Review: Line Drive (Hit and Run Book 2) by E.M. Lindsey

Rating: 4.5🌈

Line Drive is Lindsey’s actual third story in the series about a fictional MLB team, the Denver Vikings and it’s LGBTGIA players.

Line Drive is the romantic story for the Denver Vikings star pitcher, James “Scooter” Harney. A man with an extremely troubled upbringing he’s risen above, James is both a driven ball player and successful businessman. He’s got a group of teammates who are family and a well known bar. Everything but a relationship.

Lindsey crafted Harney as a person who’s abandonment as a adolescent and trials to feed his sister led him to poor decisions and traumatic jail time as a teenager. Thankfully, those experiences are not mentioned but only guessed at by the reader. Those formative years turned him into a person who doesn’t understand relationships.

Until a feisty teen, Phoenix, challenges him on his latest purchase of a bookstore and changes everything.

I have to admit that Phoenix and his interactions with James also further pulled me into the book. I adored these two and honestly wished for more time of them both together. That was some genuine chemistry there.

Phoenix is a stellar character who’s introduction and personality is just so remarkable that I won’t spoil anything about them here other than to say they have CP . How that disease is woven into the storylines and the character of Phoenix is also one of the best things here.

The other half of the romantic equation is Phoenix’ dad, Ridley Holland. A former minor league baseball player who was sidelined by a injury, he’s now a high school baseball coach and divorced dad barely keeping it together.

Sigh.

I really have a issue connecting with characters that have martyr complexes. And Ridley has those in spades. I was right there with Phoenix most of the time frustrated as well with Ridley’s suffocating, helicopter parental controls. So it was quite the effort to see my way to liking that aspect of the story as much as I enjoyed James buying the bookstore, enlarging his view of his future and letting people like Phoenix (and Ridley) into his small group of trusted friends .

I did eventually turn it around but James and Phoenix will remain my favorites of this story. Beautifully written, fully dimensional, and when it came to the end, and , yes, happiness exudes for all , the three of them enjoy a well deserved life together.

Any issues? A few. Some misspelled words that should have been caught. Existing instead of exiting, that sort of thing.

And one more that struck me. If you have a manager, then precisely told that manager to hire someone of a certain age with special needs while disregarding her arguments about duties and age limitations, then you should have followed it up later to help everyone succeed instead of being surprised the person had started. The way this was handled in the story bothered me. A sharp order that was rude and borderline derogatory, that took away this woman’s responsibility without a discussion. I found this small element very disrespectful and odd . And it stands out in a story about respect.

There were a few other minor things but these were my main issues.

Line Drive (Hit and Run Book 2) by E.M. Lindsey was a very enjoyable and rewarding story. I was still thinking about it hours after finishing it and that’s a mark of a wonderful book for me.

The next novel is coming out in December, just in time for the holidays. I can’t wait.

I’m highly recommending this series and the remarkable characters you’ll find within Line Drive!

Hit and Run Series:

✓ Nothing Ordinary #0.5

✓ Switch-Hitter #1

✓ Line Drive #2

◦ Double Play #3 – Dec 5, 2022

https://www.amazon.com › Line-Dri…Line Drive (Hit and Run Book 2) – Kindle edition – Amazon.com

Description:

James “Scooter” Harney is good at two things and two things only:

Pitching…

…and running away from his feelings.

So, when he comes face to face with a high school baseball coach who gets under his skin like no one ever has before, James isn’t quite sure what to do about it. After all, Ridley is smarmy, annoying, ridiculously good looking…

And worst of all, straight.

Then, James’ world is turned upside down one evening when Ridley admits that he’s been having thoughts. Thoughts about James. Thoughts that are making him question his own identity.

James knows he won’t make a good boyfriend, but the way Ridley looks at him, the way Ridley trusts him, makes James realize that maybe—just maybe—there’s something worth fighting for.

Line Drive is the second book in a fictional MLB series featuring a smarmy pitcher good at annoying his teammates and stroking his own ego, a team ready to win no matter what it takes, a lost single dad who just wants to know he’s doing a good job, and an agreement that wraps both of their hearts into a tangle. Each book in the Hit and Run Series stands alone, contains no cheating, and has a happily ever after.

———-

Unless it’s noted, all books reviewed have been purchased by the reviewer.

Review: Strut (Style #2) by Jay Hogan

Rating: 4.5🌈:

Style, the high fashion series from Jay Hogan, has as its core elements high fashion, those that work within the industry ,whether it’s designers, models, photographers, fashion bloggers, and, sexual assault.

