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R.J. Scott & V.L. Locey Hockey Romance #(Viva Las Vegas)
Love Is All: Volume 6
This sixth edition of Love Is All features ten brand new stories from bestselling and award-winning authors, including BL Maxwell, Chantal Mer & Susan Scott Shelley, Connor Peterson, Gabbi Grey, Nic Starr, Sean Michael, V.L. Locey & RJ Scott, Lee Blair, Xio Axelrod, and Piper Malone They celebrate the universal human right that is to love and be loved.
All proceeds from the anthology will go to organizations that support and defend LGBTQIA+ rights.
The anthology will only be available for a limited time.
story list:
Viva Las Vegas (The Harrisburg Railers series) - R.J. Scott & V.L. Locey
Thank You, Autocorrect - Nic Starr
Blue Sky Boyfriend - Gabbi Grey
As It Should Have Been - Sean Michael
Love and the Greek Isle God - Piper Malone
A Lot of Snow for Christmas - B.L. Maxwell
Over the Top (Philadelphia Power series) - Susan Scott Shelley & Chantal Mer
Up My Alley - Lee Blair
The Heir Apparent - Connor Peterson
The Hustle and the Heart - Xio Axelrod
All proceeds from the anthology will go to organizations that support and defend LGBTQIA+ rights.
The anthology will only be available for a limited time.
story list:
Viva Las Vegas (The Harrisburg Railers series) - R.J. Scott & V.L. Locey
Thank You, Autocorrect - Nic Starr
Blue Sky Boyfriend - Gabbi Grey
As It Should Have Been - Sean Michael
Love and the Greek Isle God - Piper Malone
A Lot of Snow for Christmas - B.L. Maxwell
Over the Top (Philadelphia Power series) - Susan Scott Shelley & Chantal Mer
Up My Alley - Lee Blair
The Heir Apparent - Connor Peterson
The Hustle and the Heart - Xio Axelrod
- GenresM M RomanceAnthologies
707 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 6, 2023
24 people are currently reading
85 people want to read
About the author
Xio Axelrod
27 books1,187 followersXio Axelrod is a USA Today bestselling author of different flavours of contemporary romance. She also writes what she likes to call strange, twisted tales. Xio grew up in the music industry and began recording at a young age. When she isn’t writing stories, she can be found in the studio, writing songs, or performing on international stages (under a different, no-so-secret name). She lives in Philadelphia with one full-time husband and several part-time cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
June 2, 2023
Up My Alley by Lee Blair
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Friends to lovers is my absolute favorite trope, especially when it’s paired with little to no angst and neither MC realizes what’s going on until it’s pointed out to them. This is exactly what happens to Leo and Hudson and THANK GOODNESS they accept it with some research and self reflection. And help from their friend Ollie who triggered the revelation to begin with. I also loved that there was body positivity (because I don’t see a whole lot of books/stories about this) and that Leo and Hudson didn’t jump right into full on penetration. The story, although shorter because it’s part of an anthology, was more realistic.
I received a free copy of this book from GRR in exchange for my honest review.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
A Lot of Snow For Christmas by BL Maxwell
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is a cute, quick read from a new to me author. Ronnie and Jack get snowed in together in a cabin for nearly a week. At the end of their time together they make a pact to meet at the same place next year (while also trying to spend as much time together in between as possible). Very sweet, low angst, low heat read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Friends to lovers is my absolute favorite trope, especially when it’s paired with little to no angst and neither MC realizes what’s going on until it’s pointed out to them. This is exactly what happens to Leo and Hudson and THANK GOODNESS they accept it with some research and self reflection. And help from their friend Ollie who triggered the revelation to begin with. I also loved that there was body positivity (because I don’t see a whole lot of books/stories about this) and that Leo and Hudson didn’t jump right into full on penetration. The story, although shorter because it’s part of an anthology, was more realistic.
I received a free copy of this book from GRR in exchange for my honest review.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
A Lot of Snow For Christmas by BL Maxwell
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is a cute, quick read from a new to me author. Ronnie and Jack get snowed in together in a cabin for nearly a week. At the end of their time together they make a pact to meet at the same place next year (while also trying to spend as much time together in between as possible). Very sweet, low angst, low heat read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 4, 2023
Love IS Lovely
What a great group of stories!
Hot guys, falling for hot guys and finding love.
Can it get any better?
Love is love and that is as it should be.
This was an amazing group of authors assembled for this book.
What a great group of stories!
Hot guys, falling for hot guys and finding love.
Can it get any better?
Love is love and that is as it should be.
This was an amazing group of authors assembled for this book.
June 11, 2023
I'm going to be reviewing Blue Sky Boyfriend by Gabbi Grey, Up My Alley by Lee Blair, and Over the Top by Susan Scott Shelley and Chantal Mer. These are three of the stories from the Love is All Anthology. A book I definitely recommend.
Blue Sky Boyfriend is a sweet story about second chances and self-forgiveness. We all make mistakes, some are small, and some are massive, but that doesn't mean we can't own up to them, try to make amends and move on by doing better. Tate had come home, reluctantly. He had to face his family and the love, Wyatt, he left behind. I really enjoyed this story about Tate and Wyatt. Two childhood friends that lost touch and are reconnecting after years apart. Sometimes that time apart is needed to grow up and discover who you are. But for Tate life brought him back to Wyatt and thankfully Wyatt didn't turn his back on him. I would love to know more of their story. The end is just the beginning of the rest of their lives.
Up My Alley is a sweet story about Hudson and Leo, two best friend roommates who are oblivious to the fact they are perfect for each other. I really enjoyed this story. Leo is so patient with Hudson's need to have things tidy. Their bowling team friend and, Leo's coworker, Ollie is quite the character and needs a story of his own. I just love his comments about Leo and Hudson's relationship or non-relationship. Hudson's cat, General Ledger, seems like a sweet kitty with her own agenda.
Over the Top is a sweet story about Calder, a hockey player, and Riggs, his crush and tailor. Calder is up for Rookie of the Year and asks Riggs to be his date for the ceremony. Not only would the time away be good for them to spend time together and get to know each other better, but it would also be a good business opportunity for Riggs to get some more clientele. This is an enjoyable story that had a surprising ending as enemies become friends and misunderstandings explained. Calder and Riggs are so good for each other. They both need a person who understands their busy schedules.
I received an advanced copy and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Blue Sky Boyfriend is a sweet story about second chances and self-forgiveness. We all make mistakes, some are small, and some are massive, but that doesn't mean we can't own up to them, try to make amends and move on by doing better. Tate had come home, reluctantly. He had to face his family and the love, Wyatt, he left behind. I really enjoyed this story about Tate and Wyatt. Two childhood friends that lost touch and are reconnecting after years apart. Sometimes that time apart is needed to grow up and discover who you are. But for Tate life brought him back to Wyatt and thankfully Wyatt didn't turn his back on him. I would love to know more of their story. The end is just the beginning of the rest of their lives.
