spicy as some other books Violet's written, but it had an authentic feel, with a sweet story. Beck and Cal have a lot of passion, in general, for each other and for their life plans. I got swept away in their romance, and loved the supporting characters who assured them that they could make it, together. It was fun to see the homophobes get shut down, and the grannie brigade to ride into the fray. I look forward spending more time in Ames Bridge.
July 19, 2017
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Cal bullied Beckett when they were young boys growing up in rural Ames Bridge, but were his actions back then really as they appeared? Beck isn’t too anxious to cross paths with the guy when he returns to town to pack up his grandmother’s house after she passes away. His first impression of Cal is that he’s still the same brusque brute he was in high school – but he starts hearing mixed reviews about the guy, and decides maybe he should give him a second chance and not judge him so harshly. Maybe more than his farm has changed, plus Cal’s Great Dane Katie seems to like him.
The primary characters in Down on the Farm were a bit less over-energized and wired than those in a few of Violet’s other releases, though admittedly Cal resembled the previous pattern set forth by not outwardly committing to a real relationship. Behind closed doors was one thing, but public admissions and displays of affection, not so much.
Beck, on the other hand, had been willing to go along at least temporarily with the secrecy, but as time passed and the two continued to grow closer – and fall in love – he was no longer willing to simply let Cal’s bouts of denial and insecurities rule his future. When one of the old busy-body town gossips walks in on the post-coital couple, Cal panics and can no longer justify to himself taking a risk on love no matter how strongly he feels about Beck, especially if it means losing the farm. He turns his back on Beck and potentially both of their futures in the process.
Down on the Farm can get frustrating – or rather, Cal can get frustrating – when he continues succumbing to his fears of the locals judging him and spreading rumors. Will he be able to set those aside to pursue his feelings for Beck, feelings he’s had since high school?
There are moments of humor, particularly those involving Irene, Elsie, Trish, and Lucy, and others of candid insight, such as those shared by Pax.
And then the endearing relationship-strengthening ones, and the hot, vulnerable, and sexy ones. Cal and Beck know how to get it on, and once the emotions start flowing for real? Well, the reader knows love will win out in the end, regardless of what anyone thinks or says.
In the words of Irene, “Go get your man.”
Cal bullied Beckett when they were young boys growing up in rural Ames Bridge, but were his actions back then really as they appeared? Beck isn’t too anxious to cross paths with the guy when he returns to town to pack up his grandmother’s house after she passes away. His first impression of Cal is that he’s still the same brusque brute he was in high school – but he starts hearing mixed reviews about the guy, and decides maybe he should give him a second chance and not judge him so harshly. Maybe more than his farm has changed, plus Cal’s Great Dane Katie seems to like him.
The primary characters in Down on the Farm were a bit less over-energized and wired than those in a few of Violet’s other releases, though admittedly Cal resembled the previous pattern set forth by not outwardly committing to a real relationship. Behind closed doors was one thing, but public admissions and displays of affection, not so much.
Beck, on the other hand, had been willing to go along at least temporarily with the secrecy, but as time passed and the two continued to grow closer – and fall in love – he was no longer willing to simply let Cal’s bouts of denial and insecurities rule his future. When one of the old busy-body town gossips walks in on the post-coital couple, Cal panics and can no longer justify to himself taking a risk on love no matter how strongly he feels about Beck, especially if it means losing the farm. He turns his back on Beck and potentially both of their futures in the process.
Down on the Farm can get frustrating – or rather, Cal can get frustrating – when he continues succumbing to his fears of the locals judging him and spreading rumors. Will he be able to set those aside to pursue his feelings for Beck, feelings he’s had since high school?
There are moments of humor, particularly those involving Irene, Elsie, Trish, and Lucy, and others of candid insight, such as those shared by Pax.
And then the endearing relationship-strengthening ones, and the hot, vulnerable, and sexy ones. Cal and Beck know how to get it on, and once the emotions start flowing for real? Well, the reader knows love will win out in the end, regardless of what anyone thinks or says.
In the words of Irene, “Go get your man.”
July 17, 2017
So far my experience with this author’s books has been her Thorne and Dash series (which I absolutely LOVE), and Revolutionary Temptation (historical romance)…so with this story being more of a regular contemporary romance I had to adjust my mindset a bit. Here in Down on the Farm, we get a bit of an enemies-to-lovers/friends with benefits vibe where being gay in a small, conservative town is what provides the conflict.