I’ve finished Strut and Flare, and each of the main characters of those storylines has been the victim of a sexual assault, past as part of the storyline.

I mention this immediately for several reasons. One to let readers know if this would be a potential trigger for them. Another reason that using sexual assault as a element in storylines has become so prevalent that the majority of the last ten recently released books I read used it as part of their plot.

For me that’s a disturbing trend. Whether the author does well by the subject matter, as Hogan does here, or as a disposable element, poorly executed and one dimensional as I’ve seen so often lately.

In Strut it highlights an entire industry’s lack of care towards its models, the very real dangers a young person faces through big contracts, unscrupulous business practices, and a unthinking fashion industry that’s allowed certain practices to go forward until recently. The new rules and #Metoo movement has forced some significant progress .

Hogan’s storylines has handled this, the ramifications of sexual assault, respectfully and with regard to the reality of the situation. I liked the characters, ones we met previously in Flare and very much committed to their relationship.

Alec, the model we met in Flare who modeled for Rhys’ show in Auckland, has now relocated to the powerhouse high fashion world of New York City. He’s in debt but rising up in reputation as a runway model. He’s reunited with Hunter, the extremely talented, well known fashion photographer who’s best friends with Rhys and Kip. Hunter, Alec’s former crush was something that didn’t go well.

They are terrific characters. Alec is especially endearing. Hunter is a bit older and a player, until Alec. Both layered personalities with great chemistry, enough that you can understand them as a couple.

And it’s that foundation that gets them through the trauma that happens to Alec. It’s believable and highly realistic.

Hogan includes all the responsible choices in the aftermath, communication, reporting, therapy. Action to aid recovery, and bravery to aid others.

While I was thinking about the story and manner in which Jay Hogan wrote it, I couldn’t help but remember those other books that used SA in a way that borders on glibness. Quite the contrast to the pain, humiliation ,and trauma Alec feels here. Hogan includes the waves of emotion that wash over friends, family, and Hunter as they deal with their own personal feelings while trying to support Alec.

It’s very believable, which for some people might make it extremely hard to read. Please do not ignore the trigger warnings.

Jay Hogan has written a lovely romance that involves a major sexual assault element, one Hogan handles with responsibility and realism.

I’m recommending the story on the basis of the great characters and writing.

But I hope that the next book focuses on fashion and romance, and the young queer scene in Auckland. And not another sexual assault plot line.

When did this become so common in our stories that it’s a trope itself?

Something to think about.

Style series:

🔹Flare #1

🔹Strut #2

https://www.goodreads.com › showStrut (Style, #2) by Jay Hogan – Goodreads

Synopsis:

New Zealand farm boy turns New York fashion model.

Fairy tale? Maybe. But it hasn’t been easy. A year in this crazy city, working my tail off just to survive in a ruthless industry where sex sells and boundaries are too readily crossed.

A year and a reassuring ocean away from Hunter Donovan—a sexy, humiliating mistake that I’m not about to repeat. Distance is good. Distance is safe.

But now Hunter is back. In New York. In my life. In all those treacherous feelings that haven’t gone anywhere. But when my world suddenly crashes and I have to piece myself back together and fight for my career, will Hunter be there when I need him? Will we have what it takes to make it through this, together?

Note: This book contains themes of sexual harassment and sexual assault.

———-

Unless it’s noted, all books reviewed have been purchased by the reviewer.

Review: Boyfriend Goals by Riley Hart

Rating: 4.75🌈

I was looking for a contemporary romance to read after finishing a urban fantasy, and picked up Boyfriend Goals by Riley Hart.

What a utter pleasure this was to read! Low angst, a plot driven by fully realized characters in situations that allows them to grow, finding home and true love in a totally relatable,real way.

I went to sleep thinking about Milo and Gideon, their happy life together, friends and family. And they are still with me now.

Hart’s decision to have Milo be neurodivergent is a great one although it might spark some confusion or controversy. Milo is a wonderful character, who’s neurodivergence has effected his life since birth. It’s how he handles it now that will speak to the reader and Gideon.

As I understand it, neurodivergence “now refers to any structured, consistent way that brains work differently for a group of people than they do for the majority of others.”The sources I referenced many different types of neurodivergence, including Autism, which is referred to a couple of times here.

