Speakeasy (True North Book 5)

Received in exchange for a honest review.

By far this is the best in this series. Why? Alec and May. Also the vivacious way that the book is written with the fun flirty texts and the easygoing way that Alec and May get along.

Alec is a great guy. He is trying to break from the stereotype everyone sees him as. He was once the party guy and now he is the one who took his enjoyment of a good time into a business. A business he works hard at. A business he loves and wants to expand. I love how easygoing and sweet he is. You can see his dislike of the Shipleys but he has a soft spot for May. And at the beginning of the book this is why he is conflicted over what he sees. He soft heart doesn’t want to see May hurt. Only May surprises everyone by showing up and when she lets go and boy does she have a angry side. I love though how Alec takes control of the situation and helps May from doing something that can harm her future.

May is a young woman struggling. She is really trying to find her place a little like Alec but his is more of getting others to see him beyond his old reputation and take him more seriously. For May she is truly lost. She doesn’t know where she belongs. She doesn’t want to be stuck in her head and needs some boost in her self esteem. She doesn’t really trust herself as well. She is floundering so when Alec helps her she is grateful. She is a good character because like Alec she is kind and strong. She is also, like Alec, flawed and real.

Next thing we know Alec is texting May and trying to cheer her up with bad jokes. He takes May away from her world for awhile. They get to become friends and May feels lighter and Alec helps her feel more confident. Only May doesn’t think Alec can deal with her problems. She feels he only wants the benefits of their relationship and nothing else so she hides her struggles from him. Even after time and time again you can see he wants to know all sides of him. For Alec, time with May has him growing. He begins to want more in his relationship with her and falls in love. He also grows to want more in his future. I love how when May is in pain he is there for her. To cheer her up but also how he opens up to her about his day and when it’s bad he wants to share it with her. Just to have someone to listen to him. His speech to her when he messes up was so swoony.

The story is vivacious, fun and flirty. May and Alec have amazing chemistry and the book is just so fun. There isn’t a moment that you don’t smile even at the corny jokes. Root Alec on when he has to really show he is serious about his future and root for May to let Alec in. Cheer on May and Alec in falling in love and finding their way to one another in all aspects-support system, rock and friendship.

May Shipley's life is falling down around her. And Alec Rossi just happens to be the Not-So-Shining-Knight-In-Armor around to help her when she needs it. They did not really know each other, but he provides comfort in a time of need. And they have hot chemistry and a need to blow off steam.

Neither are looking for a relationship. She is untrusting and getting over a break up, and he is usually a manwhore. But they can make each other feel good and noone has to know. He is the perfect rebound guy with no expectations, and they make each other laugh.

They are used to people watching them and waiting for them to screw up. And that is because they have made mistakes. But they also need people to see their intelligence, strength, and to actually support them and not inadvertently make them more insecure.

May has done a lot of good things, but is also judged for her mistakes and past relationships. She has moved home under the watchful eye of her family and is glad to find something to make her smile. But she has issues that she has to be mindful of and it makes her feel unworthy and she lacks trust in her own judgment at times. Alec seems like an uncomplicated safe bet as long as know one finds out.

Alec Rossi is honest, hardworking, funny, and charming. He has even more plans for his business, but there are some roadblocks to his dreams, and his life has also just become more complicated and chaotic. His new attachment to May is unexpected, but he is also a man who knows what he wants and can be decisive. But May can be a challenge.

I liked these two together. They had similar issues in some ways. But in other aspects they could appear to be a bad match with the most obvious being she is a recovering alcoholic and he is a bar owner. There are also family ties and negative history that add complications.

I am glad that May finally got her own book. We have seen her take some unexpected turns as far as her actions and relationships during this series. I liked that she was a work in progress and was still figuring out what she really needed in a partner and what she needed to do for herself. And Alec was in his own mode of self discovery and carving out his future.

This was sweet, funny, sexy, and had a bit of angst and a few surprises. There is some serious subject matter but it is handled well and realistically. It brings back most of the characters from the series that we have come to love. I like how they are a dynamic, entertaining, and sometimes dysfunctional group. But they react the way they do because of love. It is a good addition to this family-centric series where the characters are real, genuine, and definitely have a few flaws.

Reviewed on behalf of The Book Boyfriend Addict.

4.5 Stars

'Unexpected, but strangely satisfying. May Shipley scratches an itch that I didn’t know I had.'

Alec Rossi has always viewed the Shipley family as his rivals so even though he’s always noticed May Shipley’s beauty, he’s never given it much thought. Until one day she spots her live-in lover kissing someone else in his bar and he swoops in to save her from making too big of a scene. May is grateful to Alec and, in the days that follow, she’s a little surprised to find a friendship forming between the two. They quickly realize they have a lot in common and a lot of chemistry. May isn’t looking for anything serious after her last disastrous relationship and the fact that the rest of her life is a hot mess and Alec is known for his aversion to relationships, making them the perfect match for a no strings attached good time. They have a lot of fun together and are happy with their arrangement, but what happens when one of them wants to change the rules?

“…we are such a weird couple.”
“I know.” He kisses my good hand. “The weirdest. But I don’t care. You snuck up on me, and I’ve got it bad.”

I really enjoyed this story! I’m still pretty new to the True North series, the only other book I’ve read was Bountiful (which I also enjoyed), but I’m really loving this group of characters. You can certainly read this book as a standalone, but I bet you’ll love it even more if you’ve read the others. I’m glad I at least read Bountiful because I was somewhat familiar with these characters especially since Alec was Zara’s brother. I didn’t know much about May going into this book but I thought she was great. She’d been through a lot and having to deal with her, at times, overbearing family was no cakewalk but I admired her strength and perseverance. I loved Alec too, he was a fun guy but he was also a hard worker and I like how well his fun/playboy side was balanced by his vulnerable side where his business and family were concerned. May and Alec together were so much fun. They were sweet and sexy and I loved the easy way they had about them. There wasn’t any ridiculous angst in this story but there were certainly obstacles and issues that they had to overcome but it was all so very believable and I loved how everything played out. This book was a lot of fun to read and really makes me want to go back and read the earlier books in this series!!

“If you keep being so amazing, I’m going to fall for you a little harder.”
“That’s a risk I can live with.”

