Necessary Restorations

The Walshes #3

by Kate Canterbary

They liked to call me names. Manwhore. Slut. Player. But I make wrong look so right…

He's a flawed perfectionist…
I can read women better than any blueprint. I understand their thoughts and feelings, their secret desires and insecurities, and I know how to get rid of them once I get off.

But all bets are off when Tiel Desai slams into my life. She redefines what it means to be friends, and she makes it sound like the filthiest thing I've ever heard.

I can't read the gorgeous conservatory-trained violinist, but she's the only one keeping me from shattering by small degrees, and I can't let her go.

She's wildly independent…
My past—and New Jersey—are far behind me, and now my life is blissfully full of music: playing, teaching, and lecturing, and scouring Boston's underground scene with an annoyingly beautiful, troubled, tattooed architect.

I'm defenseless against his rooftop kisses, our nearly naked dance parties, the snuggletimes that turn into sexytimes, and his deep, demanding voice.

I have Sam Walsh stuck in my head like a song on repeat, and I'm happy pretending history won't catch up with me.

The one thing they have in common is a rock-solid disregard for the rules.
They find more in each other than they ever realized they were missing, but they might have to fall apart before they can come together.

It's the wrongs that make the rights come to life.

Genres: Romance, Contemporary Romance, Contemporary, Audiobook, New Adult, Adult, Fiction

287 pages, ebook

First published April 15, 2015

About the author

USA Today Bestseller Kate Canterbary writes smart, steamy contemporary romances loaded with heat, heart, and happy ever afters. Kate lives on the New England coast with her husband and daughter.

To get in touch with Kate, please email kate@katecanterbary.com

Reviews

[Christy · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars!



I love Kate Canterbary’s writing. After book one and two I fell in love with the Walsh siblings. Sam’s book is one of the ones I was most excited to read. Something about him intrigued me from the start. I love a story about a man-whore who finds that one girl who has him change his ways. And that’s exactly what Sam is. A man-whore. He has his reasons, and he embraces his lifestyle.



Sam and Tiel meet in an unusual way. Tiel is such a fun and outspoken heroine, she is hard not to love. She gets Sam to go out of his comfort zone. She takes this man who wears three piece suits and works full time as an architect, only to go to swanky bars to hook up, and she gets him to explore the city. Go to festivals, share her passion of music by seeing all types of live shows. She gets him to embrace life.



Sam and Tiel become fast friends. Friends? With a woman? This is all very new to Sam. But Tiel has this pull that he can’t stay away from. She makes him feel normal. They do all the things normal friends do. They see each other constantly, text constantly, she pretty much becomes the biggest part of his life. But all they are is friends. Friends who kiss, but just friends. At least thats what they keep telling one another.

“You just keep crashing into my life, don’t you?” he murmured.

“Trying to get rid of me?” I asked, my hands braced on his chest.


“I don’t think I should,” he murmured.

“Then don’t,” I said.


When friendship isn’t enough for either of them anymore, what happens next? Sam, the self proclaimed man-whore, Tiel the free spirit with no family ties. They are an unlikely pair. I wish I could tell you it was an easy love story for these two, but I’d be lying. Their love story was a bit messy at times. It wasn’t perfect. They don’t want to hurt each other because besides being in a relationship, they are one another’s best friend. But sometimes hurting those you love is inevitable.



Sam and Tiel. These are two characters that I completely and utterly loved, but also two characters that (at times) pissed me off beyond belief. They both did things that just… made me cringe. I don’t want to go into detail (and it’s by no means a deal breaker for most) but there was a specific action on each of their part that kept this from being a five star read for me. Don’t get me wrong, there were loads of five star moments. I completely adore these books and this series is a gem in the roth of new indie series. I just wish things (at least with one of the two) would have went down differently. But I also understand that in real life, some things have to fall apart before they can come together in a real way. So don’t let that deter you from reading this fantastic series.

Sam and Tiel’s story had so much good in it. I really did love them both. Tiel’s job made her completely endearing and Sam is just Sam. I’ve loved him from book one. I’m a little saddened we just have two Walsh siblings left… but I am crazy excited to read Shannon’s book next. And Riley… somehow I think Kate is saving the best Walsh boy for last ;)

If you haven’t started this series and you’re looking for a fresh, fun and sexy contemporary romance, I would highly recommend!

‘I love you and there is no one in the universe I’ll ever want but you. I’ve been yours since always, and always will be.’

[London · Rating 2 out of 5]

ARC kindly provided by the author for an honest review

Title: Necessary Restorations (The Walshes#3)
Author: Kate Canterbary
Rating: 2 regretfully disappointing stars
POV: Dual
HEA: .Yes.
Heat/Steam 2/5
Cliffhanger: . No.
Intolerable Heroine .No.
Über Douchebagery .yes.
Taboo Subject Matter .No.
Cheating: .Yes. They were still together when he gets incredible drunk and allows a woman at a nightclub jerk him off. He stops it midway but it's 100% cheating in my eyes. They had gotten into a huge fight and she told him she needed some space. That's not an excuse to allow another woman to touch your dick. After what she went through with her ex husband and how he told her he wasn't like him it was just the last straw for me. He did exactly what she was afraid he would do and it doesn't matter if he stopped it.
Love Triangle .No.


I am so very very upset that I this book didn't work for me. I stopped reading after an "almost" trigger situation at 88% but ended up forcing myself to continue after I calmed down. The scene at 88% ruined everything for me after already lacking a connection with Sam. The scene that takes place at 88% is 100% cheating in my eyes.It was an "almost" situation but it was that on top of some irritating behavior that killed it. I ended up finishing it and the almost situation is never brought up again! He doesn't tell her about it and it's never discussed. That and what happens after the almost situation and how it was all resolved in the last 5% just didn't work for me.
That scene is described and is why I tagged it as so in my review.


I am so grateful for having been given the opportunity to read an ARC by this author,however, this book just wasn't for me. Her first two books are my top favorite books I've read this year and I will definitely read more from her in the future. Granted they don't go in the same direction as Sam's book.

Would i recommend this book? For my uber picky GR buddies, no. But to anyone else absolutely. The writing is brilliant and I have so much respect for this author as a writer. The amount of time she must put into researching every detail about her characters is truly inspiring.
Will I read another book by this author? Absofuckinglutely. The Matt & Patrick type heroes are my catnip when it comes to romance. I very rarely offer 5 stars and the first book in the series was a major 5 star for me.

.

[Beverly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sam Walsh is neurotic, insecure and has intense anxiety. You wouldn't know this from the outside looking in, no he has developed an image, a façade to hide who he really is.

‘Go ahead: call me a manwhore. Slut. Player. For all the disgust packed into those words, they were always tied with a fine, shiny thread of admiration. I did what everyone else wished they could and I made it look good.

So when he meets Tiel in an elevator and they almost die when due to a power outage, his “game” is completely thrown off. Tiel learns he is diabetic and wears an insulin pump, she senses some of his neurosis, but most of all when he tries to run his game she shuts him down. She laughs in his face and instead of getting angry or swooning: his typical responses.

Tiel isn’t your typical heroine either. She is fun, enthusiastic, easy going and a musical prodigy. Her life lacks the structure and order that Sam must have to survive, but together they are beautiful chaos.



I loved watching this story unfold and seeing these two together. They add so much to each other’s lives and I know it sounds cheesy, but they complete each other. Seeing how much they both needed each other and then watching things develop had my smiling from ear to ear.

“Life is too short to waste on things that aren’t important enough to be real.”

Necessary Restoration is a wonderful friends to lovers story. It’s not how most may describe it, but to me it fits perfectly. They just met in the beginning of the story, but instead of jumping into a relationship or sex they develop a friendship. Eventually they decide to give in, but what I love is they are best friends first, this isn’t a case of insta-love.



If they both described their perfect mate they couldn’t be more opposite from each other, but it works. I love how both of them knew it worked and were willing and ready to let things progress. Their connection felt real and genuine.

“There are moments when I look at you, and I can’t even comprehend how beautiful you are. You really are pure wild.”

This story had so many five star moments, but the end has some unnecessary drama that really took away from the story, in my opinion. I still enjoyed this story and would definitely recommend it. This story is sweet, funny and hot – definitely a winner.



ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.

[~Nichole~ Sizzling Pages Romance Reviews · Rating 3 out of 5]

Highs... devastating lows.. I feel like I've been through a storm of soul crushing emotions. I am angry.. hurt. and feel like I was robbed. At the same time I feel like I witnessed the absolute proof that to be human is to be able to forgive .

I do think Sam was written in a way that left it open for him to repeat his history.. that is why I'm heartbroken. While there was remorse.. and there was effort to prove he was changed I still felt there would always be that chance he'd repeat hurtful actions. I'm so sad right now. I loved Matt and Patrick. Sam..just didn't have the loyalty.. gosh I can't stop crying. Why .. do this. I will most definitely read more from this author as so much beauty was buried among the pain and betrayal here.. but I will never go in blind again. I do not want to read about cheating in a LOVE story and then be expected to believe in it

[Roksana]

Disappointing that this author has taken an easy rout with conflict and made up a cheating story that was repeated countless times by other authors and even worst..this one was just swept over the rug and not ADDRESSED PROPERLY...

THIS BOOK IS NOT FOR ME!

[Duchess Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Go ahead, call me a manwhore. Slut. For all the disgust packed into those words, they were always tied with a fine, shiny thread of admiration."

I read this book forever ago, and couldn't come up with what it was about it that I loved so much. It's no secret that I love the Walsh family/series. It's one of the most stand out, dynamic family series that I've read in romance, and that's saying a LOT. They're unique not only in the fact that they are real in their interactions with each other and their flaws and their idiosyncrasies, but they each have their own stand out peculiarities that make them charming and delightful.

Sam is all that to the power of ten. He's uber confident, a sexy metrosexual, sophisticated, a lady lover (he really does love women) but with a hidden vulnerability that almost no one gets to see. That sounds like every second hero that we read about in romance, but it's so much more real with Sam. Beginning with the family patriarch's disgust, rage, and subsequent death, Sam has had plenty to feel insecure about. Sam's diabetes and permanent insulin port are not something that you'd normally read about either, and at first I didn't think I'd like it being a part of the story. However, it ended up being one of my favorite aspects, even though it wasn't really a focal point. It's the details like this that are truly the day to day real that show up after the passion wears off. Sam's insecurity and Tiel's complete overlooking of the obvious, the way it drew them closer while still being such a minor detail was perfection. Still with all of these things that could hold him back, he seems like such a put together kind of guy. In reality, Sam pretty much has himself convinced that his life is all gravy. He's so convinced that his lifestyle is the way it needs to be that when he falls for Tiel, his epic freakout just freaks him out more. I felt like Sam was bowled over by the fact that he was so affected by this quirky, silly girl. He's pretty much "WTF do I do with this shit?"

" I grow accustomed to Tiel's incessant humming and jingling, the way her fingers tapped along with the song. To say Tiel listened to a song was a gross understatement; the music moved though her, and it was overflowing onto me. If I saw her, out at a club or in line at a coffee shop, I'd roll my eyes. Her whole vibe - the bright clothes, ankle bracelets, and nonstop grooving with the beat - I had no patience for that shit. I didn't believe people could be that happy. But here, beside me, it was different. Tiel was authentic, and though I couldn't explain how, I liked it."

NO ONE could have been better for Sam except for Tiel. She walks into his life and just flat out changes him. I loved the way their relationship unfolds. It's intense without seeming so. Friendship, companionship, and time lead to a comfort zone that has that slight thread of sexual awareness running through it. Tiel is just full of life and energy and color, and it affects Sam at his core. His cynical outlook of the world is fundamentally changed, if only for this one person.

Tiel loves everything. Everything. She loves music and food and people, and I'm not sure I love anything."

What I found most interesting about this book was aside from the wildness that is Tiel, the manwhoring walking contradiction that is Sam, it was this journey of discovery and the calm way that it was delivered that really struck me. This quote (GOD, Kate Canterbary is imminently quotable...) was perfection.

"Most people think passion lives in some thundering monster, a primordial entity that call all the shots from deep inside your brain, but it's not.," she said, growing animated. "It's details. It's the way itsy bitsy sounds bend around each other and create magic. It's pressing your mouth to someone's neck because you can't imagine living another minute without feeling her skin on your lips. Fingertips digging into her hips until they bruise. Reaching for someone in the night. Knowing her taste in your soul but never feeling fulfilled. Awakening all the beasts you've kept hidden inside, and letting them grow and breathe because she wants to know them. That's passion."

I stared at her, convinced I was observing something filthy and exquisite, and I couldn't find a single thing to say."

Beautiful, absolute perfection. I loved, I loved, I loved this book. My favorite of the series.

[Jacqueline · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love this series. Lively, witty banter, strong characters, thoughtful writing, a huge build-up of chemistry to some really hawt smut and lots of originality. I'm a bit of an old buildings nerd, so the architectural deets make for an interesting angle too.

This one is Sam and Tiel' s story. Somehow, I managed to read this series out of sequence, so since the timeline for book 4, Shannon' s story, overlaps with this one, I did accidentally spoil the storyline a bit for myself. Stoopid. Don't do that, read them in order.

I preferred the first 70% of the story to the last 30%. I was really living in the characters' heads and feeling the feels, then the conflict came and the feels went a bit flat for me, the story seemed to lose its oomph a little. I was also hoping to see first hand her family's reaction to Sam as this is only hinted at in bk 4, but that scene was missing altogether which was a bit of a bummer.

Still, amazing series, one of my faves. Recommended.

[Saly · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars
I had serious issues with the heroine, I just didn't find her very warm or fuzzy and I am all for man grovelling normally but not when it is unwarranted and the woman is kind of in the wrong.

[AJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series is fast becoming a favourite!

4.5 stars

Book 3 in The Walshes series features Samuel Walsh, third brother in the Walsh clan, and a total contradiction. Agreed among the family to be the sensitive one with all of the issues, he’s also a sarcastic, arrogant manwhore, and he totally owns it. His romantic life consists of high class bars, copious amounts of gin and a never-ending stream of nameless blondes who are all too willing to get on their knees for him before he moves on.

I didn’t kiss, I didn’t date, I didn’t touch under clothes, I didn’t let anyone touch me save for a particular appendage, I didn’t fuck in beds, and I didn’t undress.
Ever.

He sounds like a total ass, and maybe he is. But there’s just something about him that is so appealing, you can’t help but love him straight away.

The book starts with his unconventional first meeting with Tiel. Tiel is everything that Sam has never gone after in a woman – a “ballsy, boho chick”, she lives her life the way she wants, playing the music she’s so passionate about, doing her own thing and not answering to anybody.

It’s a real case of opposites attract – he’s a workaholic perfectionist, she’s spirited and passionate, but somehow they click and become friends-but-more-than-friends. They spend time together as Tiel introduces Sam into her world of grungy pubs and indie music, he comes over and snuggles on her couch with pizza and a movie, and before they know it they become a huge part of each other’s lives, and they flirt and banter constantly.

“Ah, Samuel? Eyes up here, please.”
I dragged my gaze from her breasts to her lips, and lifted my brows. “Yeah, you’re not my type, but you have an incredible rack, and I’d like having those lips on my dick.”
It sounded like my usual bullshit, but it was possibly the most honest, unfiltered thing I’d said all day.
She snorted, spraying vodka from her mouth and nose, and shook her head. “You need to shut that shit down. I’m not giving you a blowjob. Stop thinking about it.”

I love these characters! Sam is so flawed, and I loved that his issues are not purely emotional. Sure, he had the same damaged upbringing as his siblings (probably getting it a bit worse than the others), but he has physical issues that he has to deal with as well, and that plays a big part as to who he is and why he is the way he is. And Tiel is just perfect for him! She’s strong, spirited and “pure wild”. She comes as a complete surprise to Sam, and their time together is a true journey of discovery - he provides the stability that she doesn’t even realise she needs, and she teaches him to enjoy his life. They’re a great match, and all the while they are slowly falling for each other.

“You just keep crashing into my life, don’t you?” he murmured.
“Trying to get rid of me?” I asked, my hands braced on his chest.

“I don’t think I should,” he murmured.
“Then don’t,” I said.

The love story is a slow burn, with the UST at epic levels. They both think about hooking up constantly, they talk about it constantly, and there is the odd kiss or touch, but neither of them are brave enough to take the plunge and do something about it – until eventually, it all becomes too much.

“How much longer do you think we can do this?” he asked.
“I don’t think anyone else is coming up here, so…”
“No.” His lips passed over my cheek and temple, stopping there while his hand slipped under my dress. “How much longer can we pretend this is enough?”

It’s a fantastic mix of beautiful and romantic, and oh so hot and just a little bit dirty.

“The world makes sense when you let me hold you, and I can only imagine holding you naked would bear similar, if not better, results.”

Sam is a dirty boy, and Tiel is more than happy to go along with that and these two get hot and heavy at every opportunity, and it is sizzling! Their connection is passionate, intense and life changing for the both of them.

I was gutted – torn in two and split the fuck open – and I recognised my long-held fears decimated and discarded on the ground around us.

This is a gorgeous romance. They are best friends before anything happens between them, and for the first time are comfortable in opening up about their vulnerabilities to each other so their feelings for each other are already incredibly deep. They know they both have issues, but the bottom line is, they love each other and they want to be together. It takes them a while to get there, they are both scared, and there is pain and heartache along the way and a lot of stuff to be worked through, but it’s worth it, and I enjoyed every step of their journey.

“All I want to call you is mine … You’re mine and I’m yours.”

The rest of the Walsh clan all play a part in the story, butting their way into each other’s lives as usual. We get to learn a little bit more about controlling sister, Shannon, but it was Riley who really surprised me – the baby of the family who doesn’t quite have it all together seems to be growing up! He has quite the caring, protective streak, and I loved him in this one.

This book is a little on the long side, but I was happily absorbed. It allows Canterbary to give us an in depth story, where we learn all of the details about Sam and Tiel, and we get to see all of the fantastic moments in their relationship – the flirty texts, the inappropriate banter, and the sweet moments that warmed my heart. These books get better and better, and I can’t wait for the next instalment.

I loved it – 4.5 stars.


An Advanced Reader Copy of this book was generously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

[Ivy Deluca · Rating 4 out of 5]

In the third Walshes book, Sam Walsh is traveling through life being a gigantic manslut in an attempt to protect his feelings...you know, as you do. Then Tiel comes crashing into this life via runaway elevator. Tiel’s doing the same thing but in different ways (mostly not being free with her favors) and well, romance happens.



- Love the Walshes : This is only the third book in the series, and the second one I’ve read, but I love this family. Each member has their hidden depths, and each book has revealed a little more of what they went through with their POS father, though even he has his secrets that show why he was such a POS. Ms. Canterbary's writing is even stronger in this entry and I loved that these are fully formed characters, even the supporting players. The work is a believable part of their story, the heroine's multi-cultural and it's all seamlessly integrated into the narrative. Their romance feel as if it's truly unfolding in realistic way, as opposed to alot of romances that can feel as if the leads exist in a vacuum.

- Tiel and Sam are great together : They are funky, damaged, complicated, funny, sexy, quirky and just the best mess. I’m having difficulty using my words here because honestly, I just loved them both.

- Tiel’s not just a sunshiny heroine : Tiel is hippy dippy trippy, caustic yet fun, and so scared of being hurt that when her jagged edges are exposed, it actually made me like her more. She would have been too perfect otherwise. She’s easy to fall for and you can completely buy why Sam’s so drawn to her.

- And Sam’s not just a manslut : Sam’s a tougher nut to love, no doubt. When it begins, I’ll admit all I could think of was how big of a dick he could be. But the further I got into the story, the more the snarky, prickly manslut layers peeled away to reveal the damaged yet sweet boy that Tiel falls in love with. Also, the way he loves Tiel just melts me. I also liked the fact that Sam’s not your usual muscled up hero, and his diabetes made me even more sympathetic to him.

- The build to the final obstacle is completely believable : Even when he stumbles and Tiel jumps to conclusions, I think Ms. Canterbary really laid the foundation for that final misunderstanding. I had seen rumblings about Sam’s mistake and whether this would be considered a “safe” read, but I have to say, without giving any spoilers, that the setup and circumstances for it made it easy for me to get past it and still believe in their HEA.

- Even if I don’t necessarily agree with it : The length of time between the obstacle and the reunion made the story end with less of a bang that I would have liked. It just felt like it needed that dramatic ending and it wasn’t quite that for me.



I really enjoyed this book alot. Well crafted characters and well drawn family relationships, good and bad, are a highlight of this series. Ms. Canterbary continues to impress me with each book I read and I would be interested in seeing what happens next with these siblings.

**ARC provided by publisher via netgalley for review**

[Korrie’s Korner · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Sam shaped stars!!

I feel as though the dang rug has been ripped from under me, and now I’m just left with all these feelings. I did not expect to love Sam as much as I did! I mean, for one he’s a “man whore” who has a few illnesses, but I should have known that it would be the one most broken is the one I would fall the hardest for. The hurt, the vulnerability in the way that Kate wrote both Sam and Tiel’s characters was so complex and EVERYTHING I didn’t know I needed.

"Most people think passion lives in some thundering monster, a primordial entity that calls all the shots from deep inside your brain, but it's not," she said, growing animated. "It's details. It's the way itsy bitsy sounds bend around each other and create magic. It's pressing your mouth to someone's neck because you can't imagine living another minute without feeling her skin on your lips. Fingertips digging into hips until they bruised. Reaching for someone in the night. Knowing her taste in your soul but never feeling fulfilled. Awakening all the beasts you've kept hidden inside, and letting them grow and breathe because she wants to know them. That's passion."

I will not spoil a thing about this now beloved book to me, but man will I be thinking about this one ALOT. I love transformations in characters, especially in the heroes..Sam’s was so huge and priceless..he’s my baby.

"You basically took a razor blade into the bathtub tonight, and you damn near succeeded." "I didn't want to die," I rasped. "You need to work through your shit," he said. "And you need to ask for help sometimes. You have to tell people when it's bad, and not just wait until you're circling the drain."

This quote here ^ powerful. Onto book 4!!!

[Michelle [Helen Geek] · Rating 4 out of 5]

08/23/2016 -- A re-read.

01/30/2016 --

I seriously like this author. Saying this, I worried about whether I'd like Sam's story. He seemed like a narcissistic brat in other books. Reading this book though, you see all his layers and you understand him so much better. He reminded me a bit of a tattoo'd and abused Sherman without the cute Mr. Peabody.

This author can develop such strong characters [h & H] with histories of angst and abuse, but takes them to a much more [light years ahead of the majority] mature level of story telling. I've been surprised and impressed with every installment I've read. I still haven't read the first in this series, but am starting it right now and expecting her to blow my socks off. This is what started all the buzz about her and she needed to hit it out of the part in order to get the attention she got.

For me, it is important to note .. I loved Tiel. Loved her. She is smart, quirky, a bit damaged and just an all around good person. I rarely love a heroine in a romance, but she stands out for me and added tremendously to my enjoyment.

4.5 Stars.

Happy Reading!

[Fran · Rating 2 out of 5]

I didn't want to DNF but it took me DAYS to finish this! These two have issues and I just couldn't get behind them.

[1-Click Addict Support Group · Rating 5 out of 5]

There's just something about these books that has me ensnared. I don't know what it is exactly, because it's not just one thing. It's many. It's the tense, but ultimately loving relationships between the Walsh siblings. The growly, bitey boys. The bossy and independent women. The scorching heat when the growly, bitey boys encounter the bossy and independent women…

There's more. The vivid setting of Boston, come alive by this author’s hand. The music that flows through the stories. The fact that these are regular, yet still extraordinary, people. These characters—all of them—aren't ones you can find in every book. They're unique and likeable, even when they are, in fact, not particularly likeable.

The Walshes are funny, clever and different, and this third book was no exception. It was just one of those reads that I simultaneously couldn't tear myself away from (because I needed to get to the end) and yet, didn't want to finish. Not ever.

With a constant, low simmering tension borne of my knowledge of Sam Walsh and Tiel Desai from the other books in this series, I actually held off reading this book longer than I thought possible, managing instead to simply stare longingly and lovingly at it on my Kindle while I waited for the right moment to dive in. And I am so glad I waited. With some distance between me and The Space Between, I was able to appreciate the imperfect but completely perfect Sam, and the musical, spirited Tiel. To appreciate how completely and utterly charming and right they were together. To separate my frustrations with the way they acted (or seemed to act) from the perspectives of Sam’s siblings, and just appreciate them for them.

And what a beautiful ‘them’ they were. Despite their (many) flaws, they were people to me; not characters in a book, but real humans, with real problems, making real mistakes. Sam and Tiel socked me right in the heart, and right in the feels. I loved them when they were hitting the high notes, exploring the city and each other, being friends and more. I even loved them when they took me and my emotions on a down swing, with their self-sabotage and misplaced mistrust.

Simply put, I loved everything about this couple, and this book. I could probably go on for pages about Necessary Restorations—especially since I haven't even touched on Riley, the strangely insightful and slightly irresponsible youngest brother who is destined to be my no. 1 Walsh, nor on the amazing and airtight bond that Tiel shared with Ellie—but instead I leave you with a plea to read not just this book, but this whole series. If only so you can help me figure out why it's so god damn addictive. ~ Beth, 5 stars

NB: This book can absolutely be read standalone, but it *would* be better in order—if only for those growly, bitey boys...

[Al George · Rating 3 out of 5]

These two were crazy britches



Series:Yes - and I really want to read RISD's story.

Sexy times: Jaysus...these two with the dirty talk. Hell, this whole season with the kink. I you're into having your own underwear stuffed in your mouth, get on with it.



Plan on reading more by the author: Yup - got to finish the series, don't I?

Synopsis: Sam is a basket case - he's the run of the Walsh family litter and has some serious health issues, both physical and mental. Some is an understatement. Tiel is a passive aggressive fiasco. Crazy soup is what the two have. They get stuck in an elevator together, go out drinking after rescue, become best friends because Sam doesn't f*ck friends and this is the safe zone. And stuff happens and they enter the not-so-safe zone. The question is, can they get past their own crazy town to have relationships.



Heroine: Tiel. So look, I am so not into the passive aggressive woman type - I don't like em as friends and I don't like em as heroines. This biatch...she's got it in spades. I get why she approaches life that way...and I get that the author wanted her character to be alienating, but she never quite grovels enough to get back into my good graces.

Hero: Sam. Sure he's disgusting. And sure he's stupid enough to fall back into old patterns. But he is never intentionally mean or cruel (redundant much?), so he gets the win for this book.

Why it did or didn't work for me:
I couldn't really connect with either character, therefore, the book. It was interesting and it got me through chores (listened rather than read), but compared to other books in the series, it was a meh. Tiel can suck my sock. She alienated me right out of this book.

Signed,
You had better not let me down with the next book. Just saying.

[My Own Bookshelves · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay this statement will and should surprise the hell out of you that THIS is my favorite Walsh Family series book. Kate Canterbary continues stuns me with her originality and engrossing storytelling that had me reading chapter after chapter with the inability to put it down until ' how will this end '. This story isn't easy. This story doesn't belong in the wheelhouse of what I find entertaining to read. Yet, it moved me and so engrossed me that I read slow, not wanting the story to end.

The journey for Sam and Tiel isn't paved with rose petals to get to a HEA. As you read through the series, you'll find yourself experience each family member through the POV of the other. You know that Sam will be complicated. He is. As a romance reader, you hope he gets a heroine who is spreads sunshine and rainbows to save our complex hero. No such luck. Ms. Canterbary gives us flawed and beautiful characters that aren't meant to save one another. This isn't the typical trope where one saves the other. Because the only way they can be saved is if they save themselves first. What they had set them to a journey to be better humans.

Okay did I frighten you away? Please don't. I know this sounds overly dramatic but Sam and Tiel's story pulled a lot of emotions from this reader. Although sad at times, not so heartbreaking that it ruined me. From the start of their relationship, this was the first book where I began to believe that if they didn't end up together it would be okay. It's seriously the journey of them coming to grips with the issues they face over the HEA that won their story for me.

Another day - same lecture: Read the series from book one in order. Sam and Tiel are complex. They deserve the readers time and attention to know them first through other's eyes before giving voice to their own story. I am bewitched by Kate Canterbary's story telling and be a forever fan. 5 out of 5 stars.

[Stephanie · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5 stars for the Walsh brothers and sisters, sister-in-laws, and Nick. If they want a higher rating, they should seriously consider dropping Tiel from the roster. She is a pill and a half.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

*ARC Given to Blog for Honest Review*

4.5 “Freckle Twin” “Sunshine” “pervy” “the prepster” Kisses

Oh my freaking GAWD could I stop loving the Walshes more?!?!? No…no I could not. I’m three books in and so beyond obsessed it’s kind of ridiculous and I’m not even sorry about it. And the love just continues to grow the more I get to know these characters. I’m not even going to lie, after Underneath It All and The Space Between , I was über excited to get in Sam’s head…that’s part of the magic of reading the books in order, the characters build and build and it makes them even more amazing, which I looooove. So…million dollar question – do you have to read the other books in order to understand Necessary Restoration? No – each book can be read as a complete standalone and everything is explained perfectly…you do miss out on some of the character dynamics, but it’s not the end of the world. I do highly recommend it because holy bejesus these characters just get better and better.

Samuel Aidan Walsh…gah!!!! Sam is everything I could have wanted and then some. I love love looooove a good manwhore and Sam is one of the best. And learning the reasons why he is a manwhore only made me love him that much more. Sam’s past history is long…sordid…sad (agonizing really)…heartbreaking – I could keep going, but needless to say, this man held my heart long before I even got one ounce of his POV…the second I started NR, I knew it was all over. Getting inside Sam’s brain, understanding him, his motives, getting the full picture of all the bits and pieces that make him up – un-freaking-believably amazing. I love all of the Walsh men, don’t me wrong, but Sam will always hold a very special place in my heart. He is a unique treasure that only deserves the best…and I cannot think of anyone better than Tiel to trust with his heart.

‘“I just had to kiss you,” she said with a shrug. “I couldn’t not.”
But I didn’t want it to be over.
“There’s a word for that. Basorexia. The uncontrollable urge to kiss,” I said.
Tiel laughed and brushed her thumb over my lips. “I guess I’m feeling a little basorexic.”
“Is that right?” She nodded, a shy smile teasing at the corner of her mouth. “Let me help you with that.”
My lips brushed against hers, tentative and in absolute fear of screwing up this one moment when everything—fucking everything—seemed to fall into perfect alignment. I was free and normal and alive, and even if it only lasted for right now, I didn’t want to lose one second of it.’

Tiel Kalogeropoulos-Desai…this chick is so ridiculously awesome it’s not even funny. My music loving heart was instantly drawn to her and I never wanted to let her go. She is quirky…moves to the beat of her own drum and I dug it, big time. She loves bright colors and lots of accessories and never stops moving. Tiel is insanely talented musically and I loved her passion for it. I also love the way she translated music into alternative uses (like therapy for autistic kids, etc.) – her brilliance never ceased to amaze me. I don’t know how Tiel would function without music…her passion for live bands of all genres was contagious…any spare moment she had would be an opportunity to practice…she was even a YouTube celebrity with her versions of popular songs…I’m telling you, this girl was my music angel and I loved it to bits. Talent, brains, beauty…it doesn’t get any better…but she did have her own issues. Tiel, like Sam, has her own family baggage and it’s pretty hefty…my heart broke for her but I also loved that she had carved out her own future and her own family on her own. She didn’t let other people stop her from fulfilling her dream.

“I’ve never wanted to love anything. I’m not sure that I can. But I was with her, touching her and feeling happy—or something that felt close enough to happy—and I wanted to feel that way all the time.”

Sam and Tiel…my little ying and yang. He’s my little nerdy professional and she’s my creative free spirit…and together they make magic. Don’t ask me how it happened considering he’s a commitment phobic manwhore and she’s got trust issues but regardless of their past…as long as they are together, then everything is right with the world. I don’t know if I could have fallen more in love with Sam and Tiel if I tried…from the moment that they met it was pure perfection and it never truly stopped. The thing I loved the most…they were best friends before anything…it was one of the most hypnotizing slow simmering builds that I have ever read. I was sucked into every small moment and minor detail…every movie night and live concert…it was the texting and the rambling conversations…it was all of the little things that made them completely unique and perfect and wonderful. I was beyond in love with them before they even finally admitted there was a “them” to love.

“Most people think passion lives in some thundering monster, a primordial entity that calls all the shots from deep inside your brain, but it’s not,” she said, growing animated. “It’s details. It’s the way itsy bitsy sounds bend around each other and create magic. It’s pressing your mouth to someone’s neck because you can’t imagine living another minute without feeling her skin on your lips. Fingertips digging into hips until they bruised. Reaching for someone in the night. Knowing her taste in your soul but never feeling fulfilled. Awakening all the beasts you’ve kept hidden inside, and letting them grow and breathe because she wants to know them. That’s passion.”

As much as I am falling in love with the Walshes, I’m equally falling in love with Kate Canterbary’s writing. Like woah. Her way with words is so addicting and the way she crafts her stories is beyond captivating. It legit pains me to put her books down because I’m so drawn into every single aspect…the characters are phenomenal, the stories flow effortlessly – which is another part of the un-put-down-able-ness, the writing is pure gold – sexy, funny, witty, charming, angsty, swoony, sarcastic and with that added Walsh chemistry that is unquantifiably amazing…it’s a recipe for flawlessness. I already think Kate is a freaking genius but I’m in absolute awe of what she has done with this family. I’ve read a lot of series books (I’m a series whore for a reason!) and The Walshes is by far one of my favorites – but it’s one of the best series that is based on a family that I’ve ever read. The intricacy and the detail that she has put into this group is astounding…it’s emotional and gripping and I feel so attached to these characters it’s almost a little ridiculous and I’m totally okay with that fact.

‘I always thought it was ridiculous. If someone experiences suffering, it would make sense that they wouldn’t need more than a small amount of joy. All I ever wanted was that tiny taste of happiness because I believed I didn’t want or need or deserve more.
But I was wrong. You showed me more. You showed me that I could have crazy, wild happiness, and we could make something incredible together.
I want something incredible with you. Something safe and forever and real, and know that I will never want it with anyone else, ever.’

The ending was…unexpected – in a good way. I had a feeling I knew where the angst/tension was going to come from (and I was right) but the direction that Kate took it was interesting and it really worked, especially for Sam’s character. It hurt…but there was positive growth, from both Tiel and Sam and in the end I really loved what it did for both of them. I loooooooved the epilogue…like so much...it was everything I needed and wanted and wrapped up in a beautiful Walsh-bow. As always, I’m dying to dive into the next book in the Walsh Series… The Cornerstone - it’s Shannon’s book! This has been building in the background, especially with Sam’s book, so I’m dying to see what’s going to happen with Shannon! I’m intentionally drawing out my Walsh experience because they’re too good – I know that sounds dumb and weird but I seriously don’t know what I will do when I run out of these books…I love them so much so my heart and brain cannot fathom not having another one to read. #WalshAddict

[Crazy for Books (Stephanie) · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC provided by the author for an honest review.

4 Rude and Pervy Stars

Sam Walsh has been spiraling since the death of his father. Although he's happy the man is dead, he's not been able to keep his past and his father's past nasty rants out of his head. The mindless and emotionless sexual hookups aren't helping either. He's been doing a good job of keeping it away from his siblings, but isn't sure how to pull himself out of the downward trajectory. And he knows that he needs to do just that.

Enter, free spirit Greek-Indian American, Tiel Kalogeropoulous-Desai, with the 50's pinup body and style, and adjunct professor in music, studying for her doctorate. Tiel and Sam meet getting on an elevator in her building. Unfortunately due to the extreme heat in Boston and the fact that the building is very old, cause some sort of electrical issue. They are precariously stuck. Hours of the two of them alone, bond them in more ways than one. Sam finds that Tiel is the happy energy he's needed in his life, to the point he doesn't mind her touching him and seeing his insulin port.

"There's something about her that feels...I don't know. It's ridiculous, but it's like I'm okay⎯for once in my life⎯when I'm around her. I don't know how, and maybe I'm hallucinating, but she does something to me." ~ Sam

Tiel, who speaks her mind is immediately enamored with Sam. She finds his sexy, uptight, prepster ways very appealing.

"Shit. This drink is brinier than a ball sack!" ~ Tiel

They are so different that it works.

I loved some of the hysterical things that they both said to each other. I loved how honest they were, for the most part. I loved Tiel's relationship with her best friend Ellie and I loved how Riley took care of Sam when he was being a butthead. I felt badly for Tiel and her family situation but was also a little put off by her response to Sam's family.

I loved both characters and the book better than the first two, for the most part. What I didn't like was how the book felt like it was a rush to finish. I thought there was a better way to introduce or intertwine Shannon and Nick's relationship (which I'm hoping is the next book) into the story. I thought Shannon baring her soul to a stranger, that was Tiel was a strange way to bring her into the show. I also wanted to have Sam meet her parents, and why did she come home early after Christmas? Did something happen other than overhearing her mother talk to her aunt about her? It was kind of odd. The dissertation was decided, started and finished out of nowhere. But all in all I thought it was fun. It could have been a solid 5 if not for my issues.

[Jan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked this one. Sam and Tiel have appeared briefly in other books in the series, but they both really shine in their own book.

I read this in the 3-book collection 'The Walsh Brothers', and there was a nice little extra epilogue at the end for the first book, 'Underneath It All', which I enjoyed.

[Cami · Rating 4 out of 5]

Don’t get me wrong, this book kept me interested the whole time but was anyone else confused by their relationship???

I liked both Tiel and Sam I’m just not sure I always understood where they were coming from.

[Lauren Reads Romance · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.75 stars

Sam Walsh and Tiel Desai meet on hot summer’s day while trapped in an elevator for eight hours. During which, forced proximity in romance novel law dictates that they begin the slow process of falling in love, which goes something like this: going on a bender after being rescued by fire fighters, dancing to terrible music at a dive bar, kissing in an alleyway, having a semi-naked dance party and then passing out drunk on Tiel’s living room floor. The two trade TMIs, sexts, overt boob ogling and proceed to spend the next two months going to live music events and platonic snuggling on the couch.

Just as friends though. Right. Riiiigghhhttt…

Both these ding dongs are equally fucked up people, each saddled with an entire lifetime’s worth of baggage. Are they fated mates with their bizarrely almost-identical birthmarks? Jury is still out that one. More like the most comically inappropriate and bewildering case of pretend BFFs.

This book was highly entertaining and had a lot of angst, which I live for. Sam is the angriest of all of the Walshes… I think…? I’m still working my way through the series so don’t quote me on that.

Thanks to his tragic childhood, terrible abusive father and complicated medical conditions, he’s essentially the poster boy for self-destructive behaviour. Going out getting blind drunk every night, receiving BJs from randos at clubs, not eating regularly, being grumpy AF; all this while being a type 1 diabetic, allergic to most antibiotics, OCD and anxiety, picky eater... yeah, Sam is a mega work-in-progress.

Tiel is just as terrible. She may not be as reckless as Sam but her fake laissez faire i-don’t-ever-want-anything-permanent attitude to life hides some major insecurities and trust issues. She comes from a very big traditional Greek family who thinks she’s wasting her life away being a talented musical genius. Cue major abandonment fears and trigger irrational jumping to conclusions whenever another woman talks to Sam.

Flawed characters are great to read, but these two were a HOT fucking MESS from start to finish, I felt exhausted. I’ll be honest and say, “thanks, but no thanks” to the both of them. And I really hated Tiel’s one measly paragraph of “grovel”. It was absolutely unacceptable and pathetic in my mind, she really dropped the ball there.

Seriously though, they had some hot chemistry and I was very impressed with the steaminess, but damn it, both these jokers need to go to therapy stat. I want to wish them all the best but I don’t know if that’s just wishful thinking. Do I want to read another book about their wedding? 🤦🏻‍♀️

So anyway. I’m conflicted and confused. It was a good story—see my rating—but overall Sam and Tiel really kind of sucked as people. The End.

[Rosa Sharon (iScream Book Blog) · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 sneaky snuggling stars...
In case you haven't read any of my other reviews I'll repeat it for you, I ❤️THE WALSH TRIBE! They are so funny, and weird, and loving, and talented, and perfectly written by an incredible author. This story is a bit more serious and there were fewer instances of intense sexual chemistry, and sexytime. The characters, Sam & Tiel met under very unusual circumstances and their relationship starts out in the 'friend zone'. Actually, the author found the perfect way to force Sam to spend more than 5 minutes in a coat closet with a nameless woman. Being a unapologetic manwhore he had no use for women other than what they could provide in those 5 minutes and talking wasn't required. While this book can be read and enjoyed as a standalone, there is some history that would be missed. For instance, I already knew going in, at least partially, why Sam was so screwed up and carrying tons of baggage from his painful past. However; I didn't know how deep his issues were because in the previous books I was only inside the heads of the main characters so it was only his humor and fashion sense that I admired when he was a support character. In this book, I get a front row seat in his head as he's thinking, "I was the grand master of assholes and more damaged than the Titanic's hull." So, with his very thick armor in place it takes longer to get to the 'pervy part' that takes place after the 'sneaky snuggling' that occurs between friends. I really enjoyed the musical aspect of this story as we get to know Tiel and her many talents and quirks. She is immediately pulled to Sam, feeling that "We were drawn together, magnet to metal." She was free, flowing, and laid back. She didn't wear heels or the latest styles. But at the same time she adored his fashion perfection and snickered as he discussed pocket squares with bartenders. She could see the real Sam, knowing that "feigning an adequate amount of snotty disinterest was how he kept his Cool Kid card." What an amazing chemistry that these two opposites created together as they secretly crushed on each other and only the readers knew how they felt. What fun it is to anticipate when "IT" would finally happen. How hilarious Riley is and how long must I wait for his story? How badass Shannon is and what a special man it will take to handle her. I can't wait! The line forms here...

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought Matt was hands down my favourite Walsh boy - Sam was always the Runt. The one who was mollycoddled by Shannon; The weak one.

But well, well, well! That Sam might have usurped his big brother in my affections and is my new favourite growly, bitey boy!

Necessary Restorations starts with a great opening. Germophobe Sam who likes peace and quiet is trapped in a lift (elevator) with a noisy, fidgety Tiel. With her bangles, necklaces and bright colours she is the opposite of what Sam would normally go for. He wants a quick bj, it's all about him. But there is just something about Tiel that won't let him go. She's in his veins, in his grill and cuddling on the sofa like a teenager.

"You're pure wild. You're something I'd find on an obscure trail in the middle of an ancient forest, in a special pocket of nature, and that's...amazing."

"You're smart and really cerebral, and more socially awkward than most turtles."

Love and lust, friendship and fears come together whilst walls are knocked down and plumbing is fixed. And I have a new pick up line to use when I meet my very own growly, bitey boy.

"There's an olive trapped in my boobs. Clearly this requires an architect."

Kate's Walsh boys are delightful. Bring on the girls!

[The Reading's Love Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

RECENSIONE QUI: https://thereadingslove.blogspot.com/...


"Ristrutturazioni necessarie" è il terzo libro della serie "I fratelli Walsh", ogni libro è autoconclusivo e tratta la storia di uno dei fratelli Walsh. Questa serie rispecchia tutti i requisiti di un romance perfetto: ironico, frizzante e sensuale. In questo terzo libro conosciamo Sam e Tiel, due personaggi complessi e assolutamente opposti. Sam è un personaggio che, fin da subito, intriga il lettore con i suoi pensieri. Da fuori sembra un uomo frivolo ed invece è un contenitore pieno di sentimenti e paure contrastanti. Sam può sembrare il classico uomo stereotipato, maschio Alpha con le donne ma non è assolutamente così. Lui è un personaggio fuori dagli schemi, l'autrice lo descrive perfettamente per la persona fortemente sensibile e chiusa in sé. La sua maschera, quella che porta con gli altri è in netto contrasto con i suoi pensieri. Leggendo il libro si avverte chiaramente la linea di finzione e realtà che avvolge Sam e la sua vita. L'autrice ce lo presenta come un uomo fortemente legato alla famiglia, che è il filo conduttore della serie. Quando conosce Tiel, qualcosa in Sam cambia. Tiel è una donna fuori dal comune, con un carattere carismatico e testardo che ti trascina in ogni cosa che fa. Tiel, al contrario di Sam, è estroversa con tutti, dentro e fuori, non ha filtri ed è una donna che è cresciuta lottando e costruendosi da sè. Il suo personaggio è frizzante e sbarazzino. In questo libro due mondi opposti entrano in collisione e ne verrà fuori un capolavoro. Questo è il libro perfetto da leggere sotto le festività, con l'amore che sprigiona e la voglia di rinascere con una consapevolezza nuova. Lo stile di scrittura è scorrevole e semplice, il libro si legge in pochissimo tempo e, grazie allo stile ironico dell'autrice, il lettore resta incatenato alle pagine fino alla fine. I personaggi secondari sono importanti per la perfetta riuscita di questa trama, ogni personaggio è unico, con un suo carattere ben descritto. Tiel e Sam dovranno lottare contro i dubbi e le loro stesse paure per stare insieme. A volte la mente è la peggior gabbia con la quale ci dobbiamo confrontare. Sam cambia radicalmente il suo modo di vedere la vita e il rapporto con le persone, grazie a Tiel. Le scene erotiche sono cariche di passione, l'autrice descrive il tutto con un pizzico di pepe e adrenalina che da alla lettura una marcia in più.

CONTINUA SUL NOSTRO BLOG. VENITE A TROVARCI
https://thereadingslove.blogspot.com/

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this for awhile, and it was heading for a 5 star rating, then the drama and Tiel happened. What a disappointment she turned out to be. She was petty, jealous, vindictive and down right rude. I can’t get on board with a book when two parties contribute to the problems in the relationship and only one has to do all the work, change, grovel etc. Don’t get me wrong I love a good grovel but in this there should have been 2. This was a head scratcher. 3 over generous stars.

[Christy Pastore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Necessary Restorations is without question one of the best books I have read this year. I was so honored to receive an ARC from Kate. A fabulous friends-to-lovers story via the most unimaginable not so "meet cute" way. Kate Canterbary's writing style is fresh, witty and gloriously dynamic. She has a knack for creating interesting characters with rich back-stories, well developed layered personalities and careers that are not so typical of most romance novels, at least none that I've read. Ultimately she gives you no choice but to fall in love with, root for and truly care about these amazing characters. Sam and Tiel are so fantastic together. I loved every scene, every delectable pervy thing that came out of Sam's mouth and every light-hearted hilarious response that Tiel dished out!

"Normal people don't say shit like that." ~ Tiel



Tiel isn't your typical heroine, she is a bold, fun loving, free spirit, not to mention a Musical Prodigy! Her carefree zest for life, passion for music, and the kids that she helps through music therapy makes her quite unique. Her life lacks a certain kind of order that would drive someone with OCD or with slight neurosis crazy, aka Sam {our Hero} - but actually it does the opposite. She is a refreshing kind of leading lady, and the perfect easy-going match for uptight perfectionist Sam.

"Okay, but I'm warning you," I said with a smirk. "I will get ruder and pervier." ~ Sam


Sam, oh Sam. Not your average Manwhore Player (trust me, just trust me on this). Here is a guy whose pain runs deep, extremely deep. He is a neurotic, anxious, insecure mess, but he's managed to cover up the "flaws" with a stylish charming exterior. Tiel sees those cracks and begins to help restore the broken pieces of Sam's world. Make no mistake Sam helps Tiel just as much, especially where the issue of trust and family comes in to play.

I know you are thinking this is just another free-spirited girl meets manwhore and changes his life story - WRONG! The relationship that develops between these two is completely beautiful. Necessary Restorations takes meeting someone by chance to a completely new level. Oh and the sex scenes - WOW!

"And once those panties are off, I'll make you come quick and hard, right here. Then, I want to be inside you for hours. Maybe days." ~ Sam


When it comes to brilliant writing and romantic story-telling, Kate Canterbary throws out "the rules" and gives us something raw, real and beautifully inspired.

Kate Canterbary is seriously becoming one of my favorite authors!

[Jackie · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars so this was better for me than Lauren and Matt’s story but not as good as Shannon’s . Probably about the same in terms of enjoyment as Patrick and Andy’s.
It was barreling down the road as a 5 star read until about the 60% ... and then things went south.


It was set up really well I enjoyed that the hero had a promiscuous past and the the heroine wasn’t all no experience or had a bad sexual experience past. She was the one initially who taught him that people with chemistry were more sexually compatible etc and once they did get together sparks flew. I loved how Sam fell in love and there was tangible things where you could see Tiel was improving his life.

Then it started to go wrong Tiel was horrible to his family (mainly the women) for no reason other than she didn’t like her own family ... wtf?

Her jealousy while warranted given sam’s past was directed at Sam’s brothers wives ... one incident was when she found out he volunteered on Lauren’s board of management. That made her jealous . Give me strength .


Tiel started out as a badass warm, wild heroine and she ended more like a shrew.

Sam was completely at fault for the magnolia scene he should have long acknowledged Tiel knowing this woman was chasing him but he didn’t and his reason for not stopping the kiss was he was waiting on Riley to intervene... eh no son grow yourself a pair and push the lady sticking her tongue down your throat off your knee!

This incident played right into Tiel’s hands and then he went back to his old slutty ways and tried to hook up with a OW while drunk. He wasn’t aroused and one thing I will say is the author did a good job from Sams POV to show much he not only loved Tiel but was sexually attracted to her in a way he had never been with anyone else .

The ending was rushed and I couldn’t see wtf he was doing in the woods for 2 months ... made no sense.

[Shaunna · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

I am such a sucker for emotionally damaged characters with a bit of grit to them and Sam and Tiel were as damaged as they come. They weren't perfect, but they learned how to be perfect together.

Up until around 85% this was going to be a full five-star for me. I loved watching their friendship grow into more, and their character development was excellent. Kate Caterbary's writing style is addictive, fluid and fun to read. The plot moved quickly, while avoiding the dreaded insta-love.

"I glanced up from her ankle and stopped attempting to extrapolate a good reason why any civilized person would wear a noisemaker, and shrugged."

This story also takes an interesting look at mental illness (and chronic illness), and made it relateable and important to Sam's development:

"My instincts told me to walk away from Miss Music Box, pop some pills to cage the ugly green anxiety monster, and hike down eleven flights of stairs."

My only concern, which is a fairly large one for some people, is a moment of what could be construed as cheating and then a several month-long separation of the couple. I could have done without that blip in the story.

Overall, I love the entire Walsh crew, and Sam and Tiel are officially my favourite couple so far!

Copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review

[Maheswari · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 stars
This story has a great potential between Max and Tiel
I’m so loving how they meet and their banter

But the moment Tiel have to meet Max family - I think both character dragging a bit too long

But it’s an ok read because Riley is there to entertain