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Stewart Island #10
Bending The Rules
Cop Noah Daniels doesn't believe in unicorns or true love, not since his life went to hell six years ago. Emotions are easier to handle when they're out of sight, out of mind. But when script writer Tilly Montgomery crash-lands into his world on Stewart Island for a month, she might just be the one to convince him that unicorns and true love do exist. If they're prepared to bend the rules a little…
BENDING THE RULES is story #10 in Tracey Alvarez’s best-selling Stewart Island books set against the stunning backdrop of Aotearoa, New Zealand. If you like heartwarming, sexy and sweet small town romances with a touch of comedy, you’ll love sharing the journey with these authentic men and women struggling to find their special someone.
BENDING THE RULES is story #10 in Tracey Alvarez’s best-selling Stewart Island books set against the stunning backdrop of Aotearoa, New Zealand. If you like heartwarming, sexy and sweet small town romances with a touch of comedy, you’ll love sharing the journey with these authentic men and women struggling to find their special someone.
- GenresRomanceContemporary
ebook
First published October 20, 2018
About the author
Tracey Alvarez
31 books632 followersTracey Alvarez lives in the Coolest Little Capital in the World (a.k.a Wellington, New Zealand) where she’s yet to be buried under her to-be-read book pile by Wellington’s infamous wind—her Kindle’s a lifesaver! Married to a wonderfully supportive IT guy, she has two teens who would love to be surgically linked to their electronic devices.
Fuelled by copious amounts of coffee, she’s the author of contemporary romantic fiction set predominantly in New Zealand. Small-towns, close communities, and families are a big part of the heart-warming stories she writes. Oh, and hot, down-to-earth heroes—Kiwi men, in other words.
When she’s not writing, thinking about writing, or procrastinating about writing, Tracey can be found reading sexy books of all romance genres, nibbling on smuggled chocolate bars, or bribing her kids to take over the housework.
Tracey also writes flirty, dirty stories under the penname Jessie Logan.
Fuelled by copious amounts of coffee, she’s the author of contemporary romantic fiction set predominantly in New Zealand. Small-towns, close communities, and families are a big part of the heart-warming stories she writes. Oh, and hot, down-to-earth heroes—Kiwi men, in other words.
When she’s not writing, thinking about writing, or procrastinating about writing, Tracey can be found reading sexy books of all romance genres, nibbling on smuggled chocolate bars, or bribing her kids to take over the housework.
Tracey also writes flirty, dirty stories under the penname Jessie Logan.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
October 26, 2018
Tracey Alvarez’s Due South series has always been a special one for me; that it’s set in beautiful NZ with its unique Maori culture—Alvarez’s clear love for her country bleeds through so enthusiastically that I can’t help feel it—is just a bonus.
Noah Daniels finally, finally gets his story, though it isn’t quite one that I’d expected, but then, I hadn’t expected my own reaction to be lukewarm at best.
I think few things really happened, even though I was partway though: there were a few to-and-fro moments that felt dragged out, the usual flitting in and out of the Due South characters who had had their HEAs already written and the slow unfolding of Tilly’s great-aunt’s grand affair with a man through her journal.
As a result, it took me days to finish this (never happened before with an Alvarez book!) and while I love the writing that’s a mixture of action, humour and quirk—sometimes all in a paragraph—it was a struggle to see Tilly/Noah together when I couldn’t really even buy into their attraction to begin with. Tilly was mildly annoying—the constant, mindless chatter, the cop-cling thing just got to me—and with Noah’s emotional disengagement, this was a pairing that made it surprisingly hard to see getting off the ground given how much they took turns to push each other away. Having these lines of conflict drawn quite early between them however, meant that there was a steady climb to a climax that I could see coming and it definitely got better towards the end.
‘Bending the Rules’ ended up a middling read for me, and it’s hard to say if I was really disappointed or not. I found myself firmly in neutral territory after turning the last page but then I thought immediately of the other characters who have yet to have their HEA and I was excited again knowing that this series would be continuing.
Noah Daniels finally, finally gets his story, though it isn’t quite one that I’d expected, but then, I hadn’t expected my own reaction to be lukewarm at best.
I think few things really happened, even though I was partway though: there were a few to-and-fro moments that felt dragged out, the usual flitting in and out of the Due South characters who had had their HEAs already written and the slow unfolding of Tilly’s great-aunt’s grand affair with a man through her journal.
As a result, it took me days to finish this (never happened before with an Alvarez book!) and while I love the writing that’s a mixture of action, humour and quirk—sometimes all in a paragraph—it was a struggle to see Tilly/Noah together when I couldn’t really even buy into their attraction to begin with. Tilly was mildly annoying—the constant, mindless chatter, the cop-cling thing just got to me—and with Noah’s emotional disengagement, this was a pairing that made it surprisingly hard to see getting off the ground given how much they took turns to push each other away. Having these lines of conflict drawn quite early between them however, meant that there was a steady climb to a climax that I could see coming and it definitely got better towards the end.
‘Bending the Rules’ ended up a middling read for me, and it’s hard to say if I was really disappointed or not. I found myself firmly in neutral territory after turning the last page but then I thought immediately of the other characters who have yet to have their HEA and I was excited again knowing that this series would be continuing.
October 12, 2018
Noah Daniels or as he's regularly called, Office Sexy-Britches is the only cop on Stewart Island. The one-time special unit badass now spends his on-duty time dealing with someone who has had one too many at the pub or responding to a minor disagreement among the island's four hundred or so residents. He's put the big city and its danger behind and locked up his emotions tight over the reasons he moved away. Until the moment he finds Tilly Montgomery in a towel outside of the B&B two doors down. Tilly lives in Aukland and works as a screenwriter for the popular soap K-Road. She's only in town to settle her Aunt Mary's estate and get the B&B ready for sale. These two immediately hit it off and the chemistry is definitely there but they both have thick walls in place around their hearts and rules they live by to keep them emotionally safe. Will they be able to take a chance or is this a short-term fling? Is this a love story or a romance?
A Due South book! If you've ever read one of my reviews, you know that this is my favorite contemporary romance series. I just want to grab a cuppa and settle in and read from cover to cover as soon as I get a new one. So I did exactly that. I was not disappointed! Tilly and Noah's story was perfection. I laughed, I teared up, I sighed, and I swooned. Tracey Alvarez once again created an outstanding read. A book that has the quotes "She was a mug person, and I'm a china cup person, but she was my friend" as well as "Oooh Officer. Use your thick hard nightstick on me" is one that I can't recommend strongly enough. Brilliant! I loved the excerpts from the secret journal of Mary Duncan. It allowed us to get a two-for-one love story experience. Now cue the tune for these are a few of my favorite things... the original meeting between Trudy and Noah, the first appearance of Wade, Noah's brother, Tillytown, Scotty, Diablo, the themed rooms at the B&B, the inclusion of trivia night, the ManlyMan contest, Erin's muffins, everything Betsy Taylor, Piper and West, Ben and Kezia, the Ford twins and old Smitty. I could go on. The excellence of this series, the great writing, and relatable characters cannot be captured by a review. Tilly's insecurities, her fear of emotionally detached men and never living up to her father's reputation, her internal musings, her curious and giving nature are the perfect match for Noah's sense of honor and duty, his emotional detachment, keen wit, and intelligence. Both outsiders they have found their place on Stewart Island and now their romance ranks right alongside the others.
A Due South book! If you've ever read one of my reviews, you know that this is my favorite contemporary romance series. I just want to grab a cuppa and settle in and read from cover to cover as soon as I get a new one. So I did exactly that. I was not disappointed! Tilly and Noah's story was perfection. I laughed, I teared up, I sighed, and I swooned. Tracey Alvarez once again created an outstanding read. A book that has the quotes "She was a mug person, and I'm a china cup person, but she was my friend" as well as "Oooh Officer. Use your thick hard nightstick on me" is one that I can't recommend strongly enough. Brilliant! I loved the excerpts from the secret journal of Mary Duncan. It allowed us to get a two-for-one love story experience. Now cue the tune for these are a few of my favorite things... the original meeting between Trudy and Noah, the first appearance of Wade, Noah's brother, Tillytown, Scotty, Diablo, the themed rooms at the B&B, the inclusion of trivia night, the ManlyMan contest, Erin's muffins, everything Betsy Taylor, Piper and West, Ben and Kezia, the Ford twins and old Smitty. I could go on. The excellence of this series, the great writing, and relatable characters cannot be captured by a review. Tilly's insecurities, her fear of emotionally detached men and never living up to her father's reputation, her internal musings, her curious and giving nature are the perfect match for Noah's sense of honor and duty, his emotional detachment, keen wit, and intelligence. Both outsiders they have found their place on Stewart Island and now their romance ranks right alongside the others.
October 15, 2018
Bending the Rules by Tracey Alvarez
Stewart Island #10
Oh my! Just ~LOVED~ this book!!! Tracey always gives good book and this is no exception.
Tilly Montgomery is an inquisitive, open, caring writer for a popular television series but she has aspirations to write more in the future. She has been hurt in love so guards her heart. With an inheritance of a B&B on Stewart Island to deal with she takes leave from her job and heads off to the island. The meet-cute of Tilly and Noah Daniels had me smiling then almost laughing out loud. I can just see myself in this situation as guess what? I have locked myself out a couple of times and it wasn’t nearly as easy getting back inside as it was for Tilly!
Noah is a quiet rather reserved man who has put his past higher octane police service behind him to be the sole constable in Oban. His past has made him as leery of a deeper relationship as Tilly is but boy are they drawn to one another.
It takes time, conversations, kisses, family, friends and an event that will shake them both before they find a way to a HEA that I was thrilled they managed to achieve.
What do I want next? Well, there are a few on the island that are still single and Noah’s brother in police K-9 service and a new man named Seth who seems to have arrived and might need a partner so…I do hope this series will keep on keeping on while providing wonderful romances for me to read.
Thank you to the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
Stewart Island #10
Oh my! Just ~LOVED~ this book!!! Tracey always gives good book and this is no exception.
Tilly Montgomery is an inquisitive, open, caring writer for a popular television series but she has aspirations to write more in the future. She has been hurt in love so guards her heart. With an inheritance of a B&B on Stewart Island to deal with she takes leave from her job and heads off to the island. The meet-cute of Tilly and Noah Daniels had me smiling then almost laughing out loud. I can just see myself in this situation as guess what? I have locked myself out a couple of times and it wasn’t nearly as easy getting back inside as it was for Tilly!
Noah is a quiet rather reserved man who has put his past higher octane police service behind him to be the sole constable in Oban. His past has made him as leery of a deeper relationship as Tilly is but boy are they drawn to one another.
It takes time, conversations, kisses, family, friends and an event that will shake them both before they find a way to a HEA that I was thrilled they managed to achieve.
What do I want next? Well, there are a few on the island that are still single and Noah’s brother in police K-9 service and a new man named Seth who seems to have arrived and might need a partner so…I do hope this series will keep on keeping on while providing wonderful romances for me to read.
Thank you to the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
September 6, 2018
I absolutely adore this author! Everything she writes takes you through another adventure through New Zealand with some amazing and hysterical characters, this time it's Tilly and Noah. Noah is the stern ex AOS cop, now turned small town cop, who has been burned by love before and has no plans for a relationship in his future. Tilly is the great niece of Mary Duncan, a long time Oban resident who has passed away and Tilly has inherited the B&B, so she has come to town to pack everything up and get it ready to be sold. That is until she meets the sexy britches cop Noah. I found this book to be engaging, hysterical, definitely had some drama, but the whole Stewart Island group makes an appearance, which brings everything together in one great story. The hot and heavy situations between Noah and Tilly just leave you truly laughing out loud, and for some of us, taking us back to a time where we found ourselves in similar situations! Definitely worth the read, loved every page of it.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC copy of this book.
October 10, 2018
I thoroughly enjoyed this latest book in the Stewart Island Series. Noah Daniels, the policeman for the island has always, throughout the series, seemed a little remote, always on duty, and in this book we find out why. He is a lonely man, but it is his choice, he has issues.
Tilly Montgomery is a screenwriter who doesn't really enjoy her job. Her father had been a famous writer, and she feels she should be writing something more significant, to follow in his footsteps. Her father died, then shortly afterwards her great-aunt Mary also died, leaving her Stewart Island bed and breakfast house to Tilly. She takes this as an opportunity to get away for a month, she needs to sort the house out and get it ready to sell. Tilly has run out of plot ideas for the television series she works on, and maybe time away will spark her imagination. After a rough crossing which makes her very seasick she buys a few groceries, then takes a cab (of sorts) to her house, Southern Seas. She opens the windows to let some fresh air in, then has a shower to freshen up. When she gets out of the shower she hears noises in the kitchen. What follows is very laugh out loud amusing. Noah, who lives just two houses away finds her in the garden searching for something, clad only in a towel. The next scene is also extremely funny, and in fact there is a great deal of humour throughout the story.
They are seriously attracted to each other, but Noah has demons to defeat, and he is very bad at talking about his feelings. Tilly overthinks things, so there are quite a few misunderstandings between them. While sorting out the house she comes across Aunt Mary's secret journal, and we learn about Mary's life throughout the book, quite a sad story in many ways, but not at all what Tilly had thought; and the journal ultimately gives her a wonderful idea for writing a book. Of course Tilly and Noah have a happy ending, which is absolutely in keeping with the story.
Tracey is excellent at writing emotions and they are all here, from love to laughter and sadness, with a dose of terror added into the mix. This is a delightful story, you soon get involved with the characters, willing them to sort themselves out and be happy. Well worth reading.
Tilly Montgomery is a screenwriter who doesn't really enjoy her job. Her father had been a famous writer, and she feels she should be writing something more significant, to follow in his footsteps. Her father died, then shortly afterwards her great-aunt Mary also died, leaving her Stewart Island bed and breakfast house to Tilly. She takes this as an opportunity to get away for a month, she needs to sort the house out and get it ready to sell. Tilly has run out of plot ideas for the television series she works on, and maybe time away will spark her imagination. After a rough crossing which makes her very seasick she buys a few groceries, then takes a cab (of sorts) to her house, Southern Seas. She opens the windows to let some fresh air in, then has a shower to freshen up. When she gets out of the shower she hears noises in the kitchen. What follows is very laugh out loud amusing. Noah, who lives just two houses away finds her in the garden searching for something, clad only in a towel. The next scene is also extremely funny, and in fact there is a great deal of humour throughout the story.
They are seriously attracted to each other, but Noah has demons to defeat, and he is very bad at talking about his feelings. Tilly overthinks things, so there are quite a few misunderstandings between them. While sorting out the house she comes across Aunt Mary's secret journal, and we learn about Mary's life throughout the book, quite a sad story in many ways, but not at all what Tilly had thought; and the journal ultimately gives her a wonderful idea for writing a book. Of course Tilly and Noah have a happy ending, which is absolutely in keeping with the story.
Tracey is excellent at writing emotions and they are all here, from love to laughter and sadness, with a dose of terror added into the mix. This is a delightful story, you soon get involved with the characters, willing them to sort themselves out and be happy. Well worth reading.
October 22, 2018
💕What's that kiwi doing in the backyard?! It's fine, Officer Noah to the rescue:-)
October 21, 2018
Format: Kindle Edition
👍👍4.5🌟stars
This story has so much going for it! A beautiful setting in the Far South of New Zealand, a terrifically embarrassing meet-cute to start Noah and Tilly's present-day❤ romance, a slowly revealed romantic life for her benefactress great aunt Mary, some policing and crime thrills, and a meteorogically-chilly but inhabitant-warm and -friendly small town to grow into.
There's plenty of humor as Tilly gets accustomed to Noah's no nonsense policing and island life. The tension in the story focuses on Noah's policing career and Tilly's lackluster enthusiasm for her screenwriter job for a New Zealand television show based in cosmopolitan Auckland, 750 miles north of the business she's just inherited on remote and quaint Stewart Island. The pair have great chemistry but is that enough of a base to build a relationship when she has plans to sell up her inherited B&B and return to Auckland? How can things ever work out for the two?! No spoilers here but the story does NOT end on a cliffhanger!
Why then did I not rate it a full five stars? Well, I thought the steamy scenes were too long. I don't like having to skip pages in a good book, but more than a few pages of the hot stuff at a time and I lose interest and have to move on past the scene. Apart from that, I thoroughly enjoyed every chapter, from scavenging bird gang to shark-infested guest room to kiwi backyard antics, heartstopping confrontations and faded love story, this novel was packed with the good stuff.:-)
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
October 21, 2018
Format: Kindle Edition
👍👍4.5🌟stars
This story has so much going for it! A beautiful setting in the Far South of New Zealand, a terrifically embarrassing meet-cute to start Noah and Tilly's present-day❤ romance, a slowly revealed romantic life for her benefactress great aunt Mary, some policing and crime thrills, and a meteorogically-chilly but inhabitant-warm and -friendly small town to grow into.
There's plenty of humor as Tilly gets accustomed to Noah's no nonsense policing and island life. The tension in the story focuses on Noah's policing career and Tilly's lackluster enthusiasm for her screenwriter job for a New Zealand television show based in cosmopolitan Auckland, 750 miles north of the business she's just inherited on remote and quaint Stewart Island. The pair have great chemistry but is that enough of a base to build a relationship when she has plans to sell up her inherited B&B and return to Auckland? How can things ever work out for the two?! No spoilers here but the story does NOT end on a cliffhanger!
Why then did I not rate it a full five stars? Well, I thought the steamy scenes were too long. I don't like having to skip pages in a good book, but more than a few pages of the hot stuff at a time and I lose interest and have to move on past the scene. Apart from that, I thoroughly enjoyed every chapter, from scavenging bird gang to shark-infested guest room to kiwi backyard antics, heartstopping confrontations and faded love story, this novel was packed with the good stuff.:-)
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
October 23, 2018
Bending the Rules is a fun and often funny story set on Stewart Island off the southern island of New Zealand. Tracey Alvarez builds a tremendous sense of place, with the reader feeling like they are in New Zealand, experiencing small-town island life. She also has built a fantastic world of compelling and fun characters who inhabit this island. It is great fun for the reader of this series to return to the island and see old "friends," but I believe that it would be just as fun and just as possible to discover the series for the first time through this book.
