What do you think?
Rate this book
Heartward #1
Heartward
He doesn’t know that home is where his heart will be….
Firefighter Tyler Banik has seen his share of adventure while working disaster relief with the Red Cross. But now that he’s adopted Abey, he’s ready to leave the danger behind and put down roots. That means returning to his hometown—where the last thing he anticipates is falling for his high school nemesis.
Alan Pettaprin isn’t the boy he used to be. As a business owner and council member, he’s working hard to improve life in Scottville for everyone. Nobody is more surprised than Alan when Tyler returns, but he’s glad. For him, it’s a chance to set things right. Little does he guess he and Tyler will find the missing pieces of themselves in each other. Old rivalries are left in the ashes, passion burns bright, and the possibility for a future together stretches in front of them….
But not everyone in town is glad to see Tyler return….
Firefighter Tyler Banik has seen his share of adventure while working disaster relief with the Red Cross. But now that he’s adopted Abey, he’s ready to leave the danger behind and put down roots. That means returning to his hometown—where the last thing he anticipates is falling for his high school nemesis.
Alan Pettaprin isn’t the boy he used to be. As a business owner and council member, he’s working hard to improve life in Scottville for everyone. Nobody is more surprised than Alan when Tyler returns, but he’s glad. For him, it’s a chance to set things right. Little does he guess he and Tyler will find the missing pieces of themselves in each other. Old rivalries are left in the ashes, passion burns bright, and the possibility for a future together stretches in front of them….
But not everyone in town is glad to see Tyler return….
193 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 12, 2019
207 people are currently reading
196 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
October 31, 2019
POV ~> Third-person
I've read many books by this author and am more accustomed to the hopefulness, shining light, and optimism that his books tend to exude. This one had some darker undertones that were subtly addressed, adding a minor element of mystery and suspense. That, in no way, took away from the amount of heart that was packed in there though.
Old high school enemies meet again and get a second chance to do things right this time.
An orphaned child that had suffered untold horrors in the first few years of his life is rescued and finds a loving family.
This story was told in a way that allowed the reader to feel all the emotions. Very well done. Abey was a delightful character.
Sex scenes are present but are more fade-to-black than explicit. The epilogue provided a flash-forward conclusion that was enjoyable and solid.
.
Rating: [PG-13] ~ Score: 4.425 ~ Stars: 4
==========================
⭐ ⭐ **** Disclosure of Material: I received a copy of this book from publisher and am voluntarily leaving 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". ***** ⭐ ⭐
I've read many books by this author and am more accustomed to the hopefulness, shining light, and optimism that his books tend to exude. This one had some darker undertones that were subtly addressed, adding a minor element of mystery and suspense. That, in no way, took away from the amount of heart that was packed in there though.
Old high school enemies meet again and get a second chance to do things right this time.
An orphaned child that had suffered untold horrors in the first few years of his life is rescued and finds a loving family.
This story was told in a way that allowed the reader to feel all the emotions. Very well done. Abey was a delightful character.
Sex scenes are present but are more fade-to-black than explicit. The epilogue provided a flash-forward conclusion that was enjoyable and solid.
.
Rating: [PG-13] ~ Score: 4.425 ~ Stars: 4
==========================
⭐ ⭐ **** Disclosure of Material: I received a copy of this book from publisher and am voluntarily leaving 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". ***** ⭐ ⭐
November 1, 2019
Heartward by Andrew Grey is a contemporary m/m romance that melted my heart with its second chance, ex-rivals to lovers feel.
Tyler was in a quick hurry to leave town when he was younger, but now he realizes it's exactly where he needs to be when he adopts an orphaned young boy with a tragic past that has left emotional fears and scars on the poor boy.
As the new firefighter in town he is in for a few surprises coming home - some hostile coworkers/chief and the very much changed for the better high school nemesis, Alan
Alan is now a business owner and council member working hard to improve life in town for all members of the community, not just the Good Ole Boys. When he sees that Tyler has returned to town, he knows he must seize his chance to correct past wrongs and embrace the attraction he use to fight so strongly against for the special man. And maybe together they can overcome the obstacles Tyler faces and fix the town for the best.
