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3.73 AVERAGE
3.73 AVERAGE
I have been dying to read this book since finishing Caught in the Axe. The way Chloe came in and laid her metaphoric
CLIVE HIVE! We’re back in Lovewell, Maine! Let’s just deck me out in flannel, because I am still in my lumberjack era. I am so here for all of these deliciously growly and grumpy Hebert men. And I adore the drama and heart we find in Lovewell. Daphne always delivers heartwarming stories that lift the spirits and leave me smiling…and that are also a lot of fun.
The tropes on this one had me hooked from page one. Divorced exes reuniting 20 years later with Chloe set on exacting her revenge on the company that destroyed her marriage to Gus…his family’s much scandalized lumber business. Chloe is basically an epic boss bitch, so now she OWNs, and nothing gives her more glee than her ex-husband who chose his family’s business over their marriage now being her employee. But there are LONG buried and unresolved feelings that quickly bubble to the surface…and soon a moment of one night “f it” spice results in something neither of them saw coming….an unexpected pregnancy.
I just loved the premise- a second chance between a divorced couple who are in radically different phases of life and might actually be ready for what they couldn’t achieve before, main characters in their 40’s (hello my age bracket!), the deliciously soapey she bought out his company set up, the Lovewell drama, and two people both bitter and still in love coming to terms with their failed marriage AND a pregnancy in not the most ideal of contexts. The dynamic is SO much fun- the ex’s “now I’m your boss” tension is explosive and sexy and adds so much romantic and dramatic tension (let’s just say, you could cut the tension with an AXE…yes, I went there). There is plenty of banter, all of that hate sexing volcanic energy, and it also generates a lot of emotion. These two have a lot to work through- but despite the divorce long ago tension, there is so much heart and tenderness between them. Chloe’s vitriolic feelings stem from a place of true hurt and loss, and both need to find a way to pivot their relationship from their younger mistakes and hurt to their current more mature, evolved adult selves now…but that’s not easy when there are so many pent up feelings. Their chemistry is just magnetic- we are saturated in their intense push and pull, and i just loved them together. And I found their connection to be so authentic and also resonant.
Chloe is just lods of fun- she’s sassy and sharp and fierce and snark…and paired with Guy’s grumpy, growly persona, we have a lot of they both like to poke the bear fun. They sure can get under each other’s skin- but I loved how we get to the heart of them both underneath the visage they portray to try to cope with the hurt of their past. Theirs is a journey of courageous vulnerability, forgiveness, and true second chances. Of commitment and reconciliation. And Gus- oh my. I adored getting in his mind to see the feelings he harbored, his regret, and his love. I floured him, and I love the way he loves Chloe, even if he makes mistakes. Watching them fall back in love (or in their case, realizing they never fell out of love) was so beautiful and fun and HOT. I was enamored with them- and with this unique and compelling storyline. And omg-the teaser for what’s next! I’ve got my flannel ready for my next visit to Lovewell.
The tropes on this one had me hooked from page one. Divorced exes reuniting 20 years later with Chloe set on exacting her revenge on the company that destroyed her marriage to Gus…his family’s much scandalized lumber business. Chloe is basically an epic boss bitch, so now she OWNs, and nothing gives her more glee than her ex-husband who chose his family’s business over their marriage now being her employee. But there are LONG buried and unresolved feelings that quickly bubble to the surface…and soon a moment of one night “f it” spice results in something neither of them saw coming….an unexpected pregnancy.
I just loved the premise- a second chance between a divorced couple who are in radically different phases of life and might actually be ready for what they couldn’t achieve before, main characters in their 40’s (hello my age bracket!), the deliciously soapey she bought out his company set up, the Lovewell drama, and two people both bitter and still in love coming to terms with their failed marriage AND a pregnancy in not the most ideal of contexts. The dynamic is SO much fun- the ex’s “now I’m your boss” tension is explosive and sexy and adds so much romantic and dramatic tension (let’s just say, you could cut the tension with an AXE…yes, I went there). There is plenty of banter, all of that hate sexing volcanic energy, and it also generates a lot of emotion. These two have a lot to work through- but despite the divorce long ago tension, there is so much heart and tenderness between them. Chloe’s vitriolic feelings stem from a place of true hurt and loss, and both need to find a way to pivot their relationship from their younger mistakes and hurt to their current more mature, evolved adult selves now…but that’s not easy when there are so many pent up feelings. Their chemistry is just magnetic- we are saturated in their intense push and pull, and i just loved them together. And I found their connection to be so authentic and also resonant.
