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Northern Star
Deacon Miller never had it all—he never really believed he could. Growing up in a broken home with an alcoholic mother and a revolving door of truly pathetic father figures taught him to keep his expectations low. Now at twenty-seven, on the night before Christmas Eve, his life is turned upside down yet again; his boyfriend has dumped him, he just fled the holiday family reunion from hell, and now to top it all off, a blizzard has left him stranded in an airport hotel.
Steve Steele has spent the better part of his forty-four years living a lie, ignoring his attraction to other men in an attempt to fit into the mold of the man he thought he should be, instead of living life as the man he knew himself to be. Recently divorced after coming home from work one day and coming out to his wife, Steve has floundered over the past year, desperately attempting to wade through the guilt and find the courage to start again.
That’s when a chance meeting in a hotel bar brings two lonely men together… and what should’ve been a one night stand turns into something much more than either one ever expected.
Steve Steele has spent the better part of his forty-four years living a lie, ignoring his attraction to other men in an attempt to fit into the mold of the man he thought he should be, instead of living life as the man he knew himself to be. Recently divorced after coming home from work one day and coming out to his wife, Steve has floundered over the past year, desperately attempting to wade through the guilt and find the courage to start again.
That’s when a chance meeting in a hotel bar brings two lonely men together… and what should’ve been a one night stand turns into something much more than either one ever expected.
249 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 25, 2013
9 people are currently reading
436 people want to read
About the author
Ethan Day
22 books745 followersWelcome to Ethan Day's Goodreads Profile. I write mainly contemporary GLBT Romance Novels, but who knows what the future might bring and what other genres I may dive into.
Hopefully, you’ll find my books to be sexy as well as fun. Sex and romance, should be fun! If it isn’t, then perhaps you’re not doing it right.
I hope you love my characters as much as I do. With any luck they’ll inspire you the way they do me.
For a full Bio & more insight into my zany little mind, please visit my website listed above.
- I can also be found on Facebook @
https://www.facebook.com/ethandayonline
Hopefully, you’ll find my books to be sexy as well as fun. Sex and romance, should be fun! If it isn’t, then perhaps you’re not doing it right.
I hope you love my characters as much as I do. With any luck they’ll inspire you the way they do me.
For a full Bio & more insight into my zany little mind, please visit my website listed above.
- I can also be found on Facebook @
https://www.facebook.com/ethandayonline
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
September 22, 2017
I'm in the suuuuuuper vast minority here, so maybe this audiobook caught me on the wrong day/days?
I'm usually a huge fan of the audiobook narrator, Jason Frazier, so it's awkward that I couldn't stand his narration here. All of the other reviews of the audio are glowing, but it was... not good for me. It sounded overacted, and, honestly, the sounds of kissing sounded sort of... wet... and like he was tonguing his hand. I literally had to fast forward some scenes.
I usually don't love books where sex is in the beginning, and I didn't love it here either. It just started the book off wrong for me, and I didn't feel that growth, that connection as strongly.
I think the whole book just didn't quite work for me. Pages and pages (minutes, in audio) of descriptions of things that needed just one sentence to describe. Lots of superficial-sounding musings. Lots of scenes that felt forced or not funny when I think they were meant to be charming. The whole book just fell a bit flat.
I don't know, everyone else seems to be wooed by this one, so feel free to ignore me. Just a miss for me at this moment.
September 30, 2013
3.5 stars
I only just started reading Ethan Day (I know, I knooooowwww…where have I been?) but he’s quickly becoming my crack. Being a sap as I am and loving what I call the ‘easy’ read, it’s impossible for me not to like the stuff ED puts out.
'Northern Star' is my happy-to-read-any-day-book. You have a broken MC who just needs to be loved (Deacon). You have the perfect alpha (recently out) who’s solid and wants to take care of everything (Steve). You have some hot sex. Some even hotter romance. A relationship that may have been considered instalove but also is allowed to grow throughout the book. A tiny bit of angst. A dose of emotions. And a HEA. *smile* Me likey…
Deacon is a good guy…and he’s trying to move past a tough life. Steve is dream-man material and I loved their interactions…banter, smexy, and commitment.
ED throws in some side characters that were generic: the younger sister who needs taking care of, the ex-wife-before-I-came-out and the child, and the friends-who-never-knew-I-was-gay crowd. I was uninspired by any of these additions, but not overly annoyed by them.
Really, I was just happy with Deacon and Steve and their relationship. This is 4/5 on the sweet meter, 2/5 on the angst meter, and 3.5/5 on the hot meter. If you’re an Ethan Day fan, this will not disappoint. If you’re in the mood for an easy read, this will not disappoint. If you need chains and non-con and action and tentacles and devastation, this is not your cuppa. :)
August 12, 2020
Ethan Day's Northern Star is an absolutely lovely novel and I highly recommend it... but it's very emotional, and filled with the heart-wrenching characters Ethan Day wrote so perfectly, and it's taken me awhile to muster up the fortitude to delve into the audio version.
Well, I was in just the right mood last week and I’m so glad I loaded this one up!
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, nobody performs an erotic sex scene like Jason Frazier. Ethan Day had a real gift of capturing the mood between two lovers, and Mr. Frazier imparts every bit of feeling into these scenes. From their hot and dirty hook-up to the intimate exchanges of lovers, Deacon and Steve’s emotions truly come through in the audio version of Northern Star.
There’s an extremely large variety of characters in this novel, OAPs, kids, blue-collar types, and Mr. Frazier moves seamlessly between them. Plus there’s a good bit of humor woven into this emotional story and Frazier makes the most of the opportunity to turn this into a real performance.
One of Ethan Day’s most moving novels, Northern Star makes one truly spectacular audiobook.
an audiobook copy of Northern Star was provided by the narrator for the purpose of my honest review
Well, I was in just the right mood last week and I’m so glad I loaded this one up!
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, nobody performs an erotic sex scene like Jason Frazier. Ethan Day had a real gift of capturing the mood between two lovers, and Mr. Frazier imparts every bit of feeling into these scenes. From their hot and dirty hook-up to the intimate exchanges of lovers, Deacon and Steve’s emotions truly come through in the audio version of Northern Star.
There’s an extremely large variety of characters in this novel, OAPs, kids, blue-collar types, and Mr. Frazier moves seamlessly between them. Plus there’s a good bit of humor woven into this emotional story and Frazier makes the most of the opportunity to turn this into a real performance.
One of Ethan Day’s most moving novels, Northern Star makes one truly spectacular audiobook.
an audiobook copy of Northern Star was provided by the narrator for the purpose of my honest review
January 13, 2021
You can't see me but I have a smile on my face and tears in my eyes. I loved this and it's every-person heart with no alpha males, billionaires, or "I-don't-do-relationships" guys in sight. It was just what I needed and the audio by Jason Frazier is a thing of genius. Maybe he could've dialed down the kissing a tad but ... wow!
Ethan Day conjures an emotional and heartfelt story about people who feel authentic beyond romancelandia, their world is lived in and immediately recognizable. The fact that Ethan is no longer among us just feels wrong.
Deacon Miller has had nothing but bad in his 26 years on earth:
*unloving, cruel, homophobic, alcoholic mother ✅
*no father to speak of ✅
*a**hole boyfriend who breaks up with Deacon via email on Christmas Eve ✅
Luckily on the heels of that Christmas Eve email dump he meets Steve Steel, a forty-something, newish to the gay scene guy with a heart of gold. Yup, that's his name 🥰. As a bonus this can sort of be considered, albeit tangentially, a 🎄Christmas story. But it's not.
Deacon and Steve really come together later and grow into a relationship that isn't gifted to them by Christmas magic or the spirit of blah blah blah but rather by being courageous, venturing into something that terrifies them or that perhaps, having never experienced, don't understand. I loved that this was an age gap romance sans the Daddy trope. I loved that Steve helped Deacon in every way he can without becoming a caped savior. He's just a man helping the younger man he's falling in love with as best he can. He has a generous and loving heart. I loved these two and I loved how ED told their story.
The people who populate this world are just the cherry on top.
Ethan Day conjures an emotional and heartfelt story about people who feel authentic beyond romancelandia, their world is lived in and immediately recognizable. The fact that Ethan is no longer among us just feels wrong.
Deacon Miller has had nothing but bad in his 26 years on earth:
*unloving, cruel, homophobic, alcoholic mother ✅
*no father to speak of ✅
*a**hole boyfriend who breaks up with Deacon via email on Christmas Eve ✅
Luckily on the heels of that Christmas Eve email dump he meets Steve Steel, a forty-something, newish to the gay scene guy with a heart of gold. Yup, that's his name 🥰. As a bonus this can sort of be considered, albeit tangentially, a 🎄Christmas story. But it's not.
Deacon and Steve really come together later and grow into a relationship that isn't gifted to them by Christmas magic or the spirit of blah blah blah but rather by being courageous, venturing into something that terrifies them or that perhaps, having never experienced, don't understand. I loved that this was an age gap romance sans the Daddy trope. I loved that Steve helped Deacon in every way he can without becoming a caped savior. He's just a man helping the younger man he's falling in love with as best he can. He has a generous and loving heart. I loved these two and I loved how ED told their story.
The people who populate this world are just the cherry on top.
July 26, 2016
Holy shit. Y'all, this book. I'm absolutely taken aback. I bought it then waited a couple days cuz I love Ethan Day. I needed a moment before delving into another of his silly worlds. But I got a surprise. Deacon's snark is fuckin priceless. And holy balls was there typical Day humor here ... But.. Deacon is my spirit animal. This guy is so sad and ruined by the world and life yet he still hangs on. Then comes beautiful, hunky, patient Steve with his big heart and his very ThiCk cock and brings some hope to the table. Now, being as cynicalNd weary as Deacon, I wouldn't hav been any better with poor steve. That's what I appreciate most about this book. If was subtle and honest but soooo real. Wow Ethan. Just wow.
September 27, 2013
♡♥5 Stars - KAPOW!♥♡
A "Live Your Life, Buy The Book" Review
I noticed I wasn’t the only one to squee with joy when Ethan Day announced, kind of last minute, that, oh yeah, I have a new book coming out in a few days! I guess it’s nice that he didn’t torture us for a month teasing us with snippets because the waiting the few days was more than enough for me.
A snow storm leaves poor Deacon stuck in his hometown the day before Christmas Eve. He’s just had another fight with his alcoholic abusive mother. Then his boyfriend dumps him by email, so he’s drinking away his sorrows at an airport motel bar. Deacon is well on his way to getting sloshed, when in walks an older smiling hunk of man who sits right next to him. A few drinks and a lot of flirting later, the two end up in the hotel room having amazing sex. It’s not going to lead to anything because Deacon has to go back to his life in Chicago. It did help take his mind off his troubles for awhile.
A frantic call from his little sister ends the sex fest. His horrible excuse of a mother wrapped her car around a tree and is in the hospital. Steve, the sexy older man, drives him to the hospital and offers to come in. He doesn’t want their time together to end, but Deacon is embarrassed. He prefers Steve to remember him as they were the night before. His mom goes to jail for her fourth DUI, so Deacon ends up moving back to town to take care of his teenage sister. He never calls Steve despite Steve asking him to.
It’s been two months since his night in the hotel room with Deacon and Steve can’t seem to get him out of his head. Then he sees him working in one of his favorite grocery stores. Steve is upset to find him living and working in town. Why the hell hadn’t Deacon called him? He waits for Deacon outside of his work and they talk it out. They start seeing each other and both realize fairly quickly how amazing they are together. The sex is outstanding and they can’t get enough of it but it’s more than that. They really like each other. Neither Deacon or Steve has had anything like this before. Yeah, Steve was married to a woman that he loved but it was nothing like he’s feeling for Deacon. The only person who has ever loved Deacon is his little sister so he can’t really wrap his head around someone as amazing as Steve caring for him.
I loved this book. It’s sexy, charming and funny. Though I thoroughly enjoy Ethan Day’s more outrageous characters ,these felt more subtly witty and playful. I smiled and laughed out loud. Swooned because Steve was super dreamy. Gruff and manly but so damn sweet at the same time. I can’t imagine who wouldn’t adore Deacon. He’s so damaged by years of neglect and disappointment that you just want to hug him. He is in NO way a downer though. Steve has his own issues being newly “out” to the world after leaving his wife. The heavier content kind of anchored the overall humorous romantic story. I loved the naughty banter between the MCs! Not every author can pull that off cheese free but this was sexy and fun. One of my favorite parts were the guys gathered around the barbecue pit. I got teary eyed from laughing. “Just say no to the tushie pushie!” You’ll just have to read it yourself. Classic embarrassing LMAO Ethan day moments. :D
The secondary characters were so much fun. They supported the story by helping us get to know the guys and why they do the things they do. You know it’s good when you can’t wait for the moment the MCs get together again but then a new character comes on page and you love that too. Deacon’s mom was despicable. She wasn’t on page much but her lingering effects were there to see in Deacon. You couldn’t help but despise the woman.
I’ll just stop raving now though I could go on….. Northern star was a great read that I highly recommend. Loved it!
A "Live Your Life, Buy The Book" Review
I noticed I wasn’t the only one to squee with joy when Ethan Day announced, kind of last minute, that, oh yeah, I have a new book coming out in a few days! I guess it’s nice that he didn’t torture us for a month teasing us with snippets because the waiting the few days was more than enough for me.
A snow storm leaves poor Deacon stuck in his hometown the day before Christmas Eve. He’s just had another fight with his alcoholic abusive mother. Then his boyfriend dumps him by email, so he’s drinking away his sorrows at an airport motel bar. Deacon is well on his way to getting sloshed, when in walks an older smiling hunk of man who sits right next to him. A few drinks and a lot of flirting later, the two end up in the hotel room having amazing sex. It’s not going to lead to anything because Deacon has to go back to his life in Chicago. It did help take his mind off his troubles for awhile.
A frantic call from his little sister ends the sex fest. His horrible excuse of a mother wrapped her car around a tree and is in the hospital. Steve, the sexy older man, drives him to the hospital and offers to come in. He doesn’t want their time together to end, but Deacon is embarrassed. He prefers Steve to remember him as they were the night before. His mom goes to jail for her fourth DUI, so Deacon ends up moving back to town to take care of his teenage sister. He never calls Steve despite Steve asking him to.
It’s been two months since his night in the hotel room with Deacon and Steve can’t seem to get him out of his head. Then he sees him working in one of his favorite grocery stores. Steve is upset to find him living and working in town. Why the hell hadn’t Deacon called him? He waits for Deacon outside of his work and they talk it out. They start seeing each other and both realize fairly quickly how amazing they are together. The sex is outstanding and they can’t get enough of it but it’s more than that. They really like each other. Neither Deacon or Steve has had anything like this before. Yeah, Steve was married to a woman that he loved but it was nothing like he’s feeling for Deacon. The only person who has ever loved Deacon is his little sister so he can’t really wrap his head around someone as amazing as Steve caring for him.
I loved this book. It’s sexy, charming and funny. Though I thoroughly enjoy Ethan Day’s more outrageous characters ,these felt more subtly witty and playful. I smiled and laughed out loud. Swooned because Steve was super dreamy. Gruff and manly but so damn sweet at the same time. I can’t imagine who wouldn’t adore Deacon. He’s so damaged by years of neglect and disappointment that you just want to hug him. He is in NO way a downer though. Steve has his own issues being newly “out” to the world after leaving his wife. The heavier content kind of anchored the overall humorous romantic story. I loved the naughty banter between the MCs! Not every author can pull that off cheese free but this was sexy and fun. One of my favorite parts were the guys gathered around the barbecue pit. I got teary eyed from laughing. “Just say no to the tushie pushie!” You’ll just have to read it yourself. Classic embarrassing LMAO Ethan day moments. :D
The secondary characters were so much fun. They supported the story by helping us get to know the guys and why they do the things they do. You know it’s good when you can’t wait for the moment the MCs get together again but then a new character comes on page and you love that too. Deacon’s mom was despicable. She wasn’t on page much but her lingering effects were there to see in Deacon. You couldn’t help but despise the woman.
I’ll just stop raving now though I could go on….. Northern star was a great read that I highly recommend. Loved it!
September 29, 2013
Ethan Day writes two types of books: one is a goofball comedy that will leave you in stitches or gritting your teeth depending on your current mood and these quieter, gentler books like Northern Star. While At Piper's Point remains my favorite Ethan's book, this one just might become the second favorite.
The book is sweet and funny and deals with some serious issues. Deacon is damaged by years of neglect and abuse by his alcoholic mother that not even escape from her clutches helped. His self-worth is completely destroyed and he is unable to accept happyness. A chance encounter with Steve Steele, a fresh-out-of-closet car nut, is the best thing that could happen to him. I appreciated other characters too. It was refreshing that Steve's ex wife wasn't portrayed as a bitch which is sadly almost normal occurrence in M/M these days. Steve's coleagues were hilarius and supportive without being PC, which is another thing that I liked. Ashley was a typical teenager without being annoying.
The book has a melancholy undertone which perfectly reflects Deacon's personality and still manages to surprise a laugh out of you. And some grins and giggles and sniffles too. Well done, Mr. Day!
The book is sweet and funny and deals with some serious issues. Deacon is damaged by years of neglect and abuse by his alcoholic mother that not even escape from her clutches helped. His self-worth is completely destroyed and he is unable to accept happyness. A chance encounter with Steve Steele, a fresh-out-of-closet car nut, is the best thing that could happen to him. I appreciated other characters too. It was refreshing that Steve's ex wife wasn't portrayed as a bitch which is sadly almost normal occurrence in M/M these days. Steve's coleagues were hilarius and supportive without being PC, which is another thing that I liked. Ashley was a typical teenager without being annoying.
The book has a melancholy undertone which perfectly reflects Deacon's personality and still manages to surprise a laugh out of you. And some grins and giggles and sniffles too. Well done, Mr. Day!
September 9, 2016
3.5 stars
This book started strong. Day has witty banter, great character development, and great relationship buildup. And many more sexy times than I remember him having in some of his other books.
Great setup: A phenomenal one night stand whom you haven't really forgotten about that you run into a few months later in the grocery store. Nice, right? I really kind of dug it.
And let's take a moment to appreciate the two cover models, cuz HELLO there.
What didn't work for me:
Way too descriptive at times. I don't need to know the back story of how a room got decorated - for 2 pages. And then the mother of all things to light my nerves aflame: the martyr complex. The "he's too good for me." I just can't with that shit.
Would've been a solid 4-star otherwise. I have a fond love for Ethan Day since he was one of my first m/m authors. This one will leave me with pleasant memories overall.
This book started strong. Day has witty banter, great character development, and great relationship buildup. And many more sexy times than I remember him having in some of his other books.
Great setup: A phenomenal one night stand whom you haven't really forgotten about that you run into a few months later in the grocery store. Nice, right? I really kind of dug it.
And let's take a moment to appreciate the two cover models, cuz HELLO there.
What didn't work for me:
Way too descriptive at times. I don't need to know the back story of how a room got decorated - for 2 pages. And then the mother of all things to light my nerves aflame: the martyr complex. The "he's too good for me." I just can't with that shit.
Would've been a solid 4-star otherwise. I have a fond love for Ethan Day since he was one of my first m/m authors. This one will leave me with pleasant memories overall.
October 4, 2013
3.5 stars
It was a difficult reading start for me, with pages and pages full of inner musings and an over-the-top-voice of Deacon. Then I either got used to it or it was toned down as I enjoyed reading on. The story flowed along quite nicely with some predictable ups and downs to then end with a very nice epilogue.
It was a difficult reading start for me, with pages and pages full of inner musings and an over-the-top-voice of Deacon. Then I either got used to it or it was toned down as I enjoyed reading on. The story flowed along quite nicely with some predictable ups and downs to then end with a very nice epilogue.
October 14, 2013
3.75
At times the sadness that Deacon felt was overwhelming but I loved the romance between the MC's, it was slow moving but super hot. I really liked that there wasn't a big fix at the end and that Deacon and Steve were working hard to make their relationship succeed.
At times the sadness that Deacon felt was overwhelming but I loved the romance between the MC's, it was slow moving but super hot. I really liked that there wasn't a big fix at the end and that Deacon and Steve were working hard to make their relationship succeed.
September 27, 2013
Full review can be found at On Top Down Under Book Reviews.
Anytime I pick up an Ethan Day book I expect a bit of humor. Northern Star is no different. However, this is also a very serious story about very real issues. Both main characters are dealing with their pasts and must find common ground in order to make a relationship work. I found myself laughing quite a bit but I also found myself in tears more than once.
Another outstanding book by Ethan Day.
This book was provided by Wilde City Press in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Anytime I pick up an Ethan Day book I expect a bit of humor. Northern Star is no different. However, this is also a very serious story about very real issues. Both main characters are dealing with their pasts and must find common ground in order to make a relationship work. I found myself laughing quite a bit but I also found myself in tears more than once.
Another outstanding book by Ethan Day.
This book was provided by Wilde City Press in exchange for a fair and honest review.
November 27, 2013
2.5 stars
This is a story of twenty-seven year-old Deacon dealing with a recent break-up and family drama who meets forty-four year-old successful Steve Steele one night at a hotel bar. There is instant attraction that develops into more, but real life stresses may come between the two’s happily-ever-after.
So I guess I’m in the minority again. Let me stress, I am normally a HUGE fan of Ethan Day’s books, and his book As You Are is a constant reread for me. But this book didn’t feel like his normal work, and his signature stamp for me was missing. I love this author’s humor and the tension he develops between his characters, but I didn’t find this book funny at all and the tension felt like it came from outside sources, which bored me.
The start of Northern Star excited me because I initially found Deacon’s self-deprecating comments relatable and snarky funny in regards to his very recent break-up and holiday family drama. Steve joined him at the hotel bar and he appeared friendly but sexy and mysterious. However, from the moment after they slept together very early on in the book; I lost the majority of my interest.
Steve’s mom and ex are jerks…the reader spends much time rehashing how large of jerks they are to others and to Steve. His sister is pretty generic and I can’t remember her name or what exactly her role in the novel was nor do I care to be honest. The internal musings went on and on; I was desperate to skim. I guess my biggest problem, though, is Steve. I went and read several reviews to see if others noticed what I did and I don’t recall one review that did, so this is MY personal feelings: Steve is a temperamental asshole. Sorry, he rubbed me the wrong way nonstop. He was quite a bit older than Deacon and there were several times it read as if he was taking on the father-figure type role chastising Deacon repeatedly…scolding him, acting as if he was an annoying child, even seeming to be controlling/possessive towards him. I’m not saying he was abusive, just that he didn’t endear himself to me on any level, thus I didn’t care about them as a couple and would have preferred if Deacon had found himself someone else.
But it appears most readers love this and found it sweet and charming with just the right amount of angst. For me, it was lacking on the usual Day charm.
This is a story of twenty-seven year-old Deacon dealing with a recent break-up and family drama who meets forty-four year-old successful Steve Steele one night at a hotel bar. There is instant attraction that develops into more, but real life stresses may come between the two’s happily-ever-after.
So I guess I’m in the minority again. Let me stress, I am normally a HUGE fan of Ethan Day’s books, and his book As You Are is a constant reread for me. But this book didn’t feel like his normal work, and his signature stamp for me was missing. I love this author’s humor and the tension he develops between his characters, but I didn’t find this book funny at all and the tension felt like it came from outside sources, which bored me.
The start of Northern Star excited me because I initially found Deacon’s self-deprecating comments relatable and snarky funny in regards to his very recent break-up and holiday family drama. Steve joined him at the hotel bar and he appeared friendly but sexy and mysterious. However, from the moment after they slept together very early on in the book; I lost the majority of my interest.
Steve’s mom and ex are jerks…the reader spends much time rehashing how large of jerks they are to others and to Steve. His sister is pretty generic and I can’t remember her name or what exactly her role in the novel was nor do I care to be honest. The internal musings went on and on; I was desperate to skim. I guess my biggest problem, though, is Steve. I went and read several reviews to see if others noticed what I did and I don’t recall one review that did, so this is MY personal feelings: Steve is a temperamental asshole. Sorry, he rubbed me the wrong way nonstop. He was quite a bit older than Deacon and there were several times it read as if he was taking on the father-figure type role chastising Deacon repeatedly…scolding him, acting as if he was an annoying child, even seeming to be controlling/possessive towards him. I’m not saying he was abusive, just that he didn’t endear himself to me on any level, thus I didn’t care about them as a couple and would have preferred if Deacon had found himself someone else.
But it appears most readers love this and found it sweet and charming with just the right amount of angst. For me, it was lacking on the usual Day charm.
October 6, 2019
I admit it...this was not the Ethan Day that I was expecting...
Before I start this review I would like to offer sincere apologies to the author for having taken so long to get this review done. Unfortunately sometimes real life refuses to co-operate. I started listening to this story back around mid-July and then there was a move...so when I was finally able to resume the story in fairness to the author, the book and the narrator I felt I needed to start all over again so I did and I'm glad I made that choice because it allowed me to take the time to enjoy this one from start to finish allowing me to make a much fairer assessment of both the story and the narrator.
'Northern Star' is not my first book by this author. I've read his 'Summit City' series and some of his standalones and 'To Catch a Fox', the first book in the 'Fox Mysteries' that he co-wrote with Geoffrey Knight is definitely one that I'm be happy to read more of. But I will be the first to admit none of them prepared me for this one.
I guess I've come to expect a solid dose of humor in Ethan Day's stories and while there were some humorous moments in this story...honestly that bar-b-que conversation between Steve and his friends got more than one laugh out of me. So yes, there was a touch of humor in this story but 'Northern Story' was definitely darker and more introspective than what I've normally come to anticipate from Ethan Day.
In the life lottery, Deacon Miller did not get the winning ticket...hell, he didn't even win a consolation prize. Thankfully what he did get even though he doesn't realize it is a backbone of steel. Born to a homophobic, alcoholic mother whose luck with men rivals that of a passenger on the Titanic. Deacon has survived a life that would have very possibly crushed others...not unscathed, but he has continued to dust himself off and get back up each time life has tried to knock him down.
Making a hasty retreat from the the family holiday from hell only to get dumped by his boyfriend and dragged back home by his little sister when their mother ends up in the hospital and then jail after causing an accident and being charged with a DUI infraction for the third time, but not before sharing an incredible interlude with the much older and incredibly sexy Steven Steele.
Neither man can forget their time together nor does either man make the first move to contact the other. It's up to fate to bring these two men together and she does. Both men are trying to leave behind a past filled with mistakes and heartache and the comfort and passion that they shared in that one interlude stays with each of them despite the passage of time.
Deacon's around 27ish and Steve's around 44ish so approximately 17 years...there's a definite age gap here and it seems to be a theme with my reading these days. Surprisingly in a lot of ways this age gap doesn't seem so glaringly huge because while Deacon's only 27, his life experience has definitely aged him beyond his years and broken him in ways that no 27 year old should be broken. He's sad, there's really not another word for it and Steve wants to fill some of the empty spaces in his heart with love and maybe even a bit of happiness. Deacon thinks Steve is amazing and that he's just not good enough for someone as wonderful as Steve...this is not a helpful idea and one that Steve would like to change Deacon's mind about.
'Northern Star' was my first audio experience narrated by Jason Frazier and I have to say, for me, he definitely delivered. I enjoyed his voices , they were distinctive, consistent and expressive...at times seriously expressive...just saying fanning myself may have been involved during certain scenes.
This wasn't an insta-love, magical peen fixes all kind of story. It was more like insta-lust to attraction, to friendship to love...it was believable and felt like it could be a real life relationship.
Being together isn't something that comes easily for Deacon and Steve but then anything worth having never comes easy does it? I have to admit at the beginning I wasn't quite sure if this was going to work for me, but the more I listened the more it drew me in and the more I wanted to hear in the end I really enjoyed this one...I think that's the sign of a good story...isn't it?
'Northern Star' isn't quite the usual Ethan Day fare, but still it was an emotional and touching story that I enjoyed every bit as much as his other stories and while it didn't leave me in fits of giggles, it did touch my heart and let me believe that happiness is there for anyone who's willing to fight for it.
********************
An audio book of 'Northern Stars' was graciously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Before I start this review I would like to offer sincere apologies to the author for having taken so long to get this review done. Unfortunately sometimes real life refuses to co-operate. I started listening to this story back around mid-July and then there was a move...so when I was finally able to resume the story in fairness to the author, the book and the narrator I felt I needed to start all over again so I did and I'm glad I made that choice because it allowed me to take the time to enjoy this one from start to finish allowing me to make a much fairer assessment of both the story and the narrator.
'Northern Star' is not my first book by this author. I've read his 'Summit City' series and some of his standalones and 'To Catch a Fox', the first book in the 'Fox Mysteries' that he co-wrote with Geoffrey Knight is definitely one that I'm be happy to read more of. But I will be the first to admit none of them prepared me for this one.
I guess I've come to expect a solid dose of humor in Ethan Day's stories and while there were some humorous moments in this story...honestly that bar-b-que conversation between Steve and his friends got more than one laugh out of me. So yes, there was a touch of humor in this story but 'Northern Story' was definitely darker and more introspective than what I've normally come to anticipate from Ethan Day.
In the life lottery, Deacon Miller did not get the winning ticket...hell, he didn't even win a consolation prize. Thankfully what he did get even though he doesn't realize it is a backbone of steel. Born to a homophobic, alcoholic mother whose luck with men rivals that of a passenger on the Titanic. Deacon has survived a life that would have very possibly crushed others...not unscathed, but he has continued to dust himself off and get back up each time life has tried to knock him down.
Making a hasty retreat from the the family holiday from hell only to get dumped by his boyfriend and dragged back home by his little sister when their mother ends up in the hospital and then jail after causing an accident and being charged with a DUI infraction for the third time, but not before sharing an incredible interlude with the much older and incredibly sexy Steven Steele.
Neither man can forget their time together nor does either man make the first move to contact the other. It's up to fate to bring these two men together and she does. Both men are trying to leave behind a past filled with mistakes and heartache and the comfort and passion that they shared in that one interlude stays with each of them despite the passage of time.
Deacon's around 27ish and Steve's around 44ish so approximately 17 years...there's a definite age gap here and it seems to be a theme with my reading these days. Surprisingly in a lot of ways this age gap doesn't seem so glaringly huge because while Deacon's only 27, his life experience has definitely aged him beyond his years and broken him in ways that no 27 year old should be broken. He's sad, there's really not another word for it and Steve wants to fill some of the empty spaces in his heart with love and maybe even a bit of happiness. Deacon thinks Steve is amazing and that he's just not good enough for someone as wonderful as Steve...this is not a helpful idea and one that Steve would like to change Deacon's mind about.
'Northern Star' was my first audio experience narrated by Jason Frazier and I have to say, for me, he definitely delivered. I enjoyed his voices , they were distinctive, consistent and expressive...at times seriously expressive...just saying fanning myself may have been involved during certain scenes.
This wasn't an insta-love, magical peen fixes all kind of story. It was more like insta-lust to attraction, to friendship to love...it was believable and felt like it could be a real life relationship.
Being together isn't something that comes easily for Deacon and Steve but then anything worth having never comes easy does it? I have to admit at the beginning I wasn't quite sure if this was going to work for me, but the more I listened the more it drew me in and the more I wanted to hear in the end I really enjoyed this one...I think that's the sign of a good story...isn't it?
'Northern Star' isn't quite the usual Ethan Day fare, but still it was an emotional and touching story that I enjoyed every bit as much as his other stories and while it didn't leave me in fits of giggles, it did touch my heart and let me believe that happiness is there for anyone who's willing to fight for it.
********************
An audio book of 'Northern Stars' was graciously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
February 6, 2014
Such an inconsistent read for me. There was a lot going on in this story and my reactions to it all kept changing. I loved it, I hated it, it was okay, then back to I loved it. Over and over. It made me mental.
I loved the parts that made me laugh and I liked some of the angsty parts that made me want to hug Deacon or Steve. I even admit to tearing up a few times, which doesn't happen very often. There were other parts, though, that felt forced, and weren't funny to me or were way too angsty for me. It felt like I was constantly being reminded about Deacon's lack of self worth. Add in some boneheaded reasoning from both MCs and it was all I could do to keep reading, hoping for more of the sweet or funny parts. I finished it, though, and nowadays that says a lot :)
Side notes:
$500 for a prom dress? Why on earth was she even trying on dresses that expensive? That bothered me so much. Still does (obviously.)
I loved Margie.
"Do not raise your voice to me Steven Anthony Steele," she snapped back. "I have been working here since before your bony butt was even born, so you will not sass me, you hear?"
"...and do not come back here until you have fixed your shit!"
Heh heh
I loved the parts that made me laugh and I liked some of the angsty parts that made me want to hug Deacon or Steve. I even admit to tearing up a few times, which doesn't happen very often. There were other parts, though, that felt forced, and weren't funny to me or were way too angsty for me. It felt like I was constantly being reminded about Deacon's lack of self worth. Add in some boneheaded reasoning from both MCs and it was all I could do to keep reading, hoping for more of the sweet or funny parts. I finished it, though, and nowadays that says a lot :)
Side notes:
$500 for a prom dress? Why on earth was she even trying on dresses that expensive? That bothered me so much. Still does (obviously.)
I loved Margie.
"Do not raise your voice to me Steven Anthony Steele," she snapped back. "I have been working here since before your bony butt was even born, so you will not sass me, you hear?"
"...and do not come back here until you have fixed your shit!"
Heh heh
October 5, 2013
There are apparently two types of Ethan Day books, one the funny, fluffy kind that is an easy read for a summer afternoon, the other a quiet, reflective book that explores human relationships and emotions on a much deeper level...
