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Hearts of Snow Lake #2
Sidearms and Spareribs
Sean:
I'm a cop on leave. I fled to Snow Lake for some R&R after getting what I euphemistically call a 'workplace injury.' Since getting shot, I'm a little jumpy-- I can't help but be spooked, expecting something, or someone, around every corner. But there's one person that's making me feel like my old, bold self again--Porter Gaines, the guy who runs the butcher shop in my temporary digs. But deep in those dark eyes of his, the glimmer of desire I think I see not only makes me wild, but makes me feel like I've come home.
I’ve always heard that a near-death experience can change your mind about life, but if I'm honest, I didn’t come anywhere close to dying. I did come out of the operating room looking for something though--someone that wasn’t there--that didn’t exist. Or I thought he didn’t.
My job's been my life for so long and whatever Porter and I have is just supposed to be a temporary thing. But when the phone rings and a mysterious man implicates Porter's little brother in a crime, I know I have to return and investigate. And maybe I'll not only find the truth, but also, find my reason to really live.
Porter:
In a town like Snow Lake, potential partners are few and far between, and with my full cargo hold of emotional baggage, I don’t know who would ever be interested in me. I saw what my dad had with Bette before they passed, and I want a little piece of that for myself. And when I meet Sean, the s*xy cop with the dark hair and darker eyes, I'm tempted more than I want to admit. He's completely unaware of the mass of butterflies swarming my guts whenever he's around.
But 'going for it' has never been my thing. I’m not thrilled about failure or rejection--it’s big change that makes me nervous. I like what’s comfortable and familiar. I like Snow Lake, I like my neighbors and our weekly rituals. As screwed up as my life has become since the accident, I still have made a new normal, and throwing a monkey wrench into the whole thing is... terrifying.
He’s only here for a little while, a tempting voice says.
How much harm can a week-long wrench do?
A lot, another, less-tempting voice answers.
But after what I've been through, I'm not sure I can resist the kind of love that Sean's offering. I just hope it doesn't destroy me.
I'm a cop on leave. I fled to Snow Lake for some R&R after getting what I euphemistically call a 'workplace injury.' Since getting shot, I'm a little jumpy-- I can't help but be spooked, expecting something, or someone, around every corner. But there's one person that's making me feel like my old, bold self again--Porter Gaines, the guy who runs the butcher shop in my temporary digs. But deep in those dark eyes of his, the glimmer of desire I think I see not only makes me wild, but makes me feel like I've come home.
I’ve always heard that a near-death experience can change your mind about life, but if I'm honest, I didn’t come anywhere close to dying. I did come out of the operating room looking for something though--someone that wasn’t there--that didn’t exist. Or I thought he didn’t.
My job's been my life for so long and whatever Porter and I have is just supposed to be a temporary thing. But when the phone rings and a mysterious man implicates Porter's little brother in a crime, I know I have to return and investigate. And maybe I'll not only find the truth, but also, find my reason to really live.
Porter:
In a town like Snow Lake, potential partners are few and far between, and with my full cargo hold of emotional baggage, I don’t know who would ever be interested in me. I saw what my dad had with Bette before they passed, and I want a little piece of that for myself. And when I meet Sean, the s*xy cop with the dark hair and darker eyes, I'm tempted more than I want to admit. He's completely unaware of the mass of butterflies swarming my guts whenever he's around.
But 'going for it' has never been my thing. I’m not thrilled about failure or rejection--it’s big change that makes me nervous. I like what’s comfortable and familiar. I like Snow Lake, I like my neighbors and our weekly rituals. As screwed up as my life has become since the accident, I still have made a new normal, and throwing a monkey wrench into the whole thing is... terrifying.
He’s only here for a little while, a tempting voice says.
How much harm can a week-long wrench do?
A lot, another, less-tempting voice answers.
But after what I've been through, I'm not sure I can resist the kind of love that Sean's offering. I just hope it doesn't destroy me.
209 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 25, 2019
43 people are currently reading
97 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
December 27, 2021
Reread December 2021.
This is probably my favorite book in the series. I love Porter and Sean. And Billy. Of course.
This is probably my favorite book in the series. I love Porter and Sean. And Billy. Of course.
April 8, 2021
Porter is a character that we meet in the first book, we knew about his tragic past, so I was looking forward to his story!