I’m not in touch with the author so I’ve no idea what Milo’s character framework was when planning this story. Whatever it is works! Milo feels so believable and alive for me. His interactions with Gideon, and the others in the community are credible. Whether it’s a new one on one situation or one that’s got Milo in a very stressful place, Hart’s writing is so terrific that it easily conveys that’s this a real life event for him.

Gideon too is a beautifully layered person. His dynamics within his family and how it’s worked through emotionally is heartwarming and heartfelt. Insecurities have no age limit and that’s especially true here.

Hart could have made Milo’s mother more one dimensional instead we get a moving relationship, fundamentally strong with two people who love each other. Again, such a great element among many.

By the end of the story, I was absolutely in love with Milo and Gideon, their combined stores, INK & INK, their new lives together and their community. What a wonderful life!

What a grand story! And one I’m highly recommending!

https://www.goodreads.com › showBoyfriend Goals by Riley Hart – Goodreads

Synopsis:

Milo
Unusual. Quirky. Different. I’ve heard it all. I’ve accepted I’m not for everyone. Maybe not anyone.

When I find out I inherited a bookstore and apartment on a small East Coast island, I jump at the chance for a new life.

Turns out, I’ve also inherited a sexy, tattooed guy who not only rents the space next to my store for his tattoo parlor but my apartment too.

Did I mention he’s really hot?

And surprisingly sweet?

Gideon
I wasn’t looking for a roommate, but it’s not like I can stay at Milo’s place while he’s banished to a hotel.

Our unlikely friendship is instant. According to Milo, we’re bestie goals.

And if he doesn’t wear pants at home, who am I to complain?

Milo’s not like anyone I’ve ever known. I like laughing and flirting with him. He’s adorably honest, eager, and sexier than he realizes.

Now I just have to figure out how to convince him that maybe it’s time for an upgrade from bestie to boyfriend goals.

———-

Unless it’s noted, all books reviewed have been purchased by the reviewer.

Review: Roommate Arrangement (Divorced Men’s Club #1) by Saxon James

Rating: 4.25🌈

Roommate Arrangement (Divorced Mens Club #1) by Saxon James was a lovely contemporary romance. The first in a new series revolving around a group of newly divorced men, James manages to set the foundation by introducing the group, grounding them in a interesting small hometown who’s abandoned penitentiary now serves as a tourist attraction, and a useful location for scenes to the characters themselves.

The first couple we meet begins with a man who’s returning to his hometown after a devastating discovery that his husband has been cheating on him for years. Now in the process of getting a divorce, he’s fleeing home to his friends and a place to recover.

That’s Payne Walker. Feeling lost, without a job, home, and until the apartment is sold, little savings. While his brother and family are acting as his support and cushion, we , through James’ lovely writing , empathize with Payne as he returns to Kilborough.

Waiting there, at the Kilborough Brewery , a town draw, are Griffin, Art de Almeida, owner of the brewery and startup of the DMC (Divorced Mens Club) and Orson. Plus Marty, Payne’s brother. The kil bro group of their adolescence years.

On the outskirts is Beau, Marty’s best friend and a successful fantasy writer. Beau has always harbored a deep crush on Payne when they were growing up. But his own social awkwardness and younger age always made him feel him unable to say anything.

Beau’s a terrific character. A socially awkward person, who’s passion for writing and own innate nature makes for a messy and lonely home life. When writing, he’s buried in his characters and plots, unaware of time passing. When blocked and unable to move forward, everything grinds to a halt, again forgotten.

When Marty suggests Payne as a roommate to help Payne get some needed breathing room from Marty’s overcrowded house, it looks to be a great way for both men to temporarily solve some problems.

James’s plot of a slow forming friendship that also turns into a romance is so charming. From a blanket fortress to a walk through the famous penitentiary, the men start to move towards something real and substantial.

There’s not a lot of deep angst after the beginning. But more a thoughtful removal of obstacles and a heartwarming romance that’s sure to engage you.

As this is just the beginning of the DMC series, it’s such an enjoyable start that I’m looking forward to the rest of the stories.

Need a new contemporary romance to read? Here’s one I’m recommending!

Divorced Men’s Club :

🔹Making Him Mine #0.5

🔹Roommate Arrangement #1

🔹Platonic Rulebook #2

🔹Budding Attraction #3 – Nov 23, 2022

https://www.goodreads.com › showRoommate Arrangement (Divorced Men’s Club, #1) by Saxon James – Goodreads

Synopsis:

Payne:

In search of: room to rent.

Must ignore the patheticness of a forty-year-old roommate.

Preferably dirt cheap as funds are tight (nonexistent).

There’s nothing sadder than moving back to my hometown newly divorced, homeless, and lost for what my next move is.

When my little brother’s best friend offers me a place to stay in exchange for menial duties, I swallow my pride and jump at the offer.

I need this.

I also need Beau to wear a shirt. And ditch the gray sweatpants. And not leave his door ajar when he’s in compromising positions …

Beau:

In search of: roommate.

Must be non smoker and non douchebag.

Room payment to be made in meal planning, repairs, and dumb jokes.

Since my career took off, I barely have time to breathe, let alone keep my life in order. I’m naturally chaotic, make terrible decisions, and scare off potential dates with my “weirdness”.

So when Payne gets back into town and needs somewhere to stay, I offer him my spare room with one condition: while he’s staying with me, I need him to help me become date-able.

And while he does that, I can focus on my other plan: ignoring that Payne is the only man I’ve ever wanted to date.

———-

Unless it’s noted, all books reviewed have been purchased by the reviewer.

Review: Hot Pursuit ( The Hot Cannolis #3) by Eli Easton

Rating: 4.5 🌈

Hot Pursuit is the third in The Hot Cannolis series being written by Eli Easton and Tara Lain about a large Italian family made up primarily of firefighters, with a few law enforcement officers scattered throughout.

It’s been about their sexual awakening and how that’s been handled within a highly machismo, heteronormative (and Catholic) family structure. What struggles the family has had to adapt to their son’s newly acknowledged sexuality and their new partners.

It’s had to include the fire department, which ever one the characters works for, as well as that close knit group our characters work within, into the main character’s struggles to define himself and come to terms with their identity as queer men. It’s not always been a easy journey as the Fire Departments are a bastion of straight, white, male hierarchy and to be anything other is often a tough lonely path.

Both authors have included the continuing bigotry and exclusion the out Canalis face in their jobs despite the fact that they were highly regarded for their “firefighter lineage “ and superb abilities before coming out. It makes for a believable story.

Due to illnesses, the authors split the last two stories.

Easton takes up Det. Rick Canali’s story. He’s the uncle to the characters we’ve meet so far and only recently admitted (in Hot Wings), to the two members of the family that he’s gay. It’s not anything new. Almost forty, he’s always known he was gay, but his family’s well known (at that time) bigotry, kept him silent.

A confirmed “batchelor” to the family, Rick’s recent partner has retired. His new one, John Rivera, is out and threatening his determination to stay in the closet.

Rick has always been such a quiet, strong character in the previous books. A bit of a mystery. So it’s a real pleasure to see this character get to show all the depths of his personality. From the love of his family to all aspects of his professional persona.

John Rivera is the troubled new person. So happy to finally get his Detective’s badge but he’s also got a very brutal history following him.

For those people for which domestic violence and/or gaslighting is trigger, just be warned as this is a major element here.

John is a wonderful, engaging character. His story and background just further pulls you into a connection with him, and helps understand his situation more fully.

While Rick and John try to determine the boundaries of their relationship, and learn to trust one another, they are also in the middle of a investigation.

Easton does a terrific job with unfolding the investigation while maintaining the tension between Rick and John. Everything and everyone is so tightly strung you don’t know what is going to pop first.

There’s plenty of charming , heartwarming scenes with the huge Canali family as well as frightening moments that occur within the investigation.

I hugely enjoyed myself and this novel. Rick and Tony rank right up there among my favorite Canali couples.

I believe there’s just one more left to go. Hot Lips from Tara Lain. No release date as yet.

I’m highly recommending Hot Pursuit and The Hot Cannolis series.

The Hot Cannolis series:

◦ Fireman’s Carry (The Hot Cannolis #0.5) by Eli Easton

✓ Hot Seat #1

✓ Hot Wings #2

✓ Hot Pursuit #3 by Eli Easton

◦ Hot Lips #4 by Tara Lain, date TBD

https://www.goodreads.com › showHot Pursuit (The Hot Cannolis #3) by Eli Easton | Goodreads

Synopsis:

Solving the case will be tricky. But keeping their hands off each other will be impossible.

Detective Rick Canali’s life is perfect the way it is. He loves his job with the Chico, CA police. He can get casual sex whenever he wants it, and for family vibes, he has his brother Angelo’s large family of hotheaded firefighters. He’s happy being a “perpetual bachelor.” But when he’s partnered up with a too-attractive newbie detective, all the neat boxes in his life threaten to collapse. Because the one thing this detective never saw coming—falling in love.

John Rivera always wanted to be a detective. He’s determined to succeed despite his ex trying to make his life hell and his new partner—the gorgeous Rick Canali—making it clear he’s not wanted. As a former foster care kid, he’s used to fighting his own battles and depending on no one.

When a firefighter dies under suspicious circumstances, Rick and John’s new partnership is tested. It turns out, they’re a pretty good team. But can they crack the case while dancing around their mutual attraction, dodging John’s ex, and trying to keep the Canali firefighters safe from a potential killer in the Cal Fire ranks?

HOT PURSUIT is a murder mystery wrapped in a romance with a big scoop of suspense, hurt-comfort, evil ex, and more Canali family feels.

EBOOK:
Amazon US | Amazon UK | Goodreads

———-

Unless it’s noted, all books reviewed have been purchased by the reviewer.

Review: Rookie Move (Playing For Keeps #1) by Riley Hart & Neve Wilder

Rating: 4.5 🌈

I’m such a sucker for stories like this one. Sports romance, younger hot, super talented brother that ends up on the same team as brother’s friend. Who he’s had a crush on.

Doesn’t matter the sports.

This time it’s the NFL and a Denver team with a hot Quarterback, Warner Ramsey, who’s hiding his sexuality, his best friend & teammate,Houston, who’s the only person who knows his secrets. And Houston’s younger brother, Garrett, a talented player himself, who finds out he’s bisexual on the eve of his high school graduation at a professional player’s party.

It’s easy to see from the marvelous humor, great dialogue, and just plain out fantastic scenes, from high on the field action to sexy bedroom, that the authors loved writing this.

It’s both a romp and delicious romance. There’s plenty of heart, from Ramsay’s issues with his father to Garrett’s wrestling with wanting not to always be the McRae coming after his brother’s accomplishments.

Even the locker room problems and arguments are handled with moments of realness and believability.

Ramsey and Garrett are just chemical greatness. You love reading about them. Whether they are making things happen on the field or off, they are a captivating couple.

Hart and Wilder have a fabulous start to the series with these two. I’m highly recommending Rookie Move (Playing For Keeps #1) by Riley Hart & Neve Wilder .

And keeping my eyes peeled for the next in the series!

Playing For Keeps:

Rookie Move #1

https://www.goodreads.com › showRookie Move (Playing for Keeps, #1) by Neve Wilder – Goodreads

Falling for a teammate who also happens to be your brother’s best friend? Total rookie move.

McRAE: I’ve had a crush on my brother’s best friend since the moment I laid eyes on him four years ago.

Warner Ramsey is 225 pounds of pure hotness, a media darling, and one of the best NFL quarterbacks in the league.

Hell, he’s the reason I figured out I’m solidly bi.

It was easy to keep my crush under control when I was in college. Now, we play for the same team, and every time he talks smack, I want to shut him up. With my mouth.

But I’ve got other things I should be focusing on, like dominating my rookie year with the Denver Rush and finally stepping out of my brother’s shadow.

Besides, Ramsey’s straight.

RAMSEY: I’ve never tapped into my bisexuality—never told anyone except my best friend that I’m bi. All I want is to play football and not draw media attention like my dad, who got ousted from the league.

Garrett McRae is my biggest temptation. He’s gotten under my skin for years.

I’m supposed to be looking out for him, not thinking about getting him naked.

And definitely not the kiss we shared.

That I somehow instigated.

It was stupid, and not like me, but God, it was hot.

We’re teammates, with million-dollar contracts on the line. And yet…is a little experimentation really so bad?

Rookie Move is a low-angst, high-heat sports romance in the Playing for Keeps series.

———-

Unless it’s noted, all books reviewed have been purchased by the reviewer.

Review: The Kite by N.R. Walker

Rating: 4 🌈

With The Kite, N.R. Walker dips her hand into the ever popular trope of the warring/competing top assassins who, for whatever reason, have to work together in order to survive.

Their relationship goes from enemies who admire each other’s skills to friendship then love as they fight for survival. It’s a great trope. And it works for so many reasons. Whether it’s in the movies, being streamed through a series, or through the various novels I’ve read recently.

There’s action, suspense, two hot highly skilled people at the height of their careers , in this case men. Gorgeous, of course. Each damaged by their pasts, albeit in different ways.

It’s how each author takes this trope and puts their spin on it that interests me.

Walker’s assassin are hit men for the government, instead of being private contractors. Well, one is. Taking on assignments that eliminates the “bad guy”. He thinks he’s being the good guy.

Tim “Harry” Harrigan, a truly giant of a man, works for the Australian government. Not that he’s been home for a while. For years he’s been the sniper called on to take out high level targets. Make a hit, move on.

But now he’s getting tired, not slow, but the lifestyle is wearing on him. Harry’s weary frame of mind coupled with setting up a hit gives the reader a good idea of his personality at the moment.

Especially when it looks that Harry is now the hunted instead of the hunter.

The assassin to come to Harry’s aid is Asher Garin. Asher is a hitman for hire, top in his field. The reason he’s there is because they are both targets on everyone’s list now.

The exciting way they are brought together, the high action and swift acknowledgment of each other under extraordinary circumstances is so much fun to read.

Their personalities are less defined, very much the Grumpy/Sweet tag that’s employed. The layers come later as the men flee from one destination to another, trusting each other, and the real reason behind their names on a kill list gets revealed. It’s betrayal, greed, and , double crosses.

The story moves rapidly. The sex is of the angry/hot type, and the dynamics between Harry and Asher go from slow to incendiary, dislike to love.

There’s more to this, including another main-ish character that’s an enigma for most of the story. Totally charming, however. We could have done with more of him in his “Charlie” voice stage.

Overall, I found this entertaining and a quick romance/adventure read. Walker’s characters never actually came across as heartless professional assassins. So making Henry a ex-soldier who believes he’s acting for the benefit of his government helps in her character creation. Same goes for Asher. It’s never laid out exactly what he does and who he kills for. Just he has a talent for languages and a very damaged childhood. So he too doesn’t feel like a hitman for hire. Are they killing people? Yes, but those are the bad guys. That’s expected.

I believed in the men, if not exactly their professed careers as it were.

One other odd element. Walker throws in a reoccurring dream (twice) from Asher, a weirdness who’s reappearance at the end is just so out of the type of story this was supposed to be that’s it’s immediately noticeable. It almost had a narrative whiplash effect. A spiritual woowoo, yes, we were always supposed to be together thing. What? In a killers find love action story? This paranormal aspect doesn’t happen anytime except this once so why do it at all?

It’s like Walker couldn’t help herself, was writing a whole other book. That was a SMH moment here. Took me right out of the story.

So, elements like those aside. The Kite has a satisfying ending for the criminal and a heartwarming HEA for the couple.

If anyone could make them disappear, Four could.

And if Walker wanted to make them all reappear for a sequel, well , that works too.

If you’re a fan of this author and a lover of this type of storylines, here’s a book for you.

https://www.goodreads.com › showThe Kite by N.R. Walker – Goodreads

Description:

Ex-Australian Specialist Response Group leader, Tim “Harry” Harrigan, has been running covert ops for almost a decade. A lone wolf, he’s single-handedly taken down terrorists and national security threats, or so he thinks. He’s been in the game far too long, and when he sees a familiar threat, he knows his time is up.

Asher Garin is a dangerous man. A man without loyalty, a man without a nationality, without a country, without a home. He’s also a mercenary for hire to the highest bidder. His next job is a face he recognises, and after a tip-off, he learns he too is a marked man.

It’s a different game now, and Harry and Asher have a better chance at surviving if they stick together. But it’s not just the game or the rules that have changed. The stakes have too.

Because on their own, they had nothing to lose. Together, they do.

———-

Unless it’s noted, all books reviewed have been purchased by the reviewer.

Review: Deke (Fake Boyfriends #3) by Eden Finley

Rating: 4.5🌈

“Deke”

Verb: to fake an opponent out of position (hockey)”

— Deke (Fake Boyfriend Book 3) by Eden Finley

It the run for the Stanley Cup and my team is out of it. So it’s time to bury myself in hockey romances and storylines.

What better time to catch up on Eden Finley’s Fake Boyfriend series which figures around pro athletes, many NHL players, coming to terms with their sexuality and their careers as pro athletes.

Many of these stories were written several years ago, and while some pro sports , like the NHL, have become more accepting of LGBTGIA people, the fact is, still very few male players have yet to feel comfortable and safe being out.

Until the books I read and present day reality finally mesh, it’s authors like Finley and others who’s love for both the sports they write about and the players involved leave me happy and connected to both worlds.

Deke is a great story about a player who, while not hiding his homosexuality from his family and friends, isn’t out to his team and the “outside” world.

Ollie Strömberg’s life is one of hockey, family, and a constant stress and pressure on him about his sexuality. That Ollie’s stayed in the closet to protect himself and his career from the notoriety and bigotry of a out NHL hockey player would garner has cost him a long-term relationship. And more.

