It's been a while since I've read a book by Erin Nicholas and this was a charming, sexy read that had me loving the hero and feeling a little envious of the heroine. This first book in Ms. Nicholas's Boys of the Big Easy series is wonderful and a great launch to this series for her. It's also filled with plenty of fan-your-face moments and a wonderful chemistry between the main characters that shows how compatible these two really are.

Really, I could not put this book down. Addison Sloan is a very independent, strong female determined to live her life on her terms and making sure her daughter experienced everything she wanted in life, knowing that Addison was there for her when things didn't go the way her daughter wished them to. Addison was a great parent, and I enjoyed the mother-daughter bond she had with Stella. While Gabe, he was sex-on-a-stick. A decent man determined to prove himself to Addison. He was nothing like her ex. Moreover, he also knew how hard it was being a single parent, yet knew being a parent was the most rewarding thing in the world.

Overall, Ms. Nicholas has delivered a really good read in this book that has me looking forward to reading more of this series.

I was completely CAPTIVATED from the moment I cracked open Erin Nicholas’ Going Down Easy and I did not put it down until I finished. This couple have a once a month weekend affair and then she returns to New York and he goes on with his life in New Orleans until one day he decides to send her flowers at the local office where she is consulting and follows it up with an in person meeting and finds out some truly interesting information that leads to a crazy, emotional journey between the two of them AND their two five year old children. I am so enamored with this couple and their story, not to mention their precious children. Smart, funny, sexy, sweet, and filled with so many wonderful moments, I loved Going Down Easy.

Gabe and Addison seem like complete opposites; he lives life fully and by the seat of his pants and she likes order and rules, but in bed they are perfectly matched and out of bed they complement one another. I did get a bit frustrated with Addison trying to use her daughter as a reason to not pursue a relationship with Gabe, but I also understood where she was coming from. Gabe was patient and kind and kept showing Addison what she was missing and when he added in his son Cooper she was sunk, but the feeling was mutual because Stella captured his heart from the start. I loved the way Cooper and Stella interacted and how quick they formed a friendship.

The single parents group offered up insight and advice for these two and became a sounding board for both of them. Gabe’s family welcomed Addison and Stella with open arms making their move to New Orleans easier.

While it wasn’t always easy and both the adults made some mistakes along the way, the feelings and love were easy to see and the relationship between the adults and their children was magical.

I read Going Down Easy during a bit of a difficult time in my life and Erin Nicholas managed to transport me out of my life and into the lives of this couple and the city of New Orleans and I can’t thank her enough for this bit of respite from the real world when I needed it the most.

The first in Nicholas new Boys of Big Easy series. Perfect for Nicholas fans. There is enough NOLA to keep anyone entertained.

Erin Nicholas and her brand of romance cannot be missed!

Boys Of The Big Easy bring their own special brand of passion and commitment. Gabe Trahan wants it all with Addison Stone and this boy of the Big Easy has his job cut out for him.

Another passionate read of Erin Nicholas!

Oh, how I wanted this book to work for me…. I am so sad that I just didn’t…

I have heard amazing things about Erin Nicholas. When I read the blurb for Going Down Easy (Boys of the Big Easy #1), I was so excited that there was a new series of hers that I could get in on. What a flop… For me at least. I hate it when I really want to discover an author that has been on my TBR list for a while, and I get no satisfaction.

Hmmm…. Sounds like a song…

I will have to circle back to Erin Nicholas’ work when a new series starts, or I read some of her older work. Going Down Easy (Boys of the Big Easy #1) just simply was not the book for me. It lacked connection to the characters. When that happens, it makes it hard for the storyline to work.

Don’t worry, I will try again!!

This was heartwarming ,sexy and funny!Addison Sloan and Gabe spend one weekend a month together in Gabe’s home town of New Orleans. Their chemistry is amazing!Gabe wants a happy end with Addison, I loved his determination to make it perfect!Overall, I really enjoyed this book. I was hooked on Gabe and Addison from the very beginning.

