An Amazon Top 15 Bestseller They’re not quite enemies. Not really friends. More like frustrated balls of sexual tension and neither will give in.Lance Gibson drives Mariah Malarkey absolutely crazy. He uses her office like a phone booth, takes cupcakes from the corner of her desk like she baked them just for him. She didn’t. Maybe she knew the history teacher happened to love peanut butter … teacher happened to love peanut butter icing, but that was purely a coincidence. All sixteen times.
Mariah has a way of getting under Lance’s skin too. She calls him out on his crap, spoils him even if inadvertently, and seeing the librarian in skirts drives him wild. She won’t give in. It’s for the best, really, considering there’s no way he could lie to a woman like that and he’s not about to tell her the truth about himself. Not in a million years.
These two don’t hate each other. They don’t really like each other. But for this to be a friends-to-lovers story, they have to start somewhere, right?
Note: This can be read as a standalone novel.more
This book is such a great book about 2 characters that you wouldn’t have expected to get together but they did and they are the perfect fit for each other. Mariah is the school librarian who loves to bake and has been bringing in her baked goods to her office. Lance is the history teacher who everyone seems to know is a womanizer that comes into Mariah’s office to eat what she brings. He loves her cupcakes and Mariah, even though she won’t admit it, likes to bake for Lance. The 2 of them enjoys bantering with each other but initially never thought about each other as anything else other that co-workers!
Reading about how the 2 of them finally getting together is funny and romantic and crazy but I really wanted them to get together. They are just perfect together and can have a happily ever after if Lance can just be honest about something painful from his past. The question is will he tell Mariah or will they not have a future together.
Lance, Lance, Lance
Adriana has won my heart once again. This time she has blessed us with Lance Gibson, the HAF, playboy history teacher that has no shame about living his life at arm’s length from any kind of connection with a woman that ends in “ship.” Relationships are not part of Lance’s repertoire, but once he sets his sights on Mariah, his steadfast rules about woman go out the window.
Mariah is still trying to recover from a shattered heart, the last thing she wants to do is have her heart put threw ringer by Lance. She is well aware of his dating habits and although their attraction is obvious, she’s certain that falling for him will only lead to tears and heartache.
This was a more emotional story than I anticipated. A few sniffles here and there, coupled with some schmexy times, dirty talk and fun banter make this a five-star read for me. I loved Lance, loved Mariah and I simply can’t get enough of this family. There is laughter, drama and small-town goodness.
Once again, the amazing family dynamic she creates does not in any way detract from the story of Lance and Mariah. The banter, the laughs, the guy talk between this family of rowdy brothers is part of the Gibson Brothers experience. They are sassy, inappropriate and all-around fun to be with. I think that’s what I love the most about this series. It’s equal parts hot and steamy, honest and real with plenty of laugh out loud humor. I loved this book and recommend you don’t miss out on what the Gibson Boys have to offer. You don’t want to be left behind on this ride!
Adriana Locke is one of those authors where everytime I read something by her, I think this one is now my favorite. Craft is definitely up there as a winner of one of my favorite books by her. She is an automatic one-click author for me and this book was everything I love to read. It was emotional with strong main and supporting characters. I love the Gibson family and I loved how perfectly Mariah fit into Lance’s world.
This book blends sexy and funny banter with emotional scenes that had me in tears. There are few authors that do it as well as Ms. Locke does. She had me smiling in one chapter and crying in the next. the writing of Craft was flawless and gave me all of the feels.
This book also deals with such real human emotions. I loved watching Lance change through the story because of his feelings and doing what he thought he had to do to protect Mariah. He went from not letting anyone in to loving so much he tried to keep her out. Mariah had strength she didn’t know she had and I loved watching how her relationship with Lance gave her so much confidence to move forward in her life. The emotions of these characters were so spot on and easy to relate to.
This is book 2 of the Gibson brothers, but can easily be read as a standalone. I loved getting to see all of the Gibson boys again. This series is one that I eagerly look forward to continue with.
I can’t believe I forgot to post my review, back in March… When I first read this
What an amazing book! Definitely a Must Read for any fans of Adriana’s storytelling. It’s an absolute Must for anyone who has read “Crank”. I couldn’t put the book down. Mariah & Lance’s story is just awesome. I didn’t want it to end. I loved learning about their backgrounds and what makes them who they are. The chemistry between these two is amazing. I also really loved reading about the other Gibson family members. It was like catching up with old friends. I was very curious about Lance, when I first met him in “Crank”. His story did not disappoint. Adriana does such an amazing job bringing these characters to life. I cannot recommend this book enough. I’m excited to read about the remaining Gibson family members. I can’t wait to learn more about Machlan and Peck.
It’s no secret that I am a huge fan of all of Adriana Locke’s books. But OMG, I think Craft- and Lance- have shot above the rest!
I judge a good book by how it feels. And Craft had me so emotionally wrecked! I cried at so many different parts- and I love to cry! I felt like I was actually feeling the same emotions that Lance and Mariah were feeling. And that is always a good sign of a good book. That makes me connect with the characters, and that is what ultimately makes a good book, in my opinion.
I loved Mariah and Lance- I think the only thing I wish was that there was more… but I’m sure they’ll be revisited with other books in the Gibson Boys series. I can’t wait!!
Craft is the second book in the Gibson Boys series. There is actually a novella in the Team Player Anthology and that is Cross’s story. He is an honorary Gibson Boy! Ok. Back to the Gibson Boys that I have grown to love. Crank was Walker’s story and now it’s time for his brother, Lance to get the girl. If she will let him.
Lance has been a frustrating pain in the ass to Mariah for the last few years. Using her office as a phone booth. Stealing her cupcakes. Making her blush. Making her go home every night all hot and bothered. You can cut the sexual tension with a knife. He loves to tease her. She won’t admit it but she loves it. They both get off on it. Usually at night when they need to take the edge off. Yes, it would be simple to just get on with it and have sex but Mariah won’t go there. She isn’t a one night stand type of girl. She is the forever kind.
Mariah is Lance’s wet dream. She is a sexy librarian but doesn’t know it. She makes the most delicious cupcakes and knows she would taste just as sweet. He has wanted her since the day he saw her but she is smart. She knows he isn’t good for her. He isn’t an asshole but he couldn’t give her what she wanted. A husband with two point five kids, and a house with a wrap-around porch. He could only give her one night. Lance was ok with their flirty banter until he wasn’t. He wanted to know more about her. He was so fucked…
Lance and Mariah’s relationship is well…complicated. They know what they can give and what they can’t. They both feel the heat between them but can they go there? If she goes there, will he stop coming by for cupcakes? If he goes there, will she hate him afterwards? Is the risk worth the reward? If they do go there, will it be more? Can Lance change his stripes?
I absolutely loved, loved, loved this book! Lance is one swoon-worthy, filthy talking History teacher. Those glasses! Yum. Mariah is a beautiful woman who deserves to know that she is enough. She is stronger than she thinks. She is totally someone I would be friends with. Together, their banter is flirty, fun, and filthy. Their connection is beautiful and sexy. Their story is full of emotions, laughs, sexiness, and beauty.
Overall…it’s one swoon-worthy book that you do not want to miss! I was addicted from beginning to end. I loved the characters. The story. The romance. The fun. The heat. The banter. Everything. It was also fun to get to know the Gibson Boys even more! And Nana. She is a badass with heart.
Quotes:
“You deserve a great life. One filled with laughs and love and orgasms,” she winks.
“There are more than one of you?” she asks, her hand flying to her chest. “Your poor mother.”
“Oh, no, sweetheart. There’s only one of me.”
Her eyes roll around her head. “I’m sorry. I forgot who I was talking to.”
“How’d you get so wise?”
He takes his hat off and wipes his brow with the sleeve of his shirt. “Baby, I was born this way.”
Holy Smokes I didn’t see this coming!
