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Ohana Surfing Club #1
Impact Zone
Two desperate encounters led to a dating arrangement. One for money. The other for sexual exploration.
Kel
I tried to save Ohana Surfing Club, a surf shop my father and I owned. Caring for young adults from battered homes, dealing with financial losses because of my father’s soaring medical costs, and being crushed by loans I could never repay, I was desperate. There was only one way out, and that was back to my old escorting job to make ends meet. A job I hadn’t done in a decade. Perhaps there was more to the stranger who hired me. Was it because I had been out of the game too long, or was there more that caused the spark between us? Whatever it was, I couldn’t get involved. Life was too complicated already, without throwing a relationship into the mix.
Anders
Growing up with a homophobic father and a mother I rarely saw because of her mental illness, I struggled with insecurity, always feeling I wasn’t man enough for my father. I shoved awareness of my bisexuality into the deepest recesses of my mind, willing them never to see the light of day. I married a beautiful woman and had two beautiful daughters. But with a failed marriage and no more fear of my father, I was desperate to explore that side of me I’d kept hidden for so long. To have a fling with a man. My escort was unexpected. There was electricity between us, no matter how much he denied it. Little did I know he was the owner of the surf shop I was about to buy up for my future resort. Perhaps we could make a deal.
CW: Suicide, thoughts of suicide, drug use, prostitution, explicit language, and sex.
Note: Anders is many things, but a cheater he's not. He never cheated on his wife.
Please be careful of spoilers, thank you.
Kel
I tried to save Ohana Surfing Club, a surf shop my father and I owned. Caring for young adults from battered homes, dealing with financial losses because of my father’s soaring medical costs, and being crushed by loans I could never repay, I was desperate. There was only one way out, and that was back to my old escorting job to make ends meet. A job I hadn’t done in a decade. Perhaps there was more to the stranger who hired me. Was it because I had been out of the game too long, or was there more that caused the spark between us? Whatever it was, I couldn’t get involved. Life was too complicated already, without throwing a relationship into the mix.
Anders
Growing up with a homophobic father and a mother I rarely saw because of her mental illness, I struggled with insecurity, always feeling I wasn’t man enough for my father. I shoved awareness of my bisexuality into the deepest recesses of my mind, willing them never to see the light of day. I married a beautiful woman and had two beautiful daughters. But with a failed marriage and no more fear of my father, I was desperate to explore that side of me I’d kept hidden for so long. To have a fling with a man. My escort was unexpected. There was electricity between us, no matter how much he denied it. Little did I know he was the owner of the surf shop I was about to buy up for my future resort. Perhaps we could make a deal.
CW: Suicide, thoughts of suicide, drug use, prostitution, explicit language, and sex.
Note: Anders is many things, but a cheater he's not. He never cheated on his wife.
Please be careful of spoilers, thank you.
296 pages, Paperback
First published June 30, 2022
30 people are currently reading
394 people want to read
About the author
Courtney W. Dixon
39 books1,083 followersCourtney W. Dixon loves to write steamy hurt/comfort romance, giving her characters challenges, struggles, and sometimes trauma... Fine, a LOT of trauma. Her team teases her about charging her for their therapy bills after reading one of her books.
She loves to add variety and multiple tropes in her stories along with different types of dynamics/relationships. And she writes her characters as having flaws, imperfections, and who don't always do the right thing. Humans are sometimes frustrating, never perfect, and make a lot of mistakes in their lives. Courtney enjoys pushing her characters, making their HEAs so much more worth it when they get there. Mental health is a big feature in her books.
She loves her coffee ice cream and popcorn a little too much. And her cat, Olly, is her co-writer, where he sleeps on an ottoman under her desk as her muse. Actually, he's rather useless, but he's adorable.
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She loves to add variety and multiple tropes in her stories along with different types of dynamics/relationships. And she writes her characters as having flaws, imperfections, and who don't always do the right thing. Humans are sometimes frustrating, never perfect, and make a lot of mistakes in their lives. Courtney enjoys pushing her characters, making their HEAs so much more worth it when they get there. Mental health is a big feature in her books.
She loves her coffee ice cream and popcorn a little too much. And her cat, Olly, is her co-writer, where he sleeps on an ottoman under her desk as her muse. Actually, he's rather useless, but he's adorable.
Follow Me
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews
February 8, 2023
3.5⭐
Book 1 in the Ohana Surfing Club series
Trigger warnings from the author ~ suicide, thoughts of suicide, homophobia, drug addiction, death of a loved one, explicit language and sex
Featuring ~ dual 1st person POV, LGBTQ ~ MM & BI, surfing, suicide, escort services, fake relationship, age gap (35 & 46), cancer, grief, steamage
Kel & Anders
Chapter 1 begins very heavy in 1997 with Kel (11) and Keo (17) finding their mom after she committed suicide. Flash forward 24 years and Kel is the owner of the Ohana Surfing Club. When he finds himself in financial strain with the business, and due to medical bills from his father's cancer, he turns to escorting to make ends meet.
*Kel never felt like a grown man to me, maybe because he was first introduced to us when he was 11 and then boom he was 35. It was odd to me when he referred to the kids he provides housing to as 'his kids' too.
Anders was married to a woman for 20 years, but realized he wasn't happy and wanted to explore his sexuality as bi~sexual. Months after the divorce is finalized he contacts an escort service for his first gay encounter.
They have an instant attraction, but Kel walks away and avoids seeing him again until Anders walks into the surf shop weeks later trying to buy his business. They come up with a plan that works for both of them, begin fake dating and spending a bunch of steamy time together. After only a few weeks together their relationship is tested and Anders stepped up to the 'boyfriend' plate in a big way.
This one is a heart string yanker, so it wouldn't hurt to have some tissues nearby. Although Kel and his fathers story line was a sad one it was also heartwarming as you could feel their love for each other.
One thing that bugged me though was that so many people would say to them "oh I didn't know you were gay" and then they'd go on to say they were bi or pan ~ like what business is it of yours nosy pants, mind your beeswax.
*Thanks to Courtney_W_Dixon and Booksirens for my copy. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
Follow me here ➡ Blog ~ Facebook
Book 1 in the Ohana Surfing Club series
Trigger warnings from the author ~ suicide, thoughts of suicide, homophobia, drug addiction, death of a loved one, explicit language and sex
Featuring ~ dual 1st person POV, LGBTQ ~ MM & BI, surfing, suicide, escort services, fake relationship, age gap (35 & 46), cancer, grief, steamage
Kel & Anders
Chapter 1 begins very heavy in 1997 with Kel (11) and Keo (17) finding their mom after she committed suicide. Flash forward 24 years and Kel is the owner of the Ohana Surfing Club. When he finds himself in financial strain with the business, and due to medical bills from his father's cancer, he turns to escorting to make ends meet.
*Kel never felt like a grown man to me, maybe because he was first introduced to us when he was 11 and then boom he was 35. It was odd to me when he referred to the kids he provides housing to as 'his kids' too.
Anders was married to a woman for 20 years, but realized he wasn't happy and wanted to explore his sexuality as bi~sexual. Months after the divorce is finalized he contacts an escort service for his first gay encounter.
They have an instant attraction, but Kel walks away and avoids seeing him again until Anders walks into the surf shop weeks later trying to buy his business. They come up with a plan that works for both of them, begin fake dating and spending a bunch of steamy time together. After only a few weeks together their relationship is tested and Anders stepped up to the 'boyfriend' plate in a big way.
This one is a heart string yanker, so it wouldn't hurt to have some tissues nearby. Although Kel and his fathers story line was a sad one it was also heartwarming as you could feel their love for each other.