Then there’s Lennon, the sport’s journalist, who happens to run into the Strömberg family celebration (a huge undertaking with 5 boys, now giant men) at a restaurant/bar at a time when Ollie’s under fire, again, by his too supportive family for his closeted life and lack of a relationship.

The way Findlay is able to instantly connect these men to each other in a matter of scenes, make it realistic and easy for us too see it. Well, it’s great.

The chemistry is working right there, a few bumbles, the perfect amount of humor, and I’m totally engaged.

A sports journalist, with not a lot of hockey knowledge (he covers football and baseball), and a hockey player who’s drawn to a man who is demonstrating he actually sees him, through the family dynamics playing out over the dinner antics.

Lennon, aka Clark, his alias at the family dinner, is a man of ethics. Even if he’s not familiar with the sport he’s been assigned to cover, he’s trying his best . While coming to care for a man he sees living under extreme pressure, not just from his team but unexpectedly from his family.

The story is tender, hot, funny, and full of believable characters, and real moments that you’ll read and connect with. Whether it’s within the family context or on the ice.

I throughly enjoyed Deke and can’t wait to work my way through the rest of this series.

I’m highly recommending this and the author.

Fake Boyfriends series:

🔹Fake Out #1

🔹Trick Play #2

🔹Rebound #2.5

🔹Deke #3

🔹It’s Complicated #3.5

🔹Blindsided #4

🔹Winning You #4.5

🔹Hat Trick #5

🔹Final Play #6

🔹Fake Boyfriends Breakaways

https://www.goodreads.com › showDeke (Fake Boyfriend, #3) by Eden Finley – Goodreads

Synopsis:

Ollie

Word of advice: don’t come out to random guys in public restrooms. Even if they’re charming and adorably nerdy and offer to help.

My family believe I can’t be happy if I’m not out to the world. I have a bitter ex-boyfriend and an unstable NHL career to show for it. A fake boyfriend seems like an easy and quick solution to get my family off my back, and this guy is volunteering. I take him up on it without asking his name.

I really should’ve asked for his name.

Lennon

Word of advice: learn how to introduce yourself properly.

In my defense, I don’t recognize Ollie Strömberg right away. I cover football, not hockey.

I’m not supposed to see him again, and he’s never supposed to find out I’m a reporter.

That all changes when my editor reassigns me.

It’s a lesson I should’ve learned by now. Nothing’s changed since high school. Jocks still hate nerds. But even worse, athletes hate journalists. Especially ones who know their secret.

*Deke is a full-length MM novel with a HFN/HEA and no cliffhanger*

Review: Good Intentions (Intentions Duet #2) by Ella Frank

Rating: 4.5🌈

“GABRIEL ROMERO HAD just hung up on me. No goodbye. No “we’ll talk about this when you get back.” That charming, persistent young man had called me up, lobbed several accusations my way, and then ended our conversation before I was through talking to him.”

— Good Intentions (Intentions Duet Book 2) by Ella Frank

Good Intentions slides immediately into the moment after Bad Intentions ends, when Gabe hangs up on Marcus.

This is exactly why these novels make fantastic binge reading. Because they really are two halves of a whole story.

Where Bad Intentions was the beginnings of Marcus and Gabe, Good Intentions is precisely that. The place where both men realize how important each is becoming to them and the huge difference each other are making in their emotional lives.

This story is the place for revelations, character growth, and an overall internal examination by both Gabe and Marcus of their present lives, as well as future goals.

That includes if they are willing to take chances with their hearts.

Once again, Ella Frank moves Gabe and Marcus forward, across current obstacles raised by business opportunities, by challenges of borne of personal insecurities and varying relationship goals. Frank does it with intelligent dialogue, believable emotional storylines, humor, and heartwarming romance.

They make mistakes with each other, they acknowledge it, and then work through it in the best way that is suitable to them both. Often accompanied by very hot sex!

Such a terrific couple and two-book series. Just enough to be absolutely enjoyable and thoughtfully romantic.

Gabe and Marcus are surrounded by couples and people who have had

or will have their own series.

It’s a very connected universe. So if you’re intrigued by a couple, check out their stories!

I’m highly recommending Intentions Duo. Read them in the order they were written to grasp the entire story relationship dynamics.