“?’? ???? ??????? ???. ????????????? ????’? ?? ?????, ??? ?’? ???????? ?? ??????????. ?? ??’?? ???? ??????? ??? ???? ????????????—???? ???? ???????? ???.”

I always say that my favourite stories are those that nudge me out of my comfort zone, or stretch my notions of what I think I’d enjoy reading, and this book did exactly that. One emotionally-charged page at a time, it pushed me to reconsider certain expectations I had of romantic scenarios in fiction, and of the many, all too precise labels I unthinkingly seems to attach to fictional characters in general. At first glance, there is little that is truly groundbreaking about a story of two ‘friends with benefits’ slowly becoming more, but it is Sarina Bowen’s deft control of her characters that made this book unlike anything I’ve ever read before. She paints her characters with such nuance and with such complexity, it becomes impossible not to get pulled in—not just by their many intriguing facets, but also by a love story that is unexpected, surprising, atypical, and rewarding in every single way. It’s funny how pigheadedly we sometimes keep drawing lines in the sand, thinking we know ourselves best, until someone simply makes us look at something a little differently, and a whole new world suddenly opens up before our very eyes.

???? ?? ? ??? ???? ?? ????? ???? ??????? ?????? ?????? ?? ???? ?? ???? ??? ???????? ?? ? ?? ????? ????

Twenty-seven-year-old May Shipley thought she was finally on the right track to finding her happily-ever-after, feeling confident in not only her attraction to both genders, but also in her relationship with her live-in girlfriend. But her life suddenly comes crumbling down when she catches her girlfriend cheating on her, only made worse by her childhood crush witnessing the whole ordeal, and then helping her move back in with her parents.

“???? ?? ???? ? ????? ??’? ??? ???? ?????.”
“?????”
“?? ????????? ????? ???? ? ???.”
?? ????????. “???’?? ?????. ????’? ? ???????? ????-??.”
“????’? ??,” ? ????? ??? ???????. “?? ??? ??? ????? ???? ????.”

Alec Rossi has worked hard to turn his bar into one of the best-known destination spots for hard-to-find craft beers in Vermont, while secretly dreaming of entering this very competitive and highly whimsical marketplace with his own brew. But best known for his bachelor lifestyle and party-loving ways, no one seems to take Alec’s ambitions all too seriously, not even his own family. So when he finds himself playing knight in shining armour to a damsel in distress whose life has unexpectedly fallen apart, he is not surprised by how protective he feels of her from the start, but he is shocked beyond words when one kiss between them ends up leading to one of the hottest hookups of his life.

“???? ??? ????? ???? ?? ?? ?? ?? ?? ?????”
“???? ??? ????? ???? ?? ?? ?? ? ??? ??? ???”

As they continue to climb into bed with each other time and time again, a secret understanding begins to form between them where their every encounter becomes a blur of skin, sweat, and countless orgasms, but a tender friendship begins to form between them, too, catching them by surprise and giving them both the confidence they never knew they needed to take on the world around them. However, while Alec is ready to embrace his true feelings for May as soon as he becomes aware of them, the young woman continues to battle her conflicting emotions for a man who was only ever meant to help her forget her broken heart, not steal it away entirely.

“???’?? ??? ???? ?? ?? ???? ????, ??????. ?’? ??? ???????? ?? ??? ?? ???? ? ???, ??? ????? ? ??? ?????.”

Sarina Bowen is a powerful storyteller who continues to expand the genre in which she writes by creating interesting, richly textured characters whose very flaws make them so perfectly relatable to us. While always being deeply passionate and sensual, her love stories also never fail to offer a unique perspective on romance by resisting traditional gender stereotypes and never fitting a mould. This book made me forget my own comfort zone, and I loved every minute of it.

“?’? ??? ????? ??? ????? ? ??????? ???, ???. ??? ?’? ??????? ????? ?????? ???.”

Steadfast is book number 5 in the True North series by Sarina Bowen and at this point, she has me convinced that the Shipley Farm is a real place that I need to visit and invite myself to Thursday night dinner with the family.

My heart broke for May in Steadfast (Book 3). She was going through a really difficult time in that book so I knew it was going to be emotional before I even read the synopsis. I also knew we would be diving deep into Mays journey into sobriety and the message of this book would be important and uplifting.

It’s revealed in a previous book in the series that May is bisexual and Steadfast begins with her in a long term relationship with a woman. (A really awful woman IMO. lol) But, for the majority of this book she’s with a man. (A really awesome man IMO.) ?

Alec is such a fun character to balance out May. I worried that his spontaneous and carefree nature (not to mention him being a BAR owner) would be hazardous for May but their relationship ended up being so sweet and exciting that the hazards seemed to wash away with every chapter. The bar did play an integral part in this story but it wasn’t as bad as I thought it might be in the beginning.

The love scenes are crazy hot in this book. The secrecy of their relationship and always wondering if and when they’re going to be caught together was exciting to read. May surprised me in how adventurous she could be and Alec surprised me in how tender he could be.

Steadfast is a really good read. There was just something missing for me. Although I truly did enjoy this story, I didn’t find myself staying up all night reading because I couldn’t wait to see how it all ends. Every previous book in this series has been a stay up all night reading kind of book to me so that’s why I cannot give Steadfast 5 stars. If I was solely looking at this book by itself and didn’t factor in the way other books in the series made me feel, this book would more than likely be a 5 star read to me.

So, that’s why I had to give Steadfast 4.5 out of 5 KBN stars.

The message in this story IS important and uplifting. It changed my way of thinking about addiction and how hard it is for someone struggling with it to stay sober and live their life.

Xo-K

*I was generously given an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

You Guys!! Anyone who knows me knows that
Sarina Bowen is a desert island author. I absolutely run to everything she writes as I feel like she has a finger on the pulse of what people love and want to read about. I absolutely adore her True North series and could not wait for May Shipley's book!! And honestly her and Alec? SOO adorable and fun. They brought out facets in one another that no one else did. But while I thought this book was such a fantastic addition to the series, I did have some mixed feelings about their connection.

If you have read this series from the beginning, then your May Shipley obsession is real. I loved her feistiness and loyalty to her family and friends and the fact that she had struggles and turmoil in her life she was dealing with. I think she is one of my favorite characters this author has written purely because of her relateabilty factor. Now my main man Alec Rossi? He gives Jude a run for his money (sorry Jude!) I absolutely loved that he was an absolute sweetheart who only saw the fun and flirty in life. At first he was the perfect playboy distraction for May while dealing with a painful breakup and a turning point in her life. But as they got closer and emotional boundaries were crossed, would May be able to see past Alec's playboy persona to want something real? 

Gah!! This story was fabulous. So utterly fabulous as I loved Alec. He was just so real and honest and himself. There was no artifice. He was who he was. His struggles about his own self worth and everyone's (false) perception of his reputation and limitations made my heart ache for him. Likewise, May was amazing and so loving. She was at a point in her life where she needed to figure herself out. For that reason while I appreciated and understood her struggle and the rough patch she was at in life, unfortunately, I didn't really feel her connection and feelings for Alec until the very end. It felt like she was struggling so much with figuring herself out that her feelings for him were almost *lackluster* and an afterthought and could have been fleshed out a bit more.

All in all though, let's be real. This series has been a solid gold star in my book and one of my favorites from this author. This family feels more like friends to me and ones I will miss and revisit often. Here's hoping we receive more of the Rossi family's books (*cough* Benito *cough*) as I will read anything this author writes. Dictionaries included! Bravo! 4 stars! ~Ratula

❝But love is messy, unpredictable, and occasionally loud.❞

Sarina Bowen's True North series makes me want to explore Vermont! With each book, she gives us new information about small town living and beautiful imagery of the North Eastern part of the US. This city girl needs to get go out and explore!

Sarina Bowen is a one-click author for me. I never read a blurb because I couldn't care less what it's about, I just know that if she writes it, I want to read it.

❝The minute I let myself want someone, I always wreck it.❞

May Shipley has always been a character in the background of the True North series. A little mysterious and a lot misunderstood. A recovering alcoholic, she feels she's always under the scrutiny of her family. She feels their distrust as if they lay in wait for her to mess up. In reality, I think it is May who awaits her destruction. She doesn't trust herself nor her decisions. It wasn't until Alec Rossi showed unadulterated interest in her, despite her flaws, that she begins to trust and even like herself.

❝May Shipley scratches an itch that I didn't know I had.❞

Alec Rossi has always been the fun, happy-go-lucky, party guy. It is this reputation that causes people, including his family, to never take him too seriously. Now grown up, he has grown up plans and dreams and he needs people to believe in them and him. May sees Alec for more than his reputation. He's smart, sensitive, and caring. Her faith in him gives him strength.

Another reason I love this series is the strong family dynamic present in each book. It's refreshing. There isn't a character I don't want to know more about. But I REALLY want grandpa's story!! He is hilarious!!! I want to know his past and how he ended up where he is today.

❝Get a room!❞ Grandpa yells. ❝Oh wait, you did. Right over my head last night ... ❞
❝Grandpa!❞ several people say at once.
❝Well, nobody refilled my coffee. I'm not responsible for the things I say.❞

'Speakeasy' is a sexy, heart-warming tale of a passionate one-night stand that turns from forbidden love to acceptance, trust and a change of heart!

I was provided a review copy by the author. This did not influence my opinion of the book nor my review.

Confession time: the Rossi I was expecting to read more about first was Benito, but hey, I'll take Alec any day. He may seem like a totally easygoing guy without a care in the world, but there's depth to him the more layers are peeled away as the story progresses. He's got a truly big heart, and it's one that he doesn't just save for his family but also those who are nearest and dearest to him. Of course, being around May made it easier to see how much of a good guy he is. Sure, the guy had his slew of hookups prior to meeting May, but then I don't expect the characters that I read about to be perfect people. That would make them boring. I liked that he was flawed, as was May, and because there were parts of them that they didn't immediately expose to other people and all others saw were their failings, they seemed to be such a perfect fit. These two had far more in common than one would think, and I believe that's what allowed them to have a much better understanding and acceptance of one another. There wasn't this slew of expectations and demands coming from either of the two.

Aside from the romance--which I loved!--that was going on between Alec and May, I also appreciated how the series is about family. The Shipleys have been a favorite fictional family of mine since Bittersweet, and I'm not just talking about Griffin, May, and the twins, Daphne and Dylan. There's also the family matriarch, Ruth Shipley, and Grandpa Shipley, who tells it like it is and demands his slice of pie during family meals. Add to that everyone else who's come along and been taken in by the clan. I loved catching up with them and hope we've got a couple or so more stories to come from their end, including the Shipley cousins! Fingers crossed we'll get more of the other Rossi siblings who have yet to find love because they look to be an interesting bunch, though I confess I'm still not a fan of their Uncle Otto. All this being said, I do want to point out that each of the books in the series, including this newest one, CAN be read as standalones. I'm just the kind of reader that needs to read books in a series in order, so go read them all! Five-plus stars for Speakeasy. ♥

I’m so excited that Sarina wrote another book on this series. She’s one of my favorite authors, and this series has a special place in my heart, I love everything about it, and I can’t wait to read more. The writing was, as always, wonderful, so I’m not going to spend a lot of time on that. I hope you’ve read something by Sarina Bowen by now, otherwise, you’re missing out.

I’ll admit that this was not the story I was expecting for May, and like me, I think most people were expecting May to have a F/F romance, given that since coming out as bisexual, she was very fixed on the fact that she would end up with a woman. But I was happy with the way the story turned out, and how the progress made May’s character to grow.

I’ve loved May for a lot of books now, but I think she finally got what she deserved: acceptance… from herself. She was always trying to show a good facade, but she never put her foot down and admitted to herself that she was worthy too, and she deserved everything. Alec helps May grow on that sense, and she finally realizes that she can be herself, no judgment or preconceived notions. She’s deserving, and she can be herself, a bit messed up and all.

Much on the same way, May helps Alec become more than what everybody sees in him. He comes off at first a bit childish and immature, because he’s always carefree and honest, but he’s also insecure and he needs to feel like he’s not always a screw up. He eventually realizes that he can want and desire more, and he can achieve it.

These two apparently didn’t have anything in common, but they actually do. They’re both the middle children that everyone disregards a bit. And they help each other find the right footing they both need. The character growth is my favorite part of this book, and the fact that they love each other without any judgment. They’re supportive and they come into their own together.

I’m glad May Shipley found Alec Rossi. They ended up being exactly what each other needed.

IF YOU HAVEN’T PICKED THIS ONE UP YET, DO. IT’S WORTH IT.

One thing that is always consistent with a Sarina Bowen book is that I easily get hooked and gobble it up. Speakeasy was relatable, fun and heart warming. While it is the fifth installment in the True North Series, it can be read as a standalone. I’ve been with these guys from the start so it’s always good to get more of the gang.

May Shipley has always felt like the black sheep of the family. She’s bisexual and a recovering alcoholic. She’s also an extremely intelligent lawyer and loved by her family. Coming off a breakup from her live-in girlfriend, May finds herself becoming closer friends with Alec Rossi. He’s easy to be around and has a sharp tongue that keeps her laughing during a rough time in her life. She also starts to feel attracted to him but fights it with everything that she has.

Alec feels like the kid in the family who messes up and is considered a playboy but he has a successful bar that he puts his heart and soul into. When May walks into the bar and he sees her world shatter, he can’t help but be drawn to her. He wants nothing more than to make her smile again. The more he spends time with her, the harder he falls for her. When things get heated, they say it’s for fun only but Alec wants more. Problem is, May doesn’t. Now he has to convince her that they are actually perfect for each other.

I like May and Alec together. He has his own insecurities, which makes him real, but he also has a confidence that is perfect for May. He supports her when she needs it but she can recognize when he needs it in return. He was so patient with her while she worked out her insecurities.

It was also great to get more of the gang. Gruff Griff, Audrey, Lark, etc. I will say that I wanted more of Jude but I understand based on the story of May and Alec how it isn’t that easy to really bring him into it more than he was. Plus, Griff and Alec were sort of enemies so it was great to see their relationship play out as well.

Overall, I enjoyed Speakeasy. It talks about real issues and it makes the characters relatable. I’m greedy so I hope we continue to get more out of this series.

Speakeasy by Sarina Bowen

I love returning to True North and the Shipley family and I loved Alec and May’s story. While I needed a quick refresher on who Alec was, I was well-acquainted with May and her habits.

After a humiliating breakup, May returns home to the suffocating bosom of her family - having struck up an odd friendship with her rescuer, Alec along the way. May is a recovering alcoholic who is always wishing for that one drink so perhaps striking up a friendship with the owner of the Gin Mill - a pub in town - is a little unorthodox, but they somehow make it work.

Alec is used to working hard and playing harder. He likes a good joke and he’s a fun-loving guy. He’s always thought May was more than a little attractive but never acted on it given that a: he hates her brother and b: her last partner was of the female variety.

This series of Bowen’s always makes me feel all the damn feelings in the whole world! I’m happy and smiling one minute, then the next I have tears and feel like I could toss out some violence. Speakeasy was no different in that regard. I wondered how Bowen would handle May’s bisexuality: would she denounce all feelings towards women? Would she immediately jump into something with Alec? And what about her alcoholism? Would it be prettified for the reader? Silly, naive Mel. Bowen handled all of these issues and questions with her usual aplomb and treated them with the respect they deserve. For that alone, I take my hat off to her.

I loved this book and honestly couldn’t find fault with it. This whole series is a must-read in my opinion. It’s not always pretty, there aren’t always rainbows and sunshine. But these books and the characters are raw and real and I cannot get enough of them.

*arc received in exchange for honest review.

**Reviewed by Melinda for Joandisalovebooks Blog.

I absolutely love this series every book is so different, i love where these books are set and for me it’s just like coming home and coming back to a family that you feel you know so well and get so excited to see where the next lot of characters take us.

This one was no expectation, we got the playboy Alec and the very confused May. We got to know Alec as a good brother to Zara in her book, but he wasn’t ready for settling down and was trying to make his bat successful. I felt like we got such a different view of Alec which we expect but i never expected him to so thoughtful, caring and really misunderstood. I liked Alec from the start he was so funny and he made me feel good just reading his character.

May what a complex character she was in previous books it was almost like she was in the background but you could see her spiraling down and she was going to hit rock bottom and she did. We were left wondering why she was with her partner because they were so mean to her and bringing her down and i couldn’t wait to get May’s Story for this reason. In her family she always felt like the joke but it was like she never felt like she was worthy of being good enough for anyone or that she didn’t deserve good things and i felt so sorry for her.

I absolutely loved this story, in a way it was about two very lost characters who just needed to bring the best out in each other and to really show each other that they were worth it. There was the drama, the previous characters who we got read how they were going. For me this book is one of my favorites i have read this year and that cover is beautiful.

If you have read this series you will not be disappointed at all, it was amazingly written and such a great story.

If you haven’t started this series it’s a must.

Big 5 Vermont stars for this book

May Shipley – the big sister in the family, the one who’s girlfriend was a terrible b#$%h at Griffin and Audry’s wedding, the one who is a recovering alcoholic, the one who is secretly in love with her best friend – she’s the center of the first drama in the story. Catching your live-in girlfriend cheating with her ex isn’t pretty. And when it’s done in public, in a well known establishment that’s also a bar (which as an alcoholic she will probably not frequent) but everyone she knows will, that’s just mean.

Alec, said bar’s owner, is such a good guy, will be the one to control the situation and as a friend, will take care of May. From that point on, their relationship grows in a very physical way, through late night hookups and a graduate ceremony at May’s law school. He acts as the light and fun guy, the one that is dependable, but no one really takes seriously. The party guy.

The thing I like most in these types of stories is the fact that emotions just sneak up on the characters. They don’t realize they care deeper for each other until it’s almost too late, or until some outside force might put a dent in their perfect system.

May and Alec are made for each other, even with her recovery and his business. Even with his flighty ways and her need for stability. Their goofiness compliments their personas and they are both regarded in a way that isn’t always the way they want to be regarded. Alec will probably always suffer his uncle Otto’s criticism and May will probably always be viewed as a bubble that’s about the burst in the eyes of her family.

The best part is when they both prove everyone wrong. Just shows that sticking to what you believe in, and a little outside support, will take you a looooooong way.

Every single Sarina Bowen book grabs me in one way or another. Whether I find myself smiling, swooning, sad or a little *smitten*, I'm always affected. As with most deeply affecting read, they are character driven and Sarina Bowen is a master at this. She shows them in their entirety from the inside out. Her stories touch on many issues, social and personal. With Speakeasy, we are left contemplating addiction as we venture into May Shipleys' recovery and a new found "friendship" with Gin Mill owner Alec Rossi.

May was always one of the intriguing secondary characters in the Shipley clan, deeply caring and deeply cared for. May spends a good amount of time dissecting herself, forced to keep her feelings bottled up lest she alienate her best friend. She loves who she loves, but has mostly been smart about her relationships and it's heartbreaking to see her heartbroken. She is about to undergo yet another life altering event and Alec steps in and offer her support and friendship she had no idea was lacking in her life. As a thinker, when she gets caught up in the whirlwind that is Alec Rossi, she's waxes and wanes between her intuition and over thinking.

Oh what a whirlwind Alec is. He quickly wormed his way into my heart, errrr, May's heart. Their relationship is delightful and delicious, the pheromones simply ooze from the page. He accepts May in all her complexities exactly as she is. He faces his own personal battles, and his desire for May complicates how he lives his life, but this good time party boy finds himself in a situation he's never been in (pssst...starts with the letter L) and he rolls with it.

Sarina manages (always!!) to strike a perfect balance of angst and optimism. Speakeasy spoke to me on so many levels. The highlights I made while reading range from the mundane, the silly and the profound. The story is raw and beautiful and worthy of all of the Alec snaps in the shape of one amazing read!! 5 ++Stars

4 stars. Speakeasy was a good addition to this series! This is Alec and May's story. May is the middle child of the Shipley family (from previous books in the series). She is a recovered alcoholic, bisexual lawyer who catches her emotionally abusive girlfriend cheating on her in Alec's bar. May and Alec know each other from their small town, so he helps her out in that emotional moment by taking her out of the bar and helping her move out of her shared apartment, away from her now-ex-girlfriend. From that night on, they begin a friendship, which develops into friends with benefits and eventually into a relationship. They have to deal with a good bit, such as family drama, business difficulties, etc., but they manage to weather it all and get their happy ever after.

I enjoyed this book. I liked May and Alec. I liked Alec, especially, and enjoyed how cute and somewhat innocent about relationships he was. He was a doll and he adored May. I didn't connect with May as much, and I'm not sure if that was because of her bisexuality, her alcoholism or her feelings of not fitting in with her family. I did like her character, though, and I liked them together as a couple. They both needed someone who took them as they are and loved them despite their flaws. I liked that there wasn't a lot of angst or pushing away, and no separation. This book dealt with some serious subjects, like alcoholism, family drama, emotional relationship abuse,etc., but it was not heavy read. It still felt like a lighter, easy book.

Overall, I enjoyed Speakeasy and think it is one of my favorites from this series. I was happy to see May and Alec find happiness. I look forward to more from True North and Ms. Bowen in the future!

Top 5 Reasons Why You Should Read Speakeasy

1. The cover is gorgeous! I know they say you can’t judge a book by its cover, but seriously. It’s sexy yet classy. Both the cover and the story make me proud to be a romance reader.
2. Alec. From his corny bar jokes to his extreme loyalty, I loved every inch of this underestimated man. Despite his ambition and hard work, he can’t seem to shake his slutty party boy image or the voices in his head that tell him he’s not smart enough to succeed.
3. May. This refreshing woman fully embraces her sexuality and faces her vices head on. I’ve never read a romance where one of the main characters is bisexual. Sex between two people can be a beautiful exchange of physical and emotional connections, regardless of gender. However, May’s sexual orientation creates a fascinating kaleidoscope of insecurity, confusion, heartache, and optimism.
4. Alex and May make a terrific couple. They have a common bond since both come from large families, and they consider themselves to be the black sheep among their siblings. Their attraction takes them both by surprise, but they fit so well together. Their easy friendship, late night texts, playful teasing, and spectacular chemistry checked all my boxes.
5. It’s my favorite book in the series. I’m amazed by the diversity of the books in the True North series. Each story is unique, but this one has the perfect balance of humor and emotion, with enough meat to keep me interested.
I voluntarily read an early version of this book.

Sarina Bowen just won herself a special spot in my heart with this book. I love it beyond words. I couldn’t find the correct words to express how much/why I loved it three days ago when I finished reading it and I don’t think I’ll be able to find them right now so just know this review will most likely not make it justice.

Our main characters, Alec and May, are perfect for each other. They are one of my favorite couples EVER. They are both different yet so very similar in some ways. Alec is the life of the party, the guy everyone loves because he is so much fun but no one ever takes seriously. His sweetness, openness and sense of humor made me fall head over heels in love with him. May, on the other hand, has always been a bit misunderstood. She’s a recovering alcoholic and she’s still trying to figure out her sexuality. She is a strong and open-minded woman with a fun and lovable personality.

The chemistry between Alec and May is off the charts! Their relationship is exciting, romantic, fun and powerful. They had me smirking and swooning and rooting for their relationship from beginning to end. Their love is so strong it can be felt deep inside your soul.

I cannot recommend this book enough. Sarina Bowen always writes wonderful stories but she kicked it out of the park with this one (for me, at least). It is an unbelievably refreshing, fun and romantic read that touches on some difficult topics like addiction. If I were you I’d one-click this baby right now!!

Speakeasy is a Standalone and is part of the series True North of this author, and let me say that I really like this series and this book in particular I think it's my favorite. He is full of romance, fun, a good story and is light in anguish.

May is a lawyer who suddenly see your life turn upside down. Overnight she finds herself back in your family house, and constantly being observed is treated with excessive Watch.Alec is the owner of a bar, trying to increase its business and is known as a womanizer, never been in love and I don't even want to.When he happens to be at the right time, in the right place and May help these two begin to develop a friendship that soon turns into a friends with benefits where none of them intends to to fall in love.

