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The Heart Rate of a Mouse #3
A Kingdom by the Sea
The final volume of The Heart Rate of a Mouse trilogy.
In November 1978, over a year has passed since music icon Ryan Ross announced his retirement from the public eye. He is far from being forgotten, however, as his musical influence can be heard whenever Brendon Roscoe starts singing on the radio. As the frontman of the upcoming band His Side, Brendon was famously discovered by Ross. But even as His Side are touring state after state and selling records so fast, Ryan hasn't been seen. And Ryan prefers that, really. It's what he wants: to forget and be forgotten. Until, one day, someone starts digging up his past, forcing him to come face to face with everything he's trying to run away from.
In November 1978, over a year has passed since music icon Ryan Ross announced his retirement from the public eye. He is far from being forgotten, however, as his musical influence can be heard whenever Brendon Roscoe starts singing on the radio. As the frontman of the upcoming band His Side, Brendon was famously discovered by Ross. But even as His Side are touring state after state and selling records so fast, Ryan hasn't been seen. And Ryan prefers that, really. It's what he wants: to forget and be forgotten. Until, one day, someone starts digging up his past, forcing him to come face to face with everything he's trying to run away from.
384 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2011
17 people are currently reading
447 people want to read
About the author
Anna Green
13 books100 followersPseudonym: Anna (arctic_grey), Anna (pineconepickers)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 166 reviews
February 3, 2024
4.5 stars
A wonderful ending to the series. I loved almost everything about this.
Thank you to all my friends who brought this series to my attention! And Jan – thank you for reading it for the fifth time and making sure I see it on my feed regularly. Your 'hands' gif made me finally pick it up. 😅 And thank you for being there for me, you made my reading experience so much better! 💗
A wonderful ending to the series. I loved almost everything about this.
Thank you to all my friends who brought this series to my attention! And Jan – thank you for reading it for the fifth time and making sure I see it on my feed regularly. Your 'hands' gif made me finally pick it up. 😅 And thank you for being there for me, you made my reading experience so much better! 💗
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October 2, 2022
reread (1): feb 2022
if you see me rereading this trilogy 47521 times throughout this year... yes, it happened. 😌✨
***
i binged the hell out of this trilogy and, despite the pain, despite the angst, despite the heartbreaking moments, i loved it. it made me feel so much and that's truly all i need to love or feel attached towards a story and its characters/romance.
imo, the reason this story worked was through the flawed characters and, bc they were flawed, they felt so real. that, right there, is how you form an attachment and root for the characters you wouldn't think of rooting for when you first started the story. i wanted angst and this trilogy had all that and more.
i'd only recommend this if you're prepared for heartbreak, angst and pain while knowing the journey would be worth it all.
if you see me rereading this trilogy 47521 times throughout this year... yes, it happened. 😌✨
***
i binged the hell out of this trilogy and, despite the pain, despite the angst, despite the heartbreaking moments, i loved it. it made me feel so much and that's truly all i need to love or feel attached towards a story and its characters/romance.
imo, the reason this story worked was through the flawed characters and, bc they were flawed, they felt so real. that, right there, is how you form an attachment and root for the characters you wouldn't think of rooting for when you first started the story. i wanted angst and this trilogy had all that and more.
i'd only recommend this if you're prepared for heartbreak, angst and pain while knowing the journey would be worth it all.
March 9, 2022
this series... THIS SERIES... fuck me. so brilliant. so painful, real and heartbreaking. such incredibly well written characters. i think i'm not gonna stop thinking about these books for a long time... i need a nap.
March 7, 2022
5+++++++ Stars
I can't believe it is over... GAAAHHH!!! RYAN!!
RTC or Not? Still holding onto this one.
I can't believe it is over... GAAAHHH!!! RYAN!!
RTC or Not? Still holding onto this one.
February 2, 2023
Re-read Feb 2023
Re-read March, 22
#EpicLoveStory
Every time I finish this series, I can't help but look back and marvel at this journey, amazed by the feels, stunned by the passion and gobsmacked with the realism of each flawed character. Anna Green has serious writing skills.
Bumping up my rate because how the hell I could NOT.
I love him. It feels as if it takes over everything and becomes the core of my being. I love him when I share his bed, and I love him even when I don't. I love him even when I love alone.
**** 4.5 Stars ****
Ok, so I lied. 🙈🙉🙊
I said I would wait for the next day to start this. But I couldn't because book two ended in How dare, dear author?!
This book probably deserves 5 stars, but I am holding a grudge against the abrupt change of pace that I wasn't ready for.
Wolves vs. Hearts had an overdose of intensity. I was left in a hyperventilating state, and I went into this sequel thirsty.
I wanted things to happen.
However, the author was in no hurry.
So, I couldn't stop reading it because when the fuck would things happen?!
Therefore, I fell into the pattern of "Just one more chapter".
And ended up going to work with 3 hours of sleep.😵🧟♀️🧟♀️🧟♀️
These three books were an incredible journey and a beautiful love story.
So many aspects resonated true!
🎸 The suffocating celebrity lifestyle,
🎸 How genuine secondary characters were. Mentions to Jon - the average guy, Gabe -the easy-going, Greta - ☮🤟✌🤍 I loved her!
🎸 The overwhelming passion,
🎸 The obsessive love,
🎸 The destructive addictions.
🎸 The growth of the main characters in their sentimental maturation. They have grown so much in this last book! It felt organic and realistic because it developed slowly, thanks to that slow pace I was bitching earlier on. Yeah, I know. Sue me. 🙄
📸🖤📷 I also loved Mapplethorpe's cameo.
The only thing I didn't buy was Sisky twist.
@Claudie and @Rhosyo, I can't thank you guys enough for making me read this!🥰
Re-read March, 22
#EpicLoveStory
Every time I finish this series, I can't help but look back and marvel at this journey, amazed by the feels, stunned by the passion and gobsmacked with the realism of each flawed character. Anna Green has serious writing skills.
Bumping up my rate because how the hell I could NOT.
I love him. It feels as if it takes over everything and becomes the core of my being. I love him when I share his bed, and I love him even when I don't. I love him even when I love alone.
**** 4.5 Stars ****
Ok, so I lied. 🙈🙉🙊
I said I would wait for the next day to start this. But I couldn't because book two ended in How dare, dear author?!
This book probably deserves 5 stars, but I am holding a grudge against the abrupt change of pace that I wasn't ready for.
Wolves vs. Hearts had an overdose of intensity. I was left in a hyperventilating state, and I went into this sequel thirsty.
I wanted things to happen.
However, the author was in no hurry.
So, I couldn't stop reading it because when the fuck would things happen?!
Therefore, I fell into the pattern of "Just one more chapter".
And ended up going to work with 3 hours of sleep.😵🧟♀️🧟♀️🧟♀️
These three books were an incredible journey and a beautiful love story.
So many aspects resonated true!
🎸 The suffocating celebrity lifestyle,
🎸 How genuine secondary characters were. Mentions to Jon - the average guy, Gabe -the easy-going, Greta - ☮🤟✌🤍 I loved her!
🎸 The overwhelming passion,
🎸 The obsessive love,
🎸 The destructive addictions.
🎸 The growth of the main characters in their sentimental maturation. They have grown so much in this last book! It felt organic and realistic because it developed slowly, thanks to that slow pace I was bitching earlier on. Yeah, I know. Sue me. 🙄
📸🖤📷 I also loved Mapplethorpe's cameo.
The only thing I didn't buy was Sisky twist.
@Claudie and @Rhosyo, I can't thank you guys enough for making me read this!🥰
March 26, 2022
✨ 708 Stars ✨
Wow!!! What an epic, authentic, nostalgic, all consuming, emotional rollercoaster this has been.
I really wish this was a movie. It just felt so real. I loved everything about this series from the formidable writing, the unforgettable love story, the characters, the toxic relationships, the musical references, the realistic sex, drugs, rock & roll lifestyle of a band and its entourage in the 1970’s to the star of the show himself, Mr Ryan Ross. Even when I didn’t like him, which was a hell of a lot, even when I felt very uncomfortable with what he said/did, I still rooted for him. That’s a first for me!!! Never have I loved such a flawed individual quite as much. What a journey! This series may not have done my BP any favours but it was bloody worth it.
Even though I never doubted the hype for a minute, I did have to wonder why a few (you know who you are 🤣) were re-reading so soon but yeah, I totally get it now.
I’m grateful to Nark for putting this on my radar in the first place, to Jan and Shile for constantly bombarding my feed 🤣 and to Lisa for the encouragement just when I needed it. Best fan fic I’ve ever read. ❤️
Wow!!! What an epic, authentic, nostalgic, all consuming, emotional rollercoaster this has been.
I really wish this was a movie. It just felt so real. I loved everything about this series from the formidable writing, the unforgettable love story, the characters, the toxic relationships, the musical references, the realistic sex, drugs, rock & roll lifestyle of a band and its entourage in the 1970’s to the star of the show himself, Mr Ryan Ross. Even when I didn’t like him, which was a hell of a lot, even when I felt very uncomfortable with what he said/did, I still rooted for him. That’s a first for me!!! Never have I loved such a flawed individual quite as much. What a journey! This series may not have done my BP any favours but it was bloody worth it.
Even though I never doubted the hype for a minute, I did have to wonder why a few (you know who you are 🤣) were re-reading so soon but yeah, I totally get it now.
I’m grateful to Nark for putting this on my radar in the first place, to Jan and Shile for constantly bombarding my feed 🤣 and to Lisa for the encouragement just when I needed it. Best fan fic I’ve ever read. ❤️
March 3, 2022
2nd read: Mar 2022
The book hangover is real, guys, and it's not getting better.
***
1st read: Jan 2022
Okay so it’s January, and I’ve just finished a series that’s probably the best thing I’ll read all year. What the fuck do I do now? 😩
The book hangover is real, guys, and it's not getting better.
***
1st read: Jan 2022
Okay so it’s January, and I’ve just finished a series that’s probably the best thing I’ll read all year. What the fuck do I do now? 😩
March 19, 2023
I had to create a new GR shelf just for this one book:
😐
Fresh from having finished book 2, I went into this one wanting to scream NO BRENDON DON'T DO IT, NO NO NO, RUN AWAY
...so kudos to Anna Green for achieving what I thought would be impossible: making me root for these guys to get together.
Other ways in which this book was a success for me:
- It was so funny. Good lord, I laughed so much during the first half. It got gradually less humorous as it went along, but it gave me so many laughs, really great full-body I'm-dying-here laughs, that I'll always look back on it fondly.
- I had a fantastic buddy-read experience with Jan, Moony and Shile. Of our group, I ended up being the one least in love with the series, but I was so lucky to be able to read it alongside folks who were full of insights and thoughtful observations.
- Speaking of which, Ryan's awareness of how his sexual preferences were evolving over time led to a fantastic group discussion. My ideas about sexuality in general, and my own sexuality in particular, were expanded, and my mind blown.
- Ryan's character arc was amazing to behold. This is what seduces so many readers, I think — watching Ryan grow up. In that sense, the series isn't structured at all like a traditional romance. And it delights me to see so many of my fellow m/m romance readers loving it for what it is, in all its messy glory, rather than needing it to conform to genre expectations.
Which leads into the ways in which the book was not a success for me:
- Ryan's character arc was amazing to behold, right up until it wasn't. The author just took it too far for me to believe it. Fortunately, that was only about the last 10%, maybe...? I knew it was happening, knew she was losing me, but hoped it wouldn't go off the cliff. Welp, it went off the cliff, with Ryan being transformed past the sweet spot where I could have totally bought in, to him being just too .
- So even though I finally bought into the romance — and again, kudos, because that was no small achievement — due to the above, the ending didn't land as powerfully as it could have for me.
- When I started the series, I knew it was real-person fanfic — to which I have a strong aversion. It makes me feel squicky to read about the imagined lives of living people. But because I knew nothing about these real people other than that they'd been in a band I was clueless about, I was able to jump in regardless. To me they were as fictional as actually fictional characters, if you know what I mean. But as I read I discovered that basically every character in the story, even the minor ones, have the names of real-life people. Some of the characters are depicted as pretty nasty &/or damaged, and it made me more and more uncomfortable that they were bearing the names of actual, living people. I realize this is a me-thing, and most(?) readers won't care, but because it came to trouble me so much I feel a need to mention it.
In conclusion: I had a great time consuming this epic (500,000+ word) series, due in no small part to my buddy-read friends, and while it's flawed in many ways, sometimes annoying, sometimes infuriating, it was also compelling and hilarious and occasionally very very hot. I recommend giving it a try, since it's free to download from AO3 here.
😐
Fresh from having finished book 2, I went into this one wanting to scream NO BRENDON DON'T DO IT, NO NO NO, RUN AWAY
...so kudos to Anna Green for achieving what I thought would be impossible: making me root for these guys to get together.
Other ways in which this book was a success for me:
- It was so funny. Good lord, I laughed so much during the first half. It got gradually less humorous as it went along, but it gave me so many laughs, really great full-body I'm-dying-here laughs, that I'll always look back on it fondly.
- I had a fantastic buddy-read experience with Jan, Moony and Shile. Of our group, I ended up being the one least in love with the series, but I was so lucky to be able to read it alongside folks who were full of insights and thoughtful observations.
- Speaking of which, Ryan's awareness of how his sexual preferences were evolving over time led to a fantastic group discussion. My ideas about sexuality in general, and my own sexuality in particular, were expanded, and my mind blown.
- Ryan's character arc was amazing to behold. This is what seduces so many readers, I think — watching Ryan grow up. In that sense, the series isn't structured at all like a traditional romance. And it delights me to see so many of my fellow m/m romance readers loving it for what it is, in all its messy glory, rather than needing it to conform to genre expectations.
Which leads into the ways in which the book was not a success for me:
- Ryan's character arc was amazing to behold, right up until it wasn't. The author just took it too far for me to believe it. Fortunately, that was only about the last 10%, maybe...? I knew it was happening, knew she was losing me, but hoped it wouldn't go off the cliff. Welp, it went off the cliff, with Ryan being transformed past the sweet spot where I could have totally bought in, to him being just too .
- So even though I finally bought into the romance — and again, kudos, because that was no small achievement — due to the above, the ending didn't land as powerfully as it could have for me.
- When I started the series, I knew it was real-person fanfic — to which I have a strong aversion. It makes me feel squicky to read about the imagined lives of living people. But because I knew nothing about these real people other than that they'd been in a band I was clueless about, I was able to jump in regardless. To me they were as fictional as actually fictional characters, if you know what I mean. But as I read I discovered that basically every character in the story, even the minor ones, have the names of real-life people. Some of the characters are depicted as pretty nasty &/or damaged, and it made me more and more uncomfortable that they were bearing the names of actual, living people. I realize this is a me-thing, and most(?) readers won't care, but because it came to trouble me so much I feel a need to mention it.
In conclusion: I had a great time consuming this epic (500,000+ word) series, due in no small part to my buddy-read friends, and while it's flawed in many ways, sometimes annoying, sometimes infuriating, it was also compelling and hilarious and occasionally very very hot. I recommend giving it a try, since it's free to download from AO3 here.
March 18, 2023
What a journey this story was. It blows my mind to read gems like this... that are put out into the ether somewhere like AO3, and just sit there being so much higher quality than most of what's polished, published, marketed.
My favorite thing and least favorite thing about this series was the same: characterization. And the best part of that was with the POV character, Ryan. Not only did the author do a great job of developing him, but in this volume we finally, finally got some amazing evolution. The growth ship that we were waiting on came in at long last, and the wait was worth it.
I went into this volume thinking it was improbable that 1) I would ever really like Ryan, and 2) I would ever actually want him and Brendon together.
Ye of little faith. Both of those things happened, and happened well. Despite my fierce objections, Ryan wriggled into my heart, and I ended up fully buying that the MCs were ready and would be good together.
So, how was the characterization my least favorite thing? Because Brendon wasn't written even half as well, and if he had been, this story would have broken me in the best way. There were times that I saw him clearly, but more times that he was too hazy, or even blank. Let me be clear that this had nothing to do with him not being the POV character — Green managed to make many SCs pop off the page without having their points of view, such as Sisky, Vicky, Pete, Gabe, and more. I got enough of a feel for Brendon in vol 3 that the lack of him didn't ruin the story for me, but there was boundless opportunity here.
Thank you to Teal, Jan, and Shile — this buddy read added so much to my experience of the story! ❤️
My favorite thing and least favorite thing about this series was the same: characterization. And the best part of that was with the POV character, Ryan. Not only did the author do a great job of developing him, but in this volume we finally, finally got some amazing evolution. The growth ship that we were waiting on came in at long last, and the wait was worth it.
I went into this volume thinking it was improbable that 1) I would ever really like Ryan, and 2) I would ever actually want him and Brendon together.
Ye of little faith. Both of those things happened, and happened well. Despite my fierce objections, Ryan wriggled into my heart, and I ended up fully buying that the MCs were ready and would be good together.
So, how was the characterization my least favorite thing? Because Brendon wasn't written even half as well, and if he had been, this story would have broken me in the best way. There were times that I saw him clearly, but more times that he was too hazy, or even blank. Let me be clear that this had nothing to do with him not being the POV character — Green managed to make many SCs pop off the page without having their points of view, such as Sisky, Vicky, Pete, Gabe, and more. I got enough of a feel for Brendon in vol 3 that the lack of him didn't ruin the story for me, but there was boundless opportunity here.
Thank you to Teal, Jan, and Shile — this buddy read added so much to my experience of the story! ❤️
May 31, 2025
Reread 2025
Ok that's it, I'm buying all 3 books in paperback despite me trying to be minimalist + hating mice with all my heart. WAHHHHHHHHHHH THE FEELSSSSS 😭😭😭 I haven't felt this way in so long. Best fiction I've read in years 😭😭😭 It will be hard to go back to reality... l don't even know where to start... I just wanna reread everything again is all. I'll be back soon for a proper review 😭😭😭
Ok that's it, I'm buying all 3 books in paperback despite me trying to be minimalist + hating mice with all my heart. WAHHHHHHHHHHH THE FEELSSSSS 😭😭😭 I haven't felt this way in so long. Best fiction I've read in years 😭😭😭 It will be hard to go back to reality... l don't even know where to start... I just wanna reread everything again is all. I'll be back soon for a proper review 😭😭😭
February 26, 2022
Ryan, omg, Ryan ….
If there ever was a worthwhile story of redemption, of making things right, of changing your ways for the one person you love, this is it.
A year and a half after Ryan’s spectacular break-up with Brendon, Ryan is a changed man. Changed in many ways but the one – he still loves Brendon. Beyond anything.
He is ACHING (and so was I),
He is PINING (and my heart wept for him),
He is DYING inside and punishes himself by locking his feelings away. (and I wanted to hug all his pain away)
But more importantly …
He is much more AWARE of lots of things:
- Where he went wrong in showing his ‘love’
- How much hurt he caused
- Why he and Brendon burned and crashed so deeply
- That he isn’t scared of his sexuality anymore
My God, does he try hard to make things ‘right’, denying his own feelings again and again and again just to be at least on speaking terms with Brendon.
But rebuilding trust that has been so thoroughly broken isn’t an easy task.
I was moved to tears at times, how far Ryan goes to show Brendon he is a different guy now, and this, while never assuming that Brendon will forgive him, that there is hope for ‘them’.
Ryan makes up in every single way where he f****d up before. The character development is humongous, the writing absolutely terrific, the sense of loss and grief wonderfully touching.
And no Brendon doesn’t make it easy for him, and of course, being a flawed human just as the next, he doesn't get everything right either. Both men are petrified to go through another massive break down, to hurt each other again, to destroy where there should be love.
So it takes kind of forever - I admit I was starting to thrum my fingers - before they can talk about their past and about their true feelings. Patience is everything here. (But is SO hard to find it!!)
I could have done with ‘more’ once things happen between them, much more. But now that I have read the Extras that come with this series, I am a much happier person, as the third story there provides exactly what I needed at the end!
Saying that, I think the author maybe went a little bit too far with the events in the last 10%.
This is an absolutely amazing piece of writing. A brilliant character study.
And even though I admit I don’t know these guys in RL, this fanfiction goes beyond.
Highly recommended.
Thank you Jan, for putting this into my direction!
If there ever was a worthwhile story of redemption, of making things right, of changing your ways for the one person you love, this is it.
A year and a half after Ryan’s spectacular break-up with Brendon, Ryan is a changed man. Changed in many ways but the one – he still loves Brendon. Beyond anything.
He is ACHING (and so was I),
He is PINING (and my heart wept for him),
He is DYING inside and punishes himself by locking his feelings away. (and I wanted to hug all his pain away)
But more importantly …
He is much more AWARE of lots of things:
- Where he went wrong in showing his ‘love’
- How much hurt he caused
- Why he and Brendon burned and crashed so deeply
- That he isn’t scared of his sexuality anymore
My God, does he try hard to make things ‘right’, denying his own feelings again and again and again just to be at least on speaking terms with Brendon.
But rebuilding trust that has been so thoroughly broken isn’t an easy task.
I was moved to tears at times, how far Ryan goes to show Brendon he is a different guy now, and this, while never assuming that Brendon will forgive him, that there is hope for ‘them’.
Ryan makes up in every single way where he f****d up before. The character development is humongous, the writing absolutely terrific, the sense of loss and grief wonderfully touching.
And no Brendon doesn’t make it easy for him, and of course, being a flawed human just as the next, he doesn't get everything right either. Both men are petrified to go through another massive break down, to hurt each other again, to destroy where there should be love.
So it takes kind of forever - I admit I was starting to thrum my fingers - before they can talk about their past and about their true feelings. Patience is everything here. (But is SO hard to find it!!)
I could have done with ‘more’ once things happen between them, much more. But now that I have read the Extras that come with this series, I am a much happier person, as the third story there provides exactly what I needed at the end!
Saying that, I think the author maybe went a little bit too far with the events in the last 10%.
This is an absolutely amazing piece of writing. A brilliant character study.
And even though I admit I don’t know these guys in RL, this fanfiction goes beyond.
Highly recommended.
Thank you Jan, for putting this into my direction!
March 26, 2022
4 stars ⭐️ Why the hell this series couldn't go and go endlessly? I'm exhausted, but I love being inside of Ryan’s heart. He is so mature now. I love him despite his imperfection but his love towards Brendon is so perfect it hurts.
The only niggle I have is if the author could give us a glimpse of how both Ryan and Brendon spend their life after getting back together, it would be so amazing.
Ryan will always be in my heart! ❤️
The only niggle I have is if the author could give us a glimpse of how both Ryan and Brendon spend their life after getting back together, it would be so amazing.
Ryan will always be in my heart! ❤️
April 20, 2022
I can't believe it's over. I can't believe now I can go and do other things such as eat, sleep, or even work. Okay. Hmmm… Yeah. No. I can't. I guess I'll just reread the whole thing all over again.
What a ride. Undoubtedly one of my favorite series ever.
Thank you Jan and Shile. <3
What a ride. Undoubtedly one of my favorite series ever.
Thank you Jan and Shile. <3
February 18, 2022
Read #2
GAWD THIS HURT SO GOOD.
I read this, which is an fanfic on AO3, many years ago and didn't realise that I hadn't marked it as read because GR had not been on my radar back then.
This will be short and sweet...unlike this series.
1. This is a fanfic about Brenden Urie and Ryan Ross from Panic! At The Disco
2. This is much more than a fanfic. This is more beautiful than hundreds of contemporary published books.
3. It is simply epic
4. It will break your heart
5. It will make you rage
6. It will make you cry
7. It will put you back together
8. Everybody should read it.
Did I mention that it's epic?
ETA
For context this is Ryan Ross
And Brendon
GAWD THIS HURT SO GOOD.
I read this, which is an fanfic on AO3, many years ago and didn't realise that I hadn't marked it as read because GR had not been on my radar back then.
This will be short and sweet...unlike this series.
1. This is a fanfic about Brenden Urie and Ryan Ross from Panic! At The Disco
2. This is much more than a fanfic. This is more beautiful than hundreds of contemporary published books.
3. It is simply epic
4. It will break your heart
5. It will make you rage
6. It will make you cry
7. It will put you back together
8. Everybody should read it.
Did I mention that it's epic?
ETA
For context this is Ryan Ross
And Brendon
November 28, 2016
I'm... I'm bloody damn amazed.
This was beyond anything I'd imagined. Not just this book in particular, though it was, I mean this entire series.
This was not a fanfiction to me. It was not. I see this as a brilliant written trilogy. Novels.
I was so not expecting that.
I'm so in love with Anna Green's writing. I said this in my previous reviews but seriously. So deep. So we'll written. The characters and of development.. I can't even explain it.
The characters, the world, the plot, the music, absolutely amazing.
Fuck me, I'm so hangover. I don't wanna leave this world. Ryan's character development was mind blowing. Him and Brendon... I can't even. But the thing that hit deeper was the music and how present it was.
Fuck me, I want their songs. I want those lyrics that Ryan wrote, I desperately want to hear "708". I need to hear it.
So good, so so good.
I'm new at this fanfiction thing so I call me out if I'm wrong but, I seriously doubt I'll ever find something like THROAM.
It's really hurting having ended this, having to move on from this. I fell in deep.
***
I just finished reading the THROAM Fliclets and I'M EMOTIONAL AS FUCK! T-T
There's nowhere that I can manifest myself so I decided just to write it down here.
If I was a mess after finishing A Kingdom by the Sea after finishing these ficlets it's a wonder how I'm still holding myself together.
Seeing bits and pieces of Ryan and Brendon's life along the years, seeing them together, seeing their friends, having Bren's POV and witness even more character development... I can't even.
"Los Angels, 2012"
"I reach out my hand, and he takes it."
I'M SO FUCKING EMOTIONAL THIS FUCKED ME UP! I'M SO PROUD OF BRENDON AND RYAN, BUT SPECIALLY RYAN! I CAN'T FUCK I'M SO OVERWHELMED!
I HAVE NO FUCKING WORDS FOR WHAT THIS IS MAKING ME FEEL!
Not just Ryan and Bren's development, but the worlds.
I can't even.
What do I do with myself now? It's really over. ToT
This was beyond anything I'd imagined. Not just this book in particular, though it was, I mean this entire series.
This was not a fanfiction to me. It was not. I see this as a brilliant written trilogy. Novels.
I was so not expecting that.
I'm so in love with Anna Green's writing. I said this in my previous reviews but seriously. So deep. So we'll written. The characters and of development.. I can't even explain it.
The characters, the world, the plot, the music, absolutely amazing.
Fuck me, I'm so hangover. I don't wanna leave this world. Ryan's character development was mind blowing. Him and Brendon... I can't even. But the thing that hit deeper was the music and how present it was.
Fuck me, I want their songs. I want those lyrics that Ryan wrote, I desperately want to hear "708". I need to hear it.
So good, so so good.
I'm new at this fanfiction thing so I call me out if I'm wrong but, I seriously doubt I'll ever find something like THROAM.
It's really hurting having ended this, having to move on from this. I fell in deep.
***
I just finished reading the THROAM Fliclets and I'M EMOTIONAL AS FUCK! T-T
There's nowhere that I can manifest myself so I decided just to write it down here.
If I was a mess after finishing A Kingdom by the Sea after finishing these ficlets it's a wonder how I'm still holding myself together.
Seeing bits and pieces of Ryan and Brendon's life along the years, seeing them together, seeing their friends, having Bren's POV and witness even more character development... I can't even.
"Los Angels, 2012"
"I reach out my hand, and he takes it."
I'M SO FUCKING EMOTIONAL THIS FUCKED ME UP! I'M SO PROUD OF BRENDON AND RYAN, BUT SPECIALLY RYAN! I CAN'T FUCK I'M SO OVERWHELMED!
I HAVE NO FUCKING WORDS FOR WHAT THIS IS MAKING ME FEEL!
Not just Ryan and Bren's development, but the worlds.
I can't even.
What do I do with myself now? It's really over. ToT
February 17, 2022
Ok Jan motivate me to get moving on this review - bear with me I am just awful at putting my thoughts out. I am not sure if it’s super spoilery but possibly
No secret I loved this series, everything about it, from the rock and roll nostalgia, the character growth, and most of all real relationship building.
I actually went back after completing this one to read book 1 which in hindsight was my favorite, right now I am not sure I can do book 2 again it’s so painful.
That being said- I loved Ryan he’s such an amazing character….even from book 1, remember this is 1972, 50 years ago and how different the times and culture was. Yes he acted horribly in the beginning but at that time it was still very hidden. On top of that he had no parental guidance, ever- so no role models or really any love. However he just finally felt something important with Brendon from the start and cold not let go.
This last book there was so much I loved about it, I went with the whole Sisky plot and really don’t mind it. I didn’t mind the pacing either I felt it was important for them to build trust again without it being only physical. I liked seeing them together again building their relationship & that felt genuine. However around the last 10-15 % it was too much OTT & back and forth. These guys have been through it all enough - get it out there already they already have so many times - that was my only issue.
Jan thank you again for this & helping me through book 2
I am now off to scour A03 to find out how to ge the good stuff this & TOTI cannot be the only GEMS on there ?
Wow that was long …oops 😩
No secret I loved this series, everything about it, from the rock and roll nostalgia, the character growth, and most of all real relationship building.
I actually went back after completing this one to read book 1 which in hindsight was my favorite, right now I am not sure I can do book 2 again it’s so painful.
That being said- I loved Ryan he’s such an amazing character….even from book 1, remember this is 1972, 50 years ago and how different the times and culture was. Yes he acted horribly in the beginning but at that time it was still very hidden. On top of that he had no parental guidance, ever- so no role models or really any love. However he just finally felt something important with Brendon from the start and cold not let go.
This last book there was so much I loved about it, I went with the whole Sisky plot and really don’t mind it. I didn’t mind the pacing either I felt it was important for them to build trust again without it being only physical. I liked seeing them together again building their relationship & that felt genuine. However around the last 10-15 % it was too much OTT & back and forth. These guys have been through it all enough - get it out there already they already have so many times - that was my only issue.
Jan thank you again for this & helping me through book 2
I am now off to scour A03 to find out how to ge the good stuff this & TOTI cannot be the only GEMS on there ?
Wow that was long …oops 😩
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 24, 2023
DID IT REALLY HAVE TO HURT ALL THE WAY YO TYE END?
Book 1. Ryan broke Brendon’s heart.
Book 2. Brendon broke Ryan’s heart.
Book 3. They are fine. They are totally fine. Right? Their hearts are still broken. It fucking hurts. Why does it hurt so much?
I smiled. I swooned. I hyperventilated. And I fucking cried. A lot.
Omg. I need more. More happy times. I hear there are some in the Extras book. So that’s where I’m going.
Book 1. Ryan broke Brendon’s heart.
Book 2. Brendon broke Ryan’s heart.
Book 3. They are fine. They are totally fine. Right? Their hearts are still broken. It fucking hurts. Why does it hurt so much?
I smiled. I swooned. I hyperventilated. And I fucking cried. A lot.
Omg. I need more. More happy times. I hear there are some in the Extras book. So that’s where I’m going.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
![Profile Image for annob [on hiatus].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1674812294i%2F68231680._UX200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
February 22, 2022
It's not possible to rate this whole trilogy anything less than 5 stars. And well deserved at that. Long term plotting all coming together in this final book, star quality character portraits, amazing depth to them. I do hope the author will continue to write for a long time to come.
There might have been a few details about live music performance that wasn't spot on in the details, but hey the book's not really about that. It's about Ryan's journey from lost in spirit while adored by thousands to... well that's for the reader to discover. Ryan's life, angst and elations hit me right in the feels. I'm in awe.
As usual I am at a loss for words when a book (or three books in this case) have wowed me. Knocked me sideways and I loved every single minute of the tumultuous ride. Welcome book hangover.
There might have been a few details about live music performance that wasn't spot on in the details, but hey the book's not really about that. It's about Ryan's journey from lost in spirit while adored by thousands to... well that's for the reader to discover. Ryan's life, angst and elations hit me right in the feels. I'm in awe.
As usual I am at a loss for words when a book (or three books in this case) have wowed me. Knocked me sideways and I loved every single minute of the tumultuous ride. Welcome book hangover.
January 3, 2025
it didn’t make sense to write a review for each of the books because I didn’t want to stop to collect my thoughts. I binged the HELL out of this series and drank in every word it gave me.
overwhelming. all consuming. enthralling. I don’t know how else to describe this series. it was toxic and tragic and had so many emotions. It tugged at every heart string. Brendon and Ryan were made for eachother. because no one else brings out the absolute best and worst out of them. they were both horrible and wonderful at the same time.
brilliant series; I’m so happy this is how I started this year✨
overwhelming. all consuming. enthralling. I don’t know how else to describe this series. it was toxic and tragic and had so many emotions. It tugged at every heart string. Brendon and Ryan were made for eachother. because no one else brings out the absolute best and worst out of them. they were both horrible and wonderful at the same time.
brilliant series; I’m so happy this is how I started this year✨
March 21, 2022
It’s a good thing I got everything I needed to do for the weekend done before picking this up. 😬
I briefly paused it at 46% but that lasted about five minutes and I was back to it and didn’t stop until it was done.
If that’s not a recommendation, I don’t know what is.
As to an actual review, you know the drill. Just go read others because I promise, they say everything I could say and say it better.
But maybe I’ll come back and cobble something together. 🤷🏻♀️
What do I do with my life now? I have the extras to read I guess. But after that? Heck if I know.
It’s whatever. It’s fine. Don’t mind me just feeling destroyed.
I briefly paused it at 46% but that lasted about five minutes and I was back to it and didn’t stop until it was done.
If that’s not a recommendation, I don’t know what is.
As to an actual review, you know the drill. Just go read others because I promise, they say everything I could say and say it better.
But maybe I’ll come back and cobble something together. 🤷🏻♀️
What do I do with my life now? I have the extras to read I guess. But after that? Heck if I know.
It’s whatever. It’s fine. Don’t mind me just feeling destroyed.
January 27, 2022
How is this over? I’m feeling very emotional and quite possibly on the verge of tears. I don’t know if they’re happy tears or if I’m feeling the loss of ending an excellent trilogy.
This book was everything I needed to recover from the first two books. It felt like sunshine and rainbows after the most hellish storm of my life. It was basically an extended epilogue in my mind because it just made me so damn happy.
All the character growth I desperately needed was here. It was so natural too. I really believed these people learned from their mistakes, understood themselves better, and became better people. They weren’t perfect and miscommunication was still rampant, but that is why it felt so meaningful. The realizations and conversations that needed to happen happened while still staying true to who these two men were at their cores.
Sisky. He had the potential to wreck this story, be the unnecessary voice of readers’ past complaints, and the Jar Jar Binks of this world. He didn’t do that, but there is the slight hint of it all that left me not totally in love with the choice to involve him. I would call him a bit too Deus ex Machina if he wasn’t an ongoing character. I didn’t mind him as a plot device exactly and he did bring a lightheartedness to the story that would definitely not have been there otherwise. Mixed feelings on this still.
All of my reviews are basically love letters to this author. I’m continuing that with this one. How is she not published?! How is this trilogy not out there for the world to consume in a way that gives her enough money to write me more books?! I’m so in awe when thinking about everything involved with this story. It’s so long and complex. Was it completely planned out in advance? Written all at once? How is there such continuity in characterization, voices, themes, and overall moods? It’s impressive beyond anything I could have imagined upon reading several positive reviews for an older fancfic. Just the use of intense and copious sex scenes to overwhelm the reader and bring you into the chaos of the relationship was genius. It also made the lack later on that much more noticeable and poignant. Nothing ever felt gratuitous or like it wasn’t meticulously plotted. I’m just in awe.
I stayed up way too late reading any chance I could and have so rarely felt compelled to finish a story. There’s pain and discomfort, but it’s worth it. Read the triggers, but I’d recommend giving this a try even if cheating typically makes you skip a read.
God I just want to experience this all over again. And also never again.
This book was everything I needed to recover from the first two books. It felt like sunshine and rainbows after the most hellish storm of my life. It was basically an extended epilogue in my mind because it just made me so damn happy.
All the character growth I desperately needed was here. It was so natural too. I really believed these people learned from their mistakes, understood themselves better, and became better people. They weren’t perfect and miscommunication was still rampant, but that is why it felt so meaningful. The realizations and conversations that needed to happen happened while still staying true to who these two men were at their cores.
Sisky. He had the potential to wreck this story, be the unnecessary voice of readers’ past complaints, and the Jar Jar Binks of this world. He didn’t do that, but there is the slight hint of it all that left me not totally in love with the choice to involve him. I would call him a bit too Deus ex Machina if he wasn’t an ongoing character. I didn’t mind him as a plot device exactly and he did bring a lightheartedness to the story that would definitely not have been there otherwise. Mixed feelings on this still.
All of my reviews are basically love letters to this author. I’m continuing that with this one. How is she not published?! How is this trilogy not out there for the world to consume in a way that gives her enough money to write me more books?! I’m so in awe when thinking about everything involved with this story. It’s so long and complex. Was it completely planned out in advance? Written all at once? How is there such continuity in characterization, voices, themes, and overall moods? It’s impressive beyond anything I could have imagined upon reading several positive reviews for an older fancfic. Just the use of intense and copious sex scenes to overwhelm the reader and bring you into the chaos of the relationship was genius. It also made the lack later on that much more noticeable and poignant. Nothing ever felt gratuitous or like it wasn’t meticulously plotted. I’m just in awe.
I stayed up way too late reading any chance I could and have so rarely felt compelled to finish a story. There’s pain and discomfort, but it’s worth it. Read the triggers, but I’d recommend giving this a try even if cheating typically makes you skip a read.
God I just want to experience this all over again. And also never again.
February 25, 2022
Ryan's obsession was contagious because I read this series one book after the other, couldn't stop. 🥲🥲🥲 FUCK U RYAN.
Anyways, I liked this one a lot, I liked the other ones too but this one, it seemed a way more mature book and that's because the boys grew didn't they? The first book started with them being really young, I mean Brendon was 19 if I remember correctly, In here they were almost 30 and 27? Something like that, so they were better, more calmed, less messy.
And it showed in the book, in the writing, in the pace and kudos to Anna for doing that, it was really amazing to watch how the writing adapted itself to the years and personality growth of the characters.
Now, we still had some fucked up shit, because this series is fucked up, period. But it was in a calmer way, so to speak, if u read it you would understand. *gets frustrated at her lack of explaining THINGS*
... Something else that I enjoyed was the dynamics, in book one and two, Brendon was not equal to Ryan, his standing in society, his work situation, a lot of stuff was still growing, while Ryan was a super star, he was already there, so there was an imbalance there and it showed in their dynamics.
Wich was corrected here, they were equals and I loved that their relationship started on equal ground, Anna is brilliant let me tell you.
And Ryan's growth? I was so proud *wipes her tears* I mean he said this:
"I rake my fingers through my long hair restlessly. I was always good at confrontation – telling band members, fans and managers where to stick it, brushing off lovers, telling them what’s what. Now it’s like I finally realise there are consequences, even if they are indirect ones, even when it’s not all my fault".
And it really showed with every action, he did try to be good, he didn't change completely but he tried every day. And seeing him hurt by Brendon? I was ready to cut a bitch because my baby didn't deserve it! He was crazy, he was delusional, he was hurt and lonely, so you better take him Brendon!!! (Yes, I just read that, I know how it sounds, fight me, they are not real anyways). 💅🏻😢😢
So I was happy with this closure, even though I wanted to see them together longer, not just in the we are/we are not phase, but together together.
Thanks Claudie for the rec, you held my hand through this and gave me all the info I needed, because this is not in any platform that I knew, so yeah ask her.
I'll just close with a lovely quote from Ryan, love u baby. 🥲
"I’m not nearly as unlucky as I’ve always pretended to be".
Anyways, I liked this one a lot, I liked the other ones too but this one, it seemed a way more mature book and that's because the boys grew didn't they? The first book started with them being really young, I mean Brendon was 19 if I remember correctly, In here they were almost 30 and 27? Something like that, so they were better, more calmed, less messy.
And it showed in the book, in the writing, in the pace and kudos to Anna for doing that, it was really amazing to watch how the writing adapted itself to the years and personality growth of the characters.
Now, we still had some fucked up shit, because this series is fucked up, period. But it was in a calmer way, so to speak, if u read it you would understand. *gets frustrated at her lack of explaining THINGS*
... Something else that I enjoyed was the dynamics, in book one and two, Brendon was not equal to Ryan, his standing in society, his work situation, a lot of stuff was still growing, while Ryan was a super star, he was already there, so there was an imbalance there and it showed in their dynamics.
Wich was corrected here, they were equals and I loved that their relationship started on equal ground, Anna is brilliant let me tell you.
And Ryan's growth? I was so proud *wipes her tears* I mean he said this:
"I rake my fingers through my long hair restlessly. I was always good at confrontation – telling band members, fans and managers where to stick it, brushing off lovers, telling them what’s what. Now it’s like I finally realise there are consequences, even if they are indirect ones, even when it’s not all my fault".
And it really showed with every action, he did try to be good, he didn't change completely but he tried every day. And seeing him hurt by Brendon? I was ready to cut a bitch because my baby didn't deserve it! He was crazy, he was delusional, he was hurt and lonely, so you better take him Brendon!!! (Yes, I just read that, I know how it sounds, fight me, they are not real anyways). 💅🏻😢😢
So I was happy with this closure, even though I wanted to see them together longer, not just in the we are/we are not phase, but together together.
Thanks Claudie for the rec, you held my hand through this and gave me all the info I needed, because this is not in any platform that I knew, so yeah ask her.
I'll just close with a lovely quote from Ryan, love u baby. 🥲
"I’m not nearly as unlucky as I’ve always pretended to be".
April 2, 2022
*4.5 stars*
Ultimately I rate books based on my enjoyment. I can pinpoint a bazillion things that should be wrong or shouldn't have worked, but in the end it's the only book (the whole series actually) in a very, VERY long time that made me think about it all freaking day, even when I wasn't reading.
So 4.5 stars for the music, the angst, the UST, the passion and the redemption. What an amazing love story.
Ultimately I rate books based on my enjoyment. I can pinpoint a bazillion things that should be wrong or shouldn't have worked, but in the end it's the only book (the whole series actually) in a very, VERY long time that made me think about it all freaking day, even when I wasn't reading.
So 4.5 stars for the music, the angst, the UST, the passion and the redemption. What an amazing love story.
January 31, 2024
I guess this is another goodbye then. Ugh. Why must great books have to end? :D
It took me about two years to come back to this series, and that's the same amount of time it took Ryan and Bren to find each other again. So I'm making it a tradition. Two years from now, hopefully, I'll be back here again.
All the countless stars that form Ryan's Line constellation! :D May or may not have spoilers ahead. Probably not.
Hearts vs. Wolves will always be my favorite because it's the most alive, and it hit me the hardest. But although A Kingdom by the Sea has less of the previous book's rawness and intensity, it's just as real and affective.
Here, we get a Ryan who is more honest, at least to himself. Almost none of that instinctive denial that was his trademark. He's also less selfish and more careful in dealing with his emotions and those of the people around him. He's practically the Ryan I wish he were at the beginning.
As with Brendon, here we get to actually hear from him directly his side of the story from the previous book. And it confirms my analysis of him then, which I based solely on Bren's dialogue and Ryan's observations. This proves that Bren's character is never MIA. You just need to look beneath the surface.
What I love most here is that Ryan and Bren actually are able to talk about their feelings, hash out their painful past, and work through their issues with little to no shouting and emotional barbs. This almost never happened before, and it's one of the many firsts in their relationship, that are in this book.
It amazes me how Ryan just keeps saying the most romantic things without them ever sounding saccharine. He's really the best POV character for a romance because he gives it all these colors, temperature and texture, and they go straight to my chest, pulling out my emotions.
That's exactly how I feel reading these books for the third time. I kinda miss how raw and painful it all was, but this is good too, this nostalgic fondness. The first time, I was like, "Shut up, Ryan. Shut up!" The second time, "Ugh. You're an idiot!" Now it's, "Aww, Ryan. You're so adorable."
I do, and I feel so lucky to be able to say that because not everybody does. I'm so glad to be one of the lucky few who are able to see Ryan and Bren's story in all its honesty, ugliness, and beauty, who are able to connect to it on a level that I have never experienced before with any form of fiction. Because it truly is a rare, breathtaking, and unforgettable story.
It took me about two years to come back to this series, and that's the same amount of time it took Ryan and Bren to find each other again. So I'm making it a tradition. Two years from now, hopefully, I'll be back here again.
All the countless stars that form Ryan's Line constellation! :D May or may not have spoilers ahead. Probably not.
Tell me, tell me, god, don’t you miss it? Baby. Don’t you miss what we had?
Hearts vs. Wolves will always be my favorite because it's the most alive, and it hit me the hardest. But although A Kingdom by the Sea has less of the previous book's rawness and intensity, it's just as real and affective.
He knows by now that at the end of the day I prefer men, that I prefer cock and ass and balls.
Here, we get a Ryan who is more honest, at least to himself. Almost none of that instinctive denial that was his trademark. He's also less selfish and more careful in dealing with his emotions and those of the people around him. He's practically the Ryan I wish he were at the beginning.
I was ready to choose him. And everything that went with it. He would have given my life enough meaning. Ten times over.
As with Brendon, here we get to actually hear from him directly his side of the story from the previous book. And it confirms my analysis of him then, which I based solely on Bren's dialogue and Ryan's observations. This proves that Bren's character is never MIA. You just need to look beneath the surface.
“Out of all nights,” [..] “all damn nights to show up, it had to be tonight, huh? Showing up at my door? Like it’s that –” [...] “easy.”
What I love most here is that Ryan and Bren actually are able to talk about their feelings, hash out their painful past, and work through their issues with little to no shouting and emotional barbs. This almost never happened before, and it's one of the many firsts in their relationship, that are in this book.
Because if he gives me a reason, then I will go for it. For him, for us. I’ll be that stupid guy who’ll fight until his last breath.
It amazes me how Ryan just keeps saying the most romantic things without them ever sounding saccharine. He's really the best POV character for a romance because he gives it all these colors, temperature and texture, and they go straight to my chest, pulling out my emotions.
He smiles slightly, like the memory is a fond one now even though at the time it was painful.
That's exactly how I feel reading these books for the third time. I kinda miss how raw and painful it all was, but this is good too, this nostalgic fondness. The first time, I was like, "Shut up, Ryan. Shut up!" The second time, "Ugh. You're an idiot!" Now it's, "Aww, Ryan. You're so adorable."
“But he doesn’t get it, I don’t think.”
“Get what?”
Brendon shrugs. “Us.”
I do, and I feel so lucky to be able to say that because not everybody does. I'm so glad to be one of the lucky few who are able to see Ryan and Bren's story in all its honesty, ugliness, and beauty, who are able to connect to it on a level that I have never experienced before with any form of fiction. Because it truly is a rare, breathtaking, and unforgettable story.
May 28, 2023
So, is there, like, a support group I can join now? I finished this yesterday after an all night reading bender and I can't stop thinking about it. I'm also still coming down from all of the anxiety it caused me. Anna Green did not make things easy for Ryan and Brendon (or me!) at all. I'm not a re-reader, but I already have plans to read this series again. I want to be able to relax into the story in a way I couldn't the first go round because I was too tense, too invested in what would happen next. These books consumed me. Now I'd like to be able to consume them.
I loved Ryan in this book. Finally! He had to run away from the noise to find perspective. He had to be with himself, by himself, to really take a hard look at everything that happened in the first two books and where things - where he - went wrong. With the help of Sisky (adore him!), he faced some demons, went on an apology tour of sorts and slowly crept out of hiding, but not as the person he used to be. This was a redemption arc at its finest.
I also loved the role reversal that took place between Ryan and Brendon and the way it provided balance that had never been there before. Even though it was strained and awkward at first, I felt like they were able to converse as equals in a way they hadn't before. The appreciation of talent was finally reciprocal and it gave them a whole new way to connect with each other. And, for the first time in this entire series, I believed that they would be good together.
I'm glad I finally built up enough courage to dive into these books. I'd been terrified of the angst, with good reason, but the HEA was worth the stress, loss of sleep and stomach ulcer I've probably developed. Now I just want to read something that makes me laugh and lets my mind go blank for awhile. This series was A LOT, so I think a little self care might be required.
I loved Ryan in this book. Finally! He had to run away from the noise to find perspective. He had to be with himself, by himself, to really take a hard look at everything that happened in the first two books and where things - where he - went wrong. With the help of Sisky (adore him!), he faced some demons, went on an apology tour of sorts and slowly crept out of hiding, but not as the person he used to be. This was a redemption arc at its finest.
I also loved the role reversal that took place between Ryan and Brendon and the way it provided balance that had never been there before. Even though it was strained and awkward at first, I felt like they were able to converse as equals in a way they hadn't before. The appreciation of talent was finally reciprocal and it gave them a whole new way to connect with each other. And, for the first time in this entire series, I believed that they would be good together.
I'm glad I finally built up enough courage to dive into these books. I'd been terrified of the angst, with good reason, but the HEA was worth the stress, loss of sleep and stomach ulcer I've probably developed. Now I just want to read something that makes me laugh and lets my mind go blank for awhile. This series was A LOT, so I think a little self care might be required.
February 20, 2024
Such lyricism.
My haiku can't capture its
Epic. Fucking. Love.
Man, I love this series. I was waiting for the right time to re-read, and this was it!
My haiku can't capture its
Epic. Fucking. Love.
