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Knitting Club #3
Taking the Heat
I’m no outdoorsman … but I’m willing to cuddle with one for warmth.
Jones and I have been hooking up on and off for years and I know it will never be anything more. He’s my brother’s best friend, and my brother’s head would explode if he found out about us. But when I need some guidance on the topic of my next book, he’s just the guy to help. He’ll take me into the woods for a few days, show me the ropes, and keep me from getting myself killed. It’s all perfect … until I unexpectedly go into heat.
We’re miles from home and all alone, and there’s no one I’ve ever wanted more than Jones, even though I know I could never be good enough for him. Bonding now means more than our hookups ever did. Are we ready to take that step? Or are we going to let our fear of disapproval stand in the way of our best chance at love?
Jones and I have been hooking up on and off for years and I know it will never be anything more. He’s my brother’s best friend, and my brother’s head would explode if he found out about us. But when I need some guidance on the topic of my next book, he’s just the guy to help. He’ll take me into the woods for a few days, show me the ropes, and keep me from getting myself killed. It’s all perfect … until I unexpectedly go into heat.
We’re miles from home and all alone, and there’s no one I’ve ever wanted more than Jones, even though I know I could never be good enough for him. Bonding now means more than our hookups ever did. Are we ready to take that step? Or are we going to let our fear of disapproval stand in the way of our best chance at love?
211 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 8, 2020
67 people are currently reading
79 people want to read
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June 20, 2020DNF around 40%-ish
It was boring and felt flat
Not even the first chapter (my usual mood booster) can lift up my mood to keep reading.
Had to put this one down.
It was boring and felt flat
Not even the first chapter (my usual mood booster) can lift up my mood to keep reading.
Had to put this one down.
June 12, 2020
I had been looking forward to this book since pretty much the start of this series. Jones and Charlie seemed destined for each other and I was dying to know more about their history together. And in a lot of ways I was definitely pleased. These two fit so well together and I really enjoyed watching them in the present, as well as the flashbacks that showed how they fell for each other over time. However, for some reason I was a little disappointed. The relationship they had previously was definitely only surface deep and I didn’t really feel the moment it turned into more. There was a heavy reliance on miscommunication, and that didn’t work as well for me. Don’t get me wrong, it was still a really good story; I think I just hyped it up too much in my head beforehand.
June 13, 2020
good story.. characters made me smile and happy.. good typical alpha/omega type.. i enjoyed it and this series is a lot of fun
August 27, 2020
Taking the Heat is the first Kitting Club book I’ve had the opportunity to read or listen to so far. I wasn’t sure how knitting was going to play into this story, but I was drawn in by the blurb. Well, that and I enjoy a lot of Austin Bates’ other work. He’s a great author with a knack for writing mpreg novels with interesting plots. So, as you can imagine, I jumped right into the book without hesitation.
The first thing I want to talk about regarding this book is the narrator, Price Johnson. He did a great job of bringing the characters and story to life. I found his voice incredibly soothing while listening along. My only complaint is that he reads faster than I like. I tend to enjoy books at a slower pace so I can lose myself in the story. This is an easy fix though. While listening on my Audible app I turned the speed down to .90 and it was a lot better. The narration is just slow enough not to feel rushed while not making the voice sound silly. Other than that, I liked Mr. Johnson’s narrative.
Now, onto the characters and plot.
Jones is, by far, my favorite character in the entire book. I’m not sure what it is about him that I like so much, but he stole my heart immediately. Maybe it’s the fact he has all of that sexy outdoorsman knowledge? Or perhaps it’s that he has a solid, steady presence that makes him come across as a true alpha male? It could be both? All I know is that I love him so much. He’s not perfect by any stretch of the imagination. But, that’s how I like my characters! So, Jones won me over without much effort.
Then we have Charlie. It might sound awful, but I could honestly take him or leave him. Don’t get me wrong, he’s not a bad character. There’s actually a lot about him that I enjoyed. Charlie is an art teacher who works as an author on the side. He also has a great sense of humor. I immaturely giggled when he said:
I had to figure it out somehow, or break my contract, say goodbye to my literary career, and resign myself to a life of only teaching art and pretending not to notice when hormonal high schoolers snuck abstract cocks into the backgrounds of their projects.
His way of thinking and speaking when he’s being funny or sarcastic is probably the thing I like most about Charlie. Other than that, I just wasn’t in love with him. I did feel for him and his medical problem. As someone who experiences awful cycles, I can say I sympathized with his pain even though I don’t suffer quite as badly. Another thing I liked was the fact that he didn’t shy away from any of the outdoorsy stuff. From the freezing river to doing his business in the woods, and then the snake in their tent, Charlie didn’t shy away from anything.
Speaking of the snake! I must be the world’s biggest pervert because I honestly thought the following quote was about Jones having a boner. Hahaha!
“There’s something in the tent. I think it’s a snake. Please do something.”
“Huh? Where is it? I don’t see anything.” I wouldn’t, though. When I blinked the sleep from my eyes, all I could see was him.
“It’s in between our sleeping bags.”
I slowly lowered my chin to see if I could get a visual on the situation. My breath had stopped, my pulse was suddenly racing, and as wide awake as I would be if I had just downed a double espresso.
I swear to any god/goddess out there, I thought he was going to say he saw his morning wood. It was disappointing that there really was a snake in the tent, but it was hot hearing how Jones went all ‘Man vs Wild’ on it.
The back story between Jones and Charlie had me rooting for them from the start. Jones is the best friend of Charlie’s older brother JP. So, they’ve got a long history of being in each other’s lives. I liked the snippets of past events that showed how their relationship changed into something more. They struck up a causal relationship, though not really boyfriends, and enjoyed each other occasionally. Charlie always wanted more from Jones than he though Jones in return. But really, Jones was losing his heart to the younger brother of his best friend. When things go pear-shaped between them it was devastating to hear.