Full review available on Booklikes and my blog.
Full review available on Booklikes and my blog.
October 14, 2013
Northern Star was a wonderful way to spend a couple hours and it was a pleasure to get to know Steve and Deacon.
Their first meeting at a hotel bar sets the tone for the whole book as they enjoy a nice easy and teasing banter. It was so much fun to follow the conversation back and forth....
Deacon faced Steve, propping up his elbow on the bar for support. "Say, you can't be too much of a dick, you at least asked how I'm doing, right?"
"Well, you did mention doing me before. I became infinitely more invested at that point."
followed shortly by....
"No, I apparantly suffer from low self-esteem and have an unfortunate attraction to loose-moraled men with liittle to no character."
"Sweet, so my chances of getting lucky just skyrocketed."
But what makes this book special is how special Deacon and Steve really are for each other. Even from their first meeting Deacon recognises that Steve has shown him more kindness than his own mother and the boyfriend who had left him. Patty, Deacon's mother, is just awful and such a contrast to the sweet and caring Steve who is an all-round good guy in all he says and does.
Steve has faced his own challenges, coming out and leaving his wife after initially denying his own sexuality. The author did a fabulous of job of conveying the impact of Steve's decision to leave his wife and step-daughter (which he did well before meeting Deacon). It wasn't easy and things aren't perfect but he has maintained a friendship of sorts with his ex-wife. Her inclusion in the book allows us to see another side of Steve.
The secondary characters complement the story so well. Jimmy is totally amusing as Steve's best friend and Deacon's sister Ashley is nice and cute and a crack up...totally loved her response when Deacon states that he will not be helping her with BJ advice. "Well, that's just stupid. What's the point of having a gay older brother then?"
This book blended the emotional journey with regular smatterings of amusing moments right the way through to the warm and happy ending.
A very enjoyable 4.5 stars.
Thank you to the publisher of this book who provided a copy in return for an honest review.
I now publish all my m/m reviews on my blog so if you want to see all my m/m reviews in one place come visit at Because Two Men Are Better Than One!
Their first meeting at a hotel bar sets the tone for the whole book as they enjoy a nice easy and teasing banter. It was so much fun to follow the conversation back and forth....
Deacon faced Steve, propping up his elbow on the bar for support. "Say, you can't be too much of a dick, you at least asked how I'm doing, right?"
"Well, you did mention doing me before. I became infinitely more invested at that point."
followed shortly by....
"No, I apparantly suffer from low self-esteem and have an unfortunate attraction to loose-moraled men with liittle to no character."
"Sweet, so my chances of getting lucky just skyrocketed."
But what makes this book special is how special Deacon and Steve really are for each other. Even from their first meeting Deacon recognises that Steve has shown him more kindness than his own mother and the boyfriend who had left him. Patty, Deacon's mother, is just awful and such a contrast to the sweet and caring Steve who is an all-round good guy in all he says and does.
Steve has faced his own challenges, coming out and leaving his wife after initially denying his own sexuality. The author did a fabulous of job of conveying the impact of Steve's decision to leave his wife and step-daughter (which he did well before meeting Deacon). It wasn't easy and things aren't perfect but he has maintained a friendship of sorts with his ex-wife. Her inclusion in the book allows us to see another side of Steve.
The secondary characters complement the story so well. Jimmy is totally amusing as Steve's best friend and Deacon's sister Ashley is nice and cute and a crack up...totally loved her response when Deacon states that he will not be helping her with BJ advice. "Well, that's just stupid. What's the point of having a gay older brother then?"
This book blended the emotional journey with regular smatterings of amusing moments right the way through to the warm and happy ending.
A very enjoyable 4.5 stars.
Thank you to the publisher of this book who provided a copy in return for an honest review.
I now publish all my m/m reviews on my blog so if you want to see all my m/m reviews in one place come visit at Because Two Men Are Better Than One!
October 31, 2013
Thank you Ethan Day for giving me a nice, easy read when I so needed one! Muah! ♥
November 1, 2013
3.5 stars
I am going to begin this review by saying I truly struggled over what to say and how to delineate what it was about this book that both drew me and repelled me all at the same time. I know that many Ethan Day fans view him as more of a humorist with really outstanding comedic timing and characters that cause us to laugh out loud. This is what author Ethan Day is truly known for and excels at, realistic characters that are flawed and vulnerable yet manage to keep themselves aloft and smiling despite their broken hearts. Northern Star is not that kind of novel. Far removed from it in fact, and for that I really applaud this author for once again delving into the more quiet and sensitive stories he is capable of writing and producing for us to enjoy.
Northern Star has a a fairly straight forward plot that examines the growing love between two men who could not be more polar opposites from their age (44 versus 27) to their economic status. However, what both these men have in common is their near toxic level of guilt over how they have made their way through the life that has been handed to them.
For Deacon, the guilt stems from what he views as abandoning his stepsister while trying to escape a horridly abusive alcoholic mother and a life that has been a living hell since a very young age. Deacon is not just wounded, he is deeply scarred and the idea that he will ever be enough for anyone, particularly Steve, is untenable to his thinking. Not only that but he has also been painfully shoved aside by his former boyfriend, who also takes the opportunity to remind Deacon that he is worthless and unworthy of being loved. When he meets Steve in that hotel room, however, little does he know he has finally met his match in the guilt arena.
Steve grapples with the fact that he has hidden his sexuality for years and through one failed marriage to someone whom he genuinely loves. Steve reveals that his ex and her little girl are no longer in his life, something that haunts him and tears at him every day and repels any thought about finding someone to love–for you see he is, in his own words, “kind of a dick”. But when these two men part, they both realize that something more than sex had just happened in that hotel room. A connection had been made and while it scares both men it also makes them want more.
Over the rest of this novel we watch as these two men wrestle with their demons and come to terms with the ghosts in their lives. For Steve I felt it was all just a bit to neat and simple. When he finally comes out, all his friends understand, his mother supports him and even though still hurt, his ex-wife welcomes not only Steve but Deacon back into her and her daughter’s life. There is lots of good-natured ribbing and earnest talks about love and forgiveness but overall, Steve really walks away from this huge revelation unscathed and still supported by all those he cares about.
This was one of the moments when I really found myself not understanding why the constant build of confessional guilt that Steve seems to go through over and over was for naught. All his constant worry and fears were brushed aside, and it made me really wonder why he hid his sexuality at all? Everyone was so okay with it, that simply did not support Steve’s constant angst and guilt over hiding for so many years. I kept waiting for the other shoe to drop or for something or someone’s homophobic reaction to support Steve’s feelings, but it never did and I must say, it left me rather disappointed. Even his ex-wife seemed to eventually gloss over her pain. Yes it was mentioned but then it seemed so weak in comparison to Steve’s overwhelming sense of guilt. In the end it really felt like such a big deal had been made over seemingly nothing, or so one thought by gauging the reactions of Steve’s friends and family.
Then there was Deacon. I was amazed at the depth of this character. Author Ethan Day produced such an incredibly beautiful and deeply wounded man in Deacon Miller. I understood every nuance of his guilt, of his fears and of his deep abiding sense of self-loathing. He had been programmed at an early age to think that he was nothing and now, in his adult life, he had never yet surrounded himself with anyone who loved him despite his own inability to love himself–until Steve. As frustrating as Steve’s story was for me, Deacon’s was compelling and haunting.
This was writing that drew me in and wrapped me up in it’s gentle sorrow. Every character around Deacon, every family member supported how he felt inside. From his niece who loved him yet saw how broken they both were to his bitch of a mother who continued to demean and hate on him even from prison, every emotion that Deacon has was believable and so very, very sad. Deacon’s story was the real strength behind Northern Star. His needs and desires were so palpable that I was hooked into his life completely.
The premise and idea behind Northern Star was a good one. Unfortunately, for me, I felt that the novel was unbalanced and that one of its main characters came off as weak when he needed to be strong. The story was uneven mainly due to the underwhelming response to Steve’s coming out by his family which simply did not support all his guilty internal and verbal angst. Still and all, this is Ethan Day and he is a talented author and does not fail to deliver a solid story that leaves behind a definitive mark on your heart.
I am going to begin this review by saying I truly struggled over what to say and how to delineate what it was about this book that both drew me and repelled me all at the same time. I know that many Ethan Day fans view him as more of a humorist with really outstanding comedic timing and characters that cause us to laugh out loud. This is what author Ethan Day is truly known for and excels at, realistic characters that are flawed and vulnerable yet manage to keep themselves aloft and smiling despite their broken hearts. Northern Star is not that kind of novel. Far removed from it in fact, and for that I really applaud this author for once again delving into the more quiet and sensitive stories he is capable of writing and producing for us to enjoy.
Northern Star has a a fairly straight forward plot that examines the growing love between two men who could not be more polar opposites from their age (44 versus 27) to their economic status. However, what both these men have in common is their near toxic level of guilt over how they have made their way through the life that has been handed to them.
For Deacon, the guilt stems from what he views as abandoning his stepsister while trying to escape a horridly abusive alcoholic mother and a life that has been a living hell since a very young age. Deacon is not just wounded, he is deeply scarred and the idea that he will ever be enough for anyone, particularly Steve, is untenable to his thinking. Not only that but he has also been painfully shoved aside by his former boyfriend, who also takes the opportunity to remind Deacon that he is worthless and unworthy of being loved. When he meets Steve in that hotel room, however, little does he know he has finally met his match in the guilt arena.
Steve grapples with the fact that he has hidden his sexuality for years and through one failed marriage to someone whom he genuinely loves. Steve reveals that his ex and her little girl are no longer in his life, something that haunts him and tears at him every day and repels any thought about finding someone to love–for you see he is, in his own words, “kind of a dick”. But when these two men part, they both realize that something more than sex had just happened in that hotel room. A connection had been made and while it scares both men it also makes them want more.
Over the rest of this novel we watch as these two men wrestle with their demons and come to terms with the ghosts in their lives. For Steve I felt it was all just a bit to neat and simple. When he finally comes out, all his friends understand, his mother supports him and even though still hurt, his ex-wife welcomes not only Steve but Deacon back into her and her daughter’s life. There is lots of good-natured ribbing and earnest talks about love and forgiveness but overall, Steve really walks away from this huge revelation unscathed and still supported by all those he cares about.
This was one of the moments when I really found myself not understanding why the constant build of confessional guilt that Steve seems to go through over and over was for naught. All his constant worry and fears were brushed aside, and it made me really wonder why he hid his sexuality at all? Everyone was so okay with it, that simply did not support Steve’s constant angst and guilt over hiding for so many years. I kept waiting for the other shoe to drop or for something or someone’s homophobic reaction to support Steve’s feelings, but it never did and I must say, it left me rather disappointed. Even his ex-wife seemed to eventually gloss over her pain. Yes it was mentioned but then it seemed so weak in comparison to Steve’s overwhelming sense of guilt. In the end it really felt like such a big deal had been made over seemingly nothing, or so one thought by gauging the reactions of Steve’s friends and family.
Then there was Deacon. I was amazed at the depth of this character. Author Ethan Day produced such an incredibly beautiful and deeply wounded man in Deacon Miller. I understood every nuance of his guilt, of his fears and of his deep abiding sense of self-loathing. He had been programmed at an early age to think that he was nothing and now, in his adult life, he had never yet surrounded himself with anyone who loved him despite his own inability to love himself–until Steve. As frustrating as Steve’s story was for me, Deacon’s was compelling and haunting.
This was writing that drew me in and wrapped me up in it’s gentle sorrow. Every character around Deacon, every family member supported how he felt inside. From his niece who loved him yet saw how broken they both were to his bitch of a mother who continued to demean and hate on him even from prison, every emotion that Deacon has was believable and so very, very sad. Deacon’s story was the real strength behind Northern Star. His needs and desires were so palpable that I was hooked into his life completely.
The premise and idea behind Northern Star was a good one. Unfortunately, for me, I felt that the novel was unbalanced and that one of its main characters came off as weak when he needed to be strong. The story was uneven mainly due to the underwhelming response to Steve’s coming out by his family which simply did not support all his guilty internal and verbal angst. Still and all, this is Ethan Day and he is a talented author and does not fail to deliver a solid story that leaves behind a definitive mark on your heart.
September 30, 2013
4.5 stars. I always love Ethan's books. Whether it's the RomCom he's so brilliant at or the more serious tone that this book strikes, I just love reading his words. I was so surprised to find this book since I had NO idea it was even in the works.
Deacon is so badly damaged, it's a wonder he's actually still upright. Of course the more fucked up and damaged the character, the more I love and root for them. Steve is a guy who was deep in the closet for the first 40+ years of his life. Deacon recognizes the type, but he's just had the most craptastic day of his craptastic life (which is saying quite a lot in his case) when they meet at the airport hotel bar. They spend the night together and somehow it's more than just sex - they make a connection. When Deacon's less than stellar family life intrudes the next morning, Steve steps up to help Deacon out and he has a hard time accepting that. This is an ongoing theme for these guys ;)
After more of Deacon's family drama unfolds and he's back in town, he still doesn't call Steve, but they run into each other and Steve doesn't back off. Deacon is so afraid that he will mess this up and that Steve can can do much better than him. Deacon's feelings of worthlessness are something that he's been dealing with his whole life thanks to his exceedingly dysfunctional family life starting with his jailed alcoholic mother and the merry band of worthless boyfriends/baby daddies she's had around. The one bright spot is his teenage half-sister Ashley. He wants to do whatever he can to spare her any more drama - if that's possible.
Of course you know from this set up that things will not be going smoothly. And let's face, rarely in life do things go all smoothly under the best of circumstances. There are doubters from all sides and manipulative assholes who would like nothing more than to keep Deacon down. But there also bright spots, like Deacon's employers and a few unexpected allies and supporters that try to help the guys along. And Ashley is also a pretty smart cookie as it turns out :)
This is a solid read and anyone who is a fan of Ethan's will really enjoy this book. There is a bit of angst that is 100% believable but the payoff was worth it. I do wish it had one more editorial review because I did notice more errors than I would have liked.
Deacon is so badly damaged, it's a wonder he's actually still upright. Of course the more fucked up and damaged the character, the more I love and root for them. Steve is a guy who was deep in the closet for the first 40+ years of his life. Deacon recognizes the type, but he's just had the most craptastic day of his craptastic life (which is saying quite a lot in his case) when they meet at the airport hotel bar. They spend the night together and somehow it's more than just sex - they make a connection. When Deacon's less than stellar family life intrudes the next morning, Steve steps up to help Deacon out and he has a hard time accepting that. This is an ongoing theme for these guys ;)
After more of Deacon's family drama unfolds and he's back in town, he still doesn't call Steve, but they run into each other and Steve doesn't back off. Deacon is so afraid that he will mess this up and that Steve can can do much better than him. Deacon's feelings of worthlessness are something that he's been dealing with his whole life thanks to his exceedingly dysfunctional family life starting with his jailed alcoholic mother and the merry band of worthless boyfriends/baby daddies she's had around. The one bright spot is his teenage half-sister Ashley. He wants to do whatever he can to spare her any more drama - if that's possible.
Of course you know from this set up that things will not be going smoothly. And let's face, rarely in life do things go all smoothly under the best of circumstances. There are doubters from all sides and manipulative assholes who would like nothing more than to keep Deacon down. But there also bright spots, like Deacon's employers and a few unexpected allies and supporters that try to help the guys along. And Ashley is also a pretty smart cookie as it turns out :)
This is a solid read and anyone who is a fan of Ethan's will really enjoy this book. There is a bit of angst that is 100% believable but the payoff was worth it. I do wish it had one more editorial review because I did notice more errors than I would have liked.
October 11, 2013
Though I can be a harsh bitch when it comes to book reviews, what I actually thought was that it was a pretty good page turner. The characters were endearing, the story complex enough to engage but not baffle. There are a few things in it that I questioned, but overall I felt it was good entertainment.
Find BJ's full review at The Novel Approach
Find BJ's full review at The Novel Approach
December 20, 2014
*** 2.5 Stars ***
The book - and my reactions to it - were totally inconsistent. Loving it one minute, feeling apathetic to it the next. All of the characters were okay, but I didn't love any of them. The story was okay, but the 'I'm not good enough for you' shtick got old pretty quick. The dialogue had its ups and downs too.
I dunno. I have a feeling that a week from now I won't remember the first thing about this book. *shrugs*
The book - and my reactions to it - were totally inconsistent. Loving it one minute, feeling apathetic to it the next. All of the characters were okay, but I didn't love any of them. The story was okay, but the 'I'm not good enough for you' shtick got old pretty quick. The dialogue had its ups and downs too.