One thing that bugged me though was that so many people would say to them "oh I didn't know you were gay" and then they'd go on to say they were bi or pan ~ like what business is it of yours nosy pants, mind your beeswax.
*Thanks to Courtney_W_Dixon and Booksirens for my copy. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
Follow me here ➡ Blog ~ Facebook
April 20, 2023
I was so excited for this book - it is about a surf club in Hawaii and sounded so good.
I think it even had all of the foundation in it to be a good book- but nothing annoys me more than books that repeatedly say, "there was just something about him I was attracted to" "There was just something about him I couldn't stop thinking about" "There was just something about him that made my stomach flutter" - like, would you mind letting us know what that is? Maybe a little explanation about your feelings - maybe give us some examples in the book? Still not even sure what these two liked about each other?
The side story about Kel's family was almost enough for me to give this a 3 star, but by 60% I was just ready for it to be over and started skimming.
I think it even had all of the foundation in it to be a good book- but nothing annoys me more than books that repeatedly say, "there was just something about him I was attracted to" "There was just something about him I couldn't stop thinking about" "There was just something about him that made my stomach flutter" - like, would you mind letting us know what that is? Maybe a little explanation about your feelings - maybe give us some examples in the book? Still not even sure what these two liked about each other?
The side story about Kel's family was almost enough for me to give this a 3 star, but by 60% I was just ready for it to be over and started skimming.
October 28, 2023
2/5
Well, it certainly wasn't that bad, but I didn't feel the spark and the connection between the two main characters at all. I think that’s one of the most important things in the romance books, so I was pretty disappointed.
The idea for the story was pretty great. I mean, the story follows two men, Anders and Kel, who meet in an unconventional way because Anders hires Kel as an escort. It’s a dual point of view and Kel’s pov made me tear a little bit, because his story and life was pretty heartbreaking. He was an amazing man because even though his family business was close to bankruptcy, his mom committed suicide when he was a kid, his dad was dying, and he was on the verge of relapse into his former addiction, he was still trying to fix things without falling apart. That’s why he decided to call his old college job, being an escort, to make some money to help his dad and their business. The book takes off here, as that’s the moment he and Anders meet. Anders is a divorced men is his forties, who after twenty years of marriage decides to try things with a man for the first time, as a bisexual guy. To be honest, I have mixed feelings about his character, he had some nice moments, but overall he didn't speak out to me. I didn't like that even though Kel had told him about his "no-kissing rule", he still did it. Is it so hard to respect someone's wishes? The whole fake dating plus we will still "sleep" together, so I will help your business thing was pretty weird too. They relationship later was not bad, but still felt kinda insta-lovey. When I started the book I thought Kel will be in his twenties, but he was thirty-five, Anders was forty-six.
I actually like reading romances about people their age, so I wasn't complaining.
As I said, the idea for the plot seemed interesting, but the execution not so much. I liked the beginning of the book and the direction the story was headed, but after I while I got bored with the story. I finished it, but towards the end I started skipping because I wanted it to end.
That’s not the end. I had a few other issues with this book. The first thing is questionable sentences. Like this one for example.
Something Something Something. What exactly?
The other thing is the romance. I already wrote about it at the beginning, but they did the deed in like chapter five, and then the tension between them disappeared for me. Almost every interaction felt flat. I prefer the whole anticipation for it thing, so that's one of the reasons why I didn't enjoy this book.
At the end I’m just gonna say that, they were some aspects which I liked. The found family trope and the family trope was done great. I actually cried when one thing happened, so that means something. I don’t particularly know if I will read the next books in the series. Maybe. Definitely not the last one as there’s the whole 'daddy/boy' situation. I’m not the biggest fan of that. The second one is MF and sounds the most appealing to me, so we will see.
Well, it certainly wasn't that bad, but I didn't feel the spark and the connection between the two main characters at all. I think that’s one of the most important things in the romance books, so I was pretty disappointed.
The idea for the story was pretty great. I mean, the story follows two men, Anders and Kel, who meet in an unconventional way because Anders hires Kel as an escort. It’s a dual point of view and Kel’s pov made me tear a little bit, because his story and life was pretty heartbreaking. He was an amazing man because even though his family business was close to bankruptcy, his mom committed suicide when he was a kid, his dad was dying, and he was on the verge of relapse into his former addiction, he was still trying to fix things without falling apart. That’s why he decided to call his old college job, being an escort, to make some money to help his dad and their business. The book takes off here, as that’s the moment he and Anders meet. Anders is a divorced men is his forties, who after twenty years of marriage decides to try things with a man for the first time, as a bisexual guy. To be honest, I have mixed feelings about his character, he had some nice moments, but overall he didn't speak out to me. I didn't like that even though Kel had told him about his "no-kissing rule", he still did it. Is it so hard to respect someone's wishes? The whole fake dating plus we will still "sleep" together, so I will help your business thing was pretty weird too. They relationship later was not bad, but still felt kinda insta-lovey. When I started the book I thought Kel will be in his twenties, but he was thirty-five, Anders was forty-six.
“He’s not old enough to be your grandpa.”
“Brah, he’s like one of those DILFs.” I smacked my forehead. Noah was going to be the death of me, and apparently Zay.
“Stay away from the DILF. You’re upsetting Zay,” I said."
I actually like reading romances about people their age, so I wasn't complaining.
As I said, the idea for the plot seemed interesting, but the execution not so much. I liked the beginning of the book and the direction the story was headed, but after I while I got bored with the story. I finished it, but towards the end I started skipping because I wanted it to end.
That’s not the end. I had a few other issues with this book. The first thing is questionable sentences. Like this one for example.
"There’s… something about you that’s awakened something inside of me. Something that I thought died a long time ago."
Something Something Something. What exactly?
The other thing is the romance. I already wrote about it at the beginning, but they did the deed in like chapter five, and then the tension between them disappeared for me. Almost every interaction felt flat. I prefer the whole anticipation for it thing, so that's one of the reasons why I didn't enjoy this book.
At the end I’m just gonna say that, they were some aspects which I liked. The found family trope and the family trope was done great. I actually cried when one thing happened, so that means something. I don’t particularly know if I will read the next books in the series. Maybe. Definitely not the last one as there’s the whole 'daddy/boy' situation. I’m not the biggest fan of that. The second one is MF and sounds the most appealing to me, so we will see.
June 11, 2023
- age gap
- sex work
- fake dating
- business partners
- insta-love/attraction
CW: Suicide, thoughts of suicide, drug use, cancer, loss of a parent(s)
I wasn't sure what to expect of Impact Zone going in. Overall, I really enjoyed it but wished the relationship between Kel & Anders hadn't been so rushed. I feel like they dated for literally 2 seconds and then fell head first into love.
I did love how strong Anders was for Kel when he needed it after the loss of his father though. He's a good man!
- sex work
- fake dating
- business partners
- insta-love/attraction
CW: Suicide, thoughts of suicide, drug use, cancer, loss of a parent(s)
I wasn't sure what to expect of Impact Zone going in. Overall, I really enjoyed it but wished the relationship between Kel & Anders hadn't been so rushed. I feel like they dated for literally 2 seconds and then fell head first into love.
I did love how strong Anders was for Kel when he needed it after the loss of his father though. He's a good man!
July 4, 2022
A journey to discover how to recover from your past trauma effectively and positively. I found some moments really sad and liked how the characters feel attracted to each other
October 7, 2022
I ARC this book by the amazing Courtney W. Dixon and this is my very first book by her. It's amazing.
