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Rear Entrance Video #1
Apple Polisher
This straight-A student has a dirty little secret.
Christian Blake dreams of being a kindergarten teacher, but making the grade means maintaining a squeaky clean image: no drinking, no drugs, no swearing, no sex. And definitely no falling for his new roommate—tattooed bad-boy Max, who may or may not be a drug dealer.
Most of all, it means no working at a porn store. But Christian’s aunt has cancer, and her beloved Rear Entrance Video will go bankrupt if Christian doesn’t take over managerial duties. Soon enough, Christian finds himself juggling sticky twenty-five cent peepshow booths, a blackmailing employee, and a demanding professor who likes to make an example of him.
And then there’s Max, who doesn’t know anything about the store, but hates Christian’s preppy sweater vests and the closet Christian forces him into when they’re together. Max just wants Christian to be himself—even though Max is keeping secrets of his own. Christian struggles to find the impossible balance between his real life and the ideal one he thinks a teacher needs to live . . . all while trying to keep his aunt’s dream alive without losing his own.
Christian Blake dreams of being a kindergarten teacher, but making the grade means maintaining a squeaky clean image: no drinking, no drugs, no swearing, no sex. And definitely no falling for his new roommate—tattooed bad-boy Max, who may or may not be a drug dealer.
Most of all, it means no working at a porn store. But Christian’s aunt has cancer, and her beloved Rear Entrance Video will go bankrupt if Christian doesn’t take over managerial duties. Soon enough, Christian finds himself juggling sticky twenty-five cent peepshow booths, a blackmailing employee, and a demanding professor who likes to make an example of him.
And then there’s Max, who doesn’t know anything about the store, but hates Christian’s preppy sweater vests and the closet Christian forces him into when they’re together. Max just wants Christian to be himself—even though Max is keeping secrets of his own. Christian struggles to find the impossible balance between his real life and the ideal one he thinks a teacher needs to live . . . all while trying to keep his aunt’s dream alive without losing his own.
230 pages, ebook
First published July 27, 2013
11 people are currently reading
555 people want to read
About the author
Heidi Belleau
61 books315 followersHeidi Belleau was born and raised in small town New Brunswick, graduated with a degree in history from Simon Fraser University in British Columbia, and now lives outside of Edmonton, Alberta, with her tradesman husband and two kids. A proud bisexual woman, her writing reflects everything she loves: diverse casts of queer characters, a sense of history and place, equal parts witty and filthy dialogue, the occasional mythological twist, and most of all, love—in all its weird and wonderful forms. She is the author of the REAR ENTRANCE VIDEO series, and the co-author of THE BURNT TOAST B&B. Her latest novel DEAD RINGER, co-authored with Sam Schooler, is out now from Riptide Publishing. Her work has been reviewed in PUBLISHER’S WEEKLY, LIBRARY JOURNAL, and BOOKLIST.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews
June 18, 2013
A Hearts On Fire Review
FOUR & A HALF STARS--"Apple Polisher" the first book in the Rear Entrance Video series (awesome series name BTW) featuring romantic-comedic approach to MM romance while featuring some real life shit. The romance is simple and comforting featuring twenty-somethings.
Christian Blake is gay (but he re-entered the closet), Jamaican-Canadian (yay!), enrolled into a difficult teaching program (where he has to dress in preppy business casual clothes turning him into a perpetual square - boo!) and broke. (Hello, he's a graduate student!) Poor Blake is so broke he answers a roommate request to live a "heritage house" (questionable) with four other male roommates.
Mmm...sounds like it could be a fantastic setup for an orgy, but (regrettably) it is not. The hose is swarming with different personalities, backgrounds and cultures. It was such a delight to read. One of my favorite things about this story is the difference between the five roommates and the multicultural approach. (Major kudos to Heidi - well that and the Jake Bass references because I have a supercrush)
But Christian does end up falling for one of his roommates, Max, a secretive, snarky, tattooed, tongue-pierced, sexy ,little, lithe bit of yum who has a penchant for wearing superhero themed underwear. Christian has to remained buttoned up and boring but he can't help but lust after Max who he suspects to be a bad boy involved in illegal activities. Christian can't do anything about that, no matter how tempted he is.
Right?
Especially since his favorite aunt who is battling cancer and owner of a small porn store (Rear Entrance Videos) which is tanking, needs Christian's attention and help. Christian has no time for relationships, fuck buddies or whatnot. Besides he doesn't even like Max...that much. Maybe? No.
Max and Christian's bicker-flirting made me smile. A favorite of mine:
"It's totally hot, you being such a square. Don't know why, but I see you with that shirt buttoned up all the way and I know I need to fuck you."
"What you got some Urkel fetish?"
"Don't flatter yourself."
All of the problems laid on Christian's feet are relatable and made me enjoy him the more for them - his family struggles, his sort of laid back approach to handling them, etc. I think Max described Christian perfectly:
"When, in fact, you're an absolutely normal person who takes a bit of time and encouragement to make a hard decision, but gets to the right choice in the end."
In the end, he comes through. He's not perfect and I don't expect him to be. Max was a great foil to Christian's stuffiness. And when he enticed Christian to take a walk on the wild side, I loved it. Also the story is not one long literary porn scene. There's much more than just sex even with Christian working in a porn store(though there was at least one accidental exhibition scene- I loved it).
The narration of the story (from Christian's POV) was humorous, sad and hopeful at times. It went up and down but never hitting extreme peaks with the emotional angle. There's no unwarranted drama thrown in for drama's sake. It read so normal it felt like wrapping in your most comfiest blanket on a cold day. It was a comfort read for me, sometimes those are the best.
All secrets are revealed (Max's I did not expect but it was not a dealbreaker for me). The ending was great and realistic. I look forward to reading more from this series in the future. And book #2 Wallflower looks like it's going to be a doozy(in a good way).
There are many things that made this story great:(people with multicultural backgrounds [I'm partial to the Jamaican references]), real life situations and awesome narration - maybe because I talk and think like that.
Heidi Belleau, it seems you have a fan in me. I'm anxiously awaiting more.
ARC was provided for an honest review.
FOUR & A HALF STARS--"Apple Polisher" the first book in the Rear Entrance Video series (awesome series name BTW) featuring romantic-comedic approach to MM romance while featuring some real life shit. The romance is simple and comforting featuring twenty-somethings.
Christian Blake is gay (but he re-entered the closet), Jamaican-Canadian (yay!), enrolled into a difficult teaching program (where he has to dress in preppy business casual clothes turning him into a perpetual square - boo!) and broke. (Hello, he's a graduate student!) Poor Blake is so broke he answers a roommate request to live a "heritage house" (questionable) with four other male roommates.
Mmm...sounds like it could be a fantastic setup for an orgy, but (regrettably) it is not. The hose is swarming with different personalities, backgrounds and cultures. It was such a delight to read. One of my favorite things about this story is the difference between the five roommates and the multicultural approach. (Major kudos to Heidi - well that and the Jake Bass references because I have a supercrush)
But Christian does end up falling for one of his roommates, Max, a secretive, snarky, tattooed, tongue-pierced, sexy ,little, lithe bit of yum who has a penchant for wearing superhero themed underwear. Christian has to remained buttoned up and boring but he can't help but lust after Max who he suspects to be a bad boy involved in illegal activities. Christian can't do anything about that, no matter how tempted he is.
Right?
Especially since his favorite aunt who is battling cancer and owner of a small porn store (Rear Entrance Videos) which is tanking, needs Christian's attention and help. Christian has no time for relationships, fuck buddies or whatnot. Besides he doesn't even like Max...that much. Maybe? No.
Max and Christian's bicker-flirting made me smile. A favorite of mine:
"It's totally hot, you being such a square. Don't know why, but I see you with that shirt buttoned up all the way and I know I need to fuck you."
"What you got some Urkel fetish?"
"Don't flatter yourself."
All of the problems laid on Christian's feet are relatable and made me enjoy him the more for them - his family struggles, his sort of laid back approach to handling them, etc. I think Max described Christian perfectly:
"When, in fact, you're an absolutely normal person who takes a bit of time and encouragement to make a hard decision, but gets to the right choice in the end."
In the end, he comes through. He's not perfect and I don't expect him to be. Max was a great foil to Christian's stuffiness. And when he enticed Christian to take a walk on the wild side, I loved it. Also the story is not one long literary porn scene. There's much more than just sex even with Christian working in a porn store(though there was at least one accidental exhibition scene- I loved it).
The narration of the story (from Christian's POV) was humorous, sad and hopeful at times. It went up and down but never hitting extreme peaks with the emotional angle. There's no unwarranted drama thrown in for drama's sake. It read so normal it felt like wrapping in your most comfiest blanket on a cold day. It was a comfort read for me, sometimes those are the best.
All secrets are revealed (Max's I did not expect but it was not a dealbreaker for me). The ending was great and realistic. I look forward to reading more from this series in the future. And book #2 Wallflower looks like it's going to be a doozy(in a good way).
There are many things that made this story great:(people with multicultural backgrounds [I'm partial to the Jamaican references]), real life situations and awesome narration - maybe because I talk and think like that.
Heidi Belleau, it seems you have a fan in me. I'm anxiously awaiting more.
ARC was provided for an honest review.
August 1, 2013
I really really enjoyed this author's #First Impressions #Second Chances and wanted to check out more of her stories.
I didn't love this one as much, but I didn't expect to, that LHNB story was just awesomesauce lovely.
There is a lot going on in this book, lots of secrets being kept and as the first in a series it has to set the stage for the following books.
Christian has his goal and he is going to succeed, even if it kills him, well maybe not kill him, but damages who he really is. At the end of the day, he has his heart in the right place, gets his priorities straight and also realized that maybe he was putting more pressure on himself than was necessary.
Max, oh boy, since we don't really get his POV, it's hard to know what he is really thinking or feeling a lot of the times, at least for me, but I liked him.
The other guys round out the whole group, I loved Aunt Bev, wasn't thrilled with Sandra, because I dislike slapping, a lot. No matter the reason she felt justified, it never is.
There were some twists, like Max's secret and the professor..all in all an entertaining read.
Oh ETA: there were no apples polished in this book. Nope...unless of course you are a perv and were thinking of different apples .. .then it's possible some were made shiny....
I didn't love this one as much, but I didn't expect to, that LHNB story was just awesomesauce lovely.
There is a lot going on in this book, lots of secrets being kept and as the first in a series it has to set the stage for the following books.
Christian has his goal and he is going to succeed, even if it kills him, well maybe not kill him, but damages who he really is. At the end of the day, he has his heart in the right place, gets his priorities straight and also realized that maybe he was putting more pressure on himself than was necessary.
Max, oh boy, since we don't really get his POV, it's hard to know what he is really thinking or feeling a lot of the times, at least for me, but I liked him.
The other guys round out the whole group, I loved Aunt Bev, wasn't thrilled with Sandra, because I dislike slapping, a lot. No matter the reason she felt justified, it never is.
There were some twists, like Max's secret and the professor..all in all an entertaining read.
Oh ETA: there were no apples polished in this book. Nope...unless of course you are a perv and were thinking of different apples .. .then it's possible some were made shiny....
January 1, 2014
This book gets an automatic five stars because there's a gay black man on the cover. Some writers still seem to think "gay" automatically equals "Caucasian". Silly fools, get a grip! It also gets stars because I've read Heidi Belleau's work and I can't see any racefail ahead (she'll know it from me if there is, LOL).
Update: I just finished Apple Polisher and yes, it was pretty much everything I hoped it would be. Christian Blake was such a complex character and I could sympathize with many of his struggles to just be true to himself. I wouldn't call his over-achieving, up-tight, re-closeted exterior 'flaws', but a very real dilemma that many PoC face. To not be the stereotyped "thug" (something he ruminates on briefly and sadly something far too common in the gay classified/online scene where black males are either fetishized or discriminated against). In spite of this, and making mistakes, when his aunt Beverly needed him to save her business, he was there.
Max was a perfect match for the straight-laced Christopher. Brash on the outside, lovable and loyal geek on the inside. It was quite clear that he saw beneath Christoper's facade and yet that brash tell-it-like-it-is was what the other man needed. The superhero underwear was a hilarious twist. The other twist regarding where his money came from came from left field, and yet did not feel as if tossed in for shock value.
I really enjoyed the scenes inside of Rear Entry Video (great name). They read true to life sans judgment. One never knows what kinks the most "normal" people get into and I loved the fact the customers came from different backgrounds. Aunt Beverly sounds like a woman I'd love to know, and I'm plenty curious as to what made her purchase an adult video and toy store. Even the tart-tongued but concerned roomie Sandra was great.
Yay, no genderfail either! The female characters were treated evenhandedly. There was the strong-willed and loving aunt Beverly, the thieving little witch Melissa (whom I just wanted to bitch slap) and the loyal yet tart-tongued Sandra.
Speaking of roommates, even though the focus was really on Christopher and Max's relationship, I didn't feel the others were shortchanged. The only one who was problematic for me personally was Rob. The entire fey/ feminine thing is a trope too often misused when it comes to Asian men, hence the deduction of one star. Sadly there seems to be little to no middle ground in the media--they're either Bruce Lee/Jet Li clones or socially inept played for humor nerdy-types Gagnam Style caricatures. I'm not saying the author was purposely stereotyping him since I've read some of her past work. It's just that Rob's characterization just felt wrong, even though I have a heads-up as to his story. To be fair, my benchmark for fully fleshed Asian males are Shiree McCarver's books as well as K.C. Snow's No Souvenirs.
Outside of this highly personal issue, I loved this book and can't wait for the next one in the series--which coincidentally is Rob's story. So, there may be more to him than meets the eye. Again, Heidi Belleau is to be commended for showcasing a multicultural cast. There's nothing more annoying than the endless whitewash in gay romance. Unfortunately that erasure happens in real life in the GLBT community. Then they wonder why they have such a hard time forging ties to other marginalized communities. Seriously, it is unacceptable to write about a marginalized group and yet erase the lives and loves of those within that group.
Update: I just finished Apple Polisher and yes, it was pretty much everything I hoped it would be. Christian Blake was such a complex character and I could sympathize with many of his struggles to just be true to himself. I wouldn't call his over-achieving, up-tight, re-closeted exterior 'flaws', but a very real dilemma that many PoC face. To not be the stereotyped "thug" (something he ruminates on briefly and sadly something far too common in the gay classified/online scene where black males are either fetishized or discriminated against). In spite of this, and making mistakes, when his aunt Beverly needed him to save her business, he was there.
Max was a perfect match for the straight-laced Christopher. Brash on the outside, lovable and loyal geek on the inside. It was quite clear that he saw beneath Christoper's facade and yet that brash tell-it-like-it-is was what the other man needed. The superhero underwear was a hilarious twist. The other twist regarding where his money came from came from left field, and yet did not feel as if tossed in for shock value.
I really enjoyed the scenes inside of Rear Entry Video (great name). They read true to life sans judgment. One never knows what kinks the most "normal" people get into and I loved the fact the customers came from different backgrounds. Aunt Beverly sounds like a woman I'd love to know, and I'm plenty curious as to what made her purchase an adult video and toy store. Even the tart-tongued but concerned roomie Sandra was great.
Yay, no genderfail either! The female characters were treated evenhandedly. There was the strong-willed and loving aunt Beverly, the thieving little witch Melissa (whom I just wanted to bitch slap) and the loyal yet tart-tongued Sandra.
Speaking of roommates, even though the focus was really on Christopher and Max's relationship, I didn't feel the others were shortchanged. The only one who was problematic for me personally was Rob. The entire fey/ feminine thing is a trope too often misused when it comes to Asian men, hence the deduction of one star. Sadly there seems to be little to no middle ground in the media--they're either Bruce Lee/Jet Li clones or socially inept played for humor nerdy-types Gagnam Style caricatures. I'm not saying the author was purposely stereotyping him since I've read some of her past work. It's just that Rob's characterization just felt wrong, even though I have a heads-up as to his story. To be fair, my benchmark for fully fleshed Asian males are Shiree McCarver's books as well as K.C. Snow's No Souvenirs.
Outside of this highly personal issue, I loved this book and can't wait for the next one in the series--which coincidentally is Rob's story. So, there may be more to him than meets the eye. Again, Heidi Belleau is to be commended for showcasing a multicultural cast. There's nothing more annoying than the endless whitewash in gay romance. Unfortunately that erasure happens in real life in the GLBT community. Then they wonder why they have such a hard time forging ties to other marginalized communities. Seriously, it is unacceptable to write about a marginalized group and yet erase the lives and loves of those within that group.
November 20, 2013
So this series is set in Vancouver, BC. I totally dorked out and Googled where on Davie that the store would sit and perhaps nodded my head knowingly when places I've been or recognized were mentioned. Yup, total dork.
I wasn't sure what to expect with this one and there were moments when I wanted to smack Christian but I have to say I loved this read. I got a kick out of the heritage house roomies and stressed out with Christian as he tried to keep all together. There are quite a few hot scenes between the MC's and Max's big reveal was quite a surprise. I theorized a few times about where his money was coming from and never did guess it.
Off to read book 2!
I wasn't sure what to expect with this one and there were moments when I wanted to smack Christian but I have to say I loved this read. I got a kick out of the heritage house roomies and stressed out with Christian as he tried to keep all together. There are quite a few hot scenes between the MC's and Max's big reveal was quite a surprise. I theorized a few times about where his money was coming from and never did guess it.
Off to read book 2!
October 26, 2013
I ended up loving this. Which surprises me, because it stressed me the hell out. Seriously, the roller coaster of anxiety I experienced while reading this had me all twitchy. In spite of that, I could not stop reading. Actually, maybe it was because of that. I mean, I wouldn’t have been so anxious over Christian’s situation if I wasn’t extremley invested in it. The writing grabbed me from the beginning, and wouldn’t let go. I felt it all, was there with Christian, going through the insanity right along with him.
Christian is a conflicted mess. His life is a fustercluck when Apple Polisher begins, and it only proceeds to get more so as the story progresses. Life events conspire against him; have him rooming with 4 other guys in a ramshackle house, working at his aunt’s porn store, all while trying to juggle school so he can become a respectable teacher. He comes off as somewhat cynical, a judgmental prude with a deep appreciation for sweater-vests. He shouldn’t be likeable. Honestly, he’s kind of a jerk. BUT he does manage to be rather amusing. I liked him even when I didn’t want to, and I love the way he’s written. Christian has the tendency to be a negative thinker. It’s not constant. It depends on his mood, or the events he is dealing with at the time. Which is all pretty realistic. There is just so much thought put into Christian as a character: his reactions, his moods, his growth.
Speaking of, there is A LOT of growth. Oodles of self-reflection. Apple Polisher is told from Christian’s POV. I appreciated that his little self-reflection epiphanies don’t come at one big moment. There are a multitude of them, and they build on each other. Christian isn’t perfect about it either. He realizes something about himself that needs to change, and then he goes ahead and does something similar anyway. Again, realistic. It’s great, if frustrating. The events in his life may have Christian in turmoil but they cause him to take a deeper look at himself, and he ends up a better person for it. Eventually, he is able to recognize bad traits about himself, and grow from that. I liked Christian in the beginning of the book; I loved who he became by the end.
Max is one of Christian’s new roommates. They do not like each other. At all. This is definitely an opposites attract theme. However, it does serve a purpose. Max is the catalyst for a lot of Christian’s growth. Max is insightful, and not afraid to pull conversational punches. He is blunt, to the point, and challenges Christian’s thinking on so many levels. I loved Max from the beginning. He knows what he wants, he’s real, and he’s self-aware. Of course he’s a prickly asshole, but it’s part of his charm.
The awkwardness in the dialogue between Christian and Max when they first get together is amazing. It isn’t all smooth and perfect. Christian has some lovely, painfully awkward instances of word vomit that are just so adorable. They are both really sweet, and I enjoyed their happy moments in the middle of the mess that is Christian’s life. It helped alleviate some of my book related stress. This book definitely had me on an emotional rollercoaster.
I can’t forget to mention the smex scenes. They were great, particularly the first one. I laughed so hard at one point. Christian and Max have these hilarious moments together, these brief moments of levity in the middle of all the seriousness. I just love that the sex is realistic in this. It’s not flawless. There are awkward moments. It’s real, occasionally amusing, and always hot.
In the end I love this book. It made me think. I probably love it more in retrospect because, as I mentioned, I found Christian’s POV frustrating. The writing just elicited really strong reactions from me, I even ugly cried at one point. It’s not a light read. But knowing how much Christian grows makes everything all right. The last quarter of the book is definitely my favorite. I felt satisfied at the end like I accomplished something. Even though all I did was cuddle with a warm blanket, eat cookies, and read.
I definitely recommend this.
*ARC courtesy of Riptide Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
4 Stars
More reviews at The Morning After Romance
Christian is a conflicted mess. His life is a fustercluck when Apple Polisher begins, and it only proceeds to get more so as the story progresses. Life events conspire against him; have him rooming with 4 other guys in a ramshackle house, working at his aunt’s porn store, all while trying to juggle school so he can become a respectable teacher. He comes off as somewhat cynical, a judgmental prude with a deep appreciation for sweater-vests. He shouldn’t be likeable. Honestly, he’s kind of a jerk. BUT he does manage to be rather amusing. I liked him even when I didn’t want to, and I love the way he’s written. Christian has the tendency to be a negative thinker. It’s not constant. It depends on his mood, or the events he is dealing with at the time. Which is all pretty realistic. There is just so much thought put into Christian as a character: his reactions, his moods, his growth.
Speaking of, there is A LOT of growth. Oodles of self-reflection. Apple Polisher is told from Christian’s POV. I appreciated that his little self-reflection epiphanies don’t come at one big moment. There are a multitude of them, and they build on each other. Christian isn’t perfect about it either. He realizes something about himself that needs to change, and then he goes ahead and does something similar anyway. Again, realistic. It’s great, if frustrating. The events in his life may have Christian in turmoil but they cause him to take a deeper look at himself, and he ends up a better person for it. Eventually, he is able to recognize bad traits about himself, and grow from that. I liked Christian in the beginning of the book; I loved who he became by the end.
Max is one of Christian’s new roommates. They do not like each other. At all. This is definitely an opposites attract theme. However, it does serve a purpose. Max is the catalyst for a lot of Christian’s growth. Max is insightful, and not afraid to pull conversational punches. He is blunt, to the point, and challenges Christian’s thinking on so many levels. I loved Max from the beginning. He knows what he wants, he’s real, and he’s self-aware. Of course he’s a prickly asshole, but it’s part of his charm.
The awkwardness in the dialogue between Christian and Max when they first get together is amazing. It isn’t all smooth and perfect. Christian has some lovely, painfully awkward instances of word vomit that are just so adorable. They are both really sweet, and I enjoyed their happy moments in the middle of the mess that is Christian’s life. It helped alleviate some of my book related stress. This book definitely had me on an emotional rollercoaster.
I can’t forget to mention the smex scenes. They were great, particularly the first one. I laughed so hard at one point. Christian and Max have these hilarious moments together, these brief moments of levity in the middle of all the seriousness. I just love that the sex is realistic in this. It’s not flawless. There are awkward moments. It’s real, occasionally amusing, and always hot.
In the end I love this book. It made me think. I probably love it more in retrospect because, as I mentioned, I found Christian’s POV frustrating. The writing just elicited really strong reactions from me, I even ugly cried at one point. It’s not a light read. But knowing how much Christian grows makes everything all right. The last quarter of the book is definitely my favorite. I felt satisfied at the end like I accomplished something. Even though all I did was cuddle with a warm blanket, eat cookies, and read.
I definitely recommend this.
*ARC courtesy of Riptide Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
4 Stars
More reviews at The Morning After Romance
June 17, 2013
Ohhh, I really liked this book. I liked all the characters, but especially Chris who's struggling so hard with what he thinks he wants (be a closeted gay teacher wearing shirts, ties and wingtips) and what he really wants. Namely, Max, hot roommate, possibly a drug dealer, blowing hot and cold, and a catalyst for deeply in the closet Chris taking a long hard look at himself.
Chris' aunt is sick, so Chris decides to help out with her business. Which, LOL, just happens to be a porn store. Called Rear Entrance Video. Chris learns to deal with icky stuff and assholish employees. Chris learns that there's all kinds of customers and dirty talk is just that - talk. Chris learns that open and honest communication might just be what he needs to he get everything he wants - the teaching job, the boyfriend and rescuing his aunt's store.
