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Hard Hats #2
Hook, Line, & Sinker
When they were teens, Castor McCormick was the bane of Blake Kowalski’s existence. Their mutual animosity led to summers filled with rivalry. Now, nearly two decades later, Cas is moving back into the neighborhood to live in his grandmother’s old house. Blake tells himself he isn’t interested in seeing how snarky little Cas grew up, but when his mother dupes him into visiting his former nemesis, he finds out "pretty" can evolve into "sexy as hell" on the right man.
Cas didn’t think he wanted to see Blake again. No one has ever pushed his buttons like the arrogant boy he remembers from their youth. Turns out, the adult version of Blake still gets him hot under the collar—and everywhere else. With Blake on leave from work to nurse an injured leg and Cas taking time to move and unpack, they form a tentative friendship that turns into a sexual affair neither man can deny. But when Cas’s job sends him out of state to deal with a difficult client, their new relationship will be tested, and if they fail, Blake’s broken leg might not be the only thing to end up scarred.
Cas didn’t think he wanted to see Blake again. No one has ever pushed his buttons like the arrogant boy he remembers from their youth. Turns out, the adult version of Blake still gets him hot under the collar—and everywhere else. With Blake on leave from work to nurse an injured leg and Cas taking time to move and unpack, they form a tentative friendship that turns into a sexual affair neither man can deny. But when Cas’s job sends him out of state to deal with a difficult client, their new relationship will be tested, and if they fail, Blake’s broken leg might not be the only thing to end up scarred.
141 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 19, 2014
14 people are currently reading
604 people want to read
About the author
Piper Vaughn
47 books1,153 followersPiper Vaughn is a romance author and lifelong fan of the genre. Since writing their first love story at age eleven, they’ve known writing in some form was exactly what they wanted to do. A reader to the core, Piper loves nothing more than getting lost in a great book.
Piper is of Puerto Rican descent and grew up in a diverse neighborhood in Chicago. They love putting faces and characters of every ethnicity in their stories, making their fictional worlds as colorful as the real one. Above all, Piper believes there’s no one way to have an HEA, and every person deserves to see themselves reflected on the page.
Sign up for Piper's newsletter: https://www.pipervaughn.com/newsletter
Piper is of Puerto Rican descent and grew up in a diverse neighborhood in Chicago. They love putting faces and characters of every ethnicity in their stories, making their fictional worlds as colorful as the real one. Above all, Piper believes there’s no one way to have an HEA, and every person deserves to see themselves reflected on the page.
Sign up for Piper's newsletter: https://www.pipervaughn.com/newsletter
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 178 reviews
January 30, 2015
4.5 stars
The cover sets up an expectation of hawtness. And I'm happy to report that the book delivers. The steam factor is SCORCHING. There's lots of explosive, lightly kinky fun to be had, oh HELL YES.
Blake and Cas were frenemies when they were teens. Blake was cocky, and Cas pushed all his buttons. Almost 20 years later, they become unexpected neighbors and form an uneasy friendship tinged with lust that erupts into unbridled passion.
Blake is toppy, possessive, and growly. Cas is smart and sassy, with a submissive streak.
Their passion becomes something more, much more...until Cas has to leave town for work, and the long separation threatens to destroy their connection.
I loved the alternating POVs here and how the relationship progressed naturally. Blake has a broken leg at the beginning of the story, so it wasn't all smooth sailing.
The guys joke around and hang together. They go to ball games, dinner, and camping. They meet each other's friends. It's not just fucking, although there's plenty of that, don't you worry.
We briefly get to see Aaron and Malachai (from Wood, Screws, & Nails) again, which made my heart feel all squishy.
I absolutely loved Blake's mom (BONUS: Blake's heritage is Polish, and Polish food was featured!), who knew just how to work Blake so he'd toss the stubbornness and go after what he wanted.
The writing was fabulous and flowed effortlessly. I was totally caught up in Blake and Cas's relationship.
However, I ended up liking Blake more than Cas in this story. Blake took all the blame for being jealous, when Cas's behavior at the club was not entirely appropriate. I wanted to kick Cas's arse when he gave poor Blake the silent treatment, even after Blake apologized immediately and repeatedly.
I grudgingly forgave Cas, but I ADORED Blake. The ending went a long way toward soothing my Cas-induced irritation.
What a SWEET and HAPPY ending it was!
I can't wait to read Gavin and Riley's story; I HOPE it's up next!
The cover sets up an expectation of hawtness. And I'm happy to report that the book delivers. The steam factor is SCORCHING. There's lots of explosive, lightly kinky fun to be had, oh HELL YES.
Blake and Cas were frenemies when they were teens. Blake was cocky, and Cas pushed all his buttons. Almost 20 years later, they become unexpected neighbors and form an uneasy friendship tinged with lust that erupts into unbridled passion.
Blake is toppy, possessive, and growly. Cas is smart and sassy, with a submissive streak.
