Audiobook Review: Redesigning Max (Foothills Pride #2) by Pat Henshaw

Renowned interior designer Fredi Zimmer is surprised when outdoorsman Max Greene, owner of Greene’s Outdoors, hires Fredi to revamp his rustic cabin in the Sierra Nevada foothills. Fredi is an out-and-proud Metro male whose contact with the outdoors is from his car to the doorway of the million-dollar homes he remodels, and Max is just too hunky for words.

When Max comes on to Fredi, the designer can't imagine why. But he’s game to put a little spice into Max’s life, even if it’s just in the colors and fixtures he’ll use to turn Max's dilapidated cabin into a showplace. Who can blame a guy for adding a little sensual pleasure as he retools Max’s life visually?

Max, for his part, is grateful when Fredi takes him in hand, both metaphorically and literally. Coming out is the most exciting and wonderful time in his life, despite the conservative former friends who think they’re saving him from sliding into hell.

Narrated by David Ross
Listening Length: 2 hours and 55 minutes

Pat Henshaw is an easy read author with, from what I’ve read, uncomplicated love stories. That’s not to say that there isn’t depth, or that the characters don’t have complicated lives, I just find the relationship development straightforward and easy on the heart.

This story has no real angst to it, and I think it is a good thing. It leaves the plot development to the world around Fredi and Max, rather than creating drama within the relationship. This is my favourite type of relationship development. While life can sometimes be messy, I prefer characters who are adept at keeping their romantic lives as tidy as possible, while unwinding mess through discovery and action.

Fredi has been commissioned to revamp a rustic cabin that Max received as part of an inheritance settlement. It is in dire need of a professional touch, and Fredi is an award winning designer who is perfect for the job.

Max has decided that it’s time he came out and stopped hiding. He takes an instant interest in Fredi, and is subtle in his approach to flirting and making his intentions known.

I found Fredi to be a fun complex character. He doesn’t put up with crap from anyone, least of all the town bigots. But he is a little bit over-reactive when it comes to pulling out his Boner……..

This story had a nice easy flow. Some drama to keep it exciting, but the ease with which Fredi and Max communicated was what held my interest.

I’ve read this series out of order, starting with book four, but I don’t think it’s really necessary to read them in order. Each story stands on its own, with no wider story arc, but with enough intertwining to feel the familiarity of some of the characters.

That being said, I would still recommend these be read in order if you are starting from the beginning.

David Ross is always a pleasure to listen to, and I don’t think he could ever make a story sound bad. Top notch voice acting skills that makes him someone I look for when picking new audiobooks to buy.

I would recommend this for those who enjoy straightforward gay romance, with some nice depth and good character development.

A review copy was provided.