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Bluewater Bay #2
There's Something About Ari
A Bluewater Bay Story Buck Ellis’s future seems pretty damn bright. With a full college scholarship in hand, he’s going to ditch Bluewater Bay and pave the way for his kid brother Charlie to do the same. The only fly in Buck’s ointment is his ten-year addiction to his best friend since second grade, his true love, and his Achilles Ari Valentine, Mr. Least Likely to Succeed. But then Buck’s mother dies, changing everything, and five years later, his future is still on hold. It’s a struggle to keep food on the table, a roof over their heads, and Charlie on the straight and narrow. Buck can’t afford any temptation, especially in the form of the newly returned, super hot, super confident, super successful television star Ari Valentine. ADHD poster-child Ari Valentine left for Hollywood and lost everything, including his bad reputation. Then the breakthrough role of his skyrocketing career lands him back in Bluewater Bay, to the stunned disbelief of, well, everyone. But there’s only one person Ari longs to impress — the only person who ever really mattered to him, the person he left Buck Ellis. * * * * * * * Bluewater Bay stories can be read in any order — jump in wherever you'd like! Word 27,600; page 107
95 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 8, 2014
31 people are currently reading
516 people want to read
About the author
L.B. Gregg
25 books627 followersLB Gregg (Lisabea) writes fun, fast-paced contemporary male/male romances for a variety of publishers including Riptide, Samhain, and Carina Press. Her wildly successful Men of Smithfield books feature hot, hunky men looking for love in small town New England. Find more information about LB, The Men of Smithfield, and her fun series Romano and Albright at www.lbgregg.com.
You can also friend LB on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/lb.gregg.1
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 228 reviews
October 2, 2016
AUDIOBOOK REVIEW
May 10, 2016
4 stars
LB Gregg should MAKE SURE that Nick J. Russo narrates all of her audiobooks. He just gets her writing, her pacing, her characters. I think he nails every one of the narrations for her books, and I also think her writing makes him an even better narrator.
I found this story to be entertaining at first read. I found it to be utterly charming at first listen.
The opening scene with Ari and Buck as kids on the playground WARMED my heart.
It's a great second chances love story (my crack) and an easy, HIGHLY RECOMMENDED listen...
*******************
ORIGINAL REVIEW
November 3, 2014
4 stars
True story - I was reading this book on the plane and found myself charmed. So, I kept reading as I deboarded, as I walked up the jetway, as I walked through the terminal, as I got on the moving sidewalk, as I distractly missed the end of the moving sidewalk, tumbled, fell to the ground sending my kindle skidding across the floor, and ended up with a bruise on my chin. In all my travels, with all the books I've read, that's never happened to me before.
I'm not quite sure what it is...but there's something about this book that made me just want to embrace it. It could be that I just really enjoy LB Gregg's writing (true). Or it could be that I'm a sucker for childhood friends/second chance romances (true). Or it could be that small town stories always win me over (true). Or it could be that Buck, the local good guy taking care of his teenaged brother on his own having sacrificed everything to keep his family stole my heart (true). Or it could be that Ari's devotion to Buck after all these years would not let me go (true).
Ahhhh...yes. All the reasons. So many reasons to love this book. And I did.
I wasn't sold on reading the Backwater Bay series. I'm really not a fan of movie-star books. But Ari's job as a big-shot-Hollywood-actor barely made a dent in this story. And for that, I'm thankful. The focus was mostly on Buck and his coming to grips with loss, regret, and eventually love. I wish so badly that this book was longer and we could get just a bit more detail on all the characters and a LOT more detail on the development of Buck's and Ari's relationship. I mean...what happens next? Huh?
If you can get past a slightly rushed story and a fairly abrupt ending...I think you'll find the rest really fun to read and though not entirely original, entertaining nonetheless. For me, the writing helps this stand out a bit from the crowd and I really enjoyed it.
November 11, 2014
*3.5 stars*
This novella is SO typically L.B. Gregg that I think I would have recognized the writing anywhere. She creates characters that I fall in love with and cute, fun stories that I can't help but be sucked into. However, she needs to work on her endings, man.
I'm a HUGE fan of unrequited high school lovers getting second chances. It is one of my favorite themes, especially if the two had a falling out and there is extra tension between them when they meet again. Delicious! I eat that stuff up. I immediately took to this story and didn't want to stop reading for anything.
Honestly, this story is lovely. It is fun little book with some really strong characters and I think all fans of L.B. Gregg will adore it. Still, I think it could have easily been a 4.5 star story or greater with a little tweaking.
I thought that the ending was too abrupt, as this author's stories often are. It is hard to get a full story arc into a novella, and this felt a little disjointed at the end. I also wanted more heat (another one of my common complaints with this author). All of this delicious sexual tension and it sort of fades out before any of the good stuff happens! We get one measly little sex scene and the greedy sex monster in me just yells "MOAR"!!!!
Overall, this was a sweet, tender second chances story and a nice addition to the Bluewater Bay series.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
This novella is SO typically L.B. Gregg that I think I would have recognized the writing anywhere. She creates characters that I fall in love with and cute, fun stories that I can't help but be sucked into. However, she needs to work on her endings, man.
I'm a HUGE fan of unrequited high school lovers getting second chances. It is one of my favorite themes, especially if the two had a falling out and there is extra tension between them when they meet again. Delicious! I eat that stuff up. I immediately took to this story and didn't want to stop reading for anything.
Honestly, this story is lovely. It is fun little book with some really strong characters and I think all fans of L.B. Gregg will adore it. Still, I think it could have easily been a 4.5 star story or greater with a little tweaking.
I thought that the ending was too abrupt, as this author's stories often are. It is hard to get a full story arc into a novella, and this felt a little disjointed at the end. I also wanted more heat (another one of my common complaints with this author). All of this delicious sexual tension and it sort of fades out before any of the good stuff happens! We get one measly little sex scene and the greedy sex monster in me just yells "MOAR"!!!!