Their passion becomes something more, much more...until Cas has to leave town for work, and the long separation threatens to destroy their connection.
I loved the alternating POVs here and how the relationship progressed naturally. Blake has a broken leg at the beginning of the story, so it wasn't all smooth sailing.
The guys joke around and hang together. They go to ball games, dinner, and camping. They meet each other's friends. It's not just fucking, although there's plenty of that, don't you worry.
We briefly get to see Aaron and Malachai (from Wood, Screws, & Nails) again, which made my heart feel all squishy.
I absolutely loved Blake's mom (BONUS: Blake's heritage is Polish, and Polish food was featured!), who knew just how to work Blake so he'd toss the stubbornness and go after what he wanted.
The writing was fabulous and flowed effortlessly. I was totally caught up in Blake and Cas's relationship.
However, I ended up liking Blake more than Cas in this story. Blake took all the blame for being jealous, when Cas's behavior at the club was not entirely appropriate. I wanted to kick Cas's arse when he gave poor Blake the silent treatment, even after Blake apologized immediately and repeatedly.
I grudgingly forgave Cas, but I ADORED Blake. The ending went a long way toward soothing my Cas-induced irritation.
What a SWEET and HAPPY ending it was!
I can't wait to read Gavin and Riley's story; I HOPE it's up next!
November 23, 2014
4.5--Almost Perfect--Stars!!
I love this series!
Did I remember Blake from the first book?
Blake and Castor were childhood friends/enemies! When Blake breaks his leg and is forced to recuperate at his mom's, he reunites with Cas.
Cas has spent the last 10 years traveling for work. He's ready to settle down and never expects his childhood nemesis to be the man to fill the spot.
This one was virtually drama free...
Just a tiny bit of drama in the end....it kind of irked me that most of the blame fell to Blake. When IMO, Cas was a bit in the wrong too. I mean come on
But in the end I didn't bother me too much! The chemistry between Blake and Cas was explosive and the sex was off the charts hot!
Hope we get Riley and Gavin's book next!!
I love this series!
Did I remember Blake from the first book?
Blake and Castor were childhood friends/enemies! When Blake breaks his leg and is forced to recuperate at his mom's, he reunites with Cas.
Cas has spent the last 10 years traveling for work. He's ready to settle down and never expects his childhood nemesis to be the man to fill the spot.
This one was virtually drama free...
Just a tiny bit of drama in the end....it kind of irked me that most of the blame fell to Blake. When IMO, Cas was a bit in the wrong too. I mean come on
But in the end I didn't bother me too much! The chemistry between Blake and Cas was explosive and the sex was off the charts hot!
Hope we get Riley and Gavin's book next!!
December 6, 2014
“Hook, Line and Sinker” is book 2 by Piper Vaughn in “Hard Hats” Series and it’s a frenemies to lovers story.
Blake Kowalski is a contractor, but he can’t work anymore since recently he suffered an injury on one of his legs. He moves back with his mother to recuperate, since he can’t navigate the narrow stairs to his fourth-floor apartment on crutches. Blake remembers very well “the little shit” who use to live across the street, Castor McCormick. When he finds out that Castor moved back in the neighborhood in his grandmother’s house he is more than curious about his “childhood enemy”.
A Senior Functional Consultant, Castor traveled a lot with his job, staying in different hotels all the time. He is tired of traveling and not having a home or a lover. He’s looking to settle down, so is more than happy to move back in the neighborhood, especially now since he accepted a new job in Chicago.
Everything is about to change when two smart women conspire to get the two men together. Blake and Castor become friends, forgetting all the animosity who existed when they were kids and soon they start a relationship. What none of them expected is to fall fast and hard for each other, but once again their relationship is threatened when Castor has to leave for his job and to move in another state.
I really liked this one. I liked a lot both men and I loved them together. Both of them are well developed and I enjoyed how their relationship progressed, naturally. I liked the possessive, dominant and jealous Blake. I think this was my first m/m with a D/s relationship, but the BDSM aspect is not heavy, which I liked, since I’m not a fan of BDSM.
Their banter is fantastic and I enjoyed the sweet or the intense moments between them. The chemistry between the two men is off the charts and the sex hot as hell. Btw, there are many of them, but of course I can’t complain. I liked the fact that we have both men’s POV. I enjoyed knowing what both of them thought in some moments and what they felt for the other or their relationship.
I also liked the secondary characters, especially Blake’s mother, Karina.
What I didn’t like was Castor at some point. If you read the book, I’m pretty sure you will figure out when. Also, I felt the ending was a little rushed.
Overall, a very nice story!
November 15, 2014
Well, well, well...where to begin with this hot little number- cause this will be you during the reading of this book:
Anyhoo, this is an enemies to lovers story. Growing up Blake and Cas were complete sh*ts to each other- they way teenage boys can be. After the meddling of a couple family members the two reunite and the story takes off from there.
Boy, did I love this book. This was the perfect mixture of feel good without being sappy. Of course we had some angst and the sex was dirty. Freakin' loved it! {hehehe} The phone sex:
I loved the chemistry between the two men. They just fit so well together. I think Piper Vaughn did an excellent job with this pairing. The way their relationship progressed was very natural and flowed well. I appreciated that the story was told from a dual POV giving us an insight on how each felt. My only complaint would be there was no epilogue. I am a big fan of them. As dorky as it sounds, when I read a book I grow to love the characters I'm reading about and I like to know they're happy down the road.
This was a solid 4.5 Star read rounded up. This is a story I most definitely recommend.
**ARC kindly provided by the author for an honest review**
June 19, 2016
Review written June 19, 2016
3 1/2 Stars - Pretty sweet with hørny (handy) men. It took me nearly a year but I did it, smiled and enjoyed at last.
I gave this M/M another chance after abandoning the $1 ebook last summer. It wasn't a bad start, I guess I just didn't give it enough time. Back again, this time with the 4:30 hours short novel audiobook narrated by Jack Fleming.
I enjoyed the first (standalone) Wood, Screws, & Nails (3 stars) in this cozy hot handymen series as an audiobook some months ago.
...Four and a half hour later (a lot of laundry done) and I liked this second Hook, Line and Sinker even more.
*********************************************
Castor McCormick and Blake Kowalski were not best buddy friends when they spend summers with grandparents in Villa Park (near Chicago) as teenagers. Many years later and they are both back. Time for a "enemies to lovers" tale...or?
A bit predictable, and maybe a tiny bit to many thoughts about bedroom stuff, but all in all a very nice story. Emotions, lovely characters and hot tumbling between the sheets. Perfect when you need a quickly done in between read. Very well narrated as well. — Piper Vaughn knows how to deliver cozy goodfeelings M/M.
*********************************************
I LIKE - steamy man-love
3 1/2 Stars - Pretty sweet with hørny (handy) men. It took me nearly a year but I did it, smiled and enjoyed at last.
I gave this M/M another chance after abandoning the $1 ebook last summer. It wasn't a bad start, I guess I just didn't give it enough time. Back again, this time with the 4:30 hours short novel audiobook narrated by Jack Fleming.
I enjoyed the first (standalone) Wood, Screws, & Nails (3 stars) in this cozy hot handymen series as an audiobook some months ago.
...Four and a half hour later (a lot of laundry done) and I liked this second Hook, Line and Sinker even more.
*********************************************
Castor McCormick and Blake Kowalski were not best buddy friends when they spend summers with grandparents in Villa Park (near Chicago) as teenagers. Many years later and they are both back. Time for a "enemies to lovers" tale...or?
Wikipedia — “The Hook, Line and Sinker .... the phrase 'to swallow something "hook, line and sinker" ' is an idiomatic expression to describe a situation where a person or group accepts wholesale and uncritically an idea or set of beliefs.”
A bit predictable, and maybe a tiny bit to many thoughts about bedroom stuff, but all in all a very nice story. Emotions, lovely characters and hot tumbling between the sheets. Perfect when you need a quickly done in between read. Very well narrated as well. — Piper Vaughn knows how to deliver cozy goodfeelings M/M.
*********************************************
I LIKE - steamy man-love
December 5, 2014
I can't really think of anything I didn't freaking love about this book. I want to read it again right now. Review after I get home from work. One thing though. It's book two in a series but I think you'd be fine to read it without having read the first and not miss anything.
My review! A bit late. :D
What a fantastic read.
Castor McCormick and Blake Kowalski weren’t childhood enemies but there was an antagonism there as they were forced by circumstance to hang out during their summer holidays. Nemesis would be the best word for it and the dynamic between them is absolutely delicious.
There’s an edge to their interactions but the men have definitely mellowed after twenty years and they both acknowledged that a lot of their issues when they were younger had to do with lusting for each other and not knowing how to deal with those feelings. I really enjoyed that. I liked that they were willing to look beyond their history and come right out and own up to their faults and move beyond it. They both recognize that there’s a possibility that what they have can go beyond the fabulous, kinky sex into a stable, long term relationship.
The chemistry between these two men is off the charts. The sex is amazing but they have more going for them than just that and seeing them open their lives to each other was, for me, one of the best parts of the read. There are wonderful secondary characters here as well, most specifically, Cas’ best friend, Gavin. One moment that I adored was the restaurant scene between the two of them when Cas reassures him that Blake isn’t like Gavin’s childhood tormentors. It’s a loving friendship moment between the two men that was really emotional. I can’t wait for Gavin’s story to be told.
Despite my intense love for this story I can definitely see the moments where the men are still learning about each other and making mistakes due to poor communication. Blake does something stupid near the end of the read and Cas responds with something equally stupid. They work it out but I’m glad that each them apologize for their actions. I can forgive their actions because they are in such a new relationship. It’s a learning curve and they’re learning so I can’t fault that. I loved these men and this read was stellar from start to finish. This is book two in a series but in my opinion you can jump right into this one without having read the first.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
My review! A bit late. :D
What a fantastic read.
Castor McCormick and Blake Kowalski weren’t childhood enemies but there was an antagonism there as they were forced by circumstance to hang out during their summer holidays. Nemesis would be the best word for it and the dynamic between them is absolutely delicious.
There’s an edge to their interactions but the men have definitely mellowed after twenty years and they both acknowledged that a lot of their issues when they were younger had to do with lusting for each other and not knowing how to deal with those feelings. I really enjoyed that. I liked that they were willing to look beyond their history and come right out and own up to their faults and move beyond it. They both recognize that there’s a possibility that what they have can go beyond the fabulous, kinky sex into a stable, long term relationship.
The chemistry between these two men is off the charts. The sex is amazing but they have more going for them than just that and seeing them open their lives to each other was, for me, one of the best parts of the read. There are wonderful secondary characters here as well, most specifically, Cas’ best friend, Gavin. One moment that I adored was the restaurant scene between the two of them when Cas reassures him that Blake isn’t like Gavin’s childhood tormentors. It’s a loving friendship moment between the two men that was really emotional. I can’t wait for Gavin’s story to be told.
Despite my intense love for this story I can definitely see the moments where the men are still learning about each other and making mistakes due to poor communication. Blake does something stupid near the end of the read and Cas responds with something equally stupid. They work it out but I’m glad that each them apologize for their actions. I can forgive their actions because they are in such a new relationship. It’s a learning curve and they’re learning so I can’t fault that. I loved these men and this read was stellar from start to finish. This is book two in a series but in my opinion you can jump right into this one without having read the first.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
January 2, 2023
I loved this book!
Honestly, this series just gets better and better. I loved the entire cast of characters, the set up, the humour, and the heart. Oh! And just as an FYI: Vaughn's solo effort has definitely delivered on the sexy promises of the co-written Wood, Screws, & Nails. Two words: Cum kink. RAWR!
The one complaint I do have about this book is that Piper did a disservice to humanity when they cropped that cover image just an inch or two too high. Seriously.
Honestly, this series just gets better and better. I loved the entire cast of characters, the set up, the humour, and the heart. Oh! And just as an FYI: Vaughn's solo effort has definitely delivered on the sexy promises of the co-written Wood, Screws, & Nails. Two words: Cum kink. RAWR!
The one complaint I do have about this book is that Piper did a disservice to humanity when they cropped that cover image just an inch or two too high. Seriously.
November 4, 2017
⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱*Disappointed*⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱
It could've been better, but overall it wasn't all that bad. However, I wanted something else to happen, I was disappointed in the chapter before the last. Castor ‘Cas’ McCormick (36) and Blake ‘Blejkuś’ Kowalski (37) were alright characters, but Cas let me down in the end with . Not sure if I want to read more of this series... Also, I didn't feel the enemies to lovers theme.
Being with Cas made him happy. Made him better. Gave him a best friend and a lover in one.
Life without Cas would be… colorless.
Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (Adult) Contemporary Romance (M/M)
Series: - Series (Standalone?), Book Two.
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Favorite character? - Blake ‘Blejkuś’ Kowalski.
Would I read more by this author/or of series? - Unsure.
Would I recommend this book/series? - Unsure.
Will I read this again in the future? - No.
Rating - 2/2.5 stars.
November 28, 2014
If Wood, Screws, & Nails was a winner to me, the sequel is not behind! I loved this book! Not only because it's a enemies to lovers story, which I love, but is also hot and sexy, has a original and interesting plot, and amazing characters!
Blake & Castor,
They don't get along... since their youth! But some time without seeing each other, and now that they are older, what they thought was a mutual distaste, was actually a mutual attraction! After the moment that they stop fighting their feelings, their relationship became incandescently delicious!
I have one complaint though... the ending, even being a HEA, I needed more. They had some problems to solve: the distance, Blake's possessiveness... and I think they needed more time before everything was settled! Some more pages were needed IMO!
Blake & Castor,
They don't get along... since their youth! But some time without seeing each other, and now that they are older, what they thought was a mutual distaste, was actually a mutual attraction! After the moment that they stop fighting their feelings, their relationship became incandescently delicious!
I have one complaint though... the ending, even being a HEA, I needed more. They had some problems to solve: the distance, Blake's possessiveness... and I think they needed more time before everything was settled! Some more pages were needed IMO!
November 21, 2014
Really liked this sequel to Wood, Screws and Nails and am now hoping the next book in the series (pretty please!!) will be about swishy Gavin and gentle giant Riley. Loved Blake's interfering mother and Cas's grandmother, both with one purpose...to get their boys together. Were they successful?? You betcha!! 4 stars
December 10, 2014
This book was pure Piper Vaughn delightfulness. I love reading books by this author because they are warm and snugly and I know I'm going to feel as though I've been wrapped in a cosy blanket. They're my hot chocolate on an Autumn day, my slippers in the winter...get my drift?
Some of Piper Vaughn's free short stories were what first attracted me to this genre as a whole, when you love love and enjoy reading romance I don't think you need to look further than this author. She manages to combine loveable characters with a great story and lots of UST. I always root so hard for characters in her books and this is no exception.
As an enemies-to-lovers, or frenemies-to-lovers really, story this is just wonderful. Blake, grumpy and stuck at home with a broken leg - it's kinda like caging a tiger and Cas is the bane of his youth recently returned to the neighbourhood. With meddling mothers and aunts and a desperately growing attraction, I love how Piper navigates the story. Between their youthful memories and current day situation it's a fine line between hate, lust and love.
Piper writes wonderful dialogue between her characters realistic and un-stilted. The writing is smooth and her stories are so easy to read. You pick them up and before you know it half an hour has disappeared.
I've enjoyed both of the books in this series and am looking forward to more. I would highly recommend this to those looking for a happy, easy, yummy read.
Some of Piper Vaughn's free short stories were what first attracted me to this genre as a whole, when you love love and enjoy reading romance I don't think you need to look further than this author. She manages to combine loveable characters with a great story and lots of UST. I always root so hard for characters in her books and this is no exception.
As an enemies-to-lovers, or frenemies-to-lovers really, story this is just wonderful. Blake, grumpy and stuck at home with a broken leg - it's kinda like caging a tiger and Cas is the bane of his youth recently returned to the neighbourhood. With meddling mothers and aunts and a desperately growing attraction, I love how Piper navigates the story. Between their youthful memories and current day situation it's a fine line between hate, lust and love.
Piper writes wonderful dialogue between her characters realistic and un-stilted. The writing is smooth and her stories are so easy to read. You pick them up and before you know it half an hour has disappeared.
I've enjoyed both of the books in this series and am looking forward to more. I would highly recommend this to those looking for a happy, easy, yummy read.
January 3, 2015
Huh, I liked that much better than I did the first one.
Add pigtail pulling to one of my favorite tropes.
I wish the drama at the end was handled a bit differently, but I am not a fan of drama to begin with.
Hot as fuck.
Add pigtail pulling to one of my favorite tropes.
I wish the drama at the end was handled a bit differently, but I am not a fan of drama to begin with.
Hot as fuck.
June 5, 2017
This was a solid, enjoyable read. Enjoyable MC's and fairly low on angst. A little predictable in the end when drama did happen, but it all worked out. These two were sweet together, although not as much chemistry as they could have had. Still enough to be enjoyable and fun to read, though.
Also, this is "enemies to lovers" but I wish we had gotten some flashback scenes from when these two "hated" each other as teenagers because we were just told about it and when they meet up as adults they don't really hate each other anymore and there isn't much love/hate thing going on anymore. Kinda took some of the fun out of "enemies to lovers" that I love so much.
Oh well, this was still an enjoyable, quick read. Nothing crazy amazing, but still a solid story. If you're looking for a mainly light, fun read, this is definitely one to read.
Also, this is "enemies to lovers" but I wish we had gotten some flashback scenes from when these two "hated" each other as teenagers because we were just told about it and when they meet up as adults they don't really hate each other anymore and there isn't much love/hate thing going on anymore. Kinda took some of the fun out of "enemies to lovers" that I love so much.
Oh well, this was still an enjoyable, quick read. Nothing crazy amazing, but still a solid story. If you're looking for a mainly light, fun read, this is definitely one to read.
November 22, 2014
3.5 Stars
I rounded up instead of down for the hot sex, dirty talk & cum play!
Goodness I don't know where to start. Enemies/rival to lovers..
LOVE this kind of story. There is all that tension and past frustration that when they get together it's explosive! Cray Cray Jealous MC..Check! Dirty Talk, Cum Play & Hot Sex..Score!
The Fight-
I felt that something was lacking/missing from this book. I can't exactly put my finger on it but I thought it needed something more. Overall tho it was a hot, fun & quick read!
I rounded up instead of down for the hot sex, dirty talk & cum play!
Goodness I don't know where to start. Enemies/rival to lovers..
LOVE this kind of story. There is all that tension and past frustration that when they get together it's explosive! Cray Cray Jealous MC..Check! Dirty Talk, Cum Play & Hot Sex..Score!
The Fight-
I felt that something was lacking/missing from this book. I can't exactly put my finger on it but I thought it needed something more. Overall tho it was a hot, fun & quick read!
September 21, 2024
Damn it!!! I want more!
Blake and Cas may have been enemies as teens but now that they're all grown up, they can properly appreciate and are willing to act on their mutual attraction. These two hardly waste any time getting reacquainted and things escalate quickly and very, very nicely. Uh huh.
Obviously, I thoroughly enjoyed this, as these two navigate each other and both deal with their first foray into relationship waters. They enthusiastically go at it hot, hard, and dirty! Unf. Seconds, pretty please?!
Blake and Cas may have been enemies as teens but now that they're all grown up, they can properly appreciate and are willing to act on their mutual attraction. These two hardly waste any time getting reacquainted and things escalate quickly and very, very nicely. Uh huh.
Obviously, I thoroughly enjoyed this, as these two navigate each other and both deal with their first foray into relationship waters. They enthusiastically go at it hot, hard, and dirty! Unf. Seconds, pretty please?!
June 22, 2016
*3,5 stars*
Nice follow up of Wood, Screws, & Nails
October 20, 2017
3.5 stars
I liked both MCs and I enjoyed their story although nothing much really happens. The sex is hot. They have a cum kink and Blake is a toppy top and Cas is a power bottom so they are a match made in heaven. Their phone sex was hawt.
I want to read Riley and Gavin’s story. That one looks interesting.
I liked both MCs and I enjoyed their story although nothing much really happens. The sex is hot. They have a cum kink and Blake is a toppy top and Cas is a power bottom so they are a match made in heaven. Their phone sex was hawt.
I want to read Riley and Gavin’s story. That one looks interesting.
January 20, 2015
Once again I'm the jerk that didn't like a book everyone else loves. I also made another mistake. I read the reviews of this and the first in the series and went ahead and bought them both. Could have saved myself some money. Oh well....A little part of me thinks maybe I'm getting burnt out on this type of book. The alternating point of view between the two guys where each one gives his thoughts on what just happened. And the thoughts of each perfectly mirror what the other is thinking. just tell each other and let's get the show on the road. But no. Pages and pages of navel gazing. About the same issues over and over. Then the required fight. Oh no! Will love conquer all? Spoiler alert: yes. Yes it does. But only after the Castor joker acts like a spoiled jackass because his boyfriend got jealous. Castor was dancing in a club and grinding against two other guys. And the author writes the scenes as if Castor is the wronged in the situation. I'm sorry. I. Do. Not. Agree. Fight ensues. Castor refuses to talk to his bf. Ignore phone calls and texts. Including a phone message where his bf tells him he loves him for the first time. Then he shows up outta nowhere and says I'm sorry I needed space I love you too. The book is over. Awful. I realize this is personal taste. Rant and rave about how wonderful this book was. I'll sit over here in my little corner of the room and shake my head.
January 22, 2015
Hook, Line & Sinker is the 2nd book of the Hard Hats series and a wonderful, steamy enemy to lovers romance.
It’s a very enjoyable and hot read, I loved these two guys! The chemistry between Blake and Cas is scorching hot!
The story is well written, wonderful and entertaining from the beginning to the end. Recommended!
November 21, 2014
It was good. It was a 4 star until the end. Then we're left with this abrupt wrap up with Cas being a complete dick and Blake just taking it like it's all his fault. Just no. Ruined it for me. Almost thinking less than 3, but it was so good until then,so I'll give the benefit of the doubt.
July 9, 2015
4...I really liked it stars !!
Blake and Cas were chilhood frenemies. They spend time together out of nessesity, but also made each other misserable. Fast forward 2 decades and they come face to face again, when Blake is living with his mom because of his broken leg and Cas is ready to settle down in his grandmothers old house.
Things from there on out, heat up pretty fast. There was some nice steam and some nice kink...cum play...yummie
This was a relatively drama free book..things were good...hot and sweet. Until the ending that is. There was one point of drama towards the end (isn't there always..sigh)
I was pretty pissed about the drama ending. Not just because of the drama...because I've come to live with shit like that happening towards the ending, but because of how it happend.
Now there is a mild spoiler ahead...so be warned.
Blake did nothing wrong in my opnion !! He took the fucking blame for something while he, in my opinion, was not the one who needed to grovel. Cas was an asshole !! Who the fuck did he think he was..letting other men grind all over his ass. This had nothing to do with Blake's possesiveness, or insecurities. When you are in a committed relationship...you don't do shit like that !!! I'm not insecure, but if my husband was caught in such a situation...I would kick his ass !!
So enough of my ranting...I had to get it off my chest..sorry for that :)
I really enjoyed reading this one, even if I did get pissed of...this was a nice book to read. I like it when books can make me feel things...even if that thing is anger.
Blake and Cas were chilhood frenemies. They spend time together out of nessesity, but also made each other misserable. Fast forward 2 decades and they come face to face again, when Blake is living with his mom because of his broken leg and Cas is ready to settle down in his grandmothers old house.
Things from there on out, heat up pretty fast. There was some nice steam and some nice kink...cum play...yummie
This was a relatively drama free book..things were good...hot and sweet. Until the ending that is. There was one point of drama towards the end (isn't there always..sigh)
I was pretty pissed about the drama ending. Not just because of the drama...because I've come to live with shit like that happening towards the ending, but because of how it happend.
