Book Review: "Seven Year Itch: Mountain Men Matchmaker, Book 2" by Amy Daws
As soon as I spotted Amy Daws’ "Seven Year Itch: Mountain Men Matchmaker, Book 2," I felt an eager tug at my heartstrings. The combination of “deliciously funny” and “spicy” in the description hinted at a delightful escape, and I was all in for another adventure with the charmingly quirky Fletcher family. Daws has a knack for blending humor with heartfelt moments, making her novels akin to cozy blankets on a chilly evening—comforting yet thrilling.
At its core, "Seven Year Itch" revolves around the tumultuous relationship between Calder, the quintessential mountain man, and Dakota, his sister-in-law’s feisty best friend. Their banter feels alive, electric, and painfully real. After Calder’s family hilariously sabotages his dating profile, he finds himself sharing a tropical getaway with Dakota, a woman who, until that moment, loathed him for seven long years. Talk about forced proximity! Daws masterfully weaves the enemies-to-lovers trope, and the chemistry between Calder and Dakota sizzles off the pages.
The writing style is sharp and punchy, filled with witty repartee that had me chuckling out loud. Daws captures the essence of awkward sexual tension perfectly, especially in scenes that oscillate between laughter and heartfelt connection. One particularly memorable moment revolves around Calder’s unexpected soft side—who knew a tall, tattooed, bearded Neanderthal could have such depth? As one reviewer put it, “Calder is the exact kind of over-the-top character I love,” and I couldn’t agree more! His persona of a grumpy mountain man who also happens to be a proud cat daddy is as hilariously unexpected as it is endearing.
The emotional journey both characters embark on is relatable; they are navigating past traumas and rediscovering self-worth. Dakota, recently divorced, is in her "IDGAF" era, and seeing her find confidence again was beautifully portrayed. In moments of vulnerability, I found my own heartstrings tugging, as Daws perfectly captures the mix of insecurity and raw courage that comes with newfound love.
One particularly poignant passage that resonated with me was when Calder reassured Dakota that she was “perfect the way she is.” It struck a chord, serving as a gentle reminder that self-acceptance is vital in any relationship. Daws doesn’t shy away from the realities of emotional baggage; instead, she embraces it, making the characters feel authentic and relatable.
"Seven Year Itch" is not only a romantic comedy but also a story about growth, resilience, and unexpected love. Readers who appreciate a hearty mix of laughter, spice, and unforgettable characters will find themselves right at home in this tale. Whether you’re seeking a beach read or snuggling up on the couch, this books delivers a warm, fuzzy experience.
In conclusion, if you’ve enjoyed previous installments in the Mountain Men series or you’re a fan of witty banter and character-driven romance, look no further. Amy Daws has once again crafted a story that lingers in your heart long after the last page is turned. Get ready to binge-read this delightful tale; I can’t wait to see what’s in store for Luke in the next installment!
You can find Seven Year Itch: Mountain Men Matchmaker, Book 2 here >>