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Going for the Gold
Perfect Ten
Despite a life-threatening injury sustained in a vaulting accident, top gymnast Chris is determined to get back to his former perfect form and compete again. Brian is a coach in need of someone to believe in, and he takes Chris on, admiring the spirit and determination that drives Chris to succeed. And admiring the sturdy, muscled body Chris maintains as an athlete. They start training, and admiration leads to something much hotter during their time together. From the scorching first kiss, Brian and Chris' chemistry together is obvious, but they have a long way to go to get Chris in shape. Months of hard work lead to success, with Chris gaining strength every day, finally finding the elusive sponsor he needs for financial support. Secrets, hidden dangers, and family troubles plague them, though, and they have to face the fact that Chris might never compete again. Can they score a Perfect Ten? Mychael Black, author of Going Home, says, "Yet another winner from Sean Michael! Perfect Ten is just a perfect ten! The chemistry between Brian and Chris is amazing--in bed and out of it. And that first kiss? Damn! Talk about scorching!" Don't miss this effort from Sean Michael. Pick it up today!
204 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 2006
4 people are currently reading
123 people want to read
About the author
Sean Michael
652 books1,209 followersOften referred to as "Space Cowboy" and "Gangsta of Love" while still striving for the moniker of "Maurice," Sean Michael spends his days surfing, smutting, organizing his immense gourd collection and fantasizing about one day retiring on a small secluded island peopled entirely by horseshoe crabs. While collecting vast amounts of vintage gay pulp novels and mood rings, Sean whiles away the hours between dropping the f-bomb and persuing the kama sutra by channeling the long lost spirit of John Wayne and singing along with the soundtrack to "Chicago."
A long-time writer of complicated haiku, currently Sean is attempting to learn the advanced arts of plate spinning and soap carving sex toys.
Barring any of that? He'll stick with writing his stories, thanks, and rubbing pretty bodies together to see if they spark.
A long-time writer of complicated haiku, currently Sean is attempting to learn the advanced arts of plate spinning and soap carving sex toys.
Barring any of that? He'll stick with writing his stories, thanks, and rubbing pretty bodies together to see if they spark.
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
June 3, 2009
I really loved this book. The determination Chris had to get past his injury and continue doing what he loved was awesome to read about. I thought he and Brian were really great with one another. Not only was the love and romance in this book great, the storyline was fast paced and addictive to read about. LOVE IT!
September 10, 2021
I LOVE the Olympics (especially swimming). I love the sports, athletes, their intense dedication and skill. I also love any halfway decent romance that centers around Olympics, Nationals, qualifiers and/or intense training. I love it all so much and feel like I missed my calling to become a highly trained athlete and really experience all the Olympic Village has to offer. *eyebrows* Unfortunately, I didn't love this book. Hell, I didn't even like it. The "top gymnast injured" storyline was just a front for some bad porn. It was all stretching, massaging muscles and sex. *cue 80s porn music*
First up, we have Chris Allen. Chris was a top gymnast before his vault springboard malfunctioned which led to some serious injuries. He is determined to go against all the naysayers and compete at the top level again. Due to his injuries, he was dropped from his coaches and sponsors and is on the hunt for someone that will work with him. Luckily for Chris, Brian Rainings is looking to try his hand as a men's gymnastics coach.
Brian was a gymnast when he was younger. After a bad knee injury, he has been coaching girl's gymnastics at the high school level. Brian meets with Chris and offers to train for the summer and see how things go. Chris accepts the offer and moves in with Brian to "save money."
Up until this point in the story, things are fine. The writing is a tad outdated and juvenile but there was potential for the plot. I was still interested in finding out if Chris could overcome all odds and compete at the top level with an unseasoned coach at his side. Unfortunately, we are treated to stretches, sex, massages, sex, practice on vault, sex, rings, sex, floor exercise, sex, horse, sex, locker room and did I mention sex? Did Chris overcome his injuries? No fucking clue. Was Brian successful as a coach? No idea. Did Chris score a perfect 10? Wouldn't know because there weren't ANY competitions. It was literally a bang train of orgasms under the guise of athletic coaching and a comeback. They never made it out of the high school gym. Unless you count the locker room?
I won't even go on a rant of no condom use, the insta-love, an alarming frequency of the word "man" and the jacked up stance on how being gay means no kids... wtf?
Clearly, this book didn't work for me. I like books with sports, sex, and romance; individually and all together. I like smuttastic books, too. But, I have standards and require an actual storyline with some sense of follow through while enjoying my porn. Definitely do not recommend this book.
Copy provided for honest review.
January 1, 2009
I loved this book! I thought the chemistry between the characters was very intense and the storyline was fresh. Hated to see it end.
September 6, 2017
Full review available at: https://optimumm.blog/2017/09/06/revi...
