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Balls to the Wall #6
Snow Balls
Can a man pretend to find true love? Big, handsome, and hunky, JJ LaRousse looks like an alpha male but acts like an interior decorator. And he's trying to be happy about it--until a robbery at the famous Laguna Winter Fantasy brings JJ face-to-face with tough cop, Ryan Star. JJ hears Ryan likes guys who are manly men, so he drops his voice an octave, colors over his pink hair, and tries to pass as a football fan. After all, his father always said he should be more macho. Ryan Star may be tough, but he hides in the closet at work. He learned in New York that being a gay cop can cost you your life. His attraction to the big, handsome JJ threatens his anonymity, but he can't seem to resist. JJ is just his type. But when JJ goes skiing and comes face to face with his greatest nemesis, all the secrets come out of the closet. Can Ryan love JJ for who he really is? More importantly, can JJ?
117 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 5, 2012
47 people are currently reading
479 people want to read
About the author
Tara Lain
97 books1,389 followersTara Lain believes in happy ever afters - and magic. Same thing. In fact, she says, she doesn't believe, she knows. Tara shares this passion in her stories that star her unique, charismatic heroes and adventurous heroines. Quarterbacks and cops, werewolves and witches, blue collar or billionaires, Tara's characters, readers say, love deeply, resolve seemingly insurmountable differences, and ultimately live their lives authentically. After many years living in southern California, Tara, her soulmate honey and her soulmate dog decided they wanted less cars and more trees, prompting a move to Ashland, Oregon where Tara's creating new stories and loving living in a small town with big culture. Likely a Gryffindor or maybe a Ravensclaw but possessed of Parseltongue, Tara loves animals of all kinds, diversity, open minds, coconut crunch ice cream from Zoeys, and her readers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 113 reviews
December 9, 2012
3.65 stars
I enjoyed this one and got sucked right into loving the guys, I couldn't help myself they were adorable. I had a soft spot for JJ, the twinkie who was trying to please Ryan the hunky cop by pretending to be something he wasn't, to make the right impression on Ryan. His efforts in being more macho so he could fit into what he thought Ryan wanted him to be, turned out to be drinking beer, attending a sport's game and skiing outdoors(which turned into a disaster)...oh how it came back to bite him literally. The Tarantula talk had me feeling a bit queasy too, I wanted to hug poor JJ who was trying to be brave. There is the big misunderstanding, which gets resolved by JJ saving Ryan in a spectacular fashion, he was scared but love and adrenaline gave him the courage to fly heh! Ryan and JJ were a good match they balanced each other out and were adorable at times.
I enjoyed this one and got sucked right into loving the guys, I couldn't help myself they were adorable. I had a soft spot for JJ, the twinkie who was trying to please Ryan the hunky cop by pretending to be something he wasn't, to make the right impression on Ryan. His efforts in being more macho so he could fit into what he thought Ryan wanted him to be, turned out to be drinking beer, attending a sport's game and skiing outdoors(which turned into a disaster)...oh how it came back to bite him literally. The Tarantula talk had me feeling a bit queasy too, I wanted to hug poor JJ who was trying to be brave. There is the big misunderstanding, which gets resolved by JJ saving Ryan in a spectacular fashion, he was scared but love and adrenaline gave him the courage to fly heh! Ryan and JJ were a good match they balanced each other out and were adorable at times.
December 9, 2017
Opposites attract,North pole attracts South pole but people hate to step out of their comfort zones. They have this idea to fall in love for someone who is a perfect copy of themselves. But love is all about risk and uncomfortable things.
That's what jj taught me and Ryan.
I loved JJ from the start and Ryan took some time but I liked him too.
That's what jj taught me and Ryan.
I loved JJ from the start and Ryan took some time but I liked him too.
December 13, 2012
I really enjoy these books and each one gets better. I think so far JJ may be my favorite character, you can't help but love him. I liked Ryan and understood why he was staying the closet, but really wanted more for JJ. I like how we also get to see glimpses of the characters from the other books. I am looking forward to seeing more of the Laguna guys.
April 21, 2015
So... I guess the moral of this story is that you should totes pretend to be someone you're not in order to win the boy. Then, when you've tricked him into loving you, reveal your true self. He will compare you to a whore, never apologize for that comment, and prove (repeatedly) that he isn't completely comfortable with all of your more flamboyant personality quirks. But don't over think it - you should totally ignore all of these things and settle because... you love him too? I guess? I guess.
This book also has the honour of having some of the least sexy sex scenes I've ever read. I think the author was probably going for lighthearted realism and humour, but I just got bad porn soundtrack (ride me, Paul Revere!).
I seem to be the only one of my friends who didn't at least "like" this book, though, so take that for what you will.
This book also has the honour of having some of the least sexy sex scenes I've ever read. I think the author was probably going for lighthearted realism and humour, but I just got bad porn soundtrack (ride me, Paul Revere!).
I seem to be the only one of my friends who didn't at least "like" this book, though, so take that for what you will.
December 19, 2012
Sweet God of really cute Balls Books!
Sorry, I couldn't resist a little JJ speak ! ;)
JJ as a tall and manly looking guy is a bit of a contradiction to how he feels and sees himself.
He wants to be a decorator, he is very good at it and starting to get his own commissions, he is working at David's gallery and going to school.
Ryan Star is a cop who after a truly horrible breach of trust from his fellow officer left NYC and moved to Laguna.
They meet when JJ gives Ryan a description of Santa and his elves who happens to be stealing from stands at the Winter Festival. Ryan who is very closeted, is attracted to JJ and despite knowing he shouldn't risk it, asks him out and poor JJ likes Ryan so much he tries to conform and be the guy he thinks Ryan will want. I really liked that even though his friends knew what he was doing and didn't really think he should, they were supportive and helpful, sometimes friends trying to help only succeed in making people feel worse.
JJ has officially surpassed Rodney as a favorite Balls MC for me, I have to say his sweet god quotes were fun, I kept waiting for the next one..just a few of them:
“Oh God of sweet homosexual love."
“Sweet God of Calvin Klein, he’s wearing a scarf.”
“Sweet God of horny decorators”
I loved when JJ finally stood up for who he really was and I actually wished for a little bit of groveling from Ryan, but it was still very satisfying! Ryan isn't a bad guy at all, and he finally saw the treasure right in front of him, I just wished he hadn't thought of JJ as 'kid' so often, that always makes me remind myself that, no he isn't a kid!
So after finishing this one, it was just what I wanted and expected, a cute, sweet-feel-good story and I'm hoping the twins get their story soon! *hint* lol
My only complain and you all should know what's coming, since I make no secret of being greedy, I wanted more!
Sorry, I couldn't resist a little JJ speak ! ;)
JJ as a tall and manly looking guy is a bit of a contradiction to how he feels and sees himself.
He wants to be a decorator, he is very good at it and starting to get his own commissions, he is working at David's gallery and going to school.
Ryan Star is a cop who after a truly horrible breach of trust from his fellow officer left NYC and moved to Laguna.
They meet when JJ gives Ryan a description of Santa and his elves who happens to be stealing from stands at the Winter Festival. Ryan who is very closeted, is attracted to JJ and despite knowing he shouldn't risk it, asks him out and poor JJ likes Ryan so much he tries to conform and be the guy he thinks Ryan will want. I really liked that even though his friends knew what he was doing and didn't really think he should, they were supportive and helpful, sometimes friends trying to help only succeed in making people feel worse.
JJ has officially surpassed Rodney as a favorite Balls MC for me, I have to say his sweet god quotes were fun, I kept waiting for the next one..just a few of them:
“Oh God of sweet homosexual love."
“Sweet God of Calvin Klein, he’s wearing a scarf.”
“Sweet God of horny decorators”
I loved when JJ finally stood up for who he really was and I actually wished for a little bit of groveling from Ryan, but it was still very satisfying! Ryan isn't a bad guy at all, and he finally saw the treasure right in front of him, I just wished he hadn't thought of JJ as 'kid' so often, that always makes me remind myself that, no he isn't a kid!