I loved how these two shared the experience of camping for a few days. Things change between them, confessions are made, and a sudden heat changes things forever. When they come out on the other side of the trek, to meet JP, their lives are intertwined for good. JP was an overbearing douche-nozzle toward Jones when he saw how sick Charlie was from his heat. It hurt my heart that Jones was treated that way by his friend and Jones just took it like it was all his fault.
At the end of this book, my heart was a mushy, happy mess. Jones and Charlie get their happy ever after, JP lightens up a little with his overprotective brotherly bullcrap, and Charlie’s medical condition isn’t there to torment him thanks to Jones. I loved how this book ended!
If you’re a fan of Austin Bates’ mpreg books, I’d say you should give this a read for sure. It was sweet, a little angst from time to time, and ended in a lovely way. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed!
The first thing I want to talk about regarding this book is the narrator, Price Johnson. He did a great job of bringing the characters and story to life. I found his voice incredibly soothing while listening along. My only complaint is that he reads faster than I like. I tend to enjoy books at a slower pace so I can lose myself in the story. This is an easy fix though. While listening on my Audible app I turned the speed down to .90 and it was a lot better. The narration is just slow enough not to feel rushed while not making the voice sound silly. Other than that, I liked Mr. Johnson’s narrative.
Now, onto the characters and plot.
Jones is, by far, my favorite character in the entire book. I’m not sure what it is about him that I like so much, but he stole my heart immediately. Maybe it’s the fact he has all of that sexy outdoorsman knowledge? Or perhaps it’s that he has a solid, steady presence that makes him come across as a true alpha male? It could be both? All I know is that I love him so much. He’s not perfect by any stretch of the imagination. But, that’s how I like my characters! So, Jones won me over without much effort.
Then we have Charlie. It might sound awful, but I could honestly take him or leave him. Don’t get me wrong, he’s not a bad character. There’s actually a lot about him that I enjoyed. Charlie is an art teacher who works as an author on the side. He also has a great sense of humor. I immaturely giggled when he said:
I had to figure it out somehow, or break my contract, say goodbye to my literary career, and resign myself to a life of only teaching art and pretending not to notice when hormonal high schoolers snuck abstract cocks into the backgrounds of their projects.
His way of thinking and speaking when he’s being funny or sarcastic is probably the thing I like most about Charlie. Other than that, I just wasn’t in love with him. I did feel for him and his medical problem. As someone who experiences awful cycles, I can say I sympathized with his pain even though I don’t suffer quite as badly. Another thing I liked was the fact that he didn’t shy away from any of the outdoorsy stuff. From the freezing river to doing his business in the woods, and then the snake in their tent, Charlie didn’t shy away from anything.
Speaking of the snake! I must be the world’s biggest pervert because I honestly thought the following quote was about Jones having a boner. Hahaha!
“There’s something in the tent. I think it’s a snake. Please do something.”
“Huh? Where is it? I don’t see anything.” I wouldn’t, though. When I blinked the sleep from my eyes, all I could see was him.
“It’s in between our sleeping bags.”
I slowly lowered my chin to see if I could get a visual on the situation. My breath had stopped, my pulse was suddenly racing, and as wide awake as I would be if I had just downed a double espresso.
I swear to any god/goddess out there, I thought he was going to say he saw his morning wood. It was disappointing that there really was a snake in the tent, but it was hot hearing how Jones went all ‘Man vs Wild’ on it.
The back story between Jones and Charlie had me rooting for them from the start. Jones is the best friend of Charlie’s older brother JP. So, they’ve got a long history of being in each other’s lives. I liked the snippets of past events that showed how their relationship changed into something more. They struck up a causal relationship, though not really boyfriends, and enjoyed each other occasionally. Charlie always wanted more from Jones than he though Jones in return. But really, Jones was losing his heart to the younger brother of his best friend. When things go pear-shaped between them it was devastating to hear.
I loved how these two shared the experience of camping for a few days. Things change between them, confessions are made, and a sudden heat changes things forever. When they come out on the other side of the trek, to meet JP, their lives are intertwined for good. JP was an overbearing douche-nozzle toward Jones when he saw how sick Charlie was from his heat. It hurt my heart that Jones was treated that way by his friend and Jones just took it like it was all his fault.
At the end of this book, my heart was a mushy, happy mess. Jones and Charlie get their happy ever after, JP lightens up a little with his overprotective brotherly bullcrap, and Charlie’s medical condition isn’t there to torment him thanks to Jones. I loved how this book ended!
If you’re a fan of Austin Bates’ mpreg books, I’d say you should give this a read for sure. It was sweet, a little angst from time to time, and ended in a lovely way. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed!
June 6, 2020
Jones arrives back home after an injury which leaves him sidelined from his adventurous career. Charlie is eager to greet him upon his return, but Jones shuts him down and he shuts him down hard. Charlie has been in love with Jones for years. Ever since the pair first hooked up when he was 19 years old; of course this was done behind his older brother's, JP's back since Jones is his brother's best friend. All Charlie wanted was a happily ever after with Jones, but the man never showed signs off wanting anything more. Meanwhile Jones always has had a thing for Charlie. When injured the first face that popped in his head was the beautiful omega and he wished he would see him again. Luckily for him, Charlie needs help researching for his book, his character is racing through the wilderness; and since Jones knows all about that he's the perfect man for the job. But a couple days in, Charlie is getting hot and bothered, and he realizes his heat is coming earlier. But he has bad heats, that if action isn't taken, he could suffer in agony and even die. Jones has to decide what choice to make in order to save Charlie and maybe both men can finally move on from their past mistakes and take another shot at love.
SPOILERS!!!!!
I was really looking forward to this book. The previous novel in this series introduced us too Charlie as the best friend and his puppy dog eyes at Jones stayed with me. I wanted these men to have their HEA. However, I thought this book was a little too clean-cut. I wanted more tension, and a little bit more drama. JP wasn't that fazed by Charlie and Jones, somewhat disappointed when he learned how long they had been carrying on a friends with benefits type relationship, but there really was not major blow-out. It was good, but it was anti-climatic. A big part of the hang-up between Charlie and Jones was how JP would react, and really he didn't have that big of a reaction at all. I also didn't like how Jones just had to bond with Charlie to save him, I get it, but it was too fast for me. I felt that they didn't really work anything out between them, and even now why they had their hang-ups with each other seemed so confusing and just because some easy-to-be cleared up miscommunication. Don't get me wrong though, the book was still good, it just wasn't my favorite in the series. But I really am a big fan of Austin Bates and I'm still looking forward to the next novel!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
SPOILERS!!!!!
I was really looking forward to this book. The previous novel in this series introduced us too Charlie as the best friend and his puppy dog eyes at Jones stayed with me. I wanted these men to have their HEA. However, I thought this book was a little too clean-cut. I wanted more tension, and a little bit more drama. JP wasn't that fazed by Charlie and Jones, somewhat disappointed when he learned how long they had been carrying on a friends with benefits type relationship, but there really was not major blow-out. It was good, but it was anti-climatic. A big part of the hang-up between Charlie and Jones was how JP would react, and really he didn't have that big of a reaction at all. I also didn't like how Jones just had to bond with Charlie to save him, I get it, but it was too fast for me. I felt that they didn't really work anything out between them, and even now why they had their hang-ups with each other seemed so confusing and just because some easy-to-be cleared up miscommunication. Don't get me wrong though, the book was still good, it just wasn't my favorite in the series. But I really am a big fan of Austin Bates and I'm still looking forward to the next novel!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 14, 2020
Another great story in the Knitting Club series. I enjoyed getting Jones and Charlie's HEA after getting hints of more between them in the previous book.
It's a perfect setting as the survivalist takes the writer on a camping trek to help give inspiration and information for his new book. With this time alone together they talk through their history and clear the air but even more build on the connection they have that, so far, has only happened in snatched moments across the past few years. Each man has the chance to think about what they really want in their future and the attraction/connection that you can really feel between them. Considering they've only hooked up in the past but they have both been strongly crushing on each other for years, it doesn't take long for strong feelings to come to the forefront. Jones especially came through as he's spent years working away, knowing Charlie is there but not considering that they could have the HEA that Charlie has spent those same years yearning for. A lot of feelings get dealt with including guilt, inadequacy, longing etc.
It's a beautiful setting for the majority of the book, out in the wilderness/woods as two men allow themselves what they have wanted for so long and take steps towards that. The author really helps the reader feel right there along with the characters as they trek through the woods and try sleeping with the sounds of nature around them. Whilst the majority of the book is spent with just Charlie and Jones together, we still get to connect with some of the other men of the series, especially JD as Charlie's older brother and Jones's best friend. This also has been a sticking situation as anything between the MC's has been kept hidden from everyone around them.
A great romance to read and enjoyable to have more men from this series get their HEA.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
It's a perfect setting as the survivalist takes the writer on a camping trek to help give inspiration and information for his new book. With this time alone together they talk through their history and clear the air but even more build on the connection they have that, so far, has only happened in snatched moments across the past few years. Each man has the chance to think about what they really want in their future and the attraction/connection that you can really feel between them. Considering they've only hooked up in the past but they have both been strongly crushing on each other for years, it doesn't take long for strong feelings to come to the forefront. Jones especially came through as he's spent years working away, knowing Charlie is there but not considering that they could have the HEA that Charlie has spent those same years yearning for. A lot of feelings get dealt with including guilt, inadequacy, longing etc.
It's a beautiful setting for the majority of the book, out in the wilderness/woods as two men allow themselves what they have wanted for so long and take steps towards that. The author really helps the reader feel right there along with the characters as they trek through the woods and try sleeping with the sounds of nature around them. Whilst the majority of the book is spent with just Charlie and Jones together, we still get to connect with some of the other men of the series, especially JD as Charlie's older brother and Jones's best friend. This also has been a sticking situation as anything between the MC's has been kept hidden from everyone around them.
A great romance to read and enjoyable to have more men from this series get their HEA.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
June 9, 2020
Jones is physically and emotionally recovering from a bad ankle injury he endured in Africa.
Charlie is a writer. He's hit a block and needs real world experience to complete it. He seeks the help of Jones.
This outing is supposed to be good for them both. Jones can get back into the swing of being the survivalist that he loves and without pressure. Charlie can get the accurate resources he needs to complete his book.
Charlie over packs for the trip and Jones helps him pair down and comes across a "personal item." Charlie relents and leaves it home, but fails to tell Jones exactly why its needed and about his medical condition.
Unresolved baggage surfaces on this trip about a past outburst at the airport. They talk about the future, begin to heal and take their time in working on a real relationship and how to tell JP (Charlie's older brother)the truth. Unfortunately, things move a lot faster than expected when Charlie's heat begins a few weeks earlier is much more intense than ever before.
Charlie trusts Jones to make the right decisions for his well being while out in the woods. The two ended up a bonded pair and they are happy about what happened. It never fails for those insecurities to creep up and take hold for them both.
JP is told about the bond and the past tryst these two shared. Can these two work it out? Will they regret the choice that is made between them? Can love conquer all.
An adorable age gap romance.
Taking the Heat is the first book I've read in the series and its number three! I expected more knitting, but there was definitely knotting. There was an honorable mention, though.
**I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.**
Charlie is a writer. He's hit a block and needs real world experience to complete it. He seeks the help of Jones.
This outing is supposed to be good for them both. Jones can get back into the swing of being the survivalist that he loves and without pressure. Charlie can get the accurate resources he needs to complete his book.
Charlie over packs for the trip and Jones helps him pair down and comes across a "personal item." Charlie relents and leaves it home, but fails to tell Jones exactly why its needed and about his medical condition.
Unresolved baggage surfaces on this trip about a past outburst at the airport. They talk about the future, begin to heal and take their time in working on a real relationship and how to tell JP (Charlie's older brother)the truth. Unfortunately, things move a lot faster than expected when Charlie's heat begins a few weeks earlier is much more intense than ever before.
Charlie trusts Jones to make the right decisions for his well being while out in the woods. The two ended up a bonded pair and they are happy about what happened. It never fails for those insecurities to creep up and take hold for them both.
JP is told about the bond and the past tryst these two shared. Can these two work it out? Will they regret the choice that is made between them? Can love conquer all.
An adorable age gap romance.
Taking the Heat is the first book I've read in the series and its number three! I expected more knitting, but there was definitely knotting. There was an honorable mention, though.
**I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.**
June 9, 2020
OMG WISH I COULD GIVE IT MORE STARS 10/10
Jones and Charlie have been hooking up on and off for years but it has never been anything but that, a hook up because Jones is Charlies brother JP best friend. And they both know JP will not be happy. They both hook up with other people but always end up back together. Then Jones gets injured whilst away filming for one of his survival programs. But when all his friends got to the airport to welcome Jones back, Jones is cruel to Charlie and basically ignores his attempt to help him. Charlie is crushed. And stays well away and only hears about his recovery through his brother.
Charlie is working on his 4th book and is really stuck as he knows nothing about the wilderness and how to survive so he bites the bullet and goes to see Jones. And offers to hire him to take Charlie camping so he can learn first hand about survival. Jones isn't sure but thinks this would be a great way to get back out there and get his confidence up again but the only problem is his feelings for Charlie.
It all started so well but then something happens that could change everything for them both...….
OMG I COULDNT PUT THIS BOOK DOWN. ITS AN EMOTIONAL ROLLERCOASTER AND MY HEART WENT OUT TO BOTH OF THEM. THERE IS REAL LOVE AND UNDERSTANDING IN THIS BOOK AND IF ONLY THEIR COMMUNICATION SKILLS WERE BETTER THEN MAYBE THEY COULD OF HAD A TOTALLY DIFFERENT BEGINING. THIS BOOK IS JUST SO AMAZING. I COUD READ IT ALL OVER AGAIN AND GET BLOWN AWAY AGAIN.
IM SO EXCITED TO READ ANYTHING AUSTIN BATES. AN OUTSTANDING READ
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Jones and Charlie have been hooking up on and off for years but it has never been anything but that, a hook up because Jones is Charlies brother JP best friend. And they both know JP will not be happy. They both hook up with other people but always end up back together. Then Jones gets injured whilst away filming for one of his survival programs. But when all his friends got to the airport to welcome Jones back, Jones is cruel to Charlie and basically ignores his attempt to help him. Charlie is crushed. And stays well away and only hears about his recovery through his brother.
Charlie is working on his 4th book and is really stuck as he knows nothing about the wilderness and how to survive so he bites the bullet and goes to see Jones. And offers to hire him to take Charlie camping so he can learn first hand about survival. Jones isn't sure but thinks this would be a great way to get back out there and get his confidence up again but the only problem is his feelings for Charlie.
It all started so well but then something happens that could change everything for them both...….
OMG I COULDNT PUT THIS BOOK DOWN. ITS AN EMOTIONAL ROLLERCOASTER AND MY HEART WENT OUT TO BOTH OF THEM. THERE IS REAL LOVE AND UNDERSTANDING IN THIS BOOK AND IF ONLY THEIR COMMUNICATION SKILLS WERE BETTER THEN MAYBE THEY COULD OF HAD A TOTALLY DIFFERENT BEGINING. THIS BOOK IS JUST SO AMAZING. I COUD READ IT ALL OVER AGAIN AND GET BLOWN AWAY AGAIN.
IM SO EXCITED TO READ ANYTHING AUSTIN BATES. AN OUTSTANDING READ
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 9, 2020
Charlie and Jones have had an off again-on again friends with benefits connection for a long time. What's keeping the two from a total commitment is that JP is Charlie's brother and Jones' best friend. Both can only speculate how JP will react to the relationship. Of course, Jones pops Charlie's heart felt bubble when on returning seriously injured from a trip for Jones' adventure show when his scornful words to Charlie at the airport by crude and hurtful remarks that brush Charlie off. The underlying theme of the other stories is barely touched upon here-The Knitting Club. The subject only comes up as an afterthought when Jones discusses the potential business location. And the grandmas? Just a brief mention is all there was. They seemed to be treated as an afterthought. I really missed their potential contributions to this relationship. If one wants to learn wilderness survival techniques than this is the story for you. Loaded with lots of information. The only amount of angst was regarding Charlie's illness regarding the dangers of his extreme heat cycles. All in all not as good as the other stories, needed more drama, and the ending leads one to believe it's the last one as there's no hint of a coming book. It was an OK book but could have been better and this is my honest review for the ARC I got from the GRR ARC team.
June 9, 2020
Love and Omega Heat
This book in the knitting club series is dealing with longtime friends who are sometime lovers dealing with their feelings for each other. Are they just having fun or whatever they are doing is real. Charlie and Jones take a camping trip together ...Charlie to get experience info for his book and Jones to get his mojo back. On this trip, they discover and learn a lot from each other. This definitely was a page turner because I was so caught up in their banter(hilarious) and dialogue(perfect chemistry) with each other I couldn't put it down. They actually talked a lot about their past and present feelings. Jones did what some alphas fail to do...he wasn't scared to let Charlie know his feelings/emotions which was soooooooooo wonderful to read. During the "heat" incident on the trip which was kind of scary for Charlie, Jones is there for his omega and takes care of him. This incident seals the deal on their relationship.That entire trip that was suppose to be professional and friendly was just a wonderful romantic trip for the couple and I really loved it all. The story had a great ending but I got a few questions(with JP) that I hope get answered in the next book in the series. Loved it...5 STARS!!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book in the knitting club series is dealing with longtime friends who are sometime lovers dealing with their feelings for each other. Are they just having fun or whatever they are doing is real. Charlie and Jones take a camping trip together ...Charlie to get experience info for his book and Jones to get his mojo back. On this trip, they discover and learn a lot from each other. This definitely was a page turner because I was so caught up in their banter(hilarious) and dialogue(perfect chemistry) with each other I couldn't put it down. They actually talked a lot about their past and present feelings. Jones did what some alphas fail to do...he wasn't scared to let Charlie know his feelings/emotions which was soooooooooo wonderful to read. During the "heat" incident on the trip which was kind of scary for Charlie, Jones is there for his omega and takes care of him. This incident seals the deal on their relationship.That entire trip that was suppose to be professional and friendly was just a wonderful romantic trip for the couple and I really loved it all. The story had a great ending but I got a few questions(with JP) that I hope get answered in the next book in the series. Loved it...5 STARS!!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 9, 2020
Charlie and Jones have a history of hooking up with each over for many years. They haven't acknowledged their true feelings because they were afraid of JP’s reaction when he found out his brother and best friend were a couple. Charlie now is writing a book and needs some research about roughing it in the wild. Jones is the perfect expert to provide that experience for him because he was a trained survivalist.
But as they are hiking through the wilderness, Charlie goes into an early heat and needs Jones to help him get through it. Charlie has a physical condition that makes his heats extremely painful and dangerous, with an extremely high temperature. They are finally forced to face how they feel. Are they willing to accept that they belong together? Are they ready to face JP and tell him their decision, whatever the consequences?
I enjoy this author’s writing very much. This book was so enjoyable as the reader got to experience their longing yet hesitation in not knowing if the other still had strong feelings. The story line was so good, the characters likable even when frustrating, and the pacing was well-done. The author made the reader feel everything, the trek through the woods and the memories of the past these two shared. It was a beautiful experience. Grab your copy and enjoy their story to find out where their hearts finally led them.
But as they are hiking through the wilderness, Charlie goes into an early heat and needs Jones to help him get through it. Charlie has a physical condition that makes his heats extremely painful and dangerous, with an extremely high temperature. They are finally forced to face how they feel. Are they willing to accept that they belong together? Are they ready to face JP and tell him their decision, whatever the consequences?
I enjoy this author’s writing very much. This book was so enjoyable as the reader got to experience their longing yet hesitation in not knowing if the other still had strong feelings. The story line was so good, the characters likable even when frustrating, and the pacing was well-done. The author made the reader feel everything, the trek through the woods and the memories of the past these two shared. It was a beautiful experience. Grab your copy and enjoy their story to find out where their hearts finally led them.
September 6, 2020
**Audio Review**
It took me a few chapters to adjust to this narrator's style and pacing, but once I did I thoroughly enjoyed this sweet "brother's best friend" love story!
When I started listening, I was worried I wouldn't be able to keep up with this narrator because of how quickly he spoke without pausing between sentences. On top of that, I had a hard time differentiating the side characters' voices, so I had to really pay attention to know who was saying what. Once I got into the story and it was just Charlie and Jones in the woods, it became a lot easier to follow along. I'm glad I stuck with this audio instead of leaving it unfinished, because the payoff later on was definitely worth it. Jones and Charlie are so sweet together and surprisingly well matched. I wish there had been more flashbacks to the beginning of their hookups, but honestly that's just me being greedy to know more about how these two gave in to their initial attraction.
I'm not really sure why, but the entire time I was listening to Charlie and Jones hike around on the trails I was waiting for some big catastrophe to happen. Maybe it's because of Jones's trepidation after his last outdoors experience, but something had me on edge until I finally figured out what was going to go wrong for these two. Turns out it was much less traumatic than I expected, but no less intriguing to see how Charlie and Jones would react. Speaking of character reactions, I was a little disappointed by how predictably Charlie's brother reacted to Jones and Charlie being in a relationship, but since it didn't escalate into unnecessary drama or fighting I can't complain too much.
All in all, this was a pretty decent romance with two intriguing characters. Even though Charlie and Jones's story definitely has a happy ending, I think there's still a lot left for these two to tackle before I can truly say they're settled into their new relationship.
**I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
It took me a few chapters to adjust to this narrator's style and pacing, but once I did I thoroughly enjoyed this sweet "brother's best friend" love story!
When I started listening, I was worried I wouldn't be able to keep up with this narrator because of how quickly he spoke without pausing between sentences. On top of that, I had a hard time differentiating the side characters' voices, so I had to really pay attention to know who was saying what. Once I got into the story and it was just Charlie and Jones in the woods, it became a lot easier to follow along. I'm glad I stuck with this audio instead of leaving it unfinished, because the payoff later on was definitely worth it. Jones and Charlie are so sweet together and surprisingly well matched. I wish there had been more flashbacks to the beginning of their hookups, but honestly that's just me being greedy to know more about how these two gave in to their initial attraction.
I'm not really sure why, but the entire time I was listening to Charlie and Jones hike around on the trails I was waiting for some big catastrophe to happen. Maybe it's because of Jones's trepidation after his last outdoors experience, but something had me on edge until I finally figured out what was going to go wrong for these two. Turns out it was much less traumatic than I expected, but no less intriguing to see how Charlie and Jones would react. Speaking of character reactions, I was a little disappointed by how predictably Charlie's brother reacted to Jones and Charlie being in a relationship, but since it didn't escalate into unnecessary drama or fighting I can't complain too much.
All in all, this was a pretty decent romance with two intriguing characters. Even though Charlie and Jones's story definitely has a happy ending, I think there's still a lot left for these two to tackle before I can truly say they're settled into their new relationship.
**I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
June 10, 2020
Charlie has been hooking up with Jones on and off for years. As much as he wants something to come of it he knows it won’t because Jones is one of his brother’s best friends. And after the way Jones treated him when he got back from his trip he’s not sure where he stands with Jones. But when he’s got himself in a pickle with his book he’s forced to ask Jones for help since he’s the survival expert and all.
Jones has been in a rut lately. After his ankle injury during his survival show he’s questioning himself on how good of a survivalist he is when he almost died in the desert. But when Charlie asks him for help with his book he’s a little excited to get back out there and a little nervous. He knows he wasn’t nice to Charlie the last time they saw each other and he feels terrible. He just doesn’t know how to bring it up.
Charlie is determined that nothing is going to happen between them on this hiking trip even though he wants nothing more. And Jones just hopes that he doesn’t say anything that’ll hurt Charlie more than he already has.
Charlie and Jones are too cute together. Charlie has a light hearted attitude that seems to bring out the softer side of Jones. What a great story and even better characters.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
Jones has been in a rut lately. After his ankle injury during his survival show he’s questioning himself on how good of a survivalist he is when he almost died in the desert. But when Charlie asks him for help with his book he’s a little excited to get back out there and a little nervous. He knows he wasn’t nice to Charlie the last time they saw each other and he feels terrible. He just doesn’t know how to bring it up.
Charlie is determined that nothing is going to happen between them on this hiking trip even though he wants nothing more. And Jones just hopes that he doesn’t say anything that’ll hurt Charlie more than he already has.
Charlie and Jones are too cute together. Charlie has a light hearted attitude that seems to bring out the softer side of Jones. What a great story and even better characters.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
August 5, 2020
Charlie is an author who needs to find his inspiration to finish his latest novel. Deciding that an outdoor camping trip would put him in the mindset of his main character, Charlie goes to his brother’s friend Jones, an outdoor survivalist expert, and asks him to take him for a quick camping trip to do some research. Both characters have a history with each other, as they often hooked up But Charlie has always felt something more for Jones. When something happens to the two men while out camping, can they finally be open and honest with each other about their feelings? Will Charlie’s brother be upset when he finds out about the fling that Charlie and Jones used to have?
I agree with some other reviewers that the pacing in the book was a bit slow. However, I found that the book was full of good word building and the reader was given an opportunity to learn about the main characters feelings for each other.
“Taking the Heat” is the third novel of the Knitting Club book series by the author. I did not read the first two books in the series and was able to read the third book simply fine. I felt that if I had read the other two books, I might have been more informed about the characters, but liked that it was not required to understand and enjoy the book.
I agree with some other reviewers that the pacing in the book was a bit slow. However, I found that the book was full of good word building and the reader was given an opportunity to learn about the main characters feelings for each other.
“Taking the Heat” is the third novel of the Knitting Club book series by the author. I did not read the first two books in the series and was able to read the third book simply fine. I felt that if I had read the other two books, I might have been more informed about the characters, but liked that it was not required to understand and enjoy the book.
June 8, 2020
This is the first book I've read by Austin and it is amazing! The story of Charlie and Jones is a wonderful love story about two friends who end up being so much more. Jones is the best friend of Charlie's older brother, JP. Charlie has always had a thing for Jones and over the years the two have hooked up every now and then. When Jones comes home hurt from an expedition, he says some harsh words to Charlie that leave him hurt. But Charlie is writing his latest novel and needs some wilderness information and Jones is the one to help him. They go on their hike, intending to keep things professional when trouble strikes. Charlie's heat comes early and Jones is forced to make a decision that will change both of their lives. Though things are a little unsettled in the beginning, it all works out in the end and Jones and Charlie finally confess the truth of their feelings for each other.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 9, 2020
When you fail to ask, you make assumptions. JP and Jones are best friends. Charlie and Jones have been hooking up in secret for years. Charlie is JP's younger brother. So, there's that! Charlie has been in love with Jones, forever. Jones has had a thing for Charlie for a long time. There's that! What set of baggage are these two men carrying? Jones, recovering from a work injury agrees to help Charlie research in the woods. Alone for a few days, that! Then Charlie goes into his usual extreme @ risk heat and Jones helps him out. There's time to talk, will they? Can Jones handle the couple? What will their relationship be like, after heat? Very nice story, only where are the Grandmas? Great characters. I like this series, Mr Bates writes amazing series with fantastic characters and themes, I'm ready for more! Well done! I received an ARC from Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 9, 2020
This is a fascinating but rather emotional MM romance & it is the third book in the series. The plot is quite intriguing & filled with emotional complexities & unavoidable situations. The characters are likeable & interesting with unique personalities.
There is: a successful writer & male omega (Charlie) is promptly shut down by the love of his life (Jones) but decides to ask Jones to help him with research about camping for his next book but once on the camping trail Charlie goes into heat, Charlie’s overprotective brother (JP) & Jones’s best friend, some mild twists, memories, intrigue, drama, attractions, friendship, secrets, denial, rejection, heartache, heat issues, determination, realization, doubts, protectiveness, choices, bonding, admittance, compromises, steamy scenes, love, contentment, & a sweet, satisfying conclusion. I would recommend this MM romance to people who enjoy reading this genre.
There is: a successful writer & male omega (Charlie) is promptly shut down by the love of his life (Jones) but decides to ask Jones to help him with research about camping for his next book but once on the camping trail Charlie goes into heat, Charlie’s overprotective brother (JP) & Jones’s best friend, some mild twists, memories, intrigue, drama, attractions, friendship, secrets, denial, rejection, heartache, heat issues, determination, realization, doubts, protectiveness, choices, bonding, admittance, compromises, steamy scenes, love, contentment, & a sweet, satisfying conclusion. I would recommend this MM romance to people who enjoy reading this genre.
June 8, 2020
While i enjoyed reading this, i enjoyed the other two books more. I have enjoyed most of Austin books, i just love his style of writing, but this one i just couldnt put my finger on it why it wasnt as good as the rest in my opinon, which is why i am only giving this a four star rating,
Both Charlie and Jones have been in a relationship before , but now Charlie is writing a book and needs experience in living outdoors. And the only one who can do that , that he knows of is Jones. They are only a small way in when Charlie comes into unexpected heat due to a condition he has. But will Jones help him out at all, and can they possibly make their way to loving each other once more and get to why things happened as they did. And to top it all they both havnt told JP (charlies brother) and Jones friend.
Both Charlie and Jones have been in a relationship before , but now Charlie is writing a book and needs experience in living outdoors. And the only one who can do that , that he knows of is Jones. They are only a small way in when Charlie comes into unexpected heat due to a condition he has. But will Jones help him out at all, and can they possibly make their way to loving each other once more and get to why things happened as they did. And to top it all they both havnt told JP (charlies brother) and Jones friend.
June 8, 2020
On the plus side few bugs...
by and1515
Charlie's world basically revolves around his writing career especially know that he's had some success and he wants to kept that momentum going but he's hit a big snag and Charlie doesn't have a clue on how to fix the problem after all he wanted to give his fans the best reading experience possible and finally he called the only person he knew would be able to help him...
Jones couldn't quite wrap his head around the fact he'd agreed to take Charlie camping in the middle of winter.
But then something totally blindsides them leaving Jones to make a choice that'll change everything.
He's absolutely crazy for Charlie but neither are sure how big brother will react?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
by and1515
Charlie's world basically revolves around his writing career especially know that he's had some success and he wants to kept that momentum going but he's hit a big snag and Charlie doesn't have a clue on how to fix the problem after all he wanted to give his fans the best reading experience possible and finally he called the only person he knew would be able to help him...
Jones couldn't quite wrap his head around the fact he'd agreed to take Charlie camping in the middle of winter.
But then something totally blindsides them leaving Jones to make a choice that'll change everything.
He's absolutely crazy for Charlie but neither are sure how big brother will react?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 9, 2020
4.5☆
Charlie is a fun, likeable guy who has an amazing relationship with his older brother JP, he is creative and works as an art teacher as well as being a writer. Jones is a reliable guy, he is trained survivalist who has had a setback just when his career was going to the next level. Charlie and Jones each have two secrets - one is that they have been hooking up and the second is their feelings for the other. Alone together on a hiking trip brings up their longing and insecurities but an unexpected situation forces them to start dealing with it all. Their chemistry is undeniable and their passion is steamy, add in the genuine feelings and honesty - with themselves and each other - and they get a sweetly satisfying HEA.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Charlie is a fun, likeable guy who has an amazing relationship with his older brother JP, he is creative and works as an art teacher as well as being a writer. Jones is a reliable guy, he is trained survivalist who has had a setback just when his career was going to the next level. Charlie and Jones each have two secrets - one is that they have been hooking up and the second is their feelings for the other. Alone together on a hiking trip brings up their longing and insecurities but an unexpected situation forces them to start dealing with it all. Their chemistry is undeniable and their passion is steamy, add in the genuine feelings and honesty - with themselves and each other - and they get a sweetly satisfying HEA.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 13, 2020
Charlie is writing a book and he needs help. His main character has to survive in the wilderness and he knows nothing about nature. But he knows someone who does: Jones. Jones is a survivalist and gives tours as part of his job. But Jones recently embarrassed him and broke his heart when he pushed him away at the airport. He's had a crush on him for years and they've been involved on and off in secret for almost that long. But with his heartbroken, can he keep this camping trip professional so that he can get the information he needs? Can Jones resist getting personal on this trip? The characters are complex, unique, and engaging. The storyline is entertaining, suspenseful, and passionate. Great read1
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 8, 2020
Charlie has hit a wall with his writing he arranges a camping trip with his brothers friend Jones.
Charlie had been surprised when his father had introduced him to JP his older stepbrother while he was in his teens. Then he was taken into JP's circle of friend and he meets Jones and finds himself drawn. As he get older his feelings get warmer and they have a few encounters. Charlie is now a successful writer but has come to a full stop on the current book in a series so to try and get the story flowing he asks Jones who runs guided trips into the wild if he could take him on a camping trip to get background a scene in his book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Charlie had been surprised when his father had introduced him to JP his older stepbrother while he was in his teens. Then he was taken into JP's circle of friend and he meets Jones and finds himself drawn. As he get older his feelings get warmer and they have a few encounters. Charlie is now a successful writer but has come to a full stop on the current book in a series so to try and get the story flowing he asks Jones who runs guided trips into the wild if he could take him on a camping trip to get background a scene in his book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 9, 2020
Taking The Heat is Book 3 in the Knitting Club series. I love this book and couldn't put it down. I think it's my favorite in the series so far. I just love Charlie and Jones together. I'm glad they found their way to each other. Charlie, an omega and 10 years younger than Jones, has had a crush on Jones, an alpha and one of his older brother's best friends, for years. When Charlie asks Jones to take him camping, to help him with a book he's writing, Jones of course says yes. I love how protective Jones is of Charlie, even back when Charlie was a teenager.
I highly recommend this book and series and I can't wait for more.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I highly recommend this book and series and I can't wait for more.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 10, 2020
Jones, an outdoor specialist and survivalist, is approached by the one man he really wants to avoid, but cannot say NO to, his best friend's younger brother, whom he craves to be his omega.
Charlie has crushed on Jones since he was fourteen and it became more over the next 10 years. He is also a writer of suspense and needs some hands-on experience of outdoor survival for the next book he is writing, so he asks Jones to take him on a tour to experience things, so that he can write them.
Of course, things escalate from there.
A nice, fairly romantic story of two people, who finally clear up misunderstandings and misconceptions and have the courage to admit to their feelings, despite the "Bro-Code".
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Charlie has crushed on Jones since he was fourteen and it became more over the next 10 years. He is also a writer of suspense and needs some hands-on experience of outdoor survival for the next book he is writing, so he asks Jones to take him on a tour to experience things, so that he can write them.
Of course, things escalate from there.
A nice, fairly romantic story of two people, who finally clear up misunderstandings and misconceptions and have the courage to admit to their feelings, despite the "Bro-Code".
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 19, 2020
I've been waiting for what seems like forever to get my greedy hands on Jones and Charlie's story, and it was DEFINITELY worth the wait! These two idjits have been in love with each other for years, but refuse to move past the friends-with-benefits because Jones is the best friend of Charlie's brother JP, and both fear what his reaction would be. It takes an unexpected heat, a terrible storm, and forced proximity to make these two finally admit their true feelings for each other. I really enjoyed reading this fantastic, charming, slow burning, grab-you-by-the-feels, delightful, and totally awesome friends-to-lovers tale. I would DEFINITELY recommend getting this marvelous gem for yourself. I can't wait to see what happens next.
February 7, 2022
Charlie and Jones
Contains : My brother's best friend, extreme heat, bonding and mother nature.
Charlie is at a dead end in his novel and needs advice from a professional survivalist, but the only one he knows is Jones, his brother's best friend and currently his ex-hookup.
After many years on and off hookup behind JP's back, they have decided to stop. Jones can't accept his accident, his failure engraved in his head. He left himself, left Charlie and turned to whiskey.
Charlie's offer interests him. A new adventure, calm, safe, smooth, stress-free on one of his familiar trails. But will they be able to survive their excursions into the forest despite all that nature has in store for them?
Contains : My brother's best friend, extreme heat, bonding and mother nature.
Charlie is at a dead end in his novel and needs advice from a professional survivalist, but the only one he knows is Jones, his brother's best friend and currently his ex-hookup.
After many years on and off hookup behind JP's back, they have decided to stop. Jones can't accept his accident, his failure engraved in his head. He left himself, left Charlie and turned to whiskey.
Charlie's offer interests him. A new adventure, calm, safe, smooth, stress-free on one of his familiar trails. But will they be able to survive their excursions into the forest despite all that nature has in store for them?
June 11, 2020
Another hit in this awesome series! Charlie is in love with his brothers best friend Jones. They have had an on again off again hook up arrangement for over 7 years. Jones is home from doing his show as an outdoorsman due to injury...Charlie is stuck on his book and needs to research outdoorsy stuff. He decides to ask Jones for help via a camping trip. They are having a good time and getting along then suddenly Charlie goes into heat and it is a bad one...one that Jones ends up helping with and they end up bonded. This was such an awesomely sweet story! Can't wait for the next installment!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 17, 2020
Communication is an important key in any type of relationship, especially the personal one.
Charlie and Jones has “sometimes hook-up, friends with benefits” type of relationship. But as most of us know, this tends to develop into something more. Especially when you are in really close proximity to each other. This camping trip they are on is going to help Charlie with the roadblock he is facing in his novel. But maybe this trip will also help both of them finally settle and face up to what they feel for each other.
I have been reading books by Austin Bates since late last year and they are well written with fresh storylines. This is another one of those. Thank you.
Charlie and Jones has “sometimes hook-up, friends with benefits” type of relationship. But as most of us know, this tends to develop into something more. Especially when you are in really close proximity to each other. This camping trip they are on is going to help Charlie with the roadblock he is facing in his novel. But maybe this trip will also help both of them finally settle and face up to what they feel for each other.
I have been reading books by Austin Bates since late last year and they are well written with fresh storylines. This is another one of those. Thank you.
August 31, 2020
A wonderful addition to this great series. I’m so glad that Charlie and Jones finally get their HEA. It was great to see how protective and caring Jones is of Charlie the entire time that they are in the wilderness together. Charlie really deserves to get his happy ending and the man that he loves and I was so happy to see that his brother was not only an ally but a big supporter when he finally learned the truth of his best friend and his little brother.The narrator really did a wonderful job portraying all of the characters and interpreting the story. I voluntarily reviewed a gifted copy of this audiobook.
June 12, 2020
Loved this fast reading well written love story by Austin Bates what a winner and a wonderful addition to the Knitting Club series. When Charlie convinces Jones to take him camping to get material for his book it is a great opportunity for Jones to ease back into being a guide after his injury. The only problem is Charlie is his best friend JP's little brother and there has always been that special spark between them, and hopefully going camping together won't ingnite a fire neither of them will be willing to put out.
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