Reviewed by Amber
TITLE: Sultry Sunset
SERIES: Mangrove Stories #3
AUTHOR: Mary Calmes
PUBLISHER: Dreamspinner Press
LENGTH: 62 pages
BLURB:
Hutch Crowley is well-liked in the small resort town of Mangrove—he’s got friends in his new neighbors, he’s the owner of the town grocery, and he’s building a community center—but he’s still unlucky at love. Every man he’s attracted to is either taken or simply not interested, including his best friend, Mike Rojas.
When Mike came to Mangrove two years ago, Hutch gave him a job and a place to stay in his guesthouse, where Mike has remained ever since. Despite the rumors circulating about them, Hutch knows Mike is straight and looking for the right woman. But his friends disagree, and after some hints to the contrary, even Hutch finally has to admit that maybe the rest of the town sees something he’s been missing. If Hutch wants to spend each sultry sunset with the man of his dreams, it might be time to figure out what’s going on with his best friend’s heart.
REVIEW:
I think it’s pretty well known at this point that I am a Mary Calmes fan. If there were a fan club, I’d be the proud President. I love what Mary can do with a story. I love how she builds these funny, caring, compassionate, quirky characters and I love how they always surround themselves with similar people. Although, this wasn’t my favorite Mary Calmes story, I got glimpses of the things I truly love when it comes to reading her books.
Hutch Crowley is Mangroves biggest support. You can tell he loves his town. He loves it so much he built a huge grocery store at the heart of it. He’s also, elbows deep in building a recreation center that will give all citizens of Mangrove a place to go for recreation. Hutch is lonely so he’s been seeking a relationship in the small town with no success. It dawns on him quite suddenly that he loves his roommate and best friend, Mike Rojas.
Mike Rojas lost his wife and was lost himself for quite some time. In Mangrove he found a great job as a manager at his best friend’s grocery store and a best friend that is more like family than anything else. Mike, having lived his whole life as a straight male doesn’t know what to do with this un-friend like feelings he’s been having towards Hutch.
What this story really lacked was the push/pull, sexual tension, emotional build up that is trademark Mary Calmes. It really felt like they were roommates then BAM they were up against a wall making out. It was unsatisfying which was disappointing.
I did love the introduction of the fire chief. I can’t wait to see where that goes.
Overall, this was ok for me but nothing like I’m used to from Mary Calmes.
RATING: 
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