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Handle With Care
A fragile heart needs extra care.
Burned-out social worker Aaron McCoy is on vacation for the first time in years--boss's orders. Road-tripping to his brother's wedding with his best friend, Tyler, seems a fun way to spend the mandatory two-week leave, and they set out for Kansas--and a difficult homecoming.
Aaron's mother was a drug addict, and his adorable younger brother was quickly adopted, while Aaron spent his childhood in foster care. As Aaron mends fences, Tyler hopes to show him that this time, he won't be left behind to face his problems alone.
Aaron's opening up to how right it feels to be with Tyler and to the possibility of taking the leap from friends to lovers. But along with the wedding celebration comes a painful reminder of the past. Aaron's heart is still breakable. Can he put it in Tyler's hands?
Burned-out social worker Aaron McCoy is on vacation for the first time in years--boss's orders. Road-tripping to his brother's wedding with his best friend, Tyler, seems a fun way to spend the mandatory two-week leave, and they set out for Kansas--and a difficult homecoming.
Aaron's mother was a drug addict, and his adorable younger brother was quickly adopted, while Aaron spent his childhood in foster care. As Aaron mends fences, Tyler hopes to show him that this time, he won't be left behind to face his problems alone.
Aaron's opening up to how right it feels to be with Tyler and to the possibility of taking the leap from friends to lovers. But along with the wedding celebration comes a painful reminder of the past. Aaron's heart is still breakable. Can he put it in Tyler's hands?
194 pages, Paperback
First published October 16, 2018
9 people are currently reading
140 people want to read
About the author
Cari Z.
136 books541 followersCari Z. is a Colorado girl who loves snow and sunshine. She has a wonderful relationship with her husband, a complex relationship with the characters in her head and a sadomasochistic relationship with her exercise routine. She feels like Halloween should happen every month, which is why you get this picture of her, and hopes that you enjoy reading what she's put out there as much as she enjoyed writing it in the first place.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
February 10, 2022
First time I haven't loved a book by this author.
Had a really tough time connecting with the two MCs, three quarters of the way through I still was confusing who was who. The writing was fine I just was not able to immerse myself into it. I think this is a case of it being me not the book!
Had a really tough time connecting with the two MCs, three quarters of the way through I still was confusing who was who. The writing was fine I just was not able to immerse myself into it. I think this is a case of it being me not the book!
October 9, 2018
I know this is a Dreamspun Desires title, so it's lower steam...but I didn't feel like there was enough relationship building either.
I'm fine with no sex in romances, more than fine actually (though, don't get me wrong, there is some sex in this), but I'm not fine with my romances being almost devoid of romance.
Handle With Care has the bones of great characters from the little we're told about them. But there's not a lot of background and being solely from Aaron's POV there's a lot of potential for growth that's lost.
It's definitely fast paced. I flew through the pages. But couldn't help but feel disappointed that the first indication of any deepening from friends to lovers was more than halfway through and was disappointed that the little "romance" there was seemed shoehorned in to the last less than 20%. The only reason I would even classify this as "slow burn" is because I knew from the blurb (and the DD series) that Aaron and Tyler would eventually get together, but, for me, there was practically no romantic tension. At all.
There's also no real tension otherwise in the story either. And there should have been. From Aaron's overworked burnout, to seeing his brother for the first time in person in decades, to the homophobic groomsman, to seeing his birth mom, to realizing he might want more than just friendship with Tyler...but everything is surface.
Yes, it has some romance towards the very end, and it is a happy ending, but I wanted more of everything from character development to the romance between Aaron and Tyler.
Single, third person POV, with light angst, slow burn, low steam, and a happy ending.
2.5 stars
Advanced Review Galley copy of Handled With Care provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
I'm fine with no sex in romances, more than fine actually (though, don't get me wrong, there is some sex in this), but I'm not fine with my romances being almost devoid of romance.
Handle With Care has the bones of great characters from the little we're told about them. But there's not a lot of background and being solely from Aaron's POV there's a lot of potential for growth that's lost.
It's definitely fast paced. I flew through the pages. But couldn't help but feel disappointed that the first indication of any deepening from friends to lovers was more than halfway through and was disappointed that the little "romance" there was seemed shoehorned in to the last less than 20%. The only reason I would even classify this as "slow burn" is because I knew from the blurb (and the DD series) that Aaron and Tyler would eventually get together, but, for me, there was practically no romantic tension. At all.
There's also no real tension otherwise in the story either. And there should have been. From Aaron's overworked burnout, to seeing his brother for the first time in person in decades, to the homophobic groomsman, to seeing his birth mom, to realizing he might want more than just friendship with Tyler...but everything is surface.
Yes, it has some romance towards the very end, and it is a happy ending, but I wanted more of everything from character development to the romance between Aaron and Tyler.
Single, third person POV, with light angst, slow burn, low steam, and a happy ending.
2.5 stars
Advanced Review Galley copy of Handled With Care provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
October 17, 2018
A friends-to-lovers story with engaging characters, a very sweet romance full of obstacles, and quite some angst and hesitancy before Aaron and Tyler finally admit their feelings for each other all make for great reading and had me fully entertained. Aaron and Tyler have history – as foster brothers who became friends – and know each other well, yet admitting the deep feelings they have for each other is a different matter. It takes facing Aaron’s past for him to realize what is really important and to be able to trust Tyler with his heart. I loved the theme as well as the writing style: despite the serious topic there are lots of humorous observations peppered throughout and it made reading this story very enjoyable.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
October 18, 2018
This was such a sweet novel! I LOVED it! I read it almost in one sitting. Aaron and Tyler where simply adorable together. There's this one sentence I read and then re-read - "I could have had this sooner, couldn't I?" and I thought to myself this is IT. This was everything falling into place for both of them. They have known each other for 10 years, most of that time as best friends and now they are ready to take the next step for them to become a couple.
Aaron McCoy had a difficult life growing up. Yet while he ended up in the system his little brother Zach, the one he tried his best to care for while his mother had other things (and addictions) in mind, found a great home. Aaron was too resentful to appreciate what he could have had with the same family so he somehow drifted away from Zach not knowing how to gap the distance between them.. Yet a few years later, almost at 18, he found himself the best home in the Howards family. The two older siblings in the family were already out of the house so all he had was the 16 years old Tyler. It took them time to form a friendship - not for lack of want from Tyler's side, but once it stuck both knew they won't ever let go. So while They grew up, found themselves in life, college, work, in the end, whenever both needed someone it was obvious who they'll turn to.
Aaron loves his job as a social worker, he is the one now taking care of kids who have an unfortunate family situation. But he is also addicted to his work not knowing when to take a break, clinging to his kids long after he should. So it's no wonder his boss has had enough and demands he takes two weeks off work and actually enjoy a vocation. Yet that's a foreign concept for Aaron so naturally he turns to Tyler...
Tyler had an idea, a brilliant one though he knows Aaron might not be really into it.. Zach is getting married and he is invited (+1) to the wedding. He didn't plan on going, in fact, forgot all about it.. yet Tyler didn't and he offers they take a road trip together to the wedding. Though Aaron isn't sure about the whole thing, going with Tyler is the only way it can actually work truth been told..
Seeing Zach again, as well as his adopting mother, seeing HIS mother after YEARS apart, seeing Zach - the young man he become - and his wonderful girl, reconnecting and accepting his feelings and decisions through the years is quite an emotional ride with every step of the way Tyler on his side, so it's no wonder at a certain point all Aaron can do and think about is FINALLY acting upon his long lost feelings for him with a simple kiss.
Aaron could have TOTALLY had this - love, friendship, acceptance - with Tyler a LONG time ago, but I think both needed their time, to mature and realize who they are and what they want, who they won't settle for by their side. It was all THERE, they just needed to make the first step and once they did I was giddy with happiness.
Thank you Cari for this wonderful and endearing romance. Perfect for any occasion really.
More Reviews HERE
Aaron McCoy had a difficult life growing up. Yet while he ended up in the system his little brother Zach, the one he tried his best to care for while his mother had other things (and addictions) in mind, found a great home. Aaron was too resentful to appreciate what he could have had with the same family so he somehow drifted away from Zach not knowing how to gap the distance between them.. Yet a few years later, almost at 18, he found himself the best home in the Howards family. The two older siblings in the family were already out of the house so all he had was the 16 years old Tyler. It took them time to form a friendship - not for lack of want from Tyler's side, but once it stuck both knew they won't ever let go. So while They grew up, found themselves in life, college, work, in the end, whenever both needed someone it was obvious who they'll turn to.
Aaron loves his job as a social worker, he is the one now taking care of kids who have an unfortunate family situation. But he is also addicted to his work not knowing when to take a break, clinging to his kids long after he should. So it's no wonder his boss has had enough and demands he takes two weeks off work and actually enjoy a vocation. Yet that's a foreign concept for Aaron so naturally he turns to Tyler...