Intentions Duet:

🔹Bad Intentions #1

🔹Good Intentions #2

https://www.goodreads.com › showGood Intentions (Intentions Duet, #2) by Ella Frank – Goodreads

Synopsis:

Gabriel Romero made me hungry for things I’d never wanted, and starved of the things I didn’t think I’d ever need.
Until now…
Until him…

I was never the man who believed in love, romance, or happily ever afters. I was married to my work, and happy to be that way. Until one night, not too long ago, when an audacious young man lied his way into my life and showed me what I’d been missing.

Bold and sexy, with a face that could melt through the iciest of exteriors, Gabriel Romero is the one factor I never saw coming. There are so many reasons we shouldn’t work—my age, his, our career goals in life—and yet we are drawn together by a passion for music, and each other, that neither of us can deny.

I’ve always been the one to think things through, to follow my head instead of my heart. But if I don’t open myself to what’s possible, instead of thinking of all the ways this seems impossible, I might miss out on the best thing that has ever happened to me.

So I’m taking a chance, and laying myself at his mercy, opening my heart with nothing but good intentions. Only time will tell if Gabriel Romero decides to let me back in.

Good Intentions is the second book in the Intentions Duet.

Review: Bad Intentions (Intentions Duet #1) by Ella Frank

Rating: 4.5🌈

I go into writing a review for a Ella Frank2 book series fighting the impulse to combine my reviews for both stories into one. Usually I’ve read both novels, one right after the other. And also because each story is truly one half of the same book.

Good Intentions (Intentions Duet #2) literally starts with Marcus’ perspective on the phone call that Gabe just hung up on at the end of this story.

So the flow is virtually seamless.

Bad Intentions marks the start of the relationship between Gabriel Romero, a soon to be PA at a law firm, and Marcus St. James, President of cable news giant ENN.

It starts off on what was supposed to be a hot encounter at an exclusive work party where Gabe used someone else’s name to get close to a powerful, but hugely gorgeous man he wants to meet.

What could go wrong?

Frank gives us the consequences of that action in such deliciously awkward, yet clever scenes that pack a emotionally powerful punch. It’s full of chemistry, confusion, and the sheer need to keep pursuing the other man. For both Gabe and Marcus.

One of the many elements I enjoyed about this Duet of novels is the surprises the author has in store for both the readers and her character when it comes to the layers she’ll peel back with regard to who these men really are and what they’re looking for in the future.

They are much deeper then they originally appear. I really appreciated that depth of personality.

Another is the age gap. Although there’s a large one as the men are written, the difference in ages isn’t a barrier because it’s a plus as far as Gabe is concerned. And any reference is a playful and interesting one.

The same goes for the notable difference in wealth and achievement. It’s talked about, and instead of a inequality that’s a barrier, Gabe’s looks towards Marcus’s wonderful achievements as goals of his own he also fully intends to realize. A healthy understanding, that includes a great recognition of his own brilliance.

But I’m getting ahead of myself. That’s part of having read both stories.

The story here is their struggles to figure out what they want to be to each other and how that would work given each other’s goals.

All big realistic questions. Especially when both men have little, or in the case of Marcus, no experience being in a relationship.

Ella Frank’s writing is crisp, often humorous, with a clever turn of phrase that had me grinning page after page.

I have such affection for these characters.

They are entertaining and their stories interwoven with those of the couples around them. So you can finish these and then go binge on their series as well.

But first, gather up both Bad Intentions and Good Intentions. Then read them, one right after the other for a marvelously entertaining, and quite lovely romance!

I’m highly recommending both!

Intentions Duet:

Bad Intentions #1

Good Intentions #2

https://www.goodreads.com › showBad Intentions (Intentions Duet, #1) by Ella Frank – Goodreads

Synopsis:

My name isn’t Logan Mitchell, but Marcus St. James doesn’t know that…

When I showed up at my roommate’s work party, the last thing I expected was to find a man straight out of my dreams. But when the crowd parted and the fates aligned, there he was, waiting for me. Marcus St. James, president of ENN WorldWide News.

Sexy and powerful, with a stare that could freeze you in place, Marcus was the perfect reward for securing a job at Mitchell & Madison, the best law firm in Chicago. To play with the big fish, however, one must become a big fish, and that’s where my little white lie began.

It was one night. I was never going to see him again, and from the second we spoke, I knew he was interested. It was there in his eyes, the same fire in my veins. It was there in his voice, whenever he said my name.

The only problem? It wasn’t my name, and now I wanted more—much more.

But how can anything good come out of something that started with such bad intentions?

Bad Intentions is the first book in the Intentions Duet.

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this: