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Amuse Bouche #1
Sweet Nothings
Amuse Book One
Will a bitter bite from the past spoil a sweet romance?
Tristan Love, the youngest of seven brothers, is back in his hometown. He’s left the New York food scene and an abusive relationship behind him, but he holds his love of French pastries close to his heart and is determined to put his skills to use in a bakery of his own.
Returning to his childhood home means his meddlesome brother Simon will butt into his business, but before the bakery even opens its doors, Tristan’s delectable creations have the town’s mouths watering, and Jake, a cute mechanic, asks Tristan out. It all seems worthwhile….
That is, until the bakery burns down, Jake’s criminal past comes to light, and Tristan’s nasty ex rears his head where he is decidedly not wanted.
Will a bitter bite from the past spoil a sweet romance?
Tristan Love, the youngest of seven brothers, is back in his hometown. He’s left the New York food scene and an abusive relationship behind him, but he holds his love of French pastries close to his heart and is determined to put his skills to use in a bakery of his own.
Returning to his childhood home means his meddlesome brother Simon will butt into his business, but before the bakery even opens its doors, Tristan’s delectable creations have the town’s mouths watering, and Jake, a cute mechanic, asks Tristan out. It all seems worthwhile….
That is, until the bakery burns down, Jake’s criminal past comes to light, and Tristan’s nasty ex rears his head where he is decidedly not wanted.
248 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 3, 2018
7 people are currently reading
94 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
January 3, 2020
3.5 Hearts
Equal parts fluff and seriousness...
What I liked about this story was that it’s all about personal second chances. Tristan has been in a very toxic abusive relationship, and he gets the courage and motivation to leave it all behind. When he moves back home to open his own bakery, Tristan can finally take a breather and focus on himself for once. When he catches the interest of hunky Jake, who is trying to forge a new life as well, things definitely start to look up for both of them.
Jake and Tristan hit if off immediately. They are not without their challenges in starting a relationship. Jake has a shady past. Tristan has infuriating protective older brothers who love to be infuriating. Go ahead and add in a crazy ex boyfriend hell bent on revenge, and they might be doomed before they even really start.
Narrated by Simon Ferrar, this was my second listening experience from him, and I still have the same opinion. I enjoyed his performance except when it came to how he voiced one of the MC’s, which again, felt incongruent and was often distracting. Despite that, this was a good romance. Admittedly, there were several moments of disbelief that I just had to ignore regarding the ex’s evil machinations - who cares about plausibility right?? However, in the grand scheme of things, this was very nicely sexy, the relationship progression was equally sweet and enjoyable and thus, I deem this a win!
Thank you to the author/publisher for the audio in exchange for a honest review
Equal parts fluff and seriousness...
What I liked about this story was that it’s all about personal second chances. Tristan has been in a very toxic abusive relationship, and he gets the courage and motivation to leave it all behind. When he moves back home to open his own bakery, Tristan can finally take a breather and focus on himself for once. When he catches the interest of hunky Jake, who is trying to forge a new life as well, things definitely start to look up for both of them.
Jake and Tristan hit if off immediately. They are not without their challenges in starting a relationship. Jake has a shady past. Tristan has infuriating protective older brothers who love to be infuriating. Go ahead and add in a crazy ex boyfriend hell bent on revenge, and they might be doomed before they even really start.
Narrated by Simon Ferrar, this was my second listening experience from him, and I still have the same opinion. I enjoyed his performance except when it came to how he voiced one of the MC’s, which again, felt incongruent and was often distracting. Despite that, this was a good romance. Admittedly, there were several moments of disbelief that I just had to ignore regarding the ex’s evil machinations - who cares about plausibility right?? However, in the grand scheme of things, this was very nicely sexy, the relationship progression was equally sweet and enjoyable and thus, I deem this a win!
Thank you to the author/publisher for the audio in exchange for a honest review
April 3, 2018
At first glance, this seems like a sweet and cute romance, with an MC who's starting over in his smallish home town of Lake Balmoral, and the bad boy from the wrong side of the tracks being the love interest. Throw in some freshly baked goods, like tarts and muffins and such, and you might think you'd be able to settle in for a nice, easy ride to happy ever after.
You'd be right. But you'd also be wrong.
Sweet Nothings is a sweet and cute romance, no doubt, but it's also a lot more than that. It's about starting over, about family ties, about older brothers, about finding your own way, about not judging a book by its cover, about forgiveness, about trust, and about love.
When Tristan flees his current life and his fiance in NYC to return home to Lake Balmoral, we don't know much about his reasons, other than that Christopher, the ex, is controlling and manipulative, and that Tristan felt stifled and smothered and needed to get out of the relationship. He buys the old bakery with his savings and works toward the reopening.
He meets Jake, a car mechanic, on his first day home while shopping for groceries. It's a real meet-cute, even though Tristan's flirting techniques are rusty and even though he's warned off Jake by the store clerk and everyone else. Tristan doesn't care what others say - there's immediate attraction between him and Jake, and he's all too willing to find out where this might take them.
Meddling family notwithstanding, Tristan works hard to get the bakery business off the ground, taking wholesale orders from his oldest brother Simon and the nice couple who owns the coffee shop next door, while cleaning and sprucing up the place. And getting closer to Jake.
Jake has a history, a bad one, and the reader finds out fairly quickly that Jake's been to prison, but is now released and working for his sister's garage, living in an old travel trailer behind her house, to get back on his feet. The reason for his prison stint isn't immediately clear, but nothing about Jake screams criminal, and his whole persona was one of kindness and consideration, and keeping his nose to the grindstone. He knew, of course, how people looked at him in town, but he wasn't willing to prove their assumptions right - he kept on working and doing the right thing. Good guy, Jake is.
The further I got into the book, the clearer it became that Tristan was afraid of his ex, and for good reason. When he finally tells the truth about what pushed him to leave NYC, to end the relationship, I might have sniffled a bit, and I might have wanted to reach into the book and wring Christopher's neck. What also upset me was Simon's behavior toward his little brother - Tristan didn't need a father; he needed his brother to be on his side and stand by him. Sure, Simon changed his whole attitude once the truth came out, but his grumpy ass should've known better.
As you can see in the blurb, the bakery falls victim to a fire. I'm not going to tell you here why there's a fire, or who's responsible for it, because that's pretty clear once you get into the book, but I was struck by how the author chose to use that moment, and how it really made it clear that Tristan believed Jake, and that he stood up for him. I truly loved that scene!
As for Jake, his truth also comes out, and we are told why he went to prison, why he made that choice, and what it has cost him. I might have sniffled a bit once more, but thankfully the author didn't delve too deeply into his experiences in prison.
So... while this is superficially a sweet and cute romance, it's actually much more. The 3rd person narration, switching between Tristan's and Jake's POV worked well for me, and the writing isn't overly flowery. I enjoyed this quite a lot.
And I think you should definitely give this book a try. Perhaps you'll love it like I did, and then end up in my position - anxiously awaiting the next installment when grumpy Simon gets hit by the love bug. I can hardly wait!
** I received a free copy of this book from its publisher in exchange for an honest review. **
You'd be right. But you'd also be wrong.
Sweet Nothings is a sweet and cute romance, no doubt, but it's also a lot more than that. It's about starting over, about family ties, about older brothers, about finding your own way, about not judging a book by its cover, about forgiveness, about trust, and about love.
When Tristan flees his current life and his fiance in NYC to return home to Lake Balmoral, we don't know much about his reasons, other than that Christopher, the ex, is controlling and manipulative, and that Tristan felt stifled and smothered and needed to get out of the relationship. He buys the old bakery with his savings and works toward the reopening.
He meets Jake, a car mechanic, on his first day home while shopping for groceries. It's a real meet-cute, even though Tristan's flirting techniques are rusty and even though he's warned off Jake by the store clerk and everyone else. Tristan doesn't care what others say - there's immediate attraction between him and Jake, and he's all too willing to find out where this might take them.
