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International Men of Sports #4
Blindsided
When Liam is transferred to Melbourne, he’s blindsided by his growing feelings for the hottest lifeguard on the beach. Luckily Matty knows mouth-to-mouth…
How did alone turn into lonely? Rugby player Liam Holmes is forced to ponder that when he’s transferred from Canberra to Melbourne, away from his cousin and all that’s familiar. It’s part of playing pro, adjusting to a new team and teammates, but Liam finds himself searching for something more than his career.
Matty loves the beach and being a lifeguard is all he’s ever wanted to do. He notices the new hottie at the beach right away and wonders what his story is. When he encounters him at the pub, he takes the reserved league player under his wing and into his group of mates, and they soon become fast friends.
Friends isn’t all they want to stay, however. And once they give in to their attraction, the two are blindsided by the emotions that come with their deepening relationship.Can two men without any experience at relationships both navigate their way to steady ground?
How did alone turn into lonely? Rugby player Liam Holmes is forced to ponder that when he’s transferred from Canberra to Melbourne, away from his cousin and all that’s familiar. It’s part of playing pro, adjusting to a new team and teammates, but Liam finds himself searching for something more than his career.
Matty loves the beach and being a lifeguard is all he’s ever wanted to do. He notices the new hottie at the beach right away and wonders what his story is. When he encounters him at the pub, he takes the reserved league player under his wing and into his group of mates, and they soon become fast friends.
Friends isn’t all they want to stay, however. And once they give in to their attraction, the two are blindsided by the emotions that come with their deepening relationship.Can two men without any experience at relationships both navigate their way to steady ground?
140 pages, ebook
First published December 20, 2013
4 people are currently reading
138 people want to read
About the author
T.A. Chase
161 books892 followersThere is beauty in every kind of love, so why not live a life without boundaries? Experiencing everything the world offers fascinates me and writing about the things that make each of us unique is how I share those insights. I live in the Midwest with a wonderful partner of thirteen years. When not writing, I’m watching movies, reading and living life to the fullest.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
May 8, 2018
Hot gorgeous professional rugby player Liam sees hot gorgeous professional lifeguard Matty on a beach in Melbourne and when they run into each other at a local pub, sparks fly. It takes a while for each man to realize they play on the same team (well, Liam is bisexual, so I suppose they play in the same league?) as they slowly move from friends to lovers, but they soon having hot gorgeous sex together.
Recent acquisition Liam is just finding his footing with his new team and isn't out to anyone yet although his first cautious attempts meet with no homophobic outrage. Liam is welcomed into Matty's group of friends, each with their own drama. Essentially, this is the plot of Blindsided.
While this story features two very likable characters, there is no deep emotional impact in their relationship and little development of Liam and Matty as a couple. I felt too much of the story revolves around the exploits of their various friends. At 200 pages, the pace of the love story feels slow because of all the side stories. Blindsided didn't work for me and I give it 3 stars. Your Results May Vary!
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Review also posted at Gay Book Reviews - check it out!
May 15, 2018
3.5 Stars
I love a rugby romance. I liked the core story between Matty and Liam very much. It is slow burn friends to lovers (though they are always attracted to each other) and it was really nice to watch them fall in like and then love.
Liam gets kittens and its great.
However, there isn't enough of rugby or of being a professionial life guard. The friend drama is intersting but the writing in these section is less well done though Liam's rugby pal is interesting and I kinda hope for a follow up story.
The setting could have played and larger part as well.
So, I liked the love story and some of the secondary characters but more depth is needed in terms of setting and career.
I love a rugby romance. I liked the core story between Matty and Liam very much. It is slow burn friends to lovers (though they are always attracted to each other) and it was really nice to watch them fall in like and then love.
Liam gets kittens and its great.
However, there isn't enough of rugby or of being a professionial life guard. The friend drama is intersting but the writing in these section is less well done though Liam's rugby pal is interesting and I kinda hope for a follow up story.
The setting could have played and larger part as well.
So, I liked the love story and some of the secondary characters but more depth is needed in terms of setting and career.
October 3, 2019
3.5 Stars
This was a fun sweet little read. I'll round up on this one because I enjoyed the read. Liam and Matty were very sweet together. I liked how they became friends first and lovers later. They really got to know each other and everything moved smoothly into a more serious relationship. This story had a lot less of the sports elements and a lot more about the developing relationship.
I liked that both men really were very comfortable in themselves. Neither flaunted their sexuality, but neither did they deny it. I liked that with this there wasn't a huge deal made about a gay sports player, but really was just a true love story between these two men.
This was a fun sweet little read. I'll round up on this one because I enjoyed the read. Liam and Matty were very sweet together. I liked how they became friends first and lovers later. They really got to know each other and everything moved smoothly into a more serious relationship. This story had a lot less of the sports elements and a lot more about the developing relationship.
I liked that both men really were very comfortable in themselves. Neither flaunted their sexuality, but neither did they deny it. I liked that with this there wasn't a huge deal made about a gay sports player, but really was just a true love story between these two men.
May 4, 2018
4.5 Stars
Man, talk about your slow-burns, this story takes slow-burn to a whole new level, but I absolutely loved it.
Matty and Liam were such sweet and lovable guys and I really enjoyed getting to know them. They fit together perfectly, and although I wasn’t sure they would ever get it together, they eventually manage to and once they did, it was sweet, explosive and passionate. I loved the progression of their relationship from friends to lovers, it felt natural and organic. They really took their time getting to know one another.
I thought Matty’s job as a lifeguard was interesting and I especially loved the scenes that took place at the beach.
Both Matty and Liam had interesting friends, some of which really piqued my interest, especially Sean, Colin and Leon. I’m hoping the authors will give these men their own stories. Matty and Liam were lucky to have a great support system in their friends and family.
The was a well-written and enjoyable story. The collaboration between the authors was seamless and I couldn’t tell where one’s writing began and the other’s ended. I absolutely loved this story and am definitely hoping for more in the future! Recommendable!
*copy provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review*
Man, talk about your slow-burns, this story takes slow-burn to a whole new level, but I absolutely loved it.
Matty and Liam were such sweet and lovable guys and I really enjoyed getting to know them. They fit together perfectly, and although I wasn’t sure they would ever get it together, they eventually manage to and once they did, it was sweet, explosive and passionate. I loved the progression of their relationship from friends to lovers, it felt natural and organic. They really took their time getting to know one another.
I thought Matty’s job as a lifeguard was interesting and I especially loved the scenes that took place at the beach.
Both Matty and Liam had interesting friends, some of which really piqued my interest, especially Sean, Colin and Leon. I’m hoping the authors will give these men their own stories. Matty and Liam were lucky to have a great support system in their friends and family.
The was a well-written and enjoyable story. The collaboration between the authors was seamless and I couldn’t tell where one’s writing began and the other’s ended. I absolutely loved this story and am definitely hoping for more in the future! Recommendable!
*copy provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review*
May 10, 2018
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.5 stars
This is a slow-burn love story. I’ll be honest, I wanted more sports. Also, I felt as if these guys really could have been anywhere—particularly a west coast US locale—instead of Melbourne. Considering what I know about Aussies, the ozone layer, and rising skin cancer rates, well, these folks spend an unexpected amount of time in the direct, beachy sunlight. Setting aside a few dialect choices, I couldn’t feel any Australian vibes coming through.
I liked how Liam built good friendships, and I loved how Matty and Liam dealt with bigots in their midst. Liam, who is bisexual, was nervous to come out to his teammates, and the situation there turns out better than expected. I felt the angst was low, which was nice. Unfortunately, the story felt a bit generic. Like, with the setting and the lack of rugby, these could have been any two guys anywhere. For me, that was a detractor, though it might not be a trouble to other readers.
Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.
3.5 stars
This is a slow-burn love story. I’ll be honest, I wanted more sports. Also, I felt as if these guys really could have been anywhere—particularly a west coast US locale—instead of Melbourne. Considering what I know about Aussies, the ozone layer, and rising skin cancer rates, well, these folks spend an unexpected amount of time in the direct, beachy sunlight. Setting aside a few dialect choices, I couldn’t feel any Australian vibes coming through.
I liked how Liam built good friendships, and I loved how Matty and Liam dealt with bigots in their midst. Liam, who is bisexual, was nervous to come out to his teammates, and the situation there turns out better than expected. I felt the angst was low, which was nice. Unfortunately, the story felt a bit generic. Like, with the setting and the lack of rugby, these could have been any two guys anywhere. For me, that was a detractor, though it might not be a trouble to other readers.
Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.
November 5, 2017
Can I just say how much I loved this book? Didn’t understand half of the Aussie-isms and rugby flies right over my head, but I adored this book. It was just so much fun.
Liam, after moving to Melbourne to join the local rugby team, is lonely. But he finds some type of solace at the nearby beach, where he can be in the midst of a crowd, even if he is alone. It doesn’t hurt that the eye-candy lifeguard is there too. When he runs into the man at the local pub, Liam takes a chance and approaches him, hoping to strike up a conversation, if nothing else. What he doesn’t know is that the lifeguard, Matty, has been watching him as well.
When the object of his lust just happens to walk up to him at his local pub, Matty is over the moon. But it is more than lust that makes him happy to finally get to the talk to the giant of a man. Liam is fun to be with. Friendship with the large man is easy, and soon there is a lot more than friendship brewing between the pair. But not everyone would be thrilled to find out that these two men want each other, and with each step closer they have to fight the weight of Liam’s first love–-rugby–-and Matty’s friends. One wrong move and someone could end up being hurt. Or heartbroken.
Book four in in this series has to be my favorite to date (I know I said that about the last book, but, still…). There was just so much happy tension in this book that I spent a majority of my time reading it with a smile on my face. The banter between all the characters was great, and once again I have to say that the secondary characters almost stole the show. Almost. Liam and Matty were great, like steal my breath great. And hot. And funny. And sexy. Let’s just say that the dance they have going on between them is probably my favorite aspect of this book. I love how they seem to dance around each other, but when they finally snap they sure do it with panache.
Part of my overall enjoyment had to do with how much I loved the setting. Australia is brilliantly casted in this book. Granted, a lot of the slang went straight over my head-–but in a way that was completely understandable and enjoyable. It was like learning a new language. One I will thankfully not be tested on-–though, if my French studies had included teaching me slang for condoms, and few peppery curse words, I might not have fared so badly at the oral. While my love of Australia is not anywhere near my England-obsession, it has been the setting for some of my favorite series, so it was fun to fall back into the Aussie mindset.
I loved Shelly, Liam’s cousin, and adored almost the whole bunch of Matty’s friends. Well, except Korey. Korey is a douchebag who is going to lose everything (and deserve it) if he can’t learn to keep his mouth shut (or, you know, just grow the hell up). I really hope Caro ends up getting her man, that Sean and Collin get their act together, and that someone can finally remember Hadrian’s girl’s name (or at least narrow it down a bit). Oh, and could I please request a book on Leon, cause I need to find out what is up with him. And who, if anyone, is taking a nice ocean-side ride with taciturn rugby player.
My one, and rather small, issue with this book is that climax, while enjoyable, is rather low-key. I expected some type of reaction from the whole macho rugby side, and it never happened. We did get a lovely (and highly deserved) bar fight though, so I am not too disappointed. I wish there was a bit of a stronger climax, but I liked that it avoided the whole cliché locker-room backlash, and I loved how relaxed some of the players were.
This book is not big on angst, but it more than makes up for it with a great secondary cast, a steaming pair of protagonists, and two adorable kittens. I smiled my way through the entire story, and got to google some rather interesting turn of phrases. I highly recommend this story. And am really looking forward to whatever Chase and Rhodes have for us next.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
“He’d never met or spoken to the man, but he instinctively knew from his orientation toward the water and regular presence that the ocean drew him in, that he took some sort of solace from the constancy of the sea meeting sand, water meeting sky.”
Liam, after moving to Melbourne to join the local rugby team, is lonely. But he finds some type of solace at the nearby beach, where he can be in the midst of a crowd, even if he is alone. It doesn’t hurt that the eye-candy lifeguard is there too. When he runs into the man at the local pub, Liam takes a chance and approaches him, hoping to strike up a conversation, if nothing else. What he doesn’t know is that the lifeguard, Matty, has been watching him as well.
When the object of his lust just happens to walk up to him at his local pub, Matty is over the moon. But it is more than lust that makes him happy to finally get to the talk to the giant of a man. Liam is fun to be with. Friendship with the large man is easy, and soon there is a lot more than friendship brewing between the pair. But not everyone would be thrilled to find out that these two men want each other, and with each step closer they have to fight the weight of Liam’s first love–-rugby–-and Matty’s friends. One wrong move and someone could end up being hurt. Or heartbroken.
Book four in in this series has to be my favorite to date (I know I said that about the last book, but, still…). There was just so much happy tension in this book that I spent a majority of my time reading it with a smile on my face. The banter between all the characters was great, and once again I have to say that the secondary characters almost stole the show. Almost. Liam and Matty were great, like steal my breath great. And hot. And funny. And sexy. Let’s just say that the dance they have going on between them is probably my favorite aspect of this book. I love how they seem to dance around each other, but when they finally snap they sure do it with panache.
Part of my overall enjoyment had to do with how much I loved the setting. Australia is brilliantly casted in this book. Granted, a lot of the slang went straight over my head-–but in a way that was completely understandable and enjoyable. It was like learning a new language. One I will thankfully not be tested on-–though, if my French studies had included teaching me slang for condoms, and few peppery curse words, I might not have fared so badly at the oral. While my love of Australia is not anywhere near my England-obsession, it has been the setting for some of my favorite series, so it was fun to fall back into the Aussie mindset.
I loved Shelly, Liam’s cousin, and adored almost the whole bunch of Matty’s friends. Well, except Korey. Korey is a douchebag who is going to lose everything (and deserve it) if he can’t learn to keep his mouth shut (or, you know, just grow the hell up). I really hope Caro ends up getting her man, that Sean and Collin get their act together, and that someone can finally remember Hadrian’s girl’s name (or at least narrow it down a bit). Oh, and could I please request a book on Leon, cause I need to find out what is up with him. And who, if anyone, is taking a nice ocean-side ride with taciturn rugby player.
My one, and rather small, issue with this book is that climax, while enjoyable, is rather low-key. I expected some type of reaction from the whole macho rugby side, and it never happened. We did get a lovely (and highly deserved) bar fight though, so I am not too disappointed. I wish there was a bit of a stronger climax, but I liked that it avoided the whole cliché locker-room backlash, and I loved how relaxed some of the players were.
This book is not big on angst, but it more than makes up for it with a great secondary cast, a steaming pair of protagonists, and two adorable kittens. I smiled my way through the entire story, and got to google some rather interesting turn of phrases. I highly recommend this story. And am really looking forward to whatever Chase and Rhodes have for us next.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
July 16, 2018
3.5 stars - I was given a copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
Australian rugby offers a much welcome twist to the sports romance genre and this story twists the conventional tropes a little bit further because most of the story happens during evenings, weekends and the offseason.
I loved Liam from the first pages and his lonely life after a surprise transfer to a new city is humanising and makes him feel less like a celebrity and more like an ordinary guy. At the start, Matty is probably the more interesting character - but his tiresome work/pub/home becomes a little bit tedious.
While I liked the idea of focusing on Liam’s life off the pitch and Matty’s life beyond the beach, the reality is that work is the most interesting part of both men’s lives. Their pub and Netflix routines aren’t terribly exciting and the dramas between Matty’s pub mates didn’t really hold my attention. At times the book dragged and it felt more like I was stalking a slightly boring colleague’s social media accounts than like I was reading a romance with professional sports action.
I like the low key approach to sexuality in this book. The usual coming-out-in-the-spotlight angst is missing. Liam isn’t really closeted and isn’t really bothered. However, it takes Liam and Matty far too long to figure out the reciprocal attraction between them. There is slow burn romance - and there’s ridiculous. This one falls closer to ridiculous.
Australian rugby offers a much welcome twist to the sports romance genre and this story twists the conventional tropes a little bit further because most of the story happens during evenings, weekends and the offseason.
I loved Liam from the first pages and his lonely life after a surprise transfer to a new city is humanising and makes him feel less like a celebrity and more like an ordinary guy. At the start, Matty is probably the more interesting character - but his tiresome work/pub/home becomes a little bit tedious.
While I liked the idea of focusing on Liam’s life off the pitch and Matty’s life beyond the beach, the reality is that work is the most interesting part of both men’s lives. Their pub and Netflix routines aren’t terribly exciting and the dramas between Matty’s pub mates didn’t really hold my attention. At times the book dragged and it felt more like I was stalking a slightly boring colleague’s social media accounts than like I was reading a romance with professional sports action.
I like the low key approach to sexuality in this book. The usual coming-out-in-the-spotlight angst is missing. Liam isn’t really closeted and isn’t really bothered. However, it takes Liam and Matty far too long to figure out the reciprocal attraction between them. There is slow burn romance - and there’s ridiculous. This one falls closer to ridiculous.
July 10, 2018
Blindsided (Men of Sports - Dreamspinner Press #1) by T.A. Chase & Devon Rhodes
4 stars
M/M Sports romance
Triggers: Homophobia
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Liam is learning a new town. He has just been traded to a new rugby team and despite loving what he does, he misses his old town. He found a beach he likes to frequent and while there, catches the eye of lifeguard, Matty.
Matty has a great group of friends. They usually gather at the local watering hole at night to laugh and catch up. He sees Liam while working and surreptitiously watches him - Liam is one attractive guy.
Needless to say, the sports truly take a background to the romance that is budding between the characters. It is a slow burn romance and one that is well developed. I am truly hoping that Caro and Leon get their own story soon.
4 stars
M/M Sports romance
Triggers: Homophobia
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Liam is learning a new town. He has just been traded to a new rugby team and despite loving what he does, he misses his old town. He found a beach he likes to frequent and while there, catches the eye of lifeguard, Matty.
Matty has a great group of friends. They usually gather at the local watering hole at night to laugh and catch up. He sees Liam while working and surreptitiously watches him - Liam is one attractive guy.
Needless to say, the sports truly take a background to the romance that is budding between the characters. It is a slow burn romance and one that is well developed. I am truly hoping that Caro and Leon get their own story soon.
Read
January 27, 2023I've enjoyed this series so far with it's stories set across different countries and involving sports that don't get written about so much. This one was special, being set in home country, and involving a rugby player and a surf lifesaver.
The story was nice, a gentle build of a relationship that begins when Liam moves to Melbourne as part of a professional transfer and sees Matty working at the beach.
I liked the story. It was cute and fun. I liked the characters and the setting.
I enjoyed seeing Aussie terminology - because yes, 'thongs' are footwear and bum bags are useful for holding your stuff - and the local expressions.
I am going to make a comment here, because it is noticeable through the story, although it didn't detract from my enjoyment at all...the terminology does get a bit mixed up. Mom makes an appearance, they have vacations not holidays, they cook on the grill, get their groceries in sacks not bags, have both an ass and an arse, and attended grade school.
In other areas I was educated. I'm not sure how common it is - maybe it's used all the time or or maybe it's a Melbourne thing or maybe I've been under a rock - but I've never heard of a franger before. It turns out it's a condom.
The story was nice, a gentle build of a relationship that begins when Liam moves to Melbourne as part of a professional transfer and sees Matty working at the beach.
I liked the story. It was cute and fun. I liked the characters and the setting.
I enjoyed seeing Aussie terminology - because yes, 'thongs' are footwear and bum bags are useful for holding your stuff - and the local expressions.
I am going to make a comment here, because it is noticeable through the story, although it didn't detract from my enjoyment at all...the terminology does get a bit mixed up. Mom makes an appearance, they have vacations not holidays, they cook on the grill, get their groceries in sacks not bags, have both an ass and an arse, and attended grade school.
In other areas I was educated. I'm not sure how common it is - maybe it's used all the time or or maybe it's a Melbourne thing or maybe I've been under a rock - but I've never heard of a franger before. It turns out it's a condom.
January 22, 2014
Whilst I loved the story, as an actual Australian who lives in Melbourne the slang used was appalling. I have never heard half the words the characters used, it was the worst type of cliche, purpertrated by someone who watched Crocodile Dundee 20 years ago and now thinks they know everything about Australia. I am not actually sure who they were trying to impress with the characters speaking like that, 99% of the readers will have no idea what they were talking about.
February 21, 2016
I'm just tearing myself through this series. What took me so long? I've had these books for ages.
May 7, 2018
Full review at :
https://optimumm.blog/2018/05/07/review-blindsided-by-t-a-chase-devon-rhodes/
Rugby player Liam Holmes transfered to Melbourne from Canberra. He leaves all his family and friends behind him to join his new club. Even though he’s happy to play the sport he loves so much, Liam realized that outside of his work, he has nothing, and he’s pretty lonely, more there in this new city than ever. Matty is a lifeguard who was born and grew up in Melbourne. Despite having his dream job and his friends, he’s lonely.
When Matty and Liam meet the attraction is there, but they start by being friends first before becoming lovers. But how do you not mess up the most beautiful thing that happens in your life when you don’t know how to be in a serious relationship?
That’s what Matty and Liam will have to find out!
Blindsided is book 1 of the Men of Sports series.
I liked this book a lot. It was a pleasurable read, and I spent a great time with Matty and Liam.
Liam is a professional rugby player, he loves his job with fierce passion, but he’s lonely. He doesn’t complain about his transfer. When he meets Matty at the pub, recognizing him as the hottie lifeguard, Liam doesn’t hesitate to talk to him, and with this simple conversation, he starts the beginning of their relationship as friends then as lovers. I really like Liam; he’s super-hot, open-minded, a high temper, and confident in his own skin. He’s Bi and doesn’t hide it. He doesn’t scream his preference in bed at the top of the world either, but he doesn’t back down when confronted about it. I really love him.
Matty is a lifeguard, and it’s his dream job. He loves it, but he’s lonely too. He’s gay, out with his family and two of his best friends. He doesn’t hide, doesn’t pretend to be straight, but he doesn’t talk about his private life either. When he meets Liam, he’s completely attracted by him, but he doesn’t know which team Liam swings for at first, so he settles for a friendship at the beginning. Then when he finds an opening, Matty doesn’t back down and completely opens the door to his heart for Liam. I loved Matty too. He’s very strong and confident, he knows what he wants and doesn’t turn around in circles if he wants something. He’s also very protective of Liam and his friends and ready to fight hard for them.
The plot is about Matty and Liam’s story. The book alternates between both of their POVs, and we follow how their relationship starts and while their feelings are born. We also met secondary characters that are really loveable like Leon and Collin. It was well written, simple, and not boring or too sappy (I love sappy, but it would have been weird with these two guys).
I had a great time with these two hot guys, and hope that the authors will write Leon’s story (I had a huge crush on him) and Collin’s story too.
I recommend this book; you’ll have a good time with them.
4 OptimuMMs for these two hotties!
***The ARC was provided by Dreamspinner Press. My review is an honest opinion of the book ***
https://optimumm.blog/2018/05/07/review-blindsided-by-t-a-chase-devon-rhodes/
Rugby player Liam Holmes transfered to Melbourne from Canberra. He leaves all his family and friends behind him to join his new club. Even though he’s happy to play the sport he loves so much, Liam realized that outside of his work, he has nothing, and he’s pretty lonely, more there in this new city than ever. Matty is a lifeguard who was born and grew up in Melbourne. Despite having his dream job and his friends, he’s lonely.
When Matty and Liam meet the attraction is there, but they start by being friends first before becoming lovers. But how do you not mess up the most beautiful thing that happens in your life when you don’t know how to be in a serious relationship?
That’s what Matty and Liam will have to find out!
Blindsided is book 1 of the Men of Sports series.
I liked this book a lot. It was a pleasurable read, and I spent a great time with Matty and Liam.
Liam is a professional rugby player, he loves his job with fierce passion, but he’s lonely. He doesn’t complain about his transfer. When he meets Matty at the pub, recognizing him as the hottie lifeguard, Liam doesn’t hesitate to talk to him, and with this simple conversation, he starts the beginning of their relationship as friends then as lovers. I really like Liam; he’s super-hot, open-minded, a high temper, and confident in his own skin. He’s Bi and doesn’t hide it. He doesn’t scream his preference in bed at the top of the world either, but he doesn’t back down when confronted about it. I really love him.
Matty is a lifeguard, and it’s his dream job. He loves it, but he’s lonely too. He’s gay, out with his family and two of his best friends. He doesn’t hide, doesn’t pretend to be straight, but he doesn’t talk about his private life either. When he meets Liam, he’s completely attracted by him, but he doesn’t know which team Liam swings for at first, so he settles for a friendship at the beginning. Then when he finds an opening, Matty doesn’t back down and completely opens the door to his heart for Liam. I loved Matty too. He’s very strong and confident, he knows what he wants and doesn’t turn around in circles if he wants something. He’s also very protective of Liam and his friends and ready to fight hard for them.
The plot is about Matty and Liam’s story. The book alternates between both of their POVs, and we follow how their relationship starts and while their feelings are born. We also met secondary characters that are really loveable like Leon and Collin. It was well written, simple, and not boring or too sappy (I love sappy, but it would have been weird with these two guys).
I had a great time with these two hot guys, and hope that the authors will write Leon’s story (I had a huge crush on him) and Collin’s story too.
I recommend this book; you’ll have a good time with them.
4 OptimuMMs for these two hotties!
***The ARC was provided by Dreamspinner Press. My review is an honest opinion of the book ***
May 4, 2018
This was a decent read. I enjoyed it but in my opinion there was something that was missing that I just could not put my finger on. Even after finishing it, I am still not quite sure what it was. Regardless, I enjoyed his book.
Matty is a lifeguard. He loves his job. He has great friends. An amazing co worker. The only thing that is really missing is someone to share his life with. Matty would love for that to be someone like the mystery man that keeps to himself each time he has come to the beach but Marty knows not to approach someone who is as standoffish as the mystery man is.
Liam is new to town and has just only moved because of his transfer to his new rugby team. He has not had the time to make friends yet and knows little to no one except the players on his team. He has been spending his one at the beach lately and has noticed the handsome lifeguard. But Liam is not about to go up to someone he does not know.
Matty goes to the local pub to meet up with his friends and this is the place that he finallynlearns the mystery man’s name, Liam. Liam and Matty build up a quick friendship between hem and start hanging out together on a regular basis. Though both men are attracted to the other, both has not said anything because they believe he other is straight.
Can these two men finally get he courage up to find out so much more about the together or will they always wonder what could have been.
This was a good read. Can’t put my finger on what I felt this book was lackin but regardless I enjoyed this read and the back and forth between these two men. I look forward to more books by T.A. Chase in the future. Was given this galley copy for free for an open and honest review
Matty is a lifeguard. He loves his job. He has great friends. An amazing co worker. The only thing that is really missing is someone to share his life with. Matty would love for that to be someone like the mystery man that keeps to himself each time he has come to the beach but Marty knows not to approach someone who is as standoffish as the mystery man is.
Liam is new to town and has just only moved because of his transfer to his new rugby team. He has not had the time to make friends yet and knows little to no one except the players on his team. He has been spending his one at the beach lately and has noticed the handsome lifeguard. But Liam is not about to go up to someone he does not know.
Matty goes to the local pub to meet up with his friends and this is the place that he finallynlearns the mystery man’s name, Liam. Liam and Matty build up a quick friendship between hem and start hanging out together on a regular basis. Though both men are attracted to the other, both has not said anything because they believe he other is straight.
Can these two men finally get he courage up to find out so much more about the together or will they always wonder what could have been.
This was a good read. Can’t put my finger on what I felt this book was lackin but regardless I enjoyed this read and the back and forth between these two men. I look forward to more books by T.A. Chase in the future. Was given this galley copy for free for an open and honest review
October 10, 2023
I found this really hard to read because I am Australian and live in Melbourne and it really, really, really did not work for me.
The writing was a bizarre mix of Americanisms, exaggerated/unused/misused “Australianisms”, and also a few Australianisms that were surprisingly spot on. (At one point the characters “stroked the cat” and I spent about 5 minutes staring at the page in amazement, because yes, yes they did.)
The main characters had no personality. The supporting characters were all caricatures. I didn’t really “get” the relationship.
There was no rugby besides the fact that one main character was a professional rugby player and it was set throughout the pre-season and entire season. Liam never seemed to travel when surely when playing for “the Melbourne team” all his away games would be interstate… apart from one international test in the middle of the season against… South Africa? But he plays Rugby League? And it was “the Melbourne team” rather than an international? Look, I don’t follow rugby at all (because I’m from Melbourne), but this really didn’t make sense to me, and it wasn’t actually explained at all. And the PLAYOFFS. Hahaha. Just, no.
Honestly, if you are American and want to write a book set in Australia with Australian characters and sports and dialogue and terminology and slang… maybe get an actual Australian to edit it for you??
The writing was a bizarre mix of Americanisms, exaggerated/unused/misused “Australianisms”, and also a few Australianisms that were surprisingly spot on. (At one point the characters “stroked the cat” and I spent about 5 minutes staring at the page in amazement, because yes, yes they did.)
The main characters had no personality. The supporting characters were all caricatures. I didn’t really “get” the relationship.
There was no rugby besides the fact that one main character was a professional rugby player and it was set throughout the pre-season and entire season. Liam never seemed to travel when surely when playing for “the Melbourne team” all his away games would be interstate… apart from one international test in the middle of the season against… South Africa? But he plays Rugby League? And it was “the Melbourne team” rather than an international? Look, I don’t follow rugby at all (because I’m from Melbourne), but this really didn’t make sense to me, and it wasn’t actually explained at all. And the PLAYOFFS. Hahaha. Just, no.
Honestly, if you are American and want to write a book set in Australia with Australian characters and sports and dialogue and terminology and slang… maybe get an actual Australian to edit it for you??
May 26, 2018
It’s a solid beginning with POV switching between Matty and Liam to introduce us to the guys. I have to say I was hooked in immediately. It’s a great setup for a story: Matty is already interested in Liam and a glimpse in Liam’s past gives a hint as to how he could benefit from Matty’s company.
Er, aside from the obvious. And the ending of both chapters (each of guys has their own) is soo cute!
They are both hoping to see one another again.
As luck would have it they manage to connect. They form a friendly relationship first, engaging in quick teasing banter. All the while both of them are stifling sparks of attraction. It was like watching romantic comedy.
It was fun and relaxing read especially as the guys start as friends first. The attraction is still there but they honestly enjoy each other’s company.
The story is occasionally rough at the edges but it doesn’t distract from its appeal. Even while reading I was wondering whether other characters will get a story.
If you’re in a mood for a sweet uncomplicated romance this is a story for you.
I received copy of this book in exchange for review.
The review is also posted on Gay Book Reviews
Er, aside from the obvious. And the ending of both chapters (each of guys has their own) is soo cute!
They are both hoping to see one another again.
As luck would have it they manage to connect. They form a friendly relationship first, engaging in quick teasing banter. All the while both of them are stifling sparks of attraction. It was like watching romantic comedy.
It was fun and relaxing read especially as the guys start as friends first. The attraction is still there but they honestly enjoy each other’s company.
The story is occasionally rough at the edges but it doesn’t distract from its appeal. Even while reading I was wondering whether other characters will get a story.
If you’re in a mood for a sweet uncomplicated romance this is a story for you.
I received copy of this book in exchange for review.
The review is also posted on Gay Book Reviews
May 6, 2018
Blindsided though a book four stands alone just fine. I haven't read any of the others and followed this just fine.
Liam is a rugby player and has been transferred to a new team. They already have a good player in his positions and he really doesn't know why he has been transferred. He spends time at the beach though at first, he doesn't go in. There is a reason that we find out later. Liam is gay... he isn't closet but not really out to his team.
Matty is a lifeguard and has been watching the handsome man every day. He wonders why he is always alone. he finally speaks to him and they slowly become friends.
I liked both Liam and Matty. I also liked the slow burn. It was such a natural thing and made the story so realistic. This is a sports romance and has quite a bit of rugby terms and plays. I don't know anything about the sport and will admit I skipped through there some.
If you like sports romance, Australian settings, friends to lovers, slow burn and some hot man-love
Liam is a rugby player and has been transferred to a new team. They already have a good player in his positions and he really doesn't know why he has been transferred. He spends time at the beach though at first, he doesn't go in. There is a reason that we find out later. Liam is gay... he isn't closet but not really out to his team.
Matty is a lifeguard and has been watching the handsome man every day. He wonders why he is always alone. he finally speaks to him and they slowly become friends.
I liked both Liam and Matty. I also liked the slow burn. It was such a natural thing and made the story so realistic. This is a sports romance and has quite a bit of rugby terms and plays. I don't know anything about the sport and will admit I skipped through there some.
If you like sports romance, Australian settings, friends to lovers, slow burn and some hot man-love
May 2, 2018
Read this while I didn't have Internet available and so, I couldn't look up rugby... grrr
Sports scenes aside, this was an adorable story! I felt like it bounced around a bit, but other than that, it really worked for me! This series has been entertaining and I usually learn more about a sport than I truly would like (sorry, not very sport minded) but that hasn't stopped me from enjoying every one of them... so far! ;p
I hope that sometime in the future, we get Leon's story and would love to see a follow-up on the Sean/Collin and Caro/Jack relationships as well!
Sports scenes aside, this was an adorable story! I felt like it bounced around a bit, but other than that, it really worked for me! This series has been entertaining and I usually learn more about a sport than I truly would like (sorry, not very sport minded) but that hasn't stopped me from enjoying every one of them... so far! ;p
I hope that sometime in the future, we get Leon's story and would love to see a follow-up on the Sean/Collin and Caro/Jack relationships as well!
August 17, 2018
I liked it, it was fine.
I would have liked more rugby, and as with lots of character driven plots I am always waiting for something to happen. I was actually more interested in Leon and in Collin and Sean - Liam and Matty were getting on famously!!
I didn’t get much of a feel for either man other than their interactions with each other, which went along quite easily once they’d clued in, and they made a very rose tinted specs couple.
I would have liked more rugby, and as with lots of character driven plots I am always waiting for something to happen. I was actually more interested in Leon and in Collin and Sean - Liam and Matty were getting on famously!!
I didn’t get much of a feel for either man other than their interactions with each other, which went along quite easily once they’d clued in, and they made a very rose tinted specs couple.
March 7, 2014
Liam is a rugby player who’s been traded to Melbourne from the Canberra team. He’s not sure why, as Melbourne already has a player who plays the number eight position like he does, but rugby’s been his whole life, and he’s willing to do whatever necessary to advance in the sport. While waiting for the season to start, he spots a gorgeous blond lifeguard, Matty, but the two don’t get to officially meet until they happen to run into each other at the local bar one evening. Matty is gay but tries to keep it quiet since he’s not sure it’s readily accepted by everyone in his group of friends, and Liam is bi, and keeps it under wraps due to his participation in rugby and the fact that he’s starting with a new team, so the two never really come out to each other. Each senses that the other would be a great person to have a relationship with, but neither is willing to make an advance.
This goes on throughout the entire rugby season as they slowly become friends, spending more and more time together. I personally found it a bit odd that two mature adults who have been on the scene for a while would not have found a way to confirm a sexual attraction sooner. I can only assume that the authors wanted to stress the developing friendship and the slow burn between the two men.
One night, while watching TV and chatting like old friends, Matty forgets himself and says something derogatory about a sexy TV commercial, stating that if they really wanted to appeal to everyone, they should use a male model. He catches his breath mid-sentence when he realizes what he’s blurted out, but it’s the perfect opportunity for Liam to agree and the two immediately turn to each other in a kiss which leads to Matty giving Liam the “best blow job on the continent”. It’s not too many days later when they have a chance to take it further, and they have anal sex, twice in one night. Liam is so up in the air about what that can mean that he immediately calls his best friend and cousin, Shelly. And in the meantime, Matty has gone to work with his friend, Caro, and has almost the same conversation with her. Basically, they both realize that they have a foundation of friendship and there’s now a chance for so much more.
This story doesn’t have a lot of angst or major drama sub-plots. As the guys move along in their relationship, there’s a flare-up at the bar one night when Korey, one of Matty’s lifelong friends, discovers that Matty is gay and does a little verbal gay-bashing. Yes, Korey is one of those people who are so self-centered they are clueless about others, and he never realized Matty was gay in all these years. His comments hurt some of their other friends too, but the comments serve to break the ice and help one couple move out of the closet.
Surprisingly, Liam’s team accepts his sexuality, and they welcome Matty to their last barbie party of the off-season with open arms. Again, I would have thought there’d be some conflict, even if minor, but it was just a simple acceptance because, as Liam says, they’re all mates and they stand up for each other.
Overall, I liked the story, and I enjoy reading work by these two authors. This story is sweet, uncomplicated, and the perfect story for an afternoon beach read.
Note: This book was provided to me by the publisher through Hearts on Fire Reviews in exchange for an impartial review.
This goes on throughout the entire rugby season as they slowly become friends, spending more and more time together. I personally found it a bit odd that two mature adults who have been on the scene for a while would not have found a way to confirm a sexual attraction sooner. I can only assume that the authors wanted to stress the developing friendship and the slow burn between the two men.
One night, while watching TV and chatting like old friends, Matty forgets himself and says something derogatory about a sexy TV commercial, stating that if they really wanted to appeal to everyone, they should use a male model. He catches his breath mid-sentence when he realizes what he’s blurted out, but it’s the perfect opportunity for Liam to agree and the two immediately turn to each other in a kiss which leads to Matty giving Liam the “best blow job on the continent”. It’s not too many days later when they have a chance to take it further, and they have anal sex, twice in one night. Liam is so up in the air about what that can mean that he immediately calls his best friend and cousin, Shelly. And in the meantime, Matty has gone to work with his friend, Caro, and has almost the same conversation with her. Basically, they both realize that they have a foundation of friendship and there’s now a chance for so much more.
This story doesn’t have a lot of angst or major drama sub-plots. As the guys move along in their relationship, there’s a flare-up at the bar one night when Korey, one of Matty’s lifelong friends, discovers that Matty is gay and does a little verbal gay-bashing. Yes, Korey is one of those people who are so self-centered they are clueless about others, and he never realized Matty was gay in all these years. His comments hurt some of their other friends too, but the comments serve to break the ice and help one couple move out of the closet.
Surprisingly, Liam’s team accepts his sexuality, and they welcome Matty to their last barbie party of the off-season with open arms. Again, I would have thought there’d be some conflict, even if minor, but it was just a simple acceptance because, as Liam says, they’re all mates and they stand up for each other.
Overall, I liked the story, and I enjoy reading work by these two authors. This story is sweet, uncomplicated, and the perfect story for an afternoon beach read.
Note: This book was provided to me by the publisher through Hearts on Fire Reviews in exchange for an impartial review.
July 3, 2015
I am a fan of both these authors. T.A. Chase is an automatic buy for me. There has not been a book of hers that I haven't read that I did not enjoy. In fact many of my fav books are from her. Devon Rhodes is quickly becoming the same! So when these two authors got together. I was so excited.
This is my favorite in the series! I love this book!
I don't know why I out off reading this. I guess I just didn't know much about Rugby or surfing and worried about not connecting with the book. Plus being set in Australia I do not know the slang.
None of that mattered.
We get a sweet comedy with hot men and an even better relationship.
These two men pulled me in from the first chapter. Hottie alert!
The simmering relationship between these men grabs a hold of you and I read this book in one setting. Having conflict with one of their best buds finding out about their sexuality was heart wrenching. But the cast of secondary characters is wonderful and I could read many many more books about all of them!
This is a must read!
This is my favorite in the series! I love this book!
I don't know why I out off reading this. I guess I just didn't know much about Rugby or surfing and worried about not connecting with the book. Plus being set in Australia I do not know the slang.
None of that mattered.
We get a sweet comedy with hot men and an even better relationship.
These two men pulled me in from the first chapter. Hottie alert!
The simmering relationship between these men grabs a hold of you and I read this book in one setting. Having conflict with one of their best buds finding out about their sexuality was heart wrenching. But the cast of secondary characters is wonderful and I could read many many more books about all of them!
This is a must read!
April 21, 2019
3.5-4 ****
I liked the characters, it just took a while to get into the story. I don't know, maybe cuz it's because I know absolutely nothing about rugby and I kept getting thrown out of the story whenever an Aussie term came up that I had no clue about. But overall I liked this one enough to buy another one in this series, so that's good!
I liked the characters, it just took a while to get into the story. I don't know, maybe cuz it's because I know absolutely nothing about rugby and I kept getting thrown out of the story whenever an Aussie term came up that I had no clue about. But overall I liked this one enough to buy another one in this series, so that's good!
February 2, 2014
Very enjoyable read. Loved the MCs and the slow burn to them finally getting together. But I'm dying to know what happened with Korey? Looking forward to the next book!
August 26, 2018
Liam Holmes, rugby player, recently transferred to Melbourne decides it is time to meet some people and heads to the local pub. Because Liam has the whole rugby team but is lonely.
Matty Johnson, beach lifeguard, popular but having his dream job and his friends to hang out with, everyday Matty goes home alone and has to admit that he is lonely.
After the two have been eyeing each other at the beach where Matty works, Liam finally approaches Matty outside of the Matty's regular hang-out. Despite the immediate attraction the two kept circling each other, not knowing if the other would be interested in a romantic or sexual relationship. They start hanging out, doing the friend thing first when one night Matty tackled Liam backwards on the couch, landing atop him.
Matty & Liam's story is told from dual POV in the third person and was a real joy to read. The secondary characters were strong and contributed greatly to the whole of the book.
Part of the International Men of Sports Series but each can be read as a standalone.
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