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Kilt to Order
A nerdy wallflower recruits her athlete roommate to give her love lessons
As a Highland Games athlete and a firefighter, I’m used to women trying to get under my kilt. But I never expected to be propositioned by my bookworm roommate.
Casey’s one of my best friends and my buddy’s younger sister. What am I supposed to do when she confesses that she’s on a mission to lose her virginity—and I’m the guy she trusts to do the deed?
If I say no, she’ll only turn to another dude instead. Someone’s got to keep her out of trouble, so I agree to give her some hands-on experience. I can teach Casey how to bring a man to his knees and still keep things platonic. A little friends-with-benefits action shouldn’t be a problem.
Uh, yeah. Small problem. The more boxes we check off on Casey’s lesson plan, the more it seems I’ve taught her too well.
Because the man she’s bringing to his knees is me.
KILT TO ORDER is a sizzling small town brother's best friend romcom that features a found family of muscly men in kilts, a spunky booknerd virgin, a protective playboy roommate who agrees to be her love coach, and a guaranteed HEA for these two adorable friends to lovers.
As a Highland Games athlete and a firefighter, I’m used to women trying to get under my kilt. But I never expected to be propositioned by my bookworm roommate.
Casey’s one of my best friends and my buddy’s younger sister. What am I supposed to do when she confesses that she’s on a mission to lose her virginity—and I’m the guy she trusts to do the deed?
If I say no, she’ll only turn to another dude instead. Someone’s got to keep her out of trouble, so I agree to give her some hands-on experience. I can teach Casey how to bring a man to his knees and still keep things platonic. A little friends-with-benefits action shouldn’t be a problem.
Uh, yeah. Small problem. The more boxes we check off on Casey’s lesson plan, the more it seems I’ve taught her too well.
Because the man she’s bringing to his knees is me.
KILT TO ORDER is a sizzling small town brother's best friend romcom that features a found family of muscly men in kilts, a spunky booknerd virgin, a protective playboy roommate who agrees to be her love coach, and a guaranteed HEA for these two adorable friends to lovers.
357 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 5, 2023
92 people are currently reading
5542 people want to read
About the author
Susannah Nix
60 books1,864 followersSusannah Nix is a RITA® Award-winning and USA Today bestselling author of rom-coms and contemporary romances who lives in Texas with her husband. On the rare occasions she's not writing, she can be found reading, knitting, lifting weights, drinking wine, or obsessively watching Ted Lasso on repeat to stave off existential angst.
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July 29, 2023
KILT TO ORDER IS LIVE! 💚 Nerd/Jock
💚 Brother’s Best Friend
💚 Roommates to Lovers
💚 Love Lessons
💚 Wallflower Virgin FMC
💚 Protective Firefighter MMC
💚 Found Family of Muscly Men in Kilts
💚 Kooky Small Town Shenanigans
Start reading today!
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July 25, 2023
Susannah Nix is the Queen of small town, romcoms with heart and this latest is no exception!!
I will literally read anything she writes and it was a privilege to receive an early copy of Kilt to order! This story features Casey, a 28 year old bookish virgin looking to find someone who will help relieve her of that predicament.
Enter her hunky, Highland Games playing/firefighter f*ckboy roommate, Gareth, who figures if she's determined to lose her V-card at least he can be the caring guy that will treat her right. It doesn't hurt that he's always had a bit of a thing for Casey.
This was perfect for fans of Amy Lea's Exes and Ohs or Rosie Danan's The roommate. If you love romance stories with emotional depth and some great steam, Susannah Nix doesn't disappoint plus I loved the cameos from other characters in the Crowder, Texas series!
Many thanks to the author for sharing an early digital copy in exchange for my honest review!!
I will literally read anything she writes and it was a privilege to receive an early copy of Kilt to order! This story features Casey, a 28 year old bookish virgin looking to find someone who will help relieve her of that predicament.
Enter her hunky, Highland Games playing/firefighter f*ckboy roommate, Gareth, who figures if she's determined to lose her V-card at least he can be the caring guy that will treat her right. It doesn't hurt that he's always had a bit of a thing for Casey.
This was perfect for fans of Amy Lea's Exes and Ohs or Rosie Danan's The roommate. If you love romance stories with emotional depth and some great steam, Susannah Nix doesn't disappoint plus I loved the cameos from other characters in the Crowder, Texas series!
Many thanks to the author for sharing an early digital copy in exchange for my honest review!!
July 18, 2023
I adore Susannah Nix's King Creamery series. I requested this book as soon as it popped up in NetGalley without ever having read the blurb, This book was absolutely delightful and brings the reader back to Crowder Texas and the King Creamery-verse.
Casey is a 28 year old awkward bookworm who is tired of being a virgin. She has no experience with men (other than that one time she turned a boy down in 10th grade.) She's ready to just get it over with and move on but gets the sneezes every time she's nervous. Gareth is a fireman who's not interested in anything other than one night stands; he's also Casey's roommate and her brother's best friend. Casey approaches him to give her intimacy lessons to get more comfortable with men. They have a hard time keeping their feelings separate when the lessons are supposed to come to the agreed upon end.
Sigh. Gareth tries so hard to make Casey feel special in every aspect of her life. I loved how he wanted to boost her self confidence and make her comfortable. Nix includes the voice of reason in her best friend who reiterates that "virginity" is a social construct. Although this is an important event for Casey, it's not necessarily important or relevant to everyone. It took a common trope and made it feel a little more updated. We get to visit with some of my favorite Crowder members. It made me want to go back a reread their stories. Gareth carrying Casey around in a fireman's hold over his shoulder is *chef's kiss.*
Tropes included: friends to lovers, brother's best friend, firefighter, bookworm heroine, kissing lessons, kilted hero, virgin heroine, reformed rake, small town, roommates to lovers, duel pov, forced proximity, found family, sneezing mishaps
Thank you to NetGalley, Susannah Nix, and Author Collective 20 for this eARC. All opinions expressed are my own. #netgalley #susannahnix #KiltToOrder
Casey is a 28 year old awkward bookworm who is tired of being a virgin. She has no experience with men (other than that one time she turned a boy down in 10th grade.) She's ready to just get it over with and move on but gets the sneezes every time she's nervous. Gareth is a fireman who's not interested in anything other than one night stands; he's also Casey's roommate and her brother's best friend. Casey approaches him to give her intimacy lessons to get more comfortable with men. They have a hard time keeping their feelings separate when the lessons are supposed to come to the agreed upon end.
Sigh. Gareth tries so hard to make Casey feel special in every aspect of her life. I loved how he wanted to boost her self confidence and make her comfortable. Nix includes the voice of reason in her best friend who reiterates that "virginity" is a social construct. Although this is an important event for Casey, it's not necessarily important or relevant to everyone. It took a common trope and made it feel a little more updated. We get to visit with some of my favorite Crowder members. It made me want to go back a reread their stories. Gareth carrying Casey around in a fireman's hold over his shoulder is *chef's kiss.*
Tropes included: friends to lovers, brother's best friend, firefighter, bookworm heroine, kissing lessons, kilted hero, virgin heroine, reformed rake, small town, roommates to lovers, duel pov, forced proximity, found family, sneezing mishaps
Thank you to NetGalley, Susannah Nix, and Author Collective 20 for this eARC. All opinions expressed are my own. #netgalley #susannahnix #KiltToOrder
November 20, 2023
This is book 1 in Susannah Nix’s Kilt Trip series. While this is a spinoff of the King Family series and you’ll see some cameos from those books, this can be enjoyed on it’s own.
I loved how tropetastic this book is while still being original. Did this have lots of my favorites? Yes! Brother’s Best Friend/Best Friend’s Sister, Friends/Roommates to Lovers, Small Town, with hilarious family/found family interactions. Yet, every time I thought I knew what direction Nix was going with these characters and their story – I was pleasantly surprised. (Shhhh… don’t tell Ryan & Maggie, but this is now my favorite Nix book!)
Casey is the bookworm who has the interesting affliction of sneezing every time she gets nervous… yes, even in intimate situations. Finally deciding that boyfriends and even losing her virginity isn’t going to happen without some help – she seeks out her hunky roommate Gareth. These two are so freakin’ adorable together y’all.
Gareth is determined to take things somewhat slow which creates some very sexy scenes before the ultimate goal. There are some serious spots and themes to give the story a little tension. Though the fact that Gareth and Casey are already such great friends creates a fairly low angst relationship overall. I adored the way their family and friends reacted when they each found out.
I loved the ending & epilogue. I don’t know whether Darius or Ozzy are getting the next book, but I can’t wait.
Narration:
Lee Samuels and Callie Dalton were great choices. Dalton’s portrayal of Casey’s insecurities, determination, and reactions were perfect. I also loved that Samuels brought through Gareth’s fear, wonderment, and love. It was a terrific listen all around.
While I borrowed the ebook via KoboPlus, I did receive a copy of the audiobook from Home Cooked Books and am leaving an honest review.
I loved how tropetastic this book is while still being original. Did this have lots of my favorites? Yes! Brother’s Best Friend/Best Friend’s Sister, Friends/Roommates to Lovers, Small Town, with hilarious family/found family interactions. Yet, every time I thought I knew what direction Nix was going with these characters and their story – I was pleasantly surprised. (Shhhh… don’t tell Ryan & Maggie, but this is now my favorite Nix book!)
Casey is the bookworm who has the interesting affliction of sneezing every time she gets nervous… yes, even in intimate situations. Finally deciding that boyfriends and even losing her virginity isn’t going to happen without some help – she seeks out her hunky roommate Gareth. These two are so freakin’ adorable together y’all.
Gareth is determined to take things somewhat slow which creates some very sexy scenes before the ultimate goal. There are some serious spots and themes to give the story a little tension. Though the fact that Gareth and Casey are already such great friends creates a fairly low angst relationship overall. I adored the way their family and friends reacted when they each found out.
I loved the ending & epilogue. I don’t know whether Darius or Ozzy are getting the next book, but I can’t wait.
Narration:
Lee Samuels and Callie Dalton were great choices. Dalton’s portrayal of Casey’s insecurities, determination, and reactions were perfect. I also loved that Samuels brought through Gareth’s fear, wonderment, and love. It was a terrific listen all around.
While I borrowed the ebook via KoboPlus, I did receive a copy of the audiobook from Home Cooked Books and am leaving an honest review.
October 2, 2023
(audiobook) That feeling when you read an author for the first time, but they reference other books they’ve written… Not exactly pleasant. It’s like happening on a conversation you shouldn’t be privy of. But besides that minor frustration, I really enjoyed this book.
My main problem with it, to be honest, was the fact that the characters sounded way younger than their age. I get that, with that whole roommate situation, there was a college mood going on–four people living together, including one woman and three men, looks like a dorm. But they all have serious jobs, they’re responsible adults in their late twenties or early thirties, why do they act like jocks?
Okay, there may be one reason: they’re actually jocks. Sort of. They all participate in Highland games. That was an original athletic pursuit, I think. Almost sad that it wasn’t used more.
At least, it’s a good occasion to see the dynamics between the main characters. Because it’s the characters that drive this story. You get one big trait of each of them at the beginning, so you have a taste of who they are, but you won’t know their whole story before much later in the book. And I guarantee you’ll be surprised. The angst is low, but not non existent.
The fun, on the other hand, is quite present. Besides the characters’ quirks, there are a lot of hilarious conversations, mostly between friends, and a few very funny situations.
And the romance is great. Casey and Gareth are friends, first and foremost. And they actually already love each other, even before they sleep together, it’s obvious. But they need that arrangement to get past their hangups and finally open to each other. Once they discover how compatible they are, and considering how they already trust each other, there’s only one possible result.
The narration was great. The female narrator is perfect for Casey’s quirky energy, and the male narrator does Gareth’s sensible calm, and later his simmering passion, quite well. A very good audiobook indeed.
Quickie
- Series: standalone (but connected to other books by the author)
- Hashtags: #romcom #small town romance #friends to lovers #firefighter #virgin #Highland games
- Triggers: past death, past psychological abuse, past drug use, car accident
- Main couple: Casey Goodrich & Gareth Kelly
- Hotness: 4/5
- Romance: 5/5
- + the words Gareth says during their first time… awwww!
- – they all acted way younger than their age
My main problem with it, to be honest, was the fact that the characters sounded way younger than their age. I get that, with that whole roommate situation, there was a college mood going on–four people living together, including one woman and three men, looks like a dorm. But they all have serious jobs, they’re responsible adults in their late twenties or early thirties, why do they act like jocks?
Okay, there may be one reason: they’re actually jocks. Sort of. They all participate in Highland games. That was an original athletic pursuit, I think. Almost sad that it wasn’t used more.
At least, it’s a good occasion to see the dynamics between the main characters. Because it’s the characters that drive this story. You get one big trait of each of them at the beginning, so you have a taste of who they are, but you won’t know their whole story before much later in the book. And I guarantee you’ll be surprised. The angst is low, but not non existent.
The fun, on the other hand, is quite present. Besides the characters’ quirks, there are a lot of hilarious conversations, mostly between friends, and a few very funny situations.
And the romance is great. Casey and Gareth are friends, first and foremost. And they actually already love each other, even before they sleep together, it’s obvious. But they need that arrangement to get past their hangups and finally open to each other. Once they discover how compatible they are, and considering how they already trust each other, there’s only one possible result.
The narration was great. The female narrator is perfect for Casey’s quirky energy, and the male narrator does Gareth’s sensible calm, and later his simmering passion, quite well. A very good audiobook indeed.
Quickie
- Series: standalone (but connected to other books by the author)
- Hashtags: #romcom #small town romance #friends to lovers #firefighter #virgin #Highland games
- Triggers: past death, past psychological abuse, past drug use, car accident
- Main couple: Casey Goodrich & Gareth Kelly
- Hotness: 4/5
- Romance: 5/5
- + the words Gareth says during their first time… awwww!
- – they all acted way younger than their age
October 17, 2023
What…. Just what in the what now?
Why are these adults carrying on like teenagers in a frat house??
No. Stop it.
Why are these adults carrying on like teenagers in a frat house??
No. Stop it.
November 9, 2023
Thanks to NetGalley & Author Collective 20 for an eARC of this book. The following review is my honest reflection on the text provided.
3.5 stars
I usually try to skip books about friends-to-lovers where one friend sleeps around and avoids commitment, and the other is a self-conscious virgin. There are so many horrific pitfalls to avoid, and the story always ends the same way. Thankfully, Kilt to Order seems to be (mostly) an exception.
Maybe it’s because Casey is bookish or because Gareth is already open and nurturing, but the obstacles for these two to fall together seem relatively easy to overcome. They make the usual mistakes, like promising that nothing will ruin their friendship and trying to hide their feelings, but with the help of some pushy friends, these two problems are very quickly ignored and don’t become major plot devices to keep them apart.
Review originally posted here on Britt's Book Blurbs.
3.5 stars
I usually try to skip books about friends-to-lovers where one friend sleeps around and avoids commitment, and the other is a self-conscious virgin. There are so many horrific pitfalls to avoid, and the story always ends the same way. Thankfully, Kilt to Order seems to be (mostly) an exception.
Maybe it’s because Casey is bookish or because Gareth is already open and nurturing, but the obstacles for these two to fall together seem relatively easy to overcome. They make the usual mistakes, like promising that nothing will ruin their friendship and trying to hide their feelings, but with the help of some pushy friends, these two problems are very quickly ignored and don’t become major plot devices to keep them apart.
"'I'm terrific. Just trying to make my peace with being a virgin forever.'Overall, the spice is pretty vanilla, and Casey’s first time is, of course, magically perfect. Still, the romance is sweet and seeing these two kind people give in to their feelings and learn how to be in a relationship together is heartwarming. Nix manages to skip over unnecessary jealousy or lack of communication tropes and allows things to develop naturally. Some things are going on in the background that allow for time to pass but don’t distract too much from the romance - I do wish we explored some of these threads a little further, but I am hoping that they may be picked up later in the series. It will be interesting to see if the next book is as achingly sweet or if we may move a little further out of virgin territory. Either way, I would be interested in reading more.
She pulls me into a crushing hug. 'The entire concept of virginity is an artificial construct of the patriarchy used to shame and control women. There's no physical difference between a woman who's had sex and a woman who hasn't. Not to mention how heteronormative it is to frame the act of sex around vaginal penetration.'
'I know,' I say when she releases me and I can breathe again. 'But none of that changes the fact that I'd still like to get laid at some point in my life.'"
Review originally posted here on Britt's Book Blurbs.
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July 23, 2023
5⭐️ bc this book made me smile and reminded me why I like reading romance so much
“You know what this is? It’s one of those stories where the shy wallflower asks a notorious rake to give her sex lessons so she can learn to seduce someone else! It’s a Lisa Kleypas novel!”
“They’ve all written books like that. It’s a popular trope, but my life is not a historical romance and Gareth is no Derek Craven.”
No, Gareth isn’t a Derek Craven, he’s better- he’s a Sebastian Lord St Vincent with his foot warming bricks. IFYKYK! And I was here for every moment of it!
Casey is a 28 book loving year old virgin who lives with her brother Ozzy and his two best friends Gareth (a firefighter) and Darius and a rescued rabbit named Mr Twinkletoes. When she decides it’s time (with the help of her best friend and cousin) to rid herself of her virginity after a disastrously cringy date, Gareth seems like a safe choice to help her. Despite his initial reluctance, he agrees. When he realizes part of the problem is her confidence he sets about ensuring she knows how much he wants her. No, his magic dick doesn’t fix her (like in some romances 🙄). He actually puts the time and effort into helping her feel more confident. What ensues is a sweet AND spicy friends to lovers low angst story I had to make myself put down so I could get some sleep. Oh! And did I mention men in kilts?!
It’s always a delight to read a book you truly enjoy by a new to you author, AND discover they’ve got a back catalog you can dive into! I’ll be adding the rest of Susannah’s books to my TBR list. Fingers crossed Ozzy and Darius get books too!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an ARC of this book.
“You know what this is? It’s one of those stories where the shy wallflower asks a notorious rake to give her sex lessons so she can learn to seduce someone else! It’s a Lisa Kleypas novel!”
“They’ve all written books like that. It’s a popular trope, but my life is not a historical romance and Gareth is no Derek Craven.”
No, Gareth isn’t a Derek Craven, he’s better- he’s a Sebastian Lord St Vincent with his foot warming bricks. IFYKYK! And I was here for every moment of it!
Casey is a 28 book loving year old virgin who lives with her brother Ozzy and his two best friends Gareth (a firefighter) and Darius and a rescued rabbit named Mr Twinkletoes. When she decides it’s time (with the help of her best friend and cousin) to rid herself of her virginity after a disastrously cringy date, Gareth seems like a safe choice to help her. Despite his initial reluctance, he agrees. When he realizes part of the problem is her confidence he sets about ensuring she knows how much he wants her. No, his magic dick doesn’t fix her (like in some romances 🙄). He actually puts the time and effort into helping her feel more confident. What ensues is a sweet AND spicy friends to lovers low angst story I had to make myself put down so I could get some sleep. Oh! And did I mention men in kilts?!
It’s always a delight to read a book you truly enjoy by a new to you author, AND discover they’ve got a back catalog you can dive into! I’ll be adding the rest of Susannah’s books to my TBR list. Fingers crossed Ozzy and Darius get books too!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an ARC of this book.
July 8, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶
The story follows Casey, a bookworm, who is 28 years old and still a virgin. She is tired of being a virgin and wants to get rid of that label, so she asks her friend and roommate to take her virginity. Gareth is handsome, experienced, and has always been affectionate towards her, so obviously, he would be a good fit.
Gareth isn't after a relationship, but as they get involved, he doesn't know if a relationship would be that bad.
I liked the story, Gareth is so careful and patient with Casey, I really enjoyed seeing how the story was developed.
"I'm definitely not having any mixed feelings about that at all. Except for the part where I'm having a lot of mixed feelings about it."
"It didn't feel like coming home until I saw Casey, Without her in it, this is just a house."
I loved seeing the king family again. It was a fun read, and I highly recommend this book.
Thank you, NetGalley and Susannah Nix, for the ARC.
🌶🌶
The story follows Casey, a bookworm, who is 28 years old and still a virgin. She is tired of being a virgin and wants to get rid of that label, so she asks her friend and roommate to take her virginity. Gareth is handsome, experienced, and has always been affectionate towards her, so obviously, he would be a good fit.
Gareth isn't after a relationship, but as they get involved, he doesn't know if a relationship would be that bad.
I liked the story, Gareth is so careful and patient with Casey, I really enjoyed seeing how the story was developed.
"I'm definitely not having any mixed feelings about that at all. Except for the part where I'm having a lot of mixed feelings about it."
"It didn't feel like coming home until I saw Casey, Without her in it, this is just a house."
I loved seeing the king family again. It was a fun read, and I highly recommend this book.
Thank you, NetGalley and Susannah Nix, for the ARC.
October 4, 2023
Roommates/friends to FB’s to lovers AND brothers best friend?! Yes please.
This was such a fun listen. Susannah Nix writes great romcoms and Kilt To Order is so exception.
Casey is looking for “lessons” *smirk emoji* and enlists her roommate (her brothers best friend Gareth to provide those lessons. I love how Gareth wanted to make Casey feel confident and comfortable, and really worked to show her how amazing he thought that she was and helped build that self confidence within her. With these two it’s way more than just sex, and the forced proximity and intimacy finally leads to them confronting their true feelings for each other.
Callie and Lee were absolutely perfect in this heartwarming, hilarious, and steamy story. Casey is shy, awkward, and bookish ( I love this) and Callie absolutely nailed her personality and voice, you can hear how insecure and unsure Casey is of herself in the beginning, and how that changes throughout the story. And Lee was absolutely perfect for Gareth- a little broody and gruff (but a total cinnamon roll and THE BEST friend) firefighter who pretends to not care about anything but actually cares A LOT.
If you’re looking for a fun romcom that will give you all the feels- definitely give this one a listen!
This was such a fun listen. Susannah Nix writes great romcoms and Kilt To Order is so exception.
Casey is looking for “lessons” *smirk emoji* and enlists her roommate (her brothers best friend Gareth to provide those lessons. I love how Gareth wanted to make Casey feel confident and comfortable, and really worked to show her how amazing he thought that she was and helped build that self confidence within her. With these two it’s way more than just sex, and the forced proximity and intimacy finally leads to them confronting their true feelings for each other.
Callie and Lee were absolutely perfect in this heartwarming, hilarious, and steamy story. Casey is shy, awkward, and bookish ( I love this) and Callie absolutely nailed her personality and voice, you can hear how insecure and unsure Casey is of herself in the beginning, and how that changes throughout the story. And Lee was absolutely perfect for Gareth- a little broody and gruff (but a total cinnamon roll and THE BEST friend) firefighter who pretends to not care about anything but actually cares A LOT.
If you’re looking for a fun romcom that will give you all the feels- definitely give this one a listen!
July 20, 2023
I needed this book. I had been a little funky and picked up Kilt to Order knowing that Nix's books are light and funny and easy to just dive face first into. I did just that. I picked it up one afternoon and binged. I loved watching Casey find her confidence in this book. From asking Gareth the big favor to learning to love herself through his eyes, it was great to see her grow and come into her own. He is the best kind of hero...the underestimated guy who is really a big cinnamon roll. Together, they were just right.
February 16, 2024
All I want out of a romance hero is a Firefighter F*ckboy in a kilt and KILT TO ORDER delivered. Hard.
This book has all the best things, in fact:
- sporty bad boy and the bookish good girl
- take my virginity, f*ckboy
- friends and roommates
- no third act break-up
- KILTS
Casey and Gareth are the best kind of Friends-to-Lovers. They have loads of memories and Gareth is just cinnamon-roll hero GOODNESS. And I fell in love with Casey. She is totally relatable and I loved her bookish and slightly nerdy ways.
KILT TO ORDER had steam, laugh-out-loud moments, sweetness, and a fantastic HEA. I loved it.
𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝗦𝗧𝗘𝗔𝗠 𝗟𝗘𝗩𝗘𝗟: Rated R / 2-4 descriptive sex scenes, may have harsh language.
𝗧𝗥𝗜𝗚𝗚𝗘𝗥𝗦: past death of parent, non-fatal car accident
𝗙𝗘𝗘𝗟𝗦: 2/5 - A bit of drama, but still a pretty light read.
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
👇🏻𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗟𝗞 𝗠𝗘 𝗢𝗡𝗟𝗜𝗡𝗘👇🏻
INSTAGRAM | YEAR OF SMUT CHALLENGE
This book has all the best things, in fact:
- sporty bad boy and the bookish good girl
- take my virginity, f*ckboy
- friends and roommates
- no third act break-up
- KILTS
Casey and Gareth are the best kind of Friends-to-Lovers. They have loads of memories and Gareth is just cinnamon-roll hero GOODNESS. And I fell in love with Casey. She is totally relatable and I loved her bookish and slightly nerdy ways.
KILT TO ORDER had steam, laugh-out-loud moments, sweetness, and a fantastic HEA. I loved it.
𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝗦𝗧𝗘𝗔𝗠 𝗟𝗘𝗩𝗘𝗟: Rated R / 2-4 descriptive sex scenes, may have harsh language.
𝗧𝗥𝗜𝗚𝗚𝗘𝗥𝗦: past death of parent, non-fatal car accident
𝗙𝗘𝗘𝗟𝗦: 2/5 - A bit of drama, but still a pretty light read.
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
👇🏻𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗟𝗞 𝗠𝗘 𝗢𝗡𝗟𝗜𝗡𝗘👇🏻
INSTAGRAM | YEAR OF SMUT CHALLENGE
July 13, 2023
"The only thing I have to do is try and make her happy, which isn’t a chore at all. It’s a pleasure and a privilege because seeing her happy makes me happy.”
This was a really great book! Casey is tired of being a virgin. When her best friend suggests for her to sleep with her roommate and brother’s best friend, Gareth, she decides that that is not a bad idea. When I had signed up to read this ARC I didn’t realize that Casey and Gareth were roommates, just that Gareth was Casey’s brother’s best friend. By the two of them being roommates, it made it for more of a friends to lovers romance. I loved how sweet Gareth was with Casey. He constantly was making sure that she felt safe and trying to please her. So freaking swoony!!! I loved every intimate moment of them together from the spicy kisses to the scorching hot sex scenes. The sneaking around made it all the more hot.
Read if you like:
Dual POVs
Roommates to lovers
Brother’s best friend
Virgin romance
Teach in the bedroom
Firefighter hero
Open door romance
Forced proximity
This was a really great book! Casey is tired of being a virgin. When her best friend suggests for her to sleep with her roommate and brother’s best friend, Gareth, she decides that that is not a bad idea. When I had signed up to read this ARC I didn’t realize that Casey and Gareth were roommates, just that Gareth was Casey’s brother’s best friend. By the two of them being roommates, it made it for more of a friends to lovers romance. I loved how sweet Gareth was with Casey. He constantly was making sure that she felt safe and trying to please her. So freaking swoony!!! I loved every intimate moment of them together from the spicy kisses to the scorching hot sex scenes. The sneaking around made it all the more hot.
Read if you like:
Dual POVs
Roommates to lovers
Brother’s best friend
Virgin romance
Teach in the bedroom
Firefighter hero
Open door romance
Forced proximity
July 26, 2023
Kilt to Order is the latest small town romance from Susannah Nix, and it was a fun, sweet, entertaining read.
From the very first chapter I liked Casey, she was a relatable, interesting heroine. I could understand her frustrations with her lack of relationship experience. When she asked Gareth, her roommate, for assistance I couldn't wait to see what would happen next. They fit so well together and had a great connection even before she went to him for help. It was also easy to see their real feelings would make things complicated.
The story and relationship development were well done, and I enjoyed this book so much. It was nice seeing characters from her other series, too. If you are like me and love the friends to more and small town romance tropes, this book is for you!
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC for an honest review.
From the very first chapter I liked Casey, she was a relatable, interesting heroine. I could understand her frustrations with her lack of relationship experience. When she asked Gareth, her roommate, for assistance I couldn't wait to see what would happen next. They fit so well together and had a great connection even before she went to him for help. It was also easy to see their real feelings would make things complicated.
The story and relationship development were well done, and I enjoyed this book so much. It was nice seeing characters from her other series, too. If you are like me and love the friends to more and small town romance tropes, this book is for you!
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC for an honest review.
July 31, 2023
3.5 stars = I liked it
I am still reading this... I always say that I love friends to lovers as a trope, but I just realized that I am not fond of it being combined with 'sex tutor' trope.
Done now. I mostly skim sex scenes now days, but the rest of the story was fine. I did like that both characters did speak up about their feelings even though it was scary. Asking for what you want is a nice change of pace from the typical miscommunication that is often found in romance.
And that when the H screwed up, he owned up to it and went to fix it.
I am still reading this... I always say that I love friends to lovers as a trope, but I just realized that I am not fond of it being combined with 'sex tutor' trope.
Done now. I mostly skim sex scenes now days, but the rest of the story was fine. I did like that both characters did speak up about their feelings even though it was scary. Asking for what you want is a nice change of pace from the typical miscommunication that is often found in romance.
And that when the H screwed up, he owned up to it and went to fix it.
September 11, 2023
Meh, didn’t really enjoy the female main character
February 23, 2024
She has never had a boyfriend or romantic partner. He is her handsome firefighter roommate and her brother's best friend.
Casey loves to read and is working part time at a gym until she figures out where her college education fits into a career. One thing that sets her apart from everyone she knows is her love life, or lack thereof. At 28 years old she feels like she has missed something crucial and has a hole in her life. When a friend suggests to Casey to ask her friend Gareth for help with physical intimacy, Casey gathers the courage to try.
Gareth has a broken past with his late father. His trauma led him down a road of his past he is not proud of. Since then, he has worked hard to be reliable, mature, and responsible. He has intentionally kept all the people in his life at arm's length to include his female acquaintances. His job as a firefighter and hobby of a kilt wearing Texas Highland game participant has him finding female attention whenever he wants it.
When Casey asks Gareth for help, he is shocked at first. He adores Casey, she is one of the most important people in his life. Gareth was never going to be anyone's boyfriend so he never looked at Casey as anything but a close friend. He eventually accepts and treats Casey with respect and dignity...like a boyfriend. Once they become intimate both realize that they never want to let each other go.
Dual POV, friends to lovers, man-wh*re/virgin, sex scenes: yes.
I confess: my overall response to this story is my own problem. My triggers should not be your triggers. But it's worth mentioning:
I am speaking into existence and hoping this manifests: can we please stop using the man-wh*re/virgin trope?
While this story handles the plot very well, it's still a cringey topic. The feel of this book felt like New Adult college kids despite the protagonists being in their late twenties. The emotional maturity was there a little bit but it felt stunted by trauma. I loved Casey and Gareth and they are adorable together. I appreciate the way they talk things through and grow as characters. It's sweet to read that they find such happiness. Nice HEA.
Several characters from the King Family Series appear because this takes place in that universe/town. This can be read as a stand alone but the added layers of the other couples enhances the experience. Read this after "Pint of Contention" before "Mint to Be".
Casey loves to read and is working part time at a gym until she figures out where her college education fits into a career. One thing that sets her apart from everyone she knows is her love life, or lack thereof. At 28 years old she feels like she has missed something crucial and has a hole in her life. When a friend suggests to Casey to ask her friend Gareth for help with physical intimacy, Casey gathers the courage to try.
Gareth has a broken past with his late father. His trauma led him down a road of his past he is not proud of. Since then, he has worked hard to be reliable, mature, and responsible. He has intentionally kept all the people in his life at arm's length to include his female acquaintances. His job as a firefighter and hobby of a kilt wearing Texas Highland game participant has him finding female attention whenever he wants it.
When Casey asks Gareth for help, he is shocked at first. He adores Casey, she is one of the most important people in his life. Gareth was never going to be anyone's boyfriend so he never looked at Casey as anything but a close friend. He eventually accepts and treats Casey with respect and dignity...like a boyfriend. Once they become intimate both realize that they never want to let each other go.
Dual POV, friends to lovers, man-wh*re/virgin, sex scenes: yes.
I confess: my overall response to this story is my own problem. My triggers should not be your triggers. But it's worth mentioning:
I am speaking into existence and hoping this manifests: can we please stop using the man-wh*re/virgin trope?
While this story handles the plot very well, it's still a cringey topic. The feel of this book felt like New Adult college kids despite the protagonists being in their late twenties. The emotional maturity was there a little bit but it felt stunted by trauma. I loved Casey and Gareth and they are adorable together. I appreciate the way they talk things through and grow as characters. It's sweet to read that they find such happiness. Nice HEA.
Several characters from the King Family Series appear because this takes place in that universe/town. This can be read as a stand alone but the added layers of the other couples enhances the experience. Read this after "Pint of Contention" before "Mint to Be".
October 2, 2023
This is a stand alone but part of a larger interconnected universe of Susannah Nix books. There is some character crossover that will make readers smile if they've read the King Family Series, but it's also a perfect entry point to Susannah's world.
Casey is a little nerdy and socially awkward (she sneezes when she's anxious and it happens at the most inopportune times) and much to her dismay, still possesses her V-card. Dating hasn't gone all that well for her (see above re: sneezing and imagine the worst case scenario for a first date that was going well-ish). So her best friend suggests Casey approach her friend and hunky firefighter roommate, who is also her brother's best friend, and a highland games competitor (so very fit) and the subject of a decent number of Casey's personal fantasies.... to, um, do her a favour.
Gareth has never wanted to explore more than casual hook-ups with the female population of Crowder, Texas. When Casey asks for help with a little favour (V-card punching) he declines... until she goes out drinking with the intention of hooking up... then we get into the "aw hel naw" part of the male psyche. All of a sudden, Gareth's on board but there are rules to protect their friendship, truths being shared that make the feels deeper because we all know it's never "just sex" especially when it's "let me teach you the ways of the bedroom".
The audiobook for this was performed by Callie Dalton and Lee Samuels and I really enjoyed it. There were laughs, there was steam as they sloooowly built up to the actual v-card punching through a couple of other leadup activities and of course the keeping of secrets. Both characters went on emotional journeys. The "do they feel the same?", the "is this more?", the "my past is colouring my view of the future" and even better the "I was an idiot, please forgive me" (which is one of my personal faves). There is a lot to love about this one, so give it a shot.
I requested and was provided with an advanced copy of the audiobook. These are my honest opinions.
Casey is a little nerdy and socially awkward (she sneezes when she's anxious and it happens at the most inopportune times) and much to her dismay, still possesses her V-card. Dating hasn't gone all that well for her (see above re: sneezing and imagine the worst case scenario for a first date that was going well-ish). So her best friend suggests Casey approach her friend and hunky firefighter roommate, who is also her brother's best friend, and a highland games competitor (so very fit) and the subject of a decent number of Casey's personal fantasies.... to, um, do her a favour.
Gareth has never wanted to explore more than casual hook-ups with the female population of Crowder, Texas. When Casey asks for help with a little favour (V-card punching) he declines... until she goes out drinking with the intention of hooking up... then we get into the "aw hel naw" part of the male psyche. All of a sudden, Gareth's on board but there are rules to protect their friendship, truths being shared that make the feels deeper because we all know it's never "just sex" especially when it's "let me teach you the ways of the bedroom".
The audiobook for this was performed by Callie Dalton and Lee Samuels and I really enjoyed it. There were laughs, there was steam as they sloooowly built up to the actual v-card punching through a couple of other leadup activities and of course the keeping of secrets. Both characters went on emotional journeys. The "do they feel the same?", the "is this more?", the "my past is colouring my view of the future" and even better the "I was an idiot, please forgive me" (which is one of my personal faves). There is a lot to love about this one, so give it a shot.
I requested and was provided with an advanced copy of the audiobook. These are my honest opinions.
July 13, 2023
3.5 stars, rounded up. This was sweet and quite steamy, with a sex coach premise that pretty quickly developed into more. Gareth was a slightly emotionally stunted teddy bear, and I enjoyed reading his care as he introduced Casey to the world of sex. Casey was a bit more mysterious - I appreciated an older virgin heroine but I didn’t quite understand how her character had gotten to that point in her life, she felt rather aimless.
A lot of this book focused solely on the relationship being built, rather than any particular plot, so it felt very cozy. The love scenes were super detailed and the slow place built so much great tension. I loved the scene where they finally made it official, I cheered for Casey when she stood up for something she wanted.
Overall a fun, enjoyable read, I laughed and felt for the characters. One last nitpick, the title didn’t make a lot of sense as Gareth wasn’t Scottish and only wore a kilt in one scene… ah well.
A lot of this book focused solely on the relationship being built, rather than any particular plot, so it felt very cozy. The love scenes were super detailed and the slow place built so much great tension. I loved the scene where they finally made it official, I cheered for Casey when she stood up for something she wanted.
Overall a fun, enjoyable read, I laughed and felt for the characters. One last nitpick, the title didn’t make a lot of sense as Gareth wasn’t Scottish and only wore a kilt in one scene… ah well.
July 26, 2023
When Casey asks her friend and roommate Gareth for love lessons, she gets more than she bargains for when they both develop feelings.
Such a sweet story this was. And boy, was it steamy! I loved how gentle Gareth was with Casey and how he overcame his own issues with his past to better his own future. I adore Susannah Nix's books and getting another glimpse into Crowder Texas where we get exposure to characters from previous books. I'm also excited to read a new novel by her. If you love a good romcom and haven't yet read one of her books, I highly recommend picking one up.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Such a sweet story this was. And boy, was it steamy! I loved how gentle Gareth was with Casey and how he overcame his own issues with his past to better his own future. I adore Susannah Nix's books and getting another glimpse into Crowder Texas where we get exposure to characters from previous books. I'm also excited to read a new novel by her. If you love a good romcom and haven't yet read one of her books, I highly recommend picking one up.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
October 1, 2023
Swoon! Kilt to Order by Susannah Nix was a low angst, heartfelt roommates-to-lovers romcom that had me smiling and happy sighing from start to finish. I loved that Gareth and Casey could both teach each other something and finally figure out their true wants and desires along the way. This was my first Susannah Nix book, and will definitely not be my last.
Callie Dalton and Lee Samuels performed this audiobook in dual narration. I loved these two paired together, and both helped me connect with Casey and Gareth. Callie’s portrayal of Casey was hilarious, vulnerable, and determined as she discovered and uncovered her love for Gareth. Lee presented Gareth’s charismatic and complex persona perfectly peeling each layer, so we could fall even harder for his loyal loving conflicted soul. Plus, both narrators brought out their slow-burning steamy tension!
Overall I LOVED this book! If you are a fan of a friends-to-lovers romance with a reluctant playboy firefighter, a determined book nerd ready to give up her virginity, found family, protective big brother, Highland Games, puffins, Great Expectations, a sex coach, past trauma, new jobs, sneaking around, slow burn steamy times, an eye-opening climax, and a HEA that proves friends make the best lovers, then you will love Casey and Gareth’s story. I am looking forward to more from Susannah Nix.
Callie Dalton and Lee Samuels performed this audiobook in dual narration. I loved these two paired together, and both helped me connect with Casey and Gareth. Callie’s portrayal of Casey was hilarious, vulnerable, and determined as she discovered and uncovered her love for Gareth. Lee presented Gareth’s charismatic and complex persona perfectly peeling each layer, so we could fall even harder for his loyal loving conflicted soul. Plus, both narrators brought out their slow-burning steamy tension!
Overall I LOVED this book! If you are a fan of a friends-to-lovers romance with a reluctant playboy firefighter, a determined book nerd ready to give up her virginity, found family, protective big brother, Highland Games, puffins, Great Expectations, a sex coach, past trauma, new jobs, sneaking around, slow burn steamy times, an eye-opening climax, and a HEA that proves friends make the best lovers, then you will love Casey and Gareth’s story. I am looking forward to more from Susannah Nix.
October 14, 2023
I had high(land) hopes for this book, but too many things felt off. For starters, the kilts and Scottish elements added virtually nothing to the book. It felt forced. Casey, the female main character, was fine. But I really couldn’t bridge the gap that someone who thought so lowly of themselves and never dated ends up with an absolute hunk, playboy firefighter. Maybe that’s the fantasy of it all? I also think I just don’t really love friends to lovers. Overly doting men just don’t do it for me. There’s no tension there, at least in this book. The whole premise of two best friends thinking they could have casual, meaningless sex is already far fetched in my mind. Now add on 👅 and other “bases” and the intimacy is just too much for this to be a plausible solution to Casey’s problem. The other room mates, Casey’s cousin, and her parents all seemed like characachures. They were over the top in their cliches and not relatable at all. The thing that bothered me the most was how absolutely mushy Gareth ends up being for Casey. This emotionally distant man with trauma and massive avoidant attachment issues was suddenly all for a relationship, keeping his girlfriend happy, and ready for marriage after a few months. This would be more believable if we actually had some indication that Casey and Gareth actually had chemistry and tension before this. But other than literally everyone in their lives finally spilling the beans at the end and admitting that they “had heart eyes” for one another (but Casey and Gareth didn’t see it????) we have absolutely no evidence that they did. The change of jobs for Casey, her accident, Gareth running away, and them becoming official was so rushed. The last 40% of this book I simply swiped until there was dialogue and even then I skipped some of the dialogue 😬 Also, the use of overly dorky language in the same vein as “Christ on a cracker” and “mother trucker” was absolutely unreadable. In fact, I started reading another book after this one that had this type of language and a “still a virgin” trope and I immediately deleted it off my Kindle *emotional damage* The one saving grace for this book was the actual spice. It was very well done. A respectable 🌶️🌶️🌶️. Also, the very small amount of tension Gareth had when Casey was trying to date other men was sooo good! Casey should have dated more to build the tension. That would have been amazing. I wonder if the rest of the series will be better, but I’m very honestly shocked by the amount of amazing reviews here. The PR team is clearly *chef’s kiss*
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 23, 2023
I have really enjoyed this author in the past, and was really excited about the description of this book. While the plot in the storyline were decent, I had some other issues with the book. One major issue was the title and the cover. There is one instance of men wearing kilts in this book, and it happens very early, it’s not a massive theme, it isn’t mentioned that much, so I have no idea why the book is titled with kilts and has pictures of kilts on the front cover. I think the characters are cute and I do love the relationship that comes to be from the story. The notion of needing s3x lessons from a friend feels a little cringey, and it came off that way in the writing. Scenes had weird things, (“navel tonguing”) and phrases used or so cheesy. The book felt like it wrapped up around 75% but then something else happened - not spoiling it - and then massive emotional strides happen. The book felt like it was just reaching too far and it was a little too forced. I needed more depth to the story and the characters besides what was just randomly thrown in at times. Somehow it didn’t feel entirely genuine, authentic and just felt like a very surface level attempt at depth. Overall still a cute storyline but could’ve been so much better. 3.25⭐️, 3🌶
December 31, 2023
This was probably more of a 2.5 star for me but with the amount of skimming and issues I had I couldn’t justify bumping it up.
Reasons for my rating:
- as a millennial, I have to say off the bat that this book just had what I felt was some very cringe millennial humor.
- where are the kilts? I don’t care either way if they’re there, but it seems like a lazy title/cover choice for them to be mentioned like twice.
- I just wasn’t buying the friends to lovers in this. There was like zero tension or pining prior to the deal they made? And then when they get together everyone is like OH I SAW IT COMING… did you????
- who signed off on Kenzie, Kaylee, Casey, (Gareth) Kelly ? I was crossed eyes trying to figure out what was happening. But don’t worry, most characters seemed to just pop off to further the plot and then disappear.
- belly button licking? Straight to jail
- what was with the anxiety sneezing storyline? I cannot
Reasons for my rating:
- as a millennial, I have to say off the bat that this book just had what I felt was some very cringe millennial humor.
- where are the kilts? I don’t care either way if they’re there, but it seems like a lazy title/cover choice for them to be mentioned like twice.
- I just wasn’t buying the friends to lovers in this. There was like zero tension or pining prior to the deal they made? And then when they get together everyone is like OH I SAW IT COMING… did you????
- who signed off on Kenzie, Kaylee, Casey, (Gareth) Kelly ? I was crossed eyes trying to figure out what was happening. But don’t worry, most characters seemed to just pop off to further the plot and then disappear.
- belly button licking? Straight to jail
- what was with the anxiety sneezing storyline? I cannot
Read
July 20, 2023I really tried to read this one, but it was a DNF for me. It's featured as a romcom, but there was too much "com" and not enough "rom" in the beginning. Casey comes across as TSTL (way beyond just accident-prone) and the problems on her first date were too unrealistic and gross to be funny. First, she gets margaritas spilled all over her white t-shirt making it see-through. Then she leans into kiss her date and sneezes in his mouth, ending up banging her head and getting a black eye. I read a little into Casey and Gareth's relationship to see if it improved, but I was just bored by the muscle-man-hides-his-education trope. Usually I'm a big fan of Susannah Nix, but this one just wasn't for me.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
dnf
July 26, 2023I got over 50% through so I think I got a good enough sense of the story and the characters to give my opinion! Something about the main characters unfortunately didn't click with me, so I could not seem to care very much for them as people let alone as a couple. The dirty talk was actually really good though! So definitely the most enjoyable part for me hehe
I think ultimately it was just a little too painfully millennial, which doesn't make it a bad book (hence why I didn't rate it!), just makes it not for me :)
I think ultimately it was just a little too painfully millennial, which doesn't make it a bad book (hence why I didn't rate it!), just makes it not for me :)
July 25, 2023
Oh my gosh, I loved this book so much! And it was also a perfect timing to read it as I just got back from my trip to Scotland a little over a week before starting it! Now, if only I’d started it sooner, I’d have known to ask about puffins while I was there. Instead what I was surprised by was the number of seagulls everywhere. Yes, I realized Scotland was pretty much an island, but I just didn’t think about seagulls in the cities like that. But I digress from my book review.
The dedication at the beginning of the book was perfect, it described me in a nutshell:
For every wallflower who is looking for a reformed rake to sweep her off her feet.
Yep, I am a wallflower, and yes, I’d love to find my own reformed rake. While Casey’s pretty much complete innocence isn’t exactly me, her lack of dating and the length of time since kissing someone was so similar I completely got what she felt and how she dealt with things. There was also a line later on in the book about how she’d been “so good at school” which again is me. I loved school, because I was good at it I think. Then I got into the real world and it wasn’t as easy for me. While I knew what I wanted to do, dreamed of being a teacher because of my love of school, like Casey I also didn’t really fall in love with what I was doing until I got my library job, and she interviewed for a new job at the end of the book. One that fit her nerdy side.
And then there is Gareth. Swoon. I want my own Gareth for sure! He had so much more depth than you might expect for someone considered a bit of a playboy by those around him. And I like how he didn’t really play into that stereotype for most of the book, it was just the background we were given on him and what others thought about him. I liked how he took his time to give into Casey’s request for help with her virginity, and how he realized just how much he felt for her as the time went on. Their sexy times were perfect and I loved how they fit the story just right.
As usual the author has brought a world to life with wonderful supporting characters both from books past and hopefully future books. The banter both between Casey and Gareth, as well as with their friends and family made everything exactly the way I love in a good rom-com. And while Gareth’s family may have had issues, I loved that even with the craziness of Casey’s family, how they reacted to her dating Gareth, they were a good supportive family in the end.
Loved this one and can’t wait for more of these characters we’re getting to know!
Review first posted at Lisa Loves Literature
The dedication at the beginning of the book was perfect, it described me in a nutshell:
For every wallflower who is looking for a reformed rake to sweep her off her feet.
Yep, I am a wallflower, and yes, I’d love to find my own reformed rake. While Casey’s pretty much complete innocence isn’t exactly me, her lack of dating and the length of time since kissing someone was so similar I completely got what she felt and how she dealt with things. There was also a line later on in the book about how she’d been “so good at school” which again is me. I loved school, because I was good at it I think. Then I got into the real world and it wasn’t as easy for me. While I knew what I wanted to do, dreamed of being a teacher because of my love of school, like Casey I also didn’t really fall in love with what I was doing until I got my library job, and she interviewed for a new job at the end of the book. One that fit her nerdy side.
And then there is Gareth. Swoon. I want my own Gareth for sure! He had so much more depth than you might expect for someone considered a bit of a playboy by those around him. And I like how he didn’t really play into that stereotype for most of the book, it was just the background we were given on him and what others thought about him. I liked how he took his time to give into Casey’s request for help with her virginity, and how he realized just how much he felt for her as the time went on. Their sexy times were perfect and I loved how they fit the story just right.
As usual the author has brought a world to life with wonderful supporting characters both from books past and hopefully future books. The banter both between Casey and Gareth, as well as with their friends and family made everything exactly the way I love in a good rom-com. And while Gareth’s family may have had issues, I loved that even with the craziness of Casey’s family, how they reacted to her dating Gareth, they were a good supportive family in the end.
Loved this one and can’t wait for more of these characters we’re getting to know!
Review first posted at Lisa Loves Literature
October 2, 2023
NOTE: I read the AUDIOBOOK edition.
At twenty-eight, Cassie is going on her first date since 10th grade. Her love life is non-existent and something always goes spectacularly wrong. She thinks that if she has sex just once, she’ll get over the awkwardness and her nervousness that leads to sneezing, and her good friend Gareth seems like a great choice to help her.
Kilt to Order is a wonderful friends-to-lovers romance that left me smiling for days. Casey lives in a rental home with her older brother and two of his good friends, one of which is Gareth. Casey and Gareth are true friends: they joke around and confide in one another. I love that Cassie isn’t “Gareth’s best friend’s baby sister” but rather she is Casey, Gareth’s friend. And this friendship is what allows Casey to open up to Gareth about her dismal love life. I love the scene when she approaches him about sex. Casey decides to back out, but out of concern for her, he insists she tell him what’s going on. He snuggles her and it’s sweet but also sexy.
Gareth is so kind and caring. While most of the world views him as eye candy, Casey knows him. The pair click as friends and burn things up as a couple. He takes it slow because he wants Casey’s first time to be perfect, but he admits to himself it’s because he doesn’t want their time together to end. Both Casey and Gareth mature and grow, overcoming intimacy fears through communication and love.
Narration: The story is shared via alternating first person present-tense narrative, with Callie Dalton performing Casey’s POV and Lee Samuels performing Gareth’s POV. Both narrators are really well-suited for their main character roles. They bring out the MC’s personalities, making both feel real. Dalton’s voice is upbeat and bubbly, which fits Casey’s optimism and sunshine. Samuels uses a deepish voice that is perfect for Gareth who is in his late twenties; it’s youthful without sounding young. Both narrators alter dialogue based on gender and age, creating unique voices for all supporting characters. Sometimes it was hard to distinguish the difference between Casey’s dialogue and inner monologue. I also felt that Samuels’s performance was noticeably slower than Dalton’s.
Overall, I really liked Kilt to Order. I had a moment of fear when there was over an hour left, and they seemed like they were at an HEA. I love that the author tosses in a road block that forces Gareth to confront some dark emotions, but that she doesn’t take it so far to have it drag on. I love that this couple is cute and sexy and meant to be. I plan to pick up more of Nix’s titles soon.
My Ratings:
Story: A
Narration: A-
Review copy provided by tour company
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
At twenty-eight, Cassie is going on her first date since 10th grade. Her love life is non-existent and something always goes spectacularly wrong. She thinks that if she has sex just once, she’ll get over the awkwardness and her nervousness that leads to sneezing, and her good friend Gareth seems like a great choice to help her.
Kilt to Order is a wonderful friends-to-lovers romance that left me smiling for days. Casey lives in a rental home with her older brother and two of his good friends, one of which is Gareth. Casey and Gareth are true friends: they joke around and confide in one another. I love that Cassie isn’t “Gareth’s best friend’s baby sister” but rather she is Casey, Gareth’s friend. And this friendship is what allows Casey to open up to Gareth about her dismal love life. I love the scene when she approaches him about sex. Casey decides to back out, but out of concern for her, he insists she tell him what’s going on. He snuggles her and it’s sweet but also sexy.
Gareth is so kind and caring. While most of the world views him as eye candy, Casey knows him. The pair click as friends and burn things up as a couple. He takes it slow because he wants Casey’s first time to be perfect, but he admits to himself it’s because he doesn’t want their time together to end. Both Casey and Gareth mature and grow, overcoming intimacy fears through communication and love.
Narration: The story is shared via alternating first person present-tense narrative, with Callie Dalton performing Casey’s POV and Lee Samuels performing Gareth’s POV. Both narrators are really well-suited for their main character roles. They bring out the MC’s personalities, making both feel real. Dalton’s voice is upbeat and bubbly, which fits Casey’s optimism and sunshine. Samuels uses a deepish voice that is perfect for Gareth who is in his late twenties; it’s youthful without sounding young. Both narrators alter dialogue based on gender and age, creating unique voices for all supporting characters. Sometimes it was hard to distinguish the difference between Casey’s dialogue and inner monologue. I also felt that Samuels’s performance was noticeably slower than Dalton’s.
Overall, I really liked Kilt to Order. I had a moment of fear when there was over an hour left, and they seemed like they were at an HEA. I love that the author tosses in a road block that forces Gareth to confront some dark emotions, but that she doesn’t take it so far to have it drag on. I love that this couple is cute and sexy and meant to be. I plan to pick up more of Nix’s titles soon.
My Ratings:
Story: A
Narration: A-
Review copy provided by tour company
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
July 25, 2023
Thanks to the author for the early copy of this beautiful book and the chance to give my candid review.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 4.5/5
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥 (0-5)
What I’m Starry-Eyed Over:
🤩 Roommates and friends-to-lovers PLUS brother’s best friend.
🤩 And, let’s make a deal—you help me and I’ll help you.
🤩 The dedication: “For every wallflower who’s looking for a reformed rake to sweep her off her feet.” The one spoke to the quiet introvert in me.
🤩 Laugh-out-loud funny. I’m so sorry Casey but that date!
🤩 But also all the feels and deep emotions.
🤩 Gareth is total book boyfriend material. I fell in love with him when he hugged Casey after her horrible date. He’s so thoughtful, honest, fun, and funny.
🤩 When Casey’s friends historical romance trope her: “It’s one of those stories where the shy wallflower asks the notorious rake to give her s*x lessons so she can learn to seduce someone else!”
🤩 Two of the hottest first and second kissing scenes I’ve ever read.
🤩 The steamy couch scenes are fantastic, especially the one where the other roommate is still in the house!! I’ve reread them already. So very movie worthy.
🤩 Protective fireman carry (yes, Gareth is a fireman)!
🤩 I have the cutest cuddle quote for you: “I didn’t realize you were such a cuddler.” “Neither did I,” he says as if he’s surprised himself. “Why haven’t we been doing this all along? What a f*$%ing waste.”
🤩 Highland Games lessons!
🤩 Indie bookstore love!
What I’m Wishing/Dizzy About:
💫 This whole book feels like romcom perfection—all the feels but fun and flirty. I believe in the HEA. But, two things: 1. Gareth needs some therapy & 2. I’m kind of picky about needing some physical connection (steam) after the drama/time apart—it helps solidify the HEA in my greedy reader heart.
💫 The King Family series has been on my TBR for way too long—totally bumping them up.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 4.5/5
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥 (0-5)
What I’m Starry-Eyed Over:
🤩 Roommates and friends-to-lovers PLUS brother’s best friend.
🤩 And, let’s make a deal—you help me and I’ll help you.
🤩 The dedication: “For every wallflower who’s looking for a reformed rake to sweep her off her feet.” The one spoke to the quiet introvert in me.
🤩 Laugh-out-loud funny. I’m so sorry Casey but that date!
🤩 But also all the feels and deep emotions.
🤩 Gareth is total book boyfriend material. I fell in love with him when he hugged Casey after her horrible date. He’s so thoughtful, honest, fun, and funny.
🤩 When Casey’s friends historical romance trope her: “It’s one of those stories where the shy wallflower asks the notorious rake to give her s*x lessons so she can learn to seduce someone else!”
🤩 Two of the hottest first and second kissing scenes I’ve ever read.
🤩 The steamy couch scenes are fantastic, especially the one where the other roommate is still in the house!! I’ve reread them already. So very movie worthy.
🤩 Protective fireman carry (yes, Gareth is a fireman)!
🤩 I have the cutest cuddle quote for you: “I didn’t realize you were such a cuddler.” “Neither did I,” he says as if he’s surprised himself. “Why haven’t we been doing this all along? What a f*$%ing waste.”
🤩 Highland Games lessons!
🤩 Indie bookstore love!
What I’m Wishing/Dizzy About:
💫 This whole book feels like romcom perfection—all the feels but fun and flirty. I believe in the HEA. But, two things: 1. Gareth needs some therapy & 2. I’m kind of picky about needing some physical connection (steam) after the drama/time apart—it helps solidify the HEA in my greedy reader heart.
💫 The King Family series has been on my TBR for way too long—totally bumping them up.
July 3, 2023
Kilt to Order by Susannah Nix
This is the first book in the Kilt Trip series. It takes place in the King universe in Crowder, TX. You can read it as a standalone.
I read this book in one day. I inhaled it! Absolutely fabulous! Best of all, NO THIRD ACT BREAKUP! There is drama, and angst, but no breakup. Thank you Susannah Nix!
I LOVE an older main character who is a virgin. I adore it when it's the male main character like Evie Alexander's Musical Games (kilts included) and Lia Riley's Virgin Territory. But I also LOVE female characters too! And when those characters have read romance novels and are already having solo sex, swoony swoon swoon swoon!
I am standing ovation cheering for Susannah Nix's inclusion of conversations and acknowledgement that virginity is a construct of the patriarchy, and also for Casey still wanting to have partner sex.
Things I am here for:
Casey is a self-proclaimed nerd who loves to read
Mitch is the absolute bestest friend and an excellent cook. Oh and he's pretty great at the sex lessons.
Highland Games!
Kilts!
Casey is living with her brother and 2 of his guy friends, and she is NOT expected to do all of the household chores. (She does organize the men, but it's because she likes that, not because she is a female).
Casey is so witty. I have so many highlights of her inner and outer dialogue.
Casey and Ozzy's t-shirts
All of the romance novel writer mentions
All grammar is made up!
Goats don't have manners
Mind-blowing first time partner sex! Mind-blowing first time penetrative sex!
The meet the parents scene is the funniest thing I've read in a while.
Please tell me are getting a Darius and Mr. Twinkletoes book!
This was my favorite highlight:
"I don’t want to be off the hook. I like being on your hook.”
I received an advance review copy for free from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is the first book in the Kilt Trip series. It takes place in the King universe in Crowder, TX. You can read it as a standalone.
I read this book in one day. I inhaled it! Absolutely fabulous! Best of all, NO THIRD ACT BREAKUP! There is drama, and angst, but no breakup. Thank you Susannah Nix!
I LOVE an older main character who is a virgin. I adore it when it's the male main character like Evie Alexander's Musical Games (kilts included) and Lia Riley's Virgin Territory. But I also LOVE female characters too! And when those characters have read romance novels and are already having solo sex, swoony swoon swoon swoon!
I am standing ovation cheering for Susannah Nix's inclusion of conversations and acknowledgement that virginity is a construct of the patriarchy, and also for Casey still wanting to have partner sex.
Things I am here for:
Casey is a self-proclaimed nerd who loves to read
Mitch is the absolute bestest friend and an excellent cook. Oh and he's pretty great at the sex lessons.
Highland Games!
Kilts!
Casey is living with her brother and 2 of his guy friends, and she is NOT expected to do all of the household chores. (She does organize the men, but it's because she likes that, not because she is a female).
Casey is so witty. I have so many highlights of her inner and outer dialogue.
Casey and Ozzy's t-shirts
All of the romance novel writer mentions
All grammar is made up!
Goats don't have manners
Mind-blowing first time partner sex! Mind-blowing first time penetrative sex!
The meet the parents scene is the funniest thing I've read in a while.
Please tell me are getting a Darius and Mr. Twinkletoes book!
This was my favorite highlight:
"I don’t want to be off the hook. I like being on your hook.”
I received an advance review copy for free from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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