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Love, Lists & Fancy Ships #3
Last Call at the Local
Opposites attract when a free-spirited American singer-songwriter with ADHD teams up with a charming Irishman to revitalize his family's pub in the next heartfelt romance from the author of Luck and Last Resorts.
Raine Hart is used to the challenges of living with ADHD. It’s why she ditched her life in Boston to busk around Europe as a traveling musician. No boss. No schedule. No one to disappoint but herself. But when a careless mistake in Ireland leaves her unable to perform, she sees no other option but to give up her nomadic life.
Since inheriting the Local, Jack Dunne has wanted to make the pub his own. But the baggage of running a family business and the intrusive thoughts that stem from his OCD make changing things a challenge.
Over a pint with handsome, tattooed Jack, Raine accidentally insults him and the pub. Instead of taking offense, Jack, impressed by her vision of what the pub could be, offers her a job bringing it to life.
But when Raine and Jack develop feelings for one another their opposite lifestyles won’t accommodate, it becomes clear the pub isn’t the only thing that needs reinventing. As the end of their business collaboration draws near, they’ll have to find a way past the limits they’ve placed on themselves or let go of a love that could last a lifetime.
Raine Hart is used to the challenges of living with ADHD. It’s why she ditched her life in Boston to busk around Europe as a traveling musician. No boss. No schedule. No one to disappoint but herself. But when a careless mistake in Ireland leaves her unable to perform, she sees no other option but to give up her nomadic life.
Since inheriting the Local, Jack Dunne has wanted to make the pub his own. But the baggage of running a family business and the intrusive thoughts that stem from his OCD make changing things a challenge.
Over a pint with handsome, tattooed Jack, Raine accidentally insults him and the pub. Instead of taking offense, Jack, impressed by her vision of what the pub could be, offers her a job bringing it to life.
But when Raine and Jack develop feelings for one another their opposite lifestyles won’t accommodate, it becomes clear the pub isn’t the only thing that needs reinventing. As the end of their business collaboration draws near, they’ll have to find a way past the limits they’ve placed on themselves or let go of a love that could last a lifetime.
368 pages, Paperback
First published January 2, 2024
About the author
Sarah Grunder Ruiz
5 books722 followersSarah Grunder Ruiz is a writer, educator, and karaoke enthusiast. Originally from South Florida, she now lives in Raleigh, North Carolina with her husband and two children. She holds an MFA in creative writing from North Carolina State University, where she now teaches First-Year Writing.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,442 reviews
August 22, 2023
This is so sweet and heartwarming. Perfect for those of us with messy brains and restless spirits. Thank you NetGalley for the advanced reader's copy of this adorable book in exchange for an honest review!
Whats a girl gotta do to find a tattooed dark haired irishman who owns a pub, speaks gaelic and comes up with the cutest gaelic nickname? I suppose the first step is to go to Ireland, which is what our strong but scattered (in a totally relatable way) FMC, Raine, does. She's a former med school student who decided to quit because it was her family's dream for her to be a doctor instead of her own. Good on you Raine. Anyways she's traveling around Europe as a musician preforming for tips on the streets of major cities when someone steals her guitar while in Ireland. Serendipity reacts, and she meets Jack, the aforementioned hot irishman who, as Raine describes it, is a bad boy aesthetic pinterest board come to life. I don't disagree and I wholeheartedly approve. Jack and his brother Ollie run their family's pub, and Jack recruits Raine to help him revamp it. Cue the hallmark-esque romance, which is exactly what you think and what you'd hope for and more. Its predictable and so sweet and a shot of serotonin to the brain. 🍀🤍🇮🇪 🪲🍺🎶💞
A big aspect of this book is the fact that Raine has ADHD and Jack has OCD. I absolutely loved how well the author wrote about these issues, and how deep she dove into their effects on each character. Being in each character's mind, particularly Jack's, as they mentally parse through the challenges inherent with these issues provides such a deep respect for those of us facing similar challenges. And reading about how Raine and Jack help one another out and accept each other despite hang ups and flare ups is beautiful and heartwarming and gives all the happy and hopeful feelings.
All in all, this was an adorable, endearing, and just happy happy happy book. I loved it. It also has some spice, if you're into that sorta thing (I am, and while this didn't have *a lot,* it had enough for the type of book this is). And the Irish setting (Cobh!!!) and accents and overall just irish pub vibes are so fun to immerse yourself in. Also, theres a book you can read before this about Jack's brother Ollie and how he ends up with his wife Nina (Luck and Last Resorts!) that you can read first but totally do not need to. Ollie and Nina make a lot of appearances in this book, and I'm def gonna go and read their story now.
Easy and happy 4 star Irish read! Grab a pint and go read this when it comes out in January 2024. Slainte!