Noah is the sole police officer on Stewart Island and takes his responsibilities there VERY seriously. This is both admirable and pitiable, as the result is that Noah has almost nothing to his life outside of work. Due to past experiences with family, work, and a previous relationship, Noah believes that he should not be in a serious relationship. Then along comes Tilly, a writer in need of a creative breakthrough, who has inherited a bed and breakfast down the street from Noah's house. Tilly doesn't see herself in a serious relationship either, mostly because she doesn't see herself living on Stewart Island: she has come to sell the business and move on. The two of them are drawn to one another and develop first a friendship, and then a physical relationship that turns quite serious before either Tilly or Noah realize it. The conflict in this relationship is well portrayed-- though serious, none of the prose or plot is overwrought. Tracey Alvarez subtly and gently guides the reader through Tilly and Noah's relationship, with the help of some of the citizens of Stewart Island (some of whom are not subtle or gentle about it at all). Bending the Rules is a deeply satisfying trip to New Zealand.
Noah is the sole police officer on Stewart Island and takes his responsibilities there VERY seriously. This is both admirable and pitiable, as the result is that Noah has almost nothing to his life outside of work. Due to past experiences with family, work, and a previous relationship, Noah believes that he should not be in a serious relationship. Then along comes Tilly, a writer in need of a creative breakthrough, who has inherited a bed and breakfast down the street from Noah's house. Tilly doesn't see herself in a serious relationship either, mostly because she doesn't see herself living on Stewart Island: she has come to sell the business and move on. The two of them are drawn to one another and develop first a friendship, and then a physical relationship that turns quite serious before either Tilly or Noah realize it. The conflict in this relationship is well portrayed-- though serious, none of the prose or plot is overwrought. Tracey Alvarez subtly and gently guides the reader through Tilly and Noah's relationship, with the help of some of the citizens of Stewart Island (some of whom are not subtle or gentle about it at all). Bending the Rules is a deeply satisfying trip to New Zealand.
October 17, 2018
Once again, Ms Alvarez has entertained me for several hours with her latest novel in the Stewart Island series. Out of the many books I have read in 2018, Bending The Rules is one of my favorites.
It tells the story of Noah, a Stewart Island cop, and Tilly, a city girl from Auckland, who travels to the island to sort out her late aunt's affairs. As happens in romance novels, Tilly meets Noah and sparks fly in all directions - back and forth and sometimes, sideways.
I loved the main characters - their personalities leapt off the page as they negotiated their journey together. Tilly was sweet, but strong with it, and the stoic Noah had that cheeky side which made him all the more human and likeable. The author also wrote the co-stars well. I especially liked Wade, and I'm now wondering if he will get his own story.
Throughout the book, we're treated to snippets of Aunt Mary's life through excerpts from her secret journal, a nice sub-plot touch. And with little gems such as "you can tell a lot about a man by ..." I found myself agreeing with Aunt Mary time and time again.
I chuckled all the way through this wonderful book, although the novel is not only funny, but full of joy and hope. Anyone who has read a book by Ms Alvares, will know her imagery takes you straight into the setting, and while I've never been to Stewart Island, I could feel the cool wind drifting off the coast, smell the sea air and almost taste the muffins from the bakery.
Bending The Rules is a fabulous book. From the writing style to the story line, if you're in the mood for a chuckle out loud, slice of escapism, I'm sure it won't disappoint.
It tells the story of Noah, a Stewart Island cop, and Tilly, a city girl from Auckland, who travels to the island to sort out her late aunt's affairs. As happens in romance novels, Tilly meets Noah and sparks fly in all directions - back and forth and sometimes, sideways.
I loved the main characters - their personalities leapt off the page as they negotiated their journey together. Tilly was sweet, but strong with it, and the stoic Noah had that cheeky side which made him all the more human and likeable. The author also wrote the co-stars well. I especially liked Wade, and I'm now wondering if he will get his own story.
Throughout the book, we're treated to snippets of Aunt Mary's life through excerpts from her secret journal, a nice sub-plot touch. And with little gems such as "you can tell a lot about a man by ..." I found myself agreeing with Aunt Mary time and time again.
I chuckled all the way through this wonderful book, although the novel is not only funny, but full of joy and hope. Anyone who has read a book by Ms Alvares, will know her imagery takes you straight into the setting, and while I've never been to Stewart Island, I could feel the cool wind drifting off the coast, smell the sea air and almost taste the muffins from the bakery.
Bending The Rules is a fabulous book. From the writing style to the story line, if you're in the mood for a chuckle out loud, slice of escapism, I'm sure it won't disappoint.
October 23, 2018
Matilda “Tilly” Montgomery has lost her Father, her Great Aunt, and her creative spark for writing attention grabbing screen plays for K-Road (an Auckland-based TV soap. She’s secretly writing a science fiction romance screen play. Now she’s going to spend a month in Southern Seas, the B&B she inherited from her Great Aunt Mary Duncan, before she can sell it to see her mom settled. Shouldn’t be too hard, right?
Noah Daniels, otherwise known as Officer Sexy-Britches, is the Lone Ranger of Oban. With only a handful of full-time residents and mostly petty crimes, only one officer is required to keep the peace. Noah’s embraced the quiet life on the island and keeps to himself.
What happens when you have a man of few words and lives a life of order and rules...throw in a woman with an active imagination and whose livelihood is based on words...sprinkle a secret diary...with a dash of meddling matchmaking octogenarian? A rousing adventure, that’s what!
Bending the Rules is the tenth book in Tracey Alvarez’s Due South Series. It is another fantastic read. Tracey writes with wit and humor as she takes you on an emotional rollercoaster journey. She takes time and great care in developing her characters so that you get to know them and understand the pain that leads the to becoming the person they are now. As you read and get invested in their story, you can’t help but laugh and cry with them. I love my visits to Oban and reconnecting with old friends and making new ones.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated for my review, and I was not required to write a positive review. The opinion expressed here is my own.
Noah Daniels, otherwise known as Officer Sexy-Britches, is the Lone Ranger of Oban. With only a handful of full-time residents and mostly petty crimes, only one officer is required to keep the peace. Noah’s embraced the quiet life on the island and keeps to himself.
What happens when you have a man of few words and lives a life of order and rules...throw in a woman with an active imagination and whose livelihood is based on words...sprinkle a secret diary...with a dash of meddling matchmaking octogenarian? A rousing adventure, that’s what!
Bending the Rules is the tenth book in Tracey Alvarez’s Due South Series. It is another fantastic read. Tracey writes with wit and humor as she takes you on an emotional rollercoaster journey. She takes time and great care in developing her characters so that you get to know them and understand the pain that leads the to becoming the person they are now. As you read and get invested in their story, you can’t help but laugh and cry with them. I love my visits to Oban and reconnecting with old friends and making new ones.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated for my review, and I was not required to write a positive review. The opinion expressed here is my own.
October 24, 2018
Three and a half stars.
Noah Daniels was a big city cop until things went to hell in a handbasket six years ago, after that he turned his back on the big city and all that entailed and moved to Stewart Island where he's the only cop and, by and large, his worst problem is dealing with the local drunks at chucking out time in the local pub, Due South. He doesn't do relationships and no matter how many of his friends pair up he has no interest in love, even if he is a bit lonely on an island with only 400 inhabitants.
Tilly Montgomery has come to Stewart Island to clear out her Great Aunt's bed and breakfast before selling it and moving back to the city where she is a script writer on a TV soap. Her first encounters with the dour constable are highly embarrassing but there is definitely a spark, would it be wrong to have a fling with the guy next door for the few weeks she is on the island?
I liked the story and plot of this tenth book in the series just as much as the others, what I didn't like was Noah himself. I'm sure it was unintentional but I felt that there were too many scenes in which Noah either kissed Tilly to shut her up when she was justifiably angry with him or where he backed her into a corner and left her no way of getting away from her, he had the emotional maturity of a grapefruit and frankly I didn't understand all the angst about his family which miraculously vanished.
Tracey Alvarez is still an autobuy author for me - there's always going to be one hero or heroine you don't like in a series.
Noah Daniels was a big city cop until things went to hell in a handbasket six years ago, after that he turned his back on the big city and all that entailed and moved to Stewart Island where he's the only cop and, by and large, his worst problem is dealing with the local drunks at chucking out time in the local pub, Due South. He doesn't do relationships and no matter how many of his friends pair up he has no interest in love, even if he is a bit lonely on an island with only 400 inhabitants.
Tilly Montgomery has come to Stewart Island to clear out her Great Aunt's bed and breakfast before selling it and moving back to the city where she is a script writer on a TV soap. Her first encounters with the dour constable are highly embarrassing but there is definitely a spark, would it be wrong to have a fling with the guy next door for the few weeks she is on the island?
I liked the story and plot of this tenth book in the series just as much as the others, what I didn't like was Noah himself. I'm sure it was unintentional but I felt that there were too many scenes in which Noah either kissed Tilly to shut her up when she was justifiably angry with him or where he backed her into a corner and left her no way of getting away from her, he had the emotional maturity of a grapefruit and frankly I didn't understand all the angst about his family which miraculously vanished.
Tracey Alvarez is still an autobuy author for me - there's always going to be one hero or heroine you don't like in a series.
October 21, 2018
“Bookworm rule number one: It’s never just ‘one more chapter.’
Point in case, after Tilly had seen Noah off she’d gone to bed with the aim of reading a couple more pages of Mary’s journal. Now here it was after midnight. Another thing about bookworms—they had no concept of time passing once they were engrossed in the written word.”
Excerpt From
Bending The Rules
This excerpt pretty much sums up the entire book. I couldn’t and didn’t put it down.
I don’t usually like books going backwards and forwards during the story but this totally worked. I loved all these characters especially Great Aunt Mary who you never get to meet. I wish we had gotten to know more about her.
I loved her sad and tragic love story.
The thing I love about Tracey’s writing and characters is that there is substance to them. They don’t come across as empty shells or the same exact characters as the last books in the series. I find that happens a lot with authors and their series. Her characters show the diversity of cultural backgrounds in NZ. Something that I miss now that I’m an expat.
I’m already looking forward to the next one!
I requested a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. These thoughts are my own.
Point in case, after Tilly had seen Noah off she’d gone to bed with the aim of reading a couple more pages of Mary’s journal. Now here it was after midnight. Another thing about bookworms—they had no concept of time passing once they were engrossed in the written word.”
Excerpt From
Bending The Rules
This excerpt pretty much sums up the entire book. I couldn’t and didn’t put it down.
I don’t usually like books going backwards and forwards during the story but this totally worked. I loved all these characters especially Great Aunt Mary who you never get to meet. I wish we had gotten to know more about her.
I loved her sad and tragic love story.
The thing I love about Tracey’s writing and characters is that there is substance to them. They don’t come across as empty shells or the same exact characters as the last books in the series. I find that happens a lot with authors and their series. Her characters show the diversity of cultural backgrounds in NZ. Something that I miss now that I’m an expat.
I’m already looking forward to the next one!
I requested a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. These thoughts are my own.
October 22, 2018
One of the things I love most about Tracey Alvarez's books, is her ability to combine the sweet and the sizzle. She successfully continues to give me what I want in Bending the Rules.
Noah Daniel is the sole police officer on Stewart Island and appears fine at keeping solo in the romantic relationship department, too. Tilly Montgomery is used to a life surrounded by the bustle of the big city, but is spending a month on the island in order to sort through her inheritance, which includes great-aunt, Mary's B&B. Getting locked out (in a towel!) from a bird break-in, Tilly's at the mercy of the local lawman, who helps her locate the spare. Tilly and Noah form sort-of friendship, which leads into more. But Noah's hiding trauma from his past and Tilly isn't sure she wants to open herself to hurt, let alone know what she wants to do with Mary's B&B.
These were two very believable and wonderful characters. I never felt like the issues at hand were due to someone acting maliciously or foolishly. You could easily feel how well they fit into the Stewart Island community, especially since neither is a born-and-raised local. We also got a bit of a circle back to situations that happened in earlier books. Sometimes there are more people effected by the events than the main characters we know. In Bending the Rules, we are confronted with the aftermath of a death from the first book in the series, In Too Deep. Considering Tracey's books are more upbeat than dirgy and dark, I liked how it appeared and impacted Tilly and Noah.
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book.
Noah Daniel is the sole police officer on Stewart Island and appears fine at keeping solo in the romantic relationship department, too. Tilly Montgomery is used to a life surrounded by the bustle of the big city, but is spending a month on the island in order to sort through her inheritance, which includes great-aunt, Mary's B&B. Getting locked out (in a towel!) from a bird break-in, Tilly's at the mercy of the local lawman, who helps her locate the spare. Tilly and Noah form sort-of friendship, which leads into more. But Noah's hiding trauma from his past and Tilly isn't sure she wants to open herself to hurt, let alone know what she wants to do with Mary's B&B.
These were two very believable and wonderful characters. I never felt like the issues at hand were due to someone acting maliciously or foolishly. You could easily feel how well they fit into the Stewart Island community, especially since neither is a born-and-raised local. We also got a bit of a circle back to situations that happened in earlier books. Sometimes there are more people effected by the events than the main characters we know. In Bending the Rules, we are confronted with the aftermath of a death from the first book in the series, In Too Deep. Considering Tracey's books are more upbeat than dirgy and dark, I liked how it appeared and impacted Tilly and Noah.
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book.
October 23, 2018
Reviewed on my blog, Becky on Books, on 10/23/18.
Officer Sexy-Britches gets his HEA :)
Noah and Tilly's story was a lot of fun. Though both characters had some pretty heavy baggage in their pasts, much of their falling-in-love story was fairly lighthearted and fun. Tilly's "surveillance" of Noah on-the-job was LOL, and it wasn't the only part of the book that had me in danger of snort-laughing. Drink while reading at your own risk, people. ;)
The events that led to the black moment did feel a tad bit heavy-handed and coincidental, especially since their problem resolution seemed on the quick and easy side in contrast. Still, the ending was very sweet and left me with the warm fuzzies.
Bending the Rules could work as a standalone to those new to the series, though those who have been reading Ms. Alvarez for a while will love seeing the tiny glimpses into the lives of many of the other series characters.
Rating: 4 stars / B+
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Officer Sexy-Britches gets his HEA :)
Noah and Tilly's story was a lot of fun. Though both characters had some pretty heavy baggage in their pasts, much of their falling-in-love story was fairly lighthearted and fun. Tilly's "surveillance" of Noah on-the-job was LOL, and it wasn't the only part of the book that had me in danger of snort-laughing. Drink while reading at your own risk, people. ;)
The events that led to the black moment did feel a tad bit heavy-handed and coincidental, especially since their problem resolution seemed on the quick and easy side in contrast. Still, the ending was very sweet and left me with the warm fuzzies.
Bending the Rules could work as a standalone to those new to the series, though those who have been reading Ms. Alvarez for a while will love seeing the tiny glimpses into the lives of many of the other series characters.
Rating: 4 stars / B+
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
October 15, 2018
I requested a free ARC copy of this book and I’m writing an honest review. I was not compensated for my review, and I was not required to write a positive review. The opinion expressed here is my own.
Honestly, all the books written by Tracey are so well written that it makes me feel like I am in New Zealand myself...Although I wish I was :) This latest book is about Noah and Tilly. Officer Sexy-Britches aka Noah, is the only officer on the island with a past which he would rather keep it that way In addition, we understand why he's always "on duty" and now we know why Noah is the way he is. Matilda "Tilly" Montgomery, a script writer from Auckland recently inherited her late great-aunt's bed and breakfast establishment.
All was quiet in Stewart Island until Tilly had to sort what she inherited from her great-aunt Mary - her bed and breakfast. From the awkward moment Noah and Tilly met, sparks flew and both knew it was more than that. There a few tugs in the book but overall, it was a beautiful love story filled with unicorn dust.
October 17, 2018
Can City People Find Love on an Island?
Noah Daniels is the sole law enforcement officer on Stewart Island off the south coast of New Zealand’s South Island. He handles it all from bicycle infractions to supposed thefts. Tilly Montgomery is a writer from Auckland who comes to the island for a month to settle things on her great-aunt’s B&B so she can fulfill the will’s terms.
Tilly is still broken up over the loss of her father and great-aunt, and it has affected her writing. Maybe this break will help with the discomfort in her screenwriting. Noah is still mending from fleeing the big city and his time with difficult situations. Relationships have taken the back seat (at best). They wind up as neighbors (and although they fight it), however there is chemistry they have trouble admitting.
I hope you enjoy this next book in the Stewart Island series. I found great delight in the laughs, the angst, as well as the heat stirred up in this well-edited novel. I trust that you pick up a copy for your pleasure. I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Noah Daniels is the sole law enforcement officer on Stewart Island off the south coast of New Zealand’s South Island. He handles it all from bicycle infractions to supposed thefts. Tilly Montgomery is a writer from Auckland who comes to the island for a month to settle things on her great-aunt’s B&B so she can fulfill the will’s terms.
Tilly is still broken up over the loss of her father and great-aunt, and it has affected her writing. Maybe this break will help with the discomfort in her screenwriting. Noah is still mending from fleeing the big city and his time with difficult situations. Relationships have taken the back seat (at best). They wind up as neighbors (and although they fight it), however there is chemistry they have trouble admitting.
I hope you enjoy this next book in the Stewart Island series. I found great delight in the laughs, the angst, as well as the heat stirred up in this well-edited novel. I trust that you pick up a copy for your pleasure. I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 21, 2018
Noah Daniels is the only cop on Stuart Island. As a cop who handled high adrenaline situations, the quieter life suits him just fine. His emotions are locked up tight and in his mind, no one needs to know his reasons for that.