Individually I really liked both main characters, Cal and Beck. What stood out for each of them for me was Beck for standing up for his rights and being just an all-around great guy, and Cal for working hard and making a success of his family’s farm. There was still the matter of how Cal treated Beck back when they were teenagers, something that it seemed like Beck forgave Cal for rather easily once he found out the reason behind it.
Together, they had plenty of physical chemistry, and besides that they just seemed to click together naturally as friends. But Cal, while out as gay, felt there was a huge difference between the town knowing that and the town actually seeing him with someone, and he uses this as an excuse to keep his and Beck’s relationship a secret. There was a bit of back-and-forth between them because of this, and for me I did grow a bit tired of that.
I loved the whole small town setup with everyone knowing everyone else’s business, and while that might be something I’d find personally aggravating if I had to actually live in a place like that, it sure makes for a fun setting for the story. I also liked a lot of the supporting characters in the town, in particular Irene, Elsie, and Trish who were so supportive of both Cal and Beck.
Down on the Farm was a 4-star read for me and I’d recommend it to any M/M romance fan. While not as steamy as some of this author’s other books, there’s still plenty of heat to be found here…which, along with the adult language, makes this story an 18+ read.
Individually I really liked both main characters, Cal and Beck. What stood out for each of them for me was Beck for standing up for his rights and being just an all-around great guy, and Cal for working hard and making a success of his family’s farm. There was still the matter of how Cal treated Beck back when they were teenagers, something that it seemed like Beck forgave Cal for rather easily once he found out the reason behind it.
Together, they had plenty of physical chemistry, and besides that they just seemed to click together naturally as friends. But Cal, while out as gay, felt there was a huge difference between the town knowing that and the town actually seeing him with someone, and he uses this as an excuse to keep his and Beck’s relationship a secret. There was a bit of back-and-forth between them because of this, and for me I did grow a bit tired of that.
I loved the whole small town setup with everyone knowing everyone else’s business, and while that might be something I’d find personally aggravating if I had to actually live in a place like that, it sure makes for a fun setting for the story. I also liked a lot of the supporting characters in the town, in particular Irene, Elsie, and Trish who were so supportive of both Cal and Beck.
Down on the Farm was a 4-star read for me and I’d recommend it to any M/M romance fan. While not as steamy as some of this author’s other books, there’s still plenty of heat to be found here…which, along with the adult language, makes this story an 18+ read.
October 24, 2017
Down on the Farm is the first book in the Ames Bridge series, and we meet Beck, who has returned to the town he grew up in to sort out his grandma's home, and get some respite from the stress that he has been under recently. The only trouble is his grandma's house is right next door to the guy that Beck had a crush on when he was younger, but who bullied Beck whenever he saw him.
This story got me from the start. Beck and Cal have an instant spark between them that everyone else can see. Cal is worried, with reason, about how being 'out' and dating will affect his farm. He already struggles because of his sexuality, and thinks dating will just make it even harder. Beck has to learn that Cal has changed from his younger days, and perhaps, there is a chance for them both.
Down on the Farm is full of amazing characters, some huggable, some punchable. Either way, they are never bland, and it does give an insight into just how hard it might be. There is plenty of story, with steamy bits too (gotta say, I loved the barn scene! phew!!) It isn't all about the sex though, but about how these two men have to think about what they want and if they are brave enough to reach out for it.
With no editing or grammatical errors that disrupted my reading flow, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The pacing was smooth, with enough angst to make it tense in places. Highly recommended by me.
Oh, and one other thing - can I just say how much I loved Elsie and Irene! A couple of stars right there. And I certainly hope they make an appearance in future books.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
This story got me from the start. Beck and Cal have an instant spark between them that everyone else can see. Cal is worried, with reason, about how being 'out' and dating will affect his farm. He already struggles because of his sexuality, and thinks dating will just make it even harder. Beck has to learn that Cal has changed from his younger days, and perhaps, there is a chance for them both.
Down on the Farm is full of amazing characters, some huggable, some punchable. Either way, they are never bland, and it does give an insight into just how hard it might be. There is plenty of story, with steamy bits too (gotta say, I loved the barn scene! phew!!) It isn't all about the sex though, but about how these two men have to think about what they want and if they are brave enough to reach out for it.
With no editing or grammatical errors that disrupted my reading flow, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The pacing was smooth, with enough angst to make it tense in places. Highly recommended by me.