That first kiss in the pantry so HOT! I loved these two! This issues the whole school teacher/librarian fantasy. The problems that Lance and Mariah has were each huge. Tough to overcome one more than the other. The whole idea of the dating app was cute as well. I really thought that nerdy nurse was a different person. So well played! This is an enjoyable read and I am loving these Gibson Boys and their ladies. Next please!
4.5 stars
I really enjoyed Lance and Mariah’s story. They have both been affected by crazy things in their lives with lifetime consequences, but move forward the best way they can. There is a lot of humor, heat, and heart in this story. I laughed out loud in several places. The heat was scorching. The heart of this story, dealing with being accepted for the real self despite imperfections, moved me to near tears (says a lot because I rarely cry in books.) I also love the supportive family the Gibson’s share. First person, dual POV, this book is well written and very enjoyable.
Lance Gibson refuses to commit to any relationship. It doesn’t help that the hunky high school teacher tempts the female population with his good looks and bachelor behavior. Mariah Malarkey is the librarian at the school where Lance teachers. She tempts the bachelor with her delectable baked goods and witty banter. Lance is determined to keep Mariah at arm’s length, but it is harder and harder to do with each passing day.
Mariah dreams of finding a relationship that can fulfill her need for love. Lance is determined to push as far away from that type of future as he can. The two couldn’t be farther from one another when reflecting on their dreams for the future. There is only one problem for the couple, the chemistry between them is a force to be reckoned with. Get ready for a tug of war of the heart that leaves Lance looking for an escape.
Craft is the second book in the Gibson Boys series by Adriana Locke. It is a standalone in its own right, but is definitely full of layers when read in order of the series. Like all the Gibson siblings, Lance is sexy, determined, and has an aversion to love. Mariah is a bit of a tattered soul that has been pushed around by family members her whole life. With the lack of love in Morgan’s life, its no wonder she is looking for someone that can sweep her off her feet.
This series has quickly snared me with the quit wit, sexy band of brothers, and creative writing style of the author. It’s really hard to pick a favorite Gibson brother. Find out for yourself…….I dare ya!!
I read the boxset, which included Crank, Craft, Cross, Restraint, Crash, Crave, and Crazy.
Thank you Adriana for creating such amazing alphas that are so protective of their loved ones and the strong head-strong women that are perfect for them! Nana had my heart from the first book, I just want to hug her and sit and listen to her advice and stories.
These book are an ABSOLUTE MUST READ!!!!
I cannot believe it took me so long to read this book. From the moment I started the first chapter, I knew there was going to be something special about this book. I mean who can resist a handsome teacher like Lance Gibson? I loved the dynamics between Lance and Mariah and how they were coworkers but it was a slow gradual shift to something more between them. I loved their back and forth banter, the playfulness they had between each other, the sweet and tender moments and I loved how they weathered the tough times together. I also loved seeing more of the Gibson boys throughout this novel. Those guys are the best and I cannot wait to continue the series and see each of the boys get their happy ending. This book is number 2 in the series but it can be read as a standalone if you prefer, but it is my recommendation that you start at the beginning of this series because you don’t want to miss out on one moment of the Gibson boys series!
Mariah is the school librarian who loves to bake and she loves to make everything Lance Gibson the History Teacher likes. Lance has a secret he’s kept from everyone why he keeps to himself avoiding love, but he wants Mariah not any other girl. Swoon-worthy
The second in the Gibson Boys series, we welcome back some of the characters we have come to love, Walker and Sienna, Peck, Nana and of course Lance.
In the story we delve deeper into Lance and his “dating app” and meet the wonderful Mariah, the librarian of the high school he works at. The two have a love hate relationship, that at first I was a little nervous about, but that all seems to be park of the ploy.
Lance is a flirt, a hot nerdy history teacher flirt that loves stealing the cupcakes that Mariah makes and keeps on her desk, the man truly gets the biggest kick out of driving her crazy. Mariah, well she is dealing with her own issues and when a certain someone meets the “Nerdy Nurse”, who knows what will happen.
Lance is dealing with an issue all on his own, one that he feels will make Mariah not want a life with him, but Mariah herself is working through her own problems. Family problems. Will the two work out their issues? Will they trust each other? Read and see!
This book will fall into the favorites for anyone that enjoys a good happy ending, and that love truly does concur all!
Ah I really loved Lance & Mariah. Their banter, along with the rest of the Gibson clan made this book! The audiobook is great!
This is the second book in the Gibson Boys Series. This is a beautiful story, so well written. Lance and Mariah are both great characters. The story has it all: fun, sweet, twisted, steamy, heartbreaking, heartwarming, with a great and satisfying happy ending. I love the Gibson Boys! Now, I can’t wait for the next books in the Series, Cross and Crave. Wen Ross and Kai Kennicott did an amazing narration! This is a great team author/narrators. I received this free review copy audiobook at my request and I have voluntarily written this review.
I FLOVE Lance! What a great story! A history hunk teacher and a librarian. A manwhore who meets his match. Absolutely loved Lance and Mariah’s banter. Their chemistry was hot! I also love the relationship between the Gibson brothers and Peck (hoping he gets a story too!) A must read in the series and I can’t wait for Machlan’s story.
I had such a goofy grin on my face reading this book. I loved the relationship between Mariah and Lance, their story was great and I can’t wait for more of the Gibson clan.
I absolutely loved this book! The banter between Lance and Mariah was just so funny and so real. A heartwarming funny loving story that will make your heart melt.
Lance doesn’t want anyone to get too close to him but when Mariah and him get to know each other better, there’s something about her that makes him feel more whole. But he keeps something hidden
that prevents him to step over that barrier to have a ‘real’ relationship.
Mariah has never felt like getting into a new relationship after she got dumped by her ex-boyfriend and she has her reasons for it. Never feeling like she was good enough, she just wants to know that there’s someone out there for her. When she and Lance get closer, both are convinced they don’t match but every day it gets harder for them to deny the chemistry between them. Will Lance break down Mariah’s walls?… Will Mariah be able to get Lance to see he deserves it all…?
Of the brothers, I think I love Lance the most. He has a huge secret that he believes will forever keep him from having the family he longs for. Great to see Walker & Sienna and to get hints of Machlan’s story.
Well edited.
Lance has a secret. It weighs on him, but he tries to ignore it as best he can. And by sleeping with every woman in the tri-county area, the thinks he can achieve mind-numbing forgetfulness. Except for the beautiful school librarian. He has this pull towards her he really can’t resist. So, he lives in the friend zone – teasing Mariah and enjoying the baked goods she brings every day. As they slowly move away from the friend zone, will Lance be able to let himself love? Or will he let his secret determine his future? And, if he ever tells Mariah his secret, will she open or close her heart?
This is such a delightful, moving read. I found myself wondering if Lance would ever let go and just love. Mariah was so fun – trying to keep Lance as a friend and not risk her heart. And when she did finally let him in, she stood her ground when he turned into an idiot. Definitely wanted to see them find a way through to their HEA. Enjoy!
Oh my, these Gibson Boys!!! Each and every one of them is a piece of work…and I can’t GET ENOUGH!!! Craft is the EMOTIONAL, ANGSTY and INSANELY SEXY love story between Lance Gibson and Mariah Malarkey. The FEELS that this book gave me, the heart-twisting and UTTERLY ADDICTIVE SWOONS, that UGLY CRY moment (about 3/4 in) that had me reaching for the tissues AND the wine!!!
I loved EVERY single second of this book! I ADORED the banter and the push/pull between Lance and Mariah! I KNEW there was more to Lance than the playboy/flirt that we met in Crank (Walker and Sienna’s story), but OMGAWD I was not prepared for just HOW MUCH he has going on!
Ms. Locke has swiftly become an auto-click, author for me even before I read this fast-paced, well-written, UN-PUT-DOWNABLE tale of love, loss and putting the one you love FIRST! Well done, Adriana…ANOTHER MUST READ!!!