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Veiled
Waylon
I’m a music manager. I’ve taken the smallest artists and made them soar into superstardom. I’m good at what I do, and I never fail.
Except with him. I let him down, and that doesn’t sit right with me.
No. I’ll track Justin St. James down and find a way to make him happy and settled.
No matter what it takes.
Justin
I’m so tired of being Justin St. James. Of people invading my space and acting like they own me. Like I owe them for my fame.
It’s all about the music for me. I love it. But the fame . . . I could do without.
So I see my chance, and I take it. Only maybe I didn’t realize just how much Waylon, my manager, did for me. How inexperienced and naive I am.
He thinks I can have it all—that he can find a way for me to be happy. But I’m not so certain that can happen.
I want the music, but I still crave that beautiful veil of privacy.
Is it even possible to have it all?
I’m a music manager. I’ve taken the smallest artists and made them soar into superstardom. I’m good at what I do, and I never fail.
Except with him. I let him down, and that doesn’t sit right with me.
No. I’ll track Justin St. James down and find a way to make him happy and settled.
No matter what it takes.
Justin
I’m so tired of being Justin St. James. Of people invading my space and acting like they own me. Like I owe them for my fame.
It’s all about the music for me. I love it. But the fame . . . I could do without.
So I see my chance, and I take it. Only maybe I didn’t realize just how much Waylon, my manager, did for me. How inexperienced and naive I am.
He thinks I can have it all—that he can find a way for me to be happy. But I’m not so certain that can happen.
I want the music, but I still crave that beautiful veil of privacy.
Is it even possible to have it all?
196 pages, Paperback
Published August 17, 2024
49 people are currently reading
116 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Dykes
95 books2,533 followersNicole Dykes is a wife and a professional assistant/mom to two gorgeous girls. Currently residing in Kansas, she’s a lover of coffee, Kansas City Chiefs, and all things romance.
She's found her passion in writing M/M romance because love is love is love. Some popular works include Hostile, The Spark of Hope Series, and The Kensley Panthers Series!
Email at nicoledykes_author@yahoo.com
Or visit my website at Www.authornicoledykes.com
She's found her passion in writing M/M romance because love is love is love. Some popular works include Hostile, The Spark of Hope Series, and The Kensley Panthers Series!
Email at nicoledykes_author@yahoo.com
Or visit my website at Www.authornicoledykes.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
June 3, 2024
Waylon has been Justin’s manager for the last decade, until Justin up and disappears without a trace. Months go by without hearing from him, until Waylon tracks him down in the middle of nowhere Tennessee.
Justin loves performing and creating music, but being famous made him absolutely miserable. These months hiding away from the spotlight have been everything he’s ever wanted, but he finds himself missing the rush he gets from playing in front of a crowd.
Waylon shows up and wrecks his peace, pointing out everything wrong with his plans to play small venues and keeping a low profile. Having Waylon around reminds Justin of just how much he needs Waylon—whether he wants him around or not.
The attraction and tension between these two crackled from the start, and as things heat and lines blur between them, I was here for it! But the longing between Waylon and Justin is what really did me in. They could deny what was between them all they wanted, but their feelings had been building for a decade, and they were just so perfect together.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
grumpy x 2
manager x rockstar
fwb
small town
found family
Justin loves performing and creating music, but being famous made him absolutely miserable. These months hiding away from the spotlight have been everything he’s ever wanted, but he finds himself missing the rush he gets from playing in front of a crowd.
Waylon shows up and wrecks his peace, pointing out everything wrong with his plans to play small venues and keeping a low profile. Having Waylon around reminds Justin of just how much he needs Waylon—whether he wants him around or not.
The attraction and tension between these two crackled from the start, and as things heat and lines blur between them, I was here for it! But the longing between Waylon and Justin is what really did me in. They could deny what was between them all they wanted, but their feelings had been building for a decade, and they were just so perfect together.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
grumpy x 2
manager x rockstar
fwb
small town
found family
August 20, 2024
Tropes: rockstar/manager, forced proximity
Feels: 2.5/5
Steam*: 2.5/5
Kinks: n/a
Angst: low
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings: past homophobia, homophobic parents
3.5 stars
Justin is almost 30, bisexual but not out. He's been part of the rock band Immoral for 10 years off and on because they took some hiatuses. Waylon has been his manager for 10 years. Justin has never liked the fame and attention that come with being famous, he just wants the music. He finally has enough and quits the business. Right before he leaves town he has a one night stand with Waylon. There's always been this sexual tension between them but neither of them let themselves go there, but Justin knowing that he's leaving doesn't have that same reservation anymore. Waylon feels horrible and worried when Justin disappears. It takes him like 8 months but he manages to find him in a remote cabin in Tennessee.
Waylon follows him there and forces him to talk and reveal what his objections were to his career path and what he really wants. And then Waylon works hard to give him what he wants and needs. Because Justin wants a musical career still but he wants it to look very different from what it was before. As they are working on this, they slip into a sexual relationship but trying to keep it casual. Waylon is an anti-relationship guy. He was raised with homophobic parents that were not supportive of him in a town where everybody around him kind of had that close mindset. He's gay and he's worked hard to be proud of his career after leaving home, trying to make something for himself. Justin wants to make it a relationship but Waylon won't. The people around them say they are dumb because they've seen attention and feelings between them over the years.
This was a pretty short story it was about 150 pages. I have a lot of fondness for The supporting cast of characters in this book. Grady and Ryan's story is one of my favorite Nicole Dyke's books. And I loved seeing Jenny again, I love her. She's Waylon's best friend. Cooper was once again in the background working his magic getting people to adopt animals who need a home. This was a light low angst story. There was good steam to it and it was nice that there were feelings and they got a nice happily ever after.
I was a little bit disappointed though. I wanted a little bit more from this story. I felt like their relationship was a little too casual especially given they're supposed to have these feelings simmering between them over the last 10 years. We didn't see any pining or deep emotional connection or real payoff from that 10 years of history between them. So it's almost like, did they even have 10 years together before the events of this book? This author has done a better job sewing depth into a relationship before on other books of hers where characters knew each other for a long time and had feelings before their relationship turn sexual.
Another random thing, I feel like Waylon should have been older than he was. Waylon being only 32 and Justin being 30 didn't seem to make sense. The timeline of Waylon being a manager for 10 years just didn't make sense. I feel like he should have been older than that.
Also just as an FYI this book included a 35ish page or so short story about Mason an 18 year old and Owen a 27 year old restaurant owner in a small town. Mason is a virgin, a baby gay who has had to be in the closet because of his homophobic small town, and now he's inherited a cottage in a another small town and is starting over being his authentic self for once. And he meets a Playboy Owen who doesn't like to get involved with Town residents but will hook up with all the gay tourists coming through town. That short story was too small to really be much. It was over too soon and an unbelievable happy ending because it was just too few pages to show them as a believable couple long term.
Some notable moments:
This is sweet. "I shouldn’t be flying to Tennessee tonight. I shouldn’t be chasing a guy who doesn’t want to be chased. But I can’t just leave it alone. He’s not okay. I can feel it deep in my bones. And for whatever damn reason, if Justin isn’t okay, I’m not okay."
Jenny supremacy! "“I’ve been told I’m being an idiot.” My brow furrows. “By who?” “Jenny.” He still hasn’t unwrapped his arms from around his middle, looking shaky and tired. Sick almost. My brow furrows more, and I cock my head to the side. “Doesn’t she call everyone an idiot? I’m pretty sure those were her first words when she met me.”"
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
Feels: 2.5/5
Steam*: 2.5/5
Kinks: n/a
Angst: low
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings: past homophobia, homophobic parents
3.5 stars
Justin is almost 30, bisexual but not out. He's been part of the rock band Immoral for 10 years off and on because they took some hiatuses. Waylon has been his manager for 10 years. Justin has never liked the fame and attention that come with being famous, he just wants the music. He finally has enough and quits the business. Right before he leaves town he has a one night stand with Waylon. There's always been this sexual tension between them but neither of them let themselves go there, but Justin knowing that he's leaving doesn't have that same reservation anymore. Waylon feels horrible and worried when Justin disappears. It takes him like 8 months but he manages to find him in a remote cabin in Tennessee.
Waylon follows him there and forces him to talk and reveal what his objections were to his career path and what he really wants. And then Waylon works hard to give him what he wants and needs. Because Justin wants a musical career still but he wants it to look very different from what it was before. As they are working on this, they slip into a sexual relationship but trying to keep it casual. Waylon is an anti-relationship guy. He was raised with homophobic parents that were not supportive of him in a town where everybody around him kind of had that close mindset. He's gay and he's worked hard to be proud of his career after leaving home, trying to make something for himself. Justin wants to make it a relationship but Waylon won't. The people around them say they are dumb because they've seen attention and feelings between them over the years.
This was a pretty short story it was about 150 pages. I have a lot of fondness for The supporting cast of characters in this book. Grady and Ryan's story is one of my favorite Nicole Dyke's books. And I loved seeing Jenny again, I love her. She's Waylon's best friend. Cooper was once again in the background working his magic getting people to adopt animals who need a home. This was a light low angst story. There was good steam to it and it was nice that there were feelings and they got a nice happily ever after.
I was a little bit disappointed though. I wanted a little bit more from this story. I felt like their relationship was a little too casual especially given they're supposed to have these feelings simmering between them over the last 10 years. We didn't see any pining or deep emotional connection or real payoff from that 10 years of history between them. So it's almost like, did they even have 10 years together before the events of this book? This author has done a better job sewing depth into a relationship before on other books of hers where characters knew each other for a long time and had feelings before their relationship turn sexual.
Another random thing, I feel like Waylon should have been older than he was. Waylon being only 32 and Justin being 30 didn't seem to make sense. The timeline of Waylon being a manager for 10 years just didn't make sense. I feel like he should have been older than that.
Also just as an FYI this book included a 35ish page or so short story about Mason an 18 year old and Owen a 27 year old restaurant owner in a small town. Mason is a virgin, a baby gay who has had to be in the closet because of his homophobic small town, and now he's inherited a cottage in a another small town and is starting over being his authentic self for once. And he meets a Playboy Owen who doesn't like to get involved with Town residents but will hook up with all the gay tourists coming through town. That short story was too small to really be much. It was over too soon and an unbelievable happy ending because it was just too few pages to show them as a believable couple long term.
Some notable moments:
This is sweet. "I shouldn’t be flying to Tennessee tonight. I shouldn’t be chasing a guy who doesn’t want to be chased. But I can’t just leave it alone. He’s not okay. I can feel it deep in my bones. And for whatever damn reason, if Justin isn’t okay, I’m not okay."
Jenny supremacy! "“I’ve been told I’m being an idiot.” My brow furrows. “By who?” “Jenny.” He still hasn’t unwrapped his arms from around his middle, looking shaky and tired. Sick almost. My brow furrows more, and I cock my head to the side. “Doesn’t she call everyone an idiot? I’m pretty sure those were her first words when she met me.”"
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 9, 2024
“You ready for another mistake?” his deep voice whispers harshly in my ear.
Me:
Well, this was a sweet lil firecracker of a story.
I really liked it! It's not anything complex, but the story is juuust detailed and long enough to be an excellent read. While I haven't read Immoral (yet), it wasn't hard to jump on to the love train and see the relationships and how everyone connects.
I loved Waylon & Justin as characters and I especially loved that, even though they've been pining for each other for the better part of a decade, the story starts off nice 'n quick with hardly any delay (especially in the spice department). I gotta say, there's something about a frantic fuck that really does it for me; nothing is hotter than characters who just can't keep their hands off each other.
Also, I don't know if this is common for Nicole Dyke's writing since this is the first of her work that I've read, but I really appreciated how, when one the boys felt hurt or rejected or scared, they'd react with a little bit of bitterness. Not only was it hot to see just the dashiest-dash of toxicity, but it made their characters feel all the more authentically imperfect. I looove a character with flaws!!
Overall, a cute lil read! And after seeing Waylon's relationship with Grady & Ryan, I will definitely be reading Immoral very soon!
✧While I received a free e-arc from GRR, all thoughts are my own.✧
June 3, 2024
Justin hooks up with his manager Waylon and then walks away from his band Immoral. Months later, Waylon tracks him down to find out why. It's all about Justin finding himself, Waylon realizing he is in love and their sizzle when they recognized they need each other. It's a shorter book filled with bravery and going for it, love and good friends but most of all finding their true selves. I received a copy of this through Gay Romance Reviews and this is my voluntary opinion.
Read
June 12, 2024Eagerly anticipated and so worth waiting for, Veiled is the story I've been waiting for since reading Immoral .. I love that wherever Justin runs, Waylon is willing to follow - whether it's into the woods or completely upending his life... Justin is just done with everything he's known for the past several years, and Waylon is willing to put his own life on hold to help him... and maybe finally give into the desperate need to take care of Justin in a less than platonic way...These two characters have always had chemistry and it was so nice to see that they didn't rush everything in terms of defining their new relationship.
As with all Nicole Dykes stories you get more than just surface lust and chemistry - you get to see deep into each character's psyche and watch them figure out how to be the partner the other man needs.
As with all Nicole Dykes stories you get more than just surface lust and chemistry - you get to see deep into each character's psyche and watch them figure out how to be the partner the other man needs.
October 14, 2025
POV:
You’re always professional and never cross any lines, but you’re head-over-heels in love with a client …
Said client disappears and purposely drives a wedge, but you aren’t having it.
Written in alternating, first-person POV.
Present tense.
This drew me in right away, loved the rockstar vibes and the manager who obviously is pining for his client, but knows he shouldn’t be. He also, though, doesn’t give up on him, when things are sorta ‘down’ and he pulls a disappearing act. It’s actually very sweet.
🎸 Forbidden client / manager relationship.
💚 M/M.
🎸 Friends / working relationship to lovers.
💚 Forced proximity.
🎸vLife on the DL.
💚 Small, remote town living.
🎸 Rockstar MMC.
💚 Communication issues / he doesn’t realize it’s love.
Overall:
I enjoyed this and would read more from this author, with or without these leads / in this world.
4 stars.
🎧 Audio:
Flawless audio production with beautiful narration, both voice actors were perfect. 5 stars. 🦩
You’re always professional and never cross any lines, but you’re head-over-heels in love with a client …
Said client disappears and purposely drives a wedge, but you aren’t having it.
Written in alternating, first-person POV.
Present tense.
This drew me in right away, loved the rockstar vibes and the manager who obviously is pining for his client, but knows he shouldn’t be. He also, though, doesn’t give up on him, when things are sorta ‘down’ and he pulls a disappearing act. It’s actually very sweet.
🎸 Forbidden client / manager relationship.
💚 M/M.
🎸 Friends / working relationship to lovers.
💚 Forced proximity.
🎸vLife on the DL.
💚 Small, remote town living.
🎸 Rockstar MMC.
💚 Communication issues / he doesn’t realize it’s love.
Overall:
I enjoyed this and would read more from this author, with or without these leads / in this world.
4 stars.
🎧 Audio:
Flawless audio production with beautiful narration, both voice actors were perfect. 5 stars. 🦩
July 6, 2024
4.5☆
ᔑᑭᏆᑕᗴ: 🔥🔥🔥
しᗩᑌᏀᕼᔑ: 🤣🤣
Ꭲᗴᗩᖇᔑ:🥲
ᗰᑕᔑ: Waylon, Justin.
ᑭᝪᐯ: 1st, Dual
Ꭲᖇᝪᑭᗴᔑ: Grumpy/Grumpy, Manager/RockStar, Found Family
Okay!!!!
Paren todo que Nicole ha escrito un libro muy diferente a lo que nos tiene acostumbrados,aunque mantiene la fórmula de cómo en todas sus historias, este nos muestra personajes más profundos e interesantes aunque ya han aparecido en otras hisotiras ellos acá muestran el potencial que tenían. Es agradable leer a Nicole, y más cuando un libro te engancha tanto que deseas estar dentro de él más con personajes coml Waylon y Justin. Definitivamente Nicole tiene mucho que darnos a futuro y esto es una gran muestra de ello. Es una lástima que este libro sólo sea exclusivo de su página, aún así vale mucho la pena darle la oportunidad.
ᔑᑭᏆᑕᗴ: 🔥🔥🔥
しᗩᑌᏀᕼᔑ: 🤣🤣
Ꭲᗴᗩᖇᔑ:🥲
ᗰᑕᔑ: Waylon, Justin.
ᑭᝪᐯ: 1st, Dual
Ꭲᖇᝪᑭᗴᔑ: Grumpy/Grumpy, Manager/RockStar, Found Family
Okay!!!!
Paren todo que Nicole ha escrito un libro muy diferente a lo que nos tiene acostumbrados,aunque mantiene la fórmula de cómo en todas sus historias, este nos muestra personajes más profundos e interesantes aunque ya han aparecido en otras hisotiras ellos acá muestran el potencial que tenían. Es agradable leer a Nicole, y más cuando un libro te engancha tanto que deseas estar dentro de él más con personajes coml Waylon y Justin. Definitivamente Nicole tiene mucho que darnos a futuro y esto es una gran muestra de ello. Es una lástima que este libro sólo sea exclusivo de su página, aún así vale mucho la pena darle la oportunidad.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 14, 2025
This was a sweet & easy to listen to audiobook & I think it definitely helps to have read Immoral beforehand (though that was ages ago for me, so did I remember anything? 😅)
*I received an ALC copy, all opinions are my own*
We get the classic pairing of musician & manager, but the twist in this one is that the musician is tired of the whole “scene” and just wants to make his escape. Of course before that happens, they have a one night hookup, which leaves Waylon (the manager) feeling like they have some unfinished business.
