Antagonist

Dads of Stillwater, Book 1

By: Ana Ashley

Narrated by: John Solo

Length: 7 hrs

Publisher's summary

One artist. One attorney. Two single dads.

Meeting at a bachelor auction for charity had trouble written all over it as far as I was concerned, especially when the guy that won the bid for me seemed to be after only one thing...a good time between the sheets.

Refusing Fletcher’s advances was easy the first time round. After all, we weren’t meant to see each other again.

Except I’ve just moved to Stillwater where Fletcher lives.

Except both our kids are in the same class.

Now the kids are fighting and I’m ready to throw my own punches.

If only Fletcher wasn’t as goddamn irresistible as he is irritating.

When the fight moves from the playground to the bedroom, who will come out on top?

Antagonist is book one in Ana Ashley’s new series, Dads of Stillwater.

Single dads, sassy kids, Ana’s usual cast of intriguing secondary characters, Stillwater has it all.

©2022 Ana Ashley (P)2023 Ana Ashley

Enjoyable

Cute, lighthearted, romcom-ish with two single dads. Small-town. cute kids. A great palate cleanser story.

Excellent narration.

Mixed signals 😂

Single dads who desire and antagonize each other. Cute kids, small town and lots of interfering people around. Entertaining story with great narration 👍

Very Enjoyable

Antagonist is Book 1 in the Dads of Stillwater series. This is a wonderfully written story about Fletcher and Harrison, two single dads who just want what's best for their kids. I really enjoyed this book and the kids are just adorable. This book has a bit of a twist that I didn't see coming and am glad the right decisions were made in the end. Fletcher and Harrison are wonderful together and I'm glad they were able to work everything out and see that they could be happy together. I recommend this book and can't wait for the next one.
Narrator John Solo does a marvelous job and continues to be a joy to listen to.

Wonderful characters

These are two lovable guys. Harrison has just moved to Stillwater where Fletcher lives. They both have kids in the same class and which adds to Harrison and Fletcher’s interaction. The auction gave them a starting situation that lead them on a series of things where they clash until they don’t. Their kids and ex’s bring entertainment to the story. Harrison’s bout of jealousy when Fran tries to point out to Harrison her relationship with Fletcher at the cabin was funny. Fletcher has his issues with Fran also and they are not all positive. I loved the way Stella wanted the best for Harrison and supported his relationship with Fletcher. As Fletcher and Harrison settle into a domestic lifestyle there are still things trying to interfere. John Solo’s narration really made these characters feel real and made the situations so lifelike. This is a very warmhearted story.

Fabulously Entertaining & Story & Listen🎧📚🎧

This is a fabulous single dads romance novel, the story is well-written with interesting and original storylines that are captivating from start to end. The characters are realistic, easy to relate to and connect with, they are easy to care about too. Harrison Davis, an attorney, left the big city and the law firm he was hoping to make partner to live in Stillwater to be closer to daughter Megan, and ex-wife, Stella, who he shares custody with. Fletcher, an artist, lives in Stillwater with his son, his ex-wife is also an artist and lives overseas. Fletcher and Harrison first meet at the charity bachelor auction and when he saw Harrison was up for auction, he bid on him. The auction did not thrill Harrison, and neither did Fletcher. But fate was not done with them, neither was expecting to see the other again, especially not in Stillwater, and to make matters worse, their kids attend the same school and have become friends. Fletcher does not give up on Harrison, despite them being opposites in many ways, they do have some common ground, they are both single dads who love their kids. I loved how everything played out in this wonderfully plotted story, there is a perfect balance of drama, humor, heartfelt emotions, and a slow burn romance. I adored their kids, they are adorable and even stole the scene a few times. There were some other secondary characters that were great too, including Harrison’s ex, Fletcher’s ex not so much, though. Ana Ashley, thank you for another fabulous story and emotional rollercoaster ride.

🎧📚🎧 And for the amazing narration, John Solo is a versatile voice artist and his talent knows no bounds. He has a complete understanding of the characters he is portraying and the character voices he chooses for each fit that characters persona to a tee. He gives each their own distinct voice which makes it easy to follow along and tell who is who. Solo sets to perfect tone for the story, captures all the character’s emotions and projects them into his performance and makes you feel every single one. John Solo is an entertaining storyteller and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for another exceptional listen.

