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Spruce Texas #6
Summer Sweat
HARRISON
I love tending to the Strong ranch - caring for the animals, working hard under the summer sun, and enjoying the peace and quiet of the Spruce, Texas countryside.
I didn't sign up for playing babysitter to an eighteen-year-old punk.
Hoyt, down-on-his-luck and freshly graduated from Spruce High, has been hired on as extra help for the summer - extra help I sure as hell didn't ask for.
And I've been personally tasked with teaching the cocky young troublemaker the ropes.
It isn't easy. Sunrise to sundown, we fight and butt heads. And the owner of the ranch, inexplicably, has a soft spot for Hoyt, so I'm stuck with the stubborn kid whether I like it or not.
But no matter how many times he fights me, I won't give in. He can glare at me with those pretty eyes and flaunt his strong young body around the ranch all he wants, I'm going to teach him this summer that I'm in charge - one way or another.
HOYT
I sure didn't plan to spend my summer sweating to death on a ranch. All of my friends are about to run off to college, and thanks to a stupid car wreck, my hope for joining them in the fall is all but evaporated in the sun.
And to add insult to injury, my new boss Harrison is a ruthless, unforgiving beast in tight jeans and a cowboy hat, determined to make every last minute of my life hell.
It's too bad he sees me as just a good-for-nothing pain in his ass. I can see a soft side in Harrison, the way he cares for the animals, the love he puts into his work ... how he inspires me to be a better person.
I have to prove him wrong about me. I have to show him I've got what it takes.
What I sure as hell didn't count on was falling for the jerk.
✔️ M/M enemies to lovers
✔️ Age gap
✔️ Small-town charm
Have you read all the books in the Spruce Texas series?
Football Sundae
Born Again Sinner
Heteroflexible
Wrangled
Rebel At Spruce High
Summer Sweat ◄◄
Hopeful Romantic
Mr. Picture Perfect
Hot Mess Express
(with more to come!)
What about the Texas Beach Town spin-off series?
In Too Deep
Crusher
Far From Paradise
(more on the way!)
I love tending to the Strong ranch - caring for the animals, working hard under the summer sun, and enjoying the peace and quiet of the Spruce, Texas countryside.
I didn't sign up for playing babysitter to an eighteen-year-old punk.
Hoyt, down-on-his-luck and freshly graduated from Spruce High, has been hired on as extra help for the summer - extra help I sure as hell didn't ask for.
And I've been personally tasked with teaching the cocky young troublemaker the ropes.
It isn't easy. Sunrise to sundown, we fight and butt heads. And the owner of the ranch, inexplicably, has a soft spot for Hoyt, so I'm stuck with the stubborn kid whether I like it or not.
But no matter how many times he fights me, I won't give in. He can glare at me with those pretty eyes and flaunt his strong young body around the ranch all he wants, I'm going to teach him this summer that I'm in charge - one way or another.
HOYT
I sure didn't plan to spend my summer sweating to death on a ranch. All of my friends are about to run off to college, and thanks to a stupid car wreck, my hope for joining them in the fall is all but evaporated in the sun.
And to add insult to injury, my new boss Harrison is a ruthless, unforgiving beast in tight jeans and a cowboy hat, determined to make every last minute of my life hell.
It's too bad he sees me as just a good-for-nothing pain in his ass. I can see a soft side in Harrison, the way he cares for the animals, the love he puts into his work ... how he inspires me to be a better person.
I have to prove him wrong about me. I have to show him I've got what it takes.
What I sure as hell didn't count on was falling for the jerk.
✔️ M/M enemies to lovers
✔️ Age gap
✔️ Small-town charm
Have you read all the books in the Spruce Texas series?
Football Sundae
Born Again Sinner
Heteroflexible
Wrangled
Rebel At Spruce High
Summer Sweat ◄◄
Hopeful Romantic
Mr. Picture Perfect
Hot Mess Express
(with more to come!)
What about the Texas Beach Town spin-off series?
In Too Deep
Crusher
Far From Paradise
(more on the way!)
277 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 9, 2022
221 people are currently reading
427 people want to read
About the author
Daryl Banner
97 books2,000 followersDaryl Banner is a USA Today Bestselling author, composer, and performer. He graduated magna cum laude from the University of Houston Honors College with a degree in Theatre and Psychology. He is happily married to his piano. Theory suggests this is why he writes romance.
During Daryl Banner's time in college, he wrote, composed, and produced a musical under Tony Award-winning musical and Theatre producer Stuart Ostrow, as well as two original plays produced under the mentorship of Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Lanford Wilson, who also mentored Daryl through the writing of his very first novel. In addition to new adult and M/M romance, Daryl also writes post-apocalyptic fantasy as well as dystopian.
Join his mailing list here to be the first to hear about his new releases! He awards an Amazon gift card every newsletter:
https://www.darylbanner.com/subscribe...
Follow him on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/author/darylba...
Like him on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/DarylBannerW...
Connect with fellow readers in Daryl's Doorway:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Daryl...
Fun facts about Daryl Banner:
- He is an obsessive self-taught pianist.
- He is a huge video game enthusiast.
- He left his day job of 10 years to tour with a 2-woman-1-man original musical.
- He's been remixing video game music for over 20 years. One of his remixes is featured in the major motion picture "The Spy Who Dumped Me". Check out his work here: http://www.youtube.com/DarylBanner
- He composes original soundtracks that accompany his books and series, including The Beautiful Dead and OUTLIER. He is also the award-winning composer of the audio drama Janus Descending, as well as several films, games, podcasts, and other media. You can enjoy his music here: http://darylbanner.bandcamp.com
During Daryl Banner's time in college, he wrote, composed, and produced a musical under Tony Award-winning musical and Theatre producer Stuart Ostrow, as well as two original plays produced under the mentorship of Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Lanford Wilson, who also mentored Daryl through the writing of his very first novel. In addition to new adult and M/M romance, Daryl also writes post-apocalyptic fantasy as well as dystopian.
Join his mailing list here to be the first to hear about his new releases! He awards an Amazon gift card every newsletter:
https://www.darylbanner.com/subscribe...
Follow him on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/author/darylba...
Like him on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/DarylBannerW...
Connect with fellow readers in Daryl's Doorway:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Daryl...
Fun facts about Daryl Banner:
- He is an obsessive self-taught pianist.
- He is a huge video game enthusiast.
- He left his day job of 10 years to tour with a 2-woman-1-man original musical.
- He's been remixing video game music for over 20 years. One of his remixes is featured in the major motion picture "The Spy Who Dumped Me". Check out his work here: http://www.youtube.com/DarylBanner
- He composes original soundtracks that accompany his books and series, including The Beautiful Dead and OUTLIER. He is also the award-winning composer of the audio drama Janus Descending, as well as several films, games, podcasts, and other media. You can enjoy his music here: http://darylbanner.bandcamp.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 133 reviews
February 22, 2025
Is it possible to write a review with just heart eyes emojis? This book is everything I've fallen in love with when it comes to this series.
Read
March 7, 2022I can't wait to share the sixth installment of the Spruce Texas Romance series with you! Coming this Friday, y'all! 🤠
April 5, 2022
I love Spruce so much.
Harrison and Hoyt are character's that we meed briefly in previous books. I was hoping we'd hear more from them, but I didn't expect them to be the couple in their own book. I wasn't sure it would work, but I was pleasantly surprised.
They have great chemistry together. From when they're butting heads to *cough* butting other things.
The farm setting was also great. Farmlife and the friendship between the group of farmhands added a lot to the story.
I love how connected this series, without it being necessary to read them all and in order. It's like easter eggs for those who have.
Really excited to see what we get next with Spruce!
____
Before Reading:
I'm absolutely hooked on this series. Hopefully, I don't have to wait too long for it to continue!
Harrison and Hoyt are character's that we meed briefly in previous books. I was hoping we'd hear more from them, but I didn't expect them to be the couple in their own book. I wasn't sure it would work, but I was pleasantly surprised.
They have great chemistry together. From when they're butting heads to *cough* butting other things.
The farm setting was also great. Farmlife and the friendship between the group of farmhands added a lot to the story.
I love how connected this series, without it being necessary to read them all and in order. It's like easter eggs for those who have.
Really excited to see what we get next with Spruce!
____
Before Reading:
I'm absolutely hooked on this series. Hopefully, I don't have to wait too long for it to continue!
Read
May 3, 2022I’m the queen of DNF this week. I couldn’t get past 26%. The story doesn’t make much sense. Harrison is acting like a 12yo. I don’t know how I feel about Hoyt. I don’t care. I think maybe it’s me and not the book.
Maybe I’m broken and will never like a book again. 😫
Maybe I’m broken and will never like a book again. 😫
December 4, 2022
Audiobook - 3 stars
Story - 3 stars
Story - 3 stars
April 21, 2022
Spruce, Texas. Two men, both virgins, new to the M/M feelings they are feeling for each other. Young Hoyt has kissed a guy once years ago, but this new kiss is eye-opening, stunning, needy, and makes them want more. Each are local men with their history in
this small gossipy town.
Harrison, 30, handsome, tall, tattooed, short hair,
tanned, ranchman, with a side business of wood furniture craftsmanship.
Hoyt, 19, recently a High School Quarterback,
blonde hair, muscled, long and lean, who has been in a car accident. He needs the ranch job desperately.
Harrison tries to make Hoyt's first days at the job as hard as he can, because he believes the rumors going around about Hoyt. But Hoyt has survived the crash, and is working very hard.
The guys get past the misunderstanding, and they are different, gripping characters, who will discover what it is they need the most. Hoyt leaves, and comes back, and the work is steady and sweaty.
After awhile, they are hot and heavy, like a flash fire of first time M/M sexiness, and they are vers.
Their friendship is solid and the emotions and realizations that follow, are extremely satisfying.
They find out that deep emotions, true contentment and intimate relationship are very meaningful.
But when the summer is ending, what will they do?
Hoyt is conflicted about college, and neither wants to let go of the other. Harrison doesn't want Hoyt to regret skipping college.
We have a lot going on with life, relatives, friends and work, all happening simultaneously.
Deep thoughts, hot sex, a separation that they survive, and we get to see them holding on to their new love and new prospects.
A marvelous tale ! I liked the characters so much.
ENJOY !
=====
this small gossipy town.
Harrison, 30, handsome, tall, tattooed, short hair,
tanned, ranchman, with a side business of wood furniture craftsmanship.
Hoyt, 19, recently a High School Quarterback,
blonde hair, muscled, long and lean, who has been in a car accident. He needs the ranch job desperately.
Harrison tries to make Hoyt's first days at the job as hard as he can, because he believes the rumors going around about Hoyt. But Hoyt has survived the crash, and is working very hard.
The guys get past the misunderstanding, and they are different, gripping characters, who will discover what it is they need the most. Hoyt leaves, and comes back, and the work is steady and sweaty.
After awhile, they are hot and heavy, like a flash fire of first time M/M sexiness, and they are vers.
Their friendship is solid and the emotions and realizations that follow, are extremely satisfying.
They find out that deep emotions, true contentment and intimate relationship are very meaningful.
But when the summer is ending, what will they do?
Hoyt is conflicted about college, and neither wants to let go of the other. Harrison doesn't want Hoyt to regret skipping college.
We have a lot going on with life, relatives, friends and work, all happening simultaneously.
Deep thoughts, hot sex, a separation that they survive, and we get to see them holding on to their new love and new prospects.
A marvelous tale ! I liked the characters so much.
ENJOY !
=====
February 5, 2022
The Spruce Series is the best on the Internet and Kindle and Iam not lying if I could live there I would move in a heartbeat! I’ve read them all. Daryl is an amazing writer and brings all these characters and the town to life, I strongly encourage everyone to read the series because I guarantee this book is going to be absolutely amazing. I cannot wait for it.
March 31, 2022
Really sweet! :)
March 9, 2022
Summer Sweat is the wonderful new book in the Spruce Texas Romance series. You can tell Daryl Banner had a great time writing this story because I had a great time reading it! There was something a bit lighter in this installment as Harrison and Hoyt find themselves as mentor and student on the Strong farm that the 30-year-old Harrison has worked on since he was 18. And here comes Hoyt, at 18, who gets under Harrison's skin like no before him. Their time together as Harrison shows Hoyt how to take care of numerous tasks is filled with frustration as past transgressions can't seem to be left behind. But the use of humor from the very talkative and adorable Hoyt somehow breaks through to Harrison and a sudden passionate kiss to literally shut him up changes everything.
Oh, these two had me chuckling as Hoyt literally drives his boss crazy in more ways than one, the witty banter between them softening up any previous thoughts of what the young trainee may have done to former resident and good friend Toby. Not to mention how Harrison and Hoyt spent time really talking and becoming the friend they each craved who would understand all of their deep inner thoughts and fears. As they get to know one another, I loved that Banner opened up a new kind of world for both of them as their feelings for the other get more intense and confusion about letting the world know about their sexuality, particularly Harrison's, is a bit scary for the somewhat closed-off farmer. But that cute as a button Hoyt used his youth to give his new lover that push he didn't even know he needed. And what follows is a bit of stumbling for these two inexperienced men that is a beautiful, heartfelt, and sexy as hell awakening for both of them.
Banner has created a town that takes care of its own and allows everyone to be who they need to be, no matter what. Watching as Harrison embraces his sexuality, and realizes he can have a real love with the wonderful Hoyt not only made this reader happy but those who care most about the surly farmer as well. Gary Strong and his family of workers not only provided support when needed but a bit of comic relief, especially in the form of the mysterious Turtle. Not to mention Harrison's bestie in Tanner and the rest of the Spruce family of characters we've all come to know and love.
I always find myself smiling at the end of one of these Spruce Texas Romance books and you will, too. Summer Sweat is fun, flirty, heartwarming, and full of the very best kind of love.
5 stars!
Oh, these two had me chuckling as Hoyt literally drives his boss crazy in more ways than one, the witty banter between them softening up any previous thoughts of what the young trainee may have done to former resident and good friend Toby. Not to mention how Harrison and Hoyt spent time really talking and becoming the friend they each craved who would understand all of their deep inner thoughts and fears. As they get to know one another, I loved that Banner opened up a new kind of world for both of them as their feelings for the other get more intense and confusion about letting the world know about their sexuality, particularly Harrison's, is a bit scary for the somewhat closed-off farmer. But that cute as a button Hoyt used his youth to give his new lover that push he didn't even know he needed. And what follows is a bit of stumbling for these two inexperienced men that is a beautiful, heartfelt, and sexy as hell awakening for both of them.
Banner has created a town that takes care of its own and allows everyone to be who they need to be, no matter what. Watching as Harrison embraces his sexuality, and realizes he can have a real love with the wonderful Hoyt not only made this reader happy but those who care most about the surly farmer as well. Gary Strong and his family of workers not only provided support when needed but a bit of comic relief, especially in the form of the mysterious Turtle. Not to mention Harrison's bestie in Tanner and the rest of the Spruce family of characters we've all come to know and love.
I always find myself smiling at the end of one of these Spruce Texas Romance books and you will, too. Summer Sweat is fun, flirty, heartwarming, and full of the very best kind of love.
5 stars!
March 10, 2022
‘Did I just make the biggest mistake of my life?” – Uhhhh…no! Great Romance!
Author/composer Daryl Banner graduated from the University of Houston with a degree in Theatre and Psychology. His writing includes new adult romance, M/M romance, post-apocalyptic fantasy, and dystopian. According to his brief biography he is ‘most inspired by the smart and unlikely hero, but urges you (the reader) not to fall in love with them; they may deceive you with their innocence.’
This is the sixth novel in Daryl’s always excellent Spruce Texas Romance series, and for those who have not read Born Again Sinner, Football Sundae, and Heteroflexible, Wrangled, and Rebel at Spruce High, then start with SUMMER SWEAT and proceed straight to the others! As he shares in his intro, ‘These two men are about to make your heart race all over the place. And if you’re lucky, they just might steal it along the way!’ This is one very fine series of novels – some of Daryl’s best. Oh, and the hunk on the book’s cover is courtesy of Golden Czermak. .
Daryl knows how to pull his readers in as the opening Prologue attests: ‘The tall gambrel ceiling of the horse barn stretches overhead in long planks of dark, durable oak. The morning sunlight peeks in through the high-set windows, creating long fingers of golden-white glass and revealing dust particles dancing in the air like tiny orbiting planets. Far below, two naked men lie side-by-side, one awake, one asleep, slick with sweat from head to toe. That’s me…and him….’ In that fine blend of poetic atmosphere and touch of erotica, Daryl sets the tone for the story that follows.
And so proceeds another Banner winner. The plot – ‘Ex-football player and town sweetheart Harrison prepares for another hot summer tending to the Strong farm. All he wants to do is work hard, care for the animals, and enjoy the peace and quiet of the Spruce, Texas countryside. But when a down-on-his-luck, cocky young troublemaker is hired on as extra help for the summer — and Harrison is personally tasked with teaching him the ropes — these two men fight, butt heads, and discover more reasons to sweat than just the blistering heat.’
Daryl Banner just gets better and better with his gift for writing. Here is fine Southern atmosphere and a terrific romance. Read this one twice for all the character details – and become a frequent Banner flyer!
Author/composer Daryl Banner graduated from the University of Houston with a degree in Theatre and Psychology. His writing includes new adult romance, M/M romance, post-apocalyptic fantasy, and dystopian. According to his brief biography he is ‘most inspired by the smart and unlikely hero, but urges you (the reader) not to fall in love with them; they may deceive you with their innocence.’
This is the sixth novel in Daryl’s always excellent Spruce Texas Romance series, and for those who have not read Born Again Sinner, Football Sundae, and Heteroflexible, Wrangled, and Rebel at Spruce High, then start with SUMMER SWEAT and proceed straight to the others! As he shares in his intro, ‘These two men are about to make your heart race all over the place. And if you’re lucky, they just might steal it along the way!’ This is one very fine series of novels – some of Daryl’s best. Oh, and the hunk on the book’s cover is courtesy of Golden Czermak. .
Daryl knows how to pull his readers in as the opening Prologue attests: ‘The tall gambrel ceiling of the horse barn stretches overhead in long planks of dark, durable oak. The morning sunlight peeks in through the high-set windows, creating long fingers of golden-white glass and revealing dust particles dancing in the air like tiny orbiting planets. Far below, two naked men lie side-by-side, one awake, one asleep, slick with sweat from head to toe. That’s me…and him….’ In that fine blend of poetic atmosphere and touch of erotica, Daryl sets the tone for the story that follows.
And so proceeds another Banner winner. The plot – ‘Ex-football player and town sweetheart Harrison prepares for another hot summer tending to the Strong farm. All he wants to do is work hard, care for the animals, and enjoy the peace and quiet of the Spruce, Texas countryside. But when a down-on-his-luck, cocky young troublemaker is hired on as extra help for the summer — and Harrison is personally tasked with teaching him the ropes — these two men fight, butt heads, and discover more reasons to sweat than just the blistering heat.’
Daryl Banner just gets better and better with his gift for writing. Here is fine Southern atmosphere and a terrific romance. Read this one twice for all the character details – and become a frequent Banner flyer!
March 13, 2022
Welcome back to Spruce, Texas!
4.5 stars. So happy to be back in Spruce! It was fun to see a Tanner’s buddy from Football Sundae finally find love with Toby’s bully from Rebel of Spruce High. I think no one was more surprised than Harrison that he fell for Hoyt Nowak. I love me a good age gap, secret trysts in barns, and a light enemies to lovers romance! Hoyt is kind of a lovable ding-dong and it was great to see him get Harrison to lighten up and find his joy. Hoyt had a lot to come to terms with and figure out what he wanted from his future and it was nice to see him have some personal growth. I also enjoyed seeing so many characters from previous books. Love this series!
4.5 stars. So happy to be back in Spruce! It was fun to see a Tanner’s buddy from Football Sundae finally find love with Toby’s bully from Rebel of Spruce High. I think no one was more surprised than Harrison that he fell for Hoyt Nowak. I love me a good age gap, secret trysts in barns, and a light enemies to lovers romance! Hoyt is kind of a lovable ding-dong and it was great to see him get Harrison to lighten up and find his joy. Hoyt had a lot to come to terms with and figure out what he wanted from his future and it was nice to see him have some personal growth. I also enjoyed seeing so many characters from previous books. Love this series!
March 12, 2022
"I feel like I could dance on top of this truck, poke the sun right out of the sky with my finger, and throw it like a frisbee into the rest of the stars." - The best quote from this awesome book.
Oh, Daryl, you are a master with words. This book was just fan-freaking-tastic.
I so loved our trip back to Spruce, TX. Especially seeing Hoyt, the former bully, get his HEA. Now, he and Harrison will never, ever feel all alone in this big 'ol blue ball we all live on. Hoyt just came crashing into Harrison's quiet world and totally upset the apple cart, sent it rolling down the hill, to so much happiness that these two boys didn't know that they deserved.
This book and this whole Spruce, TX series is a total binge-worthy must read.
I can't wait to see what is next from Daryl and his boys, with so much heart.
Oh, Daryl, you are a master with words. This book was just fan-freaking-tastic.
I so loved our trip back to Spruce, TX. Especially seeing Hoyt, the former bully, get his HEA. Now, he and Harrison will never, ever feel all alone in this big 'ol blue ball we all live on. Hoyt just came crashing into Harrison's quiet world and totally upset the apple cart, sent it rolling down the hill, to so much happiness that these two boys didn't know that they deserved.
This book and this whole Spruce, TX series is a total binge-worthy must read.
I can't wait to see what is next from Daryl and his boys, with so much heart.
October 28, 2022
This is an sweet with heat and sweat romance that is not just a summer fling!
Age gap, almost enemies to lovers Hoyt and Harrison have steamy moments, f*** you moments but also those sweet oh! moments when they just realise all is meant to be!!
This is a beautiful read and great addition to the Spruce series!!
Age gap, almost enemies to lovers Hoyt and Harrison have steamy moments, f*** you moments but also those sweet oh! moments when they just realise all is meant to be!!
This is a beautiful read and great addition to the Spruce series!!
March 12, 2022
Loved it!
Enemies to lovers is my absolute favorite troupe and these two fulfilled that love ten fold. Age gap, hot cowboys, weirdo farm hands, and mud wrestling - you nailed it!
Enemies to lovers is my absolute favorite troupe and these two fulfilled that love ten fold. Age gap, hot cowboys, weirdo farm hands, and mud wrestling - you nailed it!
March 17, 2022
I enjoyed this one, a solid and sweet romance. I think I’ve read all the books in this series and this may be my favorite. The characters are nicely drawn although for me Harrison could use some more development. I also was a little confused about what was so bad about Hoyt and why people were mad at him. I think that might have been covered in other books but it’s been a while. I liked that each character had some growing to do. An enjoyable, low-angst read. Maybe closer to 3.5 stars if I take off a little for the epilogues just because I’m not a big fan and these dragged a little for me.
March 9, 2022
I really enjoyed reading Summer Sweat by Daryl Banner. I really love how Daryl Banner created a strong black character as a lead in this story. Harrison gave me so many Boys and Toys Dante vibes. I admit in the beginning of the story, I didn't particularly like the way Harrison treated Hoyt, but by the end, I understand it was really due to his own insecurities. The book is hot from beginning to end with romantic love scenes, thrilling fights and aesthetically pleasing character descriptions. As well as many life lessons: “You have to follow your heart, " being one of many. I really did enjoy the sexual tension between Harrison and Hoyt. I also loved the farmer cowboy atmosphere. Daryl Banner gives a whole new meaning to the term, "Save a Horse, Ride a cowboy". I highly recommend reading Summer Sweat.
March 10, 2022
Daryl Banner had done it again!! This book is absolutely a ‘can’t put down’. As soon as I met the main characters I knew I wanted to know more. I would definitely say that during chapter 13 my heart was racing!! This book also gives you updates on some of our favorite couples in Spruce. It has definitely inspired me to want to re-read the entire Spruce series. You’re gonna love the steamiest parts, too!
March 9, 2022
Love this series
Love this family
Harrison and Hoyts intense emotional broken heartstopping love story
All the feels
Ready for more
Whos next
Love this family
Harrison and Hoyts intense emotional broken heartstopping love story
All the feels
Ready for more
Whos next
March 9, 2022
This book started a little slow for me but I can't put my finger on why. But once I got into it this book made me love these characters and they are my new favorite couple out of the series.
I can never get enough of the Spuce boys. All the books are stand alone but will leave you needing to read everyone of them.
I can never get enough of the Spuce boys. All the books are stand alone but will leave you needing to read everyone of them.
March 11, 2022
Gosh, this story may have been some of the steamiest writing I've read from Daryl Banner thus far. When beautiful, hardworking, keeps to himself Harrison is tasked with whipping young Hoyt into shape (despite his misgivings because who needs that kind of trouble), he soon learns that there is more to our boy Hoyt then meets the eye. Because of circumstances that I will not reveal because you know...you have to read it for yourself, their self discovery and discovery of each other is completely beautiful, steamy and amazingly sigh-worthy. Throw into the story some great side characters like Turtle, Lea, Gary and others and you end up with a story that makes you smile...and sweat!
March 8, 2022
OMG I am so sad this book is over because it was soooo good and I didn't want it to end. Harrison has always been a sweet and kind character but always in the background and always alone and very single. He finally gets his man and HEA in Summer Sweat but what is surprising is WHO he falls for. An enemies-to-lovers, age-gap Spruce Texas romance with a lot of humor as well as steam and of course...summer sweat!! If you have been reading this series from the beginning, you do not want to miss this one!!
***** 5 ***** "he didn't want to fall for this guy but did anyway" stars
***** 5 ***** "he didn't want to fall for this guy but did anyway" stars
March 9, 2022
Always great when you can return to Spruce! Although this is a stand-alone, I highly recommend reading the entire series to have more background.
Harrison finds his soul mate when he least expects it and in a person he never thought he would.
Hoyt is struggling to find himself and his future after high-school, but the attraction and sparks fly when him and Harrison collide!
Harrison finds his soul mate when he least expects it and in a person he never thought he would.
Hoyt is struggling to find himself and his future after high-school, but the attraction and sparks fly when him and Harrison collide!
April 14, 2022
2.75 ⭐️
This was such a let down. . . I’ve had mixed feelings. Or maybe just bad ones. I loved the first 30% of this book. The farm-life setting was really interesting that I enjoyed it :) The plot was nice, but when they started to cool off and trying “things”, I lost interest. I think it’s normal to have that kind of struggle to keep reading when the MC are getting closer, but it always depends on the writing and plot to keep you going you know? This book, didn’t do it for me. It was hot at first because of how “hateful” 🙃 they are towards each other, but that ends abruptly before 50% and I was bored. Enemies-to-lovers? I don’t think so.
My problem with the characters were how pushy Hoyt with Harrison (he can’t even take no for an answer. he’s eighteen, not a CHILD. plus, he said it himself: I’m a grown ass MAN) I am annoyed. Badly annoyed. And I don’t like Harrison’s personality overall. When he was confused as fuck about Hoyt and didn’t even manage to figure what his problem is? That’s just something I was so confused about. Can’t believe he’s 31 :/ Not just their personalities, they didn’t connect at all and I can’t comprehend how they got together in the first place.
I tried to find something hot in some scenes where it’s supposed to be, but no, nothing. Not even the way they struggle to not kiss each other all the time. I was just bored. I skimmed this a lot after it went downhill for me. A lot of people enjoyed this so maybe it was just me? or whatever. I had high hopes…. :(
This was such a let down. . . I’ve had mixed feelings. Or maybe just bad ones. I loved the first 30% of this book. The farm-life setting was really interesting that I enjoyed it :) The plot was nice, but when they started to cool off and trying “things”, I lost interest. I think it’s normal to have that kind of struggle to keep reading when the MC are getting closer, but it always depends on the writing and plot to keep you going you know? This book, didn’t do it for me. It was hot at first because of how “hateful” 🙃 they are towards each other, but that ends abruptly before 50% and I was bored. Enemies-to-lovers? I don’t think so.
My problem with the characters were how pushy Hoyt with Harrison (he can’t even take no for an answer. he’s eighteen, not a CHILD. plus, he said it himself: I’m a grown ass MAN) I am annoyed. Badly annoyed. And I don’t like Harrison’s personality overall. When he was confused as fuck about Hoyt and didn’t even manage to figure what his problem is? That’s just something I was so confused about. Can’t believe he’s 31 :/ Not just their personalities, they didn’t connect at all and I can’t comprehend how they got together in the first place.
I tried to find something hot in some scenes where it’s supposed to be, but no, nothing. Not even the way they struggle to not kiss each other all the time. I was just bored. I skimmed this a lot after it went downhill for me. A lot of people enjoyed this so maybe it was just me? or whatever. I had high hopes…. :(
March 25, 2022
We are back on Banner turf, in the environs around and the town limits of fictional Spruce, Texas, where men apparently learn they were always gay boys, and the townsfolk accept MM love like they do big skies and football Friday nights.
I am a big fan of the Spruce books ("Heteroflexible" is my favorite), and this one has plenty going for it. For one, I think this may be the first time Banner has portrayed an interracial relationship. Harrison, who like most Banner boys did his stint on the high school football team (Is it pigskin that draws the queer crowd?) is half Jamaican, and Banner does an excellent job of describing his physical beauty. Harrison has grown to become the hardest working man and the unnamed foreman at a farm outside Spruce. And he's handed Hoyt, an ex-footballer fresh from high school, to train.
One problem for me is that both these men have histories that began in previous Spruce books--the only two I haven't read. So it took a while to understand why Harrison instantly hated Hoyt, or how Hoyt, while acknowledging he did wrong, had a different set of feelings. It eventually becomes clear, so it's not essential (but more fun) to hit "Wrangled" and "Rebel at Spruce High" first. And characters in "Summer Sweat" have their stories told in the earlier books, so taking in the entire series is more than worthwhile.
My favorite part of the book is Banner's depiction of first-time sex between two male virgins. The questions asked, the desires driving the action, the negotiations, and the ultimate roles Harrison and Hoyt play are so real and so compelling, they take this book well above your usual gay romance.
But there is one element (lacking) that keeps me from giving up the fifth star: I wish there was a bit more Black in Harrison's character. I am no appropriation purist: Certainly a BIPOC character can be included in a book by a White writer. But there is more to being Black than beautiful brown skin and tight curls, and I am sure that, even in the ideal world of Spruce, a Black man would have had to deal with racial issues, if only because he heard about them on the news. It would have added to the story conflict between Hoyt and Harrison if Harrison at least questioned his relationship with a man who is not only 12 years younger, but also of a different race.
Still, I greatly enjoyed "Summer Sweat," and I suspect readers new to Daryl Banner will as well.
I am a big fan of the Spruce books ("Heteroflexible" is my favorite), and this one has plenty going for it. For one, I think this may be the first time Banner has portrayed an interracial relationship. Harrison, who like most Banner boys did his stint on the high school football team (Is it pigskin that draws the queer crowd?) is half Jamaican, and Banner does an excellent job of describing his physical beauty. Harrison has grown to become the hardest working man and the unnamed foreman at a farm outside Spruce. And he's handed Hoyt, an ex-footballer fresh from high school, to train.
One problem for me is that both these men have histories that began in previous Spruce books--the only two I haven't read. So it took a while to understand why Harrison instantly hated Hoyt, or how Hoyt, while acknowledging he did wrong, had a different set of feelings. It eventually becomes clear, so it's not essential (but more fun) to hit "Wrangled" and "Rebel at Spruce High" first. And characters in "Summer Sweat" have their stories told in the earlier books, so taking in the entire series is more than worthwhile.
My favorite part of the book is Banner's depiction of first-time sex between two male virgins. The questions asked, the desires driving the action, the negotiations, and the ultimate roles Harrison and Hoyt play are so real and so compelling, they take this book well above your usual gay romance.
But there is one element (lacking) that keeps me from giving up the fifth star: I wish there was a bit more Black in Harrison's character. I am no appropriation purist: Certainly a BIPOC character can be included in a book by a White writer. But there is more to being Black than beautiful brown skin and tight curls, and I am sure that, even in the ideal world of Spruce, a Black man would have had to deal with racial issues, if only because he heard about them on the news. It would have added to the story conflict between Hoyt and Harrison if Harrison at least questioned his relationship with a man who is not only 12 years younger, but also of a different race.
Still, I greatly enjoyed "Summer Sweat," and I suspect readers new to Daryl Banner will as well.
April 15, 2022
Huh... Its like this series is on repeat or recycle.
Same characters with nothing to distinguish each from the other. One book just bleeds into the next. This installment is about two guys on a farm who really haven't had any other exposure to what they like in way of sexy times.
Hoyt is a recent high school grad with no prospects. He missed the memo where he might want to try for decent grades to get into a decent college. Harrison likes what he does, working on a farm, working on furniture. Harrison gets saddled with Hoyt to show him the ropes.. then Hoyt saddles Harrison and gives him the ropes. and away we goooooo.....
But that's all it does...wanders aimlessly.
Same characters with nothing to distinguish each from the other. One book just bleeds into the next. This installment is about two guys on a farm who really haven't had any other exposure to what they like in way of sexy times.
Hoyt is a recent high school grad with no prospects. He missed the memo where he might want to try for decent grades to get into a decent college. Harrison likes what he does, working on a farm, working on furniture. Harrison gets saddled with Hoyt to show him the ropes.. then Hoyt saddles Harrison and gives him the ropes. and away we goooooo.....
But that's all it does...wanders aimlessly.
March 10, 2022
**I received a free copy of this book from the author to read and review.**
I love being able to visit Spruce Texas and seeing some of my favorite couples. AND finally getting Hoyt's book!
Hoyt is the cocky confident high school grad that had a plan for his life, going to UT with his friends but things didn't turn out like he thought they would. He finds himself Strong Farm being the low guy getting the worst chores and a boss that hates him. Hoyt wasn't the nicest guy in high school and it seems people still think he is still that same guy. Can Hoyt prove himself? And why does his find Harrison so hot?
Harrison knows all about Hoyt and how he treated Toby in high school. He has no interest in helping him on the farm. Gary Strong wants Harrison to show Hoyt the ropes but Harrison just wants Hoyt gone. Something about Hoyt is getting under Harrison's skin and not the way he expected. Can Harrison get Hoyt to leave the farm so he's not a distraction?
I loved watching the relationship between Harrison and Hoyt build. The age gap coming out story was angsty and so emotional at times. You get to see Hoyt grow up and Harrison open his heart with each chapter. I can't get enough of seeing my favorite past couples in Spruce. I can't wait to see what comes next.
I love being able to visit Spruce Texas and seeing some of my favorite couples. AND finally getting Hoyt's book!
Hoyt is the cocky confident high school grad that had a plan for his life, going to UT with his friends but things didn't turn out like he thought they would. He finds himself Strong Farm being the low guy getting the worst chores and a boss that hates him. Hoyt wasn't the nicest guy in high school and it seems people still think he is still that same guy. Can Hoyt prove himself? And why does his find Harrison so hot?
Harrison knows all about Hoyt and how he treated Toby in high school. He has no interest in helping him on the farm. Gary Strong wants Harrison to show Hoyt the ropes but Harrison just wants Hoyt gone. Something about Hoyt is getting under Harrison's skin and not the way he expected. Can Harrison get Hoyt to leave the farm so he's not a distraction?
I loved watching the relationship between Harrison and Hoyt build. The age gap coming out story was angsty and so emotional at times. You get to see Hoyt grow up and Harrison open his heart with each chapter. I can't get enough of seeing my favorite past couples in Spruce. I can't wait to see what comes next.
March 11, 2022
It's always a pleasure to visit Spruce, Texas and it's quirky characters. In Summer Sweat, we have Harrison, who is one of the long time farmhands at the other Strong farm in Spruce. Gary Strong, the owner, decides to hire on a new farmhand for the summer. Imagine Harrison's surprise when he finds out Hoyt is that new hire and that he will be the one to show him the lay of the land at the farm. Harrison doesn't hide the fact that he's less than pleased with Gary's choice. He already had his mind made up and definitely doesn't give Hoyt a chance. Hoyt needs a summer job because his options are few and he's been having a rough time of things ever since the Toby fallout. He just wants a chance.
Both Harrison and Hoyt have some soul searching to do with their own personal lives. Miraculously, through their initial mutual dislike, they find the unexpected in each other. Even though they're at different points in their lives, there's something there. I loved that they both allow themselves to take that leap to build something together. When they give in, it's something special.
Both Harrison and Hoyt have some soul searching to do with their own personal lives. Miraculously, through their initial mutual dislike, they find the unexpected in each other. Even though they're at different points in their lives, there's something there. I loved that they both allow themselves to take that leap to build something together. When they give in, it's something special.
March 11, 2022
I loved this book!
The ex football player that stayed in Spruce working on a farm and the fresh out of high school newcomer meet each other for a summer where feelings of all kinds run wild.
Despite the age gap they are so similar but Harrison can't see it. He just sees Hoyt as the young cocky man who did Toby wrong and it makes them go at each other hard.
But when they finally admits that there's a roaring attraction between them it becomes both harder and exhilarating at the same time.
I love how well Harrison and Hoyt are described as carachters and how I felt everything they were going through.
And it was so painfully obvious that they both felt excluded and forgotten before they could be their true selves and how light and happy they were after.
A wonderful, romantic Spruce story with a beautiful, hot new couple.
The ex football player that stayed in Spruce working on a farm and the fresh out of high school newcomer meet each other for a summer where feelings of all kinds run wild.
Despite the age gap they are so similar but Harrison can't see it. He just sees Hoyt as the young cocky man who did Toby wrong and it makes them go at each other hard.
But when they finally admits that there's a roaring attraction between them it becomes both harder and exhilarating at the same time.
I love how well Harrison and Hoyt are described as carachters and how I felt everything they were going through.
And it was so painfully obvious that they both felt excluded and forgotten before they could be their true selves and how light and happy they were after.
A wonderful, romantic Spruce story with a beautiful, hot new couple.
April 20, 2022
3/5 ★
1.5/5 🌶
This was super low angst but a nice read nonetheless. I had to try and remember who everyone was through 🥲😂
1.5/5 🌶
This was super low angst but a nice read nonetheless. I had to try and remember who everyone was through 🥲😂
March 11, 2022
Hoyt was what appeared to be a nasty bully in previous books so I knew Banner would really make Hoyt suffer through redemption. We find out a little bit more about Hoyt in the last book which was a big plot twist and I was so excited to find out this was Hoyt's book (finally! - just kidding you can't rush perfection ❤). I really adored the age- gap enemies to lovers trope, it provided a lot of tension and problems for the characters. You could really feel Harrison's hesitation and worry. I loved that we saw all the layers of Hoyt, and he was really trying to prove himself and move past what he was in high school, or how people perceived him to be then. After initially being completely lost and hiding their authentic selves, loved seeing both men find each other and their truth. Loved seeing characters from previous books.
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