Rating 3.5*s
I was really excited to read Perfect 10 by Sean Michaels. I have read a couple of his other books, and they are usually full of fabulous chemistry and hot scenes, and this book did deliver on that part. I also loved the blurb and the cover for the book. I just wish that the book had been longer and that it hadn’t ended where it did. I would have loved to see Chris actually compete in his upcoming competition, but unfortunately, that doesn’t happen. I’m hoping that the author either makes this into a series or puts out a sequel. I would love to know how Chris holds up to an actual competition and how he places and whether his relationship with his coach Brian can handle the strain. Otherwise, the book was just what I was expecting, and I wasn’t disappointed until the end. And even then it was a good end, I just wanted to know more. The story was well written and nicely edited.
I loved Chris’ personality and his drive to get back where he was before his accident and how he won’t let anything stand in the way of his goals. I loved that Brian, his new coach, is there to support him in any way that he can. Oh and he definitely gives the best massages. I wish I had somebody to work out all of the knots in my body. Yep, just a little bit jealous. I also loved Chris’ twin brother Rob and his super outgoing personality. He had me laughing on more than one occasion. And the play on names that their parents used when they named them was awesome. Christopher Robin. You know like the human in Winnie the Pooh. Even if the parents got the names mixed up since Chris is the younger twin by seven minutes.
Chris was a big name in the gymnastics world until he was injured. But while recovering from back and shoulder surgery, he lost his coaches and all of his sponsors. But even having to start over completely and having to find a new coach won’t diminish his determination. He’s determined to go back to competing and win a medal. But first, he has to find a coach.
Brian used to be a gymnast until he had a knee injury that took him out of the game. He teaches gymnastics at a private girls’ school, but he dreams of coaching a male gymnast and making his name by coaching him all the way to the big time. So when he gets wind that Chris is looking to make a comeback, he makes sure to get an interview.
They make the perfect team. I liked how Brian’s there to make sure that Chris doesn’t overwork his injuries as he rebuilds the muscles and flexibility that he needs to compete. I also loved that he never once tries to tell him that he shouldn’t be trying to compete. He’s the perfect boyfriend/coach.
I would recommend this book to anybody that is looking for a book about courage, hope, and love.
***The ARC was provided by Dreamspinner Press. My review is an honest opinion of the book***
Rating 3.5*s
I was really excited to read Perfect 10 by Sean Michaels. I have read a couple of his other books, and they are usually full of fabulous chemistry and hot scenes, and this book did deliver on that part. I also loved the blurb and the cover for the book. I just wish that the book had been longer and that it hadn’t ended where it did. I would have loved to see Chris actually compete in his upcoming competition, but unfortunately, that doesn’t happen. I’m hoping that the author either makes this into a series or puts out a sequel. I would love to know how Chris holds up to an actual competition and how he places and whether his relationship with his coach Brian can handle the strain. Otherwise, the book was just what I was expecting, and I wasn’t disappointed until the end. And even then it was a good end, I just wanted to know more. The story was well written and nicely edited.
I loved Chris’ personality and his drive to get back where he was before his accident and how he won’t let anything stand in the way of his goals. I loved that Brian, his new coach, is there to support him in any way that he can. Oh and he definitely gives the best massages. I wish I had somebody to work out all of the knots in my body. Yep, just a little bit jealous. I also loved Chris’ twin brother Rob and his super outgoing personality. He had me laughing on more than one occasion. And the play on names that their parents used when they named them was awesome. Christopher Robin. You know like the human in Winnie the Pooh. Even if the parents got the names mixed up since Chris is the younger twin by seven minutes.
Chris was a big name in the gymnastics world until he was injured. But while recovering from back and shoulder surgery, he lost his coaches and all of his sponsors. But even having to start over completely and having to find a new coach won’t diminish his determination. He’s determined to go back to competing and win a medal. But first, he has to find a coach.
Brian used to be a gymnast until he had a knee injury that took him out of the game. He teaches gymnastics at a private girls’ school, but he dreams of coaching a male gymnast and making his name by coaching him all the way to the big time. So when he gets wind that Chris is looking to make a comeback, he makes sure to get an interview.
They make the perfect team. I liked how Brian’s there to make sure that Chris doesn’t overwork his injuries as he rebuilds the muscles and flexibility that he needs to compete. I also loved that he never once tries to tell him that he shouldn’t be trying to compete. He’s the perfect boyfriend/coach.
I would recommend this book to anybody that is looking for a book about courage, hope, and love.
***The ARC was provided by Dreamspinner Press. My review is an honest opinion of the book***
August 17, 2017
Perfect 10 by Sean Michael
3 stars
M/M Romance
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Brian and Chris are an athlete and coach relationship. Brian was a major contender in men's gymnastics in his day and he wants to get back in to that scene. Chris had, what should have been a career ending injury.
The two of them go on a journey that entails pushing themselves both physically and emotionally.
While I tend to like Michael's books, this one was slightly one dimensional. It could have been so much more, but there was very little development and instead, focused more on the injury and what they were doing to overcome the injury.
I did really enjoy Chris' twin brother and thought that he could use a story for himself. But this was a very short story and because of that, there was not a lot of story to tell. It was kind of a fast relationship and you didn't really even get to see what happens after all of their hard work. I also would have liked to see what happened between the coaches - there was the perfect set up, but nothing came of it.
3 stars
M/M Romance
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Brian and Chris are an athlete and coach relationship. Brian was a major contender in men's gymnastics in his day and he wants to get back in to that scene. Chris had, what should have been a career ending injury.
The two of them go on a journey that entails pushing themselves both physically and emotionally.
While I tend to like Michael's books, this one was slightly one dimensional. It could have been so much more, but there was very little development and instead, focused more on the injury and what they were doing to overcome the injury.
I did really enjoy Chris' twin brother and thought that he could use a story for himself. But this was a very short story and because of that, there was not a lot of story to tell. It was kind of a fast relationship and you didn't really even get to see what happens after all of their hard work. I also would have liked to see what happened between the coaches - there was the perfect set up, but nothing came of it.
August 29, 2017
I received a copy to read and review for Wicked Reads
This was not a Perfect 10 for me. I normally love all of Sean Michael's books but this one missed the mark for me. The focus and story was on the injury and I just got bored after awhile. I needed more dialogue and less filler. Even when I skimmed the book and read just the dialogue I got to the point where I didn't really care what the outcome was and I hate thinking that when reading a book. Just wasn't my cup of tea but I will still continue to read this author because 9 times out of 10 I love the book.
This was not a Perfect 10 for me. I normally love all of Sean Michael's books but this one missed the mark for me. The focus and story was on the injury and I just got bored after awhile. I needed more dialogue and less filler. Even when I skimmed the book and read just the dialogue I got to the point where I didn't really care what the outcome was and I hate thinking that when reading a book. Just wasn't my cup of tea but I will still continue to read this author because 9 times out of 10 I love the book.
September 3, 2017
This was a good read about not giving up on yourself and not giving up on your dreams no matter the cost.
Chris is an gymnast and an excellent one at that. The only problem he was injured and had back surgery. When he had his overall physical his doctors told him that he does not need to compete again because it could leave him paralyzed or even death. But this has not stopped Chris from wanting to reach his dream nor wanting to compete again regardless of the consequences. Thwother problem is he needs a coach.
Enter Brian who used to be a gymnast also but has now turned coach. Brian has agreed to help Chris get back in shape again and prove to his ex coaches and those who wronged him that he still has what it takes. But Chris has not been completely honest with him.
What will happen between Chris and Brian when Brian learns that Chris has been lying to him? Will Brian continue with the relationship that they have started both in the gym and outside of it? Or will he drop Chris like a hot potato.
This was an incredible read about living to life to he fullest. It is definitely an inspiring read. I truly enjoyed this book. It was incredible.
Was given this galley copy for free for an open and honest review
Chris is an gymnast and an excellent one at that. The only problem he was injured and had back surgery. When he had his overall physical his doctors told him that he does not need to compete again because it could leave him paralyzed or even death. But this has not stopped Chris from wanting to reach his dream nor wanting to compete again regardless of the consequences. Thwother problem is he needs a coach.
Enter Brian who used to be a gymnast also but has now turned coach. Brian has agreed to help Chris get back in shape again and prove to his ex coaches and those who wronged him that he still has what it takes. But Chris has not been completely honest with him.
What will happen between Chris and Brian when Brian learns that Chris has been lying to him? Will Brian continue with the relationship that they have started both in the gym and outside of it? Or will he drop Chris like a hot potato.
This was an incredible read about living to life to he fullest. It is definitely an inspiring read. I truly enjoyed this book. It was incredible.
Was given this galley copy for free for an open and honest review
September 21, 2017
Chris was a big name in gymnastics until was injured. Now after back and shoulder surgery he is determined to get back in the game. His coaches and sponsors have dumped him. Brian was into gymnastics, blew his knee out in Tennis and is coaching at a private girls school. He is hoping Chris will take him as a coach and they can make a name together. But Chris isn't divulging one big bit of information.
This story had loads of potential. I liked both Chris and Brian. I loved Chris'determination and strength. I just wish the story had delved into more than Chris injury. It felt like the story had just got good and came to a halt. I would have loved to seen Chris at an actual event not just preparing.
Having said that, the story is good. It is a story of courage and strength and love.
If you like sports romance, gymnastics, and some hot man-sex you will like this.
This story had loads of potential. I liked both Chris and Brian. I loved Chris'determination and strength. I just wish the story had delved into more than Chris injury. It felt like the story had just got good and came to a halt. I would have loved to seen Chris at an actual event not just preparing.
Having said that, the story is good. It is a story of courage and strength and love.
If you like sports romance, gymnastics, and some hot man-sex you will like this.
July 6, 2021
It was getting really good until it started to revolve and consist of getting naked scenes and of course it's a bit hard to get into a mentality of "if I can't do this then my life ia not worth it so risking my life is actually my only option". Still, had a few points/elements I liked so pretty happy overall.
October 15, 2017
4⭐⭐⭐⭐. Reading anything by Sean Michael is so effortless! A great story of how love and a love of a man can make a person overcomes anything.
July 17, 2021
Real rating 3.5, but rounded down because I'm not sure if I'm satisfied or feel like the story ended too soon... TBC when I've had more time to think about it.
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November 20, 2008Perfect Ten by Sean Michael (2008)
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews