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Under The Bus: Stafýlia Cellars: Book 2

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Under The Bus is the second book of the Stafýlia Cellars Duet and should be read after Over A Barrel.

A friends-to-lovers story about brash and bold Vintner Tabitha Aganos and US Senate Candidate Baxter Schroeder. Two lifelong friends who think they can ignore fate. But something is coming that will make them reevaluate everything.

Bax
Hurricane Tabi dominates my campaign bus as well as the world around her. Just like I knew she could. We're clicking as friends and coworkers. Tabi's stepping into her own light and commanding my campaign staff with ease and grace. It fills my soul to watch.

But I never expected to need my best friend even more. I never wanted to admit how empty my life is without Tabi filling every moment of it. I have a campaign to run. A destiny to fulfill. I have the life I planned, but the life that's calling to me is getting too loud to ignore. We've finally put our steamy and stormy past behind us.

But that's the thing about the past. It never stays there.

There's a threat to my candidacy, our relationship, and my future, and finally, choosing the path not taken might just save us all.

What is it they say about love?

Under The Bus is the second book of the Stafýlia Cellars Duet.
A Five Families Vineyard Series.

Set all over California and centered in Sonoma's Wine Country, Under The Bus tells the story of lifelong friends who can't stop crossing the line.

Published April 7, 2020

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About the author

Kelly Kay

26 books251 followers
I used to create "dreams" with my best friend growing up. We'd each pick a boy we liked, then we'd write down a meet-cute that always ended with a happily ever after.

Now I get to dream every day, although it's a little steamier these days. And I've discovered I can and will write anywhere I can. Keep tuned to Instagram to see all the times I fit in a sentence or two.

I'm a writer, married to a writer, mother of a creative dynamo of a nine-year-old boy and currently a little sleepy. I'm a klutz and goofball and love lipstick as much as my Chuck Taylors.

Good things in the world: pepperoni pizza, Flair pens*, wine, coffee, laughing with my friends until my stomach hurts, a musician at the top of their game, getting lost somewhere I've never been, matinee movies on a weekday, the Chicago Cubs, a fresh new notebook full of possibilities, bourbon on a cold night, Fantasy Football, witty men, walking through the local zoo in the rain and that moment when a character clicks in and begins to write their own adventure. I'm just the pen.

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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
Profile Image for Jackie Wright.
4,957 reviews107 followers
April 6, 2021
4.5 Stars for Under The Bus ( Stafylia Cellars book 2)
Under The Bus is the conclusion to Tabitha Aganos and Baxter Schroeder’s friends to lovers romance. Please make sure you read Over a Barrel before picking this one up as this is the second story in the duet. This is a romance about two friends who believe they can ignore fate....
Tabi and Bax’s stiry isn’t sweet, it’s raw and it feels so real with ups and downs, twists and turns and moments and incidents that really do happen in everyday life. It has characters that will stay with you long after the final words have been read and I’m sure this duet will be read over and over because I need more from this couple. Kelly Kay is a new author to me but after finishing this wonderful, emotional, entertaining duet I need to check out her other works because I can’t understand why this very talented author has not crossed my radar before now. I guess all that’s left to say is I highly recommend this entertaining duet.

Profile Image for Sandie Chraponski.
1,357 reviews13 followers
April 5, 2021
There is nothing better than spending the day in the mind of Kelly Kay. This is the continuation of Bax and Tabi’s story from Over the Barrel,to say that their story is combustible is an understatement.

With Kelly’s flair we get a full, rich story of the type of forever love that doesn’t seem possible. This isn’t a saccharine sweet love story, it’s a gut wrenchingly real story with ups and downs and volatile moments that happen when real, multidimensional characters come together.

This story is what I have come to expect from Kelly Kay, she writes so vividly it’s like watching a movie, at one point while reading I actually started talking back to the characters.

With all that being said, Kelly Kay has written a beautiful story that will suck you in, and keep you there. If you haven’t read any of her books, what are you waiting for?
Profile Image for Stephanie.
1,543 reviews
April 5, 2021
Worth the wait to get the rest of Tabi & Bax’s story! As soon as it hit my kindle, I put everything aside while I went back into Tabi & Bax’s world. It was so easy to remember why I loved these characters & their journey!

I voluntarily reviewed this book.
April 9, 2021
In the conclusion to Tabi and Bax's story, we get to see the dirty business of politics head on. Full of intrigue and some twists and turns (some more predictable than others), this book isn't afraid to get nasty and that's what makes it work. The author goes all in.

The pace is all over the place in this story and even knowing this, it still works. Tab and Bax's story hasn't been linear, so it wouldn't make sense the road to their happily ever after would.

Bax is a cinnamon roll hero with a seriously delicious dirty side and he's the perfect complement to Tabi's bold personality.

Part romantic and beautiful settings and winery dynasties saga, part political intrigue, Kelly Kay brings us a story that is original (hard to pull this off in this genre), with relatable characters that you can't help but love and root for.

A lot is said about book boyfriends, so I'll say that Tabi is my book soul sister. She's a kickass lady that gives absolutely zero fucks and will go to the end of the world to defend and protect those she loves. Any similarities with certain Rogue are entirely coincidental.

Five glasses of wine
🍷🍷🍷🍷🍷( in lieu of stars, because winery) to Under The Bus and Kelly Kay!
206 reviews
August 6, 2022
My new favorite

This was emotional. I hate mean girls and Shawna was one of the worst. A d it always seems like they hook the nicest guys who are oblivious to their evil. I love Tabi, rough on the outside so she protects her heart. Hank goodness for friends and family who are by your side, no matter what.
11 reviews1 follower
April 7, 2022
Loved!! The banter with these characters is off the charts! Great read!!!
Profile Image for Azalea Hudson.
Author 5 books44 followers
February 19, 2022
Under the Bus: Stafýlia Cellars is the second part of Bax and Tabi’s story. It starts after Tabi stands up to her father and accepts Bax’s offer to work in his election campaign, and it’s not an easy feat for them since all the feelings for each other cultivated throughout the years get the best of them. You need to read Over A Barrel first, so you’ll get the full mind blowing story. Worth every written word!

Tabitha has a strong personality, and Bax is more to the composed, trusting kinda guy. The truly opposite attracts relationship. And boy! Their relationship is not hot. It’s a chaos of scorching, fiery hotness and fun, but also with heart wrenching moments as they try to find their way to each other amid so many twists and turns. 

The story brings you the sad reality of politics and the reminder that even if you have a good heart and want to help others, you also must have a good stomach and a backbone to deal with all the dirt under the rug. There’s an enemy lurking around, putting his senate’s race at stake and keeping them apart. Sorrowful outcomes, and many times they have such a hard road ahead of them that your heart stutters, and you gasp with them.

The writing is vivid and pulls the reader inside their world, and you just keep going with Tabi and Bax on the sidelines, cheering for them, and wishing sincerely that their fierce and strong friendship, that their fascinating love story gets a well deserved happily ever after. Not only Bax and Tabi, but all the friends in the story have their ups and downs, their flaws and qualities, and they are extremely relatable. They go through circumstances and deal with them the same way you would in real life.

The book as the first in the duet was a whirlwind of emotions. I finished reading with a raw heart and a wide smile on my face. The only downside of the book is that I got so deep into their lives that I feel I made friends for life, but they live inside a story, and I want them in my living room, talking shit and drinking wine with me!
Profile Image for MJLovestoRead.
2,028 reviews51 followers
April 1, 2021
What a rollercoaster ride!!! Under the Bus kept my heart beating loudly as Tabi and Bax find their way to each other through a series of twists and turns and I loved every crazy minute. Kelly Kay doesn't hold back in this well-written and exciting conclusion as a vile character (surely to be in my top ten of all-time villains!) finally becomes known as the center of all the whys that have plagued this wonderful couple. The story unfolds in much the way I thought it would since they were now going to be crossing the country in close quarters but never could I have guessed how much heartache and regret would befall the Wild Child and Senate hopeful. But I was confident in fate and knew that if two people were ever true soulmates, it was Tabi and Bax.

Oh wow. Just when I thought things were finally falling into place, one calamity after another threatened not only Bax's run for Senator but his destiny with Tabi. These two are a whirlwind of emotions with Bax's trusting nature and Tabi's penchant for running causing them pain over and over again. But I was beside myself when Bax finally found his backbone and wouldn't stop until his childhood friend, his loyal confidante was by his side forever.

The desire, my goodness the desire. It is just bursting at the seams whenever Tabi and Bax are near each other. The sexual chemistry is WHITE-HOT as these two can hardly keep their hands off one another. But in the end with all that transpires, and there is a lifetime's worth in this lengthy book, it's the love that can no longer be denied. And holy moly, if I wasn't cheering loudly right along with friends and family when Baxter and Tabitha grab hold tight and don't let go.

There are some surprises with all the ups and downs Tabi and Bax encounter in their journey to a hopeful happily ever after and I was as shocked as they were as excruciating details come to light to threaten all they had worked so hard for. But the lighter moments on the campaign buses with Tabi at her finest as well as moments whether by text or in-person with their close-knit family balanced out all the bad that transpired, making for one heck of a great read.

I just adore these characters and the busy lives they lead. Always full of passion, intensity, and loyal to a fault, these winemakers and those they cherish make for incredible stories and I look forward to what will happen next.

Please note that you have to read Over A Barrel first to get the whole story of Tabitha Aganos and Baxter Schroeder. Truly fantastic from start to finish, I happily give Under the Bus a huge 5 stars!
Profile Image for patrick Lorelli.
3,388 reviews30 followers
April 13, 2021
I WAS GIVEN THIS ARC FOR AN HONEST REVIEW.
This is the second book and I was not disappointed at all in the storyline one bit. The author keeps you going with Tabitha who is now working for and really running her best friends’ campaign for the Senate. Baxter and her continue with the idea of just being friends because of course he is engaged to the devil woman who he does not see that way.
Yet when her true colors do come out Baxter is so shocked and surprised it made me wonder at times why was Tabi with him other than she loved him with all of his flaws.
What makes this story good is that Baxter finally comes around and sees what Tabi did for him in the first book when his fiancé was the one saying she was the one that did it. We as readers or at least me thought he was nuts for how did she get that soup that was Tabi’s grandmother’s and he not know the taste. Anyway, a good story with surprise, deception, let down by his best friend, and love, everything you want in a story a good ending. I received this book from Netgalley.com I gave it 5 stars. Follow us at www.1rad-readerreviews.com
Profile Image for Jennifer Pierson.
11.6k reviews163 followers
April 7, 2021
Under The Bus is the conclusion to hurricane Tabi & senate hopeful Bax's story so YOU HAVE TO READ Over A Barrel (Book 1) FIRST! They've been best friends for a very long time, and while they're perfect for each other, neither wanted to rock the boat in case it ruined their friendship. However, now that she's working with his campaign, she's coming into her own while they're spending a lot of time in close quarters. There's no doubt that the chemistry is intense, but they're still trying to pretend that they should only be friends which had me frustrated to no end. Of course it's politics so there's some intrigue in the shadows trying to tank his campaign so now there are twists coming out of the woodwork as this villian aims to take no prisoners. This is an exciting story that everyone should read, so get to it! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND! 
Profile Image for Becky.
1,074 reviews105 followers
April 6, 2021
Under the Bus is the culmination of Bax and Tabi’s story from Over the Barrel. This is a duet Series so if you haven’t read Over a Barrel go read it first!
Under the bus is a one of those stories where sparks fly off the pages.

Tabi and Bax find their way to each other through a series of hurdles that lead them down the path less taken. That moment when you think you know what is going to play out. The author surprises you with another disaster. Bax's run for Senator is in peril along with his destiny with Tabi.
These characters are chaotic with Bax's trusting nature and Tabi's penchant for running from life, but you will be cheering for them on every page. The balance of the story is very well down. Considering their issues along with the lighter moments on the campaign buses.

A story rich in passion and a fierceness of friendship you will not regret reading this story. Kay writes a story that shows lasting connections and friendship while in the purist of the HEA.
39 reviews
April 20, 2021
Under the Bus is the second half of Tabi and Baxter’s story, and I was eagerly waiting for this one.
When we last saw Tabi and Baxter, they were boarding busses to go on the campaign trail in California. I so enjoyed getting to hear the rest of the back story between the two and the shenanigans that occurred on the road.

We already knew from “Over a Barrel” that the chemistry between the two was unbelievably hot, and the second part of the tale does not disappoint.
Shawna is up to no good, as expected, and all signs seem to blame Baxter. Will the 4 families support Bax or will they rally behind Tabi?

This is such a sweet love story and is going on my reread list with all of Kelly Kay’s books.
Profile Image for Kelly.
61 reviews
May 10, 2021
Bravo Kelly Kay! I have so enjoyed this follow up to Over A Barrel that continues the tale of Tabi and Bax and delightfully broadens our understanding of the “Five Families” of various vineyards in Kay’s Sonoma. As with many love stories, the reader, as well as everyone around the main characters, knows they belong together. What’s so refreshing about Under the Bus (and it’s predecessor) is the way in which their self doubt and inner flawed rationalizations are instantly recognizable and understandable. This realistic quality is also generously extended to the malefactors. No one is made to be a cliche. Oh, yeah, and our protagonists’ attraction is still en fuego. I so look forward to more from Kelly Kay!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Laura ( Latteandbookz ).
1,180 reviews10 followers
April 10, 2021

In this book we get to see Tabi and Bax build their relationship into something more. Just when I thought that it was going to go one way, it went another. This book kept me glued from start to finish.
I can’t wait to see what this author comes out with next. I absolutely adored this series.
220 reviews
April 6, 2021
The follow up book for Under a Barrel. In this one Baxter and Tabi are trying to navigate the waters to be able to be together like destiny intended. There are so many ups and downs in this book, but the ending is worth it. The chemistry between these are two are undeniable red hot ready to explode. You might need a cold drink to conclude this one, but is definitely worth it.
1,160 reviews8 followers
May 25, 2021
Loved it...Tabi a take charge woman who says it like it is and pulls no punches... Bax a man who is running for california senator... A book that humor and romance....
Profile Image for Evie Alexander.
Author 13 books790 followers
January 6, 2022
Under the Bus is the follow-up to Over a Barrel and is simply brilliant. Tabi has just joined her childhood friend's Senate race, and they are both trying to ignore the love that has been there for each other throughout their lives. The story whips along, following unforeseen twists and turns. It's action packed, with moments of humour to lighten the stress.

Kelly Kay is one of the most exciting authors I have ever read. Her writing is razor sharp, her world is truly immersive, and her characters fly off the page straight into your heart. I just loved this book! It's the perfect conclusion to Bax and Tabi's story. Make sure you read Over a Barrel first!
Profile Image for Melissa.
724 reviews12 followers
April 7, 2021
We were introduced to Tabi and Baxter's love affair in over the barrel. Under the bus is a thrilling adventure of choosing what's important and accepting true love. This duet was my introduction to Kelly Kay, but I can't wait to read more by this author.
Profile Image for Krystin Rowley.
399 reviews6 followers
April 7, 2021
Book 2 of a duet.
READ BOOK ONE FIRST!!
I am still new to this author, but I won’t be for long.
This isn’t your average friends to lovers tale, it’s so much more. It’s deeper, it’s history.
Profile Image for Vedika Sheth.
580 reviews5 followers
April 5, 2021
This was a wonderful sequel that ended in the best way. I enjoyed the characters and had fun with them.
Profile Image for Tracy.
115 reviews
April 4, 2022
I really like Tabi and Bax and was happy to delve back into the second half of their story to get to their HEA. Under the Bus is NOT a standalone, you need to read Over a Barrel first to understand this book.

For two people who are really smart and attuned to one another, since ages four and five, they are also really stupid. However, a lot of their stupidity comes from a place of love, true love, i.e. wanting actual happiness for the other, even if it means sacrificing their own happiness. Under the Bus is the story of Tabi and Bax learning how they can have both. Don’t worry, it’s still sexy, spicy and filled with all the naughty words. Most importantly, the Senator will not be denied!

Tabi is still Tabi and Bax is still Bax, but more complete versions of themselves. I truly love this couple. Surprisingly, the one character in this book I want to know more about is William “Bill” Williams, Jr. If you’ve already read UtB, what are your thoughts on him?

Under the Bus is also a revenge story with a little bit of a mystery, which wasn’t that hard to figure out. The outcome is satisfying-ish. I’d have preferred a more brutal outcome, but that’s my pettiness shining through. Ha! It’s also a story of growth and redemption. I was sorry to read the last word, but I suspect we’ll get more of these two. And I’m ready for it! Overall I highly recommend this book. That being said, there are some editorial issues, missing words, improper punctuation, but they are insignificant and don’t take away from the overall story. My biggest gripe - dammit I wanted to see Bellamy’s letters!

I’ve also added the book The River Why to my TBR list. It was mentioned in OaB and plays a significant role in UtB.
11 reviews1 follower
July 26, 2021
Sooooo good! Love these characters!! Can they be my friends? Great read!!
Profile Image for Wendy Livingstone.
17.1k reviews208 followers
April 6, 2021
This is the 2nd book in this great series. Bax and Tabi are lifelong best friends, and now he is a US senate candidate while she is his trusted confidant and dominates his campaign trail. These two were destined to be soulmates, and when a threat has Bax’s career and relationships at stake, they work together to suss out the enemy. This is a well written story which is an emotional roller coaster, and with heartbreak, twists, surprises, intrigue, passion, loyalty, trust, and with combustible and undeniable chemistry, which all leads to a fun and entertaining read. I was hooked throughout this addictive story and I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
Profile Image for Jennifer Harrison.
108 reviews3 followers
September 11, 2023
If you haven't read Over A Barrel, stop and read that first... trust me.
Bax and Tabi are reunited, her with a goal of no longer appearing like the "black sheep" of Sonoma, and him with the goal of being elected Senator. As you might expect, things aren't that simple, especially when you consider his fiancee, Shawna.
I'll start by saying that I am thankful this book did not have my heart in as much of a vice as Over A Barrel did. The relationship between Tabi and Bax continues with its natural progression, which means they're friends, but they still fight - a lot. But she's good for him, and he's good for her.
If you're anything like me, you could tell something wasn't quite right about Shawna, and the way Kelly kept is in suspense was both frustrating and satisfying. And then she threw in something I don't think anyone could have seen coming.
The five families all make an appearance, but it's the outsiders that really come in clutch - Mel, Sal, Mark...
Overall, I loved this book. The characters are endearing and you really get a sense of who they are, and more importantly, who they are to each other.
Of all of Kelly Kay's books that I've read, and I've read a lot, this duet is my favorite.
Profile Image for Lindzanne1_bookworm.
475 reviews21 followers
July 19, 2022
Oh my heart! Once I started this book I just couldn’t stop, but at the same time I didn’t want it to end. I’m so obsessed with Bax and Tabi’s relationship. Even through all the ups and downs and miscommunications they always find their way back to each other. So much steam and I’m here for it! This book was everything I hoped for and more! Now I can’t stop smiling!!

Thank you so much Kelly Kay for the gifted copy!
Profile Image for Brandy Barber.
916 reviews20 followers
September 21, 2023
Good book

I think this was a great ending to Tabi and Bax's story. I know they will be in the background of other books so they will not be missed too badly. I think this is one of my favorite couples.
Profile Image for Donna.
1,031 reviews11 followers
March 12, 2023
𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆
Bax is taking his entourage and bus into California while he campaigns for the Senator position. He needs help and his oldest friend Tabi is overqualified even though she doesn’t have political experience. His campaign manager and college friend Jack hires her anyway. But when Tabi realises her true feelings for Bax are threatening to come to light, she makes off and goes back home to the Sonoma valley.

𝗠𝘆 𝘁𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀
This story is part two of the Tabi and Bax story and it’s a dual point of view in real time with no flashbacks to the past. But things get ugly and real, dealing with scandal and someone out to get the pair. In the court of public opinion, Tabi is the man-stealer, Bax becomes the abusive fiancé. I spent my Sunday consumed with these two books / one story. Thank goodness for time for weekend reading, I couldn’t stop until I was at the end! Such a great series ❤️🔥❤️ Be prepared for all the steam 😉

Read on Kindle Unlimited
My rating 4/5 - ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Profile Image for Anita Rohn.
1,739 reviews7 followers
January 12, 2022
Tabi 2

Finally all the pieces all into place and the right people figure out who they belong with. A spicy heart warming look at two people who are entwined one doesn't know it and one runs from it until the stars align.
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