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Tangle Valley #2
Two to Tangle
Finding forever is simply too hard.
As a renowned chef, Gabriella Russo knows how to season a good dish. It’s her personal life that’s been too spicy for her liking. Ready to take a break from the rollercoaster of romance, Gabriella’s moved to Oregon to open Tangled, a restaurant on the grounds of Tangle Valley Vineyard. A good glass of wine and space to create is all she requires.
Ryan Jacks brings all the girls to the yard, or so it should say on her business card. She’s a skilled carpenter who’s been told more than once that she’s good with her hands. When Ryan takes a job building a new restaurant, her world comes to a halt. The sassy chef is sexy, insightful, and comes with the kind of smart mouth that has Ryan rethinking just about everything. But with Gabriella off the menu, what’s Ryan supposed to do?
Cover Artist: Jeanine Henning
Genres: Contemporary / Romance
As a renowned chef, Gabriella Russo knows how to season a good dish. It’s her personal life that’s been too spicy for her liking. Ready to take a break from the rollercoaster of romance, Gabriella’s moved to Oregon to open Tangled, a restaurant on the grounds of Tangle Valley Vineyard. A good glass of wine and space to create is all she requires.
Ryan Jacks brings all the girls to the yard, or so it should say on her business card. She’s a skilled carpenter who’s been told more than once that she’s good with her hands. When Ryan takes a job building a new restaurant, her world comes to a halt. The sassy chef is sexy, insightful, and comes with the kind of smart mouth that has Ryan rethinking just about everything. But with Gabriella off the menu, what’s Ryan supposed to do?
Cover Artist: Jeanine Henning
Genres: Contemporary / Romance
261 pages, Paperback
First published November 10, 2020
73 people are currently reading
597 people want to read
About the author
Melissa Brayden
33 books2,693 followersMelissa Brayden is the multi-award winning author of more than twenty-five sapphic romance novels and is hard at work on more. She is a wine enthusiast, a fan of all donuts, and is probably staring off into space as you're reading this. You can find her at www.melissabrayden.com and on most social media sites.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 166 reviews
December 6, 2020
3.50 Stars. Not my favorite Brayden book but still a good read. Life has been crazy lately, it seems like everything happens at once sometimes, so I’m a little late in reviewing this one. Since a lot of reviews are in, and many people LOVED this book, I can tell I’m a bit of an outlier here. I did like this but it was missing that Brayden magic for me. The thing is, Brayden is such an amazing romance author that even when –in my opinion- I don’t think a book is her best, it’s still better than many of the other romances I’ve read this year.
Where I live we are currently having our first storm of the season –heavy wet snow and high winds-. We already lost power once today and I’m worried it might go out again so I’m going to try to keep this review on the shorter side. And since so many people have written already about why they loved this book so much, I’ll focus more on what didn’t sit as right with me.
The first slight hitch I had was not really connecting with the beginning of the book. I picked up this book, read a little, then put it down until the next day. I’ve been doing this same pattern for the last three days. That is unheard of for me with a Brayden book. Normally her books hook me in instantly and I finish them in one sitting. Maybe I’ve read too many storylines with “the player” and the one fantastic woman than can change the player’s ways, I don’t know but this wasn’t clicking at first. In the first book Entangled, living and breathing the beautiful vineyard setting, really seemed to work so much better for me. This book was back on the vineyard, but it wasn’t close to the same and half the time I even forgot that it was.
While I didn’t like “the player” and “the savior” character tropes, I liked the characters personalities for the most part. Gabriella was extremely easy to like which wasn’t surprising since she caught my eye in book one. Ryan’s thoughts were a little repetitive for me, but for the most part I even liked her. However, almost all the secondary characters where not working for me except for Joey and Becca –book one mains-. I didn’t get what was up with Madison since she was nothing like her book one character. Ryan’s friends/workers just took up space and didn’t seem to add anything to the story. And those Biddies or whatever you call them, yeah no. I don’t know if they are supposed to be funny of cute, but yeah they were not working for me at all. I’m actually crossing my fingers they disappear for book three. Oh, I almost forgot, Ryan’s mom was an exception and a really nicely done character. Unfortunately, we only see her two quick times and I actually found myself wishing she would make another appearance.
Well I still have power so I guess this won’t be short. I don’t want to get into the romance too much. I don’t want to spoiler anything but I did have a little problem here. I wasn’t crazy about the pace of the romance. It’s not insta love or anything close but I still felt like it was going by too fast. I felt like the characters connected at that initial level, but the next deeper, more meaningful, level wasn’t really there. So I can’t really be surprised that the main conflict was basically because of no communication. I’m not a fan of the big conflict moment being about miscommunication or no communication. I swear every time it makes me roll my eyes and say “really?” I know this is romance fiction and I should not be too picky, but Brayden has done conflict extremely well more than a dozen times so I guess I just expected more.
It feels weird to write such a critical review for a Brayden book but I wanted to explain myself. On the good side, this is still a Brayden book. As much as certain things didn’t work for me, I still really enjoyed parts of this book. There were some lines that were so well written, so clever and witty, that I actually kept asking myself “how does Brayden come up with such good dialogue?!” While I didn’t agree or like some story choices, Brayden still impressed me with her writing like always. And even with my criticism, I would still recommend this to Brayden and or romance fans.
A copy was given to me for an honest review.
Where I live we are currently having our first storm of the season –heavy wet snow and high winds-. We already lost power once today and I’m worried it might go out again so I’m going to try to keep this review on the shorter side. And since so many people have written already about why they loved this book so much, I’ll focus more on what didn’t sit as right with me.
The first slight hitch I had was not really connecting with the beginning of the book. I picked up this book, read a little, then put it down until the next day. I’ve been doing this same pattern for the last three days. That is unheard of for me with a Brayden book. Normally her books hook me in instantly and I finish them in one sitting. Maybe I’ve read too many storylines with “the player” and the one fantastic woman than can change the player’s ways, I don’t know but this wasn’t clicking at first. In the first book Entangled, living and breathing the beautiful vineyard setting, really seemed to work so much better for me. This book was back on the vineyard, but it wasn’t close to the same and half the time I even forgot that it was.
While I didn’t like “the player” and “the savior” character tropes, I liked the characters personalities for the most part. Gabriella was extremely easy to like which wasn’t surprising since she caught my eye in book one. Ryan’s thoughts were a little repetitive for me, but for the most part I even liked her. However, almost all the secondary characters where not working for me except for Joey and Becca –book one mains-. I didn’t get what was up with Madison since she was nothing like her book one character. Ryan’s friends/workers just took up space and didn’t seem to add anything to the story. And those Biddies or whatever you call them, yeah no. I don’t know if they are supposed to be funny of cute, but yeah they were not working for me at all. I’m actually crossing my fingers they disappear for book three. Oh, I almost forgot, Ryan’s mom was an exception and a really nicely done character. Unfortunately, we only see her two quick times and I actually found myself wishing she would make another appearance.
Well I still have power so I guess this won’t be short. I don’t want to get into the romance too much. I don’t want to spoiler anything but I did have a little problem here. I wasn’t crazy about the pace of the romance. It’s not insta love or anything close but I still felt like it was going by too fast. I felt like the characters connected at that initial level, but the next deeper, more meaningful, level wasn’t really there. So I can’t really be surprised that the main conflict was basically because of no communication. I’m not a fan of the big conflict moment being about miscommunication or no communication. I swear every time it makes me roll my eyes and say “really?” I know this is romance fiction and I should not be too picky, but Brayden has done conflict extremely well more than a dozen times so I guess I just expected more.
It feels weird to write such a critical review for a Brayden book but I wanted to explain myself. On the good side, this is still a Brayden book. As much as certain things didn’t work for me, I still really enjoyed parts of this book. There were some lines that were so well written, so clever and witty, that I actually kept asking myself “how does Brayden come up with such good dialogue?!” While I didn’t agree or like some story choices, Brayden still impressed me with her writing like always. And even with my criticism, I would still recommend this to Brayden and or romance fans.
A copy was given to me for an honest review.
November 1, 2020
How does Melissa Brayden do this every time? Every single time?
I really need to have more faith in authors whose books I love. I’ll blame it on my anxiety. Melissa Brayden is one of my favourite authors and because she is, I worry with each new book that maybe this will be the one that disappoints. Sure, Brayden’s plots are pretty traditional but there’s something about the journey, the way her characters fall in love that I can’t get enough of. And Two to Tangle is no exception. It made my heart warm and achy at the same time. In the best way. As usual.
In this second book in the Tangle Valley Romance series, the focus is on Gabriella Russo, the fiery and extraordinarily talented chef of the future restaurant that will come complete the visitors’ experience of Tangle Valley Vineyard. Joey, the owner, has given her total control over the construction and Gabriella is extremely excited at the idea of having her own restaurant and having it be exactly as she imagines it. In charge of making that dream come true is Ryan Jacks, the town player, whose whole outlook on life and love will not survive meeting Gabriella. Gabriella left the east coast for a quieter and slower life and makes it very clear she is not into hookups, but she’ll have a hard time protecting her heart from everything Ryan makes her feel. And then there’s Madison, Gabriella’s ex, Joey’s winemaker and best friend, who knows all there is to know (or so she thinks) about Ryan from high school and the town’s very efficient gossip network. In her view, Gabriella deserves better and that better might be her.
From page one, this book is, once again, pure Brayden. The group of friends, the witty banter, the perkiness. So much so that I asked myself at one point whether there was such a thing as too perky. But just before it got too much, Brayden made a subtle shift and the perkiness turned bittersweet. I liked the change in atmosphere a lot. The characters are wonderful, which isn’t surprising. Even though their voices are not always as distinctive as I’d like them to be, they feel genuine and complicated and very lovable. As is often the case in romance, miscommunication and low self-esteem play a big part, but Melissa Brayden manages to make the inevitable breakup feel justified. I believed in the struggle on every side. I really really love when characters try to deny they have feelings but just can’t resist because love is simply stronger than them. That’s what romance is about.
I’ve been told off for overrating Melissa Brayden’s books before. While I can’t entirely disagree (I have definite favourites yet I’ve rated all of them the same), I’m not planning on stopping, not as long as they make my heart happy. And they so do.
I received a copy from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
I really need to have more faith in authors whose books I love. I’ll blame it on my anxiety. Melissa Brayden is one of my favourite authors and because she is, I worry with each new book that maybe this will be the one that disappoints. Sure, Brayden’s plots are pretty traditional but there’s something about the journey, the way her characters fall in love that I can’t get enough of. And Two to Tangle is no exception. It made my heart warm and achy at the same time. In the best way. As usual.
In this second book in the Tangle Valley Romance series, the focus is on Gabriella Russo, the fiery and extraordinarily talented chef of the future restaurant that will come complete the visitors’ experience of Tangle Valley Vineyard. Joey, the owner, has given her total control over the construction and Gabriella is extremely excited at the idea of having her own restaurant and having it be exactly as she imagines it. In charge of making that dream come true is Ryan Jacks, the town player, whose whole outlook on life and love will not survive meeting Gabriella. Gabriella left the east coast for a quieter and slower life and makes it very clear she is not into hookups, but she’ll have a hard time protecting her heart from everything Ryan makes her feel. And then there’s Madison, Gabriella’s ex, Joey’s winemaker and best friend, who knows all there is to know (or so she thinks) about Ryan from high school and the town’s very efficient gossip network. In her view, Gabriella deserves better and that better might be her.
From page one, this book is, once again, pure Brayden. The group of friends, the witty banter, the perkiness. So much so that I asked myself at one point whether there was such a thing as too perky. But just before it got too much, Brayden made a subtle shift and the perkiness turned bittersweet. I liked the change in atmosphere a lot. The characters are wonderful, which isn’t surprising. Even though their voices are not always as distinctive as I’d like them to be, they feel genuine and complicated and very lovable. As is often the case in romance, miscommunication and low self-esteem play a big part, but Melissa Brayden manages to make the inevitable breakup feel justified. I believed in the struggle on every side. I really really love when characters try to deny they have feelings but just can’t resist because love is simply stronger than them. That’s what romance is about.
I’ve been told off for overrating Melissa Brayden’s books before. While I can’t entirely disagree (I have definite favourites yet I’ve rated all of them the same), I’m not planning on stopping, not as long as they make my heart happy. And they so do.
I received a copy from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 8, 2020
I was looking forward to Gabriella's story since I read Entangled and it did not disappoint. In fact, I like it more than Joey's. Gabriella and Ryan have chemistry and charisma that leaps off the pages and the playful banter between the two had me smiling a lot. In fact the cheeky dialogues between any two characters in Brayden's books is what I live for.
The angst here was caused due to miscommunication which was joined by it's trusty sidekick, love triangle. So, that sucked because I loved all 3 characters and it was frustrating to see them to suffer but it added a lot of yearning and drama so at least the book never got boring.
I really wish Carly and Lauren's interaction with the group was shown to us. I missed them. Hopefully we'll see them in the next one. Also I don't know if I am supposed to or not but I really dislike Biddies, the 'Gossip Girl' of Whisper Wall. They called Joey jilted, told Ryan that they believe Gabriella and Madison are meant to be, etc.. They give zero consideration to other people's feelings.
Overall I really liked this book and can't wait to read Clementine and Madison's story. I am a sucker for crush to lovers and also Brayden's books!
Copy provided by the publisher, Bold Strokes Books, via NetGalley.
The angst here was caused due to miscommunication which was joined by it's trusty sidekick, love triangle. So, that sucked because I loved all 3 characters and it was frustrating to see them to suffer but it added a lot of yearning and drama so at least the book never got boring.
I really wish Carly and Lauren's interaction with the group was shown to us. I missed them. Hopefully we'll see them in the next one. Also I don't know if I am supposed to or not but I really dislike Biddies, the 'Gossip Girl' of Whisper Wall. They called Joey jilted, told Ryan that they believe Gabriella and Madison are meant to be, etc.. They give zero consideration to other people's feelings.
Overall I really liked this book and can't wait to read Clementine and Madison's story. I am a sucker for crush to lovers and also Brayden's books!
Copy provided by the publisher, Bold Strokes Books, via NetGalley.
March 14, 2022
I haven’t been reading for such a long time ! So when I finally felt like reading again, I knew I had to choose a “feel good” book and a “go to” author!
Thank god for my choice ! This one hit the spot and was exactly what I needed !
One tends to forget how good Melissa Brayden writes , one also tends to forget how amazing a book can make you feel, put a smile on your face or just simply make you smile.
A very solid 5.
P.s: I’ve missed Goodreads :)
Thank god for my choice ! This one hit the spot and was exactly what I needed !
One tends to forget how good Melissa Brayden writes , one also tends to forget how amazing a book can make you feel, put a smile on your face or just simply make you smile.
A very solid 5.
P.s: I’ve missed Goodreads :)
November 6, 2020
Food, wine, and softball games with a sexy chef and hot contractor? I’m in love.
Chef Gabriella Russo (34) moved from the East Coast to the West with her best-friend-cum-ex-girlfriend Madison LeGrange (31) after Tangle Valley Vineyard owner Joey Wilder’s (31) job offer. Soon the restaurant of her dreams is under construction, and Gabriella finds herself in the constant presence of the gorgeous contractor Ryan Jacks (28), who might also be the woman of her dreams. Too bad Ryan is a player and too young for her.
I had a lot of fun with the previous book, Entangled (review), and have been looking forward to Gabriella and Ryan’s story for months. Since the series is set in the wonderful vineyard Tangle Valley, I poured some wine to ready myself for this book and ended up laughing and crying through the whole thing. I love Ryan so much even though she does make some questionable decisions sometimes. I felt her insecurities, vulnerabilities, and earnestness. Right now, I just want to give her a hug.
I love how passionate and confident both Gabriella and Ryan are about their jobs and yet so uncertain, extensively questioning themselves, when it comes to love and their mutual feelings. Every single time Gabs and Ryan see or even think of each other, I experienced butterflies in my stomach. Maybe it’s the alcohol; maybe it’s not. While there is some misunderstanding between them throughout the story, it doesn’t feel like miscommunications. I think both parties are fairly justified for their behaviors. There is also a bit of a love triangle going on that is fully believable and heartbreaking at the same time.
The secondary characters are also amazing. The Tangle Valley Trio is as fun and wonderful as I remembered them to be but even more layered. There are support and angst within the group, and I also loved seeing more of Joey and Becca’s relationship after Entangled. Ryan’s friends Billy and Lana are also wonderfully understanding and her golden retriever mix rescue Dale is adorable. I feel like crying again just thinking about them all. There are also brief mentions of actress Carly Daniel, tasting room staff Loretta’s daughter featured in To the Moon and Back (review) and romance novelist Parker Bristow featured in Back to September (review), two of my favorite Brayden books.
Gabriella and Ryan are so cute yet frustrating I love them. There were tensions but none contrived. I could see everything happen and I was rooting for them so hard, believing in them when they didn’t believe in themselves. Unlike other Brayden books, the intimate scenes in this one mostly fade to black, and for me, that made the story more tender with aching yearnings. I also love that apart from the scenes involving the restaurant construction site, there were also slow-pitch softball games. Who doesn’t want some sweaty, sporty, and muscly encounters?
Two to Tangle is another wonderful book by Brayden whose main characters I adore. A Tangle Valley Romance is now my favorite contemporary romance series, and I cannot wait for What a Tangled Web, where we can fall in love with both Madison and Clementine as they fall for each other.
I received an e-ARC from Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
“You’re a good chef.”
[Gabriella] paused. “Ryan. I’m the best chef. Stop by my truck one day.”
Chef Gabriella Russo (34) moved from the East Coast to the West with her best-friend-cum-ex-girlfriend Madison LeGrange (31) after Tangle Valley Vineyard owner Joey Wilder’s (31) job offer. Soon the restaurant of her dreams is under construction, and Gabriella finds herself in the constant presence of the gorgeous contractor Ryan Jacks (28), who might also be the woman of her dreams. Too bad Ryan is a player and too young for her.
I had a lot of fun with the previous book, Entangled (review), and have been looking forward to Gabriella and Ryan’s story for months. Since the series is set in the wonderful vineyard Tangle Valley, I poured some wine to ready myself for this book and ended up laughing and crying through the whole thing. I love Ryan so much even though she does make some questionable decisions sometimes. I felt her insecurities, vulnerabilities, and earnestness. Right now, I just want to give her a hug.
I love how passionate and confident both Gabriella and Ryan are about their jobs and yet so uncertain, extensively questioning themselves, when it comes to love and their mutual feelings. Every single time Gabs and Ryan see or even think of each other, I experienced butterflies in my stomach. Maybe it’s the alcohol; maybe it’s not. While there is some misunderstanding between them throughout the story, it doesn’t feel like miscommunications. I think both parties are fairly justified for their behaviors. There is also a bit of a love triangle going on that is fully believable and heartbreaking at the same time.
“This was their great love, and they blew it. Now they have to live a subpar existence, settling for less because they didn’t go after what their hearts truly reached for, messy as it would have been.” — Becca
The secondary characters are also amazing. The Tangle Valley Trio is as fun and wonderful as I remembered them to be but even more layered. There are support and angst within the group, and I also loved seeing more of Joey and Becca’s relationship after Entangled. Ryan’s friends Billy and Lana are also wonderfully understanding and her golden retriever mix rescue Dale is adorable. I feel like crying again just thinking about them all. There are also brief mentions of actress Carly Daniel, tasting room staff Loretta’s daughter featured in To the Moon and Back (review) and romance novelist Parker Bristow featured in Back to September (review), two of my favorite Brayden books.
Gabriella and Ryan are so cute yet frustrating I love them. There were tensions but none contrived. I could see everything happen and I was rooting for them so hard, believing in them when they didn’t believe in themselves. Unlike other Brayden books, the intimate scenes in this one mostly fade to black, and for me, that made the story more tender with aching yearnings. I also love that apart from the scenes involving the restaurant construction site, there were also slow-pitch softball games. Who doesn’t want some sweaty, sporty, and muscly encounters?
“The ego is a horrible roadblock on the road to achievement.” — Gabriella
Two to Tangle is another wonderful book by Brayden whose main characters I adore. A Tangle Valley Romance is now my favorite contemporary romance series, and I cannot wait for What a Tangled Web, where we can fall in love with both Madison and Clementine as they fall for each other.
I received an e-ARC from Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 11, 2020
Two to Tangle starts off in typical Brayden trilogy style with friendly banter and light humour as good friends Joey, Gabriella and Madison get together for movie night and a chance to discuss Joey’s happy life with Becca. Good food, good wine and good friends continue to be a winning combination but what impressed me the most in this story were the hurdles the leading ladies have to overcome to reach their HEA.
Gabriella Russo creates mouth watering dishes out of her food truck, Jolene and loves working and living on the Tangle Valley Winery estate. She has started a culinary apprenticeship program with the local Whisper Wall highschool and even joins the local softball league hoping to meet new people. She is excited Joey has left her in charge of the renovations and design for the building destined to become the restaurant Tangled since it will be her space to work in and manage.
Ryan Jacks is her contractor. Dark hair, deep blue eyes, muscles in all the right places, attractive as hell. Also a player. Meeting the fiery, confident Gabriella puts Ryan back on her heels and has her reevaluating her (lack of) love life. The sparks are flying from the moment these two meet. I loved their scenes together facing off on opposing softball teams. We’ve come to expect terrific dialogue from this author but she outdid herself with the trash talking fun on the field and the heartfelt moments on and off the field.
As much as I was drawn to Gabriella in Entangled and the opening scenes in this book, I found myself rooting for Ryan when it seemed like Gabs was throwing out all kinds of mixed signals. I was impressed with how annoyed I became when both women listened to the little voices in their heads saying they couldn’t make a go of a lasting relationship. The old biddies who added comic relief in the first book in this series were full on meddlesome making a big impact and not in a good way on Ryan and Gabriella’s confidence and trust issues. The angst levels grew as their relationship faltered. The rock bottom hits yet Brayden pulls out all the stops to make the last twenty percent of the book upbeat, funny and entertaining. I almost forgive her for Ryan's treatment at the hands of Gabriella. Almost.
You know a book is well written when you are begging characters to listen to you and not believe what they are being told. When an author can make a reader experience all the emotions her characters are feeling and not be able to resist making muskrat faces at appropriate moments you’ve done your job.
4.5 stars
ARC received with thanks from Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley for review.
Gabriella Russo creates mouth watering dishes out of her food truck, Jolene and loves working and living on the Tangle Valley Winery estate. She has started a culinary apprenticeship program with the local Whisper Wall highschool and even joins the local softball league hoping to meet new people. She is excited Joey has left her in charge of the renovations and design for the building destined to become the restaurant Tangled since it will be her space to work in and manage.
Ryan Jacks is her contractor. Dark hair, deep blue eyes, muscles in all the right places, attractive as hell. Also a player. Meeting the fiery, confident Gabriella puts Ryan back on her heels and has her reevaluating her (lack of) love life. The sparks are flying from the moment these two meet. I loved their scenes together facing off on opposing softball teams. We’ve come to expect terrific dialogue from this author but she outdid herself with the trash talking fun on the field and the heartfelt moments on and off the field.
As much as I was drawn to Gabriella in Entangled and the opening scenes in this book, I found myself rooting for Ryan when it seemed like Gabs was throwing out all kinds of mixed signals. I was impressed with how annoyed I became when both women listened to the little voices in their heads saying they couldn’t make a go of a lasting relationship. The old biddies who added comic relief in the first book in this series were full on meddlesome making a big impact and not in a good way on Ryan and Gabriella’s confidence and trust issues. The angst levels grew as their relationship faltered. The rock bottom hits yet Brayden pulls out all the stops to make the last twenty percent of the book upbeat, funny and entertaining. I almost forgive her for Ryan's treatment at the hands of Gabriella. Almost.
You know a book is well written when you are begging characters to listen to you and not believe what they are being told. When an author can make a reader experience all the emotions her characters are feeling and not be able to resist making muskrat faces at appropriate moments you’ve done your job.
4.5 stars
ARC received with thanks from Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley for review.
October 19, 2020
Two to Tangle is the second installment in Melissa Brayden's, Tangle Valley Romance series. If you read her first book in this series, Entangled, you will remember chef extraordinaire, Gabriella Russo. In this romance not only does the chef whip up culinary delights, but she also opens the winery's newest restaurant with the help of a local construction crew and their boss, Ryan Jacks. Did I mention romance and sparks, well there are quite a few of them between Gabriella and Ryan!
Ryan Jacks is somewhat of a player. Ryan lets the ladies, and there are a number of them, know she is down for fun between the sheets but that is all. She isn't interested in the commitment of any type. That is until she meets the tough but sweet newest resident, Gabriella. When they meet she second-guesses all her old ways, the only problem is that her reputation is already firmly in place.
Gabriella is currently creating amazing dishes out of her food truck, but the end goal is to create a world-class restaurant that sets Tangle Valley Vineyard miles above the rest. She's finally creating the food she wants and has found happiness in the beauty of Whisper Wall, Oregon. Everything is going according to plan until she meets the stunning Ryan Jacks. As Ryan's company begins building Gabrielle's dream these two grow as friends and then more. The only problem is Ryan's reputation and cold feet seem to get in the way.
Melissa Brayden does it again with a sweet and sexy romance that leaves you feeling content and full of happiness. As always the book is full of smiles, fabulous dialogue, and characters you wish were your best friends. You don't have to read the first in the series to dive into this one, but I would recommend it. Trust me, read everything by Brayden, you will not be disappointed.
Ryan Jacks is somewhat of a player. Ryan lets the ladies, and there are a number of them, know she is down for fun between the sheets but that is all. She isn't interested in the commitment of any type. That is until she meets the tough but sweet newest resident, Gabriella. When they meet she second-guesses all her old ways, the only problem is that her reputation is already firmly in place.
Gabriella is currently creating amazing dishes out of her food truck, but the end goal is to create a world-class restaurant that sets Tangle Valley Vineyard miles above the rest. She's finally creating the food she wants and has found happiness in the beauty of Whisper Wall, Oregon. Everything is going according to plan until she meets the stunning Ryan Jacks. As Ryan's company begins building Gabrielle's dream these two grow as friends and then more. The only problem is Ryan's reputation and cold feet seem to get in the way.
Melissa Brayden does it again with a sweet and sexy romance that leaves you feeling content and full of happiness. As always the book is full of smiles, fabulous dialogue, and characters you wish were your best friends. You don't have to read the first in the series to dive into this one, but I would recommend it. Trust me, read everything by Brayden, you will not be disappointed.
February 14, 2021
“Two to Tangle” is the second installment in Melissa Brayden’s Tangle Valley Romance series. It’s a sweet, small town romance with Brayden’s hallmark witty, cheeky banter.
Gabriella moved to Whisper Wall with her best friend and ex-girlfriend, Madison, to open up a restaurant on Joey’s (from book one, Entangled) vineyard. She moved across the country because she wanted a slower pace of living and is ready to be settled. She is the soon-to-be executive chef at Tangled, the new Italian restaurant at the Tangle Valley Vineyard that’s in the process of being built. In the meantime, she’s working out of the very popular Jolene, her blue food truck.
Ryan is the contractor that is hired to build the new restaurant. She has a reputation in town as being a player and has never been in a serious relationship. She’s popular with the ladies and has no problem going out and finding company. However, lately she doesn’t seem to get the same enjoyment out of her one-night stands as they leave her feeling unsatisfied.
Gabriella and Ryan meet are pretty much attracted from the get go. Ryan is confused because for the first time, she finds herself wanting to know more about someone rather than just getting them naked. However, Gabriella is in no way interested in a hook-up and decides to be just friends.
I really liked them together, they were cute and fun and seemed to understand each other really well. My issue was their lack of communication around certain topics. Ryan was also very insecure about being in a relationship and feeling unworthy of Gabriella. And Gabriella isn’t sure if Ryan is really ready to settle down and be in a relationship. They let outside influences get into their heads and add on to the doubts and miscommunication issues each has.
I’m really excited to get to Madison’s story as she had me feeling some kind of way in this one. I went from wanting to hug her to strangle her and back again several times. I need her to get her happy ever after too!
Gabriella moved to Whisper Wall with her best friend and ex-girlfriend, Madison, to open up a restaurant on Joey’s (from book one, Entangled) vineyard. She moved across the country because she wanted a slower pace of living and is ready to be settled. She is the soon-to-be executive chef at Tangled, the new Italian restaurant at the Tangle Valley Vineyard that’s in the process of being built. In the meantime, she’s working out of the very popular Jolene, her blue food truck.
Ryan is the contractor that is hired to build the new restaurant. She has a reputation in town as being a player and has never been in a serious relationship. She’s popular with the ladies and has no problem going out and finding company. However, lately she doesn’t seem to get the same enjoyment out of her one-night stands as they leave her feeling unsatisfied.
Gabriella and Ryan meet are pretty much attracted from the get go. Ryan is confused because for the first time, she finds herself wanting to know more about someone rather than just getting them naked. However, Gabriella is in no way interested in a hook-up and decides to be just friends.
I really liked them together, they were cute and fun and seemed to understand each other really well. My issue was their lack of communication around certain topics. Ryan was also very insecure about being in a relationship and feeling unworthy of Gabriella. And Gabriella isn’t sure if Ryan is really ready to settle down and be in a relationship. They let outside influences get into their heads and add on to the doubts and miscommunication issues each has.
I’m really excited to get to Madison’s story as she had me feeling some kind of way in this one. I went from wanting to hug her to strangle her and back again several times. I need her to get her happy ever after too!
October 24, 2020
'Two to Tangle' is the second installment of the 'Tangle Valley Romance' series. This one follows Gabriella Russo, who was hired as head chef at an Oregon winery. She is making masterful dishes from within a food truck while waiting for construction to complete on the restaurant.
Ryan Jacks runs her own business doing construction/project work for places all over town. She has been living the fast life of meaningless hookups and is feeling a bit unfulfilled as of late. She takes on the Tangle Valley restaurant and becomes charmed by the sassy chef.
I enjoyed this one even more than the first, which is unusual for me. When I read series, I end up liking each following book less and less.
I love books where the feelings are there but the main characters try to deny them. Or something happens and they convince themselves that they need to stay away. I also love it when jealousy is the catalyst for characters to confront their true emotions. This book had all of that.
As usual, Brayden delivers with great dialogue, likeable characters, and emotional turmoil.
I recommend this book to people who like to read about romance, wineries, food, bars, friends, construction, jealousy, garages and priests.
I received an ARC from the publisher for an honest review.
Ryan Jacks runs her own business doing construction/project work for places all over town. She has been living the fast life of meaningless hookups and is feeling a bit unfulfilled as of late. She takes on the Tangle Valley restaurant and becomes charmed by the sassy chef.
I enjoyed this one even more than the first, which is unusual for me. When I read series, I end up liking each following book less and less.
I love books where the feelings are there but the main characters try to deny them. Or something happens and they convince themselves that they need to stay away. I also love it when jealousy is the catalyst for characters to confront their true emotions. This book had all of that.
As usual, Brayden delivers with great dialogue, likeable characters, and emotional turmoil.
I recommend this book to people who like to read about romance, wineries, food, bars, friends, construction, jealousy, garages and priests.
I received an ARC from the publisher for an honest review.
February 12, 2021
Lost the Tangle Valley Charm.
I didn't enjoy this one as much as most people did. Here's why:
Brayden constructed an amazing friend trio back in Entangled and the chemistry between Joey, Gabriella and Madison was one of the main reasons why that book was so good. Brayden destroyed that charm entirely by introducing a complicated layer out of the blue to that friendship that made everything awkward. It was worse that feelings were left to fester the way it did.
I'm not saying I dislike the idea of Gabriella and Madison. Quite the opposite, I actually loved it a little too much because of how good I thought they could be together in Entangled and that's the problem. I read the dedication so I know what Brayden was trying to do but it's one thing for an MC to feel like a secondary character in her own story, it's another thing altogether when the reader feels the same way for a good three quarters of the book.
It didn't help that there was so much rooting for Madison. It didn't help me personally either that I don't understand the obsession with women wearing toolbelts. And it certainly helped nothing to have so much mistrust and no communication between Gabriella and Ryan that it felt like they both had one foot out of the door the entire time.
I don't like how things were here and I hate that because Brayden is such a good writer. I really hope to like the next book about Madison and Clementine. I really do.
I didn't enjoy this one as much as most people did. Here's why:
Brayden constructed an amazing friend trio back in Entangled and the chemistry between Joey, Gabriella and Madison was one of the main reasons why that book was so good. Brayden destroyed that charm entirely by introducing a complicated layer out of the blue to that friendship that made everything awkward. It was worse that feelings were left to fester the way it did.
I'm not saying I dislike the idea of Gabriella and Madison. Quite the opposite, I actually loved it a little too much because of how good I thought they could be together in Entangled and that's the problem. I read the dedication so I know what Brayden was trying to do but it's one thing for an MC to feel like a secondary character in her own story, it's another thing altogether when the reader feels the same way for a good three quarters of the book.
It didn't help that there was so much rooting for Madison. It didn't help me personally either that I don't understand the obsession with women wearing toolbelts. And it certainly helped nothing to have so much mistrust and no communication between Gabriella and Ryan that it felt like they both had one foot out of the door the entire time.
I don't like how things were here and I hate that because Brayden is such a good writer. I really hope to like the next book about Madison and Clementine. I really do.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 1, 2020
4.5 stars. Another homerun, this was super fun! I took the suggestion given in the acknowledgements to heart and poured myself a nice glass of wine and got some snacks out before curling up on the couch with my friends from Tangle Valley (yes, they are my friends now too). This book is all about food, wine and romance.
Gabriella’s dream is finally coming alive, the construction of her restaurant at Tangle Valley is starting. She’s happy with her life and enjoying the slower lifestyle in Whisper Wall. But then there is Ryan, disrupting Gabriella’s ordered life. Ryan is the contractor responsible for building the restaurant and Ryan is everything that Gabriella doesn’t need and shouldn’t want. Ryan is a notorious player and also five years younger than Gabriella, Gabriella is convicted that Ryan is not relationship material. Hey, even Ryan thinks she’s not relationship material, or is she? Plenty of reasons not to date, but also plenty of attraction!
Obviously, they do end up dating and there is quite a bit of miscommunication and angst going on. When used in the wrong way this can totally ruin a book for me, but it can also greatly add to it, and luckily it totally worked for this one. I won’t go into too much detail, but I thought it really added to the growth of the characters and their relationship. For Gabriella there is serious doubt about Ryans personality, due to her status as a player, will she be ready for a relationship? Whereas Ryan has no idea how to act in a relationship and especially how to handle the emotions that come with a relationship. On top of that, both mains are seriously misguided by their surroundings. So yes, some stupid decisions are made and they certainly have to work hard for their relationship, but it only makes the ending more fulfilling.
In comparison with the first book the group of friends and their dynamics are more settled and they all add to their friendship in their own specific way. It was good to see Joey and Becca, all happy and in love, and you get to learn a lot more about Madison. This installment already shows a glimpse of some the complexity that is Madison, she is smart, introverted and has such a big heart. I can’t wait to read her story. Then of course there are the biddies, they certainly have never heard of privacy and whether you love them or hate them, they are guaranteed to stir things up.
I enjoyed the first book “Entangled” a lot, but I liked this one even a bit better, it’s a roller coaster of emotions and in the good way. Recommended to all romance and Brayden fans out there!
I received an ARC from Bold Stroke Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Gabriella’s dream is finally coming alive, the construction of her restaurant at Tangle Valley is starting. She’s happy with her life and enjoying the slower lifestyle in Whisper Wall. But then there is Ryan, disrupting Gabriella’s ordered life. Ryan is the contractor responsible for building the restaurant and Ryan is everything that Gabriella doesn’t need and shouldn’t want. Ryan is a notorious player and also five years younger than Gabriella, Gabriella is convicted that Ryan is not relationship material. Hey, even Ryan thinks she’s not relationship material, or is she? Plenty of reasons not to date, but also plenty of attraction!
Obviously, they do end up dating and there is quite a bit of miscommunication and angst going on. When used in the wrong way this can totally ruin a book for me, but it can also greatly add to it, and luckily it totally worked for this one. I won’t go into too much detail, but I thought it really added to the growth of the characters and their relationship. For Gabriella there is serious doubt about Ryans personality, due to her status as a player, will she be ready for a relationship? Whereas Ryan has no idea how to act in a relationship and especially how to handle the emotions that come with a relationship. On top of that, both mains are seriously misguided by their surroundings. So yes, some stupid decisions are made and they certainly have to work hard for their relationship, but it only makes the ending more fulfilling.
In comparison with the first book the group of friends and their dynamics are more settled and they all add to their friendship in their own specific way. It was good to see Joey and Becca, all happy and in love, and you get to learn a lot more about Madison. This installment already shows a glimpse of some the complexity that is Madison, she is smart, introverted and has such a big heart. I can’t wait to read her story. Then of course there are the biddies, they certainly have never heard of privacy and whether you love them or hate them, they are guaranteed to stir things up.
I enjoyed the first book “Entangled” a lot, but I liked this one even a bit better, it’s a roller coaster of emotions and in the good way. Recommended to all romance and Brayden fans out there!
I received an ARC from Bold Stroke Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
February 12, 2021
This is second in a series and the friend group and surrounding business framework are introduced in the first. So I definitely recommend reading in order.
I'm a bit torn in how I feel about this story and that's pretty much all down to Ryan as a character. Ryan is younger than Gabriella but more importantly, she's much less experienced with relationships. I have to remind myself that these days 28 is considered really young (I was married with three kids by that age so this is very odd to me) and that is the framework we have for Ryan. She has been content being something of a player without even thinking that there might be more. And then she meets Gabriella and that changes everything. Suddenly discontent with the life she is living, she yearns for that something more but is completely unequipped for being that person—the kind of person Gabriella needs.
And I really liked how Gabriella was clear, both with herself and with Ryan, that she isn't a one-night kind of girl. She knows she wants more and she is explicitly looking for a loving and lasting relationship. I liked how firm she was about that and how she was still caring and kind even as she drew strong lines about what she would and would not put up with. And I particularly liked how that strong-but-caring came across in her business, as well as personal, life.
But Gabriella isn't particularly well-equipped to understand Ryan's struggle to be more than she has been. So you have two characters who know they like each other and who have found something important in the other. But they miscommunicate and misunderstand based on their differing expectations and I found that a strong aspect of the story. So all those communication issues they have that can drive me crazy in romance stories flowed naturally here because I could see how the two main characters were learning their way into something better but making the kinds of mistakes along the way that they would.
I'm not as happy with Ryan's selective cowardice. She knows that she is in love with Gabriella but doesn't quite know what to do about it. So she chooses to do nothing. And the problem I have with it is that this is a perfectly legitimate response for someone dealing with love for the first time. And it serves the narrative purpose of showing the relationship under strain that you need in romance so the reader (eventually) comes away with confidence that they'll make it long-term. So it's good characterization and good storytelling. But that doesn't mean it didn't grate on me personally or cause me to pull back a bit from the story during that second-half conflict.
And it doesn't help that this conflict is magnified by the third friend in that Tangled business dynamic making a play for Gabriella at the same time. I really liked the friend dynamic as presented in the first book. I liked that they were strongly, and platonically, supportive of one another and that this foundation was so important to both their business and personal lives. Gabriella and Madison had their shot before the series started. And I bought the explanation for why they didn't work out and I didn't see that having changed in essence since. So disrupting that dynamic so fundamentally disturbed me more than a little; and Madison being mean to someone Gabriella clearly cares for just didn't work for me.
So I'm going to come in at 3½ stars that I'm rounding up on the strength of the storytelling and characterization craft. I liked Ryan more for the characterization more than for herself as such, but being engaged is being engaged and this story had that.
A note about Steamy: I'll be honest and admit that I skimmed the explicit scenes in this story. And Brayden pulled back once or twice as well, so a few lead-ins went to black really fast. So this is the middle of my steam tolerance, but I can't support that designation with more than just that's how I feel about it after the fact.
I'm a bit torn in how I feel about this story and that's pretty much all down to Ryan as a character. Ryan is younger than Gabriella but more importantly, she's much less experienced with relationships. I have to remind myself that these days 28 is considered really young (I was married with three kids by that age so this is very odd to me) and that is the framework we have for Ryan. She has been content being something of a player without even thinking that there might be more. And then she meets Gabriella and that changes everything. Suddenly discontent with the life she is living, she yearns for that something more but is completely unequipped for being that person—the kind of person Gabriella needs.
And I really liked how Gabriella was clear, both with herself and with Ryan, that she isn't a one-night kind of girl. She knows she wants more and she is explicitly looking for a loving and lasting relationship. I liked how firm she was about that and how she was still caring and kind even as she drew strong lines about what she would and would not put up with. And I particularly liked how that strong-but-caring came across in her business, as well as personal, life.
But Gabriella isn't particularly well-equipped to understand Ryan's struggle to be more than she has been. So you have two characters who know they like each other and who have found something important in the other. But they miscommunicate and misunderstand based on their differing expectations and I found that a strong aspect of the story. So all those communication issues they have that can drive me crazy in romance stories flowed naturally here because I could see how the two main characters were learning their way into something better but making the kinds of mistakes along the way that they would.
I'm not as happy with Ryan's selective cowardice. She knows that she is in love with Gabriella but doesn't quite know what to do about it. So she chooses to do nothing. And the problem I have with it is that this is a perfectly legitimate response for someone dealing with love for the first time. And it serves the narrative purpose of showing the relationship under strain that you need in romance so the reader (eventually) comes away with confidence that they'll make it long-term. So it's good characterization and good storytelling. But that doesn't mean it didn't grate on me personally or cause me to pull back a bit from the story during that second-half conflict.
And it doesn't help that this conflict is magnified by the third friend in that Tangled business dynamic making a play for Gabriella at the same time. I really liked the friend dynamic as presented in the first book. I liked that they were strongly, and platonically, supportive of one another and that this foundation was so important to both their business and personal lives. Gabriella and Madison had their shot before the series started. And I bought the explanation for why they didn't work out and I didn't see that having changed in essence since. So disrupting that dynamic so fundamentally disturbed me more than a little; and Madison being mean to someone Gabriella clearly cares for just didn't work for me.
So I'm going to come in at 3½ stars that I'm rounding up on the strength of the storytelling and characterization craft. I liked Ryan more for the characterization more than for herself as such, but being engaged is being engaged and this story had that.
A note about Steamy: I'll be honest and admit that I skimmed the explicit scenes in this story. And Brayden pulled back once or twice as well, so a few lead-ins went to black really fast. So this is the middle of my steam tolerance, but I can't support that designation with more than just that's how I feel about it after the fact.
December 7, 2020
This is book 2 of 'A Tangle Valley Romance' series that follows a group of friends who work in a vineyard in Oregon. 'Two to Tangled' features the story of Gabriella, a chef who plans to open a restaurant on the grounds of the vineyard. Ryan Jack's is the builder in charge of the restaurant renovations. A talented carpenter, she works hard and plays hard, never getting serious with anyone, that is, until Gabriella comes to her life, making Ryan wish for things she never wanted before...
Melissa Brayden is an automatic read for me, she's one of the best romance writers in lesfic. I absolutely love her romances series because she writes groups of friends like no other. The banter, the wit, the perkiness is unparalleled. However, I have to admit that this second installment didn't do it for me.
Now the funny thing about this book is that after a while the cheerfulness disappears and the story turns to introspective and contemplative which was completely unexpected. I'm not gonna delve into this because I don't want to spoil it, but I wasn't expecting the turn of events. Maybe because of that or because of the characters' personalities, the story as a whole didn't engage me as book one. I'm sure other readers that, unlike me, love angst and drama will enjoy this book more. As usual, it's well written, but it wasn't for me. I'm looking forward to reading book three and final in the series. 4 stars.
ARC provided by the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Melissa Brayden is an automatic read for me, she's one of the best romance writers in lesfic. I absolutely love her romances series because she writes groups of friends like no other. The banter, the wit, the perkiness is unparalleled. However, I have to admit that this second installment didn't do it for me.
Now the funny thing about this book is that after a while the cheerfulness disappears and the story turns to introspective and contemplative which was completely unexpected. I'm not gonna delve into this because I don't want to spoil it, but I wasn't expecting the turn of events. Maybe because of that or because of the characters' personalities, the story as a whole didn't engage me as book one. I'm sure other readers that, unlike me, love angst and drama will enjoy this book more. As usual, it's well written, but it wasn't for me. I'm looking forward to reading book three and final in the series. 4 stars.
ARC provided by the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 4, 2021
Two to Tangle was so wonderfully written by Ms Brayden... Too well written to a point that I don’t quite like the ‘player’ in Ryan and the feeling stayed with me till the very end of the book! And why must Otter win the game? Why must the ‘player’ get everything? The game and the girl? Ok, that’s me and my silly monologue. Me and stoic resonates so well, not so much with players though...so please ignore me. Anyway, back to the book. I so adored Gabrielle and enjoyed all the witty banters with her friends, Joey, Becca, Maddie, and Ryan. Communication, ladies! That’s the name of the game. Talk, communicate with each other. If you don’t, then don’t get all flustered when things get lost in translation.
I know this is Gabrielle and Ryan’s story and how they have their HEA at the end of it all. But somewhere deep in my heart (and brain), I was rooting for Gabs and Maddie to have their second chance.... I get that that won’t happen, so I’m gonna moved on and rooting for a way better story/HEA for Maddison, exceedingly better than Book 2... I hope!
Ratings: 3.5 ⭐️ - rounding it up cos I’m bias when it comes to book written by Ms Brayden 😊
I know this is Gabrielle and Ryan’s story and how they have their HEA at the end of it all. But somewhere deep in my heart (and brain), I was rooting for Gabs and Maddie to have their second chance.... I get that that won’t happen, so I’m gonna moved on and rooting for a way better story/HEA for Maddison, exceedingly better than Book 2... I hope!
Ratings: 3.5 ⭐️ - rounding it up cos I’m bias when it comes to book written by Ms Brayden 😊
May 22, 2021
TLDR: This review won't be helpful. You have been warned.
--------------------
I'm not sure I won't make a mess of this review, 'cause this book affected me in ways I wasn't prepared for lol.
First of all, I love Ryan. She's got the ladies throwing themselves at her, but she wasn't the cocky type. As I was getting to know her I thought, "This character's got to be the softest and sweetest womanizer out there." She may be a lot taller and stronger than I am, but I will protecc Ryan from anyone who judges her 🙅🏻♀️
The banter, flirtation, chemistry, and sensuality here were better for me than in Book #1. Seeing Ryan express how Gabriella was out of her league was too adorable to witness, I just wanna hug her.
So there I was, blissfully reading and being soft for Ryan... then bam! The "ex factor" happened. IDK why I was so surprised, I knew from Book #1 Gab and Maddie were exes. But I guess the fact that they were wasn't the crucial point but how their history played a part here.
Forgive me for going a bit personal here, but... I realized there was a time I was a Ryan 🤦🏻♀️ NOT the being a womanizer and being great with the ladies part (unfortunately 😛), but yeah, I kinda understand where Ryan was coming from in this story 😅
The Biddies were a lot more troublesome here. But boy, did they make things much more interesting. You know that scene where they put in their two cents about Gab and Maddie's past?
That had me aching for Ryan.
And it got worse as the story progressed. I know it was realistic, but But like I said, this was realistic. All the characters' feelings were valid. I still liked them. I'm simply reacting to this arc.
This is one of those rare moments where the "no communication" conflict didn't seem as bad, or (gasp!) maybe even fit well in the story. For some reason, it didn't bother me at all. Crazy 'cause I'm usually one to scream, "Damn it! Just freakin' talk," to the characters if they're being uncommunicative.
The characters' fears and assumptions simply felt reasonable to me. It's easy for us readers to say, "C'mon, do this and do that," 'cause WE SEE EVERYTHING. We know how both MCs actually feel. They don't. That limited perspective is the key to understanding the characters' actions. What they see is not the only thing that factors into their decision-making—what they don't see weighs just as much, if not more, considering the outside opinions they hear that automatically fill in what they don't know, regardless of the inaccuracy of those outside opinions.
*sighs*
Sorry. You can tell I've got lots of feelings about this, huh? Hey, I did say I was gonna be protective, right? Heh.
When Lana (Ryan's friend) teased Ryan for being a "chicken," I knew she meant well, and in a way, she was right. But you see, risking your heart when you think someone else is in the picture is not only scary, but feels like a recipe for (a much terrible) heartache. So to me, Ryan was actually being smart. Think about it. If the circumstances turned out to be unfavorable, Lana would be singing a different tune—proving there's no right or wrong way to go about this. So there's nothing wrong with wearing your self-preservation armor, alright?
It's gonna be heavy though.
Anyway... This whole exchange broke me:
So thanks, Melissa Brayden, for this bittersweet story. It's gonna stay with me for a while 😌
Now, off to Book #3!
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I'm not sure I won't make a mess of this review, 'cause this book affected me in ways I wasn't prepared for lol.
First of all, I love Ryan. She's got the ladies throwing themselves at her, but she wasn't the cocky type. As I was getting to know her I thought, "This character's got to be the softest and sweetest womanizer out there." She may be a lot taller and stronger than I am, but I will protecc Ryan from anyone who judges her 🙅🏻♀️
The banter, flirtation, chemistry, and sensuality here were better for me than in Book #1. Seeing Ryan express how Gabriella was out of her league was too adorable to witness, I just wanna hug her.
So there I was, blissfully reading and being soft for Ryan... then bam! The "ex factor" happened. IDK why I was so surprised, I knew from Book #1 Gab and Maddie were exes. But I guess the fact that they were wasn't the crucial point but how their history played a part here.
Forgive me for going a bit personal here, but... I realized there was a time I was a Ryan 🤦🏻♀️ NOT the being a womanizer and being great with the ladies part (unfortunately 😛), but yeah, I kinda understand where Ryan was coming from in this story 😅
The Biddies were a lot more troublesome here. But boy, did they make things much more interesting. You know that scene where they put in their two cents about Gab and Maddie's past?
That had me aching for Ryan.
And it got worse as the story progressed. I know it was realistic, but But like I said, this was realistic. All the characters' feelings were valid. I still liked them. I'm simply reacting to this arc.
This is one of those rare moments where the "no communication" conflict didn't seem as bad, or (gasp!) maybe even fit well in the story. For some reason, it didn't bother me at all. Crazy 'cause I'm usually one to scream, "Damn it! Just freakin' talk," to the characters if they're being uncommunicative.
The characters' fears and assumptions simply felt reasonable to me. It's easy for us readers to say, "C'mon, do this and do that," 'cause WE SEE EVERYTHING. We know how both MCs actually feel. They don't. That limited perspective is the key to understanding the characters' actions. What they see is not the only thing that factors into their decision-making—what they don't see weighs just as much, if not more, considering the outside opinions they hear that automatically fill in what they don't know, regardless of the inaccuracy of those outside opinions.
*sighs*
Sorry. You can tell I've got lots of feelings about this, huh? Hey, I did say I was gonna be protective, right? Heh.
When Lana (Ryan's friend) teased Ryan for being a "chicken," I knew she meant well, and in a way, she was right. But you see, risking your heart when you think someone else is in the picture is not only scary, but feels like a recipe for (a much terrible) heartache. So to me, Ryan was actually being smart. Think about it. If the circumstances turned out to be unfavorable, Lana would be singing a different tune—proving there's no right or wrong way to go about this. So there's nothing wrong with wearing your self-preservation armor, alright?
It's gonna be heavy though.
Anyway... This whole exchange broke me:
“Hey, Muskrat?” she called. Gabriella turned with questioning eyes and paused near her Jeep. “I miss you.” She shrugged, feeling weak and helpless for giving in. So what? She could be an idiot for a brief moment in time. “I don’t know if that’s wrong to say.”
Gabriella flashed a half smile, but it faded fast. “Then don’t.”
Ryan nodded and swallowed the uncomfortable lump that rose in her throat, accepting her new unfortunate normal. Damn love and everything that came with it.
So thanks, Melissa Brayden, for this bittersweet story. It's gonna stay with me for a while 😌
Now, off to Book #3!
November 7, 2020
Wow.
I could just leave that here with a five star rating and it would adequately explain how I felt when I finished this - but I’ll find some more words to try and do this book justice.
I loved it. I wasn’t sure Brayden could beat Joey and Becca and their story, but when I started to see reviews mentioning that this was even better, I had high hopes and Brayden definitely lived up to them.
Gabriella is the chef at Tangle Valley Vineyard, working away in Jolene her food truck, whilst the new restaurant Joey has planned is being built. She’s getting a reputation for her food throughout the town - and one of the best parts of this book is Brayden’s descriptions of Gabriella’s cooking. She’s happy with her food and her new life in Oregon and isn’t really out there looking for someone - she’s just enjoying life with her friends.
Ryan is the contractor hired by Joey to undertake converting one of the barns to the new restaurant. She has a reputation in the town for no strings attached casual relationships and has no problem finding herself company.
The relationship between the two just grabbed me from the beginning. Their passion for their respective fields plays really nicely when they have to work together. I also really enjoyed their battles on the softball field, but at the same time I also appreciated their softer quieter moments together. They have their bumps where both of their pasts drive wedges between them - but it’s clear they’re meant for each other. The inevitable break up is painful and I was really glad when it was resolved and I felt the HEA was perfect for these two.
As always, the additional characters in Brayden’s books are done really well. It was great to hear more about Joey and Becca and I thought Loretta and Bobby were really sweet. It won’t come as a surprise, but I really enjoyed how Jacks dog was written into the storyline too. Madison plays a little bit more of a part in a different way in this one and I enjoyed the sneak peek as to where her book in the series might be going.
This is going to be really hard to beat with part 3 - but I can’t wait.
I received an e-ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I could just leave that here with a five star rating and it would adequately explain how I felt when I finished this - but I’ll find some more words to try and do this book justice.
I loved it. I wasn’t sure Brayden could beat Joey and Becca and their story, but when I started to see reviews mentioning that this was even better, I had high hopes and Brayden definitely lived up to them.
Gabriella is the chef at Tangle Valley Vineyard, working away in Jolene her food truck, whilst the new restaurant Joey has planned is being built. She’s getting a reputation for her food throughout the town - and one of the best parts of this book is Brayden’s descriptions of Gabriella’s cooking. She’s happy with her food and her new life in Oregon and isn’t really out there looking for someone - she’s just enjoying life with her friends.
Ryan is the contractor hired by Joey to undertake converting one of the barns to the new restaurant. She has a reputation in the town for no strings attached casual relationships and has no problem finding herself company.
The relationship between the two just grabbed me from the beginning. Their passion for their respective fields plays really nicely when they have to work together. I also really enjoyed their battles on the softball field, but at the same time I also appreciated their softer quieter moments together. They have their bumps where both of their pasts drive wedges between them - but it’s clear they’re meant for each other. The inevitable break up is painful and I was really glad when it was resolved and I felt the HEA was perfect for these two.
As always, the additional characters in Brayden’s books are done really well. It was great to hear more about Joey and Becca and I thought Loretta and Bobby were really sweet. It won’t come as a surprise, but I really enjoyed how Jacks dog was written into the storyline too. Madison plays a little bit more of a part in a different way in this one and I enjoyed the sneak peek as to where her book in the series might be going.
This is going to be really hard to beat with part 3 - but I can’t wait.
I received an e-ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 25, 2020
Second book in the Tangle Valley series and I enjoy this more than the first one. Considering that I love book one, that seems almost impossible. This time, we follow Gabriella, the head chef hired to helm the Vineyard's restaurant. The contractor hired to build the restaurant, Ryan Jacks, is known around town as a player. She has relationships with various women and seem to lead an easygoing life. But, of course, there's insane chemistry between Gabriella and Ryan. Problem is, Gabriella does not want to just hook up. With their 5 year age difference, she thinks Ryan is too young to want the same thing she wants. Their individual insecurities and histories make a bumpy, twisty path to romance. Also, it's probably best not to read this book on an empty stomach. There's plenty of mention of food, which is expected as one of the MC's is a chef. I wish that Gabriella's restaurant is a real place, as I would love to dine there. Book 3 cannot come fast enough.
**Thank you to Bold Strokes Books and NetGalley for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review!**
**Thank you to Bold Strokes Books and NetGalley for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review!**
October 13, 2020
4.5 stars
As the stunning cover suggests, there’s a lot of talk about cuisine in this book and while I’m not normally a foodie, Brayden wrote those parts in a swoon-worthy way and I gobbled them up.
As for Ryan and Gabrielle, I was in love with them from the moment I met them. Their relationship is certainly one of push-pull, and although at times I found myself saying, ‘get it together, you two’ I love the fact this book was far from formulaic. These two work hard for their HEA and it made the ending all the more satisfying.
It was nice to see the biddies again, I was pleased not to see much of the cowboys, and I look forward to the next installment.
Oh, and did I mention softball! I love softball and was glad to get my fill.
Copy provided by the publisher, Bold Strokes Books, via Netgalley.
As the stunning cover suggests, there’s a lot of talk about cuisine in this book and while I’m not normally a foodie, Brayden wrote those parts in a swoon-worthy way and I gobbled them up.
As for Ryan and Gabrielle, I was in love with them from the moment I met them. Their relationship is certainly one of push-pull, and although at times I found myself saying, ‘get it together, you two’ I love the fact this book was far from formulaic. These two work hard for their HEA and it made the ending all the more satisfying.
It was nice to see the biddies again, I was pleased not to see much of the cowboys, and I look forward to the next installment.
Oh, and did I mention softball! I love softball and was glad to get my fill.
Copy provided by the publisher, Bold Strokes Books, via Netgalley.
November 6, 2020
This was just another wonderful story by Melissa Brayden that tingles your heart. Pretty much business as usual. This time it was Gabriella who found love and happiness. Can't wait for Madison's turn. By the way, I'm not sure I like the Old Biddies. The jury's still out on that one.
March 21, 2021
Dang... those old Biddies are trouble!
I loved getting to know Gabriella better in this book... who doesn't love a gorgeous fiery little Italian who can cook, plays a wicked game of softball and is as passionate as Gabriella? If she were real I'd be swooning after her for sure.
I loved getting to know Gabriella better in this book... who doesn't love a gorgeous fiery little Italian who can cook, plays a wicked game of softball and is as passionate as Gabriella? If she were real I'd be swooning after her for sure.
October 12, 2020
Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for the ARC of this book.
4.25 stars. Another feel-good romance from Melissa Brayden! This one involved a touch more angst than most Brayden novels, but I enjoyed the added drama. This book was a good blend of fluffy and real. Plus, there's softball in this story, and some a d o r a b l e in-game moments between the two leads! *dies*
I adored Ryan's character. Talk about my fictional *type!* On the outside, she's cool and alluring, but on the inside she's the biggest softie on the planet. Her arc involves her working through a lot of self-doubt, which I could personally relate to. She became a successful contractor at a young age, but she doesn't let that get to her head -- she's always humble and kind. I spent most of the book just wanting to hug Ryan and her big lazy dog named Dale.
In Entangled, Gabriella was a constant burst of joy and light. In this book, however, while she's still the sort of character whose sparkly energy leaps off the page, she's more fleshed-out and we get to see the parts of her that aren't as pretty. I was surprised to learn that she can be so tenacious and bull-headed, and I think Brayden explored this side of her well, for the most part. I enjoyed reading about Gabriella as a lead character and found her a unique addition to Brayden's list of heroines.
Madison, the third member of the trio, had her own sub-plot in this book, and I thought it was well-done. I can certainly relate to being in her situation, and I'm glad it all worked out well for her in the end. It looks like the next book will involve a romance between her and Clementine, which I think will be adorable.
Now for the aspects of the story I didn't enjoy. First of all, WHY does Gabriella insist on calling Ryan a "kid?" Gabriella is 34 and Ryan is 28. They're both far from being kids, and it felt weird that Gabriella was ogling Ryan one moment and basically calling her a child the next. What the heck?? Also, Gabriella and another character constantly label Ryan as a player and turn their noses up at Ryan for this, which was a bit overdone. I understand Gabriella having reservations, but in the beginning she was pointing out Ryan's flaws to her face when Ryan was nothing but kind to her. (Obviously, Ryan was my favorite of the duo.)
Also, the Biddies are back in this book. I found them hysterical in the beginning, but they became increasingly more annoying as the story went on. A little bit of gossip is fun, but these four take it to a whole 'nother level...yikes.
Thankfully, my gripes didn't take up a huge portion of the story, and I really enjoyed it on the whole. I'll be anxiously awaiting the third book in the series!
4.25 stars. Another feel-good romance from Melissa Brayden! This one involved a touch more angst than most Brayden novels, but I enjoyed the added drama. This book was a good blend of fluffy and real. Plus, there's softball in this story, and some a d o r a b l e in-game moments between the two leads! *dies*
I adored Ryan's character. Talk about my fictional *type!* On the outside, she's cool and alluring, but on the inside she's the biggest softie on the planet. Her arc involves her working through a lot of self-doubt, which I could personally relate to. She became a successful contractor at a young age, but she doesn't let that get to her head -- she's always humble and kind. I spent most of the book just wanting to hug Ryan and her big lazy dog named Dale.
In Entangled, Gabriella was a constant burst of joy and light. In this book, however, while she's still the sort of character whose sparkly energy leaps off the page, she's more fleshed-out and we get to see the parts of her that aren't as pretty. I was surprised to learn that she can be so tenacious and bull-headed, and I think Brayden explored this side of her well, for the most part. I enjoyed reading about Gabriella as a lead character and found her a unique addition to Brayden's list of heroines.
Madison, the third member of the trio, had her own sub-plot in this book, and I thought it was well-done. I can certainly relate to being in her situation, and I'm glad it all worked out well for her in the end. It looks like the next book will involve a romance between her and Clementine, which I think will be adorable.
Now for the aspects of the story I didn't enjoy. First of all, WHY does Gabriella insist on calling Ryan a "kid?" Gabriella is 34 and Ryan is 28. They're both far from being kids, and it felt weird that Gabriella was ogling Ryan one moment and basically calling her a child the next. What the heck?? Also, Gabriella and another character constantly label Ryan as a player and turn their noses up at Ryan for this, which was a bit overdone. I understand Gabriella having reservations, but in the beginning she was pointing out Ryan's flaws to her face when Ryan was nothing but kind to her. (Obviously, Ryan was my favorite of the duo.)
Also, the Biddies are back in this book. I found them hysterical in the beginning, but they became increasingly more annoying as the story went on. A little bit of gossip is fun, but these four take it to a whole 'nother level...yikes.
Thankfully, my gripes didn't take up a huge portion of the story, and I really enjoyed it on the whole. I'll be anxiously awaiting the third book in the series!
October 30, 2020
It is a known fact that you can always rely on Melissa Brayden to write some of the best WLW contemporary romances around. She has continued to do this with her latest novel, Two to Tangle. This is the second book in the A Tangle Valley Romance Series. I loved Entangled, the first story in the series, but I honestly think Two to Tangle is even better.
This is the story of Chef Gabriella Russo, who we met as a secondary character in the first novel. She has moved to Oregon to open and run Tangled, a restaurant that will be located at the Tangle Valley Vineyard. In this story she meets Ryan Jacks, the building contractor who will be making Gabriella’s restaurant dreams come true. But will Ryan also be making some other more romantic dreams come true for Gabriella?
The story is set in one of the most beautiful areas around, and it is the perfect background for this tale. The characters, of course, are well developed and easy to connect with. Many of them were introduced to us in the first novel. Several of them are unforgettable, and play a major role in the romance between Gabriella and Ryan. I’m specifically thinking about the Biddies here, but you need to read the story to learn about them. The romance is lovely, but it’s not all roses and kisses. There is quite a bit of angst that could derail their love story. One of my favorite parts of the book involves the softball games, especially the last game between the Muskrats and the Otters. It has been years since I played myself, but these games make me wish I could again.
This story is one of my favorites, and I recommend it to everyone who loves a great romance. You want to read this series in order. Both are wonderful novels and well worth reading. Don’t forget there is a third book coming in this series. I’m looking forward to reading it as well.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
This is the story of Chef Gabriella Russo, who we met as a secondary character in the first novel. She has moved to Oregon to open and run Tangled, a restaurant that will be located at the Tangle Valley Vineyard. In this story she meets Ryan Jacks, the building contractor who will be making Gabriella’s restaurant dreams come true. But will Ryan also be making some other more romantic dreams come true for Gabriella?
The story is set in one of the most beautiful areas around, and it is the perfect background for this tale. The characters, of course, are well developed and easy to connect with. Many of them were introduced to us in the first novel. Several of them are unforgettable, and play a major role in the romance between Gabriella and Ryan. I’m specifically thinking about the Biddies here, but you need to read the story to learn about them. The romance is lovely, but it’s not all roses and kisses. There is quite a bit of angst that could derail their love story. One of my favorite parts of the book involves the softball games, especially the last game between the Muskrats and the Otters. It has been years since I played myself, but these games make me wish I could again.
This story is one of my favorites, and I recommend it to everyone who loves a great romance. You want to read this series in order. Both are wonderful novels and well worth reading. Don’t forget there is a third book coming in this series. I’m looking forward to reading it as well.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
July 18, 2022
This series hasn't really been on my radar after my mediocre view of book 1, but when I saw book 2 in my library I took another chance. And I did enjoy this one more, simply because of Gabriella. I think Ms. Brayden did a fantastic job of fleshing out this character. She was all colour and vibrancy, stubborn and assertive. She oozed through the pages and I wanted more. Ryan I had some trouble with, especially how she acted around the time of Gabriella's big huge restaurant opening. All warmth remaining was gone out my side window on a chilly night, and I just didn't get it back. She also felt flat to me, all her insecurities weren't backed by any dramatic happenings, so I surmised she was just immature. I struggled with her, and a part of me wanted G to be like "hey, why don't you and Kevin the fry guy from book 1 take a little ride together," and move forward with her life.
Another drop was the third friend in the trio, Madison. Just....everything about her and how she acted around G and her love life. Because of this, I have a zero percent chance of picking up book 3.
But alas, this is HEA lesfic, peeps. Despite my opinion of said characters, I still stick a 3.5/5 for book 2, rounded up.
Another drop was the third friend in the trio, Madison. Just....everything about her and how she acted around G and her love life. Because of this, I have a zero percent chance of picking up book 3.
But alas, this is HEA lesfic, peeps. Despite my opinion of said characters, I still stick a 3.5/5 for book 2, rounded up.
October 16, 2020
I think I've said this before about other Melissa Brayden's books, and will probably say it again about the next one, but this is my new favorite.
This book has the banter between the characters that we've all come to expect and love in her books, a charming story, some drama, dogs and this time even softball.
In this second installment of the Tangle Valley series, we're back in Whisper Wall, Oregon, this time to get Gabriella's love story.
This story is funny, charming, and everything we love about Brayden's novels. I'm really looking forward to reading about Madison's story on the next installment of this series.
This book has the banter between the characters that we've all come to expect and love in her books, a charming story, some drama, dogs and this time even softball.
In this second installment of the Tangle Valley series, we're back in Whisper Wall, Oregon, this time to get Gabriella's love story.
This story is funny, charming, and everything we love about Brayden's novels. I'm really looking forward to reading about Madison's story on the next installment of this series.
October 10, 2020
This is the second offering from Ms Brayden’s series ‘A Tangle Valley Romance’ and it’s every bit as good a read as the first book ‘Entangled’ featuring the romance between Becca and Joey.
Ryan Jacks has lived in Whisper Wall all her life. An only child who grew up in a house filled with love, even when she told her mom that she was attracted to women. With an abundance of good looks she has never had a problem with the ladies. All she was looking for and everyone she met knew it, was some fun. She never saw herself as the settling down type, that was until she was hired to build the new restaurant for the owner of the Tangle Valley winery. The owner of the winery, Joey, thought having a restaurant was just what was needed to complete her business.
Joey got lucky when her old friend Madison decides to come work for Joey making some great wine. She just happens to have a good friend who was also looking for a change. At one time their relationship was more like GF's but after a while they decided that they made much better being just friends. Everything was working out fine for Joey because Gabriella Russ just happened to be a great chef.
For now running a food truck was fine but Gabriella was looking forward to the opening of the restaurant featuring not only her dishes but the wine from Tangle Valley Winery. But what she didn’t think about was the very attractive Ryan Jacks. Now when she was checking out the construction going on she found herself checking out Ryan just as much.
With a few twists and turns Ms Brayden has given us another great read dealing with three friends and their romances. Great, fun dialogue along with some very well developed characters. While focusing on the main characters Ms Brayden also allows us to catch up with the cast from the first book in this series. Something Ms Brayden does very well.
ARC via NetGalley/ Bold Stroke Books
Ryan Jacks has lived in Whisper Wall all her life. An only child who grew up in a house filled with love, even when she told her mom that she was attracted to women. With an abundance of good looks she has never had a problem with the ladies. All she was looking for and everyone she met knew it, was some fun. She never saw herself as the settling down type, that was until she was hired to build the new restaurant for the owner of the Tangle Valley winery. The owner of the winery, Joey, thought having a restaurant was just what was needed to complete her business.
Joey got lucky when her old friend Madison decides to come work for Joey making some great wine. She just happens to have a good friend who was also looking for a change. At one time their relationship was more like GF's but after a while they decided that they made much better being just friends. Everything was working out fine for Joey because Gabriella Russ just happened to be a great chef.
For now running a food truck was fine but Gabriella was looking forward to the opening of the restaurant featuring not only her dishes but the wine from Tangle Valley Winery. But what she didn’t think about was the very attractive Ryan Jacks. Now when she was checking out the construction going on she found herself checking out Ryan just as much.
With a few twists and turns Ms Brayden has given us another great read dealing with three friends and their romances. Great, fun dialogue along with some very well developed characters. While focusing on the main characters Ms Brayden also allows us to catch up with the cast from the first book in this series. Something Ms Brayden does very well.
ARC via NetGalley/ Bold Stroke Books
November 15, 2020
4*
Melissa Brayden as once again as given us a fantastic read. She always seems to know what her readers will enjoy and so far as never disappointed me with a good novel.
Two to Tangle is a the second instalment of the 'A Tangle Valley Romance' , the first instalment is called 'Entangled'.
The story is about a renowned chef named Gabriella Russo, she lives to cook, which leave's her love life non existent, which is how she prefers it. Gabriella move's to Oregon to open Tangle, a restaurant on the grounds of Tangle Valley Vineyard.
Ryan Jacks is a skilled carpenter, who's been told more then once she's good with her hands. Ryan takes a job building a new restaurant, her world suddenly stops when she meets Gabriella Russo for the first time.
The romance between the pair is slow, the characters 'click' together in all the important places, the story' as angst and at points i found myself getting irritated with the pair. Two to Tangle is a wonderful romance, warm, funny and you have the occasional banter between the characters. I'm looking forward to the 3rd instalment.
I was given a ARC copy for a honest review.
Melissa Brayden as once again as given us a fantastic read. She always seems to know what her readers will enjoy and so far as never disappointed me with a good novel.
Two to Tangle is a the second instalment of the 'A Tangle Valley Romance' , the first instalment is called 'Entangled'.
The story is about a renowned chef named Gabriella Russo, she lives to cook, which leave's her love life non existent, which is how she prefers it. Gabriella move's to Oregon to open Tangle, a restaurant on the grounds of Tangle Valley Vineyard.
Ryan Jacks is a skilled carpenter, who's been told more then once she's good with her hands. Ryan takes a job building a new restaurant, her world suddenly stops when she meets Gabriella Russo for the first time.
The romance between the pair is slow, the characters 'click' together in all the important places, the story' as angst and at points i found myself getting irritated with the pair. Two to Tangle is a wonderful romance, warm, funny and you have the occasional banter between the characters. I'm looking forward to the 3rd instalment.
I was given a ARC copy for a honest review.
January 10, 2021
After this ridiculously crazy and surreal week, I needed something fun, sweet and sexy with relatively little angst. So when I was trying to decide what to read, I thought something from Melissa Brayden would do quite nicely. This series is set in an idyllic Oregon wine country location, perfect for romance. In this second book of the Tangle Valley series, it's chef Gabriella Russo's turn to find love. She is wonderfully happy to have relocated to Oregon, where she will soon open her own restaurant on the grounds of Tangle Valley Vineyard. When she meets Ryan Jacks, the contractor who she'll work closely with to bring her dream restaurant to fruition, she is determined to fight her growing attraction. Jacks has a real reputation for being a serious player and Gabriella doesn't do one night stands. But the chemistry between the two is ridiculous and neither can resist the pull. And for a good while, it was exactly what I was looking for with wonderful lines that made me laugh out loud like, "I don't even know what this dish is, but I'd be willing to enter into a committed relationship with it. If it has family members, I'd love to meet them." And because it's Brayden, there are plenty more where those came from.
The build-up is great and there's so much potential with them. And is it me, or is Brayden writing much sexier stuff these days?? Oof! And them BOOM - there's that "thing" at the 80 percent mark that prevents the couple from being together. In came the angst and while I knew in the end everything would be okay, I wanted to strangle the MCs for not communicating. That always kills me about these stories. If they would just TALK to each other, things would be so much easier. But alas, fear cripples and that's what happens here. All of that said, I liked the book very much in spite of wanting to shake both Gabriella and Ryan by the shoulders. Between the location, the friendships and the overarching story line, this is one of my favorites of Brayden's series. I am looking forward to the next installment - especially after getting a little teaser about which love connection is coming up next. 4.5 stars
The build-up is great and there's so much potential with them. And is it me, or is Brayden writing much sexier stuff these days?? Oof! And them BOOM - there's that "thing" at the 80 percent mark that prevents the couple from being together. In came the angst and while I knew in the end everything would be okay, I wanted to strangle the MCs for not communicating. That always kills me about these stories. If they would just TALK to each other, things would be so much easier. But alas, fear cripples and that's what happens here. All of that said, I liked the book very much in spite of wanting to shake both Gabriella and Ryan by the shoulders. Between the location, the friendships and the overarching story line, this is one of my favorites of Brayden's series. I am looking forward to the next installment - especially after getting a little teaser about which love connection is coming up next. 4.5 stars
November 16, 2020
my reaction after reading book 1 was I NEED IT NOW PLEASE and i was right. i loved the first book and i know i’ll love the third book, but this will probably be my favorite. i love this town and all the characters, from the people who work at the vineyard to the biddies to the other people in town. it reminds me of the charm of gilmore girls and stars hollow a little (and is admittedly just as white). i love two women unabashedly flirting, and was somehow not annoyed by the love triangle or the noncommunication that happened because it felt realistic.
also now i want wine which is a problem because it’s 8am on a monday.
also now i want wine which is a problem because it’s 8am on a monday.
November 15, 2020
2.5
This was the first Brayden book I didn't really enjoy.
There were too many aspects that annoyed me unfortunately. The friend who is now suddenly a jealous ex, biddies - the Instagram stalkers (really, if this was real life I don't think anyone would find it amusing?), Ryan and Gabriela felt like a slightly different version of Hunter and Sam from the soho series, the back and forth was tiresome.
The writing is still good as always, and there are charming elements, but it was over shadowed for me.
This was the first Brayden book I didn't really enjoy.
There were too many aspects that annoyed me unfortunately. The friend who is now suddenly a jealous ex, biddies - the Instagram stalkers (really, if this was real life I don't think anyone would find it amusing?), Ryan and Gabriela felt like a slightly different version of Hunter and Sam from the soho series, the back and forth was tiresome.
The writing is still good as always, and there are charming elements, but it was over shadowed for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 3, 2020
ARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is book 2 of the Tangle Valley series, and features Gabriella, the chef at the vineyard, and Ryan, the contractor hired to build the new restaurant. Ryan is a bit of a player around town (though I had to wonder at how many queer people seem to live in such a small town in Oregon). Gabriella knows this and though attracted, isn’t interested. Meanwhile Ryan is knocked for a loop by Gabriella and decides to go after her. They are working together on the restaurant and live in a small town, so there’s plenty of opportunity for them to see each other.
The romance itself is mostly fairly sweet, but it does involve a LOT of Ryan feeling ‘unworthy’, which leads to endless repetition around this point and the ‘breakup’. This also features a completely unwelcome (by me anyway) sort of love triangle featuring Maddie, that everyone knows will go no-where since she’s book 3, so that felt like a waste of time.
This also features the issue I’ve had with Brayden’s books before, the banter wears after awhile and most of the characters talk in the same voice, which is annoying. Every character seems to speak the same way, all of the MCs, the side characters, even the older characters.
I loved Gabriella and Ryan as characters, and they were cute when interacting (for the most part). I did like that Gabriella just stated what she wanted or felt, and their were no histronics, but there were still instances where if they just actually had a proper conversation they’d have gotten to where they wanted to be sooner. I liked book 1 better, but this is still a good read, and Brayden fans will no doubt enjoy. 3.25-3.5 stars rounded up.
This is book 2 of the Tangle Valley series, and features Gabriella, the chef at the vineyard, and Ryan, the contractor hired to build the new restaurant. Ryan is a bit of a player around town (though I had to wonder at how many queer people seem to live in such a small town in Oregon). Gabriella knows this and though attracted, isn’t interested. Meanwhile Ryan is knocked for a loop by Gabriella and decides to go after her. They are working together on the restaurant and live in a small town, so there’s plenty of opportunity for them to see each other.
The romance itself is mostly fairly sweet, but it does involve a LOT of Ryan feeling ‘unworthy’, which leads to endless repetition around this point and the ‘breakup’. This also features a completely unwelcome (by me anyway) sort of love triangle featuring Maddie, that everyone knows will go no-where since she’s book 3, so that felt like a waste of time.
This also features the issue I’ve had with Brayden’s books before, the banter wears after awhile and most of the characters talk in the same voice, which is annoying. Every character seems to speak the same way, all of the MCs, the side characters, even the older characters.
I loved Gabriella and Ryan as characters, and they were cute when interacting (for the most part). I did like that Gabriella just stated what she wanted or felt, and their were no histronics, but there were still instances where if they just actually had a proper conversation they’d have gotten to where they wanted to be sooner. I liked book 1 better, but this is still a good read, and Brayden fans will no doubt enjoy. 3.25-3.5 stars rounded up.
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