Oh, and one other thing - can I just say how much I loved Elsie and Irene! A couple of stars right there. And I certainly hope they make an appearance in future books.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
July 19, 2017
4-1/2 Stars
Love starting a new series, the potential for so many wonderful scenarios, whether they will center around a certain couple, family, or town doesn't matter, knowing there will be future hours of anticipation as you wait each new installment is always a thrill I relish. Down on the Farm is a great introduction to Ames Bridge, the newest series from Silvia Violet.
Cal denied and fought who he was when he was younger and in the process was basically a bully but know that he has accepted himself, he finds himself isolated. Beck returns home to sort out his grandmother's farm and belongings and finds the "next door" neighbor to be one of those who bullied him in his youth. They both just want to move on with their lives, Cal wants to enlarge his organic farming by purchasing land from Beck and Beck just wants to regroup after having left his previous teaching job. Life has a way of getting us where we need to be even if it's in a completely different path than we expect.
I won't lie, I wanted to hate Cal but there's something about him that just won't let you. I wanted to wrap Beck in bubble wrap to protect him from the big bad world but his determined attitude won't let you. It's true that not everyone changes and grows in life from the person they were in their youth but most of us do and Cal is the perfect example of someone who does and I have to admit I enjoyed watching Beck realize that Cal is not the boy he remembers. Down on the Farm has a little bit of everything that makes for a perfectly enjoyable and entertaining read. I can't wait to see what Silvia Violet and Ames Bridge brings us next.
Love starting a new series, the potential for so many wonderful scenarios, whether they will center around a certain couple, family, or town doesn't matter, knowing there will be future hours of anticipation as you wait each new installment is always a thrill I relish. Down on the Farm is a great introduction to Ames Bridge, the newest series from Silvia Violet.
Cal denied and fought who he was when he was younger and in the process was basically a bully but know that he has accepted himself, he finds himself isolated. Beck returns home to sort out his grandmother's farm and belongings and finds the "next door" neighbor to be one of those who bullied him in his youth. They both just want to move on with their lives, Cal wants to enlarge his organic farming by purchasing land from Beck and Beck just wants to regroup after having left his previous teaching job. Life has a way of getting us where we need to be even if it's in a completely different path than we expect.
I won't lie, I wanted to hate Cal but there's something about him that just won't let you. I wanted to wrap Beck in bubble wrap to protect him from the big bad world but his determined attitude won't let you. It's true that not everyone changes and grows in life from the person they were in their youth but most of us do and Cal is the perfect example of someone who does and I have to admit I enjoyed watching Beck realize that Cal is not the boy he remembers. Down on the Farm has a little bit of everything that makes for a perfectly enjoyable and entertaining read. I can't wait to see what Silvia Violet and Ames Bridge brings us next.
December 19, 2017
I enjoyed this book at lot.
This is the first book I've read by Silvia Violet and the first book in her new Ames Bridge series.
Beck Davis is a teacher who resigned from his job and has come to Ames Bridge to stay in the house his grandmother left him while he decides what he want to do next. His neighbor, and former summer nemesis, Cal McMurty, wants to buy some of Beck's land. Beck expected to still hate Cal but discovers he is a different man than he remembers and they become friends and then more.
I really liked this book a lot. It has just the right amount of angst and tugged on my emotions as I read about the conflicted Cal. He's desperately afraid to live an as openly gay man because his farm and livelihood depends on the town accepting who he is. People know he is gay but as long as he doesn't flaunt it things seem to be OK. He's afraid if he's open about his relationship with Beck he will lose the business he needs to keep his farm going. Beck wants Cal but refuses to hide who he is.
There were times I just wanted to smack Cal and tell him to wake up and realize it's 2017 but there is no way I can really understand what he's going through so I cut him some slack. The story kept me engaged from start to finish. The sex is hot and there's a cute dog in the story; I'm a sucker for cute dogs. (smile)
I look forward to reading more books by Ms. Violet.
An advanced copy of this book was provided to me but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com***
This is the first book I've read by Silvia Violet and the first book in her new Ames Bridge series.
Beck Davis is a teacher who resigned from his job and has come to Ames Bridge to stay in the house his grandmother left him while he decides what he want to do next. His neighbor, and former summer nemesis, Cal McMurty, wants to buy some of Beck's land. Beck expected to still hate Cal but discovers he is a different man than he remembers and they become friends and then more.
I really liked this book a lot. It has just the right amount of angst and tugged on my emotions as I read about the conflicted Cal. He's desperately afraid to live an as openly gay man because his farm and livelihood depends on the town accepting who he is. People know he is gay but as long as he doesn't flaunt it things seem to be OK. He's afraid if he's open about his relationship with Beck he will lose the business he needs to keep his farm going. Beck wants Cal but refuses to hide who he is.
There were times I just wanted to smack Cal and tell him to wake up and realize it's 2017 but there is no way I can really understand what he's going through so I cut him some slack. The story kept me engaged from start to finish. The sex is hot and there's a cute dog in the story; I'm a sucker for cute dogs. (smile)
I look forward to reading more books by Ms. Violet.
An advanced copy of this book was provided to me but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com***
July 17, 2017
3.5 Stars
This is a quick read…sometimes sweet, sometimes not.
Cal was…fickle to put it nicely. He gave me a bit of whiplash going back and forth as he did. He wanted Beck with a passion but he wasn’t willing to be in a relationship and chance that losing business for his farm. He was downright ugly to Beck a couple of times….right after being really sweet to him. When he finally let go of his fear to live his life as he wanted, he was extremely charming and loveable toward Beck. I loved what he did at the end.
I really liked Beck but I didn’t like how quickly he was forgiving of Cal’s behavior. I feel like he was railroaded a bit by Cal and let it go too quickly. Beck’s a pretty great guy and has some great ideas he’s willing to share with Cal and even help him with to keep his farm profitable, even if he lived out and proud. I like how much he was willing to give to support Cal when he kept getting rejected.
This book was surprisingly short and with the back and forth/do I, don’t I mess with Cal we didn’t get much time with them together. I see this is going to be a series but I don’t know if that means with these guys or if the other books will be about other folks. I’m really hoping we get more of them.
This is a quick read…sometimes sweet, sometimes not.
Cal was…fickle to put it nicely. He gave me a bit of whiplash going back and forth as he did. He wanted Beck with a passion but he wasn’t willing to be in a relationship and chance that losing business for his farm. He was downright ugly to Beck a couple of times….right after being really sweet to him. When he finally let go of his fear to live his life as he wanted, he was extremely charming and loveable toward Beck. I loved what he did at the end.
I really liked Beck but I didn’t like how quickly he was forgiving of Cal’s behavior. I feel like he was railroaded a bit by Cal and let it go too quickly. Beck’s a pretty great guy and has some great ideas he’s willing to share with Cal and even help him with to keep his farm profitable, even if he lived out and proud. I like how much he was willing to give to support Cal when he kept getting rejected.
This book was surprisingly short and with the back and forth/do I, don’t I mess with Cal we didn’t get much time with them together. I see this is going to be a series but I don’t know if that means with these guys or if the other books will be about other folks. I’m really hoping we get more of them.
July 11, 2017
Not everything is as it seems
I really enjoyed this story - two men trying to find their way after being sadly discriminated against. Beck Davis has returned to Ames Bridge after winning a settlement for discrimination against the school that he previously taught at. He has come to sort out his late Grandmother's house. He just wanted somewhere quiet where he could sort out his life.....what he didn't bargain on his childhood enemy Cal McMurty turning his world upside down. Cal is fighting his own battle, since coming out the small town of Ames Bridge has become even smaller.
The author has presented a realistic story of two men struggling to come to terms with what life has given them. The two men who were enemies as teenagers, must overcome their own history in order to move on with their future. At first they fight the attraction between each other, but with wonderful support around them, they are able to take a chance on love.
Loved this story and I look forward to reading more in this series about life in Ames Bridge.
Read and Reviewed voluntarily for Reading Is Our Satisfaction
FOUR STARS
I really enjoyed this story - two men trying to find their way after being sadly discriminated against. Beck Davis has returned to Ames Bridge after winning a settlement for discrimination against the school that he previously taught at. He has come to sort out his late Grandmother's house. He just wanted somewhere quiet where he could sort out his life.....what he didn't bargain on his childhood enemy Cal McMurty turning his world upside down. Cal is fighting his own battle, since coming out the small town of Ames Bridge has become even smaller.
The author has presented a realistic story of two men struggling to come to terms with what life has given them. The two men who were enemies as teenagers, must overcome their own history in order to move on with their future. At first they fight the attraction between each other, but with wonderful support around them, they are able to take a chance on love.
Loved this story and I look forward to reading more in this series about life in Ames Bridge.
Read and Reviewed voluntarily for Reading Is Our Satisfaction
FOUR STARS
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