Beard with Me by Penny Reid Series: Winston Brothers #5.5
Published by Cipher-Naught on September 16, 2019
Format: ARC
Genres: Contemporary, New Adult, Romance
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‘Beard With Me’ is the origin story of Billy Winston and Scarlet St. Claire (aka Claire McClure) and is just the beginning of their epic love story.
No one is better at surviving than Scarlet St. Claire and making the best out of circumstances beyond her control is Scarlet’s specialty. In an apocalyptic situation, she’d be the last person on earth, hermitting like a pro, singing along to her CD Walkman, and dancing like no one is watching.
Scarlet is clever, Scarlet is careful, and Scarlet is smart . . . except when it comes to Billy Winston.
No one is better at fighting than Billy Winston and raging against his circumstances—because nothing is beyond his control—is Billy’s specialty. In an apocalyptic situation, he’d be the first person on earth to lead others to safety, overcome catastrophe, or die trying.
Billy is fearless, Billy is disciplined, and Billy is honorable . . . except when it comes to Scarlet St. Claire.
I have been a longtime fan of the Winston brothers’ shenanigans, but I wasn’t sure what to expect from a story that goes back in time to when they were teens. What I found is that Beard with Me enhanced my appreciation of things I already knew, but it spoils nothing for newbies to the series. It isn’t just about the beginning of Billy Winston and Scarlet St. Claire’s complicated relationship; it’s also the heart of the loving Winston household.
Billy is the last brother to have his turn in the fictional spotlight. I have always been drawn to him and yet there is so much I don’t know. He is the responsible Winston, the family caregiver, the one everyone looks up to, the one who keeps his feelings close to the vest, and the one who regularly sacrifices his happiness for others. This book explains why.
Scarlet is massively endearing. It is impossible to overlook her cheerfulness, self-deprecation, and innate goodness despite her bleak circumstances and insecurities. She is a gifted singer, and through her the reader gets to experience the transformative power of music—both in its influence on her and its affect on Billy.
Billy and Claire are often faced with the difficulty of choosing between self-preservation, fulfillment, and self-sacrifice. I loved all the sweet, awkward, and, yes, even the heartbreaking moments they share.
Don’t expect the witty or laugh-out-loud humor that one associates with this series because the tone of this book is more serious. Some parts are downright difficult to read. However, you can’t have the brothers in the same room without some whimsical moments. A young Cletus is a sight to behold. I really enjoyed seeing Bethany (Momma Winston) in her prime. Her perceptive compassion transcends basic kindness.
Beard with Me isn’t the end of Billy and Scarlet’s story. I haven’t a clue how things will end up between them, but I do know that with Penny Reid behind the wheel I’m bound to enjoy what will surely be a bumpy journey. I’ve already added Beard Necessities to my TBR list.
Recommended for fans of:
Tight knit families
Music
Camping
Hot chocolate with marshmallows
** I received an early copy to voluntarily read. **
Beard with Me is now available!
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Read the first THREE chapters of Beard with Me… HERE!
About Penny Reid
Penny Reid is the Wall Street Journal and USA Today Best Selling Author of the Winston Brothers, Knitting in the City, Rugby, and Hypothesis series. When she’s not immersed in penning smart romances, Penny works in the biotech industry as a researcher. She’s also a full time mom to three diminutive adults, wife, daughter, knitter, crocheter, sewer, general crafter, and thought ninja.
I agree with your thoughts. I also felt like my understanding was enhanced. It was really cool. I need the next book now!