Meddling family notwithstanding, Tristan works hard to get the bakery business off the ground, taking wholesale orders from his oldest brother Simon and the nice couple who owns the coffee shop next door, while cleaning and sprucing up the place. And getting closer to Jake.
Jake has a history, a bad one, and the reader finds out fairly quickly that Jake's been to prison, but is now released and working for his sister's garage, living in an old travel trailer behind her house, to get back on his feet. The reason for his prison stint isn't immediately clear, but nothing about Jake screams criminal, and his whole persona was one of kindness and consideration, and keeping his nose to the grindstone. He knew, of course, how people looked at him in town, but he wasn't willing to prove their assumptions right - he kept on working and doing the right thing. Good guy, Jake is.
The further I got into the book, the clearer it became that Tristan was afraid of his ex, and for good reason. When he finally tells the truth about what pushed him to leave NYC, to end the relationship, I might have sniffled a bit, and I might have wanted to reach into the book and wring Christopher's neck. What also upset me was Simon's behavior toward his little brother - Tristan didn't need a father; he needed his brother to be on his side and stand by him. Sure, Simon changed his whole attitude once the truth came out, but his grumpy ass should've known better.
As you can see in the blurb, the bakery falls victim to a fire. I'm not going to tell you here why there's a fire, or who's responsible for it, because that's pretty clear once you get into the book, but I was struck by how the author chose to use that moment, and how it really made it clear that Tristan believed Jake, and that he stood up for him. I truly loved that scene!
As for Jake, his truth also comes out, and we are told why he went to prison, why he made that choice, and what it has cost him. I might have sniffled a bit once more, but thankfully the author didn't delve too deeply into his experiences in prison.
So... while this is superficially a sweet and cute romance, it's actually much more. The 3rd person narration, switching between Tristan's and Jake's POV worked well for me, and the writing isn't overly flowery. I enjoyed this quite a lot.
And I think you should definitely give this book a try. Perhaps you'll love it like I did, and then end up in my position - anxiously awaiting the next installment when grumpy Simon gets hit by the love bug. I can hardly wait!
** I received a free copy of this book from its publisher in exchange for an honest review. **
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April 10, 20184 Hearts
Take the title to heart when it comes to this book because it’s super sweet. Like so sweet it made my teeth hurt but I’ve got a thing for sugary romances.
I love books that deal with food and the people that create either baked goods or epic masterpieces in the kitchen. Even as a vegan veteran of 23 years, I find creative people intriguing with how they can take simple ingredients and make amazing meals that blow people's minds and pallets.
When we meet Tristan Love, he is on the road toward his hometown of Lake Balmoral after leaving his fiance in New York with nothing but the ring and a note. Tristan has had it with Christopher and his control issues and is ready to move back home, open his own bakery and start again. When he stops in for a few grocery ingredients before moving onto this rented cabin, he has an awkward but adorable meet cute with a handsome stranger who doesn’t flinch at Tristan’s lack of flirting ability at that exact moment. That stranger is Jake and what better name could a MC have for me to have a crush on?
Jake is amazing. You know from the blurb and everyone in town talking about him that Jake has a past and Jake has been in jail. We don't immediately know why but we are told that Jake has a white knight complex so whatever happened, I was sure Jake wasn’t the one who did it. He just took the fall. And speaking of taking the fall, I loved watching him go after Tristan regardless of the threats the Love brothers or the coffee shop owners toss at him. Jake knows he has done his time, knows that what is in the past can stay there and he knows that he can be good for Tristan. It’s a good thing Tristan knows that too and hates the way his brothers try to run his life.
I had so much fun with this book. I loved being in Tristan’s head while he figures out how to start his own business and not have his heard of older brothers butting their way in to fix things. Tristan is the youngest of seven brothers and having lost his father when he was six, his brothers have always tried to step in and be there for him. But they need to learn Tristan is a grown man and can make his own decisions, even if they don’t know the full truth behind why he made them.
This story is so damn sweet but it does have a bit of darkness to it regarding both Tristan’s and Jake’s pasts. I was ready for some of Jake’s but a few things hurt and when we find out why Tristan left, it broke my heart. I did love who he told about it first and when his brothers find out, their response was heartwarming.
Simon is mentioned in the blurb and he is one of the brothers who is mostly in the story. I am happy that he will be next to get a book, even though I thought it would be Nate, but Simon is so grumpy it will be great to see him get knocked on his butt by love.
Sweet Nothings was such a fun read. The connection between Jake and Tristan is so strong from the beginning and both men were respectful of how fast the relationship moved but they talked about it and decided they were both on board. They really put surfaces to great use in Tristan’s bakery and I hope we get to see them rebuilding the bakery after the fire in the next book.
Take the title to heart when it comes to this book because it’s super sweet. Like so sweet it made my teeth hurt but I’ve got a thing for sugary romances.
I love books that deal with food and the people that create either baked goods or epic masterpieces in the kitchen. Even as a vegan veteran of 23 years, I find creative people intriguing with how they can take simple ingredients and make amazing meals that blow people's minds and pallets.
When we meet Tristan Love, he is on the road toward his hometown of Lake Balmoral after leaving his fiance in New York with nothing but the ring and a note. Tristan has had it with Christopher and his control issues and is ready to move back home, open his own bakery and start again. When he stops in for a few grocery ingredients before moving onto this rented cabin, he has an awkward but adorable meet cute with a handsome stranger who doesn’t flinch at Tristan’s lack of flirting ability at that exact moment. That stranger is Jake and what better name could a MC have for me to have a crush on?
Jake is amazing. You know from the blurb and everyone in town talking about him that Jake has a past and Jake has been in jail. We don't immediately know why but we are told that Jake has a white knight complex so whatever happened, I was sure Jake wasn’t the one who did it. He just took the fall. And speaking of taking the fall, I loved watching him go after Tristan regardless of the threats the Love brothers or the coffee shop owners toss at him. Jake knows he has done his time, knows that what is in the past can stay there and he knows that he can be good for Tristan. It’s a good thing Tristan knows that too and hates the way his brothers try to run his life.
I had so much fun with this book. I loved being in Tristan’s head while he figures out how to start his own business and not have his heard of older brothers butting their way in to fix things. Tristan is the youngest of seven brothers and having lost his father when he was six, his brothers have always tried to step in and be there for him. But they need to learn Tristan is a grown man and can make his own decisions, even if they don’t know the full truth behind why he made them.
This story is so damn sweet but it does have a bit of darkness to it regarding both Tristan’s and Jake’s pasts. I was ready for some of Jake’s but a few things hurt and when we find out why Tristan left, it broke my heart. I did love who he told about it first and when his brothers find out, their response was heartwarming.
Simon is mentioned in the blurb and he is one of the brothers who is mostly in the story. I am happy that he will be next to get a book, even though I thought it would be Nate, but Simon is so grumpy it will be great to see him get knocked on his butt by love.
Sweet Nothings was such a fun read. The connection between Jake and Tristan is so strong from the beginning and both men were respectful of how fast the relationship moved but they talked about it and decided they were both on board. They really put surfaces to great use in Tristan’s bakery and I hope we get to see them rebuilding the bakery after the fire in the next book.
August 10, 2018
3.5 stars rounded down to 3 because still no 1/2 stars here on GR and while the story was cute and enjoyable there was an element of predictability to it that I just couldn't ignore. Full review to follow soonish!
'Sweet Nothings' was nice, but predictably sweet...
Tristan Love is the youngest of 7 brothers...I'm also the youngest of 7 so I can relate to certain things about Tristan's family dynamics. Which in the scheme of things was good because relating to a story and it's characters goes a long way towards contributing to how much a reader enjoys the story or at least it does for me.
