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Encore
Five years isn't close to long enough to forget the love of your life.
Eric
After my mom walked in on me enjoying some benefits with my best friend, everything went wrong. She outed him to his parents. They flipped, and he vanished. I waited for months before realizing I’d never see him again. I tried to move on, to live my life, but it never quite took.
Now, after five years, he’s suddenly here and the moment I saw him, all the old feelings came rushing back.
He doesn't feel the same. I don't know if he's mad at me or at the world and I don't know how to help him.
I just wish he could see how good we’d be together.
Mike
Five years ago, I was ripped away from the love of my life. The adults in our lives were supposed to be our support system, but they failed us in the biggest way possible.
So the first thing I do once I’m out from under my parents' thumb is to find him, and the moment I see him, I know that the only thing I want is to be with him. I’m haunted by my past and I can't handle my feelings for him. He doesn’t need to know that my heart aches every time I look at him.
I don't want to keep hurting him, but I can't stay away.
Encore was originally published as a serial on Kindle Vella and Radish. It is a complete MM romance with an hea.
Eric
After my mom walked in on me enjoying some benefits with my best friend, everything went wrong. She outed him to his parents. They flipped, and he vanished. I waited for months before realizing I’d never see him again. I tried to move on, to live my life, but it never quite took.
Now, after five years, he’s suddenly here and the moment I saw him, all the old feelings came rushing back.
He doesn't feel the same. I don't know if he's mad at me or at the world and I don't know how to help him.
I just wish he could see how good we’d be together.
Mike
Five years ago, I was ripped away from the love of my life. The adults in our lives were supposed to be our support system, but they failed us in the biggest way possible.
So the first thing I do once I’m out from under my parents' thumb is to find him, and the moment I see him, I know that the only thing I want is to be with him. I’m haunted by my past and I can't handle my feelings for him. He doesn’t need to know that my heart aches every time I look at him.
I don't want to keep hurting him, but I can't stay away.
Encore was originally published as a serial on Kindle Vella and Radish. It is a complete MM romance with an hea.
- GenresSecond Chance
219 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 1, 2024
4 people are currently reading
27 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
March 4, 2024
Eric & Mike
Rating: 3.4 ⭐
- Second Chance Romance
- Will They/Won't They
- MM Romance
- Friends to Lovers
- Found Family
I will say that if you can't stand the back and forth of will they, won't they then don't read this because you will get frustrated fast and want to chuck it. If that doesn't bother you then this is the angsty book for you. Overall, this is entertaining but can also be taxing on you.
These two were friends in high school that started to fool around with each other. During one of their smexy times, Eric's mom walks in on them and everything falls apart from there. I will never forgive Susan, Eric's mom, for what she did and how she changed the course of these boys’ lives. After Mike's family finds about the encounter his family picks up and moves away. It's been five years since these two have seen or spoken to each other, but their strong feelings for each other never went away. Mike was more focused on getting back to Eric and having the relationship they were always supposed to have, but Eric had written it off as they were horny teens fooling around. Of course, subconsciously Eric knew better but he told himself that he was straight and Mike was a phase, one he greatly missed but still a phase. When these two see each other again, the encounter doesn't go as either of them imagined it ever would.
The MCs gave me freaking whiplash throughout this book but it was also realistic, so no complaints there just grumble at my sanity. I spent most of the book wanting to shake some sense into them and yell at them to just tell each other how they really feel. They were in their own heads too much and you will roll your eyes at them and the abundant miscommunication. Now Eric, once he decides that he wants Mike back, all of him, he goes all in but keeps it casual because that's what he thinks Mike wants for now. Mike on the other hand, keeps screwing up because he gets Eric but then panics and hurts the poor man over and over. I would never wish Mike's pain, confusion, and experiences on anyone so I could understand how he ran hot and cold throughout this book. Although they will frustrate the hell out you, you're still rooting for them to figure it out and get their well-deserved happily ever after.
There were some plot points that were never answered or fully addressed, so that's weird and could've easily been wrapped up. I'm glad that the author didn't end the book with everything all smoothed out and perfect, especially with Susan. Yes, they are together now but Mike is also going to therapy and working on his demons/past. I didn't read the prequel, but I'm glad I didn't because those that did were disappointed that the characters personalities were so different. There were a few short time jumps, I wish it wasn't skipped because then we would've got to see the times where the couple were in a good place and happy with each other instead of just the angsty turmoil.
Possible Triggers: Parental Abuse and Homophobia
I received a free copy of this book via GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Verse: Yes
HEA: Yes
Rating: 3.4 ⭐
- Second Chance Romance
- Will They/Won't They
- MM Romance
- Friends to Lovers
- Found Family
I will say that if you can't stand the back and forth of will they, won't they then don't read this because you will get frustrated fast and want to chuck it. If that doesn't bother you then this is the angsty book for you. Overall, this is entertaining but can also be taxing on you.
These two were friends in high school that started to fool around with each other. During one of their smexy times, Eric's mom walks in on them and everything falls apart from there. I will never forgive Susan, Eric's mom, for what she did and how she changed the course of these boys’ lives. After Mike's family finds about the encounter his family picks up and moves away. It's been five years since these two have seen or spoken to each other, but their strong feelings for each other never went away. Mike was more focused on getting back to Eric and having the relationship they were always supposed to have, but Eric had written it off as they were horny teens fooling around. Of course, subconsciously Eric knew better but he told himself that he was straight and Mike was a phase, one he greatly missed but still a phase. When these two see each other again, the encounter doesn't go as either of them imagined it ever would.