I really enjoyed May and Alec and how their relationship was developed. I had along the journey of these two and see the genuine is strong bond created for them, and how they were themselves with each other.This book shows a growth of these characters that may not have made the best choices in the past or anyone believe them at the time but together they will mature and supporting each other.I found myself laughing and hoping that these two have your happy ending. In this book we have a delicate topic that is discussed and the author took care to show this theme so real and careful.

Speakeasy certainly brings a romance that melted my heart, is a sweet, romantic and fun story and a great addition to this series.

The fifth novel in the True North series, Speakeasy was a surprise for many. In the series, May had begun a relationship with a woman and in this book, not surprisingly, her girlfriend ends up cheating on her. It's in the blurb so I don't consider this a spoiler btw. May's journey was not what I expected at all but one that was hard fought for.
May wrestles with many inner demons and what I think is remarkable about it, is that for on the surface May had what seemed to be a perfect life. Interwoven in the plot was May's journey to stay in recovery and how much hard work it takes to stay that way.
After the discovery of her girlfriend's infidelity May struggles to overcome other aspects of her life that have been hard to let go of. May's journey was a solitary one but when Alec walks into her life he lends the perfect amount of support. Alec was one of the best book boyfriends because he wasn't one nor did his character strive to be. He maintained his charm and wit while also truthfully exploring the benefits of a hookup with May. But as most stories go, friends with benefits doesn't always stay that way.
The complexity of these characters lends itself to the richness of Sarina Bowen's writing. Their stories aren't easy and their journey certainly isn't. But while discovering their personal strengths, they also find that together, their path to happiness is not easier but filled with more laughs and fun.

I was so excited when I learned Sarina was giving us May's story in Speakeasy. I'll admit I was also a little unsure about pairing her with Alec because there was so much in the past books about her being into women. But, I had absolutely nothing to worry about. Not only did Sarina do a great job with May's bisexuality, I also loved how everything came together with Alec. Totally loved this book.

May and Alec were both complicated characters. Their families didn't get along. Neither of them was looking for a relationship. And, of course, May's previous relationship was with a woman. She was also in love with her best friend, Lark. Sarina did a great job with May's apprehension about Alec and about being in another relationship in general. I felt like I really understood May in this book. The same was true for Alec. He was such a goofy playboy previously, it was almost hard to take him seriously at first. I enjoyed getting to spend time in both of their heads as the story moved forward and their friends with benefits situation became more serious.

I enjoyed every little thing about Speakeasy. It was funny and sexy and sweet. Alec was super swoony. May was a great, real heroine. I loved the way their relationship progressed and how everything unfolded with not only the romance, but Alec's business. It's another hit from Sarina as far as I'm concerned! I can't wait to see what's next.

Speakeasy by Sarina Bowen is about May and Alec. We met May in the first book and she's the sister of Griffin. She's also thought herself to be in love with Lark, but as she soon finds out she didn't really know what love was until Alec. She's been in a relationship with another woman when she walks into Alec's bar and finds her cheating on her with another woman...and not just any woman but her ex. Alec becomes her best friend and he's one of those characters that you find that's easy to love. He's kind of always thought of himself as a screwup. May has always thought of herself that way and together they make the perfect pair. There's just one problem: He owns a bar and she's an alcoholic - so how is that going to work?

Better than you would think. See Alec has more plans than just being a bar owner, he wants to make NAB - Non-alcoholic Beer and he wants it to actually taste good, something that no ones done yet and his uncles have no faith in him. The only person who does...May.

This wound up being a really sweet book with adult themes about overcoming the obstacles that seem to be to overwhelming and what do you do when your some of your family seems to be against your choices. Do you go ahead and do what you know you have it in you to do or do you listen to the naysayers? This was a really good book that I had a privilege to read.

This chemistry ladened friends to lovers romance reveals a funny, smart, and sexy story that builds around a bisexual woman and a commitment-phobic man who find their friendship developing into something more when May’s girlfriend cheats on her and Alec offers to help her move out and settle back into her childhood home. Well written with a strong storyline bolstered by various plotlines that are tailored to show May and Alec’s blossoming romance and individual issues. Delightful narrative and vibrant characterization enchant as you watch this couple slowly and unknowingly fall head over heels in love.

I loved seeing the Shipleys and Rossis again. The mild antagonism between them (well. really just Griff and the Rossi boys) only makes you laugh harder when they interact. May and Alec’s position in their families as “screw ups” is a problem plus, middle child syndrome is a thing and both families are guilty of it. The second romance of sports develops in the background and I loved seeing how May and her bestie are able to navigate through May’s crush while keeping their friendship in tack. Though the atmosphere is quite jovial overall, there is a serious undercurrent as Bowen divulges into such topics as addiction, unrequited love, toxic childhoods, and redemption.

Grade: B

Speakeasy is another solid win for Sarina Bowen.

I love how the author introduces the relationship between May and Alec. Alec is the friend who is there to help May at a moment when she needs it the most. Their relationship starts slow, they move to friends with benefits, and little by little their feelings are brought into the equation. I adore how sweet and understanding Alec was with May, but at the same time doesn't treat her like a delicate flower the way her family does.

Sarina's writing and her ability to wrap the reader in that delicious web that is her stories are two of the things that attract me more to her books. She knows how to develop characters that have plenty of flaws but that are absolute perfection at the same time. May and Alec may seem like two complete opposites who wouldn't be good for one another, but the author make them work beautifully. Their chemistry, their understanding of each other's goals in life, the love that develops between them, it just works for them.

Speakeasy was a joy to read, it deals with a serious subject but it's mixed with some lighthearted moments giving the story the perfect blend.

Another brilliant book in the series that had me absolutely loving Alec and glad that May finally managed to get a special someone that is there for her and made her feel special and wanted.

With her books highlighting the best of Vermont it is no wonder that i have imaginings of going to visit and seeing the beauty of it myself, the craft beer, excellent food and the people. However the story focuses on a topic that is hard for some. Alcoholism and the struggle of those who are addicts and have come out the other side, and where everyday is a battle.

Alec shows amazing support right from the beginning and it is only when May begins to believe in herself and her choices that things take a much happier turn for her.