Whats a girl gotta do to find a tattooed dark haired irishman who owns a pub, speaks gaelic and comes up with the cutest gaelic nickname? I suppose the first step is to go to Ireland, which is what our strong but scattered (in a totally relatable way) FMC, Raine, does. She's a former med school student who decided to quit because it was her family's dream for her to be a doctor instead of her own. Good on you Raine. Anyways she's traveling around Europe as a musician preforming for tips on the streets of major cities when someone steals her guitar while in Ireland. Serendipity reacts, and she meets Jack, the aforementioned hot irishman who, as Raine describes it, is a bad boy aesthetic pinterest board come to life. I don't disagree and I wholeheartedly approve. Jack and his brother Ollie run their family's pub, and Jack recruits Raine to help him revamp it. Cue the hallmark-esque romance, which is exactly what you think and what you'd hope for and more. Its predictable and so sweet and a shot of serotonin to the brain. 🍀🤍🇮🇪 🪲🍺🎶💞
A big aspect of this book is the fact that Raine has ADHD and Jack has OCD. I absolutely loved how well the author wrote about these issues, and how deep she dove into their effects on each character. Being in each character's mind, particularly Jack's, as they mentally parse through the challenges inherent with these issues provides such a deep respect for those of us facing similar challenges. And reading about how Raine and Jack help one another out and accept each other despite hang ups and flare ups is beautiful and heartwarming and gives all the happy and hopeful feelings.
All in all, this was an adorable, endearing, and just happy happy happy book. I loved it. It also has some spice, if you're into that sorta thing (I am, and while this didn't have *a lot,* it had enough for the type of book this is). And the Irish setting (Cobh!!!) and accents and overall just irish pub vibes are so fun to immerse yourself in. Also, theres a book you can read before this about Jack's brother Ollie and how he ends up with his wife Nina (Luck and Last Resorts!) that you can read first but totally do not need to. Ollie and Nina make a lot of appearances in this book, and I'm def gonna go and read their story now.
Easy and happy 4 star Irish read! Grab a pint and go read this when it comes out in January 2024. Slainte!
August 18, 2023
This book takes you on a captivating journey through Ireland, immersing you in the charming settings and introducing you to endearing characters dealing with mental health issues. The allure of friends-to-lovers romance adds to the appeal, making it a must-read with its layered storytelling and relatable struggles.
Raine Hart, a free-spirited American musician, sets off on a European adventure to explore and escape the challenges of her ADHD condition. However, her journey starts on a rocky note when her belongings, including her guitar, are stolen. Seeking solace, she finds herself at a pub in a small town in Ireland.
Sparks fly when Raine meets Jack Dunne, the tattooed bartender and owner of the pub, who offers her lodging and a job as an event organizer. As they spend time together, their attraction grows, but both are wary of the limited time they have before Raine returns to the States.
Jack, too, battles his own mental health issues, including OCD, which hinders his dream of becoming a tattoo artist and running the bar. His painful past with an abusive father adds to his struggles with self-esteem and confidence.
I love the gradual and reliable development of Raine and Jack's romance, their endearing banters, and the way they support each other through their challenges. This novel is not only a sweet and swoon-worthy romance but also thought-provoking and informative, tugging at your heartstrings throughout.
As with her previous works, Sarah Grunder Ruiz has crafted a wonderful tale that engages the emotions and takes readers on an unforgettable journey. I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and eagerly look forward to more of her stories, whether set on fancy yachts or in pastoral Irish small towns.
A heartfelt thank you to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for providing me with this digital reviewer copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
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Raine Hart, a free-spirited American musician, sets off on a European adventure to explore and escape the challenges of her ADHD condition. However, her journey starts on a rocky note when her belongings, including her guitar, are stolen. Seeking solace, she finds herself at a pub in a small town in Ireland.
Sparks fly when Raine meets Jack Dunne, the tattooed bartender and owner of the pub, who offers her lodging and a job as an event organizer. As they spend time together, their attraction grows, but both are wary of the limited time they have before Raine returns to the States.
Jack, too, battles his own mental health issues, including OCD, which hinders his dream of becoming a tattoo artist and running the bar. His painful past with an abusive father adds to his struggles with self-esteem and confidence.
I love the gradual and reliable development of Raine and Jack's romance, their endearing banters, and the way they support each other through their challenges. This novel is not only a sweet and swoon-worthy romance but also thought-provoking and informative, tugging at your heartstrings throughout.
As with her previous works, Sarah Grunder Ruiz has crafted a wonderful tale that engages the emotions and takes readers on an unforgettable journey. I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and eagerly look forward to more of her stories, whether set on fancy yachts or in pastoral Irish small towns.
A heartfelt thank you to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for providing me with this digital reviewer copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Follow me on medium.com to read my articles about books, movies, streaming series, astrology:
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March 19, 2024
3.5 stars, rounded up for representation. Really enjoyed this tale of two Neurodivergants (OCD & ADHD) who get together through a small-town Irish pub. There's a fair amount of mental health discussion, along with the romance, which was fine with me (though a bit more 🌶️🌶️ than I personally care for). And the pub's CAT just stole my heart!!😻🐈⬛😻
June 6, 2024
amazing like i have no complaints
January 6, 2024
4.5⭐️ Musician and former Pre-Med student Raine Hart knows what it’s like to live with ADHD. Upending her life to travel abroad, Raine prefers the nomadic life to settling down and ultimately disappointing herself and others. While in Ireland, she meets pub owner Jack Dunne, who suffers from OCD and anxiety. When a shared drink at the pub leads to a new job and living accomodations for Raine, she happily accept. But as their time together draws near, these two will have to figure out if their opposites attract romance can make it long past last call.
AH, this book spoke to me on so many levels. First and foremost, as someone who is neurodivergent myself (Autism), I appreciate this book on a fundamental level. So often, romances novels are about the idealized forms of love and relationships. This story is a romcom yes, but a romcom in the real world, full of angst, struggles, mental health issues and neurodiversity. This is real life love story - well as real as it gets in fiction.
Set in the cutest Irish village, with some of the most wonderful side characters including a floofball named Sebastian “ugly princess,” Last Call at the Local will steal your heart almost from the go. I loved how the author walks the line between insta love and slow burn in a way that allows us to get the best of both worlds. Even the mild open door was done to perfection (not too much, not too little). While this was my first book by Sarah Grunder Ruiz, it certainly will not be my last.
Read if you like:
•neurodiversity rep
•stories about starting over
•forced proximity
•opposites attract
•sunshine x grump
•Ireland setting
Thank you {partners} Berkley and PRH Audio for my gifted copies.
AH, this book spoke to me on so many levels. First and foremost, as someone who is neurodivergent myself (Autism), I appreciate this book on a fundamental level. So often, romances novels are about the idealized forms of love and relationships. This story is a romcom yes, but a romcom in the real world, full of angst, struggles, mental health issues and neurodiversity. This is real life love story - well as real as it gets in fiction.
Set in the cutest Irish village, with some of the most wonderful side characters including a floofball named Sebastian “ugly princess,” Last Call at the Local will steal your heart almost from the go. I loved how the author walks the line between insta love and slow burn in a way that allows us to get the best of both worlds. Even the mild open door was done to perfection (not too much, not too little). While this was my first book by Sarah Grunder Ruiz, it certainly will not be my last.
Read if you like:
•neurodiversity rep
•stories about starting over
•forced proximity
•opposites attract
•sunshine x grump
•Ireland setting
Thank you {partners} Berkley and PRH Audio for my gifted copies.
June 26, 2024
— 4 stars 🍻☘️
"tá tú go hálainn, ciaróg."
"what does that mean?"
"it means you're beautiful."
jack and raine’s soundtrack ₊˚⊹♡
𓆝 𓆟 𓆞 𓆝
this book is the third in a series, but can stand on its own. i went into this book completely blind, and i’m really glad i did! i absolutely loved the setting, characters, and plot line; it all tied together so well. if you’re looking for a quick, wholesome read- this is for you.
last call at the local follows traveling musician, raine hart, who is forced to stay in ireland after her instruments and belongings are stolen. she agrees to help former tattoo artist jack dunne revitalize his pub, passed down from generations, while she gets back on her feet. this book also includes raw ocd and adhd representation, which i think was approached perfectly. it can get pretty heavy at times, so take note of that. it’s dual pov, and features an adorable black cat named sebastian.
— raine is an angel. i loved her chaotic and genuine personality, and she kept me entertained throughout the entire book. i really connected with her passion for guitar and her struggles with finding her voice through music was so inspiring. while i wish we had more background about raine’s childhood or past experiences with starting guitar, she had a certain level of depth. the sister plot line was somewhat drawn out, but it felt necessary in order to develop both characters.
“maybe i’m not playing the wrong notes, but starting in the wrong place. all that dissonance because i’ve been trying to play someone else’s song.”
— jack is so hot oh my god. his feelings for raine weren’t over done, and that was my favorite part. this book is so realistic, and it shines through in the characters. jack was so devoted to raine, it hurt my heart omg. and his tats 😩😩 every time he spoke gaelic to raine i practically died on the spot.
”how can you think you’re too much, when i can’t get enough of you?”
jack’s older brother was such a teddy bear. the other side characters weren’t that prevalent, but overall i loved this book sm omg. some parts were.. cringey to say the least 😭 but it really added to raine’s character and i thought it was funny.
also the audiobook narrated by gary furlong and karissa vacker was so good i was swooning the entire time bc of their voices 🤭 i would recommend this to anyone!!
"tá tú go hálainn, ciaróg."
"what does that mean?"
"it means you're beautiful."
jack and raine’s soundtrack ₊˚⊹♡
𓆝 𓆟 𓆞 𓆝
this book is the third in a series, but can stand on its own. i went into this book completely blind, and i’m really glad i did! i absolutely loved the setting, characters, and plot line; it all tied together so well. if you’re looking for a quick, wholesome read- this is for you.
last call at the local follows traveling musician, raine hart, who is forced to stay in ireland after her instruments and belongings are stolen. she agrees to help former tattoo artist jack dunne revitalize his pub, passed down from generations, while she gets back on her feet. this book also includes raw ocd and adhd representation, which i think was approached perfectly. it can get pretty heavy at times, so take note of that. it’s dual pov, and features an adorable black cat named sebastian.
— raine is an angel. i loved her chaotic and genuine personality, and she kept me entertained throughout the entire book. i really connected with her passion for guitar and her struggles with finding her voice through music was so inspiring. while i wish we had more background about raine’s childhood or past experiences with starting guitar, she had a certain level of depth. the sister plot line was somewhat drawn out, but it felt necessary in order to develop both characters.
“maybe i’m not playing the wrong notes, but starting in the wrong place. all that dissonance because i’ve been trying to play someone else’s song.”
— jack is so hot oh my god. his feelings for raine weren’t over done, and that was my favorite part. this book is so realistic, and it shines through in the characters. jack was so devoted to raine, it hurt my heart omg. and his tats 😩😩 every time he spoke gaelic to raine i practically died on the spot.
”how can you think you’re too much, when i can’t get enough of you?”
jack’s older brother was such a teddy bear. the other side characters weren’t that prevalent, but overall i loved this book sm omg. some parts were.. cringey to say the least 😭 but it really added to raine’s character and i thought it was funny.
also the audiobook narrated by gary furlong and karissa vacker was so good i was swooning the entire time bc of their voices 🤭 i would recommend this to anyone!!
August 16, 2023
Jack and Raine were the sweetest and must be protected at all costs!! Full review to come.
January 10, 2024
"How can you think you're too much, when I can't get enough of you?"
I originally gave this four stars, but with these characters refusing to leave my head since finishing, five stars it must be! The intensity of this story combined with the fast-paced yet soft romance, all surrounded by the coziest Irish pub, was just so dreamy.
The mental health representation, particularly the OCD representation, was exceptional. The best I’ve read, really. It’s super powerful, written with an openness that makes you feel as if you’re living the intrusive thought along with Jack. Truly hard-hitting and informative.
I loved the silliness between Raine and Jack, but also the very emotional, honest conversations. Their genuine willingness to understand and accommodate one another—the story acknowledging that love is not a cure for mental health—was so lovely! A perfect ending.
(heat level: a couple open-door scenes, mild to moderate details)
I originally gave this four stars, but with these characters refusing to leave my head since finishing, five stars it must be! The intensity of this story combined with the fast-paced yet soft romance, all surrounded by the coziest Irish pub, was just so dreamy.
The mental health representation, particularly the OCD representation, was exceptional. The best I’ve read, really. It’s super powerful, written with an openness that makes you feel as if you’re living the intrusive thought along with Jack. Truly hard-hitting and informative.
I loved the silliness between Raine and Jack, but also the very emotional, honest conversations. Their genuine willingness to understand and accommodate one another—the story acknowledging that love is not a cure for mental health—was so lovely! A perfect ending.
(heat level: a couple open-door scenes, mild to moderate details)
December 15, 2023
This one was a bit of a hit and a bit of a miss for me! I loved the setting and the characters, but the story didn’t do much for me. It was major instalove and toed the line between being soft or just being slow. I was really interested while reading about Raine’s experience with ADHD and Jack’s experience with OCD, but my heart rate was spiking constantly. The audiobook narrators were fantastic, and I especially enjoyed the production during their letters/messages to each other. There was even bit of spice—unlike Luck and Last Resorts—which was definitely welcome. Overall, it’s one of those books that wasn’t for me, but I know it’ll definitely be perfect for others!
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5 🌶️🌶️/5
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5 🌶️🌶️/5
April 21, 2024
3.5 Stars
Raine has been travelling all over Europe, busking for money with dreams of writing and recording her own songs. However, she’s stranded in Cobh, Ireland when her things are stolen. She wanders into a pub and strikes up a conversation with Jack, one of the owners, hitting it off with him immediately and accepts his job offer to help invigorate his pub because she’s out of options.
Raine with ADHD and Jack with OCD paired nicely, given they could understand each other’s struggles. I enjoyed how they clicked, their funny back and forth. Loved Sebastian the black cat! I also liked the setting of an old family-owned Irish pub that needs some freshening up.
Overall, I enjoyed Last Call at the Local. I was thrilled there was no dramatic third act breakup. I’m not sure how to express why the story didn’t completely bowl me over. I think it boils down to the fact that I never clicked with Raine. Her desire to never completely settle down in one place, just heading out to wherever life would take her just felt off to me. I did want her to find happiness with Jack and I utterly adored him.
A copy was kindly provided by Berkley in exchange for an honest review.
Raine has been travelling all over Europe, busking for money with dreams of writing and recording her own songs. However, she’s stranded in Cobh, Ireland when her things are stolen. She wanders into a pub and strikes up a conversation with Jack, one of the owners, hitting it off with him immediately and accepts his job offer to help invigorate his pub because she’s out of options.
Raine with ADHD and Jack with OCD paired nicely, given they could understand each other’s struggles. I enjoyed how they clicked, their funny back and forth. Loved Sebastian the black cat! I also liked the setting of an old family-owned Irish pub that needs some freshening up.
Overall, I enjoyed Last Call at the Local. I was thrilled there was no dramatic third act breakup. I’m not sure how to express why the story didn’t completely bowl me over. I think it boils down to the fact that I never clicked with Raine. Her desire to never completely settle down in one place, just heading out to wherever life would take her just felt off to me. I did want her to find happiness with Jack and I utterly adored him.
A copy was kindly provided by Berkley in exchange for an honest review.
February 7, 2024
I had high hope for Last Call at thr Local. So many good reviews. However, sadly, it does not work for me. I do not like the writing style.
It is DNF for me.
2 stars
It is DNF for me.
2 stars
March 29, 2024
REREAD: 25-28 MALAKI 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Just finished listening to the audiobook and I fell in love all over again 🥹🥹🥹 My love for this book knows no ends!!!
I will be making this book my entire personality for the foreseeable future. 💚
———
I finished this book three days ago and I think I’m finally ready to write a review.
First off, just WOW. My friend recommended me this book and I hadn’t heard anything about it, except from her. I know that her and I have the same taste usually when it comes to books, so I knew I’d like it, but I didn’t know that I would absolutely LOVE IT. I loved it so much that I’m literally 44% into my reread as we speak, and I’m falling in love all over again.
I am OBSESSED with this book. I was literally on the phone with my cousin right after I finished it and could not shut up about it.
Raine was unlike any FMC I’ve ever read about. She was incredibly relatable, hilarious, and honestly inspiring. And Jack???? Jack Stephen Dunne???? I LOVE THAT MAN. He is one of the most thoughtful MMCs I’ve ever read about. Being in his headspace was so eye-opening. Also, that man is HOT. An Irish man with tattoos off the wide and he’s also a cat dad? WE LOVE HIM.
This book means so much to me 😭 The way that mental health is talked about in this book? AMAZING. ASTOUNDING. ROSES. ROSES. I’M THROWING ROSES!!!!!
HIGHLY RECOMMEND, PLEASE GO READ IT NOW.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Just finished listening to the audiobook and I fell in love all over again 🥹🥹🥹 My love for this book knows no ends!!!
I will be making this book my entire personality for the foreseeable future. 💚
———
I finished this book three days ago and I think I’m finally ready to write a review.
First off, just WOW. My friend recommended me this book and I hadn’t heard anything about it, except from her. I know that her and I have the same taste usually when it comes to books, so I knew I’d like it, but I didn’t know that I would absolutely LOVE IT. I loved it so much that I’m literally 44% into my reread as we speak, and I’m falling in love all over again.
I am OBSESSED with this book. I was literally on the phone with my cousin right after I finished it and could not shut up about it.
Raine was unlike any FMC I’ve ever read about. She was incredibly relatable, hilarious, and honestly inspiring. And Jack???? Jack Stephen Dunne???? I LOVE THAT MAN. He is one of the most thoughtful MMCs I’ve ever read about. Being in his headspace was so eye-opening. Also, that man is HOT. An Irish man with tattoos off the wide and he’s also a cat dad? WE LOVE HIM.
This book means so much to me 😭 The way that mental health is talked about in this book? AMAZING. ASTOUNDING. ROSES. ROSES. I’M THROWING ROSES!!!!!
HIGHLY RECOMMEND, PLEASE GO READ IT NOW.
March 4, 2024
It’s just a feeling you get and you know its five stars
January 19, 2024
4.5 ✨ I loved this so much!! Right from chapter one I knew I’d love this book. The characters and the writing immediately pulled me in and I couldn’t put it down. I absolutely adored both main characters and thought they were both fleshed out very well. I love reading about characters where I feel like I personally know them. The writing was also excellent, it was engaging and fast paced and kept me hooked.
This book had what I love the most - mental health representation. Raine has ADHD and Jack has OCD and I thought the author did an excellent job depicting both. They felt so real. I love how they learned to be the best partner for each other.
I absolutely loved the storyline, the side characters, and the main characters relationship development. Raine & Jack’s banter and friendship turned relationship was so perfect. It all just felt so genuine and heartfelt to me and I just loved it so much. There wasn’t a page I didn’t enjoy. Running to read the other books in this “series” !!!
This book had what I love the most - mental health representation. Raine has ADHD and Jack has OCD and I thought the author did an excellent job depicting both. They felt so real. I love how they learned to be the best partner for each other.
I absolutely loved the storyline, the side characters, and the main characters relationship development. Raine & Jack’s banter and friendship turned relationship was so perfect. It all just felt so genuine and heartfelt to me and I just loved it so much. There wasn’t a page I didn’t enjoy. Running to read the other books in this “series” !!!
January 4, 2024
"Last Call at the Local" hits all the right notes! It's easily the best in the series so far, but fear not, you can dive right in without needing to catch up. Raine, a charming med school dropout turned musician, embarks on a soul-searching European tour. When her trusty guitar gets swiped, she lands in a quaint Irish town, befriending a mischievous cat and the impossibly tall, enigmatic Jack - a pub owner adorned with intricate Hampson tattoos. These two couldn't be more different on the surface: Raine's a bubbly tornado of creativity, while Jack's calm and collected, harboring depths unseen. Their witty banter crackles off the page, and I loved seeing them blossom both as individuals and as a couple.
But the true standout of this book is its sensitive and realistic portrayal of mental health. The author masterfully captures the challenges of ADHD and OCD with intrusive thoughts, offering a perspective rarely seen in fiction. We get to experience both Raine's vibrant, sometimes chaotic inner world and Jack's internal struggle with intrusive thoughts, highlighting the diverse ways these conditions manifest. This book shines a light on the complexities of OCD, showing it's far more than just stereotypical tidiness.
And speaking of shining stars, the dual narration elevates the experience. Both narrators breathe life into these characters, and hearing Jack's internal struggles delivered in a delightful Irish accent is an absolute treat. For those curious about the steam factor, it's present but subtle, often fading to black. The focus here is on the characters and their evolving relationship, not explicit scenes. So, even if steamy reads aren't your jam, this book offers a heartwarming and insightful journey that's well worth the trip.
***Big thank you to Berkley and PRH Audio for my gifted copy of this book, all opinions are my own.***
But the true standout of this book is its sensitive and realistic portrayal of mental health. The author masterfully captures the challenges of ADHD and OCD with intrusive thoughts, offering a perspective rarely seen in fiction. We get to experience both Raine's vibrant, sometimes chaotic inner world and Jack's internal struggle with intrusive thoughts, highlighting the diverse ways these conditions manifest. This book shines a light on the complexities of OCD, showing it's far more than just stereotypical tidiness.