Ok so for those who are really big into babies, kids, and raising families, I will say that this story is probably going to be right up your alley and hit you in the feels again and again. That being said… I am so NOT one of those women. I have enjoyed many of the series written by Ms. Nicholas in the past, with varied different subgenres or overall themes, so when this one crossed my radar I didn’t really even think about it, just saw the sexy cover and setting and determined I would read it. Never had any clue it would revolve around single parents, parenting issues, kids, babies, etc. But despite all of those subjects that hold little to no interest to me personally and usually turn me off a story, I really enjoyed reading Gabe and Addison’s story and am looking forward to the rest of the series, despite the foreknowledge that the theme will continue. The sexiness off her characters and the setting of the series are not to be discounted in my decision, by Erin’s writing ability and skill is the main reason I will be looking past my own prejudices to continue reading. Gabe and Addison certainly kick of the story with a level of heat and sexiness that leads the reader to think this will be another straight to sex story, but soon we see that both of the characters are VERY family oriented and they are each dealing with their emotional connection in different ways. Gabe has never felt toward a woman the way he does for Addison, but she is determined to keep their liaisons to just sex and fun, never letting him get closer to her. When he finds out she is now living in his town he is even more determined to make her his, despite finding out that she has a daughter, one to bookend his own young son. Addison never planned for Gabe to sneak into her life this way, but the man is simply irresistible and the more he is around her the more she finds herself drawn to the man she is getting to know. Once they stop resisting the pull together, they begin to see that their families of two could easily blend together into a single unit, if they can overcome their own hang-ups and accept that not only are two heads better than one, but two hearts are better than one any day. Gabe was a sexy as hell guy, even though I am not usually attracted to men with kids, and he was certainly strong and intense enough to counter Addison’s stubbornness. His playfulness and strengths perfectly balanced the weaknesses apparently in Addison’s overly serious and reserved nature as they spent more time together. Addison was certainly different that Gabe, but she was raised differently for sure so it was understandable and made her no less a balanced character to Gabe’s lighthearted and sometimes overly easy-going nature. It was interesting watching these two dance around one another and then finally find a way to dance together, but most important work together to give their children what they needed together and individually. Like I said, I’m definitely not a kid person, but I am a child of a blended marriage, sometimes not to the best, and I could see that they each loved the others child wholeheartedly in the end and would be the best parent they could be to both of the kids. Sometimes love is enough, even without the perfection so many parents think is required and I loved how Ms. Nicholas was able to get both of her lovers to come to that conclusion in their own way and time. Can’t wait for the rest of the series.

Erin Nicholas is one of my favorite authors of contemporary romance. Going Down Easy is the first book of a new series set in New Orleans and is hot, hot, hot. Gabe and Addison hit if off as one night stands for a weekend once a month for six months. They don’t ask personal things, they don’t look for any information about the other’s life, they just are. She lives in New York City and comes to New Orleans once a month for a week for a consulting job. Things get hot and dirty and then it is no more or is it? When Addison transfers to New Orleans she not only doesn’t want Gabe to know, she tries to break things off. How does that turn out? When we learn more about each of their lives things get interesting fast.

He’s a single dad, she’s a single mom. Neither of the other parent is involved in their lives. When Gabe doesn’t take no for an answer things do pick up. I loved how the two kids were woven into the story along with Gabe’s mom and brother. The support group Gabe and Addison attend helps fill a void for each of the members and the characters have a depth to them. Each of their stories is unique but each of them face difficult parenting issues given their circumstances. Parenting issues definitely abound! Gabe’s lucky he has a support system but he starts to not see it that way. The one step forward and two back for Gabe and Addison was heartbreaking but the way their kids are there for each other and take everything in stride was heartwarming.

I loved how there were so many southern things especially those unique to New Orleans were brought into the story. There are twists and turns but will love ultimately win? There is some closure and a happily ever after with more story to tell. I’m looking forward to reading more of her books not only in this series.

Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team

Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆
This is the first book in a new series, and I have the next one on my ‘look out for’ list already. This is a lovely read, with a good mix of humour, super-hot chemistry, and a romance with a twist.

I like the premise of the story, and the fact that both of them have to adjust their perspectives and their expectations for the future. It is a very cleverly written book, with some really sweet and heart-rending moments, as well as some very raunchy ones. Given how they started their acquaintance, it is fun to see them work hard to keep that spontaneity and yet at times, just know they have to hold back.

Parents will probably recognise some of themselves in both Gabe and Addison – and the lessons that they both learn by considering each other’s views. It is something that two parents who were always together would probably not even notice, but I liked the dynamic that is created. Some of the humour is just inspired, and really made me laugh.

If you want a cheerful, sexy read, this will definitely work – and you will learn quite a lot about alligators too; I am looking forward to sharing my newfound knowledge!


Mary Jo – ☆☆☆☆
What's a guy to do when the woman he's been hooking up with moves to town without telling him? What's he supposed to do when she says she doesn't want to have a relationship with him because she's starting over in a new town and she has to take care of her daughter? Gabe's not sure, but he's certainly going to figure it out.

Gabe understands how hard single parenthood can be. He's been doing it for years with the help of his mother and brother. He's found a great support group that he can bounce ideas off of and take comfort in the fact that he doesn't have to have all the answers.

Addison is used to having to be both parents to her daughter. She's never had parents to rely on and Stella's father has never been in the picture. She's taught her daughter independence and the importance of be able to take care of herself. Addison can't help but wonder though what it would be like to have someone to lean on or ask for advice.

I really enjoyed this book. The characters are flawed but trying to make the lives of their children better. Addison's realization that she doesn't have to parent Stella by herself is almost as enlightening as Gabe's. Gabe's ability to look at himself the way Addison does causes him to realize that he's relied on his family to shoulder the burden of helping to raise Cooper.

I can't wait to read the next book in this series.

Going Down Easy is the first book in a new Erin Nicholas series, Boys of the Big Easy. It was light, easy to read and featured really stellar characters. The focus of this first book was single parents and the situations that arise read realistic and entertaining. The dialogue of the children seemed especially spot on and not too precocious. I appreciated Ms Nicholas' ability to take a character I initially disliked (the heroine) and have her redeem herself through the course of the story. Going Down Easy suffers a little from time taken away from the story to set up the series, I could have spent more time with the characters! Looking forward to book 2!

I wasn't able to get into the story. It just didn't capture my interest. I believe other readers will enjoy the book. This one wasn't for me.

Going Down Easy, the first book Erin Nicholas's new Boys of the Big Easy series, was fan-freaking-tastic. The chemistry, the friendship... It was all amazing, from Gabe and Addison's romance to the friendship between their adorable children. One of the best elements of Going Down Easy was how well the characters complimented each other. Gabe and Addison's parenting styles and how their view life are completely different. They each bring something to the relationship that the other needs. Gabe shows Addison that it's okay to ask for help and that it's fun to live life a little on the edge. Meanwhile, Addison teaches Gabe that a little bit more structure never hurts. They balance each other perfectly. Plus, their chemistry? Scorching hot!

Going Down Easy was perfection. I had a blast spending time with the characters. And while I'm still pretty new to Erin's writing, she's definitely on my must read list from here on out.

Going Down Easy is the first book by author Erin Nicholas that I have read. I loved it!! I enjoyed the story, the pacing, and the writing style. I am not usually drawn to books that involve kids, but the blurb hooked me! I am so glad I gave this book and author a try!
Gabe is a single dad and after meeting Addison, he knows she's most likely the one for him. But he only sees her once a month when she comes in from NYC for a client meeting. For one weekend a month, they indulge every fantasy they have. Hot sex, good food, jazz music, what's not to love! Only Gabe finds the wants so much more than one weekend a month!
Addison is a restoration architect and is thrilled she met Gabe. She loves her weekends in New Orleans with him. He's all she thinks about! When she actually takes a job in New Orleans, she's leery about telling Gabe. She's a single mom and that usually sends men running for the hills! But Gabe is different. He's actually overjoyed that she moved there and that it's wonderful she is a mom! Addison doesn't know how to mesh everyday Addison with fling weekend Addison though. She's having a hard time. Gabe won't give up-he's fallen for her! He just has to make her see that they are the whole package when they are together.
I totally loved this story! Like I said, kids isn't something that I am drawn to normally, but here, they really work! Stella and Cooper were great secondary characters! I liked how they connected too! Gabe is so endearing and I love how he gets Addison to realize different parenting styles are ok. How he got her to join a single parent group and see you don't have to do everything by yourself. That it is ok to lean on people and have support. It's ok to not feel like wanting to be a parent 24/7 and that it is ok to want time away from your child. This group gave her insight on how to be a better parent and I admired them for it! Both Gabe and Addison had some issues within themselves to resolve. Their chemistry was spicy hot, so I had high hopes of them figuring out a way to make it all work!
Going Down Easy is a great start to the Boys of the Big Easy series! I am anxious to get my hands on the next book!!

reviewed by Deb

I have to say for me so far Erin Nicholas never disappoints. This is another great example of her outstanding writing. The characters are well written, believable, and fun. The story is hard to put down. So be warned once you start you'll want to read this one all in one setting. Fans of great stories, fun characters, and a setting will have you ready to make a trip are going to love this release from author Erin Nicholas! I highly recommend this one.

Going Down Easy is a story that while extremely sweet, doesn't fail on the level of heat packed into it. Erin Nicholas gives readers a taste of New Orleans as she introduces the Trahan brothers. Gabe Trahan, bartender and father, enjoys spending time with Addison when she comes to town once a month. Their whole relationship consists of a weekend exploring the city and enclosing themselves in the apartment above the bar. When their relationship changes and Gabe is trying to convince Addison that their two little families and blend together, I just knew this story was going to make my weekend!

I love that Gabe is so sure of what he wants even when his actions are unusual for him. Even though he has a son he isn't really looking to settle down. But when he realizes Addison is someone he could see himself with in the long run he embraces the idea. His character is really interesting because he's not a super responsible, uptight, boring single father. He has a wild edge that isn't usually seen in a character in his situation. Addison, on the other hand, is sure of her parenting skills and loves the independent life she's built for the two of them. She's kind of a typical character in the fact that she's a stubborn single woman who doesn't like to ask for help, so I'm not surprised she's not keen on a true relationship with Gabe in the beginning.

Going Down Easy was a pleasure to read. I loved the atmosphere, the interaction with the kids and the characters who breathed life into their roles. I'm so glad I caught this series as it begins, because I'd love to read more from Erin Nicholas!
*ARC provided in consideration for review*

This was the first book I read by Erin Nicholas and I loved it ! I got an advanced reading copy for my honest review.

Gabe and Addison’s story was hard for me at first I just didn’t like Addison. But as the story develops and you see her character develop. I loved that they were two single parents. And what Addison thought would have gabe running for the hills , made him want her more. Great start to this new series

❤️❤️❤️❤️ out of 5
I have a secret weakness for single dad romances so when I found out this was one I was ready to dive right in. What I didn’t know was that it was also a single mum romance too- that’s right both MCs are single parents!
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Our hero and heroine meet at a bar one night and hit it off- our heroine is there on business so whenever she flies in she goes to “spend time” with the hero. The last time she decides to call it quits because unbeknownst to the hero- she has actually moved and never mentioned that she had a daughter, and well the hero never mentioned having a son. The hero has fallen and fallen hard so does whatever he can to get her back.
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This was a cute read with some real 🔥🔥 (the hero is a great dirty talker). This book was also about them both being parent and trying to integrate families- did I necessarily agree with their choices- no (everyone has an opinion on raising kids so no shocker there). Overall really enjoyable!

Review: GOING DOWN EASY (Boys of the Big Easy) by Erin Nicholas https://wp.me/p3d0RZ-aS0
Publication Date: August 28, 2018
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Donna
Rated 4.5 Stars

I enjoyed this contemporary romance between two single parents, each approaching parenting in different ways. It was real and honest…not to mention super sexy. Gabe and Addison started with a no commitment sexual relationship that grew to so much more. Their struggle to realize that their contented status-quo wasn’t enough, made for a heartwarming story. I also loved their kids, so different but meshing well. My only pause was how fast Addison went from “no way” to “ok, I’m ready”. It seemed unnaturally fast. Other than that, it was a touching and smoking hot romance. I love the people around them and cannot wait for the next book in the series.

*Review copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

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Going Down Easy by Erin NicholasGabe and Addison have been conducting a series of one-and two-night stands. She's in New York and he's in New Orleans, there's never going to be a real relationship. Until Gabe finds out that Addison is now living in New Orleans. And when he finds out that she's a single-mom, his single-dad heart just falls a little deeper. The story follows their relationship as it progresses into being an Actual Relationship.

I did not connect with Gabe in any way. He was pretty manipulative and pushy. Addison had her reasons for not wanting to be in a relationship and he just trampled them. He was a little redeemed at the end but not really enough for me to like him any better.



Two and a half stars
This book came out August 28
ARC kindly provided by NetGalley

A first book in a new series and the book opens with Addison Sloan an architect, who has come to New Orleans once a month from New York and the first time she made the trip she walked into the bar that is owned by Gabe Trahan and his brother. She fell for Gabe and the passion and hot nights and mornings together are great. Along with listening to him talk about the music and taking them to different places. She is seeing New Orleans differently. Now though she is saying good bye for good and he does not want it to end. Later that same morning he finds out that she really did not leave but actually has now moved to New Orleans and her firm is going to do the restoration project on his place. Talking to him and telling him that it is over she finally pulls out her ace in the hole and says she has a five year old daughter. He smiles and says great he has a five year old son. Panic she still walks away. Now Gabe does small things to be with her to give them a chance. This story has many different emotions from hot passion, to sad, to what the heck is going on. What it is real and you get the feel of what it would be like for two single people coming from to different places trying to make it work with both of them having their insecurities coming to smack them in the face. A wonderful story and Cooper and Stella the children really make this book. All of the characters are good and this is a wonderful book for all.