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Ava Grace Landy’s music career is humming along until a shakeup at her label jeopardizes her recording contract and curses her with the world’s worst boss. Determined to satisfy him, she partners with Trinity Distillery to access a larger male audience. To her surprise, she’s the one who’s satisfied—by none other than Jonah Beck, the gorgeous, yet gruff man behind the bourbon.

No doubt about it, bourbon runs in Beck’s blood. But it’s audacious Ava Grace who makes it run hot. When she signs on as the spokesperson for his craft distillery, he doesn’t plan on hoisting her onto an oak barrel and rocking the rickhouse. Though he’s convinced their lives don’t mix—like a terrible cocktail—he can’t keep his hands off the alluring country star.

Ava Grace and Beck try to keep their intoxicating relationship private, but the glare of her fame is too bright, revealing secrets they both want to remain hidden. With a spotlight shining on his tumultuous past, their future is at risk. Now they must decide if being together is worth sacrificing the career she loves and the company he’s poured his heart and soul into.

365 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 26, 2017

36 people are currently reading
210 people want to read

About the author

Jenna Sutton

8 books550 followers
Jenna Sutton is a former award-winning journalist who traded fact for fiction when she began writing novels. Surprisingly, the research she conducted for her articles provided a lot of inspiration for her books. She’s the author of the Riley O’Brien & Co. romances and the new Trinity Distillery series.

Although Jenna calls Texas home, more often than not, she’s somewhere else. Her love’s job takes him all over the country, and she tags along, just like a groupie follows her favorite band.

You can find out more about Jenna and her work at jennasutton.com. Sign up for her newsletter at bit.ly/1K8MaCH for the latest news and monthly giveaway.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 131 reviews
Profile Image for BookAddict.
2,018 reviews195 followers
December 24, 2017
Ava Grace is a small town girl with a tough upbringing who made it big in the country music world. Beck is Kentucky bourbon royalty who has remade himself after family and personal scandal, with the help of his two best friends and their upstart company, Trinity Distillery, in San Francisco. With both their lives on track, their mutual attraction is inconvenient, especially with how readily Ava Grace is in the public eye and how diligently Beck avoids it. But with Ava Grace as the new face and voice of Trinity bourbon, it’s next to impossible for them to avoid each other or their growing feelings.

The advance copy I read of this book is my first by this author and it absolutely will not be the last! I was delighted to the point of giddiness to find a fresh, unique premise and a plot not propped up with overdone trope or clichéd characters! Ava Grace, Beck, and all the supporting characters are down to earth yet larger than life, complex and extremely endearing! With just enough quirkiness from characters like Ellis, and a loveable fuzz ball of a dog named Chicken, I fell in love with everything Trinity. If there's such a thing as small town romance in a big city setting, this is it. Of course the romance and chemistry between Beck and Ava Grace is explosive, but it's not all fun and games. They have many bumps and potholes on their road to forever, including Ava Grace’s father. The situation with his illness was so poignantly tender and heartbreaking, and kudos to Ms. Sutton for shining a light on the insidious disease of Alzheimer's.

I loved everything about this book. From the beautifully developed characters and the witty banter between the three best friends to the storyline which was perfectly paced and kept my attention riveted to the book from the first word to the last, to the fascinating facts about bourbon making woven throughout the book. And the cover. Have you seen this cover?! It’s catchy, appealing, and the absolute perfect cover for this book! (With the exception of the oak barrel splinters, of course.) There’s also an epilogue occurring a few years down the road, which I always love to see, and the two best friends, Gabe and Ren, have me hooked so I can’t wait to read their stories! Grab this one now so you’ll be ready as the rest of the series unfolds. You won’t be disappointed!
Profile Image for Beth C..
646 reviews62 followers
December 26, 2017
“Do you have empty places inside you?”
“I used to have more.” She stared unblinkingly for several heartbeats. “Being with you has filled most of them.”


I’m so in love with this book. With everything about it—the characters, the story, the writing, the set-up for coming books in the series. It was a wonderful, well-rounded read, and I’m going to need all of you to read it, too.

I feel like my patience in waiting for a book about Ava Grace was richly rewarded—the country music superstar having first appeared in Jenna Sutton’s fabulous Riley O’Brien & Co. series—but even if you haven’t been waiting on this one like I have, there is plenty to get excited about. Like the sharp banter, the moments both touching and funny, the bite of tension, and the endearing friendships.

Barreled Over was, simply, the right read for me at the right time. It was incredibly easy to just enjoy sweet-but-tart Ava Grace and gruff-but-true Beck. Not to mention seeing Amelia and Quinn again, and getting to know Kyle, Ren, and Gabe, who, I’m pleased to note, will all be getting their own stories.

And that epilogue. It’s divine—the highest of high notes to end on, even though this book is just the beginning of the Trinity Distillery series. Which is a series I’m already in love with, thanks to Barreled Over, and one I’m going to need you to read, too.

“Her love—being loved by her—outweighs everything else. You’re an idiot if you give that up.”

~ FIVE Trueheart STARS ~
Profile Image for Bff Book Blog.
395 reviews35 followers
December 30, 2017
I think that Jenna Sutton is one of the most overlooked authors in the Romance genre! I have absolutely LOVED every book of hers that I've read. Her characters are delightful and well developed. Her stories are well written and emotionally charged. I smile and swoon and even tear up a little every time I get lost in one of her books. Barreled Over is another great example of her terrific work!

Ava Grace is a country music star, but she's also a friend and a daughter and a really wonderful, down-to-earth woman. To appease the new leadership at her record label, she agrees to an endorsement deal with an up and coming bourbon company. Jonah Beck is one of the owners of Trinity Distillery and a good man with a fractured past. He is drawn to Ava Grace, but reluctant to pursue her until he just can't resist anymore. Both characters are struggling with their pasts and trying to build solid futures. It ends up that they're just about perfect for each other.

I enjoy a book where every character has likeable features. Since this is the start of a series, there are lots of new characters introduced and they're all interesting and enjoyable. I loved Ava Grace and Beck and I can't wait for the next book in the Trinity series! I recommend Barreled Over or any of the other great books by Jenna Sutton!

An advance copy of this book was received. Receipt of this copy did not impact the content or independence of this review. BFF Book Blog also uses a set of icon ratings. This book received additional ratings for: butterflies, character development, hero, heroine, romance, steamy, supporting characters and happily ever after.
Profile Image for Christi Snow.
Author 70 books741 followers
December 26, 2017
My Review:
I loved this book. Ava Grace is a fictionalized version of a Taylor Swift-like country star and I loved the premise of her. Her world is crazy and is completely up for public consumption, but when her label has a complete change-over, they are asking her to do things completely different, too. Now she needs to appeal to a wider male audience and isn't willing to pimp herself out to do it. As a result, she ends up partnering up with Trinity Distillery...a bourbon distillery, and Beck is one of the owners of the company.

Beck has no desire to get mixed up in Ava Grace's crazy life. He's been in the public spotlight once before and it was the worst thing he ever experienced. It doesn't matter how sexy Ava Grace is, that price isn't worth it. But the longer she works with Trinity, the more they get thrown together, and the more alluring he finds her...until things get out of control.

While Ava Grace isn't a big fan of the constant attention, she realizes that's a price of the fame she has. She may not like it all the time, but she's learned to live with it. Beck hasn't had that induction into it yet, and he definitely gets hit hard by all the speculation and tabloid style reporting. But the fact of the matter is that he never believed in them in the long run anyway. He always viewed their relationship as one with an expiration date because he's learned the hard way that he's not a guy anyone sticks with.

There was so much to love about this story. Both Beck and Ava Grace live in interesting worlds. I loved this tiny perspective into their lives, especially the bourbon making world. It was fun to learn more about that. But I also liked how Ava Grace's career fit into the Trinity Distillery PR. It was fun to see them all slotted together.

Note: This cover is absolute PERFECTION for this book. That scene was HOT and the aftermath was awesome and slightly humorous.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and loved getting to see glimpses of the characters from the Riley O'Brien series. This series is officially on my auto buy list. I just hope that this book is coming out in print so I can add it to my keeper shelf.

I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
Profile Image for Jodi Bird (Ruby Red Romance Review).
1,169 reviews98 followers
January 5, 2018
I’m new to Jenna Sutton, but I absolutely loved this book. I love Ava Grace. She is a country superstar who is helping promote Trinity Bourbon. This is where she meets Beck. The chemistry between these two is off the charts from the beginning. Unfortunately, when we try hard to keep things a secret they always come out.

I’m so excited for this series and to see where it goes. The characters were well developed and strong. I loved the banter between all the characters. Jenna did an amazing job with this story and I look forward to reading more from her.
Profile Image for Viper Spaulding.
3,121 reviews26 followers
December 28, 2017
Ava Grace is a country singer whose record label is insisting she expand her appeal to include men, and her best friend's husband is invested in a bourbon company that needs a more approachable public face. Beck, the owner of the distillery, avoids the spotlight as much as possible so he's thrilled with the idea of Ava Grace becoming his company's spokesperson. This business partnership is perfect for both, as long as it remains just business.

Beck has plenty of reasons not to trust women, and despite his all-consuming attraction to Ava Grace, he insists that nothing can happen between them. Lucky for them both, Ava Grace has enough guts to gently push until he can no longer deny the obvious. The chemistry between them ensures that their love scenes are sheet-clenching, panty-melting hot! Their romance is gradually, believably developed. As they get to know each other better, we also discover aspects of their pasts that explain the insecurities and doubts that still plague them both.

The drama builds quietly in the background until it all comes to a head in a manner that is both surprising yet exactly what you'd expect. The writing is so captivating that everything else outside the book just falls away. It's a beautiful story, and even though Beck can be a bit of a jerk at times his reasonings are sympathetic and he does redeem himself admirably in the end.

In addition to the riveting love story, I learned a great deal about the process of distilling bourbon as well as the possibilities for cooking with bourbon! These are wonderfully complex characters, and there are enough details given of the secondary characters to set up their future stories. I am voluntarily reviewing an ARC of this book.
1,596 reviews12 followers
December 27, 2017
Wonderful debut for the Trinity Distillery series by new-to-me author Jenna Sutton. The strong well-written plot included an insider's look at bourbon production, family drama, humor, real emotion, sexy romance and kept me engaged and intrigued from the first page to the last.

I loved the instant attraction, sizzling chemistry and repartee between sassy country music star Ava Grace Landy and stubborn distillery owner Jonah Beck. Fans of this genre will love this must-read book. I look forward to reading more by this talented author.

I received a free advance copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley and this is my unbiased review.
11 reviews2 followers
December 29, 2017
Pour me another!