I honestly don't know where to begin. This book was taking place in Hawaii. I don't know much about Hawaii but as I was reading it I felt I knew it. The book showed the culture throughout the book which I adore.
This book is well written. Reading it the emotional heartbreak, the betrayal that Kel had to deal with was amazing. I absolutely love Kel. Everything he went through show just how much he went through made him who he was.
Kel went from having to see one thing I never thought a child should see, to try to take care of his father as well as there business and make sure children in need had someone in their corner. If this doesn't show who kel is, I don't know what does.
Anders can in and one night turn there world upside down. Not know what to come and Kel wanted to push away and try to figure everything he came to make sure everyone he care for has everything they need.
I seriously couldn't put this book down. From page 1 to the ending was amazing. Reaching the ending I wanted more.
I love MM romance, but reading this one just made me love MM romance just even more. I can't wait to read more of this series and this author other stories. She nailed this book to the park and I want more. Please give me more.
I honestly don't know where to begin. This book was taking place in Hawaii. I don't know much about Hawaii but as I was reading it I felt I knew it. The book showed the culture throughout the book which I adore.
This book is well written. Reading it the emotional heartbreak, the betrayal that Kel had to deal with was amazing. I absolutely love Kel. Everything he went through show just how much he went through made him who he was.
Kel went from having to see one thing I never thought a child should see, to try to take care of his father as well as there business and make sure children in need had someone in their corner. If this doesn't show who kel is, I don't know what does.
Anders can in and one night turn there world upside down. Not know what to come and Kel wanted to push away and try to figure everything he came to make sure everyone he care for has everything they need.
I seriously couldn't put this book down. From page 1 to the ending was amazing. Reaching the ending I wanted more.
I love MM romance, but reading this one just made me love MM romance just even more. I can't wait to read more of this series and this author other stories. She nailed this book to the park and I want more. Please give me more.
January 19, 2023
This was ok, but nothing that was all that special. Although the setting and plot were nice and a bit different from the usual "fake boyfriend" trope, it meandered a good bit, especially toward the end. There were a lot of subplots going on, necessitating extra time to tidy these up.
This author was new to me, and I'll consider other books by her, especially the third book in this series (the second is M/F so I'll probably skip that one). Her writing style is pleasant, if a bit generic, but not difficult to read.
This author was new to me, and I'll consider other books by her, especially the third book in this series (the second is M/F so I'll probably skip that one). Her writing style is pleasant, if a bit generic, but not difficult to read.
October 23, 2023
Love surfing. Hate this.
Cross a horny virgin with
a typing monkey.
Cross a horny virgin with
a typing monkey.
July 9, 2022
This was such a beautiful story of found family and unexpected love. However, this is not a light, fun, summer read. This is heavy with emotion, severe childhood trauma, and very adult problems.
Kels had the weight of the world on his shoulders. He constantly faced huge obstacles from childhood into adulthood. He was also on the cusp of losing his father and his business. He was not in any position to bring someone into his life.
Anders was finally facing his new reality as an out man after 20 years of marriage. He wasn't looking for his soul mate. His whole life had been adhereing to others expectations and he was ready to live life on his terms.
Life had a different plan for both men. What started as a sort of business arrangement soon turned into so much more. They found themselves needing each other in ways they never anticipated. Also, the heat is so hot with this one.
I did find some of the plot elements a bit clunky. Some things felt a little too abrupt and created additional strife when it wasn’t necessarily needed.
The dialogue felt very stilted and too formal at parts. It didn’t always flow or feel conversational. I found this peculiar because the inner dialogue never read that way. The formality made it seem awkward rather than two very grown men connecting and sharing. However, they were so open and honest with each other so it was forgivable.
Kels had the weight of the world on his shoulders. He constantly faced huge obstacles from childhood into adulthood. He was also on the cusp of losing his father and his business. He was not in any position to bring someone into his life.
Anders was finally facing his new reality as an out man after 20 years of marriage. He wasn't looking for his soul mate. His whole life had been adhereing to others expectations and he was ready to live life on his terms.
Life had a different plan for both men. What started as a sort of business arrangement soon turned into so much more. They found themselves needing each other in ways they never anticipated. Also, the heat is so hot with this one.
I did find some of the plot elements a bit clunky. Some things felt a little too abrupt and created additional strife when it wasn’t necessarily needed.
The dialogue felt very stilted and too formal at parts. It didn’t always flow or feel conversational. I found this peculiar because the inner dialogue never read that way. The formality made it seem awkward rather than two very grown men connecting and sharing. However, they were so open and honest with each other so it was forgivable.
July 7, 2022
I’m not sure why I love books that absolutely destroy me. This book wastes no time in sending you in search of a box of kleenex. Seriously, I ugly cried myself to sleep! From there it lulls you into a false sense of security, only to sucker punch you in the gut (and heart) before you finally get your happy ending.
Ugh, I’m exhausted, but in the best possible way. You are 100% in it with the characters. Kel is fantastic, he’s been through so much, past and present. He’s nearing drowning, but he never stops caring for the people in his life. Never stops fighting for the surf shop that is his father's legacy, and home to children in need.
I wanted to hate Anders, rich, manipulative, and selfish. But damn, he’ll win you over and own your heart too.
They hold each other up, fill in their cracks, and find a happiness they didn’t know they needed. Such a beautiful story.
< ARC provided by GRR and this is my honest review >
Ugh, I’m exhausted, but in the best possible way. You are 100% in it with the characters. Kel is fantastic, he’s been through so much, past and present. He’s nearing drowning, but he never stops caring for the people in his life. Never stops fighting for the surf shop that is his father's legacy, and home to children in need.
I wanted to hate Anders, rich, manipulative, and selfish. But damn, he’ll win you over and own your heart too.
They hold each other up, fill in their cracks, and find a happiness they didn’t know they needed. Such a beautiful story.
< ARC provided by GRR and this is my honest review >
June 11, 2022
I could not put this one down!
Finished it within a day!!
Welcome to Ohana Surfing Club, where all are welcomed providing that opportunity to turn your life around. Which in a small, isolated community, there are many limitations and this Club provides the support and home that many astrayed teens need.
Kel had me at the heartstrings right from the start. This man went through so many drastic changes that a child shouldn't have to face. With the limitations of an island and family business, he did what he had to do in order to succeed. With the business failing years later, he is going back to his old routes to make money fast. I felt so much compassion for Kel that I wished I could reach through the book and give him a hug! Kel cared so much about his Ohana, his kids that him and his dad employed at the shop and helped change their lives for the better. Proving them a safe place to live, grow and find success in life.
This story sent me on a wave of emotions while you learn more about each character and what drives them.
Enter Anders Stone, on a night that changed everything. From what was unfortunate circumstances, a bond grew between two people that they didn't know how to maneuver. This story leads on how two unsuspecting people started on a journey that changed their lives, for the better.
A story of acceptance, grief, love, betrayal, and a commitment to living your best life, but most of all, a story about Ohana, family. This is quite a wild ride while Kel tries his hardest to stay away from the Impact Zone.
⚠️TW: suicide, drug use, suicide ideation, prostitution, explicit language and sex.
Thank you Courtney Dixon for the opportunity to join your ARC readers in exchange for an honest review!
Finished it within a day!!
Welcome to Ohana Surfing Club, where all are welcomed providing that opportunity to turn your life around. Which in a small, isolated community, there are many limitations and this Club provides the support and home that many astrayed teens need.
Kel had me at the heartstrings right from the start. This man went through so many drastic changes that a child shouldn't have to face. With the limitations of an island and family business, he did what he had to do in order to succeed. With the business failing years later, he is going back to his old routes to make money fast. I felt so much compassion for Kel that I wished I could reach through the book and give him a hug! Kel cared so much about his Ohana, his kids that him and his dad employed at the shop and helped change their lives for the better. Proving them a safe place to live, grow and find success in life.
This story sent me on a wave of emotions while you learn more about each character and what drives them.
Enter Anders Stone, on a night that changed everything. From what was unfortunate circumstances, a bond grew between two people that they didn't know how to maneuver. This story leads on how two unsuspecting people started on a journey that changed their lives, for the better.
A story of acceptance, grief, love, betrayal, and a commitment to living your best life, but most of all, a story about Ohana, family. This is quite a wild ride while Kel tries his hardest to stay away from the Impact Zone.
⚠️TW: suicide, drug use, suicide ideation, prostitution, explicit language and sex.
Thank you Courtney Dixon for the opportunity to join your ARC readers in exchange for an honest review!
July 15, 2022
Impact Zone is really good! In need of money to pay his father’s medical bills and to keep his surf shop afloat, Kel goes back to being an escort. He meets Anders, a client who’s recently divorced and finally ready to explore his attraction to men. The two have instant chemistry, but Kel doesn’t have the time or energy for a relationship. Anders is determined to explore their connection and convince his ex-wife that he’s bisexual, so he works out a deal with Kel to help him save his business by pretending to be boyfriends. The story is full of heat and emotion, and Dixon does a great job of developing both Kel and Anders. You can’t help but empathize with both of them and root for their happy ending. The side characters add dimension, and I love how they all support each other. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series!
June 30, 2022
An inspirational book about overcoming trauma, finding strength in our failures and connecting with others as a way of healing.
My heart broke into a million pieces for 11 year old Kel in the very first chapter.
There’s a lot of heartache in this book surrounding loss of parents – so if that’s trigger for you, please beware.
Wasn’t exactly a trigger for me but I know how heart-breaking it is to lose a parent – so this definitely drew tears out of me…😢
I didn’t immediately feel Kel and Anders’ connection and I couldn’t figure out why at the time but the moment Anders broke their contract, these guys really drew me in.
I really loved how Anders stuck by Kel through it all – no matter how hard things got - he was definitely the rock that Kel both needed and deserved... 🥰
I already knew this author wrote mafia romance really well and now I can see that she really knows how to bring on the sorrow too.
There was way too much heart-ache for Kel so I was really wishing for a sweet HEA for him and was glad when he finally got it…💙💙
My heart broke into a million pieces for 11 year old Kel in the very first chapter.
There’s a lot of heartache in this book surrounding loss of parents – so if that’s trigger for you, please beware.
Wasn’t exactly a trigger for me but I know how heart-breaking it is to lose a parent – so this definitely drew tears out of me…😢
I didn’t immediately feel Kel and Anders’ connection and I couldn’t figure out why at the time but the moment Anders broke their contract, these guys really drew me in.
I really loved how Anders stuck by Kel through it all – no matter how hard things got - he was definitely the rock that Kel both needed and deserved... 🥰
I already knew this author wrote mafia romance really well and now I can see that she really knows how to bring on the sorrow too.
There was way too much heart-ache for Kel so I was really wishing for a sweet HEA for him and was glad when he finally got it…💙💙
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 14, 2022
“𝑀𝑦 𝑙𝑖𝑓𝑒 𝑟𝑒𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑑 𝑜𝑢𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑡𝑟𝑜𝑙 𝑠𝑜 𝑓𝑎𝑠𝑡 𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑡 𝐼 𝑐𝑜𝑢𝑙𝑑 𝑛𝑜 𝑙𝑜𝑛𝑔𝑒𝑟 𝑘𝑒𝑒𝑝 𝑢𝑝.”
“𝐼 𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑠𝑝𝑒𝑑 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑎𝑛𝑦 𝑙𝑒𝑑𝑔𝑒, 𝑡𝑟𝑦𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑛𝑜𝑡 𝑡𝑜 𝑓𝑎𝑙𝑙 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑜 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑎𝑏𝑦𝑠𝑠 𝑜𝑓 𝑑𝑒𝑠𝑝𝑎𝑖𝑟.”
Impact Zone is my second book by Courtney, and I'm so honoured i was given an ARC to review. I really loved Kelani and felt so much sympathy for him. I instantly felt a connection to his character. We are dropped head first in to Impact Zone and the start of Kel's story as we witness him receive devastating blow after blow. As the reader we follow him as a young boy to a struggling man.
“𝑇ℎ𝑒𝑦 𝑠𝑎𝑦 𝑏𝑎𝑑 𝑡ℎ𝑖𝑛𝑔𝑠 ℎ𝑎𝑝𝑝𝑒𝑛 𝑖𝑛 𝑡ℎ𝑟𝑒𝑒𝑠. 𝑀𝑦 𝑏𝑎𝑑 𝑡ℎ𝑖𝑛𝑔𝑠 ℎ𝑎𝑝𝑝𝑒𝑛𝑒𝑑 𝑖𝑛 𝑡𝑤𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑖𝑒𝑠.”
Courtney did such an amazing job with the sensitive subjects within Kel's story, from his struggles with grief, mental health & addiction.
“𝐼𝑡 𝑛𝑒𝑣𝑒𝑟 𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑙𝑙𝑦 𝑔𝑜𝑒𝑠 𝑎𝑤𝑎𝑦, 𝑙𝑖𝑘𝑒 𝑎 𝑝𝑟𝑜𝑚𝑖𝑠𝑒 𝑜𝑓 ℎ𝑎𝑝𝑝𝑖𝑛𝑒𝑠𝑠 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑏𝑙𝑖𝑠𝑠𝑓𝑢𝑙𝑛𝑒𝑠𝑠 . 𝑆𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑡𝑖𝑚𝑒𝑠 𝑖𝑡’𝑠 𝑠𝑜 ℎ𝑎𝑟𝑑 𝑡𝑜 𝑎𝑐𝑐𝑒𝑝𝑡 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑝𝑎𝑖𝑛 𝑜𝑓 𝑙𝑖𝑓𝑒 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑛𝑜𝑡 𝑔𝑖𝑣𝑒 𝑖𝑛 𝑡𝑜 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑙𝑢𝑟𝑒 𝑜𝑓 𝑜𝑏𝑙𝑖𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑡 𝑑𝑟𝑢𝑔𝑠 𝑝𝑟𝑜𝑣𝑖𝑑𝑒.”
Anders is recently divorced & out bisexual man after decades of suppressing his sexuality. Whilst testing the waters of his new found freedom to explore all the things he'd denied himself. He pays a pretty penny for the best, most attractive escort in his pursuit of his desires without judgement.
Kel is the best Man for the job after recently returning to escorting. The chemistry between these two was instant and I could feel the sparks coming off them in waves. There was so much to Impact Zone but I ate up every second of it. I really wanted to see these two succeed because they were generally nice deserving guys. I loved Anders relinquishing Kel of his control and their little power exchange in the bedroom. I'm excited for book 2 in the series.
“𝐼 𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑠𝑝𝑒𝑑 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑎𝑛𝑦 𝑙𝑒𝑑𝑔𝑒, 𝑡𝑟𝑦𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑛𝑜𝑡 𝑡𝑜 𝑓𝑎𝑙𝑙 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑜 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑎𝑏𝑦𝑠𝑠 𝑜𝑓 𝑑𝑒𝑠𝑝𝑎𝑖𝑟.”
Impact Zone is my second book by Courtney, and I'm so honoured i was given an ARC to review. I really loved Kelani and felt so much sympathy for him. I instantly felt a connection to his character. We are dropped head first in to Impact Zone and the start of Kel's story as we witness him receive devastating blow after blow. As the reader we follow him as a young boy to a struggling man.
“𝑇ℎ𝑒𝑦 𝑠𝑎𝑦 𝑏𝑎𝑑 𝑡ℎ𝑖𝑛𝑔𝑠 ℎ𝑎𝑝𝑝𝑒𝑛 𝑖𝑛 𝑡ℎ𝑟𝑒𝑒𝑠. 𝑀𝑦 𝑏𝑎𝑑 𝑡ℎ𝑖𝑛𝑔𝑠 ℎ𝑎𝑝𝑝𝑒𝑛𝑒𝑑 𝑖𝑛 𝑡𝑤𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑖𝑒𝑠.”
Courtney did such an amazing job with the sensitive subjects within Kel's story, from his struggles with grief, mental health & addiction.
“𝐼𝑡 𝑛𝑒𝑣𝑒𝑟 𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑙𝑙𝑦 𝑔𝑜𝑒𝑠 𝑎𝑤𝑎𝑦, 𝑙𝑖𝑘𝑒 𝑎 𝑝𝑟𝑜𝑚𝑖𝑠𝑒 𝑜𝑓 ℎ𝑎𝑝𝑝𝑖𝑛𝑒𝑠𝑠 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑏𝑙𝑖𝑠𝑠𝑓𝑢𝑙𝑛𝑒𝑠𝑠 . 𝑆𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑡𝑖𝑚𝑒𝑠 𝑖𝑡’𝑠 𝑠𝑜 ℎ𝑎𝑟𝑑 𝑡𝑜 𝑎𝑐𝑐𝑒𝑝𝑡 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑝𝑎𝑖𝑛 𝑜𝑓 𝑙𝑖𝑓𝑒 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑛𝑜𝑡 𝑔𝑖𝑣𝑒 𝑖𝑛 𝑡𝑜 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑙𝑢𝑟𝑒 𝑜𝑓 𝑜𝑏𝑙𝑖𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑡 𝑑𝑟𝑢𝑔𝑠 𝑝𝑟𝑜𝑣𝑖𝑑𝑒.”
Anders is recently divorced & out bisexual man after decades of suppressing his sexuality. Whilst testing the waters of his new found freedom to explore all the things he'd denied himself. He pays a pretty penny for the best, most attractive escort in his pursuit of his desires without judgement.
Kel is the best Man for the job after recently returning to escorting. The chemistry between these two was instant and I could feel the sparks coming off them in waves. There was so much to Impact Zone but I ate up every second of it. I really wanted to see these two succeed because they were generally nice deserving guys. I loved Anders relinquishing Kel of his control and their little power exchange in the bedroom. I'm excited for book 2 in the series.
July 18, 2022
A book that I couldn't put down!
Kel is really struggling: His surf shop is in deep dept and his father is dying. To pay for the medical bills, he decides to go back to escorting, which he left years ago, to pay for the bills.
After his divorce, Anders decides to finally test his bisexuality. He had to keep it silent, because of a homophobic father. He hires an escorting agency and meets Kel for one night. But both didn't expect that this one night felt so good - too good. Kel tries to distance himself from Anders. He doesn't need the complications of feelings. But fate keeps throwing Anders and Kel together.
Wow, this book cut deep. We have a lot of serious topics, like suicide, a deadly illness, and more. I loved both characters, but especially Kel has won a spot in my heart. He had to endure a lot of hardships in his life but that only made him stronger.
I can only recommend this book!
*I received this book as an ARC. I chose to leave an honest review.*
Kel is really struggling: His surf shop is in deep dept and his father is dying. To pay for the medical bills, he decides to go back to escorting, which he left years ago, to pay for the bills.
After his divorce, Anders decides to finally test his bisexuality. He had to keep it silent, because of a homophobic father. He hires an escorting agency and meets Kel for one night. But both didn't expect that this one night felt so good - too good. Kel tries to distance himself from Anders. He doesn't need the complications of feelings. But fate keeps throwing Anders and Kel together.
Wow, this book cut deep. We have a lot of serious topics, like suicide, a deadly illness, and more. I loved both characters, but especially Kel has won a spot in my heart. He had to endure a lot of hardships in his life but that only made him stronger.
I can only recommend this book!
*I received this book as an ARC. I chose to leave an honest review.*
July 1, 2022
Impact Zone
Courtney W Dixon
🚨ARC
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
Impact Zone is book one of the Ohana Surfing Club Series and it is a M/M romance, age gap romance, fake dating and strangers turn lovers romance. This is a first time surfer romance for me and I am absolutely excited about this👏🏻👏🏻
Kel- local boy in Hawai’i and he definitely has been dealt a really rough hand in his life- struggling to keep his family’s surf shop above ground, sick father and just basically struggling. One thing that has pulled through for Kel is working as an escort service whenever he really needs the cash and it’s keeping his head afloat… but barely….. that is until he meets Anders, 10 years his senior and a newly divorced man with wanting to explore his sexuality- something that he’s struggled with mentally his whole life. Anders and Kel meet and sparks fly! This whirlwind romance definitely sees it’s up and down and it goes through the ringer( but it wouldn’t be a Dixon novel if it didn’t 😉)
It’s a fantastic story! I was obsessed with all the characters in the book- I wanted more and I’m so glad this is a new series from Dixon- you feel all the feels in the book, new love, betrayal, grief, and most of all acceptance from others and self love.
Courtney W Dixon
🚨ARC
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
Impact Zone is book one of the Ohana Surfing Club Series and it is a M/M romance, age gap romance, fake dating and strangers turn lovers romance. This is a first time surfer romance for me and I am absolutely excited about this👏🏻👏🏻
Kel- local boy in Hawai’i and he definitely has been dealt a really rough hand in his life- struggling to keep his family’s surf shop above ground, sick father and just basically struggling. One thing that has pulled through for Kel is working as an escort service whenever he really needs the cash and it’s keeping his head afloat… but barely….. that is until he meets Anders, 10 years his senior and a newly divorced man with wanting to explore his sexuality- something that he’s struggled with mentally his whole life. Anders and Kel meet and sparks fly! This whirlwind romance definitely sees it’s up and down and it goes through the ringer( but it wouldn’t be a Dixon novel if it didn’t 😉)
It’s a fantastic story! I was obsessed with all the characters in the book- I wanted more and I’m so glad this is a new series from Dixon- you feel all the feels in the book, new love, betrayal, grief, and most of all acceptance from others and self love.
June 25, 2022
Thank you Courtney for allowing me to read Impact Zone!
This story was gorgeous! I'm a sucker for an age gap and so I really wanted to give this a go!
Kel's history was so heart breaking and he had to overcome a lot. In the beginning he not only loses his mother, but his brother leaves him behind. He was young and couldn't cope.
Growing up and overcoming trauma, he leans heavily on his father who has been an amazing support system. It was so sweet to see the lengths Kel would go to in order to return that support for his father. This leads him to meeting Anders.
Anders's struggle with having hid his sexuality his whole life is believable and relatable. I wish his ex wife had been a little more understanding at the beginning, but was glad to see her come around and ultimately be supportive.
While this book has its sad moments, I loved Kel and Anders. They made me smile and giggle. This was a great book!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
And you earned every last one Courtney!
This story was gorgeous! I'm a sucker for an age gap and so I really wanted to give this a go!
Kel's history was so heart breaking and he had to overcome a lot. In the beginning he not only loses his mother, but his brother leaves him behind. He was young and couldn't cope.
Growing up and overcoming trauma, he leans heavily on his father who has been an amazing support system. It was so sweet to see the lengths Kel would go to in order to return that support for his father. This leads him to meeting Anders.
Anders's struggle with having hid his sexuality his whole life is believable and relatable. I wish his ex wife had been a little more understanding at the beginning, but was glad to see her come around and ultimately be supportive.
While this book has its sad moments, I loved Kel and Anders. They made me smile and giggle. This was a great book!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
And you earned every last one Courtney!
June 30, 2022
What began as a mutually beneficial arrangement quickly becomes so much more. Kel and Anders will confirm what their relationship lacks in romance it makes up for in spice.
Kel is resilient, determined and compassionate.
Anders is supportive, driven and caring.
Together they are a genuinely loving couple, despite many obstacles and personal struggles they face.
If you enjoy M/M you will love this book.
Kel is resilient, determined and compassionate.
Anders is supportive, driven and caring.
Together they are a genuinely loving couple, despite many obstacles and personal struggles they face.
If you enjoy M/M you will love this book.
July 15, 2022
Impact Zone is the first book in the Ohana Surfing Club series. Kel is trying to save the Ohana Surfing Club that he and his dad started. Anders is closeted, struggling with bisexuality and insecurities. I seriously adored Kel and Anders. I smiled and laughed out loud at times, but some sad times too. Overall, fantastic! It really well written with descriptive scenery and great pacing that made it hard to put down!
July 16, 2022
I really enjoyed reading this story about Kel and Anders. It is a very emotional story where I was laughing one minute and crying the next. Kel and Anders were great together. I look forward to reading the next book in this series. I received an ARC of this book for my honest review.
July 8, 2022
Starting from the beginning of the book it brought me back to when I use to live in Hawaii. This book is amazing, I love the chemistry between Asher and Kel. they were definitely made for one another. Book has it ups and downs with my emotions. 5 out of 5 worth the read.
July 5, 2022
Anders and Kel
Kel and Anders definitely had a steamy meet-cute and then an explosive second meet as they started to wind their lives together. The found family Kel and his father pieced together really laid the foundation for this story and the teenagers drew you in as they watched Kel, their protector, fall in love Anders. This was an emotional story and I absolutely loved the storyline and characters. I look forward to future books in this series.
Kel and Anders definitely had a steamy meet-cute and then an explosive second meet as they started to wind their lives together. The found family Kel and his father pieced together really laid the foundation for this story and the teenagers drew you in as they watched Kel, their protector, fall in love Anders. This was an emotional story and I absolutely loved the storyline and characters. I look forward to future books in this series.
May 5, 2023
Kel has a lot of negative things to deal with in his life, & he is forced to go back to being an escort in order to make ends meet for his store & to pay medical bills for his father. Anders is his first client, a man who knows what he wants & who is finally able to get a male escort in order to fulfill his fantasies, the desires he was never able to let himself experience before.
They have an explosive connection, it’s more than either of them expected, really.
What they don’t know is that they’re on opposite sides of the fence, work wise... Anders is trying to develop the northern part of the island, which means local businesses have to be bought out. Kel is the owner of one of the last remaining businesses in that area.
They end up coming to an arrangement of sorts, where Kel will retain part ownership of the store in exchange for acting as Anders’ boyfriend for one month.
Without giving anything away, I found it weird that Anders left Kel for two days after what happened with his dad. Yes, he probably needed a break, but leaving for an hour or two each day would have been better, I think (more reasonable & logical).
I loved how Kel doesn’t really define who he’s attracted to. This totally reminded me of the Wine Not The Label scene from Schitt's Creek. <3 this!
When they told each other they loved one another? Awwww, so romantic (lol)... <3
The only thing missing was how Anders should have signed the business over completely.
This was a great HEA story about a Boyfriend & his DILF. Cute!
I received this free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
They have an explosive connection, it’s more than either of them expected, really.
What they don’t know is that they’re on opposite sides of the fence, work wise... Anders is trying to develop the northern part of the island, which means local businesses have to be bought out. Kel is the owner of one of the last remaining businesses in that area.
They end up coming to an arrangement of sorts, where Kel will retain part ownership of the store in exchange for acting as Anders’ boyfriend for one month.
Without giving anything away, I found it weird that Anders left Kel for two days after what happened with his dad. Yes, he probably needed a break, but leaving for an hour or two each day would have been better, I think (more reasonable & logical).
I loved how Kel doesn’t really define who he’s attracted to. This totally reminded me of the Wine Not The Label scene from Schitt's Creek. <3 this!
When they told each other they loved one another? Awwww, so romantic (lol)... <3
The only thing missing was how Anders should have signed the business over completely.
This was a great HEA story about a Boyfriend & his DILF. Cute!
I received this free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 5, 2022
Impact Zone, the first book in the Ohana Surfing Club series by Courtney W. Dixon is a M/M Gay Hawaiian surfing romance at its finest! I absolutely love this new world that Courtney created with such an intriguing plot, diverse characters and a storyline that grabs your heart right from the start! Lighter than her dark mafia romance series, this story is a beautiful heartwarming and inspirational story about overcoming tragedies, finding oneself and creating a family out of pain and trauma.
Kel has overcome tragedies from his past, and has built an amazing new life with his dad, running the Ohana Surfing Club together and creating a place for troubled teens with pasts of their own to come together and thrive. However, when tragedy strikes again in the form of an illness, Kel finds himself in need of money and goes back to a job he never thought he would do again…and meets a man named Anders that changes everything.
Anders is on a journey of self discover, having just recently come out, and is wanting to try things out as safely as possible—and Kel is the perfect man for the job as Anders finds an instant connection to him and experiences a connection he never expected to feel. And even though Kel tries to keep things professional, he too finds himself surprisingly drawn to Anders as well—until things get a tad heated and certain revelations are made about Anders owning the development company that’s been going after Kel’s business. Can off the charts chemistry; a fake relationship and a business partnership be enough to overcome their differences and past traumas or are they doomed from the beginning?
This was truly a moving story about overcoming your past pains, finding new connections and taking a chance at life and love, and I absolutely loved it! The fact that Kel and his father found a way to provide a home for others experiencing pain and trauma was truly heartwarming and I can’t wait to hear more of their stories!
Overall if you love feel good, heartwarming M/M age gap, fake dating, found family romances with lots of heat and a compelling storyline then this is the one for you! I can’t wait for more of this stories and to see some of these side characters again because they just called to my heart!
Kel has overcome tragedies from his past, and has built an amazing new life with his dad, running the Ohana Surfing Club together and creating a place for troubled teens with pasts of their own to come together and thrive. However, when tragedy strikes again in the form of an illness, Kel finds himself in need of money and goes back to a job he never thought he would do again…and meets a man named Anders that changes everything.
Anders is on a journey of self discover, having just recently come out, and is wanting to try things out as safely as possible—and Kel is the perfect man for the job as Anders finds an instant connection to him and experiences a connection he never expected to feel. And even though Kel tries to keep things professional, he too finds himself surprisingly drawn to Anders as well—until things get a tad heated and certain revelations are made about Anders owning the development company that’s been going after Kel’s business. Can off the charts chemistry; a fake relationship and a business partnership be enough to overcome their differences and past traumas or are they doomed from the beginning?
This was truly a moving story about overcoming your past pains, finding new connections and taking a chance at life and love, and I absolutely loved it! The fact that Kel and his father found a way to provide a home for others experiencing pain and trauma was truly heartwarming and I can’t wait to hear more of their stories!
Overall if you love feel good, heartwarming M/M age gap, fake dating, found family romances with lots of heat and a compelling storyline then this is the one for you! I can’t wait for more of this stories and to see some of these side characters again because they just called to my heart!
June 30, 2022
This is my first book by this author, and damn did she knock it out of the park. Take note that with this story comes the trigger warnings of suicide, drug use, suicide ideation, prostitution, explicit language and sex.
Ohana Surfing Club is a community where all are welcomed. They provide the opportunity to be who you truly are and to turn your life around regardless of your differences. They are given the love and support that they so desperately need. And in small community, there are plenty of limitations that surround them.
Kel is officially one of my top ten MCs. He has gone through so many changes in his life that a child never should have to face. Living on a small island limited his options, while also having to take over the family business, he did what he had to to survive. Years later, with his business failing, he is forced to return to his old gambit to make money and fast.
Kel's devotion to his Ohana, the kids that he and his dad employed at the shop and how he helped to guide them towards a better life by providing a safe place for them to live, grow and find their footing in such a tumultuous world, was incredibly heartwarming to see.
Which brings us to Anders Stone. On a night when everything changes, a bond is formed between two strangers who become each other's everything. Meeting under unfortunate circumstances, these two incredible men take the first steps on their journey together, even if they didn't know how to be in a relationship.
Impact Zone is a story that takes you through a multitude of emotions. From betrayal to acceptance, and grief to love, with a dose of committing yourself to living your life to the fullest, you will find yourself on one hell of a wild ride while Kel tries to stay away from his Impact Zone.
I couldn't recommend this book more than what I already am, because I can guarantee you will love it as much as I did!
Ohana Surfing Club is a community where all are welcomed. They provide the opportunity to be who you truly are and to turn your life around regardless of your differences. They are given the love and support that they so desperately need. And in small community, there are plenty of limitations that surround them.
Kel is officially one of my top ten MCs. He has gone through so many changes in his life that a child never should have to face. Living on a small island limited his options, while also having to take over the family business, he did what he had to to survive. Years later, with his business failing, he is forced to return to his old gambit to make money and fast.
Kel's devotion to his Ohana, the kids that he and his dad employed at the shop and how he helped to guide them towards a better life by providing a safe place for them to live, grow and find their footing in such a tumultuous world, was incredibly heartwarming to see.
Which brings us to Anders Stone. On a night when everything changes, a bond is formed between two strangers who become each other's everything. Meeting under unfortunate circumstances, these two incredible men take the first steps on their journey together, even if they didn't know how to be in a relationship.
Impact Zone is a story that takes you through a multitude of emotions. From betrayal to acceptance, and grief to love, with a dose of committing yourself to living your life to the fullest, you will find yourself on one hell of a wild ride while Kel tries to stay away from his Impact Zone.
I couldn't recommend this book more than what I already am, because I can guarantee you will love it as much as I did!
July 16, 2022
Firstly let me say I’ve got this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is me leaving my honest review. This is my first book by Courtney W. Dixon And I have got to say I am so impressed. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and could not put it down. Both main characters were extremely likable even going through all the struggles of life they came across as amazing human beings.
Kel had lost his mother is very young age. And after his older brother left it was just him and his dad. But now 24 years later he finds himself struggling once again. You see his father is dying from prostate cancer and he had no idea how he was going to cope once he left. They owned a surfing shop together and it was struggling now due to all of the medical bills but Kel would not give in. Taking out loans to pay of loans and debts he was struggling suffocating. So he went back to the one profession he hoped he never would have to go back to. Escorting and for the first time in 10 years his client with a man
Anders is a divorced man who was married for 20 years has two daughters but had always knew he was bisexual due to his father being a homophobic monster never acted on it but now he was fine going to give it a try. And the man that the escort agency had sent was a God and they hit it off straight away but Anders was shocked to find out that the man did not want to see him again. when Anders goes to see the owner of a surf shop that was struggling and he was trying to buy he came face-to-face with his man and they came up with a plan that would benefit them both.
There is so much going on in this book so many different storyline so many emotions so much raw grief it was just such an emotional read for me. I could not put this book down. I liked it Anders and Kel And a few of the other characters in this book and I look forward to book 2 coming out soon.
Kel had lost his mother is very young age. And after his older brother left it was just him and his dad. But now 24 years later he finds himself struggling once again. You see his father is dying from prostate cancer and he had no idea how he was going to cope once he left. They owned a surfing shop together and it was struggling now due to all of the medical bills but Kel would not give in. Taking out loans to pay of loans and debts he was struggling suffocating. So he went back to the one profession he hoped he never would have to go back to. Escorting and for the first time in 10 years his client with a man
Anders is a divorced man who was married for 20 years has two daughters but had always knew he was bisexual due to his father being a homophobic monster never acted on it but now he was fine going to give it a try. And the man that the escort agency had sent was a God and they hit it off straight away but Anders was shocked to find out that the man did not want to see him again. when Anders goes to see the owner of a surf shop that was struggling and he was trying to buy he came face-to-face with his man and they came up with a plan that would benefit them both.
There is so much going on in this book so many different storyline so many emotions so much raw grief it was just such an emotional read for me. I could not put this book down. I liked it Anders and Kel And a few of the other characters in this book and I look forward to book 2 coming out soon.
July 8, 2022
**I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews for an honest review.**
IMPACT ZONE is the first book in the Ohana Surfing Club series. It can be read as a complete stand alone.
At eleven years old Kel's life changed. He witnessed something a child should never see. His older brother couldn't handle losing their mother and needed to leave both Kel and their father. Kel felt he was abandoned by two people he needed the most. As he grew up Kel fought through his own battle and tried so hard to get his life back. He found his place by working at the surf shop his dad built in the 80's and by helping kids who didn't have anyone else. Finding out his dad had cancer and the cost of those treatments is leaving the business his dad started, The Ohana Surf shop, in danger of being taken by the bank. Kel was drowning in deb. He was going to lose the shop and the kids, he thought going back to being an escort he would be able to bring in quick cash. What he didn't expect was Anders.
Anders Stone never expected to be divorced and exploring his sexuality in his forties. Being a business man the safest way to do it was to hire an escort. Kel was everything he needed and damn if he didn't want to keep seeing the man. Anders tried hard but never expected he'd see Kel again but when their paths cross Anders knew he'd do whatever he had to to be able to help Kel. He was the rock that Kel didn't know he needed.
I love how this was written. It pulled at my emotions and I loved where it took me. Kel and Anders were perfect together and complimented each other so well. They were explosive together from that first day.
This was a new to me author and I can't wait to see where this series goes.
IMPACT ZONE is the first book in the Ohana Surfing Club series. It can be read as a complete stand alone.
At eleven years old Kel's life changed. He witnessed something a child should never see. His older brother couldn't handle losing their mother and needed to leave both Kel and their father. Kel felt he was abandoned by two people he needed the most. As he grew up Kel fought through his own battle and tried so hard to get his life back. He found his place by working at the surf shop his dad built in the 80's and by helping kids who didn't have anyone else. Finding out his dad had cancer and the cost of those treatments is leaving the business his dad started, The Ohana Surf shop, in danger of being taken by the bank. Kel was drowning in deb. He was going to lose the shop and the kids, he thought going back to being an escort he would be able to bring in quick cash. What he didn't expect was Anders.
Anders Stone never expected to be divorced and exploring his sexuality in his forties. Being a business man the safest way to do it was to hire an escort. Kel was everything he needed and damn if he didn't want to keep seeing the man. Anders tried hard but never expected he'd see Kel again but when their paths cross Anders knew he'd do whatever he had to to be able to help Kel. He was the rock that Kel didn't know he needed.
I love how this was written. It pulled at my emotions and I loved where it took me. Kel and Anders were perfect together and complimented each other so well. They were explosive together from that first day.
This was a new to me author and I can't wait to see where this series goes.
July 9, 2022
This is the first book in the Ohana Surfing Club series. I had the pleasure of beta reading this book. Once again, I was blown away! What a great way to start a new series. Courtney does an amazing job of drawing you in. This is a MM trope with issues dealing with suicide and drugs among other things so please check your trigger warnings.
Kel runs his dads surf shop, takes in unwanted kids and takes care of his dad after his cancer diagnosis. He’s had a rough childhood after his mom died and older brother left. But he has a heart of gold and does whatever he can for those he loves and his community. But in need of more money to help pay his dads medical bills, he went back to his escorting job on the side. That’s where he meets Anders.
Newly divorced with 2 daughters finally able to explore his sexuality and be his true self. His first encounter with another man was through the escorting business and with Kel, though Kel used a different name to protect his identity. These two together are on fire. Though Anders wants more, it’s something Kel can’t give. Anders company is trying to buy Kel’s surf shop for a new resort. What happens when he realizes Kel owns it? What will Kel do after he finds out it’s Anders trying to destroy what his dad built? Will Anders be able to fully enter Kel’s life when he puts the kids and his dad first?
What Kel and Anders endure only makes them stronger. This book is full of heartache, struggles, tragedy, grief, tension and angst but is also full of humor, love, steam, found family and is so emotional. Courtney will reel you in and takes you on an emotional rollercoaster that you want to laugh, cry, throw your kindle and so much more. What an amazing story! Can’t wait to read book two, Pura Vida.
Kel runs his dads surf shop, takes in unwanted kids and takes care of his dad after his cancer diagnosis. He’s had a rough childhood after his mom died and older brother left. But he has a heart of gold and does whatever he can for those he loves and his community. But in need of more money to help pay his dads medical bills, he went back to his escorting job on the side. That’s where he meets Anders.
Newly divorced with 2 daughters finally able to explore his sexuality and be his true self. His first encounter with another man was through the escorting business and with Kel, though Kel used a different name to protect his identity. These two together are on fire. Though Anders wants more, it’s something Kel can’t give. Anders company is trying to buy Kel’s surf shop for a new resort. What happens when he realizes Kel owns it? What will Kel do after he finds out it’s Anders trying to destroy what his dad built? Will Anders be able to fully enter Kel’s life when he puts the kids and his dad first?
What Kel and Anders endure only makes them stronger. This book is full of heartache, struggles, tragedy, grief, tension and angst but is also full of humor, love, steam, found family and is so emotional. Courtney will reel you in and takes you on an emotional rollercoaster that you want to laugh, cry, throw your kindle and so much more. What an amazing story! Can’t wait to read book two, Pura Vida.
July 20, 2022
If you want a book that is going to tear your heart out of your chest, shred it to confetti, stomp on it, and then take the time to put it back together, polish it up, and put it back in your chest in better condition than it was, then this book is for you. I mean it. Kel broke my heart so many times in this book, but always in the best way. And Anders? He grew on me and he grew on me QUICKLY. He was the kind of character that at first, I wasn't quite sure if I'd like him but by the time the book ended? I would go to battle for him.
Then, there was Lily, Anders' ex wife. I was terrified when I realized she was a big character, especially early on. I thought that Dixon would do to her what so many other authors do to the ex-wife in these books - which is make them kind of reprehensible. Instead, she became an absolute delight. I loved her arc in this book and I hope that she appears in future books in the series, even just as a small cameo.
The other side characters - the kids, Kel's dad, Kel's dad's nurse - were all simply amazing. They all felt so three dimensional and caused me an adequate amount of pain and laughter both.
This book was just amazing. I loved every moment of it, even the parts that had me almost ugly crying because of how well Courtney W Dixon brought the pain. This was my first book by the author, and it will not be the last. They do hurt/comfort so incredibly well. Like trope defining well. It is easily one of my favorite hurt/comfort stories I've read.
Content warnings do apply for cancer and , but both topics are handled incredibly well.
** DISCLAIMER: I recieved an ARC from GRR and this is my fair and honest review. **
Then, there was Lily, Anders' ex wife. I was terrified when I realized she was a big character, especially early on. I thought that Dixon would do to her what so many other authors do to the ex-wife in these books - which is make them kind of reprehensible. Instead, she became an absolute delight. I loved her arc in this book and I hope that she appears in future books in the series, even just as a small cameo.
The other side characters - the kids, Kel's dad, Kel's dad's nurse - were all simply amazing. They all felt so three dimensional and caused me an adequate amount of pain and laughter both.
This book was just amazing. I loved every moment of it, even the parts that had me almost ugly crying because of how well Courtney W Dixon brought the pain. This was my first book by the author, and it will not be the last. They do hurt/comfort so incredibly well. Like trope defining well. It is easily one of my favorite hurt/comfort stories I've read.
Content warnings do apply for cancer and , but both topics are handled incredibly well.
** DISCLAIMER: I recieved an ARC from GRR and this is my fair and honest review. **
June 30, 2022
Impact Zone is book one in the new Ohana Surfing Club series by Courtney Dixon, and it is hot! I’ve never read a surf romance before, but I’m here for it!
Kel Quinn is barely hanging on! He’s trying to keep his family’s surf shop open while also taking care of his terminally I’ll father. Bankers and investors wanting him to sell his shop are pounding at the door. In order to make extra money, he reluctantly returns to working as an escort, a job he thought he’d left behind when he got his life together. On his first date, he meets Anders, a handsome man ten years his senior. Anders has just gone through a divorce and is ready to explore his sexuality. There’s an immediate connection between Kel and Anders, but when Anders crosses a line, Kel is done. A few weeks When Anders shows up at the surf shop he’s hoping to buy, he’s shocked to find Kel. The two strike a bargain - Kel can maintain half ownership of the surf shop and get enough money to pay his debts if he agrees to spend a month as Anders’s fake boyfriend. The more time the two spend together, the closer the two become. There are obstacles that threaten to drive the two apart, but if they can overcome their challenges, they might find true love.
I really love this book and cannot wait for more in the series. I love Hawaii’s North Shore as a setting. The characters are strongly-written, and the narrative is great. The setting of the surfing club as well as the other featured characters promise some good stories to come!
I know you’ll enjoy Impact Zone - be sure to let me know what you think so we can discuss!
Kel Quinn is barely hanging on! He’s trying to keep his family’s surf shop open while also taking care of his terminally I’ll father. Bankers and investors wanting him to sell his shop are pounding at the door. In order to make extra money, he reluctantly returns to working as an escort, a job he thought he’d left behind when he got his life together. On his first date, he meets Anders, a handsome man ten years his senior. Anders has just gone through a divorce and is ready to explore his sexuality. There’s an immediate connection between Kel and Anders, but when Anders crosses a line, Kel is done. A few weeks When Anders shows up at the surf shop he’s hoping to buy, he’s shocked to find Kel. The two strike a bargain - Kel can maintain half ownership of the surf shop and get enough money to pay his debts if he agrees to spend a month as Anders’s fake boyfriend. The more time the two spend together, the closer the two become. There are obstacles that threaten to drive the two apart, but if they can overcome their challenges, they might find true love.
I really love this book and cannot wait for more in the series. I love Hawaii’s North Shore as a setting. The characters are strongly-written, and the narrative is great. The setting of the surfing club as well as the other featured characters promise some good stories to come!
I know you’ll enjoy Impact Zone - be sure to let me know what you think so we can discuss!
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