Tristan's left the food scene in New York and returned to his hometown in the hopes of escaping an abusive relationship and starting over with his own bakery. See here again I can relate to Tristan because abusive relationship...done it, seen it, been there and got the tee shirt. My point here is that a big reason as to why I enjoyed this story was Tristan right off the bat I was hooked in by a character to whom I could relate. I liked Tristan and totally understood his struggle throughout the story to be independent in regards to his family regardless of how much he loved them.
And then we met Jake and while Jake really didn't have the relatability for me that Tristan did I still really liked him. Jake was a bit of an underdog and let's face it we all want to root for the underdog...or at least most of us do and in Jake's case the fact that he was a sexy as hell underdog didn't hurt...I was more than happy to be one of his cheerleaders.
Now, here's what infuriated me...there were more than a few people who for me ended up being a bit of a disappointment. Jake's got a history that's not good. He's done his time and paid his dues and he's trying to make a life for himself working at his sister's garage as a mechanic and for the most part things are going along fairly well until he shows an interest in Tristan...not because either of them are gay no...because Jake's got a criminal record so he's not good enough for Tristan in the eyes of his brothers especially his overbearing and domineering brother Simon. Never mind that Jake treats Tristan a whole lot better than Tristan's abusive (we're talking physical, emotional and mental abuse here folks, this guy is at the top of the heap when it comes to POS ex's) thankfully Tristan can think for himself and he likes Jake not only that but he doesn't let people sway his judgement because lord knows if he did he'd be back with his POS ex if Simon had his way. Yeah, I admit it more than anyone I was furious with Simon...
Simon who never bothered to talk to his brother about why he'd left his 'amazing' boyfriend...come on Simon use your brain if he's so amazing why did Tristan not only leave him but basically run away to escape him...think about that and while your at it think about the fact that Tristan's your brother so really, who's back should you have? Thankfully Tristan's other two brothers that we get to meet Gareth and Nate aren't so readily convinced as to how wonderful Christopher is.
While a lot of what happened felt fairly predictable for me. I still found this to be a really sweet and enjoyable romance story and I think that was due not just to how relatable Tristan was or how much I liked Jake but because of the overall way in which the author told this story it was the difference between waiting for what you knew would happen and knowing what was coming but looking forward to it which I found that I was, regardless of things being predicable the T. Neilson had me looking forward to when it would actually happen and I enjoyed a story that quite honestly I was able to just sit back and listen to without having to have at least a mental spreadsheet of who did what to who and why and why and where and how...and on and on...
'Sweet Nothings' was also my opportunity to check out a new to me narrator in the person of Simon Ferrar and I was happily impressed. I enjoyed the voices that were presented to me for the different characters...especially Tristan's and Jake's and believe it or not Christoper, which I know might seem strange because...Christoper is essentially the bad guy here and who likes the bad guy right? Well, not me but when listening to an audio book so much of the story is conveyed through the narrators voice...the emotions of the moment, the urgency of things, danger, love, passion and even a character's nature. Christopher was not a nice person and the narrator's voice conveyed this fact but not in a blatant attempt to sound like a 'bad guy' way. It was subtle and the more I heard Christopher talk the more I disliked him not just because of what he was saying but how he was saying it. Needless to say I'm curious to hear more from this narrator and quite honestly I'm also curious to read more from this author especially from this series which while this book is the 55th book in the Dreamspun Desires series it's also the first book in T. Neilson's series 'Amuse Bouche' and I'm curious to see what's coming next, hopefully it'll involve some of the characters that we've met here, but only time will tell for sure.
*************************
An audio book of 'Sweet Nothings' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
'Sweet Nothings' was nice, but predictably sweet...
Tristan Love is the youngest of 7 brothers...I'm also the youngest of 7 so I can relate to certain things about Tristan's family dynamics. Which in the scheme of things was good because relating to a story and it's characters goes a long way towards contributing to how much a reader enjoys the story or at least it does for me.
Tristan's left the food scene in New York and returned to his hometown in the hopes of escaping an abusive relationship and starting over with his own bakery. See here again I can relate to Tristan because abusive relationship...done it, seen it, been there and got the tee shirt. My point here is that a big reason as to why I enjoyed this story was Tristan right off the bat I was hooked in by a character to whom I could relate. I liked Tristan and totally understood his struggle throughout the story to be independent in regards to his family regardless of how much he loved them.
And then we met Jake and while Jake really didn't have the relatability for me that Tristan did I still really liked him. Jake was a bit of an underdog and let's face it we all want to root for the underdog...or at least most of us do and in Jake's case the fact that he was a sexy as hell underdog didn't hurt...I was more than happy to be one of his cheerleaders.
Now, here's what infuriated me...there were more than a few people who for me ended up being a bit of a disappointment. Jake's got a history that's not good. He's done his time and paid his dues and he's trying to make a life for himself working at his sister's garage as a mechanic and for the most part things are going along fairly well until he shows an interest in Tristan...not because either of them are gay no...because Jake's got a criminal record so he's not good enough for Tristan in the eyes of his brothers especially his overbearing and domineering brother Simon. Never mind that Jake treats Tristan a whole lot better than Tristan's abusive (we're talking physical, emotional and mental abuse here folks, this guy is at the top of the heap when it comes to POS ex's) thankfully Tristan can think for himself and he likes Jake not only that but he doesn't let people sway his judgement because lord knows if he did he'd be back with his POS ex if Simon had his way. Yeah, I admit it more than anyone I was furious with Simon...
Simon who never bothered to talk to his brother about why he'd left his 'amazing' boyfriend...come on Simon use your brain if he's so amazing why did Tristan not only leave him but basically run away to escape him...think about that and while your at it think about the fact that Tristan's your brother so really, who's back should you have? Thankfully Tristan's other two brothers that we get to meet Gareth and Nate aren't so readily convinced as to how wonderful Christopher is.
While a lot of what happened felt fairly predictable for me. I still found this to be a really sweet and enjoyable romance story and I think that was due not just to how relatable Tristan was or how much I liked Jake but because of the overall way in which the author told this story it was the difference between waiting for what you knew would happen and knowing what was coming but looking forward to it which I found that I was, regardless of things being predicable the T. Neilson had me looking forward to when it would actually happen and I enjoyed a story that quite honestly I was able to just sit back and listen to without having to have at least a mental spreadsheet of who did what to who and why and why and where and how...and on and on...
'Sweet Nothings' was also my opportunity to check out a new to me narrator in the person of Simon Ferrar and I was happily impressed. I enjoyed the voices that were presented to me for the different characters...especially Tristan's and Jake's and believe it or not Christoper, which I know might seem strange because...Christoper is essentially the bad guy here and who likes the bad guy right? Well, not me but when listening to an audio book so much of the story is conveyed through the narrators voice...the emotions of the moment, the urgency of things, danger, love, passion and even a character's nature. Christopher was not a nice person and the narrator's voice conveyed this fact but not in a blatant attempt to sound like a 'bad guy' way. It was subtle and the more I heard Christopher talk the more I disliked him not just because of what he was saying but how he was saying it. Needless to say I'm curious to hear more from this narrator and quite honestly I'm also curious to read more from this author especially from this series which while this book is the 55th book in the Dreamspun Desires series it's also the first book in T. Neilson's series 'Amuse Bouche' and I'm curious to see what's coming next, hopefully it'll involve some of the characters that we've met here, but only time will tell for sure.
*************************
An audio book of 'Sweet Nothings' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
March 30, 2019
Audiobook reviewFinally a Dreamspun Desires novel that I actually enjoyed, the last few I've listened to have sadly been a bust. Sweet Nothings made up for it. It was all the sweetness that the title suggests - and then some.
Being the youngest child in a family is never easy, but being the youngest of seven boys is ridiculous. He left his hometown for New York City with big dreams; opening his own bakery, falling in love with a great guy. Sadly the guy he found was a toad in prince's clothing, and to get away from the abusive relationship Tristan runs back home, leaving his ex-fiancé Christopher behind . He spends all his money on buying a property to open up the bakery he's always dreamed of. Unfortunately his ex refuses to let him go and follows him back to Lake Balmoral, causing trouble left to right. Add in a very meddling brother and Tristan has his hands full. The only light in the horizon is Jake, the very cute mechanic that he has some crazy chemistry with.
I really loved how both Tristan and Jake were so accepting of each other. They let the other be themselves, they were allowed to start over, to grow. Tristan into someone ready to stand on own, to stand up to his abusive ex, to stand up for himself, for those he loved and start over again. Jake has a bit of a coloured past. Trying to start over and rebuild after being released from jail, but constantly having to defend his choices and past. And when Tristan’s new bakery is set on fire thigs get even more complicated. Neither of them lets the past dictate their present or future (too much). I love how they are so focused on moving forward, and finding that path together. Sure, their relationship was fast – as they tend to be in this series, but it was still sweet.
Simon Ferrar is a new narrator for me and one I will definitely keep a look out for in the future. I loved his narration of this book. The voices, the performance and feelings were just right. He took me away for the afternoon and made me smell and almost taste the deliciousness Tristan created. He kind of also made wish for my own bakery - well that is until I remembered the early mornings that would entail. But still, it was nice to dream for a while.
A copy of this book was generously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review
March 29, 2018
Moving forward from an abusive relationship, while you're 'not that strong', is a little scary.
But Tristan at least had a courage to run away, and back home. Thank God he has his walls of brothers to protect him from whatever, whoever. Too protective even.
Enter Jake, an ex-con, and Tristan knew his life will never be the same again.
This actually a very sweet but not too sweet to give you diabetes after. Just a right dose of sweetness, a pinch of obsessed violent ex. Hell, they're ex for a reason!
I know that they're moving too fast, but I'm kinda liked it that Tristan trusted Jake with all is heart, never judged Jake for his past. I liked their dynamic and how sweet and protective Jake for Tristan.
You don't need to frown reading this except for Christopher, Tristan's ex. Ugh!
I don't know what kept Tristan stayed with him for that long. Okay, slash the past, let them move on with their life. And the brother, Garrett? Can we have his own story please?
I enjoyed the story, and you should too!
April 13, 2018
Much like an amuse-bouche (the small, complimentary appetizers some restaurants offer), this story has hidden depths. Granted, some of those tantalizing samples handed out for free by the chef are just what they seem – a nice way to “amuse” your mouth, to start a meal, and to tide you over until the food arrives. But in a lot of cases they are more complicated and more delicious than they look, and once you start eating, you realize there is more to them than you expected. Both Tristan and Jake are guys with difficult pasts, secrets, and people who try to make their lives difficult. I was intrigued by Tristan from the start, and not just because he is a baker able to produce amazing treats. Jake has clearly not had it easy, but the reason why only emerges slowly. And between these two guys and the various very colorful secondary characters, this novel turned out to be full of surprises.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
July 21, 2022
Reread July 2022
3.5 stars rounded up because I liked the characters so very much.
Good things first. It’s a super sweet, super cute story with multiplier layers to make it more than just a sweet story. It’s a story about family and friendship. About second chances and rising up stronger on the other side. I loved that.
The main characters, Tristan and Jake have both had their fair share of bad things hitting them but they are still open, loving and caring. They really warmed my heart and gave me all the feels.
And some bad things. The secondary characters. Every, single one of them except maybe the middle brother, was narrow minded to the extent where it got ridiculous. Everyone warned Tristan of Jake because he was an ex con. They had no idea about Jake’s situation and yet they judged him hard. The ending was a bit quick. I would’ve wanted more of a redemption story for Jake. No, not wanted. Needed. I needed the stuck up secondary characters to at least ask for his forgiveness.
3.5 stars rounded up because I liked the characters so very much.
Good things first. It’s a super sweet, super cute story with multiplier layers to make it more than just a sweet story. It’s a story about family and friendship. About second chances and rising up stronger on the other side. I loved that.
The main characters, Tristan and Jake have both had their fair share of bad things hitting them but they are still open, loving and caring. They really warmed my heart and gave me all the feels.
And some bad things. The secondary characters. Every, single one of them except maybe the middle brother, was narrow minded to the extent where it got ridiculous. Everyone warned Tristan of Jake because he was an ex con. They had no idea about Jake’s situation and yet they judged him hard. The ending was a bit quick. I would’ve wanted more of a redemption story for Jake. No, not wanted. Needed. I needed the stuck up secondary characters to at least ask for his forgiveness.
December 6, 2023
I really enjoyed this, and as much as I want to rate it higher, this has some serious continuity issues that make that impossible for me to do.
For starters, the timeline.
Jake and Tristan meet up for “lunch”, and tried to set up a dinner date. Jake asks, “Friday?”, to which Tristan explains he can’t because he has the family dinner to attend, so they settle on “tomorrow”. Then Tristan meets up with Christopher, has a nap and then goes to the family dinner. Even though it isn’t Friday.
And when the next chapter switches out to Jake’s POV, it has him back at the shop working on the engine, and Tristan brought him over a cookie, and Laura came back from the bank 2 hours later, and Jake was sending Tristan dirty texts all afternoon, and then goes back to his trailer. But then mentions Tristan came over in the afternoon… but this wasn’t the cookie trip because they discuss the cookies and dirty texts. And Tristan asked if he was free tonight… but should Tristan be off meeting his ex and going to a family dinner then bed?
And the next chapter, Tristan mentions “by Friday” the bakery would be open. So, has Friday happened? Will that be the second Friday? And then thinks of his postponed date with Jake, the “tomorrow” date. Which means it has to be Sunday at this point. Except then he mentions repeating their last afternoon, which was actually the day before the cancelled date.
And of course, the cherry on top of it being Tristan getting ready for his big opening on Friday.
And the timeline isn’t the only issue.
At one point, Tristan is looking at a healing knife wound on his hand that is apparently from defending himself from a knife attack by Christopher. Except, that never happened. Back in NY, he was worried Christopher would use a knife. And their one physical altercation at the bakery ends with Tristan bleeding, but from a punch to the mouth. That one instant of the knife wound is the only time in the entire book where Tristan apparently has this wound.
And as for his abusive ex, he tells Jake and tells Jake that he is the only person he has told. But at one point, Simon is tells Tristan that Nate told him what his ex had done. Which is followed later by Tristan saying none of his brothers know, except Nate who knows “a little bit more than the basics”.
I wouldn’t think it’s so hard to keep track of a few days and of who does and does not know Christopher is a POS, but apparently it is. I don’t know if stuff was shuffled around, but I can’t imagine the author having done a final read through and not realized all the contradictory information.
For starters, the timeline.
Jake and Tristan meet up for “lunch”, and tried to set up a dinner date. Jake asks, “Friday?”, to which Tristan explains he can’t because he has the family dinner to attend, so they settle on “tomorrow”. Then Tristan meets up with Christopher, has a nap and then goes to the family dinner. Even though it isn’t Friday.
And when the next chapter switches out to Jake’s POV, it has him back at the shop working on the engine, and Tristan brought him over a cookie, and Laura came back from the bank 2 hours later, and Jake was sending Tristan dirty texts all afternoon, and then goes back to his trailer. But then mentions Tristan came over in the afternoon… but this wasn’t the cookie trip because they discuss the cookies and dirty texts. And Tristan asked if he was free tonight… but should Tristan be off meeting his ex and going to a family dinner then bed?
And the next chapter, Tristan mentions “by Friday” the bakery would be open. So, has Friday happened? Will that be the second Friday? And then thinks of his postponed date with Jake, the “tomorrow” date. Which means it has to be Sunday at this point. Except then he mentions repeating their last afternoon, which was actually the day before the cancelled date.
And of course, the cherry on top of it being Tristan getting ready for his big opening on Friday.
And the timeline isn’t the only issue.
At one point, Tristan is looking at a healing knife wound on his hand that is apparently from defending himself from a knife attack by Christopher. Except, that never happened. Back in NY, he was worried Christopher would use a knife. And their one physical altercation at the bakery ends with Tristan bleeding, but from a punch to the mouth. That one instant of the knife wound is the only time in the entire book where Tristan apparently has this wound.
And as for his abusive ex, he tells Jake and tells Jake that he is the only person he has told. But at one point, Simon is tells Tristan that Nate told him what his ex had done. Which is followed later by Tristan saying none of his brothers know, except Nate who knows “a little bit more than the basics”.
I wouldn’t think it’s so hard to keep track of a few days and of who does and does not know Christopher is a POS, but apparently it is. I don’t know if stuff was shuffled around, but I can’t imagine the author having done a final read through and not realized all the contradictory information.
March 12, 2019
3+ stars- Super sweet with just a bit of angst.
Sweet Nothings is a lovely story about second chances. The blurb of this audiobook caught my attention and I was eager to try a new-to-me author and narrator. I liked both the writing style and the narrator’s flow and will look for more of their works in the future.
This book was well named because it featured a romance almost too sweet for my taste, but that practically-too-easy connection was tempered by the angst and conflict surrounding Tristan and Jake’s pasts that ended up impacting their current lives. Overall, I really liked these characters and enjoyed watching them get their happy ending. I especially loved seeing Tristan realize his dreams of getting a bakery. The author did a great job at bringing the things that were important to Tristan and Jake out to the forefront. This was especially noticeable in the way Tristan’s love for flavors and baking came through in multiple interactions or his thoughts throughout the story. Though their immediate blind trust in one another was a tad unbelievable, I ended up really liking that the couple was readily supportive of one another because it led the love story in a different direction than anticipated. I also liked the protective siblings and small town feeling that came across, enough that it left me interested in reading more within the Amuse Bouche series.
Although this wasn’t a book that grabbed my attention so fervently it didn’t let go, I liked the characters and story in Sweet Nothings and really enjoyed the bakery setting and foodie elements. The narrator for the audiobook version proved to be a good fit for the easy pace of the book, using clear diction and a smooth rhythm to make for a pleasant listen. If you’re looking for a comfortable romance with some minor, but easily resolved angst, I’d recommend this title.
Reviewed by Annie from Alpha Book Club
Sweet Nothings is a lovely story about second chances. The blurb of this audiobook caught my attention and I was eager to try a new-to-me author and narrator. I liked both the writing style and the narrator’s flow and will look for more of their works in the future.
This book was well named because it featured a romance almost too sweet for my taste, but that practically-too-easy connection was tempered by the angst and conflict surrounding Tristan and Jake’s pasts that ended up impacting their current lives. Overall, I really liked these characters and enjoyed watching them get their happy ending. I especially loved seeing Tristan realize his dreams of getting a bakery. The author did a great job at bringing the things that were important to Tristan and Jake out to the forefront. This was especially noticeable in the way Tristan’s love for flavors and baking came through in multiple interactions or his thoughts throughout the story. Though their immediate blind trust in one another was a tad unbelievable, I ended up really liking that the couple was readily supportive of one another because it led the love story in a different direction than anticipated. I also liked the protective siblings and small town feeling that came across, enough that it left me interested in reading more within the Amuse Bouche series.
Although this wasn’t a book that grabbed my attention so fervently it didn’t let go, I liked the characters and story in Sweet Nothings and really enjoyed the bakery setting and foodie elements. The narrator for the audiobook version proved to be a good fit for the easy pace of the book, using clear diction and a smooth rhythm to make for a pleasant listen. If you’re looking for a comfortable romance with some minor, but easily resolved angst, I’d recommend this title.
Reviewed by Annie from Alpha Book Club
September 12, 2018
This is a review of the audio version.
I have to admit that while I was drawn in by the cover, it was the blurb that really did it for me:
"Will a bitter bite from the past spoil a sweet romance?
Tristan Love, the youngest of seven brothers, is back in his hometown. He’s left the New York food scene and an abusive relationship behind him, but he holds his love of French pastries close to his heart and is determined to put his skills to use in a bakery of his own.
Returning to his childhood home means his meddlesome brother Simon will butt into his business, but before the bakery even opens its doors, Tristan’s delectable creations have the town’s mouths watering, and Jake, a cute mechanic, asks Tristan out. It all seems worthwhile….
That is, until the bakery burns down, Jake’s criminal past comes to light, and Tristan’s nasty ex rears his head where he is decidedly not wanted."
Tristan, for everything he's gone through in the past, is a relentlessly positive person who returns to his hometown of Lake Balmoral to start fresh after leaving his fiance in New York. Jake is a guy who's quietly trying to rebuild his life, making his way one day at a time. While it seems like Tristan and Jake get together pretty fast (and they do), the reader needs to keep in mind that this is a Dreamspun Desire book, which is pretty much the equivalent of a Harlequin Romance. And that's not a bad thing. The story is full of interesting and engaging secondary characters, and the narrator (Simon Ferrar) does an exceptional job of bringing them to life. His voices for Tristan and Jake are especially fitting to the characters.
I'm a big fan of the Dreamspun Desires line at Dreamspinner Press, and since 'Sweet Nothings' is billed as Book 1 in the Amuse Bouche series, I'm definitely looking forward to more stories of life in Lake Balmoral.
To sum it up, ‘Sweet Nothings’ is a story of starting over and of giving those who never had one - or who thought they never deserved one - a second chance. And that’s something.
I have to admit that while I was drawn in by the cover, it was the blurb that really did it for me:
"Will a bitter bite from the past spoil a sweet romance?
Tristan Love, the youngest of seven brothers, is back in his hometown. He’s left the New York food scene and an abusive relationship behind him, but he holds his love of French pastries close to his heart and is determined to put his skills to use in a bakery of his own.
Returning to his childhood home means his meddlesome brother Simon will butt into his business, but before the bakery even opens its doors, Tristan’s delectable creations have the town’s mouths watering, and Jake, a cute mechanic, asks Tristan out. It all seems worthwhile….
That is, until the bakery burns down, Jake’s criminal past comes to light, and Tristan’s nasty ex rears his head where he is decidedly not wanted."
Tristan, for everything he's gone through in the past, is a relentlessly positive person who returns to his hometown of Lake Balmoral to start fresh after leaving his fiance in New York. Jake is a guy who's quietly trying to rebuild his life, making his way one day at a time. While it seems like Tristan and Jake get together pretty fast (and they do), the reader needs to keep in mind that this is a Dreamspun Desire book, which is pretty much the equivalent of a Harlequin Romance. And that's not a bad thing. The story is full of interesting and engaging secondary characters, and the narrator (Simon Ferrar) does an exceptional job of bringing them to life. His voices for Tristan and Jake are especially fitting to the characters.
I'm a big fan of the Dreamspun Desires line at Dreamspinner Press, and since 'Sweet Nothings' is billed as Book 1 in the Amuse Bouche series, I'm definitely looking forward to more stories of life in Lake Balmoral.
To sum it up, ‘Sweet Nothings’ is a story of starting over and of giving those who never had one - or who thought they never deserved one - a second chance. And that’s something.
December 7, 2018
~ 4.5 Stars Overall ~
This book was great and not what I was expecting at all. I thought for sure this would be another sugary sweet romance and we did get some cute details thrown in, but there’s a lot more than just that with this book. I was on the edge of my seat half the time trying to figure out what would happen next and was fully invested in this interesting story.
Tristan moves back home to open a bakery after leaving a bad relationship. Once he’s back in town he meets Jake, who is an ex-con from the “wrong” side of town. Everyone seems to be against their relationship from the very start and no one wants Tristan involved with Jake in any way. But since no one really knows what happened between Tristan and his horrible ex-bf, they really are focused on disliking the wrong person. I really just wish that Tristan was more open with his family about what happened, but that did add more intrigue and suspense to this book and what happens further along in the storyline.
I liked Jake and I really liked him in a relationship with Tristan and how they were together as a couple. You could tell that Jake really cared for him from the start, to the point he would do whatever it took to keep him safe. I just would have liked a little more communication between the two. They both seemed to have a hard time talking about their pasts and I would have liked it if they’d have been able to trust each other more.
I’ve never read this author, T. Neilson, before but I do hope we get more from them. I would definitely be interested in reading and listening to stories for Tristan’s brothers as well.
Audio – The narrator, Simon Ferrar, did great with this book. His voice for Tristan was a little annoying to me personally at times, but I do think that it fit Tristan’s personality perfectly, so it did not take away from the story at all, and Jake’s voice was wonderfully deep and matched him as well. Overall I think this book was a really good choice to listen to in audio format so I'm glad I gave this one a chance.
*** Audiobook copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by Dreamspinner Press for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
This book was great and not what I was expecting at all. I thought for sure this would be another sugary sweet romance and we did get some cute details thrown in, but there’s a lot more than just that with this book. I was on the edge of my seat half the time trying to figure out what would happen next and was fully invested in this interesting story.
Tristan moves back home to open a bakery after leaving a bad relationship. Once he’s back in town he meets Jake, who is an ex-con from the “wrong” side of town. Everyone seems to be against their relationship from the very start and no one wants Tristan involved with Jake in any way. But since no one really knows what happened between Tristan and his horrible ex-bf, they really are focused on disliking the wrong person. I really just wish that Tristan was more open with his family about what happened, but that did add more intrigue and suspense to this book and what happens further along in the storyline.
I liked Jake and I really liked him in a relationship with Tristan and how they were together as a couple. You could tell that Jake really cared for him from the start, to the point he would do whatever it took to keep him safe. I just would have liked a little more communication between the two. They both seemed to have a hard time talking about their pasts and I would have liked it if they’d have been able to trust each other more.
I’ve never read this author, T. Neilson, before but I do hope we get more from them. I would definitely be interested in reading and listening to stories for Tristan’s brothers as well.
Audio – The narrator, Simon Ferrar, did great with this book. His voice for Tristan was a little annoying to me personally at times, but I do think that it fit Tristan’s personality perfectly, so it did not take away from the story at all, and Jake’s voice was wonderfully deep and matched him as well. Overall I think this book was a really good choice to listen to in audio format so I'm glad I gave this one a chance.
*** Audiobook copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by Dreamspinner Press for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
September 6, 2018
A Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words Review An Alisa Audiobook Review:
Rating: 3.5 stars out of 5
This was a nice story. I liked Tristan’s determination and stubbornness to be the independent person he wants to be and with who he wants. Jake has worked hard to turn his life around though he is constantly being looked down upon.
This was a pretty fast paced story with a few time jumps that I was unsure about. These characters had great chemistry and weren’t afraid to support each other no matter what. Now, Tristan’s brothers and friends warning off Jake for no reason other than having been to jail sucked and I just hurt for him when people he thought were at least kind of his friends pretty much turned their backs on him. It wasn’t a surprise to see who the one was causing problems from the beginning.
Simon Ferrar did a nice job narrating this story. The different voices also helped with keeping track of the story, however the whiny voice he used for Tristan just put me off from his character a bit.
Cover art by Bree Archer is nice and I liked the visual of Tristan in his bakery.
Rating: 3.5 stars out of 5
This was a nice story. I liked Tristan’s determination and stubbornness to be the independent person he wants to be and with who he wants. Jake has worked hard to turn his life around though he is constantly being looked down upon.
This was a pretty fast paced story with a few time jumps that I was unsure about. These characters had great chemistry and weren’t afraid to support each other no matter what. Now, Tristan’s brothers and friends warning off Jake for no reason other than having been to jail sucked and I just hurt for him when people he thought were at least kind of his friends pretty much turned their backs on him. It wasn’t a surprise to see who the one was causing problems from the beginning.
Simon Ferrar did a nice job narrating this story. The different voices also helped with keeping track of the story, however the whiny voice he used for Tristan just put me off from his character a bit.
Cover art by Bree Archer is nice and I liked the visual of Tristan in his bakery.
July 15, 2018
DNF, I didn't care about any of these people, or their not talking.
April 11, 2018
All the ingredients are here but something missing. Not working for me, sorry.
November 3, 2023
First of, the story itself is cute. I really liked Jake and Tristan was likable as well. Their dynamics worked very well, even though you want to shake some sense into both at times. Therefore 3.5 stars.
Rounded down, because of the later on following BIG rant I cannot keep in. I seriously considered 2 stars, just for a moment, because of all the other issues I have with this. But in the end, I decided on 3 stars, because I did enjoy most of this book. The relationship build up is sweet and the lack of miscommunication between the two MCs is refreshing. Also some of the side characters are interesting, I would love to know more about Gareth. Maybe I'll take a look at book #2, Simons story. As a whole, it balanced the scale against all the other issues I had, at least for me.
So, the story itself I 'do' like, but the rest? The setting and background? And many small details and situations?
Not so much.
Starting to rant now, be warned. I am still not sure, if I should really post this at all, but, it was what I felt while reading. And it bothered me, not leaving my mind the entire time. The following may seem, as if I don't like the book, but I do, or I wouldn't have finished it or given it the rating I did. But it is really fascinating how many thing I still disliked, it's a rare and curious contradiction.
Rounded down, because of the later on following BIG rant I cannot keep in. I seriously considered 2 stars, just for a moment, because of all the other issues I have with this. But in the end, I decided on 3 stars, because I did enjoy most of this book. The relationship build up is sweet and the lack of miscommunication between the two MCs is refreshing. Also some of the side characters are interesting, I would love to know more about Gareth. Maybe I'll take a look at book #2, Simons story. As a whole, it balanced the scale against all the other issues I had, at least for me.
So, the story itself I 'do' like, but the rest? The setting and background? And many small details and situations?
Not so much.
Starting to rant now, be warned. I am still not sure, if I should really post this at all, but, it was what I felt while reading. And it bothered me, not leaving my mind the entire time. The following may seem, as if I don't like the book, but I do, or I wouldn't have finished it or given it the rating I did. But it is really fascinating how many thing I still disliked, it's a rare and curious contradiction.
December 19, 2022
This did not go where I was expecting; I thought we were going to have one of those big misunderstanding in the final act and was so happy that did not happen. Tristan leaves an abusive ex and goes home to start over again and live his dream life as a baker. He buys the local bakery and starts the hard work of starting a new business. Of course, the abusive ex is not going to give up that easily and he is sneaking around causing trouble.
Tristan and Jake instantly like each other, even with Tristan’s horrible flirting. They were very sweet together and knew almost by instinct how to support each other. Everyone warning Tristan to say away from Jake because he was trouble was a little heavy handed and I understood why Tristan got annoyed.
Tristan’s family could use a few good counseling sessions to learn how to communicate with each other. Their love for each other is clear, but boy do they need to learn to talk to each other.
Tristan and Jake instantly like each other, even with Tristan’s horrible flirting. They were very sweet together and knew almost by instinct how to support each other. Everyone warning Tristan to say away from Jake because he was trouble was a little heavy handed and I understood why Tristan got annoyed.
Tristan’s family could use a few good counseling sessions to learn how to communicate with each other. Their love for each other is clear, but boy do they need to learn to talk to each other.
May 25, 2020
3.5 Stars
April 5, 2018
You know when you read a book and you find yourself smiling in the end that you had read a decent book. But in this books case, I really did like this book. I started out wanting to read this book because, let’s be honest, any book I have read in the past by other authors that have a character named Tristan in it I have loved. So in staying with the honesty bit, that is what made me want to read this book. Maybe that is not the best choice in basing off of whether I should read a book or not but that is what I had for wanting to read this one. Just turns out that this was a good book as well. So I guess the Tristan name has held tried and true as to being a good reason to read a book.
Tristan has up and moved back to his hometown without letting his family know. He also bought the bakery in town as well. The thing is, nothing stays a secret long in his hometown because for one it is small and another, he is the youngest out of six boys and each of the boys have their hands in some sort of business in town with the exception of one. This is a huge move for Tristan because not only is he starting over but he is also escaping his now ex as well.
Once Tristan gets in town, one of the first persons he meets is a man named Jake. From the moment these two met, they was both intrigued with the other. Only problem is both men have a past they are trying to forget but the past always has a way of catching up to you.
The more that Tristan and Jake get to know one another the more they like one another. When the past comes knocking, these two men are going to have to work together to overcome everything coming their way.
I really enjoyed this read. I will say that at different points and times I wanted to jump in this book and tell Tristan’s family to back off. They are really an overbearing bunch. I also wanted to defend poor Jake. It is like everyone is nice to his face but holds his past against him. Regardless I really loved Tristan and Jake. They completed one another in my opinion. I look forward to the next book in this series. Hopefully we will at least have some appearances from Jake and Tristan in it.
Was given this galley copy for free for an open and honest review.
Tristan has up and moved back to his hometown without letting his family know. He also bought the bakery in town as well. The thing is, nothing stays a secret long in his hometown because for one it is small and another, he is the youngest out of six boys and each of the boys have their hands in some sort of business in town with the exception of one. This is a huge move for Tristan because not only is he starting over but he is also escaping his now ex as well.
Once Tristan gets in town, one of the first persons he meets is a man named Jake. From the moment these two met, they was both intrigued with the other. Only problem is both men have a past they are trying to forget but the past always has a way of catching up to you.
The more that Tristan and Jake get to know one another the more they like one another. When the past comes knocking, these two men are going to have to work together to overcome everything coming their way.
I really enjoyed this read. I will say that at different points and times I wanted to jump in this book and tell Tristan’s family to back off. They are really an overbearing bunch. I also wanted to defend poor Jake. It is like everyone is nice to his face but holds his past against him. Regardless I really loved Tristan and Jake. They completed one another in my opinion. I look forward to the next book in this series. Hopefully we will at least have some appearances from Jake and Tristan in it.
Was given this galley copy for free for an open and honest review.
May 25, 2018
A story that had the light, sweet, and fun all mixed in with some dark and serious subject matter, making for a nicely balanced and highly enjoyable read.
Both Jake and Tristan are trying to get away from their pasts. For Tristan he is (not) running from his ex, a man that took over his life and seems to have no qualms about doing whatever it takes to keep it that way. Tristan returns to his hometown to start his dream bakery there and start over the life he always wanted. Jake has come to town for his own fresh start, away from the stigma his conviction and jail time have given him. The two have a meet-cute and some very sweet interactions, but between Tristan's ex and the town trying to protect him from Jake, the two have to work at it if they want anything together.
Tristan is really impressive in this. There is a statement he makes, this stigma against abuse especially of men- he should have been strong enough to defend himself from an abusive partner. The thing is you shouldn't have to be strong enough, because it should never be a situation that comes up. Even more than that, Tristan was very emotionally strong. Despite the setbacks in his life and the rough relationship, he was ready to give another go at both his passion for work and loving another. Tristan had a strong and solid core and he sued that to forge ahead and make his life what he wanted it to be.
Jake takes a lot of his own inspiration from Tristan. After all, since coming out he has seen how one event can change your life path and make it impossible to get what you imagined. Jake wants to be with Tristan but he is a gentleman and doesn't want to push with everything that has happened. However, as Tristan makes the moves to head forwards, and also creates the life he imagined, Jake is inspired to do the same. Seeing Tristan forge along gives Jake the confidence to create his own space in the life he is living and to give his all to Tristan. The two find strength from each other as well as passion and it makes them work very well.
Both Jake and Tristan are trying to get away from their pasts. For Tristan he is (not) running from his ex, a man that took over his life and seems to have no qualms about doing whatever it takes to keep it that way. Tristan returns to his hometown to start his dream bakery there and start over the life he always wanted. Jake has come to town for his own fresh start, away from the stigma his conviction and jail time have given him. The two have a meet-cute and some very sweet interactions, but between Tristan's ex and the town trying to protect him from Jake, the two have to work at it if they want anything together.
Tristan is really impressive in this. There is a statement he makes, this stigma against abuse especially of men- he should have been strong enough to defend himself from an abusive partner. The thing is you shouldn't have to be strong enough, because it should never be a situation that comes up. Even more than that, Tristan was very emotionally strong. Despite the setbacks in his life and the rough relationship, he was ready to give another go at both his passion for work and loving another. Tristan had a strong and solid core and he sued that to forge ahead and make his life what he wanted it to be.
Jake takes a lot of his own inspiration from Tristan. After all, since coming out he has seen how one event can change your life path and make it impossible to get what you imagined. Jake wants to be with Tristan but he is a gentleman and doesn't want to push with everything that has happened. However, as Tristan makes the moves to head forwards, and also creates the life he imagined, Jake is inspired to do the same. Seeing Tristan forge along gives Jake the confidence to create his own space in the life he is living and to give his all to Tristan. The two find strength from each other as well as passion and it makes them work very well.
April 3, 2018
**Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by DreamSpinner Press for my reading pleasure in hopes of an unbiased opinion, a review was not a requirement. **
Sweet Nothings is Book 1 in T. Neilson’s Amuse Bouche series. This story focuses on the youngest of the Love brothers, Tristan. He’s left his fiancé, moved back home and bought a bakery all without letting his family know. Tristan doesn’t give the best first impression, in my opinion, but as the story goes along further and you’re given more insight into his previous relationship, his behavior is understandable and I was able to sympathize with him. Tristan has a lot of emotional wounds from his previous relationship that he needs to overcome, but we see him become stronger and confident in this book.
Jake works as a mechanic at his sister’s shop. Through interactions around the small town, we know that Jake also has a hidden history. I liked Jake from the start, regardless of the little glimpses the townspeople gave about him. He seemed to just be a guy trying to live life to the best of his ability. Jake had a hero complex and is always trying to save someone. And we learn that’s obviously been a long time behavior as we get his backstory.
This book is definitely head of the class when it comes to instalove. Within a day, both men state they have fallen for the other within their own thoughts. Their relationship developed quickly and that was even with the outside forces trying to keep them apart. And, it felt really rushed to me especially, since Tristan had just ended a long-term relationship, and because this was not a short story.
There were some really great supporting characters in this story. I really liked Tristan’s brothers, and got a little emotional reading a scene between Tristan and Simon when they were both upfront about their feelings and Simon explained the way he behaved. Until that point, I really disliked Simon, but now I'm really looking forward to his story! I hope his path to love is a little easier than Tristan and Jake's!
I’d definitely recommend you read this book. It’s a whirlwind and fast paced with lots of characters and interesting supporting characters that I’m looking forward to seeing more of.
Rating: 4 stars
Sweet Nothings is Book 1 in T. Neilson’s Amuse Bouche series. This story focuses on the youngest of the Love brothers, Tristan. He’s left his fiancé, moved back home and bought a bakery all without letting his family know. Tristan doesn’t give the best first impression, in my opinion, but as the story goes along further and you’re given more insight into his previous relationship, his behavior is understandable and I was able to sympathize with him. Tristan has a lot of emotional wounds from his previous relationship that he needs to overcome, but we see him become stronger and confident in this book.
Jake works as a mechanic at his sister’s shop. Through interactions around the small town, we know that Jake also has a hidden history. I liked Jake from the start, regardless of the little glimpses the townspeople gave about him. He seemed to just be a guy trying to live life to the best of his ability. Jake had a hero complex and is always trying to save someone. And we learn that’s obviously been a long time behavior as we get his backstory.
This book is definitely head of the class when it comes to instalove. Within a day, both men state they have fallen for the other within their own thoughts. Their relationship developed quickly and that was even with the outside forces trying to keep them apart. And, it felt really rushed to me especially, since Tristan had just ended a long-term relationship, and because this was not a short story.
There were some really great supporting characters in this story. I really liked Tristan’s brothers, and got a little emotional reading a scene between Tristan and Simon when they were both upfront about their feelings and Simon explained the way he behaved. Until that point, I really disliked Simon, but now I'm really looking forward to his story! I hope his path to love is a little easier than Tristan and Jake's!
I’d definitely recommend you read this book. It’s a whirlwind and fast paced with lots of characters and interesting supporting characters that I’m looking forward to seeing more of.
Rating: 4 stars
July 30, 2022
This wavered between a 3 and a 4 for most of the book. Started off strong - Tristan flees NYC in a hurry, running from his abusive partner, to the place he grew up, a small town where everyone knows everyone else. He's spent all of the money he squirreled away buying a run down bakery hoping to realize his dream of running a bakery. I really liked how the abuse was handled and we get a keen sense of the malevolence and sinister menace that is Christopher, Tristan's ex. Not a lot of on page abuse but there's a bit. Tristan meets Jake soon after he arrives back in his hometown. A very meet cute. Then the book sort of swerves off the rails with SO much happening - Laura, the bank, Amber. I really loved the dynamic between all of Tristan's brothers. Love books with lots of siblings. I could not understand why Tristan wouldn't share what went on in NYC with his brothers. Yes he had his pride and his brothers are nosy, pushy and overbearing, but given what happened.... There was also an inexplicable sense of intolerance over Jake. Poor guy went to jail when he was about 19 and for the townspeople, he will NEVER be accepted into polite society even though he served his time. And my final issue is the book wraps up too quickly. We get to about 90% and then we race to the end. But 4 stars because I like this author's writing even with the issues. Kept me engaged and reading because I couldn't put it down.
August 4, 2018
Audio Review.
Tritan is on the run from his abusive ex. He drained his savings, left the ring with a note and took off back home to where his brothers are and bought a bakery. He is excited about his new life, especially when the sexy mechanic Jake asks him out. His brother Simon has a fancy restaurant and wholesale orders a lot of bread and the coffee shop is interested in wholesale goods so he is on the way to being on his feet enough to open...until the ex-rears, his ugly head and won't take no for an answer.
Jake has a past. He went to prison for a crime he didn't commit to protect someone else. He has served his time but life isn't easy for an ex-con. His sister hires him in her auto shop but soon Jake finds things are not going as well as he though and the cute little Baker is in trouble.
I loved this story. it is so sweet and I love a good bad boy even if Jake really isn't that bad. There's a lot going on, there are so many great characters and I am hoping for a story from all the brothers.
I think the story was good on its own, but toss in the narration by Simon Ferrar and it was even better. Simon has good pacing, made it easy to follow each man ( and there are many) and adds great emotion where needed.
I can't wait for more in this series!
Tritan is on the run from his abusive ex. He drained his savings, left the ring with a note and took off back home to where his brothers are and bought a bakery. He is excited about his new life, especially when the sexy mechanic Jake asks him out. His brother Simon has a fancy restaurant and wholesale orders a lot of bread and the coffee shop is interested in wholesale goods so he is on the way to being on his feet enough to open...until the ex-rears, his ugly head and won't take no for an answer.
Jake has a past. He went to prison for a crime he didn't commit to protect someone else. He has served his time but life isn't easy for an ex-con. His sister hires him in her auto shop but soon Jake finds things are not going as well as he though and the cute little Baker is in trouble.
I loved this story. it is so sweet and I love a good bad boy even if Jake really isn't that bad. There's a lot going on, there are so many great characters and I am hoping for a story from all the brothers.
I think the story was good on its own, but toss in the narration by Simon Ferrar and it was even better. Simon has good pacing, made it easy to follow each man ( and there are many) and adds great emotion where needed.
I can't wait for more in this series!
February 1, 2019
I'm adding an extra star for one reason: .
I liked Tristan okay and thought Jake had a lot of potential, but the execution wasn't great for me. The big issue I had was uneven characterization. Tristan's brothers are super overprotective except when author decided to up the drama and they aren't. Tristan's ex is calculating and charming, except for when he's a impulsive moron. I don't expect a lot from a fluff novel, and most will get three stars for basic competency and entertainment, but I couldn't get past the wildly inconsistent characters.
Final verdict: this is really a two star novel for me, but it had a saving grace that was big enough for an extra star.
I liked Tristan okay and thought Jake had a lot of potential, but the execution wasn't great for me. The big issue I had was uneven characterization. Tristan's brothers are super overprotective except when author decided to up the drama and they aren't. Tristan's ex is calculating and charming, except for when he's a impulsive moron. I don't expect a lot from a fluff novel, and most will get three stars for basic competency and entertainment, but I couldn't get past the wildly inconsistent characters.
Final verdict: this is really a two star novel for me, but it had a saving grace that was big enough for an extra star.
April 30, 2019
This was my first story by this author, but not the last. The Dreamspin Desire stories are a weakness of mine, lol. Kinda like a Mills and Boon story, but then in MM. They might not be perfect, but they are a fun read regardless.
This one was a fun read, but with a slightly more serious side to it. Yes, there's a fairly heavy dose of insta-love, but, for me at least, it wasn't completely unrealistic. If there was a downside it's that it ended a little abruptly and I would have loved to have a bit firmer HEA. However, that's just me nit-picking. I'm looking forward to reading the next instalment!
This one was a fun read, but with a slightly more serious side to it. Yes, there's a fairly heavy dose of insta-love, but, for me at least, it wasn't completely unrealistic. If there was a downside it's that it ended a little abruptly and I would have loved to have a bit firmer HEA. However, that's just me nit-picking. I'm looking forward to reading the next instalment!
April 3, 2018
A Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words Review
Rating: 4 stars out of 5
For the full review visit https://wp.me/p220KL-dgn
From that review: " Sweet Nothings by T. Neilson was another terrific contemporary romance for me this week. A first story in a new series (Amuse Bouche which means one bite) this had many elements I just love to find in my stories. Food, in this case baking, some hurt/comfort, large families, a 'bad boy' looking for redemption, and a whole lot of love."
For all our reviews, author interviews and such, visit us at http://scattered thoughts and rogue words.com
Rating: 4 stars out of 5
For the full review visit https://wp.me/p220KL-dgn
From that review: " Sweet Nothings by T. Neilson was another terrific contemporary romance for me this week. A first story in a new series (Amuse Bouche which means one bite) this had many elements I just love to find in my stories. Food, in this case baking, some hurt/comfort, large families, a 'bad boy' looking for redemption, and a whole lot of love."
For all our reviews, author interviews and such, visit us at http://scattered thoughts and rogue words.com
August 8, 2025
This wasn't a bad story, it just didn't quite hook me like I would have hoped. Tristan and Jake were great together and were generally super nice guys. everyone else around them, though, were kind of jerks. No one was nice to Jake, even though it was made out to be a nice close knit town. Simon, Tristan's brother, was a total jerk, and if it weren't for a reading challenge, I don't know if I would move on to the next book. Despite that, I was really glad to see Jake and Tristan ignore everyone around them and take care of their own hearts.
April 13, 2018
Tristan is taking charge of his life and fulfilling his dreams. He is stronger now that he sees his way clear. Jake has a past but he's not what things seem. When things go south what I love most about this story is that no matter what he's been told Twist never loses faith in Jake. I also like that the police captain's a real good guy, too.
June 9, 2018
[2 stars] book was ok, quite like it. but it would have been better to intro the hero's brothers as it is a little confusing who is the elder or younger.
another thing about the book is the front cover. i mean the model is cute however the feel of the cover page feels more like a recipe book than a novel.
another thing about the book is the front cover. i mean the model is cute however the feel of the cover page feels more like a recipe book than a novel.
April 18, 2018
More like a 3.5
The romance moved too fast and the ending was too neat for me.
The romance moved too fast and the ending was too neat for me.
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