The Falcon and the Foe (Single Dads Club Book 1)

Cal Hogan is a lovable hot mess and Russ Ettinger is a bit of a stick-in-the-mood. The only thing they have in common is that their sons - Josh and Quentin - attend the same school. When Josh tells Cal he wants to join the ranks of the Falcons, the latter is apprehensive. After all, Russ is the current leader and a thorn in Cal's side. Being a single dad, Cal is already feeling pretty insecure about his parenting so to keep from disappointing Josh, he agrees to let him join. THE FALCON AND THE FOE is technically the second installment of the SINGLE DADS CLUB series of books by A.J. Truman, however, I read it first based solely on one of the protagonists (Cal) being a bigger guy. What I loved most about this book is that I love both characters equally in spite of their flaws. Cal is messy and disruptive and a bit of a bull in the proverbial china shop but he's also fun-loving and free-spirited. There were moments where his laziness and inability to get his shit together got under my skin but ultimately I loved his ability to relate to people and disarm Russ. Russ, on the other hand, reminds me a lot of myself. He's very by the book and take charge. Unlike Cal, Russ finds it difficult to relate to people but that's because he's still navigating the grief of losing his husband. Russ believes that as long as he follows the rules, no one, including he or his son, will get hurt. THE FALCON AND THE FOE is a fun read. I love the lesson the story provides. Losing someone you love…

Not this bear! But other things do happen out in nature with the two main characters, Russ and Cal. I really enjoyed this story because it was well-written. The dialog between the MCs was snarky and witty, but realistic. This enemies-to-lovers trope has been utilized by many authors over many years, but I found this story refreshing. Throwing together two polar-opposite, single dads expressing their vexations with one another, was humorous and enjoyable reading. Their young sons were charming, as well. You knew from the title there would be the inevitable HEA, but going along for the ride was a joy!