What do you think?
Rate this book
Harborside Nights #3
Tempting Tristan
Previous cover edition for ASIN B01EZ3ZZIY
For alternate cover edition see here
Tempting Tristan is a stand-alone M/M romance featuring two sexy, hot alphas. One injured war hero, one man who has loved and lost. Each struggling for a future not bound by his painful past.
TRISTAN
I’m fresh off the heels of yet another bad relationship.
I’m done. I’m taking a break from men to figure out what I keep doing wrong.
I know my faults. I lead with my heart, not my head. But that’s never going to change.
A few weeks into my no dick hiatus, I think I’ve got a handle on things.
That is, until badass heartthrob Alex Wells strolls into my bar.
ALEX
Eight years in the Army, months in a hospital bed, and far too long hiding my sexual identity has left me damaged, pissed off, and up for a Silver Star—for the incident that nearly cost me my life, and kept me from my grandmother's funeral.
All I want is to forget my stint with the institution that allows but doesn't necessarily accept, and live the life I’ve always wanted. The hot bartender coming my way, just might be my gateway drug.
But I’m f*cked up.
The closer he gets, the more my walls go up, and he’s going to find out that my physical scars aren’t the ones that run the deepest.
"This book, I... am in awe. An M/M romance that all other Authors who write M/M should stand up take note."- Socially Book Nerd (5 Stars)
"What an amazing love story this is. The author really gripped me, I didn't want this book to end I wanted more!" - A Book Lover's Emporium (5 Stars)
"This is the first Melissa Foster book that I've ever read, and I will definitely be reading more from her ASAP." - Happily Ever Chapter (5 Stars)
"Romantic and beautiful, Tristan is more than tempting. Alex is commanding and tender and the both of them together melt my heart." - The Book Fair Reviews (5 Stars)
"I love me a good M/M book, and this one has made its way to one of my favorites!!" - Tiffany W, Goodreads Reviewer (5 Stars)
"Melissa Foster is synonymous with sexy, swoony, heartfelt romance!" New York Times Bestseller Lauren Blakely
"With her wonderful characters and resonating emotions, Melissa Foster is a must-read author!" New York Times Bestseller J. Kenner
"Catching Cassidy is laugh out loud funny, heartwarming, sexy, and hands down one of my favorite reads so far this year!" #1 NYT Bestselling Author of The Bet, Rachel Van Dyken
HARBORSIDE NIGHTS is a sexy, hot, and evocatively real series of stand-alone romances that follows a group of friends who have known one another for years as "summer" friends, and now come together after college to build their lives. They're tough, edgy, and accepting--most of the time. This series is written in the same loving, raw, and emotional voice readers have come to love by New York Times & USA Today bestselling, award-winning author Melissa Foster with LGBT themes.
**
AUTHOR BIO
Melissa Foster is a New York Times & USA Today bestselling and award-winning author. She writes sexy and heartwarming contemporary romance and new adult romance with emotionally compelling characters that stay with you long after you turn the last page. Perfect beach reads for contemporary romance lovers who enjoy reading about wealthy heroes and smart, sassy heroines.
For alternate cover edition see here
Tempting Tristan is a stand-alone M/M romance featuring two sexy, hot alphas. One injured war hero, one man who has loved and lost. Each struggling for a future not bound by his painful past.
TRISTAN
I’m fresh off the heels of yet another bad relationship.
I’m done. I’m taking a break from men to figure out what I keep doing wrong.
I know my faults. I lead with my heart, not my head. But that’s never going to change.
A few weeks into my no dick hiatus, I think I’ve got a handle on things.
That is, until badass heartthrob Alex Wells strolls into my bar.
ALEX
Eight years in the Army, months in a hospital bed, and far too long hiding my sexual identity has left me damaged, pissed off, and up for a Silver Star—for the incident that nearly cost me my life, and kept me from my grandmother's funeral.
All I want is to forget my stint with the institution that allows but doesn't necessarily accept, and live the life I’ve always wanted. The hot bartender coming my way, just might be my gateway drug.
But I’m f*cked up.
The closer he gets, the more my walls go up, and he’s going to find out that my physical scars aren’t the ones that run the deepest.
"This book, I... am in awe. An M/M romance that all other Authors who write M/M should stand up take note."- Socially Book Nerd (5 Stars)
"What an amazing love story this is. The author really gripped me, I didn't want this book to end I wanted more!" - A Book Lover's Emporium (5 Stars)
"This is the first Melissa Foster book that I've ever read, and I will definitely be reading more from her ASAP." - Happily Ever Chapter (5 Stars)
"Romantic and beautiful, Tristan is more than tempting. Alex is commanding and tender and the both of them together melt my heart." - The Book Fair Reviews (5 Stars)
"I love me a good M/M book, and this one has made its way to one of my favorites!!" - Tiffany W, Goodreads Reviewer (5 Stars)
"Melissa Foster is synonymous with sexy, swoony, heartfelt romance!" New York Times Bestseller Lauren Blakely
"With her wonderful characters and resonating emotions, Melissa Foster is a must-read author!" New York Times Bestseller J. Kenner
"Catching Cassidy is laugh out loud funny, heartwarming, sexy, and hands down one of my favorite reads so far this year!" #1 NYT Bestselling Author of The Bet, Rachel Van Dyken
HARBORSIDE NIGHTS is a sexy, hot, and evocatively real series of stand-alone romances that follows a group of friends who have known one another for years as "summer" friends, and now come together after college to build their lives. They're tough, edgy, and accepting--most of the time. This series is written in the same loving, raw, and emotional voice readers have come to love by New York Times & USA Today bestselling, award-winning author Melissa Foster with LGBT themes.
**
AUTHOR BIO
Melissa Foster is a New York Times & USA Today bestselling and award-winning author. She writes sexy and heartwarming contemporary romance and new adult romance with emotionally compelling characters that stay with you long after you turn the last page. Perfect beach reads for contemporary romance lovers who enjoy reading about wealthy heroes and smart, sassy heroines.
300 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 19, 2016
About the author
Melissa Foster
158 books11.3k followersNEW YORK TIMES, WALL STREET JOURNAL, and USA TODAY BESTSELLING AUTHOR
Never miss a release! Follow Melissa here on Amazon and sign up for her newsletter: https://MelissaFoster.com/Newsletter
Start FIVE of Melissa's series FREE in ebook format here: https://MelissaFoster.com/LIBFREE
FREE Love in Bloom Family Trees: https://MelissaFoster.com/RG
FREE Series Reading Order Checklist: https://MelissaFoster.com/SeriesCheck...
FREE Series Order Checklist by Publication Date (recommended): https://melissafoster.com/SeriesCheck...
Melissa Foster is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling and award-winning author of more than 100 novels. She writes sexy and heartwarming contemporary romance and women’s fiction with emotionally compelling characters that stay with you long after you turn the last page. Melissa’s emotional journeys are lovingly erotic, always family oriented, and feature fiercely loyal heroes, smart, sassy heroines, and complex relatable issues.
Melissa also writes sweet romance under the pen name, Addison Cole here: https://addisoncole.com
Melissa loves to hear from readers! Feel free to send her an email or chat with her on social media.
Melissa welcomes the opportunity to chat with book clubs and other reading groups.
"What sets Melissa Foster apart are her compelling characters who you care about... desperately...I dare you to read the first chapter and not be hooked." International bestseller, M.J. Rose
"Melissa Foster is a wonderful connector of readers and books, a friend of authors, and a tireless advocate for women. She is the real deal"--Author Jennie Shortridge
Never miss a release! Follow Melissa here on Amazon and sign up for her newsletter: https://MelissaFoster.com/Newsletter
Start FIVE of Melissa's series FREE in ebook format here: https://MelissaFoster.com/LIBFREE
FREE Love in Bloom Family Trees: https://MelissaFoster.com/RG
FREE Series Reading Order Checklist: https://MelissaFoster.com/SeriesCheck...
FREE Series Order Checklist by Publication Date (recommended): https://melissafoster.com/SeriesCheck...
Melissa Foster is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling and award-winning author of more than 100 novels. She writes sexy and heartwarming contemporary romance and women’s fiction with emotionally compelling characters that stay with you long after you turn the last page. Melissa’s emotional journeys are lovingly erotic, always family oriented, and feature fiercely loyal heroes, smart, sassy heroines, and complex relatable issues.
Melissa also writes sweet romance under the pen name, Addison Cole here: https://addisoncole.com
Melissa loves to hear from readers! Feel free to send her an email or chat with her on social media.
Melissa welcomes the opportunity to chat with book clubs and other reading groups.
"What sets Melissa Foster apart are her compelling characters who you care about... desperately...I dare you to read the first chapter and not be hooked." International bestseller, M.J. Rose
"Melissa Foster is a wonderful connector of readers and books, a friend of authors, and a tireless advocate for women. She is the real deal"--Author Jennie Shortridge
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 449 reviews
![Profile Image for Carol [Goodreads Addict].](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/users/1626057011i/10717098._UX200_CR0,33,200,200_.jpg)
April 28, 2023
Tempting Tristan is book three in the Harborside Nights series by Melissa Foster. This is a MM romance that I am in awe of. I just this minute finished it and I hope I can scrape a few words together to let you know how wonderful it was. I have not read any of the other books in the series and had no problem at all jumping in. It can be read as a complete stand alone.
“Family, loyalty and strength.”
Alex Wells is just short of thirty years old. He is an artist. He builds furniture, mostly from driftwood that washes ashore after a storm. Alex is or was also a soldier. He spent eight years serving his country. He was seriously injured and spent the last several months in a hospital and rehab center. Now his body is scarred, as is his soul. Alex is gay but spent his eight years keeping his true self hidden. Now it is time to return to the only town that ever felt like home, Harborside. He wants to create his art, and live honestly for the first time in his adult life.
Tristan Brewer has always lived in Harborside. All he’s ever wanted was to love a man who loved and respected him in return. But he gives his heart too easily and has been treated badly as a result. After his last break up, Tristan has sworn off men for awhile. Tristan is a bartender and it’s during one of his shifts when the hot, tattooed biker looking man walks in, making both the men and the women in the room take notice. But for some reason, he only seemed to have eyes for Tristan.
“Everything with Alex feels amplified, like all the men before him were practice, gearing me up for the man who would challenge my every move. Preparing me for him.”
Both of these men have suffered. In different ways, yes, but they both had personal hurdles to overcome. Sometimes, though, all you need is the right person to push you in the right way, to help you to see the man you want to be. To help you to open yourself up to the growth you know you deserve. I was so proud of these two. They were so brave. Especially Alex. His actions were so ingrained into him from his time in service. Tristan just seemed to know how to help him. And Tristan was holding on to the way his ex made him feel. But finally the light bulb went off and he saw that Alex, even though he was struggling, would never be that man.
I believe that this is Melissa Foster’s only MM romance and she did such a fantastic job. This is so steamy but also, so romantic, so sweet, so swoony. I knew by fifteen percent that I already loved these two. The way they met is just about my favorite way, when one man walks into a room and their eyes meet and that instant spark is there. But I also loved the connection that brought these two together. I’ll let you find out about that on your own. Even with all these two needed to overcome, never once did they walk away from the other. They stuck together, worked together to make each other stronger. This was a beautifully written, heart warming, sexy, swoony romance that I am so very glad I got the chance to finally read.
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
“Family, loyalty and strength.”
Alex Wells is just short of thirty years old. He is an artist. He builds furniture, mostly from driftwood that washes ashore after a storm. Alex is or was also a soldier. He spent eight years serving his country. He was seriously injured and spent the last several months in a hospital and rehab center. Now his body is scarred, as is his soul. Alex is gay but spent his eight years keeping his true self hidden. Now it is time to return to the only town that ever felt like home, Harborside. He wants to create his art, and live honestly for the first time in his adult life.
Tristan Brewer has always lived in Harborside. All he’s ever wanted was to love a man who loved and respected him in return. But he gives his heart too easily and has been treated badly as a result. After his last break up, Tristan has sworn off men for awhile. Tristan is a bartender and it’s during one of his shifts when the hot, tattooed biker looking man walks in, making both the men and the women in the room take notice. But for some reason, he only seemed to have eyes for Tristan.
“Everything with Alex feels amplified, like all the men before him were practice, gearing me up for the man who would challenge my every move. Preparing me for him.”
Both of these men have suffered. In different ways, yes, but they both had personal hurdles to overcome. Sometimes, though, all you need is the right person to push you in the right way, to help you to see the man you want to be. To help you to open yourself up to the growth you know you deserve. I was so proud of these two. They were so brave. Especially Alex. His actions were so ingrained into him from his time in service. Tristan just seemed to know how to help him. And Tristan was holding on to the way his ex made him feel. But finally the light bulb went off and he saw that Alex, even though he was struggling, would never be that man.
I believe that this is Melissa Foster’s only MM romance and she did such a fantastic job. This is so steamy but also, so romantic, so sweet, so swoony. I knew by fifteen percent that I already loved these two. The way they met is just about my favorite way, when one man walks into a room and their eyes meet and that instant spark is there. But I also loved the connection that brought these two together. I’ll let you find out about that on your own. Even with all these two needed to overcome, never once did they walk away from the other. They stuck together, worked together to make each other stronger. This was a beautifully written, heart warming, sexy, swoony romance that I am so very glad I got the chance to finally read.
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
November 20, 2019
Time of death at 52%
It's me, not the book!
That cover should have been my first warning, those abs are too perfect, just like one of our Mcs Alex. Everyone especially women keep drooling over him but guess what he doesn't notice, coz he got eyes for only Tristan. Yay!
The story is Insta. The real INSTA! bam! boom! day one and they each have found the one.
Told in dual POV but i felt they sounded the same.
And thinking a guy's smile is sweet/beautiful doesn't make you a "pussy" and "look like a girl" should be retired. It is not a weakness and shouldn't be used as an insult.
Overall, i couldn't get into it, it was the same old, same old MF dipping into MM.
It's me, not the book!
That cover should have been my first warning, those abs are too perfect, just like one of our Mcs Alex. Everyone especially women keep drooling over him but guess what he doesn't notice, coz he got eyes for only Tristan. Yay!
The story is Insta. The real INSTA! bam! boom! day one and they each have found the one.
Told in dual POV but i felt they sounded the same.
And thinking a guy's smile is sweet/beautiful doesn't make you a "pussy" and "look like a girl" should be retired. It is not a weakness and shouldn't be used as an insult.
Overall, i couldn't get into it, it was the same old, same old MF dipping into MM.
October 1, 2016
Need a book that will steal your heart, then this is the book for you. Fist we have schmexy, loving and perfect specimen of a Man Tristan who is on a break from men. A break, from giving his heart to men that will take and not give him the love and respect that he dreams of having.
Then we have brawny, military, artist scarred and beautiful inside and out Alex. This is the man that is looking for the family and acceptance that he never had growing up. Stability was only found when he spent time with his grandmother, who passed away while he was in a hospital after having been injured.
Okay, now, wait did I tell you that these guys are both sexy and smart and swoon worthy? Yes they are all of those things both inside and out and perfect for each other.
They love that they share is simply beautiful, the struggles and the growth they share with each other is inspiring. Alex has suffered a lot and has tons of baggage that he wishes and hopes he can over come so that he can be with the man that holds his heart, Tristan.
Tristan is afraid that if he gives his heart to Alex he won't get back the same openness he gives. Together they overcome their issues and become stronger. I love how Tristan pushes Alex and how Alex shows him how much he loves Tristan.
Romantic and beautiful, Tristan is more than tempting. Alex is commanding and tender and the both of them together melt my heart.
Then we have brawny, military, artist scarred and beautiful inside and out Alex. This is the man that is looking for the family and acceptance that he never had growing up. Stability was only found when he spent time with his grandmother, who passed away while he was in a hospital after having been injured.
Okay, now, wait did I tell you that these guys are both sexy and smart and swoon worthy? Yes they are all of those things both inside and out and perfect for each other.
They love that they share is simply beautiful, the struggles and the growth they share with each other is inspiring. Alex has suffered a lot and has tons of baggage that he wishes and hopes he can over come so that he can be with the man that holds his heart, Tristan.
Tristan is afraid that if he gives his heart to Alex he won't get back the same openness he gives. Together they overcome their issues and become stronger. I love how Tristan pushes Alex and how Alex shows him how much he loves Tristan.
Romantic and beautiful, Tristan is more than tempting. Alex is commanding and tender and the both of them together melt my heart.
October 19, 2016
A beautifully written story that just happens to be about 2 males. This is the least important fact in the book. Melissa has crafted a beautiful story about 2 people who have lots of emotional scars, and together they prove that love conquers all. You may be a little nervous about reading a same sex story, do yourself a favour and give it a go, you will be pleasantly surprised
August 6, 2019
Audio - 4.5 stars
Story - 3 Swoon as well as eye-roll inducing Stars!
Story - 3 Swoon as well as eye-roll inducing Stars!
October 8, 2016
This is the first Melissa Foster book that I've ever read, and I will definitely be reading more from her ASAP. I loved this one. Tempting Tristan is the third book in her Harborside Nights series. Each book can be read as a stand alone, but contains characters from previous stories. I actually picked up book #1 in the series because I loved this one so much.
Tristan recently single and has decided that he is on a break from men for a while. He doesn't trust his judgement when it comes to finding the right guy. He doesn't want a guy that will take adbantage of him or someone who won't give him the happiness he deserves. He has a habit of leading with his heart and falling easily.
Alex is still healing emotionally from his honorary discharge from the Army. He was hurt in combat and is very touchy about the scaring he has on his body. He has spent 8 years in the Army hiding who he was (his sexuality), and now that he is out of the Army he has decided that he is going to live his life and really be "out". He still has a few hangups with the way the military has made him think and act, but he wants to change.
I LOVED these two together. Melissa Foster definitely knows how to write steamy scenes. I can't even decide which of the two MCs were my favorite. I loved them both. Alex was so sweet and caring, and Tristan was too. Tristan helped Alex work through a lot of things and also worked through his own insecurities too. Can't wait to read more from Melissa Foster.
** I received an ARC of this title in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. **
Tristan recently single and has decided that he is on a break from men for a while. He doesn't trust his judgement when it comes to finding the right guy. He doesn't want a guy that will take adbantage of him or someone who won't give him the happiness he deserves. He has a habit of leading with his heart and falling easily.
Alex is still healing emotionally from his honorary discharge from the Army. He was hurt in combat and is very touchy about the scaring he has on his body. He has spent 8 years in the Army hiding who he was (his sexuality), and now that he is out of the Army he has decided that he is going to live his life and really be "out". He still has a few hangups with the way the military has made him think and act, but he wants to change.
I LOVED these two together. Melissa Foster definitely knows how to write steamy scenes. I can't even decide which of the two MCs were my favorite. I loved them both. Alex was so sweet and caring, and Tristan was too. Tristan helped Alex work through a lot of things and also worked through his own insecurities too. Can't wait to read more from Melissa Foster.
** I received an ARC of this title in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. **
October 21, 2016
Very low angst mm read with LOTS of hot scenes but there was just something missing for me. I feel like I missed all the build up into their relationship. They met then the next minute they are a couple. I also got annoyed with both of them and their hangups. But overall, pretty decent.
September 25, 2016
This book, I... am in Awe. The best book by far in the series. An M/M romance that all other Authors who write M/M should stand up take note. Such emotion it's gut renching. You laugh, cry and struggle along with Alex. As he works to chase the demons of War, Death, and Heroism away, and Tristan how he puches him to be the man he knows he can be. Tristian is such a dependable, strong, A loving Friend, Son, Brother, he deserves a future/partner who supports him as he has supported everyone around him. Mrs. Foster I am in Awe of you and your 1st attempt at M\M... I can not wait for Brandon's story... I hope you will reprise your M/M and maybe M/F/M... Brandon deserves happy-ever-after......
October 9, 2016
Hurt/healing/comfort with a military man? My crack! I can't get enough. And Alex is having a tough time with his PTSD and physical injuries. A Really tough time. Enter Tristan! Sweet and funny and sexy and perfect. He has Alex's number and works his healing/comfort charm all over the man. Delightful.
But, let's talk about insta-love for a minute. Insta-love really really works for me in paranormal shifter/mate books. The heroes lock eyes and smell their mate's pheromones and they are off to the races. Sexy. As. Fuck. Insta-love sometimes works for me in fantasy romance. The white knight rescues the damsel in distress and an instant connection is formed. Insta-love in contemporary romance? No. Not my thing.
A large part of the excitement in reading a contemporary romance is watching the heroes fall in love. They find adorable things they like about each other. They start to share common experiences. The relationship grows into love and the journey is as much fun as the outcome. And it has nothing to do with sex. Heroes can be humping like bunnies before they fall in love and that 100% works for me! Giddy-up!
Tristan and Alex after one week of knowing each other:
Tempting Tristan didn't give us that relationship exploration period and I felt a bit cheated by that.
The sex? Hot and plentiful:
I liked this storyline and loved the sex, but the insta-love was enough of a turnoff to drop my rating down to a 3. If insta-love is your thing, this is a great book for you. I can recommend it wholeheartedly. But if you share my feelings about insta-love in contemporary romance, you'll want to skip this one.
Galley copy of Tempting Tristan provided by the publisher in exchange of an honest review.
This review is also posted at Gay Book Reviews
But, let's talk about insta-love for a minute. Insta-love really really works for me in paranormal shifter/mate books. The heroes lock eyes and smell their mate's pheromones and they are off to the races. Sexy. As. Fuck. Insta-love sometimes works for me in fantasy romance. The white knight rescues the damsel in distress and an instant connection is formed. Insta-love in contemporary romance? No. Not my thing.
A large part of the excitement in reading a contemporary romance is watching the heroes fall in love. They find adorable things they like about each other. They start to share common experiences. The relationship grows into love and the journey is as much fun as the outcome. And it has nothing to do with sex. Heroes can be humping like bunnies before they fall in love and that 100% works for me! Giddy-up!
Tristan and Alex after one week of knowing each other:
We will see. One day you’ll spin around and six months will have passed. Then you’ll spin around again, and two years will have passed. Then you’ll be old and gray, and I’ll still be right there by your side, proving to you that you can trust me.
Tempting Tristan didn't give us that relationship exploration period and I felt a bit cheated by that.
The sex? Hot and plentiful:
I spread my legs wider, planting them firmly so he can take me harder. He releases my hand and grabs my hair, tugging my head back and craning my neck as he claims my mouth. Every slick of his tongue competes with the magnificent thrusts of his hard-as-steel shaft and the pump of his fist on my cock.
I liked this storyline and loved the sex, but the insta-love was enough of a turnoff to drop my rating down to a 3. If insta-love is your thing, this is a great book for you. I can recommend it wholeheartedly. But if you share my feelings about insta-love in contemporary romance, you'll want to skip this one.
Galley copy of Tempting Tristan provided by the publisher in exchange of an honest review.
This review is also posted at Gay Book Reviews
September 19, 2016
The author doesn't usually write "MM" books, and you can see some stylistic differences - if that's mostly what you read. But, gee, I really liked this book. I really liked the characters, primary and secondary, and the sex was hot. I'm also all for writers embracing different kinds of love.
Review going up on the blog soon but, bottom line, if you enjoy contemporary romance with two guys having some issues, not OTT in the angst department by any means, just enough to make you really feel for them. They can also communicate, another winning point for me as well. If you like to cheer for your MCs, if you like two nice guys who are hot for each other, this is a really good book. And, well... I just liked the shit out of it.
Blog review -
Review going up on the blog soon but, bottom line, if you enjoy contemporary romance with two guys having some issues, not OTT in the angst department by any means, just enough to make you really feel for them. They can also communicate, another winning point for me as well. If you like to cheer for your MCs, if you like two nice guys who are hot for each other, this is a really good book. And, well... I just liked the shit out of it.
Blog review -
October 14, 2016
2 stars -- Caveat first: DNF @ 59%
Tempting Tristan is my first exposure to Melissa Foster, and I honestly couldn't finish it. I liked it at first, but then I started having issues, which I'll get to in a bit, and I kept waiting for something to happen that would grab me back from rating this book so badly, but the eyerolls won out.
Though I have more than this, here's the three biggest issues I have with the book:
1. I admit that insta-love in particular, and insta-lust even to a lesser degree, is not one of my favorite tropes, but this book brings it to a whole other level. It is insta-relationship-level-12 practically the moment Tristan and Alex have their first real conversation. This has the big problem that it's hard to show any real growth between them as a couple when they're practically one step away from popping the marry-me question right off the bat.
2. The novel is written in alternating-first-person point of view. That's not the problem, per se. Unless Alex was talking/thinking about his military experience, his injury, his grandmother, or something else that was uniquely him, I had a difficult time distinguishing his voice from Tristan's. Compound that with the fact that the chapters are short, and in almost every chapter both characters have a section from their point of view, and I often found myself confused about who I was hearing in my head. Hard to fall in love with characters when you can't tell them apart.
3. It didn't feel like there was much plot development going on because the majority of the chapters were set up as a variation of the following theme: some issue (usually something Alex is dealing with related to his past) comes up that gets resolved within the same chapter. Even resolution is too strong a word here, because as much as there should be conflict between Alex and Tristan over these things, there never is. Instead, we end up hearing "he's so perfect" all the time, but it isn't growth for the relationship. Nothing ever feels like a setback because there's no conflict. After the first few times, I couldn't keep myself from thinking "Oh, jeez... again?" and rolling my eyes.
I'm sure there will be a good many readers who love this tale about a broken alpha who gets just the sort of comfort he needs from just the right place. Normally I would too, but this one? It's just too much nothing for me to enjoy.
The author generously provided me a complimentary copy of Tempting Tristan in exchange for this fair and honest review.
Tempting Tristan is my first exposure to Melissa Foster, and I honestly couldn't finish it. I liked it at first, but then I started having issues, which I'll get to in a bit, and I kept waiting for something to happen that would grab me back from rating this book so badly, but the eyerolls won out.
Though I have more than this, here's the three biggest issues I have with the book:
1. I admit that insta-love in particular, and insta-lust even to a lesser degree, is not one of my favorite tropes, but this book brings it to a whole other level. It is insta-relationship-level-12 practically the moment Tristan and Alex have their first real conversation. This has the big problem that it's hard to show any real growth between them as a couple when they're practically one step away from popping the marry-me question right off the bat.
2. The novel is written in alternating-first-person point of view. That's not the problem, per se. Unless Alex was talking/thinking about his military experience, his injury, his grandmother, or something else that was uniquely him, I had a difficult time distinguishing his voice from Tristan's. Compound that with the fact that the chapters are short, and in almost every chapter both characters have a section from their point of view, and I often found myself confused about who I was hearing in my head. Hard to fall in love with characters when you can't tell them apart.
3. It didn't feel like there was much plot development going on because the majority of the chapters were set up as a variation of the following theme: some issue (usually something Alex is dealing with related to his past) comes up that gets resolved within the same chapter. Even resolution is too strong a word here, because as much as there should be conflict between Alex and Tristan over these things, there never is. Instead, we end up hearing "he's so perfect" all the time, but it isn't growth for the relationship. Nothing ever feels like a setback because there's no conflict. After the first few times, I couldn't keep myself from thinking "Oh, jeez... again?" and rolling my eyes.
I'm sure there will be a good many readers who love this tale about a broken alpha who gets just the sort of comfort he needs from just the right place. Normally I would too, but this one? It's just too much nothing for me to enjoy.
The author generously provided me a complimentary copy of Tempting Tristan in exchange for this fair and honest review.
October 20, 2016
Tempting Tristan has the classic scarred ex-military hero and a down to earth bartender. Alex, the ex-military who came back to Harborside after his leg was busted, got in touch with Tristan, the local bartender who used to befriended his late grandmother.
Alex has some hang up about his condition. He still pretty much exude masculinity and sexuality, but showing his leg to someone is not something he want to do. While, Tristan is a really nice guy, is sounds like he acted like a total doormat in his previous relationship and now he want to be smarter. But one look at Alex walking into his bar, Tristan is pretty much a goner.
Tristan is a very kind and giving guy. He is basically perfect. But for so much of his inner turmoil regarding his past relationship, I don't see him doing much different with Alex at all. He is still the old Tristan.
There is insta-love with these two guys spilling out their hearts within days. But I don't want to blame insta-love for my lack of enthusiasm for the story. I'm not an angst-whore myself, but I find the plot was absence of conflict, suspense or drama. Alex's condition was an issue in the beginning, something he feel too vulnerable to expose. But for someone who have read so many scarred heroes, from blindness, amputee, disfigured face, missing ears and etc, Alex's condition doesn't faze me.
There are alot of day to day scene, some which I find endearing, like their first date. But the subsequent, day out, meeting up with friends and etc, seems a tad mundane as the story progress.
Overall, this one just feel a bit flat for me. For a story that isn't dramatic, it needs to get me to feel the emotion pouring through the pages, but I don't feel that either.
Alex has some hang up about his condition. He still pretty much exude masculinity and sexuality, but showing his leg to someone is not something he want to do. While, Tristan is a really nice guy, is sounds like he acted like a total doormat in his previous relationship and now he want to be smarter. But one look at Alex walking into his bar, Tristan is pretty much a goner.
Tristan is a very kind and giving guy. He is basically perfect. But for so much of his inner turmoil regarding his past relationship, I don't see him doing much different with Alex at all. He is still the old Tristan.
There is insta-love with these two guys spilling out their hearts within days. But I don't want to blame insta-love for my lack of enthusiasm for the story. I'm not an angst-whore myself, but I find the plot was absence of conflict, suspense or drama. Alex's condition was an issue in the beginning, something he feel too vulnerable to expose. But for someone who have read so many scarred heroes, from blindness, amputee, disfigured face, missing ears and etc, Alex's condition doesn't faze me.
There are alot of day to day scene, some which I find endearing, like their first date. But the subsequent, day out, meeting up with friends and etc, seems a tad mundane as the story progress.
Overall, this one just feel a bit flat for me. For a story that isn't dramatic, it needs to get me to feel the emotion pouring through the pages, but I don't feel that either.
November 14, 2016
*ARC received from publisher as part of blog tour*
3.5 ★
Aww shucks, was that sweet or what!
This is a first Melissa read for me even though I have her other books in my kindle shelf. Before I picked this up, I’m aware she’s a well established contemp rom writer but that’s about it. I guess I forgot why I signed up for an ARC for this, so imagine my surprise, delightful at that, when I started reading and realized it was m/m.
It’s the 3rd book in the series but a complete standalone; Tristan who met Alex in the bar he was working at one night and Alex who turned out to be the grandson of Tristan’s friend who recently passed. The attraction is immediate from the moment they laid eyes on each other, and apparently, so is the affection.
You have 2 guys who are both so in touch with their emotions that they can talk about their feelings quite openly and honestly with each other, albeit with some hesitation every now and then. They’re almost too perfect even with their hang-ups.
This is a nice easy story with just enough angst. You see Tristan become more confident with his thoughts and feelings, and Alex learning to live the life he envisioned and live that with Tristan. There was a nice push and pull between the 2. Bonus points for the heat between them. *g*
3.5 ★
Aww shucks, was that sweet or what!
This is a first Melissa read for me even though I have her other books in my kindle shelf. Before I picked this up, I’m aware she’s a well established contemp rom writer but that’s about it. I guess I forgot why I signed up for an ARC for this, so imagine my surprise, delightful at that, when I started reading and realized it was m/m.
It’s the 3rd book in the series but a complete standalone; Tristan who met Alex in the bar he was working at one night and Alex who turned out to be the grandson of Tristan’s friend who recently passed. The attraction is immediate from the moment they laid eyes on each other, and apparently, so is the affection.
You have 2 guys who are both so in touch with their emotions that they can talk about their feelings quite openly and honestly with each other, albeit with some hesitation every now and then. They’re almost too perfect even with their hang-ups.
This is a nice easy story with just enough angst. You see Tristan become more confident with his thoughts and feelings, and Alex learning to live the life he envisioned and live that with Tristan. There was a nice push and pull between the 2. Bonus points for the heat between them. *g*
October 12, 2016
Tristan Brewer is supposed to be on a hiatus from men after another bad break up that left him feeling ignored and unappreciated. He is a bartender at the Taproom run by his friends. He is fully immersed in the community of Harborside and has great friends and support system, but his radar for decent men seems broken. He is caring, nurturing, and tender-hearted.
Alex Wells walks into the bar and immediately begins turning heads, including Tristan's. But Tristan is shocked when he is the one that Alex seems drawn to. Alex is restarting his life after the military and serious war injury. He has relocated to his grandmother's old house in Harborside after her death. He is alpha, hot, built, but guarded and closed off. He is significantly scarred both inside and out and locked down by guilt, loss, and insecurities. He believes in respect, loyalty, and family. After living with not full acceptance in the military so long, he wants to be true to himself but still finds it hard to lose the military mind-set in certain situations.
They connect easily and have a great rapport, humor, and chemistry. They both have their baggage from their pasts to deal with, and they slowly begin to trust and open up. Tristan does not want to be taken for granted or ignored. Alex pushes him to trust and understand his insecurities, but still encourages him to stand up for himself and admit what he needs. Tristan challenges Alex to to face his demons, be vulnerable, and to become part of a larger community. Alex is realizing that he can't keep his pain buried and it is cathartic to share it with someone. But sometimes his past comes back to haunt him and determines his actions in certain settings. It is not always easy and they have their challenges and set backs. But overall it is a journey for both of them to truly trust, gain confidence, let go of past pain, and try to move forward.
This is a story of hope, healing, and finding a home. Their connection, chemistry, and attachment were pretty quick to develop and their rapport was easy-going. A little insta-lust and insta-relationship even before labeling it. It was sweet and fun, but also passionate and all consuming. But they both had personal demons to face individually and together giving the story more depth and feeling.
This is my first Melissa Foster book so there were a lot of interesting side characters from other stories, but their circumstances were explained enough that I was able to keep up with them and it can easily be read as a stand-alone. It just added to sense of home and community. I really liked both of these amazing guys who had such big hearts and such a strong bond despite their complex issues. I loved how they tried so hard to battle their insecurities to be the man the other deserved. They were both works in progress and required time, reassurance, and understanding. It was not always easy, but they were committed to the cause. This was an engaging, touching, and steamy M/M love story with an emotional punch. I would not hesitate to read more by this author. I am actually looking forward to Brandon's story.
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Follow Me: Reviews by Tammy & Kim | Facebook | Twitter
October 21, 2016
3.5 stars
Tristan Brewer was a bartender, working hard to move on from a bad break up when a mystery man came riding in on a bike. Once the biker Alex Wells spoke to Tristan, it was clear that Tristan’s current vow of staying away from men would not last
I like this story but it didn’t move me like I expected. It’s a story about two men struggling to heal from past wounds and find wholeness again. Tristan and Alex had some esteem issues that kept them from letting the other in, but as both guys reminisced about Alex’s grandmother, the walls around their hearts began to crumble. It just happened really fast.
One thing that I loved about Tristan was that he was definite about what he wanted in any relationship going forward. Tristan communicated clearly and had no qualms about being known as the “female” since he was in touch with his emotions. Alex was impressive as a character because he grew the most. Alex didn’t want to hide his sexuality after eight years in the military and it was sad to see how much the denial damaged his spirit.
Tristan and Alex’s journey of self-acceptance and learning to trust others was made easier by their attraction to each other. I felt that Tristan capitulated quickly when it came to his declaration of abstaining until he got exactly what he wanted in a relationship. Tristan fell into his old patterns of compromising while hoping the new partner Alex will eventually give Tristan the emotional connection he craved.
I loved that Tristan wanted monogamy and someone to share his life with. I disliked the fact that Tristan was teased and called a “lesbian”. There was a good amount of sex in this book and there was a good amount of actual communication between the characters. Overall, I found the book enjoyable and plan on reading the prior books in this series.
I received this e-book in exchange for an honest review.
a href="http://ohmyshelves.com/">
Tristan Brewer was a bartender, working hard to move on from a bad break up when a mystery man came riding in on a bike. Once the biker Alex Wells spoke to Tristan, it was clear that Tristan’s current vow of staying away from men would not last
I like this story but it didn’t move me like I expected. It’s a story about two men struggling to heal from past wounds and find wholeness again. Tristan and Alex had some esteem issues that kept them from letting the other in, but as both guys reminisced about Alex’s grandmother, the walls around their hearts began to crumble. It just happened really fast.
One thing that I loved about Tristan was that he was definite about what he wanted in any relationship going forward. Tristan communicated clearly and had no qualms about being known as the “female” since he was in touch with his emotions. Alex was impressive as a character because he grew the most. Alex didn’t want to hide his sexuality after eight years in the military and it was sad to see how much the denial damaged his spirit.
Tristan and Alex’s journey of self-acceptance and learning to trust others was made easier by their attraction to each other. I felt that Tristan capitulated quickly when it came to his declaration of abstaining until he got exactly what he wanted in a relationship. Tristan fell into his old patterns of compromising while hoping the new partner Alex will eventually give Tristan the emotional connection he craved.
I loved that Tristan wanted monogamy and someone to share his life with. I disliked the fact that Tristan was teased and called a “lesbian”. There was a good amount of sex in this book and there was a good amount of actual communication between the characters. Overall, I found the book enjoyable and plan on reading the prior books in this series.
I received this e-book in exchange for an honest review.
a href="http://ohmyshelves.com/">
November 21, 2016
“I always lead with my heart, and hearts are not nearly as smart as heads.”
Tristan Brewer is done with risking his heart. After another bad relationship leaves him hurt and angry, he needs a break from dating. And everything is going so well, until the sexy alpha Alex Wells walks into his bar.
You and me, T. I want this. For the first time in my life, I went looking, and I found you.”
Alex has just returned from spending months in the hospital, after being away for eight years in the military. He’s not in a good place, he’s damaged inside and out, suffocating beneath the guilt and anger, and definitely not ready to accept the Silver Star that almost cost him his life. All he wants is to stop hiding his sexual identity, to live the life he’s always wanted, one of honesty, honor and hopefully a family someday. And to meet and thank the man his grandmother talked so much about in her letters to him.
“Tristan, baby, you own me.”
Neither expected the intense chemistry that exploded as soon as they met, and the more time they spend together, the deeper their feelings become. But Alex has so many demons to conquer, and Tristan is so afraid of falling for the wrong man again. Are their feelings strong enough to overcome the obstacles they still have to face?
“Everything with Alex feels amplified, like all the men before him were practice, gearing me up for the man who would challenge my every move. Preparing me for him.
Tristan was wonderful. He has had his heart broken so many times by falling for guys who never appreciates him, and he was so afraid to risk his heart again, but he had no defence against Alex and the intense connection between them. I loved how he pushed Alex to confront his demons, to realise that he’s not a broken man like he thinks he is, but that Tristan sees the real him, the sexy and wonderful man he is.
“Now that I’ve tasted you? The thought of any other man’s mouth on yours makes me want to beat someone to a pulp. I’ve never felt that before.”
I loved Alex and how instantly he pursued Tristan, seeing how honest and kind Tristan was, and knowing that’s the kind of guy he’s always wanted. For years he’s been hiding who he was, his sexuality when he was in the military, and I loved that he refused to hide anymore. I loved how open he was with his affection for Tristan, how he was always touching and kissing him, and it was fantastic how much he loved him, how determined he was to banish his demons so that he could be the man Tristan and he himself deserved.
It’s crazy how the right person can change your whole world. When I walked into the Taproom that very first night, hoping to meet Tristan, I never imagined falling madly, deeply in love with him. And now I can’t imagine my life without him.
I ADORED the romance. They are so different from each other, Alex so cautious and guarded with other people, while Tristan is so charming, so easy with others, and it just made them perfect for each other. I loved the instant attraction between them, how sweet and sexy their romance was. But it definitely wasn’t just smooth sailing. Both have deep hurts, Tristan who is so scared of losing his heart to another guy who will just crush it, and Alex who has spent years denying who he is, and the war changed him so much, and I loved how hard both fought for their relationship, to overcome their fears so that they could have a future together.
This is my second book by this author and once again she made me completely swoon and so very happy. I really hope all her books are as fantastic, and I can’t wait to find out. Another amazing m/m romance to add to my collection. If you’re looking for sweet and sexy romances, look no further than Melissa Foster. Highly recommended.
October 27, 2016
In the third book of the Harbornights series, Melissa Foster tackles a M/M couple. Not surprisingly, it’s a good book. I feel like Foster is able to take on any genre she wishes and excel at it. As an avid M/M Romance reader, I know I can be a little bit picky when authors who typically write heterosexual romances try their luck at M/M but Foster pens a believable and sexy story for Tristan and Alex.
I really, really loved T. He’s very easy to like and fall in love with. I think within the first chapter of the book I decided that I liked him. It’s something to do with the way he sees other people. He seems to see the good in everyone.
This book is written in first person and in present tense which is probably my least favorite POV. I just find it the most difficult to get into which is why I like to avoid it as much as I can, but this book still managed to be enjoyable for me.
The romance does move at an excelled pace. Within the first 10% of the book there is a kiss. I was hoping for some more build up, but Foster seems to almost take it backwards a little bit which is different. I haven’t had the chance to read the other books in this series yet but I think I might have to now after having enjoyed this one so much.
October 6, 2017
Tempting Tristan was the third book in the Harborside Nights series by Melissa Foster, and was also a part of the Love and Bloom series.
We met Tristan Brewer in the previous books as a favorite. He was the gorgeous and loyal bartender at Wyatt and Delilah's inherited bar. He was in the middle of a relationship where his current boyfriend treated him poorly. Tempting Tristan began with Tristan single again and devoted to staying single for awhile. But the temptation was too great.
Alex Wells embodied gorgeous, strength and confidence. He was totally an alpha military persona but he had a soft gentle side that was shown only to Tristan or his close friends. He valued family, loyalty and honesty and he lived it. He suffered an injury where he tragically lost many men in his unit and ended his military career. Alex was always gay but had to hide it during the eight years he served. He was still experiencing baggage not only from his injury but from the secret life.
Tempting Tristan was told in a dual POV. I loved both Tristan and Alex; and I loved the relationship building. I also loved that they were both alpha and dominated for dominance, in a good way. Additionally, I loved their genuine acceptance of each other and how Tristan was able to get Alex through his demons from his military tragedy. It was emotional and a real connection. It was a true journey that Foster depicted on paper for us to experience alongside them.
Furthermore, I liked the conversations about Alex's furniture making and Tristan's rock gardens. The detail Foster utilized provided depth and dimension to the storyline. I also enjoyed Alex's perspective regarding being a gay man in the military. He was out of the military, but the impact and effects of hiding were long lasting and deep rooted struggles.
True to Foster's style, the same wonderful Harborside gang that we've come to love played a large role in the saga. The loyalty and bond shined through completely. We don't know the exact mate for Charlie, yet, but the stage was set for her story next with hopefully Brandon's following shortly after.
As final thoughts, Tempting Tristan was not my normal genre. I generally prefer having at least one female in the mix, regardless of the number of males. In fact, I had purposely skipped this in the series - not opposed to it and not my first, just not what I typically gravitate to and had it on my bookshelf for a future possibility. However, I thoroughly enjoyed Tristan and Alex's journey and was glad I ventured it now. I look forward to watching their continued development and seeing where Foster takes us next.
We met Tristan Brewer in the previous books as a favorite. He was the gorgeous and loyal bartender at Wyatt and Delilah's inherited bar. He was in the middle of a relationship where his current boyfriend treated him poorly. Tempting Tristan began with Tristan single again and devoted to staying single for awhile. But the temptation was too great.
Alex Wells embodied gorgeous, strength and confidence. He was totally an alpha military persona but he had a soft gentle side that was shown only to Tristan or his close friends. He valued family, loyalty and honesty and he lived it. He suffered an injury where he tragically lost many men in his unit and ended his military career. Alex was always gay but had to hide it during the eight years he served. He was still experiencing baggage not only from his injury but from the secret life.
Tempting Tristan was told in a dual POV. I loved both Tristan and Alex; and I loved the relationship building. I also loved that they were both alpha and dominated for dominance, in a good way. Additionally, I loved their genuine acceptance of each other and how Tristan was able to get Alex through his demons from his military tragedy. It was emotional and a real connection. It was a true journey that Foster depicted on paper for us to experience alongside them.
Furthermore, I liked the conversations about Alex's furniture making and Tristan's rock gardens. The detail Foster utilized provided depth and dimension to the storyline. I also enjoyed Alex's perspective regarding being a gay man in the military. He was out of the military, but the impact and effects of hiding were long lasting and deep rooted struggles.
True to Foster's style, the same wonderful Harborside gang that we've come to love played a large role in the saga. The loyalty and bond shined through completely. We don't know the exact mate for Charlie, yet, but the stage was set for her story next with hopefully Brandon's following shortly after.
As final thoughts, Tempting Tristan was not my normal genre. I generally prefer having at least one female in the mix, regardless of the number of males. In fact, I had purposely skipped this in the series - not opposed to it and not my first, just not what I typically gravitate to and had it on my bookshelf for a future possibility. However, I thoroughly enjoyed Tristan and Alex's journey and was glad I ventured it now. I look forward to watching their continued development and seeing where Foster takes us next.
June 14, 2023
Lovely story of healing and acceptance.
Sexy, broody, and adorable.
4 stars
3 on the spice scale
Sexy, broody, and adorable.
4 stars
3 on the spice scale
October 27, 2016
This is the first I've read of this series and it works well as a stand alone. I believe the first two books are m/f, and this one is m/m.
Both Tristan and Alex are dealing with their own issues. Tristan works in a popular bar in his hometown of Harborside and has recently gotten out of a troubled relationship. His ex would never fully commit and always had a wandering eye. This has caused Tristan pain and to have low self-esteem. He has decided he isn't going to dive into anymore relationships - he will take everything slow.
When working at the bar one day he sees a very sexy man walk in and order a beer. Alex is grieving the loss of his grandmother and recently inherited her house in Harborside. He was overseas in the military when he badly injured his leg - leaving a lot of rehab and physical scarring. When he was in the hospital, his grandmother died., and Alex is still having a hard time accepting she is gone. Alex makes furniture from driftwood or glass or whatever washes up on the beach. He is also very embarrassed by the scars on his leg and is terrified for people to see them. Having been gay in the military for nine years, he is ready to not have to hide anymore and he is looking to date someone out in the open. When he makes eyes with Tristan, there is an immediate connection.
These two fall fast and hard for each other. It's really hot and they have a lot of chemistry.
Tristan holds his ground, lifts his chin. His jaw tightens, and his eyes go impossibly darker. He's so fucking hot I want to take him against the wall.
"I can't." His voice is strained with unmistakable hunger, heightening my ache for him.
"Can't or won't?"
His jaw clenches repeatedly. "Both, I guess."
I shift my hips forward, brushing against his cock, hoping to tempt him into tasting what I'm certain will be unfuckingbelievable. "Because...?"
There's a war going on behind his eyes. He doesn't know me and I don't know him, but we're both caught up in the inferno.
"Damn it," he growls, and grabs my head.
Our mouths crash together, and my first taste of him unravels me.
Although they both have very strong feelings for each other, it's a push and pull to start as Tristan doesn't want to rush into something and Alex is afraid to show Tristan his scars.
While I enjoyed the entire book, I do think the first half is much stronger. Alex and Tristan getting to know one another, their lust for each other is presented well - they are two very likable guys. They are sweet and romantic with each other, but also intense and lusty. But by the second half, the book loses a little steam. Still sweet and sexy, but I guess with the explosive way they throw themselves at each other in the beginning, by the end I was a little bored. Overall though, a sweet story.
Grade: B-
Both Tristan and Alex are dealing with their own issues. Tristan works in a popular bar in his hometown of Harborside and has recently gotten out of a troubled relationship. His ex would never fully commit and always had a wandering eye. This has caused Tristan pain and to have low self-esteem. He has decided he isn't going to dive into anymore relationships - he will take everything slow.
When working at the bar one day he sees a very sexy man walk in and order a beer. Alex is grieving the loss of his grandmother and recently inherited her house in Harborside. He was overseas in the military when he badly injured his leg - leaving a lot of rehab and physical scarring. When he was in the hospital, his grandmother died., and Alex is still having a hard time accepting she is gone. Alex makes furniture from driftwood or glass or whatever washes up on the beach. He is also very embarrassed by the scars on his leg and is terrified for people to see them. Having been gay in the military for nine years, he is ready to not have to hide anymore and he is looking to date someone out in the open. When he makes eyes with Tristan, there is an immediate connection.
These two fall fast and hard for each other. It's really hot and they have a lot of chemistry.
Tristan holds his ground, lifts his chin. His jaw tightens, and his eyes go impossibly darker. He's so fucking hot I want to take him against the wall.
"I can't." His voice is strained with unmistakable hunger, heightening my ache for him.
"Can't or won't?"
His jaw clenches repeatedly. "Both, I guess."
I shift my hips forward, brushing against his cock, hoping to tempt him into tasting what I'm certain will be unfuckingbelievable. "Because...?"
There's a war going on behind his eyes. He doesn't know me and I don't know him, but we're both caught up in the inferno.
"Damn it," he growls, and grabs my head.
Our mouths crash together, and my first taste of him unravels me.
Although they both have very strong feelings for each other, it's a push and pull to start as Tristan doesn't want to rush into something and Alex is afraid to show Tristan his scars.
While I enjoyed the entire book, I do think the first half is much stronger. Alex and Tristan getting to know one another, their lust for each other is presented well - they are two very likable guys. They are sweet and romantic with each other, but also intense and lusty. But by the second half, the book loses a little steam. Still sweet and sexy, but I guess with the explosive way they throw themselves at each other in the beginning, by the end I was a little bored. Overall though, a sweet story.
Grade: B-
October 27, 2016
Oh boy, oh boy, oh boy. It's been a while since the last Harborside Nights book, but this one is well worth waiting for.
Tristan has a kind, loving heart and would do anything for his friends. He just wants a relationship where someone will love him back as deeply as he loves, with no abandon. He was burned by his ex, Ian, so has sworn off of guys for a while...
Enter Alex...these guys are in lust from first sight, but will that be enough? I won't say any more as I don't want to give away spoilers.
But I do need to say that even if you wouldn't normally read a M/M romance, you should give this book a chance. You might have been put off by M/M novels in the past, I know I have. If the book is just full of sex scenes and has no storyline then it's not an enjoyable read. But if you have great characters that are so well written that you get completely immersed in the story, and are willing them to get through the angst, sort out their problems and just enjoy each other...then what does it matter if they are M/F, F/F, M/M? It doesn't matter. Love is love. And if you have a deep, all-consuming love story between two believable characters that takes you with them on an emotional journey, then you have a hit in my book.
If you enjoy reading Ella Frank, then you will love this book. Melissa Foster has entered a new genre and proved what a fantastic writer she is. She did it with her first F/F novel, Discovering Delilah, and has now blown it out of the water with her first M/M novel.
I thoroughly recommend Tempting Tristan. It was an emotional, heart wrenching, deeply moving love story.
Kudos to you Melissa, and five big fat stars!
Tristan has a kind, loving heart and would do anything for his friends. He just wants a relationship where someone will love him back as deeply as he loves, with no abandon. He was burned by his ex, Ian, so has sworn off of guys for a while...
Enter Alex...these guys are in lust from first sight, but will that be enough? I won't say any more as I don't want to give away spoilers.
But I do need to say that even if you wouldn't normally read a M/M romance, you should give this book a chance. You might have been put off by M/M novels in the past, I know I have. If the book is just full of sex scenes and has no storyline then it's not an enjoyable read. But if you have great characters that are so well written that you get completely immersed in the story, and are willing them to get through the angst, sort out their problems and just enjoy each other...then what does it matter if they are M/F, F/F, M/M? It doesn't matter. Love is love. And if you have a deep, all-consuming love story between two believable characters that takes you with them on an emotional journey, then you have a hit in my book.
If you enjoy reading Ella Frank, then you will love this book. Melissa Foster has entered a new genre and proved what a fantastic writer she is. She did it with her first F/F novel, Discovering Delilah, and has now blown it out of the water with her first M/M novel.
I thoroughly recommend Tempting Tristan. It was an emotional, heart wrenching, deeply moving love story.
Kudos to you Melissa, and five big fat stars!
July 18, 2020
4 stars!
I had a very nice review and then I walked away to get something to drink. I come back and my computer decided to update and ....
bye bye review.
Now....where was I.... let's see if I can remember this....
so, Alex is new to Harborside. He was honorably discharged after being injured, dealing with PTSD and all the baggage that comes with being gay in the military. He's inherited his grandmother's home and decided to come to Harborside because of how much she loved the town and his love for her. He seeks out Tristan because she spoke of him with such adoration.
Enter Tristan. Tristan is a bartender at a local bar called The Taproom. He works there with several friends he's made over the years. After a bad breakup, he has sworn off any men for the forseeable future so that he can heal the heart he gives away too easily. And then one night he meets a sexy customer named Alex, and that plan? Well, it pretty much goes out the window.
When Alex and Tristan meet, sparks fly and they have great chemistry. There's a bit of insta-something. Love, lust, all of the above? Eh, a little annoying, but I got over it pretty quickly. I am usually a very forgiving reader. I prefer my instalove to remain in the paranormal world where it's usually a little more plausible depending on the storyline, but whatever. They are two alpha males who are very hot together, and the romance was sweet.
That said, they were not without their issues. Alex really struggles with his self-image and worth after an injury mangles his leg and body, his PTSD and dealing with the guilt of losing his grandmother and being unable to make it to her funeral since he was in the hospital. These events come to a head because of an event in the book, and it upsets Tristan. While I do feel like he had the right to be hurt, I also feel like he reacted with more self-righteousness and indignation than necessary rather than the compassion and understanding that he should have had given all that Alex had been dealing with at the time. They talked about it though and worked through it, so it wasn't all bad. At least we didn't have some contrived separation over the dreaded misunderstanding. So, props to the author for that.
The story is told in dual first-person point of view. Every once and a while, I lost track of who was narrating at the time. Sometimes the voices of the MCs were too similar and I had to go back a few pages to see who's section I was reading.
Not as good as my first review but, meh. this is as good as you're going to get. So, all in all, despite it's issues, I actually did enjoy this one.
Now I want to read Brandon's book. I think he was an interesting character in this one. Hopefully, he will have his own story.
I had a very nice review and then I walked away to get something to drink. I come back and my computer decided to update and ....
bye bye review.
Now....where was I.... let's see if I can remember this....
so, Alex is new to Harborside. He was honorably discharged after being injured, dealing with PTSD and all the baggage that comes with being gay in the military. He's inherited his grandmother's home and decided to come to Harborside because of how much she loved the town and his love for her. He seeks out Tristan because she spoke of him with such adoration.
Enter Tristan. Tristan is a bartender at a local bar called The Taproom. He works there with several friends he's made over the years. After a bad breakup, he has sworn off any men for the forseeable future so that he can heal the heart he gives away too easily. And then one night he meets a sexy customer named Alex, and that plan? Well, it pretty much goes out the window.
When Alex and Tristan meet, sparks fly and they have great chemistry. There's a bit of insta-something. Love, lust, all of the above? Eh, a little annoying, but I got over it pretty quickly. I am usually a very forgiving reader. I prefer my instalove to remain in the paranormal world where it's usually a little more plausible depending on the storyline, but whatever. They are two alpha males who are very hot together, and the romance was sweet.
That said, they were not without their issues. Alex really struggles with his self-image and worth after an injury mangles his leg and body, his PTSD and dealing with the guilt of losing his grandmother and being unable to make it to her funeral since he was in the hospital. These events come to a head because of an event in the book, and it upsets Tristan. While I do feel like he had the right to be hurt, I also feel like he reacted with more self-righteousness and indignation than necessary rather than the compassion and understanding that he should have had given all that Alex had been dealing with at the time. They talked about it though and worked through it, so it wasn't all bad. At least we didn't have some contrived separation over the dreaded misunderstanding. So, props to the author for that.
The story is told in dual first-person point of view. Every once and a while, I lost track of who was narrating at the time. Sometimes the voices of the MCs were too similar and I had to go back a few pages to see who's section I was reading.
Not as good as my first review but, meh. this is as good as you're going to get. So, all in all, despite it's issues, I actually did enjoy this one.
Now I want to read Brandon's book. I think he was an interesting character in this one. Hopefully, he will have his own story.
October 15, 2016
3.5 STARS
“Tempting Tristan” by Melissa Foster is a broken/damaged hero romance. This is my first venture into this author’s writing and overlooking a few plot wise issues I really enjoyed this story. It is emotional, passionate, healing and all over a really nice example of a contemporary romance.
Tristan has bad luck in men. He always leads with his heart rather than his head. That’s just the way he is but it makes him vulnerable to assholes, who take advantage of his giving heart and leave him devastated at the end. After his latest romantic disaster, Tristan has sworn off men. He is not ready to gamble with his heart once again. Well that is until Alex Wells enters his bar. The guy is a complete badass with a face and bod to die for. Alex turns heads everywhere he goes and leaves guys and girls panting at his wake. But he only has eyes for Tristan. There is a sizzling attraction between them which they both can’t deny. Alex wants Tristan but as they get closer, his PTSD and other military-induced issues rear its ugly head. Tristan goes all in once again to give his everything to heal and comfort a broken Alex but will that be enough to get the HEA he has been looking for or will he once again get his heart broken??? Read to find out!!
Every kiss, every touch, every time he feasts on me with those gorgeous eyes, he stokes the fire inside me. Everything with Alex feels amplified, like all the men before him were practice, gearing me up for the man who would challenge my every move. Preparing me for him.~ Tristan
All i know, all I care about, is that he’s here, holding me, kissing me, making me feel like I didn’t lose a piece of myself in that war- instead, I found a door leading to him.~ Alex
I loved the characters of Alex and Tristan and the way they try to create and solidify a future together but my one biggest qualm was: insta-love. Insta-lust I get but insta-love for an ex-military with PTSD and another guy with trust issues felt very absurd. They fall in love within weeks with very minimal angst and problems. I am not a real fan of heavy angst but I expected their relationship to go a lot less smoothly given the baggages they both had. There was very little angst, just some serious hang ups on Alex’s side which were kind of ingrained in him coz of the military (for 8 years, I must add) but he gets over them within a month (I mean, seriously a month????)
Tristan is the sole giver in this book. He is always seen trying to convince Alex of his self-worth despite his injury and then again trying to help him accept his sexuality in front of all.I felt that the entire romance was like an extended therapy session with Tristan always saying the right things to help Alex cope and adjust. I mean that guy did not have any flaws. For some it would be perfect but I felt that Tristan was too perfect to feel real.
I was looking forward to the whole relationship development process which is usually the best part in a romance. But that part kind of got skipped here. Anyways I was happy with the end product so a total 3.5 stars for me.
The couple did engage in some super steamy intimate scenes which are peppered heavily throughout the book. The chemistry between Alex and Tristan was heady and they really sizzled!!!
All in all, this book makes up for a nice healing/comfort read with a very sweet HEA at the end. I liked the characters and the overall heat factor and if you are a fan of military romance or broken/damaged heroes then definitely go for this one!!!
*This review has been cross posted at GayBookReviews*
“Tempting Tristan” by Melissa Foster is a broken/damaged hero romance. This is my first venture into this author’s writing and overlooking a few plot wise issues I really enjoyed this story. It is emotional, passionate, healing and all over a really nice example of a contemporary romance.
Tristan has bad luck in men. He always leads with his heart rather than his head. That’s just the way he is but it makes him vulnerable to assholes, who take advantage of his giving heart and leave him devastated at the end. After his latest romantic disaster, Tristan has sworn off men. He is not ready to gamble with his heart once again. Well that is until Alex Wells enters his bar. The guy is a complete badass with a face and bod to die for. Alex turns heads everywhere he goes and leaves guys and girls panting at his wake. But he only has eyes for Tristan. There is a sizzling attraction between them which they both can’t deny. Alex wants Tristan but as they get closer, his PTSD and other military-induced issues rear its ugly head. Tristan goes all in once again to give his everything to heal and comfort a broken Alex but will that be enough to get the HEA he has been looking for or will he once again get his heart broken??? Read to find out!!
Every kiss, every touch, every time he feasts on me with those gorgeous eyes, he stokes the fire inside me. Everything with Alex feels amplified, like all the men before him were practice, gearing me up for the man who would challenge my every move. Preparing me for him.~ Tristan
All i know, all I care about, is that he’s here, holding me, kissing me, making me feel like I didn’t lose a piece of myself in that war- instead, I found a door leading to him.~ Alex
I loved the characters of Alex and Tristan and the way they try to create and solidify a future together but my one biggest qualm was: insta-love. Insta-lust I get but insta-love for an ex-military with PTSD and another guy with trust issues felt very absurd. They fall in love within weeks with very minimal angst and problems. I am not a real fan of heavy angst but I expected their relationship to go a lot less smoothly given the baggages they both had. There was very little angst, just some serious hang ups on Alex’s side which were kind of ingrained in him coz of the military (for 8 years, I must add) but he gets over them within a month (I mean, seriously a month????)
Tristan is the sole giver in this book. He is always seen trying to convince Alex of his self-worth despite his injury and then again trying to help him accept his sexuality in front of all.I felt that the entire romance was like an extended therapy session with Tristan always saying the right things to help Alex cope and adjust. I mean that guy did not have any flaws. For some it would be perfect but I felt that Tristan was too perfect to feel real.
I was looking forward to the whole relationship development process which is usually the best part in a romance. But that part kind of got skipped here. Anyways I was happy with the end product so a total 3.5 stars for me.
The couple did engage in some super steamy intimate scenes which are peppered heavily throughout the book. The chemistry between Alex and Tristan was heady and they really sizzled!!!
All in all, this book makes up for a nice healing/comfort read with a very sweet HEA at the end. I liked the characters and the overall heat factor and if you are a fan of military romance or broken/damaged heroes then definitely go for this one!!!
*This review has been cross posted at GayBookReviews*
October 27, 2016
Please note: We had two reviewers read this book, and their opinions differed somewhat. Our star rating is an approximate average of the two, so read on to see what they thought. That's books, right?!
Old habits really are hard to break, right? Take Tristan Brewer, for example. Tristan is on a break from men—he’s still reeling from his last relationship and break-up. He’s always lead with his heart—freely giving it to those that aren’t so deserving. But just when Tristan has finally started to better understand himself, he meets one tall, dark and sexy Alex Wells.
Alex is pissed off at the world right now. Pissed at the Army for forcing him to hide his sexuality. Pissed about the injuries he sustained in combat that he’s still recovering from. Pissed that said injuries kept him from attending his beloved grandmother’s funeral. Pissed that he’s been in Harborside for a while and has just found the courage to meet Tristan.
While the spark between Alex and Tristan ignites immediately, both of them have internal battles to fight before they can really be ready for a relationship. Tristan needs to trust himself and his instincts again. Alex needs to push past his physical scars and deal with the emotional ones that built up during his military years. Can Tristan break down Alex’s walls in time to salvage his own heart?
I adore this beautifully written Harborside Nights series. Melissa Foster has created quite the special family. I was so happy to finally get Tristan’s story and his chance to find love after watching his best friends fall in love and find their own happily ever afters. I loved how we really got to know Tristan’s inner thoughts and feelings. Especially once Alex entered the picture.
Alex. Damn. He’s a bit mixed up, right? But oh so worth the time and effort to help overcome his issues. I really loved his character—warts and all—and loved how the relationship with Tristan developed.
Tempting Tristan is book three in the series and while it is considered a standalone, you’re going to want to read the others so you know the ins and outs of the group dynamics. Me, I can’t wait for more in this series. ~ Missy, 4.5 stars
~~~
Tempting Tristan was my first Melissa Foster book, and while it is part of a series, it can be read as a standalone. I had no trouble keeping up with the cast of background characters, and, in fact, I now want to go back and read the first couple of books in this series.
I enjoyed some aspects of the storyline of Tempting Tristan, while parts of it felt a little rushed (two 30-ish year old men falling in instalove was a little hard to swallow). However, my biggest issue was the writing style.
Most MM books refer to the person speaking by name, as opposed to simply saying “he said”. In a MF romance this would become annoying, however in an MM story I find this necessary so that the reader doesn’t get confused as to who is doing the talking, and who is being spoken to. I found myself having to constantly re-read sections of the book because I didn’t know whose head I was inside. This may have been less of an issue if the voices of Alex and Tristan were unique, however to me they were very similar, and this compounded the problem (for me).
Overall the story was good, and I am looking forward to reading more of Ms Foster’s work. ~ Tamara, 3 Stars
Old habits really are hard to break, right? Take Tristan Brewer, for example. Tristan is on a break from men—he’s still reeling from his last relationship and break-up. He’s always lead with his heart—freely giving it to those that aren’t so deserving. But just when Tristan has finally started to better understand himself, he meets one tall, dark and sexy Alex Wells.
Alex is pissed off at the world right now. Pissed at the Army for forcing him to hide his sexuality. Pissed about the injuries he sustained in combat that he’s still recovering from. Pissed that said injuries kept him from attending his beloved grandmother’s funeral. Pissed that he’s been in Harborside for a while and has just found the courage to meet Tristan.
While the spark between Alex and Tristan ignites immediately, both of them have internal battles to fight before they can really be ready for a relationship. Tristan needs to trust himself and his instincts again. Alex needs to push past his physical scars and deal with the emotional ones that built up during his military years. Can Tristan break down Alex’s walls in time to salvage his own heart?
I adore this beautifully written Harborside Nights series. Melissa Foster has created quite the special family. I was so happy to finally get Tristan’s story and his chance to find love after watching his best friends fall in love and find their own happily ever afters. I loved how we really got to know Tristan’s inner thoughts and feelings. Especially once Alex entered the picture.
Alex. Damn. He’s a bit mixed up, right? But oh so worth the time and effort to help overcome his issues. I really loved his character—warts and all—and loved how the relationship with Tristan developed.
Tempting Tristan is book three in the series and while it is considered a standalone, you’re going to want to read the others so you know the ins and outs of the group dynamics. Me, I can’t wait for more in this series. ~ Missy, 4.5 stars
~~~
Tempting Tristan was my first Melissa Foster book, and while it is part of a series, it can be read as a standalone. I had no trouble keeping up with the cast of background characters, and, in fact, I now want to go back and read the first couple of books in this series.
I enjoyed some aspects of the storyline of Tempting Tristan, while parts of it felt a little rushed (two 30-ish year old men falling in instalove was a little hard to swallow). However, my biggest issue was the writing style.
Most MM books refer to the person speaking by name, as opposed to simply saying “he said”. In a MF romance this would become annoying, however in an MM story I find this necessary so that the reader doesn’t get confused as to who is doing the talking, and who is being spoken to. I found myself having to constantly re-read sections of the book because I didn’t know whose head I was inside. This may have been less of an issue if the voices of Alex and Tristan were unique, however to me they were very similar, and this compounded the problem (for me).
Overall the story was good, and I am looking forward to reading more of Ms Foster’s work. ~ Tamara, 3 Stars
September 29, 2016
"Who are you?"
"I'm the guy you deserve."
Oh, buddy!
Holy cow!!
This book!! *praise hands*
I love me a good M/M book, and this one has made its way to one of my favorites!!
I fell in love with Tristan in the previous books within this series. He wears his heart on sleeve and can't seem to find the one man that he can trust to carry it. He wanted to take a break from all things love, but he didn't know fate was a funny thing.
Along comes Alex. My goodness.
This beautifully broken man grabbed my heart and ran with it! He has seen so much pain in his life and the one person that seems to bring him back from the darkness is the one that scares him the most.
"What is it about you? You make me forget to be careful."
"I blame you. I haven't wanted, I haven't taken, in so long, I'd almost forgetten how."
This book was extremely hot and sexy, but also sweet and emotional.
These characters are two halves of whole. They mold together in perfect harmony. But they have their fair share of trials and troubles. They are both haunted by their pasts in different ways.
As you read throughout, you see this beautiful story unfold. You see two men struggle to move past the lives they used to lead and into the lives they desire.
"You could get a guy who isn't quite so broken."
"You're not broken. You're scarred. You carry your scars on your body. I carry mine on the inside. We're no different, Alex. Can't you see that?"
Gahhhh!! I loved this book so much!!!
Alex and Tristan are both wonderful men who deserve every ounce of love that comes their way. I was thrilled with how their story played out. I wanted to hug both of them through the hard times, and cheer them on during the good times.
I didn't want to let these two go, so I'm glad that there are more books in this series that they may show up in...hint, hint, wink, wink;)
"Our relationship isn't the easy one I thought I needed, but somehow I know in my heart that he's the right man and this is the right relationship for me. Maybe everything isn't easy, but loving him sure is."
"I'm the guy you deserve."
Oh, buddy!
Holy cow!!
This book!! *praise hands*
I love me a good M/M book, and this one has made its way to one of my favorites!!
I fell in love with Tristan in the previous books within this series. He wears his heart on sleeve and can't seem to find the one man that he can trust to carry it. He wanted to take a break from all things love, but he didn't know fate was a funny thing.
Along comes Alex. My goodness.
This beautifully broken man grabbed my heart and ran with it! He has seen so much pain in his life and the one person that seems to bring him back from the darkness is the one that scares him the most.
"What is it about you? You make me forget to be careful."
"I blame you. I haven't wanted, I haven't taken, in so long, I'd almost forgetten how."
This book was extremely hot and sexy, but also sweet and emotional.
These characters are two halves of whole. They mold together in perfect harmony. But they have their fair share of trials and troubles. They are both haunted by their pasts in different ways.
As you read throughout, you see this beautiful story unfold. You see two men struggle to move past the lives they used to lead and into the lives they desire.
"You could get a guy who isn't quite so broken."
"You're not broken. You're scarred. You carry your scars on your body. I carry mine on the inside. We're no different, Alex. Can't you see that?"
Gahhhh!! I loved this book so much!!!
Alex and Tristan are both wonderful men who deserve every ounce of love that comes their way. I was thrilled with how their story played out. I wanted to hug both of them through the hard times, and cheer them on during the good times.
I didn't want to let these two go, so I'm glad that there are more books in this series that they may show up in...hint, hint, wink, wink;)
"Our relationship isn't the easy one I thought I needed, but somehow I know in my heart that he's the right man and this is the right relationship for me. Maybe everything isn't easy, but loving him sure is."
October 27, 2016
2.5-3 stars
This wasn't bad but it wasn't great either. It started off super good and the plot was really promising. Unfortunately the author didn't take the time to really development the plot she'd set up. She skirted over some very serious issues and instead had the guys jump into insta-love and into the trope of "the love of a good man will heal all of your problems." I wish she would have spent more time showing them falling in love and more time showing them working through their issues. It all happened really fast and most of the book was sex scenes or them expressing how great the other was. While the sex scenes were smoking hot it felt like filler to me. I would personally much rather read a book w/ just a scene or three and have more time spent on plot and characters.
There was one ongoing issue that really got on my nerves. The fact that if one MC or the other expressed feelings and/or emotions they referred to themselves and each other as "girls" or "pussies". Gah...I HATE this. I wish authors would stop doing this. First off men can and do have emotions and can and do express them to each other. Secondly when is being female a bad thing? Why is my gender used as an insult? I know a lot of people say this stuff in real life but I think it's crap and I hate it and it's always going to peeve me if I read it in a book. If it had just been said one time I would have overlooked it but it was excessive. (I'm too lazy to go back and count but it happened at least 10x.)
The good things were that it was sweet and low angst. It was an easy read w/no unnecessary drama. The two MC's made an effort to communicate when they had problems (which rocked). It was pretty smexy. It also had couples of various orientations which was nice to see; straight couples, a lesbian couple, a gay couple and a bi-sexual character (not yet partnered up).
While this is part of a series it can be read as a standalone. I have not read any of the other books and was able to follow along fine. There were a lot of supporting cast members I imagine I would have known had I read the rest of the series. Unfortunately this type of storytelling isn't really my thing so I won't be checking out anymore of the series.
This wasn't bad but it wasn't great either. It started off super good and the plot was really promising. Unfortunately the author didn't take the time to really development the plot she'd set up. She skirted over some very serious issues and instead had the guys jump into insta-love and into the trope of "the love of a good man will heal all of your problems." I wish she would have spent more time showing them falling in love and more time showing them working through their issues. It all happened really fast and most of the book was sex scenes or them expressing how great the other was. While the sex scenes were smoking hot it felt like filler to me. I would personally much rather read a book w/ just a scene or three and have more time spent on plot and characters.
There was one ongoing issue that really got on my nerves. The fact that if one MC or the other expressed feelings and/or emotions they referred to themselves and each other as "girls" or "pussies". Gah...I HATE this. I wish authors would stop doing this. First off men can and do have emotions and can and do express them to each other. Secondly when is being female a bad thing? Why is my gender used as an insult? I know a lot of people say this stuff in real life but I think it's crap and I hate it and it's always going to peeve me if I read it in a book. If it had just been said one time I would have overlooked it but it was excessive. (I'm too lazy to go back and count but it happened at least 10x.)
The good things were that it was sweet and low angst. It was an easy read w/no unnecessary drama. The two MC's made an effort to communicate when they had problems (which rocked). It was pretty smexy. It also had couples of various orientations which was nice to see; straight couples, a lesbian couple, a gay couple and a bi-sexual character (not yet partnered up).
While this is part of a series it can be read as a standalone. I have not read any of the other books and was able to follow along fine. There were a lot of supporting cast members I imagine I would have known had I read the rest of the series. Unfortunately this type of storytelling isn't really my thing so I won't be checking out anymore of the series.
November 12, 2021
2.5 stars
Ehhh….🤷🏽♀️
Ehhh….🤷🏽♀️
October 18, 2016
Two beautiful characters, both sensitive, damaged from past traumas and experiences find themselves falling hard for each other. They are both so supportive and considerate to each other's needs even though their passion is overwhelming them. This is a story full of love, hope, understanding and the strength to move on.
Alex arrives in Harborside after his grandmother dies, he is fighting against his own fears, guilt and the deep pain, both mentally and physically, from his traumatic past. Tristan, who was very close to Alex's grandmother, has been so hurt in the past from previous relationships is unsure of making another commitment. Yet fate has a way of bringing these two sensitive souls together and they are instantly attracted to each other, love at first sight, their love helps each other to move on, along with the love and shared fondness they felt for Alex's grandmother.
The story swaps between Tristan's and Alex's thoughts and points of view giving you the whole picture. I loved following their emotional and heart warming story as they grew closer and closer, it was so moving and really touched me. One minute I found myself choked with emotion the next laughing or smiling at their words of love. Their passion was off the scales hot intensifying their love and confirming how they truly felt for each other.
This was my very first male/male romance read, one that was seriously hot too, all I can say is that it fills your heart with joy.
I absolutely loved going back to my Harborside crew of fictional friends, they have such a special bond between them and are always there for each other. I was looking forward to Tristan's story after reading Discovering Delilah where I saw a glimpse of his lovely character. Melissa's writing really brings out the characters soul to the reader so the connection you feel is beautifully deep, there's a softness you feel when reading her books that makes you want to read more and more.
It shows the enormous lengths you can go to change or improve when you have the love and support behind you.
Alex arrives in Harborside after his grandmother dies, he is fighting against his own fears, guilt and the deep pain, both mentally and physically, from his traumatic past. Tristan, who was very close to Alex's grandmother, has been so hurt in the past from previous relationships is unsure of making another commitment. Yet fate has a way of bringing these two sensitive souls together and they are instantly attracted to each other, love at first sight, their love helps each other to move on, along with the love and shared fondness they felt for Alex's grandmother.
The story swaps between Tristan's and Alex's thoughts and points of view giving you the whole picture. I loved following their emotional and heart warming story as they grew closer and closer, it was so moving and really touched me. One minute I found myself choked with emotion the next laughing or smiling at their words of love. Their passion was off the scales hot intensifying their love and confirming how they truly felt for each other.
This was my very first male/male romance read, one that was seriously hot too, all I can say is that it fills your heart with joy.
I absolutely loved going back to my Harborside crew of fictional friends, they have such a special bond between them and are always there for each other. I was looking forward to Tristan's story after reading Discovering Delilah where I saw a glimpse of his lovely character. Melissa's writing really brings out the characters soul to the reader so the connection you feel is beautifully deep, there's a softness you feel when reading her books that makes you want to read more and more.
It shows the enormous lengths you can go to change or improve when you have the love and support behind you.
October 27, 2016
This is the first in the series that I have read but I really enjoyed meeting all of the characters. Tristan and Alex are so incredibly sweet together. They have some demons to battle but ultimately love wins!
Would have loved to have met Arty myself. What a great person she was and a great grandma to everyone. Lovely read!!
Would have loved to have met Arty myself. What a great person she was and a great grandma to everyone. Lovely read!!
March 10, 2021
(audiobook+ebook) The author has created a very dense world and the number of side characters–and their personal stories–can become a bit confusing, but she also knows how to focus the book on the main couple.
Here it’s a gay couple, connected through an old woman who’s already dead at the beginning of the story. Tristan, her friend, just endured another breakup and has sworn off men. Alex is her grandson, and decides to come and live in her small town after leaving the military. Their relationship goes from 0 to 100 in a matter of days. But it’s a bit more than just intalove.
There’s a beautiful connection between them, with a lesson on acceptance. Of one’s nature–or, in this case, sexuality. Of one’s flaws and difformities. I enjoyed this aspect of the story, though it sometimes felt too good to be true–no gay bashing in a small community? seems unrealistic. But at least it creates a positive message.
There’s also a nuanced criticism of the military, not all black but not all white either, regarding soldiers’ sexuality.
The audiobook was good, but though I love both of them, I felt like the narrators didn’t give their best here, and it fell a bit flat at times. It’s still good quality and a pleasant listen.
Quickie
- Series: Harborside nights #3 (can be read as a standalone)
- Hashtags: #MM romance #small town romance #instalove #military
- Triggers: war injury and trauma, regular homophobia in the military
- Main couple: Tristan Brewer & Alex Wells
- Hotness: 4/5
- Romance: 4/5
- + the message of acceptance was strong in this book, good point!
- – the more delicate man is a bottom? regardless of the fact this he’s still a mountain of muscles, it’s a bit cliché
Here it’s a gay couple, connected through an old woman who’s already dead at the beginning of the story. Tristan, her friend, just endured another breakup and has sworn off men. Alex is her grandson, and decides to come and live in her small town after leaving the military. Their relationship goes from 0 to 100 in a matter of days. But it’s a bit more than just intalove.
There’s a beautiful connection between them, with a lesson on acceptance. Of one’s nature–or, in this case, sexuality. Of one’s flaws and difformities. I enjoyed this aspect of the story, though it sometimes felt too good to be true–no gay bashing in a small community? seems unrealistic. But at least it creates a positive message.
There’s also a nuanced criticism of the military, not all black but not all white either, regarding soldiers’ sexuality.
The audiobook was good, but though I love both of them, I felt like the narrators didn’t give their best here, and it fell a bit flat at times. It’s still good quality and a pleasant listen.
Quickie
- Series: Harborside nights #3 (can be read as a standalone)
- Hashtags: #MM romance #small town romance #instalove #military
- Triggers: war injury and trauma, regular homophobia in the military
- Main couple: Tristan Brewer & Alex Wells
- Hotness: 4/5
- Romance: 4/5
- + the message of acceptance was strong in this book, good point!
- – the more delicate man is a bottom? regardless of the fact this he’s still a mountain of muscles, it’s a bit cliché
Displaying 1 - 30 of 449 reviews