I've read all of Jenna Sutton's books and I think this might be my favorite. Beck and Ava Grace are so fascinating and so good together. Their chemistry is hot from the beginning, but more than just attraction, the way they grow throughout the book, how they learn who they are separately and as a couple was so seamlessly paced. I also loved how rich the world-building was to start off this series. It's hard to find well-developed characters and thoroughly researched subject matter in this genre these days. This author never disappoints me in that regard or any other and I'm really looking forward to more Trinity books!
Profile Image for April Symes.
5,013 reviews448 followers
December 26, 2017
Jenna Sutton is a new author to me and I didn’t know what I would find with Barreled Over. What I can say is I found a terrific new romance and a new author to enjoy. What she wrote was a sexy, brooding hero and a sweet, sassy heroine and also in the background comes a bourbon distillery- Loving it!!
The story starts with Country music star Ava Grace being told she needs more male fans because all she has is TONS of female fans but not enough male fans – this comes from the new head of her label. So Ava’s BFF suggests she become the spokesperson for Trinity Distillery and Ava Grace takes the idea and comes up with some additional ideas involving bourbon ( i.e. bourbon themed cookbooks ) … thing is before she can get truly off and running, she has to meet with the head of Trinity Distillery. That is Jonah Beck—they met at her BFF’s a couple years before and it was dislike at first sight ( or was it?) and they have stayed away from each other since. Beck is gun shy with women due to his past. Yet when it comes to Ava, he wants her something fierce. She is sweet, sassy, independent and hard working. He is gun shy , possessive, alpha, broody, totally conflicted, complicated, and downright handsome. These two , when they are together , make a lot of steam. It is electric and the connection is fantastic. Beck agrees to work with her and Ava is off and running with all these ideas to help with branding and also to get her new boss off her back.
There is angst and passion right away between Beck and Ava. Ava is also dealing with personal issues in her life while Beck is dealing with if he wants to open his heart again…to Ava. Beck is trying to resist his attraction to Ava Grace but she goes full force after him , to show him she wants him and wants to give their relationship a shot. Will Beck open his heart and his life to let Ava in? Will Ava be able to let Beck into her life while also balancing her professional and personal issues? I very much enjoyed this story as well as the secondary characters—Beck’s 2 other partners in the distillery Ren and Gabe. I hope to read their stories and soon. I also got to see old characters from a previous book make an appearance and I will definitely go back and read their story. I very much enjoyed this author’s writing style and her flair. This was a warm and sweet story that makes the HEA all so much sweeter in the end. I can't wait for the next book.


My Rating: 4.7 stars *****
“I received an advanced copy of this book from the author at no cost to me."
Profile Image for Marlene Brown.
838 reviews7 followers
January 18, 2018
I was introduced to this author through her Riley O"Brien and Co series. As soon as I read one I downloaded the series. I was super excited to see that there was a new series but a little sad to leave the Riley group behind and then surprise here they were....this is a spin off so familiar characters make an appearance. I am happy to say that this new series is so well set up with this book. I loved the story. This is a romance with a few great comedic moments but it is also a drama and it deals with a very serious disease. My family has been touched by this disease and I thought we knew everything there was to know but I leaned a few things in this book. I also learned a lot about bourbon and whiskey ( and tested my husband), so all in all very educational. Now on to the romance. The set up on how the two main characters meet and develop a relationship is fun, their chemistry is HOT, their moments of reflection and understanding of each other is touching. The only thing I was disappointed in was that it ended.
Profile Image for Spunky N Sassy.
5,375 reviews118 followers
January 13, 2018
Spunky N Sassy Rating: 4.5

~~~~~~~~~~Tracy's ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review~~~~~~~~~~

When country music hottest star pairs with Trinity Distillery you have one explosive combination. Ava Grace needs to attract some men per her labels demand or they will drop her. So she pairs with Trinity Distillery ran by three attractive men but only one of them has Ava Grace over a barrel and that is Jonah Beck. Can Jonah handle Ava Grace and the publicity she always is attracting or will scandal ruin what they could be? I loved this book and I can't wait to read more in this series. Great start to a promising series. Must read and highly recommended.

~~~~~~~~~~Lindsey's ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review~~~~~~~~~~

This was a fantastic book! I can't wait to read the other up-and-coming books in this series!
Profile Image for Scrap.
882 reviews6 followers
January 17, 2018
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book
This is my first time reading a Jenna Sutton book and OMG I LOVED it
Ava Grace Landy, a famous country singer struggled with demands the new boss for her record label wants from her. Her friends Amelia and Quinn, from the Riley series, suggested she connect with Jonah Beck, of the Trinity Distillery to be their spokesperson. Because of his past, Beck is unsure of getting involved with Ava Grace and her fame, despite the chemistry and attraction they have for each other. The more time they share together, the more it’s apparent that these two belong together; head, heart and tail.
Profile Image for 2OCC Reviews.
3,487 reviews254 followers
January 9, 2018
Barreled Over by Jenna Sutton was a fantastic read. I loved the premise of the storyline and the characters of Ava Grace and Beck.

Ava Grace is so down to earth for a rising country star. Coming from a poor background, she is refreshingly open to her fans. With her record company wanting to expand her fan base to more males, she teams up with Trinity Distillery and meets Johan.

Jonah Beck, besides being one of three swoon worthy partners of Trinity, comes from a privileged background and has had enough of being in spotlight. Although drawn to Ava Grace, he doesn’t want anything to do with her fame.

As the two of them spend more time together, it becomes clear there is a definite chemistry between them. When Beck finally gives into his attraction to Ava Grace, it makes for a hot, sexy time.

The epilogue will provided you will all the heartwarming feels you can handle. It was just what I was looking for in the end.

Ms. Sutton has provided some entertaining and intriguing secondary characters to the beginning of this series.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants great characters, an excellent storyline and a HEA.

5 Stars

#2OCCMS

Profile Image for Anne OK.
4,029 reviews547 followers
March 23, 2018
NOTE: For me, reading is a very personal experience, and I want to read a book and formulate my own opinions. The book blurb above sufficiently supplies readers with an overview that is generous and intriguing. So, you'll find no spoilers from this reviewer.