So after finishing this one, it was just what I wanted and expected, a cute, sweet-feel-good story and I'm hoping the twins get their story soon! *hint* lol
My only complain and you all should know what's coming, since I make no secret of being greedy, I wanted more!
December 8, 2017
This review was originally posted on (un)Conventional Bookviews
Welcome to my stop on the Snow Balls blogtour! Snow Ball was a delightful story, with a lot of light-hearted situations, albeit with some underlying themes like discrimination as well.
Story:
As always, Lain grabbed hold of my attention and kept it from start to finish! Snow Balls was such a sweet, but still strong story! About how difficult it can be to come out of that closet. And once that happens, all the heartache and pain that come with it. This made the beginning of a new relationship very difficult, as one of the guys was way out, while the other had more or less crawled back in.
Characters:
JJ was the kind of character I'd like to have as a friend. He was loyal, and very comfortably out. However, he still had some lingering doubts once he met Ryan. Was he manly enough? Strong enough? And I think those little doubts just made me love him more.
Ryan was a police officer, recently moved from NYC to Laguna. And he felt like he had no choice but to return to the closet. Even if JJ was awesome. And out. And probably just the man for him.
The secondary characters were awesome - from JJ's friends to clients of the gallery where he worked. I had some good laughs with some ladies buying very risqué art.
Feels :
I loved that there were even some suspense elements to Snow Balls. There was also that feeling of a new romance, with beating hearts and heavy breathing. I felt strongly for the main characters, and wanted to cheer for them when things went well for them.
Snow Balls giveaway:
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Snow Balls excerpt:
Balls to the Wall info:
You can find your copy of Balls to the Walls by following these links:
Goodreads | Dreamspinner | Kindle | iTunes | Kobo | Nook
About Tara Lain:
Thanks for stopping by today! Good luck in the Giveaway!
Welcome to my stop on the Snow Balls blogtour! Snow Ball was a delightful story, with a lot of light-hearted situations, albeit with some underlying themes like discrimination as well.
Story:
As always, Lain grabbed hold of my attention and kept it from start to finish! Snow Balls was such a sweet, but still strong story! About how difficult it can be to come out of that closet. And once that happens, all the heartache and pain that come with it. This made the beginning of a new relationship very difficult, as one of the guys was way out, while the other had more or less crawled back in.
Characters:
JJ was the kind of character I'd like to have as a friend. He was loyal, and very comfortably out. However, he still had some lingering doubts once he met Ryan. Was he manly enough? Strong enough? And I think those little doubts just made me love him more.
Ryan was a police officer, recently moved from NYC to Laguna. And he felt like he had no choice but to return to the closet. Even if JJ was awesome. And out. And probably just the man for him.
The secondary characters were awesome - from JJ's friends to clients of the gallery where he worked. I had some good laughs with some ladies buying very risqué art.
Feels :
I loved that there were even some suspense elements to Snow Balls. There was also that feeling of a new romance, with beating hearts and heavy breathing. I felt strongly for the main characters, and wanted to cheer for them when things went well for them.
Snow Balls giveaway:
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Snow Balls excerpt:
Balls to the Wall info:
You can find your copy of Balls to the Walls by following these links:
Goodreads | Dreamspinner | Kindle | iTunes | Kobo | Nook
About Tara Lain:
Tara Lain writes the Beautiful Boys of Romance in gay romance novels that star her unique, charismatic heroes. Her first novel was published in January of 2011 and she’s now somewhere around book 40. Her best-selling novels have garnered awards for Best Series, Best Contemporary Romance, Best Paranormal Romance, Best Ménage, Best LGBT Romance, Best Gay Characters, Best Romantic Suspense, and more. In her other job, Tara owns an advertising and public relations firm. She often does workshops on both author promotion and writing craft. She lives with her soul-mate husband and her soul-mate dog near the sea in California where she sets a lot of her books. Passionate about diversity, justice, and new experiences, Tara says on her tombstone it will say “Yes”!
Author Links:
Website | Blog | Twitter | FB Author Page | Goodreads | Pinterest
Thanks for stopping by today! Good luck in the Giveaway!
December 12, 2012
3.5 stars. JJ is very cute and really funny. I was sad that he felt he had to change who he was for Ryan to like him and the reasons behind it. Ryan's issues were a little sad as well. I liked these guys together, although I didn't feel the chemistry quite as much as some of the other couples in this series. I have to say I have never heard of a cock being spronged before. I am hoping Bobby and Robin will get their own story.
December 12, 2012
3.5 stars
I liked J.J. a lot. He was a really sweet guy and his running commentary in his head was so funny at times. I loved him at the football game. Even though the red flag should have been yellow :-)
Ryan was a good guy but until you learn the whys behind his fear of coming out, he comes across as selfish.
I was really happy to see them work out their issues...but never had any doubts.
I liked J.J. a lot. He was a really sweet guy and his running commentary in his head was so funny at times. I loved him at the football game. Even though the red flag should have been yellow :-)
Ryan was a good guy but until you learn the whys behind his fear of coming out, he comes across as selfish.
I was really happy to see them work out their issues...but never had any doubts.
August 25, 2013
Such a cute and lovely story!
It was interesting to read about 'big, handsome, hunky' JJ LaRousse whose appearance just doesn't fit with how he sees himself "It just happened that JJ was a pansy. All pink and purple and multipetaled." He wants to be an interior decorator, he's scared of spiders and he doesn't do sports.
Ryan is a closeted cop, with very good reason for not wanting to come out at work. He and JJ embark on a relationship but it is based on lies as JJ tries to be what he thinks Ryan wants - a sports keen, beer drinking male. But eventually it all comes out!
Lots of humour, lots of loving and some surprising heroic actions!
I now publish all my m/m reviews on my blog so if you want to see all my m/m reviews in one place come visit at Because Two Men Are Better Than One!
It was interesting to read about 'big, handsome, hunky' JJ LaRousse whose appearance just doesn't fit with how he sees himself "It just happened that JJ was a pansy. All pink and purple and multipetaled." He wants to be an interior decorator, he's scared of spiders and he doesn't do sports.
Ryan is a closeted cop, with very good reason for not wanting to come out at work. He and JJ embark on a relationship but it is based on lies as JJ tries to be what he thinks Ryan wants - a sports keen, beer drinking male. But eventually it all comes out!
Lots of humour, lots of loving and some surprising heroic actions!
I now publish all my m/m reviews on my blog so if you want to see all my m/m reviews in one place come visit at Because Two Men Are Better Than One!
December 11, 2012
JJ's the sterotypical flaming queen. All fluttering hands and eyelashes...and studying to be an interior decorator. What else. He's also lovable, good and utterly precious.
Ryan, is the quintessential opposite. JJ's the kind of guy Ryan, the closeted macho cop, would never be caught dead with. So JJ pretends he's anything but a flaming drama queen. He's rather good at the pretense. Until he comes undone at the sight of a little arachnid on his bed.
Predictable plot and one done to death but so well-executed. I loved it. Five stars with no qualms.
(I have a few Tara Lains bought some time back but never got round to reading. Looks like I will now:)
Ryan, is the quintessential opposite. JJ's the kind of guy Ryan, the closeted macho cop, would never be caught dead with. So JJ pretends he's anything but a flaming drama queen. He's rather good at the pretense. Until he comes undone at the sight of a little arachnid on his bed.
Predictable plot and one done to death but so well-executed. I loved it. Five stars with no qualms.
(I have a few Tara Lains bought some time back but never got round to reading. Looks like I will now:)
December 9, 2012
4.0 Stars
Jamison "JJ" LaRousse is a 6'4" hunk with a soft heart. Although JJ looks like an alpha male, his fluttering hands, pink hair, and high voice scream fruity interior decorator. And he's fine with that ... sorta. JJ has paid a high price for coming out and he's learning to be more comfortable in his own skin. So what in the world would make JJ drop his voice an octave, color over his pink hair, and try to pass as a football fan (when he barely knows what a football is)? Answer: Detective Ryan Star. Ryan is the officer assigned to interview JJ after he witnesses a robbery at the Laguna Winter Fantasy where he works. JJ is totally smitten with the tough cop and when he learns that Ryan likes more masculine men, JJ sucks it up and does everything he can to act the alpha that he appears to be. Ryan is a transplant from New York City where he narrowly escaped with his life. In Laguna Beach, Ryan remains closeted having learned a hard lesson back east about just how gay-unfriendly the men in blue can be. Although Ryan's attraction to JJ threatens his anonymity, he can’t resist. Together, Ryan and JJ face off against a knife-wielding Santa, a thieving elf, and a bunch of hairy, scary spiders to find their way to HEA.
I really enjoyed this book. It was funny and sweet. I loved both MCs. JJ was a hoot. I liked the contrast between his looks and his personality. He was such a lovable character. I sympathized with him for the situation he found himself in and the choices he was forced to make (although he was in part to blame) vis-a-vis Ryan. I understood the reason for JJ's charade at first but the longer it went on, the more agonizing it became. I also felt bad for Ryan; the lies and deceit - no matter how innocuously they began - were hurtful. I didn't like that he was mostly in the closet and that he asked JJ (who worked hard to come out and suffered for it) to accept it, but I understood given his past. I liked that Ryan wanted to be different and eventually manned up.
Tara Lain's writing style was a joy to read. She's funny and wrote some steamy love scenes (always a plus in my book). This is the first book I've read in this series but I'm eager to read the others.
Bottom line: a light and romantic Christmas story (with some angst) about how looks are sometimes deceiving but in the end it's what's underneath that counts.
Jamison "JJ" LaRousse is a 6'4" hunk with a soft heart. Although JJ looks like an alpha male, his fluttering hands, pink hair, and high voice scream fruity interior decorator. And he's fine with that ... sorta. JJ has paid a high price for coming out and he's learning to be more comfortable in his own skin. So what in the world would make JJ drop his voice an octave, color over his pink hair, and try to pass as a football fan (when he barely knows what a football is)? Answer: Detective Ryan Star. Ryan is the officer assigned to interview JJ after he witnesses a robbery at the Laguna Winter Fantasy where he works. JJ is totally smitten with the tough cop and when he learns that Ryan likes more masculine men, JJ sucks it up and does everything he can to act the alpha that he appears to be. Ryan is a transplant from New York City where he narrowly escaped with his life. In Laguna Beach, Ryan remains closeted having learned a hard lesson back east about just how gay-unfriendly the men in blue can be. Although Ryan's attraction to JJ threatens his anonymity, he can’t resist. Together, Ryan and JJ face off against a knife-wielding Santa, a thieving elf, and a bunch of hairy, scary spiders to find their way to HEA.
I really enjoyed this book. It was funny and sweet. I loved both MCs. JJ was a hoot. I liked the contrast between his looks and his personality. He was such a lovable character. I sympathized with him for the situation he found himself in and the choices he was forced to make (although he was in part to blame) vis-a-vis Ryan. I understood the reason for JJ's charade at first but the longer it went on, the more agonizing it became. I also felt bad for Ryan; the lies and deceit - no matter how innocuously they began - were hurtful. I didn't like that he was mostly in the closet and that he asked JJ (who worked hard to come out and suffered for it) to accept it, but I understood given his past. I liked that Ryan wanted to be different and eventually manned up.
Tara Lain's writing style was a joy to read. She's funny and wrote some steamy love scenes (always a plus in my book). This is the first book I've read in this series but I'm eager to read the others.
Bottom line: a light and romantic Christmas story (with some angst) about how looks are sometimes deceiving but in the end it's what's underneath that counts.
May 18, 2013
I've read practically all Tara Lains books and find them fun and sexy. The " Balls To The Wall " series has been exceptionally enjoyable, this is book 4. All set around the arty part of Laguna Beach CA they each feature a couple or in book one a ménage, consisting of one very flamboyant openly gay man, who falls for a more macho man (or 2 as the case may be) or alpha ' straight' guy, and they are just so much fun whilst at the same time being very hot and sexy with great chemistry and ST between the two main MC's - JJ Larrouse and Ryan Star sizzle (as usual) in this one! JJ is such a lovely guy ,looks straight but is extremely gay and flamboyant so he tries to act straight for Ryan who is gay but doesn't go for over feminine guys. This makes for some fun moments but is also quite poignant too, as you see JJ struggle against his true nature for a man he falls for hook, line and sinker, bless him. So, I suppose you could say they all follow the same premise but because the characters are so quirky and loveable in this series , it never gets old and all the previous characters make an appearance in each book so you get to see all of your faves again. Lightweight sexy romances that are easy to read, not to be taken too seriously and fun with a capital F! Just sit back with a cuppa, turn off 'the world' for a couple of hours and enjoy........... The same goes for the rest of the series, I would award it 5*'s overall. In fact check out her other books too, all enjoyable and written in her own unique style that never fails to make me smile. Twins or Jerry's story next - I wonder........?
December 10, 2012
Tara's done it again. Well, of course she's delivered another tale of life and love in Laguna Beach. More to the point, she's ramped up her storytelling again. We've become accustomed to beautiful boys working out their romantic issues, surprising us along the way with the depth of their commitment. Now she's bringing us a character whose life has been truly damaged by coming out in the workplace.
No, I won't put in spoilers, but I will bring up another epiphany on my part, through Tara's writing. It took meeting JJ to realize how poorly gay men are treated in movies. Remember Jeff Goldblum's totally ineffectual assistant in "Independence Day?" He fluttered and flustered and waved his hands around until you just wanted to smack him. It seems he was the token gay for that movie, even though it's very likely at least some of the brave pilots who attacked the mothership were also gay.
JJ fans his hands and bounces around and "acts gay" until he tries to be someone he's not, to please the man of his dreams. But JJ's mannerisms are a manifestation of his personality, not a Hollywood stereotype. Both he and Ryan need to look beyond the surface to the wonderful people they really are, and learn to accept themselves and each other.
A wonderful read, thank you Tara.
No, I won't put in spoilers, but I will bring up another epiphany on my part, through Tara's writing. It took meeting JJ to realize how poorly gay men are treated in movies. Remember Jeff Goldblum's totally ineffectual assistant in "Independence Day?" He fluttered and flustered and waved his hands around until you just wanted to smack him. It seems he was the token gay for that movie, even though it's very likely at least some of the brave pilots who attacked the mothership were also gay.
JJ fans his hands and bounces around and "acts gay" until he tries to be someone he's not, to please the man of his dreams. But JJ's mannerisms are a manifestation of his personality, not a Hollywood stereotype. Both he and Ryan need to look beyond the surface to the wonderful people they really are, and learn to accept themselves and each other.
A wonderful read, thank you Tara.
December 11, 2012
I think JJ is now in my top 10 all-time favorite characters. I loved him. JJ is a witness to a crime and meets Det. Ryan Star while giving his account of what happened. JJ decides to hide his flamboyant ways so that Ryan will like him and they start dating. The problem... Ryan is in the closet and really likes JJ's fake persona. Things come to a head around Christmas and JJ and Ryan are forced to face their demons. This is one of my favorites of the Balls to the Wall series.
December 28, 2012
4.5 Stars!
Another excellent addition to this series! You get to see more of the couples from previous books and I really enjoyed JJ's character. The story line is a little different from any I have yet read and I really enjoyed it. Now I would really like a story for the twins!
Another excellent addition to this series! You get to see more of the couples from previous books and I really enjoyed JJ's character. The story line is a little different from any I have yet read and I really enjoyed it. Now I would really like a story for the twins!
December 7, 2017
Full review available at: https://optimumm.blog/2017/12/06/revi...
Snow Balls is another fabulous book in the Balls to the Wall series. Snow Balls is the sixth book in the series by Tara Lain. The story is well written, nicely edited, and has great flow. The characters are loveable and complex. I loved the storyline and getting to see cameos of the other characters in the series. I adore this series, and I was so excited when I found out that Snow Balls was going to be about JJ LaRousse.
JJ LaRousse is such a loveable queen. He has the biggest most outgoing personality. He will do anything for his friends. He works for David at his gallery and during the winter at the famous Laguna Winter Fantasy. JJ’s personality doesn’t match his looks, however. He looks like a quarterback, and if he were to take out the pink highlights in his hair and stop speaking with his hands, he could pass as a straight guy. And it has taken him a long time to become comfortable with who he is and not who his father wishes him to be. JJ hates sports and anything physical.
His idea of a good time is to go to the theater or socialize with his artist friends. I loved his excited manners and how everything he says or does has an extra helping of drama. The only thing missing from his character is that he isn’t a drag queen. However, he’s still young, and I could see him as a drag queen as he gets older. When the Winter Fantasy gets robbed, JJ is one of the few witnesses that both got a good look at both robbers and talked to them also. The officer assigned to the case is tough cop Ryan Star. JJ hears from a coworker that Ryan likes manly men, and so he drops his voice, hides his hair under a sports team baseball cap from a friend, and tries to pass as a football fan.
Ryan Star keeps his sexuality to himself at work. He learned in New York that being a gay cop can be deadly. He’s out to his captain only and his group of friends. Since he’s in the closet, he prefers to date manly men who he can pass as straight friends should anybody question why he’s out with a guy. When he’s assigned the case to question the witnesses at the Winter Fantasy robbery, he meets the perfect guy for him. JJ is everything he is looking for or so he thinks. He’s built like a quarterback, manly, and is into sports. They start off a relationship on the down low which looks like hanging out with a new straight friend to everybody else. But all good things have to come to an end. And when Ryan and JJ go on a ski trip, and his biggest nemesis confronts JJ, all the facades come crashing down. In the aftermath, can Ryan love JJ for who he really is? Can JJ?
I know the answer, but you’re going to have to read the book to find out. If you are a fan of Tara Lain books and this series in particular, then you don’t want to miss this story. I loved it, and I know you will too.
***The ARC was provided by Dreamspinner Press. My review is an honest opinion of the book ***
Snow Balls is another fabulous book in the Balls to the Wall series. Snow Balls is the sixth book in the series by Tara Lain. The story is well written, nicely edited, and has great flow. The characters are loveable and complex. I loved the storyline and getting to see cameos of the other characters in the series. I adore this series, and I was so excited when I found out that Snow Balls was going to be about JJ LaRousse.
JJ LaRousse is such a loveable queen. He has the biggest most outgoing personality. He will do anything for his friends. He works for David at his gallery and during the winter at the famous Laguna Winter Fantasy. JJ’s personality doesn’t match his looks, however. He looks like a quarterback, and if he were to take out the pink highlights in his hair and stop speaking with his hands, he could pass as a straight guy. And it has taken him a long time to become comfortable with who he is and not who his father wishes him to be. JJ hates sports and anything physical.
His idea of a good time is to go to the theater or socialize with his artist friends. I loved his excited manners and how everything he says or does has an extra helping of drama. The only thing missing from his character is that he isn’t a drag queen. However, he’s still young, and I could see him as a drag queen as he gets older. When the Winter Fantasy gets robbed, JJ is one of the few witnesses that both got a good look at both robbers and talked to them also. The officer assigned to the case is tough cop Ryan Star. JJ hears from a coworker that Ryan likes manly men, and so he drops his voice, hides his hair under a sports team baseball cap from a friend, and tries to pass as a football fan.
Ryan Star keeps his sexuality to himself at work. He learned in New York that being a gay cop can be deadly. He’s out to his captain only and his group of friends. Since he’s in the closet, he prefers to date manly men who he can pass as straight friends should anybody question why he’s out with a guy. When he’s assigned the case to question the witnesses at the Winter Fantasy robbery, he meets the perfect guy for him. JJ is everything he is looking for or so he thinks. He’s built like a quarterback, manly, and is into sports. They start off a relationship on the down low which looks like hanging out with a new straight friend to everybody else. But all good things have to come to an end. And when Ryan and JJ go on a ski trip, and his biggest nemesis confronts JJ, all the facades come crashing down. In the aftermath, can Ryan love JJ for who he really is? Can JJ?
I know the answer, but you’re going to have to read the book to find out. If you are a fan of Tara Lain books and this series in particular, then you don’t want to miss this story. I loved it, and I know you will too.
***The ARC was provided by Dreamspinner Press. My review is an honest opinion of the book ***
November 20, 2017
Tara is giving us another book in the Balls to the Wall series. This is JJ's story.
I love JJ, he is a big guy but very flamboyant. He works at the gallery and also goes to school for design.
When a robbery takes place JJ is a witness and when the policy officer comes to question him , JJ can't get over how gorgeous he is.
The story is about JJ and Ryan and how you can't judge a book by it's cover. We get both POV's in this story which I love.
All the guys are back to help JJ learns that he is great the way he is and not to change to fit someone's expectations. JJ thinks in order to get the guy , he has to be all butch which at first is what gets Ryan's attention.
Ryan is a police officer who moved from NYC to be himself. He had a hard time coming out before he moved but now he loves his life. He thinks his life is going well until he meets JJ. JJ is just his type, a big alpha man or so he thinks.
He meets JJ and can't stop thinking about him so he asks him out. Ryan thinks JJ is butch but little does he know that JJ is far from it.
I enjoyed how they get to know each other and realize that they click. Their chemistry is there from the start and once JJ comes clean, you can see it better. Both men needed to learn to be themselves so that they can be with each other.
I was a little bit surprised Tara had the relationship move so fast. The angst comes in when JJ reveals his true self to Ryan. It would have been nice to slow down the story when they get back to together. It moved too fast for me at that point.
I recommend this series because all the characters are really a great bunch of men trying to live their lives and find true love. Bring on Robin's story.
*ARC provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Jodi from Alpha Book Club
I love JJ, he is a big guy but very flamboyant. He works at the gallery and also goes to school for design.
When a robbery takes place JJ is a witness and when the policy officer comes to question him , JJ can't get over how gorgeous he is.
The story is about JJ and Ryan and how you can't judge a book by it's cover. We get both POV's in this story which I love.
All the guys are back to help JJ learns that he is great the way he is and not to change to fit someone's expectations. JJ thinks in order to get the guy , he has to be all butch which at first is what gets Ryan's attention.
Ryan is a police officer who moved from NYC to be himself. He had a hard time coming out before he moved but now he loves his life. He thinks his life is going well until he meets JJ. JJ is just his type, a big alpha man or so he thinks.
He meets JJ and can't stop thinking about him so he asks him out. Ryan thinks JJ is butch but little does he know that JJ is far from it.
I enjoyed how they get to know each other and realize that they click. Their chemistry is there from the start and once JJ comes clean, you can see it better. Both men needed to learn to be themselves so that they can be with each other.
I was a little bit surprised Tara had the relationship move so fast. The angst comes in when JJ reveals his true self to Ryan. It would have been nice to slow down the story when they get back to together. It moved too fast for me at that point.
I recommend this series because all the characters are really a great bunch of men trying to live their lives and find true love. Bring on Robin's story.
*ARC provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Jodi from Alpha Book Club
December 7, 2022
Snow Balls
By Tara Lein
JJ looks like a football player. He's tall and pretty in a manly way, but in reality, he has a flair for the dramatic, brightly colored hair, an excited voice, and hands that just won't stop waving around. He's a bit frustrated because at 6'4, he's always surrounded by twinks who assume he's an exclusive top and want JJ to take care of them. In reality, JJ wants to be taken care of. When he feels he has to act the opposite of who he is inside to catch a cop's eye, he might find he wishes he was truthful about his inner personality from the beginning.
Ryan is a cop on the lookout for a Santa and an elf who stole jewelry from the town square during the Winter Fantasy Arts & Craft show. When he gets a look at the handsome JJ, he's smitten and already trying to come up with ways he can get JJ to spend more time with him. But when the truth comes out, will he be able to handle JJ's inner light?
I adored JJ with his waving hands, excitable personality, and all that makes him oh so... JJ. (And for once, the model on the book cover is exactly how JJ is described as looking in the book.) As for Ryan, he's had it tough being a gay cop on the force. Anyone would understand his hesitation at coming out in his new station. That said, there were still times I wanted to flick him on the forehead for being callous to JJ. I liked all of JJ's friends as well.
It had a running background story (the robbery), but most of the book was actually JJ and Ryan together, which was nice. There's pretty much no Christmas aspect to it and a single party New Year's Eve. So it's more of a winteresque kind of story. I very much enjoyed it and added it to my reread folder.
The book is mostly in JJ's POV. Some chapters are in Ryan's.
By Tara Lein
JJ looks like a football player. He's tall and pretty in a manly way, but in reality, he has a flair for the dramatic, brightly colored hair, an excited voice, and hands that just won't stop waving around. He's a bit frustrated because at 6'4, he's always surrounded by twinks who assume he's an exclusive top and want JJ to take care of them. In reality, JJ wants to be taken care of. When he feels he has to act the opposite of who he is inside to catch a cop's eye, he might find he wishes he was truthful about his inner personality from the beginning.
Ryan is a cop on the lookout for a Santa and an elf who stole jewelry from the town square during the Winter Fantasy Arts & Craft show. When he gets a look at the handsome JJ, he's smitten and already trying to come up with ways he can get JJ to spend more time with him. But when the truth comes out, will he be able to handle JJ's inner light?
I adored JJ with his waving hands, excitable personality, and all that makes him oh so... JJ. (And for once, the model on the book cover is exactly how JJ is described as looking in the book.) As for Ryan, he's had it tough being a gay cop on the force. Anyone would understand his hesitation at coming out in his new station. That said, there were still times I wanted to flick him on the forehead for being callous to JJ. I liked all of JJ's friends as well.
It had a running background story (the robbery), but most of the book was actually JJ and Ryan together, which was nice. There's pretty much no Christmas aspect to it and a single party New Year's Eve. So it's more of a winteresque kind of story. I very much enjoyed it and added it to my reread folder.
The book is mostly in JJ's POV. Some chapters are in Ryan's.
December 1, 2017
I received a copy to read and review for Wicked Reads
I really like this series. It is low on angst and high on love and emotions. JJ and Ryan are so cute together. They both like each other instantly, even though JJ is pretending to be someone he isn't. Once Ryan knows the truth he reevaluates his outlook. This was a fast paced story, like I said low on angst and full of love. We see several of the characters from previous books which was nice, even if it was briefly. Sweet holiday read on a cold afternoon.
I really like this series. It is low on angst and high on love and emotions. JJ and Ryan are so cute together. They both like each other instantly, even though JJ is pretending to be someone he isn't. Once Ryan knows the truth he reevaluates his outlook. This was a fast paced story, like I said low on angst and full of love. We see several of the characters from previous books which was nice, even if it was briefly. Sweet holiday read on a cold afternoon.
December 8, 2012
I thoroughly enjoy this series of books and was just tickled pink (hmmm, not as pink as JJ gets into mind you) when I discovered that a Christmas themed story was coming out in the series. It was a light read, but as with all the books in the series there is a deft touch that also reveals there is substance underlying some of the fun and antics.
In this story, JJ LaRousse, who thought he was past his identity crisis and was comfortable in his own skin, spies Ryan Star and decides that Ryan is worth the effort of pretending to be someone he's not.
JJ works for David's art gallery while he is going to college for interior design. He is an openly gay man who could be described by some less kindly souls as 'flaming' gay. The problem that JJ runs into? He's 6'4" and over two hundred pounds of hunkiness. Nobody of his acquaintance other than a trusted few even guess that brawny looking JJ might be looking for someone else to be the alpha male so he is stuck playing a part when he gets with other men because of his appearance.
That is until into his life walks detective Ryan Star. Ryan has come to the winter festival to investigate a jewelry robbery at one of the artisan booths. JJ is the eye witness. JJ takes one look at Ryan and determines that he wants Ryan to think well of him and do what it takes to be with him. JJ decides to hide his true self to make Ryan like him. (His antics and internal dialogue got to be quite comical as he tried to play the role of manly man.)
Ryan had a horrendous experience back in NYC as a gay cop so he is determined to play it safe in Laguna Beach. He is in the closet and very reserved around his fellow cops. He made rules for himself including not seeing anyone close to the job or to his home. All the rules start flying out the window when he meets big JJ La Rousse. JJ is everything he has always wanted or so it would seem. But startling things happen and make him realize that he has a big shot at personal happiness if he is willing to take a gamble in his life.
I really enjoyed this plot. I loved how Ms. Lain set up things by allowing me to get to know both men and watch them slowly work their way toward a relationship of sorts all the while I was wondering when the ax would fall. There was that tension of knowing that JJ was living a lie and wondering how Ryan would take it. Then there was also their other trouble that they were at two different places in life. JJ is out; Ryan is not. While this is a light read in many ways, it touches on several things that are important for a lasting relationship to happen.
The characters were such opposites in ways, but they filled a need in each other on a very personal level. My heart almost broke when I learned what made Ryan as suspicious and determined to keep everyone from knowing that he is gay and to discover what had happened in JJ's past to make him so vulnerable to pain about who and what he was. They really needed each other. I still laugh over JJ and his spider phobia.
Oh and in case you are thinking that there are no JJ's out there and its a pretty far fetched character? I know two JJs and they really have a hard time of it because we are all so prone to judging by appearances.
I suppose the book could be read as a stand a lone or out of order in the series if necessary, but there are scenes with the characters from the other books that might giveaway some of their stories so its probably best just to read them in order. Loved seeing all the others return even for small bit roles. Now if only poor Jerry will find his special someone- pretty please?
Nice strong installment to the series that I can easily recommend to those who love m/m contemporary romance.
In this story, JJ LaRousse, who thought he was past his identity crisis and was comfortable in his own skin, spies Ryan Star and decides that Ryan is worth the effort of pretending to be someone he's not.
JJ works for David's art gallery while he is going to college for interior design. He is an openly gay man who could be described by some less kindly souls as 'flaming' gay. The problem that JJ runs into? He's 6'4" and over two hundred pounds of hunkiness. Nobody of his acquaintance other than a trusted few even guess that brawny looking JJ might be looking for someone else to be the alpha male so he is stuck playing a part when he gets with other men because of his appearance.
That is until into his life walks detective Ryan Star. Ryan has come to the winter festival to investigate a jewelry robbery at one of the artisan booths. JJ is the eye witness. JJ takes one look at Ryan and determines that he wants Ryan to think well of him and do what it takes to be with him. JJ decides to hide his true self to make Ryan like him. (His antics and internal dialogue got to be quite comical as he tried to play the role of manly man.)
Ryan had a horrendous experience back in NYC as a gay cop so he is determined to play it safe in Laguna Beach. He is in the closet and very reserved around his fellow cops. He made rules for himself including not seeing anyone close to the job or to his home. All the rules start flying out the window when he meets big JJ La Rousse. JJ is everything he has always wanted or so it would seem. But startling things happen and make him realize that he has a big shot at personal happiness if he is willing to take a gamble in his life.
I really enjoyed this plot. I loved how Ms. Lain set up things by allowing me to get to know both men and watch them slowly work their way toward a relationship of sorts all the while I was wondering when the ax would fall. There was that tension of knowing that JJ was living a lie and wondering how Ryan would take it. Then there was also their other trouble that they were at two different places in life. JJ is out; Ryan is not. While this is a light read in many ways, it touches on several things that are important for a lasting relationship to happen.
The characters were such opposites in ways, but they filled a need in each other on a very personal level. My heart almost broke when I learned what made Ryan as suspicious and determined to keep everyone from knowing that he is gay and to discover what had happened in JJ's past to make him so vulnerable to pain about who and what he was. They really needed each other. I still laugh over JJ and his spider phobia.
Oh and in case you are thinking that there are no JJ's out there and its a pretty far fetched character? I know two JJs and they really have a hard time of it because we are all so prone to judging by appearances.
I suppose the book could be read as a stand a lone or out of order in the series if necessary, but there are scenes with the characters from the other books that might giveaway some of their stories so its probably best just to read them in order. Loved seeing all the others return even for small bit roles. Now if only poor Jerry will find his special someone- pretty please?
Nice strong installment to the series that I can easily recommend to those who love m/m contemporary romance.
July 29, 2020
Sometimes it's inconvenient to be ourselves, but, as JJ from 'Snow Balls' by Tara Lain learns, taking what may seem to be the path of least resistance, is, truthfully, the most difficult path one could choose. The deceit and lies necessary to maintain the facade cause more discomfort than ever. Even though he knows in his heart that it's wrong, JJ still tries to pretend to be someone he's not. Predictably, by trying to be what he thinks Ryan wants, he causes an even bigger mess, one that will take a lot to remedy.
JJ is such a sweet guy and his friends love him just the swishy way he is. One thing that really tickled me and added to his personality were the expressions he comes up with to express himself such as “Sweet God of desperate gay boys," or “Oh my God of CSI." JJ is a talented young man with an affable personality and tons of compassion. If only JJ could see how they see him then he wouldn't feel the need to hide behind a macho disguise in order to impress Ryan. My contention is that if he and Ryan had the instant connection they seem to, then there would be no need to hide. Ryan would like JJ no matter what. In a conversation with his friend Robby, JJ tells him that Ryan didn't like him, he liked the guy that he thought he was. Robby's reply says it all: “Oh really. When do you get your Academy Award, dear?” - “I didn’t realize you were such a brilliant actor that you could disguise your intelligence, sensitivity, talent, and basic goodness while pretending to like football.”
Ryan has his own problems. It's getting close in the closet and he really wants to burst out, but he's scared and rightly so. He doesn't fancy being shot at again because he is gay. His feelings for JJ are quite compelling and it's hard for him to deny the attraction. Ryan knows that it's not fair to JJ for him and really tries to balance seeing JJ and staying in the closet, but it's not the kind of thing one can balance. Ryan makes a real effort to be open with JJ and include him in his life doing things that he thought JJ would enjoy doing. The problem is, since JJ is pretending to be someone he is not, Ryan couldn't possibly know what JJ wanted to do, so both of them end up being miserable. Eventually, the truth comes out and with it comes a lot of bad feelings. Ryan is shocked to find out that JJ had been acting a part all this time and feels betrayed. When he finally gets to know the real JJ, Ryan realizes that they have more in common than seems apparent and, with both working on it, the relation can become even more intense.
Tara's men are always absolutely delightful and atypical, which makes them even more interesting. JJ and Ryan are both gorgeous, but they are also intelligent, talented, creative, and compassionate. They have their flaws, but they find ways to overcome them, which creates not only a fabulous story, but presents a great opportunity to remind us that it's always best to be ourselves. This story can be read alone, but it will be much more enjoyable if read in sequential order. I would recommend this story to everyone who believes love is worth fighting for regardless of the obstacles. Thanks so much, Tara, for adding Ryan and JJ to your 'Balls' series.
NOTE: The first edition of this book was provided by the publisher for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
JJ is such a sweet guy and his friends love him just the swishy way he is. One thing that really tickled me and added to his personality were the expressions he comes up with to express himself such as “Sweet God of desperate gay boys," or “Oh my God of CSI." JJ is a talented young man with an affable personality and tons of compassion. If only JJ could see how they see him then he wouldn't feel the need to hide behind a macho disguise in order to impress Ryan. My contention is that if he and Ryan had the instant connection they seem to, then there would be no need to hide. Ryan would like JJ no matter what. In a conversation with his friend Robby, JJ tells him that Ryan didn't like him, he liked the guy that he thought he was. Robby's reply says it all: “Oh really. When do you get your Academy Award, dear?” - “I didn’t realize you were such a brilliant actor that you could disguise your intelligence, sensitivity, talent, and basic goodness while pretending to like football.”
Ryan has his own problems. It's getting close in the closet and he really wants to burst out, but he's scared and rightly so. He doesn't fancy being shot at again because he is gay. His feelings for JJ are quite compelling and it's hard for him to deny the attraction. Ryan knows that it's not fair to JJ for him and really tries to balance seeing JJ and staying in the closet, but it's not the kind of thing one can balance. Ryan makes a real effort to be open with JJ and include him in his life doing things that he thought JJ would enjoy doing. The problem is, since JJ is pretending to be someone he is not, Ryan couldn't possibly know what JJ wanted to do, so both of them end up being miserable. Eventually, the truth comes out and with it comes a lot of bad feelings. Ryan is shocked to find out that JJ had been acting a part all this time and feels betrayed. When he finally gets to know the real JJ, Ryan realizes that they have more in common than seems apparent and, with both working on it, the relation can become even more intense.
Tara's men are always absolutely delightful and atypical, which makes them even more interesting. JJ and Ryan are both gorgeous, but they are also intelligent, talented, creative, and compassionate. They have their flaws, but they find ways to overcome them, which creates not only a fabulous story, but presents a great opportunity to remind us that it's always best to be ourselves. This story can be read alone, but it will be much more enjoyable if read in sequential order. I would recommend this story to everyone who believes love is worth fighting for regardless of the obstacles. Thanks so much, Tara, for adding Ryan and JJ to your 'Balls' series.
NOTE: The first edition of this book was provided by the publisher for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
December 29, 2012
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I’ve read a lot of series over the years. Some of them I’ve liked more than others, but I can honestly say that Ms. Lain’s, Balls to the Wall, series is one of my favorites! She has a knack of writing humanly flawed and fabulously sexy men who really live and breathe off of the written page. The blurb does an outstanding job at describing the story, so I won’t rehash a lot of it. Instead, I thought I would talk about why I loved this book so much and why I fell in love with the heroes too.
One of the things I love about this series is: although Ms. Lain continues each book with a different hero, they still are part of each book. So, we continue to see how each of her heroes relationships progress, and I for one, love that. Personally, I feel like I can really be invested in the series and stories when authors do this.
Another thing I loved about this book was both of the heroes. Those of you who have read any of my reviews know that there has to be a real emotional connection between the two heroes for me to get behind the book I’m reading. Every hero in this series has been this way for me. To top it off, both JJ and Ryan really held their own in a sea of sexy heroes in this series. JJ is an interior designer who is built like a big football player. But JJ is no alpha male; he wears the pink streaks in his hair with pride and loves to wear colorful clothing. He loves his job and is loved by others. He has a strong support system behind him, allowing him to be and love who he really is. When he meets police officer, Ryan Star, he has heard that Ryan is more closeted than JJ and prefers manly men, not flamboyant males like JJ. So, JJ tries to change for Ryan but is constantly questioned by his friends and even his inner voice as to why Ryan can’t like him for himself.
I honestly wasn’t sure if I was going to like Ryan. Yes, he’s interesting and very sexy, but I wanted him to like JJ for who he really is. I wondered if he would be able to work through his own personal prejudices and hang-ups and be able to accept JJ. Thankfully, Ryan begins to evolve and grow as a character. I ended up loving him and believing he was truly worthy of JJ’s love.
JJ was truly an amazing character. He has a huge heart, is loved by many and has been through a lot to be able to be the man he is today. Even when he tries to ‘butch’ himself up, it’s sadly comical in a way, making my heart weep for his efforts and his disillusion that he can always be who Ryan wants him to be. I loved how he’s able to see that he was worth more being himself than a cookie-cutter image of who Ryan wanted him to be. I loved his zest for life and his utter sweetness made him one of my favorite characters I’ve read this year.
Of all of the Balls to the Wall books, Snow Balls is one of my favorites in the series. I truly hope Ms. Lain continues to write about these amazing characters and can’t wait to read more about them in the future. Highly Recommended!
The Balls to the Wall books in series order are:
Volley Balls
Fire Balls
Beach Balls
Snow Balls
I’ve read a lot of series over the years. Some of them I’ve liked more than others, but I can honestly say that Ms. Lain’s, Balls to the Wall, series is one of my favorites! She has a knack of writing humanly flawed and fabulously sexy men who really live and breathe off of the written page. The blurb does an outstanding job at describing the story, so I won’t rehash a lot of it. Instead, I thought I would talk about why I loved this book so much and why I fell in love with the heroes too.
One of the things I love about this series is: although Ms. Lain continues each book with a different hero, they still are part of each book. So, we continue to see how each of her heroes relationships progress, and I for one, love that. Personally, I feel like I can really be invested in the series and stories when authors do this.
Another thing I loved about this book was both of the heroes. Those of you who have read any of my reviews know that there has to be a real emotional connection between the two heroes for me to get behind the book I’m reading. Every hero in this series has been this way for me. To top it off, both JJ and Ryan really held their own in a sea of sexy heroes in this series. JJ is an interior designer who is built like a big football player. But JJ is no alpha male; he wears the pink streaks in his hair with pride and loves to wear colorful clothing. He loves his job and is loved by others. He has a strong support system behind him, allowing him to be and love who he really is. When he meets police officer, Ryan Star, he has heard that Ryan is more closeted than JJ and prefers manly men, not flamboyant males like JJ. So, JJ tries to change for Ryan but is constantly questioned by his friends and even his inner voice as to why Ryan can’t like him for himself.
I honestly wasn’t sure if I was going to like Ryan. Yes, he’s interesting and very sexy, but I wanted him to like JJ for who he really is. I wondered if he would be able to work through his own personal prejudices and hang-ups and be able to accept JJ. Thankfully, Ryan begins to evolve and grow as a character. I ended up loving him and believing he was truly worthy of JJ’s love.
JJ was truly an amazing character. He has a huge heart, is loved by many and has been through a lot to be able to be the man he is today. Even when he tries to ‘butch’ himself up, it’s sadly comical in a way, making my heart weep for his efforts and his disillusion that he can always be who Ryan wants him to be. I loved how he’s able to see that he was worth more being himself than a cookie-cutter image of who Ryan wanted him to be. I loved his zest for life and his utter sweetness made him one of my favorite characters I’ve read this year.
Of all of the Balls to the Wall books, Snow Balls is one of my favorites in the series. I truly hope Ms. Lain continues to write about these amazing characters and can’t wait to read more about them in the future. Highly Recommended!
The Balls to the Wall books in series order are:
Volley Balls
Fire Balls
Beach Balls
Snow Balls
October 11, 2013
3.5 Hearts
Review written for MM Good Book Reviews
Omg, I’m dying. What a character JJ is. Loved him, but then again all Tara’s boys are to die for.
This particular one, JJ LaRousee, is charming. His appearance screams all-man, jock-type but JJ is anything but. If you could define flamboyant you’d definitely use JJ’s personality. Just like she did with Rodney from Fire Balls Tara Lain took all stereotypes and threw them out of the window and BOOM in came JJ.
I loved this character. He’s in 3rd place right after Jerry who comes right after Rodney. Hmm, but then there is Sky too, oh and Hunter and David and his Aussies… *sigh* Anyway, I loved this character too (period).
So JJ looks like the ultimate Alpha Male when he’s anything but, and he’s having quite a problem finding a man that suits him. Twinks don’t do it for him, yet unfortunately that’s what JJ most attracts. Until Detective Ryan Star comes along.
Ok, so you’ve got to love the name here. Detective Star! He’s not a beauty, but he’s a charmer. He’s also rumored to like a man’s man. Someone he can be friends on the outside and lovers when lights are out. Yup you got it. Closet case. A huge one too. And immediately we have two characters that are the complete opposite from each other. JJ who is a scarify cat and the ultimate Queen, yet faces life out and proud, and Ryan he appears confident, dangerous, and self-sufficient, yet is scared of other people as much as JJ is of spiders.
I think this was quite an interesting story besides being utterly fun (yet again). The plot had me laughing, and trembling and panting and fanning myself. I think this author’s skill to make sex scenes extremely hot yet so much fun as well is her best one yet. And most of all I loved the grand finale of this story which no is not the end, rather JJ storming out of the hotel. I think I was tormented between laughing till I broke something in me and shedding a tear or two.
Strongly recommended book, easily read as a standalone, but you ought to grab the previous three and make a marathon of it.
Thommie
Review written for MM Good Book Reviews
Omg, I’m dying. What a character JJ is. Loved him, but then again all Tara’s boys are to die for.
This particular one, JJ LaRousee, is charming. His appearance screams all-man, jock-type but JJ is anything but. If you could define flamboyant you’d definitely use JJ’s personality. Just like she did with Rodney from Fire Balls Tara Lain took all stereotypes and threw them out of the window and BOOM in came JJ.
I loved this character. He’s in 3rd place right after Jerry who comes right after Rodney. Hmm, but then there is Sky too, oh and Hunter and David and his Aussies… *sigh* Anyway, I loved this character too (period).
So JJ looks like the ultimate Alpha Male when he’s anything but, and he’s having quite a problem finding a man that suits him. Twinks don’t do it for him, yet unfortunately that’s what JJ most attracts. Until Detective Ryan Star comes along.
Ok, so you’ve got to love the name here. Detective Star! He’s not a beauty, but he’s a charmer. He’s also rumored to like a man’s man. Someone he can be friends on the outside and lovers when lights are out. Yup you got it. Closet case. A huge one too. And immediately we have two characters that are the complete opposite from each other. JJ who is a scarify cat and the ultimate Queen, yet faces life out and proud, and Ryan he appears confident, dangerous, and self-sufficient, yet is scared of other people as much as JJ is of spiders.
I think this was quite an interesting story besides being utterly fun (yet again). The plot had me laughing, and trembling and panting and fanning myself. I think this author’s skill to make sex scenes extremely hot yet so much fun as well is her best one yet. And most of all I loved the grand finale of this story which no is not the end, rather JJ storming out of the hotel. I think I was tormented between laughing till I broke something in me and shedding a tear or two.
Strongly recommended book, easily read as a standalone, but you ought to grab the previous three and make a marathon of it.
Thommie
August 13, 2020
JJ LaRousse - pink hair loving, hand waving queen. Looks more like a quarterback than the fashionable spider fearing sweetie he is. The twinks love him and think he's an exclusive top. So why not play along. But he longs to have that true love like so many of his friends have. Looks like his wish may be coming true sooner rather than later. Witnessing a crime drops his dream into his lap....somewhat.
Ryan Star is a hot detective assigned to investigate a series of thefts at the Laguna Winter Fantasy. His star witness, the adorable JJ. Trying to remain professional is becoming harder to do since he is fascinated by the tall hottie. He immediately tries to find way to spend more time with JJ outside of the case.
When he hears the detective was at a gay bar, with a man who looks pretty mundane, JJ quickly tries to take on a persona that is so unlike him. Sports was never his forte, but enlists the help of others to learn so he can go on a date.
JJ and Ryan have to cut their date short because of the festival. Both men get the dessert of their lives while on the road! JJ is infatuated, but carries a few lies. Ryan is not out of the closet. Always proves to be a nightmare. Only a few people know Ryan is gay. One of the reasons he is in Laguna Beach and not in New York. JJ worked hard and endured his level of pain so he can live out in the open.
Ryan ask the unthinkable of JJ - to keep their relationship a secret for his benefit. This proves to be more of a burden than he imagined. In the midst of all their personal turmoil, one of the thieves is caught and another is after Ryan. JJ witnesses this and saves his life. Will this be the moment Ryan realizes what he has or will their love fade and become a thing of the past?
**I received this ARC via Gay Romance Reviews for my honest feedback.**
Ryan Star is a hot detective assigned to investigate a series of thefts at the Laguna Winter Fantasy. His star witness, the adorable JJ. Trying to remain professional is becoming harder to do since he is fascinated by the tall hottie. He immediately tries to find way to spend more time with JJ outside of the case.