And speaking of shining stars, the dual narration elevates the experience. Both narrators breathe life into these characters, and hearing Jack's internal struggles delivered in a delightful Irish accent is an absolute treat. For those curious about the steam factor, it's present but subtle, often fading to black. The focus here is on the characters and their evolving relationship, not explicit scenes. So, even if steamy reads aren't your jam, this book offers a heartwarming and insightful journey that's well worth the trip.
***Big thank you to Berkley and PRH Audio for my gifted copy of this book, all opinions are my own.***
January 2, 2024
last call at the local is a cozy romance following raine & jack revamping a local pub in a small town in ireland. raine has adhd and jack has ocd, and the two of them supporting and accepting each other was just so perfect.
finding accurate and respectful mental health rep in books is my fav, and sarah wrote this book so beautifully. their love story is one of tender slow burn and learning each other. jack is so lovely and I related to raine’s neurospicy-ness soooo much.
this book is out now ♥️ thank you berkley romance for sending me a copy.
read if you like
✨ workplace romance
✨ mental health rep
✨ small town
✨ found family
finding accurate and respectful mental health rep in books is my fav, and sarah wrote this book so beautifully. their love story is one of tender slow burn and learning each other. jack is so lovely and I related to raine’s neurospicy-ness soooo much.
this book is out now ♥️ thank you berkley romance for sending me a copy.
read if you like
✨ workplace romance
✨ mental health rep
✨ small town
✨ found family
August 29, 2024
A cozy romance set in Ireland with heart-warming and empowering ADHD representation and a theme of following your dreams!
Raine is a wandering singer-songwriter American who is robbed and left with little more than the clothes on her back. Stopping at an Irish pub called the Local, she meets Jack who is part owner of the charming pub (and a cat called Sebastian). Jack and Raine get to talking, feel akin, and Raine finds herself accepting Jack’s offer of a temporary job at the pub to help her get back on her feet.
I liked the depiction of different kinds of OCD and ADHD and how people can support others.
However, this didn’t feel complete as a romance and this aspect felt either too slow or then way too rushed.
But my problem isn't that I don't think. It's that my brain only has two modes: think everything all at once and make sense of none of it, or think about one thing obsessively at the expense of whatever actually needs my attention. The point being, I am always thinking. Just never about the right things.
There was no third act break-up but there was something else which… kinda felt like the same thing? And I also feel this undermined all the support and progress they had made???
I don’t know, I liked the representation and the way it was written and portrayed, but I couldn’t get behind the story and the development.
Bookstagram
Raine is a wandering singer-songwriter American who is robbed and left with little more than the clothes on her back. Stopping at an Irish pub called the Local, she meets Jack who is part owner of the charming pub (and a cat called Sebastian). Jack and Raine get to talking, feel akin, and Raine finds herself accepting Jack’s offer of a temporary job at the pub to help her get back on her feet.
I liked the depiction of different kinds of OCD and ADHD and how people can support others.
However, this didn’t feel complete as a romance and this aspect felt either too slow or then way too rushed.
But my problem isn't that I don't think. It's that my brain only has two modes: think everything all at once and make sense of none of it, or think about one thing obsessively at the expense of whatever actually needs my attention. The point being, I am always thinking. Just never about the right things.
There was no third act break-up but there was something else which… kinda felt like the same thing? And I also feel this undermined all the support and progress they had made???
I don’t know, I liked the representation and the way it was written and portrayed, but I couldn’t get behind the story and the development.
Bookstagram
January 8, 2024
Not a fan. This felt like a one sided love story. While Jack was struggling and trying to manage his mental health, Raine had to travel to busk around Europe? Because of her ADHD? Really? She came off as very immature and selfish. Also, how did she pay for that travel? One minute she’s poor, next shes flying to vienna? Was that airfare in her ziploc bag? I know love stories take on different forms. I just didnt read the love from her end. If you want to read love stories that incorporate different flavors of mental health, pop over to Chloe Liese.
February 6, 2024
I have never read anything from Sarah Grunder Ruiz, so I wasn't sure what to expect, but I was so impressed with the story, the characters, and the writing. Last Call at the Local was so cozy and sweet. I adored our cat-daddy, tattooed, Irish pub owner MMC, Jack. People may confuse him for a grump, but once you get to know him you understand why and see that he is such a cinnamon roll at heart. This man had me SWOONING! I think that the author did an amazing job tackling the topics of ADHD, OCD, and anxiety. She described it in a way that made it easy to understand and empathize. A big message that I took away from this book is that love isn't about having a perfect relationship and a perfect partner, it's about making the decision to love each other despite the imperfections and a willingness to work through differences and to have compassion and make compromises to live harmoniously with the person you love.
Read this if you love: The Bergman Brothers by Chloe Liese
Thank you Netgalley, Berkley, and Sarah Grunder Ruiz for the eARC.
Last Call at the Local is out now.
Read this if you love: The Bergman Brothers by Chloe Liese
Thank you Netgalley, Berkley, and Sarah Grunder Ruiz for the eARC.
Last Call at the Local is out now.
January 12, 2024
This was such a beautiful beautifuuuuuul, loving romance. It felt like such a warm hug. I adored Jack and Raine so much! They were so imperfectly perfect for each other. Ugh, when you find your person! They both were each other's rocks and helping stones yet the biggest cheerleaders for each other too. I was kicking my feet 5% in when they first met. The banter?! The conversations! The black cat! A trifecta of things I loved.
The ADHD and OCD rep was amazing and truly stood out to me. I learned so much yet feel so seen with this and I know SO many people will too. I was rooting for them individually and for their relationship, their adventures, and just seeing their growth- it's so special to see. Raine's relationship with her sister was also very relatable! I loved all the side characters and the setting of being in Cobh, Ireland. The pacing of the book is exactly what I love in my reading experience and I cannot wait to read more from Sarah again! 🥰
"How can you think you're too much, when I can't get enough of you?" Jack to Raine!!!
"You can't be responsible for everyone, Jack. You'll kill yourself trying. You've got to live with a little uncertainty."
4.5 stars!*
The ADHD and OCD rep was amazing and truly stood out to me. I learned so much yet feel so seen with this and I know SO many people will too. I was rooting for them individually and for their relationship, their adventures, and just seeing their growth- it's so special to see. Raine's relationship with her sister was also very relatable! I loved all the side characters and the setting of being in Cobh, Ireland. The pacing of the book is exactly what I love in my reading experience and I cannot wait to read more from Sarah again! 🥰
"How can you think you're too much, when I can't get enough of you?" Jack to Raine!!!
"You can't be responsible for everyone, Jack. You'll kill yourself trying. You've got to live with a little uncertainty."
4.5 stars!*
January 30, 2024
This was worth it for hearing him describe his love for her at the end. And Jack was interesting. Raine was too, but there were things that were off. They were certainly compatible, and I like the idea of their "accomodations" but there were parts of this book that I just didn't like, you know, as a thing to listen to and read. (wonderful narrators, I liked!)
And I also felt a little like Jack was doing all the work?
I still think SGR is writing interesting things, and one of these days I Believe one will be a favorite. Just not yet.
And I also felt a little like Jack was doing all the work?
I still think SGR is writing interesting things, and one of these days I Believe one will be a favorite. Just not yet.
June 9, 2024
I really enjoyed this!
Such a fabulous (& realistic) portrayal of OCD. I love that the author addressed the dark thoughts and debilitating compulsions that come along with OCD.
Most authors just write it as someone who likes to clean or needs to be organized, and yeah that is there for some people, but it is also not being able to leave your house because your brain just can't do life that day.
Or the compulsions that need to be completed, regardless of how ridiculous people think they are, before you can absorb anything else happening around you.
I love that the author didn't make it a personality trait, but rather chose to show how overwhelming it is can be and how difficult doing "normal" things can become as a result.
Such a fabulous (& realistic) portrayal of OCD. I love that the author addressed the dark thoughts and debilitating compulsions that come along with OCD.
Most authors just write it as someone who likes to clean or needs to be organized, and yeah that is there for some people, but it is also not being able to leave your house because your brain just can't do life that day.
Or the compulsions that need to be completed, regardless of how ridiculous people think they are, before you can absorb anything else happening around you.
I love that the author didn't make it a personality trait, but rather chose to show how overwhelming it is can be and how difficult doing "normal" things can become as a result.
Want to read
August 6, 2022not me, someone with ADHD literally planning a trip to Ireland in October stumbling across this…kismet?
January 4, 2024
This story follows American singer/songwriter Raine (ADHD), who ends up stranded in a small town in Ireland after her instruments are stolen. Raine meets Jack (OCD), a local pub owner who impulsively hires Raine to be the entertainment coordinator that gives his pub the revamp it desperately needs.
As a fellow neurodivergent, I am obsessed with romances that center neurodivergence (especially different kinds). The author does such a fantastic job of highlighting both the struggles and joys of navigating life as a neurodivergent person.
Raine and Jack have fantastic chemistry, and while they are complete opposites, they complement each so well. I loved how neither assumed the other’s needs when it comes to their respective neurodivergence; especially when it comes to Jack’s OCD and intrusive thoughts and paranoia.
For those who love sexual tension and angst, there’s plenty of that as well…and it leads up to some GREAT steamy scenes!
Lastly, I loved the pub atmosphere and the found family that Raine created; not only with Jack and his family but the pub patrons and regulars too!
And for the audiobook lovers, Karissa Vacker does a fantastic job with Raine, and I LOVED Gary Furlong’s Irish accent and his narration of Jack.
Thank you to Berkley Romance and PRH Audio for providing a review copy. This did not influence my review. All opinions are my own.
As a fellow neurodivergent, I am obsessed with romances that center neurodivergence (especially different kinds). The author does such a fantastic job of highlighting both the struggles and joys of navigating life as a neurodivergent person.
Raine and Jack have fantastic chemistry, and while they are complete opposites, they complement each so well. I loved how neither assumed the other’s needs when it comes to their respective neurodivergence; especially when it comes to Jack’s OCD and intrusive thoughts and paranoia.
For those who love sexual tension and angst, there’s plenty of that as well…and it leads up to some GREAT steamy scenes!
Lastly, I loved the pub atmosphere and the found family that Raine created; not only with Jack and his family but the pub patrons and regulars too!
And for the audiobook lovers, Karissa Vacker does a fantastic job with Raine, and I LOVED Gary Furlong’s Irish accent and his narration of Jack.
Thank you to Berkley Romance and PRH Audio for providing a review copy. This did not influence my review. All opinions are my own.