Up My Alley is a sweet story about Hudson and Leo, two best friend roommates who are oblivious to the fact they are perfect for each other. I really enjoyed this story. Leo is so patient with Hudson's need to have things tidy. Their bowling team friend and, Leo's coworker, Ollie is quite the character and needs a story of his own. I just love his comments about Leo and Hudson's relationship or non-relationship. Hudson's cat, General Ledger, seems like a sweet kitty with her own agenda.
Over the Top is a sweet story about Calder, a hockey player, and Riggs, his crush and tailor. Calder is up for Rookie of the Year and asks Riggs to be his date for the ceremony. Not only would the time away be good for them to spend time together and get to know each other better, but it would also be a good business opportunity for Riggs to get some more clientele. This is an enjoyable story that had a surprising ending as enemies become friends and misunderstandings explained. Calder and Riggs are so good for each other. They both need a person who understands their busy schedules.
I received an advanced copy and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 4, 2023
This review is for both BL Maxwell's story and Lee Blair's. Both were sweet short stories that are part of the Love is All: Volume 6 anthology.
For BL Maxwell's, I enjoyed reading about how Ronnie & Jack met. It felt, at times, that some things were skipped over, even for a shot story, but it didn't really take away from my enjoyment of it.
For Lee Blair's, I liked seeing how Hudson & Leo went from friends to more. I liked that we got a little background on both of them, which helped me connect with the characters more.
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily gave my honest review.
For BL Maxwell's, I enjoyed reading about how Ronnie & Jack met. It felt, at times, that some things were skipped over, even for a shot story, but it didn't really take away from my enjoyment of it.
For Lee Blair's, I liked seeing how Hudson & Leo went from friends to more. I liked that we got a little background on both of them, which helped me connect with the characters more.
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily gave my honest review.
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May 28, 2023
Love Is All
is available for pre-order now.
Click here to order
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June 8, 2023
This entire work won't be released until 06/06/2023 but via Booksprout I was given one of the included works to read and review. The work is "A Lot of Snow for Christmas" by BL Maxwell.
I enjoyed this quirky story.
Two men with hidden feelings, both lonely in their own worlds but a terrible snowstorm of epic proportions brings each man's isolated feelings out in the open. Both want and are looking for that perfect someone. The only angst is in their own hearts. Of course, Chewie lends his furry support to both his owner Ronnie and Jack.
As an update I was also given the following stories to review via GRR:
"Blue Sky Boy" by Gabbi Grey: Wyatt and Tate have a history dating back to high school when at 18 Tate left Mission City, BC, Canada to find a more exciting life in the big city. Wyatt stayed behind and became the farmer he was meant to be. After 15 years Tate returns, tail between his legs, to make amends to the citizens of Mission City for unwittingly duping his family and friends. AND to hopefully reconnect with his first love; that being Tate. This is an emotionally filled story of forgiveness and acceptance that has a great HEA for both the M/M characters and the family that loves and welcomes Tate into their loving arms.
"Up My Alley" by Lee Blair: I fell in love with Leo and Hudson and their funny yet sweet journey from their recoveries from divorce to entwining together (along with the indominable cuteness of General ledger) and their bowling team partner Ozzie. Each man had unforeseen needs to contain the interest that was stirred to curb the desire each felt for the other. This was a HEA but far too short story that was on the sweet side.
"Over The Top" by Susan Scott Shelley & Chantal Mer, a short novella of four chapters. Hockey player Calder has had a draw to tailor Riggs who dresses several of the Philidelphia Power players. Calder is in contention for Rookie of the Year and needs Riggs to design the fitting suit for the awards dinner. Little does Calder realize that the aloft Riggs also has feelings for Calder. The initial progression of these two comes to its conclusion in what both refer to as "our weekend-long first date". The quips from Calder's fellow teammates make this a fun read.
I enjoyed this quirky story.
Two men with hidden feelings, both lonely in their own worlds but a terrible snowstorm of epic proportions brings each man's isolated feelings out in the open. Both want and are looking for that perfect someone. The only angst is in their own hearts. Of course, Chewie lends his furry support to both his owner Ronnie and Jack.
As an update I was also given the following stories to review via GRR:
"Blue Sky Boy" by Gabbi Grey: Wyatt and Tate have a history dating back to high school when at 18 Tate left Mission City, BC, Canada to find a more exciting life in the big city. Wyatt stayed behind and became the farmer he was meant to be. After 15 years Tate returns, tail between his legs, to make amends to the citizens of Mission City for unwittingly duping his family and friends. AND to hopefully reconnect with his first love; that being Tate. This is an emotionally filled story of forgiveness and acceptance that has a great HEA for both the M/M characters and the family that loves and welcomes Tate into their loving arms.
"Up My Alley" by Lee Blair: I fell in love with Leo and Hudson and their funny yet sweet journey from their recoveries from divorce to entwining together (along with the indominable cuteness of General ledger) and their bowling team partner Ozzie. Each man had unforeseen needs to contain the interest that was stirred to curb the desire each felt for the other. This was a HEA but far too short story that was on the sweet side.
"Over The Top" by Susan Scott Shelley & Chantal Mer, a short novella of four chapters. Hockey player Calder has had a draw to tailor Riggs who dresses several of the Philidelphia Power players. Calder is in contention for Rookie of the Year and needs Riggs to design the fitting suit for the awards dinner. Little does Calder realize that the aloft Riggs also has feelings for Calder. The initial progression of these two comes to its conclusion in what both refer to as "our weekend-long first date". The quips from Calder's fellow teammates make this a fun read.
June 15, 2023
A Lot of Snow for Christmas. B. L. Maxwell
Ronnie and Jack meet in a snowstorm near a ski resort outside Sacramento. Jack is on a holiday getaway from his job, and Ronnie is on his way to a hotel for the holidays when his car ends up buried in a snow bank. Jack notices the car headlights and helps get Ronnie and his dog Chewie out of the car and back to his cabin.The snow continues to fall, the power goes out, a tree falls, so what are two guys to do but try to keep warm any way they can. Cute short story with one character a bit of a twink, the other a bit of a loner, not fond of people, and a dog that loves them both, stranded away from all other distractions, maybe to find their forever person?.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Up My Alley by Lee Blair
This short book is also in the Love Is All Anthology, vol 6. It features two divorced men, Leo and Hudson, roommates, best friends, and bowling team members. The two have been roommates since their divorces, getting along well, spending a lot of free time together, not dating, when they start to notice things about each other, physical things about each other’s bodies, which lead to “ I wonder what……” questions in their minds. Curious, but unsure what to say or do about it, until a friend makes a comment, then neither can get the questions out of their mind. Curiosity leads to more and more experimentation as they wonder if they can have anything more than their friendship or if a lasting relationship can be a possibility. Interesting characters explore alternate sexuality from what they thought, learning more about themselves in the process.
I received a free copy of this book and am leaving an honest review.
Ronnie and Jack meet in a snowstorm near a ski resort outside Sacramento. Jack is on a holiday getaway from his job, and Ronnie is on his way to a hotel for the holidays when his car ends up buried in a snow bank. Jack notices the car headlights and helps get Ronnie and his dog Chewie out of the car and back to his cabin.The snow continues to fall, the power goes out, a tree falls, so what are two guys to do but try to keep warm any way they can. Cute short story with one character a bit of a twink, the other a bit of a loner, not fond of people, and a dog that loves them both, stranded away from all other distractions, maybe to find their forever person?.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Up My Alley by Lee Blair
This short book is also in the Love Is All Anthology, vol 6. It features two divorced men, Leo and Hudson, roommates, best friends, and bowling team members. The two have been roommates since their divorces, getting along well, spending a lot of free time together, not dating, when they start to notice things about each other, physical things about each other’s bodies, which lead to “ I wonder what……” questions in their minds. Curious, but unsure what to say or do about it, until a friend makes a comment, then neither can get the questions out of their mind. Curiosity leads to more and more experimentation as they wonder if they can have anything more than their friendship or if a lasting relationship can be a possibility. Interesting characters explore alternate sexuality from what they thought, learning more about themselves in the process.
I received a free copy of this book and am leaving an honest review.
June 14, 2023
This is my reviews for:
A LOT OF SNOW FOR CHRISTMAS by BL MAXWELL
UP MY ALLEY BY LEE BLAIR
OVER THE TOP BY SUSAN SCOTT SHELLEY & CHANTEL MER
Sweet fun and steamy reads as part of the Love Is All Anthology Volume 6.
A LOT OF SNOW FOR CHRISTMAS by BL MAXWELL
Jack rents a cabin to escape his fast paced life as a lawyer and ends up offering shelter to a sassy sunshiny pet aficionado- Ronnie and his dog Chewie after he crashes into a snow mound…
Both are strangers snowed in by a snow storm until the power goes out and the fuel of the generator runs dry…
This is where their sweet journey to love begins….
UP MY ALLEY BY LEE BLAIR
Leo and Hudson met at the bowling alley when they both were going through a bad marriage that is how their friendship started…
Now two years later both are divorced and roommates and now they are starting to see each other in a different light….
This is their story a spin off from the Tap That Brewery series of their bi-awakening and journey to a second chance love!
OVER THE TOP BY SUSAN SCOTT SHELLEY & CHANTAL MER
Nominated rookie of the year Calder McKinnon pulls up his big boy pants and finally asks his crush Riggs a talented tailor to be his date for the weekend of the awards and goes out of his way to impress his date with romantic outings and dinners….
I love the camaraderie of the players and look forward to getting to know them better!
This is a short spin off from the series Philadelphia Power Hockey Club and it is sure to wet the appetite for Jalen and Leif’s story…
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A LOT OF SNOW FOR CHRISTMAS by BL MAXWELL
UP MY ALLEY BY LEE BLAIR
OVER THE TOP BY SUSAN SCOTT SHELLEY & CHANTEL MER
Sweet fun and steamy reads as part of the Love Is All Anthology Volume 6.
A LOT OF SNOW FOR CHRISTMAS by BL MAXWELL
Jack rents a cabin to escape his fast paced life as a lawyer and ends up offering shelter to a sassy sunshiny pet aficionado- Ronnie and his dog Chewie after he crashes into a snow mound…
Both are strangers snowed in by a snow storm until the power goes out and the fuel of the generator runs dry…
This is where their sweet journey to love begins….
UP MY ALLEY BY LEE BLAIR
Leo and Hudson met at the bowling alley when they both were going through a bad marriage that is how their friendship started…
Now two years later both are divorced and roommates and now they are starting to see each other in a different light….
This is their story a spin off from the Tap That Brewery series of their bi-awakening and journey to a second chance love!
OVER THE TOP BY SUSAN SCOTT SHELLEY & CHANTAL MER
Nominated rookie of the year Calder McKinnon pulls up his big boy pants and finally asks his crush Riggs a talented tailor to be his date for the weekend of the awards and goes out of his way to impress his date with romantic outings and dinners….
I love the camaraderie of the players and look forward to getting to know them better!
This is a short spin off from the series Philadelphia Power Hockey Club and it is sure to wet the appetite for Jalen and Leif’s story…
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 11, 2023
I read both A Lot of Snow For Christmas by BL Maxwell and Up My Alley by Lee Blair.
A Lot of Snow for Christmas - This book is awesome! The story of Jack and Ronnie is sweet and wonderful! They meet when they get stranded in a cabin by a snow storm. The time together will bring these two strangers closer, making Jack see just what his busy life is missing. Their relationship develops as they deal with the significant snow storm and when all is said and done, they find themselves wanting to keep the relationship going.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Up My Alley - I loved this book! The story of Hudson and Leo, two roommates who end up becoming so much more is sweet, sassy and a whole lot of fun to read. They became friends after their respective divorces and grew close as roommates. But some teasing from a friend will have them wondering if there is more to it than just friendship. Add in a sassy cat and you get a story that is well worth reading!
I read an ARC copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
A Lot of Snow for Christmas - This book is awesome! The story of Jack and Ronnie is sweet and wonderful! They meet when they get stranded in a cabin by a snow storm. The time together will bring these two strangers closer, making Jack see just what his busy life is missing. Their relationship develops as they deal with the significant snow storm and when all is said and done, they find themselves wanting to keep the relationship going.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Up My Alley - I loved this book! The story of Hudson and Leo, two roommates who end up becoming so much more is sweet, sassy and a whole lot of fun to read. They became friends after their respective divorces and grew close as roommates. But some teasing from a friend will have them wondering if there is more to it than just friendship. Add in a sassy cat and you get a story that is well worth reading!
I read an ARC copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
June 16, 2023
This review is for Gabbi Grey's story and Lee Blair's. Both were sweet stories in the Love is All: Volume 6 anthology.
Lee Blair: Bowling, Friends-to-lovers, bi-awakening
Gabbi Grey: Second-chance romance
For Lee Blair's, I liked how Hudson and Leo's relationship developed from friends to more. We got a bit of background on both characters, which helped me understand them more. They were so sweet and cute together, making me look forward to reading more of Lee Blair's work.
Gabbi Grey's story is a sweet story of second chances and forgiveness. Tate came home reluctantly and had to face his family and Wyatt, the love he left behind. I'm not the biggest fan of second-chance romance, but the depth of Wyatt and Tate's feelings about each other woven through the story has made me reconsider this trope.
I received a free copy of this book via GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Lee Blair: Bowling, Friends-to-lovers, bi-awakening
Gabbi Grey: Second-chance romance
For Lee Blair's, I liked how Hudson and Leo's relationship developed from friends to more. We got a bit of background on both characters, which helped me understand them more. They were so sweet and cute together, making me look forward to reading more of Lee Blair's work.
Gabbi Grey's story is a sweet story of second chances and forgiveness. Tate came home reluctantly and had to face his family and Wyatt, the love he left behind. I'm not the biggest fan of second-chance romance, but the depth of Wyatt and Tate's feelings about each other woven through the story has made me reconsider this trope.
I received a free copy of this book via GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 6, 2023
Review for Up My Alley by Lee Blair
4.5 stars
Wow! I really enjoyed this gorgeous little story! I connected with the characters immediately and got into the story straight away. This is a quick, low angst double bi-awakening (or pan-awakening) and just so much fun to read. I'm a sucker for friends to lovers, and this was an excellent example. I loved their friend Ollie as well, but it has to be said that the star of the show was definitely General Ledger, the adorable cat who plays a big role in their love story.