These characters are interesting and entertaining- sweet and strong. I love them together and how they interact with each other and with the supporting characters, especially the adorable Abey. This story has drama and suspense, it is sweet and heartwarming and emotional. I loved it from beginning to end.
Tyler was in a quick hurry to leave town when he was younger, but now he realizes it's exactly where he needs to be when he adopts an orphaned young boy with a tragic past that has left emotional fears and scars on the poor boy.
As the new firefighter in town he is in for a few surprises coming home - some hostile coworkers/chief and the very much changed for the better high school nemesis, Alan
Alan is now a business owner and council member working hard to improve life in town for all members of the community, not just the Good Ole Boys. When he sees that Tyler has returned to town, he knows he must seize his chance to correct past wrongs and embrace the attraction he use to fight so strongly against for the special man. And maybe together they can overcome the obstacles Tyler faces and fix the town for the best.
These characters are interesting and entertaining- sweet and strong. I love them together and how they interact with each other and with the supporting characters, especially the adorable Abey. This story has drama and suspense, it is sweet and heartwarming and emotional. I loved it from beginning to end.
November 12, 2019
I love a second chances, enemies to lovers read and Andrew Grey is the perfect writer to cover this trope.
Tyler ends up adopting Abey who has seen her share of how cruel the world can be. When he accepts a new job as a firefighter in his hometown, he comes across Alan, his childhood nemesis.
But Alan has tried making something of himself and he wants to make amends when he finds Tyler has come back.
I've read a lot of Andrew Grey books and this one was a bit darker and more angst filled, but it really worked. I loved having a third character, Abey, as well. It just added another dimension to both the story and the relationship.
It was sweet and drew out so many emotions. I was very much entranced by the story and the characters. A wonderful read.
*Galley copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted.*
Tyler ends up adopting Abey who has seen her share of how cruel the world can be. When he accepts a new job as a firefighter in his hometown, he comes across Alan, his childhood nemesis.
But Alan has tried making something of himself and he wants to make amends when he finds Tyler has come back.
I've read a lot of Andrew Grey books and this one was a bit darker and more angst filled, but it really worked. I loved having a third character, Abey, as well. It just added another dimension to both the story and the relationship.
It was sweet and drew out so many emotions. I was very much entranced by the story and the characters. A wonderful read.
*Galley copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted.*
November 12, 2019
Whoooo. This one hits you right in the feels. Man. I’ve always admired people who are firefighters or go to the disaster sites to rescue and such. I honestly don’t know if I could do it. I’d like to think I would, because I would love to be able to help anyone out that’s in need but damn their jobs are hard as hell not only physically, but emotionally and mentally. It leaves a lasting effect on you that sometimes even therapy can’t seem to help. And this is one of those books. I love the characters. I love Tyler especially and little Abey and all Tyler does to try to make that little guys life better. Even when he doubts himself, like every parent does, he keeps going just to see the smile on that little face.
Tyler has seen more hell in his lifetime and he wouldn’t wish it on anyone. The disaster zones and everything he’s seen in his work, is enough to often leave him nightmares. And a big nightmare was seeing little Abey in his condition and knowing he could never let that little boy go. He worked hard and he adopted that sweet little guy, but it doesn’t mean life is easy. Nightmares plague them both and for a little 3 yr old. It’s worse. But Tyler hopes by coming back home to his quiet little hometown, that life with prove easier for little Abey. And meeting Alan again after all these years, makes things even better. They seem to have hit it off quick and blossoming into what could be a good relationship. But not everyone is happy Tyler is back home and in the new job position he’s in. Or that he is gay. And life is about to get a bit harder.
Like I said in the beginning, I don’t envy guys like Tyler. I’m proud of them, even not knowing them for the work that they do, but it’s hell on them as well as the victims they are trying to help. So, I can just imagine the nightmares they have to deal with when they close their eyes at night. And knowing what little Abey went through adds to that torture. But Tyler does his best and I’m even more proud and happy for him because he not only helped this sweet little boy, but he was determined to give him a good life. And for any single parent, that’s not an easy thing to do. Hell, it’s hard most of the time for two parents. But he knew how much Abey needed love and support and not to be shoved off on somebody. And Abey just grabbed ahold of his heart and he was sunk. When Alan came along, it seemed like he could actually have a family, but was terrified because of his baggage and the things going on in town. But the one thing I love most of all about Tyler, is no matter what, he is always putting others before himself. Even if sometimes it seems like a stupid idea, he is always trying to look out for the wellfare of others. And it made me love the hell out of him for it. And Alan is perfect for him. He loves Tyler for who he is. Not his scars or whatever, but the whole package. Battle wounds and all. And in all of Tyler’s confidence in what he does, he needed someone who would love him in spite of his own doubts and fears. And that’s what he got. If in no one else, then in the face of a beautiful 3 yr old boy.
http://lovebytesreviews.com/
Tyler has seen more hell in his lifetime and he wouldn’t wish it on anyone. The disaster zones and everything he’s seen in his work, is enough to often leave him nightmares. And a big nightmare was seeing little Abey in his condition and knowing he could never let that little boy go. He worked hard and he adopted that sweet little guy, but it doesn’t mean life is easy. Nightmares plague them both and for a little 3 yr old. It’s worse. But Tyler hopes by coming back home to his quiet little hometown, that life with prove easier for little Abey. And meeting Alan again after all these years, makes things even better. They seem to have hit it off quick and blossoming into what could be a good relationship. But not everyone is happy Tyler is back home and in the new job position he’s in. Or that he is gay. And life is about to get a bit harder.
Like I said in the beginning, I don’t envy guys like Tyler. I’m proud of them, even not knowing them for the work that they do, but it’s hell on them as well as the victims they are trying to help. So, I can just imagine the nightmares they have to deal with when they close their eyes at night. And knowing what little Abey went through adds to that torture. But Tyler does his best and I’m even more proud and happy for him because he not only helped this sweet little boy, but he was determined to give him a good life. And for any single parent, that’s not an easy thing to do. Hell, it’s hard most of the time for two parents. But he knew how much Abey needed love and support and not to be shoved off on somebody. And Abey just grabbed ahold of his heart and he was sunk. When Alan came along, it seemed like he could actually have a family, but was terrified because of his baggage and the things going on in town. But the one thing I love most of all about Tyler, is no matter what, he is always putting others before himself. Even if sometimes it seems like a stupid idea, he is always trying to look out for the wellfare of others. And it made me love the hell out of him for it. And Alan is perfect for him. He loves Tyler for who he is. Not his scars or whatever, but the whole package. Battle wounds and all. And in all of Tyler’s confidence in what he does, he needed someone who would love him in spite of his own doubts and fears. And that’s what he got. If in no one else, then in the face of a beautiful 3 yr old boy.
http://lovebytesreviews.com/
November 12, 2019
After years of constant moving around, Tyler has a young son, Abraham, to look after and so he’s decided to return to his hometown and put down some roots. Even though Tyler has some issues with his parents, the pull of his home, the stability and particularly the comfort for his son has Tyler willing to try and make things work. Alan had a desperate crush on Tyler when they were in high school, and seeing his childhood dream walk back into town and his life was both thrilling and terrifying.
I really enjoyed this emotional and well written full length story. Tyler and Abey instantly drew me in and engaged my feelings. It was clear Tyler – and particularly young Abey – were complicated characters with a number of layers and a long, intriguing story behind them. I was mentally settled in for a long read before the first chapter had even finished. I found Alan to be a lot less complicated, but so warm and interesting I really thought it beautifully balanced out a lot of the mystery and more difficult aspects of Tyler and Abey’s situation.
I thought the author kept a good pace throughout the story. While the plot is mostly character-related I thought there were enough smaller threads winding through it to keep things really interesting. I loved watching Tyler and Alan re-learn each other as adults, both with how they’d grown up but also as they’d taken to their own paths and still circled back to the same space again. While there was some small-mindedness in other members of the town I felt this really added to the plot. Overall the pace was smooth enough that I could see Tyler and his family grow, and Tyler and Alan’s relationship begin and flourish, but it wasn’t so fast that I felt it verged on being unrealistic or rushed. Readers who like a story that gives the main couple a chance to settle together, learn and grow with each other and then consummate their relationship should find this story and pace as deeply satisfying as I did.
When the sparks finally fly between Tyler and Alan I found it really lovely. It was well into the story and I thought the timing was very well handled. I found the scenes intimate and erotic but not over the top or so prolific it made the rest of the story feel neglected. I really felt the author did a brilliant job of balancing the small-town feel with realistic characters, a strong cast of secondary support characters and a lovely, slow-blooming relationship between Tyler and Alan.
Well balanced, steamy and very well written, I thoroughly enjoyed this story and will happily read more by this author.
I really enjoyed this emotional and well written full length story. Tyler and Abey instantly drew me in and engaged my feelings. It was clear Tyler – and particularly young Abey – were complicated characters with a number of layers and a long, intriguing story behind them. I was mentally settled in for a long read before the first chapter had even finished. I found Alan to be a lot less complicated, but so warm and interesting I really thought it beautifully balanced out a lot of the mystery and more difficult aspects of Tyler and Abey’s situation.
I thought the author kept a good pace throughout the story. While the plot is mostly character-related I thought there were enough smaller threads winding through it to keep things really interesting. I loved watching Tyler and Alan re-learn each other as adults, both with how they’d grown up but also as they’d taken to their own paths and still circled back to the same space again. While there was some small-mindedness in other members of the town I felt this really added to the plot. Overall the pace was smooth enough that I could see Tyler and his family grow, and Tyler and Alan’s relationship begin and flourish, but it wasn’t so fast that I felt it verged on being unrealistic or rushed. Readers who like a story that gives the main couple a chance to settle together, learn and grow with each other and then consummate their relationship should find this story and pace as deeply satisfying as I did.
When the sparks finally fly between Tyler and Alan I found it really lovely. It was well into the story and I thought the timing was very well handled. I found the scenes intimate and erotic but not over the top or so prolific it made the rest of the story feel neglected. I really felt the author did a brilliant job of balancing the small-town feel with realistic characters, a strong cast of secondary support characters and a lovely, slow-blooming relationship between Tyler and Alan.
Well balanced, steamy and very well written, I thoroughly enjoyed this story and will happily read more by this author.
January 23, 2023
A unique story !
A unique story of a firefighter and a business owner. Tyler and his boy are back in Michigan, near his parents, after he’s traveled with Red Cross Disaster Relief overseas.
Tyler, 34, on cover, is a chief firefighter
with a three year old, Abraham/Abey, who has quite a few issues. We learn their backstory, the tragedy, rescue, and more, and we learn how big Tyler’s heart is.
Alan, a nice, caring man, owns a used furniture
store, plus is on the City Council and he and Tyler knew each other in high school.
As grown men, their friendship is easy and we get to know what’s happened to them in life.
There is an agenda in the small town with bigots, homophobes and racists who have bad intentions.
We see how extraordinary Tyler is with Abey.
Once we are underway with Tyler’s new job with the firehouse, we see Tyler and Alan slowly find their way as friends, then lovers.
When they get to their sexy times it’s exciting, meaningful and super hot.
The men and Abey get to spend easy times together where they are comfy and enjoy doing things and sharing meals.
This is a wonderful and very different story with unusual circumstances. These bigger-than-life characters grip us and we want happiness for them.
The bad guys have gotten by with it for too long, and Tyler makes his stand. The tables are turned.
Well written and worthwhile, we get what we love.
Enjoy !
=====
A unique story of a firefighter and a business owner. Tyler and his boy are back in Michigan, near his parents, after he’s traveled with Red Cross Disaster Relief overseas.
Tyler, 34, on cover, is a chief firefighter
with a three year old, Abraham/Abey, who has quite a few issues. We learn their backstory, the tragedy, rescue, and more, and we learn how big Tyler’s heart is.
Alan, a nice, caring man, owns a used furniture
store, plus is on the City Council and he and Tyler knew each other in high school.
As grown men, their friendship is easy and we get to know what’s happened to them in life.
There is an agenda in the small town with bigots, homophobes and racists who have bad intentions.
We see how extraordinary Tyler is with Abey.
Once we are underway with Tyler’s new job with the firehouse, we see Tyler and Alan slowly find their way as friends, then lovers.
When they get to their sexy times it’s exciting, meaningful and super hot.
The men and Abey get to spend easy times together where they are comfy and enjoy doing things and sharing meals.
This is a wonderful and very different story with unusual circumstances. These bigger-than-life characters grip us and we want happiness for them.
The bad guys have gotten by with it for too long, and Tyler makes his stand. The tables are turned.
Well written and worthwhile, we get what we love.
Enjoy !
=====
December 1, 2019
Classic Andrew Grey
Those of us who are dyed-in-the-wool Andrew Grey fans probably got hooked on his style with the Farm Series, which kicked off with "Love Means...No Shame." In that book Grey introduced us to Geoff and Eli, and even though this book is not part of the series, these two wonderful characters manage to sneak into this book in a way which is crucial to the plot as well as furthering the exceptionally wonderful romance that develops between the MCs, Tyler and Alan.
This is both a heart wrenching and heart warming tale wherein Tyler (on the cover) returns home to a small town in Michigan after a decade away at college, followed by a stint as a fireman in St. Louis and then three years as a Red Cross rescue team member and leader. He comes home because while in Italy he rescued and then adopted a now three-year-old boy named Abey, whose family was lost in a sea disaster when their refugee boat capsized. Right there I was almost ready to cry, but Andrew Grey lifted me up with the way he snuck us into this knowledges so that he allows both Tyler and Abey to steal our hearts.
Tyler's return is keyed to the fact that he got a position as a fire captain on the village's small force, and right there we have all the ingredients we need for a terrific plot that involves jealousy, homophobia, several major fires and rescues. It also involves a sort of high school classmate, Alan, who played baseball while Tyler played basketball and never did the twain meet as somewhat closeted teammates of any kind on the field or off.
The reasons are obvious but also complicated by the fact that Alan now sits on the town council which hired Tyler without the input of the crusty and corrupt fire chief. Alan also owns the second hand furniture story into which Tyler stumbles on his way to furnishing a house that he and Abey can turn into a home.
And it's here that you will get a warning: Abey will totally steal your heart. What a wonderful, sweet, funny and heart warming little boy he is...even though we are never told his country of origin we are immediately charmed by how he comes to completely charm everyone he meets.
This is a book that I could not put down because it's so real and beautifully written, much in the same way Mr. Grey had done in his Farm Series. But this one stands alone as an example of the kind of splendid achievement we have come to expect from one of the most gifted MM romance writers today.
Those of us who are dyed-in-the-wool Andrew Grey fans probably got hooked on his style with the Farm Series, which kicked off with "Love Means...No Shame." In that book Grey introduced us to Geoff and Eli, and even though this book is not part of the series, these two wonderful characters manage to sneak into this book in a way which is crucial to the plot as well as furthering the exceptionally wonderful romance that develops between the MCs, Tyler and Alan.
This is both a heart wrenching and heart warming tale wherein Tyler (on the cover) returns home to a small town in Michigan after a decade away at college, followed by a stint as a fireman in St. Louis and then three years as a Red Cross rescue team member and leader. He comes home because while in Italy he rescued and then adopted a now three-year-old boy named Abey, whose family was lost in a sea disaster when their refugee boat capsized. Right there I was almost ready to cry, but Andrew Grey lifted me up with the way he snuck us into this knowledges so that he allows both Tyler and Abey to steal our hearts.
Tyler's return is keyed to the fact that he got a position as a fire captain on the village's small force, and right there we have all the ingredients we need for a terrific plot that involves jealousy, homophobia, several major fires and rescues. It also involves a sort of high school classmate, Alan, who played baseball while Tyler played basketball and never did the twain meet as somewhat closeted teammates of any kind on the field or off.
The reasons are obvious but also complicated by the fact that Alan now sits on the town council which hired Tyler without the input of the crusty and corrupt fire chief. Alan also owns the second hand furniture story into which Tyler stumbles on his way to furnishing a house that he and Abey can turn into a home.
And it's here that you will get a warning: Abey will totally steal your heart. What a wonderful, sweet, funny and heart warming little boy he is...even though we are never told his country of origin we are immediately charmed by how he comes to completely charm everyone he meets.
This is a book that I could not put down because it's so real and beautifully written, much in the same way Mr. Grey had done in his Farm Series. But this one stands alone as an example of the kind of splendid achievement we have come to expect from one of the most gifted MM romance writers today.
November 17, 2019
I love Andrew Gray's books. I've never been disappointed, and once again he managed to create a beautiful, exciting story. Thanks, Andrew
November 9, 2019
this was amazing and wonderful.. funny and sexy.. sad in spots and emotional.. it was an all around wonderfully written story...i loved the adoption aspect of this story.. firefighters are always amazing to read.. and i really liked the raw emotions involved with everyone.. sweet strong and sexy... wonderful s words lol
June 6, 2020
This is my first Andrew Grey read. His is a familiar name to me, but I had never picked one up before. And to be honest, I’m not sure I’ll pick up another. Some of the word choices made me pause. For such a prolific writer, I felt like a few areas needed additional editing (seriously, there was one section where Tyler said okay like eight times... I know he was concussed, but seriously?).
The story itself was fine, I suppose. I don’t really care for kids in my Romance. The sex scene was pretty blah. The underlying plot with the Chief was a nice addition to the action. But otherwise... meh.
The story itself was fine, I suppose. I don’t really care for kids in my Romance. The sex scene was pretty blah. The underlying plot with the Chief was a nice addition to the action. But otherwise... meh.
cnf-dnf
March 25, 2020CNF 40%
Hero was a little too heroic and it was starting to read like an advertisement for the Red Cross. (Nothing against the Red Cross, it just distracted from the story a bit.) Also it's touted as an Enemies-to-Lovers, but there's no tension. They were enemies in high school, as adults they bond over missionary-style furniture and being gay in city government.
Hero was a little too heroic and it was starting to read like an advertisement for the Red Cross. (Nothing against the Red Cross, it just distracted from the story a bit.) Also it's touted as an Enemies-to-Lovers, but there's no tension. They were enemies in high school, as adults they bond over missionary-style furniture and being gay in city government.
August 31, 2024
I picked this up needing some more gay firefighters because of how 911 is going right now with Buck being bi which awesome sauce love it. Tommy hot too. Anyways about this book.
Tyler is captain and has three year old son Abey that he adopted and moved back to his hometown after years of being away. Alan and him went to high school are starting to see each other when they move back. Alan's on the board that hired Tyler to be the fire captain.
Alan and Tyler get close and they not only spend time together, but do things with Abey too. Tyler helps Alan look at the financials of the department. Things aren't adding up in some places, but at end of the day it looks right.
Turns out that the fire chief is cooking them. They find out when the cops investigate after Alan and Tyler handed everything over. Alan's store that he runs with a friend was almost burned down because he knew too much. Tyler about gave up his job because of all the drama that was going on with trying to make him look like the bad guy when he was doing the right thing. The fire chief just didn't like him coming in on his territory. Tyler was saving lives and was a hero.
The sex was hot and the end of the book was perfect. Another awesome read from Andrew.
Tyler is captain and has three year old son Abey that he adopted and moved back to his hometown after years of being away. Alan and him went to high school are starting to see each other when they move back. Alan's on the board that hired Tyler to be the fire captain.
Alan and Tyler get close and they not only spend time together, but do things with Abey too. Tyler helps Alan look at the financials of the department. Things aren't adding up in some places, but at end of the day it looks right.
Turns out that the fire chief is cooking them. They find out when the cops investigate after Alan and Tyler handed everything over. Alan's store that he runs with a friend was almost burned down because he knew too much. Tyler about gave up his job because of all the drama that was going on with trying to make him look like the bad guy when he was doing the right thing. The fire chief just didn't like him coming in on his territory. Tyler was saving lives and was a hero.
The sex was hot and the end of the book was perfect. Another awesome read from Andrew.
December 3, 2021
Beautiful story
I loved this, and read it all in one sitting. I couldn't put it down so ended up reading till the wee hours, and my eyes were grainy. So worth it.
Tyler left his job and town for personal reasons, and joined the Red Cross overseas for 3 years doing rescue missions wherever needed. He at one point rescues then adopts a sweet terrified little boy, then goes back to the US and his hometown where his parents still live, to take a position as the new fire chief. He runs into former school mate Alan and sparks fly . This is a beautiful story of a family slowly building, with each other as well as trying to mend relations with his estranged dad. All while starting a new supervisory job and learning to comfort and communicate with his number one priority, his 3 year old son. But on top of all this, there are rough issues with his own supervisor, the fire chief, who is up to no good with his good old boys network in town. Plenty to keep the story moving along. I didn't want to put it down, was one of the first books in a long time that held my interest thru till the end. Loved it.
I loved this, and read it all in one sitting. I couldn't put it down so ended up reading till the wee hours, and my eyes were grainy. So worth it.
Tyler left his job and town for personal reasons, and joined the Red Cross overseas for 3 years doing rescue missions wherever needed. He at one point rescues then adopts a sweet terrified little boy, then goes back to the US and his hometown where his parents still live, to take a position as the new fire chief. He runs into former school mate Alan and sparks fly . This is a beautiful story of a family slowly building, with each other as well as trying to mend relations with his estranged dad. All while starting a new supervisory job and learning to comfort and communicate with his number one priority, his 3 year old son. But on top of all this, there are rough issues with his own supervisor, the fire chief, who is up to no good with his good old boys network in town. Plenty to keep the story moving along. I didn't want to put it down, was one of the first books in a long time that held my interest thru till the end. Loved it.
October 27, 2025
Heart
I will give this book a 4/5. It is a heartwarming romance. Firefighter Tyler Banik moves back to his hometown along with his son Abey. Soon after he moves he reconnects with Alan Pettapin. Alan used to have a crush on Tyler but both men were in the closet. Now things are different. Tyler also has Abey and he has to be careful. Tyler’s new boss does not care for him and does not make it a secret. But Tyler is very good at his job and Alan supports him. If they can work around the negativity, the two men may have a chance for happiness.
I will give this book a 4/5. It is a heartwarming romance. Firefighter Tyler Banik moves back to his hometown along with his son Abey. Soon after he moves he reconnects with Alan Pettapin. Alan used to have a crush on Tyler but both men were in the closet. Now things are different. Tyler also has Abey and he has to be careful. Tyler’s new boss does not care for him and does not make it a secret. But Tyler is very good at his job and Alan supports him. If they can work around the negativity, the two men may have a chance for happiness.
April 14, 2020
I thought the story was ok. I have definitely loved other books more than this one from Andrew Grey. The story was slow at times with little movement in the story and I did find it to drag out a little. It was enough to keep me reading the full book. The story between Tyler and Alan was a good read, but I would think those Andrew Grey fans, might have other reads where they found them more entertaining with a 5 star.
May 27, 2024
A brief warning, there is homophobia in this tale, may be a trigger for some. This story is centered around a man returning to his home town years later and fitting in, and the vile people who want to cause trouble. We also meet his adorable adopted son Abey ( Abraham) who survived horrendous conditions. It's in part intense, funny, annoying as heck (homophobic actions) and a little sad but all in all a delightful read.
May 30, 2024
ok
I liked the story but the writing style was a little bland for me. Very stilted and long winded for both MC’s, not how I find people talk in real life. Plus, I thought Alan and Tyler jumped into a relationship awfully fast after being mean to each other in high school, thought there would be a bit more drama there.
I liked the story but the writing style was a little bland for me. Very stilted and long winded for both MC’s, not how I find people talk in real life. Plus, I thought Alan and Tyler jumped into a relationship awfully fast after being mean to each other in high school, thought there would be a bit more drama there.
May 31, 2024
It was so refreshing to read a gay novel that reflected sex in a way that does not take away from the storyline. So many gay stories spend so much time detailing ever small aspect of sex that you are not sure there is a story except for erotica. This was a story about 2 gay men and a child, which was realistic and entertaining.
August 27, 2024
Real stories touching your heart
I’ve read several stories by author Andrew Grey. I know they will be about men like me - in public service, with deep commitments, from smaller town. They feel real. But they still room in their hearts for more. Families, a partner. I can feel their struggles, and share their joy when they find happiness. I’m ready for the next journey.
I’ve read several stories by author Andrew Grey. I know they will be about men like me - in public service, with deep commitments, from smaller town. They feel real. But they still room in their hearts for more. Families, a partner. I can feel their struggles, and share their joy when they find happiness. I’m ready for the next journey.
September 2, 2024
Good Romance
A well written storyline supported by good character and plot development make this an easy and entertaining book to read. Styled as frenemies-to-lovers, based on high school contemporaries who have managed to rise above those angsty teenage conflicts. Slow developing romance, interesting plot twist, some drama and a positive ending.
A well written storyline supported by good character and plot development make this an easy and entertaining book to read. Styled as frenemies-to-lovers, based on high school contemporaries who have managed to rise above those angsty teenage conflicts. Slow developing romance, interesting plot twist, some drama and a positive ending.
October 5, 2024
BEEN THERE! DONE THAT!
It's better to leave a job than compromise yourself, coworkers, safety, health, and the workplace if there is conflict of interest or the boss relating to any of the fore mentioned. I just love the soul/guts that are put into all of Andrew's stories. THANK YOU, ANDREW! ENJOY!
It's better to leave a job than compromise yourself, coworkers, safety, health, and the workplace if there is conflict of interest or the boss relating to any of the fore mentioned. I just love the soul/guts that are put into all of Andrew's stories. THANK YOU, ANDREW! ENJOY!
January 24, 2025
A good story spoiled by too much angst & unnecessary repetitive dialogue.
Not his best work. Good ideas, painfully executed at times. Other parts are coherent & flow well, but this was hard to press on with at times. Still, he managed to make me care about the characters enough to wade through the drivelly bits.
Not his best work. Good ideas, painfully executed at times. Other parts are coherent & flow well, but this was hard to press on with at times. Still, he managed to make me care about the characters enough to wade through the drivelly bits.
January 10, 2020
Save Your Money
If I could only give this book an 1/8 of a star I would. One star is just TOO much. This book SUCKED SUCKED SUCKED! I Love Andrew Grey’s work but this book is just B*A*D! It as mainly focused around a Child instead of two men falling in Love and the love scenes were Lame and Boring. Please SAVE your Time and your MONEY!!
If I could only give this book an 1/8 of a star I would. One star is just TOO much. This book SUCKED SUCKED SUCKED! I Love Andrew Grey’s work but this book is just B*A*D! It as mainly focused around a Child instead of two men falling in Love and the love scenes were Lame and Boring. Please SAVE your Time and your MONEY!!
August 3, 2021
A good book by Andrew Grey. In looking over the books Ive read, I do tend to favor these books - a good story, interesting characters, and some type of drama outside of the relationship that keeps the story going. All in all, a good book!
August 17, 2022
Heels for Andy - great story
I love love Andrew Grey's stories & this is one of the best yes there is a lot of angst but there is laughter & love. I also love that he brought in characters from other books
Thank you Lori
I love love Andrew Grey's stories & this is one of the best yes there is a lot of angst but there is laughter & love. I also love that he brought in characters from other books
Thank you Lori
June 26, 2024
Good read
This book is an easy read it is quite short so it doesn't have a lot of depth. However, the main characters are likeable and the storyline was fairly interesting , but a bit predictable.
This book is an easy read it is quite short so it doesn't have a lot of depth. However, the main characters are likeable and the storyline was fairly interesting , but a bit predictable.
not-interested
January 17, 2025DNF @ 3%
That was all I could take.
Tyler was here. Abey was there. Tyler was tired. Abey was hungry. Tyler did this. Tyler did that.
Jesus, not every sentence needed to include their names. The author needed to work on sentence structure and variety because it was incredibly awkward to read.
That was all I could take.
Tyler was here. Abey was there. Tyler was tired. Abey was hungry. Tyler did this. Tyler did that.
Jesus, not every sentence needed to include their names. The author needed to work on sentence structure and variety because it was incredibly awkward to read.
December 19, 2019
This book exists in the "Love Means..." Universe. It's sweet and very low angst.
mm-dnf
June 17, 2022Dnf @ 50%. It was boring and still had an approx. hour and half of reading left 🤷🏻♀️
July 23, 2024
It's very dramatic. Lots of PTSD, intolerance, mystery, corruption, and a huge dose of sappy. Add the Mediterranean Sea migrant crisis to the mix and orphan adoption for good measure. Phew!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews