Interesting take here of only Tanner’s POV, but I guess it was needed considering he didn’t realize that Steve was into him. I do wish the description was written better as it seemed like we’d get Steve’s inner life too. I still enjoyed this and seeing these two come together after loss. ( )

Jesse's Diner by Cardeno C. is a heartwarming May/December romance that is delightfully angst free. This sweet yet steamy addition to the Hope series can be read as a standalone, but I highly recommend the entire series.

Although Tanner Sellers is endearingly shy and a tad socially awkward, he successfully runs the diner he inherited from his mentor and friend, Jesse. Now his best friend Mike (Jesse's son) is attending college out of state, Tanner keeps to himself and concentrates on his business. But when Mike asks him to check on his widowed dad, Steve, Tanner eagerly agrees. Tanner has harbored a secret crush on Steve for years and although delighted to spend time with him, he is initially nervous and tongue-tied. But as the weeks pass, so does his anxiety and as he finally gets to know Steve, Tanner begins to see him as more than the object of his fantasies.

Despite being good friends with Jesse and his long time attraction to Steve, Tanner really does not know much about him. Steve easily opens up to him about his life before moving to Hope and the circumstances that brought him and Jesse together. His honesty is refreshing and when Tanner misses his subtle attempts to flirt with him, Steve does not hesitate to tell him that his feelings run deeper than friendship. Steve is gentle and patient with Tanner as they transition from friends to lovers and their romance is a wonderful blend of scorching hot love scenes and low key quiet times. With a welcome lack of drama, misunderstandings and miscommunications, their relationship is a warm, comfortable romance that is quite enjoyable to watch unfold.

Jesse's Diner by Cardeno C. is a heartfelt and engaging novella that fans of the genre are sure to enjoy. A quick read that is uplifting and satisfying, this second installment in the Hope series will leave readers impatiently awaiting the next book in this marvelous series. ( )

FGMAMTC Blog Review
This is a feel good story. It has so many factors which could have caused major dramatics, but they're handled with grace. Steve is a 39 year old HIV-positive man who lost his life partner. Tanner is a socially awkward virgin who is in love with his friend's dad (Steve).

These two smoothly ease into a relationship and handle everything maturely. I'm a fan of not having manufactured drama. I love the sweetness. McFarland's Farm (book 1) was better for me, but I do recommend Jesse's Diner to someone looking for a cute, pleasant, lovable read.


***Copy given in exchange for an honest review***

Fangirl Moments and My Two Cents

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