When he hears the detective was at a gay bar, with a man who looks pretty mundane, JJ quickly tries to take on a persona that is so unlike him. Sports was never his forte, but enlists the help of others to learn so he can go on a date.
JJ and Ryan have to cut their date short because of the festival. Both men get the dessert of their lives while on the road! JJ is infatuated, but carries a few lies. Ryan is not out of the closet. Always proves to be a nightmare. Only a few people know Ryan is gay. One of the reasons he is in Laguna Beach and not in New York. JJ worked hard and endured his level of pain so he can live out in the open.
Ryan ask the unthinkable of JJ - to keep their relationship a secret for his benefit. This proves to be more of a burden than he imagined. In the midst of all their personal turmoil, one of the thieves is caught and another is after Ryan. JJ witnesses this and saves his life. Will this be the moment Ryan realizes what he has or will their love fade and become a thing of the past?
**I received this ARC via Gay Romance Reviews for my honest feedback.**
December 20, 2013
3.75
I was pretty much prone to giving this book 3 stars until I wanted to reread parts of it to write this review and ended up rereading the whole damn thing. Because it's just so much FUN. But let's backtrack a little:
Why did I want to give three stars?
Well, there isn't a lot of substance in this story, no deep emotional response evoked by reading it. The suspense part is purely a device to bring the romance forward and definitely on the backburner of the story. And because of that, it went all down way too easy.
But why then couldn't I leave it a three stars and be done with it?
Because, as I mentioned reading this story is just so much damn fun. I LOVE, no ADORE JJ. The discrepancy between his looks and his personality was awesome, and him trying to be all macho and butch for Ryan? Oh, I so fell for him, I'm serious. I mean Ryan was good, too, the macho cop, sports fan deluxe, that was kind of sexy too, but JJ? JJ had my heart after about 5 pages. So, yes, he's my main reason for upping the rating, but he's a good one, so it's still fair, I think.
If you're looking for something light and fun with a tiny little bit of angst thrown in, then go for it. And you don't really need to have read the previous installments either - the characters from those come up because it's set in the same community and I love to revisit them that way, but it's not necessary to know them to enjoy this book, I think.
I was pretty much prone to giving this book 3 stars until I wanted to reread parts of it to write this review and ended up rereading the whole damn thing. Because it's just so much FUN. But let's backtrack a little:
Why did I want to give three stars?
Well, there isn't a lot of substance in this story, no deep emotional response evoked by reading it. The suspense part is purely a device to bring the romance forward and definitely on the backburner of the story. And because of that, it went all down way too easy.
But why then couldn't I leave it a three stars and be done with it?
Because, as I mentioned reading this story is just so much damn fun. I LOVE, no ADORE JJ. The discrepancy between his looks and his personality was awesome, and him trying to be all macho and butch for Ryan? Oh, I so fell for him, I'm serious. I mean Ryan was good, too, the macho cop, sports fan deluxe, that was kind of sexy too, but JJ? JJ had my heart after about 5 pages. So, yes, he's my main reason for upping the rating, but he's a good one, so it's still fair, I think.
If you're looking for something light and fun with a tiny little bit of angst thrown in, then go for it. And you don't really need to have read the previous installments either - the characters from those come up because it's set in the same community and I love to revisit them that way, but it's not necessary to know them to enjoy this book, I think.
July 7, 2013
I've been looking forward to this book since I enjoyed the previous stories in this series. I'm not disappointed, at all! JJ is one of the most engaging characters I've met in a while. Sweet, sassy, but with a bit of low self-esteem that's touched off by meeting a gorgeous hunk of manhood, Ryan. Ryan's a macho cop investigating thefts that occurred at the Winter Carnival where JJ is manning the gallery's booth. JJ was a witness and when he sees Ryan heading his way to question him, he borrows a baseball cap to hide his pink-tipped hair and lowers his voice to make himself appear more macho.
This sets off a comedy of errors and misunderstandings as JJ tries to be macho and Ryan tries to maintain his low-key, in-the-closet status. Things go wrong, of course, and the guys break up. But when JJ does something very unexpected, there's a turnaround in the relationship and the guys get their HEA.
I really needed something light and easy like this sweet romance today. Perfect beach book, perfect lazy Sunday book, and just all-around good entertainment.
This sets off a comedy of errors and misunderstandings as JJ tries to be macho and Ryan tries to maintain his low-key, in-the-closet status. Things go wrong, of course, and the guys break up. But when JJ does something very unexpected, there's a turnaround in the relationship and the guys get their HEA.
I really needed something light and easy like this sweet romance today. Perfect beach book, perfect lazy Sunday book, and just all-around good entertainment.
December 4, 2017
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is the sixth in this fun series, and an excellent addition to the set. It was good to get little cameos from previous romances as well, although you could definitely read this as a standalone and enjoy it.
In spite of the lightness, and fun, there are issues to overcome in these books, and this is no different. Ryan has transferred to the police force from NY, where his openness about his sexual orientation had him nearly killed. He is not surprisingly nervous of being open here too. So when JJ makes him feel all kind of interested, he is very nervous of acting on the chemistry. JJ has his own issues to deal with too - so it is fascinating watching everything slot into place ;-)
Perfect read for a long winter evening, or anytime really. Thank you Ms Lain for another winner.
This is the sixth in this fun series, and an excellent addition to the set. It was good to get little cameos from previous romances as well, although you could definitely read this as a standalone and enjoy it.
In spite of the lightness, and fun, there are issues to overcome in these books, and this is no different. Ryan has transferred to the police force from NY, where his openness about his sexual orientation had him nearly killed. He is not surprisingly nervous of being open here too. So when JJ makes him feel all kind of interested, he is very nervous of acting on the chemistry. JJ has his own issues to deal with too - so it is fascinating watching everything slot into place ;-)
Perfect read for a long winter evening, or anytime really. Thank you Ms Lain for another winner.
February 24, 2013
3.5 stars. I really like this series. JJ is another unique character from Tara Lain. He tried to be something he's not in order to win over the hunky closeted policeman who seems to be really interested in him. As is usually the case, this facade is too much work to keep up and it kind of blows up in his face - which is too bad because he really likes the cop.
Ryan is stuck in a place that he doesn't seem to know how to get out of either. He's in the closet because he had as really bad experience with his last partner and the force he was on previously. He definitely has not moved past that and is paralyzed by the fear that something else will happen if he's out.
Luckily for both of them, there is a wise woman running the local police force :) She is very astute and does her best to make Ryan see that he needs to come clean and that he has support.
I also likes seeing the guys from the other Balls stories here as well :D
Ryan is stuck in a place that he doesn't seem to know how to get out of either. He's in the closet because he had as really bad experience with his last partner and the force he was on previously. He definitely has not moved past that and is paralyzed by the fear that something else will happen if he's out.
Luckily for both of them, there is a wise woman running the local police force :) She is very astute and does her best to make Ryan see that he needs to come clean and that he has support.
I also likes seeing the guys from the other Balls stories here as well :D
December 7, 2013
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! I loved the real JJ, he was such a breathe of fresh air and a great guy who needed to realise his own worth. I did tear up a little at some parts in the book, such as him remembering how his dad would treat him and Ryan remembering the incident that led him to be so determined to hide his sexuality from his fellow officers. I also teared up when JJ admitted he was trying to be who Ryan wanted him to be instead of who he was and he couldn't continue being someone he wasn't, I was also very happy when he finally got the acceptance he needed and deserved! I'm thinking I'll have to get his friends stories to read as well!
June 5, 2013
JJ is one of my new favorite characters. His pink hair & fluttering hands were just two of the things that made him....him.
This series is definitely entertaining and I really enjoy it. It's a quick quirky hot and funny read but it does touch on some 'coming out' issues as well.
I'd recommend this book and series to those looking for a fun read!
This series is definitely entertaining and I really enjoy it. It's a quick quirky hot and funny read but it does touch on some 'coming out' issues as well.
I'd recommend this book and series to those looking for a fun read!
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