Overall, this was a sweet, tender second chances story and a nice addition to the Bluewater Bay series.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
December 12, 2015
i liked this, mostly.
the plot's too thin and the ending was abrupt as hell. it read like the start of a great novel, wrapped up hastily and a little carelessly.
so: minor irritants curbed my fun, but let's face it—if i'm not irritated by something, i'm just not paying attention.
the plot's too thin and the ending was abrupt as hell. it read like the start of a great novel, wrapped up hastily and a little carelessly.
so: minor irritants curbed my fun, but let's face it—if i'm not irritated by something, i'm just not paying attention.
February 13, 2015
3.5 stars
You know how sometimes you're reading a short story or novella and it's really good, but then it just...well, ends?
That's what happened here. The short prologue was great. The first couple of chapters where Ari comes back and Buck has to get over his shock were awesome. The chapters where Buck has to own up to his feelings for Ari, and figure out what to do next were likewise awesome. In fact, I didn't realize I was so close to the end until I was about halfway through the second-last chapter.
But end it did, and it left me with questions. Questions that I'd like answered. I've got my fingers crossed that L.B. Gregg might consider writing a sequel. The book ends at a point where I'd say that the real story was just beginning.
Though you shouldn't let a truncated ending deter you! The writing is engaging, and the story is a nice mix between angst and sweetness. I'd say that the ending is a nascent HEA - definitely not a HFN, but just a needing some time to get settled type of thing. An extra chapter or two, or even an epilogue, would have pushed my rating into a full 4 stars.
What you'll get in this book are two childhood friends, finding their way back to each other. They've hurt one another, and have been hurt by other events outside of their control. Ari and Buck are frustrating at times, but you can chalk that up to youth and inexperience. It's clear that they love each other, and, by the end, are willing to cross the mountains they've built in order to finally be together.
You know how sometimes you're reading a short story or novella and it's really good, but then it just...well, ends?
That's what happened here. The short prologue was great. The first couple of chapters where Ari comes back and Buck has to get over his shock were awesome. The chapters where Buck has to own up to his feelings for Ari, and figure out what to do next were likewise awesome. In fact, I didn't realize I was so close to the end until I was about halfway through the second-last chapter.
But end it did, and it left me with questions. Questions that I'd like answered. I've got my fingers crossed that L.B. Gregg might consider writing a sequel. The book ends at a point where I'd say that the real story was just beginning.
Though you shouldn't let a truncated ending deter you! The writing is engaging, and the story is a nice mix between angst and sweetness. I'd say that the ending is a nascent HEA - definitely not a HFN, but just a needing some time to get settled type of thing. An extra chapter or two, or even an epilogue, would have pushed my rating into a full 4 stars.
What you'll get in this book are two childhood friends, finding their way back to each other. They've hurt one another, and have been hurt by other events outside of their control. Ari and Buck are frustrating at times, but you can chalk that up to youth and inexperience. It's clear that they love each other, and, by the end, are willing to cross the mountains they've built in order to finally be together.
November 21, 2014
3.5 stars
This is only the second L.B. Gregg's story I read. While I liked it enough, I was a bit annoyed with few things. Let me start with what I liked first.
I liked the idea of 'reunited' friends -- I'm such a sucker for 'the one who got away' trope. The prologue is STRONG. Here is Buck who have been in love with his best friend, Ari Valentine -- but Ari goes away and Buck is left to take care of his little brother. And now Ari is back and he tells Buck about his sexuality. So what a guy to do, right? It is a very delicious teaser for (what I expect to be) a heart-tugging story.
I also LOVED Buck's little brother, Charlie. I thought he stole the scenes everytime he appeared. I liked the brothers interaction -- seriously, I want more MMs with siblings (and they don't have to be gay siblings, okay!). Oh, and there was a cat!!
Unfortunately, Buck's 'woe is me' attitude was quite irritating. In fact, I could say that he was being a jackass to Ari several times over. So yes, Ari went away, and I could understand that Buck was hurt. But the way Buck reacted to Ari's reasoning and statement of Ari being gay was, well, annoying. Oh, and what the heck was the aim of Chapter 6? I mean, aside from showing another example of Buck being a bit of an ass? And for a novella, the ending was quite abrupt!!
In addition, I felt that young Ari, with his ADHD, was far more interesting than the adult Ari. There was something charming in the way young Ari barreled through Buck's shyness as a kid. I know that Ari said he was in bad times, the time where he decided to go away from Bluewater Bay. I guess I wanted to get inside Ari's head too, because the adult Ari felt different.
A novella could be awesome ... I know there are some novellas that I love so much; that the story shines despite the length. However, this one is not satisfying enough for me. It started good, it had potentials, I definitely liked some moments in it. However, I imagine that I would love it better if the story was expanded, to give time for Buck and Ari to be reunited and to let the romance bloom.
This is only the second L.B. Gregg's story I read. While I liked it enough, I was a bit annoyed with few things. Let me start with what I liked first.
I liked the idea of 'reunited' friends -- I'm such a sucker for 'the one who got away' trope. The prologue is STRONG. Here is Buck who have been in love with his best friend, Ari Valentine -- but Ari goes away and Buck is left to take care of his little brother. And now Ari is back and he tells Buck about his sexuality. So what a guy to do, right? It is a very delicious teaser for (what I expect to be) a heart-tugging story.
I also LOVED Buck's little brother, Charlie. I thought he stole the scenes everytime he appeared. I liked the brothers interaction -- seriously, I want more MMs with siblings (and they don't have to be gay siblings, okay!). Oh, and there was a cat!!
Unfortunately, Buck's 'woe is me' attitude was quite irritating. In fact, I could say that he was being a jackass to Ari several times over. So yes, Ari went away, and I could understand that Buck was hurt. But the way Buck reacted to Ari's reasoning and statement of Ari being gay was, well, annoying. Oh, and what the heck was the aim of Chapter 6? I mean, aside from showing another example of Buck being a bit of an ass? And for a novella, the ending was quite abrupt!!
In addition, I felt that young Ari, with his ADHD, was far more interesting than the adult Ari. There was something charming in the way young Ari barreled through Buck's shyness as a kid. I know that Ari said he was in bad times, the time where he decided to go away from Bluewater Bay. I guess I wanted to get inside Ari's head too, because the adult Ari felt different.
A novella could be awesome ... I know there are some novellas that I love so much; that the story shines despite the length. However, this one is not satisfying enough for me. It started good, it had potentials, I definitely liked some moments in it. However, I imagine that I would love it better if the story was expanded, to give time for Buck and Ari to be reunited and to let the romance bloom.
April 20, 2024
The series is centered around the small town in Washington state that has been infiltrated by the cast and crew of the supernatural TV show. Each book is written by a different M/M author, giving the series a fun kind of vibe. Each story highlights a different couple, that at least one is usually connected to the TV show in some way. Each book can stand alone, but familiar characters show up throughout, which is nice. I love when past characters reappear.
In this one we meet Buck Ellis. He’s had a rough five years. His best friend, and secret first love, Ari Valentine has run off to LA after stealing money from Buck’s car to buy the bus ticket. Then Buck’s mother dies, and since then, he’s sacrificed pretty much all of his former hopes and dreams to ensure that his younger brother has remained safe, grounded, and in his care. These two events are the defining parts of Buck’s adult life, and they all happened on the same awful, terrible, horrible day.
Buck has been living day to day, and struggling to make ends meet and trying to keep his brother on track. His rut is interrupted when one of the actors from the TV show, Wolf’s Landing, moves into the house next door. I don’t think it will surprise anyone that the actor turns out to be Ari Valentine, on a mission to mend the rift with his former friend. Buck is understandably guarded, slightly cynical, and focused on his brother, but Ari’s determined to at least get a chance to explain what happened.
This is a sweet little romance. I’m a push-over for a good second chance, especially after the characters have worked as hard to earn it as these two. Most of that hard work happens off the page, which is one reason I gave the story 4 stars. I would have liked to see more. Nevertheless, the pacing was good, and the resolution is satisfying enough. Given the length of the book, we do get to learn quite a bit about the characters, which was good. We also get a fair amount of that lovely humor that L.B. Gregg writes so well. The other reason that it got the rating it did was because it was one of those books that makes you want to step into the pages and argue with the characters when they make stupid choices and decisions. In spite of that I really did enjoy the book. It’s a good second chance, fun story, and who doesn't absolutely love the beautiful voice of Nick Russo?
In this one we meet Buck Ellis. He’s had a rough five years. His best friend, and secret first love, Ari Valentine has run off to LA after stealing money from Buck’s car to buy the bus ticket. Then Buck’s mother dies, and since then, he’s sacrificed pretty much all of his former hopes and dreams to ensure that his younger brother has remained safe, grounded, and in his care. These two events are the defining parts of Buck’s adult life, and they all happened on the same awful, terrible, horrible day.
Buck has been living day to day, and struggling to make ends meet and trying to keep his brother on track. His rut is interrupted when one of the actors from the TV show, Wolf’s Landing, moves into the house next door. I don’t think it will surprise anyone that the actor turns out to be Ari Valentine, on a mission to mend the rift with his former friend. Buck is understandably guarded, slightly cynical, and focused on his brother, but Ari’s determined to at least get a chance to explain what happened.
This is a sweet little romance. I’m a push-over for a good second chance, especially after the characters have worked as hard to earn it as these two. Most of that hard work happens off the page, which is one reason I gave the story 4 stars. I would have liked to see more. Nevertheless, the pacing was good, and the resolution is satisfying enough. Given the length of the book, we do get to learn quite a bit about the characters, which was good. We also get a fair amount of that lovely humor that L.B. Gregg writes so well. The other reason that it got the rating it did was because it was one of those books that makes you want to step into the pages and argue with the characters when they make stupid choices and decisions. In spite of that I really did enjoy the book. It’s a good second chance, fun story, and who doesn't absolutely love the beautiful voice of Nick Russo?
May 12, 2020
The Story: 2.5
Ion know, it had potential but it’s too short and Buck is too much of an asshole.
The Narration: 3 Pants Off
I don’t know why Nick always sounds angry and like he’s speaking through his teeth. Sometimes too earnest but maybe cuz I listen at 1.5x why it sounds like borderline desperation narration.
December 29, 2015
The premise is awesome, and this could've been extremely good. Unfortunately, the characterization was shit, the pace was rushed, and the romance was manic.
November 17, 2015
Several authors are contributing stand-alone stories to this Riptide Pub series, Bluewater Bay, based in the rainy Washington state coastal town of the same name. A popular TV action show-- think Teen Wolf-- is filming in the colorful town, importing lots of drama in more ways than one.
There’s Something About Ari…
This author has a way of wrapping you up in her characters. Nothing fancy or earth-shattering. But, there’s something about how the boys and the place are merged to draw you in. There’s something about two men you just know belong together… if only they can figure it out, too.
LB Gregg explores the ‘you can’t go home again’ theme here. Ari Valentine, town bad-boy and ‘most likely to go nowhere’ turned the tables and left five years ago without a backward glance. He’s back in Bluewater Bay, much changed. But he discovers that home is never the same.
Buck Ellis was left behind, those five long years ago. He and Ari were teens and inseparable BFFs. And Buck had just lost his mother, was left orphaned with a younger sibling to care for. When Ari split, Buck was terribly hurt and left with a huge unrequited crush for his best friend. Buck is still feeling that hurt.
Buck, voted ‘most likely to go somewhere’, is still stuck in his hometown, slinging coffee for a living. His full-ride college scholarship is left dusty because of those family obligations-- he would always be there for his younger brother. Buck had dreams of becoming a writer, hasn’t given that up completely; he still continues to put his thoughts to paper.
And here comes Ari, now a famous TV star, shooting his famous TV show, and renovating and moving into the house next door. Movie-star handsome, Ari is no longer the skinny, ADD kid of Buck’s memories. When you think of Ari, picture Jon Snow of Game of Thrones fame. Haawwwwwt. Nesssssss. Buck's not so dormant big crush threatens to erupt into something more. Ahem.
Can Ari, just like that, come waltzing back into town, hot-shot Hollywood-style, back into Buck’s life? The throw-away bad-boy, now prodigal son, seems to have it all. But does he?
I love the setup. The squashed-down feelz that keep leaking out as these two circle around each other, looking for a way back in. I like how when they talk, in the beginning, it’s like they’re having two different convos… because Buck has feelings he hasn’t divulged, and Ari has a few secrets of his own.
There is longing…
“… I’d died small deaths every time he looked at me… He made me cold. He made me hot. Sweaty. Sick. Happy. Sad. Horny. Ashamed… The whole fucking enchilada. Squared.”
… and hurt and anger and lovely, fulminating horndog melting-ness. There is a little snark, a little grumpiness, and a lot of funny…
“Did I need something? Jesus Christ, yes. I needed air. Suddenly, I needed O2 stat and I wanted him to deliver it via mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.”
While I think the story ends well, it feels like there’s still more for Buck and those dreams he’s put on the shelf. I hope we get to re-visit these two in or out of Bluewater Bay.
This is sweet, feel-good storytelling to curl up with. The holidays are coming and I’d also recommend LB Gregg’s, Mistletoe at Midnight, another story that combines smexy men in a lovely setting.
A copy of this book was provided by the publisher/author in exchange for an honest review. For this and other reviews, author interviews, and general fabulousness, visit Love Bytes:
March 14, 2016
'There's Something About Ari' is the second book in the 'Bluewater Bay' series and this one is authored by the wonderful L.B. Gregg.
Ok right off the bat yes, I'm biased on this one. I love L.B. Gregg and this book was an absolute hit with me. Ari was fantastic and Buck was in some ways so messed up I couldn't help but love him. Honestly, both of these men came to the table with issues, lots and lots of issues. Ari was like a steamroller at times he just refused to shut up and he knew he wanted Buck. But knowing, getting and having don't always fall into line. Luckily Ari was determined so much so that for Buck avoiding Ari became impossible because he suddenly found Ari was his neighbour. Unfortunately for Ari, Buck's auto-defense is silence and anger. A combination that never solved any problem easily.
My only complaint was...you guessed it...at less than a 100 pages for me it was too short. I would have happily read another hundred pages of Ari & Buck, but all I got was 95ish more or less and for me they were 95ish pages of wonderful reading and I absolutely loved every word of it.
4.5 stars on BL rounded up to 5 happy, smiling, loved this story stars here on GR because...well, those 1/2 stars are still missing here.
Ok right off the bat yes, I'm biased on this one. I love L.B. Gregg and this book was an absolute hit with me. Ari was fantastic and Buck was in some ways so messed up I couldn't help but love him. Honestly, both of these men came to the table with issues, lots and lots of issues. Ari was like a steamroller at times he just refused to shut up and he knew he wanted Buck. But knowing, getting and having don't always fall into line. Luckily Ari was determined so much so that for Buck avoiding Ari became impossible because he suddenly found Ari was his neighbour. Unfortunately for Ari, Buck's auto-defense is silence and anger. A combination that never solved any problem easily.
My only complaint was...you guessed it...at less than a 100 pages for me it was too short. I would have happily read another hundred pages of Ari & Buck, but all I got was 95ish more or less and for me they were 95ish pages of wonderful reading and I absolutely loved every word of it.
4.5 stars on BL rounded up to 5 happy, smiling, loved this story stars here on GR because...well, those 1/2 stars are still missing here.
August 16, 2015
Buck and Ari are childchood friends. At eighteen, Ari leaves Bluewater Bay. All of a sudden, Buck's mom dies and Buck is left all alone with his little brother. He sarifices everything to take care of him. Five years later Ari comes back and tries to reunite with Buck.
Once I started reading, I couldn't stop. I loved the tension between Buck and Ari. I liked Buck's little brother, Charlie, as well.
It was a sweet, fun and slightly angsty story with unfortunately an abrupt ending. I really wish it was longer. I would love it to be more enxpanded instead of slightly rushed and to actually see Buck and Ari's relationship develop. Because, to tell you the truth, it leaves us where their real love story just begins. Nevertheless, I still really enjoyed it.
**ARC kindly provided by Riptide via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.**
Once I started reading, I couldn't stop. I loved the tension between Buck and Ari. I liked Buck's little brother, Charlie, as well.
It was a sweet, fun and slightly angsty story with unfortunately an abrupt ending. I really wish it was longer. I would love it to be more enxpanded instead of slightly rushed and to actually see Buck and Ari's relationship develop. Because, to tell you the truth, it leaves us where their real love story just begins. Nevertheless, I still really enjoyed it.
**ARC kindly provided by Riptide via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.**
January 16, 2015
Nice addition to the series but it was way too short for me to really fall for the characters. I would have liked to read a less rushed, a more expanded story.
It was an okay read, though.
I'm going to continue reading the following books of the Bluewater Bay series.
February 23, 2015
This was just delightful! I would have liked it if it had been longer, and played the getting to know you bits a bit more fully, but otherwise, I can't find a single fault in this story.
November 15, 2014
Loved this! Love this author's writing and loved this book. On the one hand it was perfect, on the other hand it was too short.
October 25, 2015
Reviewed at The Blogger Girls.
Five years ago, Buck’s mother died and his best friend, Ari, left without saying goodbye. Since then, Buck’s life has revolved around his brother, keeping a roof over their heads and food on the table. When someone moves in next door, Buck doesn’t think much about it except for wondering why someone would want such a crappy house. Until he sees it’s Ari whose moved back to town. Buck’s beyond flabbergasted on why Ari would move back (right next door!) and doesn’t want to let the man get under his skin again. But Ari came back for a reason and it’s not just for a TV show. He’ll do anything to have Buck as more than a friend but with Buck’s natural stubbornness, will he be able to finally have the man he wants?
This was such a sweet read. I loved that Ari and Buck were great friends when they were younger even though they were such opposites. Now, after all these years, they’ve changed (for the most part). Before Ari was an over-energetic, trouble making kid and now he’s a confident, responsible adult. Buck went from a promising life as a writer to giving up his dreams and staying in Bluewater Bay taking care of his brother. As characters, I loved that Buck tried so hard to resist Ari’s charms but I also loved that Ari was so happy and determined to win Buck over. They’re adorable together and the fact that they are so completely different just made it even better.
I really enjoyed this one but I desperately wished it had been longer. I would have loved to see more of Buck and Ari after Buck finally pulls his head out of his ass. Plus, I want more of Ari! He’s so adorable, I could have read another 100 pages of him!
In the end, this was a great little novella. I absolutely adored Ari and his exuberant ways but I also loved that Buck tried so hard to be indifferent to Ari and his ways. I would have loved for it to be longer but this one was still an enjoyable read that had me smiling at the end. I hope Ms. Gregg decides to write a sequel because I really want more of Ari and Buck!
Five years ago, Buck’s mother died and his best friend, Ari, left without saying goodbye. Since then, Buck’s life has revolved around his brother, keeping a roof over their heads and food on the table. When someone moves in next door, Buck doesn’t think much about it except for wondering why someone would want such a crappy house. Until he sees it’s Ari whose moved back to town. Buck’s beyond flabbergasted on why Ari would move back (right next door!) and doesn’t want to let the man get under his skin again. But Ari came back for a reason and it’s not just for a TV show. He’ll do anything to have Buck as more than a friend but with Buck’s natural stubbornness, will he be able to finally have the man he wants?
This was such a sweet read. I loved that Ari and Buck were great friends when they were younger even though they were such opposites. Now, after all these years, they’ve changed (for the most part). Before Ari was an over-energetic, trouble making kid and now he’s a confident, responsible adult. Buck went from a promising life as a writer to giving up his dreams and staying in Bluewater Bay taking care of his brother. As characters, I loved that Buck tried so hard to resist Ari’s charms but I also loved that Ari was so happy and determined to win Buck over. They’re adorable together and the fact that they are so completely different just made it even better.
I really enjoyed this one but I desperately wished it had been longer. I would have loved to see more of Buck and Ari after Buck finally pulls his head out of his ass. Plus, I want more of Ari! He’s so adorable, I could have read another 100 pages of him!
In the end, this was a great little novella. I absolutely adored Ari and his exuberant ways but I also loved that Buck tried so hard to be indifferent to Ari and his ways. I would have loved for it to be longer but this one was still an enjoyable read that had me smiling at the end. I hope Ms. Gregg decides to write a sequel because I really want more of Ari and Buck!
November 10, 2014
Buck Ellis leads a simple life--taking care of his younger brother, going to work and merely going through the motions. His sole focus is making sure to keep his brother at his side, regardless of his dreams and aspirations. But his ordinary existence is about to get a bit complicated when his teenage crush and one time best friend, Ari, moves in next door.
Buck never forgot the young man he spent his youth with or the feelings he once felt towards him. But Buck hasn't allowed himself to feel anything in years and having Ari popping in his life at every turn soon has him a complete mess.
The one thing I loved most about this story were the characters. At just a little over 90 pages of content, L.B. Gregg does a fantastic job of bringing these characters to life. We get to know Buck and Ari's history as young men, how their connection grew through the years and the pain their sudden separation caused in both of them.
I came to understand Buck's hesitancy in letting Ari into his life once again, but it broke my heart to see him so conflicted. Especially since his feelings towards Ari ran so deep. I would have loved to experience Ari's side of the story first hand since I believe that his turmoil over leaving and keeping his distance would have added a lot more to the story. However, the author managed to give me more than a glimpse into his personality and his feelings towards Buck, which quelled my curiosity.
Through the use of honest and often heated interactions, L.B. Gregg provided insight into the connection Buck and Ari shared and how deeply their feelings for one another truly were. I enjoyed Ari's easy manner and charming personality but I loved it when he was direct and confronted Buck about his actions and feelings. I especially enjoyed it when they both just let go and gave in. It was hot and sweet and in my opinion, way too short of an encounter.
All in all, a sweet second chance story and a great addition to the Bluewater Bay universe.
*I received a copy of this title through NetGalley in exchange of my honest opinion.
Buck never forgot the young man he spent his youth with or the feelings he once felt towards him. But Buck hasn't allowed himself to feel anything in years and having Ari popping in his life at every turn soon has him a complete mess.
The one thing I loved most about this story were the characters. At just a little over 90 pages of content, L.B. Gregg does a fantastic job of bringing these characters to life. We get to know Buck and Ari's history as young men, how their connection grew through the years and the pain their sudden separation caused in both of them.
I came to understand Buck's hesitancy in letting Ari into his life once again, but it broke my heart to see him so conflicted. Especially since his feelings towards Ari ran so deep. I would have loved to experience Ari's side of the story first hand since I believe that his turmoil over leaving and keeping his distance would have added a lot more to the story. However, the author managed to give me more than a glimpse into his personality and his feelings towards Buck, which quelled my curiosity.
Through the use of honest and often heated interactions, L.B. Gregg provided insight into the connection Buck and Ari shared and how deeply their feelings for one another truly were. I enjoyed Ari's easy manner and charming personality but I loved it when he was direct and confronted Buck about his actions and feelings. I especially enjoyed it when they both just let go and gave in. It was hot and sweet and in my opinion, way too short of an encounter.
All in all, a sweet second chance story and a great addition to the Bluewater Bay universe.
*I received a copy of this title through NetGalley in exchange of my honest opinion.
November 11, 2014
3.5 rating
This is a short story, and as such, it leaves us wanting more, not only because the characters are so likable, but because the writing in particular is so gorgeously descriptive, so sensory and emotional.
When Buck met Ari:
"I like you." Those three words pierced my loneliness and chased away my shyness. I pictured the two of us walking into the Scouts Meeting Room side by side. Hope curled inside my belly, soothed the hunger that Skittles never eased. Sharing a tent in a sleepover. Eating marshmallows and reading comic books. Shooting rockets in the backyard like my used to do. A friend. MY friend."
When Buck kissed Aris for the first time:
I sealed my flesh to his, and honest to God, tasting the forbidden fruit of my best friend's mouth was every bit as sweet and decadently delicious as I imagined. I slid my tongue over his mouth, and Ari melted. I didn't think about what was right or wrong, or who could see us--only how he reacted when I plunged my tongue deep inside him. Sliding, licking his teeth, tasting him. I had him. I had Ari Valentine, and goddamn it, no, goddam him, I'd finally found a way to shut him up."
I could write about this story, a tale of reunited friends, turned to lovers which is certainly included in this story, and it is very well done, but I want to rhapsodize about good writing, good sensory emotional writing that can be done with few words when the author of the story CAN write. And LB Gregg in this story does exactly that.
My hope is that in the future, Ms. Gregg will permit us to revisit Buck and his hyperactive Ari because there is still a lot of story to tell with these two. The story ended just as it started to get interesting...
This is a short story, and as such, it leaves us wanting more, not only because the characters are so likable, but because the writing in particular is so gorgeously descriptive, so sensory and emotional.
When Buck met Ari:
"I like you." Those three words pierced my loneliness and chased away my shyness. I pictured the two of us walking into the Scouts Meeting Room side by side. Hope curled inside my belly, soothed the hunger that Skittles never eased. Sharing a tent in a sleepover. Eating marshmallows and reading comic books. Shooting rockets in the backyard like my used to do. A friend. MY friend."
When Buck kissed Aris for the first time:
I sealed my flesh to his, and honest to God, tasting the forbidden fruit of my best friend's mouth was every bit as sweet and decadently delicious as I imagined. I slid my tongue over his mouth, and Ari melted. I didn't think about what was right or wrong, or who could see us--only how he reacted when I plunged my tongue deep inside him. Sliding, licking his teeth, tasting him. I had him. I had Ari Valentine, and goddamn it, no, goddam him, I'd finally found a way to shut him up."
I could write about this story, a tale of reunited friends, turned to lovers which is certainly included in this story, and it is very well done, but I want to rhapsodize about good writing, good sensory emotional writing that can be done with few words when the author of the story CAN write. And LB Gregg in this story does exactly that.
My hope is that in the future, Ms. Gregg will permit us to revisit Buck and his hyperactive Ari because there is still a lot of story to tell with these two. The story ended just as it started to get interesting...
November 16, 2014
Ugh, I am so conflicted about this one. I really wanted to like it and I thought the beginning was great but the more I read, the more frustrated I got. The more I think about it, the more disappointed I get.
The entire romance hinged on the fact that Buck and Ari had such a close connection as childhood friends. Given that they seemed completely oblivious to each other's problems and unable to communicate whatsoever, I had a really hard time believing that they were really that close. I needed to actually be shown what their friendship as teens was like and instead I was left with a very vague picture that answered none of my questions.
As more and more reveals about their lives in high school piled up, I found both characters' behavior completely unbelievable, both as adults and as teens. What should have been game changing disclosures were glossed over with no reaction from the characters. Huge questions that I had were left dangling. The characters suffered emotional wounds that were never dealt with. It wasn't enough to simply slap an "I love you" on their relationship and call it good.
I'm really upset because I thought this book had the elements it needed to be great but instead turned into a disjointed mess. I could rant about individual plot points at length but I've already spent too much time being disappointed by this book so I'm moving on. Hopefully my next book by this author will work better for me.
The entire romance hinged on the fact that Buck and Ari had such a close connection as childhood friends. Given that they seemed completely oblivious to each other's problems and unable to communicate whatsoever, I had a really hard time believing that they were really that close. I needed to actually be shown what their friendship as teens was like and instead I was left with a very vague picture that answered none of my questions.
As more and more reveals about their lives in high school piled up, I found both characters' behavior completely unbelievable, both as adults and as teens. What should have been game changing disclosures were glossed over with no reaction from the characters. Huge questions that I had were left dangling. The characters suffered emotional wounds that were never dealt with. It wasn't enough to simply slap an "I love you" on their relationship and call it good.
I'm really upset because I thought this book had the elements it needed to be great but instead turned into a disjointed mess. I could rant about individual plot points at length but I've already spent too much time being disappointed by this book so I'm moving on. Hopefully my next book by this author will work better for me.
May 17, 2016
***Audiobook*** I'm really enjoying this series, but this can definitely be read as a standalone. Aside from a brief mention of Levi from Starstruck, there's no cross over of characters. This is a friends-to-lovers story about Buck and Ari. They've been out of touch for a few years, but Ari has just come back to Bluewater Bay for a recurring role on Wolf's Landing. I kind of wish this had been a little longer; things were just starting to get good :) Excellent narration by Nick J. Russo. I'm kind of bummed he's not doing the next 2 books in the series...
January 5, 2015
I love the cover of this book! There is certainly something about Ari!
Great story, another great romance in this series. Short novel and unlike my other reviewing friends, I liked the ending, I didn't see any point in dragging out the plot further, when all had been accomplished.
Tiny, weeny bit of sex, so short blink and you'll miss it. Great prologue, almost started crying then and there, and yes it was another weepy for me.
Loved it. Five weepy stars.
Great story, another great romance in this series. Short novel and unlike my other reviewing friends, I liked the ending, I didn't see any point in dragging out the plot further, when all had been accomplished.
Tiny, weeny bit of sex, so short blink and you'll miss it. Great prologue, almost started crying then and there, and yes it was another weepy for me.
Loved it. Five weepy stars.
December 6, 2014
I loved this. Lovely emotion.
November 10, 2014
My Review:
I am really, really enjoying this series although this book had a much different feel from the first book (which is to be expected since all the books in the series are written by different authors.)
Buck and Ari were best friends through elementary school and high school, but when high school arrived, things became more difficult between them. For Buck, a lot of that was because he was gay and in love with Ari...something he never told him. But right before high school graduation, Ari disappeared. It coincidentally happened the day Buck's single mother suddenly died, leaving him alone to care for his 5th grade little brother. For Ari, that was the single worst day of his life.
But now Ari is back in town as a successful actor on Wolf's Landing and moving into the house next door to Buck...something Buck really doesn't know how to handle. Especially since Buck's life has been anything but successful since Ari left. When Ari left, Buck had a full scholarship ride to college that he had to give up to take care of his little brother. He's still working at the same coffee shop that he worked at in high school. Yes, now he's the manager, but it's sure not the same level of success that Ari has achieved. And then there are the feelings...Buck is still in love with Ari and still hasn't come out of the closet.
It was a good book although it's a very short one. I liked the situation between Buck and Ari. The book is told entirely from Buck's point of view, but it's still easy to see how torn up Ari is...and when I heard the full story of his disappearance it broke my heart.
Again, I'm really, really enjoying this series. It's just one of those contemporary series with books that make you feel happier for having read them and that's a win/win in my book. I definitely recommend this one!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
I am really, really enjoying this series although this book had a much different feel from the first book (which is to be expected since all the books in the series are written by different authors.)
Buck and Ari were best friends through elementary school and high school, but when high school arrived, things became more difficult between them. For Buck, a lot of that was because he was gay and in love with Ari...something he never told him. But right before high school graduation, Ari disappeared. It coincidentally happened the day Buck's single mother suddenly died, leaving him alone to care for his 5th grade little brother. For Ari, that was the single worst day of his life.
But now Ari is back in town as a successful actor on Wolf's Landing and moving into the house next door to Buck...something Buck really doesn't know how to handle. Especially since Buck's life has been anything but successful since Ari left. When Ari left, Buck had a full scholarship ride to college that he had to give up to take care of his little brother. He's still working at the same coffee shop that he worked at in high school. Yes, now he's the manager, but it's sure not the same level of success that Ari has achieved. And then there are the feelings...Buck is still in love with Ari and still hasn't come out of the closet.
It was a good book although it's a very short one. I liked the situation between Buck and Ari. The book is told entirely from Buck's point of view, but it's still easy to see how torn up Ari is...and when I heard the full story of his disappearance it broke my heart.
Again, I'm really, really enjoying this series. It's just one of those contemporary series with books that make you feel happier for having read them and that's a win/win in my book. I definitely recommend this one!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
April 10, 2019
I love stories about kids who meet in grade school and became best friends, only to have life knock you around, until once again you're face to face. In a nutshell that's Buck and Ari. The author's descriptions of Ari as a little kid were priceless and made me adore him from the get-go. Since I had so much fun with the first book in the 'Bluewater Bay' series, I was confident that Buck and Ari would win me over.
"He’d been eighteen the last time I saw him in the flesh. Two arrests under his belt, and fighting an addiction to Adderall, he’d barely topped five and a half feet when he skipped town. He’d been a skinny, hyperactive, dyslexic delinquent who quit school just shy of graduation....We weren’t the same people, not by appearance, and not by what life had dealt us."
A friendship that strong, born on the backs of two misfit kids, can't resist reconnecting. And, when Ari comes out to Buck......well, there's a whole lot of explaining needing to be done. Actually, there's a lot of pursuing, by Ari, and stuttering, stammering, and trying not to lose his heart, again, by Buck. Very entertaining!
"I’ll never be sorry that I make you crazy. You’ve made me crazy my whole life, Buck. It’s the least I can do in return.”
A wonderful, sweet, nostalgic look at love!
NOTE: This book was provided by Riptide Publishing for the purpose of a review.
"He’d been eighteen the last time I saw him in the flesh. Two arrests under his belt, and fighting an addiction to Adderall, he’d barely topped five and a half feet when he skipped town. He’d been a skinny, hyperactive, dyslexic delinquent who quit school just shy of graduation....We weren’t the same people, not by appearance, and not by what life had dealt us."
A friendship that strong, born on the backs of two misfit kids, can't resist reconnecting. And, when Ari comes out to Buck......well, there's a whole lot of explaining needing to be done. Actually, there's a lot of pursuing, by Ari, and stuttering, stammering, and trying not to lose his heart, again, by Buck. Very entertaining!
"I’ll never be sorry that I make you crazy. You’ve made me crazy my whole life, Buck. It’s the least I can do in return.”
A wonderful, sweet, nostalgic look at love!
NOTE: This book was provided by Riptide Publishing for the purpose of a review.
November 9, 2014
I enjoyed it. I would have liked for it to have been longer, though.
February 3, 2018
ugh, this is the 2nd book by this author I haven't liked so I guess 'this one's not for me'... I've learned my lesson
November 7, 2014
First love is a powerful force. I, for one, have never forgotten that heart-pounding excitement, those initial stirrings of desire, the butterflies in the stomach. Most of us, as we change and mature, move on from our childhood romances. However, in this sexy novella by L.B. Gregg, the heroes meet their soul mate when they're barely old enough to understand the concept, their feelings growing stronger and more intense over time.
Moments after encountering Ari Valentine in the school playground, Buck Ellis fell in love. Where Buck was shy, finding it difficult to make friends, Ari was confident and full of boundless energy. Throughout their teenage years, the two were inseparable, and Buck suffered the agony of wanting his straight best friend while having to watch him date an endless stream of girls. Then, as he prepared to leave for college on a scholarship, Buck's mother died, and, just when he needed him most, Ari ran away without saying goodbye.
At twenty-three, Buck is working a dead-end job in a coffee shop and doing his best to keep his younger brother out of trouble, when Ari returns to Bluewater Bay. Yet, Ari is no longer a skinny kid with an inability to sit still. He's gorgeous and self-assured and starring in Wolf's Landing, the cult television series which is the small town's one claim to fame. A single glance is all it takes for Buck to know five years have done nothing to alter his feelings. But Ari isn't gay, and even if he were, can Buck really put the past behind him and let Ari back into his life?
In addition to being brilliantly written, 'There's Something About Ari' is sensual and sweet, and I finished it in a couple of sittings. I only wish it could have been longer, allowing me to spend more time with these wonderful young men. Though polar opposites, Buck and Ari are equally strong characters in their own way, and the connection between them, sexual as well as emotional, is evident in their every interaction. I truly loved this story, and am looking forward to reading more from this author and from the Bluewater Bay universe.
Written for Rainbow Book Reviews and Boys on the Brink
Moments after encountering Ari Valentine in the school playground, Buck Ellis fell in love. Where Buck was shy, finding it difficult to make friends, Ari was confident and full of boundless energy. Throughout their teenage years, the two were inseparable, and Buck suffered the agony of wanting his straight best friend while having to watch him date an endless stream of girls. Then, as he prepared to leave for college on a scholarship, Buck's mother died, and, just when he needed him most, Ari ran away without saying goodbye.
At twenty-three, Buck is working a dead-end job in a coffee shop and doing his best to keep his younger brother out of trouble, when Ari returns to Bluewater Bay. Yet, Ari is no longer a skinny kid with an inability to sit still. He's gorgeous and self-assured and starring in Wolf's Landing, the cult television series which is the small town's one claim to fame. A single glance is all it takes for Buck to know five years have done nothing to alter his feelings. But Ari isn't gay, and even if he were, can Buck really put the past behind him and let Ari back into his life?
In addition to being brilliantly written, 'There's Something About Ari' is sensual and sweet, and I finished it in a couple of sittings. I only wish it could have been longer, allowing me to spend more time with these wonderful young men. Though polar opposites, Buck and Ari are equally strong characters in their own way, and the connection between them, sexual as well as emotional, is evident in their every interaction. I truly loved this story, and am looking forward to reading more from this author and from the Bluewater Bay universe.
Written for Rainbow Book Reviews and Boys on the Brink
November 10, 2014
I have a feeling I would have given this 4 stars if it had been longer - the only issues I have would most likely have been nonexistant in a longer book. I liked both main characters, and Charlie too. Buck has done the best he could with the hand he was dealt, and I felt he had actually done a good job being parent and brother to Charlie in spite of giving up his dreams. I liked that Ari had straightened his life out since high school. I would have liked more talking about the past between them - there was pretty much a conversation and a half about Ari's leaving and why, and what he had done in the years between. No real discussion about what Buck had given up, and why he reacted the way he did finding Charlie at Ari's (an apology from Charlie would have been nice there - I felt that Buck was made out to be the bad guy, and in spite of a little overreacting, he had every right to be upset). The gift he left for Buck at the end went a long way to cover some of this - such a sweet gesture! I would really have liked to know that Buck was able to realize some of his dreams, and maybe in one of the future books we'll see a little bit into their future. Although the brief scene with Levi was nice, I would have preferred to see him with Carter, so I'm wondering how much of previous books will show up in the future ones. But overall, like with most of Gregg's books, I did like it - her characters are well drawn and likeable - just a little briefer than I like in this one.
November 12, 2014
3 Stars
So, I am really confused about my feelings for this book. It started out really really great. Actually the book itself was going great while I turn the page. Then, suddenly... THE END. Umm?
So Buck and Ellis, they are basically soul mates since they day they met and that was like when they were young kids. It's just that, they didn't know that it was love like that then. As years go by, one of them realizes it but was for sure it was unrequited as he thought the other one is straight.
But he is gay too.
Anyway, I really really like how everything was going except for the ending. I know it's just a short story but some authors know how to write a proper ending for one. I think I would have liked it better if it was longer because there are a lot of things needed to be explain.
It had a lot of potential.
So, I am really confused about my feelings for this book. It started out really really great. Actually the book itself was going great while I turn the page. Then, suddenly... THE END. Umm?
So Buck and Ellis, they are basically soul mates since they day they met and that was like when they were young kids. It's just that, they didn't know that it was love like that then. As years go by, one of them realizes it but was for sure it was unrequited as he thought the other one is straight.
But he is gay too.
Anyway, I really really like how everything was going except for the ending. I know it's just a short story but some authors know how to write a proper ending for one. I think I would have liked it better if it was longer because there are a lot of things needed to be explain.
It had a lot of potential.
July 14, 2016
There's Something About Ari was a short read but an enjoyable one. I wouldn't say it's amazing but I do recommend it.
I really like the romance. The banter and the chemistry between Ari and Buck is cute. Despite the book's short length, there was never an insta-love vibe, which I approve of.
I also like the characters. Buck is a really likable narrator, he's relatable and also kinda funny. Ari is really sweet and cute. And I love Tori, she's awesome.
There's something about the author's writing that I just really like, so I can't wait to read more from this author.
Tl;dr version- There's Something About Ari is a very enjoyable yet quick read. I wish it was just a tad longer. But overall I really liked it and I do recommend it.
I really like the romance. The banter and the chemistry between Ari and Buck is cute. Despite the book's short length, there was never an insta-love vibe, which I approve of.
I also like the characters. Buck is a really likable narrator, he's relatable and also kinda funny. Ari is really sweet and cute. And I love Tori, she's awesome.
There's something about the author's writing that I just really like, so I can't wait to read more from this author.
Tl;dr version- There's Something About Ari is a very enjoyable yet quick read. I wish it was just a tad longer. But overall I really liked it and I do recommend it.
November 18, 2014
I really lovely sweet story of best friends from pre teen age via some misunderstanding to lovers.
I love first person POV and this worked it so well, Buck is quirky, snarky and funny, his internal dialogue was brilliant.
Ari, also wonderful, so brave and vibrant.
There is nothing original about this, but the charm is all in the writing, which is great.
I love first person POV and this worked it so well, Buck is quirky, snarky and funny, his internal dialogue was brilliant.
Ari, also wonderful, so brave and vibrant.
There is nothing original about this, but the charm is all in the writing, which is great.
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