The MCs gave me freaking whiplash throughout this book but it was also realistic, so no complaints there just grumble at my sanity. I spent most of the book wanting to shake some sense into them and yell at them to just tell each other how they really feel. They were in their own heads too much and you will roll your eyes at them and the abundant miscommunication. Now Eric, once he decides that he wants Mike back, all of him, he goes all in but keeps it casual because that's what he thinks Mike wants for now. Mike on the other hand, keeps screwing up because he gets Eric but then panics and hurts the poor man over and over. I would never wish Mike's pain, confusion, and experiences on anyone so I could understand how he ran hot and cold throughout this book. Although they will frustrate the hell out you, you're still rooting for them to figure it out and get their well-deserved happily ever after.
There were some plot points that were never answered or fully addressed, so that's weird and could've easily been wrapped up. I'm glad that the author didn't end the book with everything all smoothed out and perfect, especially with Susan. Yes, they are together now but Mike is also going to therapy and working on his demons/past. I didn't read the prequel, but I'm glad I didn't because those that did were disappointed that the characters personalities were so different. There were a few short time jumps, I wish it wasn't skipped because then we would've got to see the times where the couple were in a good place and happy with each other instead of just the angsty turmoil.
Possible Triggers: Parental Abuse and Homophobia
I received a free copy of this book via GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Verse: Yes
HEA: Yes
February 28, 2024
3.5 ⭐️ 3.5🌶️
Honestly, this was good if you’re into will they/wont they angsty books. I, unfortunately, am not but I still had fun.
This book gave me whiplash but it also gave me realistic relationships. It’s not always kismet in a relationship and it’s not always perfect.
This couple simply struggles to figure it out. That’s the best way I can say it. There’s miscommunication, angst, apparent pining, and a whole lot of steam 🥵🥵
Susan can…take a vacation to a distant land and never return.
If you have a friend that seems to be on and off with their partner, this story will likely be familiar. It’s frustrating but you’re just rooting for them to figure it out and be happy.
Overall, it was entertaining!
I received a complimentary copy of this book but this is my honest and voluntary opinion!
Honestly, this was good if you’re into will they/wont they angsty books. I, unfortunately, am not but I still had fun.
This book gave me whiplash but it also gave me realistic relationships. It’s not always kismet in a relationship and it’s not always perfect.
This couple simply struggles to figure it out. That’s the best way I can say it. There’s miscommunication, angst, apparent pining, and a whole lot of steam 🥵🥵
Susan can…take a vacation to a distant land and never return.
If you have a friend that seems to be on and off with their partner, this story will likely be familiar. It’s frustrating but you’re just rooting for them to figure it out and be happy.
Overall, it was entertaining!
I received a complimentary copy of this book but this is my honest and voluntary opinion!
March 5, 2024
3 Stars ⭐️
Woah, what a rollercoaster ride of back and forth...honestly, I really liked this story but I got frustrated with both characters and the hordes of indecision throughout this book...thus my rating. Ugh, I'm 50/50 on this one. I think it's the type of story you'll either love or get annoyed with the back and forth leading to wasted opportunity for the MC's. I have to say that I did enjoy the ending and felt that it did do these characters justice.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
Woah, what a rollercoaster ride of back and forth...honestly, I really liked this story but I got frustrated with both characters and the hordes of indecision throughout this book...thus my rating. Ugh, I'm 50/50 on this one. I think it's the type of story you'll either love or get annoyed with the back and forth leading to wasted opportunity for the MC's. I have to say that I did enjoy the ending and felt that it did do these characters justice.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
February 26, 2024
This story was so good. Knowing the reasons behind what happened to Mike & Eric breaks my heart but knowing they get there HEA is amazing. I definitely would recommend this one if you like second chances.
April 2, 2024
3.5 🌟
Eric and Mike were friends in high school, and they started to explore more with each other. Until Eric’s mom walks in one day, and then tells Mike’s parents about it. His parents immediately packed up and moved Mike away even though he only had months left in his senior year. Eric was embarrassed about how everything transpired that night, and he didn’t immediately reach out to Mike. When he did, he thought Mike had moved on so he let it go.
Five years later, Eric is straight but isn’t having much success dating. He’s left stood up at a concert and is about to leave when his best friend Amy shows up with her boyfriend and a friend of his from his work. After an uncomfortable introduction Eric realizes the man is Mike. All four go to the concert together.
From that point there is a lot of back and forth and push and pull between them. Eric insists he’s straight. Mike is upset about Eric never reaching out. And it keeps going back and forth with new arguments. This had a bit more angst than I was expecting.
This initially was reading like it would be a 4 star read for me, but I did start to get annoyed with all the back and forth. There was lots of miscommunication or just avoiding communicating altogether. It would be frustrating how much one would push away, just to do a complete 180 the next chapter.
When Eric and Mike were in a good place it felt a bit glossed over. We were told it instead of shown it. It made it a bit difficult to buy into their relationship in the present. There was no doubt they had history and an attraction, but it became muddled how they actually had a romance in the present. I wish we could have had more sweet and caring moments to balance out all the push/pull between them.
Some plot points never got answered/resolved. Most were minor so it didn’t necessarily affect the overall story, but I felt like they could have been wrapped up a bit.
The epilogue was sweet. I enjoyed seeing them a bit in the future and seeing how they were doing. I felt like it was also realistic that everything wasn’t 100% smoothed over with Eric’s mom, and it was good to see that Mike was going to therapy.
Overall I enjoyed Mike and Eric’s story. It felt like the door was open for a book about Nick and Alex, and I would be interested to see if they get a story next.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Eric and Mike were friends in high school, and they started to explore more with each other. Until Eric’s mom walks in one day, and then tells Mike’s parents about it. His parents immediately packed up and moved Mike away even though he only had months left in his senior year. Eric was embarrassed about how everything transpired that night, and he didn’t immediately reach out to Mike. When he did, he thought Mike had moved on so he let it go.
Five years later, Eric is straight but isn’t having much success dating. He’s left stood up at a concert and is about to leave when his best friend Amy shows up with her boyfriend and a friend of his from his work. After an uncomfortable introduction Eric realizes the man is Mike. All four go to the concert together.
From that point there is a lot of back and forth and push and pull between them. Eric insists he’s straight. Mike is upset about Eric never reaching out. And it keeps going back and forth with new arguments. This had a bit more angst than I was expecting.
This initially was reading like it would be a 4 star read for me, but I did start to get annoyed with all the back and forth. There was lots of miscommunication or just avoiding communicating altogether. It would be frustrating how much one would push away, just to do a complete 180 the next chapter.
When Eric and Mike were in a good place it felt a bit glossed over. We were told it instead of shown it. It made it a bit difficult to buy into their relationship in the present. There was no doubt they had history and an attraction, but it became muddled how they actually had a romance in the present. I wish we could have had more sweet and caring moments to balance out all the push/pull between them.
Some plot points never got answered/resolved. Most were minor so it didn’t necessarily affect the overall story, but I felt like they could have been wrapped up a bit.
The epilogue was sweet. I enjoyed seeing them a bit in the future and seeing how they were doing. I felt like it was also realistic that everything wasn’t 100% smoothed over with Eric’s mom, and it was good to see that Mike was going to therapy.
Overall I enjoyed Mike and Eric’s story. It felt like the door was open for a book about Nick and Alex, and I would be interested to see if they get a story next.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 7, 2024
SHOULD HAVE STOPPED AT THE PREQUEL
I don’t know who the hell these are, but I am bloody damn sure this isn’t the same Mike and Eric I fell in love with in Prelude. If I could undo this mistake, I would. I would not claim this ARC on Booksprout and not let this try and gaslight me into thinking they are the same boys I adored, that everything was something it wasn’t. This was like being wrenched from the most beautiful dream and forced to wake in a hellish nightmare – a world where Mike and Eric are already dead and their roles are being played by impostors.
I can’t even reconcile the brilliant writing from the prequel with this one. It’s still the same enchanting words yet it feels worlds apart, so empty and alienating. I’m so devastated and so fucking sad. I don’t understand how something so perfectly right could go so tragically wrong.
All I wanted was to see them again—to be there for them and their much-deserved happily ever after but instead what I got was worse than a bad ending. This was the cruelest betrayal of all, and I’m all cried out but…
I. Can’t. Stop. Mourning. The. Loss.
I want Mike and Eric and the happiness they gave me back. Oh, please. I just want them back. I’d give anything to go back before something so beautiful could be ruined forever.
But it’s too late now. I know I’ll never get them back.
I REGRET THIS SO FUCKING MUCH. 💔
I don’t know who the hell these are, but I am bloody damn sure this isn’t the same Mike and Eric I fell in love with in Prelude. If I could undo this mistake, I would. I would not claim this ARC on Booksprout and not let this try and gaslight me into thinking they are the same boys I adored, that everything was something it wasn’t. This was like being wrenched from the most beautiful dream and forced to wake in a hellish nightmare – a world where Mike and Eric are already dead and their roles are being played by impostors.
I can’t even reconcile the brilliant writing from the prequel with this one. It’s still the same enchanting words yet it feels worlds apart, so empty and alienating. I’m so devastated and so fucking sad. I don’t understand how something so perfectly right could go so tragically wrong.
All I wanted was to see them again—to be there for them and their much-deserved happily ever after but instead what I got was worse than a bad ending. This was the cruelest betrayal of all, and I’m all cried out but…
I. Can’t. Stop. Mourning. The. Loss.
I want Mike and Eric and the happiness they gave me back. Oh, please. I just want them back. I’d give anything to go back before something so beautiful could be ruined forever.
But it’s too late now. I know I’ll never get them back.
I REGRET THIS SO FUCKING MUCH. 💔
March 9, 2024
This book was..not my favorite. The writing was rough, and the story was just ok. Mike was a bit of a jerk, and Eric was kind of meh. I also couldn’t see why everyone was so negative about Jonathon, he seemed very sweet to Amy. Everything was a bit confusing and just needed polish overall.
March 3, 2024
Nothing like I'd expected from the prequel
I loved Prelude, the free prequel, where Mike and Eric are nineteen, friends exploring their sexuality and each other. It ends on a teribly sad note where Mike is torn away from Eric and moved across the country after Eric's incredibly stupid mother outed Mike to his homophobic parents. It was beautifully written, sensitive and charming and emotional, and I couldn't wait to read their second chance.
