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Fear of Flying
Love is in the air. Probably. Most likely. But will a bit of turbulence get in the way of their love taking flight?
Drew Parker knows he’s never going to get married. Fall in love. Have a family. But that’s okay, really. It’s safer that way—living life out to his family but otherwise in the closet—just as his parents have always told him. Besides, though he’s attracted to men, he’s never felt the urge to actually be intimate with anyone. So, really, it doesn’t matter.
Until Drew meets Zach.
Zach Harrison’s anxiety doesn’t rule his entire life, just mostly his social life. And undeniably his love life. According to his best friend, Jen, it’s the sole reason why he’s never had a date or even been kissed. He’s hoping someday he’ll just run into his Prince Charming and they’ll live happily ever after. But real life’s not that simple.
When Tired-of-Lawyering-All-Weekend Drew meets Absolutely-Terrified-of-Flying Zach, Drew comes to Zach’s rescue, and sparks seem to fly. And when a snowstorm grounds their connecting flight—and every flight in the city—their instant love connection starts to soar.
After spending almost two blissfully perfect days in the same hotel room being in love, it’s clear they’re made for each other. But is “meant to be” enough to help Drew finally get over his fear of flying?
Fear of Flying is a steamy, strangers-to-lovers, instalove, snowbound, one-night-stand (okay, it was two nights) gay romance novel, featuring virgin MCs and only one bed—a story about finding love and self-acceptance in the most unexpected places.
Content warning for homophobia, toxic parenting, and depictions of moderate-to-severe anxiety, including aerophobia.
Drew Parker knows he’s never going to get married. Fall in love. Have a family. But that’s okay, really. It’s safer that way—living life out to his family but otherwise in the closet—just as his parents have always told him. Besides, though he’s attracted to men, he’s never felt the urge to actually be intimate with anyone. So, really, it doesn’t matter.
Until Drew meets Zach.
Zach Harrison’s anxiety doesn’t rule his entire life, just mostly his social life. And undeniably his love life. According to his best friend, Jen, it’s the sole reason why he’s never had a date or even been kissed. He’s hoping someday he’ll just run into his Prince Charming and they’ll live happily ever after. But real life’s not that simple.
When Tired-of-Lawyering-All-Weekend Drew meets Absolutely-Terrified-of-Flying Zach, Drew comes to Zach’s rescue, and sparks seem to fly. And when a snowstorm grounds their connecting flight—and every flight in the city—their instant love connection starts to soar.
After spending almost two blissfully perfect days in the same hotel room being in love, it’s clear they’re made for each other. But is “meant to be” enough to help Drew finally get over his fear of flying?
Fear of Flying is a steamy, strangers-to-lovers, instalove, snowbound, one-night-stand (okay, it was two nights) gay romance novel, featuring virgin MCs and only one bed—a story about finding love and self-acceptance in the most unexpected places.
Content warning for homophobia, toxic parenting, and depictions of moderate-to-severe anxiety, including aerophobia.
290 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 11, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 124 reviews
July 8, 2024
⭐️ 4 stars ⭐️
Zero plot. Just fluffiness.
Fear Of Flying was extra cheesy goodness, and like a good cheesy comfort food, I devoured it and loved it. Give me seconds, please.
A sweet strangers to lovers romance, timid virgin boys exploring all their firsts together, a relatable anxiety-ridden character. [Hi, me. 🙋🏻♀️ I relate to Zach’s constant anxiety.]
A cuteness overload, a collection of tender lovemaking, a sweet as candy romantic bubble.
Everything about this, from the adorable meet-cute to the adorably awkward characters, was just sweet on sweet on sweet and maybe normally it would be a little much for my sensitive teeth, but for the day I was having it was serendipitously exactly what I needed.
Bonus points for the writing, because for a story like this where there’s not much going on, you need quality writing to lift it up. And I feel K.C. Elle managed to do exactly that. It flowed nicely, and it was all very romantic and, for the umpteenth time, sugary sweet.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
CW and tropes (spoilers):
- Homophobia
- Toxic parenting
- Anxiety and panic attacks
- Aerophobia
- Virgin MCs
- First kiss
- Insta-love
- Slow dancing
- Strict top/bottom
❛ Drew couldn’t stop his heart from hoping that Zach would never let go. ❜
Zero plot. Just fluffiness.
Fear Of Flying was extra cheesy goodness, and like a good cheesy comfort food, I devoured it and loved it. Give me seconds, please.
A sweet strangers to lovers romance, timid virgin boys exploring all their firsts together, a relatable anxiety-ridden character. [Hi, me. 🙋🏻♀️ I relate to Zach’s constant anxiety.]
A cuteness overload, a collection of tender lovemaking, a sweet as candy romantic bubble.
“Everything makes so much more sense when I’m with you.”
Everything about this, from the adorable meet-cute to the adorably awkward characters, was just sweet on sweet on sweet and maybe normally it would be a little much for my sensitive teeth, but for the day I was having it was serendipitously exactly what I needed.
Bonus points for the writing, because for a story like this where there’s not much going on, you need quality writing to lift it up. And I feel K.C. Elle managed to do exactly that. It flowed nicely, and it was all very romantic and, for the umpteenth time, sugary sweet.
⊹₊‧⁺˖⋆“You make me feel like I can fly.”₊‧⁺˖⋆ ✈︎
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
CW and tropes (spoilers):
- Homophobia
- Toxic parenting
- Anxiety and panic attacks
- Aerophobia
- Virgin MCs
- First kiss
- Insta-love
- Slow dancing
- Strict top/bottom
July 21, 2024
Drinking Game: Take a shot every time the MCs get lost in each other's eyes.
And if you need something to soak up all the booze, don't worry - you can make a pretty impressive charcuterie board with ALL THE CHEESE.
Honestly, it probably would've helped if I was drunk for this one. It's all the social anxiety and awkwardness of losing your virginity for the first time but on steroids because the MCs are in their 30s. Which, by the way, I'm not judging. What I AM judging is the awkwardness paired with CLOYING SWEETNESS that makes me want to book a dentist appointment. I've read many a low-angst/insta-love book, but this one...wow. It's a Hallmark Christmas movie minus the Christmas & heavy on the Hallmark.
Is it still a cute story and did I at least avoid DNFing? Yeah, sure. But, authors, listen up. NEW RULE: A scene where a character *says an awkward thing* and then goes "Oh my god, did I say that out loud?" SHOULD ONLY HAPPEN ONCE IN AN ENTIRE BOOK. I don't give a FUCK. If it happens more than once, YA LOST ME. You had me at "hello" and you lost me at "omg I didn't mean to verbalize my thoughts but you're just so hot, look how cute and quirky I am."
Tl;dr Gay Virgins with Big Feelings.
Rating: 2.5 but, I'm sorry, I have to round down on this one cause I'm not feeling 3 energy.
✧While I received a free e-arc from GRR, all thoughts are my own.✧
And if you need something to soak up all the booze, don't worry - you can make a pretty impressive charcuterie board with ALL THE CHEESE.
Honestly, it probably would've helped if I was drunk for this one. It's all the social anxiety and awkwardness of losing your virginity for the first time but on steroids because the MCs are in their 30s. Which, by the way, I'm not judging. What I AM judging is the awkwardness paired with CLOYING SWEETNESS that makes me want to book a dentist appointment. I've read many a low-angst/insta-love book, but this one...wow. It's a Hallmark Christmas movie minus the Christmas & heavy on the Hallmark.
Is it still a cute story and did I at least avoid DNFing? Yeah, sure. But, authors, listen up. NEW RULE: A scene where a character *says an awkward thing* and then goes "Oh my god, did I say that out loud?" SHOULD ONLY HAPPEN ONCE IN AN ENTIRE BOOK. I don't give a FUCK. If it happens more than once, YA LOST ME. You had me at "hello" and you lost me at "omg I didn't mean to verbalize my thoughts but you're just so hot, look how cute and quirky I am."
Tl;dr Gay Virgins with Big Feelings.
Rating: 2.5 but, I'm sorry, I have to round down on this one cause I'm not feeling 3 energy.
✧While I received a free e-arc from GRR, all thoughts are my own.✧
July 16, 2024
[I received an ARC for an honest review.]
Rating: 4 stars (8/10)
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes: tired sunshine x scared sunshine, instalove, forced proximity, both virgins, flying fear, sweet and spicy, soulmates
Review:
RTC
Rating: 4 stars (8/10)
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes: tired sunshine x scared sunshine, instalove, forced proximity, both virgins, flying fear, sweet and spicy, soulmates
Review:
RTC
October 29, 2024
DNF@91%
This is an informal letter to the author;
HOW DARE YOU
Give me pages and pages and pages of looking into each other's eyes and imaginig forever to have Drew leave like he did?
Sure, I liked the awkward virgins angle but I had too much anxiety about the fact that they weren't talking about any of it and I already had a feeling Drew would end up doing what he did but even tho I saw it coming I was still disappointed.
Being in Zach's POV was so sad because of the added heartbreak along with his anxiety. I fully thought he was going to be in an accident. He was so upset and kept beating himself up about how stupid he was to fall for whatever it was that had happened.
And Drew? Wasn't as miserable as Zach, I would've forgiven him if he regretted how he left and went looking for Zach the next day! I wanted REGRET and GROVELING. Sure, his journey of being more out had to happen but he didn't need to break Zach's heart and make decisions for him in the process.
Zach's best friend SHOULD NOT have egged him on to go looking for Drew, theres no way in hell any decent friend would be encouraging you to go look for a guy who snuck out on you after making it seem like you had a special connection. No.
Not telling that same man he needs to do some serious groveling when he showed up a week(?) later?
The dog being used to add in some humor instead of a serious grovel was also annoying. Zach immediately accepting Drew into his arms, allowing him to kiss him before Drew even apologized for anything ? Also annoying.
Zach was packing to get ready for his trip to go out looking for the guy who snuck out and left him in bed after letting him think he mattered to him, ridiculous! Stand up Zach! Have some self respect my dude.
Thats my rant. I overlooked that the characters acted more like teens than men in their 30's, I overlooked all the superman talk, I wanted to believe they were just two people who found their soulmates but Drew was a let down and in Zach's quick forgiveness because he even got an apology also made him a let down. I went from being excited to check out this author's other works to wanting to avoid them if they're going to have their characters be ones that lack accountability and have SCs encouraging to chase after men who threw you away. 🙄
This book could've worked if the first half happened quicker and was less wordy and if the second half had Drew feeling like he made the biggest mistake of his life and groveling, on his knees crying begging Zach to be with him. ( too much? 🙈 no, he hurt poor Zach 🥺) and then maybe Zach being there and helping him through his journey of being more open and out.
Now i have to find something else to get the bad taste this book left before I go to sleep. 😭
These are MY opinions. ✌️
This is an informal letter to the author;
HOW DARE YOU
Give me pages and pages and pages of looking into each other's eyes and imaginig forever to have Drew leave like he did?
Sure, I liked the awkward virgins angle but I had too much anxiety about the fact that they weren't talking about any of it and I already had a feeling Drew would end up doing what he did but even tho I saw it coming I was still disappointed.
Being in Zach's POV was so sad because of the added heartbreak along with his anxiety. I fully thought he was going to be in an accident. He was so upset and kept beating himself up about how stupid he was to fall for whatever it was that had happened.
And Drew? Wasn't as miserable as Zach, I would've forgiven him if he regretted how he left and went looking for Zach the next day! I wanted REGRET and GROVELING. Sure, his journey of being more out had to happen but he didn't need to break Zach's heart and make decisions for him in the process.
Zach's best friend SHOULD NOT have egged him on to go looking for Drew, theres no way in hell any decent friend would be encouraging you to go look for a guy who snuck out on you after making it seem like you had a special connection. No.
Not telling that same man he needs to do some serious groveling when he showed up a week(?) later?
The dog being used to add in some humor instead of a serious grovel was also annoying. Zach immediately accepting Drew into his arms, allowing him to kiss him before Drew even apologized for anything ? Also annoying.
Zach was packing to get ready for his trip to go out looking for the guy who snuck out and left him in bed after letting him think he mattered to him, ridiculous! Stand up Zach! Have some self respect my dude.
Thats my rant. I overlooked that the characters acted more like teens than men in their 30's, I overlooked all the superman talk, I wanted to believe they were just two people who found their soulmates but Drew was a let down and in Zach's quick forgiveness because he even got an apology also made him a let down. I went from being excited to check out this author's other works to wanting to avoid them if they're going to have their characters be ones that lack accountability and have SCs encouraging to chase after men who threw you away. 🙄
This book could've worked if the first half happened quicker and was less wordy and if the second half had Drew feeling like he made the biggest mistake of his life and groveling, on his knees crying begging Zach to be with him. ( too much? 🙈 no, he hurt poor Zach 🥺) and then maybe Zach being there and helping him through his journey of being more open and out.
Now i have to find something else to get the bad taste this book left before I go to sleep. 😭
These are MY opinions. ✌️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 8, 2024
This was a sweet story but it fell a bit flat for me. I thought the beginning was good and I liked Drew and Zach getting to know each other. I kept getting them mixed up though, which one was Drew and which one was Zach? I quickly felt bored because there’s a lot of talking and them getting to know each other but it didn’t feel exciting to me. It dragged and I did start to skim the book. This cover is so gorgeous though and I know there’s a beautiful story here! I’m T just wasn’t my story.
ARC received for review
All thoughts and opinions are my own
ARC received for review
All thoughts and opinions are my own
July 22, 2024
Cute, hot, insta-love, both virgins but it needed like 50 pages more
Read
July 6, 2024I'm about 55% into this one and for now, I'm going to call it a DNF but not rate it. It's just not for me, but I think plenty of people will love this one!
This is being described as a strangers to lovers, forced proximity romance, with instalove and virgin MCs. What I guess I missed is that the two MCs are grown men in their early to mid 30's, when I was thinking this was more new adult and they'd be like 20/21. Also when it says instalove, it really truly is instalove in this book.
Honestly, I think if these two MCs were 19 then I would buy into all of this - the 100% lack of any experience, the intensity of the feelings coming on so rapidly. It also frustrates me - and I know that this is romance - that their time together in the hotel is so perfect. It could have had some fun fumbles and learning for the two of them - but it's perfect! lol of course it is
(Also "god" is said nearly 300 times and it was just too much.)
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.
This is being described as a strangers to lovers, forced proximity romance, with instalove and virgin MCs. What I guess I missed is that the two MCs are grown men in their early to mid 30's, when I was thinking this was more new adult and they'd be like 20/21. Also when it says instalove, it really truly is instalove in this book.
Honestly, I think if these two MCs were 19 then I would buy into all of this - the 100% lack of any experience, the intensity of the feelings coming on so rapidly. It also frustrates me - and I know that this is romance - that their time together in the hotel is so perfect. It could have had some fun fumbles and learning for the two of them - but it's perfect! lol of course it is
(Also "god" is said nearly 300 times and it was just too much.)
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.
August 25, 2024
What a sweet love story.
I’m not usually one for insta love, but I found myself really enjoying this. It was a quick read, perfect for sitting in the hammock and enjoying some sun. (Or hiding inside while it rained).
Zach and Drew were so perfect for each other, I felt like I glimpsed myself in Zach’s anxiety and how he felt when Drew comforted him. It also deals with a coming out crisis that I felt was very well presented and it felt real.
I definitely recommend this book for anyone looking for a lower angst, HEA guaranteed, fast paced read. I appreciate being able to read and review!
I’m not usually one for insta love, but I found myself really enjoying this. It was a quick read, perfect for sitting in the hammock and enjoying some sun. (Or hiding inside while it rained).
Zach and Drew were so perfect for each other, I felt like I glimpsed myself in Zach’s anxiety and how he felt when Drew comforted him. It also deals with a coming out crisis that I felt was very well presented and it felt real.
I definitely recommend this book for anyone looking for a lower angst, HEA guaranteed, fast paced read. I appreciate being able to read and review!
July 7, 2024
Arc Review
Zach Harrison is frightened of flying. Luckily for him Mr. Incredibly hot and has a great ass sits next to him on his flight.
Drew Parker is flying home when he sits next to Zach. Drew has been convinced he will never find love. The flight is a stormy one and Zach has a panic attack, which Drew helps him through. There is something about Zach that lights a fire in Drew.
Having their connecting flight cancelled due to the bad weather, they get a hotel room together. They both feel that there is something that needs to be explored.
Both Zach and Drew are inexperienced in love and are clueless to feelings. Zach has never been kissed.
Fear of Flying is the debut novel by KC Elle, and for a first book, i feel it’s excellent. The writing is impeccable, making you feel all the love as you turn the pages. The intoxicating warmth and sweetness is everything you need in a fairly low angst book. Insta love is not one of my favourite tropes, but this just works. The way KC draws you into the story is charming.
Both MCs are virgins and suffer with anxiety, please read trigger warnings.
I also adored Jen who is Zach’s best friend, we all need a Jen to fight our corner.
If you want a massive cuddle of a book, that has you smiling and believing in love, then grab this when it is released on 11th July.
“I was holding every dream and wish I’d ever had right there in my arms”.
Zach Harrison is frightened of flying. Luckily for him Mr. Incredibly hot and has a great ass sits next to him on his flight.
Drew Parker is flying home when he sits next to Zach. Drew has been convinced he will never find love. The flight is a stormy one and Zach has a panic attack, which Drew helps him through. There is something about Zach that lights a fire in Drew.
Having their connecting flight cancelled due to the bad weather, they get a hotel room together. They both feel that there is something that needs to be explored.
Both Zach and Drew are inexperienced in love and are clueless to feelings. Zach has never been kissed.
Fear of Flying is the debut novel by KC Elle, and for a first book, i feel it’s excellent. The writing is impeccable, making you feel all the love as you turn the pages. The intoxicating warmth and sweetness is everything you need in a fairly low angst book. Insta love is not one of my favourite tropes, but this just works. The way KC draws you into the story is charming.
Both MCs are virgins and suffer with anxiety, please read trigger warnings.
I also adored Jen who is Zach’s best friend, we all need a Jen to fight our corner.
If you want a massive cuddle of a book, that has you smiling and believing in love, then grab this when it is released on 11th July.
“I was holding every dream and wish I’d ever had right there in my arms”.
June 29, 2024
If I had a nickel for each time this year that I chose to read a book by a new-to-me author because the cover was illustrated and the blurb promised angst, I'd have two nickles. But given how specific the situation is, it is surprising it happened twice.
Knowing this is not only the first book I read by KC but also the first book published by KC, it kind of raises in esteem the good opinions I had of this book in the first place. I liked Drew and Zack. They both feel fleshed out, with their quirks and fears and individual challenges and setbacks. Plus the way they handle not just each other but those close to them and their individual relationships with them is quite deep for what ends up being not much page time for that.
Instalove is a complicated trope for a contemporary book, in my opinion. It is hard to use it without it feeling forced for the plot, and often leaves out the development that can make a romance feel connected to the couple. It always has the risk of feeling more like lust than love. I found it really impressive that KC managed to make it not seem that bizarre and yet in that short amount of time also flesh out the romance enough so that the story felt fulfilling.
I also liked the fact that the book was also able to balance itself in a tightrope edge between high feelings and low stakes. Keeping you excited and interested in something as mundane as the issues of being stranded at the airport without luggage is quite a feat.
I did get annoyed at times at the amount of sex scenes, but then again I am asexual and can happily leave them out without issue. More a peeve than a con. I doubt the average allosexual reader will share my opinion on that though. I wanted to mention it anyway.
Knowing this is not only the first book I read by KC but also the first book published by KC, it kind of raises in esteem the good opinions I had of this book in the first place. I liked Drew and Zack. They both feel fleshed out, with their quirks and fears and individual challenges and setbacks. Plus the way they handle not just each other but those close to them and their individual relationships with them is quite deep for what ends up being not much page time for that.
Instalove is a complicated trope for a contemporary book, in my opinion. It is hard to use it without it feeling forced for the plot, and often leaves out the development that can make a romance feel connected to the couple. It always has the risk of feeling more like lust than love. I found it really impressive that KC managed to make it not seem that bizarre and yet in that short amount of time also flesh out the romance enough so that the story felt fulfilling.
I also liked the fact that the book was also able to balance itself in a tightrope edge between high feelings and low stakes. Keeping you excited and interested in something as mundane as the issues of being stranded at the airport without luggage is quite a feat.
I did get annoyed at times at the amount of sex scenes, but then again I am asexual and can happily leave them out without issue. More a peeve than a con. I doubt the average allosexual reader will share my opinion on that though. I wanted to mention it anyway.
July 3, 2024
Ahhhhh thank you so much to KC Elle for the opportunity to ARC read her debut novel, "Fear of Flying." I absolutely adored Zach and Drew!
I normally gravitate towards angstier reads, and I don't normally find "instalove" to be a trope that works for me. HOWEVER- this author managed to make this sweet, magical love story into something super special and unique- and I found myself swooning hard over the connection between these two guys. Chef's kiss!
Zach and Drew meet on a plane, sitting side by side on flights for work. The attraction is present quickly for both (I love this being written in dual POV!) and reading their inner thoughts as they are both trying to keep that instant attraction under wraps was at times funny, and at times swoony, and I really loved both versions.
"Though, god, what he really needed to know was that he wasn't alone in this feeling, this out-of-control, wildly wonderful and terrifying... whatever it was. Butterflies and blushing and desire and... something more."
Zach is a very nervous flier, and a big piece of their instant connection that felt very real and authentic to me-- maybe helping to legitimize that "instalove" piece- was the way they bonded over Drew's ability to calm Zach down while he experiences a panic attack on the plane. Drew's inexperience/ prior relationship reluctance appears to be caused by a mixture of anxiety over being in the closet, but also a piece of him that seems demisexual- he had never been "attracted enough" to someone in the past to really desire a relationship. Zach's inexperience is different- he has always wanted a boyfriend, but has trouble with human connection due to his social anxiety. And this is why their dynamic really worked for me- Drew really having to "care for" Zach in a pretty intimate way on the plane, despite the fact that they don't know one another yet, most likely rushed that emotional connection he needed to the forefront. And Zach, having no choice but to surrender to his anxiety in front of Drew- thus putting all his cards on the table at once and finding that even with all of his fear on full display-- Drew still really, really likes him-- well, this helped Zach relax into their connection, too.
"God, he was nearly thirty-two years old and he'd never had feelings quite like this before. Attraction, sure. But this intense? Enough for it to have overshadowed his anxiety for half the flight? And enough to make him want to lean right over and kiss a stranger when he'd never kissed anyone in his life? Hell."
This story is very much a "first time for everything--" it isn't often you read a believable romance featuring two virgins in their early thirties. But it hit home for me- I believed it, I ate it up, and I was rooting so very hard for both of them. The way the ended up in the "one bed" situation made me giggle and kick my feet happily- and what happens once they are in that forced proximity to was TO DIE FOR.
The star in this story was really the writing. The connection here felt very magical, a little otherworldly. It felt like fated mates, or a shifter romance at times- where this is a biological pairing, and nothing- NOTHING- would keep them from being together. They were very, very physically drawn to one another- and I thought the way that was portrayed felt extremely intimate, and romantic-- without being over the top.
"HOLY SHIT. WOW. It was like magic. It actually- god, it actually felt like magic. Zach was smiling at him, laughing lightly along with Drew, and his mind was just racing, spinning, tumbling. God, all he could think of was how he wanted more, more of whatever this amazing, intoxicating, thrilling feeling was. He felt like he was lit up from the inside, sparks of magic and threads of arousal spreading throughout his body like he'd never felt before. It was phenomenal. Breathtaking."
Once they got to know one another a little better outside of their obvious physical connection, the pieces of their personalities and lives that kept overlapping just made their connection that much stronger- it felt like it was completely and totally inevitable that they met one another and fell in love.
And IT. WAS. HOT. I love all you indie writers, but man it is difficult for first time authors to get this right out of the gate- and I think that this author did an excellent job of writing the spicy times. It was believable enough that they were both virgins in their fumbling- when they keep trying something new and decide they need to "continue practicing--" I LOVED IT. But it was also believably written as the romance progressed into something more physical, as their bodies demanded more than the tentative first touches, but they were learning as they went.
"Uh, yeah.... this is, like, the most unsexy thing ever, I'm sure, and god, I hope I don't ruin the moment, but I-I'm not sure how to move? Switch positions? I, um...." Zach closed his eyes and took a deep breath to steady himself, then he opened them again and found Drew still staring at him patiently.
"God, what I wouldn't give to be lying down with you on top of me," Zach said, almost all in one breath.
All in all, an easy read- one with low angst, high emotional swoon and a couple you will squeal over. This is a feel-good read that I can see myself revisiting in the future, when I want something that is going to make me grin like a fool as I read it. I am very excited to read what this author comes up with next!
I normally gravitate towards angstier reads, and I don't normally find "instalove" to be a trope that works for me. HOWEVER- this author managed to make this sweet, magical love story into something super special and unique- and I found myself swooning hard over the connection between these two guys. Chef's kiss!
Zach and Drew meet on a plane, sitting side by side on flights for work. The attraction is present quickly for both (I love this being written in dual POV!) and reading their inner thoughts as they are both trying to keep that instant attraction under wraps was at times funny, and at times swoony, and I really loved both versions.
"Though, god, what he really needed to know was that he wasn't alone in this feeling, this out-of-control, wildly wonderful and terrifying... whatever it was. Butterflies and blushing and desire and... something more."
Zach is a very nervous flier, and a big piece of their instant connection that felt very real and authentic to me-- maybe helping to legitimize that "instalove" piece- was the way they bonded over Drew's ability to calm Zach down while he experiences a panic attack on the plane. Drew's inexperience/ prior relationship reluctance appears to be caused by a mixture of anxiety over being in the closet, but also a piece of him that seems demisexual- he had never been "attracted enough" to someone in the past to really desire a relationship. Zach's inexperience is different- he has always wanted a boyfriend, but has trouble with human connection due to his social anxiety. And this is why their dynamic really worked for me- Drew really having to "care for" Zach in a pretty intimate way on the plane, despite the fact that they don't know one another yet, most likely rushed that emotional connection he needed to the forefront. And Zach, having no choice but to surrender to his anxiety in front of Drew- thus putting all his cards on the table at once and finding that even with all of his fear on full display-- Drew still really, really likes him-- well, this helped Zach relax into their connection, too.
"God, he was nearly thirty-two years old and he'd never had feelings quite like this before. Attraction, sure. But this intense? Enough for it to have overshadowed his anxiety for half the flight? And enough to make him want to lean right over and kiss a stranger when he'd never kissed anyone in his life? Hell."
This story is very much a "first time for everything--" it isn't often you read a believable romance featuring two virgins in their early thirties. But it hit home for me- I believed it, I ate it up, and I was rooting so very hard for both of them. The way the ended up in the "one bed" situation made me giggle and kick my feet happily- and what happens once they are in that forced proximity to was TO DIE FOR.
The star in this story was really the writing. The connection here felt very magical, a little otherworldly. It felt like fated mates, or a shifter romance at times- where this is a biological pairing, and nothing- NOTHING- would keep them from being together. They were very, very physically drawn to one another- and I thought the way that was portrayed felt extremely intimate, and romantic-- without being over the top.
"HOLY SHIT. WOW. It was like magic. It actually- god, it actually felt like magic. Zach was smiling at him, laughing lightly along with Drew, and his mind was just racing, spinning, tumbling. God, all he could think of was how he wanted more, more of whatever this amazing, intoxicating, thrilling feeling was. He felt like he was lit up from the inside, sparks of magic and threads of arousal spreading throughout his body like he'd never felt before. It was phenomenal. Breathtaking."
Once they got to know one another a little better outside of their obvious physical connection, the pieces of their personalities and lives that kept overlapping just made their connection that much stronger- it felt like it was completely and totally inevitable that they met one another and fell in love.
And IT. WAS. HOT. I love all you indie writers, but man it is difficult for first time authors to get this right out of the gate- and I think that this author did an excellent job of writing the spicy times. It was believable enough that they were both virgins in their fumbling- when they keep trying something new and decide they need to "continue practicing--" I LOVED IT. But it was also believably written as the romance progressed into something more physical, as their bodies demanded more than the tentative first touches, but they were learning as they went.
"Uh, yeah.... this is, like, the most unsexy thing ever, I'm sure, and god, I hope I don't ruin the moment, but I-I'm not sure how to move? Switch positions? I, um...." Zach closed his eyes and took a deep breath to steady himself, then he opened them again and found Drew still staring at him patiently.
"God, what I wouldn't give to be lying down with you on top of me," Zach said, almost all in one breath.
All in all, an easy read- one with low angst, high emotional swoon and a couple you will squeal over. This is a feel-good read that I can see myself revisiting in the future, when I want something that is going to make me grin like a fool as I read it. I am very excited to read what this author comes up with next!
June 29, 2024
Fear of Flying by KC Elle is an absolute delight that left me swooning from start to finish.
Zach and Drew are simply adorable together, their nervous energy evolving into confident love as the story unfolds. What sets this book apart is its perfect balance of slow-burning romance and steamy moments that never overwhelm the heartfelt storytelling. The genuine emotions of heartache and longing are palpable, making my heart ache alongside Drew and Zach.
Unlike other instalove stories, Fear of Flying takes its time to explore the emotional depth between the characters. Zach and Drew’s bond grows through genuine connection and shared experiences beyond just physical attraction, which adds a layer of authenticity to their relationship. Zach’s portrayal of anxiety is particularly poignant and well-executed, adding depth to his character.
The setting of finding love at 30,000 feet adds a unique charm to the story. From their chance encounter on a flight to navigating through life’s obstacles together, Zach and Drew’s journey is captivating and heartwarming.
Overall, Fear of Flying is a perfect blend of warmth, sweetness, and a hint of angst that keeps you turning pages. KC Elle’s debut novel shines with its compelling characters, heartfelt storytelling, and the promise of everlasting love found in the most unexpected places. I highly recommend this book for anyone looking to escape into a beautiful romance that will leave you smiling long after you’ve finished.
Zach and Drew are simply adorable together, their nervous energy evolving into confident love as the story unfolds. What sets this book apart is its perfect balance of slow-burning romance and steamy moments that never overwhelm the heartfelt storytelling. The genuine emotions of heartache and longing are palpable, making my heart ache alongside Drew and Zach.
Unlike other instalove stories, Fear of Flying takes its time to explore the emotional depth between the characters. Zach and Drew’s bond grows through genuine connection and shared experiences beyond just physical attraction, which adds a layer of authenticity to their relationship. Zach’s portrayal of anxiety is particularly poignant and well-executed, adding depth to his character.
The setting of finding love at 30,000 feet adds a unique charm to the story. From their chance encounter on a flight to navigating through life’s obstacles together, Zach and Drew’s journey is captivating and heartwarming.
Overall, Fear of Flying is a perfect blend of warmth, sweetness, and a hint of angst that keeps you turning pages. KC Elle’s debut novel shines with its compelling characters, heartfelt storytelling, and the promise of everlasting love found in the most unexpected places. I highly recommend this book for anyone looking to escape into a beautiful romance that will leave you smiling long after you’ve finished.
July 13, 2024
3.5 stars. The first published work by this author and there was definitely good potential. It just turned out to be not quite a story for me - I loved the start and the end but the hotel room action and Drew leaving Zach there knowing how anxious he was just didn't work for me. The family dynamics were interesting and it was great that Drew finally got some support from his brother. Jen was particularly amazing.
Read
July 10, 2024RTC :)
July 16, 2024
This was such a cute story I ate it up and cannot wait to see what's next from KC. Instalove has always been hit or miss for me, but this one really worked for me!
July 11, 2024
H O L Y M O L Y
“I was holding every dream and wish I’d ever had right there in my arms”
this book literally had me EMOTIONAL. Zach & Drew are just the sweetest ever. This book made me cry happy tears, sad tears, swoon, giggle and stomp my feet, overall ALL of the feels.
if you love~
insta love
all the mushy love
a cute pup
first times
strangers to lovers
silly banter (and yes i do mean silly)
this is probably the book for you!! KC Elle really did outstanding writing this! I will probably be thinking about Zach & Drew for the rest of forever.
“So maybe we can . . . promise to fly together from now on?” Drew asked softly. A smile stretched across Zach’s face. “Sure thing, Superman.”😭😭😭😭😭
please do yourself a favor and read this.
“I was holding every dream and wish I’d ever had right there in my arms”
this book literally had me EMOTIONAL. Zach & Drew are just the sweetest ever. This book made me cry happy tears, sad tears, swoon, giggle and stomp my feet, overall ALL of the feels.
if you love~
insta love
all the mushy love
a cute pup
first times
strangers to lovers
silly banter (and yes i do mean silly)
this is probably the book for you!! KC Elle really did outstanding writing this! I will probably be thinking about Zach & Drew for the rest of forever.
“So maybe we can . . . promise to fly together from now on?” Drew asked softly. A smile stretched across Zach’s face. “Sure thing, Superman.”😭😭😭😭😭
please do yourself a favor and read this.
July 6, 2024
2.5/5 It may just have been me not in the mood for this, but unfortunately, it didn’t quite work for me. I think I didn’t feel the big character click that would have allowed me to believe that the two MCs were explicitly stating that they were falling in love 4 hours into knowing one another (when at least half of that was one of them talking non-stop about Superman to someone so scared of flying they’re mostly out of it and don’t take any of the talking in).
I enjoyed the moments where they were actually starting to get to know one another, talking about Drew’s concerns about his job or Zach’s animal shelter, but otherwise, the big “we’re so compatible, we’re so in love” just contained a lot of sex scenes, and some shared anxiety and inexperience.
I’m a detail person, and I also found myself getting bogged down a few times in what are probably silly nitpicks, but they kept nudging at me: Zach announces he’s going to Albuquerque with a layover in Dallas. He doesn’t mention the layover in Pittsburgh. (I just don’t get why you’d mention one but not both connections.) Zach later worries about “the other flight” ahead of him. But he has two flights upcoming. I also would have expected that for someone who is as debilitatingly afraid of flying as he is, he would be minimising the connections (or mentioning why he’s stuck with three flights).
Meanwhile, Drew’s firm apparently won’t bat an eye at an $1800/night hotel room, but he doesn’t fly business class or at least direct? Also, when it suddenly becomes important that Drew doesn’t have luggage, Zach says “you didn’t have a bag” when they deplaned. Actually, he had a messenger bag that got referenced as “a bag” several times, causing me to flip back to figure out what was going on. And then I got distracted wondering about the probability that Zach would be coming back from what seems to be a short trip with at least two pairs of PJ bottoms, one of which is unworn. (I admit probably most people aren’t wondering about that sort of thing, lol.)
They’re both anxious thirty-something virgins who have never dated or even kissed. (Zach has social anxiety, Drew is closeted.) They have a lot of intimate scenes in that hotel room that all seem to go pretty much perfectly, no awkward moments, no attempts that go a bit awry. They don’t discuss preferences but seem to magically be perfectly compatible. And they say variations of “good” and “god” so much that it became repetitive and off-putting. (Those two days in the hotel room is 50% of the book.)
I thought it was kind of refreshing to have two newbies (you don’t see that very often), but in practice, they’re so similar in some significant ways—inexperienced, anxious, falling fast, problematic mothers, quiet fathers, love animals—that I occasionally couldn’t remember whose POV we were in. (This might have been me just not as engaged as I wanted to be.)
Then we get Drew’s big runner, and I know this is his anxiety acting up, but I have a lot of trouble forgiving or forgetting this. Abandoning Zach in the middle of the night without even a note (and after creepily taking photos of him while he’s sleeping without his consent), knowing that you’re leaving him to do the thing he fears most the next day … just no. All the red flags. I would be writing him off so hard if I were Zach at that point.
And then Jen convinces Zach that he should go after Drew. After a 48-hours, only one bed, forced proximity that ended in Drew sneaking out without a word (and without contact info exchanged), and Zach is supposed to go after him and “win him back”. Ugh. I know that there are actually emotions here and it ends well (we’re in a romance book, obviously), but this just didn’t feel like something the supportive best friend should actually know at this point. It felt like very much the wrong message to me. (Or it needed to be phrased a lot more like “you need this closure for your mental health” not “I’m somehow sure he actually loves you and something else is going on”. ) (The fact that Zach doesn’t have to actually do this helps, but I didn’t like the plan at all.)
I would have liked to see a bit more of the “hours of getting to know one another” that supposedly happened at the hotel. It just felt like we mostly saw sex or anxiety with the occasional funny anecdote. I did like the Superman Discord friends and running Superman jokes. I really liked Drew’s brother stepping up when he realised there was a problem, and how supportive Jen was (generally). I loved Milo, and Drew and Zach’s shared love of animals. I did like that Drew went all in on trying to fix his mistake, and I admired Zach’s forgiveness and understanding (maybe he has a much better understanding of anxiety than I do, and that let him be more empathetic).
I received an ARC from GRR. This is my honest review.
I enjoyed the moments where they were actually starting to get to know one another, talking about Drew’s concerns about his job or Zach’s animal shelter, but otherwise, the big “we’re so compatible, we’re so in love” just contained a lot of sex scenes, and some shared anxiety and inexperience.
I’m a detail person, and I also found myself getting bogged down a few times in what are probably silly nitpicks, but they kept nudging at me: Zach announces he’s going to Albuquerque with a layover in Dallas. He doesn’t mention the layover in Pittsburgh. (I just don’t get why you’d mention one but not both connections.) Zach later worries about “the other flight” ahead of him. But he has two flights upcoming. I also would have expected that for someone who is as debilitatingly afraid of flying as he is, he would be minimising the connections (or mentioning why he’s stuck with three flights).
Meanwhile, Drew’s firm apparently won’t bat an eye at an $1800/night hotel room, but he doesn’t fly business class or at least direct? Also, when it suddenly becomes important that Drew doesn’t have luggage, Zach says “you didn’t have a bag” when they deplaned. Actually, he had a messenger bag that got referenced as “a bag” several times, causing me to flip back to figure out what was going on. And then I got distracted wondering about the probability that Zach would be coming back from what seems to be a short trip with at least two pairs of PJ bottoms, one of which is unworn. (I admit probably most people aren’t wondering about that sort of thing, lol.)
They’re both anxious thirty-something virgins who have never dated or even kissed. (Zach has social anxiety, Drew is closeted.) They have a lot of intimate scenes in that hotel room that all seem to go pretty much perfectly, no awkward moments, no attempts that go a bit awry. They don’t discuss preferences but seem to magically be perfectly compatible. And they say variations of “good” and “god” so much that it became repetitive and off-putting. (Those two days in the hotel room is 50% of the book.)
I thought it was kind of refreshing to have two newbies (you don’t see that very often), but in practice, they’re so similar in some significant ways—inexperienced, anxious, falling fast, problematic mothers, quiet fathers, love animals—that I occasionally couldn’t remember whose POV we were in. (This might have been me just not as engaged as I wanted to be.)
Then we get Drew’s big runner, and I know this is his anxiety acting up, but I have a lot of trouble forgiving or forgetting this. Abandoning Zach in the middle of the night without even a note (and after creepily taking photos of him while he’s sleeping without his consent), knowing that you’re leaving him to do the thing he fears most the next day … just no. All the red flags. I would be writing him off so hard if I were Zach at that point.
And then Jen convinces Zach that he should go after Drew. After a 48-hours, only one bed, forced proximity that ended in Drew sneaking out without a word (and without contact info exchanged), and Zach is supposed to go after him and “win him back”. Ugh. I know that there are actually emotions here and it ends well (we’re in a romance book, obviously), but this just didn’t feel like something the supportive best friend should actually know at this point. It felt like very much the wrong message to me. (Or it needed to be phrased a lot more like “you need this closure for your mental health” not “I’m somehow sure he actually loves you and something else is going on”. ) (The fact that Zach doesn’t have to actually do this helps, but I didn’t like the plan at all.)
I would have liked to see a bit more of the “hours of getting to know one another” that supposedly happened at the hotel. It just felt like we mostly saw sex or anxiety with the occasional funny anecdote. I did like the Superman Discord friends and running Superman jokes. I really liked Drew’s brother stepping up when he realised there was a problem, and how supportive Jen was (generally). I loved Milo, and Drew and Zach’s shared love of animals. I did like that Drew went all in on trying to fix his mistake, and I admired Zach’s forgiveness and understanding (maybe he has a much better understanding of anxiety than I do, and that let him be more empathetic).
I received an ARC from GRR. This is my honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 14, 2024
Flying Virgins
Thirty year old Drew Parker has a great job as a lawyer in Dallas but working mostly in Family Law has him feeling very disheartened and that love and marriage is not worth all the pain especially when even same sex marriages end in divorce. He has buried his own sexuality mostly at the behest of his mother. She thinks it will be safer for him to play straight. Still, it doesn’t stop her from talking about grandchildren at family gatherings and making him feel guilty.
Returning from a business trip in New York, where he will have to change planes twice, he’s seated beside a young man who is behaving strangely even before the plane moves from the loading bay. Once Drew settles in his seat he takes more notice and says a few words to the guy who admits he is terrified of flying. By the time the plane starts taxi-ing down the runway, the man is gripping Drew’s hand like a lifeline. Throughout the flight Drew has chatted and calmed him, learning his name, Zach Harrison, who is CEO of a Dog Rescue Centre in Albuquerque, New Mexico, swapping stories about their hero, Superman/Clark Kent. Zach hadn’t failed to notice just how gorgeous his ‘saviour’ was either.
Both will have to change flights in Pittsburg and fly on to Dallas, Drew’s hometown and then Zach will change again for Albuquerque. Unfortunately nearing the end of first leg of the journey they hit huge turbulence and Zach’s anxiety levels went off scales. Drew managed to get him into the terminal only to learn that all flights were now grounded due to the storm and runways were deep in snow.
Drew saved Zach any more anxiety by managing to use his companies Black coloured Credit Card to get the only available accommodation left, the Presidential Suite, $1800 per night, full room service and breakfast.
With both guys warm feelings towards each other hotting up with each passing minute, that Presidential Suite was well worth it. Especially when their stay was delayed due to weather conditions and neither guy wanted to leave.
Weirdly I felt to privileged to see the way these two guys were growing their feelings, they way they asked and told what they wanted. For first timers they were so brave and honest with each other. I was amazed but very happy that author gave a huge page count dedicated to this, their first time together. Besides the hot tub, there was plenty of steamy goings on. It never felt like a Hook-up.
To find out exactly what happened there get a copy of K C Elle’s debut book ‘Fear of Flying’. More important you’ll find out what happened between these two gorgeous 30 something guys both having their first ‘ Firsts’ of everything they never knew they were missing. How will they do ‘long distance boyfriend’.
This is an excellent debut novel and I’d definitely read more from K C Elle in the future.
Thirty year old Drew Parker has a great job as a lawyer in Dallas but working mostly in Family Law has him feeling very disheartened and that love and marriage is not worth all the pain especially when even same sex marriages end in divorce. He has buried his own sexuality mostly at the behest of his mother. She thinks it will be safer for him to play straight. Still, it doesn’t stop her from talking about grandchildren at family gatherings and making him feel guilty.
Returning from a business trip in New York, where he will have to change planes twice, he’s seated beside a young man who is behaving strangely even before the plane moves from the loading bay. Once Drew settles in his seat he takes more notice and says a few words to the guy who admits he is terrified of flying. By the time the plane starts taxi-ing down the runway, the man is gripping Drew’s hand like a lifeline. Throughout the flight Drew has chatted and calmed him, learning his name, Zach Harrison, who is CEO of a Dog Rescue Centre in Albuquerque, New Mexico, swapping stories about their hero, Superman/Clark Kent. Zach hadn’t failed to notice just how gorgeous his ‘saviour’ was either.
Both will have to change flights in Pittsburg and fly on to Dallas, Drew’s hometown and then Zach will change again for Albuquerque. Unfortunately nearing the end of first leg of the journey they hit huge turbulence and Zach’s anxiety levels went off scales. Drew managed to get him into the terminal only to learn that all flights were now grounded due to the storm and runways were deep in snow.
Drew saved Zach any more anxiety by managing to use his companies Black coloured Credit Card to get the only available accommodation left, the Presidential Suite, $1800 per night, full room service and breakfast.
With both guys warm feelings towards each other hotting up with each passing minute, that Presidential Suite was well worth it. Especially when their stay was delayed due to weather conditions and neither guy wanted to leave.
Weirdly I felt to privileged to see the way these two guys were growing their feelings, they way they asked and told what they wanted. For first timers they were so brave and honest with each other. I was amazed but very happy that author gave a huge page count dedicated to this, their first time together. Besides the hot tub, there was plenty of steamy goings on. It never felt like a Hook-up.
To find out exactly what happened there get a copy of K C Elle’s debut book ‘Fear of Flying’. More important you’ll find out what happened between these two gorgeous 30 something guys both having their first ‘ Firsts’ of everything they never knew they were missing. How will they do ‘long distance boyfriend’.
This is an excellent debut novel and I’d definitely read more from K C Elle in the future.
July 4, 2024
I was really fortunate to get an ARC for this book, and I cannot wait for everyone else to get a chance to read it too! This was a 4.5 ⭐️ debut novel.
Listen... I'm a sucker for Forced Proximity and Only One Bed. But then KC Elle went and added two Virgin MCs?!?! Stunning.
This books is disgustingly sweet and the instalove was instaloving. But what really sucked me in was the vulnerability we see in each MC while together and individually. Look, I've read a lot of books (but not as much as some others) and I've seen a lot of immediate acceptance to instalove and whatnot. But this one... this one is a journey of acceptance for not only one of the MCs but the MCs family as well, all while the MC fights internally with the fight to get out of the closet he's been "lovingly" shoved into.
One MC is fighting anxiety that is crippling and his family a little overbearing but loving. Together, these two create a safe space for one another. There's laughter, there's nerdy conversations, and tears. I definitely stayed up way too late on a work night to read this, and it was truly worth it.
Listen... I'm a sucker for Forced Proximity and Only One Bed. But then KC Elle went and added two Virgin MCs?!?! Stunning.
This books is disgustingly sweet and the instalove was instaloving. But what really sucked me in was the vulnerability we see in each MC while together and individually. Look, I've read a lot of books (but not as much as some others) and I've seen a lot of immediate acceptance to instalove and whatnot. But this one... this one is a journey of acceptance for not only one of the MCs but the MCs family as well, all while the MC fights internally with the fight to get out of the closet he's been "lovingly" shoved into.
One MC is fighting anxiety that is crippling and his family a little overbearing but loving. Together, these two create a safe space for one another. There's laughter, there's nerdy conversations, and tears. I definitely stayed up way too late on a work night to read this, and it was truly worth it.
August 31, 2024
No. I can't believe I fell for the pretty cover. Again. I loved this style on B. Neil's books and made the big mistake of thinking this book would be similarly good!
First of all, the first half of the book is agonizing, their making out is super long, it all takes place in practically one space, like one room. Then - if you are an educated American, this book will offend you on so many levels. First of all, it reads very,very, very, very IMMATURE = full of generalizing and unfair statements, and then also, you have to get through a plot that involves spending half the book in a hotel, kissing all the time, falling in love within six hours, and... then running.
What about these shallow generalizations?
Please, read and decide for yourself. These are words the author put in the book:
Shaming hard work.
You need to FEELING ASHAMED for having a good job. Being a lawyer, for example.
Quote:
Curiously, not only does Drew feel guilty over being a lawyer, but his love interest Zach has a hint of distaste on his face because Drew has a good job he worked hard for and has money, while Zach works in the only morally acceptable job: helping animals.
Wait for it...
Quote:
YES, how perfect?! The only job that can be respected. Animal charity. All other people in all other professions—You can't be proud of your hard work, please-feel guilty!
Cheep generalizing about men (at least make it creative!)
Quote:
If you are, for example, the daughter of a Greek man as I am - a human being with a blue-collar job, who destroyed his spine working like crazy for his wife and four kids—15 hours daily to put food on the table—you'd take deep offense reading this kind of generalizing and harmful statement.
You could at least explain in more detail what you mean and not just hit us with blank statements.
CHEAP, shallow and hurtful.
How dare you?
Another gem:
Quote:
Yes, because trashing exes never happens when women talk about them. N E V E R?
People are toxic, period. It's not specific to gender.
Please, be more fair!
The Drew character can't relate to any other people unless they are gay / and they can't be white.
WHAT? Seriously? But he is white! WTF?
Quote:
Uhh, those white men again. What a horror you have in America. I have visited 34 countries in my life, including extremely poor ones where women have no rights at all, but nothing compared to America, right?
Silly, childish, uneducated blank statements. Again - I said the book reads immaturely, as if the author had not educated themselves. I stand by my words.
But wait, it's not the end!
The toxic masculinity rant starts when we talk about a Superman movie!
Quote:
Yes, because Captain Marvel wasn't toxic at all. Or She-Hulk. No, not toxic at all. In America women are only sweet angels, in Greece, women are just humans, you know? We can also be toxic.
Please, again, be more fair!
Then we hear rants about a TOXIC mother (yeah, she mostly deserves it, but it was just so badly done... and Drew's reactions are super passive-aggressive when mentioning how bad she was for trying to protect him from stuff she considered dangerous, like hate crimes!).
And Drew himself?
Not toxic whatsoever—running away without saying a word.
Those who tend to accuse other people of toxicity tend to be toxic themselves.
News flash.
Then we have the horrible Texas. This horrible place, where horrible people live. Monsters, devils.
Yep, the book was just one-sided, SUPER immature.
It's like the author is very young(I would say maybe 20?), not very educated + spends all day on TikTok and decided to turn it into a book. If this is your type of stuff, be my guest, read it. If you agree, read it. It may not be that horrible for you.
However, if you are not American—or if you are actually an educated and fair/kind person who does not like to make unfair generalizations, who sees life in all its complexity—the book will offend you.
My piece of advice for the author: you really don't need to put all this unfair stuff into your book to write a good book that moves people's hearts. Just don't simplify things! There are bad and good people in both genders.
Also please, be more fair to hardworking people!
Generalizing is hurtful (and kind of toxic!) :(
First of all, the first half of the book is agonizing, their making out is super long, it all takes place in practically one space, like one room. Then - if you are an educated American, this book will offend you on so many levels. First of all, it reads very,very, very, very IMMATURE = full of generalizing and unfair statements, and then also, you have to get through a plot that involves spending half the book in a hotel, kissing all the time, falling in love within six hours, and... then running.
What about these shallow generalizations?
Please, read and decide for yourself. These are words the author put in the book:
Shaming hard work.
You need to FEELING ASHAMED for having a good job. Being a lawyer, for example.
Quote:
"“I’m, uh, an attorney.” Drew could see the hint of distaste in Zach’s eyes as he nodded slowly—clearly a strike against him."
Curiously, not only does Drew feel guilty over being a lawyer, but his love interest Zach has a hint of distaste on his face because Drew has a good job he worked hard for and has money, while Zach works in the only morally acceptable job: helping animals.
Wait for it...
Quote:
"“I, um, I’m the executive director of a midsized dog rescue organization.” Drew’s heart flip-flopped madly in his chest, and he shook his head in disbelief. Zach fucking ran an animal charity. God, how perfect could he get?"
YES, how perfect?! The only job that can be respected. Animal charity. All other people in all other professions—You can't be proud of your hard work, please-feel guilty!
Cheep generalizing about men (at least make it creative!)
Quote:
"Just . . . old white men. As much as he hated to be the one to stereotype, they were the biggest problem in the state, the country—large and in charge."
If you are, for example, the daughter of a Greek man as I am - a human being with a blue-collar job, who destroyed his spine working like crazy for his wife and four kids—15 hours daily to put food on the table—you'd take deep offense reading this kind of generalizing and harmful statement.
You could at least explain in more detail what you mean and not just hit us with blank statements.
CHEAP, shallow and hurtful.
How dare you?
Another gem:
Quote:
"Listening to misogynistic men berate their soon-to-be exes and then hopping on a conference call first thing Monday morning for the weekly staff meeting."
Yes, because trashing exes never happens when women talk about them. N E V E R?
People are toxic, period. It's not specific to gender.
Please, be more fair!
The Drew character can't relate to any other people unless they are gay / and they can't be white.
WHAT? Seriously? But he is white! WTF?
Quote:
"And I can’t really relate to the partners or other associates because, uh, they’re all married or . . . um, straight, older, white . . . if you know what I mean. But it is what it is."
Uhh, those white men again. What a horror you have in America. I have visited 34 countries in my life, including extremely poor ones where women have no rights at all, but nothing compared to America, right?
Silly, childish, uneducated blank statements. Again - I said the book reads immaturely, as if the author had not educated themselves. I stand by my words.
But wait, it's not the end!
The toxic masculinity rant starts when we talk about a Superman movie!
Quote:
"I hope they fire him and hire Kevin Smith to rewrite it. He deserves another go at a Superman movie. Anyone but Blaine Goodman, the king of toxic masculinity in filmmaking.”
Yes, because Captain Marvel wasn't toxic at all. Or She-Hulk. No, not toxic at all. In America women are only sweet angels, in Greece, women are just humans, you know? We can also be toxic.
Please, again, be more fair!
Then we hear rants about a TOXIC mother (yeah, she mostly deserves it, but it was just so badly done... and Drew's reactions are super passive-aggressive when mentioning how bad she was for trying to protect him from stuff she considered dangerous, like hate crimes!).
And Drew himself?
Not toxic whatsoever—running away without saying a word.
Those who tend to accuse other people of toxicity tend to be toxic themselves.
News flash.
Then we have the horrible Texas. This horrible place, where horrible people live. Monsters, devils.
Yep, the book was just one-sided, SUPER immature.
It's like the author is very young(I would say maybe 20?), not very educated + spends all day on TikTok and decided to turn it into a book. If this is your type of stuff, be my guest, read it. If you agree, read it. It may not be that horrible for you.
However, if you are not American—or if you are actually an educated and fair/kind person who does not like to make unfair generalizations, who sees life in all its complexity—the book will offend you.
My piece of advice for the author: you really don't need to put all this unfair stuff into your book to write a good book that moves people's hearts. Just don't simplify things! There are bad and good people in both genders.
Also please, be more fair to hardworking people!
Generalizing is hurtful (and kind of toxic!) :(
June 23, 2024
I don’t know how to describe this- it’s somehow wholesome and smutty at the same time. Super sweet slow burn romance at the beginning, spicy middle and then a little angst and anxiety for texture? A smooth HEA finish! Such a satisfying read. This is a debut novel and I can’t wait for more from this author. A great escapist comfort read.
*I read this as a free ARC and am freely and happily giving it 5 stars for being a yummy, well-written, cozy romance with anxiety rep, cinnamon roll MCs and a HEA. I am sensitive to bad grammar and continuity errors and I didn’t find any. Proceed with confidence!
*I read this as a free ARC and am freely and happily giving it 5 stars for being a yummy, well-written, cozy romance with anxiety rep, cinnamon roll MCs and a HEA. I am sensitive to bad grammar and continuity errors and I didn’t find any. Proceed with confidence!
July 2, 2024
I don't usually read insta-loves unless in werewolf setting, but I really did enjoy this one. Drew and Zack went from strangers, to 'you can rely on me', to 'wanna be my first?' all in plane+airport setting and WHY DID I GET ALL THE BUTTERFLIES WHILE READING THOSE MOMENTS??
I mean, who would refuse hand-holding support from Mr. Incredibly Hot and Has a Great Ass~?
The sweetness overdose, I can definitely get used to it. I look forward to reading more books from KC!
I mean, who would refuse hand-holding support from Mr. Incredibly Hot and Has a Great Ass~?
The sweetness overdose, I can definitely get used to it. I look forward to reading more books from KC!
July 16, 2024
Perfectly sweet
I was put through an emotional journey with these two.
The depth of emotions and caring for each other was beautiful.
They really were perfect for each other and the fact that they were each other's first times and how sensitively it was covered was perfect.
I was put through an emotional journey with these two.
The depth of emotions and caring for each other was beautiful.
They really were perfect for each other and the fact that they were each other's first times and how sensitively it was covered was perfect.
July 11, 2024
First of all, I've been stranded at an airport, had my flight cancelled and where was my superhero seatmate to save my experience and fall madly in love with me? I think the next time I fly, I need KC Elle to write my story.
I was absolutely over the moon for Drew and Zach and their story 😍. I laughed 😂, I swooned 🫠, I yelled at the author (via my empty living room 😂) when things got difficult 🤬. Watching these two, who have such walls built up (each for their own reasons), tear each other's down was absolutely beautiful and I love their story.
I was absolutely over the moon for Drew and Zach and their story 😍. I laughed 😂, I swooned 🫠, I yelled at the author (via my empty living room 😂) when things got difficult 🤬. Watching these two, who have such walls built up (each for their own reasons), tear each other's down was absolutely beautiful and I love their story.
July 12, 2024
This was a really sweet instalove story by a new to my author. The writing flowed well and kept my turning the pages. I loved the characters and how good they were for each other. I'll definitely read more books by this author.
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily gave my honest review.
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily gave my honest review.
October 8, 2025
This story is exactly what the blurb and tropes suggest - a super sweet story about insta-love and first times. Drew is a closeted divorce lawyer who seems to live his life according to other peoples' expectations instead of what would actually make him happy, and Zach is a nervous, neurotic kind of guy who doesn't like flying. They're both pretty introverted, and awkward(not a complaint, just a statement of fact). I feel like insta-love is rare outside of fantasy, PNR, or omegaverse, so it's interesting the author went in a completely contemporary direction with it. The spice is detailed, emotionally charged and very drawn out.
The Superman references are extra cute to me now that I know the secret origin story about that (iykyk). I actually googled if Blaine Goodman was a real guy catching strays about writing a garbage Superman movie, but this felt like a real conversation people would have about directors and pop culture and everything.
There's a bit of drama/angst with Drew's family and with Drew temporarily dipping because he doesn't feel like he deserves love, but overall it's a pretty low angst, feel-good type of story. If you're looking for a very low angst insta-love romance with a lot of fluff and spice, you will definitely want to read this!
The Superman references are extra cute to me now that I know the secret origin story about that (iykyk). I actually googled if Blaine Goodman was a real guy catching strays about writing a garbage Superman movie, but this felt like a real conversation people would have about directors and pop culture and everything.
There's a bit of drama/angst with Drew's family and with Drew temporarily dipping because he doesn't feel like he deserves love, but overall it's a pretty low angst, feel-good type of story. If you're looking for a very low angst insta-love romance with a lot of fluff and spice, you will definitely want to read this!
September 9, 2024
This book was just a big warm hug put into written-form 🥹💕 So tender and sweet, with a tad bit of angst, and ALL the feels!! The emotions seriously were strong and I loved how real it all felt. Yes, it very much is insta-love like it says, but with picking up a book that *is* insta-love, it kinda is just nice to have something like this book that's... like an escapist fantasy? I'm just so happy that these boys found each other in the most chance circumstances regardless of how realistic something like that could happen in real life. That's why it's a romance novel anyway, right? It's so dang sweet. These boys meet and fall in love. And I like it like that, gimme all the fluff! 💕💖💕💖
But it wasn't JUST fluff, there were realistic portrayals of anxiety, a little bit of tension, and very wonderful spicy times. An amazing read for when you just want something nice and heartwarming! ✨
But it wasn't JUST fluff, there were realistic portrayals of anxiety, a little bit of tension, and very wonderful spicy times. An amazing read for when you just want something nice and heartwarming! ✨
September 14, 2024
It’s insta love that’s done really well! The connection didn’t feel superficial or weird, it felt organic and the progression and how they got there didn’t give off the typical instalove vibes which I really liked. I also liked how sweet the MCs were to each other and how adorable their love was as they both navigated all these new things. The epilogue was cavity inducing.
So why the 2 stars? I was BORED. I literally skipped 20% of the book in the middle, I got to about 50% and at that point I had already grown so bored of them snuggling up in the hotel room I couldn’t do it any more. There wasn’t enough cuteness for me to forgive how bored I was. Most of the book was literally them just canoodling and having sex in a hotel room. From 50% to 85% I skipped and skimmed.
So why the 2 stars? I was BORED. I literally skipped 20% of the book in the middle, I got to about 50% and at that point I had already grown so bored of them snuggling up in the hotel room I couldn’t do it any more. There wasn’t enough cuteness for me to forgive how bored I was. Most of the book was literally them just canoodling and having sex in a hotel room. From 50% to 85% I skipped and skimmed.
July 14, 2024
Another day, another ARC, another moment to try something new. Here's K.C. Elle's "Fear of Flying."
["Love is in the air. Probably. Most likely. But will a bit of turbulence get in the way of their love taking flight?
Drew Parker knows he’s never going to get married. Fall in love. Have a family. But that’s okay, really. It’s safer that way—living life out to his family but otherwise in the closet—just as his parents have always told him. Besides, though he’s attracted to men, he’s never felt the urge to actually be intimate with anyone. So, really, it doesn’t matter.
Until Drew meets Zach.
Zach Harrison’s anxiety doesn’t rule his entire life, just mostly his social life. And undeniably his love life. According to his best friend, Jen, it’s the sole reason why he’s never had a date or even been kissed. He’s hoping someday he’ll just run into his Prince Charming and they’ll live happily ever after. But real life’s not that simple.
When Tired-of-Lawyering-All-Weekend Drew meets Absolutely-Terrified-of-Flying Zach, Drew comes to Zach’s rescue, and sparks seem to fly. And when a snowstorm grounds their connecting flight—and every flight in the city—their instant love connection starts to soar.
After spending almost two blissfully perfect days in the same hotel room being in love, it’s clear they’re made for each other. But is “meant to be” enough to help Drew finally get over his fear of flying?"]
God!!! This book was so freaking adorable! Watching them connect on the plane, watching them fall in love at the airpot hotel, watching them discover themselves and their true paths in life. It was glorious and beautiful and so achingly perfect.
The spice was so fluffy and trusting and sweet! I mean, honestly, this book was a tooth-ache of adorableness, but it was so damn worth it (even with the trigger warnings). As was the hour I spent crying over these two (worth it).
I can't believe this utter gem was K.C.'s debut novel (if this is what she can do right off the bat, I can't even imagine what she's going to do when she really gets in the zone).
Text from Jen to Zach: "'I know you're not suggesting I trigger my social anxiety to fix my flying anxiety.'"
Drew about Zach: "Though, god, what he really needed to know was that he wasn't alone in this feeling, this out of control, wildly wonderful and terrifying...whatever it was. Butterflies and blushing and desire and...something more."
Trigger Warnings: homophobia, toxic parenting, anxiety, aerophobia, and more.
#gayromancereviews #arcs #arcteammember
#thenoblesmerman #ssgenesee #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
["Love is in the air. Probably. Most likely. But will a bit of turbulence get in the way of their love taking flight?
Drew Parker knows he’s never going to get married. Fall in love. Have a family. But that’s okay, really. It’s safer that way—living life out to his family but otherwise in the closet—just as his parents have always told him. Besides, though he’s attracted to men, he’s never felt the urge to actually be intimate with anyone. So, really, it doesn’t matter.
Until Drew meets Zach.
Zach Harrison’s anxiety doesn’t rule his entire life, just mostly his social life. And undeniably his love life. According to his best friend, Jen, it’s the sole reason why he’s never had a date or even been kissed. He’s hoping someday he’ll just run into his Prince Charming and they’ll live happily ever after. But real life’s not that simple.
When Tired-of-Lawyering-All-Weekend Drew meets Absolutely-Terrified-of-Flying Zach, Drew comes to Zach’s rescue, and sparks seem to fly. And when a snowstorm grounds their connecting flight—and every flight in the city—their instant love connection starts to soar.
After spending almost two blissfully perfect days in the same hotel room being in love, it’s clear they’re made for each other. But is “meant to be” enough to help Drew finally get over his fear of flying?"]
God!!! This book was so freaking adorable! Watching them connect on the plane, watching them fall in love at the airpot hotel, watching them discover themselves and their true paths in life. It was glorious and beautiful and so achingly perfect.
The spice was so fluffy and trusting and sweet! I mean, honestly, this book was a tooth-ache of adorableness, but it was so damn worth it (even with the trigger warnings). As was the hour I spent crying over these two (worth it).
I can't believe this utter gem was K.C.'s debut novel (if this is what she can do right off the bat, I can't even imagine what she's going to do when she really gets in the zone).
Text from Jen to Zach: "'I know you're not suggesting I trigger my social anxiety to fix my flying anxiety.'"
Drew about Zach: "Though, god, what he really needed to know was that he wasn't alone in this feeling, this out of control, wildly wonderful and terrifying...whatever it was. Butterflies and blushing and desire and...something more."
Trigger Warnings: homophobia, toxic parenting, anxiety, aerophobia, and more.
#gayromancereviews #arcs #arcteammember
#thenoblesmerman #ssgenesee #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
July 11, 2024
This is a debut novel by KC Elle and I'm so grateful I got it as an ARC. This book was so unique. I have never read an insta-love, endearing, swoony and spicy book that just worked! Here it is. All of that together and you have a huge adoration for Drew and Zach.
Drew is an attorney yet to make partner and isn't sure that he even really likes his job. Closeted and convinced that he is forever going to live a boring life with online friends and little support from his family, Drew struggles with being truly happy. His volunteer time at the dog rescue and Discord friends get him through. On one of Drew's flights home from a work function, he is seated next to adorable Zach.
Zach runs a non profit dog rescue and has never met someone that he feels he can connect with on an intimate level. His best friend Jen is a gem, and she is his life force. Zach has crippling anxiety and hates flying, but is forced to to help with funding and events for work. Jen is his text go to and Superman savior when he gets on the plane. This particular flight seats him beside the hotty Drew.
It's insta-love, hand holding, conversation, banter and flirting all in one. The 2 men are enamored with one another. So, when their connecting flight is cancelled, they are forced to stay in the airport hotel. Sparks fly, first times, gentle and intense, feelings, kisses... Everything. It's an amazing day and a half for them. They work to figure out how this could happen and how they could work long distance, Drew still very closeted and Zach very anxious.
Will it be too much??
This is warm and endearing and wholesome and completely spicy. I really liked the story and the men. Jen and Brian/Sherri are amazing supporting characters and this one just did it.
✈️ Anxiety rep
🐶 Virgin MMCs
✈️ Homophobia
🐶 Insta-love
✈️ Strangers to lovers
🐶 Forced proximity
Story: 4/5⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 4/5🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Drew is an attorney yet to make partner and isn't sure that he even really likes his job. Closeted and convinced that he is forever going to live a boring life with online friends and little support from his family, Drew struggles with being truly happy. His volunteer time at the dog rescue and Discord friends get him through. On one of Drew's flights home from a work function, he is seated next to adorable Zach.
Zach runs a non profit dog rescue and has never met someone that he feels he can connect with on an intimate level. His best friend Jen is a gem, and she is his life force. Zach has crippling anxiety and hates flying, but is forced to to help with funding and events for work. Jen is his text go to and Superman savior when he gets on the plane. This particular flight seats him beside the hotty Drew.
It's insta-love, hand holding, conversation, banter and flirting all in one. The 2 men are enamored with one another. So, when their connecting flight is cancelled, they are forced to stay in the airport hotel. Sparks fly, first times, gentle and intense, feelings, kisses... Everything. It's an amazing day and a half for them. They work to figure out how this could happen and how they could work long distance, Drew still very closeted and Zach very anxious.
Will it be too much??
This is warm and endearing and wholesome and completely spicy. I really liked the story and the men. Jen and Brian/Sherri are amazing supporting characters and this one just did it.
✈️ Anxiety rep
🐶 Virgin MMCs
✈️ Homophobia
🐶 Insta-love
✈️ Strangers to lovers
🐶 Forced proximity
Story: 4/5⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 4/5🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
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