Tilly, a screenwriter for a popular drama series who is working secretly on a sci-fi romance screenplay, inherited her great-aunts bed and breakfast in a small town miles away from the city. Her first night at the house, she encounters the local wildlife and gets herself locked out of her house in only a towel. Enter Officer Sexy-Britches, aka Noah.
This was perfection. The chemistry between Noah and Tilly was explosive. Their banter witty. Their fears real and relatable. Add in a great group of friends and the love story of her great-aunt and this goes down as one of my favorite in the 10 book series. We meet some new characters in this book and can’t wait to read about their stories!
I received this book in exchange for my honest review. This in no way influenced my opinion
Tilly, a screenwriter for a popular drama series who is working secretly on a sci-fi romance screenplay, inherited her great-aunts bed and breakfast in a small town miles away from the city. Her first night at the house, she encounters the local wildlife and gets herself locked out of her house in only a towel. Enter Officer Sexy-Britches, aka Noah.
This was perfection. The chemistry between Noah and Tilly was explosive. Their banter witty. Their fears real and relatable. Add in a great group of friends and the love story of her great-aunt and this goes down as one of my favorite in the 10 book series. We meet some new characters in this book and can’t wait to read about their stories!
I received this book in exchange for my honest review. This in no way influenced my opinion
October 21, 2018
I really enjoyed this story. Both characters have complicated pasts that are still affecting their lives. Noah’s history includes issues with his father & brothers who are all policemen & his mom & girlfriend who could not handle the job & its demands. Noah was also still haunted from his last case where he had to take the life of another.
Tilly feels like she isn’t measuring up to her father & that she’s disappointed her parents. Her father is gone now but she wants to step up for her mom. She’s also had trouble in her most recent relationship & is struggling because of it. She’s drawn into her aunt’s diary & story of a love lost.
Neither Noah or Tilly were looking for love or a relationship but they are slowly falling into both. I enjoyed the give & take between them. They were opposites in so many ways but had the same distrust in love. They both had to learn to trust each other & open up in their words & actions. This was an enjoyable story about love, trust & relationships.
Tilly feels like she isn’t measuring up to her father & that she’s disappointed her parents. Her father is gone now but she wants to step up for her mom. She’s also had trouble in her most recent relationship & is struggling because of it. She’s drawn into her aunt’s diary & story of a love lost.
Neither Noah or Tilly were looking for love or a relationship but they are slowly falling into both. I enjoyed the give & take between them. They were opposites in so many ways but had the same distrust in love. They both had to learn to trust each other & open up in their words & actions. This was an enjoyable story about love, trust & relationships.
October 29, 2018
Unicorn Dust Trumping Family Discord
Noah and Tilly Noah is known as officer sexy britches and Tilly is on Stewart Island to claim her inheritance of the Southern Sea B & B that her Great Aunt Mary left her. The best Stewart Island Book of 10 i have read a sure 5 rating for Tracey!!! This story grabbed me from the beginning with Noah meeting Tilly who is only covered up with towel then finding her Aunt Mary's secret journal and learning she did have a love of her life that good about racial discrimination of the 60's. Then learning why Noah transferred to Stewart Island and the cause/problems with his dad, 2 brothers and ma and Tully's problems with dad and ma. From start to ending with the Unicorn Dust and Aunt Mary's ashes being spread in ocean. This story had me thinking of the 60's, Tears, laughing & pain another outstanding story by Tracey and a must read.
Noah and Tilly Noah is known as officer sexy britches and Tilly is on Stewart Island to claim her inheritance of the Southern Sea B & B that her Great Aunt Mary left her. The best Stewart Island Book of 10 i have read a sure 5 rating for Tracey!!! This story grabbed me from the beginning with Noah meeting Tilly who is only covered up with towel then finding her Aunt Mary's secret journal and learning she did have a love of her life that good about racial discrimination of the 60's. Then learning why Noah transferred to Stewart Island and the cause/problems with his dad, 2 brothers and ma and Tully's problems with dad and ma. From start to ending with the Unicorn Dust and Aunt Mary's ashes being spread in ocean. This story had me thinking of the 60's, Tears, laughing & pain another outstanding story by Tracey and a must read.
October 20, 2018
It's hard to get a cop to bend the rules. Especially for Noah Daniels, whose first and foremost rule is to protect his heart. He's given up on long term relationships. Tilley is just in Oban for a month to clear her great aunt's estate, so why not have some fun with officer sexy pants? I love this character study of two people with an ingrained need to protect others. Their romance is a slow burn, but their chemistry is explosive. It's just sex, right? The secondary story of great aunt Mary and Jim is nearly as tantalizing as our main plot and Mary's legacy on Stewart Island increasingly entices Tilly to be more like her aunt. This heartfelt tale has so much angst yet is also hopeful and often funny, a delightful read.
October 20, 2018
Bending the Rules is the newest addition to the Stewart Island books. It tells the story of Noah and Tilly. It’s an easy, great read and can be read as a stand alone.
Noah, has been seen throughout this series, and I was so excited to read his story! It definitely lived up to my expectations.
Noah, left his past behind when he came to Oban and became the only constable in Oban. Tilly has come to Stewart Island to claim her inheritance of her aunt’s B&B.
I always love the Stewart Island books and this one was a great addition. I loved Noah and Tilly and I loved seeing other characters of the island that I’ve grown to love as well. This was a great read. I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
Noah, has been seen throughout this series, and I was so excited to read his story! It definitely lived up to my expectations.
Noah, left his past behind when he came to Oban and became the only constable in Oban. Tilly has come to Stewart Island to claim her inheritance of her aunt’s B&B.
I always love the Stewart Island books and this one was a great addition. I loved Noah and Tilly and I loved seeing other characters of the island that I’ve grown to love as well. This was a great read. I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 29, 2018
Noah finally has his own story! Woohoo!
I've been waiting, not so patiently, for Tracey Alvarez to get around to telling the story of Noah. I've always been curious about him, wondering about his backstory. He's always been this solid presence in Oban, friend to all, the kind, patient and wise town sheriff, Officer Sexy Britches, but you never got to really know him....until now. Boy, was it worth the wait! I've loved all the Stewart Island books.... as well as the Bounty Bay series... But this one, for me, was special. You won't be disappointed. Although this book is part of a series, it stands quite well on its own. That being said, I still recommend reading this whole series, the people of Oban are really quite lovely and you need to meet them all.
I've been waiting, not so patiently, for Tracey Alvarez to get around to telling the story of Noah. I've always been curious about him, wondering about his backstory. He's always been this solid presence in Oban, friend to all, the kind, patient and wise town sheriff, Officer Sexy Britches, but you never got to really know him....until now. Boy, was it worth the wait! I've loved all the Stewart Island books.... as well as the Bounty Bay series... But this one, for me, was special. You won't be disappointed. Although this book is part of a series, it stands quite well on its own. That being said, I still recommend reading this whole series, the people of Oban are really quite lovely and you need to meet them all.
October 19, 2018
One book I didn't want to put down. Back to NZ and Due South.
Noah and Tilly started from an initial attraction, and they really liked each other. I think that's what makes the difference in Tracey Alvarez's work. Her couples spend time getting to know each other before things get hit and steamy.
Noah and Tilly each had hesitations about the relationship and fears they needed to overcome, but they worked through them to reach their HEA. I enjoyed revisiting Ben, West, Piper, Harley, Ford and the rest of the gang. I would recommend this book if you are looking for a sweet, sexy romance and some lighthearted enjoyment.
I voluntarily read and reviewed the Advanced Reader Copy.
Noah and Tilly started from an initial attraction, and they really liked each other. I think that's what makes the difference in Tracey Alvarez's work. Her couples spend time getting to know each other before things get hit and steamy.
Noah and Tilly each had hesitations about the relationship and fears they needed to overcome, but they worked through them to reach their HEA. I enjoyed revisiting Ben, West, Piper, Harley, Ford and the rest of the gang. I would recommend this book if you are looking for a sweet, sexy romance and some lighthearted enjoyment.
I voluntarily read and reviewed the Advanced Reader Copy.
October 22, 2018
Ms Alvarez brings us back to Steward Island with yet another humorous, fun and romantic love story. Tilly and Noah's first meet is a novel and interesting way of meeting, and it will sure keep you laughing throughout. Their chemistry is off the charts and it was such a pleasure following their story, seeing how their feelings developed. Learning about Aunt Mary's love story from her journals was touching and sad.
Love the other secondary characters in the story. Stewart Island sounds like such a wonderful place to live in and Ms Alvarez's descriptions just make me wish to move there one day.
** I received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions are my own
Love the other secondary characters in the story. Stewart Island sounds like such a wonderful place to live in and Ms Alvarez's descriptions just make me wish to move there one day.
** I received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions are my own
October 26, 2018
This is book 10 in the Stewart Island series and it features our favorite Officer Sexy-Britches, Noah and Mary’s great-niece, Tilly. It happened slowly. Their romance was smoldering but once the flame caught, it burned like a wildfire. One thing you must remember is that Noah is not a verbal sharer of his feelings. Remember, it’s the quiet ones we have to look out for. Tillys in for a wild ride. I loved it! Being back on Stewart Island is always a welcome escape. The people and the environment felt like going on vacation to visit great friends. There was never a dull moment. The flow was natural and as always, the characters are fantastic. I can’t wait to come back.
October 10, 2018
So great to go back to Stewart Island and that Noah finally gets his happy ending. Tilly thinks that she is going to Oban for a month to finalise her Great Aunt's bequest to her, she doesn't plan to fall in love with the town, the locals, and most importantly the local policeman, along the way she discovers her Aunts secret love. Noah has been hurt by a past love and has no intention of falling in love again but Tilly melts his defences. Tilly has also been hurt and finds it hard to trust someone who can't show emotion. They have their problems but love wins in the end.
October 22, 2018
I will never tire of going back to Oban to catch up with all of the friends that Tracey Alvarez has created there. “Bending the Rules” is another installment in humor, masterful dialogue, and good feelings. A heartfelt story where we get to know and come to understand sexy Noah. What a joy to see him find his unicorn. (A symbolism which I greatly appreciate.) Reading one of Tracey’s books is always a fun adventure. I think that New Zealand tourism should put her on their payroll - she’s made me want to go visit and see this country in person! I bet you’ll feel the same.
October 8, 2018
A woman drawn to an isolated community by a relatives bequest, mets a sexy hottie, in the form of the local cop. They seem to hit it off, but there are so many brick walls that each have erected, it is a difficult situation, and they have only four weeks, before Tilly returns to Auckland.
A fantastic story of crossed emotions and physical intimacy, with humor and friendly banter along the way.
Yes, a very good read!!
A fantastic story of crossed emotions and physical intimacy, with humor and friendly banter along the way.
Yes, a very good read!!
October 13, 2018
Noah and Tilly are drawn together the moment they met in Stewart Island. But can they have a future together when Tilly’s live and work is in Auckland and Noah is settle in Oban as Constable running away from his past as AOS in the city? They will have to face the truth about themselves and their own fears in order to have a chance in happiness. A beautiful love story.
October 24, 2018
I can't get enough of Stewart Island and the residents of Oban! As always, Tracey Alvarez combines the perfect blend of romance, humor, angst and steam to keep you glued to the pages. Can't say enough good things....if you're new to the series, do yourself a favor and start at the beginning. Each can be read as a standalone, but reading them in order adds to the experience.
November 2, 2018
I liked all Steward Island books, but for me this is the best one yet.
You don’t only get Noah and Tillys story but also find out who Mary the late owner of the Southern Seas B&B with the interesting decor was and what brought her to Steward Island and made her the person she was. With Marys story you also get a brief look at New Zealand in the middle of the 20th Century.
You don’t only get Noah and Tillys story but also find out who Mary the late owner of the Southern Seas B&B with the interesting decor was and what brought her to Steward Island and made her the person she was. With Marys story you also get a brief look at New Zealand in the middle of the 20th Century.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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