I very much enjoyed the writing style and will be looking out for more by Lee Blair. This was sweet, steamy, funny and pretty much great all round. As always with shorts, I'd have liked it to be a little longer, but I very much enjoyed it and it definitely crammed a lot of sweetness into the wordcount. Highly recommended.
Over The Top by by Susan Scott Shelley and Chantal Mer
3 stars
This is a quick little short that seems to move seriously fast on the romance side of things. It felt very rushed and quite instalovey, which was disappointing for me. There was also a lot about the team and the people around them, so this might make a good introduction to the series or a sampler to see if you enjoy the writing and characters.
4.5 stars
Wow! I really enjoyed this gorgeous little story! I connected with the characters immediately and got into the story straight away. This is a quick, low angst double bi-awakening (or pan-awakening) and just so much fun to read. I'm a sucker for friends to lovers, and this was an excellent example. I loved their friend Ollie as well, but it has to be said that the star of the show was definitely General Ledger, the adorable cat who plays a big role in their love story.
I very much enjoyed the writing style and will be looking out for more by Lee Blair. This was sweet, steamy, funny and pretty much great all round. As always with shorts, I'd have liked it to be a little longer, but I very much enjoyed it and it definitely crammed a lot of sweetness into the wordcount. Highly recommended.
Over The Top by by Susan Scott Shelley and Chantal Mer
3 stars
This is a quick little short that seems to move seriously fast on the romance side of things. It felt very rushed and quite instalovey, which was disappointing for me. There was also a lot about the team and the people around them, so this might make a good introduction to the series or a sampler to see if you enjoy the writing and characters.
June 7, 2023
I read the BL Maxwell story. Haven't had a chance to read any of the others yet.
This sweetheart of a story employs an opposites attract, grumpy/sunshine and snowed in tropes. Jack rents a cabin outside Tahoe, planning a solitary week of skiing. Ronnie plans on a quiet Christmas with just his dog, Chewie, rather than the spend it with his 30+ relatives. Trying to avoid a fishtailing car, Ronnie crashes his car into a snow mound and it is immediately buried. Jack comes to his aid and offers shelter until the roads are clear.
The pair are quite likeable and have a believable chemistry. There's no whining and only a little panic when the power goes out and generator fails. With no phones or internet, the two get to know each other.
A short story, written for an anthology, this was a fun, quick read.
This sweetheart of a story employs an opposites attract, grumpy/sunshine and snowed in tropes. Jack rents a cabin outside Tahoe, planning a solitary week of skiing. Ronnie plans on a quiet Christmas with just his dog, Chewie, rather than the spend it with his 30+ relatives. Trying to avoid a fishtailing car, Ronnie crashes his car into a snow mound and it is immediately buried. Jack comes to his aid and offers shelter until the roads are clear.
The pair are quite likeable and have a believable chemistry. There's no whining and only a little panic when the power goes out and generator fails. With no phones or internet, the two get to know each other.
A short story, written for an anthology, this was a fun, quick read.
June 12, 2023
I read A Lot of Snow for Christmas by B.L. Maxwell. Jack has rented a cabin for a low-key skiing Christmas vacation. When Ronnie gets stuck in a snowstorm, Jack offers him a place to stay. The Christmas spirit is alive and well, and pushing Jack and Ronnie to find each other. This is quick to read, and a very sweet story. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 12, 2023
This was for one of the short stories: A Lot of Snow for Christmas by BL Maxwell.
This was a pretty short story, but with it being part of an anthology, that's to be expected. However, there were definitely spots that I wanted expanded a bit more. Very cute. Snowed in and can't get out, along with a cute dog. I loved the epilogue, what a fun idea to go back to the same place, same time next year.
This was a pretty short story, but with it being part of an anthology, that's to be expected. However, there were definitely spots that I wanted expanded a bit more. Very cute. Snowed in and can't get out, along with a cute dog. I loved the epilogue, what a fun idea to go back to the same place, same time next year.
June 9, 2023
Jack rented a cabin at Lake Tahoe to ski but a blizzard hit, Ronnie went to get away from a big family Christmas. Ronnie got stuck in a snow bank and Jack found him and they connected and stayed together. Good book!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 16, 2023
I read A Lot of Snow For Christmas by BL Maxwell, part of the Love is All Vol. 6 Anthology. Awe, Jack and Ronnie's story was so cute. If the rest of the stories in the anthology are as sweet, steamy, and with lovable people, then I will be a happy person. I can't wait to read them.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 22, 2023
I was in the mood for a quick snowy MM romance, and BL Maxwell’s A Lot of Snow for Christmas was just right. Jack works in a law office, doesn’t have much family, and decides to spend the holidays away from everyone by renting a lovely cabin in the mountains. He meets Ronnie and his cute dog when Ronnie’s car is stuck in the snow. Ronnie runs a successful small business and decided to spend the holidays away from his very large family. Their path to HEA is sweet, very low angst, and enjoyable. I only wish we got to see how their life changed during the year after they met.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 8, 2023
These are reviews for Up My Alley by Lee Blair and Over the Top by Susan Scott Shelley and Chantal Mer from the Love is All Anthology.
This is a review for Up My Alley by Lee Blair from the Love is All Anthology. This is a very cute novella about two men who became friends and then much more. Leo and Hudson are roommates after both suffering divorces. They meet while bowling which they both love to do. They are almost opposites in that Hudson is a neat freak because it helps him to know things are where they are supposed to be and Leo is kind of a free for all kind of guy, yet he respects and honors what Hudson needs. One of their good friends starts needling them that they are always together and meet each other’s needs so much that they must be in a romantic relationship. This startles both of them, since they have only ever been with women, but it also starts them thinking and wondering if this could be true. The story continues as they tentatively reach out to each other and discover that they do, indeed, want to try a relationship and all that it entails. I really enjoyed this story. Hudson and Leo are so cute and sweet together, yet clueless until they go about discovering what they really want, always afraid if they say something it may ruin their friendship which is so important to them. Their friends are snarky and I loved the names of the bowling teams as well as what bowling means to everyone involved. The love scenes were also sweet as they go about exploring what it means to be with a man. I highly recommend this story and am looking forward to reading more from this author.
This is a review for Over the Top by Susan Scott Shelley and Chantal Mer from the Love is All Anthology. Calder plays hockey for the Philadelphia Power and has a nomination for Rookie of the year. Riggs is a tailor who has fashioned and made clothes for Calder as well as many of his teammates. They have both had a fascination for each other which comes to a head when Calder asks Riggs to dress him for the awards program and also to accompany him as his plus one. Riggs agrees and off they go, hoping to maybe form a real relationship, even though the weekend is a very short time for that to happen. They have a great time and things do develop into more as they get to know one another which makes them very happy. I really enjoyed this short story. Calder and Riggs were so hopeful and sweet together. Their friends were snarky but also helpful when needed. There is also an understory about Calder and Brock, another pro hockey player also up for the Rookie of the Year award. They had been friends when growing up but something went wrong so now they are almost enemies. I also liked all the “tailoring” information that was given in the story as this is Riggs’ livelihood and important to him and to Calder, especially since his skills leads him to more contacts at the ceremony. All in all this is a fun story and I highly recommend it. I liked it so much I plan to go back and read the first book in the series as it is about characters that have a part in this one.
This is a review for Up My Alley by Lee Blair from the Love is All Anthology. This is a very cute novella about two men who became friends and then much more. Leo and Hudson are roommates after both suffering divorces. They meet while bowling which they both love to do. They are almost opposites in that Hudson is a neat freak because it helps him to know things are where they are supposed to be and Leo is kind of a free for all kind of guy, yet he respects and honors what Hudson needs. One of their good friends starts needling them that they are always together and meet each other’s needs so much that they must be in a romantic relationship. This startles both of them, since they have only ever been with women, but it also starts them thinking and wondering if this could be true. The story continues as they tentatively reach out to each other and discover that they do, indeed, want to try a relationship and all that it entails. I really enjoyed this story. Hudson and Leo are so cute and sweet together, yet clueless until they go about discovering what they really want, always afraid if they say something it may ruin their friendship which is so important to them. Their friends are snarky and I loved the names of the bowling teams as well as what bowling means to everyone involved. The love scenes were also sweet as they go about exploring what it means to be with a man. I highly recommend this story and am looking forward to reading more from this author.
This is a review for Over the Top by Susan Scott Shelley and Chantal Mer from the Love is All Anthology. Calder plays hockey for the Philadelphia Power and has a nomination for Rookie of the year. Riggs is a tailor who has fashioned and made clothes for Calder as well as many of his teammates. They have both had a fascination for each other which comes to a head when Calder asks Riggs to dress him for the awards program and also to accompany him as his plus one. Riggs agrees and off they go, hoping to maybe form a real relationship, even though the weekend is a very short time for that to happen. They have a great time and things do develop into more as they get to know one another which makes them very happy. I really enjoyed this short story. Calder and Riggs were so hopeful and sweet together. Their friends were snarky but also helpful when needed. There is also an understory about Calder and Brock, another pro hockey player also up for the Rookie of the Year award. They had been friends when growing up but something went wrong so now they are almost enemies. I also liked all the “tailoring” information that was given in the story as this is Riggs’ livelihood and important to him and to Calder, especially since his skills leads him to more contacts at the ceremony. All in all this is a fun story and I highly recommend it. I liked it so much I plan to go back and read the first book in the series as it is about characters that have a part in this one.
June 19, 2023
Blue Sky Boyfriend: Tate's inner dialogue about his family is hysterical. Tate, returns home after 15 years under dubious circumstances. He is living in his parents' basement, paying rent with slight chances of future prospects. Wyatt put his ambitions aside and stayed home to help his sick Father on the farm. Then it became his life to manage his farm alone. Tate came to visit to reconnect with Wyatt. Take and Wyatt have unresolved feelings for each other. Good story about getting reacquainted, love, understanding, shame, redemption, forgiveness and reconciliation. Great flow, great supportive family interesting getting to know adult Tate and Wyatt with flashbacks to when they were 16. Nicely done.
Over The Top: Philadelphia Power may have lost the Division, but they gained frienships for life! Riggs, is a custom fashion designer extraordinaire! He just needs to establish his brand so everyone else will know it. Calder, worked hard for his Rookie year. He earned the Rookie of the Year nomination. He will be attending the award ceremony, and asked Riggs his secret crush to desigh his suit and accompany him as his date. Really sweet story, the team and other partners are amazing and fun. Well done! I received and ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Up My Alley: Right up under their noses! Leo, is adjusting to life as a single man after his divorce. Everything is empasized more since he is aware of his popped bubble. Hudson, is his best friend and room mate. He divorced the previous year also. Hudson likes his environment neat and believes in a place for everything and everything in it's place. Leo, is teased at work about his relationship with Hudson and how close they are. Hudson is teased at bowling about his relationship with Leo and how close they are. The catalyst gets Leo and Hudson thinking. Then they do a bit more than just think. Cute story about friends opening their eyes and noticing the amazing man who is right in front of their faces. Good story, nicely done. I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A Lot of Snow for Christmas: Sweet, who needs power? Sweet! Jack, was enjoying the snow season, even though unexpectedly, there was so much. There is a real danger from the abundance and weight and emergency crews were having a hard time. Also, out of a great sense of caution, no one should really ski alone. He was hoping to get some alone time in his life. Ronnie, goes to the ski resort with his trusted furbaby, Chewie. He hoped to spend a special Christmas, just him and Chewie. They get stuck in Jack's cabin during the storm. The author did a nice job introducing both men who were on different paths and in different places in their lives. Can they survive the storm? Will they get on each other's nerves? Nice guys. Good story. I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Over The Top: Philadelphia Power may have lost the Division, but they gained frienships for life! Riggs, is a custom fashion designer extraordinaire! He just needs to establish his brand so everyone else will know it. Calder, worked hard for his Rookie year. He earned the Rookie of the Year nomination. He will be attending the award ceremony, and asked Riggs his secret crush to desigh his suit and accompany him as his date. Really sweet story, the team and other partners are amazing and fun. Well done! I received and ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Up My Alley: Right up under their noses! Leo, is adjusting to life as a single man after his divorce. Everything is empasized more since he is aware of his popped bubble. Hudson, is his best friend and room mate. He divorced the previous year also. Hudson likes his environment neat and believes in a place for everything and everything in it's place. Leo, is teased at work about his relationship with Hudson and how close they are. Hudson is teased at bowling about his relationship with Leo and how close they are. The catalyst gets Leo and Hudson thinking. Then they do a bit more than just think. Cute story about friends opening their eyes and noticing the amazing man who is right in front of their faces. Good story, nicely done. I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A Lot of Snow for Christmas: Sweet, who needs power? Sweet! Jack, was enjoying the snow season, even though unexpectedly, there was so much. There is a real danger from the abundance and weight and emergency crews were having a hard time. Also, out of a great sense of caution, no one should really ski alone. He was hoping to get some alone time in his life. Ronnie, goes to the ski resort with his trusted furbaby, Chewie. He hoped to spend a special Christmas, just him and Chewie. They get stuck in Jack's cabin during the storm. The author did a nice job introducing both men who were on different paths and in different places in their lives. Can they survive the storm? Will they get on each other's nerves? Nice guys. Good story. I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 21, 2025
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Up My Alley by Lee Blair, one story in the Love is All Vol 6 Anthology
A low/no-angst double sexual awakening between two BFFs/roommates.
Leo & Hudson make adorable best friends. Dating just makes them cuter and sexier!
Thanks to a not-so-subtle shove by a mutual friend, two recently divorced straight guys start to realize that their feelings towards one another may not be as platonic as they thought.
It’s a sweet story, with a tiktok famous cat, and two guys who are purr-fect for one another.
________
Over the Top is one of the stories in the Love Is All Anthology, and is part of the new series, Philadelphia Power. Book 1, Against the Rush, was wonderful, and we met Calder and Riggs there, but do not worry, it’s not necessary to have read it to enjoy this one.
They’ve known each other for a while now, and Riggs has been dressing Calder all season, but Calder’s been focusing on his rookie year. But now that the season is over…
It’s clear they both are interested in the other and in a risky move, Calder invites Riggs to make a weekend away at the awards ceremony to be their first date!
What comes next is a really adorable whirlwind date, with sweet and thoughtful outings, Calder talking up Riggs’ skills to anyone that will listen, and cute coupling.
Surrounded by the snarky (yet caring and loyal teammates) this makes for a really great short story.
Up My Alley by Lee Blair, one story in the Love is All Vol 6 Anthology
A low/no-angst double sexual awakening between two BFFs/roommates.
Leo & Hudson make adorable best friends. Dating just makes them cuter and sexier!
Thanks to a not-so-subtle shove by a mutual friend, two recently divorced straight guys start to realize that their feelings towards one another may not be as platonic as they thought.
It’s a sweet story, with a tiktok famous cat, and two guys who are purr-fect for one another.
________
Over the Top is one of the stories in the Love Is All Anthology, and is part of the new series, Philadelphia Power. Book 1, Against the Rush, was wonderful, and we met Calder and Riggs there, but do not worry, it’s not necessary to have read it to enjoy this one.
They’ve known each other for a while now, and Riggs has been dressing Calder all season, but Calder’s been focusing on his rookie year. But now that the season is over…
It’s clear they both are interested in the other and in a risky move, Calder invites Riggs to make a weekend away at the awards ceremony to be their first date!
What comes next is a really adorable whirlwind date, with sweet and thoughtful outings, Calder talking up Riggs’ skills to anyone that will listen, and cute coupling.
Surrounded by the snarky (yet caring and loyal teammates) this makes for a really great short story.
June 8, 2023
This review is for both BL Maxwell's story, Lee Blair's and Susan Scott Shelley and Chantal Mer
First BL Maxwell:
This is an only-one-bed, stranded together story.
It's a sweet and lovely one, being short obviously means there is not too much depth or character development but the two men are set up with a background, have a personality and it's a case of opposite attracts.
There is chemistry and Chewy is a great addition to steal the scenes.
Second: Lee Blair
This story is slightly longer. It's a friends-to-lovers, dual bi-awakening.
The guys end up being roomates when both their marriages break down. On paper they are very opposite but they do click and they move fairly low angsty into the lover relationship.
There is no drama or angst in this short story. I like that both are questioning what to do with the growing attraction and it's not a case of jumping straight into full blown physical relationship.
There is fun on the bowling alley and I like the good nature banter.
Now Susan Scott Shelley and Chantal Mer:
This story ties in with the new release of the first book in the Philadelphia Power series.
I really liked it, Calder and Riggs are a cute couple and there is definitely chemistry. The story itself is covering quite a short period, just a weekend together but as these two know each other already, it's nothing fast.
I love how Riggs is sorting out awkward hockey player bodyshapes.
I would love to see these two again.
First BL Maxwell:
This is an only-one-bed, stranded together story.
It's a sweet and lovely one, being short obviously means there is not too much depth or character development but the two men are set up with a background, have a personality and it's a case of opposite attracts.
There is chemistry and Chewy is a great addition to steal the scenes.
Second: Lee Blair
This story is slightly longer. It's a friends-to-lovers, dual bi-awakening.
The guys end up being roomates when both their marriages break down. On paper they are very opposite but they do click and they move fairly low angsty into the lover relationship.
There is no drama or angst in this short story. I like that both are questioning what to do with the growing attraction and it's not a case of jumping straight into full blown physical relationship.
There is fun on the bowling alley and I like the good nature banter.
Now Susan Scott Shelley and Chantal Mer:
This story ties in with the new release of the first book in the Philadelphia Power series.
I really liked it, Calder and Riggs are a cute couple and there is definitely chemistry. The story itself is covering quite a short period, just a weekend together but as these two know each other already, it's nothing fast.
I love how Riggs is sorting out awkward hockey player bodyshapes.
I would love to see these two again.
June 9, 2023
Up My Alley by Lee Blair
This was everything I love about best friends to lovers. Adding in General Ledger and the bowling made it fun. And Ollie is an amazing side character. He definitely needs his own story.
Over the Top by Susan Scott Shelley and Chantal Mer
Calder and Riggs are adorable. Their story was so sweet. I really liked that the angsty bit was between one mc and a side character instead of between the two mc’s. It actually let us know them better that way. This made me want to read Leif and Jalen’s story and hope for more.
Blue Sky Boyfriend by Gabbi Grey
This was exceptionally good. Being part of an anthology tends to mean shorter reads by each author. Good stories but the emotional impact doesn’t usually get as deep as longer reads. This one is the exception to that rule. While Tate’s situation might not be the norm, the feelings that the families, Wyatt, and Tate have over all they have gone through are. I thought Gabbi Grey did a great job of portraying that as well as getting us to really connect with the characters.
I love reading anthologies, especially when they are for charity. The mix of reads gives a reader what they need. I also tend to find new to me authors which I love. This was just three of the amazing stories you’ll find here. I strongly recommend checking them all out.
This was everything I love about best friends to lovers. Adding in General Ledger and the bowling made it fun. And Ollie is an amazing side character. He definitely needs his own story.
Over the Top by Susan Scott Shelley and Chantal Mer
Calder and Riggs are adorable. Their story was so sweet. I really liked that the angsty bit was between one mc and a side character instead of between the two mc’s. It actually let us know them better that way. This made me want to read Leif and Jalen’s story and hope for more.
Blue Sky Boyfriend by Gabbi Grey
This was exceptionally good. Being part of an anthology tends to mean shorter reads by each author. Good stories but the emotional impact doesn’t usually get as deep as longer reads. This one is the exception to that rule. While Tate’s situation might not be the norm, the feelings that the families, Wyatt, and Tate have over all they have gone through are. I thought Gabbi Grey did a great job of portraying that as well as getting us to really connect with the characters.
I love reading anthologies, especially when they are for charity. The mix of reads gives a reader what they need. I also tend to find new to me authors which I love. This was just three of the amazing stories you’ll find here. I strongly recommend checking them all out.
June 13, 2023
A memorable collection of stories from a variety of authors with some seriously compelling plots and characters. Special notes for:
Up My Alley: Lots to appreciate here. Bowling, friends-to-lovers, bi-awakening. While I didn’t love the super-pushy, creepily-overly-invested-in-matchmaking mutual friend (looking at you Ollie), I did really like the dynamic between Leo and Hudson. Friends with deepening/new feelings is always lovely, especially when there’s a solid basis of caring and acceptance to build on, and that’s definitely true for these guys.
Over the Top: The attraction between Calder and Riggs weaves together a nice blend of sweetness and heat, and it’s hard to go wrong with two characters so distinctly likable, especially with the strong supporting cast of Calder’s hockey teammates. They’re definitely well suited in multiple ways (lame joke obligatory, as Riggs makes amazing clothes for a living), and it’s fun watching their connection take shape.
Blue Sky Boyfriend: I’m a sucker for second-chance romances, especially ones where you can see the depth of the old feelings as they weave together with the chance for new ones. Both Wyatt and Tate are deeply likable, and the added dimension of city slicker/country folk, plus a plot with some layered dimensions, makes this one hard to put down.
*I voluntarily reviewed complimentary copies of these stories.
Up My Alley: Lots to appreciate here. Bowling, friends-to-lovers, bi-awakening. While I didn’t love the super-pushy, creepily-overly-invested-in-matchmaking mutual friend (looking at you Ollie), I did really like the dynamic between Leo and Hudson. Friends with deepening/new feelings is always lovely, especially when there’s a solid basis of caring and acceptance to build on, and that’s definitely true for these guys.
Over the Top: The attraction between Calder and Riggs weaves together a nice blend of sweetness and heat, and it’s hard to go wrong with two characters so distinctly likable, especially with the strong supporting cast of Calder’s hockey teammates. They’re definitely well suited in multiple ways (lame joke obligatory, as Riggs makes amazing clothes for a living), and it’s fun watching their connection take shape.
Blue Sky Boyfriend: I’m a sucker for second-chance romances, especially ones where you can see the depth of the old feelings as they weave together with the chance for new ones. Both Wyatt and Tate are deeply likable, and the added dimension of city slicker/country folk, plus a plot with some layered dimensions, makes this one hard to put down.
*I voluntarily reviewed complimentary copies of these stories.
June 10, 2023
This is a wonderful collection of short stories.
My review is for BL Maxwell's
A Lot of Snow For Christmas.
Ronnie is a really sweet guy who just wants to spend Christmas alone with his dog Chewie.
He loves his family, there's just so many of them and they're so loud and colorful.
He just wants some peace and quiet.
Unfortunately he ends up smack dab in the middle of huge snowstorm and almost has a bad ending.
Jack is riding out the storm in a nearby cabin and when he sees Ronnie in distress he immediately jumps into action and saves the day.
Jack had a wonderful skiing trip planned and Ronnie kind of put a cramp in it.
As they spend time together, Jack slowly comes to realize that he's not happy in his life and seeing Ronnie so enthused about his dog apparel wear company mekes it even more painfully obvious.
They had a few passion filled days and then the time came to part ways.
The epilogue was really sweet and showed how they stayed together with a sweet gesture on Jack's behalf for Ronnie.
I just really wished the author had settled the issue of Jack's unhappiness with his job and if he found something that made him happy.
Overall a short, sweet, romantic tale of love found in an unexpected place and way at Christmastime.
My review is for BL Maxwell's
A Lot of Snow For Christmas.
Ronnie is a really sweet guy who just wants to spend Christmas alone with his dog Chewie.
He loves his family, there's just so many of them and they're so loud and colorful.
He just wants some peace and quiet.
Unfortunately he ends up smack dab in the middle of huge snowstorm and almost has a bad ending.
Jack is riding out the storm in a nearby cabin and when he sees Ronnie in distress he immediately jumps into action and saves the day.
Jack had a wonderful skiing trip planned and Ronnie kind of put a cramp in it.
As they spend time together, Jack slowly comes to realize that he's not happy in his life and seeing Ronnie so enthused about his dog apparel wear company mekes it even more painfully obvious.
They had a few passion filled days and then the time came to part ways.
The epilogue was really sweet and showed how they stayed together with a sweet gesture on Jack's behalf for Ronnie.
I just really wished the author had settled the issue of Jack's unhappiness with his job and if he found something that made him happy.
Overall a short, sweet, romantic tale of love found in an unexpected place and way at Christmastime.
June 16, 2023
This review is for Up My Alley by Lee Blair
This is a cute, quick read about roommates who find love. There is no angst, just 2 sweet guys who realize they have feelings for each other. I loved how Leo understood Hudson’s need for order and cleanliness and didn’t judge him. I also enjoyed that they communicated their feelings and made sure they were on the same page. I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest opinion.
*************************************************************
This review is for Over the Top by Susan Scott Shelley and Chantal Mer
I loved this short story that takes place in the Philadelphia Power universe (Book 1 in the series is awesome). Calder and Riggs are adorable together. Calder just finished his first hockey season with the Power. Riggs is his tailor. They have great chemistry and when the season is over, Calder finally asks Riggs out. They spend a weekend attending a hockey awards event. Calder has a close relationship with his teammates and it was nice seeing them again. I loved everything about this story and wished it didn’t end so soon. I’m definitely looking forward to more books about this group. I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest opinion.
This is a cute, quick read about roommates who find love. There is no angst, just 2 sweet guys who realize they have feelings for each other. I loved how Leo understood Hudson’s need for order and cleanliness and didn’t judge him. I also enjoyed that they communicated their feelings and made sure they were on the same page. I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest opinion.
*************************************************************
This review is for Over the Top by Susan Scott Shelley and Chantal Mer
I loved this short story that takes place in the Philadelphia Power universe (Book 1 in the series is awesome). Calder and Riggs are adorable together. Calder just finished his first hockey season with the Power. Riggs is his tailor. They have great chemistry and when the season is over, Calder finally asks Riggs out. They spend a weekend attending a hockey awards event. Calder has a close relationship with his teammates and it was nice seeing them again. I loved everything about this story and wished it didn’t end so soon. I’m definitely looking forward to more books about this group. I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest opinion.
July 4, 2023
This is the perfect anthology for a quick summer read. The three stories I enjoyed the most were:
Up Your Alley by Lee Blair
A wonderful friends to lovers/ gay awakening story. Leo and Hudson are two friends who decide to share an apartment after their marriages fail. After living together they discover that the closeness they have always felt is more than just friendship.
Over The Top by Susan Scott Shelley and Chantal Mer
Caulder is a new hockey player that has worked so hard during the season that the is nominated for Rookie of the Year. During the season he kept his focus on his game but now that the off season has come around he has the time to act on the attraction he feels for his tailor, Riggs. They spend a magical weekend in New York that is the start of big things for both of them.
Blue Sky Boyfriend by Gabbi Grey
Wyatt and Tate were high school sweethearts before Tate ran from their small town to explore the world of high stakes banking. After a failed marriage and being the victim of fraud he has returned home to try to pick up the pieces. Wyatt has taken over running the family farm after the death of his father. He is lonely and wondering if anyone can measure up to his first love.
Up Your Alley by Lee Blair
A wonderful friends to lovers/ gay awakening story. Leo and Hudson are two friends who decide to share an apartment after their marriages fail. After living together they discover that the closeness they have always felt is more than just friendship.
Over The Top by Susan Scott Shelley and Chantal Mer
Caulder is a new hockey player that has worked so hard during the season that the is nominated for Rookie of the Year. During the season he kept his focus on his game but now that the off season has come around he has the time to act on the attraction he feels for his tailor, Riggs. They spend a magical weekend in New York that is the start of big things for both of them.
Blue Sky Boyfriend by Gabbi Grey
Wyatt and Tate were high school sweethearts before Tate ran from their small town to explore the world of high stakes banking. After a failed marriage and being the victim of fraud he has returned home to try to pick up the pieces. Wyatt has taken over running the family farm after the death of his father. He is lonely and wondering if anyone can measure up to his first love.
June 29, 2023
Review A Lot of Snow For Christmas by BL Maxwell
I really enjoyed this story. It was such a fun, quick read. I loved the characters. Little Chewie was also adorable- and I love animals in romance stories! Two men who are opposites, a loveable dog, and a Christmas snowstorm to trap them together in one cabin. Yes please! 4 stars.
*********************
Review Up My Alley by Lee Blair
“No one is safe from Ollie’s cupid arrow.”
I loved this story. Hudson and Leo were so cute together. I loved their mutual pining and was completely hooked. Ollie is such a not-so-sneaky matchmaker, and even Ledgie played a role. The first I've read by this author. 5 stars.
*********************
Review Blue Sky Boyfriend by Gabbi Grey
'Seeing Tate nearly stole my breath.
I fingered the inhaler in my pocket.'
I enjoyed this story. I liked both Wyatt and Tate. This was definitely a second chance romance and a bit of an emotional read that dealt with forgiveness and redemption. These men have history, and it was nice seeing them catch up and get reacquainted after 15 years apart. 4 stars.
I really enjoyed this story. It was such a fun, quick read. I loved the characters. Little Chewie was also adorable- and I love animals in romance stories! Two men who are opposites, a loveable dog, and a Christmas snowstorm to trap them together in one cabin. Yes please! 4 stars.
*********************
Review Up My Alley by Lee Blair
“No one is safe from Ollie’s cupid arrow.”
I loved this story. Hudson and Leo were so cute together. I loved their mutual pining and was completely hooked. Ollie is such a not-so-sneaky matchmaker, and even Ledgie played a role. The first I've read by this author. 5 stars.
*********************
Review Blue Sky Boyfriend by Gabbi Grey
'Seeing Tate nearly stole my breath.
I fingered the inhaler in my pocket.'
I enjoyed this story. I liked both Wyatt and Tate. This was definitely a second chance romance and a bit of an emotional read that dealt with forgiveness and redemption. These men have history, and it was nice seeing them catch up and get reacquainted after 15 years apart. 4 stars.
June 10, 2023
This is an amazing collection of stories that supports LGBTQIA+ rights. There are 10 brand new stories, so you are bound to find something you like while also supporting a good cause.
My favorite story was Over the Top. It is by two authors that are new to me. Chantal Mer & Susan Scott Shelley wrote a story that continues their Philadelphia Power hockey series (I also decided to read the first book, Against the Rush, in preparation for this story). I really liked both stories. Lots of characters appear throughout both books, so I was familiar with the two MC’s of this story before it began.
Calder is up for a Rookie of the Year award, and he invites the tailor, Riggs, that he has a crush on, to be his date. I could really feel the attraction between the two. They were a perfect match. My only issue was the big conflict of the story felt a little over the top and exaggerated just to create a story element. But I felt that was minor, and I still loved the story.
With this story and nine other amazing stories, I highly recommend this collection!
My favorite story was Over the Top. It is by two authors that are new to me. Chantal Mer & Susan Scott Shelley wrote a story that continues their Philadelphia Power hockey series (I also decided to read the first book, Against the Rush, in preparation for this story). I really liked both stories. Lots of characters appear throughout both books, so I was familiar with the two MC’s of this story before it began.
Calder is up for a Rookie of the Year award, and he invites the tailor, Riggs, that he has a crush on, to be his date. I could really feel the attraction between the two. They were a perfect match. My only issue was the big conflict of the story felt a little over the top and exaggerated just to create a story element. But I felt that was minor, and I still loved the story.
With this story and nine other amazing stories, I highly recommend this collection!
June 6, 2023
This is my review for : Over the Top
Chantal Mer / Susan Scott Shelley
Calder and Riggs ❤️
Adorable, first date leads to love ❤️
This was a sweet, sexy and easy read based in The Philadelphia Power universe and I loved it! Low angst, some really sexy times and of course a cast of sexy hockey playing characters I can't wait to see more of!!! I definitely recommend.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
Merged review:
4 stars ⭐️
Review: Up my Alley BY: Lee Blair
Very cute, low angst, and sexy friends to lovers read plus the addition of a super cute kitty......swoon!
3 Stars ⭐️
Review: Blue Sky Boyfriend By: Gabbi Grey
I liked this but at the same time I felt like something was missing, it was sweet but the past hurt was brushed over like it wasn't important and all should be forgiven. I didn't quite feel the connection and IMO this relationship seemed a bit forced.
All in all, I would recommend these quick reads.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
Chantal Mer / Susan Scott Shelley
Calder and Riggs ❤️
Adorable, first date leads to love ❤️
This was a sweet, sexy and easy read based in The Philadelphia Power universe and I loved it! Low angst, some really sexy times and of course a cast of sexy hockey playing characters I can't wait to see more of!!! I definitely recommend.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
Merged review:
4 stars ⭐️
Review: Up my Alley BY: Lee Blair
Very cute, low angst, and sexy friends to lovers read plus the addition of a super cute kitty......swoon!
3 Stars ⭐️
Review: Blue Sky Boyfriend By: Gabbi Grey
I liked this but at the same time I felt like something was missing, it was sweet but the past hurt was brushed over like it wasn't important and all should be forgiven. I didn't quite feel the connection and IMO this relationship seemed a bit forced.
All in all, I would recommend these quick reads.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
June 14, 2023
This is a review of Up My Alley by Lee Blair and Blue Sky Boyfriend by Gabby Grey from the Love is All, Volume 6 anthology.
First up: Up My Alley is the story about Leo and Hudson. Both met during a time of hard marriages and eventual divorces. In the aftermath, they both moved in together. It was pretty apparent that they had a better understanding of one another, to the point that people assumed they were more than just friends. But were they? Both never having a relationship with a man, was this a strong friendship or something more. This is the journey of the past and the present lives of Leo and Hudson. I loved it! Though it was a short novella, it was sweet!
Next up: Blue Sky Boyfriend. Talk about breaking my heart and picking up the pieces. This book I really wanted it to go on. I needed more time with Tate and Wyatt. This is a story of what could have been, what happened, and how to move on. For a novella, it had all of the feels. Wanted more to read, but glad I got everything I did from it.
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily gave my honest review.
First up: Up My Alley is the story about Leo and Hudson. Both met during a time of hard marriages and eventual divorces. In the aftermath, they both moved in together. It was pretty apparent that they had a better understanding of one another, to the point that people assumed they were more than just friends. But were they? Both never having a relationship with a man, was this a strong friendship or something more. This is the journey of the past and the present lives of Leo and Hudson. I loved it! Though it was a short novella, it was sweet!
Next up: Blue Sky Boyfriend. Talk about breaking my heart and picking up the pieces. This book I really wanted it to go on. I needed more time with Tate and Wyatt. This is a story of what could have been, what happened, and how to move on. For a novella, it had all of the feels. Wanted more to read, but glad I got everything I did from it.
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily gave my honest review.
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