The writing was awesome. Heidi Belleau took us deeply into Chris' headspace, with all his musings, his snarky, self-deprecating humor, his lust for his roommate, his shame, his fear of being found out - it's all right there, in his head and it's so much fun to watch him figure it all out.
Max has his own secret, and while it's not as bad as what Chris thinks it is, he too doesn't want to come out with it.
The other three roommates were nicely done as well, and functioned quite well in their supporting roles.
I really enjoyed this book. I laughed out loud in a few places, and while the conflict was a little predictable and could have been avoided with just a couple of honest conversations (hello, romance trope), Heidi Belleau made it work. The plot flows nicely, there are no slow-downs, and I couldn't help but root for Chris in all his awkward glory.
It's a fluffy, funny and thought-provoking read, all in one.
I received a free ARC from Riptide Publishing via Netgalley. A positive review was not promised in return.
Chris' aunt is sick, so Chris decides to help out with her business. Which, LOL, just happens to be a porn store. Called Rear Entrance Video. Chris learns to deal with icky stuff and assholish employees. Chris learns that there's all kinds of customers and dirty talk is just that - talk. Chris learns that open and honest communication might just be what he needs to he get everything he wants - the teaching job, the boyfriend and rescuing his aunt's store.
The writing was awesome. Heidi Belleau took us deeply into Chris' headspace, with all his musings, his snarky, self-deprecating humor, his lust for his roommate, his shame, his fear of being found out - it's all right there, in his head and it's so much fun to watch him figure it all out.
Max has his own secret, and while it's not as bad as what Chris thinks it is, he too doesn't want to come out with it.
The other three roommates were nicely done as well, and functioned quite well in their supporting roles.
I really enjoyed this book. I laughed out loud in a few places, and while the conflict was a little predictable and could have been avoided with just a couple of honest conversations (hello, romance trope), Heidi Belleau made it work. The plot flows nicely, there are no slow-downs, and I couldn't help but root for Chris in all his awkward glory.
It's a fluffy, funny and thought-provoking read, all in one.
I received a free ARC from Riptide Publishing via Netgalley. A positive review was not promised in return.
October 24, 2014
4 stars.
School teacher in training by day, purveyor of porn by night, Christian Blake needs to figure out if the one thing he always wanted from life is worth changing who he is.
By all outward appearances, he makes the perfect teacher in training with his buttoned up clothes, doesn’t drink, swear or smoke, and sex is off the table as he steps back into the closet all for the sake of appearances. Underneath all of that, however, Christian is a hot mess. When his Aunt is stricken with ovarian cancer, and unable to continue funding his education, he moves into a room in a house with four other roommates. All of them seem welcoming except perhaps for Max who, based upon his bad boy looks, apparent lack of steady employment and sudden occasional pockets full of cash, Christian thinks may be a drug dealer. Christian, however, cannot deny his attraction to Max and soon their rocky relationship has Christian questioning whether he has his priorities straight.
His relationship with Max is just one thing that has turned Christian’s life upside down. When his Aunt can no longer work at her porn store, Rear Entrance Video, Christian steps in to try to save the store even though it could potentially result in dismissal from the teaching program. Driving himself to exhaustion dealing with thieving employees, a full-time school schedule, the declining health of his Aunt, and keeping it all a secret, Christian takes out his frustrations on Max, who it turns out has a few secrets of his own.
The story is told solely from Christian’s perspective, and we are really given a good look at what drives him to make the decisions he believes are in the best interest of his future career. Having been abandoned and labeled a deviant by his mother when she finds out he is gay has a lot to do with his ability to lock down who he really is in order to project the image of the straight laced teacher. Max is a saving grace for Christian. Max is the only person he feels comfortable talking to and gives him the support and advice he so desperately needs, yet Christian still has trouble being honest about and accepting their relationship.
Heidi Belleau deals well with Christian’s internal struggles and the real problems he is facing. I enjoyed the interplay of Christian and Max, and when the two get down to business it was definitely hot. The secondary characters in this book, from the roommates to the store’s customers, are well written and add to the story. This being the first book in the series, I look forward to getting more in depth stories of the other roommates.
A copy of this book was provided by Riptide Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
School teacher in training by day, purveyor of porn by night, Christian Blake needs to figure out if the one thing he always wanted from life is worth changing who he is.
By all outward appearances, he makes the perfect teacher in training with his buttoned up clothes, doesn’t drink, swear or smoke, and sex is off the table as he steps back into the closet all for the sake of appearances. Underneath all of that, however, Christian is a hot mess. When his Aunt is stricken with ovarian cancer, and unable to continue funding his education, he moves into a room in a house with four other roommates. All of them seem welcoming except perhaps for Max who, based upon his bad boy looks, apparent lack of steady employment and sudden occasional pockets full of cash, Christian thinks may be a drug dealer. Christian, however, cannot deny his attraction to Max and soon their rocky relationship has Christian questioning whether he has his priorities straight.
His relationship with Max is just one thing that has turned Christian’s life upside down. When his Aunt can no longer work at her porn store, Rear Entrance Video, Christian steps in to try to save the store even though it could potentially result in dismissal from the teaching program. Driving himself to exhaustion dealing with thieving employees, a full-time school schedule, the declining health of his Aunt, and keeping it all a secret, Christian takes out his frustrations on Max, who it turns out has a few secrets of his own.
The story is told solely from Christian’s perspective, and we are really given a good look at what drives him to make the decisions he believes are in the best interest of his future career. Having been abandoned and labeled a deviant by his mother when she finds out he is gay has a lot to do with his ability to lock down who he really is in order to project the image of the straight laced teacher. Max is a saving grace for Christian. Max is the only person he feels comfortable talking to and gives him the support and advice he so desperately needs, yet Christian still has trouble being honest about and accepting their relationship.
Heidi Belleau deals well with Christian’s internal struggles and the real problems he is facing. I enjoyed the interplay of Christian and Max, and when the two get down to business it was definitely hot. The secondary characters in this book, from the roommates to the store’s customers, are well written and add to the story. This being the first book in the series, I look forward to getting more in depth stories of the other roommates.
A copy of this book was provided by Riptide Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 1, 2013
3.5 stars
Christian thinks he has to be an apple polisher, thinks that in order to be a good kindergarten teacher, he has to be a goody-goody, perfect, by-the-rules kinda guy. Unfortunately, he thinks this also means living a lie in the closet.
Christian is a college student in a teacher training program that has an unbelievable list of decorum and comportment requirements. This gets him into a quandary when he falls for one of his hunky housemates, Max, who doesn’t believe in closets and may or may not be a drug dealer. It also makes Christian hesitant about helping his sick auntie Beverly with running her small business while she is under-going chemotherapy. Managing a porn shop called Rear Entrance Video doesn’t quite fit in with that whole kindergarten-teacher persona.
So Christian is conflicted about who to be true to… himself, his family and friends, or the demands of his chosen profession. Really, it’s all about him not worrying about what others will think of him and learning to grow a pair. You just want to give him a good shake. But that’s Max’s job.
“Apple Polisher” starts off a bit slowly for me, the story quietly meanders around Christian, his auntie, and his four new housemates of which Max is one. It isn’t until Christian and Max hook up that it feels like the plot starts cooking— when Christian is faced with his prejudices and self-doubt. Can he and Max make a go of it? They seem to keep a lot of secrets from each other…
Max and Christian are far from perfect, they are not glossy, pretty-boys, they have real life issues. I like how they bumble through the ups and downs, and how Christian finally gets a backbone. I had a small issue with the story towards the end when Christian, who has been so overly concerned with his image, throws caution to the wind to commit an act that goes against everything he has been fretting about. Don’t get me wrong, it is a hot, sexy moment, but it just seems too soon and feels too out of character to me.
The author nicely shapes a community of quirky characters including Rob and the other housemates who come through for Christian, and even a motley crew of porn shop employees and customers. And that porn shop is a perfect setting for a good dollop of humor and the absurd (and, yes, sex). This is the start of a series where we’ll get to know the other housemates better. I look forward to more Rear Entrance Video shop adventures and continuing on with Rob’s story, up next.