So the story starts and he and Sean look nice characters BUT the moment they see each other
(cry)
INSTA LOVE
(cry again)
So yes, the fall in love like that ... so all the interest, the development, the magic... GONE
Anyways, I finish this and is just one of the bunch. Typical characterswith no grow and lacking communication. Also at the end of the book there is a situation with Porter and his brother that is totally OUT of character. Sorry, but is IMPOSIBLE for me to believe that he would act like that in that issue.
So the story starts and he and Sean look nice characters BUT the moment they see each other
(cry)
INSTA LOVE
(cry again)
So yes, the fall in love like that ... so all the interest, the development, the magic... GONE
Anyways, I finish this and is just one of the bunch. Typical characterswith no grow and lacking communication. Also at the end of the book there is a situation with Porter and his brother that is totally OUT of character. Sorry, but is IMPOSIBLE for me to believe that he would act like that in that issue.
October 25, 2019
*I voluntarily read this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else's*
3.5 stars
This is the second book in the series and can be read as a standalone.
This story focuses on Sean and Porter. Porter made an appearance in book 1 and he immediately caught my attention. The poor guy’s trying to do his best but can’t seem to catch a break. He’s had to grow up pretty quickly; between raising his young troublesome brother and running a business. Can Porter find happiness of his own?
Porter was nervous around Sean in the beginning, but I enjoyed watching him come out his shell, as the story progressed.
The chemistry between Porter and Sean was ok. The steamy scenes felt rushed throughout.
3.5 stars
This is the second book in the series and can be read as a standalone.
This story focuses on Sean and Porter. Porter made an appearance in book 1 and he immediately caught my attention. The poor guy’s trying to do his best but can’t seem to catch a break. He’s had to grow up pretty quickly; between raising his young troublesome brother and running a business. Can Porter find happiness of his own?
Porter was nervous around Sean in the beginning, but I enjoyed watching him come out his shell, as the story progressed.
The chemistry between Porter and Sean was ok. The steamy scenes felt rushed throughout.
October 25, 2019
One thing I’m quickly learning about Cade’s books is that the characters suck you in immediately. There is no easing into one of these Snow Lake books; the characters have me invested from the very beginning.
Porter was a fascinating character in that readers get to see him blossom from an over-tired, highly stressed shell of a man to a confident and happy person. I don’t want to give anything away, but suffice to say the character transformation is beautiful.
Sean . . . . what can I say about Sean. I love cops as MCs but his baggage made him even more endearing.
Billy was introduced in the previous book, Motorcycles and Macarons. The thing I most enjoyed about him was that he wasn’t just thrown into the story here and there when convenient to remind the reader there’s a kid in the storyline. He actually has storyline himself and drives the main plot. Also, there were no instances of conveniently forgetting his existence, which often happens. Porter actually has to make arrangements for him, just like real life.
As a side note, the wedding planner from the first book, Marty, appears again throughout this novel and I remain fascinated with his frenetic, gerbil-like personality. Can’t wait for his story too.
With a peaceful town, an antagonist you love to hate and some witty dialogue rounding out the story, you can’t go wrong with this one.
Porter was a fascinating character in that readers get to see him blossom from an over-tired, highly stressed shell of a man to a confident and happy person. I don’t want to give anything away, but suffice to say the character transformation is beautiful.
Sean . . . . what can I say about Sean. I love cops as MCs but his baggage made him even more endearing.
Billy was introduced in the previous book, Motorcycles and Macarons. The thing I most enjoyed about him was that he wasn’t just thrown into the story here and there when convenient to remind the reader there’s a kid in the storyline. He actually has storyline himself and drives the main plot. Also, there were no instances of conveniently forgetting his existence, which often happens. Porter actually has to make arrangements for him, just like real life.
As a side note, the wedding planner from the first book, Marty, appears again throughout this novel and I remain fascinated with his frenetic, gerbil-like personality. Can’t wait for his story too.
With a peaceful town, an antagonist you love to hate and some witty dialogue rounding out the story, you can’t go wrong with this one.
September 17, 2021
Read for a group challenge. Now what I’m currently in the mood for, so took a while, but yay for another one crossed from the TBR. Pretty much what I expected. Small town romance, insta lust and speedy relationship. I forgot about the previous book, so I didn’t remember who Billy was and what he’d done. Leo was a nasty piece of work, I’m glad Shaun came back to help. Nice rounded ending. Curious about Marty, but not quite yet.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 25, 2020
I really enjoyed this story! I loved the small town setting, it’s always one of my favourite as it makes me feel almost as I am a part of the community, as the various books go on…
Loved Porter and Sean, they are both great characters, but each of them did something I wanted to punch him for, at some point. In the end they both redeem themselves and their love story is great, almost inescapable. Sean puts his cops skills to god use uncovering something really shady going on in Snow Lake.
I loved Cam Walker’s performance, really clear with the different voices and easy to follow
Loved Porter and Sean, they are both great characters, but each of them did something I wanted to punch him for, at some point. In the end they both redeem themselves and their love story is great, almost inescapable. Sean puts his cops skills to god use uncovering something really shady going on in Snow Lake.
I loved Cam Walker’s performance, really clear with the different voices and easy to follow
October 25, 2019
Book 2 of Snow Lake was a sweet and fluffy story of tragedy and triumph. We first met Porter in book one though we got only a glimpse of his character in the first book. In book 2 we meet Sean a sexy police officer that comes to Snow Lake for some rest and relaxation. The two meet and have immediate chemistry. Their story is complex with different challenges. However, their separate strengths work in tandem to bring them love.
October 30, 2019
Thoroughly enjoyed this return trip to Snow Lake.
This time it's Porter the butcher who gets his HEA. Both him and Sean were great characters and I really got behind their romance. The attraction between them was evident from the beginning as was Sean falling in love with the town as well.
Fun romance with a little bit of mystery (lucky Sean's a cop)
This time it's Porter the butcher who gets his HEA. Both him and Sean were great characters and I really got behind their romance. The attraction between them was evident from the beginning as was Sean falling in love with the town as well.
Fun romance with a little bit of mystery (lucky Sean's a cop)
October 27, 2019
sweet and sexy.. angsty and lovely.. it was all around a feel good and fun story to read.. i enjoyed the writing and the characters were fun. the chemistry is off the wall for these two.. soooo wonderful
November 24, 2020
The second book in the Hearts of Snow Lake series continues with a single man fighting the traumatic emotional strain and fear of gunshot victim on his own
Sean is a cop suffering from some PTSD type symptoms after being shot during a bust, feels a little edgy expecting shoe to drop. He is told to take a leave of absence for several weeks for some R&R while case is prosecuted. Sean decides to spend some time with his cousin in Snow Lake for some quite time and relaxation. There he meets Porter Gaines, the guy who he see has a glint of interest deep in those dark eyes which in turn sparks a wild glimmer of desire and leads to an affair that makes Sean feel like he's come home but Sean and Porter agree that what they have will have to be only a temporary thing.
When the relationship starts getting to close, Sean packs up and leaves without warning. But when a mysterious man accuses Porter's little brother in a crime, he knows he has to return and investigate.
Sean is a cop suffering from some PTSD type symptoms after being shot during a bust, feels a little edgy expecting shoe to drop. He is told to take a leave of absence for several weeks for some R&R while case is prosecuted. Sean decides to spend some time with his cousin in Snow Lake for some quite time and relaxation. There he meets Porter Gaines, the guy who he see has a glint of interest deep in those dark eyes which in turn sparks a wild glimmer of desire and leads to an affair that makes Sean feel like he's come home but Sean and Porter agree that what they have will have to be only a temporary thing.
When the relationship starts getting to close, Sean packs up and leaves without warning. But when a mysterious man accuses Porter's little brother in a crime, he knows he has to return and investigate.
September 25, 2022
Jaded with his police job and shot in the line of duty, Sean O’Lynn is convalescing at his cousin’s in Snow Lake. The picturesque town is a world away from Sean’s life in the city but he enjoys getting to know the locals including Porter Gaines, the guy who owns the butcher shop and cares for his 11 yo brother, Billy. Porter and Billy are still common to terms with the loss of their parents and Porter has his hands full running the shop and raising Billy, especially when Billy acts out. There’s no doubt about the attraction between Sean and Porter, but with Sean planning to return to life in the city, should either take a chance? I loved this! It’s the kind of classic small-town romance that Ashton Cade excels at, combining a sweet vibe with a few bumps in the road. I liked the mystery / scam that Sean had to solve and I thought Sean, Porter, and Billy had a great dynamic. Audio narrator Cam Walker gave a great performance here, channeling all three main characters well.
June 7, 2020
Man, Porter really made me mad in this.
March 23, 2021
Feels more worked-through than the first part. I liked this one better.
July 17, 2021
Ok
I was ok just like the last book. I rd obvious Leo was not good. Its a bit Insta love/lust but a decent storyline
I was ok just like the last book. I rd obvious Leo was not good. Its a bit Insta love/lust but a decent storyline
January 10, 2022
3.5/5.0
August 23, 2022
3.5 stars
October 21, 2019
A great addition to the Hearts of Snow Lake series from Ashton Cade.
Yet again there is a scene stealing child in Billy. My heart went out to him for everything that he's going through and to Porter, his brother who now has guardianship of him and owns the family butcher since their father died 6 months ago. Sean has come to town to recoup after being shot in the line of duty and finds himself drawn to Porter from the first time he sees him.
Porter and Billy's recent history is heartbreaking. Porter is under constant strain and Billy is struggling with grief at such a young age. Porter has earned some respite and Sean asking him out is something he really, really wants. The two men have instant chemistry and it's great to read the back and forth that they have going on though there are several stumbling blocks along the way including feelings that were never supposed to start and ideas of a future that was never considered. The two brothers cause Sean to consider things he'd never thought of - family, settling down, a young child in his life - but it's very different from the detective position he holds in the city at the moment. There's a good amount of upset and turmoil as both men consider what they actually want from each other with Porter needing to consider Billy along with himself but as a trio they have some great experiences that bring a smile to all of their faces in the moment.
There's a good plot twist alongside the relationship as Sean's detective skills are put to use to help Billy. It includes a character that we meet several times throughout the story, upsetting the locals and setting off his cop instincts.
There's a great story with wonderful characters and friends that are really supportive through the tough times for Porter and Billy, especially Layton, Greyson and Harry who we met in Motorcycles and Macarons.
Definitely a recommended contemporary romance and am enjoying the series. I found this story better than book one and hoping for good things for Marty's story next, Sean's cousin.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
Yet again there is a scene stealing child in Billy. My heart went out to him for everything that he's going through and to Porter, his brother who now has guardianship of him and owns the family butcher since their father died 6 months ago. Sean has come to town to recoup after being shot in the line of duty and finds himself drawn to Porter from the first time he sees him.
Porter and Billy's recent history is heartbreaking. Porter is under constant strain and Billy is struggling with grief at such a young age. Porter has earned some respite and Sean asking him out is something he really, really wants. The two men have instant chemistry and it's great to read the back and forth that they have going on though there are several stumbling blocks along the way including feelings that were never supposed to start and ideas of a future that was never considered. The two brothers cause Sean to consider things he'd never thought of - family, settling down, a young child in his life - but it's very different from the detective position he holds in the city at the moment. There's a good amount of upset and turmoil as both men consider what they actually want from each other with Porter needing to consider Billy along with himself but as a trio they have some great experiences that bring a smile to all of their faces in the moment.
There's a good plot twist alongside the relationship as Sean's detective skills are put to use to help Billy. It includes a character that we meet several times throughout the story, upsetting the locals and setting off his cop instincts.
There's a great story with wonderful characters and friends that are really supportive through the tough times for Porter and Billy, especially Layton, Greyson and Harry who we met in Motorcycles and Macarons.
Definitely a recommended contemporary romance and am enjoying the series. I found this story better than book one and hoping for good things for Marty's story next, Sean's cousin.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
October 29, 2019
Sidearms and Spareribs is a super sweet small town romance by Ashton Cade.
This second book in the Hearts of Snow Lake series is the story of two men. One is grieving the loss of his parents while having to raise his younger brother. The other is in town for a short time while recovering from a work place injury.
As Sean is only in town temporarily, his new found feelings for this small town boy cause a lot off confusion. What follows is a slightly angsty read that includes some homophobia, including a scene which left me gutted.
Both Sean and Porter are interesting and likeable characters. Each have some unigue issues to deal with individually, as well as to make a relationship between them work. The issues with Porter's brother are realistically developed and explored. I love his brother and all he brings to their tale.
This is the story of finding someone who calms you, anchors you, and helps you laugh at yourself. It's a story of finding a purpose in life and grabbing onto that purpose.
As with Motorcycles and Macarons, the first book of the series, the writing is good, with a nice flow and some intriguing characters. The small town is well written, with many characters adding to the story, and a whole lot of people who know everyone and everyone's business.
I highly recommend Sidearms and Spareribs to anyone in the mood for a sweet, fluffy, and tender small town romance. This Ashton Cade standalone read will not disappoint.
October 30, 2019
Sean a cop from Green Bay in town recuperating from from a gunshot wound and possibly PTSD.
Porter is the town butcher raising his brother Billy after the death of their parents.
There was instant heat between these two men.
Sean made it clear he was only in town for a short time and Porter decided to live a little and have fun.
He's been struggling with dealing with the aftermath of his parents death, and Billy hadn't exactly had a good time of it lately.
He's been acting out and Porter is concerned he's not living up to his responsibility as his guardian.
As the men get to know one another, things get complicated.
Porter's developed feelings for Sean, and Sean cares for him as well.
When the sheriff offers him a job, Sean seriously considers it, but isn't sure he's ready to leave his life in Green Bay behind or that he's good enough to be involved with Porter in a more serious manner.
When he's cleared for duty, they have a falling out over his decision to go back home.
Once there, he begins to realize how much he loves the town and the life he could see himself building there with Porter and Billy.
When Porter calls him in a panic over an incident involving Billy, he rushes back to help resolve it.
He does some investigating and discovers Billy is being falsely accused.
Both men come to the realization that they need each other despite their fears of what a new future and change look like.
Porter is the town butcher raising his brother Billy after the death of their parents.
There was instant heat between these two men.
Sean made it clear he was only in town for a short time and Porter decided to live a little and have fun.
He's been struggling with dealing with the aftermath of his parents death, and Billy hadn't exactly had a good time of it lately.
He's been acting out and Porter is concerned he's not living up to his responsibility as his guardian.
As the men get to know one another, things get complicated.
Porter's developed feelings for Sean, and Sean cares for him as well.
When the sheriff offers him a job, Sean seriously considers it, but isn't sure he's ready to leave his life in Green Bay behind or that he's good enough to be involved with Porter in a more serious manner.
When he's cleared for duty, they have a falling out over his decision to go back home.
Once there, he begins to realize how much he loves the town and the life he could see himself building there with Porter and Billy.
When Porter calls him in a panic over an incident involving Billy, he rushes back to help resolve it.
He does some investigating and discovers Billy is being falsely accused.
Both men come to the realization that they need each other despite their fears of what a new future and change look like.
October 25, 2019
Although this is the second in the Snow Lake series, it can be read as a stand-alone. This story is about Porter, who we met in the first book and is raising his little brother Billy d/t a family tragedy, and Sean, a policeman who comes to Snow Lake to recover from an on the job injury at his cousin’s house. Sean first spies Porter at his family’s butcher shop when he is looking to buy a treat to make his cousin as a thank you dinner. He only catches a glimpse that first time, but he is intrigued enough to go back the next day to hopefully speak with him. While the chemistry between them sizzles, they both know at the onset that it is a temporary fling. Once recovered Sean will go back to life in the big city of Green Bay and Porter will still be in Snow Lake raising his brother and running the butchery. But, what happens when feelings and miscommunication get involved? Sean never intended to stay and Porter can’t leave. What happens when what you thought you wanted has changed direction and the man of your dreams needs your help? Can Porter and Billy trust that Sean won’t run again? Both men became stronger together. I am really beginning to love this little town of Snow Lake and can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
October 26, 2019
This second book in the Snow Lake series is a quick read that while low angst still has some strong heart tugging moments. MCs Porter ( the town butcher that we met in book 1) and Sean, a police officer from Green Bay who is staying with his cousin in Snow Lake while he recovers from an on the job injury (he was shot) are attracted to each other and decide that having a vacation fling for the couple of weeks he is in town will suit them both. Of course, we know that’s now what is going to happen!
Porter has a lot of baggage, mostly as a result of his parents’ death in a fire and now having the responsibility of the butcher shop and raising his little brother. Sean is not a relationship guy.
The story arc moves well and the character development is well done as we gradually learn more and more about the MCs and Porter’s brother Billy. We get to see characters we met in book one and learn some more about them as well.