Man, I love this series. I was waiting for the right time to re-read, and this was it!
February 22, 2023
I’m so not ready to say goodbye to this series. It's one of those stories that I feel like I could read forever.
The final volume wrapped up the story in a surprisingly satisfying way, turning those bittersweet moments they shared in the past into something sacred and beautiful.
It’s amazing how such a lengthy (500k+) series with a dominant (almost mere) focus on romance never bored me. The captivating “will they/won't they” tension was always at play, making me read on and on… I found myself detached from the real world and simply immersing in the flow of the story, feeling what the protagonist feels.
I’m also deeply touched by Anna Green’s love and passion for her characters, especially the protagonist, Ryan Ross, as embodied in the character of Sisky, Ryan’s diehard fan. Maybe it’s a fanfic/fandom thing? As far as I’m concerned, such a sense of devotion is not commonly witnessed in commercial romance writing.
The final volume wrapped up the story in a surprisingly satisfying way, turning those bittersweet moments they shared in the past into something sacred and beautiful.
It’s amazing how such a lengthy (500k+) series with a dominant (almost mere) focus on romance never bored me. The captivating “will they/won't they” tension was always at play, making me read on and on… I found myself detached from the real world and simply immersing in the flow of the story, feeling what the protagonist feels.
I’m also deeply touched by Anna Green’s love and passion for her characters, especially the protagonist, Ryan Ross, as embodied in the character of Sisky, Ryan’s diehard fan. Maybe it’s a fanfic/fandom thing? As far as I’m concerned, such a sense of devotion is not commonly witnessed in commercial romance writing.
April 19, 2023
***4.5***
What a ride! My complaints/criticisms of the first two volumes remain but I got over myself and enjoyed an epic love story. One for the ages. That this was published on AO3 still boggles my mind.
We start off with Ryan in self imposed isolation, mourning a relationship that never was and watching from afar as his love and friends go on living. Or doing a good facsimile of life. Luckily a fan & would be Ryan biographer pries him from the deep freeze and sets him on a path back to life.
The whole series is told from Ryan's P.O.V. but the thoughts and motivations of the other characters don't remain a mystery. I for one knew where Brendon was coming from and had no difficulty empathizing with his choices.
Perhaps my favorite thing is how the author doesn't inject modern mores into a story that takes place in the past. Even though the end is a HEA it remains rooted in a historical reality.
Though the original inspiration for the story seems to be Panic! fandom I had songs from a different band running through my mind, particularly "I Wanna Be Yours" by Arctic Monkeys. To my mind it could’ve been written by the character of Ryan (apologies to Alex Turner) and easily be the anthem for his love for Brendon.
This is long. A lot of time is spent describing the minutiae of road life for a touring band, Ryan's head and thought process is thoroughly explored etc. None of it was boring but I'm sure this was published in installments and meant to be digested piecemeal like books of yore. I paced it out because time has been scarce but I would definitely recommend a slow read too just to ensure the enjoyment factor. Maybe I'm wrong.
What a ride! My complaints/criticisms of the first two volumes remain but I got over myself and enjoyed an epic love story. One for the ages. That this was published on AO3 still boggles my mind.
We start off with Ryan in self imposed isolation, mourning a relationship that never was and watching from afar as his love and friends go on living. Or doing a good facsimile of life. Luckily a fan & would be Ryan biographer pries him from the deep freeze and sets him on a path back to life.
The whole series is told from Ryan's P.O.V. but the thoughts and motivations of the other characters don't remain a mystery. I for one knew where Brendon was coming from and had no difficulty empathizing with his choices.
Perhaps my favorite thing is how the author doesn't inject modern mores into a story that takes place in the past. Even though the end is a HEA it remains rooted in a historical reality.
Though the original inspiration for the story seems to be Panic! fandom I had songs from a different band running through my mind, particularly "I Wanna Be Yours" by Arctic Monkeys. To my mind it could’ve been written by the character of Ryan (apologies to Alex Turner) and easily be the anthem for his love for Brendon.
This is long. A lot of time is spent describing the minutiae of road life for a touring band, Ryan's head and thought process is thoroughly explored etc. None of it was boring but I'm sure this was published in installments and meant to be digested piecemeal like books of yore. I paced it out because time has been scarce but I would definitely recommend a slow read too just to ensure the enjoyment factor. Maybe I'm wrong.
July 24, 2023
Lo mejor de esta serie es que cada libro es completamente diferente al anterior, un acierto porque con ello consigue que evolucionen los personajes y que la historia no pierda interés.
En este volumen hay dos partes completamente diferentes y el desarrollo de la historia de amor es tan lenta por veces que llegas a dudar de hacia donde te diriges, si al final habrá un "Hasta luego Lucas!" o si "comerán perdices!".
Es un sufrimiento de libro porque como sabes que es el último, no quieres que acabe, pero por otro lado quieres saber cómo continúa y no puedes dejar de leer.
De esas historias que perduran y de esas parejas que enamoran sin cursiladas ni topicazos.
Totalmente recomendable.
En este volumen hay dos partes completamente diferentes y el desarrollo de la historia de amor es tan lenta por veces que llegas a dudar de hacia donde te diriges, si al final habrá un "Hasta luego Lucas!" o si "comerán perdices!".
Es un sufrimiento de libro porque como sabes que es el último, no quieres que acabe, pero por otro lado quieres saber cómo continúa y no puedes dejar de leer.
De esas historias que perduran y de esas parejas que enamoran sin cursiladas ni topicazos.
Totalmente recomendable.
February 28, 2022
I'm torn between 4.5-5 stars. This entire series has given me the absolute worst book hangover. I don't feel ready to leave their world yet and don't want to start anything new or lighthearted or funny. I'm still absorbing all that I went through! I'm still putting myself back together!
This last book though...I still need something...and the story's over! I wanted more of Ryan and Brendon "together". I felt like Ryan grew up and changed so much in this book, but I was still feeling the intensity of Book 2 and I wasn't ready for the changes. I wasn't ready for the slow down. I loved Ryan in every book but his maturity caught me off guard here. I think what I loved about the series and what made it unputdownable was the dysfunction and the tension and the angst. Book 3 seemed like a cool down, and I guess it had to happen at some point right?
My rambling aside, the writing was still amazing and I got my HEA...Jesus was it ever hard fought for! Unforgettable series and it goes right up there or maybe even above TOTI for me...and that from me is saying "READ THIS SERIES"!
P.S. I kept putting this book down and busying myself with other things because I didn't want it to finish it, for it to be over.
This last book though...I still need something...and the story's over! I wanted more of Ryan and Brendon "together". I felt like Ryan grew up and changed so much in this book, but I was still feeling the intensity of Book 2 and I wasn't ready for the changes. I wasn't ready for the slow down. I loved Ryan in every book but his maturity caught me off guard here. I think what I loved about the series and what made it unputdownable was the dysfunction and the tension and the angst. Book 3 seemed like a cool down, and I guess it had to happen at some point right?
My rambling aside, the writing was still amazing and I got my HEA...Jesus was it ever hard fought for! Unforgettable series and it goes right up there or maybe even above TOTI for me...and that from me is saying "READ THIS SERIES"!
P.S. I kept putting this book down and busying myself with other things because I didn't want it to finish it, for it to be over.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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