Now there is a mild spoiler ahead...so be warned.
Blake did nothing wrong in my opnion !! He took the fucking blame for something while he, in my opinion, was not the one who needed to grovel. Cas was an asshole !! Who the fuck did he think he was..letting other men grind all over his ass. This had nothing to do with Blake's possesiveness, or insecurities. When you are in a committed relationship...you don't do shit like that !!! I'm not insecure, but if my husband was caught in such a situation...I would kick his ass !!
So enough of my ranting...I had to get it off my chest..sorry for that :)
I really enjoyed reading this one, even if I did get pissed of...this was a nice book to read. I like it when books can make me feel things...even if that thing is anger.
January 15, 2015
2.5 stars
God...I'm not even going to defend myself here. I'm disappointed alright?
The first 19% was kinda like this
not pissed, though and not exactly bored, more like waiting...more like "let's get to it"
and then we did and I was a mixture of
and
And there was phone sex...god I love phone sex.
Anyway...
I liked the guys and I wanted them together. But then...oh God...but then it pissed me off.
I mean...and I took
So...yeah, ruined...because not only was that fucking ridiculous but you blamed the wrong fucking character and I'm mad now. Ugh...I guess overall its not bad, but man, I'm knocking off stars for pissing me off, so I don't know...maybe I'll bump it up when I'm no longer livid.
I will say I hope Riley and Gavin's story is next...and that it doesn't piss me off.
God...I'm not even going to defend myself here. I'm disappointed alright?
The first 19% was kinda like this
not pissed, though and not exactly bored, more like waiting...more like "let's get to it"
and then we did and I was a mixture of
and
And there was phone sex...god I love phone sex.
Anyway...
I liked the guys and I wanted them together. But then...oh God...but then it pissed me off.
I mean...and I took
So...yeah, ruined...because not only was that fucking ridiculous but you blamed the wrong fucking character and I'm mad now. Ugh...I guess overall its not bad, but man, I'm knocking off stars for pissing me off, so I don't know...maybe I'll bump it up when I'm no longer livid.
I will say I hope Riley and Gavin's story is next...and that it doesn't piss me off.
October 27, 2014
I won an ARC of this book from Piper Vaughn on fb, and it just happened to be my birthday (Happy birthday to me!).
Piper Vaughn does it again, not that I should be surprised at this point as I don't think I've ever read anything by her that I didn't enjoy. I don't know how she does it, but I always connect with her characters no matter how long or short the story, and this one was no different.
I was sucked into this story from the beginning and didn't want to put it down. I'm such a sucker for enemies and friends to lovers tropes, and this one is a little of both. Cas and Blake hated each other as teens and did everything to annoy each other, but now all grown up and living across the street from each other (temporarily), they become friends and eventually lovers, despite the fact that they both assume they'll continue to dislike each other.
I do have to say that I was mad at both MCs near the end, and I do think Cas should have apologized as well, but other than that one small issue, I loved this book. I enjoyed watching Cas and Blake's feelings, and eventual relationship, grow. And of course their chemistry was off the charts and the sex was ungodly hot. Would you expect any less from a Piper Vaughn book?
Piper Vaughn does it again, not that I should be surprised at this point as I don't think I've ever read anything by her that I didn't enjoy. I don't know how she does it, but I always connect with her characters no matter how long or short the story, and this one was no different.
I was sucked into this story from the beginning and didn't want to put it down. I'm such a sucker for enemies and friends to lovers tropes, and this one is a little of both. Cas and Blake hated each other as teens and did everything to annoy each other, but now all grown up and living across the street from each other (temporarily), they become friends and eventually lovers, despite the fact that they both assume they'll continue to dislike each other.
I do have to say that I was mad at both MCs near the end, and I do think Cas should have apologized as well, but other than that one small issue, I loved this book. I enjoyed watching Cas and Blake's feelings, and eventual relationship, grow. And of course their chemistry was off the charts and the sex was ungodly hot. Would you expect any less from a Piper Vaughn book?
November 24, 2014
Not bad, not bad at all. I actually expected more from this book in terms of character development and the MCs learning to love each other, but I felt it was too short for the author to really elaborate on that like she has in some of her other books. Consequently, I liked Cas and Blake but I didn't love them, nor did I feel like I got to know them very well. There were also a lot of forward time jumps, which I dislike because you only read what the characters did in the intervening time, but you don't get to experience it with them. Part of the reason why I love reading is because I feel like I am getting to know new friends (or enemies) and their life experiences, so I always feel cheated when the author doesn't let me do that.
I'll admit that I absolutely loved the extra hot sexy times but felt that (I can't believe I'm going to say this but..) there was too much fade to black going on and not enough extra hot sexy times. What a shame, because they were, you know, extra hot. There are definitely times when an author can include too many sex scenes but this was not one of them.
Because of these issues the book felt rushed to me, which is sad because I really wanted to enjoy it as much as I did the previous book in the series.
I'll admit that I absolutely loved the extra hot sexy times but felt that (I can't believe I'm going to say this but..) there was too much fade to black going on and not enough extra hot sexy times. What a shame, because they were, you know, extra hot. There are definitely times when an author can include too many sex scenes but this was not one of them.
Because of these issues the book felt rushed to me, which is sad because I really wanted to enjoy it as much as I did the previous book in the series.
September 2, 2015
I really enjoyed this! Good characters, lots of hot sex (although, given some of the reviews I read, I expected it to be a bit more, somehow), and a decent amount of conflict near the end.
What I wasn't so satisfied with was the ending. It felt a bit rushed, and like they didn't really deal with their issues. It just felt like a quick apology and it was all over with, and I really wanted more discussion on WHY Blake acted the way he did, but also for Cas to acknowledge that maybe just might not be ok once you're in a relationship.
What I wasn't so satisfied with was the ending. It felt a bit rushed, and like they didn't really deal with their issues. It just felt like a quick apology and it was all over with, and I really wanted more discussion on WHY Blake acted the way he did, but also for Cas to acknowledge that maybe just might not be ok once you're in a relationship.
November 21, 2014
3.5 stars
It was a fine story. It was going to be a 4 star read for me until Cas pulled a passive aggressive dick move in the last part of the book.
Sex was hot, story OK, medium level of melodrama.
It was a fine story. It was going to be a 4 star read for me until Cas pulled a passive aggressive dick move in the last part of the book.
Sex was hot, story OK, medium level of melodrama.
November 28, 2014
4 Hot and Possessive stars
Review to come...
Review to come...
October 19, 2015
Overall book rating 4/7 Stars
Audio book - Narrator Jack Fleming 4/5 Stars
Book Cover 1/5 Stars
I liked this one better than the first one. It was sweet!
Audio book - Narrator Jack Fleming 4/5 Stars
Book Cover 1/5 Stars
I liked this one better than the first one. It was sweet!
June 29, 2019
3.5 stars
I liked it well enough. I forgot I was reading it, though. Put it down one day and just forgot about it.
I liked it well enough. I forgot I was reading it, though. Put it down one day and just forgot about it.
November 21, 2014
There was never a doubt that I would love this story. I'm a long time fan of this author, and Blake and Cas's story perfectly illustrates once again why I'm a fan. Her characters are charismatic, multi-dimensional, flawed and fabulous. While this book is technically book two, (the first story, Wood, Screws, & Nails... another fantastic read. *fans self* Two words--Pool Table) HL&S can be read as a standalone.
Okay, what did I like about this story. Everything! Blake's all grouchy, wounded and impatient, but a big softy with his mom. Oy, this grumbly bear had me right from the start. Cas has been focused on his career, but he's ready to experience more of life beyond business meetings and hookups. Both characters are genuine and down to earth with real concerns and goals. Their dialogue is witty, funny and sexy beyond belief. ZOMGurd! And boy-howdy are there ever some scorching hawt mutterings to go along with the off the charts nookie scenes.
Now that I've shared what I liked about the story, lemme tell you what I LOVED. The connection-tension-attraction between Blake and Cas... *Kermit flails* You had me at Frenemies. Gah. Their history from childhood led to brilliant dialogue and mental chattering that had me alternating between howling with laughter, and squirming in my seat. But the story is much more than a sexy snarkfest. The challenges they both face, alone and in coming together, were logical (cannot stress this point enough), and really added to my enjoyment of the story. As always, I know I can count on this author to deliver lots of delicious emotions. Those belly-tug-heart-squeeze moments that have you breathing deep to ease the sting of imminent tears. So. Damn. Good.
What do I want next? I have a list... 1. Gavin, 2. Gavin, 3. Gavin...
Okay, what did I like about this story. Everything! Blake's all grouchy, wounded and impatient, but a big softy with his mom. Oy, this grumbly bear had me right from the start. Cas has been focused on his career, but he's ready to experience more of life beyond business meetings and hookups. Both characters are genuine and down to earth with real concerns and goals. Their dialogue is witty, funny and sexy beyond belief. ZOMGurd! And boy-howdy are there ever some scorching hawt mutterings to go along with the off the charts nookie scenes.
Now that I've shared what I liked about the story, lemme tell you what I LOVED. The connection-tension-attraction between Blake and Cas... *Kermit flails* You had me at Frenemies. Gah. Their history from childhood led to brilliant dialogue and mental chattering that had me alternating between howling with laughter, and squirming in my seat. But the story is much more than a sexy snarkfest. The challenges they both face, alone and in coming together, were logical (cannot stress this point enough), and really added to my enjoyment of the story. As always, I know I can count on this author to deliver lots of delicious emotions. Those belly-tug-heart-squeeze moments that have you breathing deep to ease the sting of imminent tears. So. Damn. Good.
What do I want next? I have a list... 1. Gavin, 2. Gavin, 3. Gavin...
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