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Chesapeake Days #1
Stronger Than Hope
One man looking to set down roots, the other looking to leave…
Fresh out of a relationship, Nate’s searching for a change—what better way is there than renovating his uncle’s old coffee shop in Chesapeake City? He has a new job, in a new town, and a new lease. And when he almost runs over his hot neighbor, Linc, who happens to be his contractor? Well, based on the explosive attraction between them, maybe he’ll find something new there too.
Linc’s been treading water ever since his wife passed away in childbirth, focusing all of his energy on raising his son, Beckett. The obvious solution? He needs to get the hell out of Chesapeake City. But when Nate charmingly fumbles his way into Linc’s life, he finds his defenses lowering for the first time in years. One date leads to another, and hell, this man makes him feel in ways he’d forgotten.
Even though Nate just finished piecing his heart back together, he falls fast. Yet Linc’s made it clear he’s a bad bet. The man hasn’t clicked with anyone since his wife, and if Nate ends up being "not enough" again, that won’t shatter just his heart—the fragile home he’s trying to build in this town will crumble too.
Fresh out of a relationship, Nate’s searching for a change—what better way is there than renovating his uncle’s old coffee shop in Chesapeake City? He has a new job, in a new town, and a new lease. And when he almost runs over his hot neighbor, Linc, who happens to be his contractor? Well, based on the explosive attraction between them, maybe he’ll find something new there too.
Linc’s been treading water ever since his wife passed away in childbirth, focusing all of his energy on raising his son, Beckett. The obvious solution? He needs to get the hell out of Chesapeake City. But when Nate charmingly fumbles his way into Linc’s life, he finds his defenses lowering for the first time in years. One date leads to another, and hell, this man makes him feel in ways he’d forgotten.
Even though Nate just finished piecing his heart back together, he falls fast. Yet Linc’s made it clear he’s a bad bet. The man hasn’t clicked with anyone since his wife, and if Nate ends up being "not enough" again, that won’t shatter just his heart—the fragile home he’s trying to build in this town will crumble too.
252 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 27, 2022
61 people are currently reading
262 people want to read
About the author
Katherine McIntyre
86 books730 followersGeeky Queer Romance.
Katherine McIntyre is feisty with a big attitude despite their short stature. They write stories featuring snarky women, ragtag crews, and men with bad attitudes—high chance for a passionate speech thrown into the mix. As a genderqueer geek who’s always stepped to their own beat, they've made it their mission to write stories that represent the broad spectrum of people out there. Easily distracted by cats and sugar.
Katherine McIntyre is feisty with a big attitude despite their short stature. They write stories featuring snarky women, ragtag crews, and men with bad attitudes—high chance for a passionate speech thrown into the mix. As a genderqueer geek who’s always stepped to their own beat, they've made it their mission to write stories that represent the broad spectrum of people out there. Easily distracted by cats and sugar.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews
March 10, 2023
What a pleasant surprise!
I can’t exactly recall where I picked this up but I’m glad I did. My reading time has drastically decreased lately and I don’t often spare my precious minutes with a new-to-me author.
It’s a shame but I have too many favorites to keep up with. However, this was delightful and I enjoyed the easy pace. It wasn’t my typical angst riddled ride but I think it was just what I needed.
Linc’s pain from losing his wife is still evident but it felt genuine. I desperately wanted Nate to get his well-deserved HEA. And I loved little Beckett to pieces. Small town stories either click easily (small town girl here) or miss the mark completely with me. I’m so glad this one clicked.
And I’m curious about the next book! Win-win!!
I can’t exactly recall where I picked this up but I’m glad I did. My reading time has drastically decreased lately and I don’t often spare my precious minutes with a new-to-me author.
It’s a shame but I have too many favorites to keep up with. However, this was delightful and I enjoyed the easy pace. It wasn’t my typical angst riddled ride but I think it was just what I needed.
Linc’s pain from losing his wife is still evident but it felt genuine. I desperately wanted Nate to get his well-deserved HEA. And I loved little Beckett to pieces. Small town stories either click easily (small town girl here) or miss the mark completely with me. I’m so glad this one clicked.
And I’m curious about the next book! Win-win!!
April 15, 2022
An heartwhelming small-town romance full of eventful moments
April 5, 2022
This is the first book I have read by this author, but it certainly will NOT be my last. I was lucky enough to receive a copy for an Early Reviewer review and I can truly say that I now have a new favorite author to add to my list. To make it even better, I am also receiving another book by Katherine McIntyre to review which I am really looking forward to. Indeed, I am, a happy camper. This story was well written and so much fun. We meet Nate, new in town and openly gay and Linc, his neighbor who is bi, and still grieving his wife's death. Nate was simply adorable, and my heart went out to Linc for all he had been through while trying to keep a business going while raising a young son. Two broken characters who are trying to heal through one another. Believe me, the reader welcomes every encounter between these two. I don't usually care for children in M/M romances, but Linc's son was the perfect little guy. I would call this a "light" read with just the perfect amounts of humor and angst. There are some really great secondary characters also that perhaps will get their stories told in future books. I sure hope so. I am so grateful to the publisher, Hot Tree Publishing, and the author for the opportunity to review this more than 5-star book. You have another fan, Ms. McIntyre!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Hot Tree Publishing in exchange for an honest opinion. The views expressed by this reviewer are entirely my own
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Hot Tree Publishing in exchange for an honest opinion. The views expressed by this reviewer are entirely my own
March 11, 2022
This is a perfect low angst romance, jusr what I needed! :)
June 30, 2022
This was a hard book for me to rate and review. It’s my first book by this author and although I didn’t love this story I recognize her talent and will certainly give the next book a try.
My biggest problem with this story is Lincoln. I just couldn’t get close to him as a character. He is selfish and depressed and has spent six years morning his wife. He tried to protect his son from getting hurt by not letting anyone else into their family dynamic. This is probably why Beck was so withdrawn from children his age and consequently bullied. Nate’s gentle influence made such a difference for Beck. I just couldn’t buy how Lincoln spent most of the story giving Nate mixed signals and then completely changed in one outing.
I make it sound like I hated this book, but I didn’t. I hope the next book in the series is a little more uplifting.
My biggest problem with this story is Lincoln. I just couldn’t get close to him as a character. He is selfish and depressed and has spent six years morning his wife. He tried to protect his son from getting hurt by not letting anyone else into their family dynamic. This is probably why Beck was so withdrawn from children his age and consequently bullied. Nate’s gentle influence made such a difference for Beck. I just couldn’t buy how Lincoln spent most of the story giving Nate mixed signals and then completely changed in one outing.
I make it sound like I hated this book, but I didn’t. I hope the next book in the series is a little more uplifting.
March 8, 2022
This is Nate and Linc's story, but don't blame me if I was more interested to Beckett (Linc's son) and Nico (Linc's best friend).
I loved Nate, he's genuine and sweet. Nothing unpleasant about him.Linc is a good father to Beck, but I lost it when everytime he mentioned Marissa on every part of his POV (his deceased wife).
I get it he loved his wife and all all, but mentioned her all the time had me lost my interest of him. She died six years ago.
I was ready to give this story 4 stars but my gut didn't let me do it.
Three is more than enough, for Nate, Nico and Beckett's sake.
I loved Nate, he's genuine and sweet. Nothing unpleasant about him.Linc is a good father to Beck, but I lost it when everytime he mentioned Marissa on every part of his POV (his deceased wife).
I get it he loved his wife and all all, but mentioned her all the time had me lost my interest of him. She died six years ago.
I was ready to give this story 4 stars but my gut didn't let me do it.
Three is more than enough, for Nate, Nico and Beckett's sake.
March 4, 2022
3.5 stars
A heartfelt and emotional small-town, m/m single parent romance, this is a sweet, sexy, easy read, and I really enjoyed it.
Nate has just been dumped by his long-term boyfriend and is looking for a fresh start, so he packs up his life and moves from Boston to the small, riverside town of Chesapeake City (which, to my delight, actually exists, and I had a wonderful time browsing through pictures online). His Uncle left him his beloved local coffee shop, and Nate wans to renovate and run the business, while embracing small town life and all of the changes it will hopefully bring.
Linc is a single dad raising his 6-year-old son, and still grieving the death of his wife in childbirth. He is serious and a bit withdrawn, and though he has created a solid life for himself and is a devoted father to little Beckett, he is stagnating. And then a breath of fresh air blows into town that Link wasn’t expecting.
After a series of awkward encounters – thanks to the adorably bumbling Nate – the two men learn that Linc is the contractor that Nate has hired to help him with his renovations. Attraction is there from the beginning, and while Nate is interested, he is a relationship guy and wants more than just a quick hook up. Linc hasn’t been able to connect with anybody – male or female – since his wife died, but there’s something about the new guy in town that sparks his interest, and the more the two guys hang out, Linc finds his walls coming down.
There’s a bit of opposites-attract about these two as bright and optimistic Nate throws himself whole-heartedly into exploring things with Linc, while Linc is quieter and holds himself back a lot. But it’s beautiful watching him open up and begin to explore the possibilities of a relationship, and I loved these two guys together.
The romance is sweet, fun, and seriously sexy as they tentatively find their way forward together. It feels easy and natural, and it’s so gorgeous watching them fall into a relationship. But the guys still have some hurdles to overcome.
This kind of storyline can be annoying, where one member of the relationship story doesn’t feel worthy of the other, but McIntyre writes it well. I could understand where Linc was coming from, and Nate’s persistence and optimism is just gorgeous as he encourages Linc, actively and open-heartedly trying to build the life that he’s always wanted.
Helping the guys along the way is a fun group of friends, who I’m sure we’ll see more of as the series progresses. And Little Beckett is a fantastic part of the unfolding romance, and I just adored the little guy. He’s going through his own stuff, and I really felt for Linc as a father, and loved that while Nate brings light back into Linc’s life, he’s there for little Beckett as well. So freaking cute.
There is some drama along the way for these two, but it’s short-lived and resolved well, and I loved seeing them get their well-deserved HEA. I finished this book with a smile on my face, and looking forward to reading more in the series.
3.5 stars.
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
A heartfelt and emotional small-town, m/m single parent romance, this is a sweet, sexy, easy read, and I really enjoyed it.
Nate has just been dumped by his long-term boyfriend and is looking for a fresh start, so he packs up his life and moves from Boston to the small, riverside town of Chesapeake City (which, to my delight, actually exists, and I had a wonderful time browsing through pictures online). His Uncle left him his beloved local coffee shop, and Nate wans to renovate and run the business, while embracing small town life and all of the changes it will hopefully bring.
Linc is a single dad raising his 6-year-old son, and still grieving the death of his wife in childbirth. He is serious and a bit withdrawn, and though he has created a solid life for himself and is a devoted father to little Beckett, he is stagnating. And then a breath of fresh air blows into town that Link wasn’t expecting.
After a series of awkward encounters – thanks to the adorably bumbling Nate – the two men learn that Linc is the contractor that Nate has hired to help him with his renovations. Attraction is there from the beginning, and while Nate is interested, he is a relationship guy and wants more than just a quick hook up. Linc hasn’t been able to connect with anybody – male or female – since his wife died, but there’s something about the new guy in town that sparks his interest, and the more the two guys hang out, Linc finds his walls coming down.
There’s a bit of opposites-attract about these two as bright and optimistic Nate throws himself whole-heartedly into exploring things with Linc, while Linc is quieter and holds himself back a lot. But it’s beautiful watching him open up and begin to explore the possibilities of a relationship, and I loved these two guys together.
The romance is sweet, fun, and seriously sexy as they tentatively find their way forward together. It feels easy and natural, and it’s so gorgeous watching them fall into a relationship. But the guys still have some hurdles to overcome.
Nate was a slice of sweetness in a world that should’ve stamped it out, his bright nature the exact sort of pure most had crushed out of them at an early age. He deserved kindness, he deserved love, and he deserved his dream coming true.
He deserved more than the husk Linc had become.
This kind of storyline can be annoying, where one member of the relationship story doesn’t feel worthy of the other, but McIntyre writes it well. I could understand where Linc was coming from, and Nate’s persistence and optimism is just gorgeous as he encourages Linc, actively and open-heartedly trying to build the life that he’s always wanted.
“You deserve the world … You deserve so much more than this bullshit from a fucking guy too broken to make you the promises you need.”
… “Hey,” he said softly. “I’m the one who decides what I need. And none of this ‘deserve’ bullshit. Because this thing between us? It’s not the sort of connection to pass up.”
Helping the guys along the way is a fun group of friends, who I’m sure we’ll see more of as the series progresses. And Little Beckett is a fantastic part of the unfolding romance, and I just adored the little guy. He’s going through his own stuff, and I really felt for Linc as a father, and loved that while Nate brings light back into Linc’s life, he’s there for little Beckett as well. So freaking cute.
There is some drama along the way for these two, but it’s short-lived and resolved well, and I loved seeing them get their well-deserved HEA. I finished this book with a smile on my face, and looking forward to reading more in the series.
3.5 stars.
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
March 8, 2022
I love a good single dad story and this one didn’t disappoint.
Linc has lived in the small town of Chesapeake Bay his entire life. Married his high school sweetheart and had his whole life planned in the town where his parents lived, and his parents parents lived and he was all set to live the rest of his life with his little family forever. However, life doesn’t always work out the way we intend for it to and the loss of his wife during the birth of their son had him stuck in a familiar cycle of casual hookups when the need arose, but otherwise, he was just trying to survive being a single dad in a town where everybody knows everybody and their mama’s.
I live in one of those tows so it was all too relatable LOL
What Linc isn’t prepared for, is the new neighbor, new job that he’d just signed on to, and being completely charmed and smitten with the clumsy softy that is Nate McAlister.
Nate is new to town after an inherited coffee shop comes just in the nick of time.
Still reeling from a bad breakup, Nate wasn’t at all looking for the butterflies in his stomach everytime he runs into local handyman, Linc, or his adorable little boy that he knows Linc lives for.
The two kick up a quick friendship that naturally turns into a little more, though Linc is honest with about what he wants and how his very first priority will forever be his little boy.
Is that not the cutest?!
Don’t even answer, it is.
Unfortunately, moving on from a great love is hard.
Finding a new normal is hard. Coming to terms with a new love is hard. Inviting that love to meet and know and love your child is hard. Figuring out your life after you already had it figured out and then refiguring it to include someone else... is hard.
And I admired Linc so much for how well he navigated it, even though, as an outside, I was like....ope, that’s not good, don’t do that.... a time or two... I knew he’d work it out in the end, and not only because Nate was so worth it and I knew that he knew that, but also because, you could feel how much he cared about Linc from the moment they met.
With every charming glint in his eye to the sexy smirks and the soft looks... even when he didn’t think he'd be able to give him more or even want more, he couldn’t help it.
I loved everything about this story, from beginning to end.
I do wish we’d have gotten a smack down drag out with the old manager of the coffee shop but the satisfaction that we did get was enough LOL I’m just petty.
Overall, I adored this story and I cannot wait to see who’s next.
I reeeeally hope it’s Nico! <3
5 stars from me!
Linc has lived in the small town of Chesapeake Bay his entire life. Married his high school sweetheart and had his whole life planned in the town where his parents lived, and his parents parents lived and he was all set to live the rest of his life with his little family forever. However, life doesn’t always work out the way we intend for it to and the loss of his wife during the birth of their son had him stuck in a familiar cycle of casual hookups when the need arose, but otherwise, he was just trying to survive being a single dad in a town where everybody knows everybody and their mama’s.
I live in one of those tows so it was all too relatable LOL
What Linc isn’t prepared for, is the new neighbor, new job that he’d just signed on to, and being completely charmed and smitten with the clumsy softy that is Nate McAlister.
Nate is new to town after an inherited coffee shop comes just in the nick of time.
Still reeling from a bad breakup, Nate wasn’t at all looking for the butterflies in his stomach everytime he runs into local handyman, Linc, or his adorable little boy that he knows Linc lives for.
The two kick up a quick friendship that naturally turns into a little more, though Linc is honest with about what he wants and how his very first priority will forever be his little boy.
Is that not the cutest?!
Don’t even answer, it is.
Unfortunately, moving on from a great love is hard.
Finding a new normal is hard. Coming to terms with a new love is hard. Inviting that love to meet and know and love your child is hard. Figuring out your life after you already had it figured out and then refiguring it to include someone else... is hard.
And I admired Linc so much for how well he navigated it, even though, as an outside, I was like....ope, that’s not good, don’t do that.... a time or two... I knew he’d work it out in the end, and not only because Nate was so worth it and I knew that he knew that, but also because, you could feel how much he cared about Linc from the moment they met.
With every charming glint in his eye to the sexy smirks and the soft looks... even when he didn’t think he'd be able to give him more or even want more, he couldn’t help it.
I loved everything about this story, from beginning to end.
I do wish we’d have gotten a smack down drag out with the old manager of the coffee shop but the satisfaction that we did get was enough LOL I’m just petty.
Overall, I adored this story and I cannot wait to see who’s next.
I reeeeally hope it’s Nico! <3
5 stars from me!
January 31, 2024
An enjoyable read from a new-to-me author. This story about Linc, a widowed dad to an adorable 6-year-old, who is stuck in place still grieving his ex and believing he won't find another relationship as good as the one he had, and Nate, the new-in-town coffee shop owner who is newly single and looking for more than hookups was mostly sweet, with a touch of angst and some wonderful secondary characters.
I've been on a small-town romance kick lately and this one fit the bill nicely. I had a bit of trouble with the writing here and there, but the story kept me reading and the characters had me invested in their HEA. I'll be moving on to book two next.
I've been on a small-town romance kick lately and this one fit the bill nicely. I had a bit of trouble with the writing here and there, but the story kept me reading and the characters had me invested in their HEA. I'll be moving on to book two next.
March 4, 2022
[I received a digital arc for an honest review]
Stronger Than Hope is the first book in the Chesapeake Days series by Katherine McIntyre. A romance between a widowed single dad and his new neighbor.
Nat inherits his late uncle's coffee shop and since he's recently been left by his boyfriend, he embraces the opportunity to start over somewhere new. A perk to his new home is his attractive neighbor, who is also the contractor for the renovations to the coffee shop. However, Lincoln hasn't managed to fully move on from his wife's death, and he is hesitant to pursue his attraction to Nat. The more time they spend together, the more their connection is undeniable, but hearts are bound to get broken when Nat wants to set down roots while Linc is ready to uproot the ones reminding of his past.
"These moments were worth waiting for. This was worth fighting for. Even if he was terrified every step of the way."
First and foremost, I have to say that Nat is one of those characters that I want to protect at ALL costs. He's sincere, kind, clumsy and wears his heart on his sleeve. My heart broke that he felt he was unworthy of anyone loving him long term. His fumbling, messy first encounters with Linc were their own brand of meet cutes. He was so patient when it came to handling Linc's feelings, and his gentleness with Linc's son Beck was just precious. Then we have Linc who was just such a great single dad, and he has some moments as he struggles to not drown in guilt over his wife that had me tearing up. The relationship they build starts as an easy friendship that turns to more when they can't deny their sexual attraction. The intimate scenes between them when they find alone time is steamy goodness.
"Their soft, sweet kiss left Nate even more breathless. His heart careened, as if he ever had a chance of guarding it against Lincoln Lane."
I loved Nat, obviously, but I also loved the Bisexual Rep with Linc. He talks about his past relationships and it's a mix of both genders. I loved that his son Beckett was a present side character but didn't pull focus away from the couples' connection, but wasn't just an afterthought. He was a sweetheart who just enhanced Linc and Nat's relationship. However, I did find it hard to not get a little frustrated with his hot and cold with Nat. It had been 6 years since his wife passed and I would have been less frustrated if she had died more recently and that made him protective of him and his sons hearts. In this case, he's afraid and feels guilty at the idea of moving on. I loved that Nat helped him feel comfortable remembering and talking about his ex-wife instead of remembering her with melancholy.
Overall, Stronger Than Hope by Katherine McIntyre is a solid start to a new series, and I'm excited about the rest of the series!
Gay MC, Bi sexual MC, Widowed Single Parent MC
Stronger Than Hope is the first book in the Chesapeake Days series by Katherine McIntyre. A romance between a widowed single dad and his new neighbor.
Nat inherits his late uncle's coffee shop and since he's recently been left by his boyfriend, he embraces the opportunity to start over somewhere new. A perk to his new home is his attractive neighbor, who is also the contractor for the renovations to the coffee shop. However, Lincoln hasn't managed to fully move on from his wife's death, and he is hesitant to pursue his attraction to Nat. The more time they spend together, the more their connection is undeniable, but hearts are bound to get broken when Nat wants to set down roots while Linc is ready to uproot the ones reminding of his past.
"These moments were worth waiting for. This was worth fighting for. Even if he was terrified every step of the way."
First and foremost, I have to say that Nat is one of those characters that I want to protect at ALL costs. He's sincere, kind, clumsy and wears his heart on his sleeve. My heart broke that he felt he was unworthy of anyone loving him long term. His fumbling, messy first encounters with Linc were their own brand of meet cutes. He was so patient when it came to handling Linc's feelings, and his gentleness with Linc's son Beck was just precious. Then we have Linc who was just such a great single dad, and he has some moments as he struggles to not drown in guilt over his wife that had me tearing up. The relationship they build starts as an easy friendship that turns to more when they can't deny their sexual attraction. The intimate scenes between them when they find alone time is steamy goodness.
"Their soft, sweet kiss left Nate even more breathless. His heart careened, as if he ever had a chance of guarding it against Lincoln Lane."
I loved Nat, obviously, but I also loved the Bisexual Rep with Linc. He talks about his past relationships and it's a mix of both genders. I loved that his son Beckett was a present side character but didn't pull focus away from the couples' connection, but wasn't just an afterthought. He was a sweetheart who just enhanced Linc and Nat's relationship. However, I did find it hard to not get a little frustrated with his hot and cold with Nat. It had been 6 years since his wife passed and I would have been less frustrated if she had died more recently and that made him protective of him and his sons hearts. In this case, he's afraid and feels guilty at the idea of moving on. I loved that Nat helped him feel comfortable remembering and talking about his ex-wife instead of remembering her with melancholy.
Overall, Stronger Than Hope by Katherine McIntyre is a solid start to a new series, and I'm excited about the rest of the series!
Gay MC, Bi sexual MC, Widowed Single Parent MC
March 15, 2022
1.5 star for Nate.
The story had potential but I couldn’t enjoy it because I didn’t like the other Mc the one who was mourning his dead wife that passed away 6 years ago (I forgot his name)
Nate is a sweetheart, very kind and adorable and Mc 2 is a dick
He knew he still didn’t get over his wife’s death and the guilt was eating him for being attracted to Nate ( although I couldn’t believe it, the guy went on many dates and hooked up with a lot of people)
He knew he couldn’t give Nate what he wanted and what he deserved, he knew he would eventually break his heart but he didn’t care that much.
Nate is also to blame, he knew what he was going to get himself into and he jumped in it with both feet.
I didn’t get why he accepted to date Nate knowing he couldn’t commit and he was aware that Nate was serious about him.
It was more friends with benefits arrangement for him more than dating and the cold shoulder part annoyed me, because he didn’t want to be seen with Nate while he was in a public place with his son. That was stupid this were neighbors and the son and Nate were already best buddies.
He even got a job in another city, he wanted to move from everything that reminded him of his late wife and he wasn’t honest with Nate. The day after he spent the night in Mc2 place for the 1st time after being involved together for over a month (because Mc 2 couldn’t bring him to his house and into his bead, it wouldn’t be fair to his dead wife and he didn’t want to feel unfaithful to her. Because fucking other people in the other places is not being faithful !! :roll eyes) )
Nate found out about it accidentally, broke my heart.
He spent 90% of the book whining and all he was talking about is to move away without thinking of Nate.
The sex at last the one I didn’t skip was hot enough but not satisfying.
I don’t know why I keep reading the dead partner trope. It’s not for me.
The story had potential but I couldn’t enjoy it because I didn’t like the other Mc the one who was mourning his dead wife that passed away 6 years ago (I forgot his name)
Nate is a sweetheart, very kind and adorable and Mc 2 is a dick
He knew he still didn’t get over his wife’s death and the guilt was eating him for being attracted to Nate ( although I couldn’t believe it, the guy went on many dates and hooked up with a lot of people)
He knew he couldn’t give Nate what he wanted and what he deserved, he knew he would eventually break his heart but he didn’t care that much.
Nate is also to blame, he knew what he was going to get himself into and he jumped in it with both feet.
I didn’t get why he accepted to date Nate knowing he couldn’t commit and he was aware that Nate was serious about him.
It was more friends with benefits arrangement for him more than dating and the cold shoulder part annoyed me, because he didn’t want to be seen with Nate while he was in a public place with his son. That was stupid this were neighbors and the son and Nate were already best buddies.
He even got a job in another city, he wanted to move from everything that reminded him of his late wife and he wasn’t honest with Nate. The day after he spent the night in Mc2 place for the 1st time after being involved together for over a month (because Mc 2 couldn’t bring him to his house and into his bead, it wouldn’t be fair to his dead wife and he didn’t want to feel unfaithful to her. Because fucking other people in the other places is not being faithful !! :roll eyes) )
Nate found out about it accidentally, broke my heart.
He spent 90% of the book whining and all he was talking about is to move away without thinking of Nate.
The sex at last the one I didn’t skip was hot enough but not satisfying.
I don’t know why I keep reading the dead partner trope. It’s not for me.
February 28, 2022
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is the first book in a new series, and does a great job of world (well, more small town) building in a very sympathetic and natural way. Through the eyes of newcomer Nate, we see a town which is slowly joining the twenty-first century, in some cases kicking and screaming. Life long resident Linc and the bullying suffered by his young son, reminding us that there is cruelty, even in a small, friendly town.
I really liked Nate, the sensitive soul who is hoping for a new start - he was consistent from the very beginning, and whilst I am not usually a fan of inner dialogue, in his case it was incredibly endearing. His immediate empathy with Linc's son, Beck, is possibly Linc's kryptonite, but then everything about Nate is delicious. Even his behaviour towards the very obnoxious Daria is beyond reproach.
Linc is fed up of all the memories of his wife, who died in childbirth, and now that Beck is suffering at school, he just wants to leave town. Then a new guy in town attracts his attention in a way no one else has since his wife. But even that is an uncomfortable reminder of his grief. It is so carefully worded, his push pull feelings, totally believable and very moving, without inciting pity. I was so glad that the chemistry persuaded him to give it a go, and the deep feelings of rightness made him really consider what could be.
Some really fun side characters - Nico and Sarah in particular - I can see lots of goodness coming our way from Chesapeake in the future!
This is the first book in a new series, and does a great job of world (well, more small town) building in a very sympathetic and natural way. Through the eyes of newcomer Nate, we see a town which is slowly joining the twenty-first century, in some cases kicking and screaming. Life long resident Linc and the bullying suffered by his young son, reminding us that there is cruelty, even in a small, friendly town.
I really liked Nate, the sensitive soul who is hoping for a new start - he was consistent from the very beginning, and whilst I am not usually a fan of inner dialogue, in his case it was incredibly endearing. His immediate empathy with Linc's son, Beck, is possibly Linc's kryptonite, but then everything about Nate is delicious. Even his behaviour towards the very obnoxious Daria is beyond reproach.
Linc is fed up of all the memories of his wife, who died in childbirth, and now that Beck is suffering at school, he just wants to leave town. Then a new guy in town attracts his attention in a way no one else has since his wife. But even that is an uncomfortable reminder of his grief. It is so carefully worded, his push pull feelings, totally believable and very moving, without inciting pity. I was so glad that the chemistry persuaded him to give it a go, and the deep feelings of rightness made him really consider what could be.
Some really fun side characters - Nico and Sarah in particular - I can see lots of goodness coming our way from Chesapeake in the future!
March 7, 2022
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian, I was gifted my copy of this book.
I have to say, I think that Ms McIntyre's MM books are coming on in leaps and bounds! They've all been good but they get better and better!
I try really hard NOT to read other people's reviews before I read a book: I got burned once and will never do it again. I will, however, read them before I write mine. Mostly to see if what they thought and if I thought the same. The general consensus for this book is this:
It's a really sweet book, with most wanting to punch Linc in the face a time or two. And I have to say, I feel exactly the same!
Linc is self-sabotaging his life. He loved his wife, he really did, but dealing with a 6-year-old, his job and his grief is pulling him under. He's a bad bet in anyone's book, he thinks. Nate, on the other hand, thinks he's no good cos he won't settle. But he WANTS to settle, just not for the sake of it, you know? They really are polar opposites, but so well suited!
Linc grew on me, though, and I really did wanna wrap him up in cotton wool a time or two! He needed a hug!
The book deals with grief, Linc lost his wife in child birth. It is handled sensitively, making the point that there is no time line for your grief, it's up to you when you want to move on. Living in a small town is difficult at the best of times, but in this matter? making Linc want to run away. And it's that fact the most that he should have conveyed to Nate, once they decided they were a thing. That he wanted to run, but NOT from Nate.
It's an emotional read, a steamy read and a well-handled difficult read. It's full of the warm and fuzzies and is too stinking cute and I loved it!
Linc's friends, Nico and Jer, need a story, please, Ms McIntyre! I'll grovel if need be!
5 full and shiny stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
I have to say, I think that Ms McIntyre's MM books are coming on in leaps and bounds! They've all been good but they get better and better!
I try really hard NOT to read other people's reviews before I read a book: I got burned once and will never do it again. I will, however, read them before I write mine. Mostly to see if what they thought and if I thought the same. The general consensus for this book is this:
It's a really sweet book, with most wanting to punch Linc in the face a time or two. And I have to say, I feel exactly the same!
Linc is self-sabotaging his life. He loved his wife, he really did, but dealing with a 6-year-old, his job and his grief is pulling him under. He's a bad bet in anyone's book, he thinks. Nate, on the other hand, thinks he's no good cos he won't settle. But he WANTS to settle, just not for the sake of it, you know? They really are polar opposites, but so well suited!
Linc grew on me, though, and I really did wanna wrap him up in cotton wool a time or two! He needed a hug!
The book deals with grief, Linc lost his wife in child birth. It is handled sensitively, making the point that there is no time line for your grief, it's up to you when you want to move on. Living in a small town is difficult at the best of times, but in this matter? making Linc want to run away. And it's that fact the most that he should have conveyed to Nate, once they decided they were a thing. That he wanted to run, but NOT from Nate.
It's an emotional read, a steamy read and a well-handled difficult read. It's full of the warm and fuzzies and is too stinking cute and I loved it!
Linc's friends, Nico and Jer, need a story, please, Ms McIntyre! I'll grovel if need be!
5 full and shiny stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
March 1, 2022
**I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.**
STRANGER THAN HOPE is the first book in the Chesapeake Days series.
Lincoln was just existing. His wife passed away during childbirth leaving Linc alone to raise their son Beckett. His son has always come first that will never change. He's gone on a few dates but never quite moving on from his mourning his dead wife.
Nate just moved into Chesapeake Bay after his uncle passed leaving the coffee shop he owned to Nate. He has no idea where to start to bring the outdated shop current. When he hires the only handy man in the town who also happens to be his attractive neighbor he can't stop making a fool of himself. Nate would like to get to know the man but Linc seems hesitant.
Nate and Linc have a very sweet relationship that grows as the chapters go on.
Katherine McIntyre is a new to me author that definitely kept me invested in these characters. I love this sweet little town and can't wait to see more.
STRANGER THAN HOPE is the first book in the Chesapeake Days series.
Lincoln was just existing. His wife passed away during childbirth leaving Linc alone to raise their son Beckett. His son has always come first that will never change. He's gone on a few dates but never quite moving on from his mourning his dead wife.
Nate just moved into Chesapeake Bay after his uncle passed leaving the coffee shop he owned to Nate. He has no idea where to start to bring the outdated shop current. When he hires the only handy man in the town who also happens to be his attractive neighbor he can't stop making a fool of himself. Nate would like to get to know the man but Linc seems hesitant.
Nate and Linc have a very sweet relationship that grows as the chapters go on.
Katherine McIntyre is a new to me author that definitely kept me invested in these characters. I love this sweet little town and can't wait to see more.
March 6, 2022
Raring: 4.5*
When Nate arrives in town to take over the running of his uncle's coffee shop, he makes a great first impression by nearly running over Lincoln. He makes an even better second and third impression, especially as Lincoln is the guy he has hired to renovate the coffee shop.
Lincoln is a widower trying to keep things together for his cute as a button son Beckett. Lincoln feels stuck in a rut with not much opportunity to grow his business in the small town, and constant reminders of his deceased wife. Nate awakens something
Nate is a very special man. He is patient, caring and compassionate. He encourages Lincoln to embrace his past and to start moving forward with his life again. At the same time he embraces Beckett and provides a strength, empathy and understanding that the little boy needs. Lincoln brings out a confidence in Nate that has been lacking since his ex told he wasn't relationship material. Their attraction and chemistry is undeniable.
This was a sweet and heart-warming read. It felt like home: cosy, warm and calm. I loved these two and how they brought out the best in the other.
***Reviewed for LBM Book Blog***
When Nate arrives in town to take over the running of his uncle's coffee shop, he makes a great first impression by nearly running over Lincoln. He makes an even better second and third impression, especially as Lincoln is the guy he has hired to renovate the coffee shop.
Lincoln is a widower trying to keep things together for his cute as a button son Beckett. Lincoln feels stuck in a rut with not much opportunity to grow his business in the small town, and constant reminders of his deceased wife. Nate awakens something
Nate is a very special man. He is patient, caring and compassionate. He encourages Lincoln to embrace his past and to start moving forward with his life again. At the same time he embraces Beckett and provides a strength, empathy and understanding that the little boy needs. Lincoln brings out a confidence in Nate that has been lacking since his ex told he wasn't relationship material. Their attraction and chemistry is undeniable.
This was a sweet and heart-warming read. It felt like home: cosy, warm and calm. I loved these two and how they brought out the best in the other.
***Reviewed for LBM Book Blog***
March 6, 2022
Great start to a new series. This is an emotionally sweet second chance MM Romance between Nate who has gone back to start a new live rejuvenating hi Uncle's old Coffee shop and the grieving contractor Linc. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and recommend it for anyone looking for a light easy read.
I received this book as an Advanced Reader's Copy.
I received this book as an Advanced Reader's Copy.
March 11, 2022
4 Stars!
There's something about small-town romances that really draws me in and this one was lovely.
I absolutely loved accident-prone Nate, he was adorable, sweet, and pure light. I liked Linc, too, although the hot and cold routine as he tried to get past his hang-ups (valid as they were) was frustrating. I felt Nate deserved more, at the very least more than the half-assed groveling he got at the end. Nate had the patience of a saint and was kind to both Linc and his son Beckett, who was a great addition to the story. Nate and Linc had great chemistry, but again, I was left wanting Linc to make a grander gesture than he did.
I really liked Linc's friends and I'm looking forward to seeing more of them in the next books in the series, Nico and Jeremy especially.
Overall, it was a good read. It was sweet, with some low-angst and a poignant scene that had me crying, and I have no trouble recommending it.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
There's something about small-town romances that really draws me in and this one was lovely.
I absolutely loved accident-prone Nate, he was adorable, sweet, and pure light. I liked Linc, too, although the hot and cold routine as he tried to get past his hang-ups (valid as they were) was frustrating. I felt Nate deserved more, at the very least more than the half-assed groveling he got at the end. Nate had the patience of a saint and was kind to both Linc and his son Beckett, who was a great addition to the story. Nate and Linc had great chemistry, but again, I was left wanting Linc to make a grander gesture than he did.
I really liked Linc's friends and I'm looking forward to seeing more of them in the next books in the series, Nico and Jeremy especially.
Overall, it was a good read. It was sweet, with some low-angst and a poignant scene that had me crying, and I have no trouble recommending it.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
March 4, 2022
This was a great book by a new to me author. The characters were great, and I felt connected to them immediately. I love small town and single dad stories, and this one was done really well. The secondary characters were great, and the author created a world I just wanted to jump into and join. I'm excited to read book 2.
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily gave my honest review.
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily gave my honest review.
March 9, 2022
Check out our full post for STRONGER THAN HOPE on Wicked Reads, which includes an excerpt.
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆
This is the first book in a new series, and does a great job of world (well, more small-town) building in a very sympathetic and natural way. Through the eyes of newcomer Nate, we see a town which is slowly joining the twenty-first century, in some cases, kicking and screaming. Lifelong resident Linc and the bullying suffered by his young son, reminding us that there is cruelty, even in a small, friendly town.
I really liked Nate, the sensitive soul who is hoping for a new start – he was consistent from the very beginning, and whilst I am not usually a fan of inner dialogue, in his case it was incredibly endearing. His immediate empathy with Linc's son, Beck, is possibly Linc's kryptonite, but then everything about Nate is delicious. Even his behaviour towards the very obnoxious Daria is beyond reproach.
Linc is fed up of all the memories of his wife, who died in childbirth, and now that Beck is suffering at school, he just wants to leave town. Then a new guy in town attracts his attention in a way no one else has since his wife. But even that is an uncomfortable reminder of his grief. It is so carefully worded, his push-pull feelings, totally believable and very moving, without inciting pity. I was so glad that the chemistry persuaded him to give it a go, and the deep feelings of rightness made him really consider what could be.
Some really fun side characters – Nico and Sarah, in particular – I can see lots of goodness coming our way from Chesapeake in the future!
Shannan – ☆☆☆☆
STRONGER THAN HOPE is the first book in the Chesapeake Days series.
Lincoln was just existing. His wife passed away during childbirth, leaving Linc alone to raise their son, Beckett. His son has always come first, that will never change. He's gone on a few dates but never quite moving on from mourning his dead wife.
Nate just moved into Chesapeake Bay after his uncle passed, leaving the coffee shop he owned to Nate. He has no idea where to start to bring the outdated shop current. When he hires the only handy man in the town – who also happens to be his attractive neighbor – he can't stop making a fool of himself. Nate would like to get to know the man, but Linc seems hesitant.
Nate and Linc have a very sweet relationship that grows as the chapters go on.
Katherine McIntyre is a new to me author that definitely kept me invested in these characters. I love this sweet little town and can't wait to see more.
Angie – ☆☆☆
This book reminded me so much of another book that I have read in the past and through the entire book I kept trying to figure out which book and never could. It's still driving me nuts! I enjoyed this book, but I'm not sure if it's because it seemed familiar or if it was a good book, if that makes any sense. Nate and Linc were both relatable and the story seemed like something any one of us could have gone through in life. There was a bit of drama but nothing major. I enjoyed watching the relationship build, but sometimes the inner monologue drove me bonkers. I need dialogue. Sweet love story that will leave you smiling at the end.
Reviewers received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
March 5, 2022
Katherine McIntyre brings “Stronger than Hope” to readers. It’s the beginning of a new series “Chesapeake Days” and those that live and love in the small town of Chesapeake City, Maryland.
Nate McAllister had hopes with Sam, who he spent five years with. To Nate’s shock Sam just decides Nate is not what he want’s. Apparently Nate is not commitment material in Sam’s eyes. Nate has left his life in Boston and is making a new start in the small town of Chesapeake City. He’s found a place to settle and is ready to tackle a big job. He’s going to take over his late Uncle Harold’s coffee shop, Chesapeake Brew.
Linc Lane, lost the love of his life, but she left him with a beautiful ray of sunshine in Beckett. Linc does all right with his contracting business but he finds himself frustrated with the small town mentality. He has several good friends in town but he seldom dates. But Linc does have someone very special in his life, Beckett. While Beckett deals with bulling at school it fuels Linc to give serious thoughts too moving. He already has a temp job offer in Baltimore, so he’s planning on testing the waters. He knows with a move comes feelings of hurt for his parents who love being close to their grandson.
Nate is the cute kind of clumsy. He more than once has literally run into Linc. He has contracted out to Linc to get Chesapeake Brew up to standards and current times. He has his hands full trying to bring a better brew of coffee to customers. There’s bills and accounting chaos to go through in order to get the brew house up and running. Nate can’t take another screw up in his life and he feels the pressure as there are those that have very nasty opinions. But Nate needs time to enjoy himself and make some new friends. He and Linc make a “not a date” to go to Port of Call owned by Linc’s good friend Nico. And the friendships and flirting begin. But Nate is looking for that one special someone to be in his life and then he realizes it’s more than that.
“Stronger than Hope” is a nice start to a hurt/comfort story with a wonderful ray of sunshine. It’s well written and has all the emotional moments; with grief, loneliness, low self esteem, romance, love, happiness and family. It’s also about moments of sharing experiences with others as Nate is a life saver when it comes to Linc and Beckett. “Stronger than Hope” also shows the opposition of few citizens but it also reflects those that are willing to work with Nate as he get’s his business up and running.
I like the gradual connection between Nate and Linc. Nate has that sweet personality and the cute clumsy ways. Linc is serious and intense and hides his soft side. As for Beckett he is just the bright star that makes the story very special.
There are some really great secondary characters: Nico, friend to Linc and owner of the Port of Call; Jeremy bar tender at Port of Call; Sarah the goth bank clerk; Taran, Nico’s younger bother and Sarah’s roommate and Eliza owner of Cozy Corner cafe.
“Stronger than Hope” is an easy read with some very special moments. It’s a great start with high potential for the “Chesapeake Days” series. Katherine McIntyre already has a second book coming in future months “Stronger than Passion”, and I will be watching for that one!
Nate McAllister had hopes with Sam, who he spent five years with. To Nate’s shock Sam just decides Nate is not what he want’s. Apparently Nate is not commitment material in Sam’s eyes. Nate has left his life in Boston and is making a new start in the small town of Chesapeake City. He’s found a place to settle and is ready to tackle a big job. He’s going to take over his late Uncle Harold’s coffee shop, Chesapeake Brew.
Linc Lane, lost the love of his life, but she left him with a beautiful ray of sunshine in Beckett. Linc does all right with his contracting business but he finds himself frustrated with the small town mentality. He has several good friends in town but he seldom dates. But Linc does have someone very special in his life, Beckett. While Beckett deals with bulling at school it fuels Linc to give serious thoughts too moving. He already has a temp job offer in Baltimore, so he’s planning on testing the waters. He knows with a move comes feelings of hurt for his parents who love being close to their grandson.
Nate is the cute kind of clumsy. He more than once has literally run into Linc. He has contracted out to Linc to get Chesapeake Brew up to standards and current times. He has his hands full trying to bring a better brew of coffee to customers. There’s bills and accounting chaos to go through in order to get the brew house up and running. Nate can’t take another screw up in his life and he feels the pressure as there are those that have very nasty opinions. But Nate needs time to enjoy himself and make some new friends. He and Linc make a “not a date” to go to Port of Call owned by Linc’s good friend Nico. And the friendships and flirting begin. But Nate is looking for that one special someone to be in his life and then he realizes it’s more than that.
“Stronger than Hope” is a nice start to a hurt/comfort story with a wonderful ray of sunshine. It’s well written and has all the emotional moments; with grief, loneliness, low self esteem, romance, love, happiness and family. It’s also about moments of sharing experiences with others as Nate is a life saver when it comes to Linc and Beckett. “Stronger than Hope” also shows the opposition of few citizens but it also reflects those that are willing to work with Nate as he get’s his business up and running.
I like the gradual connection between Nate and Linc. Nate has that sweet personality and the cute clumsy ways. Linc is serious and intense and hides his soft side. As for Beckett he is just the bright star that makes the story very special.
There are some really great secondary characters: Nico, friend to Linc and owner of the Port of Call; Jeremy bar tender at Port of Call; Sarah the goth bank clerk; Taran, Nico’s younger bother and Sarah’s roommate and Eliza owner of Cozy Corner cafe.
“Stronger than Hope” is an easy read with some very special moments. It’s a great start with high potential for the “Chesapeake Days” series. Katherine McIntyre already has a second book coming in future months “Stronger than Passion”, and I will be watching for that one!
March 7, 2022
Katherine McIntyre wrote dark and gritty with Midnight Heist Outlaws #1 and gave us a true to life romance with Wisdom Check Dungeons & Dating #2, this time, with the standalone Stronger Than Hope Chesapeake Days #1, she offers a little bit of both with devastation so deep it creates self-isolation and despair… until the unthinkable happens and defenses are breached.
Six years ago, Lincoln (Linc) Lane lost his wife (Marissa), his one and only soulmate, during childbirth. Drowning in grief and emotionally stagnant, his sole purpose is raising his son Beck. Linc is an extraordinary father at the expense of his own happiness. He lives by a set of rules and defenses that he doesn’t allow anyone to penetrate. Any potential partner, male or female, precipitates extreme guilt that he is dishonoring his dead wife. And none of these potential partners ever mix with his life as a father. Yet, Linc desperately seeks escape from this anguish.
Broken hearted Nate McAllister was dumped by Sam, his ex, six months ago. No warning, no kindness. Just the cold hard revelation that Nate is not long-term material; possessing no drive or ambition and not seeking roots of any kind. Nate is looking for a new beginning. Having been left his deceased uncle’s coffee shop, Nate leaves the city behind for just that, a new start. Sam is completely wrong, and nothing could be further from the truth. Nate possesses an amazingly sweet soul that is kind and patient with a sixth sense when it comes to understanding and compassion. On top of this, Nate is a bit of a klutz and is tightly wound with anxiety.
It seems as though Linc and Nate’s destiny is predefined and the sorrow they both experience is part of some grand plan to bring them together – everything happens for a reason. From the moment Nate enters Chesapeake City and practically flattens Linc with his car, to the revelation that Linc is the contractor Nate hires to renovate Chesapeake Brew, to the obliteration of Linc’s emotional barriers… Nate and Linc are meant for each other. They just have to embrace their fate.
Both Nate and Linc squash the intense feelings that hit immediately. Their lives are in upheaval, and it can’t be what they feel. Besides, Nate has a coffee shop to focus on and Linc’s dead wife is leading him though life with a firm hold. As the days pass with flirty banter, the absolute comfort Link and Nate feel in each other’s presence, and the steamy encounters that were enviable, erode the barriers allowing a true partnership and love to blossom. What I found completely refreshing is how not once does Nate try to compete with Marissa. Nate embraces that she was a part of Linc, bringing the happiness of those memories above the darkness.
I kept waiting for the shoe to drop, there has to be some severe angst that disrupts the gradual progression happening between Nate and Linc. And it does eventually arrive, triggering everyone of Nate’s insecurities. I wanted to smack Linc for his lack of communication that would have prevented this turn of events. But in the end Linc owns his mistakes, and with a grand gesture sets everything to right again.
Stronger Than Hope is packed with emotion. Nate and Linc are complicated individuals, human, imperfect… which is a talent we have seen previously with Katherine McIntyre’s writing. Even the entitled Daria was well defined; we just don’t know why she felt, as Nate’s uncle’s former employee, she should have the right to act the way she did. Nate did the right thing, the only choice he had.
Six years ago, Lincoln (Linc) Lane lost his wife (Marissa), his one and only soulmate, during childbirth. Drowning in grief and emotionally stagnant, his sole purpose is raising his son Beck. Linc is an extraordinary father at the expense of his own happiness. He lives by a set of rules and defenses that he doesn’t allow anyone to penetrate. Any potential partner, male or female, precipitates extreme guilt that he is dishonoring his dead wife. And none of these potential partners ever mix with his life as a father. Yet, Linc desperately seeks escape from this anguish.
Broken hearted Nate McAllister was dumped by Sam, his ex, six months ago. No warning, no kindness. Just the cold hard revelation that Nate is not long-term material; possessing no drive or ambition and not seeking roots of any kind. Nate is looking for a new beginning. Having been left his deceased uncle’s coffee shop, Nate leaves the city behind for just that, a new start. Sam is completely wrong, and nothing could be further from the truth. Nate possesses an amazingly sweet soul that is kind and patient with a sixth sense when it comes to understanding and compassion. On top of this, Nate is a bit of a klutz and is tightly wound with anxiety.
It seems as though Linc and Nate’s destiny is predefined and the sorrow they both experience is part of some grand plan to bring them together – everything happens for a reason. From the moment Nate enters Chesapeake City and practically flattens Linc with his car, to the revelation that Linc is the contractor Nate hires to renovate Chesapeake Brew, to the obliteration of Linc’s emotional barriers… Nate and Linc are meant for each other. They just have to embrace their fate.
Both Nate and Linc squash the intense feelings that hit immediately. Their lives are in upheaval, and it can’t be what they feel. Besides, Nate has a coffee shop to focus on and Linc’s dead wife is leading him though life with a firm hold. As the days pass with flirty banter, the absolute comfort Link and Nate feel in each other’s presence, and the steamy encounters that were enviable, erode the barriers allowing a true partnership and love to blossom. What I found completely refreshing is how not once does Nate try to compete with Marissa. Nate embraces that she was a part of Linc, bringing the happiness of those memories above the darkness.
I kept waiting for the shoe to drop, there has to be some severe angst that disrupts the gradual progression happening between Nate and Linc. And it does eventually arrive, triggering everyone of Nate’s insecurities. I wanted to smack Linc for his lack of communication that would have prevented this turn of events. But in the end Linc owns his mistakes, and with a grand gesture sets everything to right again.
Stronger Than Hope is packed with emotion. Nate and Linc are complicated individuals, human, imperfect… which is a talent we have seen previously with Katherine McIntyre’s writing. Even the entitled Daria was well defined; we just don’t know why she felt, as Nate’s uncle’s former employee, she should have the right to act the way she did. Nate did the right thing, the only choice he had.
March 7, 2022
Just loved everything about this slow burn small town romance
Nate moves to a small town when he inherits his uncle's coffee shop, hoping for a new start after a bad break up. Linc survives in that town, not really living but just existing, raising his son alone after his wife died. Both men are lonely but Nate wants a partner to love and cherish forever, one who will love and cherish him in return, while Linc settles for hook-ups because no one will ever come close to his wife.
Their story starts when Nate nearly runs Linc over, followed by the endearingly clumsy Nate losing his co-ordination and the power of speech whenever the strikingly handsome Linc appears, which is incredibly inconvenient as Linc is his new contractor working to renovate his shop.
Linc is extremely taken with the beautiful man who continually surprises him, Nate intuitively knowing just the right thing to say at all times, not just to him but also to his son, Beckett. Kind and caring Nate gets under his skin before he can blink and takes up residence in Linc's heart. Nate is the breath of fresh air that blows the cobwebs out of Linc's shell of a body and brings him back to life.
Their chemistry is electric from the beginning but their relationship grows steadily at just the right pace, and the steamy scenes are off the charts.
I've read books that are billed as hurt/comfort or grumpy/sunshine and enjoyed them but this is one of the best I've read. Both men are hurting and grieving and find comfort in the other. Linc is not really a grump but gives off that vibe, ar least until Nate comes along to brighten his world. Nate is a ray of sunshine and sweetness, not cloying but so genuine, caring and full of empathy who really does shine with an inner light.
I couldn't have loved this book any more.
Nate moves to a small town when he inherits his uncle's coffee shop, hoping for a new start after a bad break up. Linc survives in that town, not really living but just existing, raising his son alone after his wife died. Both men are lonely but Nate wants a partner to love and cherish forever, one who will love and cherish him in return, while Linc settles for hook-ups because no one will ever come close to his wife.
Their story starts when Nate nearly runs Linc over, followed by the endearingly clumsy Nate losing his co-ordination and the power of speech whenever the strikingly handsome Linc appears, which is incredibly inconvenient as Linc is his new contractor working to renovate his shop.
Linc is extremely taken with the beautiful man who continually surprises him, Nate intuitively knowing just the right thing to say at all times, not just to him but also to his son, Beckett. Kind and caring Nate gets under his skin before he can blink and takes up residence in Linc's heart. Nate is the breath of fresh air that blows the cobwebs out of Linc's shell of a body and brings him back to life.
Their chemistry is electric from the beginning but their relationship grows steadily at just the right pace, and the steamy scenes are off the charts.
I've read books that are billed as hurt/comfort or grumpy/sunshine and enjoyed them but this is one of the best I've read. Both men are hurting and grieving and find comfort in the other. Linc is not really a grump but gives off that vibe, ar least until Nate comes along to brighten his world. Nate is a ray of sunshine and sweetness, not cloying but so genuine, caring and full of empathy who really does shine with an inner light.
I couldn't have loved this book any more.
March 10, 2022
I loved this emotional story.
This is the first book I’ve read by Katherine McIntyre and I loved it. I knew almost from the first few pages that this was a story that would get all of my emotions involved; I wasn’t wrong.
Nate was such a sweet soul and he’d been used and discarded by his ex-boyfriend. He’s getting a new start in a new place after inheriting his uncle’s coffee shop. He doesn’t make a great impression on the first person he meets – who turns out to not only be his neighbor but also the contractor he hired to help with renovation of his new shop.
Linc is still grieving the death of his wife and it’s been 6 years. His son, Beck, comes first and next is his business. He’s been out as bi-sexual since high school, which I found refreshing. It was also refreshing that he is completely accepted by family and friends.
Linc doesn’t do relationships because he hasn’t found anyone that he clicked with enough to want to let them into his life with his son. He doesn’t want Beck to get attached and then have his heart broken when the relationship doesn’t work out. He tries to keep his budding relationship with Nate away from Beck but that turns out to be impossible because they are neighbors.
When Beck was being bullied at school it made Linc furious but his heart also hurt for what his son was going through. Later on in the story I was so touched by the way that Nate talked to Beck about the bullying and how comforting he was to Beck.
I knew that at some point there would be something bad happen to break Nate’s soft heart but I really wasn’t expecting it to happen the way that it did. And what Linc did to fix things, and Nate’s initial reaction, was also a surprise. This really was a book that I couldn’t put down.
I loved the great cast of secondary characters and I’m looking forward to reading Nico’s story.
A copy of this book was provided to me at my request but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com***
This is the first book I’ve read by Katherine McIntyre and I loved it. I knew almost from the first few pages that this was a story that would get all of my emotions involved; I wasn’t wrong.
Nate was such a sweet soul and he’d been used and discarded by his ex-boyfriend. He’s getting a new start in a new place after inheriting his uncle’s coffee shop. He doesn’t make a great impression on the first person he meets – who turns out to not only be his neighbor but also the contractor he hired to help with renovation of his new shop.
Linc is still grieving the death of his wife and it’s been 6 years. His son, Beck, comes first and next is his business. He’s been out as bi-sexual since high school, which I found refreshing. It was also refreshing that he is completely accepted by family and friends.
Linc doesn’t do relationships because he hasn’t found anyone that he clicked with enough to want to let them into his life with his son. He doesn’t want Beck to get attached and then have his heart broken when the relationship doesn’t work out. He tries to keep his budding relationship with Nate away from Beck but that turns out to be impossible because they are neighbors.
When Beck was being bullied at school it made Linc furious but his heart also hurt for what his son was going through. Later on in the story I was so touched by the way that Nate talked to Beck about the bullying and how comforting he was to Beck.
I knew that at some point there would be something bad happen to break Nate’s soft heart but I really wasn’t expecting it to happen the way that it did. And what Linc did to fix things, and Nate’s initial reaction, was also a surprise. This really was a book that I couldn’t put down.
I loved the great cast of secondary characters and I’m looking forward to reading Nico’s story.
A copy of this book was provided to me at my request but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com***
March 7, 2022
What a fantastic story! The fact that Linc, after such a tragic beginning to his son's life, was still raising his son in the town he grew up in, met and fell in love with his wife in and still had so many memories in, was such a challenge for him. And who could blame him for wanting to leave Chesapeake? He had spent his entire life there, and felt like the only thing left for him was a new start, where no one knew him.Meanwhile, Nate was starting a new life as well, and needed Linc's help to get his new start moving in the right direction. He falls for Linc fairly quickly, but Linc just doesn't think he can ever get past the great love of his life, and certainly would never have another one. Also, Nate is just super adorable! (And definitely did not like conflict, which ended up leading to some huge conflict!) This story was not just sweet (and definitely smokin'), it really did tell the story about how someone can be lost, and still continue through each day, until something wakes them back up. Linc was a person lost, just trying to keep himself afloat for his son. Meanwhile, Nate wormed his way into both Linc and his son's hearts, even as Linc wasn't aware it was happening.This book really touched me with the depth of Linc's pain, and his working out of it, without even knowing he was doing just that. Sometimes grief is a cloud that stays with us, until the sun peaks through and gives us a glimpse of a new day. Linc needed that, and seeing his unwillingness to try that seemed appropriate for his situation. He had lost so much, and just needed that sunshine.Also, that mean old woman...she deserved so much more than she got...but isn't that sometimes the way of life? :)I just loved the story. 4.5 pieces of eye candy
March 7, 2022
This is the first book in the Chesapeake Days Series and my first book by Katherine McIntyre. I am sure it won't be my last as she has left me with a small town of interesting characters and fabulous places left to explore.
Nate is embarking on his next adventure in life, looking to start anew as he takes over his deceased uncles coffee shop. Wanting to breath some new life into it he starts with some renovations and changes. Some that the old staff aren't to happy with. Meeting the new town handy man sets off some new sparks of hope that this change just might have more than he bargained for.
Linc seems stuck somewhere between living life and just existing. Raising his son as a single parent in the small town he grew up in with his late wife. Sometimes the grief all but eats him alive but others he thinks he is doing well and ready to move along. He is the best dad to Beckett, and so loving and protective. Thinking it might be time to move and leave his old life behind as Beckett begins to have struggles at school. Will the sexy new neighbor derail those thoughts?
This is a sweet romance about letting go of your fears, making the next steps in all consuming grief and moving forward, embracing life and living it to the fullest. Lots of emotions to pull at your heartstrings. A wonderful community of friends to help everyone through what comes their way. Looking forward to see who finds love next in Chesapeake.
*** Advanced copy provided in exchange for an honest review. ***
Nate is embarking on his next adventure in life, looking to start anew as he takes over his deceased uncles coffee shop. Wanting to breath some new life into it he starts with some renovations and changes. Some that the old staff aren't to happy with. Meeting the new town handy man sets off some new sparks of hope that this change just might have more than he bargained for.
Linc seems stuck somewhere between living life and just existing. Raising his son as a single parent in the small town he grew up in with his late wife. Sometimes the grief all but eats him alive but others he thinks he is doing well and ready to move along. He is the best dad to Beckett, and so loving and protective. Thinking it might be time to move and leave his old life behind as Beckett begins to have struggles at school. Will the sexy new neighbor derail those thoughts?
This is a sweet romance about letting go of your fears, making the next steps in all consuming grief and moving forward, embracing life and living it to the fullest. Lots of emotions to pull at your heartstrings. A wonderful community of friends to help everyone through what comes their way. Looking forward to see who finds love next in Chesapeake.
*** Advanced copy provided in exchange for an honest review. ***
February 6, 2022
This book is a sweet and wonderful romance between klutzy Nate and contractor and single dad, Linc. They are both living with grief, yet Nate keeps hoping for better things. Nate is the outwardly romantic, emotional half of the pair. Linc is widowed and still loyal to his wife after 6 years. He struggles with raising their son Beck alone. Nate has hired Linc to remodel the coffee shop he inherited from his uncle, so they see a lot of each other, and the tension is thick until they finally start hooking up. There is the inevitable breakup over misunderstandings and the equally moving reconciliation and commitment. How they get there is the story of a man who dares to open his heart again. Linc grows so much throughout the story. The writing is excellent--the author has just the right words to make us feel all the hope and fear these men carry. She also portrays the life of a child who learns to be himself with polished grace.
I received an ARC of this book via Booksprout and am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an ARC of this book via Booksprout and am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 5, 2022
4.5 stars to 5
Everything I love in a contemporary romance. This author writes so much well - bisexuality representation, kids (and this is big for me - I'm fine with kid characters in books, but I love ones that aren’t annoyingly precocious, like those in 80s TV comedies), emotional complexity, good steam-to-story ratio, and a secondary cast where every name mentioned matters to the story at hand, not just the one that may or may not happen down the road.
Nate’s struggles to find himself by using a serendipitous inheritance to change his life are relatable (trying to find community as an adult is not easy), but it was Linc’s journey out of grief that stole my heart. You’ll probably want tissues during a few spots. I loved the support the two gave each other while dealing with their individual issues, and the boundaries that they both worked to determine. Bonus points for helpful old and new friends. Great start to a new series.
Everything I love in a contemporary romance. This author writes so much well - bisexuality representation, kids (and this is big for me - I'm fine with kid characters in books, but I love ones that aren’t annoyingly precocious, like those in 80s TV comedies), emotional complexity, good steam-to-story ratio, and a secondary cast where every name mentioned matters to the story at hand, not just the one that may or may not happen down the road.
Nate’s struggles to find himself by using a serendipitous inheritance to change his life are relatable (trying to find community as an adult is not easy), but it was Linc’s journey out of grief that stole my heart. You’ll probably want tissues during a few spots. I loved the support the two gave each other while dealing with their individual issues, and the boundaries that they both worked to determine. Bonus points for helpful old and new friends. Great start to a new series.
March 6, 2022
Nate's escaping suburban Boston life for a change of pace in small town Chesapeake City. He's chosen to take on running the business he's inherited from an uncle. The hot contractor he's hired to remodel the aging coffee shop just might be what he's looking for to help him fulfill his dream of a settled life. Linc is a single-dad widower, feeling at odds with everything in his surroundings. All his instincts tell him to move away to move on, but then he starts the remodeling job on the old coffee shop. And the new owner? That's his hot new neighbour from a few doors down. I really love this kind of couple where it's not exactly the 'sunshine/grump' trope, but Nate's awkward but adorable rambling is the perfect foil for Linc's taciturn control. Both men definitely need the fresh start they can offer each other…they're just not quite going at the same speed for much of the story. There's not much in the way of angst, though…so much sweetness. Which brings me to Beck, Linc's son…that child is absolutely adorable - a delightfully written young character. I love the budding relationship between him and Nate, too .
Overall, Stronger Than Hope ticks lots of boxes for me: small town, Linc gets a little bit possessive at times, the hot times are indeed hot whilst the romance is sweet. I'm looking forward to more in the Chesapeake Days series…there are definitely a couple of candidates queuing up for their own HEA. 4*
An ARC was provided by GRR. This is my honest review.
Overall, Stronger Than Hope ticks lots of boxes for me: small town, Linc gets a little bit possessive at times, the hot times are indeed hot whilst the romance is sweet. I'm looking forward to more in the Chesapeake Days series…there are definitely a couple of candidates queuing up for their own HEA. 4*
An ARC was provided by GRR. This is my honest review.
March 4, 2022
Nate is a good guy that been dealt a bad hand and is trying to move on thanks to inheriting a coffee shop from his uncle. He's perpetually klutzy and awkward and I felt that so hard. And there's Linc, who is struggling to live in a small town in the shadow of his past and dead wife. Small towns are wonderful and awful for many of the same reasons and I love reading books set in them. Linc's ups and downs of grief felt so real and engaging. He had some big decisions to make as he still felt mired down by that grief and the responsibility of raising his son alone. Despite his fear he continued to be drawn to Nate, particularly as Nate had such an easy connection with his son Beck. I thought their relationship developed very organically and enjoyed the story a lot. I'm looking forward to more in this series.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy provided by GayRomanceReviews.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy provided by GayRomanceReviews.
March 5, 2022
This was a sweet and caring romance, that provided depth and heart about living with grief, and what community really means.
I really liked the way that moving to a small town dynamic here was balanced, with a mixture of positive community, negative reactions, and the contrasting desire to find somewhere new. That last especially made the book work really well for me, that the negativity todards the small town came from those who had lived their life there rather than the incomer.
I also wanted to praise the fact that the child is neither precocious or too adorable!
I hope that there might be more books set here as some of the side characters definitely had potential for their own books too....
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I really liked the way that moving to a small town dynamic here was balanced, with a mixture of positive community, negative reactions, and the contrasting desire to find somewhere new. That last especially made the book work really well for me, that the negativity todards the small town came from those who had lived their life there rather than the incomer.
I also wanted to praise the fact that the child is neither precocious or too adorable!
I hope that there might be more books set here as some of the side characters definitely had potential for their own books too....
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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