Well, this wasn't it. This was an incredibly frustrating, push and pull, miscommunication, second/third/fourth/fifth chance (every time Mike pushed Eric away) that drove me nuts. Mike was serious about Eric, in love with him at nineteen in the prequel but never told him, even though he kept telling himself he would. That, I understood, but what I didn't understand is why he couldn't own up to that once he and Eric met again and it was obvious the attraction was still there.
The whole story was a chore to read, unfortunately, and that made me sad. Apart from all the above, there were also timeline errors and plot points left hanging which was frustrating. The story also alluded to a lot of issues Mike had because of his parents and we knew they were homophobic but abuse was also mentioned, and racism too (where they moved to) but none of it was explained, thus restricting our understanding of his emotional state and our chance to empathise fully with him.
It genuinely felt as though it was written by someone else.
I've given it two stars because of the prequel and because I was glad they got their HEA, despite trying their best not to.
I loved Prelude, the free prequel, where Mike and Eric are nineteen, friends exploring their sexuality and each other. It ends on a teribly sad note where Mike is torn away from Eric and moved across the country after Eric's incredibly stupid mother outed Mike to his homophobic parents. It was beautifully written, sensitive and charming and emotional, and I couldn't wait to read their second chance.
Well, this wasn't it. This was an incredibly frustrating, push and pull, miscommunication, second/third/fourth/fifth chance (every time Mike pushed Eric away) that drove me nuts. Mike was serious about Eric, in love with him at nineteen in the prequel but never told him, even though he kept telling himself he would. That, I understood, but what I didn't understand is why he couldn't own up to that once he and Eric met again and it was obvious the attraction was still there.
The whole story was a chore to read, unfortunately, and that made me sad. Apart from all the above, there were also timeline errors and plot points left hanging which was frustrating. The story also alluded to a lot of issues Mike had because of his parents and we knew they were homophobic but abuse was also mentioned, and racism too (where they moved to) but none of it was explained, thus restricting our understanding of his emotional state and our chance to empathise fully with him.
It genuinely felt as though it was written by someone else.
I've given it two stars because of the prequel and because I was glad they got their HEA, despite trying their best not to.
March 7, 2024
This was a sold 3-3.5⭐️ read.
It was good, don’t get me wrong. Maybe I am a little harsher with it because it was my second book in a row that I read on the last 24 hours where one of the MCs kept leaving/wanting to leave the other MC because he thought it was best for the other guy when the other guy clearly said “you don’t get to decide what is right for me or what I deserve.” Plus, Mike was much whinier. Although, he may have had more of a reason to be so gun shy.
It was a very spicy book and they had great chemistry. But I didn’t like how every time they slept together was when Mike decided he couldn’t do this or he wasn’t what Eric needed/deserved.
If you like a lot of back and forth without seeing the characters really settle into their relationship, then you’ll like this.
Also, I had some timeline issues. I then we first met Mike( he said he moved away six years ago. I swear at one point, someone said seven, but I could be wrong. Then Amy mentioned at some point they hadn’t seen each other in ten years. The rest of the book, it was referenced as Mike having moved five years ago. But I swear they were 25 or almost 25? That would have made them 20 but they were still in high school when Mike moved away. So the timeframe doesn’t work. Unless they’re 23 and I read something wrong??
Anyway, it was a good book. And I’ll probably read the second one.
*I read an ARC from GRR. It is possible some issues I had have been addressed in the published version. These are my own honest thoughts and reactions.*
It was good, don’t get me wrong. Maybe I am a little harsher with it because it was my second book in a row that I read on the last 24 hours where one of the MCs kept leaving/wanting to leave the other MC because he thought it was best for the other guy when the other guy clearly said “you don’t get to decide what is right for me or what I deserve.” Plus, Mike was much whinier. Although, he may have had more of a reason to be so gun shy.
It was a very spicy book and they had great chemistry. But I didn’t like how every time they slept together was when Mike decided he couldn’t do this or he wasn’t what Eric needed/deserved.
If you like a lot of back and forth without seeing the characters really settle into their relationship, then you’ll like this.
Also, I had some timeline issues. I then we first met Mike( he said he moved away six years ago. I swear at one point, someone said seven, but I could be wrong. Then Amy mentioned at some point they hadn’t seen each other in ten years. The rest of the book, it was referenced as Mike having moved five years ago. But I swear they were 25 or almost 25? That would have made them 20 but they were still in high school when Mike moved away. So the timeframe doesn’t work. Unless they’re 23 and I read something wrong??
Anyway, it was a good book. And I’ll probably read the second one.
*I read an ARC from GRR. It is possible some issues I had have been addressed in the published version. These are my own honest thoughts and reactions.*
March 4, 2024
“Encore” is the story of Matt and Eric, a second chance, friends to lovers, bi-awakening romance.
Eric and Matt used to be neighbors and best friends back in high school, but their friendship became something more. When Matt’s parents learned of his relations with Eric, they packed up and left town. The two haven’t seen each other in six years. Now Matt’s back in town with feelings that never truly left. But he has plans to get his life together and can’t afford the distraction that is Eric. While Eric and Matt had a friends with benefits thing going in high school, Eric always deemed himself as straight. But one night with Matt opens his eyes to who he is and who he wants, and he’ll do whatever it takes to get him.
“Encore” is a low-angst, quick read. I rated it 3/5 stars since I personally didn’t feel much of a connection between Eric and Matt. One minute they were meeting again for the first time in six years, and the next they’re hooking up in a bathroom while Eric keeps chanting “he’s straight”. I think I would’ve enjoyed it more if the book started with a flashback of Matt and Eric’s history or something for readers to feel that tension/connection. The book contained a lot of misunderstanding between the two, Matt pushing or running away, and Eric going from straight to bi in one page. I liked the middle part more than the beginning or end.
Thank you GRR and Larkin Levallee for the ARC copy in exchange for my honest review.
Eric and Matt used to be neighbors and best friends back in high school, but their friendship became something more. When Matt’s parents learned of his relations with Eric, they packed up and left town. The two haven’t seen each other in six years. Now Matt’s back in town with feelings that never truly left. But he has plans to get his life together and can’t afford the distraction that is Eric. While Eric and Matt had a friends with benefits thing going in high school, Eric always deemed himself as straight. But one night with Matt opens his eyes to who he is and who he wants, and he’ll do whatever it takes to get him.
“Encore” is a low-angst, quick read. I rated it 3/5 stars since I personally didn’t feel much of a connection between Eric and Matt. One minute they were meeting again for the first time in six years, and the next they’re hooking up in a bathroom while Eric keeps chanting “he’s straight”. I think I would’ve enjoyed it more if the book started with a flashback of Matt and Eric’s history or something for readers to feel that tension/connection. The book contained a lot of misunderstanding between the two, Matt pushing or running away, and Eric going from straight to bi in one page. I liked the middle part more than the beginning or end.
Thank you GRR and Larkin Levallee for the ARC copy in exchange for my honest review.
March 4, 2024
Figuring It Out . . .
High school buddies Eric and Mike were exploring their feelings when Eric’s mother walked in on them. She told his parents and that was the last Eric saw him until 5 years later. Eric now dates only females. But when his arranged date is a no-show, he leaves the concert and heads for the train station to go home. His phone kept ringing, but he knew it was his friend Amy and he didn’t want to be “consoled” about his no-show date. But she was determined to stop him from leaving, kept calling, and caught up to him at the station accompanied by her boyfriend Jonathan and a stranger. Introduced to Amy’s companion, Eric realizes the stranger is Mike! For Eric, seeing him again reminded him of his former feelings, even though he considers himself “straight”. But it seems like Mike no longer feels the same and Eric isn’t sure how he feels about that.
Actually Mike still has strong feelings for Eric. But the trauma of what happened, the betrayal and losing Eric, still haunts him. He may want to get back together, but he can’t seem to move forward either. Can the two of them risk a second chance? Or are things still too painful to open up old wounds? There are many issues to be sorted out by all of the characters. But will Mike and Eric eventually find their HEA?
High school buddies Eric and Mike were exploring their feelings when Eric’s mother walked in on them. She told his parents and that was the last Eric saw him until 5 years later. Eric now dates only females. But when his arranged date is a no-show, he leaves the concert and heads for the train station to go home. His phone kept ringing, but he knew it was his friend Amy and he didn’t want to be “consoled” about his no-show date. But she was determined to stop him from leaving, kept calling, and caught up to him at the station accompanied by her boyfriend Jonathan and a stranger. Introduced to Amy’s companion, Eric realizes the stranger is Mike! For Eric, seeing him again reminded him of his former feelings, even though he considers himself “straight”. But it seems like Mike no longer feels the same and Eric isn’t sure how he feels about that.
Actually Mike still has strong feelings for Eric. But the trauma of what happened, the betrayal and losing Eric, still haunts him. He may want to get back together, but he can’t seem to move forward either. Can the two of them risk a second chance? Or are things still too painful to open up old wounds? There are many issues to be sorted out by all of the characters. But will Mike and Eric eventually find their HEA?
March 7, 2024
Wasn’t what I expected
Volleying between 3.5 and 4 stars. I read the prequel, Prelude, a few months ago and I could not wait for this book to come out!! I even re-read Prelude tonight before I started Encore. I obviously enjoyed this, because I read it all in one sitting. But there were too many inconsistencies for me. The first time Eric is at Mike’s apartment, he gives him, um an oral examination, shall we say! Which turns in to mutual, before Mike freaks out. A few chapters later, in the storage room Eric is once again practicing his oral presentation skills, and says it’s been years since he’s done it.
At the start of the book, in Eric’s POV, he says they used to hang out in Mike’s room. According to Prelude and later chapters in this book, we know that’s not true.
Eric says he moved on after he saw a picture of Mike kissing a girl on his socials. Mike says he didn’t have his phone for months and when he got it back, he saw Eric with a girl. So where was the rest of that story/conversation? Did Mike’s parents post some random picture? Did Mike not know Eric saw his picture first?
I wanted this book to be so much more angsty than it was. I wanted more of Mike’s story after he got sent away. More of his therapy journey and his trauma.
But I am still looking forward to the rest of the series because of the other characters.
Volleying between 3.5 and 4 stars. I read the prequel, Prelude, a few months ago and I could not wait for this book to come out!! I even re-read Prelude tonight before I started Encore. I obviously enjoyed this, because I read it all in one sitting. But there were too many inconsistencies for me. The first time Eric is at Mike’s apartment, he gives him, um an oral examination, shall we say! Which turns in to mutual, before Mike freaks out. A few chapters later, in the storage room Eric is once again practicing his oral presentation skills, and says it’s been years since he’s done it.
At the start of the book, in Eric’s POV, he says they used to hang out in Mike’s room. According to Prelude and later chapters in this book, we know that’s not true.
Eric says he moved on after he saw a picture of Mike kissing a girl on his socials. Mike says he didn’t have his phone for months and when he got it back, he saw Eric with a girl. So where was the rest of that story/conversation? Did Mike’s parents post some random picture? Did Mike not know Eric saw his picture first?
I wanted this book to be so much more angsty than it was. I wanted more of Mike’s story after he got sent away. More of his therapy journey and his trauma.
But I am still looking forward to the rest of the series because of the other characters.
March 4, 2024
The start of the In Concert series Eric and Mike met in high school fell for one another they were best friends that lead to the promise of so much more until they were caught in a compromising position and their parents put a stop to them. Mike just disappeared from his life years after a lost friendship, possible love and now he is back in town. Mike was taken away from the one he loved the he** his life became because of his parents the people who were supposed to protect him did the most damage and the moment he see an opportunity to get away from it all he grabs it heading back to the one he has always loved. Mike arrives back in town hoping that his one ray of hope is still available but on arriving things are so up in the air for them both. The magnetic pull is still just as strong but Eric is caution because for years he wondered what happened to his best friend with no word and now confused with about his feelings yet they both see that fate has allowed them a second chance but will they take it, will Eric run this time, will Mike help him understand what happened to him, and can they make what started year earlier work for them because if anyone deserves happiness it is these two?
March 2, 2024
Absolutely phenomenal!
I loved this book! This is the first one I’ve read by Larkin but it certainly won’t be the last! The tale of Eric and Mike is full of all the things that make a great story - love, loss, great friends and second chances. The two were best friends in high school but an unfortunate event tore them apart. Now Mike has moved back to town and he hopes things can pick up where they left off. Eric is confused about his feelings and I love how he works through them with the help of his best friend Amy and his brother Alex. Mike has some baggage from his past but when he puts it aside, the way he and Eric are together is amazing! There are a few bumps in the road for Eric and Mike and a few truths to be learned but in the end, they manage to find their way to their happily ever after and it’s everything they’ve always dreamed of. Amy is an absolute hoot and I love what she adds to the story! Add in Mike’s neighbor, Mrs. Hernandez and Eric’s boss, Mrs. Murran and you get a wonderful story that is well worth reading!
I read an ARC copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
I loved this book! This is the first one I’ve read by Larkin but it certainly won’t be the last! The tale of Eric and Mike is full of all the things that make a great story - love, loss, great friends and second chances. The two were best friends in high school but an unfortunate event tore them apart. Now Mike has moved back to town and he hopes things can pick up where they left off. Eric is confused about his feelings and I love how he works through them with the help of his best friend Amy and his brother Alex. Mike has some baggage from his past but when he puts it aside, the way he and Eric are together is amazing! There are a few bumps in the road for Eric and Mike and a few truths to be learned but in the end, they manage to find their way to their happily ever after and it’s everything they’ve always dreamed of. Amy is an absolute hoot and I love what she adds to the story! Add in Mike’s neighbor, Mrs. Hernandez and Eric’s boss, Mrs. Murran and you get a wonderful story that is well worth reading!
I read an ARC copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
March 2, 2024
Well this was okay-ish
While this book was okay it definitely left out a lot that could have enhanced the story between these two even more.
The back story for Mike had some holes that could have or should have included more so that we got where he was coming from when everything happen years ago. Where did he go? Why? What was his parents reasons? Things like that.
Eric was I think supposed to be the main character between the two and while that was the going pattern majority of the book there were the sprinkling of Mikes POV throughout but those were the ones that kind of threw it off.
Miscommunication played a factor..
Will they or wont they was HUGE in this book..
A little spice here and there..
Best friend humor..
Definitely could have been more detailed in some parts but it was still a great read and quick. Almost predictable at times and then the end was pretty much a guarantee in my opinion.
Eric & Mikes story will not be for everyone and that's okay, just know going into it that it is a miscommunication, friends to lovers, grumpy sunshine, bi-awakening-ish book.
While this book was okay it definitely left out a lot that could have enhanced the story between these two even more.
The back story for Mike had some holes that could have or should have included more so that we got where he was coming from when everything happen years ago. Where did he go? Why? What was his parents reasons? Things like that.
Eric was I think supposed to be the main character between the two and while that was the going pattern majority of the book there were the sprinkling of Mikes POV throughout but those were the ones that kind of threw it off.
Miscommunication played a factor..
Will they or wont they was HUGE in this book..
A little spice here and there..
Best friend humor..
Definitely could have been more detailed in some parts but it was still a great read and quick. Almost predictable at times and then the end was pretty much a guarantee in my opinion.
Eric & Mikes story will not be for everyone and that's okay, just know going into it that it is a miscommunication, friends to lovers, grumpy sunshine, bi-awakening-ish book.
March 15, 2024
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.75 stars
This is a second chance story for Eric and Mike. They were involved in high school and Mike knew he was gay and in love with Eric, but Eric didn’t have any idea what their relationship was or how he felt and, before he had time to figure it out, they were separated. The guys didn’t communicate as teens and that continues throughout their story, as they have no idea how to really talk to each other.
Both Mike and Eric have sad stories and they both suffer from a level of depression. The book is told from both POVs and Eric opens the story.
The chemistry between the men is easy and the attraction is clearly on display with each interaction. There is a lot of back and forth between them, as they are together and then push each other away or give the other space for one reason or another. I liked the story here, but the characters were less developed overall.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
3.75 stars
This is a second chance story for Eric and Mike. They were involved in high school and Mike knew he was gay and in love with Eric, but Eric didn’t have any idea what their relationship was or how he felt and, before he had time to figure it out, they were separated. The guys didn’t communicate as teens and that continues throughout their story, as they have no idea how to really talk to each other.
Both Mike and Eric have sad stories and they both suffer from a level of depression. The book is told from both POVs and Eric opens the story.
The chemistry between the men is easy and the attraction is clearly on display with each interaction. There is a lot of back and forth between them, as they are together and then push each other away or give the other space for one reason or another. I liked the story here, but the characters were less developed overall.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
March 5, 2024
Passion, steam, gay second-chance romance
Eric Wilson and Mike Vasquez have a history. After being caught in a compromised situation, Mike’s family just disappears, leaving no way for Eric to contact Mike again. Five years later Mike has returned to the town and to the boy he could never forget. Will things work out for them this time? Eric has never had a girlfriend who stayed. Could there be a reason? When Mike reappears, Eric has feelings that he thought were long gone. But Eric was hurt when Mike left. Truth is much darker than he knows.
Whoa! This was a fascinating book on multiple levels. Of course, being a gay story was one thing, but to discover underlying events and situations makes this so much harder to read but also makes the ending so much sweeter. If you like a good plot with the romance of two nice guys, you need to read this book. I volunteered to review an ARC of it through Gay Romance Reviews. I hope in the next book we get to pursue a love match between Alex and Nick. Hint, hint…
Eric Wilson and Mike Vasquez have a history. After being caught in a compromised situation, Mike’s family just disappears, leaving no way for Eric to contact Mike again. Five years later Mike has returned to the town and to the boy he could never forget. Will things work out for them this time? Eric has never had a girlfriend who stayed. Could there be a reason? When Mike reappears, Eric has feelings that he thought were long gone. But Eric was hurt when Mike left. Truth is much darker than he knows.
Whoa! This was a fascinating book on multiple levels. Of course, being a gay story was one thing, but to discover underlying events and situations makes this so much harder to read but also makes the ending so much sweeter. If you like a good plot with the romance of two nice guys, you need to read this book. I volunteered to review an ARC of it through Gay Romance Reviews. I hope in the next book we get to pursue a love match between Alex and Nick. Hint, hint…
March 3, 2024
Friends in high school, Eric and Mike, had their world torn apart by Eric's mom when she caught them in the act of pleasure. Suddenly what seemed like a good idea turned bad when Mike and his family vanished leaving Eric heartbroken. Fast forward few years later and by coincidence they meet at a concert. Mike still harbors feeling but Eric insists he is straight despite having no luck in romance. Except lot of tension as they rekindle their romance, but this book has it all....overcoming trauma, miscommunication, betrayal, anger and positive portrayal of mental health. Both have issues to work out---Eric and his sexuality, and Mike his anger for Eric not trying to reach out. Fortunately, with the help of some friends, they do find a second chance at love. I look forward to more books for this author and with its ending this couple has more story left to tell. I did receive a ARC and leave this honest review.
April 17, 2024
This made me so angry on so many levels. And the most frustrating is, I was really into the premise: neighbours slash childhood best friends fooling around until they get separated and reunite years later. Except the execution was so damn weird. One thinks he is straight despite never feeling attracted to the women he dated and 5 seconds later he is eating dick for breakfast lunch and dinner. The other can’t make up his mind and goes hot and cold all the time for no reason. They don’t communicate they just fuck. If they were fucking their problems away, why not but they don’t even do that, they just fuck issues into existence. Anyway that was so boring, on top of being annoying. Loved that one monologue the best friend’s fiancé who apparently is a lil fucked up psycho had. I wanted more of him tbh
March 5, 2024
We all have that coulda should moment, and what did we do? Mike and Eric, were teenagers who were experimenting when parental interference removed Mike from the 'situation'. They each had thoughts and feelings that weren't fully formed or expressed. A few years later, Mike an Eric meet again and for Eric, Everything became fresh up close and personal. They both are grown up now and have control of their lives. Great story about young men looking for themselves as teenagers and hopefully finding themselves as adults. Great flow, excellently funny supportive friends. Both, Mike and Eric are extremely likeable and you can't help rooting for both of them. Nicely done. I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 27, 2024
3.5 stars. I liked the story better by looking back at it, as the last part was a lot more appealing. Eric spent more time worrying about being possibly seen as gay and having to come out (the whole first part felt more like bi-erasure). Mike deserved all the sympathy and I am disgusted by Eric's mother thinking it ok in any way to have outed him to his parents seeing what she suspected about his situation at home. I am glad he eventually got a therapist. The friends were great.
I received a complimentary copy of this book via Booksprout and am happy to leave a voluntary review.