It was a fun read and it made me love Snow Lake a little bit more. The preview of book 3 which is about Marty the party planner who has featured in both previous books and another new comer looks interesting as well.
*I voluntarily read an ARC and this is my objective review *
Porter has a lot of baggage, mostly as a result of his parents’ death in a fire and now having the responsibility of the butcher shop and raising his little brother. Sean is not a relationship guy.
The story arc moves well and the character development is well done as we gradually learn more and more about the MCs and Porter’s brother Billy. We get to see characters we met in book one and learn some more about them as well.
It was a fun read and it made me love Snow Lake a little bit more. The preview of book 3 which is about Marty the party planner who has featured in both previous books and another new comer looks interesting as well.
*I voluntarily read an ARC and this is my objective review *
October 26, 2019
🌅 Can the perks of a🏠 small-town 🏡 life tempt a city cop to stay?
4-4.5🌟stars
💕🔥 I liked this second romance in the Snow Lake series as I did the first, and the author's inclusion of a child as a key player in each was a major factor that upped my enjoyment.
In this story, young Billy (also an important secondary character in the first book in the series) is troubled, conflicted, subject to bursts of rage, in therapy and coping with the death of his parents. His guardian/brother Porter and convalescing Green Bay cop Sean both need to consider Billy's feelings as they figure out where their immediate attraction will lead, if anywhere, as Sean's physical recovery from a gunshot wound incurred on the job forces him to re-evaluate the direction of his life.
The steam is balanced with emotion and even a bit of criminal mischief and an unnerving visitor to town named Leo. All the elements, couched in the warm, insulated community of Snow Lake, add up to a good story.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
4-4.5🌟stars
💕🔥 I liked this second romance in the Snow Lake series as I did the first, and the author's inclusion of a child as a key player in each was a major factor that upped my enjoyment.
In this story, young Billy (also an important secondary character in the first book in the series) is troubled, conflicted, subject to bursts of rage, in therapy and coping with the death of his parents. His guardian/brother Porter and convalescing Green Bay cop Sean both need to consider Billy's feelings as they figure out where their immediate attraction will lead, if anywhere, as Sean's physical recovery from a gunshot wound incurred on the job forces him to re-evaluate the direction of his life.
The steam is balanced with emotion and even a bit of criminal mischief and an unnerving visitor to town named Leo. All the elements, couched in the warm, insulated community of Snow Lake, add up to a good story.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
October 31, 2019
Sidearms and Spareribs is the second book in the Hearts of Snow Lake series by author Ashton Cade. You can start with this one and understand it just fine. This book is really sweet and I could not stop smiling as I read it. This is the kind of book I can finish in one sitting. Also makes me believe in true love.
Sean is a police officer. He has been hurt and needs a quiet place to reevaluate what he wants and get himself together. He is stressed out and needs to just let it go. I liked his go get them attitude. I also like how you cannot take the fundamentals of being a cop-out of him no matter where he is. He is a good man and a good friend.
Porter is a man who is serious. Cute and really have not had the chance to just be a goof. He takes care of his younger brother and runs the local butcher shop.
I loved these two together. They are quirky, fun, and most of all sweet as all can be together. When you want a book to make you believe in true love this is the one to pick up.
Five Shooting Stars
Sean is a police officer. He has been hurt and needs a quiet place to reevaluate what he wants and get himself together. He is stressed out and needs to just let it go. I liked his go get them attitude. I also like how you cannot take the fundamentals of being a cop-out of him no matter where he is. He is a good man and a good friend.
Porter is a man who is serious. Cute and really have not had the chance to just be a goof. He takes care of his younger brother and runs the local butcher shop.
I loved these two together. They are quirky, fun, and most of all sweet as all can be together. When you want a book to make you believe in true love this is the one to pick up.
Five Shooting Stars
October 24, 2019
Sean comes to Snow Lake to recover from a bullet wound. He expect a few weeks of quiet recovery. Then he meets the owner of the butcher shop.
Porter is doing his best to raise his brother after their parents died but he feels like he is failing Billy. The boy is acting out and Porter doesn’t know what to do to help him.
Sean wants Porter and doesn’t make a secret of it. He figures a short fling will do him good. Porter wants Sean too. But he’s just not sure about getting involved with someone with the end already in sight.
Porter and Sean were opposites in their attitudes but still very much alike. The why not from Sean and and the why should I from Porter gave the book a bit of angst. I really liked Billy, he was just the sweetest boy. A bit of a mystery added to the story. Nicely written book and characters made this a good read for me. This is the second book in the series but can be read as a standalone.
I received an arc of this book.
Porter is doing his best to raise his brother after their parents died but he feels like he is failing Billy. The boy is acting out and Porter doesn’t know what to do to help him.
Sean wants Porter and doesn’t make a secret of it. He figures a short fling will do him good. Porter wants Sean too. But he’s just not sure about getting involved with someone with the end already in sight.
Porter and Sean were opposites in their attitudes but still very much alike. The why not from Sean and and the why should I from Porter gave the book a bit of angst. I really liked Billy, he was just the sweetest boy. A bit of a mystery added to the story. Nicely written book and characters made this a good read for me. This is the second book in the series but can be read as a standalone.
I received an arc of this book.
October 25, 2019
Rating : 4.5 stars
Sweet, small town romance
I fell in love with Porter, such a sweet man who’s exhausted and run down due to having to raise his younger brother and be responsible for the family butcher shop he now owns.
Along comes Sean, a city police officer on leave after being injured at work. He takes an almost instant interest in Porter and they agree to a fling.
Both characters are very likeable and the chemistry between them is almost electric. Lots of sparks but there’s baggage on both sides that they need to address before getting their HEA.
The solid writing gives an interesting plot line and it’s very well paced, it didn’t drag and kept me turning the pages. This made it very easy to connect with the story and the characters.
There is some minor angst, major heat, a grieving 11 year old boy and an intriguing cousin.
This is the second book in the series but can be read as a stand-alone.
I highly recommend this book.
Sweet, small town romance
I fell in love with Porter, such a sweet man who’s exhausted and run down due to having to raise his younger brother and be responsible for the family butcher shop he now owns.
Along comes Sean, a city police officer on leave after being injured at work. He takes an almost instant interest in Porter and they agree to a fling.
Both characters are very likeable and the chemistry between them is almost electric. Lots of sparks but there’s baggage on both sides that they need to address before getting their HEA.
The solid writing gives an interesting plot line and it’s very well paced, it didn’t drag and kept me turning the pages. This made it very easy to connect with the story and the characters.
There is some minor angst, major heat, a grieving 11 year old boy and an intriguing cousin.
This is the second book in the series but can be read as a stand-alone.
I highly recommend this book.
October 25, 2019
Thank you for the ARC read, I voluntarily give this book an honest review. Maybe there was one good thing that comes from Sean coming to stay with Marty after all once he catches a glimpse of the young guy at the butcher's market. Being up front with Porter that he was only in town long enough to recover after being shoot, but as time passes can he really still walk away.
Porter knows he shouldn't fall more for Sean but the way he is with both Billy and himself he can't help but melt more with each passing of days. What starts as a fling can't be more to the city police officer. After Sean up and disappears after an argument over their relationship, Porter has no choice but to call for help with Billy.
This was such a great moving story for all the characters when family is all you have left and making new more meaningful memories for a little boy hurting. Just loved how Sean came to the recuse for Porter. Highly recommend this series.
Porter knows he shouldn't fall more for Sean but the way he is with both Billy and himself he can't help but melt more with each passing of days. What starts as a fling can't be more to the city police officer. After Sean up and disappears after an argument over their relationship, Porter has no choice but to call for help with Billy.
This was such a great moving story for all the characters when family is all you have left and making new more meaningful memories for a little boy hurting. Just loved how Sean came to the recuse for Porter. Highly recommend this series.
October 28, 2019
Life is full of surprises!
Porter and his brother are still grieving after both their parents died in an accident. Porter is now managing their business and is the town’s butcher. He is also trying to help out his younger brother, Billy, adjust to their loss. But Porter feels empty and lonely, and it has been building up for months.
Sean was injured at work and is on forced leave from the his station. He decided to stay with his cousin, Marty, who owns a Party store in Snow Lake.
What started as a fling, to scratch an itch, becomes something more. Both Porter and Sean start to want more.
A sweet tale of a small town young man and a city cop. Attraction became something more (they have both been dreaming or hoping for), and finding the courage (and get over the fear of rejection) to hold on to the one person who completes them. And adjusting to having a family in the same context. An easy and endearing read!
Porter and his brother are still grieving after both their parents died in an accident. Porter is now managing their business and is the town’s butcher. He is also trying to help out his younger brother, Billy, adjust to their loss. But Porter feels empty and lonely, and it has been building up for months.
Sean was injured at work and is on forced leave from the his station. He decided to stay with his cousin, Marty, who owns a Party store in Snow Lake.
What started as a fling, to scratch an itch, becomes something more. Both Porter and Sean start to want more.
A sweet tale of a small town young man and a city cop. Attraction became something more (they have both been dreaming or hoping for), and finding the courage (and get over the fear of rejection) to hold on to the one person who completes them. And adjusting to having a family in the same context. An easy and endearing read!
October 20, 2019
Sidearms and Spareribs is the second book in the Hearts of Snow Lake series by Ashton Cade. This story is sweet but with a good amount of heat.
Sean is a cop who is on leave due to an incident who decides a little fun with the local butcher is a great idea when he meets the adorable Porter. Porter seems shy but really comes out of his shell when it comes down to getting frisky together. It started out as a fun, temporary fling... but can it become more?
I love Sean and Porter. I love their dynamic and the chemistry. The secondary characters are fun as well amd I really enjoyed getting to know them all. The story has drama/angst, humor, sweetness and steam. Overall, a really good read.
I received an advanced reader's copy of the book and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation.
Sean is a cop who is on leave due to an incident who decides a little fun with the local butcher is a great idea when he meets the adorable Porter. Porter seems shy but really comes out of his shell when it comes down to getting frisky together. It started out as a fun, temporary fling... but can it become more?
I love Sean and Porter. I love their dynamic and the chemistry. The secondary characters are fun as well amd I really enjoyed getting to know them all. The story has drama/angst, humor, sweetness and steam. Overall, a really good read.
I received an advanced reader's copy of the book and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation.
October 20, 2019
🌟🌟🌟🌟 4.5 stars
🔥🔥🔥🔥 Heat Level: 4
A wonderful story!
A beautiful ending to a topsy-turvy first meeting and what was meant to be a holiday re-charge. A glimpse in the shadows to falling head over heels: showing you need to take that chance when it’s in front of you and embrace the ride of life for what it is and how it’s presented. Take nothing for granted and understand that change and chance are powerful things and can bring the greatest joy.
This story of Sean and Porter demonstrates the importance of being honest and upfront. Take the risk. Lay it all out. Reap the benefits or know that it wasn’t meant to be.
Voluntarily Reviewed By JuniorDuke for Books, Tattoos and Tea
Thanks for reading! For great stories, reviews and more please visit https://bookstattoosandtea.wordpress.com 📚.
🔥🔥🔥🔥 Heat Level: 4
A wonderful story!
A beautiful ending to a topsy-turvy first meeting and what was meant to be a holiday re-charge. A glimpse in the shadows to falling head over heels: showing you need to take that chance when it’s in front of you and embrace the ride of life for what it is and how it’s presented. Take nothing for granted and understand that change and chance are powerful things and can bring the greatest joy.
This story of Sean and Porter demonstrates the importance of being honest and upfront. Take the risk. Lay it all out. Reap the benefits or know that it wasn’t meant to be.
Voluntarily Reviewed By JuniorDuke for Books, Tattoos and Tea
Thanks for reading! For great stories, reviews and more please visit https://bookstattoosandtea.wordpress.com 📚.
October 25, 2019
Awesome feel great series. I’m loving this series Ashley’s descriptive writing makes me hope there’s lots more stories. Sean is a cop who got shot and is recuperating in Snow Lake with his cousin Martin who’s quite flamboyant. He meets Porter and his brother Billy at the butchers shop that a Porter owns. Porter is quite shy but surprises Sean when it comes to their sexual encounters. Billy and Porter are still grieving the loss of their dad and step mom. You need to read this book to find out why Porter and Sean have a massive fight with Sean going back h9me. But when Billy is implicated in a hate crime, Porter rings Sean in a panic not sure what to do but Sean comes to the rescue.
I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book for my honest opinions of which I’m under no obligation to do so. I absolutely recommend this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book for my honest opinions of which I’m under no obligation to do so. I absolutely recommend this book.
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