Tyler had an idea, a brilliant one though he knows Aaron might not be really into it.. Zach is getting married and he is invited (+1) to the wedding. He didn't plan on going, in fact, forgot all about it.. yet Tyler didn't and he offers they take a road trip together to the wedding. Though Aaron isn't sure about the whole thing, going with Tyler is the only way it can actually work truth been told..
Seeing Zach again, as well as his adopting mother, seeing HIS mother after YEARS apart, seeing Zach - the young man he become - and his wonderful girl, reconnecting and accepting his feelings and decisions through the years is quite an emotional ride with every step of the way Tyler on his side, so it's no wonder at a certain point all Aaron can do and think about is FINALLY acting upon his long lost feelings for him with a simple kiss.
Aaron could have TOTALLY had this - love, friendship, acceptance - with Tyler a LONG time ago, but I think both needed their time, to mature and realize who they are and what they want, who they won't settle for by their side. It was all THERE, they just needed to make the first step and once they did I was giddy with happiness.
Thank you Cari for this wonderful and endearing romance. Perfect for any occasion really.
More Reviews HERE
October 21, 2018
I can't tell you exactly why I adore best friends to boyfriends so much but this is a beautiful example of how fate turns its hand at just the right moment. I believe it's the solid foundation that blossoms into more that leaves me grinning from ear to ear. Aaron and Tyler have known each other for years. Tyler was actually the youngest child of the foster family Aaron stayed with during his teens, but he's never considered him a brother. He shares blood with Zach, his brother that he would have shed blood for during his childhood. Growing up without a father and with an addict mother, his adolescence was anything but smooth sailing. He chartered choppy and unstable waters to protect and care for his younger brother. Aaron was forced to step into parental roles prematurely and then he lost his brother when the system stepped in. His soul was battered and bruised before he was a legal adult. Rather than submitting to temptations and following in his mother's footsteps, he turned his fire towards the greater good and became a social worker. Bless him. Any soul that fights the continuous cycle of neglected children deserves all the praise in the world. It takes a special person to work in CPS. Aaron is not only good at what he does, but he's also the best. Problem with being the best? Sometimes the pressure suffocates the source of the fire. Aaron is losing his grasp and his boss knows it. Forced to take a leave from his job is unthinkable. His kids need him! What will they do? Or for that matter, what will he do? As it turns out, he is going to embrace life...and live. And I think you should join along.
What's to like: I was quick to like both Aaron and Tyler. Aaron has a one-track mind which has shaped his one-track life. His work consumes him and it's wearing on him. The word 'detachment' doesn't exist in his vocabulary. The system failed him when he was a boy (in addition to his parents) and he refuses to let any kids slip through the cracks on his watch. He's overworked, stressed, and still holding tight onto resentment from his own youth. As you can see, he's a mess. Tyler is full of cheer and his spirit is bright. He is everything that Aaron needs and even some that he didn't know he needed. He's never allowed himself to think of Tyler in a romantic sense because he couldn't dare risk it. Tyler is all he's got. But little did he know that Tyler wants him in every way as well. An impromptu road trip opens up possibilities. Aaron is anxious because it's Zach's wedding and he hasn't seen him in a long time. Does his brother still know him? Does he still know his brother? Once Aaron lets down the fortress around his heart, he is overcome with feels. Good feels...which takes me to...
What's to love: I think those that have the biggest hearts are often more inclined to have it struck the hardest. And Aaron's is sore and scarred. Tyler is the only remedy. Until now, he hasn't been ready to accept why. But his time-out from his life clears the haze and he suddenly realizes...what he's been missing. The sun comes out and I basked in it. Tyler has the patience of a saint but he understands and respects the inner essence that makes Aaron who he is. I thought their progression was completely fitting for them. I loved how they can speak without words. I adored how they rescued each other. And then when they begin to truly allow themselves to fall, I was melting. Desires and sexual tension thrum with intensity. They don't take things physical until nearly the end. And by then I think I was just as desperate as they were! But their story is more than that. It's about opening yourself to love and discovering the elation of loving another. Loving someone with your whole heart is freeing. And Aaron is finally free. Cari's writing always pulls me in and I was grateful to see these two best friends give their hearts completely to one another.
Beware of: Slow burn. Yet the spark that catches with plenty of carefully placed kindling burns the brightest. Children of a victim of addiction that prove they are more than just a statistic. I wasn't fond of Zach's friends and his bachelor party was a conflict I could have done without.
This book is for: Attention friends to lovers fans!! There's nothing quite like falling in love with your best friend and Cari Z. delivers a tender tale full of feeling.
Book UNfunk
What's to like: I was quick to like both Aaron and Tyler. Aaron has a one-track mind which has shaped his one-track life. His work consumes him and it's wearing on him. The word 'detachment' doesn't exist in his vocabulary. The system failed him when he was a boy (in addition to his parents) and he refuses to let any kids slip through the cracks on his watch. He's overworked, stressed, and still holding tight onto resentment from his own youth. As you can see, he's a mess. Tyler is full of cheer and his spirit is bright. He is everything that Aaron needs and even some that he didn't know he needed. He's never allowed himself to think of Tyler in a romantic sense because he couldn't dare risk it. Tyler is all he's got. But little did he know that Tyler wants him in every way as well. An impromptu road trip opens up possibilities. Aaron is anxious because it's Zach's wedding and he hasn't seen him in a long time. Does his brother still know him? Does he still know his brother? Once Aaron lets down the fortress around his heart, he is overcome with feels. Good feels...which takes me to...
What's to love: I think those that have the biggest hearts are often more inclined to have it struck the hardest. And Aaron's is sore and scarred. Tyler is the only remedy. Until now, he hasn't been ready to accept why. But his time-out from his life clears the haze and he suddenly realizes...what he's been missing. The sun comes out and I basked in it. Tyler has the patience of a saint but he understands and respects the inner essence that makes Aaron who he is. I thought their progression was completely fitting for them. I loved how they can speak without words. I adored how they rescued each other. And then when they begin to truly allow themselves to fall, I was melting. Desires and sexual tension thrum with intensity. They don't take things physical until nearly the end. And by then I think I was just as desperate as they were! But their story is more than that. It's about opening yourself to love and discovering the elation of loving another. Loving someone with your whole heart is freeing. And Aaron is finally free. Cari's writing always pulls me in and I was grateful to see these two best friends give their hearts completely to one another.
Beware of: Slow burn. Yet the spark that catches with plenty of carefully placed kindling burns the brightest. Children of a victim of addiction that prove they are more than just a statistic. I wasn't fond of Zach's friends and his bachelor party was a conflict I could have done without.
This book is for: Attention friends to lovers fans!! There's nothing quite like falling in love with your best friend and Cari Z. delivers a tender tale full of feeling.
Book UNfunk
January 14, 2020
I have really enjoyed Cari Z’s writing in other stories, so I grabbed this Dreamspun Desires and it was just lovely! This engaging story provides lots of feels with a best friends-to-lovers trope and a difficult yet heartwarming reunion of brothers who’ve been apart for too long. Aaron was a troubled foster kid so now he works himself to exhaustion trying to help get kids into better situations. Forced to take a vacation and get some rest, his best friend Tyler convinces him to take the road trip and reconnect with his brother for his wedding. Tyler is more than a best friend, as Aaron lived with him and his parents after he turned 18 and went to college. After his rebellious teenage phase, Aaron has grown up serious and hyper-focused on maintaining the stable, if rather dull, life he has built. Tyler is more adventurous and outgoing but understanding of Aaron’s need for security. Both are quite obviously suffering from “omg, I can’t tell him how I feel, I don’t want to lose my best friend if it goes wrong” syndrome.
This isn’t a very long novel but the tightly written narrative is chock-full of great characterization and slow-burn romance. The dynamics between Tyler and Aaron show comfortable acceptance of quirks and foibles between two opposite personalities and admitting their feelings doesn’t devolve into drama. Seeing his brother Zach again brings a mix of jealousy and resentment that Aaron isn’t proud of but with Tyler’s support, makes the effort to create a better relationship and also face another piece of his past. I liked Zach and Chrissy, his fiancé, who almost stole the book with her strong presence and fantastic depiction as a female supporting character. The dialogue reflects genuine, raw feelings at times, not in a negative way but not sugar-coated either. I just loved how Tyler and Aaron’s bond of friendship morphed into romance among the diverse elements of the story, concluding with a steamy, sexy HEA. Recommended!
*An ARC was provided by the author, publisher or a promotional service and I have chosen to publish a fair and honest review for Jessie G Books Reviews blog*
This isn’t a very long novel but the tightly written narrative is chock-full of great characterization and slow-burn romance. The dynamics between Tyler and Aaron show comfortable acceptance of quirks and foibles between two opposite personalities and admitting their feelings doesn’t devolve into drama. Seeing his brother Zach again brings a mix of jealousy and resentment that Aaron isn’t proud of but with Tyler’s support, makes the effort to create a better relationship and also face another piece of his past. I liked Zach and Chrissy, his fiancé, who almost stole the book with her strong presence and fantastic depiction as a female supporting character. The dialogue reflects genuine, raw feelings at times, not in a negative way but not sugar-coated either. I just loved how Tyler and Aaron’s bond of friendship morphed into romance among the diverse elements of the story, concluding with a steamy, sexy HEA. Recommended!