Amazing listen.

This is such an amazing story. I love Fletcher and Harrison! I am loving small town stories and this is no different. I love everything about this story. Then we have the amazing John Solo doing the narration and I am in love. He does such an amazing job bring all these characters to life. I just couldn't stop listening to this story. Amazing!

Single Dads with Chemistry in Small-Town Romance

The "single dads" trope isn't a go-to of mine, but I gave this audio book a go because of the author and narrator, and enjoyed it. As with the author's delightful (and tangentially related) Chester Falls series, this story is set in a largely inclusive small town with some colorful characters.

Attorney Harrison and artist Fletcher have a brief encounter that leaves a bad impression for both, only to meet up again months later after Harrison moves to small-town Stillwater. The nearly instant buildup of animosity between them was a bit too much too soon to be wholly believable, but their gradually coming around into a relationship felt natural. The two single dads do have chemistry in and out of the bedroom, and share some genuinely sweet moments.

Much of the drama revolves around Fletcher's young son possibly moving to London with his flighty mother, and the emotional upheaval it causes Fletcher and, by extension, Harrison. This may be from not being all-in with the single dad trope but I found Fletcher's initial reasoning for not seeking sole custody - not wanting to upset his son's mother aka former best friend Fran - a bit baffling, particularly since he'd single-handedly raised his son up till now. Still, it is all believably resolved for a satisfying family-centric HEA.

I appreciated how the MCs aren't just dads in name only, meaning their kids don't take a backseat to the budding romance. Having Flethers's son and Harrison's daughter be integral and active participants in the story without dominating the storyline was nicely balanced. The same goes for how Harrison's ex/still friend Stella was a supportive and understanding counterpoint to Fletcher's somewhat conniving ex Fran (who, in the end, is not without redemption).

Narrator John Solo does a nice job here, and I especially liked his subtle Southern accent for Harrison. His performance made for a pleasant listen, and I look forward to hearing Ellis's HEA story next. I received a free review copy of this audio book and have left this honest review voluntarily.

Small town and single dads

Small town. Single Dads. Yes, please! And no, that 's' isn't a typo. We get not just one single dad but two, and they're just adorable. There's also a bit of opposites attract with Harrison and Fletcher, and their banter is terrific. Stillwater has that small-town charm that always hooks me. It also has some of those troublemakers you know we're gonna see more of later in the series. The only drawback for me was that there was a lot going on. So much so that the romance gets a little lost at times. That said, it didn't bother me enough to pull me away from the story, and it definitely didn't keep me from enjoying this couple. I'll also be on the lookout for the next couple in the series.
John Solo gives voice to the characters, and each character is distinct. He also brings out all the emotion of the story - from the sweet to the sexy to the angst, it's right there to experience the feels right along with the characters.
This is my first time listening to John Solo and reading/listening to a book by Ana Ashley, but I'll be looking for more of both.

Another small town hit in the making

Story: Ana Ashley has given plenty of proof, that small town stories full of lovable characters are totally her jam. No surprise, that Antagonist joins the collection of awesome reads!
I was very anxious to read the first in the spin - off series, especially after reading Newcomer and knowing I'm in for a treat.
Fletcher and Harrison, an artist and a lawyer, are brilliant pair of MCs. I loved everything about their chemistry, stumbles along the way and their devotion to their children. I absolutely loved the fact, that the children do not appear to be an afterthought, as it sometimes happens in single dad stories. They are an integral part of who the characters are and it's a pure pleasure to read!
Then we have the plot with some angst thrown in to make things interesting, plenty of feels, a bunch of great secondary characters and cameos from Chester Falls as an icing on the cake.
This is a wholesome, well rounded and engaging story. I loved every minute spent in Stillwater and can't wait for more!
Narration: I was never disappointed by a John Solo performance and this one is not an exception. Great voice acting skills put to perfect use!

Amazing new start to a series

These two characters have an awkward meet cute but the sparks really fly when they run into each other again in the town of Stillwater. This chemistry is ❤️‍🔥🔥 and John Solo does such an amazing job on this audio. It was fabulous and you have to listen to this one. Small town romance, found family, single dads, and scorching heat.