For this review and lots more please visit: The Blog of Sid Love
March 10, 2014
Reviewed for Prism Book Alliance
I vowed I would read something solely by Ms. Belleau after reading The Professor's Rule series. Let me tell you, she did not disappoint. In fact, I might have a girl crush on her.
Both Christian and Max have been shunned by their parent(s) and both of their paths have been shaped by this. Max has chosen to be who he is openly for the most part. Christian did too for a short while, but he's being stifled by the restrictions of his teaching program. Never fear! They have more in common than meets the eye, some good and some not so good.
Christian is myopic in a lot of ways when it comes to Max. What I liked about Christian's characterization is the lack of hipster attitude. He cares. He cares about his aunt. He cares about his career. He cares about school. He cares about what other people think. He's a nice kid. He's still a kid, don't get me wrong, but I think to portray him otherwise would've been an injustice to the character. Still, I appreciated the lack of apathy. He has to make some complex decisions for a twenty something, has to reflect on who he is and where he wants to be, and, yes, he makes some erroneous assumptions and mistakes typical of someone his age; but, he learns from his mistakes and endeavors to correct them. That's what made me like him.
Max, by all outward indications, seems to an overindulgent, indifferent oaf. What's that saying? Oh yeah, don't judge a book by it's cover. Apropos in Max's case. Max is daring and has a bit of a grudge against the establishment. He's relentless and so… there. Right there. All the time. Driving Christian insane. He frustrates and needles poor Christian until he has no other choice but to jump him because… what else can he do?
These two together? In a word: HOT! They can't stay away from each other nor should they. The sexy times were… *growls* I can't even do them justice. The whole scene in the store with the beads has imprinted on my brain forever. Thank you, Ms. Belleau for that.
What has inspired my girl crush is Ms. Belleau's writing style. She writes how real people actually think, at least, this is how I think maybe that's why I'm crushin'. It's the perfect mixture of sarcasm, self-deprecation and humor while simultaneously being authentic and engaging.
If you like good writing, engaging story lines, characters that are well conceived and pantie melting sexy times, THIS BOOK IS FOR YOU!
I would like to thank Riptide for providing me with a review copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I vowed I would read something solely by Ms. Belleau after reading The Professor's Rule series. Let me tell you, she did not disappoint. In fact, I might have a girl crush on her.
Both Christian and Max have been shunned by their parent(s) and both of their paths have been shaped by this. Max has chosen to be who he is openly for the most part. Christian did too for a short while, but he's being stifled by the restrictions of his teaching program. Never fear! They have more in common than meets the eye, some good and some not so good.
Christian is myopic in a lot of ways when it comes to Max. What I liked about Christian's characterization is the lack of hipster attitude. He cares. He cares about his aunt. He cares about his career. He cares about school. He cares about what other people think. He's a nice kid. He's still a kid, don't get me wrong, but I think to portray him otherwise would've been an injustice to the character. Still, I appreciated the lack of apathy. He has to make some complex decisions for a twenty something, has to reflect on who he is and where he wants to be, and, yes, he makes some erroneous assumptions and mistakes typical of someone his age; but, he learns from his mistakes and endeavors to correct them. That's what made me like him.
"Max was real, and the way Christian wanted him… that was just as real and just as important as school and his aunt and proving his mother wrong about him and everything else that shaped his life."
Max, by all outward indications, seems to an overindulgent, indifferent oaf. What's that saying? Oh yeah, don't judge a book by it's cover. Apropos in Max's case. Max is daring and has a bit of a grudge against the establishment. He's relentless and so… there. Right there. All the time. Driving Christian insane. He frustrates and needles poor Christian until he has no other choice but to jump him because… what else can he do?
He was gay. A gay man who was a teacher, who worked at a porn store because it was the right thing to do, who had a sketchy boyfriend and, yes, had sex. Not out of some sick compulsion. Because he enjoyed it.
These two together? In a word: HOT! They can't stay away from each other nor should they. The sexy times were… *growls* I can't even do them justice. The whole scene in the store with the beads has imprinted on my brain forever. Thank you, Ms. Belleau for that.
What has inspired my girl crush is Ms. Belleau's writing style. She writes how real people actually think, at least, this is how I think maybe that's why I'm crushin'. It's the perfect mixture of sarcasm, self-deprecation and humor while simultaneously being authentic and engaging.
Christian cleared his throat. You're doing this for aunt Beverly, he reminded himself...and to prove Max wrong about you. "Okay, uh...Your-seriously?-Your Mom's a Slut She Takes It in the Butt." He gasped for air, like he'd been underwater.
"What volume is that, again? I've already seen up to three."
"Volume...volume..." He squinted at the invoice.
"Seriously? Volume twenty-six?"
If you like good writing, engaging story lines, characters that are well conceived and pantie melting sexy times, THIS BOOK IS FOR YOU!
I would like to thank Riptide for providing me with a review copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
May 5, 2019
I've had this book (and it's sequels) since they came out, and once again I am kicking my own ass for putting them on the back-burner for years...because this one was great.
Christian is my kind of a snarky smart-ass, and I loved his character development as he slowly realizes his motivation to pursue teaching, what he's giving up to fit a mold, how unhappy he is...some of which is self-imposed as later revealed during a talk with his professor. And that assumption of rules is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to other details in his life he's assumed and causes serious miscommunication with Max.
Those missteps are so frustrating, too. For both of them and the reader. But worth wallowing through to get to that solid HFN. And the sex scenes are panty-melting HAWT. I certainly hope they remembered to delete the store camera footage!! (BEADS!)
I do wish there had been a righteous comeuppance for Melissa though. Given the next book has Rob working at the video store, maybe it will be addressed there? I mean, it's not necessary for the story but OMG that bitch needs a slapping and I want that catharsis.
Definitely moving the next one to the PIFM-type shelf because I don't want to rush through the series since there are only 2 more.
Christian is my kind of a snarky smart-ass, and I loved his character development as he slowly realizes his motivation to pursue teaching, what he's giving up to fit a mold, how unhappy he is...some of which is self-imposed as later revealed during a talk with his professor. And that assumption of rules is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to other details in his life he's assumed and causes serious miscommunication with Max.
Those missteps are so frustrating, too. For both of them and the reader. But worth wallowing through to get to that solid HFN. And the sex scenes are panty-melting HAWT. I certainly hope they remembered to delete the store camera footage!! (BEADS!)
I do wish there had been a righteous comeuppance for Melissa though. Given the next book has Rob working at the video store, maybe it will be addressed there? I mean, it's not necessary for the story but OMG that bitch needs a slapping and I want that catharsis.
Definitely moving the next one to the PIFM-type shelf because I don't want to rush through the series since there are only 2 more.
June 26, 2013
Christian is trying to achieve his dream of being a teacher, only he's losing himself in order to attain it. Between school, his aunt's illness and paying his bills he has enough to worry about without adding to it an enigmatic roommate he can't stop thinking about. Max is everything Christian vowed to stay away from since beginning his teaching program - the clothes, the look, the lifestyle - but he is the very person he needs to keep his head on straight. Now the question is, will Christian get his head out of his ass before he looses himself, his aunt's business and his chance at love?
I'll be honest and say that I didn't like Christian much in the beginning. I couldn't believe he was so clueless - so wrapped up in his life that he got his priorities messed up in the process. Thankfully, Heidi Belleau did an amazing job of developing his character. Slowly but surely she brought to life a different, more caring Christian to the page. This Christian finally realized what he was doing and went about fixing it.
Max was adorable. I loved him from the start. he wouldn't take Christian's bullshit, nor did he try to preach to Christian. he simply told it like it was and left it up to Christian to make up his mind. I could easily see how he cared about Christian and could understand why he acted the way he did.
The secondary characters were great too. I enjoyed the interactions between the roommates. They were so different from one another, but yet they got along and pulled together when they needed to. I can't wait to read Rob's story in Wallflower.
I have to say that I loved it when Christian and Max finally got together. I was eagerly awaiting this coupling and was not disappointed at all. Who knew the all-too-proper Christian had that in him!? I think that scene was what kick-started my change of heart about him. Yes, I am that easy.
I also enjoyed the events that took place in the video store. I was a hoot to read Christian's reactions to the store itself, the different DVD titles and the collection of toys. And I won't even mention what took place there. Holy crap! Heidi Belleau blew my mind with that...that...'scene' is not the word I want to use, because it was much more than that. I love my sex scenes, but I especially love the ones that add something more to the story. I believe this one was fundamental to Christian and Max's story and Heidi Belleau hit it out of the park.
All in all, Apple Polisher was a fun yet touching read about finding yourself and getting your priorities straight with a whole lot of hot, sexy man-love thrown in to make it an awesome read.
I received this title from Riptide through NetGalley in exchange of my honest opinion.
I'll be honest and say that I didn't like Christian much in the beginning. I couldn't believe he was so clueless - so wrapped up in his life that he got his priorities messed up in the process. Thankfully, Heidi Belleau did an amazing job of developing his character. Slowly but surely she brought to life a different, more caring Christian to the page. This Christian finally realized what he was doing and went about fixing it.
Max was adorable. I loved him from the start. he wouldn't take Christian's bullshit, nor did he try to preach to Christian. he simply told it like it was and left it up to Christian to make up his mind. I could easily see how he cared about Christian and could understand why he acted the way he did.
The secondary characters were great too. I enjoyed the interactions between the roommates. They were so different from one another, but yet they got along and pulled together when they needed to. I can't wait to read Rob's story in Wallflower.
I have to say that I loved it when Christian and Max finally got together. I was eagerly awaiting this coupling and was not disappointed at all. Who knew the all-too-proper Christian had that in him!? I think that scene was what kick-started my change of heart about him. Yes, I am that easy.
I also enjoyed the events that took place in the video store. I was a hoot to read Christian's reactions to the store itself, the different DVD titles and the collection of toys. And I won't even mention what took place there. Holy crap! Heidi Belleau blew my mind with that...that...'scene' is not the word I want to use, because it was much more than that. I love my sex scenes, but I especially love the ones that add something more to the story. I believe this one was fundamental to Christian and Max's story and Heidi Belleau hit it out of the park.
All in all, Apple Polisher was a fun yet touching read about finding yourself and getting your priorities straight with a whole lot of hot, sexy man-love thrown in to make it an awesome read.
I received this title from Riptide through NetGalley in exchange of my honest opinion.
March 12, 2014
This is my first read by Heidi Belleau. I was confused with the setting of the novel. I guess Christian or one of the characters went to SFU and I kept asking myself "does that mean San Francisco University?" I then realized that this was based in Canada. Okay.
About 26% into the story I thought about DNFing it but I continued on. There was something about Christian that just didn't ring authentic to me. He's a gay man who's not a virgin but he can't bring himself to say cock, pussy, balls, etc when he had that interview with Vicks? The story came across very amateurish to me.
Don't even get me started on the lack of chemistry between Christian and Max. So Christian walks into Max's room and sees that he has a gay video and then all of a sudden they're having sex? This book felt very dated to me. Who uses the word "square?" Another thing I didn't get was Christian's graduate program to be a teacher and why it was so strict. That just didn't feel 2014 to me, maybe if this was 1985 or something?
This was a relatively short book but it was a chore to finish. I read the blurb for the other books in the series and what do you know, the three other roommates will all be gay or engage in homosexual activity. What are the odds? I won't be continuing on with the series.
About 26% into the story I thought about DNFing it but I continued on. There was something about Christian that just didn't ring authentic to me. He's a gay man who's not a virgin but he can't bring himself to say cock, pussy, balls, etc when he had that interview with Vicks? The story came across very amateurish to me.
Don't even get me started on the lack of chemistry between Christian and Max. So Christian walks into Max's room and sees that he has a gay video and then all of a sudden they're having sex? This book felt very dated to me. Who uses the word "square?" Another thing I didn't get was Christian's graduate program to be a teacher and why it was so strict. That just didn't feel 2014 to me, maybe if this was 1985 or something?
This was a relatively short book but it was a chore to finish. I read the blurb for the other books in the series and what do you know, the three other roommates will all be gay or engage in homosexual activity. What are the odds? I won't be continuing on with the series.
January 3, 2015
It sounds ridiculous, but I had literally completely forgotten how good Heidi Belleau is. Her last few releases just didn't intrigue me that much, and this one stood gathering virtual dust on my TBR for months. I regret it. But I also don't, because this was exactly what I was in the mood for today.
Short books require short reviews, in my opinion at least, so I'll try to keep it brief and to the point.
Why is this novel so great?
- It's a relatable, fun, sweet, sad, energic story, with potentially corny messages turned upside down and made into sheer positivity and hopefulness.
- The romance is easy, compelling and sexy, with just enough angst to make it acceptable by romance novel standards and hurt you good.
- The plot is original and amusing, when it's not crushing your insides.
- The characterisation and character development are subtle but deep, and the secondary characters are just as interesting as the MCs, which is why I'm so impatient to get started on #2 in the series.
Just an all-around wonderfully satisfying read.
Short books require short reviews, in my opinion at least, so I'll try to keep it brief and to the point.
Why is this novel so great?
- It's a relatable, fun, sweet, sad, energic story, with potentially corny messages turned upside down and made into sheer positivity and hopefulness.
- The romance is easy, compelling and sexy, with just enough angst to make it acceptable by romance novel standards and hurt you good.
- The plot is original and amusing, when it's not crushing your insides.
- The characterisation and character development are subtle but deep, and the secondary characters are just as interesting as the MCs, which is why I'm so impatient to get started on #2 in the series.
Just an all-around wonderfully satisfying read.
July 29, 2016
3.5
In the beginning, I didn't like Christian. Uptight and prissy, he was hiding in the closet, scared of being outed, and acting like a jerk. The contradictions were odd, too. Someone that uptight...liking bad boys...?
I didn't like that he
When he finally starts to experience some actual self realization, all I could think was it's about flippin' time. It was real, though, and that time, I bought it. And when they started really communicating? I was cheering :)
In the end, I was happy.
Cute story, not without issues, but I liked it :)
Side notes:
Scene in video store when Max first visits? *nods*
...loved it :P
In the beginning, I didn't like Christian. Uptight and prissy, he was hiding in the closet, scared of being outed, and acting like a jerk. The contradictions were odd, too. Someone that uptight...liking bad boys...?
I didn't like that he
When he finally starts to experience some actual self realization, all I could think was it's about flippin' time. It was real, though, and that time, I bought it. And when they started really communicating? I was cheering :)
In the end, I was happy.
Cute story, not without issues, but I liked it :)
Side notes:
Scene in video store when Max first visits? *nods*
...loved it :P
June 18, 2014
>★★★★. I liked it a lot and I confess, I bought this book because I thought the cover model looked like he could be the brother of President Obama (LOL)!
In this book Christian Blake was biracial young man who was abandoned by his Jamaican mother after he came out to her. Actually, she invited him to come back to Jamaica with her so they can help cure him of his perversion. Christian decided to remain in Canada and instead moved in with his Aunt.
His aunt took care of him and paid for his college tuition until she came down with Ovarian cancer and couldn't work as much.
Christian decide to help lighten her financial load by moving out of the dorms and getting an apartment with 4 other roommates, Max, Noah, Rob & Austin. It was difficult adjusting because Christian was studying to become a teacher and the program required a certain degree of decorum. Christian was trying to be all things to everyone and it was stressing him out.
When Christian found out his aunt's store was about to belly up, Christian began to work there. But managing a porn store was expressly against the moral guideliness of educational program. So here was Christian, working at porn store, crushing on his gay roommate, and trying to be this model student and prove he would be a great teacher, and worried the only person who loved him was dying. Christian was slowly falling apart.
When Christian's aunt in hospitalized and it looks like the end is near, everything comes to a head for Christian. Christian has to decide if he can be who everyone wants him to be, or is he strong enough to be himself and follow his own dreams.
The author's writing style wasn't all smooth like butter or flowery words, but I enjoyed it. It was just kind of folksy, real, normal etc. It worked for me. I really liked Christian and empathized with him. I enjoyed watching him struggle to balance life and try to figure out how to make life work. He was confusing both to those around him and to himself, but I understood why. Christian was a pleaser, and he had to learn how to stand up for himself before his back was broken. He still has a lot of work to do, but he is getting stronger. Max, on the other hand, has a lot of background the author didn't tell. I wonder why she didn't do that. I liked him a lot, but there was definitely a lot to his volunteer work and the fact that his parents were trying to get him to come back to Jesus. I want to know his story.
In this book Christian Blake was biracial young man who was abandoned by his Jamaican mother after he came out to her. Actually, she invited him to come back to Jamaica with her so they can help cure him of his perversion. Christian decided to remain in Canada and instead moved in with his Aunt.
His aunt took care of him and paid for his college tuition until she came down with Ovarian cancer and couldn't work as much.
Christian decide to help lighten her financial load by moving out of the dorms and getting an apartment with 4 other roommates, Max, Noah, Rob & Austin. It was difficult adjusting because Christian was studying to become a teacher and the program required a certain degree of decorum. Christian was trying to be all things to everyone and it was stressing him out.
When Christian found out his aunt's store was about to belly up, Christian began to work there. But managing a porn store was expressly against the moral guideliness of educational program. So here was Christian, working at porn store, crushing on his gay roommate, and trying to be this model student and prove he would be a great teacher, and worried the only person who loved him was dying. Christian was slowly falling apart.
When Christian's aunt in hospitalized and it looks like the end is near, everything comes to a head for Christian. Christian has to decide if he can be who everyone wants him to be, or is he strong enough to be himself and follow his own dreams.
The author's writing style wasn't all smooth like butter or flowery words, but I enjoyed it. It was just kind of folksy, real, normal etc. It worked for me. I really liked Christian and empathized with him. I enjoyed watching him struggle to balance life and try to figure out how to make life work. He was confusing both to those around him and to himself, but I understood why. Christian was a pleaser, and he had to learn how to stand up for himself before his back was broken. He still has a lot of work to do, but he is getting stronger. Max, on the other hand, has a lot of background the author didn't tell. I wonder why she didn't do that. I liked him a lot, but there was definitely a lot to his volunteer work and the fact that his parents were trying to get him to come back to Jesus. I want to know his story.
did-not-finish
July 30, 2013I tried to get into this but all the dashes and parentheses were very distracting. Me and this writer's style just aren't compatible.
April 13, 2014
This was a definite case of the story growing on me. It took a little while to get into but once I was settled into Christian's story, it was thoroughly enjoyable.
So uptight and eager to make life decisions that showed he was a good person, Christian lived in fear and ended up slow to make the decisions to stand up and support his sick aunt. And he nearly let Max escape, which wouldn't have been a good thing! They were definitely hot together! (oh my, that scene on the shop floor!)
I think this book had one of the best coming out scenes I've read in a while, capturing Christian perfectly.
Visit my blog if you want to see all my m/m reviews in one place! Because Two Men Are Better Than One!
So uptight and eager to make life decisions that showed he was a good person, Christian lived in fear and ended up slow to make the decisions to stand up and support his sick aunt. And he nearly let Max escape, which wouldn't have been a good thing! They were definitely hot together! (oh my, that scene on the shop floor!)
I think this book had one of the best coming out scenes I've read in a while, capturing Christian perfectly.
Here goes nothing.There's a strong support cast in the story - Christian's Aunt Beverly and her friend, the shop girls (bitches!), Christian and Max's flatmates and some assorted random customers. Christian had his secrets, Max had secrets and there's a perfect set up for the subsequent books which I am looking forward to reading.
"And as to what I'm 'into'...I'm into you."
Wow, hey. That had been pretty smooth. Could have even made it all the way to romantic, if he'd left it at that and just kissed the damn guy, but of course he didn't.
"I mean, I'm into lots of guys. Well, not lots of guys, but a few. A normal amount.. Well, a normal amount for a...a guy like me. Well, a guy like me who doesn't do the club thing. A guy like - I'm gay. Not just when I'm drunk. All the time. Gay. But I do-"
Max kissed him.
Visit my blog if you want to see all my m/m reviews in one place! Because Two Men Are Better Than One!
June 9, 2013
Loved this book...we get to see believable characters work through true to life stressors. You root for Christian as he tackles each new problem, and he learns people do care and maybe even love him. Past rejection makes him guarded and a loner....but bad boy Max forces him step up and participate in life.
February 21, 2016
Amazing what can happen when two people shut up and just listen to each other.
Read
July 31, 2013That was one hell of a satisfying read. I'll be keeping a close eye on this series.
July 8, 2013
This is a cute enough story, but there were parts of it that were clearly written for the "thrill" rather than the plot. This is something that bothers me in these romantica type reads. If you are going to make the story about more than sex, then you need to make sure that the story is consistent and that it retains verisimilitude. Otherwise, what was the point of the story?
For this reason, I almost rated this book lower.
The main conflict in Apple Polisher is that the MC is gay but wants to be able to teach kindergarteners. I didn't find it coincidental that squeaky clean, worried-what-everyone-will-think gay-boy main character was named "Christian". Christian is deeply concerned that his sexual preferences will prevent him from being able to pursue his teaching dreams. The book spends little time exploring why kindergarten is so important to Christian, even as he acknowledges that it's partially an age group concern that (theoretically) stands in his way.
The thing is, Christian doesn't really look into how his sexual preferences will affect things. He equates his gayness with other "moral" character infractions that could affect his schooling.
So, Christian is uptight and a bit of a prude. And a bit hypocritical.
The progression of the plot makes it increasingly difficult for Christian to stay in the closet. Outside events "force" him to continually compromise his position and his original beliefs and convictions.
The most important development is that Christian finds it necessary to take on a position as manager of an adult movie and toys store (called ... yep, "Rear Entrance Video" - how unlucky).
Christian will have to make some important decisions about what is most important to him and what he is willing to sacrifice for the people he loves - a new boyfriend, his family, and the future self he has always envisioned.
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For this reason, I almost rated this book lower.
The main conflict in Apple Polisher is that the MC is gay but wants to be able to teach kindergarteners. I didn't find it coincidental that squeaky clean, worried-what-everyone-will-think gay-boy main character was named "Christian". Christian is deeply concerned that his sexual preferences will prevent him from being able to pursue his teaching dreams. The book spends little time exploring why kindergarten is so important to Christian, even as he acknowledges that it's partially an age group concern that (theoretically) stands in his way.
The thing is, Christian doesn't really look into how his sexual preferences will affect things. He equates his gayness with other "moral" character infractions that could affect his schooling.
So, Christian is uptight and a bit of a prude. And a bit hypocritical.
The progression of the plot makes it increasingly difficult for Christian to stay in the closet. Outside events "force" him to continually compromise his position and his original beliefs and convictions.
The most important development is that Christian finds it necessary to take on a position as manager of an adult movie and toys store (called ... yep, "Rear Entrance Video" - how unlucky).
Christian will have to make some important decisions about what is most important to him and what he is willing to sacrifice for the people he loves - a new boyfriend, his family, and the future self he has always envisioned.
---
July 28, 2013
3.5 Stars
A "Live Your Life, Buy The Book" Review
Christian needs a cheap place to live. That’s how he finds himself living in a large run down house with 4 other guys. He only needs a place to sleep and study until he gets his teaching certificate. The guys are nice enough, except for Max. Max is kind of a jerk with moments of kindness. He’s also hot but has a picture of a half-naked woman as his screen saver so Christian is sure that he’s straight. That should be enough to keep him from lusting over his roommate but it’s not. Christian has so many more things to worry about. He thinks having a career as a teacher means staying closeted so his student’s parents don’t think he’s a pervert. His grandmother, who took him in when his mother threw him out for being gay, is again battling cancer. His grandmother owns a seedy porn shop that’s failing but she’s too sick to do anything about it. Christian knows he should offer to help but he can’t risk someone seeing him in such a shady place. Eventually it all wears on Christian and he confesses his struggle to Max who questions his priority of putting his career before his happiness and his grandmother’s. This gives Christian the kick in the ass he needs to do what’s right. He starts working nights at the porn shop which creates new struggles with the store and its nasty employees. His days are spent being the prudish uptight guy he thinks he has to be. All the pressure pushes him too far and he gives into his lust and kisses Max. Christian expects a fight for it but Max is into to it. The sex is good and he’s finally happy in the closest thing to a relationship he’s ever had, but it doesn’t fit into his life plan.
Christian’s character was a bit of a mess. He had all these ideas of what he should be. It was interesting that he had a problem with people stereotyping him one way but tried so hard to fit another one. Christian was his own worst enemy most of the book. So many of the things that happen do so because he’s so focused on keeping his secrets.
I loved Max. Sexy, sassy and funny. I’m pretty sure he saved this book for me. The roommates were fun. I’d like to read Rob’s story. He was so sweet and I think he deserves a happy ending. I never warmed to Christian and therefore didn’t become overly invested in the couple but it was a pretty good read.
A "Live Your Life, Buy The Book" Review
Christian needs a cheap place to live. That’s how he finds himself living in a large run down house with 4 other guys. He only needs a place to sleep and study until he gets his teaching certificate. The guys are nice enough, except for Max. Max is kind of a jerk with moments of kindness. He’s also hot but has a picture of a half-naked woman as his screen saver so Christian is sure that he’s straight. That should be enough to keep him from lusting over his roommate but it’s not. Christian has so many more things to worry about. He thinks having a career as a teacher means staying closeted so his student’s parents don’t think he’s a pervert. His grandmother, who took him in when his mother threw him out for being gay, is again battling cancer. His grandmother owns a seedy porn shop that’s failing but she’s too sick to do anything about it. Christian knows he should offer to help but he can’t risk someone seeing him in such a shady place. Eventually it all wears on Christian and he confesses his struggle to Max who questions his priority of putting his career before his happiness and his grandmother’s. This gives Christian the kick in the ass he needs to do what’s right. He starts working nights at the porn shop which creates new struggles with the store and its nasty employees. His days are spent being the prudish uptight guy he thinks he has to be. All the pressure pushes him too far and he gives into his lust and kisses Max. Christian expects a fight for it but Max is into to it. The sex is good and he’s finally happy in the closest thing to a relationship he’s ever had, but it doesn’t fit into his life plan.
Christian’s character was a bit of a mess. He had all these ideas of what he should be. It was interesting that he had a problem with people stereotyping him one way but tried so hard to fit another one. Christian was his own worst enemy most of the book. So many of the things that happen do so because he’s so focused on keeping his secrets.
I loved Max. Sexy, sassy and funny. I’m pretty sure he saved this book for me. The roommates were fun. I’d like to read Rob’s story. He was so sweet and I think he deserves a happy ending. I never warmed to Christian and therefore didn’t become overly invested in the couple but it was a pretty good read.
August 2, 2013
Apple Polisher surprised me. It was an interesting name for an interesting book. I thought it would be full of cliches, and in a way it was. We had the classic character tropes, but many of them had hidden qualities that made them more human than their basic first impressions. Christian was anal retentive and uptight ... but he had so many reasons for being that way and he didn't like being that way--though from the synopsis I really thought he was an upright prig through and through.
Max's secrets were varied. I was really surprised by the dual natures he exhibited from his very *ahem* interesting job and his volunteering. As a couple, Christian and Max worked really well together. They were opposites, but more alike under the surface than I originally assumed.
The sub-plot existing with the romance plot was all about family, and the things we do to try to help each other out. I really liked Christian's aunt. I loved the progression he went through from blushing prude to blase flirt. Though, being the germaphobe that I am, the sex scene in the video store just about had me cringing away from my eReader.
All in all, this was an entertaining story. I came into it expecting to be a little bored, but in the end, really enjoyed the characters. The story was a little predictable, and one scene ... we'll call it the computer scene, to avoid spoilers, was just too far out of character for Christian for me to believe. I really liked the climactic moment it relayed between him and Max, but it was just so beyond what I'd learned of Christian's comfort zones that I couldn't really believe it.
I'd definitely recommend this eBook if you're looking for a sweet, if a bit turbulent, contemporary romance with a lot of chuckles. The humorous moments were definitely a big plus for this eBook, making my hubby send me numerous raised eyebrows.
Max's secrets were varied. I was really surprised by the dual natures he exhibited from his very *ahem* interesting job and his volunteering. As a couple, Christian and Max worked really well together. They were opposites, but more alike under the surface than I originally assumed.
The sub-plot existing with the romance plot was all about family, and the things we do to try to help each other out. I really liked Christian's aunt. I loved the progression he went through from blushing prude to blase flirt. Though, being the germaphobe that I am, the sex scene in the video store just about had me cringing away from my eReader.
All in all, this was an entertaining story. I came into it expecting to be a little bored, but in the end, really enjoyed the characters. The story was a little predictable, and one scene ... we'll call it the computer scene, to avoid spoilers, was just too far out of character for Christian for me to believe. I really liked the climactic moment it relayed between him and Max, but it was just so beyond what I'd learned of Christian's comfort zones that I couldn't really believe it.
I'd definitely recommend this eBook if you're looking for a sweet, if a bit turbulent, contemporary romance with a lot of chuckles. The humorous moments were definitely a big plus for this eBook, making my hubby send me numerous raised eyebrows.
July 16, 2016
I’m a huge fan of this author so I knew going in that I would probably like this. It was both simpler and more complex than I expected. Christian and Max’s relationship did not have a ton of angst but it had a lot of secrets – and they mattered. I felt like Christian grew up a lot in this novel and that’s really the story – taking who you really are and letting him out. I would have loved more exploration of his background to help me understand him a bit better – in fact I had a hard time keeping the guys distinct in this one beyond Christian. Though they were described they still sort of all merged in my head and I could not put a face on any of them.
Love the funny dialogue that comes with a porn store story. Clever and witty it still manages to be very mundane (in a good way) and not OTT. I’m going to read the next one ASAP!
Love the funny dialogue that comes with a porn store story. Clever and witty it still manages to be very mundane (in a good way) and not OTT. I’m going to read the next one ASAP!
July 28, 2013
All Christian wants is to get through college and be a kindergarten teacher. Unfortunately it is easier said than done. Just going to school to be a teacher means keeping his nose clean, dressing up for class, no drinking, no sex, and it definitely means not working at his Aunt's porn store! But family means a lot to Christian and his Aunt has cancer and needs his help. Christian also has temptation in the form of Max his bad boy roommate that may or may not be a drug dealer. I was happy to find out this was going to be a series because I really fell in love with these characters. Heidi Bellau is a great writer and I love the characters she creates. If you are looking for a fun, hot read look no further. This one is for you.
July 30, 2013
The thing I liked best about Apple Polisher (Rear Entrance Video #1) was the internal dialogue that Ms. Belleau gave us access to. The interplay between the men living in the house was enthralling, in turns funny, friendly, brotherly, supportive, honest and loving. This is a group of guys I look forward to reading more about. Highly recommended.
You can read the rest of Tina's review at The Novel Approach
You can read the rest of Tina's review at The Novel Approach
May 10, 2014
I enjoyed every one of this book's dimensions; more than I thought I would too. Christian's struggles, his figuring it all out, were especially gratifying to read.
The reason this gets three stars instead of four is because the author, unfortunately, decided to wrap this up on a saccharine note. I appreciate HEAs but, I think, with all the depth in this one, a continuance of the reality would have better served. There still could have been a HEA without the snappiness.
Before the descent into too-sweetness, though, this was a really engaging read.
The reason this gets three stars instead of four is because the author, unfortunately, decided to wrap this up on a saccharine note. I appreciate HEAs but, I think, with all the depth in this one, a continuance of the reality would have better served. There still could have been a HEA without the snappiness.
Before the descent into too-sweetness, though, this was a really engaging read.
September 9, 2013
I enjoyed this one, although there was a little bit of an emotional disconnect for me with Christian. I'm not sure why. I liked the characters, but the secondary characters shone brighter than MCs, IMO. I'd like a book from Max's POV. He was interesting and I'd like to read more of his story.
Heidi always writes beautifully and I always wish I could read more of her work (and I would but often the themes aren't my thing) so I'm excited about this series.
Heidi always writes beautifully and I always wish I could read more of her work (and I would but often the themes aren't my thing) so I'm excited about this series.
July 25, 2014
I didn't especially enjoy this. Christian generally annoyed me, and Max was sometimes fun but mostly underdeveloped. The story felt like one secret shame after another. And in the end, the whole thing is easily forgettable.
March 20, 2014
Barely 3 stars for me, I was surely disappointed .
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