Alec has not had it easy, but he works hard for what he wants and he has a wonderful, vibrant personality, with a confidence thetas not smug, but he too has his issues, but working together, both May and Alec get their happy ever after and i could not be happier.

Really hope that we get more books in this series.

“I do trust you,” I say slowly. “The hard part is trusting me.”

So, I’m going to go out on a limb and say that “True North Series” is by far one of my all time favorite series to date. I love the characters and their story; Sarina Bowen does such an excellent job with their stories that we have no other choice but to fall deeply in love with them. I was beyond excited when I found out that May was next in line for us to read her story. I knew there was going to be a lot of pain and heartache but in the end Sarina mended it all with a perfect HEA.

“May Shipley scratches an itch that I didn’t know I had”

Can I say how much I loved Alec, it’s like he was made for May. He came at the right time in her life. She wasn’t even expecting him and to me that was one of my favorite parts of this story. To see her opens up herself and try to get to know herself and he helped her to see her worth. This book hit on such a serious topic and the way Sarina told it was phenomenal.

I hope at some point I find myself reviewing Book 10 of the True North Series, it's just that good! Speakeasy (#5) was such a great take on the "no one has to know" relationship- but with some twists that made for great reading. May's bi-sexuality and alcoholism, Alec's barkeep profession and goofy, non-serious personality- who knew they would work so well together? Turned out they were just what each other needed. It's always fun to sit down at the Shipley dinner table, and what fun this was to see some of the Rossi family right there with them. The chemistry between May and Alec was great and they were just so *fun* together. I found the characters to be well developed and so likable. Although Speakeasy can be read as a standalone, Bowen's Tuxbury is so delightful, I'd suggest a long visit starting with Book 1 - Bittersweet.

“Knitting is a lot like sobriety. One painstaking little loop at a time. The whole is more beautiful than the sum of its parts.”

May and Alec’s story starts with a breakup- May’s loud and messy and very public breakup with her live-in girlfriend Daniela. Good thing it happens at Alec’s bar because when May catches Daniela kissing her ex, he is there to literally carry May outside before things get any worse. May never expects Alec, the notorious party boy, to not only get her out of the situation, but to also help her move out and to end up being such a good friend to her. And after planning on only dating women, she also doesn’t expect to be so attracted to him. When they realize they have mind-blowing chemistry and neither one wants anything more than someone to have fun with, they embark on what they intended to be a very secret, friends with very good benefits situation. It’s just supposed to be fun- they’re friendly, they have sex, that’s it.

But as they become closer, they both start to feel that this could be something more, only their own insecurities continue to get in the way. Alec thinks May wants their relationship secret because she feels like she’s slumming with a Rossi. He’s got big dreams, but at the end of the day, he’s still just the bar owner barely keeping his business afloat. May doesn’t feel like she can let Alec know her fully because he’s the fun guy and wouldn’t possibly understand, let alone still like her, if she told him about all of her inner demons related to her alcoholism.

The True North series is one of my favorite series and this book just reaffirmed that for me. It really does have everything I look for in a book- compelling and realistic drama, an interesting setting, dynamic main characters, and lovable supporting characters (Grandpa Shipley stole the show!). But I’ll admit, I was nervous and almost hesitant when I saw that the next True North book was about May and… Alec Rossi? I’ve loved May since the very first time she was introduced and have been rooting so hard for her since more of her demons were revealed in Keepsake. I liked that she was dating a woman leading up to now, and I was leery when I saw that she was going to get her own book pairing her with a man. Especially a man I hadn’t really connected to previously. I should have known that Sarina wouldn’t disappoint though. Not only was May’s bisexuality not erased, it was embraced. It was talked about, it was considered, it was a part of her, not just a throw away character trait for the sake of diversity. It was absolutely wonderful to see a well written bisexual character who may end up with a man, but never writes off her sexuality as a “phase” or something else dismissive.

I also love how well Sarina handles May’s alcoholism. Much like how she handled Jude’s drug addiction in Steadfast, it felt raw and honest, not just something written into May’s character profile because it made her more interesting. May has the unfortunate trait of being an easy crier, but she’s also strong and fierce and has a big heart and a hundred other little traits that make her dynamic and intriguing.

And then there’s Alec. I wasn’t sure what to expect of Alec from the bits and pieces we’d seen of him previously. But I quickly fell in love with the person he hid behind his swagger and facade of being “the fun guy”. He’s passionate and honest and not afraid of his feelings, just exactly like the kind of fascinating man I’ve come to expect from Sarina. He too has demons and as much as I love May, I often couldn’t wait for his POV because I wanted to hear all that was going on inside Alec’s brain.

May’s recovery is difficult, Alec’s life isn’t as straightforward as he makes it seem, and their relationship is filled with it’s share of bumps along the way. But all of that just makes Speakeasy fantastic for me. It’s unique and compelling and a beautiful story about two self-proclaimed broken people realizing that everyone has cracks in their armor and you don’t need someone to fix you, you just need someone to love and support you along your own path to recovery.

I loved this book! Alex was funny and silly, but he was also vulnerable and insecure (mostly about non-relationship things) and sometimes I just wanted to cry for him. Yet he still managed to be a strong H for May. I had enjoyed May’s character in previous books and I loved her in her own story. The best thing about Sarina Bowen’s books is that she makes you FEEL. This works well as a standalone so don’t be afraid to jump in here if you haven’t read the others, although the whole series is great and I recommend it. The Shipley family is a gem!

Another exceptional book by Sarina Bowen! I'll admit to a bit of surprise when I saw this was M/F! I think Alec and May were also taken by surprise at the attraction. ;) I loved that Alec came out from behind the amusing party boy façade and made himself vulnerable. I loved that May did the same by exposing her true self in regards to her addiction. It was done with class and humor and love. Here's hoping for more Shipley and/or Rossi books!

The thing I love about Sarina Bowen’s True North series is that you can pop in and out of it. There was something in Alec Rossi and May Shipley’s story in Speakeasy that said it was time to pop in again. Speakeasy did not let me down. Alec's charm and ability to keep things light is just what May needs in the aftermath of her break up.

Speakeasy is a barn burner on the romance side, and yet it has depth and complexity, and deals with real-life issues. May is a recovering alcoholic, Alec is the (former) underachiever no one expects to succeed. It strikes just the right balance of romance and real life, and I look forward to it in every Sarina book! Speakeasy is an entertaining, thoroughly contemporary romance that’s an absolute delight to read. Fingers crossed that Connor gets his own installment in the series.

Always relatable characters that you actually want to get to know with their flaws and all. The stories build nicely so that the sexual tension is enjoyable. You always feel like a part of the family, with real life stressors. Always an enjoyable read that is over way too fast. May was the least developed character in my opinion, more back story than depth. Alex was more interesting from the start. But, it’s all great by the end.

Sarina Bowen is my absolute favorite author. Every book she publishes ends up being even more incredible than the last. Speakeasy made me feel all kinds of things. Alec has joined the ranks as one of my all time favorite book boyfriends and May is such an interesting character I'm so happy we finally got to see more of her story and get to know her better. The bar jokes throughout this book are going to become some of my go to jokes moving forward. All in all this book was everything I wanted it to be and more! The True North series is my favorite of Sarina Bowen's and just when I think it can't possibly get any better it does! :D

Absolutely worth your time. Alec and May are fun and perfect for each other. Be prepared to cry, laugh, and wainting to punch a few people. The Shipley's and company are back and more snark, laughter, and grumpiness to go with them.

I love this series! Speakeasy is a lovely addition to it. May and Alec are great together, I loved watching their story unfold. Being inside the character’s heads in this book was a joy, loved all the silly jokes. Makes me want to visit Vermont and look for this town and these characters, that’s how real the world Sarina has written over this series is to me. Highly recommend this one ?

Another great story in the True North Series. This was one of my books within this series. Alec and May are truly the most unlikely couple. I mean the recovering alcoholic and the bartender? Come on. But man does this story work for me.

I can always count an enjoyable read from Sarina Bowen. Speakeasy was another sexy and funny love story set in Vermont. The characters were fleshed out and real plus the dialogue was great. I just adored it!

THIS was a great story!! I absolutely loved the sweetness, sexiness, humor and kindness in this story! There was so much subtle acceptance in this story.... There are so many very human social issues presented in this book in such an honest and non-judgemental way and it made me so happy to read such an excellent and very human story portrayed so beautifully. It is a wonderful romance and it touched my heart and Alex made me sigh ... He was such a great guy and he didn't even know it! I have read every book in this series and have loved every one but I think this one was the best so far!!!! Hope there is another one to come... of course, we have to find out what the baby is...... so I will keep my eyes open for the next one.....HAHA! ?

The characters and stories in the True North series just keep getting better and better. I enjoyed the way that May was portrayed in previous books, so I was looking forward to her story. The connection she had with Alec, despite the difficulties that it brought to her life, was instant and strong. I liked the growth Alec experienced throughout the book as well. It seemed these two were going through life changes together. It was fun, sexy and emotional.

We FINALLY got to have May’s story!! She really is a strong woman who has been through so much in her short life. Loved getting to know her inside thoughts on how she was dealing with everything. Alec was definitely a positive addition to her story! Loved the ending!

'Our rapid breathing and the breeze—those are the only two sounds I can hear.
It’s beautiful.'

Sarina Bowen’s True North series is an absolute favorite of mine. I’ve recommended them time and again, bought them for friends and the occasional stranger, and have never once wondered, ‘Will they enjoy them as much as I have?’ because they’re THAT good.

Which is why seeing Speakeasy, the fifth book in the series, on my Kindle sent a thrill of excitement through me. May Shipley has fascinated me for a while now and seeing her story—experiencing her struggle—produced a different kind of feeling in me. One that’s really, really hard to explain.

I definitely enjoyed this book. There are moments of happiness and humor—as if Alec wasn’t swoony-perfect enough, he also loves terrible jokes, just like me—but there’s also a roller-coaster of self-doubt and regret and uncertainty. It’s a heady, engaging, difficult-to-manage mix, and Ms. Bowen is gifted enough to make it work.

Though I found this one a little slow to start—perhaps a side-effect of my overall mood?—the deeper into May and Alec’s story I got, the more I needed, needed, to know how it ended. And let me just say this: how it ended made my heart bounce around in my chest, battered but happy.

And ready to recommend it—like the others in the series before it—to friends and strangers, alike.

'I feel a different kind of connection to her than I’m used to. As if she’s my person, and I’m hers.
I’ve never had a person before. Maybe this is what all the songs on the radio are about.'

~ 4.5 Snaps in the Shape of an Awesome Book STARS ~

Speakeasy was one of my most anticipated books of this spring. I adore Sarina Bowen’s writing and the entire True North series. The love stories are always special and the topics she writes about hit me deeply. I am so happy Speakeasy lived up to my high expectations.

I have to admit that Speakeasy wasn’t the story I was expecting for May (or at least it wasn’t before I saw Sarina’s Instagram post about the changes she was making). I, like May, expected she would end up with another woman. I know the fact that May’s story ended up being about her falling for a man made some readers angry. They wanted a F/F romance. I really wanted that story, too, but I had faith that Sarina knew what was best for her character. I actually ended up loving Speakeasy and the choices made for May.

I can’t claim to personally know what it feels like to be bisexual, but it seemed like May’s thoughts and feelings could reflect those of someone who loves based on attraction to both sexes. The way May described her sexuality was in tune with much of what I’ve heard from people describing their bisexuality. I loved the way May examined her feelings and her preconceived notions. I also loved the chances she took with Alex. May was a lot stronger than she gave herself credit for.

Alec was a gem. He might have been the bad boy of his family, but he had a heart of gold. The way he treated those he loved was special. He did a lot of teasing, but when it came down to it, he was someone they could rely on. Alec showed the same amount of care with May. The humor he brought to this emotional story was priceless.

What I loved most about Speakeasy was that Alec truly saw May for who she really was, and May returned the favor. Their emotional connection was so true and honest. There was no judgement between the two of them. They easily accepted each other. Their faults and weakness were just as important their strengths. In my opinion, this is how every real relationship should be.

So, yeah. I adored Speakeasy. I can’t imagine May with anyone other than Alec now. They make me so happy together. Fans of this series are going to love this book! And if you haven’t read any of the True North series, what are you waiting for?