Enjoyable - 4,5 stars

Antagonist was a book that I enjoyed. Harrison, a lawyer, and Fletcher, an artist, don't get off to the best start when they meet. It doesn't get any better when they meet again months later after Harrison moves to Stillwater. But they both have one thing in common: they are single dads.
I really liked this story. Harrison and Flechter are fathers who interact a lot with their children, and yet the children didn't take center stage in the story. At first, the two were quick-tempered with each other, but you could tell as you listened that there was chemistry between the two. Yes, these two are hot!
Reuniting with people from the Chester Falls series provided a lot of entertainment. And as it just so happens, everyone is trying to give good advice.
I liked the overall package because just like in real life, there were kids, wives, ex-wives, friends and a found family.
Of course it doesn't go without drama and intrigue. But I liked how they both functioned together as a couple with all the outside adversity.
I had entertaining hours in Stillwater and rejoiced with Harrison and Flechter at the end. I'm already on the lookout for the next couple in the series.

The audiobook was read by John Solo and he a is wonderful narrator. He brings the story to life and reads with variety. However, sometimes he whispers quite softly.

I received a free review copy of this audiobook and volunteered this honest review.

absolutely amazing!

I really loved this book and these characters. It was really great. And the narrator was brilliant.

Hot MM romance with two single dads is a hit!

In the small town of Stillwater, gay/bi single dads attract as much as they repel… Harrison and Fletcher are like chalk and cheese, and their frustrating exchanges are as humorous and enjoyable as you might expect. I loved every minute of these two dancing around each other, trying to figure it all out. They might be my favorite Ana Ashley couple to date! The school fair they are charged with organizing together is the backdrop for some small town tension and narrowmindedness they must confront together, and Fletcher’s ex adds to the conflict with an unexpected request. Harrison and Fletcher have their eyes on the prize however, and getting there is all of the fun. Nuanced narration by John Solo was perfect for these characters.

Fabulously Entertaining & Story & Listen🎧

This is a fabulous single dads romance novel, the story is well-written with interesting and original storylines that are captivating from start to end. The characters are realistic, easy to relate to and connect with, they are easy to care about too. Harrison Davis, an attorney, left the big city and the law firm he was hoping to make partner to live in Stillwater to be closer to daughter Megan, and ex-wife, Stella, who he shares custody with. Fletcher, an artist, lives in Stillwater with his son, his ex-wife is also an artist and lives overseas. Fletcher and Harrison first meet at the charity bachelor auction and when he saw Harrison was up for auction, he bid on him. The auction did not thrill Harrison, and neither did Fletcher. But fate was not done with them, neither was expecting to see the other again, especially not in Stillwater, and to make matters worse, their kids attend the same school and have become friends. Fletcher does not give up on Harrison, despite them being opposites in many ways, they do have some common ground, they are both single dads who love their kids. I loved how everything played out in this wonderfully plotted story, there is a perfect balance of drama, humor, heartfelt emotions, and a slow burn romance. I adored their kids, they are adorable and even stole the scene a few times. There were some other secondary characters that were great too, including Harrison’s ex, Fletcher’s ex not so much, though. Ana Ashley, thank you for another fabulous story and emotional rollercoaster ride.

🎧📚🎧 And for the amazing narration, John Solo is a versatile voice artist and his talent knows no bounds. He has a complete understanding of the characters he is portraying and the character voices he chooses for each fit that characters persona to a tee. He gives each their own distinct voice which makes it easy to follow along and tell who is who. Solo sets to perfect tone for the story, captures all the character’s emotions and projects them into his performance and makes you feel every single one. John Solo is an entertaining storyteller and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for another exceptional listen.

Don't always go with 1st, or even 2nd, impression

Antagonist was a lot of fun to read. Two men who rub each other the wrong (and right!) ways throughout much of the book along with getting to catch up with people from the Chester Falls series as well brings a lot of entertainment though there's a good deal of drama as well in the form of meddling, thinks the know best people and a parent wanting things all their own way.
Harrison and Fletcher definitely don't get off to the best start and continue that way for a good deal of the story. It did get a tiny bit frustrating when conversations constantly seemed to end abruptly, causing them to be frequently annoyed with each other and themselves but then that all adds to the drama of the story. The two men have great chemistry and really work well as a couple, very much opposites attract, with a bang. The kids in the story are so sweet, I especially love George for what he goes through.
The dramatic aspects of the plot work both for and against the couple. The holier than thou woman who thinks she knows best actually gives them something to work together for and fight against, even leading to their first kiss. But then someone who causes tension, says kids or at least stretches the truth has them doubting what they each know to be true, that they belong together.
Again, there is a great cast of characters, a wonderful community that Fletcher is a part of and welcomes Harrison with open arms when they move to Stillwater. His relativity his ex wife and best friend is fun and supportive, which is really needed especially towards the end of the book.
another wonderful read from Ana and I'm excited for who gets their story next. if it's anything like the Chester Falls series then it's going to be a lot of fun, love and friendship.
John Solo has a wonderful voice for romance. I felt everything that the characters were and really enjoyed the voices that he provides to them. I think my favourite may now be George and Megan having listened to their antics.

4.5 Stars…

I listened to the audiobook narrated by John Solo, who is a wonderful narrator.
Dad's of Stillwater is written extremely well, and John Solo delivers a stunning performance
It begins at a bachelor auction in a small town where Fletcher and Harrison met.
There are always good things and some bad things that happen in small towns and Stillwater is no different .

Single dads, cute and sassy children, awkward women, adding a good plot made this a great listen.
John Solo brings the story alive.
4.5 stars...

The audio is even better!

I loved this book when I read it with my eyes back in May 2022 and the audiobook made me love it even more. John Solo is one of my favorite audiobook performers and he did – no surprise here – a fantastic job with this one.

Below is some of what I wrote when I reviewed the ebook:

I haven’t read a whole lot of books by Ana Ashley but I’ve loved the ones that I have read. Antagonist is a wonderful start to a new series. I love single dad stories and this one has two single dads so that doubles the love!

Fletcher and Harrison don’t meet under the best of circumstances and misunderstanding ensue. When they meet up again a few months later, under way different circumstances, both of them are quite surprised.

I love how much both of them are devoted to their children. Harrison shares custody of Megan with his ex-wife, who he is still great friends with. Fletcher has a loose arrangement with his ex-lover, Fran, but George has been living with him full-time for several years while Fran lives overseas.

This is a pretty low angst story but the romance between Fletcher and Harrison has more than a few ups and downs. Both men are wary of being hurt. Harrison is an attorney and moved to Stillwater to be near his daughter and her mother. His old job keeps trying to woo him back and there is a sneaky rat of a character working in his new firm that causes some grief.

Fletcher’s ex arrives on the scene and throws his life into a tailspin and he’s not sure what to do. Harrison wants to help but Fletcher lashes out at him for trying to interfere, even though he doesn’t deserve it.

A copy of this audiobook was provided to me at my request but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author or narrator.

***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com***

Great listen!

I loved the book when I read it and knew the audio would be fantastic - and I wasn’t wrong! John Solo definitely does amazingly at bringing the whole cast of characters to life!

I love Fletcher and Harrison’s characters and relationship. They way things built between them from how they meet to the kids - everything just kept me wanting more.

Looking forward to more from the series!

Brill

This is a brilliant start to a new series with some mentions to Chester Falls. This book has it all as it’s full of action, love, angst and tension. I loved how Fletcher gets Harrison annoyed but they have budding chemistry though things aren’t easy especially when ex wives become involved. John once again did a brill job in narrating the characters.

Chemistry and kismet!

Such colourful characters that'll steal your heart and adorable kids that'll make you laugh, this story is everything you need in a heartfelt small town romance!

Harrison and Fletcher are wonderful together and while there's a lot of miscommunication and doubts their feelings always shine through.

This book is witty, frustrating, passionate and uplifting. I loved all the characters and can't wait to see what happens next. i also loved that both main characters are openly bisexual and unashamed! I felt their sexuality was handled well and as a bisexual I felt seen. A great story all round!!