I received a complimentary copy of this book via Booksprout and am happy to leave a voluntary review.
March 1, 2024
These characters got under my skin. I love second chances and this one had a twist. Eric and Mike have a shared history that ended in Mike’s disappearance through no fault of their own. It has left one with scars and too many one-nighters and one stuck in a rut of dating the wrong women. I admit to wanting to shake Mike a bit but he has reasons for his attitude. He almost destroyed something good but Eric wouldn’t give up on him. This definitely has its spicy moments and its moments that make you want to cry. It is worth a read. Don’t give up on Mike. They work it all out.
March 1, 2024
A new to me author, but she had me hooked immediately. The pang of being stood up again, left Eric devastated. However his steadfast friends Amy and Jonathan showed up in support, bringing along a person he thought he would never see again. Mike looked the same, yet different. And so the story begins.
A lot of misunderstandings, insecurities, trepidations, but overridden each time by feelings of hope, another chance at loving and being loved.
An author to keep an eye out for , you won't regret it. I received a copy from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest and voluntary review.
A lot of misunderstandings, insecurities, trepidations, but overridden each time by feelings of hope, another chance at loving and being loved.
An author to keep an eye out for , you won't regret it. I received a copy from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest and voluntary review.
March 2, 2024
This was a good second chance story. It was a concept I like, but I wasn’t able to really connect with the characters. They seemed younger than they were; a bit immature for mid-twenties. It mentioned some serious issues that sadly too many people face. It was respectfully addressed, but there was not a deep dive into the issues, rather they gave a bit of depth to the characters, especially Mike.
There were some fact and timeline variations, but overall it was a good story. The epilogue was humorous and sweet, and it made for a perfect ending.
There were some fact and timeline variations, but overall it was a good story. The epilogue was humorous and sweet, and it made for a perfect ending.
March 2, 2024
Eric accidently meets up with an old neighbor/friend/lover Mike at a concert. They had secretly had a teenage sexual relationship until they got caught, then no contact. They have to find their way back but insecurity and fear get in the way. It's a great concept but Mike had a lot of hang ups and causes a lot of angst for Eric who is steadfast in supporting him, a lot of indecision and constant on again, off again. I received a copy of this book through Gay Romance Reviews and this is my voluntary opinion.
March 4, 2024
Beware Mrs. Hernandez's Mom Face
I checked out a few reader reviews before reading this book. After finishing it, I don't understand the low ratings and remarks. I really enjoyed reading this story! This is the first book I've read by this author. I'm very impressed with her style.
High angst, low self-confidence, second (third, fourth, fifth) chances, fiercely loyal (overreaching) friends, quirky characters, high MM steam, romantic moments, and HEA are in this book. The scenes' imagery and characters' inner dialogs are lushly descriptive. I greatly recommend this book.
I checked out a few reader reviews before reading this book. After finishing it, I don't understand the low ratings and remarks. I really enjoyed reading this story! This is the first book I've read by this author. I'm very impressed with her style.
High angst, low self-confidence, second (third, fourth, fifth) chances, fiercely loyal (overreaching) friends, quirky characters, high MM steam, romantic moments, and HEA are in this book. The scenes' imagery and characters' inner dialogs are lushly descriptive. I greatly recommend this book.
March 6, 2024
A great second chance story of two best friends working on being more who were outed and separated by their parents as young men. When they meet as adults, the feelings are still there on both sides but it takes a while for these two to get to the point of honesty with each other. Sometimes, these stories can be incredibly frustrating and all you want to do is scream at the characters to talk already, but this author does an excellent job of making you understand their hesitation to be fully open.
March 14, 2024
I was really interested in the premise of this story. It sounded like it had just enough drama but I was looking forward to the reconnection. The story was a lot more angsty than I expected and there was so much back and forth, push and pull between them. I liked both Eric and Mike but they were kind of a mess- and made me a mess pining for their happy ending. It did feel understandable in light of what had happened and what was currently going on in their heads, but better communication would have helped. This was the first book I've read by this author and I would read more. 4 stars.
April 14, 2024
[I received an ARC for an honest review.]
Rating: 2 stars (4/10)
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Tropes: estranged F2L, second chance, hot and cold
Review:
It's been too long since I read this that I don't remember well what happened, except that it frustrated me, I found a few inconsistencies with the plot, and in general did not like either character that much. The smut was fine, except the ways they kept blowing each other off was frustrating and ruined that too. People say their prequel story is amazing, so maybe I'll check that out.
Rating: 2 stars (4/10)
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Tropes: estranged F2L, second chance, hot and cold
Review:
It's been too long since I read this that I don't remember well what happened, except that it frustrated me, I found a few inconsistencies with the plot, and in general did not like either character that much. The smut was fine, except the ways they kept blowing each other off was frustrating and ruined that too. People say their prequel story is amazing, so maybe I'll check that out.
April 21, 2024
This is a great hurt comfort, second chance at love story. Mike and Eric were teen sweethearts when they discovered by Eric's mother. Soon after they were separated for six years. Mike returns to town determined to open a space for the community to gather. This puts him back in the path of Eric, who works in the bookstore next door. The deep feelings they felt before are still there but they have to work their way through the hurt they were dealt as young men. There is a good amount of spice but I liked seeing them go through the process and build a life for themselves.
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