January 27, 2024
You know when you’re RIGHT at the edge of crying? Like, you can feel it in your chest and your throat and your eyes, but the tears aren’t quite ready to make an appearance? That’s how I felt the entire time I read Last Call at the Local.
Jack and Raine are my favourite kinds of characters - imperfect, still trying to figure their shit out, a bit unsure… REAL. I loved how they each navigated their disabilities (OCD and ADHD, respectively, and WOW did Sarah do a phenomenal job with her representation of both!) and how they accepted each other so easily. They just fit SO well.
I laughed out loud. I swooned (almost continuously, tbh). I cried (yes, the tears did manage to fall… more than once!). I enjoyed every single word on every single page and will continue to read ANYTHING this author is willing to give us.
Also, Jack becomes the first entry in my Book Boyfriends of 2024 note - so there’s that, as well.
PS. Unlike her previous books, this one IS open door. The language isn’t overly descriptive and I believe it will still appeal to those who enjoyed her previous closed door romances!
Jack and Raine are my favourite kinds of characters - imperfect, still trying to figure their shit out, a bit unsure… REAL. I loved how they each navigated their disabilities (OCD and ADHD, respectively, and WOW did Sarah do a phenomenal job with her representation of both!) and how they accepted each other so easily. They just fit SO well.
I laughed out loud. I swooned (almost continuously, tbh). I cried (yes, the tears did manage to fall… more than once!). I enjoyed every single word on every single page and will continue to read ANYTHING this author is willing to give us.
Also, Jack becomes the first entry in my Book Boyfriends of 2024 note - so there’s that, as well.
PS. Unlike her previous books, this one IS open door. The language isn’t overly descriptive and I believe it will still appeal to those who enjoyed her previous closed door romances!
April 1, 2024
Set a book in my favorite country Ireland and add a cat named Sebastian and you’ll have my full attention. If only I enjoyed the rest of the book as much!
While the pages turned easily enough, I was frustrated by the characterization choices. Raine comes across as a Pixie Dream Girl, with her ADHD being more of a quirk than a diagnosis. We never learn what, if anything, she does to manage her ADHD or if she went to therapy when she was diagnosed three years ago. She was very frustrating to me. She would tell everyone what a mess she was and then do exactly nothing to work on herself.
The story focuses more on Jack and his OCD. This makes some sense as he’s experiencing a relapse but it made the resulting character arcs feel lopsided. Jack does a ton to look after Raine in terms of her ADHD but I didn’t feel that the reverse was true and that made me doubt whether she could be a supportive partner to him.
This was proved when
I still could have come around on Raine and Jack for more than a fling if not for two things. First, in terms of the OCD representation. Second, the warp speed reconciliation.
Don't get me wrong: this wasn’t a chore to read. Ireland! Sebastian the best cat! Jack was a dreamboat! Pub life! I just wish the neurodivergence had been handled with a defter touch and that this author paid more attention to logistics and believable emotional arcs.
Characters: Raine is a 28 year old white American traveling musician/busker and medical school dropout with ADHD. Jack is a 27 year old white Irish pub co-owner and tattoo artist with OCD and ADHD. He has the best floofy cat named Sebastian. This is set in Cobh, Ireland.
Content notes: ADHD, OCD relapse, intrusive thoughts, internalized ableism, theft of FMC’s belongings, forgetting to eat, MMC’s father was physically abusive, past death of MMC’s father, past death of secondary character’s husband (mentions), on page sex, alcohol, inebriation, ableist language
While the pages turned easily enough, I was frustrated by the characterization choices. Raine comes across as a Pixie Dream Girl, with her ADHD being more of a quirk than a diagnosis. We never learn what, if anything, she does to manage her ADHD or if she went to therapy when she was diagnosed three years ago. She was very frustrating to me. She would tell everyone what a mess she was and then do exactly nothing to work on herself.
The story focuses more on Jack and his OCD. This makes some sense as he’s experiencing a relapse but it made the resulting character arcs feel lopsided. Jack does a ton to look after Raine in terms of her ADHD but I didn’t feel that the reverse was true and that made me doubt whether she could be a supportive partner to him.
This was proved when
I still could have come around on Raine and Jack for more than a fling if not for two things. First, in terms of the OCD representation. Second, the warp speed reconciliation.
Don't get me wrong: this wasn’t a chore to read. Ireland! Sebastian the best cat! Jack was a dreamboat! Pub life! I just wish the neurodivergence had been handled with a defter touch and that this author paid more attention to logistics and believable emotional arcs.
Characters: Raine is a 28 year old white American traveling musician/busker and medical school dropout with ADHD. Jack is a 27 year old white Irish pub co-owner and tattoo artist with OCD and ADHD. He has the best floofy cat named Sebastian. This is set in Cobh, Ireland.
Content notes: ADHD, OCD relapse, intrusive thoughts, internalized ableism, theft of FMC’s belongings, forgetting to eat, MMC’s father was physically abusive, past death of MMC’s father, past death of secondary character’s husband (mentions), on page sex, alcohol, inebriation, ableist language
December 20, 2023
Review coming soon.
Shelved as 'dnf'
January 12, 2024If you are interested, check out @book bruin review, it says it all.
DNF 50%
DNF 50%
August 21, 2024
Charming characters and great mental health rep, but the heroine felt like a background extra and the rushed ending left me wishing for more. But, Ollie and Nina’s unexpected cameo added some fun.
January 3, 2024
This was so sweet 🥹
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