A new-to-me author, Jenna Sutton delivers the first installment in her new Trinity Distillery series. If the rest of the series is as good as Barreled Over, count me in for the long haul.

I believe that the proof resides in the details. But the devil can also reside there, too. Remember the ageless adage that goes: Sometimes less is more. Well, Sutton did just that and hit the perfect blend. Her storytelling is superb, well-thought-out and genuine. She gives everything a fresh and new feel in an impressive delivery. I was enthralled from start to finish. Loved every word, every emotion, each character, along with clearly well-researched lessons on making bourbon taught by Professor Beck in Bourbon 101. This author sets the scene well and develops incredible characters. Both characters and descriptions were so believable and well-defined. Even though we jetted back and forth between Nashville and San Francisco, the story took on an almost small-town feel. I salute the way everyday life is incorporated into the storyline. I quickly became fully invested cheering for a happily-ever-after even when the outcome looked like a recipe for disaster.

"Women are like bourbon. A good one is warm and smooth and just a little sweet. But she's got some kick to her...a bite that makes you flinch. She makes your throat burn and your chest tight, and then she settles in your belly and glows like an ember." – Ellis, from Barreled Over

Readers will be delighted to find two strong leads that breathe life into this story with Ava Grace Landy and Jonah Beck (“Beck”) – and you’ll love the game they play while AG tries to pry Beck’s middle name from his tightly-sealed lips. Both characters are flawed with back stories and heartbreak that result in some bumpy roads ahead but interesting and credible as well. But nothing is over-the-top angst. It’s more normal life happenings. There’s plenty of attraction, chemistry, and tension brewing. The sexual relationship is hot – no doubt – but it’s also real and meaningful and fun, too. I was amazed and pleasantly surprised to find the passion just that, and not filled with body part descriptions and a map of what goes where. Some things are better left to the imagination.

Their relationship didn’t get off to a great start. She “didn’t like his bourbon all that much” – and he “didn’t like her music all that much.” But believe me, it didn’t take long before they found plenty of something that they both liked a little too much! Still, their relationship was challenged. Thankfully, Ava Grace’s aggressive pursuit of Beck kept the forward motion going.

Like Trisha Yearwood, Ava likes to cook, and her bourbon recipes are filling up a new cookbook promoting Trinity Distillery’s bourbon as more than just for drinking. Love how she tried out all her new recipes on Beck! And you’ll surely notice that Ava Grace shows some strong similarities to another living country music star residing in Nashville.

A fabulous A+ supporting cast of characters that refuse to go unnoticed will not only entertain you, but sneak into your heart without much effort.

Ren and Gabe, Beck’s two partners are single and womanizers. The setup leads to books for both in the future. Ava Grace’s best friend, Amelia and her husband, Quinn, a silent partner in Trinity, are also supportive and supply some laughs and s'mores.

Kyle, an ex-Marine and solid wall of muscle who is Ava’s driver and bodyguard as well as the caretaker for her father, who suffers from Alzheimer’s. Ms. Sutton profoundly and compassionately presents the issues relating to the daily problems associated with this debilitating disease. Kyle may get to tell his story soon as well.

A no-holds-barred old coot named Ellis Oglesby, is the master distiller for Trinity. He has been like a surrogate father to Beck for years and adds his own brand of sparks to the dialogue for sure.

"I saw her on TV the other day," Ellis said. “A woman like that improves blood flow to a man’s most important organ."

Gatsby has a big surprise for one particular character, when she shows up to round out the cast of extra special players. And finally, there’s Chicken, Beck’s lovable curly ball of fur who is part Labrador-part Poodle and loved by one and all - including me.

The words and feelings fly off the pages. You really get to know, understand, and fall in love with these characters. This story has so many levels that all weave together terrifically. Delivered with just the right mix of romance, sex and fun -- sweet, sassy and incredibly heart-melting! The romance between Beck and Ava Grace will strum every reader's heartstrings.

With an Epilogue that looks seven years into the future, readers will lap up and appreciate the bourbon sauce & bread pudding happily-ever-after that Ava Grace and Beck find with each other. Ava Grace and Ellis would say that this book is Finer than frog hair, and I would have to agree wholeheartedly and recommend it to readers -- one and all. Barreled Over was a truly enjoyable read.
Profile Image for Syndi.
3,609 reviews1,024 followers
June 25, 2019
Ava grace reminds me so much of taylor swift. I think the author had her as inspiration to create Ava Grace. She is fearless, independent, and super smart. Her view if he fame is so inspiring.

And Beck is that perfect brooding male character. Not alpha male. I think this book Ava Grace is the alpha female. She takes charged. She is the center of the story. I really love a strong kick ass heroine.

The story takes a perfect layers of what fame can do to your privacy. And it is very good story.

4 stars
Profile Image for Kate.
2,259 reviews355 followers
December 10, 2017
3.5 Bourbon Sauce & Bread Pudding Stars.

As a new to me author I hadn’t read anything by Ms. Sutton and believe me I did some snooping after I received the ARC and was somewhat disappointed but just because there were some unfavourable reviews based on her other series I decided to bite the bullet. What is the worst that could have happened? I wouldn’t have liked it at worst I would have DNF it.

Or in this case….

It is a winner I really enjoyed Beck & Ava Grace’s story. I am pleasantly surprised. It is sweet, refreshing with a touch of angst there are some things though that I wasn’t entirely thrilled about. But I’ll get to that later.