I dunno. I have a feeling that a week from now I won't remember the first thing about this book. *shrugs*
October 2, 2013
3.9 stars rounded up. I cannot fault the solid writing, well contoured protagonists, a quite balanced plot and nice dose of sweet romance. However, I could not find the spark usually associated with a book by Ethan Day, regardless of his chosen style. I was a bit disappointed in that respect, yet enjoyed a pleasant reading journey.
July 13, 2018
It seems like forever since I had a new release of Ethan Day's to devour. I so love his writing and have adored everything I've read so I was fairly confident that 'Northern Star' wouldn't be any different. Besides, who doesn't love a Christmas romance? Or, really hot sex, at least. *grins* Plus, I thought my husband was going to be a one-nighter (after a really long drought) and he's still here so I get the warm fuzzies for those kind of stories.
Deacon has had better days. His boyfriend of a year and a half just broke up with him via e-mail, for crying out loud, and, it was pretty hateful. He had a screaming fight with his mother and now he's stuck in a bad Detroit airport hotel bar on the night before Christmas Eve. Why not get drunk? That's where he meets Steve, owner of a car dealership, and, as usual, the author's incredible sense of humor shines through. "Deacon faced Steve, propping up his elbow on the bar for support. 'Say, you can't be too much of a dick, you at least asked how I'm doing, right?' 'Well, you did mention doing me before. I became infinitely more invested at that point.'" Fabulous chemistry with verbal wit ensues beautifully. Which leads to Deacon's hotel room and really hot sex. Told ya it was hot!
Steve came to the bar to celebrate, sort of, or perhaps commiserate, that it was one year ago he went home after work and told his wife he liked men. He ends up telling Deacon his story of how he was always too scared to come out, the auto business is pretty masculine, he grew up with a lot of those guys, he played it straight, and when the rumors started flying because he was still a bachelor, he married a woman. Steve is pretty ashamed of his behavior and the resulting mess he made of other people's lives just because he was a coward.
When they wake up the next morning, a blizzard is coming down, the airport is closed, and Deacon gets a call from his sister that his mom was drinking and driving, again, and wrapped her car around a tree. Steve is kind and offers to drop Deacon at the hospital, which just makes Deacon start to wonder why a near perfect stranger has been nicer to him that the people who were supposed to love him. Deacon remembers how alone he was before Seth, and he knows it's because he has a huge issue with trust, having grown up with a severely alcoholic mother, and the price he paid getting away from her all those years before left him cold and standoffish.
In an ironic twist, Deacon moves home to Detroit to care for his sister, Ashley, in her last year and a half of high school since this was their mom's fourth DUI and she went to jail. Luckily for Deacon, or his sister, he is a retail cashier and can get a job pretty much anywhere, and the apartment he and Seth shared in Chicago belongs to Seth. Steve is shocked when he turns down an aisle in a gourmet grocery store to see Deacon stocking shelves. Shock turns to dismay and anger when he realizes Deacon must have moved back but never called Steve. Steve hasn't been able to get Deacon out of his mind as he really felt that there was a connection between them that went beyond the physical, but obviously Deacon didn't feel that way, or maybe he did? "Sex would certainly go a long way to easing the blow that you never called."
Deacon and Steve enter into a new relationship and things are going very well until fate throws another jab into Deacon's life. As if he needs another one when pretty much nothing up until now has ever gone right. This issue means he has to confront his mother in jail. Yep. Just one more crappy happenstance for Deacon. The scene where Deacon visits his mom in prison is just sad. For him, not her. I can't imagine being raised with that kind of a parent. On the other hand, the conversation Steve has with his closest guy friends around the grill at the company barbecue almost made me pee my pants I was laughing so hard. But, Deacon struggles hard with his depression and not wanting to drag Steve down and mire him in the darkness where Deacon spends so much time.
Deacon broke my heart over and over again as he constantly dealt with the fact that no one had ever loved him his entire life and all the things his mother and many stepdads had said was probably true. Deacon was worthless and didn't deserve to be loved. It never ceases to amaze me how careless people can be with words, not realizing the devastating effect they can have, especially on children. Deacon was a good man who cared about others and he could have turned out so different growing up in another household. Steve really was a knight in shining armor and I loved the man he was. Everyone deserves a Steve in their life. And, thank the gods for Ashley and her wisdom, it was just what these two needed to find their way together.
Thank you, Ethan, for another book I love and can read over and over again. There wasn't anything that I didn't like about it. This is a beautiful story and you've outdone yourself this time combining wonderful humor with very touching emotional drama that made me cry. Read it. You'll love it.
NOTE: This book was provided by the publisher for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Deacon has had better days. His boyfriend of a year and a half just broke up with him via e-mail, for crying out loud, and, it was pretty hateful. He had a screaming fight with his mother and now he's stuck in a bad Detroit airport hotel bar on the night before Christmas Eve. Why not get drunk? That's where he meets Steve, owner of a car dealership, and, as usual, the author's incredible sense of humor shines through. "Deacon faced Steve, propping up his elbow on the bar for support. 'Say, you can't be too much of a dick, you at least asked how I'm doing, right?' 'Well, you did mention doing me before. I became infinitely more invested at that point.'" Fabulous chemistry with verbal wit ensues beautifully. Which leads to Deacon's hotel room and really hot sex. Told ya it was hot!
Steve came to the bar to celebrate, sort of, or perhaps commiserate, that it was one year ago he went home after work and told his wife he liked men. He ends up telling Deacon his story of how he was always too scared to come out, the auto business is pretty masculine, he grew up with a lot of those guys, he played it straight, and when the rumors started flying because he was still a bachelor, he married a woman. Steve is pretty ashamed of his behavior and the resulting mess he made of other people's lives just because he was a coward.
When they wake up the next morning, a blizzard is coming down, the airport is closed, and Deacon gets a call from his sister that his mom was drinking and driving, again, and wrapped her car around a tree. Steve is kind and offers to drop Deacon at the hospital, which just makes Deacon start to wonder why a near perfect stranger has been nicer to him that the people who were supposed to love him. Deacon remembers how alone he was before Seth, and he knows it's because he has a huge issue with trust, having grown up with a severely alcoholic mother, and the price he paid getting away from her all those years before left him cold and standoffish.
In an ironic twist, Deacon moves home to Detroit to care for his sister, Ashley, in her last year and a half of high school since this was their mom's fourth DUI and she went to jail. Luckily for Deacon, or his sister, he is a retail cashier and can get a job pretty much anywhere, and the apartment he and Seth shared in Chicago belongs to Seth. Steve is shocked when he turns down an aisle in a gourmet grocery store to see Deacon stocking shelves. Shock turns to dismay and anger when he realizes Deacon must have moved back but never called Steve. Steve hasn't been able to get Deacon out of his mind as he really felt that there was a connection between them that went beyond the physical, but obviously Deacon didn't feel that way, or maybe he did? "Sex would certainly go a long way to easing the blow that you never called."
Deacon and Steve enter into a new relationship and things are going very well until fate throws another jab into Deacon's life. As if he needs another one when pretty much nothing up until now has ever gone right. This issue means he has to confront his mother in jail. Yep. Just one more crappy happenstance for Deacon. The scene where Deacon visits his mom in prison is just sad. For him, not her. I can't imagine being raised with that kind of a parent. On the other hand, the conversation Steve has with his closest guy friends around the grill at the company barbecue almost made me pee my pants I was laughing so hard. But, Deacon struggles hard with his depression and not wanting to drag Steve down and mire him in the darkness where Deacon spends so much time.
Deacon broke my heart over and over again as he constantly dealt with the fact that no one had ever loved him his entire life and all the things his mother and many stepdads had said was probably true. Deacon was worthless and didn't deserve to be loved. It never ceases to amaze me how careless people can be with words, not realizing the devastating effect they can have, especially on children. Deacon was a good man who cared about others and he could have turned out so different growing up in another household. Steve really was a knight in shining armor and I loved the man he was. Everyone deserves a Steve in their life. And, thank the gods for Ashley and her wisdom, it was just what these two needed to find their way together.
Thank you, Ethan, for another book I love and can read over and over again. There wasn't anything that I didn't like about it. This is a beautiful story and you've outdone yourself this time combining wonderful humor with very touching emotional drama that made me cry. Read it. You'll love it.
NOTE: This book was provided by the publisher for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
October 2, 2013
What I liked - OMG, pretty much everything. The writing, the characters, the slow relationship buildup, the dealing with past issues...love, love, love.
What I didn't like - I'm used to a more light-hearted Ethan Day. It still has it's funny and really sweet moments, but this was a bit more serious than what I've read from him before (but really, don't let that turn you off from this awesome book)
Last Impression - While not my favorite from this author, still a great read. Recommended!
