Dylan Drake’s Cubs and Campfires is a delightful and heartwarming adventure that captures the essence of youth, friendship, and the great outdoors. Set against the backdrop of a sprawling wilderness, this novel takes readers on a journey through the eyes of a group of young scouts as they navigate the challenges of nature and the complexities of growing up.
Plot & Pacing:
The plot is refreshingly simple yet deeply engaging. Drake skillfully weaves together the innocence of childhood with the thrills of outdoor exploration. The story progresses at a steady pace, balancing moments of excitement with quieter, introspective scenes that allow readers to connect with the characters on a deeper level. The narrative is filled with the kind of adventures that spark nostalgia for anyone who has ever spent time around a campfire, sharing stories and roasting marshmallows.
Character Development:
The characters are where Cubs and Campfires truly shines. Each scout is distinct, with their own personality, fears, and dreams. Drake does an excellent job of portraying the dynamics of a group of kids who are still figuring out who they are and where they fit in the world. The friendships feel authentic, and the conflicts, though sometimes small in scale, are handled with a sensitivity that makes them resonate.
Writing Style:
Drake’s writing is evocative, with descriptions of the wilderness that make you feel as though you’re right there in the thick of it, smelling the pine trees and feeling the warmth of the campfire. The dialogue is natural and captures the voices of young characters without ever feeling forced or overly simplistic.
Themes:
The novel explores themes of bravery, friendship, and the importance of connecting with nature. There’s also a subtle but impactful message about the value of mentorship and the lessons we can learn from those who guide us. These themes are woven seamlessly into the story, never coming across as preachy but instead enhancing the overall narrative.
Conclusion:
Cubs and Campfires is a charming and thoughtful read that will appeal to adults who fondly remember their own adventures in the great outdoors. While the story may be simple, its execution is nearly flawless, making it a worthwhile addition to any bookshelf. Dylan Drake has crafted a novel that’s as warm and comforting as a campfire on a cool night, leaving readers with a smile on their face and a longing for their own outdoor adventures.
Whether you're a seasoned camper or just enjoy a good coming-of-age tale, Cubs and Campfires is a book that will stay with you long after you've turned the last page.
Cubs & Campfires: Sweet & Stocky, Book 1
4.3 | 734 ratings
Price: 7.49
Last update: 02-13-2025
About this item
Top reviews from the United States
Jesse Wilbanksperfect read for a night in
CandaceElaine72Chonky Boys
CandaceElaine72
Chonky Boys
Reviewed in the United States on September 4, 2024
I preordered the book and also received it as an ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Cubs and Campfires is the first in the "Sweet and Stocky" series. This is a MM, Contemporary, Low Angst, Cute/Cozy, Chonky MMC's {Authors verbiage}, set in Washington State Forest, HEA.
Luca Torres is a Latin VERY Liberal Journalist. He believes in complete sexual freedom with absolute honesty. He wants to work for a major publication but when he pitches to the Gazette he's told that his material is unpublishable and that he has to clean it up. He pivots to a new story line to keep his dreams alive: celibacy for the summer. He gets a job at the Washington State Branch of the US forest service Fire Watch Tower. Which means no temptation and all the writing time he could ever want. Insert ->
Artair Osmond the Flirtatious beautifully bearded bear that also happened to be the great epic wanderer. He is a constant temptation to Luca, teasing him every chance he gets. Astair doesn't like commitment or staying in one place for long. So when Luca drops into his life every interaction grows that little seed deep within him.
Bowie the Fox is one the greatest side characters to ever side character. Adorable, Mischievous and duper clever. I highly approve of this level of scene stealing.
Bits I LOVE: Best COVER of the Year! Love love so much love. Latin representation. Chonky men without horrible insecurities or background of abuse. They loved their size, girth and heft. heehee! Incredibly well written. LOW low super lllloooowww Angst. Shmexy upon more spice with a dollop of sexyness and a dash of I'm blushing.
Bits that need a future thought: The Latin representation needed a tad more vetting as Luca felt more Australian to me than Latin American. In that vein avoiding Australian jargon/verbiage in a contemporary American setting.
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND and can't wait for the next Book 'Bears & Bakeries'
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