Chloe is just lods of fun- she’s sassy and sharp and fierce and snark…and paired with Guy’s grumpy, growly persona, we have a lot of they both like to poke the bear fun. They sure can get under each other’s skin- but I loved how we get to the heart of them both underneath the visage they portray to try to cope with the hurt of their past. Theirs is a journey of courageous vulnerability, forgiveness, and true second chances. Of commitment and reconciliation. And Gus- oh my. I adored getting in his mind to see the feelings he harbored, his regret, and his love. I floured him, and I love the way he loves Chloe, even if he makes mistakes. Watching them fall back in love (or in their case, realizing they never fell out of love) was so beautiful and fun and HOT. I was enamored with them- and with this unique and compelling storyline. And omg-the teaser for what’s next! I’ve got my flannel ready for my next visit to Lovewell.
Review of "Pain in the Axe" by Daphne Elliot
"Pain in the Axe" by Daphne Elliot is a delightful rollercoaster of a romance that keeps you hooked from start to finish. The story revolves around a brilliantly executed revenge plot that takes an unexpected turn, blending humor, passion, and heartfelt moments into a satisfying read.
The premise is refreshing and fun: our protagonist buys her ex-husband’s family lumber company and demotes him, setting the stage for a series of hilarious and fiery confrontations. Daphne Elliot masterfully portrays the complexity of their relationship, making the reader feel the tension, the banter, and the undeniable chemistry between them.
Gus Hebert, the grumpy yet endearing ex-husband, is a standout character. His transformation from the antagonist in the protagonist’s eyes to a lovable, protective figure is beautifully handled. Underneath his rugged, flannel-clad exterior lies a heart of gold, which he reveals in the most unexpected and touching ways. His constant teasing and flirtation add a layer of humor that balances the emotional depth of the story.
The progression from mutual dislike to rekindled passion is both realistic and compelling. The author does a fantastic job of developing their relationship, showing how past hurts and misunderstandings can be overcome with time, patience, and a lot of humor. The scenes where their animosity turns into steamy encounters are written with just the right amount of tension and release.
The unexpected twist of a pregnancy adds another layer of complexity to the story. It forces the characters to confront their past mistakes and consider their future seriously. The protagonist’s inner conflict—her need to protect her heart and her unborn child while dealing with resurfacing feelings for Gus—is portrayed with sensitivity and depth.
"Pain in the Axe" also features a charming small-town setting, complete with colorful supporting characters that add richness to the narrative. Clive, with his main character energy, is a memorable presence that adds a touch of whimsy and warmth to the story.
Daphne Elliot’s writing style is engaging, witty, and emotionally resonant. She strikes a perfect balance between humor and heart, making this enemies-to-lovers romance a must-read for fans of the genre.
In summary, "Pain in the Axe" is a standout romance novel that combines a unique plot, well-developed characters, and a satisfying emotional journey. Whether you’re a fan of second-chance romance, enemies-to-lovers dynamics, or simply enjoy a good love story with a touch of humor, this book will not disappoint.
"Pain in the Axe" by Daphne Elliot is a delightful rollercoaster of a romance that keeps you hooked from start to finish. The story revolves around a brilliantly executed revenge plot that takes an unexpected turn, blending humor, passion, and heartfelt moments into a satisfying read.
The premise is refreshing and fun: our protagonist buys her ex-husband’s family lumber company and demotes him, setting the stage for a series of hilarious and fiery confrontations. Daphne Elliot masterfully portrays the complexity of their relationship, making the reader feel the tension, the banter, and the undeniable chemistry between them.
Gus Hebert, the grumpy yet endearing ex-husband, is a standout character. His transformation from the antagonist in the protagonist’s eyes to a lovable, protective figure is beautifully handled. Underneath his rugged, flannel-clad exterior lies a heart of gold, which he reveals in the most unexpected and touching ways. His constant teasing and flirtation add a layer of humor that balances the emotional depth of the story.
The progression from mutual dislike to rekindled passion is both realistic and compelling. The author does a fantastic job of developing their relationship, showing how past hurts and misunderstandings can be overcome with time, patience, and a lot of humor. The scenes where their animosity turns into steamy encounters are written with just the right amount of tension and release.
The unexpected twist of a pregnancy adds another layer of complexity to the story. It forces the characters to confront their past mistakes and consider their future seriously. The protagonist’s inner conflict—her need to protect her heart and her unborn child while dealing with resurfacing feelings for Gus—is portrayed with sensitivity and depth.
"Pain in the Axe" also features a charming small-town setting, complete with colorful supporting characters that add richness to the narrative. Clive, with his main character energy, is a memorable presence that adds a touch of whimsy and warmth to the story.
Daphne Elliot’s writing style is engaging, witty, and emotionally resonant. She strikes a perfect balance between humor and heart, making this enemies-to-lovers romance a must-read for fans of the genre.
In summary, "Pain in the Axe" is a standout romance novel that combines a unique plot, well-developed characters, and a satisfying emotional journey. Whether you’re a fan of second-chance romance, enemies-to-lovers dynamics, or simply enjoy a good love story with a touch of humor, this book will not disappoint.
Daphne Elliot is the queen of lumberjacks and I have nothing more to say about it other than she absolutely DID that!!! The accidental pregnancy??? SHE ATE. UGH I LOVE YOU DAPHNE
Tropes:
-divorced exes
-grumpy x grumpy
-revenge
-forced proximity
-accidental pregnancy
-"it's always been you"
Pain in the Axe is book two in the Main Lumberjacks series and is Gus and Chloe's story. I'm not usually drawn towards the accidental pregnancy trope, but Daphne does such a good job with it, and I just fell in love with this story....plus they're divorced exes?! I always love Daphne's works, and this is no exception, she really knows how to write the lumberjack romances.
Chloe and Gus were married and there is just so much tension between the two. Chloe gets her revenge by buying his business and becomes the new owner. As the story progresses, and they start to work together and talk, and they give into the chemistry which leads up to the pregnancy.
Gus really is the definition of "if he wanted to, he would", he really is caring and so swoon worthy. I loved how this wasn't an instant second chance love and the story was so well written. All the characters in this story had depth and who doesn't love Clive the moose?
Releasing July 22, 2024, I received an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
-divorced exes
-grumpy x grumpy
-revenge
-forced proximity
-accidental pregnancy
-"it's always been you"
Pain in the Axe is book two in the Main Lumberjacks series and is Gus and Chloe's story. I'm not usually drawn towards the accidental pregnancy trope, but Daphne does such a good job with it, and I just fell in love with this story....plus they're divorced exes?! I always love Daphne's works, and this is no exception, she really knows how to write the lumberjack romances.
Chloe and Gus were married and there is just so much tension between the two. Chloe gets her revenge by buying his business and becomes the new owner. As the story progresses, and they start to work together and talk, and they give into the chemistry which leads up to the pregnancy.
Gus really is the definition of "if he wanted to, he would", he really is caring and so swoon worthy. I loved how this wasn't an instant second chance love and the story was so well written. All the characters in this story had depth and who doesn't love Clive the moose?
Releasing July 22, 2024, I received an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
emotional
funny
lighthearted
mysterious
fast-paced
Accidental pregnancy
Ex husband/wife
Second chance
Workplace revenge
Small town Maine
Lumberjacks
Gus: oldest brother, recluse type mountain man, lumberjack bubble butt, disgraced lumber company, strong and steady
He’s the type I’d go for if I wasn’t married and he wasn’t still in love with his ex wife from 20 years ago
Chloe: powerful business woman, the words I’d used to describe her aren’t really kind, like uptight and b*tchy
I wanted to shake her
I’m liking this series tho, the mystery aspect that is woven throughout the books that I’m going to assume is going to continue.
I need to go read the Lovewell series
Ex husband/wife
Second chance
Workplace revenge
Small town Maine
Lumberjacks
Gus: oldest brother, recluse type mountain man, lumberjack bubble butt, disgraced lumber company, strong and steady
He’s the type I’d go for if I wasn’t married and he wasn’t still in love with his ex wife from 20 years ago
Chloe: powerful business woman, the words I’d used to describe her aren’t really kind, like uptight and b*tchy
I wanted to shake her
I’m liking this series tho, the mystery aspect that is woven throughout the books that I’m going to assume is going to continue.
I need to go read the Lovewell series
Did the baby from book one change his name from Theo/Theodore to Thor in this book?
Okay, I loved this but I did not love love it. I feel like this would have been great as a stand alone, with less flip flop for the FMC in terms of her feelings(seemed a little too much here and there) and figuring out who did the great bad and all. Will probably revisit the whole of this series to see if it has a different vibe versus jumping in between.