What I didn't like - I'm used to a more light-hearted Ethan Day. It still has it's funny and really sweet moments, but this was a bit more serious than what I've read from him before (but really, don't let that turn you off from this awesome book)
Last Impression - While not my favorite from this author, still a great read. Recommended!
July 13, 2017
Loved this book. Was waffling between 4 and 5 stars and settled on 4 just because, for me, it was so hard to relate to someone feeling so worthless which made parts of the story seem off. They weren't really off but I personally didn't get it. Ha, that probably didn't make sense. Anyways....this was not as light-hearted as other Ethan Day books but the snarky humor was definitely there. And I ugly cried during parts so that's always a plus in my book. :D
January 1, 2017
My last read of 2016. A book I have had forever. Thought I would be reading light, fluffy and friendly.
But it was darker and sadder than I expected. Deacon doesn't believe he is worthy, and his family is to blame for that. But Steve is determined to prove Deacon wrong.
This takes ages, and is sad and bad things keep happening. But Deacon is growing in confidence. It's a strong story of light through the tunnel.
Steve is a great character. I enjoyed it, even though it made me sad.
But it was darker and sadder than I expected. Deacon doesn't believe he is worthy, and his family is to blame for that. But Steve is determined to prove Deacon wrong.
This takes ages, and is sad and bad things keep happening. But Deacon is growing in confidence. It's a strong story of light through the tunnel.
Steve is a great character. I enjoyed it, even though it made me sad.
September 25, 2013
Northern Star was packed with the most realistic, brilliant people. From the MCs to the ex wife to the employer's bratty youngest daughter every single character Had such character that I wanted to know about all of them. Totally recommend even though it made me cry.
September 13, 2014
Was lucky enough to beta read this book (a plus to living in the Detroit area!). A touch of a darker tone than usual from Ethan, but nothing drastic. It was a great, romantic story and had me swooning, of course. Definitely recommended.
September 30, 2013
3.5 - Northern Star feels like the more serious side of Ethan Day's writing. I will come back with a more detailed review!
November 21, 2013
Deacon, an incredibly sad and emotionally damaged twenty-seven-year-old is a classic example of an adult child of an alcoholic, and my heart breaks for him throughout this story. He’s needy, nerdy, and adorably pitiful. But he’s also sweet, sensitive, caring, self-effacing, selfless, and too broken to see his own assets.
After attempting a holiday visit with his mother and sister in his hometown of Detroit, Deacon storms out two days before Christmas when his homophobic mother accuses him once again of being a disappointment, unworthy, and a number of other hateful accusations. He’s stranded at the airport when snow causes a shutdown, and he’s drowning his sorrows at the airport bar to pass the time. To make matters worse, his boyfriend has just emailed him as an underhanded way to break up with him, instructing Deacon to clear out of their apartment within the week. Knowing that alcohol brings nothing but trouble doesn’t stop Deacon from drinking and he’s a bit tipsy when a gorgeous older guy named Steve drops in to the bar and strikes up a conversation. Steve is forty-four, a sexy as sin owner of a car dealership, and finally came out of the closet last year. As expected, the guys end up in bed together, and though neither want their time together to end so soon, Deacon gets a call from his sister, Ashley, informing him that his mother has been in another DUI accident, despite having already lost her license.
At the hospital, sixteen-year-old Ashley convinces Deacon to stay in town to be her guardian while their mother is sent to prison, and Deacon ultimately agrees, knowing he won’t have to deal with his mother on a daily basis. He doesn’t contact Steve though, and when Steve accidentally bumps into him a few months later, Steve is at first happy to see him and then upset to think that Deacon must not have enjoyed their time as much as he did. Far from it, Deacon is just a guy with such low self-esteem that he figured either Steve wouldn’t remember him, or Steve really didn’t care about him anyway. But Steve does care, and he hangs around until Deacon gets out of work so that he can convince him.
The two begin a relationship that eventually allows Steve to finally become okay with being gay and Deacon to feel safe and wanted for the first time in his life. Steve had been married for ten years to a widow with a child and had finally come out of the closet to his wife and to his friends and employees the year before. He’s been struggling to be okay with his sexuality and to find a way to communicate with his ex-wife and hopefully to have time with his step-daughter, a child he loves dearly.
Deacon is actually the one who convinces Steve to mend fences with ex-wife, and this opens a whole new world for Steve. Over time, he begins to be comfortable with who he is, both with his family and in his workplace. Deacon is also responsible for Steve being able to be relaxed around his best friends, guys he’s known since childhood, and at the annual summer picnic Steve hosts for his employees and co-workers, jokes and teasing abound.
I liked the fact that the author brings us to a place where we see hope for the future for this couple, but he doesn’t sugarcoat a happy ending. By the epilogue, Deacon is finally going to counseling and Steve is working on encouraging Ashley to go as well. It’s evident that there’s still a long way to go for them but Deacon now has self-awareness and is working toward reducing his negativity. Steve provides him with a safe and stable relationship, as Deacon’s own personal Northern Star.
This was quite a departure from other books I’ve read by this author but Mr. Day’s sense of humor was still evident throughout. Granted, much of it was self-deprecating humor on Deacon’s part, but there was also great lighthearted banter between Steve and his buddies and between Steve and Deacon.
I highly recommend this story to anyone looking for a gripping emotional story, for those who enjoy age gap romance, and for those who appreciate people who can find humor in any life situation.
Note: This book was provided to me by the publisher through Hearts on Fire Reviews in exchange for an impartial review.
After attempting a holiday visit with his mother and sister in his hometown of Detroit, Deacon storms out two days before Christmas when his homophobic mother accuses him once again of being a disappointment, unworthy, and a number of other hateful accusations. He’s stranded at the airport when snow causes a shutdown, and he’s drowning his sorrows at the airport bar to pass the time. To make matters worse, his boyfriend has just emailed him as an underhanded way to break up with him, instructing Deacon to clear out of their apartment within the week. Knowing that alcohol brings nothing but trouble doesn’t stop Deacon from drinking and he’s a bit tipsy when a gorgeous older guy named Steve drops in to the bar and strikes up a conversation. Steve is forty-four, a sexy as sin owner of a car dealership, and finally came out of the closet last year. As expected, the guys end up in bed together, and though neither want their time together to end so soon, Deacon gets a call from his sister, Ashley, informing him that his mother has been in another DUI accident, despite having already lost her license.
At the hospital, sixteen-year-old Ashley convinces Deacon to stay in town to be her guardian while their mother is sent to prison, and Deacon ultimately agrees, knowing he won’t have to deal with his mother on a daily basis. He doesn’t contact Steve though, and when Steve accidentally bumps into him a few months later, Steve is at first happy to see him and then upset to think that Deacon must not have enjoyed their time as much as he did. Far from it, Deacon is just a guy with such low self-esteem that he figured either Steve wouldn’t remember him, or Steve really didn’t care about him anyway. But Steve does care, and he hangs around until Deacon gets out of work so that he can convince him.
The two begin a relationship that eventually allows Steve to finally become okay with being gay and Deacon to feel safe and wanted for the first time in his life. Steve had been married for ten years to a widow with a child and had finally come out of the closet to his wife and to his friends and employees the year before. He’s been struggling to be okay with his sexuality and to find a way to communicate with his ex-wife and hopefully to have time with his step-daughter, a child he loves dearly.
Deacon is actually the one who convinces Steve to mend fences with ex-wife, and this opens a whole new world for Steve. Over time, he begins to be comfortable with who he is, both with his family and in his workplace. Deacon is also responsible for Steve being able to be relaxed around his best friends, guys he’s known since childhood, and at the annual summer picnic Steve hosts for his employees and co-workers, jokes and teasing abound.
I liked the fact that the author brings us to a place where we see hope for the future for this couple, but he doesn’t sugarcoat a happy ending. By the epilogue, Deacon is finally going to counseling and Steve is working on encouraging Ashley to go as well. It’s evident that there’s still a long way to go for them but Deacon now has self-awareness and is working toward reducing his negativity. Steve provides him with a safe and stable relationship, as Deacon’s own personal Northern Star.
This was quite a departure from other books I’ve read by this author but Mr. Day’s sense of humor was still evident throughout. Granted, much of it was self-deprecating humor on Deacon’s part, but there was also great lighthearted banter between Steve and his buddies and between Steve and Deacon.
I highly recommend this story to anyone looking for a gripping emotional story, for those who enjoy age gap romance, and for those who appreciate people who can find humor in any life situation.
Note: This book was provided to me by the publisher through Hearts on Fire Reviews in exchange for an impartial review.
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