What a fun and enjoyable book! It kept me thoroughly entertained. I loved Tucker and Gillian (even though she could be her own worst enemy) and thought they were great together. I'm looking forward to more books in this series.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. My thoughts and opinions are my own and without bias or favor.

While reading Tucker, I found myself having similar problems with the ones I had while I was reading Jackson. What were they?

The time jumps. The book begins in the Fall and ends in Summer(-ish?). For a story that takes place in a big span of time (considering that most romances take place in 2-3 months), I felt like the story and the characters had little development. Gillian is supposed to develop as a character, find her path once again and yet I felt like she didn't get that. She is only a little better than the person she was on page one. She wanted to find herself and yet that did not happen.

Too many people. The story is not only about Gillian and Tucker. We get a lot of secondary characters who claim some of the spotlight and the characters don't have enough room for the romance.

This line from the blurb: Her own wedding: It’s complicated. Why? Because Gillian spends 40% of the book been engaged to another man. I am sorry, but I don't buy a romance between two people when for almost half the book one person from the actual couple is in love and building a life with someone else. I kept waiting for Gillian to realize that she was gonna marry a loser and yet she kept missing the hints. And then she kinda jumps into a relationship with Tucker, which makes her want to find herself understandable, which is something that I don't like.

The book did not work for me. The bad outweighs the good and I strongly feel like the author and I are not a good fit. I will read the third book in the series and if that also doesn't work for me I won't read a book from this author again. To be honest, I feel like on some level the two books of hers I have read have the same format and that worries me because I feel like I will have the same problems with the third book two.

The book's one saving grace was Tucker himself. He was a very patient and kind man and I liked him a lot. He did try his best with the situation he faced and I think that he deserved better.

Terrific book. This is the story of the second McBride cousin, Tucker. Though he originally planned to make the military his career, his most recent posting convinced him otherwise. Pushing papers was a pain, but what got to him most was the backstabbing, political vipers he had to deal with. So he pulled the plug but is now feeling a bit lost and unsure of what comes next. So he heads for Redemption and the land that he and his cousins own, looking for peace and inspiration. He did not expect to come across a damsel in distress along the way.

Gillian is having a bad day. After an argument with her fiancé over wedding plans, she compounds her problems by wrecking her car in the middle of nowhere. Undeterred, she hikes off in the direction of town, high heels and all. She doesn't expect a knight on his trusty steed to come to her rescue.

I loved the first meeting between Gillian and Tucker. There are sparks, but Tucker doesn't act on them because he's an honorable guy, and she's engaged. However, there is plenty of banter between them, and he pours on the flirty charm. Several months pass with Gillian and Tucker seeing each other occasionally, including on New Year's Eve. The cracks in her relationship with Jeremy become more pronounced. The final betrayal comes when Jeremy, as the bank representative, sells a property that Gillian had plans for without telling her. I ached for Gillian but was happy that she finally saw Jeremy for the snake he was. What was most eye-opening for Gillian was the realization that she was less upset over the loss of Jeremy than she was the loss of the property and her dreams for it. To find out that it was Tucker who bought the property was an additional blow. I liked her face-off with him. Her enthusiasm for her plans made Tucker want her all the more. Now that she is no longer engaged, he is ready to go into pursuit mode.

I loved the development of the relationship between Tucker and Gillian. It was smooth, and it wasn't easy, but it was beautiful. Tucker has a good understanding of Gillian from the beginning. When Gillian went into a deep funk over the end of her dreams, Tucker conspired with her mother to pull her out of it. I loved what they came up with, and it certainly did the trick. Gillian regained a bit of her spark, and Tucker makes sure she knows of his interest. But Gillian's confidence in herself and her judgment is shot, and she is afraid to jump into a new relationship. I loved Tucker's patience as he agrees to be friends while she works through it. They spend some time together over the next few weeks, growing closer, but with Gillian always keeping that bit of distance between them. I thoroughly enjoyed it when Tucker introduced Gillian to the joys of hiking. Her resistance was funny, and his cajoling was sweet. It's so apparent that Tucker is head over heels for her, but Gillian can't let go of her fears.

Things take a turn when the proof of Jeremy's betrayal blindsides Gillian. I loved that she ran to Tucker, knowing in her heart that she could trust him. I loved how he took control of everything and gave Gillian the perfect escape experience. There ended up being more to the trip than planned, and though she was all-in at first, she freaked out the next day. I ached for Tucker, who thought that he had finally won his fair lady. His patience was incredible as he gave Gillian the time she wanted. I was frustrated with Gillian because she coasted along, not really giving the issue the time it deserved. I loved what finally opened her eyes and gave Gillian her confidence back. There were still some things to work out between them, but they talked them out with the result of coming out stronger on the other side. I loved that discussion and how it showed the changes they both experienced.

There was also a lead-in to the next book with Boone. I can't wait to read it and see how he handles that unexpected complication to his life.

The previous novel in the series, Jackson, was a 5 star listen for me, so I was excited to review Tucker.

Tucker is book #2 in the McBrides of Texas series (#17 in the Eternity Springs series). Emily March paints a wonderful picture of small town Texas which makes me want to go there.

Barbara and William Thacker’s daughter Gillian runs a bridal shop with her mother. Bliss Bridal is all fancy window displays and dream dresses.
There’s one problem: Gillian’s own wedding. Will this go ahead?

Tucker McBride is Jackson’s cousin and is in town after leaving the Army.

After a chance meeting with Tucker, neither Gillian nor Tucker can stop thinking about each other.
Will she end up with Jeremy or not? Will Tucker be her soulmate?

The McBrides of Texas: Tucker was sweet, atmospheric and full of realistic ups and downs.

I really did not like Jeremy, found Tucker endearing, hot considerate helpful, just a great male character. I was rooting for him and Gillian.
Sometimes Gillian was very on the defensive, but that was understandable because of what she went through now and then.
Thanks to Emily March and St Martin’s Press for my ARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.

5 stars

This is a new to me author and I am honestly not sure if I like her writing or not. I had a hard time getting into this book and I still can't decide if it was me or the book itself. The book itself wasn't exactly horrible or anything, it was just a bit boring to me. The hero, Tucker, is this former Army Ranger who is now in a desk job trying to figure out what he wants to do. Gillian is running a bridal shop with her mom and is engaged to a man and in my opinion treats her like crap. I think that might have been part of my problem with this one. She was with another man when she starts having feelings for Tucker. I don't think I could get past that. On a whole, it isn't bad. It was just kinda, boring.

Thank you St. Martins Press for an advanced copy. I voluntarily reviewed this book. All opinions expressed are my own.

Eternity Springs:
The McBrides Of Texas #2
Tucker
By: Emily March

*REVIEW* ☆☆☆☆
Having read the previous book, Jackson, and loved it, I was so excited when I received a copy of Tucker. Emily March did not disappoint in her latest installment of The McBrides Of Texas. Tucker is newly discharged and rambling the Texas back roads on his motorcycle when he meets Gillian. She is a damsel in distress, and she ends up on the back of the motorcycle. As it turns out, they are both headed to Redemption. Gillian is engaged, but it's not solid. Tucker is finding his way after military life. Both are a bit lost, and they felt the spark when they met. Gillian really has a hard time of it, but she perseveres, carrying on despite the heartbreak. Tucker begins to truly understand what he wants his life to be going forward, and he takes steps to make things happen. I love these characters and admire their fighting spirit. I was rooting for them from the beginning. Redemption is the kind of place that can mysteriously show you the way, as it does for Tucker and Gillian. This story was a delightful read full of romance, warmth, laughter and charm. I highly recommend for romance readers!

There is something about an Emily March’s book that is so cozy and comforting! I liked this charming contemporary tale of unexpected romantic connection. This author has an amazing ability of creating not just characters or plot lines but communities and extended families.

This series is a spin-off of the Eternity Springs series. It is set in Redemption, a small town in Texas, where the McBride cousins, Jackson, Tucker and Boone have inherited a beautiful canyon.

Tucker McBride and Gillian Thacker meet by total accident. There is definitely sparks and interest between them right from their first meeting. They both have wounds from their pasts and issues that need dealing with. Gillian’s heart has been battered by her cheating fiancé. Tucker is a former Army Ranger and is at a crossroads in his life. He has left the military to start a new life and is trying to figure out how to put his life back together.
The premise of their story and the questions about their pasts and future were more than enough to keep me turning the pages. These characters were very down to earth, relatable and realistic.

It is easy to see Tucker and Gillian are perfect for each other from the beginning. Tucker is beyond romantic in letting Gillian figure out their relationship steps. She sets boundaries and he sticks to them. These two worked so well together. They complimented each other. But though they are strongly attracted to each other, they each have their own issues to overcome.

Overall, this book is a well written heartwarming, lovely story of new beginnings and emotional healing, with a great cast of secondary characters. It hit all my emotional buttons. I look forward to reading more of Emily March's work in the future.

Having just read many very good, inspirational, and books of substance, I came to Tucker, knowing that I had read previous Emily March books and enjoyed them, and expecting to enjoy this one as well. However, I came away feeling that I may be done with traditional romance novels for the foreseeable future.

While Tucker opened well with the reader meeting Tucker and witnessing his presumable meet-cute with Gillian. Immediately after that, things shifted much as they did in the first novel in the spin-off series.

I never came to like Gillian. Initially I thought she was going to be a fantastic character, walking away from a controlling jerk. But she went back to him and spent an unfortunate amount of time engaged to him during the course of the novel. And, let's face it--how is that romance? It's pretty much anti-romance. Maybe we're supposed to see her as a stand-up woman, being loyal, but really when a man's that controlling, she's a fool.

The nail in the coffin for me with Gillian came far too early. An unspoken "as if I could stop you" directed toward her mother. Now, if that had been spoken out loud it could have been played for laughs. But as a thought, it was unkind.

As for Tucker, I was disappointed that the meeting with Gillian had sent him into a downward spiral that he wasn't in during the first scene. Unless something stupendous happens, no character, even a woman in a dress that shows off her legs, is going to have that impact on a man who's been to war. Yay, I know. This is a romance and those things are to be expected, which is one reason why I've decided to take a break from regular romances unless it's from one of my favorite writers. Maybe it's my current frame of mind but I want to read about things more important than pages about a wedding dress.

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This is a fantastic series of romances set in Eternity Springs, Texas. I love the characters that live in this area. Each of the McBride cousins are wonderful. Gillian and Tucker are both wonderful. They are both survivors. I loved the scenes where they are learning to survive if something bad happens. Great story. I received a copy of this book from Netgalley for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

This was the first book I have read from this author and it was a sweet romance that drew me in from beginning to end. I don't think you need to read the other books in the series but after reading this one you will want too.

I loved Tucker, he as kind, caring, and seriously swoon-worthy. He's a recently discharged Vet who is trying to find his new path. When he comes to Redemption to visit a cousin and ends up staying

Gillian owns the local Bridal shop and whilst shes engaged she is having some doubts about her relationship. I will be honest I took much longer to warm up to her for some reason, I'm not sure what it was but there was something about her that I struggled to connect with.

I did enjoy watching their relationship grow as the book went on. The side characters were also well written drew me in.

I am looking forward to reading more in the future from this Author

Tucker has been unclear about where he will land next after leaving the Army Rangers. Ah who's he kidding, of course he's going to end up with family. And it's on his way to that family that he sees a beautiful woman on the side of the road wearing a dress and heels. Unfortunately, she's engaged, even if she's just had a huge fight with said fiancé. But she might not always be an engaged woman and Tucker is more than happy to wait for her..., especially when he sets up his new survival company next to her wedding salon.

I absolutely love Tucker. He's just about the perfect bbf - kind and loving and beyond patient with Gillian, not to mention sexy! I didn't love Gillian like I did Tucker, she was annoying and her inner thoughts and her wishy washy attitude were too much for me. Still, the story is sweet and Tucker is the perfect hero, so three stars seems more than fair.

Tucker McBride is at a crossroads in his life. No longer part of the military. Will he choose the road to Redemption or Ruin. He has chosen to go off grid and become one with the land. Gillian Thacker is all about weddings. She helps her mother run a well established wedding gown shop. Gillian is now wanting to open her own business as a wedding planner. By chance, Tucker and Gillian meet when her car breaks down. Eventually they become friends. Tucker wants more but knows that is not possible, she is engaged. Gillian sees Tucker as just a friend but her heart is thinking it wants more. I love when Celeste and Angela decide they need to meddle in their lives. Sigh worthy.

ARC for honest review with no compensation received from NetGalley

Tucker: Eternity Springs: The McBrides of Texas book 17 by Emily March. This is my first book in this series and I will definitely be reading more of Eternity Springs and these McBride men!

Gillian Thacker needs to find a way to survive after her life implodes...her fiancé, her wedding, her events planning business. Tucker McBride needs to find his niche after retiring from the Army Rangers so he opens a wilderness survival training center for all.

When these two cross paths, sparks fly and so much more! He never thought to much about marriage but after spending time with Gillian he finds he wants it all…adventures, teaching her survival training, family, Love and forever!!

Gillian Thacker works in the wedding industry and its pretty excited to plan her own but things are starting to take a turn in her relationship and now shes left broken hearted. Tucker was a U.S Army Ranger now looking to set up a survival training courses and the business is right near Gillian's Bridal Salon. Both had a few brief and flirtatious encounters but being that she was in a relationship it never went any where. Tucker is looking for the whole settling down lifestyle and has his eyes on Gillian.

I love a good contemporary romance. I loved seeing that intense connection between Gillian and Tucker and couldn't help but to root for them. I loved how supportive, caring, and helpful Tucker was, there was plenty of instances were he could've just done the bare minimum but he went the extra mile for Gillian and it was pretty cute to see. Overall pretty great book I really enjoyed it. There is so much to like about this book and I highly recommend you lovely readers to check out this book.

This was a fast-paced guilty pleasure type of read. Lots of chemistry, heat, and generally likable characters. It’s a small-town romance, infused with humour and tension – an opposites attract tale of reluctant romance. I haven’t read any other titles in this series and yet it worked well as a standalone. Great for fans of contemporary romance with a good dash of sizzle. Give it a pass if you are looking for something rated “G.” It has a 4.3 star average on Goodreads so people are definitely enjoying this one as a cozy, quirky, cheeky read.

My thanks to the publisher, St. Martin’s Press, for the opportunity to dive into an Advanced Readers Copy and share my thoughts with you during release week! Full blog tour post available on my blog https://lifelovelaughterlinds.ca/

This was just an okay read for me. There were moments I really enjoyed but the rest left me feeling ambivalent. Tucker was pretty great and easygoing, I thought but Gillian...she was a bit uptight and not in the adorable wedding planner sense of the word. In the not fun way. The story was mostly engaging but it dragged in parts making it hard to get too invested in them.

Eternity Springs: The McBrides of Texas – By Emily March – Book 2
I love to read Emily March books! She writes great romance, that is not explicit, leaves things to the imagination and she writes characters that are really interesting, stories that have you invested in the endings, and if you wish you can find some of the characters from the previous book carried forward into the next so they are like old friends. You can hear more about their story in the next book. Her books are complete though, if you haven’t read book one you can still read book two, each is a stand alone or a follow up.
I received this advance reader copy of the book through St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley.com. The opinions expressed are absolutely my own, freely given. #EternitySpringsTheMcBridesofTexas #Tucker #EmilyMarch #Netgalley.com

Description
In Eternity Springs: The McBrides of Texas, New York Times bestselling author Emily March presents a brand new arc set in the Lone Star State that features a family-linked trilogy within the author's romantic series.
Hope springs eternal in this enchanting Texas town.
Meet Gillian Thacker. Her business: Bliss Bridal Salon. Her passion: Weddings. Her own wedding: It’s complicated. Life isn’t turning out like she’d planned. The last thing she wants is for a real-life hero to ride to her rescue when an unexpected event puts her entire future in Redemption, Texas, at risk. So what’s a broken-hearted bridal expert to do? Maybe a new set of survival skills is exactly what she needs…
Tucker McBride has been proud to call himself a U.S. Army Ranger. But now that his days of service are over, he’s decided to put his expertise to use by founding a wilderness skills training school. He sets up shop in Redemption, next to Bliss Bridal, and so begins life: Part Two. Marriage has been pretty low on his agenda, but as soon as he meets Gillian, Tucker can’t help but contemplate the ultimate challenge: Convincing the reluctant bride to take his hand and leap into the adventure of a lifetime. . .until death do they part.
“A brilliant writer you’ll love creates a world you’ll never want to leave.”—Susan Mallery, New York Times bestselling author

Tucker by Emily March is Book 2 of The McBrides of Texas Series and a spin-off of the Eternity Springs World.

Holy jalapenos!!! This was a fantastic read from start-to-finish. While part of a series, it can be read as a standalone. I have to say, I loved it all: characters were amazing and so endearing - you couldn’t help but be engaged and want to see what happens with them, the world was well-defined, storyline was interesting and well-delivered. Highly recommended read!

An ARC was generously provided in exchange for an honest review of which this is both honest and completely voluntary.

Gillian Thacker is not only an owner of a Bridal Salon in Redemption, Texas but she is also engaged and planning her own dream wedding. Everything is just as it should be until she has a fight with her fiancé, flees and finds herself stranded on a country road. When a handsome man stranger stops to see if she needs help, she has no idea how her life is about to change.

Tucker McBride is coming home. He is a retired U.S. Army Ranger and he has no idea what he is going to do now. He is driving down a backroad enjoying the ride when he sees a woman walking down the road, who clearly looks like she needs help. As he pulls over, he is certain this day couldn’t get any better. He has no idea how this damsel in distress with change his life.

Tucker and Gillian have a spark, but she is engaged , so she is off limits. They forge a friendship and when Gillian calls off her wedding, he vows to win her heart. How long can she resist his charms?

This book was so beautifully written by Emily March and is the second book in the series “Eternity Springs: The McBrides of Texas”. I loved the story and the banter between Gillian and Tucker. It was fun to visit previous characters from the first book, yet the author does a brilliant job of catching you up if this is the first book you have read. Emily March has been one of my favourite authors for quite awhile and I can’t wait for the next book in the series. Thank you so much to the author Emily March, St.Martin’s Press and NetGalley for an advanced copy of the book to review. It was fabulous!

So here's the thing - while I liked this book I wasn't blown away. Overall it was enjoyable read but Gillian kept pushing my buttons. I could understand why she had her walls up high but seeing Tucker how he was determined to show her how good they could be, she (in my opinion) could have been more open to the possibility of a new love.

I really liked Tucker and his personality. I loved his planing skills and the way he used them to show his interest and love for Gillian. When she finally came to her sense, you could tell they were perfect for each other.

This one is getting 3.5* from me. I'm hoping this one was more it's-me-not-you type of book and the next one to blew me away.

***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads blog***