I almost wish this was a bit longer as some areas definitely could be easily expanded. But it is a solid shorter story!
*I received an ALC copy, all opinions are my own*
We get the classic pairing of musician & manager, but the twist in this one is that the musician is tired of the whole “scene” and just wants to make his escape. Of course before that happens, they have a one night hookup, which leaves Waylon (the manager) feeling like they have some unfinished business.
I almost wish this was a bit longer as some areas definitely could be easily expanded. But it is a solid shorter story!
June 9, 2024
I really enjoyed this novella! Waylon and Justin have always had serious chemistry but because of the manager/musician relationship nothing has happened, until now. After crossing that line, Justin leaves to begin a simpler life but Waylon finds him. There was a great push and pull until they both finally realize they’re perfect for each other. This is not without some angst, but still a sweet and steamy story.
June 3, 2024
Welllllll this was CUTE.
I love Nicole’s writing so I knew I would love this anyway. A manager and a rockstar? Yes PLEASE. they were so cute. It was so nice seeing the interconnected series in it too. I always love having little cameos of the others 🥺
Waylon and Justin were just so hot and sweet together. It was a short, beautiful romance and I ATE. IT. UP 🥰
I love Nicole’s writing so I knew I would love this anyway. A manager and a rockstar? Yes PLEASE. they were so cute. It was so nice seeing the interconnected series in it too. I always love having little cameos of the others 🥺
Waylon and Justin were just so hot and sweet together. It was a short, beautiful romance and I ATE. IT. UP 🥰
August 27, 2024
It was ok. But nothing special. I could not remember much about the other characters either.
June 6, 2024
4 stars
It's been a while since I've read a book by Nicole Dykes and I'm very glad I had the opportunity to read this one.
Justin is a member of the rock band Immoral (the lead singer of this band is Grady Bell, one of the two MCs of the book "Immoral"), he's very talented but he's been miserable for a long time, he feels like he doesn't have control over his life anymore, despite having a very good agent who always had his best interest at heart.
Waylon is the agent, he's dedicated to his job and he really cares about his clients and he wants to make them happy and satisfied with their jobs. So, when he found out that Justin has been unhappy, it becomes his first priority to help him achieving his dreams.
And despite Justin is determined he's got all under control, Waylon pushes him to accept his help and he promises him he'll work hard for him.
Waylon indeed works his magic. booking the right gigs for Justin, but at the same time the two of them get very close and surrender to the attraction that has been simmering between them for years.
I adored that Justin was completely smitten with Waylon: the chapters with his pov are absolutely beautiful, he's so enthralled with his man, especially during their intimate moments.
Thanks to Waylon, Justin gets to have his love for performances back and to feel safe, protected and cherished.
Waylon is more restrained, he loves his career and he doesn't want to jeopardise all the years he spent building it. But he loves Justin very much and thinking about him as just a client feels all kinds of wrong.
I really liked Grady in this story: he was a true friend for Waylon and he genuinely wanted him happy. I wasn't very fond of Jenny, she was too much the stereotype of strong woman who thinks only about work and career and I didn't like the advices she gave to Waylon at first (I feel she should have known him better and understand what Waylon was feeling, just like Grady did).
What prevented me from giving a higher rate:
I think the author handled very well all the tension in the middle of the book, the MCs' emotions were raw and intense and the story had the right amount of angst for me. But I feel that the last chapters were too rushed, I would have liked to see them navigate their relationship, balancing their careers. it was like the HEA was too sudden.
It was a beautiful and emotional love story and I truly recommend it.
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
It's been a while since I've read a book by Nicole Dykes and I'm very glad I had the opportunity to read this one.
Justin is a member of the rock band Immoral (the lead singer of this band is Grady Bell, one of the two MCs of the book "Immoral"), he's very talented but he's been miserable for a long time, he feels like he doesn't have control over his life anymore, despite having a very good agent who always had his best interest at heart.
Waylon is the agent, he's dedicated to his job and he really cares about his clients and he wants to make them happy and satisfied with their jobs. So, when he found out that Justin has been unhappy, it becomes his first priority to help him achieving his dreams.
And despite Justin is determined he's got all under control, Waylon pushes him to accept his help and he promises him he'll work hard for him.
Waylon indeed works his magic. booking the right gigs for Justin, but at the same time the two of them get very close and surrender to the attraction that has been simmering between them for years.
I adored that Justin was completely smitten with Waylon: the chapters with his pov are absolutely beautiful, he's so enthralled with his man, especially during their intimate moments.
Thanks to Waylon, Justin gets to have his love for performances back and to feel safe, protected and cherished.
Waylon is more restrained, he loves his career and he doesn't want to jeopardise all the years he spent building it. But he loves Justin very much and thinking about him as just a client feels all kinds of wrong.
I really liked Grady in this story: he was a true friend for Waylon and he genuinely wanted him happy. I wasn't very fond of Jenny, she was too much the stereotype of strong woman who thinks only about work and career and I didn't like the advices she gave to Waylon at first (I feel she should have known him better and understand what Waylon was feeling, just like Grady did).
What prevented me from giving a higher rate:
I think the author handled very well all the tension in the middle of the book, the MCs' emotions were raw and intense and the story had the right amount of angst for me. But I feel that the last chapters were too rushed, I would have liked to see them navigate their relationship, balancing their careers. it was like the HEA was too sudden.
It was a beautiful and emotional love story and I truly recommend it.
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
December 20, 2025
I saw this audiobook come out and this author is an automatic listen for me at this point and when I starting reading the blurb I was shocked! I had no clue we got Waylon's HEA! I had to go back and listen to Immoral first to get back into this plot line and realized who Jenny was hahaha. The author should definitely make a chart for all these characters and where they crop up hahaha.
I was intrigued by this storyline because of Waylon and how he was in Immoral and really looked out for his client and his love (and how he made friends with Jenny and they were the evil masterminds haha). I wanted to know how he got his love story and knew it wouldn't be easy for him after the hints we were getting. Justin was a tough nut to crack but I could totally get where his thought process was coming from for the most part. Sometimes he needed a good shaking haha, but Waylon told him to his face/told him to him straight what needed to happen or flaws in his plan. I loved how this started with the small shows, then how it grew. I felt for him with the lack of privacy and personal space fans give, makes you really think about how you fangirl over your celebrity crushes and what they really go through with their fame. I know they know it will happen when they signed up for this life, but people are so intrusive and horrible sometimes, no one deserves that!
I liked Waylon and Justin's tension and how they tried to stay away and just said eff it hahaha. Both were delusional they were going to keep it to no feelings. They were adorable and I was so happy when they finally figured things out. It took a bit to get there, but it was worth it in the end. Loved how Waylon was with our favorite OG couple and their growing family, the kid interaction was fantastic, I loved those cute moments. Justin couldn't keep Waylon away from his nieces and nephews essentially, he wasn't going to be happy so far away (and without Wifi, food coffee, and hot showers hahaha).
Storyline definitely gets a 4.5 from me, but the narration was a little jarring coming from Immoral to this one. Now I know we can't always get the same narrators, totally understand, but the performance of Waylon from Immoral to Veiled was a huge jump for me so it was hard to give it 5 stars. Nothing against what the narrators did, they did a great job, and I probably could have given it 5 stars if I hadn't listened to Immoral first. Waylon was portrayed very differently in book 1 then book 2. Looking back he may be closer to book 2's performance but my mind already had him from Immoral so this meeker, higher pitched, sometimes nasally narrator was just different than the deeper/richer tone and big persona we got from Immoral. Again good job by the narrators, I felt the emotions in this one. Watching each other, the small details, the flutters they got and we as listeners got, was fantastic. All the angst in this one!
Recommend anything by this author, I like the wide range she writes and how there are easter eggs in some of these series I hadn't known were connected!
🎧 Audiobook Obsession Reviewer - Flock Team 🎧
I was intrigued by this storyline because of Waylon and how he was in Immoral and really looked out for his client and his love (and how he made friends with Jenny and they were the evil masterminds haha). I wanted to know how he got his love story and knew it wouldn't be easy for him after the hints we were getting. Justin was a tough nut to crack but I could totally get where his thought process was coming from for the most part. Sometimes he needed a good shaking haha, but Waylon told him to his face/told him to him straight what needed to happen or flaws in his plan. I loved how this started with the small shows, then how it grew. I felt for him with the lack of privacy and personal space fans give, makes you really think about how you fangirl over your celebrity crushes and what they really go through with their fame. I know they know it will happen when they signed up for this life, but people are so intrusive and horrible sometimes, no one deserves that!
I liked Waylon and Justin's tension and how they tried to stay away and just said eff it hahaha. Both were delusional they were going to keep it to no feelings. They were adorable and I was so happy when they finally figured things out. It took a bit to get there, but it was worth it in the end. Loved how Waylon was with our favorite OG couple and their growing family, the kid interaction was fantastic, I loved those cute moments. Justin couldn't keep Waylon away from his nieces and nephews essentially, he wasn't going to be happy so far away (and without Wifi, food coffee, and hot showers hahaha).
Storyline definitely gets a 4.5 from me, but the narration was a little jarring coming from Immoral to this one. Now I know we can't always get the same narrators, totally understand, but the performance of Waylon from Immoral to Veiled was a huge jump for me so it was hard to give it 5 stars. Nothing against what the narrators did, they did a great job, and I probably could have given it 5 stars if I hadn't listened to Immoral first. Waylon was portrayed very differently in book 1 then book 2. Looking back he may be closer to book 2's performance but my mind already had him from Immoral so this meeker, higher pitched, sometimes nasally narrator was just different than the deeper/richer tone and big persona we got from Immoral. Again good job by the narrators, I felt the emotions in this one. Watching each other, the small details, the flutters they got and we as listeners got, was fantastic. All the angst in this one!
Recommend anything by this author, I like the wide range she writes and how there are easter eggs in some of these series I hadn't known were connected!
🎧 Audiobook Obsession Reviewer - Flock Team 🎧
June 10, 2024
“I shouldn't be flying to Tennessee tonight. I shouldn't be chasing a guy who doesn't want to be chased. But I can't just leave it alone. He's not okay. I can feel it deep in my bones. And for whatever damn reason, if Justin isn't okay, I'm not okay.”
WOW, starting off skipping all formalities, diving right in and it is HOT! The hook-up that sets everything in motion is off the charts. Justin and Waylon have crazy chemistry and I don’t know how they have resisted giving in to it until now.
Justin just wants to leave his rockstar life behind, write his songs and sing them in low key dive bars. He hates the fanfare that comes with fame, he just wants to make music in peace. To let his beautiful songs out into the world, speaking for him without having to give anyone and everyone a piece of him that they think they’re owed.
To do so he leaves his former life behind, cutting ties and leaving without a word. He, as a character, feels so heavy and lost. And when Waylon finally tracks him down to the middle of nowhere Tennessee he rages. Who does he think he is, following him and insisting on staying when Justin clearly doesn’t want him to.
“But after years of lusting after the gorgeous man who wouldn't stop bossing me around, I was struck stupid and couldn't resist the chance to be with him. I told myself it was goodbye. Only he won't let it be.”
Waylon seems to be drifting after Justin leaves, letting his worry shine through. He needs Justin to be okay and he can’t just let him go. When he finally finds him, he has to stay, he has to make sure and will stop at nothing to give Justin what he wants.
“It's beautiful. He sings softly as he plays the haunting notes. I can't stop watching him, and when his eyes close, his fingers still stroking over the guitar strings, his voice floating out of him, that's when I see it. The serenity of it all. Of him finally getting lost in the music he loves so damn much.”
The push and pull between Waylon and Justin was amazing, both wanting to not want and always giving in, in the end. They just work together. And when Waylon thinks he did what he set out to do and figures his ‘job’ is done. His leaving had me yelling at him, he has his head so far up his own ass that he doesn’t realize he is in love with Justin and has been for years. Having these two finally resolve their issues was so sweet, leading to heart melting epilogue!
“I thought I had it all figured out, but I didn't know anything. I'm lost and aimless. But when he kisses me, like he's doing now, everything makes more sense and less, all at the same time.”
You can read this fine as a standalone, but I urge you to read Immoral before Veiled. It just adds so much to the story overall, enhancing the reading experience.
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for my honest review.
August 15, 2024
𝟒.𝟓 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬
𝐆𝐫𝐮𝐦𝐩𝐲/𝐆𝐫𝐮𝐦𝐩𝐲
𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐫/𝐑𝐨𝐜𝐤𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫
𝐒𝐦𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐓𝐨𝐰𝐧
𝐅𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝 𝐅𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐲
I loved this book. Waylon and Justin both were running from different things.
“𝐈 𝐝𝐨𝐧’𝐭 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞 𝐉𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐧 𝐒𝐭. 𝐉𝐚𝐦𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐲𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞. 𝐈 𝐝𝐨𝐧’𝐭 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐠𝐮𝐲 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐈𝐦𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐚𝐧𝐲𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞.”
Justin just wanted to write his songs the way he wanted, wanted a low-key life, wanted to just sing his songs without the complicated life of fame. All the fans in his space, and huge crowds. He runs off to a small town where he’s finally happy doing what he loves after Waylon, who happens to be his manager, finds him and helps him out. I. Love. Justin. I cannot stress that enough. He just wanted to be happy doing what he loves.
𝐈𝐭’𝐬 𝐛𝐞𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐟𝐮𝐥. 𝐇𝐞 𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐬𝐨𝐟𝐭𝐥𝐲 𝐚𝐬 𝐡𝐞 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐡𝐚𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐬. 𝐈 𝐜𝐚𝐧’𝐭 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐩 𝐰𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐡𝐢𝐦, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐞𝐲𝐞𝐬 𝐜𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐞, 𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐠𝐮𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐫 𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬, 𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐯𝐨𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐟𝐥𝐨𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐡𝐢𝐦, 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭’𝐬 𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐈 𝐬𝐞𝐞 𝐢𝐭. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐢𝐭 𝐚𝐥𝐥. 𝐎𝐟 𝐡𝐢𝐦 𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐠𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐜 𝐡𝐞 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐬 𝐬𝐨 𝐝𝐚𝐦𝐧 𝐦𝐮𝐜𝐡.
I love a “play for me” or a “sing for me” moment. Where it’s just the two of them. 🥰 Justin and Waylon had so much chemistry. I knew they were in love long before it was revealed, lol.
Waylon was a little more complicated. He was a noncommittal person who was all about work. Love didn’t live anywhere near him. Unbeknownst to him, he was in love with Justin long before anything physical happened between them. He often fought what he felt for Justin. Trying his best to be professional, until he couldn’t. He was a person who didn’t receive love from his parents, and the reality of that ran very deep within him.
𝐈 𝐝𝐢𝐝𝐧’𝐭 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐭. 𝐋𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐢𝐬𝐧’𝐭 𝐚 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠. 𝐌𝐲 𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐡𝐚𝐝 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐢𝐫 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞. 𝐌𝐲. 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐩𝐞𝐨𝐩𝐥𝐞 𝐰𝐡𝐨 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐝 𝐦𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭. . . 𝐝𝐢𝐝𝐧’𝐭.
I really felt for Waylon because he just didn’t understand that love really should never have conditions. I’m a firm believer in that. Waylon’s love declaration just warmed my heart. I love how he was the first to say it.
“𝐁𝐞𝐜𝐚𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐈’𝐦 𝐢�� 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐲𝐨𝐮. 𝐁𝐞𝐜𝐚𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐈 𝐥𝐞𝐟𝐭, 𝐤𝐧𝐨𝐰𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐈 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐲𝐨𝐮. 𝐁𝐞𝐜𝐚𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐈 𝐝𝐢𝐝𝐧’𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐤 𝐈 𝐝𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐞𝐝 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞. 𝐈 𝐝𝐢𝐝𝐧’𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐤 𝐈 𝐡𝐚𝐝 𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐮𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲, 𝐢𝐭 𝐰𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐟𝐚𝐝𝐞. 𝐈 𝐝𝐨𝐧’𝐭 𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬.”
Like come on. 🥹 “I don’t understand love without conditions.” Ugh my heart!
“𝐌𝐲 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐡𝐚𝐬 𝐧𝐨 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬, 𝐖𝐚𝐲𝐥𝐨𝐧. 𝐈 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐬𝐨 𝐟𝐮𝐜𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐝𝐞𝐞𝐩𝐥𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞 𝐢𝐭. 𝐍𝐨𝐭 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐦𝐞 𝐛𝐞𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐝.”
How can you not love Justin? 🥹💚💛
As a side note, I’m sorry, but I find Jenny annoying in every single book she’s in. 😂 Grady and Ryan with the kids? I freaking loved it! This was a great read, but then again any book I’ve read by Nicole I have loved.
𝐆𝐫𝐮𝐦𝐩𝐲/𝐆𝐫𝐮𝐦𝐩𝐲
𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐫/𝐑𝐨𝐜𝐤𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫
𝐒𝐦𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐓𝐨𝐰𝐧
𝐅𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝 𝐅𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐲
I loved this book. Waylon and Justin both were running from different things.
“𝐈 𝐝𝐨𝐧’𝐭 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞 𝐉𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐧 𝐒𝐭. 𝐉𝐚𝐦𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐲𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞. 𝐈 𝐝𝐨𝐧’𝐭 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐠𝐮𝐲 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐈𝐦𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐚𝐧𝐲𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞.”
Justin just wanted to write his songs the way he wanted, wanted a low-key life, wanted to just sing his songs without the complicated life of fame. All the fans in his space, and huge crowds. He runs off to a small town where he’s finally happy doing what he loves after Waylon, who happens to be his manager, finds him and helps him out. I. Love. Justin. I cannot stress that enough. He just wanted to be happy doing what he loves.
𝐈𝐭’𝐬 𝐛𝐞𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐟𝐮𝐥. 𝐇𝐞 𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐬𝐨𝐟𝐭𝐥𝐲 𝐚𝐬 𝐡𝐞 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐡𝐚𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐬. 𝐈 𝐜𝐚𝐧’𝐭 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐩 𝐰𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐡𝐢𝐦, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐞𝐲𝐞𝐬 𝐜𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐞, 𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐠𝐮𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐫 𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬, 𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐯𝐨𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐟𝐥𝐨𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐡𝐢𝐦, 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭’𝐬 𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐈 𝐬𝐞𝐞 𝐢𝐭. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐢𝐭 𝐚𝐥𝐥. 𝐎𝐟 𝐡𝐢𝐦 𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐠𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐜 𝐡𝐞 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐬 𝐬𝐨 𝐝𝐚𝐦𝐧 𝐦𝐮𝐜𝐡.
I love a “play for me” or a “sing for me” moment. Where it’s just the two of them. 🥰 Justin and Waylon had so much chemistry. I knew they were in love long before it was revealed, lol.
Waylon was a little more complicated. He was a noncommittal person who was all about work. Love didn’t live anywhere near him. Unbeknownst to him, he was in love with Justin long before anything physical happened between them. He often fought what he felt for Justin. Trying his best to be professional, until he couldn’t. He was a person who didn’t receive love from his parents, and the reality of that ran very deep within him.
𝐈 𝐝𝐢𝐝𝐧’𝐭 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐭. 𝐋𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐢𝐬𝐧’𝐭 𝐚 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠. 𝐌𝐲 𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐡𝐚𝐝 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐢𝐫 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞. 𝐌𝐲. 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐩𝐞𝐨𝐩𝐥𝐞 𝐰𝐡𝐨 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐝 𝐦𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭. . . 𝐝𝐢𝐝𝐧’𝐭.
I really felt for Waylon because he just didn’t understand that love really should never have conditions. I’m a firm believer in that. Waylon’s love declaration just warmed my heart. I love how he was the first to say it.
“𝐁𝐞𝐜𝐚𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐈’𝐦 𝐢�� 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐲𝐨𝐮. 𝐁𝐞𝐜𝐚𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐈 𝐥𝐞𝐟𝐭, 𝐤𝐧𝐨𝐰𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐈 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐲𝐨𝐮. 𝐁𝐞𝐜𝐚𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐈 𝐝𝐢𝐝𝐧’𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐤 𝐈 𝐝𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐞𝐝 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞. 𝐈 𝐝𝐢𝐝𝐧’𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐤 𝐈 𝐡𝐚𝐝 𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐮𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲, 𝐢𝐭 𝐰𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐟𝐚𝐝𝐞. 𝐈 𝐝𝐨𝐧’𝐭 𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬.”
Like come on. 🥹 “I don’t understand love without conditions.” Ugh my heart!
“𝐌𝐲 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐡𝐚𝐬 𝐧𝐨 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬, 𝐖𝐚𝐲𝐥𝐨𝐧. 𝐈 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐬𝐨 𝐟𝐮𝐜𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐝𝐞𝐞𝐩𝐥𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞 𝐢𝐭. 𝐍𝐨𝐭 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐦𝐞 𝐛𝐞𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐝.”
How can you not love Justin? 🥹💚💛
As a side note, I’m sorry, but I find Jenny annoying in every single book she’s in. 😂 Grady and Ryan with the kids? I freaking loved it! This was a great read, but then again any book I’ve read by Nicole I have loved.
June 17, 2024
It was great to finally have the story of Waylon! I've been waiting for it since I read Immoral years ago! And as always, the cameos by characters from other books (and other interconnecting series) are always welcome.
Justin is a member of Inmoral, but the fame and the price for it were eating him up inside. He loved to perform but not what came after that. He was miserable, and decided to get away from it all after the last tour, searching for the peace he needed and determined to take charge of his own life, and his music.
Waylon has managed Inmoral, and Justin, for more than a decade. He has always had his clients' best interests at heart. But Justin was always special, so finding out that Justin has been miserable all these years is a shock to him. Waylon feels like he failed him, and for some reason unknown to him (poor man in denial!) he can't just let it go. So he goes out to chase him.
When he finally finds him, Waylon does everything he can to help him and settle him on this new path that Justin decided to take. But with all the emotions that this change in Justin has brought to the surface, it also means that the chemistry between them, the attraction that they feel and have felt for years can no longer be contained, and unlike those previous years where they have tried to keep line and just having a professional relationship, the lines have now been blurred.
But Justin isn't the only one who's been struggling. Waylon also has his own baggage, which makes him feel like he can't have a relationship with Justin, and he walks away from him, only to realize how miserable he is without him.
Good thing he has a great group of friends/family to help him get his head out of his ass before it's too late!
I really liked the story, although towards the end I felt a little rushed, but despite that, I enjoyed it enormously!
I was given an advanced copy and voluntarily wrote a review.
Justin is a member of Inmoral, but the fame and the price for it were eating him up inside. He loved to perform but not what came after that. He was miserable, and decided to get away from it all after the last tour, searching for the peace he needed and determined to take charge of his own life, and his music.
Waylon has managed Inmoral, and Justin, for more than a decade. He has always had his clients' best interests at heart. But Justin was always special, so finding out that Justin has been miserable all these years is a shock to him. Waylon feels like he failed him, and for some reason unknown to him (poor man in denial!) he can't just let it go. So he goes out to chase him.
When he finally finds him, Waylon does everything he can to help him and settle him on this new path that Justin decided to take. But with all the emotions that this change in Justin has brought to the surface, it also means that the chemistry between them, the attraction that they feel and have felt for years can no longer be contained, and unlike those previous years where they have tried to keep line and just having a professional relationship, the lines have now been blurred.
But Justin isn't the only one who's been struggling. Waylon also has his own baggage, which makes him feel like he can't have a relationship with Justin, and he walks away from him, only to realize how miserable he is without him.
Good thing he has a great group of friends/family to help him get his head out of his ass before it's too late!
I really liked the story, although towards the end I felt a little rushed, but despite that, I enjoyed it enormously!
I was given an advanced copy and voluntarily wrote a review.
June 14, 2024
**********Contains Spoilers**********
I really enjoyed this book and I’m so happy that Waylon, who was first introduced during Immoral finally got his own happily ever after, even if he was not only stubborn as f*ck but scared also as he taught himself that he doesn’t need love because of his parents being utter a*sehole and not accepting him for who he is. I thought the chemistry between Justin and Waylon was off the charts. Justin is over being famous, he just wants to write songs that mean something and play in small venues, without all the strings that come with being famous. Justin hasn’t been in contact with his manager Waylon so he tracks him and they end up sleeping together. Waylon believes that he can clear the air with Justin in the morning.
As he crossed a professional line that he never thought he cross but Justin up and disappears. Waylon’s reporter cousin Soren eventually tracks him down after months of nothing and Justin is in the last place that Waylon would ever think he’d be, a tiny town in Tennessee. To say that Justin is upset that Waylon shows up in his little slice of heaven in the woods is an understatement. Waylon refuses to go and even rents the cabin next door to Justin. These two are as stubborn as each other but they were both fooling themselves if they think that they can keep things professional between them. Their journey to happily ever after felt believable, especially the reason for pushing the other away. I’m looking forward to reading more books from Nicole Dykes’ in the future. I’d definitely recommend this book and author to everyone.
Discovery Bonus Novella - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - I really enjoyed this novella. I thought that Mason and Owen were cute together and their chemistry was completely off the charts, Yes, it’s instalove but that’s part of the course with novella length books. I would’ve love to see how Mason’s parents took to him coming out, was it a complete surprise or did they already suspect and why did his grandfather leave him his cabin in the Ozarks after he died, considering he had seen him in years since he was estranged from his son (Mason’s dad).
******I received a complimentary copy of this book because I’m a member of Nicole Dykes’ Patreon. I happily reviewed this book and I would do so even if I purchased it myself. My thoughts and feelings about this book are completely unbiased******
I really enjoyed this book and I’m so happy that Waylon, who was first introduced during Immoral finally got his own happily ever after, even if he was not only stubborn as f*ck but scared also as he taught himself that he doesn’t need love because of his parents being utter a*sehole and not accepting him for who he is. I thought the chemistry between Justin and Waylon was off the charts. Justin is over being famous, he just wants to write songs that mean something and play in small venues, without all the strings that come with being famous. Justin hasn’t been in contact with his manager Waylon so he tracks him and they end up sleeping together. Waylon believes that he can clear the air with Justin in the morning.
As he crossed a professional line that he never thought he cross but Justin up and disappears. Waylon’s reporter cousin Soren eventually tracks him down after months of nothing and Justin is in the last place that Waylon would ever think he’d be, a tiny town in Tennessee. To say that Justin is upset that Waylon shows up in his little slice of heaven in the woods is an understatement. Waylon refuses to go and even rents the cabin next door to Justin. These two are as stubborn as each other but they were both fooling themselves if they think that they can keep things professional between them. Their journey to happily ever after felt believable, especially the reason for pushing the other away. I’m looking forward to reading more books from Nicole Dykes’ in the future. I’d definitely recommend this book and author to everyone.
Discovery Bonus Novella - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - I really enjoyed this novella. I thought that Mason and Owen were cute together and their chemistry was completely off the charts, Yes, it’s instalove but that’s part of the course with novella length books. I would’ve love to see how Mason’s parents took to him coming out, was it a complete surprise or did they already suspect and why did his grandfather leave him his cabin in the Ozarks after he died, considering he had seen him in years since he was estranged from his son (Mason’s dad).
******I received a complimentary copy of this book because I’m a member of Nicole Dykes’ Patreon. I happily reviewed this book and I would do so even if I purchased it myself. My thoughts and feelings about this book are completely unbiased******
June 9, 2024
I want him in every way I can have him until it ends.
❥ Dual POV ❥ MM Romance
❥ Found Family ❥ Manager x Rockstar
❥ Grumpy/Grumpy ❥ Small Town ❥ HEA
Contains 🌶️
Finally! I’ve been waiting for Waylon to get his own story, and here it is!
Veiled is a sweet story on the shorter side about two men, Waylon and Justin, who are both stubborn AF especially when it comes to acknowledging the want between them. The book is also about chasing and accepting happiness.
I loved seeing so many familiar “faces” from other books by Nicole Dykes. It always makes me so happy. I loved that Jenny is still Jen-Nay lol (Immoral).
As for Veiled, I loved how supportive Waylon was of Justin and his career – I mean, sure he’s Justin’s manager, but you’ll quickly realize that it’s much more than that. I loved their grumpiness, because apparently I have a thing for that. But, I couldn’t always feel their chemistry. I could read it of course, but not always feel it, which dimmed the experience a little bit for me, maybe because I had some expectations for Waylon’s story 🙈 #moreswoon
But I enjoyed Waylon and Justin’s story a lot, and I was totally rooting for them all the way, and not just for their relationship, but their dreams too, especially Justin, who’s just out there trying to figure out what makes him happy, and that’s a beautiful thing to do.
I was so lucky to receive this ARC and this is my honest opinion.
Read the full review on my blog here.
August 30, 2024
I just finished Veiled by Nicole Dykes, and let me tell you, this romance is living proof that you don’t need 500 pages to feel and experience intense emotions! Waylon and Justin turn up the heat from the very first pages, and I loved it. Justin’s silent despair, as he despises the life he’s living and feels an urgent need to escape from this stifling and unhappy existence, is truly poignant. He reaches the point where he’s ready to give up everything to get out of this dead-end, sinking into a kind of despair and indifference in the depths of Tennessee.
As for Waylon, he’s the complete opposite of Justin. When he wants something, he holds on to it tenaciously, and he was right not to let Justin push him away. Sometimes, doing everything you can to get what you want is the best solution, and Waylon nailed it. Even though the story moves quickly, Nicole Dykes manages to inject each emotion with remarkable intensity. Whether it’s the thrill of their first kiss — right from the first few pages — or the heartbreak of a separation, I found it incredible to feel these moments so intensely, even before I had the chance to get attached to the characters or remember their names. I found myself eagerly anticipating that damn kiss after just four sentences. And that’s a good thing, because I hate it when a long-awaited kiss only happens in the last quarter of a book.
It’s a quick read that fits perfectly between doing the laundry and preparing dinner. In fact, I practically read it in one sitting, unable to put it down. Well done, Nicole, for crafting this story I didn’t even know I needed. Now I’m starting Immoral.
As for Waylon, he’s the complete opposite of Justin. When he wants something, he holds on to it tenaciously, and he was right not to let Justin push him away. Sometimes, doing everything you can to get what you want is the best solution, and Waylon nailed it. Even though the story moves quickly, Nicole Dykes manages to inject each emotion with remarkable intensity. Whether it’s the thrill of their first kiss — right from the first few pages — or the heartbreak of a separation, I found it incredible to feel these moments so intensely, even before I had the chance to get attached to the characters or remember their names. I found myself eagerly anticipating that damn kiss after just four sentences. And that’s a good thing, because I hate it when a long-awaited kiss only happens in the last quarter of a book.
It’s a quick read that fits perfectly between doing the laundry and preparing dinner. In fact, I practically read it in one sitting, unable to put it down. Well done, Nicole, for crafting this story I didn’t even know I needed. Now I’m starting Immoral.
October 15, 2025
Nicole D. Rocks! Great Story & Listen🎧
Veiled
By: Nicole Dykes
Narrated by: Avery Wilde, James Davey
Nicole Dykes pens another wonderful romance, a romance between a rockstar and his manager that captivates your attention and tugs at your heartstrings the entire time. Waylon, a music manager, managed Justin St. James’ band, the Immortals, which became a tremendous success. Justin realized that everything that came with the fame was not what he wanted anymore, preferring to be left alone to write his music and perform. Justin wasn’t just a client to Waylon, so when Justin disappears, he tracks him down, not just to get him back, but to see what would make him happy. The chemistry between these two is smoking hot, and once Waylon gets Justin to talk to him, he thinks they can find a middle ground for him to get what he wants and still give the people what they want. This beautifully written and plotted story is entertaining, and I enjoyed how it all played out, with the perfect balance of drama, angst, heartfelt emotions and steamy romance. Nicole Dykes, thank you for another fabulous story and emotional rollercoaster ride.
🎧📚🎧 Avery Wilde and James Davey did a great job bringing these characters to life, giving each a voice that was fitting and believable. Both nailed it in the lead roles, embodying their personalities completely, while conveying their every emotion in their performance. They were just as great at performing the roles of the side/secondary characters too. They are entertaining storytellers, and their captivating performance rivets you to the story.
Veiled
By: Nicole Dykes
Narrated by: Avery Wilde, James Davey
Nicole Dykes pens another wonderful romance, a romance between a rockstar and his manager that captivates your attention and tugs at your heartstrings the entire time. Waylon, a music manager, managed Justin St. James’ band, the Immortals, which became a tremendous success. Justin realized that everything that came with the fame was not what he wanted anymore, preferring to be left alone to write his music and perform. Justin wasn’t just a client to Waylon, so when Justin disappears, he tracks him down, not just to get him back, but to see what would make him happy. The chemistry between these two is smoking hot, and once Waylon gets Justin to talk to him, he thinks they can find a middle ground for him to get what he wants and still give the people what they want. This beautifully written and plotted story is entertaining, and I enjoyed how it all played out, with the perfect balance of drama, angst, heartfelt emotions and steamy romance. Nicole Dykes, thank you for another fabulous story and emotional rollercoaster ride.
🎧📚🎧 Avery Wilde and James Davey did a great job bringing these characters to life, giving each a voice that was fitting and believable. Both nailed it in the lead roles, embodying their personalities completely, while conveying their every emotion in their performance. They were just as great at performing the roles of the side/secondary characters too. They are entertaining storytellers, and their captivating performance rivets you to the story.
January 28, 2025
We're back with our other favorite sassy manager, Jenny's best friend, Waylon. We first met him in Immoral as Grady's agent, and now we find out that he also manages the other members of the now-defunct band, including Justin St. James.
Justin is sick of being famous. He hates the public eye on him, the fans clamoring for a piece of his life. He just wants to make music and be happy. After a sexual encounter with Waylon that should have never happened, Justin disappears for months. When Waylon finally tracks him down, he's in the wilderness of Tennessee, living in a tiny cabin and writing music.
Justin isn't happy to be found. He's finally happy living in anonymity, and now Waylon is there like a bull in a china shop. He doesn't want to go back to Kansas City. He wants to perform his songs at tiny bars and be left alone.
Even though Waylon has a ton of clients that need him, for some reason, he can't turn his back on Justin. He's never seen Justin as happy as he seems now, performing his songs quietly for a handful of people in a dive bar. What harm can it do for Waylon to stick around for a while and see things through? It's not as if they're going to repeat their sexual encounter and complicate things!
Yeah right.
Waylon has sworn off love a long time ago, and he's got no time or space for feelings. But of course, as we all know, even if you don't try to find love...sometimes it just finds you.
Oh, Waylon. He's so fun and snarky and a badass businessman, but he's so stubborn and frustrating! I'm glad he got his HEA.
Justin is sick of being famous. He hates the public eye on him, the fans clamoring for a piece of his life. He just wants to make music and be happy. After a sexual encounter with Waylon that should have never happened, Justin disappears for months. When Waylon finally tracks him down, he's in the wilderness of Tennessee, living in a tiny cabin and writing music.
Justin isn't happy to be found. He's finally happy living in anonymity, and now Waylon is there like a bull in a china shop. He doesn't want to go back to Kansas City. He wants to perform his songs at tiny bars and be left alone.
Even though Waylon has a ton of clients that need him, for some reason, he can't turn his back on Justin. He's never seen Justin as happy as he seems now, performing his songs quietly for a handful of people in a dive bar. What harm can it do for Waylon to stick around for a while and see things through? It's not as if they're going to repeat their sexual encounter and complicate things!
Yeah right.
Waylon has sworn off love a long time ago, and he's got no time or space for feelings. But of course, as we all know, even if you don't try to find love...sometimes it just finds you.
Oh, Waylon. He's so fun and snarky and a badass businessman, but he's so stubborn and frustrating! I'm glad he got his HEA.
June 3, 2024
🎸 𝚅𝚎𝚒𝚕𝚎𝚍 🎸
𝚋𝚢 @nicoledauthor
🄰🅁🄲 🅁🄴🅅🄸🄴🅆
4.5/5 ⭐️
2/5 🌶️
𝚅𝚎𝚒𝚕𝚎𝚍 is a website exclusive and is now live on Nicole's website.
🔗- https://www.authornicoledykes.com/ebooks
↓↓
I absolutely loved Waylon and Justin!
Being Justin's manager for so long Waylon failed to see how miserable Justin was when it came to the fame part of his stardom. After a hot and steamy encounter, Justin runs. It takes months for Waylon to find his but once he does he's determined to help Justin find his happiness again.
There is a push and pull between the two while they try to fight their feelings while releasing "tension" while figuring everything out with Justin's career. I loved watching these two together and the chemistry they had 🥵. You could see the love between them even when they couldn't.
Their story takes you on an emotional journey of a rockstar who only wants to sing and have his music heard and a manager who will stop at nothing to ensure he gets what he wants doing what he loves. I loved seeing the characters from the previous books make an appearance as well
𝕋𝕣𝕠𝕡𝕖𝕤 / 𝕎𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕥𝕠 𝔼𝕩𝕡𝕖𝕔𝕥
🎸 Grumpy x Grumpy
🎸 Manager x Rockstar
🎸 Small Town
🎸 Found Family
🏷️
#Veiled #NicoleDykesauthor #websiteexclusive #grumpyxgrumpy #managerxroxkstar #smalltown #foundfamily #summerreads #booktropes #smutbooks #romancereader #arcreaders #bookboyfriendsdoitbetter #spicyromance #smutlovers #igreads #romancebooks #spicyromancebooks #ReadNow #momswhoread
𝚋𝚢 @nicoledauthor
🄰🅁🄲 🅁🄴🅅🄸🄴🅆
4.5/5 ⭐️
2/5 🌶️
𝚅𝚎𝚒𝚕𝚎𝚍 is a website exclusive and is now live on Nicole's website.
🔗- https://www.authornicoledykes.com/ebooks
↓↓
I absolutely loved Waylon and Justin!
Being Justin's manager for so long Waylon failed to see how miserable Justin was when it came to the fame part of his stardom. After a hot and steamy encounter, Justin runs. It takes months for Waylon to find his but once he does he's determined to help Justin find his happiness again.
There is a push and pull between the two while they try to fight their feelings while releasing "tension" while figuring everything out with Justin's career. I loved watching these two together and the chemistry they had 🥵. You could see the love between them even when they couldn't.
Their story takes you on an emotional journey of a rockstar who only wants to sing and have his music heard and a manager who will stop at nothing to ensure he gets what he wants doing what he loves. I loved seeing the characters from the previous books make an appearance as well
𝕋𝕣𝕠𝕡𝕖𝕤 / 𝕎𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕥𝕠 𝔼𝕩𝕡𝕖𝕔𝕥
🎸 Grumpy x Grumpy
🎸 Manager x Rockstar
🎸 Small Town
🎸 Found Family
🏷️
#Veiled #NicoleDykesauthor #websiteexclusive #grumpyxgrumpy #managerxroxkstar #smalltown #foundfamily #summerreads #booktropes #smutbooks #romancereader #arcreaders #bookboyfriendsdoitbetter #spicyromance #smutlovers #igreads #romancebooks #spicyromancebooks #ReadNow #momswhoread
June 19, 2024
"My love for you has no conditions."
Ugh the sweetness of this book!
These two made me want the second chance so bad, cause come on!
Waylon & Justin kept me going right up until that ending 🥹
It was a bumpy road but they got there and I might have got a little giddy when it happened.
Justin this poor baby just wanted to be left alone and have his privacy. Unfortunately for his famous self that isn't so easily obtained. After something that shouldn't have happened with his manager he runs. Running away is what will give him peace but leaving behind someone who he has always wanted was the hardest part.
Waylon had to grow on me, he made me quite miffed at the start. You care but how much? Is the finer things in life more important? After awhile I understood him, once his past was put out there it came full circle and I got him.
This book was a very quick read for me but I enjoyed every second in this world with Justin & Waylon. I never thought it would go the way it did, I thought for sure it was going one way only to be surprised by the next chapter.
That second chance for Waylon got me, the last part of the book had me smiling and so giddy but also teary eyed, the confession was 🤌
This book is filled with tension, all the forced proximity, both of them are just grumps except when the walls come down. For such a short book it packs a nice punch and the both of these guys will keep you wanting more.
Ugh the sweetness of this book!
These two made me want the second chance so bad, cause come on!
Waylon & Justin kept me going right up until that ending 🥹
It was a bumpy road but they got there and I might have got a little giddy when it happened.
Justin this poor baby just wanted to be left alone and have his privacy. Unfortunately for his famous self that isn't so easily obtained. After something that shouldn't have happened with his manager he runs. Running away is what will give him peace but leaving behind someone who he has always wanted was the hardest part.
Waylon had to grow on me, he made me quite miffed at the start. You care but how much? Is the finer things in life more important? After awhile I understood him, once his past was put out there it came full circle and I got him.
This book was a very quick read for me but I enjoyed every second in this world with Justin & Waylon. I never thought it would go the way it did, I thought for sure it was going one way only to be surprised by the next chapter.
That second chance for Waylon got me, the last part of the book had me smiling and so giddy but also teary eyed, the confession was 🤌
This book is filled with tension, all the forced proximity, both of them are just grumps except when the walls come down. For such a short book it packs a nice punch and the both of these guys will keep you wanting more.
December 12, 2025
A reclusive rock star and his manager M/M romance
4 stars overall, 4 stars story, 4 stars narration
Justin is a rock star who couldn’t handle the spotlight anymore and intended to drop off the grid. His manager Weylon had always had a crush on him but had kept it under wraps. After a quick one-night-stand, Justin disappeared and his manager worried about him so much that he tracked down the musician.
This romance was pretty good, but I personally never really connected to the characters; it is just my personal preference about the writing style, I think. I also was slightly bored with the tired trope of being too busy with a career to have a relationship. The relationship and character development were very good for such a short book (4.25 hours). I would have preferred fewer graphic bedroom scenes in a book of this short length, but other readers I’m sure will welcome the frequency of it. The chemistry was very hot.
The dual narrators were very good, and they matched the character voices well enough. I especially liked the sexy gravelly voice for Weylon in his chapters. The other narrator for Justin correctly chose a tenor, slightly flamboyant voice for the character, but it just didn’t sound sexy to me.
I requested and received a free audio copy via the publisher, and I voluntarily wrote this honest review. #PFPAudio #PinkFlamingoProductions #TheFlockVIPReviewTeam
4 stars overall, 4 stars story, 4 stars narration
Justin is a rock star who couldn’t handle the spotlight anymore and intended to drop off the grid. His manager Weylon had always had a crush on him but had kept it under wraps. After a quick one-night-stand, Justin disappeared and his manager worried about him so much that he tracked down the musician.
This romance was pretty good, but I personally never really connected to the characters; it is just my personal preference about the writing style, I think. I also was slightly bored with the tired trope of being too busy with a career to have a relationship. The relationship and character development were very good for such a short book (4.25 hours). I would have preferred fewer graphic bedroom scenes in a book of this short length, but other readers I’m sure will welcome the frequency of it. The chemistry was very hot.
The dual narrators were very good, and they matched the character voices well enough. I especially liked the sexy gravelly voice for Weylon in his chapters. The other narrator for Justin correctly chose a tenor, slightly flamboyant voice for the character, but it just didn’t sound sexy to me.
I requested and received a free audio copy via the publisher, and I voluntarily wrote this honest review. #PFPAudio #PinkFlamingoProductions #TheFlockVIPReviewTeam
June 3, 2024
A fantastic short-read rockstar romance!
Justin is a rockstar who has become worn down by the weight of fame. His feelings resonated with me because I often think it's unfortunate that talented people cannot share their gifts of music, art, etc without sacrificing their privacy. Being famous doesn't entitle fans to every aspect of a person's life. This is what Justin is feeling when he flees the spotlight to hideaway in rural TN.
Waylon, Justin's manager, gives chase. He just wants to make sure that the MIA Justin is okay. When he finds him and learns Justin's true reason for leaving, he is determined to do whatever it takes to make sure Justin can create and share his music without losing himself in the process. But can Waylon and Justin keep their hands off each other while they work together?
This story might be short, but it packs a punch. Waylon and Justin are both amazing characters on their own and fantastic together. They have strong chemistry and fit each other so well. Aside from the romance, Justin's circumstances make you think about how celebrities are really just normal people with incredible talent.
In addition to Veiled, Nicole includes another short story and snippets from others, so you get quite a bit in this one book. Definitely worth a read!
Justin is a rockstar who has become worn down by the weight of fame. His feelings resonated with me because I often think it's unfortunate that talented people cannot share their gifts of music, art, etc without sacrificing their privacy. Being famous doesn't entitle fans to every aspect of a person's life. This is what Justin is feeling when he flees the spotlight to hideaway in rural TN.
Waylon, Justin's manager, gives chase. He just wants to make sure that the MIA Justin is okay. When he finds him and learns Justin's true reason for leaving, he is determined to do whatever it takes to make sure Justin can create and share his music without losing himself in the process. But can Waylon and Justin keep their hands off each other while they work together?
This story might be short, but it packs a punch. Waylon and Justin are both amazing characters on their own and fantastic together. They have strong chemistry and fit each other so well. Aside from the romance, Justin's circumstances make you think about how celebrities are really just normal people with incredible talent.
In addition to Veiled, Nicole includes another short story and snippets from others, so you get quite a bit in this one book. Definitely worth a read!
June 4, 2024
"I like how comfortable I feel with him. How right it all feels." - Justin
"You were always different. I couldn't let you go." - Waylon
Justin was in the band 'Immoral ', I haven't read that book yet but I will read it very soon, you don't have to read it first, I don't feel like I missed out on information. This book is after the band ended. Justin wanted to have nothing to do with fans for a while (I think a lot of artist don't always like the fame and paparazzi that comes with the music and I feel like Nicole wrote that in a good way), he only wanted to write his own songs and do things in his own way and in his own time. Waylon has been his manager for a long time and he hasn't heard anything from Justin for a while so he went looking for him.
What I loved a lot about this book is that they could talk to each other and Waylon really listened to what Justin wanted. Justin really needed this time for himself with his music, to lean to love it again and Waylon helped with that and respected his wishes.
The writing is beautiful and easy to follow, Nicole has a way of putting feelings and meaningful moments and conversations into her book and still making the books feel light, relatable at the same time.
I received an arc from this book
"You were always different. I couldn't let you go." - Waylon
Justin was in the band 'Immoral ', I haven't read that book yet but I will read it very soon, you don't have to read it first, I don't feel like I missed out on information. This book is after the band ended. Justin wanted to have nothing to do with fans for a while (I think a lot of artist don't always like the fame and paparazzi that comes with the music and I feel like Nicole wrote that in a good way), he only wanted to write his own songs and do things in his own way and in his own time. Waylon has been his manager for a long time and he hasn't heard anything from Justin for a while so he went looking for him.
What I loved a lot about this book is that they could talk to each other and Waylon really listened to what Justin wanted. Justin really needed this time for himself with his music, to lean to love it again and Waylon helped with that and respected his wishes.
The writing is beautiful and easy to follow, Nicole has a way of putting feelings and meaningful moments and conversations into her book and still making the books feel light, relatable at the same time.
I received an arc from this book
June 15, 2024
I really loved this book which a spin off from Nicole Dykes racing books. Waylon and Justin are perfect for each other. Justin was apart of the band Immortal and Waylon has been their manager for the past 10 years. After the tour ends, Waylon can tell that something is off with Justin and goes to his apartment to talk to him. The attraction they've been hiding from each other overcomes them and they have a passionate encounter. The next day Waylon returns to Justin's apartment and finds that all his belongings are gone and no one knows where he has gone. Waylon feels that he has failed Justin as a manager. HE finally finds Justin in a rundown cabin in a small town and vows to stay until he can help Justin achieve his dreams of playing music that matters to him in more intimate venues. Justin loves writing songs and performing but dislikes the paparazzi and the more aggressive fans. They are still attracted to each other and begin physical relationship but they are each afraid of opening and telling the other that they want more due to fear of rejection and past family trauma. I love how committed Waylon is to Justin's happiness even at the expense of his own and how they each learn to overcome their fears of intimacy and learn to compromise.
June 18, 2024
VEILDED is the follow up book to Immoral. It can be read as a stand alone but reads better if you read Immoral first.
Justin St. James loves music, playing music, he hates everything else about being on stage. He hates what comes after being on stage. The reporters, losing parts of himself to the fans so when he disappears to Tennessee after a hookup with his manager. Waylon his manager knows something is wrong. He wants nothing more than to see Justin happy and will do everything to help him have the life he wants. Waylon finds him living in a small cabin in the middle of nowhere. Justin has found the peace he's been searching for until Waylon shows up and ruins it. He's been writing songs, the songs he wants to play, he wants out in the world but on his terms. Waylon lives for his career but having Justin in his life and his bed feels right but it can't last right? They want different things but can they make it work?
I loved getting Justin and Waylon's story. They have so much chemistry and are explosive together. Waylon learns work isn't the only thing in life and Justin learns to let someone else in. I love getting to see Ryan and Grady and the kids again.
I hope there is more!
I was given a free copy of this book.
Justin St. James loves music, playing music, he hates everything else about being on stage. He hates what comes after being on stage. The reporters, losing parts of himself to the fans so when he disappears to Tennessee after a hookup with his manager. Waylon his manager knows something is wrong. He wants nothing more than to see Justin happy and will do everything to help him have the life he wants. Waylon finds him living in a small cabin in the middle of nowhere. Justin has found the peace he's been searching for until Waylon shows up and ruins it. He's been writing songs, the songs he wants to play, he wants out in the world but on his terms. Waylon lives for his career but having Justin in his life and his bed feels right but it can't last right? They want different things but can they make it work?
I loved getting Justin and Waylon's story. They have so much chemistry and are explosive together. Waylon learns work isn't the only thing in life and Justin learns to let someone else in. I love getting to see Ryan and Grady and the kids again.
I hope there is more!
I was given a free copy of this book.
June 17, 2024
I'm so happy we finally got an HEA for Waylon!!! He totally deserved all the love and I have no doubt Justin is going to give him it. It wasn't an easy road for these two. Justin was not in a good place at the start of their story. But Waylon is tenacious and he wasn't leaving until he knew Justin was settled and happy. He just didn't realize he needed to stay in order for Justin to be that way.
Justin wasn't the only one with things to work through. Waylon's past has taught him to be leery of love. That it comes with conditions. He very nearly ruined his chance for a happy ending because of it. Thankfully he has an amazing circle of friends who love him and were able to convince him of what an idiot he was being.
It was nice seeing Grady and Ryan so happy and content in their lives. They are good friends to Waylon. I loved how supportive they were of Waylon and Justin, even though a relationship between a manager and client was kind of a no no. It didn't matter to them as long as Waylon and Justin were happy. And after that epilogue I have no doubt they definitely are.
Justin wasn't the only one with things to work through. Waylon's past has taught him to be leery of love. That it comes with conditions. He very nearly ruined his chance for a happy ending because of it. Thankfully he has an amazing circle of friends who love him and were able to convince him of what an idiot he was being.
It was nice seeing Grady and Ryan so happy and content in their lives. They are good friends to Waylon. I loved how supportive they were of Waylon and Justin, even though a relationship between a manager and client was kind of a no no. It didn't matter to them as long as Waylon and Justin were happy. And after that epilogue I have no doubt they definitely are.
June 10, 2024
This is a refreshing story about a music manager and the musician.
Justin appears to be a burned out song writer/singer. He always wanted a career focused on music and being a little less about the crazy fans and marketing. He has followed everything to be a star and has been extremely successful but is now ready to change direction.
Waylon, Justin’s manager, is unable to let Justin try to have a career that he knows nothing about setting up. He is worried that Justin is just burned out and will recover but when Justin disappears Waylon doesn’t know how to handle it.
This is a great story about two guys who have an attraction to each other but know they can’t do anything about it while in a professional relationship. Then something changes and each has to decide what future they want to pursue.
I really enjoyed this story. The flow was consistent. The characters are both likable. The emotional and possible reality of this story kept me page turning.
Justin appears to be a burned out song writer/singer. He always wanted a career focused on music and being a little less about the crazy fans and marketing. He has followed everything to be a star and has been extremely successful but is now ready to change direction.
Waylon, Justin’s manager, is unable to let Justin try to have a career that he knows nothing about setting up. He is worried that Justin is just burned out and will recover but when Justin disappears Waylon doesn’t know how to handle it.
This is a great story about two guys who have an attraction to each other but know they can’t do anything about it while in a professional relationship. Then something changes and each has to decide what future they want to pursue.
I really enjoyed this story. The flow was consistent. The characters are both likable. The emotional and possible reality of this story kept me page turning.
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