*An ARC was provided by the author, publisher or a promotional service and I have chosen to publish a fair and honest review for Jessie G Books Reviews blog*
September 21, 2018
✩ ✩ ✩ ✩ 4-STAR ✩ REVIEW ✩ ✩ ✩ ✩
> > Judging a Book by its Cover < <
A nicely-dress man stands in the foreground of a wooded country road. Nothing particularly eye-catching about the cover but I was given the opportunity to promote it and when I read the synopsis, I chose to review it as well.
> > Looking Deeper < <
POV ~> Third person
Although the blurb states that Aaron is burned-out, I’d say that he was more overworked and not taking proper care of himself. His best friend, Tyler, seemed to be the only one that could get Aaron away from his desk to eat, breathe, relax…
Growing up in the system, Aaron found himself in Tyler’s home after several poor placements. Growing up as brothers and best friends cemented the foundation of their bond that only grew stronger and deeper throughout their adulthood. Now, when Aaron is faced with a forced vacation and his estranged brother’s wedding, Tyler’s the only one that can see him through these two weeks.
I enjoyed the main characters and most of the secondary ones. Someone needed to uninvited Owen for his disrespect. Chemistry was fun, as were all of the aborted opportunities. The dialogue was smart and entertaining, fitting the moods desired. Loved the grandma’s parts. The plot was sweet with enough heat for all readers and it flowed smoothly and easily. Conflicts were extremely minor. Predictability was low. The conclusion was solid enough to imply they got their HEA.
Overall, I really liked it and would not hesitate to recommend it to fellow readers that enjoy #FriendsToLovers #RoadTrip and not-quite #StepBrother (Foster Brothers, close enough, right?) Gay Romances.
.
Rating: [R] ~ Score: 4.225 ~ Stars: 4
==========================
⭐ ⭐ **** Disclosure of Material: I received a copy of this book from the Author/Publisher with the hope that I would voluntarily leave unbiased and unsolicited feedback. I was not asked, encouraged, or required to leave a review - nor was I compensated in any way. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising". ***** ⭐ ⭐
> > Judging a Book by its Cover < <
A nicely-dress man stands in the foreground of a wooded country road. Nothing particularly eye-catching about the cover but I was given the opportunity to promote it and when I read the synopsis, I chose to review it as well.
> > Looking Deeper < <
POV ~> Third person
Although the blurb states that Aaron is burned-out, I’d say that he was more overworked and not taking proper care of himself. His best friend, Tyler, seemed to be the only one that could get Aaron away from his desk to eat, breathe, relax…
Growing up in the system, Aaron found himself in Tyler’s home after several poor placements. Growing up as brothers and best friends cemented the foundation of their bond that only grew stronger and deeper throughout their adulthood. Now, when Aaron is faced with a forced vacation and his estranged brother’s wedding, Tyler’s the only one that can see him through these two weeks.
I enjoyed the main characters and most of the secondary ones. Someone needed to uninvited Owen for his disrespect. Chemistry was fun, as were all of the aborted opportunities. The dialogue was smart and entertaining, fitting the moods desired. Loved the grandma’s parts. The plot was sweet with enough heat for all readers and it flowed smoothly and easily. Conflicts were extremely minor. Predictability was low. The conclusion was solid enough to imply they got their HEA.
Overall, I really liked it and would not hesitate to recommend it to fellow readers that enjoy #FriendsToLovers #RoadTrip and not-quite #StepBrother (Foster Brothers, close enough, right?) Gay Romances.
.
Rating: [R] ~ Score: 4.225 ~ Stars: 4
==========================
⭐ ⭐ **** Disclosure of Material: I received a copy of this book from the Author/Publisher with the hope that I would voluntarily leave unbiased and unsolicited feedback. I was not asked, encouraged, or required to leave a review - nor was I compensated in any way. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising". ***** ⭐ ⭐
October 12, 2018
I was given a copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
This is the hard hitting story of a burned out social worker who is forced to make peace with his own difficult childhood at his brother’s wedding.
I have to admit that this is a romance where I really didn’t connect with either of the partners. There is so much going on in this story that I don’t feel like I ever fully knew Aaron or Tyler. I had a whole lot of empathy for Aaron’s childhood experiences - but I’m not sure he ever came alive as a character I could have emotional connection to. As the story is told from Aaron’s perspective, Tyler remained even more of a mystery. I was also puzzled by the lack of romance in the book. Somehow the book manages to be both a friends to lovers story and an insta love romance. I still feel a little bit short changed on the romance front.
I’m possibly being a little bit too negative. There are some great scenes in the story, especially lighter moments between Aaron and his brother’s family. I loved Aaron’s sister-in-law and the stag night was so awful it was actually funny.
I’m not sure this is a great fit for the Dreamspun Desires books. I expect the DD books to be pretty light and fluffy with lots of nods to classic Harlequin Romance tropes. Instead, this is a book about the aftermath of substance abuse, child abuse and families separated by the care system. The main characters experience pretty vile homophobic abuse. And there is little in the way of romance - traditional or otherwise. This is a low heat read like other DD books but I wouldn’t consider it a light romance.
I’m usually a fan of Cari Z’s work but unfortunately, this book didn’t really work for me.
This is the hard hitting story of a burned out social worker who is forced to make peace with his own difficult childhood at his brother’s wedding.
I have to admit that this is a romance where I really didn’t connect with either of the partners. There is so much going on in this story that I don’t feel like I ever fully knew Aaron or Tyler. I had a whole lot of empathy for Aaron’s childhood experiences - but I’m not sure he ever came alive as a character I could have emotional connection to. As the story is told from Aaron’s perspective, Tyler remained even more of a mystery. I was also puzzled by the lack of romance in the book. Somehow the book manages to be both a friends to lovers story and an insta love romance. I still feel a little bit short changed on the romance front.
I’m possibly being a little bit too negative. There are some great scenes in the story, especially lighter moments between Aaron and his brother’s family. I loved Aaron’s sister-in-law and the stag night was so awful it was actually funny.
I’m not sure this is a great fit for the Dreamspun Desires books. I expect the DD books to be pretty light and fluffy with lots of nods to classic Harlequin Romance tropes. Instead, this is a book about the aftermath of substance abuse, child abuse and families separated by the care system. The main characters experience pretty vile homophobic abuse. And there is little in the way of romance - traditional or otherwise. This is a low heat read like other DD books but I wouldn’t consider it a light romance.
I’m usually a fan of Cari Z’s work but unfortunately, this book didn’t really work for me.
November 14, 2018
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
Told exclusively from Aaron’s point-of-view, this friends-to-lovers story is bittersweet. Aaron’s internalized self-loathing has colored all his relationships. He doesn’t feel good enough to be a true partner to Tyler, and he also feels lacking when it comes to being a support to Zach. For their parts, Zach and Tyler seem more than eager to make Aaron know how much his presence, and affection, are wanted. There’s lots of family drama—Zach’s life hasn’t been exactly perfect—but there’s a lot of healing, too. Zach’s adoptive mother isn’t the shrew Aaron remembered from his short stay with the family. She’s actually very open about how sorry she was for failing Aaron as a foster mother. There are a host of Kansas bros who are Zach’s closest friends, and Aaron definitely isn’t okay with how one of them is constantly, and blatantly, homophobic. That this guy keeps pairing Aaron and Tyler makes Aaron very uncomfortable. He can’t risk Tyler walking away from him if they managed to pair up—because Aaron is unwilling to risk losing the only family who’s given him love he could accept.
Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
Told exclusively from Aaron’s point-of-view, this friends-to-lovers story is bittersweet. Aaron’s internalized self-loathing has colored all his relationships. He doesn’t feel good enough to be a true partner to Tyler, and he also feels lacking when it comes to being a support to Zach. For their parts, Zach and Tyler seem more than eager to make Aaron know how much his presence, and affection, are wanted. There’s lots of family drama—Zach’s life hasn’t been exactly perfect—but there’s a lot of healing, too. Zach’s adoptive mother isn’t the shrew Aaron remembered from his short stay with the family. She’s actually very open about how sorry she was for failing Aaron as a foster mother. There are a host of Kansas bros who are Zach’s closest friends, and Aaron definitely isn’t okay with how one of them is constantly, and blatantly, homophobic. That this guy keeps pairing Aaron and Tyler makes Aaron very uncomfortable. He can’t risk Tyler walking away from him if they managed to pair up—because Aaron is unwilling to risk losing the only family who’s given him love he could accept.
Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.
February 25, 2022
Aaron, the protagonist of this story, is easy to like. He’s dedicated, sincere, kind, and his response to a childhood spent being let down by every adult in his vicinity– birth mother and foster parents alike, is to work as hard as he can to make sure that other children don’t experience what he did. I loved Aaron, and like Tyler, the best friend who’s obviously in love with him, I wanted the best for him. I definitely didn’t think that best was going to be going back to his hometown, Tyler in tow, for the wedding of the baby brother he hadn’t seen since their foster parents decided to keep the baby brother and reject Aaron. Add a homophobic groomsman and an ex-foster-mother looking to be absolved for rejecting him, plus a few other really nasty surprises, and it is, potentially, a huge mess. That this actually ends up being a really sweet story is mostly testament to Aaron and Tyler’s respective awesomeness. They’re there for each other, and watching Aaron decide to take a chance on what he could have with Tyler is a really beautiful moment. There’s a lot of emotion, a lot of baggage acknowledged, if not all dealt with, and eventually, a touch of heat for Aaron and Tyler– all-in-all it’s a rewarding read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 16, 2018
I adored this book! It is a slow burn but it was just so natural to the characters! The entire book was super sweet and heartfelt and even with it being a slow burn, the pacing felt incredibly authentic to who each of the characters were. I loved Aaron and Tyler. Their dynamic was easy from the start and they just understood each other really well. Seeing both of them be so vulnerable with each other was lovely and seeing Aaron and his brother Zach reconnect was lovely as well. Aaron was the more reserved and responsible MC while Tyler was pretty much a happy puppy. They were both very easy to like characters in their own way and both endearing.
Have I mentioned the writing yet?? The writing!! The story just flowed really well. There was the perfect combination of internal dialogue and dialogue and the plot was solid and straightforward. Connecting to this story was easy peasy. The only thing that I did not like is that I NEED more from these guys!! I want more of their story! And I cannot wait to read more from this author in the future!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by Dreamspinner Press for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
Have I mentioned the writing yet?? The writing!! The story just flowed really well. There was the perfect combination of internal dialogue and dialogue and the plot was solid and straightforward. Connecting to this story was easy peasy. The only thing that I did not like is that I NEED more from these guys!! I want more of their story! And I cannot wait to read more from this author in the future!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by Dreamspinner Press for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
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November 14, 20184 Hearts
There are all sorts of romance stories to tell. Some are full of over the top romantic gestures from start to finish, some are the classic formula of meet cute, date, fall in love to HEA and some begin as friends and quietly grow over years of friendship and unrequited feelings until the big talk/reveal. This book falls in the latter and it was like a warm cup of soothing tea on a blustery day for this reader.
I adored this book. I love who Aaron has become as a man. That he took his dark childhood in the foster care system to become a social worker who cares so much about the kids assigned to him than even his own well-being. Aaron knows what’s it’s like to be in their shoes and he always wants to make sure they don’t fall through the cracks on his watch. Aaron is also a bit of a workaholic and without his best friend Tyler making him take a break every now and again, Aaron might as well live at his office. It’s not unnoticed by his boss how hard he works and when she notices Aaron spending weekends at work to get his paper work in early, she imposes a two week vacation on Aaron to get him some much needed down time.
That right there sets this story up because when Aaron goes to Tyler’s house to tell him, Tyler reminds Aaron that it’s perfect timing because Aaron’s younger brother is getting married and Aaron was invited. The only thing is; Aaron and his younger brother Zach haven’t seen each other in years since Zach was adopted and Aaron was left to fight alone. Aaron isn’t sure about seeing Zach after all these years nor seeing Zach’s adopted mom Chrissy who at the time, also had Aaron in the house but chose Zach. It’s a tough trip to make but Tyler convinces Aaron it’s one he would regret missing and so we have a road trip to a wedding to take.
I really liked this story. It was bittersweet in a lot of ways learning about how Aaron grew up and how he finally found a family when he was placed with Tyler’s. It makes sense the boys would grow to be friends and stay that way as adults and the attraction as well as the affection between them was obvious from their first time on page together. The only thing you really have to wait for is who would make the first move from friends to more and when it happens, it was slow and sweet just like everything else in this book.
The wedding and everything leading up was interesting. I can’t say that I understand the placement of Owen and his homophobic ass because I think we could have got Zach being okay with Aaron’s sexuality without Owen doing the crap he did at the bachelor party. I don’t regret a drunk Tyler and his speech to Aaron nor the rehearsal and what happens then either, but Owen could have been left out and this story would have survived.
I love stories like this, the friends to lovers and how well they know one another. They know one another as best friends but that learning how to be lovers is something so romantic and in this, pretty freaking hot. I mean, look at the author and you have to know that even in a Dreamspun book, we’re gonna get some hot Cari Z. sex, and it was delivered. I loved being there for their first moments and that epilogue was everything Aaron and Tyler could be. It was definitely perfect for them.
There are all sorts of romance stories to tell. Some are full of over the top romantic gestures from start to finish, some are the classic formula of meet cute, date, fall in love to HEA and some begin as friends and quietly grow over years of friendship and unrequited feelings until the big talk/reveal. This book falls in the latter and it was like a warm cup of soothing tea on a blustery day for this reader.
I adored this book. I love who Aaron has become as a man. That he took his dark childhood in the foster care system to become a social worker who cares so much about the kids assigned to him than even his own well-being. Aaron knows what’s it’s like to be in their shoes and he always wants to make sure they don’t fall through the cracks on his watch. Aaron is also a bit of a workaholic and without his best friend Tyler making him take a break every now and again, Aaron might as well live at his office. It’s not unnoticed by his boss how hard he works and when she notices Aaron spending weekends at work to get his paper work in early, she imposes a two week vacation on Aaron to get him some much needed down time.
[…] the intense rush of having exactly what he wanted, exactly as he wanted it. God, it was everything and barely anything, just the start, just the beginning….
That right there sets this story up because when Aaron goes to Tyler’s house to tell him, Tyler reminds Aaron that it’s perfect timing because Aaron’s younger brother is getting married and Aaron was invited. The only thing is; Aaron and his younger brother Zach haven’t seen each other in years since Zach was adopted and Aaron was left to fight alone. Aaron isn’t sure about seeing Zach after all these years nor seeing Zach’s adopted mom Chrissy who at the time, also had Aaron in the house but chose Zach. It’s a tough trip to make but Tyler convinces Aaron it’s one he would regret missing and so we have a road trip to a wedding to take.
I really liked this story. It was bittersweet in a lot of ways learning about how Aaron grew up and how he finally found a family when he was placed with Tyler’s. It makes sense the boys would grow to be friends and stay that way as adults and the attraction as well as the affection between them was obvious from their first time on page together. The only thing you really have to wait for is who would make the first move from friends to more and when it happens, it was slow and sweet just like everything else in this book.
The wedding and everything leading up was interesting. I can’t say that I understand the placement of Owen and his homophobic ass because I think we could have got Zach being okay with Aaron’s sexuality without Owen doing the crap he did at the bachelor party. I don’t regret a drunk Tyler and his speech to Aaron nor the rehearsal and what happens then either, but Owen could have been left out and this story would have survived.
I love stories like this, the friends to lovers and how well they know one another. They know one another as best friends but that learning how to be lovers is something so romantic and in this, pretty freaking hot. I mean, look at the author and you have to know that even in a Dreamspun book, we’re gonna get some hot Cari Z. sex, and it was delivered. I loved being there for their first moments and that epilogue was everything Aaron and Tyler could be. It was definitely perfect for them.
February 24, 2019
So Dreamspinner Press we meet again... Another deeply formulaic title from the Dreamspun Desires imprint. So, what can I do to tell you how sub-standard this is? Could I tell you about the underdeveloped characterisation, ploddy plot and lack of any real romantic 'feel' to the main MC and his lover/brother (no really! even though they aren't really bothers, just foster brothers, it is very creepy and oddly icky). So, don't waste your money, spend it on sweets and gym memberships you'll never use.
Remember I've read this, so you don't have too.
Remember I've read this, so you don't have too.
October 24, 2018
3.5-4 stars
Handle with Care was mellower and different from what I typically expect and previously read from this author. While this wasn’t a hard-hitting suspense full of exciting action scenes, it was an enjoyable read with more of a meandering pace that I’d recommend to those readers looking for a sweet friends-to-lovers story.
The friends-to-lovers trope is a favorite of mine because it can deliver all the deep chemistry that comes with knowing a person for a long time. While I definitely got the sense of a strong connection between Aaron and Tyler, I just kept waiting to feel the big spark between the men…it did get there, but it was pretty late in the game. In some ways, I suppose I’d consider Handle with Care a slow-burn romance, but the lack of build-up and tension throughout the novella makes it harder to consider this a successful slow-burner. Although the romance left me a bit wanting, I did enjoy the characters, premise of the story, road trip adventures, and wedding missteps and successes. Fans of this author will also be pleased to know her typical bright banter and writing style definitely came through in Handle with Care. What did surprise me was the fair amount of angst in the story. Though not excessively sad or painful, this definitely wasn’t what I’d consider the typical Dreamspun Desires light and fluffier style. For me, that conflict and depth suited my reading tastes and I liked how the characters developed and resolved their issues in the end. Overall, I found Handle with Care to be a good, quick read with solid characters, even though it missed some of the spark in the romance.
Reviewed by Annie from Alpha Book Club
Handle with Care was mellower and different from what I typically expect and previously read from this author. While this wasn’t a hard-hitting suspense full of exciting action scenes, it was an enjoyable read with more of a meandering pace that I’d recommend to those readers looking for a sweet friends-to-lovers story.
The friends-to-lovers trope is a favorite of mine because it can deliver all the deep chemistry that comes with knowing a person for a long time. While I definitely got the sense of a strong connection between Aaron and Tyler, I just kept waiting to feel the big spark between the men…it did get there, but it was pretty late in the game. In some ways, I suppose I’d consider Handle with Care a slow-burn romance, but the lack of build-up and tension throughout the novella makes it harder to consider this a successful slow-burner. Although the romance left me a bit wanting, I did enjoy the characters, premise of the story, road trip adventures, and wedding missteps and successes. Fans of this author will also be pleased to know her typical bright banter and writing style definitely came through in Handle with Care. What did surprise me was the fair amount of angst in the story. Though not excessively sad or painful, this definitely wasn’t what I’d consider the typical Dreamspun Desires light and fluffier style. For me, that conflict and depth suited my reading tastes and I liked how the characters developed and resolved their issues in the end. Overall, I found Handle with Care to be a good, quick read with solid characters, even though it missed some of the spark in the romance.
Reviewed by Annie from Alpha Book Club
October 20, 2018
4.25 stars
I think Cari Z. is a wonderful storyteller and I love her work. Decorated with a little drama – not over the top, mind you, just a combination of siblings separated due to circumstances and a wedding to attend – as well as ROAD TRIP, Handle with Care is another solid contemporary, friends-to-lovers romance.
Social worker Aaron McCoy is forced to take vacation by his boss who thinks that the way he dedicates himself to the job is no longer healthy. Not knowing what to do for two weeks, Aaron lets his best friend, Tyler, cajole him to attend his younger brother’s wedding, as well as taking a road-trip together.
The thing is, Aaron doesn’t really know how to feel about seeing his brother again after so many years apart – Zach was adopted by his current foster parents while Aaron wasn’t – as well as being together with Tyler in a closed space because, well, he’s been having feelings towards his best friend.
I really, really LOVED the dynamic between Aaron and the family here – as in, his younger brother, the foster parents who adopted Zach but not him, and the sister-in-law to be. I loved how Cari Z. explored Aaron’s turmoil about it – he still feels a bit bitter about not being adopted, but at the same time, Aaron understands why the Ellis family chooses Zach over him. Aaron is a little bit awkward about it, but then his future sister-in-law manages to reel him in, and I LOVED those scenes.
Aaron and Tyler’s relationship from best friends to lovers feels natural… nothing was forced, and I loved how they are complete opposites but perfect for each other. I honestly cannot think of anyone for Aaron other than Tyler, and vice versa. Cari Z. manages to make me root for these boys so hard!!
The only slight complaint I have is between Aaron and his birth mother – it comes as a bit of a surprise. I’m not sure if it was needed. Also with Zach’s obnoxious friend. However, I figure that Cari Z. put those characters to add flair to this novel.
I devoured the majority of Handle with Care on a flight back from Banyuwangi (East Java) to Jakarta (Indonesia’s capital and my hometown) during my last office trip; it was a very good read and definitely helped me pass the almost two-hour journey.
A Guest Review for The Blogger Girls
The ARC is provided by the publisher for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
I think Cari Z. is a wonderful storyteller and I love her work. Decorated with a little drama – not over the top, mind you, just a combination of siblings separated due to circumstances and a wedding to attend – as well as ROAD TRIP, Handle with Care is another solid contemporary, friends-to-lovers romance.
Social worker Aaron McCoy is forced to take vacation by his boss who thinks that the way he dedicates himself to the job is no longer healthy. Not knowing what to do for two weeks, Aaron lets his best friend, Tyler, cajole him to attend his younger brother’s wedding, as well as taking a road-trip together.
The thing is, Aaron doesn’t really know how to feel about seeing his brother again after so many years apart – Zach was adopted by his current foster parents while Aaron wasn’t – as well as being together with Tyler in a closed space because, well, he’s been having feelings towards his best friend.
I really, really LOVED the dynamic between Aaron and the family here – as in, his younger brother, the foster parents who adopted Zach but not him, and the sister-in-law to be. I loved how Cari Z. explored Aaron’s turmoil about it – he still feels a bit bitter about not being adopted, but at the same time, Aaron understands why the Ellis family chooses Zach over him. Aaron is a little bit awkward about it, but then his future sister-in-law manages to reel him in, and I LOVED those scenes.
Aaron and Tyler’s relationship from best friends to lovers feels natural… nothing was forced, and I loved how they are complete opposites but perfect for each other. I honestly cannot think of anyone for Aaron other than Tyler, and vice versa. Cari Z. manages to make me root for these boys so hard!!
The only slight complaint I have is between Aaron and his birth mother – it comes as a bit of a surprise. I’m not sure if it was needed. Also with Zach’s obnoxious friend. However, I figure that Cari Z. put those characters to add flair to this novel.
I devoured the majority of Handle with Care on a flight back from Banyuwangi (East Java) to Jakarta (Indonesia’s capital and my hometown) during my last office trip; it was a very good read and definitely helped me pass the almost two-hour journey.
A Guest Review for The Blogger Girls
The ARC is provided by the publisher for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
October 16, 2018
https://optimumm.blog/2018/10/16/review-handle-with-care-by-cari-z/
Aaron is a social worker who cares for his children. He was one of those children himself, and he understands better than anyone what they need. But Aaron overworked himself too much, never taking a vacation and working all the time, including on a Sunday night. That’s why his boss decided to take matters in her own hands and sent him on two weeks’ forced vacation.
Without anything to do, Aaron and his best friend, Tyler, decided to go to the wedding of Aaron’s little brother, Zack.
Aaron and Tyler have been best friends since high school. Where Aaron is over-dead-serious all the time, Tyler is a child stuck in an adult body.
Handle with Care by Cari.Z was a sweet romance book that I enjoyed to read.
Aaron has been hurt and traumatized by his childhood. A father in jail and a junkie as his mother had put Aaron and his baby brother Zack on the CPS radar. Then, Zack was adopted when Aaron was sent away. After being moved from one foster family to another, Aaron ended up with Tyler’s family and finally found a home. I liked Aaron; even if he’s too serious, I liked him a lot. He wears the stigmata of his rough childhood on him, but he tries to overcome it. I liked his sensitivity and humanity.
Tyler has taken care of Aaron since they were teenagers. He always puts him first, even if he acts like a child most of the time (if not all the time). But when it comes to Aaron, Tyler is an overprotective warrior ready to fight for him. I adore Tyler, he’s immature and super fun, but he’s also very smart, loyal and perceptive. He knows Aaron better than Aaron knows himself and knows how to talk to him, to take care of him.
The book is a journey in Aaron’s life. While he revisites his past with Tyler by his side, Aaron also realizes that he can have the future he wants, with the person he’s wanted for a long time.
The writing and the plot were good. It was a good read, fluid and dynamic, full of humour and feelings, not too deep, but not too superficial either.
If you want to read a sweet, funny romance, Handle with Care will do the job.
***The ARC was provided by Dreamspinner Press. My review is an honest opinion of the book ***
Aaron is a social worker who cares for his children. He was one of those children himself, and he understands better than anyone what they need. But Aaron overworked himself too much, never taking a vacation and working all the time, including on a Sunday night. That’s why his boss decided to take matters in her own hands and sent him on two weeks’ forced vacation.
Without anything to do, Aaron and his best friend, Tyler, decided to go to the wedding of Aaron’s little brother, Zack.
Aaron and Tyler have been best friends since high school. Where Aaron is over-dead-serious all the time, Tyler is a child stuck in an adult body.
Handle with Care by Cari.Z was a sweet romance book that I enjoyed to read.
Aaron has been hurt and traumatized by his childhood. A father in jail and a junkie as his mother had put Aaron and his baby brother Zack on the CPS radar. Then, Zack was adopted when Aaron was sent away. After being moved from one foster family to another, Aaron ended up with Tyler’s family and finally found a home. I liked Aaron; even if he’s too serious, I liked him a lot. He wears the stigmata of his rough childhood on him, but he tries to overcome it. I liked his sensitivity and humanity.
Tyler has taken care of Aaron since they were teenagers. He always puts him first, even if he acts like a child most of the time (if not all the time). But when it comes to Aaron, Tyler is an overprotective warrior ready to fight for him. I adore Tyler, he’s immature and super fun, but he’s also very smart, loyal and perceptive. He knows Aaron better than Aaron knows himself and knows how to talk to him, to take care of him.
The book is a journey in Aaron’s life. While he revisites his past with Tyler by his side, Aaron also realizes that he can have the future he wants, with the person he’s wanted for a long time.
The writing and the plot were good. It was a good read, fluid and dynamic, full of humour and feelings, not too deep, but not too superficial either.
If you want to read a sweet, funny romance, Handle with Care will do the job.
***The ARC was provided by Dreamspinner Press. My review is an honest opinion of the book ***
September 21, 2018
What a great read!!! I sooo enjoyed this book. It is a book abouti g your happy and second chances. Cari Z did a great job on writing this book. It showed so much emotion. It is a very sad tale that ends with a happy ending.
Aaron has a job that he loves. He loves it so much and is so much invested into the job that he is slowly working himself into an early grave. Even his boss has noticed it as well. That is why she is making him take a mandatory vacation. This is not something that Aaron is excited about to say the least. But he has no choice in this.
So what does Aaron do, he calls his best friend Tyler. When Tyler finds out about the mandatory vacation, he decides he needs to join Aaron. And he has the perfect thing for them to do. Tyler convinces Aaron that they need to attend Aaron’s estranged brothers weeding. Zach invited Aaron in hopes of having a relationship with him but never really expected Aaron to come.
There are very few that know why Aaron’s job means so much to him but Tyler is one of them. Tyler also realizes that Aaron is missing a part of himself by not getting in contact with Zach. So with their plans set in stone now, the only thing left to do is actually get Aaron there.
Tyler and Aaron both have secrets from the other one, they both have feelings for one another but have never put it out there for them to realize they both feel the same. Maybe this trip together will leave them both comfortable enough to admit their feeling towards the other. Or maybe this trip will turn out to be a disaster waiting to happen. Only time will tell.
This was a really great read. I loved the emotional aspect of this book. It was an incredible read about overcoming the past hurts and learning to live with the new reality of life. It is about learning to let those in to your life that you did not think you ever would and also about learning to opening yourself up to he possibilities of love. Great read. Look forward to more books by Cari Z in the future.
Was given this galley copy for free for an open and honest review
Aaron has a job that he loves. He loves it so much and is so much invested into the job that he is slowly working himself into an early grave. Even his boss has noticed it as well. That is why she is making him take a mandatory vacation. This is not something that Aaron is excited about to say the least. But he has no choice in this.
So what does Aaron do, he calls his best friend Tyler. When Tyler finds out about the mandatory vacation, he decides he needs to join Aaron. And he has the perfect thing for them to do. Tyler convinces Aaron that they need to attend Aaron’s estranged brothers weeding. Zach invited Aaron in hopes of having a relationship with him but never really expected Aaron to come.
There are very few that know why Aaron’s job means so much to him but Tyler is one of them. Tyler also realizes that Aaron is missing a part of himself by not getting in contact with Zach. So with their plans set in stone now, the only thing left to do is actually get Aaron there.
Tyler and Aaron both have secrets from the other one, they both have feelings for one another but have never put it out there for them to realize they both feel the same. Maybe this trip together will leave them both comfortable enough to admit their feeling towards the other. Or maybe this trip will turn out to be a disaster waiting to happen. Only time will tell.
This was a really great read. I loved the emotional aspect of this book. It was an incredible read about overcoming the past hurts and learning to live with the new reality of life. It is about learning to let those in to your life that you did not think you ever would and also about learning to opening yourself up to he possibilities of love. Great read. Look forward to more books by Cari Z in the future.
Was given this galley copy for free for an open and honest review
November 20, 2018
I do so like the friends to lovers trope, and this book used it quite well here.
Aaron is a social worker, starting to experience burnout, so he's being sent on vacation by his boss. And what better way to spend the vacation by driving to Kansas with his best friend Tyler, to attend the wedding of the little brother (Zach) whom he hasn't seen in over 10 years, because Zach got adopted when Aaron wasn't.
The angst in this book centers primarily around Aaron mending fences with his little brother, letting go of the old resentment that he felt towards Zach and the adoptive mom for not caring enough to see past the rough teenage facade. Aaron also has to learn to let go of the massive self-loathing that has him feeling never good enough to keep anyone - another "gift" of this rough childhood.
The romance is muted as the book focuses on the lead-up to Zach's wedding, with a homophobic Best Man planning the bachelor party (seriously, that guy was a jerk), Aaron coming to terms with Zach's adoptive mom and understanding why she didn't adopt him also, Aaron seeing his birth mother for the first time in a decade - there's a lot going on in this book, and the plot unfolds with pretty good speed.
However, seeing how this is a Dreamspun Desires title, I needed there to be more focus on the romance. I think this book would have worked better for me without the expectations I have of this series, and so I felt let down when the romance didn't take center stage.
The characters were nicely drawn, even if we only see them through Aaron's eyes, as the book is told entirely in his POV.
So this wasn't a complete miss nor was it a homerun. The book kept my interest throughout, so there's that. I think if you go in realizing that the romance is not the focus, you'd enjoy this more.
** I received a free copy of this book from its publisher in exchange for an honest review. **
Aaron is a social worker, starting to experience burnout, so he's being sent on vacation by his boss. And what better way to spend the vacation by driving to Kansas with his best friend Tyler, to attend the wedding of the little brother (Zach) whom he hasn't seen in over 10 years, because Zach got adopted when Aaron wasn't.
The angst in this book centers primarily around Aaron mending fences with his little brother, letting go of the old resentment that he felt towards Zach and the adoptive mom for not caring enough to see past the rough teenage facade. Aaron also has to learn to let go of the massive self-loathing that has him feeling never good enough to keep anyone - another "gift" of this rough childhood.
The romance is muted as the book focuses on the lead-up to Zach's wedding, with a homophobic Best Man planning the bachelor party (seriously, that guy was a jerk), Aaron coming to terms with Zach's adoptive mom and understanding why she didn't adopt him also, Aaron seeing his birth mother for the first time in a decade - there's a lot going on in this book, and the plot unfolds with pretty good speed.
However, seeing how this is a Dreamspun Desires title, I needed there to be more focus on the romance. I think this book would have worked better for me without the expectations I have of this series, and so I felt let down when the romance didn't take center stage.
The characters were nicely drawn, even if we only see them through Aaron's eyes, as the book is told entirely in his POV.
So this wasn't a complete miss nor was it a homerun. The book kept my interest throughout, so there's that. I think if you go in realizing that the romance is not the focus, you'd enjoy this more.
** I received a free copy of this book from its publisher in exchange for an honest review. **
February 28, 2022
Every society has strengths and weaknesses. One weakness of American society is the inability to take care of its most vulnerable citizens, children who are placed in state foster care systems. Cari Z has rather brilliantly taken that issue and used it as a backdrop to an endearing and heartwarming love story between two best friends, Aaron and Tyler.
Aaron was separated from his younger brother as a child when his brother was adopted by a family who could only take one of them. Aaron spent his adolescence and teenage years in foster care and now has a career as a social worker, trying to help children and families. Aaron received an invitation to his younger brother's wedding, whom he has not seen since they were separated 15 years ago. Tyler convinces Aaron to attend the wedding with the hope Aaron could possibly allow some healing to occur. The story begins when the two set off on a road trip to the wedding. This is a story about unconditional love, long-held anger, acceptance, and forgiveness. Although this very real story is heartrending, the sadness is absorbed with lots of warm and fuzzy moments. Several of the characters have such snark that I regularly laughed. There is a surprise or two and most definitely a very heart-fluttering happy-ever-after-end. OH...and there is a dog. You just can't beat that!
Aaron was separated from his younger brother as a child when his brother was adopted by a family who could only take one of them. Aaron spent his adolescence and teenage years in foster care and now has a career as a social worker, trying to help children and families. Aaron received an invitation to his younger brother's wedding, whom he has not seen since they were separated 15 years ago. Tyler convinces Aaron to attend the wedding with the hope Aaron could possibly allow some healing to occur. The story begins when the two set off on a road trip to the wedding. This is a story about unconditional love, long-held anger, acceptance, and forgiveness. Although this very real story is heartrending, the sadness is absorbed with lots of warm and fuzzy moments. Several of the characters have such snark that I regularly laughed. There is a surprise or two and most definitely a very heart-fluttering happy-ever-after-end. OH...and there is a dog. You just can't beat that!
December 17, 2018
My heart broke for how generous Aaron was in the face of his brother's adoptive family. Taking that first step took courage that wasn't appreciated or reciprocated but rewarded him in the end. He and Tyler are beautiful together.
Read
December 21, 2021It’s what I expected and more; it’s funny, touching, heartbreaking, and sweet. I adore Aaron and Tyler and the future they embraced together after aiding to face the past (one that’s not so easy to face, too). Quite an emotional roller-coaster, this. :)
September 23, 2018
This book was lovely to read, you kind of know the overall feel you'll get with a Dreamspun book.
Aaron and and Tyler have been friends for years, ever since Aaron showed up as a teenage foster kid. Now close to burn out at work he's been given time off of work and the two men are going on a trip.
Aaron has done well for himself since being fostered by Tyler's family but it's clear he still has a few unresolved feelings about things, especially that his brother got adopted and not him. The trip the men head off on gives him the chance to deal with things in his head and heart.
Aaron is such a lovely guy! The work he does in Child Protective Services is fantastic but having been in the system means he knows what's at stake. Unfortunately he also feels each case personally causing him to come close to losing himself to the job. Tyler is there for him through everything showing his feelings and sincerity and is always trying to help him relax and take time away from work. Both men are extremely comfortable in their friendship and now and then there is the hint of more but with so much at stake, Aaron is scared to lose his best friend and the family it's given him. The things he went through as a kid are heartbreaking and it's difficult reading how he acted and reacted once in the foster system. His brother settled easily being so much younger but Aaron remembers it all so it's not so easy for him to let go.
The friendship between Aaron and Tyler is huge in this story. Aaron's main support system as well as his friend, brother and confidant. Reading the two together brings a smile when it's easy to tell how much they mean to each other. Cari has conveyed that really well to the readers. She draws you right along with Aaron as he makes the journey back to his hometown and the past he has tried not to revisit for a few years.
We have a few secondary characters arrive through the book as we make our way to Kansas. New friendly faces as well as someone out to cause grief gives the two men cause to come together even more. There are some lighthearted moments for the men along with some tougher moments for Aaron when it comes to his past.
Any fan of Dreamspun Desire books will enjoy this outing and I'd recommend to contemporary romance readers also.
I received an ARC from the publisher and am happily giving a review.
Aaron and and Tyler have been friends for years, ever since Aaron showed up as a teenage foster kid. Now close to burn out at work he's been given time off of work and the two men are going on a trip.
Aaron has done well for himself since being fostered by Tyler's family but it's clear he still has a few unresolved feelings about things, especially that his brother got adopted and not him. The trip the men head off on gives him the chance to deal with things in his head and heart.
Aaron is such a lovely guy! The work he does in Child Protective Services is fantastic but having been in the system means he knows what's at stake. Unfortunately he also feels each case personally causing him to come close to losing himself to the job. Tyler is there for him through everything showing his feelings and sincerity and is always trying to help him relax and take time away from work. Both men are extremely comfortable in their friendship and now and then there is the hint of more but with so much at stake, Aaron is scared to lose his best friend and the family it's given him. The things he went through as a kid are heartbreaking and it's difficult reading how he acted and reacted once in the foster system. His brother settled easily being so much younger but Aaron remembers it all so it's not so easy for him to let go.
The friendship between Aaron and Tyler is huge in this story. Aaron's main support system as well as his friend, brother and confidant. Reading the two together brings a smile when it's easy to tell how much they mean to each other. Cari has conveyed that really well to the readers. She draws you right along with Aaron as he makes the journey back to his hometown and the past he has tried not to revisit for a few years.
We have a few secondary characters arrive through the book as we make our way to Kansas. New friendly faces as well as someone out to cause grief gives the two men cause to come together even more. There are some lighthearted moments for the men along with some tougher moments for Aaron when it comes to his past.
Any fan of Dreamspun Desire books will enjoy this outing and I'd recommend to contemporary romance readers also.
I received an ARC from the publisher and am happily giving a review.
October 9, 2019
I enjoyed this sweet, low angst friends to lovers story.
3.5 stars
3.5 stars
April 21, 2019
Handle with Care (audio) by Cari Z and John Solo (Narrator)
Reviews by Shee Reader for Boy Meets Boy Reviews
Find us on the web at www.boymeetsboyreviews.com
Rating 4 Hearts
A fragile heart needs extra care.
Burned-out social worker Aaron McCoy is on vacation for the first time in years - boss' orders. Road-tripping to his brother's wedding with his best friend, Tyler, seems a fun way to spend the mandatory two-week leave, and they set out for Kansas - and a difficult homecoming.
Aaron's mother was a drug addict, and his adorable younger brother was quickly adopted, while Aaron spent his childhood in foster care. As Aaron mends fences, Tyler hopes to show him that this time, he won't be left behind to face his problems alone.
Aaron's opening up to how right it feels to be with Tyler and to the possibility of taking the leap from friends to lovers. But along with the wedding celebration comes a painful reminder of the past. Aaron's heart is still breakable. Can he put it in Tyler's hands?
Aaron gives his all for the kids in his caseload, to the exclusion of all else, even self care. Aaron is hanging by a thread when his boss sets him on enforced leave. Tyler is his best friend and a member of the last foster family Aaron was placed with so there could have been a weird brother vibe too. I did feel the author skimmed over this thread, and could have done more to illustrate that the age gap meant there was very little ‘brother’ identity in the relationship.
Tyler is Aaron’s safe place, so he’s avoided facing his feelings for Aaron. I do love a good friends-to-lovers trope and this one was beautifully done.
Aaron doesn’t trust easily and Tyler is so respectful of that, without letting Aaron get so wound up in his head that he can’t see that Tyler is moving even closer.
I was delighted when they guys got to the place they were staying for the wedding and did the old “oh oh, there’s only one bed, whatever shall we do??” That made me laugh!
The awful Batchelor party was a classic as was the clack eye on the photos and an outraged bride!
The story was a nice slow burn with a beautiful HEA epilogue and the narration was perfect throughout. I loved how John gave Tyler’s drawl and extra flex when he was trying to seduce Aaron!
Recommended!
I was given a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Reviews by Shee Reader for Boy Meets Boy Reviews
Find us on the web at www.boymeetsboyreviews.com
Rating 4 Hearts
A fragile heart needs extra care.
Burned-out social worker Aaron McCoy is on vacation for the first time in years - boss' orders. Road-tripping to his brother's wedding with his best friend, Tyler, seems a fun way to spend the mandatory two-week leave, and they set out for Kansas - and a difficult homecoming.
Aaron's mother was a drug addict, and his adorable younger brother was quickly adopted, while Aaron spent his childhood in foster care. As Aaron mends fences, Tyler hopes to show him that this time, he won't be left behind to face his problems alone.
Aaron's opening up to how right it feels to be with Tyler and to the possibility of taking the leap from friends to lovers. But along with the wedding celebration comes a painful reminder of the past. Aaron's heart is still breakable. Can he put it in Tyler's hands?
Aaron gives his all for the kids in his caseload, to the exclusion of all else, even self care. Aaron is hanging by a thread when his boss sets him on enforced leave. Tyler is his best friend and a member of the last foster family Aaron was placed with so there could have been a weird brother vibe too. I did feel the author skimmed over this thread, and could have done more to illustrate that the age gap meant there was very little ‘brother’ identity in the relationship.
Tyler is Aaron’s safe place, so he’s avoided facing his feelings for Aaron. I do love a good friends-to-lovers trope and this one was beautifully done.
Aaron doesn’t trust easily and Tyler is so respectful of that, without letting Aaron get so wound up in his head that he can’t see that Tyler is moving even closer.
I was delighted when they guys got to the place they were staying for the wedding and did the old “oh oh, there’s only one bed, whatever shall we do??” That made me laugh!
The awful Batchelor party was a classic as was the clack eye on the photos and an outraged bride!
The story was a nice slow burn with a beautiful HEA epilogue and the narration was perfect throughout. I loved how John gave Tyler’s drawl and extra flex when he was trying to seduce Aaron!
Recommended!
I was given a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
October 16, 2018
Handle With Care is the story of Aaron and Tyler who became best friends as teens and have always been in love with the other, but never let them know either from fear of messing up the friendship or that the feelings were unrequited. Aaron is a workaholic social worker with a troubled childhood that is forced to take a 2-week vacation that conveniently coincides with the timing of his long-lost brother’s wedding. Tyler convinces Aaron to go on a road trip with him to attend the wedding.
This is a fast-paced read and a bit predictable. You could see these two getting together from a mile away straight from the beginning. The only thing, it was 70% into the book before the feelings reveal. Up to then, the book was all family dynamics, friendship dynamics and dealing with homophobic bro-dudes in Kansas. And while these topics have the potential to be captivating, heart-wrenching, and poignant, this book disappoints in that all of these types of interactions are generally swept under the rug. There is no real delving into the dynamics at the core of the novel, which is unfortunate because it could have been touching. I mean the author left on the table several plot points like:
1 - Aaron hasn’t seen his little brother Zach since he was adopted 15 years prior… But yet, he attends Zach’s wedding, is all-in, and there is no dealing with or processing of the emotions the two should’ve had around abandonment, life choices, etc.
2 - Aaron and Zach’s long-lost mother appears at the wedding and it was like a blip. This woman was drug-addicted and Aaron hadn’t seen her in decades. Again, there was no dealing with the realistic emotions that should’ve evoked.
3 - Aaron goes to stay in Zach’s adopted mom’s home who turned Aaron away decades before…
And even after the feelings reveal, the only difference was an addition of a couple of sexy times (that were a bit formulaic at best). There was literally no romance in this book.
In summary, this is a light-weight, uncomplicated read with no emotional depth which makes it hard to connect with the characters.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by Dreamspinner Press for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
This is a fast-paced read and a bit predictable. You could see these two getting together from a mile away straight from the beginning. The only thing, it was 70% into the book before the feelings reveal. Up to then, the book was all family dynamics, friendship dynamics and dealing with homophobic bro-dudes in Kansas. And while these topics have the potential to be captivating, heart-wrenching, and poignant, this book disappoints in that all of these types of interactions are generally swept under the rug. There is no real delving into the dynamics at the core of the novel, which is unfortunate because it could have been touching. I mean the author left on the table several plot points like:
1 - Aaron hasn’t seen his little brother Zach since he was adopted 15 years prior… But yet, he attends Zach’s wedding, is all-in, and there is no dealing with or processing of the emotions the two should’ve had around abandonment, life choices, etc.
2 - Aaron and Zach’s long-lost mother appears at the wedding and it was like a blip. This woman was drug-addicted and Aaron hadn’t seen her in decades. Again, there was no dealing with the realistic emotions that should’ve evoked.
3 - Aaron goes to stay in Zach’s adopted mom’s home who turned Aaron away decades before…
And even after the feelings reveal, the only difference was an addition of a couple of sexy times (that were a bit formulaic at best). There was literally no romance in this book.
In summary, this is a light-weight, uncomplicated read with no emotional depth which makes it hard to connect with the characters.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by Dreamspinner Press for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
February 26, 2022
A good back story but not a great present/future story
I couldn't quite decide how I felt about this so I'm going to say it was okay but could have been so much better.
I don't mind books written from only one point of view if there is a valid reason for only giving one person's side of the story. Sometimes it makes more sense because the other person needs to remain more of a mystery for the story to work better. I felt that this book would definitely benefit from hearing Tyler's thoughts and feelings, even if it was only an odd chapter or two.
Aaron had a lot to say to us because he had a lot of hurt in his past. He had no real friends or family in his present apart from his best friend Tyler, and Tyler's family who had moved away. He was buttoned-up, and understandably obsessed with his work at Child Protection Services. It became obvious that he and Tyler had feelings for each other but these were so deeply hidden neither was aware of the other's true feelings.
Tyler was very outgoing and bouncy like a puppy, and I loved how he tried to look after Aaron, even though Aaron was reluctant to accept his help in case Tyler got fed up with him. I think Tyler understood his deep-rooted issues but Aaron wouldn't open up to him as much as he should have.
It just didn't feel like a connected story and I can't explain why. It almost felt like a child writing a story - Monday we went here, Tuesday we did this, Wednesday Tyler said that.... It wasn't quite that bad but you get my drift. Clunky, somehow.
The actual getting together happened very quickly and without much fanfare, then it ended with a quick epilogue. There was a bit of kissing, a bit of sex (which wasn't a problem) but the whole thing took so long to get there and was then very rushed. I felt a bit cheated, honestly, and I've rounded it up to three stars generously.
I couldn't quite decide how I felt about this so I'm going to say it was okay but could have been so much better.
I don't mind books written from only one point of view if there is a valid reason for only giving one person's side of the story. Sometimes it makes more sense because the other person needs to remain more of a mystery for the story to work better. I felt that this book would definitely benefit from hearing Tyler's thoughts and feelings, even if it was only an odd chapter or two.
Aaron had a lot to say to us because he had a lot of hurt in his past. He had no real friends or family in his present apart from his best friend Tyler, and Tyler's family who had moved away. He was buttoned-up, and understandably obsessed with his work at Child Protection Services. It became obvious that he and Tyler had feelings for each other but these were so deeply hidden neither was aware of the other's true feelings.
Tyler was very outgoing and bouncy like a puppy, and I loved how he tried to look after Aaron, even though Aaron was reluctant to accept his help in case Tyler got fed up with him. I think Tyler understood his deep-rooted issues but Aaron wouldn't open up to him as much as he should have.
It just didn't feel like a connected story and I can't explain why. It almost felt like a child writing a story - Monday we went here, Tuesday we did this, Wednesday Tyler said that.... It wasn't quite that bad but you get my drift. Clunky, somehow.
The actual getting together happened very quickly and without much fanfare, then it ended with a quick epilogue. There was a bit of kissing, a bit of sex (which wasn't a problem) but the whole thing took so long to get there and was then very rushed. I felt a bit cheated, honestly, and I've rounded it up to three stars generously.
October 16, 2018
3 stars
Handle with Care is a stand-alone book by Cari Z. Aaron McCoy is a social worker who is forced on vacation by his boss. He and his best friend Tyler, decide to road trip to his younger brother's wedding. What starts out as friendship tentatively ends up as more. Can Aaron handle it?
Aaron is a very good character. His mother was a drug addict and when he was young his younger brother and himself were placed in foster care. While his brother was quickly adopted, Aaron himself drifted through homes until he is placed with his current best friend's family and he stays there until he ages out of the system. Tyler lives with Aaron and works from home. While Aaron is a workaholic, Tyler is much more laid back and doesn't have much of a filter.
I really liked the subject manner. I have never read a book with a similar storyline which in itself is pretty unique. Aaron who was in the system for most of his life decides to pay it forward and become a social worker to help children like he was. While his younger brother was adopted fast and he was rejected by the same family he hardened up and was shuffled around until he, of course, ended up with Tyler's family. He had little contact with his brother throughout his life and meeting him after all this time was very awkward but you would imagine a situation like that would be. Add in their birth mother showing up, a homophobic friend and a strip club and this book was rather entertaining.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by Dreamspinner Press for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
Handle with Care is a stand-alone book by Cari Z. Aaron McCoy is a social worker who is forced on vacation by his boss. He and his best friend Tyler, decide to road trip to his younger brother's wedding. What starts out as friendship tentatively ends up as more. Can Aaron handle it?
Aaron is a very good character. His mother was a drug addict and when he was young his younger brother and himself were placed in foster care. While his brother was quickly adopted, Aaron himself drifted through homes until he is placed with his current best friend's family and he stays there until he ages out of the system. Tyler lives with Aaron and works from home. While Aaron is a workaholic, Tyler is much more laid back and doesn't have much of a filter.
I really liked the subject manner. I have never read a book with a similar storyline which in itself is pretty unique. Aaron who was in the system for most of his life decides to pay it forward and become a social worker to help children like he was. While his younger brother was adopted fast and he was rejected by the same family he hardened up and was shuffled around until he, of course, ended up with Tyler's family. He had little contact with his brother throughout his life and meeting him after all this time was very awkward but you would imagine a situation like that would be. Add in their birth mother showing up, a homophobic friend and a strip club and this book was rather entertaining.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by Dreamspinner Press for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
January 27, 2021
This is a nice romance, easy to read and with characters that are attractive, But... there is not a big building to their relationship, we don't see them falling in love. In fact, .
And, listen, I know that we're supposed to let glide the homophobic friend of Aaron's brother, but seriously? If you are friends with a homophobic asshole, you ARE a homophobic asshole. That totally ruined Zach for me. Add to that that .
I also enjoyed that Aaron finally gets that part of the reason for being left behind when Zach was adopted was that he wasn't ready to let go of his anger and accept help.
I think the main problem I had with this book was that the only character that felt complete to me was Aaron, the rest of them just there to move the story along.
Nevertheless, it's entertaining enough.
And, listen, I know that we're supposed to let glide the homophobic friend of Aaron's brother, but seriously? If you are friends with a homophobic asshole, you ARE a homophobic asshole. That totally ruined Zach for me. Add to that that .
I also enjoyed that Aaron finally gets that part of the reason for being left behind when Zach was adopted was that he wasn't ready to let go of his anger and accept help.
I think the main problem I had with this book was that the only character that felt complete to me was Aaron, the rest of them just there to move the story along.
Nevertheless, it's entertaining enough.
May 2, 2025
Sweet, breezy, emotional with a snarky dash of humor. Aaron is a case worker in a children's services organization. He works hard for his clients, to the point of being a workaholic. His boss stages an intervention and forces him to take a 2 week vacation. But what is Aaron going to do - stare at the four walls of his apartment?? No! His best buddy, Tyler, remembers that Aaron has been invited to his brother's wedding. The brother he hasn't seen in 15 years - since the brother was adopted but be wasn't so stayed in foster care. Lots of feelings there. So Tyler convinces Aaron to go on a road trip to the wedding. Tyler is such a great guy. You know there are feelings simmering beneath the surface between these two guys but Aaron, especially, doesn't want to mess up the friendship. Lots of great dialogue, loved the dynamics between Aaron and Zach's family. Those scenes with Owen and the other bachelor party guys was hysterical. I so enjoy Cari Z's writing. She easily moves from action packed to schmoopy romance to mystery. And her writing is so readable. Dealing with the craziness of the world these days is hard but this book made me smile goofily when I finished. A definite 5 star!
February 28, 2022
Sometimes reconciliation is needed to move on. Aaron and Tyler are friends. Aaron is a bit of a workaholic, and Tyler is always trying to get him to go out and have a social life. Aaron is a child protective services worker, leveraging his life into helping other children work with the system. When he was younger, his younger brother, Zach was adopted out while he was put in the system. He landed with Tyler and his family. They became inseperable over the years. Zach invites Aaron to his wedding and Tyler accompanies him. Will Tyler ever admit how he feels? Will Aaron ever explore how he feels? Can Zach and Aaron talk after all this time? The story doesn't go deeply into the relationships. Nice story nicely done. I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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