Ava Grace has music in her blood but a management change is putting her in a position where she needs to garner more male fans. Her bestie’s husband has an idea be the spokesperson for Trinity.
Jonah Beck like his father and grandfather has bourbon in his blood. But a painful past moved him from Kentucky to San Francisco to open his distillery but he doesn’t want to be in the limelight so he manages to bag Ava Grace as his spokesperson and so an undeniable attraction develops.

The book started off really strong and it continued all the way throughout. The MC chemistry is off the charts and the author does a really good job but sometimes I felt that there is a lack of depth that the characters could have and should have when they have the connection that these two have. There is easy banter and a relationship that they truly have to work at.

The one thing that really stuck out and Ms. Sutton I am extremely happy about this. The HERO is NOT a MANHO. I repeat he is NOT a MANHO. So refreshing. Our heroine does a lot of the chasing at the beginning also very refreshing yet she doesn’t come on to strong. The balance is just right.

Now although the Hero isn’t a manho. He behaves like an arse on numerous times throughout the book, the heroine actually takes a stand and he has to work for it although she gave in to quickly at the end IMO but then again I can also hold a mean grudge. Beck’s insecurities get in the way. Yes the bloke is the one with the insecurities and not the heroine. Once again different. He finally gives in to his feelings and it seems such a hardship. So there is a push/pull.

Now this really did my nut in constantly Ava Grace this and Ava Grace I’m begging you Ms. Sutton just get her friends to call her Ava, I shortened it to Ava cause otherwise I would have thrown my kindle against the wall. What you do to save your kindle, lol.

Overall a solid book with a great characters and an adorable story that could have had a bit more depth and not so rushed at the end. It has everything I want in a romance. There is also no o/w-o/m drama.

Once again I’ve written too much and I really recommend this book.

More to come in the series and I can’t wait
Tipsy-Turvy (Trinity Distillery #1.5) Kyle & Mercy – Spring 2018
Bottled Up (Trinity Distillery #2) Ren’s Story (hopefully with Sasha) – Summer 2018
Chased Down (Trinity Distillery #3) Gabe’s Story – Fall 2018

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Profile Image for Simply Love Book Reviews.
7,046 reviews869 followers
December 27, 2017

I couldn't wait to read this new series.

I loved the premise of the book - Two up and coming stars in their chosen career, decide to throw caution and take a chance at each other.

We're reintroduced to characters from Jenna Sutton's Riley O'Brien & co series as well as new characters.

Ava Grace is a breakout music sensation on her way up and nothing can stop her. She's smart sexy and has a big heart especially for her family. Her friends are loyal and always looking out for her. I loved that we were reacquainted with Ameila and Quinn. She's dealing with a lot in her personal life but that doesn't stop her from her lending her talents to Trinity Distillery.

Beck had a charmed life until his family and his name were tainted. Years later he has a solid core of friends whom he can trust. He's build up a tiny empire with his friends but looking for the next level of success.

When Beck and Ava Grace meet for their new venture sparks and heat fly. I loved that they were so hot for each other that they couldn't wait and gave into their wants and needs.

They didn't have an easy path and we were put on a rollercoaster of emotions. These two went back and forth with the feelings and while I didn't agree with their decisions at times I understood them.

Since this is the first in a series, we have some exciting leads on the other books in the series that I can't wait to read their story.

Profile Image for Cathy Geha.
4,267 reviews113 followers
December 21, 2017
Barreled Over by Jenna Sutton
Trinity Distillery #1

I have been lucky enough to read a few novellas by Jenna Sutton and remember them vividly so when the opportunity to read the first book in her new Trinity Distillery series was provided I was eager to snap it up.

There are three partners in the San Francisco bourbon business known as Trinity Distillery. In this book we meet all three men and hear the story of Jonah Beck and Ava Grace Landry. We are also tantalized with the possibility of not only the future stories of the other two owners but of two friends of Ava Grace that are bff’s in her life before Jonah enters it.

Jonah grew up in a bourbon making dynasty. His family lost the business but his love for the art never died so with a plan in place, financial backing and his friends Ren and Gabe beside him he took a gamble that paid off. Wanting to increase the number of female customers the three men were more than interested in linking their bourbon with Country Singing Star Ava Grace Landry when she came to visit with the idea and hope of increasing her male fan base.

This was a wonderful story. The backstories of both main characters impacted their lives but in ways that strengthened them. Jonah was less willing to trust, hated the limelight and yet was a man that steamed up the pages, was genuine, true and a great person. Ava Grace knew what she wanted and was not shy but she was also not overly pushy. Ava Grace was a big name but had heart, dedication, a work ethic and was constant in her affections and friendships. As the story progressed I could definitely see the two of them together and was happy they found one another. Sure, there were ups and downs and issues to deal with but all in all the story flowed, made sense, and seemed believable. I felt with the characters – main and supporting – and would gladly have them as friends. The HEA ending was perfect and now I want to read the stories of Ren and Gabe and also the novella I found out has been written for Ava Grace’s friend Mercy and her bodyguard/driver Kyle.

Thank you to the author who bequeathed me this marvelous ARC through NetGalley – This is my honest review.
Quotes that resonated and lingered:

~ Women are like bourbon. A good one is warm and smooth and just a little sweet. But she's got some kick to her...a bite that makes you flinch. She makes your throat burn and your chest tight, and then she settles in your belly and glows like an ember. ~ Ellis

~ Head, Heart and Tail ~
“Did he tell you about the head, heart, and tail?” Ellis asked.
She shook her head. “No.”
“We put the heart of the spirit into these here barrels.”
“What’s the heart of the spirit?” she asked, looking back and forth between Beck and Ellis.
“The liquid that comes off the stills first is called the head, and it’s too strong,” Ellis explained. “The liquid that comes off last is called the tail, and it’s too weak. It’s the liquid that comes off in between – the heart of the spirit-that’s the right potency.”


