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Cedarwood Beach #1
Fresh Start
If they want to be together, they have to forgive…
Dawson is America’s it boy.
Being a Hollywood A-list actor has come with its cost. And if he doesn't want to lose everything, his secret must stay in the closet.
He never imagined a quick trip to his parents' new home would bring him back. His first, and last, love. The one that ran away.
Leo has failed at everything.
Dead-end modelling career? Check.
Short-lived boy band fame? Check.
Critically panned West End debut? Check.
But, finally, he's about to catch his big break.
Going back home after nearly two decades was meant to be a short stop before following his dream. Instead, he's forced to face his past...and the ex that betrayed him.
Seeing each other again opens old wounds and their hatred is hard to hide. Or is it the spark that is still alive? They failed being in a relationship once. Should they even try a second time?
Welcome to Cedarwood Beach, VA, where the men are hot, the attraction palpable, and the happy ever after unavoidable.
Fresh Start is the first book in the Cedarwood Beach small town romance series and is completely standalone. It contains two rivals in close quarters, a Butterfly festival, and a young niece hell-bent on getting her uncle his happily ever after.
Dawson is America’s it boy.
Being a Hollywood A-list actor has come with its cost. And if he doesn't want to lose everything, his secret must stay in the closet.
He never imagined a quick trip to his parents' new home would bring him back. His first, and last, love. The one that ran away.
Leo has failed at everything.
Dead-end modelling career? Check.
Short-lived boy band fame? Check.
Critically panned West End debut? Check.
But, finally, he's about to catch his big break.
Going back home after nearly two decades was meant to be a short stop before following his dream. Instead, he's forced to face his past...and the ex that betrayed him.
Seeing each other again opens old wounds and their hatred is hard to hide. Or is it the spark that is still alive? They failed being in a relationship once. Should they even try a second time?
Welcome to Cedarwood Beach, VA, where the men are hot, the attraction palpable, and the happy ever after unavoidable.
Fresh Start is the first book in the Cedarwood Beach small town romance series and is completely standalone. It contains two rivals in close quarters, a Butterfly festival, and a young niece hell-bent on getting her uncle his happily ever after.
312 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 1, 2024
276 people are currently reading
507 people want to read
About the author
Rhys Everly
45 books238 followersRhys Everly-Lawless is a hopeless romantic who loves happily-ever-afters.
Which would explain why he loves writing them.
When he's not passionately typing out his next book, you can find him cuddling his dog, feeding his husband, or taking long walks letting those plot bunnies breed ferociously in his head.
He writes contemporary gay romances as Rhys Everly and LGBTQ+ urban fantasy and paranormal romances as Rhys Lawless.
You can find him and all his latest projects on rhyswritesromance.com
Which would explain why he loves writing them.
When he's not passionately typing out his next book, you can find him cuddling his dog, feeding his husband, or taking long walks letting those plot bunnies breed ferociously in his head.
He writes contemporary gay romances as Rhys Everly and LGBTQ+ urban fantasy and paranormal romances as Rhys Lawless.
You can find him and all his latest projects on rhyswritesromance.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
dnf
June 14, 2020Audio 4 Stars
Story dnf at 74%
The MCs have a past, they're both celebratees and they've been separated for 17 years. The reason for the separation has caused resentful and hurt feelings.
What didn't work for me was how the relationship developed. Their first few encounters isn't friendly. One MCs wants to make peace, the other one doesn't. Once they finally have the conversation that clears up what happened in the past, suddenly they become lovey dovey horn dogs. I would have preferred a more gradual and tentative relationship development.
My other issue was the sex. Sorry but I find it hard to believe that 2 men can have intercourse in the water without lube. Water is not lube. OUCH! That wasn't the only lube free sex scene. Time to dnf...
Story dnf at 74%
The MCs have a past, they're both celebratees and they've been separated for 17 years. The reason for the separation has caused resentful and hurt feelings.
What didn't work for me was how the relationship developed. Their first few encounters isn't friendly. One MCs wants to make peace, the other one doesn't. Once they finally have the conversation that clears up what happened in the past, suddenly they become lovey dovey horn dogs. I would have preferred a more gradual and tentative relationship development.
My other issue was the sex. Sorry but I find it hard to believe that 2 men can have intercourse in the water without lube. Water is not lube. OUCH! That wasn't the only lube free sex scene. Time to dnf...
Read
December 3, 2022DNF. Stopped around the 40% mark. Just couldn't get into it.
May 13, 2021
Ok, this one wasn't for me. Not only because it's pretty inconsistent as far as what motivates characters go, but also because it's the kind of book that could've solved itself way faster by a conversation. Both Dawson and Leo apparently can't make their mind about what they want or what they worry or care for. One moment a thing is a big deal, the next it doesn't matter, then it's big again. Same with their feelings. It was a bit exhausting to read, to be honest.
February 26, 2020
Both Dawson and Leo only went to Cedarwood Beach to decompress, just for a few days of rest before embarking on the next phases of their lives. Neither expected to bump into each other, not after the ugly way they parted ways almost two decades ago.
Maybe this would be the their opportunity to make amends for past mistakes, but what I liked a lot about this book is that it's not centered only around their possible second chance, but it's about mending bridges in more ways than one. During all the years they've concentrated on their careers, they've also distanced themselves from their families, especially Leo, so the story is also about the importance of family ties and affection.
That's why reading this book was an incredible emotional ride. The characters' feelings emanated from the pages, each of them intense: regret for all their wrong choices, longing, loneliness, hope and passion. There was some groveling involved, many difficult talks, a lot of introspection and shifting of priorities. Also so much fun and family interactions, laughter and joy.
Most definitely a hard earned, suffered 𝗙𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗵 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘁 for Dawson and Leo, and a really delightful reading experience.
Maybe this would be the their opportunity to make amends for past mistakes, but what I liked a lot about this book is that it's not centered only around their possible second chance, but it's about mending bridges in more ways than one. During all the years they've concentrated on their careers, they've also distanced themselves from their families, especially Leo, so the story is also about the importance of family ties and affection.
That's why reading this book was an incredible emotional ride. The characters' feelings emanated from the pages, each of them intense: regret for all their wrong choices, longing, loneliness, hope and passion. There was some groveling involved, many difficult talks, a lot of introspection and shifting of priorities. Also so much fun and family interactions, laughter and joy.
Most definitely a hard earned, suffered 𝗙𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗵 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘁 for Dawson and Leo, and a really delightful reading experience.
April 16, 2020
Was looking for a book for a group challenge so landed on this one, not my usual thing as the showbiz ones annoy me. Likewise this one. Dual POV, nice intro to a new series. Mostly light, with darker themes and drama. For me the issue was the characters. Dawson was cute when he was with Leo. Leo was a deaf diva. It doesn’t feel like the relationship will last with the trust issues and then there are the agents. The end was pretty much a summarised gloss over.
My favourite part was Dawson telling Leo the truth and the time they spend together up till the fight.
I also downloaded the bonus scene, which was sweet. Will need more info for Andy’s story.
My favourite part was Dawson telling Leo the truth and the time they spend together up till the fight.
I also downloaded the bonus scene, which was sweet. Will need more info for Andy’s story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 9, 2024
Saucy, romantic and funny. I really enjoyed the drama between Leo and Dawson (but in all these kinds of reads, if the main characters had had a conversation, then all would have worked out for the better 😅)
Plus, I loved the homely greek touches.
I'll definitely read the rest of the series.
Plus, I loved the homely greek touches.
I'll definitely read the rest of the series.
dnf-or-put-aside-for-now
December 28, 2020Huh? details:
Both guys are out of touch with their families and show up in town unexpectedly assuming they will stay with their folks.
Only a nine year old seems to recognize the superstar actor, even though he’s hounded by paparazzi and fans elsewhere.
MC is angry/outraged at other MC after 17 years apart, but other MC describes him as a sweet guy.
Bareback sex in salt water without lube?
Both guys are in their late 30s and sought after for action-adventure superhero roles.
Predictable big misunderstanding coming up...
Gave up at ~70%... may pick up another time.
Both guys are out of touch with their families and show up in town unexpectedly assuming they will stay with their folks.
Only a nine year old seems to recognize the superstar actor, even though he’s hounded by paparazzi and fans elsewhere.
MC is angry/outraged at other MC after 17 years apart, but other MC describes him as a sweet guy.
Bareback sex in salt water without lube?
Both guys are in their late 30s and sought after for action-adventure superhero roles.
Predictable big misunderstanding coming up...
Gave up at ~70%... may pick up another time.
February 27, 2020
This was a wonderful fairly low-angst story full of some of my favorite tropes: small town, second chance, positively meddling family, and a splash of adorable youngster as an added bonus. Rhys Everly did an excellent job of immersing us into Dawson and Leo’s lives as individuals so that we could fall in love with them as they did with each other. What I especially appreciated was Everly’s ability to make two superstars seem so normal and relatable. This story was also a “coming home” for both men as they repaired strained relationships with their individual families, a healing so important for all involved. There is a “big misunderstanding”, but it is resolved somewhat quickly and I appreciated not feeling like it dragged on. While Everly included enough steamy scenes to satisfy, it didn’t overshadow Dawson and Leo’s emotional reconnecting.
Fresh Start also provides a basic introduction to the town of Cedarwood Beach as well as a slight glimpse into some of the characters that will be featured in the series. I’m looking forward to book 2, Wayward Love.
Trigger Warnings (possible spoilers):
I received a free advanced copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Fresh Start also provides a basic introduction to the town of Cedarwood Beach as well as a slight glimpse into some of the characters that will be featured in the series. I’m looking forward to book 2, Wayward Love.
Trigger Warnings (possible spoilers):
I received a free advanced copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
March 13, 2020
This book wasn't a good match for me, or maybe I was the wrong reader for it, but I did not like either of the MCs, Leo and Dawson. The author did such a good job painting them as selfish, self-absorbed people for the first 25% of the book that it stuck for me, and their actions in the rest of the book just weren't enough to believe in their connection. It was hard for me to imagine anyone carrying such a strong dislike for 19 years (half their lives) and then to be able to suddenly forgive and forget and be in love. Sorry, but this one wasn't for me.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
January 5, 2021
This book left me with such dislike for one of the main characters that I had to put it down. I found nothing to like at all about Leo. Whiney. Self-centered. I started skimming his way-too-lengthy narrative early in the book and when it became apparent that I cared less whether Leo and Dawson got together I ended my frustrating read. This book might be good with some serious editing, but as it stands I recommend trying something else.
March 6, 2020
Boring....
September 16, 2020
So good, great story, great characters although they seem too childish for almost 40 year old guys
March 1, 2020
Fresh start is the first in this new series by Rhys Everly and what a wonderful start too!
This is a second chance romance in every sense of the word, my favourite kind of book so I was thrilled to be given the chance to read this beauty early on, it didn’t disappoint.
The H & H Dawson & Leo had a past, one of hurt and betrayal, both haunted for different reasons and not expecting to see each other again, so when they both end up in Cederwood beach 🏝 with the intention of reconnecting with family, it brought up a lot of hurt and anger.
The story really takes off from here and we are taken on a journey of anger, hurt, sadness but ultimately forgiveness and love 💓
Rhys does a cracking job with this book, he writes emotion very well, his style of writing lends itself to pulling you in as a reader, laying the groundwork gently and building the story in layers so you almost feel that you were there with them, that you are a big part of the guys journey. I loved that!
No spoilers here but it’s definitely a strong solid start to this series, I loved the characters, not just the MC’s but the supporting cast if you like, they were never superfluous to this story but added that extra magic touch.
So thank you Rhys for writing this book, for giving me the opportunity to read it, for giving me the feels whether it was sadness, hurt or happiness ( I felt them all!).
If you want a book that offers you a real journey full of life’s ups and downs but ultimately wraps you in a really warm hug then download this bad boy, you’ll not regret that you did.
This is a second chance romance in every sense of the word, my favourite kind of book so I was thrilled to be given the chance to read this beauty early on, it didn’t disappoint.
The H & H Dawson & Leo had a past, one of hurt and betrayal, both haunted for different reasons and not expecting to see each other again, so when they both end up in Cederwood beach 🏝 with the intention of reconnecting with family, it brought up a lot of hurt and anger.
The story really takes off from here and we are taken on a journey of anger, hurt, sadness but ultimately forgiveness and love 💓
Rhys does a cracking job with this book, he writes emotion very well, his style of writing lends itself to pulling you in as a reader, laying the groundwork gently and building the story in layers so you almost feel that you were there with them, that you are a big part of the guys journey. I loved that!
No spoilers here but it’s definitely a strong solid start to this series, I loved the characters, not just the MC’s but the supporting cast if you like, they were never superfluous to this story but added that extra magic touch.
So thank you Rhys for writing this book, for giving me the opportunity to read it, for giving me the feels whether it was sadness, hurt or happiness ( I felt them all!).
If you want a book that offers you a real journey full of life’s ups and downs but ultimately wraps you in a really warm hug then download this bad boy, you’ll not regret that you did.
February 26, 2020
Rating : 4.5 stars
Great start to a new series.
I really enjoyed this well crafted, engaging book about the Hollywood A-list actor and the former boy band member reconnecting.
The character development made it easy to like Dawson and Leo whose chemistry was still there after many years apart.
A chance meeting in a small town gave them the opportunity to reconnect and once Leo put aside his hurt, the heat levels rose quickly. Of course, all would not be smooth sailing for the couple and they did have to overcome a few hurdles, and a dash of angst, to get their HEA.
Some fun and interesting side characters added to the story and also opened the way for more in the series.
I’m looking forward to exploring more of the Cedarwood Beach universe.
Great start to a new series.
I really enjoyed this well crafted, engaging book about the Hollywood A-list actor and the former boy band member reconnecting.
The character development made it easy to like Dawson and Leo whose chemistry was still there after many years apart.
A chance meeting in a small town gave them the opportunity to reconnect and once Leo put aside his hurt, the heat levels rose quickly. Of course, all would not be smooth sailing for the couple and they did have to overcome a few hurdles, and a dash of angst, to get their HEA.
Some fun and interesting side characters added to the story and also opened the way for more in the series.
I’m looking forward to exploring more of the Cedarwood Beach universe.
March 1, 2020
Great start to a new series. Second-chance romance set in a small, coastal town. What started out in college for Dawson and Leo blew up and out them on different career trajectories for the past seventeen years. But, a much needed break for both takes place in Cedarwood Beach, Virginia where both of their families happen to reside. Their first encounters are not much more than a hurt-fueled war of words, but with the help of a star struck 9 year old their anger erupts into a heat that has never been forgotten with the addition of experience. But, a misunderstanding likened to an old betrayal threaten their newfound happiness. Can Dawson catch Leo and explain before he jets off forever? Or are they destined to lose each other forever? If well-meaning family members and agents have their way these two will have many more adventures together. Can’t wait to read book two 😍!
January 1, 2026
Three and a half stars
FRESH START is the first in Rhys Everly’s Cedarwood Beach series. Action film star Dawson Eldred retreats to said small town to retreat from the pressures of being such a public figure and to reconnect with his parents and family, who relocated to this charming small town. He doesn’t expect to run into Leo Karras, a former boy band singer looking to make the transition to actor himself. And the one who got away…
Dawson and Leo have some past pain to work through but also seem to find their feelings have not exactly disappeared over the intervening years. Cute supporting cast of loving family.
FRESH START is the first in Rhys Everly’s Cedarwood Beach series. Action film star Dawson Eldred retreats to said small town to retreat from the pressures of being such a public figure and to reconnect with his parents and family, who relocated to this charming small town. He doesn’t expect to run into Leo Karras, a former boy band singer looking to make the transition to actor himself. And the one who got away…
Dawson and Leo have some past pain to work through but also seem to find their feelings have not exactly disappeared over the intervening years. Cute supporting cast of loving family.
March 1, 2020
Love among butterflies
I’m a fan of small town romances and Cedarwood Beach sounds like a wonderful place for a vacation and to fall in love. I really enjoyed meeting the quirky but lovable cast of characters, looking at you, Yaya. I’m happy we get to revisit the town as I’m curious about Andy’s story. Leo and Dawson are adorable and epitomized enemies-to-lovers and second chances, which I love. Watching them bumble and flutter their way to happiness and love was so much fun.
I’m a fan of small town romances and Cedarwood Beach sounds like a wonderful place for a vacation and to fall in love. I really enjoyed meeting the quirky but lovable cast of characters, looking at you, Yaya. I’m happy we get to revisit the town as I’m curious about Andy’s story. Leo and Dawson are adorable and epitomized enemies-to-lovers and second chances, which I love. Watching them bumble and flutter their way to happiness and love was so much fun.
February 27, 2020
4.5*
***Received free book with no obligation to review in Nora's Book Club being in Nora Phoenix‘ Patreon.***
I really liked—the new-to-me—author’s writing style. The changing first person POV worked well for me.
The story was interesting being a current topic and the drama and misunderstanding was on a good level. It’s a good start of a new series and I‘m looking forward to the next book.
***Received free book with no obligation to review in Nora's Book Club being in Nora Phoenix‘ Patreon.***
I really liked—the new-to-me—author’s writing style. The changing first person POV worked well for me.
The story was interesting being a current topic and the drama and misunderstanding was on a good level. It’s a good start of a new series and I‘m looking forward to the next book.
March 4, 2020
It was such a fun book!!! I read it in one sitting! I love second chance romance and I love celebrities romance. This was just the perfect book for me and it was so so well written. The characters were deep and well developed and the writing style was beautiful. I loved the family themes in the book. It was great to see both characters trying to make amends with their families. And the ending was very satisfying! I really can’t wait for the next book in this series.
I received an ARC of this book for an honest review.
I received an ARC of this book for an honest review.
June 26, 2024
You hold a grudge for 15 years or whatever and forgive in 30 seconds? Nah
April 27, 2022
Dies war für mich das erste Buch von Rhys Everly und der Serienauftakt hat mir gut gefallen. Der Schreibstil ist locker-leicht und flockig und es hat nicht lange gedauert, dann war ich mittendrin in Cedarwood Beach. Übrigens ein toller Ort, den ich gerne mal besuchen würde.
Dort treffen Dawson und Leo aufeinander, nachdem sie sich viele Jahre nicht mehr gesehen haben. Beide besuchen ihre Eltern, beide haben eine gemeinsame Vergangenheit und beide sind berühmt und haben viel Geld verdient. Doch das allein macht nicht glücklich. Dawson ist nicht geoutet, während Leo offen mit seiner Sexualität umgeht. Sie hätte nie gedacht, sich jemals wiederzusehen, denn ihre gemeinsame Vergangenheit hat tiefe Wunden hinterlassen und zwar bei beiden und das aus unterschiedlichen Gründen.
Ich habe die beiden Hauptprotagonisten geliebt. Sie wurden lebendig dargestellt und der Autor hat ihnen viele Emotionen mitgegeben. Da war Freude, Trauer, Schmerz, aber auch Hoffnung, Liebe und Geborgenheit.
Fazit:
Der erste Band war ein kurzweiliges Lesevergnügen und es hat Spaß gemacht, Dawson und Leo mit all den Höhen und Tiefen zu erleben. Von mir gibt es eine Leseempfehlung und ich freue mich schon auf den nächsten Band!
Dort treffen Dawson und Leo aufeinander, nachdem sie sich viele Jahre nicht mehr gesehen haben. Beide besuchen ihre Eltern, beide haben eine gemeinsame Vergangenheit und beide sind berühmt und haben viel Geld verdient. Doch das allein macht nicht glücklich. Dawson ist nicht geoutet, während Leo offen mit seiner Sexualität umgeht. Sie hätte nie gedacht, sich jemals wiederzusehen, denn ihre gemeinsame Vergangenheit hat tiefe Wunden hinterlassen und zwar bei beiden und das aus unterschiedlichen Gründen.
Ich habe die beiden Hauptprotagonisten geliebt. Sie wurden lebendig dargestellt und der Autor hat ihnen viele Emotionen mitgegeben. Da war Freude, Trauer, Schmerz, aber auch Hoffnung, Liebe und Geborgenheit.
Fazit:
Der erste Band war ein kurzweiliges Lesevergnügen und es hat Spaß gemacht, Dawson und Leo mit all den Höhen und Tiefen zu erleben. Von mir gibt es eine Leseempfehlung und ich freue mich schon auf den nächsten Band!
June 17, 2020
A great start to the series!
Dawson and Leo cross paths again but it isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. Mistakes need to be forgiven and the heart that was broken and left behind needs to be mended. Is Dawson up for the task?
Leo didn’t make things easier for Dawson: he made him work for his forgiveness. I enjoyed watching Dawson get under Leo’s skin; it was entertaining to watch.
This story was about so much more than Leo and Dawson. Leo drifted away from his family and the need to make things right weighed heavily on him. Dawson may have got the career he always wanted yet the loneliness that followed made his life empty. He gets a second chance to not only be a better son but to get the love of his life back.
I thoroughly enjoyed this one and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it.
*I voluntarily read this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else's*
Dawson and Leo cross paths again but it isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. Mistakes need to be forgiven and the heart that was broken and left behind needs to be mended. Is Dawson up for the task?
Leo didn’t make things easier for Dawson: he made him work for his forgiveness. I enjoyed watching Dawson get under Leo’s skin; it was entertaining to watch.
This story was about so much more than Leo and Dawson. Leo drifted away from his family and the need to make things right weighed heavily on him. Dawson may have got the career he always wanted yet the loneliness that followed made his life empty. He gets a second chance to not only be a better son but to get the love of his life back.
I thoroughly enjoyed this one and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it.
*I voluntarily read this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else's*
Want to read
October 11, 2023🎁 FREE on Amazon today (10/15/2021)! 🎁
November 26, 2021
It was cute
I'll admit that a closeted actor making tons of money in a superhero franchise made for an interesting character. The same is true of the ex-boy band member who was trying to break into the acting world. They had a history, a bad breakup seventeen years ago and unexpectedly ran into one another. After some fighting the old spark was fired up again. Eventually we got a happily ever after, as expected.
There was something about how Smalltown, USA so easily embraced Leo (boy band) and Dawson (actor) when their relationship became known. It's not that I think small towns wouldn’t embrace their own, but this was sudden. Zero to one hundred, and that with them somehow escaping hours of sex on the beach without being seen.
Leo's sister is somehow able to run a B&B on her own, sleeping on the floor at reception, making meals, preparing a special date for the guys and racing off to the airport with her brother. It's too much and she'd need to be a character in one of Dawson's movies to accomplish it. Families go from cold shoulder to fill embracing then very quickly, especially given that they devoted lots of their time with one another instead of said families.
The kicker, and this is a criticism of the series rather than this book. It looks like every male in Leo's family is gay. Remember, its set in Smalltown, USA, so it seems weird.
Despite the criticisms, I did enjoy the book. As I said, it was cute.
I'll admit that a closeted actor making tons of money in a superhero franchise made for an interesting character. The same is true of the ex-boy band member who was trying to break into the acting world. They had a history, a bad breakup seventeen years ago and unexpectedly ran into one another. After some fighting the old spark was fired up again. Eventually we got a happily ever after, as expected.
There was something about how Smalltown, USA so easily embraced Leo (boy band) and Dawson (actor) when their relationship became known. It's not that I think small towns wouldn’t embrace their own, but this was sudden. Zero to one hundred, and that with them somehow escaping hours of sex on the beach without being seen.
Leo's sister is somehow able to run a B&B on her own, sleeping on the floor at reception, making meals, preparing a special date for the guys and racing off to the airport with her brother. It's too much and she'd need to be a character in one of Dawson's movies to accomplish it. Families go from cold shoulder to fill embracing then very quickly, especially given that they devoted lots of their time with one another instead of said families.
The kicker, and this is a criticism of the series rather than this book. It looks like every male in Leo's family is gay. Remember, its set in Smalltown, USA, so it seems weird.
Despite the criticisms, I did enjoy the book. As I said, it was cute.
March 8, 2020
4.5 Stars
Fresh Start is the first book in Rhys Everly's Cedarwood Beach series. The small town feel is immediately established in this entertaining second chance story.
Dawson and Leo are former college lovers. Both are famous now, and end up in the same small town, setting off a nice reunion, full of longing and passion.
Their story includes a closeted actor, former abuse, and a detailed illustration of the pitfalls of fame. The fact that one is never in charge of their own career is front and center. I love these men and their stories. Their backgrounds are compelling and well developed.
The writing is great overall. The characters are well developed, their storyline carried out well, and the pace seamless. The emotions are clearly depicted, fully drawing the reader into their intense feelings. My only complaint is the occasional moments of too many times "he said" in parts of the dialogue. That is just something that makes me cringe. The rest though is fabulous.
I'm excited to have discovered Fresh Start and am looking forward to the future books in this series. If you enjoy small town romances, don't miss this one. It's an exciting combination of small town, Hollywood, and coming out.
Fresh Start is the first book in Rhys Everly's Cedarwood Beach series. The small town feel is immediately established in this entertaining second chance story.
Dawson and Leo are former college lovers. Both are famous now, and end up in the same small town, setting off a nice reunion, full of longing and passion.
Their story includes a closeted actor, former abuse, and a detailed illustration of the pitfalls of fame. The fact that one is never in charge of their own career is front and center. I love these men and their stories. Their backgrounds are compelling and well developed.
The writing is great overall. The characters are well developed, their storyline carried out well, and the pace seamless. The emotions are clearly depicted, fully drawing the reader into their intense feelings. My only complaint is the occasional moments of too many times "he said" in parts of the dialogue. That is just something that makes me cringe. The rest though is fabulous.
I'm excited to have discovered Fresh Start and am looking forward to the future books in this series. If you enjoy small town romances, don't miss this one. It's an exciting combination of small town, Hollywood, and coming out.
October 25, 2022
Cute second chance!!!
Contains: 20yr after the betrayal, second chance, closeted actor, addict ex singer/model, Rekindle the flame, hea.
What a book. Great story. Well written. Keep us wondering about their past, keep us wondering when the other shoe will fall and what will it be. A lot of apologies, sometime I fell as if Leo was reacting like a 20ish man instead of his real age. Even his little brother Luke tantrums was reacting like a teenager instead of his 30ish.
The characters start as a nemesis. They maybe has a misunderstanding view of who and how each other life is going. They have both had a rough ride over the past 20 years. They are at a point in their lives where they are rethinking their lives. Change and career advancement are on the menu. Including hopefully a new lover if all went well.
Dive into this book and discover an adult who is still trying to get over the feelings of betrayal he feels. Both are trying their best to make amends, one to the other, and the other to his family. Will they finally get their happy ending?
Here is a brief summary:
Second chance
Nemesis to lovers
Celebrities
Small town
Family value
Career drama
Closeted, coming out
Recovering addict.
Contains: 20yr after the betrayal, second chance, closeted actor, addict ex singer/model, Rekindle the flame, hea.
What a book. Great story. Well written. Keep us wondering about their past, keep us wondering when the other shoe will fall and what will it be. A lot of apologies, sometime I fell as if Leo was reacting like a 20ish man instead of his real age. Even his little brother Luke tantrums was reacting like a teenager instead of his 30ish.
The characters start as a nemesis. They maybe has a misunderstanding view of who and how each other life is going. They have both had a rough ride over the past 20 years. They are at a point in their lives where they are rethinking their lives. Change and career advancement are on the menu. Including hopefully a new lover if all went well.
Dive into this book and discover an adult who is still trying to get over the feelings of betrayal he feels. Both are trying their best to make amends, one to the other, and the other to his family. Will they finally get their happy ending?
Here is a brief summary:
Second chance
Nemesis to lovers
Celebrities
Small town
Family value
Career drama
Closeted, coming out
Recovering addict.
December 5, 2024
I’m reviewing the audio edition.
This is a melancholy and heartwarming story.
Dawson is a successful actor even if he doesn’t feel it. He sort of cheated his way to the little success he has and paid the price of a relationship he had. When he decides he needs a break and decides to visit his parents the last person he expected to run into is Leo.
Leo has not had a lot of successes in the field he wanted to pursue. He has made some bad choices and is working hard to change his career path. He decides it's time to visit his family who he has not seen for years. The last person he wants to run into is Dawson. The guy who broke his heart and Leo feels stole his success.
After a number of circumstances that cause them to be together they both have to take a look at their current and past lives. This causes a bit of soul searching and Dawson makes an effort to straighten out the past.
I really enjoyed that after stumbling around each other, they have to decide what future they wanted. I also was happy with the ending the author gave the story.
The narration by JD Tomlison brought the book to life and gave realistic feelings to the many emotions going on.
This is a melancholy and heartwarming story.
Dawson is a successful actor even if he doesn’t feel it. He sort of cheated his way to the little success he has and paid the price of a relationship he had. When he decides he needs a break and decides to visit his parents the last person he expected to run into is Leo.
Leo has not had a lot of successes in the field he wanted to pursue. He has made some bad choices and is working hard to change his career path. He decides it's time to visit his family who he has not seen for years. The last person he wants to run into is Dawson. The guy who broke his heart and Leo feels stole his success.
After a number of circumstances that cause them to be together they both have to take a look at their current and past lives. This causes a bit of soul searching and Dawson makes an effort to straighten out the past.
I really enjoyed that after stumbling around each other, they have to decide what future they wanted. I also was happy with the ending the author gave the story.
The narration by JD Tomlison brought the book to life and gave realistic feelings to the many emotions going on.
March 11, 2020
This book checked lots of boxes for me, one of which is a spunky, young girl determined to get what she wants - a happy ever after ending for our main characters. The rest include, second chance at love, lovers to enemies to lovers, older main characters who have some real life experience behind them, a good start to a series so I will have more to read and characters who really need to just sit down and talk. I loved it when Dawson and Leo finally began to open up, understand each other and forgive. What is keeping them apart isn't anything exterior, but their own fears, insecurities, the hurt they are holding on to from their past. Their happy ending is hard won but believable. I enjoyed the setting of Cedarwood Beach and look forward to learning more about the town and the people in it. One of my criteria for a good review of this kind of series is whether or not I like the world building that went into the setting and whether it is a place I would like to live or would tell a friend to move to. I would do that here. Look forward to reading more in this series.
December 31, 2021
edit: make sure you get the bonus scenes from the Author's website <3<3<3
I didn't expect I'd like this book so much! Second chances at love and life, forgiveness, feelings that arise quickly because they've always been there. Lovely family members and a sunny small town. I loved it!
I started it and read it in one day, slept at 6 to finished as I couldn't wait. Some parts were just like awwwww!!
I didn't expect I'd like this book so much! Second chances at love and life, forgiveness, feelings that arise quickly because they've always been there. Lovely family members and a sunny small town. I loved it!
I started it and read it in one day, slept at 6 to finished as I couldn't wait. Some parts were just like awwwww!!
“Stuck at my parents. My aunt is telling us another one of her stories. Missin u,” it read, and if I didn’t feel like a schoolboy before, I did now.
“Missin u too. Hurry back. Tell em ur man is waiting for u,” I texted back.
His response was a heart emoji. Then another one that read: “Oops, mistype. I meant :) lol.”
“Don’t mess with me, Mr. Eldred. That heart is mine, and I ain’t givin it back.”
“If u want it, it’s all urs,” he said.
Was he saying what I thought he was?
“I want it,” I replied.
“Love you too,” he messaged, and I had to get out of bed because I had ants in my pants. The night was going to be long.
December 8, 2024
M/M
2nd chance romance
Rival actors
A bit of forced proximity
Enemies to lovers
Arc Audio review
Story = 3.5 stars
Narration = 4 stars
Dawson is an actor in a long running series and is secretly sick of it. He is also gay and in the closet. He goes back to his hometown for a break.
Leo is an ex band member and ex addict (5 years) and is trying out acting. After a bad review and getting fired he decides to go back home for a break. There in the same small town the exes of 20 years run into each other for the first since their Uni days when Leo says Dawson betrayed him.
It took me awhile to get into this. Leo was a jerk. I knew the 2 MCs were exes so I expected there to be conflict between them but Leo was flinging his bad attitude at everyone in his path and it really made me not like him and I almost stopped reading. Luckily I was interested in Dawson's character enough to keep listening, even though he was painted as the bad guy. Leo's bad attitude went on far too long but once they got back together they made a cute couple. I loved the ending. They had great chemisty even when it was just angry banter filled with s*xual tension and hate s*x. Overall I enjoyed the story. It kept my interest til the end and was medium angst and medium steam. I'm interested in the world and side characters so hopefully the next books are even better.
The narrator did a good job. They had a pleasant reading voice and good flow. They expressed all the emotions great. He made a decent attempt to give the characters their own distinct voice. They did great with the side characters, though the distinction between the 2 MCs could have been better.
2nd chance romance
Rival actors
A bit of forced proximity
Enemies to lovers
Arc Audio review
Story = 3.5 stars
Narration = 4 stars
Dawson is an actor in a long running series and is secretly sick of it. He is also gay and in the closet. He goes back to his hometown for a break.
Leo is an ex band member and ex addict (5 years) and is trying out acting. After a bad review and getting fired he decides to go back home for a break. There in the same small town the exes of 20 years run into each other for the first since their Uni days when Leo says Dawson betrayed him.
It took me awhile to get into this. Leo was a jerk. I knew the 2 MCs were exes so I expected there to be conflict between them but Leo was flinging his bad attitude at everyone in his path and it really made me not like him and I almost stopped reading. Luckily I was interested in Dawson's character enough to keep listening, even though he was painted as the bad guy. Leo's bad attitude went on far too long but once they got back together they made a cute couple. I loved the ending. They had great chemisty even when it was just angry banter filled with s*xual tension and hate s*x. Overall I enjoyed the story. It kept my interest til the end and was medium angst and medium steam. I'm interested in the world and side characters so hopefully the next books are even better.
The narrator did a good job. They had a pleasant reading voice and good flow. They expressed all the emotions great. He made a decent attempt to give the characters their own distinct voice. They did great with the side characters, though the distinction between the 2 MCs could have been better.
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