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Copper County #2
The Rivals of Copper County
My childhood friend. My biggest rival. The only man I’ve ever wanted.
If there were a prize for the most contented man in Copper County, I’d win it every time. I’ve got my business. My son. My family. My friends… and no romantic prospects, sure, but only because I don’t need any. My life’s great as it is. Seriously. Could not be better. I’m practically bleeding serenity over here.
At least until Jasper Wrigley shows up in Copper County after twenty years–as my son’s temporary hockey coach, no less, though the man could barely lace up his skates back in the day–and throws my carefully ordered life into chaos.
Once upon a time, magnetic, confident Jasper was my best friend and greatest rival, and his summer visits to town were the best part of my year. Our competitions were fierce. Our dares were thrilling. We talked about everything under the sun, and he made me believe in the possibility of a bright, hazy future somewhere just out of reach.
But then he left, and I grew up. Now the last thing I need is Jasper back in my space, provoking me, challenging me, and making me question… freaking everything.
Like whether my life’s as perfect as I claim.
Like whether I’m as straight as I think.
Like whether there might be something better than “contentment” out there for me if I’m brave enough to look for it.
And whether the man who was always my greatest rival… might just be the love of my life.
If there were a prize for the most contented man in Copper County, I’d win it every time. I’ve got my business. My son. My family. My friends… and no romantic prospects, sure, but only because I don’t need any. My life’s great as it is. Seriously. Could not be better. I’m practically bleeding serenity over here.
At least until Jasper Wrigley shows up in Copper County after twenty years–as my son’s temporary hockey coach, no less, though the man could barely lace up his skates back in the day–and throws my carefully ordered life into chaos.
Once upon a time, magnetic, confident Jasper was my best friend and greatest rival, and his summer visits to town were the best part of my year. Our competitions were fierce. Our dares were thrilling. We talked about everything under the sun, and he made me believe in the possibility of a bright, hazy future somewhere just out of reach.
But then he left, and I grew up. Now the last thing I need is Jasper back in my space, provoking me, challenging me, and making me question… freaking everything.
Like whether my life’s as perfect as I claim.
Like whether I’m as straight as I think.
Like whether there might be something better than “contentment” out there for me if I’m brave enough to look for it.
And whether the man who was always my greatest rival… might just be the love of my life.
315 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 19, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
December 1, 2024
3.5 stars
To be honest, I wasn't feeling this when I started it. Jasper and Watt's initial dynamic felt off to me and it really bothered me that you can, apparently, teach history and be competent enough to grade students' papers if someone just gives you their lesson plans. And you can coach hockey after a few conversations with an actual coach and watching a couple YT videos, even though you can't even skate properly.
However, all of that was addressed many times throughout the story and it wasn't like everyone accepted it without a second thought. I liked that. The hockey situation turned out be really fun and Jasper turned out to be a really nice and sweet person.
The relationship develpment between Jasper and Watt didn't entirely work for me. I'm very particular when it comes to childhood friends and I never find friends-with-benefits concept believable. I wish they'd just decided to hang out, get to know each other again as adults and see where it goes, without putting a label to it. Which is kind of what they did, but the label irritated me. 😅
That being said, I actually really liked them together once I got to know them better – their past, the mutual pining and their conversations. Even though they sometimes sounded a lot younger than they are. I really enjoyed the dialogues, the banter and the humor in this one and that's what totally won me over in the end. Bonus points for Chris, Ollie and Delaney for bringing more fun to the story. Looking forward to more of Delaney in the next book!
Rounding the rating up for now.
To be honest, I wasn't feeling this when I started it. Jasper and Watt's initial dynamic felt off to me and it really bothered me that you can, apparently, teach history and be competent enough to grade students' papers if someone just gives you their lesson plans. And you can coach hockey after a few conversations with an actual coach and watching a couple YT videos, even though you can't even skate properly.
However, all of that was addressed many times throughout the story and it wasn't like everyone accepted it without a second thought. I liked that. The hockey situation turned out be really fun and Jasper turned out to be a really nice and sweet person.
The relationship develpment between Jasper and Watt didn't entirely work for me. I'm very particular when it comes to childhood friends and I never find friends-with-benefits concept believable. I wish they'd just decided to hang out, get to know each other again as adults and see where it goes, without putting a label to it. Which is kind of what they did, but the label irritated me. 😅
That being said, I actually really liked them together once I got to know them better – their past, the mutual pining and their conversations. Even though they sometimes sounded a lot younger than they are. I really enjoyed the dialogues, the banter and the humor in this one and that's what totally won me over in the end. Bonus points for Chris, Ollie and Delaney for bringing more fun to the story. Looking forward to more of Delaney in the next book!
Rounding the rating up for now.
November 21, 2024
What I liked:
- former-best-friends-to-lovers (all that pining and longing);
- Watt's conversations with Chris and Ollie (hilarious!);
- Derry, Watt's teenage son, who's just a great kid all around;
- Watt's "battery" going at full charge;
- sweet kisses on the dock.
What I didn't:
- the whole "terrible ex showing up out of the blue" storyline (Jasper tells him off eventually but never confronts him about the clients and money he stole);
- Kayla, who has a crush on Watt, being really fucking annoying and overly present (a nearly 40-year-old woman making an ass out of herself isn't charming or remotely funny);
- Watt's sexuality is casually dismissed (has no one in this gay utpoia heard of demisexuality? Someone? Anyone?);
- constant monologuing;
- rather abrupt ending (epilogue is set just one day after the last chapter).
Also, can we just agree that no high school anywhere, but especially in New York where hockey is huge and town rivalries are a big deal, would hire a hockey coach who:
1. has never played, much less coached, hockey;
2. doesn't understand the most basic rules of the game; and
3. doesn't know how to skate.
Mini Mites? Maybe. High School Varsity? Absolutely not.
Verdict: cute, feel-good romance that lacks true depth, which is what I've come to expect from May Archer; enjoyable but nothing special.
- former-best-friends-to-lovers (all that pining and longing);
- Watt's conversations with Chris and Ollie (hilarious!);
- Derry, Watt's teenage son, who's just a great kid all around;
- Watt's "battery" going at full charge;
- sweet kisses on the dock.
What I didn't:
- the whole "terrible ex showing up out of the blue" storyline (Jasper tells him off eventually but never confronts him about the clients and money he stole);
- Kayla, who has a crush on Watt, being really fucking annoying and overly present (a nearly 40-year-old woman making an ass out of herself isn't charming or remotely funny);
- Watt's sexuality is casually dismissed (has no one in this gay utpoia heard of demisexuality? Someone? Anyone?);
- constant monologuing;
- rather abrupt ending (epilogue is set just one day after the last chapter).
Also, can we just agree that no high school anywhere, but especially in New York where hockey is huge and town rivalries are a big deal, would hire a hockey coach who:
1. has never played, much less coached, hockey;
2. doesn't understand the most basic rules of the game; and
3. doesn't know how to skate.
Mini Mites? Maybe. High School Varsity? Absolutely not.
Verdict: cute, feel-good romance that lacks true depth, which is what I've come to expect from May Archer; enjoyable but nothing special.
November 15, 2024
3.0 ⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was fine I guess? Idk, something has been missing for me in this Copper County series. I don’t know if it’s because unlike her O’Leary and Whispering Key series Copper County is basically a nothing place so the small town charm and gaggle of lovable weirdos feels absent. I mean everything that happens is actually in O’Leary so it feels toned down maybe because this is supposed to be about Copper County, which again, is like a nothing place. I’m rambling, but it just feels like some of the magic is gone 🤷🏻♀️
As for the actual storyline…it was pretty standard. Watt and Jasper were fine characters. The only thing that bugged me was the attempt at demisexual representation that is brought up constantly, but never actually named and fundamentally goes nowhere.
Take my opinion with a grain of salt because I’m probably just grumpy 😆
This was fine I guess? Idk, something has been missing for me in this Copper County series. I don’t know if it’s because unlike her O’Leary and Whispering Key series Copper County is basically a nothing place so the small town charm and gaggle of lovable weirdos feels absent. I mean everything that happens is actually in O’Leary so it feels toned down maybe because this is supposed to be about Copper County, which again, is like a nothing place. I’m rambling, but it just feels like some of the magic is gone 🤷🏻♀️
As for the actual storyline…it was pretty standard. Watt and Jasper were fine characters. The only thing that bugged me was the attempt at demisexual representation that is brought up constantly, but never actually named and fundamentally goes nowhere.
Take my opinion with a grain of salt because I’m probably just grumpy 😆
November 14, 2024
This book made me laugh so much, the antics of Jasper and Watt as they continued their childhood rivalries were giggle inducing.
Of course, once they'd actually had a chance to talk - after their initial shock reactions and fratching on seeing each other for the first time in two decades - it becomes very clear all those teenage feelings of attraction, affection and hurt, are still fully in play.
Friends to lovers, enemies to lovers or frenemies to lovers, are amongst my most favourite tropes to read in a romance, and here May gives us a really sweet, very cute, and incredibly steamy, one between two men who've never stopped thinking about the other.
A moment between them when they were 17 has prayed on both their minds ever since and it's interesting to see how they both have such a different impression of what went down. I loved that they actually talked about their hurt, and how it had affected them since.
There's no actual further misunderstandings here, although it looks like the two of them might start jumping to conclusions on occasions, and I was very glad May took that route.
People not talking to each other and getting the wrong end of the stick is one thing guaranteed to drive me nuts when there's an easy way of finding out what someone thinks by asking them!
There's so much humour in this narrative too, they tell each other ridiculous jokes, they tease and torment the other with silly dares and daft bets, they're completely wrapped up in each other, and it's incredibly sweet.
Obviously there's some tension, otherwise it would be overly sickly sweet, but that comes from believable outside forces, alongside a little bit of a wobble for Watt when he considers his sexuality - or how he'd describe himself.
Although it's never stated, it seems to me he's likely demi-sexual, but he struggles with finding a label until he and Jasper have a conversation about it and Watt decides he can live with just being himself.
We also have all the same small town vibes, and loose connections with the Love in O'Leary series, from book one, we catch up with Chris and Reed, and there's a few potential people who could have stories of their own to come.
I can't wait to see where this one goes next.
#ARC kindly received from the author via Give Me Books, I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Of course, once they'd actually had a chance to talk - after their initial shock reactions and fratching on seeing each other for the first time in two decades - it becomes very clear all those teenage feelings of attraction, affection and hurt, are still fully in play.
Friends to lovers, enemies to lovers or frenemies to lovers, are amongst my most favourite tropes to read in a romance, and here May gives us a really sweet, very cute, and incredibly steamy, one between two men who've never stopped thinking about the other.
A moment between them when they were 17 has prayed on both their minds ever since and it's interesting to see how they both have such a different impression of what went down. I loved that they actually talked about their hurt, and how it had affected them since.
There's no actual further misunderstandings here, although it looks like the two of them might start jumping to conclusions on occasions, and I was very glad May took that route.
People not talking to each other and getting the wrong end of the stick is one thing guaranteed to drive me nuts when there's an easy way of finding out what someone thinks by asking them!
There's so much humour in this narrative too, they tell each other ridiculous jokes, they tease and torment the other with silly dares and daft bets, they're completely wrapped up in each other, and it's incredibly sweet.
Obviously there's some tension, otherwise it would be overly sickly sweet, but that comes from believable outside forces, alongside a little bit of a wobble for Watt when he considers his sexuality - or how he'd describe himself.
Although it's never stated, it seems to me he's likely demi-sexual, but he struggles with finding a label until he and Jasper have a conversation about it and Watt decides he can live with just being himself.
We also have all the same small town vibes, and loose connections with the Love in O'Leary series, from book one, we catch up with Chris and Reed, and there's a few potential people who could have stories of their own to come.
I can't wait to see where this one goes next.
#ARC kindly received from the author via Give Me Books, I am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 29, 2024
The humour in this book was so, so good and this was a nice easy read that fitted nicely into May Archer's wider story universe. I really loved the rivalry between Watt and Jasper, their snark and banter was hilarious.
Jasper's hockey expertise had me laughing so much, as did Watt's hatred of spreadsheets - can't relate, I love a good spreadsheet! I was also slightly jealous that they got to clear out a house full of interesting memories too, I love a good declutter and organising session 😂
Chris even redeemed himself from book one for me because he came across much better as a side character and there was still a good amount of charcuterie talk, which I loved. I also love the John Ruffian fan club at this point.
Very intrigued by Delaney and Brew and I can't wait to get their story next. I really liked Delaney's personality and I'm looking forward to finding out more about him and his family - I am hoping there'll be a hockey book with his brother Lawson too, because I would love that so much!
Jasper's hockey expertise had me laughing so much, as did Watt's hatred of spreadsheets - can't relate, I love a good spreadsheet! I was also slightly jealous that they got to clear out a house full of interesting memories too, I love a good declutter and organising session 😂
Chris even redeemed himself from book one for me because he came across much better as a side character and there was still a good amount of charcuterie talk, which I loved. I also love the John Ruffian fan club at this point.
Very intrigued by Delaney and Brew and I can't wait to get their story next. I really liked Delaney's personality and I'm looking forward to finding out more about him and his family - I am hoping there'll be a hockey book with his brother Lawson too, because I would love that so much!
November 21, 2024
This second chance, small-town, rivals/best-friends-to-lovers romance was - despite being quite generic and predictable - really lovely and fun!
Watt and Jasper had been crushing on each other when Jasper spend his summers in Copper County as a teenager until life happened and they moved in completely different directions. They both felt abandoned, lost touch and build up a hefty amount of resentment for each other.
So when Jasper shows up again twenty years later, there were a lot of feelings to work through 😅
They behaved like the teenage rivals they once were (loved their bets and dares), but (for the most part) talked like the grown ass mature adults they'd become and that contradiction was refreshing to read!
Copper County isn’t the Sunday Orchard or Whispering Key, but I have to say, it’s growing on me!
May Archer just knows how to write small town charm, eccentric but lovable characters, chemistry and feelings and the rivals of Copper County is no exception to that. It wasn’t anything new or too special, but I enjoyed myself nonetheless. 3,5 ⭐️
Watt and Jasper had been crushing on each other when Jasper spend his summers in Copper County as a teenager until life happened and they moved in completely different directions. They both felt abandoned, lost touch and build up a hefty amount of resentment for each other.
So when Jasper shows up again twenty years later, there were a lot of feelings to work through 😅
They behaved like the teenage rivals they once were (loved their bets and dares), but (for the most part) talked like the grown ass mature adults they'd become and that contradiction was refreshing to read!
Copper County isn’t the Sunday Orchard or Whispering Key, but I have to say, it’s growing on me!
May Archer just knows how to write small town charm, eccentric but lovable characters, chemistry and feelings and the rivals of Copper County is no exception to that. It wasn’t anything new or too special, but I enjoyed myself nonetheless. 3,5 ⭐️
November 22, 2024
Another buddy read down the hatch with the always lovely Lilly ❤️
This was a very sweet, very light and fluffy read, as is to be expected with this author by now.
Watt and Jasper had great chemistry and I very much enjoyed them together.
The isn't much in the way of angst in this story, aside from the fact that these two were best friends for years as teens, and then kissed when they were 17, then both misunderstood and thought the other didn't want it/like it, and then Jasper was taken by his mother to LA as his parents were getting a divorce, before Jasper or Watt could talk to each other, and Jasper got scared and never got to contacting Watt. And Watt in response, got angry and bitter about it and didn't contact him either.
Basically 20 years later, Jasper is finally back after his slime ball ex-husband fucked him over in their partnership at the model agency they owned together and took him for almost all the money he had.
Back in Copper County, he takes a job as a history high school teacher as well as the coach of the high school hockey team, as the regular coach is on maternity leave. Only thing is, he doesn't really know squat about hockey.
In comes Watt, who played hockey through to college before he had Derry, his son and then gave it up. So he knows quite a bit about hockey, and so he becomes a sort of volunteer parent-coach to help out Jasper on the finer details.
And it also gives them the chance to work through their baggage from all these years, and the feelings that are still clearly there.
Watt is a bit resistant at first, but he comes around eventually and soon they start a "FWB" arrangement, even though it barely stays that for long. But they call it that as Jasper is supposed to eventually go back to LA once the coach he's taken over for gets back from her maternity leave in a few months.
But of course he doesn't actually want to live there and he doesn't want to leave Copper County and he's actually quite content there, and a big part of that is Watt himself.
These two were very sweet and adorable together, and their connection was strong. But this whole story was very...I guess you could say...by rote? It was fun and enjoyable, but there wasn't much more to it than that. Your very standard rom-com type of story, so I didn't feel like giving this more than 4 stars.
Also, I wished for more steam in this. We got a bit of steam, and what we got I liked, but still I didn't feel like there was enough of it. The romance was very well done, but the sex was a bit...lacking. It could have been more and we could have gotten more. I feel like some authors have been shying away from giving us a lot of a sex and I don't know why. I know this author can do more with sex and has done in the past, and isn't shy about it, so why we only got two blow job scenes and one penetrative scene (and another spicy scene too that was fun) is beyond me. I need more steam in my romances, like that is a huge part of the Romance genre.
So yeah, a bit of a lack of steam and the story just overall being a very standard, usual type of story and not very stand out from this authors other works just lands this at a solid 4 stars.
It's still cute and quaint and it had some laugh out loud moments, and Jasper and Watt are great characters who carry this story well overall, but there isn't anything to really push over the edge to being above 4 stars.
This is still worth a read, for sure. And if you know May Archer's writing and stories by now, you'll still enjoy this one overall as well. Just...I guess, don't expect anything more than the standard either, is all.
I still can't wait for the next in the series, and am definitely looking forward to it.
Until then! 😘
My Ratings for the Copper County Series:
🔸 The Pretenders of Copper County: 4.5 stars (my review)
🔸 The Rivals of Copper County: 4 stars
🔸 The Misfits of Copper County: TBR
This was a very sweet, very light and fluffy read, as is to be expected with this author by now.
Watt and Jasper had great chemistry and I very much enjoyed them together.
The isn't much in the way of angst in this story, aside from the fact that these two were best friends for years as teens, and then kissed when they were 17, then both misunderstood and thought the other didn't want it/like it, and then Jasper was taken by his mother to LA as his parents were getting a divorce, before Jasper or Watt could talk to each other, and Jasper got scared and never got to contacting Watt. And Watt in response, got angry and bitter about it and didn't contact him either.
Basically 20 years later, Jasper is finally back after his slime ball ex-husband fucked him over in their partnership at the model agency they owned together and took him for almost all the money he had.
Back in Copper County, he takes a job as a history high school teacher as well as the coach of the high school hockey team, as the regular coach is on maternity leave. Only thing is, he doesn't really know squat about hockey.
In comes Watt, who played hockey through to college before he had Derry, his son and then gave it up. So he knows quite a bit about hockey, and so he becomes a sort of volunteer parent-coach to help out Jasper on the finer details.
And it also gives them the chance to work through their baggage from all these years, and the feelings that are still clearly there.
Watt is a bit resistant at first, but he comes around eventually and soon they start a "FWB" arrangement, even though it barely stays that for long. But they call it that as Jasper is supposed to eventually go back to LA once the coach he's taken over for gets back from her maternity leave in a few months.
But of course he doesn't actually want to live there and he doesn't want to leave Copper County and he's actually quite content there, and a big part of that is Watt himself.
These two were very sweet and adorable together, and their connection was strong. But this whole story was very...I guess you could say...by rote? It was fun and enjoyable, but there wasn't much more to it than that. Your very standard rom-com type of story, so I didn't feel like giving this more than 4 stars.
Also, I wished for more steam in this. We got a bit of steam, and what we got I liked, but still I didn't feel like there was enough of it. The romance was very well done, but the sex was a bit...lacking. It could have been more and we could have gotten more. I feel like some authors have been shying away from giving us a lot of a sex and I don't know why. I know this author can do more with sex and has done in the past, and isn't shy about it, so why we only got two blow job scenes and one penetrative scene (and another spicy scene too that was fun) is beyond me. I need more steam in my romances, like that is a huge part of the Romance genre.
So yeah, a bit of a lack of steam and the story just overall being a very standard, usual type of story and not very stand out from this authors other works just lands this at a solid 4 stars.
It's still cute and quaint and it had some laugh out loud moments, and Jasper and Watt are great characters who carry this story well overall, but there isn't anything to really push over the edge to being above 4 stars.
This is still worth a read, for sure. And if you know May Archer's writing and stories by now, you'll still enjoy this one overall as well. Just...I guess, don't expect anything more than the standard either, is all.
I still can't wait for the next in the series, and am definitely looking forward to it.
Until then! 😘
My Ratings for the Copper County Series:
🔸 The Pretenders of Copper County: 4.5 stars (my review)
🔸 The Rivals of Copper County: 4 stars
🔸 The Misfits of Copper County: TBR
November 15, 2024
"You're gonna miss me so much when summer's over, Watt Bartlett."
I totally loved Watt and Jasper. I'm never disappointed in a May Archer romance and this book was no exception. I may also be a teeny bit partial to her because she resides in the beautiful blue state of Massachusetts, and I like to support my fellow peeps. But back to the story. When I finished book 1, I ended my review stating I was hoping for Watt to be next, so you can guess how happy I was when this book was announced! Watt is such a good man, and I enjoyed getting to know him even better in his own romance.
Jasper and Watt grew up as childhood friends. Jasper was a Copperplate, meaning he spent his summers in Copper County, but didn't reside there full time. Every summer those boys looked forward to spending time with each other and daring one another to do stupid stuff. They were thick as thieves which made it that much more frustrating when a silly miscommunication leads to them spending 20 years apart! You read that right. TWENTY YEARS.
"And if there was one thing I'd learned, it was the tighter you tried to hold them, the more it hurt when they left anyway."
I'd classify this book as a second chance romance, however the reason why is part of the plotline, so I'll let readers discover that for themselves. Just know that seeing Jasper and Watt rekindle their friendship, while also falling in love was a wonderful thing to read and I'm already looking forward to more books next in this quirky, yet loveable small town!
I totally loved Watt and Jasper. I'm never disappointed in a May Archer romance and this book was no exception. I may also be a teeny bit partial to her because she resides in the beautiful blue state of Massachusetts, and I like to support my fellow peeps. But back to the story. When I finished book 1, I ended my review stating I was hoping for Watt to be next, so you can guess how happy I was when this book was announced! Watt is such a good man, and I enjoyed getting to know him even better in his own romance.
Jasper and Watt grew up as childhood friends. Jasper was a Copperplate, meaning he spent his summers in Copper County, but didn't reside there full time. Every summer those boys looked forward to spending time with each other and daring one another to do stupid stuff. They were thick as thieves which made it that much more frustrating when a silly miscommunication leads to them spending 20 years apart! You read that right. TWENTY YEARS.
"And if there was one thing I'd learned, it was the tighter you tried to hold them, the more it hurt when they left anyway."
I'd classify this book as a second chance romance, however the reason why is part of the plotline, so I'll let readers discover that for themselves. Just know that seeing Jasper and Watt rekindle their friendship, while also falling in love was a wonderful thing to read and I'm already looking forward to more books next in this quirky, yet loveable small town!
November 24, 2024
3.5 Stars
December 20, 2024
3.75
Enjoyed.
Son appears surprisingly little, ex-wife is never on page and an epilogue one day after the happenings of the book. Sigh. But we have a lot of pumpkin and some sweet banter.
NSFW infos
- two 37 year old white men, both divorced
- one out and gay
- one has only been interested in the other (allusion to him being demi but no label found in the book)
- top bottom on page (will be vers in future)
- bareback sex without talking about stds
Enjoyed.
Son appears surprisingly little, ex-wife is never on page and an epilogue one day after the happenings of the book. Sigh. But we have a lot of pumpkin and some sweet banter.
NSFW infos
- two 37 year old white men, both divorced
- one out and gay
- one has only been interested in the other (allusion to him being demi but no label found in the book)
- top bottom on page (will be vers in future)
- bareback sex without talking about stds
November 24, 2024
There’s lots to like here but also it was dull enough that my main thought is wondering why authors like May Archer and Lucy Lennox cannot write a non-stereotypical woman to save their lives. One woman is fucking weird and obsessive and annoying. The other woman is pregnant, but coming back to her job after mat leave, except oh my goodness she couldn’t possibly now that she’s had the baby.
November 19, 2024
We finally get Watts story! Like many have been in love with him and Derry since since The Secret! Watt has just been living his happy life running his orchard, but when his old bestie returns, life goes sideways rather quickly. Jasper spent his Summers in Coppper County, but when he was taken away by his mom, he wasn't ready to come back. When life goes wrong in LA, it's time to return and set things right with the boy who got away. Twenty years is a long time to let the past come to the light, so it's bound to be a little bumpy.
With Jasper leaving as he did, both sides were hurt but too young to see the other side and reach out to the person that meant most to them. With his return, the past is brought to light, and they learn to communicate and set things the way they should have always been.
These two are those best friends who always egg the other on where you can't tell if they love or hate the other, and I mean that in the best way possible. Their tension is palpable. Their adoration is apparent if you just take the time to really watch them. With a cast of crazy townsfolk that you can't help but love from a May Archer small town story.
With Jasper leaving as he did, both sides were hurt but too young to see the other side and reach out to the person that meant most to them. With his return, the past is brought to light, and they learn to communicate and set things the way they should have always been.
These two are those best friends who always egg the other on where you can't tell if they love or hate the other, and I mean that in the best way possible. Their tension is palpable. Their adoration is apparent if you just take the time to really watch them. With a cast of crazy townsfolk that you can't help but love from a May Archer small town story.
November 19, 2024
Entertaining rivals to lovers, small town romance!
"Maybe I should have focused a little harder on the specifics of how I’d make amends for throwing our friendship in a wood chipper one sunny afternoon a billion years ago and a little less on the happy ever after."
Jasper and Watt were best friends as kids. Every summer they spent their days egging each other on and their nights talking about everything under the sun. But as they grew older their feelings started to change and one kiss led to decades of silence. When Jasper finally sets foot back in Copper County, he wants to set things right. But Watt isn't ready for his content life to be disrupted, even if it is by the love of his life.
"When I looked at him, I saw his strength, his resilience, his warmth, his honesty, and the soul-deep beauty of his heart. And I treasured them."
Jasper and Watt are opposites in a lot of ways. But what ties them together is their competitive spirit. These two turn everything into a competition, constantly one-upping and daring each other to do the most random things. And if one of them fails, they have even more ridiculous consequences. When they were younger, all the arguing and competition just spurred on their friendship, but now it's major foreplay for them.
"Jasper smiled up at me— his genuine, gorgeous smile— and the cold morning air around Copper County had to have grown ten degrees warmer."
As adults, these two are constantly butting heads and trying to out-stubborn each other. Like they would argue about everything, including who kissed whom first. But all that fire just meant that the passion between these two burned twice as hot and the tension keeps building and building until it finally explodes when they finally give into their feelings.
"Best of all, I got to keep Watt. The man who got me, who calmed me, who fired me up. Who loved me."
Just like all of May's books, this one had me laughing so much. Watt and Jasper's moments of jealousy when they were pretending not to care, all the John Ruffian moments that just keep getting better and better, and the rivalry that made these two do the most ridiculous things, all of it just made this book so entertaining and enjoyable.
"That’s exactly how it’s going to be because that’s how it’s always been. You and me. Rivals. Best friends. Lovers. Building a life together in this town. And I bet you’re gonna love it."
We were also introduced to some amazing new characters who I really hope get their own stories! I especially loved the Monroe clan and how they adopted Jasper into their family. It was so sweet and I need to see the brothers find their HEA's too. But before that you should pick up this second chance, single father, small town romance. It's fun, steamy and so very heartwarming!
"Maybe I should have focused a little harder on the specifics of how I’d make amends for throwing our friendship in a wood chipper one sunny afternoon a billion years ago and a little less on the happy ever after."
Jasper and Watt were best friends as kids. Every summer they spent their days egging each other on and their nights talking about everything under the sun. But as they grew older their feelings started to change and one kiss led to decades of silence. When Jasper finally sets foot back in Copper County, he wants to set things right. But Watt isn't ready for his content life to be disrupted, even if it is by the love of his life.
"When I looked at him, I saw his strength, his resilience, his warmth, his honesty, and the soul-deep beauty of his heart. And I treasured them."
Jasper and Watt are opposites in a lot of ways. But what ties them together is their competitive spirit. These two turn everything into a competition, constantly one-upping and daring each other to do the most random things. And if one of them fails, they have even more ridiculous consequences. When they were younger, all the arguing and competition just spurred on their friendship, but now it's major foreplay for them.
"Jasper smiled up at me— his genuine, gorgeous smile— and the cold morning air around Copper County had to have grown ten degrees warmer."
As adults, these two are constantly butting heads and trying to out-stubborn each other. Like they would argue about everything, including who kissed whom first. But all that fire just meant that the passion between these two burned twice as hot and the tension keeps building and building until it finally explodes when they finally give into their feelings.
"Best of all, I got to keep Watt. The man who got me, who calmed me, who fired me up. Who loved me."
Just like all of May's books, this one had me laughing so much. Watt and Jasper's moments of jealousy when they were pretending not to care, all the John Ruffian moments that just keep getting better and better, and the rivalry that made these two do the most ridiculous things, all of it just made this book so entertaining and enjoyable.
"That’s exactly how it’s going to be because that’s how it’s always been. You and me. Rivals. Best friends. Lovers. Building a life together in this town. And I bet you’re gonna love it."
We were also introduced to some amazing new characters who I really hope get their own stories! I especially loved the Monroe clan and how they adopted Jasper into their family. It was so sweet and I need to see the brothers find their HEA's too. But before that you should pick up this second chance, single father, small town romance. It's fun, steamy and so very heartwarming!
December 4, 2024
As always, I loved the characters... Jasper and Watt (how in the world do you pronounce that?) had a history together, but now they need to figure out their present together!
I loved so much about this story, but what didn't I like, you ask? The hockey... 😭😭😭
Sorry, I am like the one person who just can't get into a "sports" themed book. Derry and Zach certainly made the hockey part interesting, but I think Kip kinda stole the show. When you find out, you will know! But, the first half of the book just had me reading a chapter, then putting it down to go find something else to do... like housework. Yeah, I am as shocked as you are! Lucky for me, the guys finally came off the ice and my interest was definitely peaked!
This was light and fluffy with a bit of drama, because, why not? And, yes, I am glad to see that book #3 will not be a "hockey" inspired story because Delaney is the only brother who doesn't play hockey... yay me!!! 🤣
I loved so much about this story, but what didn't I like, you ask? The hockey... 😭😭😭
Sorry, I am like the one person who just can't get into a "sports" themed book. Derry and Zach certainly made the hockey part interesting, but I think Kip kinda stole the show. When you find out, you will know! But, the first half of the book just had me reading a chapter, then putting it down to go find something else to do... like housework. Yeah, I am as shocked as you are! Lucky for me, the guys finally came off the ice and my interest was definitely peaked!
This was light and fluffy with a bit of drama, because, why not? And, yes, I am glad to see that book #3 will not be a "hockey" inspired story because Delaney is the only brother who doesn't play hockey... yay me!!! 🤣
November 24, 2024
This was more like a 3.5 but im rounding up because it wasn’t meh enough to be a 3? For me there was nothing really outstanding about this. It was just a cute second chance kind of story between two old friends, but I didn’t particularly find myself attached to Jasper or Watt. Sad there was no Reed cameo :(
Read
November 22, 2024Dnf
November 22, 2024
4.5 stars
November 14, 2024
To the surprise of no one, I loved this small town second chance romance. "Rivals" is a stretch, so don't go into this if you're wanting something with a lot of tension between the two MCs. Challenging each other is definitely just their love language! While the chemistry was there from the beginning, I like that there was at least a tiny bit of friends first to make it more believable when they eventually picked up where they should've left off 20 years ago! As always I laughed a ton and fell in love with the entire town.
November 23, 2024
Another hilarious and heartwarming story from May Archer. This is such a romp through a whirlwind of emotions, delivered with a side of snark and a whole lot of feels.
Even after 20 years apart, Watt and Jasper could not forget each other. Now, after Jasper returns, the sparks appear to be flying between them again - but old hurts are proving hard to overcome. I enjoyed that the story is told alternatively from each of their viewpoints, I like to get inside my characters heads. Both of them tell the story in a slightly ironic way, with lots of humour thrown in, and despite the presence of some sadness and regret, I could not help but chuckle. Both Watt and Jasper are very likeable characters, and as a reader I was silently urging them to speak to one another about what happened. So - I think I can safely say the story really drew me in. I loved the plot, I loved the dialogue and the events unfolding, and the way the author weaved humour, angsty moments, and included the numerous eccentric secondary characters, into one delightful and entertaining book that had me both sad, emotional and chuckling at the same time. Do I want to read more? Yes please! Bring on the next story.
Even after 20 years apart, Watt and Jasper could not forget each other. Now, after Jasper returns, the sparks appear to be flying between them again - but old hurts are proving hard to overcome. I enjoyed that the story is told alternatively from each of their viewpoints, I like to get inside my characters heads. Both of them tell the story in a slightly ironic way, with lots of humour thrown in, and despite the presence of some sadness and regret, I could not help but chuckle. Both Watt and Jasper are very likeable characters, and as a reader I was silently urging them to speak to one another about what happened. So - I think I can safely say the story really drew me in. I loved the plot, I loved the dialogue and the events unfolding, and the way the author weaved humour, angsty moments, and included the numerous eccentric secondary characters, into one delightful and entertaining book that had me both sad, emotional and chuckling at the same time. Do I want to read more? Yes please! Bring on the next story.
December 23, 2024
May Archer's small town romances are always exactly what my heart needs. This friends to rivals to friends with benefits to lovers was another beautiful and sweet love story. Watt, the grump, and Jasper the sunshine one who tries his best and cooks amazingly. Misunderstandings and second chances are not always what I enjoy but I must say that even with that tiny pinch of angst, with me yelling PLEASE TALK, and a sort of mid-slow burn, I didn't mind one bit. In fact I absolutely devoured this book, loving every second of it.
While we didn't get the label spelled on page, we know and see how Watt comes to terms with his demisexuality and I really loved how, even if there's not need to label yourself if you aren't ready or you don't want to, he wanted to be able to say "this is me" and see how perfectly the label fits, feeling like he could finally exhale. I loved that for him and witnessing him opening up and throwing himself from head to toe into feelings territory with Jasper made me giggle shyly like I was the one having a John Ruffian marathon night and chill time afterwards. They tried my patience with all their "it's temporary", "we're only friends with benefits" so there I was screaming YOU FOOLS!! You can't escape the cupid magic that is a small town with an orchard, even more if one of the MCs is the actual owner of one! It was meant to happen, fate! The power of apples! Of charcuterie boards courtesy of delightful Chris from book 1! Of a kiss that changed everything, even if they had to wait 20 freaking years for their well deserved happily ever after! Totally worth it!
Ahhhh, small town romances bring me so much joy!!
While we didn't get the label spelled on page, we know and see how Watt comes to terms with his demisexuality and I really loved how, even if there's not need to label yourself if you aren't ready or you don't want to, he wanted to be able to say "this is me" and see how perfectly the label fits, feeling like he could finally exhale. I loved that for him and witnessing him opening up and throwing himself from head to toe into feelings territory with Jasper made me giggle shyly like I was the one having a John Ruffian marathon night and chill time afterwards. They tried my patience with all their "it's temporary", "we're only friends with benefits" so there I was screaming YOU FOOLS!! You can't escape the cupid magic that is a small town with an orchard, even more if one of the MCs is the actual owner of one! It was meant to happen, fate! The power of apples! Of charcuterie boards courtesy of delightful Chris from book 1! Of a kiss that changed everything, even if they had to wait 20 freaking years for their well deserved happily ever after! Totally worth it!
Ahhhh, small town romances bring me so much joy!!
November 17, 2024
4.5 stars
Watt Bartlett is sure that he is just content in his life and Copper County with his teenage son, his orchard, his friends, and his community, even if they are a bit nosy. He may be avoiding a love life and all the advances and matchmaking, but otherwise, he is status quo.
And then Jasper Wrigley Lancaster comes back to town. He was his summer teenage best friend, rival, and first crush. But something happened and then they lost touch and now it’s twenty years later.
Jasper thought he was living a decent life in California with a career and a husband, but it’s all imploded. Now he just needs some time to lick his wounds, build up a nest egg, and get his life back on track. Taking a job that he’s not quite qualified for is what he has to do, he’s going to do it. It's only supposed to be temporary anyway.
Jasper lands back into Watt's life like an explosion that unsettles him. Old feelings, regrets, and concerns are all brought back to the forefront. They’re both sure they’re the reason for the distance and what occurred. And now they’re being forced to work together.
These guys are just so full of feelings, but they’re so bad at communicating. Snark is their foreplay and daring and making bets are their love language. And they do really charge each other's batteries. But deep down they were both hurt and have this whole sense of what if? And now they’re both supposed to be mature adults so if they could get their heads together then maybe they could now actually find out what could be possible. But Jasper never planned to stay and Watt never plans to leave Copper County.
This is a funny, sweet first crush, bi-awakening, estranged best friends and rivals-to-lovers, coming home, forced proximity, single dad, small town, soulmates romance. Copper County and O'Leary are full of quirky, nosy, well-meaning characters that add humor, fun, support, and just a bit of drama to the story.
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Watt Bartlett is sure that he is just content in his life and Copper County with his teenage son, his orchard, his friends, and his community, even if they are a bit nosy. He may be avoiding a love life and all the advances and matchmaking, but otherwise, he is status quo.
And then Jasper Wrigley Lancaster comes back to town. He was his summer teenage best friend, rival, and first crush. But something happened and then they lost touch and now it’s twenty years later.
Jasper thought he was living a decent life in California with a career and a husband, but it’s all imploded. Now he just needs some time to lick his wounds, build up a nest egg, and get his life back on track. Taking a job that he’s not quite qualified for is what he has to do, he’s going to do it. It's only supposed to be temporary anyway.
Jasper lands back into Watt's life like an explosion that unsettles him. Old feelings, regrets, and concerns are all brought back to the forefront. They’re both sure they’re the reason for the distance and what occurred. And now they’re being forced to work together.
These guys are just so full of feelings, but they’re so bad at communicating. Snark is their foreplay and daring and making bets are their love language. And they do really charge each other's batteries. But deep down they were both hurt and have this whole sense of what if? And now they’re both supposed to be mature adults so if they could get their heads together then maybe they could now actually find out what could be possible. But Jasper never planned to stay and Watt never plans to leave Copper County.
This is a funny, sweet first crush, bi-awakening, estranged best friends and rivals-to-lovers, coming home, forced proximity, single dad, small town, soulmates romance. Copper County and O'Leary are full of quirky, nosy, well-meaning characters that add humor, fun, support, and just a bit of drama to the story.
December 19, 2024
Loved it!
This is a wonderful second chance, rivals/best friends to lovers story. There is lots of teasing, May’s usual snark and the book is just a fun read.
Jasper and Watt have amazing chemistry, shared history, and a big misunderstanding that goes back twenty years. I was completely invested in their story from the beginning.
Watt and Jasper were best friends, their love language was winding each other up and daring the other to do more and more outrageous things. One night when they were 18 Jasper kissed Watt and ran away before Watt could get his head around it. That same night Jasper’s mom took him away from Copper County and they didn’t see or speak to each other again. Watt, now divorced, still lives in the small town with his teenaged son and owns the family apple orchards.
When Jasper’s life falls apart and his ex-husband steals everything he makes his way back to Copper County where he is employed as a fill in teacher and the new ice-hockey coach. Jasper can't skate and knows nothing about hockey and it’s probably not the best way to be back in the hockey mad town but strangely it works and he is good at showing the team how to stretch and have positive thoughts😂
Watt's friends, Ollie and Chris, of the charcuterie board fame, and family start interfering making Watt and Jasper question their behaviour and wonder if their greatest rival might actually be the love of their life.
I love this quirky town and its colourful residents that are full of love and support each other without discriminating, all very heart warming.
I also love how Copper County intertwines with O’Leary, with crazy loveable gossipy small town folk who do not discriminate and all pull together, especially when it comes to all their crazy festivals. We meet our old favourites and new ones
I loved everything about this book. It is the second book in the Copper County series and I cannot wait for the next.
This is a wonderful second chance, rivals/best friends to lovers story. There is lots of teasing, May’s usual snark and the book is just a fun read.
Jasper and Watt have amazing chemistry, shared history, and a big misunderstanding that goes back twenty years. I was completely invested in their story from the beginning.
Watt and Jasper were best friends, their love language was winding each other up and daring the other to do more and more outrageous things. One night when they were 18 Jasper kissed Watt and ran away before Watt could get his head around it. That same night Jasper’s mom took him away from Copper County and they didn’t see or speak to each other again. Watt, now divorced, still lives in the small town with his teenaged son and owns the family apple orchards.
When Jasper’s life falls apart and his ex-husband steals everything he makes his way back to Copper County where he is employed as a fill in teacher and the new ice-hockey coach. Jasper can't skate and knows nothing about hockey and it’s probably not the best way to be back in the hockey mad town but strangely it works and he is good at showing the team how to stretch and have positive thoughts😂
Watt's friends, Ollie and Chris, of the charcuterie board fame, and family start interfering making Watt and Jasper question their behaviour and wonder if their greatest rival might actually be the love of their life.
I love this quirky town and its colourful residents that are full of love and support each other without discriminating, all very heart warming.
I also love how Copper County intertwines with O’Leary, with crazy loveable gossipy small town folk who do not discriminate and all pull together, especially when it comes to all their crazy festivals. We meet our old favourites and new ones
I loved everything about this book. It is the second book in the Copper County series and I cannot wait for the next.
November 19, 2024
I'm going to rate this 4.5 stars just because nothing can top The Pretenders of Copper County for me.
The Rivals of Copper County is the second book in the newest small-town romance series by the author, and it's just as fun and entertaining as ever.
Jesper and Watt's second-chance, friends-with-benefits story absolutely stole my heart, and I enjoyed every moment of reading about them. Usually, I am not the biggest fan of second chance romances, but as they were still teenagers when they first drifted apart, it truly felt like a new beginning when they reunited 20 years later.
Watt is a Coppeetian for life with his own orchard, a son he's raising, and a life his content with. Up until his teenage crush, who left without a word 20 years ago, returns to Copper County. Watt's life turns upside down, and his feelings come rushing back for the man.
Jesper returns to the town after an awful divorce to take care of the house he inherited and to reconcile with his former best friend.
Their reconnection is intense and awkward and petty and exciting and confusing. The author managed to capture the jumble of emotions the two men feel when they finally have a chance to lay the past to rest and start something new. Their silly bets and dares pick up from when they left them at seventeen years old, and the sparks are flying everywhere.
They share many sweet, nostalgic, and new moments together while coaching the high-school hockey team together and clearing out Jesper's house. It's heartwarming and sweet at the same time.
Obviously, the small-town vibes bring the laughter and the cute moments. The hockey team is precious, the small-town characters are priceless, and the friendships are pure and honest.
This was literally the perfect read for November.
The Rivals of Copper County is the second book in the newest small-town romance series by the author, and it's just as fun and entertaining as ever.
Jesper and Watt's second-chance, friends-with-benefits story absolutely stole my heart, and I enjoyed every moment of reading about them. Usually, I am not the biggest fan of second chance romances, but as they were still teenagers when they first drifted apart, it truly felt like a new beginning when they reunited 20 years later.
Watt is a Coppeetian for life with his own orchard, a son he's raising, and a life his content with. Up until his teenage crush, who left without a word 20 years ago, returns to Copper County. Watt's life turns upside down, and his feelings come rushing back for the man.
Jesper returns to the town after an awful divorce to take care of the house he inherited and to reconcile with his former best friend.
Their reconnection is intense and awkward and petty and exciting and confusing. The author managed to capture the jumble of emotions the two men feel when they finally have a chance to lay the past to rest and start something new. Their silly bets and dares pick up from when they left them at seventeen years old, and the sparks are flying everywhere.
They share many sweet, nostalgic, and new moments together while coaching the high-school hockey team together and clearing out Jesper's house. It's heartwarming and sweet at the same time.
Obviously, the small-town vibes bring the laughter and the cute moments. The hockey team is precious, the small-town characters are priceless, and the friendships are pure and honest.
This was literally the perfect read for November.
November 11, 2024
I want to retire or at least spend the summer in Copper County. These folks sure live life to the fullest. Be it at work, play or behind closed doors. Ms. Archer gave us a well written outstanding addition to the series with Rivals of Copper County. As for the characters, hang onto your hats as they will knock your socks off (the ones we met in book 1 and the newbies in this read). This is a story about teenage best friends/rivals who have grown up and gone their separate ways as adults but with a few twists and turns along the way. Watts is now divorced with a teenage son he adores and is so proud of and Jasper is a divorce, down on his luck model who has returned to Copper County to sort out his dead aunt’s home. These two besties haven’t spoken in almost 20 years, so Jasper’s returning is definitely causing waves. To top that off, Jasper needed a job while he was in sorting the estate so he is now the temporary high school history teacher and hockey coach. The very team Watt’s son plays on. Oh and did I mention Jasper knows nothing about hockey!!! From here the story takes off. The banter between Jasper and Watt kept me in stitches. You would never know it’s been 20 years as their dares, bets and antics never miss a beat - just like in their younger days. Could their riff be fixed? Did maybe either or both miss understand the incident 20 years ago?
I can’t recommend this book/series enough. As for this reader, I can’t wait to see what happens next in the Copper County Series!
2 Thumbs Up and 5 Stars
I can’t recommend this book/series enough. As for this reader, I can’t wait to see what happens next in the Copper County Series!
2 Thumbs Up and 5 Stars
November 19, 2024
This story was ooey gooey perfection. Actually, this entire series is.
THE RIVALS OF COPPER COUNTY is officially out now, and I genuinely can't recommend it enough. For maximum enjoyment, you need to read Pretenders of Copper County first. How else will you understand the greatness of John Ruffian?
RIVALS is Watt's HEA... and boy howdy did this story pack in the feels. Watt is still a little hung up by his teenage best friend that he hasn't spoken to or seen in almost 20 years. But... Jasper is still a little hung up on Watt, too.
Jasper and Watt stumble into a VERY romantic situation- and they regularly get in their own way because they are absolutely oblivious dummies. But oh my heart, how they adore each other.
I laughed.
I cried.
I swooned.
I cried some more.
I want to watch John Ruffian.
300+ pages go by so quickly, and you'll be swooning right along with Watt and Jasper. You've got to be a fan of small town romance. Found family. Tight knit communities. Well-meaning neighbors. Oblivious love struck dummies. A couple big moments. Wonderful side characters. Plotty plot.
I really did love this story. I'm loving this series. I can't wait for the next book... hopefully, it's Delaney! May Archer is gonna write them, and I'm gonna read them.
Check out
STARGAZERS OF COPPER COUNTY *prequel*
PRETENDERS OF COPPER COUNTY *book 1*
RIVALS OF COPPER COUNTY *book 2*
All available now
THE RIVALS OF COPPER COUNTY is officially out now, and I genuinely can't recommend it enough. For maximum enjoyment, you need to read Pretenders of Copper County first. How else will you understand the greatness of John Ruffian?
RIVALS is Watt's HEA... and boy howdy did this story pack in the feels. Watt is still a little hung up by his teenage best friend that he hasn't spoken to or seen in almost 20 years. But... Jasper is still a little hung up on Watt, too.
Jasper and Watt stumble into a VERY romantic situation- and they regularly get in their own way because they are absolutely oblivious dummies. But oh my heart, how they adore each other.
I laughed.
I cried.
I swooned.
I cried some more.
I want to watch John Ruffian.
300+ pages go by so quickly, and you'll be swooning right along with Watt and Jasper. You've got to be a fan of small town romance. Found family. Tight knit communities. Well-meaning neighbors. Oblivious love struck dummies. A couple big moments. Wonderful side characters. Plotty plot.
I really did love this story. I'm loving this series. I can't wait for the next book... hopefully, it's Delaney! May Archer is gonna write them, and I'm gonna read them.
Check out
STARGAZERS OF COPPER COUNTY *prequel*
PRETENDERS OF COPPER COUNTY *book 1*
RIVALS OF COPPER COUNTY *book 2*
All available now
November 3, 2024
I absolutely adored Watt and Jasper. The way they bantered and teased each other, challenged each other and the constant bets being made. They have a history dating back to their teenage years but didn’t reconnect until 20 years later. That history left some very complicated feelings between them leading to some minor misunderstandings and frustrations in the here and now. Their rivalry from the past is known by the all the town residents and Watt and Jasper have no inclination to stop it. As these two wonderful men start to build a new foundation to their friendship, based on more than teenage rivalry and misunderstandings, their feelings develop and go through stages until ultimately they accept their love for each other unconditionally and get their longed for HEA.
I loved how they support and challenge each other to be the best versions of themselves and recognise each other’s strengths and weaknesses. Their love story had me invested from the very beginning and kept me engaged to the very end. An ending that left me with the biggest smile and happiest heart as I finished the final page. If you enjoy a small town romance with lots of baking, steamy and sweet moments, high school hockey coaching when the new coach can’t skate and knows nothing about hockey and a superb cast of secondary characters to keep things interesting then this book is for you.
I loved how they support and challenge each other to be the best versions of themselves and recognise each other’s strengths and weaknesses. Their love story had me invested from the very beginning and kept me engaged to the very end. An ending that left me with the biggest smile and happiest heart as I finished the final page. If you enjoy a small town romance with lots of baking, steamy and sweet moments, high school hockey coaching when the new coach can’t skate and knows nothing about hockey and a superb cast of secondary characters to keep things interesting then this book is for you.
November 19, 2024
Loving rivals and a small town home
This book was so ridiculously, deliciously, swoony good. The spicy banter. The teasing. The past mistakes. The healing. Watt and Jasper’s second chance, childhood best friends story was perfection. They are both portrayed as real, relatable people who have flaws and made mistakes, but are really trying to just do their best as the messy humans they are. Watt owns a very successful apple orchard in small town Copper County. He is also a divorced single dad to 17 yo Derry. Jasper is a divorced former model and co-owner of an LA modeling agency. Jasper is in Copper County temporarily to clean out his deceased great aunt’s house and is filling in for the history teacher and hockey coach who is out on maternity leave. Watt and Jasper spent their summers inseparable as best friends daring each other to perform all kinds of ridiculousness. After an incident and the implosion of Jasper’s parent’s marriage, he left Copper County suddenly 20 years before and has not returned. What follows the rivals reunion, is a wonderful journey of baggage unpacking, truth telling, inner voice finding, and life course correction. This well written story included engaging dialogue, three dimensional characters who grow, deep emotions. and a captivating storyline. I cannot wait to read more HEAs in this series. 4.5 stars.
This book was so ridiculously, deliciously, swoony good. The spicy banter. The teasing. The past mistakes. The healing. Watt and Jasper’s second chance, childhood best friends story was perfection. They are both portrayed as real, relatable people who have flaws and made mistakes, but are really trying to just do their best as the messy humans they are. Watt owns a very successful apple orchard in small town Copper County. He is also a divorced single dad to 17 yo Derry. Jasper is a divorced former model and co-owner of an LA modeling agency. Jasper is in Copper County temporarily to clean out his deceased great aunt’s house and is filling in for the history teacher and hockey coach who is out on maternity leave. Watt and Jasper spent their summers inseparable as best friends daring each other to perform all kinds of ridiculousness. After an incident and the implosion of Jasper’s parent’s marriage, he left Copper County suddenly 20 years before and has not returned. What follows the rivals reunion, is a wonderful journey of baggage unpacking, truth telling, inner voice finding, and life course correction. This well written story included engaging dialogue, three dimensional characters who grow, deep emotions. and a captivating storyline. I cannot wait to read more HEAs in this series. 4.5 stars.
December 6, 2024
Audio: 5 stars for Michael Dean, I have grown to really enjoy his narrations over the past year! This audio can be found on the May Archer's website.
Book: 4-4.5 stars
I feel like this could be read as a standalone, you didn't get much of Chris and Reed in this book. Idk why it took me this long to pick this story up, I think I was running on the mystery mood for a bit, but needed something light and fluffy, so really look no further than this book!
I felt like there was something missing with this one, there were some loose ends that weren't tied up in my opinion like Kayla, and I feel like Martin got away with what he did pretty easy.
But really I enjoyed reading about Jasper and Watt, old "rivals"/best friends who stopped talking for 20 years and then had a rough start getting back in to their friendship to then friends with bennies haha!
This book had that charm that May Archer is great at doing and you will definitely be reading this with a smile and laugh at all the OTT things that happen in Copper County.
I can't wait for the next book with Delany, bummed that we have to wait until early next year! Can't wait to see how Brew and Delany's story unfolds (you can preorder the Audio/ebook bundle on May Archer's website now, when you do that, you get it a week early).
Book: 4-4.5 stars
I feel like this could be read as a standalone, you didn't get much of Chris and Reed in this book. Idk why it took me this long to pick this story up, I think I was running on the mystery mood for a bit, but needed something light and fluffy, so really look no further than this book!
I felt like there was something missing with this one, there were some loose ends that weren't tied up in my opinion like Kayla, and I feel like Martin got away with what he did pretty easy.
But really I enjoyed reading about Jasper and Watt, old "rivals"/best friends who stopped talking for 20 years and then had a rough start getting back in to their friendship to then friends with bennies haha!
This book had that charm that May Archer is great at doing and you will definitely be reading this with a smile and laugh at all the OTT things that happen in Copper County.
I can't wait for the next book with Delany, bummed that we have to wait until early next year! Can't wait to see how Brew and Delany's story unfolds (you can preorder the Audio/ebook bundle on May Archer's website now, when you do that, you get it a week early).
December 11, 2024
3.00 Good will stars
This was a very fluffy small town story.
If I wouldn’t write this review right away, I would have forgotten the major plot point by tomorrow.
So, was it boring? No, there was enough background story and little things to make it interesting.
Was it poorly written? Also no, the writing was decent.
So what was my problem?
For one, there was really no real problem or drama or obstacle. There was a major life changing event in one of the MCs past and the author did a good job to create a feeling of despair paired with a spark of revenge.
But - but!! It all evaporates into thin air! Nothing is clarified in the end.
Second reason why I did not fully like it: a small town full of gay men and gay friendly inhabitants. Teenagers dating both genders per principle - I think that was the most irritating sentence I ever read in a book. The one where Derry stated something like: nowadays nobody cares about genders.
I am sorry, but this was messed up for me. You may like boys, you may like girls, you may be open for every gender in between, but you do not date every gender, just because nobody cares. Either you are attracted or not. So, this statement did not influence the story and maybe I have blown it up a tiny bit too much - but this really stuck with me in a negative way.
The epilogue was one of the worst I have ever read.
Still, there were funny parts and some hot scenes.
This was a very fluffy small town story.
If I wouldn’t write this review right away, I would have forgotten the major plot point by tomorrow.
So, was it boring? No, there was enough background story and little things to make it interesting.
Was it poorly written? Also no, the writing was decent.
So what was my problem?
For one, there was really no real problem or drama or obstacle. There was a major life changing event in one of the MCs past and the author did a good job to create a feeling of despair paired with a spark of revenge.
But - but!! It all evaporates into thin air! Nothing is clarified in the end.
Second reason why I did not fully like it: a small town full of gay men and gay friendly inhabitants. Teenagers dating both genders per principle - I think that was the most irritating sentence I ever read in a book. The one where Derry stated something like: nowadays nobody cares about genders.
I am sorry, but this was messed up for me. You may like boys, you may like girls, you may be open for every gender in between, but you do not date every gender, just because nobody cares. Either you are attracted or not. So, this statement did not influence the story and maybe I have blown it up a tiny bit too much - but this really stuck with me in a negative way.
The epilogue was one of the worst I have ever read.
Still, there were funny parts and some hot scenes.
November 14, 2024
Watt and Jasper were and still are the rivals of Copper County, as all of the residents could tell you. However what nobody else noticed including our dopey teenagers was that, daring one another was their love language. They spent every day and most evening together (secretly sneaking out) every summer holiday they could. Watt and Copper County were Jasper's anchor in his tumultuous life, until the summer they turned 15 and Watt kissed Jasper, or did Jasper kiss Watt?
The day after that memorable moment Jasper suddenly left, and never came back.
What did that mean? Did Watt's actions push Jasper away?
As the years went by and there was no word from him, Watt's anger grew and he accepted that his life would continue without his best friend.
Jasper lived a fast paced life in LA, he enjoyed modelling until he didn't. With a scheming mother and a manipulative ex husband Jasper packs it all in and goes back to the safety of Copper County, to where he was truly happy.
How would Watt feel when he came face to face with Jasper?
Would they dare each other to do/say things like they always used to do?
This is where Watt's friends, especially sweet Ollie and Chris of the charcuterie fame and family start meddling, making both men question their behaviour and ask "the man who has always been my greatest rival, might just be the love of my life".
I love this quirky town and it's colourful residents that are full of love and support each other without discriminating, all very heart warming.
The day after that memorable moment Jasper suddenly left, and never came back.
What did that mean? Did Watt's actions push Jasper away?
As the years went by and there was no word from him, Watt's anger grew and he accepted that his life would continue without his best friend.
Jasper lived a fast paced life in LA, he enjoyed modelling until he didn't. With a scheming mother and a manipulative ex husband Jasper packs it all in and goes back to the safety of Copper County, to where he was truly happy.
How would Watt feel when he came face to face with Jasper?
Would they dare each other to do/say things like they always used to do?
This is where Watt's friends, especially sweet Ollie and Chris of the charcuterie fame and family start meddling, making both men question their behaviour and ask "the man who has always been my greatest rival, might just be the love of my life".
I love this quirky town and it's colourful residents that are full of love and support each other without discriminating, all very heart warming.
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