4.5 Stars

Profile Image for Anna's Herding Cats.
1,274 reviews317 followers
November 5, 2017
Reviewed for herding cats & burning soup. (live on the blog 12/26)
Amazon: http://amzn.to/2zlDj2q

A sexy hero, a sassy heroine and a bourbon distillery? Oh yeah. I had a good time with Barreled Over. There was a lot of yum happening here, yall.

The Gist: Country music star Ava Grace needs male fans and is teaming up with a bourbon distillery who's trying to up it's female customer base. Perfect solution! I mean, other than the undeniable urge to do filthy things to one of the sexy yet relationship wary distillery owners.

Oh Ava Grace and Beck. They had the hardest time figuring their shit out. Beck, mainly. He was gun shy. Well, his "gun" wasn't but he sure was. I loved them together, though. She's sweet, hard working, has a dynamic spirit you can't help but enjoy. A little naughty and determined to snag her man. And Beck. Hard working, sexy as all get out and totally conflicted. He's a good guy with a hard past and trouble trusting his heart.

And the steam! Hot damn! Yeah, these two went at it like bunnies and it was scorching hot! Woo! There was a naughty flirty vibe that was so fun!
The dog jumped to his feet and dashed inside. Beck caught her eye and tilted his head toward the door. "You too. Inside."

"Careful now," she warned lightly. "You're not my master."

He muttered something under his breath... something that sounded a lot like thank God.
I enjoyed watching them work together and getting to see all their time at on and off the job, too. Bits of her music and time spent at the distillery. Running errands and time at home.

Edit: I had one issue with the book and after submitting my review on Netgalley heard back from the author that she'd be revising the scene that troubled me. So I'm removing the previous bit of my review concerning that element.

All in all, Barreled Over was delicious start to what promises to be a fantastic series. The characters, the setting, the romance. Sutton proved once again what a wonderful storyteller and asset she is to the romance world.
Profile Image for Ruthie Taylor.
3,723 reviews39 followers
December 27, 2017
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~

4.5*s and a great start to what promises to be a great new series.

I really enjoyed the love story in this book, it is fun, sexy and brings out the best in both Ava and Jonah. The road is not smooth, the chemistry is fabulous, and the outcome is perfect.

But, add to that a whole range of fantastic side plots and issues, and this is a really, really good read. From the blatant sexism and unnecessary putdowns that Ava suffers from her new record label contact, to the press and fans' intrusion into her life; to the quiet, reserved Beck and how he has to come to terms with success and publicity after the difficulties of his youth. Not forgetting Beck's partners and Ava's best friend, and all that they do to influence and 'help' the couple along ... oh, and then I also learned so much about Bourbon, and how to cook with it.

A truly wonderful read, and I cannot wait until the next one in the series comes out!



Wicked Reads Review Team
2,354 reviews14 followers
December 9, 2017
Received an ARC at no cost to author for netgalley. Beck and Ava were extremely attracted to each other, but Beck wanted to fight it pretty much all the way. Beck has some baggage that he carries and when you read about them you can see why he is the way he is, he has nothing but bad experiences with relationships, however sometimes you just wanted to smack him. Ava was this sweet singer and she is also going thru a hard time with her father who had pretty much abandoned her while growing up. While they are working together, of course they give into attraction but each other were not completely honest with each other, or shall I say holding a part of themselves back trying not to get hurt. Do they eventually? Do they end up giving their all? Well my friends you need to read. Will admit a little slow at times.
Profile Image for Isha Coleman.
8,610 reviews164 followers
January 7, 2018
Jenna Sutton has never been one to hold back her views and heart from any storyline. So why start now? Barreled Over keeps that take charge tradition going with a little less talk and a lot more action. Sassy women, saucy music and sexy men equal out to a down home good time. Ava has the talent that could take her far, but her heart may lay elsewhere. What happens when the promising country star meets the mesmerizing bourbon maker? Romance with panache.
Profile Image for Mary.
1,051 reviews20 followers
January 5, 2018
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.

I enjoyed this book as it takes the mystery of celebrity and shows the person underneath it all to just as human as the rest of us. The same heartache and heartbreak and the same hopes and dreams. Wanting the "more", not success, the "more" of love and family.

Sparks fly between Ava Grace and Jonah from the first time they met and now, they are off the charts. However, Jonah is reluctant to get involved with Ava Grace because of the media circus that follows her everywhere. He's not had a good relationship with the press in the past, and he doesn't want to take chances with the future of his bourbon company now.

Ava Grace has learned to live with the media, of knowing when to make nice and smile for the camera. Its just all in a day's work for her, part of the package of being a country music star. She doesn't enjoy all of the invasions of her privacy, but its a small price to pay to be able to sing the music that has made her a millionaire many times over.

Never has it been more of a problem than now: She wants a relationship with Jonah, but understands how the past still colors his future. Wanting to do everything she can to minimize his exposure to her world, she does just that. She stays with him in his world, and life has never been sweeter.

What does cause problems is issues with her father, when he becomes violent due to his advanced Alzheimer's and people believe that Jonah is the cause. Knowing the hurt that has been done to him the past, she doesn't blame him for leaving her and breaking her heart.

Even knowing that limelight is far from where he wants to be, Jonah knows that in order to be happy he has to give Ava Grace the keys to his heart.

~~Wicked Reads Review Team~~
Profile Image for Valeen Robertson (Live Thru Books Blog).
5,786 reviews207 followers
July 5, 2018
When country star Ava Grace is told by her label that she needs to start appealing to a more male dominated audience, does she go the obvious route and start using her sexuality to do so? Nope, she's smart and not willing to go that way. Instead, she partners up with a distillery; a distillery whose owner she never imagined would come to mean so much to her.

Beck and his two best friends run a craft distillery in San Francisco, and they're making a go of it. He has a lot of demons riding him, and the last thing he needs, or wants, is to get involved with a woman so prevalent in the the spotlight. He abhors the spotlight and can't imagine anything worse than constantly being in it. But, he can't seem to resist Ava Grace's charm, and soon they're involved in a seriously hot affair. How can two such different people make a relationship work? A woman whose life is lived in the spotlight (even if she isn't exactly thrilled about it) and a man who shuns the spotlight?

There's definitely a lot of push and pull on Beck's part, to Ava Grace's (and mine) dismay, and I felt for her. She was pretty awesome - smart, tough, and strong, and for her to have to deal with someone who pulled her close then pushed her away, was pretty disheartening. Thank God Beck finally pulled his head out of his ass, though, cuz I was wondering if they'd ever get it together.

I really liked Barreled Over and am looking forward to more of this series.

I received an ARC via NetGalley for an honest review.
Profile Image for Laura.
2,556 reviews113 followers
January 6, 2018
***ARC Provided by the Author via L. Woods PR***

This book was just like the bourbon featured in it. Just about perfect, enjoyable, and smooth. There was some angst, and there was some drama, as you expect that in a book about a relationship. There were a couple of times when I wanted the 2 main characters to talk to one another, but that happens in a lot of books...and in life itself, so that worked for me.

The chemistry is wonderful and watching Beck try to deny how badly he wants to be involved with Ava Grace was not only compelling, but emotional and a wonderful slow burn to the first scene in the rickhouse...and his reaction.

I really liked the characters in this book, I believed them and their actions, even when they were not communicating with one another. And, this is always a nice place to find yourself as a reader, believing the characters. It helped at the end, the big break up scene, that you believed them. were they right? No. Did they figure it out? Yes, of course they did. But, did I believe that 2 real people would handle it in about the same way? Yes, I did.

This is my first title by this author, and I enjoyed it. I am looking forward to the next in the series.

***This and other reviews featured on our blog Booked All Night http://bookedallnightblog.com/
Profile Image for Sarah.
1,456 reviews30 followers
December 28, 2017
I was given a copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.

Country music and bourbon are a perfect fit and while it takes them a while to figure things out, so are Ava Grace and Beck. This is a sweet and funny romance that mostly takes place in a bourbon distillery.

I have to admit that it took me some time to warm to Ava Grace. At the start, she’s a little bit superficial, a little too flirtatious and a little too entitled. But she’s more than she seems. . She seems to let go of her diva affectations as she gets more real with Beck - and once she stopped with the ridiculous outfits, I quite enjoyed her as a character.

Beck is focused, determined and his past has made him skittish about family and commitment. He is immediately likeable but some of the early conflict with Ava Grace felt contrived and a little bit formulaic. But the friction leads to chemistry and there are some very hot scenes in this story!

There are some brilliant moments in this story - the splinters in Ava Grace’s arse after a hot and heavy session among the whiskey barrels were a highlight - but I felt like the pacing dragged some at the end. Ultimately, this is frothy, fun entertainment with a few darker moments that make Beck and Ava Grace human and relatable.
Profile Image for Anne Morgan.
843 reviews26 followers
December 23, 2017
Ava Grace is the kind of character you love right away. She's always upbeat and positive, hardworking, intelligent, and goes for what she wants. After winning a major TV singing competition she may have rocketed to stardom but she hasn't forgotten the people who helped her or let the fame go to her head. When her new boss wants her to appeal to a larger male audience Ava Grace turns down his demeaning ideas (provocative magazine covers) in favor of some creative ideas of her own. Mutual friends suggest she become the spokesperson for Trinity Distillery and Ava Grace takes the idea, adds bourbon themed cookbooks and is off and running. She isn't one to back down from a challenge and doesn't expect anyone to do anything for her. While she's never applied this approach to life with men, when Ava Grace meets Jonah Beck and the chemistry between them is instant, she decides to go for it. Beck is a solid guy and she thinks he could be the one for her.

Beck had enough bad experiences with fame as a kid when his father was accused of embezzling from his own company to know he doesn't want to live in the spotlight. As attracted to Ava Grace as he is, he doesn't want to be attracted to her. He's convinced their lives can't mix and Trinity should be the only thing they have in common. I have to admit, Ava Grace saw his potential way before I did. Beck has plenty of moments where he's a jerk, tries to push Ava Grace away, but gets upset if there's any distance between them. For a good part of the book he seems to be more than happy to have her be the one doing all the compromising in the relationship. While that may be because of his previous experiences, it was still more work for Ava Grace than I'd have put into the frustrating relationship. Each is afraid to be the one to say "I love you" first and they have plenty of communication issues that need to get worked through (though personally I blame Beck for most of them. I'm not as nice as Ava Grace). But Ava Grace's fame is the big hurdle. It's exactly what Beck needs for Trinity bourbon, and exactly what he doesn't want in his daily life. When Ava Grace winds up in the hospital after an accident and her medical records get leaked to the media, they put the worst possible spin on the situation. Beck can't handle the negative press and in a move that may be understandable from the selfishly personal point of view but is a cowardly jerk move from the relationship point of view he leaves Ava Grace to deal with everything by herself. It's only after friends point out that he isn't good enough for her that Beck realizes that he is so miserable without her that he's willing to work hard to become good enough for her.

Ava Grace was the shining star of Barreled Over as far as I was concerned. She handles everything life throws at her- from fans to her father's Alzheimer's- with a grace and strength that is inspirational. You're cheering for her to get her happy ending from page one. Beck is a lot harder- I liked him, but he took a lot of work to like. Sutton does a great job with these two, giving them an instant chemistry that makes the relationship worth the work. Barreled Over is a fast-paced, fun start to a promising new series and I can't wait to read more!

I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Profile Image for Barb Lie.
2,057 reviews4 followers
March 17, 2018
Barreled Over by Jenna Sutton is the first book in her new Trinity Distillery series. Having read & enjoyed Sutton’s previous series (Riley O’Brien & Co.), I looked forward to starting this series, and I am happy to say I loved Barreled Over.

When we meet, Ava Grace Landy, our heroine and a famous country music star, she is at a meeting with the new boss of her record label company. Though she is one of the top selling country stars, her boss feels she needs to open her music to attract more male audiences. Ava Grace will meet with the owners of Trinity Distillery, to become their spokesperson for a big promotional endorsement that will benefit both of them. Her best friend, Amelia (heroine from Riley O’Brien), is married to one of the four owners of Trinity,

Jonah Beck, our hero, isn’t crazy about bringing in Ava Grace, but his partners feel this is an opportunity to promote their great bourbon. Beck finds himself attracted to the beautiful, outgoing & bubbly Ava Grace, but he is determined to not become involved with her, especially due to her very public life. Beck has never forgotten the scandal when he was a teenager, with his deceased father that makes him avoid the media as much as possible.

Ava Grace previously met Beck at Amelia’s wedding and was attracted to him then. Now as they begin to work closely together, Beck finds the attraction becoming too strong to resist, especially with Ava Grace doing all she can to seduce him. Right from the start, we saw the sizzling chemistry between them, and I loved them together. However, the issues they both had in their lives didn’t make things easy for them. Ava Grace was famous, with the media always following her; she also had a father suffering from the late & violent stages of Alzheimer’s disease, which she kept secret from the public. Beck having lived through the harsh publicity from his father, wanted nothing to do with Ava Grace’s lifestyle. Would they find a way to stay together?

What follows is a wonderful sweet story about two people who despite their hot chemistry do not seem right for each other based on their location and lifestyles. Beck loves his bourbon business, which his in San Francisco; and Ava Grace lives in Nashville, where her career is centered. One of the fun parts of this book is that we get to learn a lot of the making of bourbon, and the different recipes to use with it.

Sutton’s always creates wonderful characters that we come to love, and it is no different in Barreled Over. Besides having already loved Amelia and Quinn previously, I really liked Beck’s other two partners, Ren and Gabe. I also liked Kyle, the caregiver for Ava Grace’s father, which did have a number of emotional situations that stressed on this terrible disease.

Barreled Over was a great read, which also had a bit of everything; hot romance, sexy couple, great characters, music and bourbon backgrounds, as well as emotional moments. I look forward to reading the next book in this series and I strongly suggest you read Barreled Over to start this series.

Barb
The Reading Cafe
Profile Image for Jennifer.
565 reviews8 followers
December 29, 2017
Ava Grace prefers to be out of the spotlight, but that's a little impossible as she's a singing sensation. She makes herself available to fans and reporters in hopes it'll keep the paparazzi away. What she doesn't give to reporters is information on her personal life. This works for the most part. When her record label fires her producer, she's matched up with Lex. Lex's ideas to garner more male followers are unacceptable. Ava Grace needs to come up with an alternative, fast.

Beck, Ren, and Gabe are looking for ways to increase their bourbon business. Having bad past experiences with the media, Beck feels they need to hire a spokesperson. Quinn, Beck's investor and friend, recommends Ava Grace. Beck and Ava Grace met previously at Quinn and Amelia's wedding. They didn't quite get along, making Beck think there was no way Ava Grace would agree to be Trinity's spokesperson. But having Ava Grace as a spokesperson would hopefully increase their female followers. A win-win for both parties....or not?

I absolutely LOVED this novel! Ava's struggles with her sick father, leacherous producer, and paparazzi were portrayed so realistically. Beck's past experiences with reporters made him pull away from Ava Grace not sure if he could live a life in the spotlight. Jenna Sutton wrote Ava Grace and Beck so effectively that you felt as though you were in the story with the characters. Loved it! I read a gift copy and all opinions stated are my own.
Profile Image for Eileen.
2,602 reviews
December 28, 2017
I totally enjoyed Barrelled Over by Jenna Sutton, the first book in her new Trinity Distillery series. From the beginning, this book pulled me into this story of friendship, romance, and struggles. Ava Grace Landy, a famous country singer struggled with demands the new boss for her record label wants from her. Her friends Amelia and Quinn, from the Riley series, suggested she connect with Jonah Beck, of the Trinity Distillery to be their spokesperson. Because of his past, Beck is unsure of getting involved with Ava Grace and her fame, despite the chemistry and attraction they have for each other. The more time they share together, the more it’s apparent that these two belong together; head, heart and tail. I loved how Ms. Sutton characterized these two as monogamists and not people who slept around. I also appreciated the way she dealt with the Alzheimer aspects that affects the characters. This was truly a heart-warming love story that allowed the main characters to reach their happy ever after, despite a few detours and stubborn characters.

I really loved reading this book and had trouble putting this book down. Ms. Sutton held me captive, drawing me into her book, making me forget the world around me and not letting me go even after I turned the last page. I highly recommend this book to other readers and look forward to reading more books in this series.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
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