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Rainbow Key #1
Le Paradis de Joshua: Rainbow Key #1
Rainbow Key - Une île de vacances de luxe exclusive, des plages de sable blanc, une mer d’un bleu étincelant...
Un vrai paradis... en façade. Car Joshua a du mal à payer les factures d’électricité, il n’y a presque pas de clients et il n’a toujours pas les moyens de payer les réparations dues à l’ouragan dévastateur qui a frappé l’île trois ans auparavant. Il lui reste moins de trois mois pour remettre l’établissement sur pied avant que le conseil d’administration n’intervienne et ne les mette tous à la porte.
Joshua, qui a été jeté à l’adolescence par les personnes qui auraient dû l’aimer le plus, est terrifié à l’idée d’être expulsé du seul endroit où il s’est toujours senti en sécurité. Pour ne rien arranger, le nouveau résident de l’hôtel est Daniel, un homme d’affaires grincheux à qui son médecin a ordonné de prendre du repos avant qu’il ne fasse une crise cardiaque à cause d’un excès de stress.
Par une étrange coïncidence, Daniel est le propriétaire d’une chaîne hôtelière très huppée, qui essaie d’acheter l’île depuis deux ans.
Mais à Rainbow Key, il y a aussi Matt, qui vient de sortir de prison, Charlie, qui s’est enfui avant d’être enfermé dans un hôpital psychiatrique, et Ben, mannequin célèbre jusqu’à ce qu’un incendie dévastateur détruise son visage.
Bienvenue à Rainbow Key, un lieu qui tient grâce à l’amour, la famille, mais aussi du ruban adhésif !
Un vrai paradis... en façade. Car Joshua a du mal à payer les factures d’électricité, il n’y a presque pas de clients et il n’a toujours pas les moyens de payer les réparations dues à l’ouragan dévastateur qui a frappé l’île trois ans auparavant. Il lui reste moins de trois mois pour remettre l’établissement sur pied avant que le conseil d’administration n’intervienne et ne les mette tous à la porte.
Joshua, qui a été jeté à l’adolescence par les personnes qui auraient dû l’aimer le plus, est terrifié à l’idée d’être expulsé du seul endroit où il s’est toujours senti en sécurité. Pour ne rien arranger, le nouveau résident de l’hôtel est Daniel, un homme d’affaires grincheux à qui son médecin a ordonné de prendre du repos avant qu’il ne fasse une crise cardiaque à cause d’un excès de stress.
Par une étrange coïncidence, Daniel est le propriétaire d’une chaîne hôtelière très huppée, qui essaie d’acheter l’île depuis deux ans.
Mais à Rainbow Key, il y a aussi Matt, qui vient de sortir de prison, Charlie, qui s’est enfui avant d’être enfermé dans un hôpital psychiatrique, et Ben, mannequin célèbre jusqu’à ce qu’un incendie dévastateur détruise son visage.
Bienvenue à Rainbow Key, un lieu qui tient grâce à l’amour, la famille, mais aussi du ruban adhésif !
299 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 29, 2018
About the author
Victoria Sue
107 books1,027 followersBullets and Babies!
Victoria writes about guys loving other guys in between dodging bullets, kidnappers, and serial killers. She enjoys putting them through hell to get their happy ever after—it’s a character flaw she embraces.
She also believes that family is who you choose, that dogs are often much wiser than human beings, and that we’re steadily destroying the world we live in.
And if people read more books, they'd be much happier.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 140 reviews
March 13, 2019
Wow, this is one powerful story. 😱 It really blew me away. ❤️ First of all, from the blurb, you think that you are going to get a feel-good, low-angst, fluffy story. Well, you are not getting fluffy. What you are going to get is a meaningful and heartwarming story with amazing depth which will explore the ugliness and beauty of the humans and the society. 😊
Joshua is a very fascinating human being for me. It simply broke my heart to learn what he had to go through before he even became 18. The world can be a cruel place and humans even crueler. This story teaches us the importance of love, forgiveness, family and most importantly, acceptance. His life changed for the better when he was rescued by Clive and got to Rainbow Key where you can be just as you are. Now Joshua dreams of giving home to misfits and outcasts like him and running a successful hotel that will benefit everyone who works at the hotel. And just when he thought love is not for someone like him, a dashing and kind man who attracts to him like a magnet arrived to his rundown hotel.
Daniel has been simply living until now. After his parents passed away in a sudden accident, he’s been investing his life in making money and expanding his business empire. Home is not the place but the people you love. But the thing is despite being 40, Daniel still hasn’t found his “the one and home” yet. After collapsing at an event due to over-working and stress, he was instructed by his best friend and personal doctor to go on a vacation where he can completely rest his body and soul. Thus the story of our Rainbow Key island getaway begins.
When these two love-starved men met, both thought they are not good enough for each other. 😁 And when they finally hooked up, they both thought the other person wanted only a vacation fling. The ridiculous thing is because the truth is very far from it. 😁 They both want a serious relationship where they can utterly commit to and love each other. As they started to find their common ground and things started going well, Joshua’s ugly past fast caught up to them. Now Daniel must show Joshua how love can heal anything.
The story really blew me away. It was interesting, enthralling and most of all, authentic. And the love making scenes? Though not plenty, they were smoking hot! 🔥 The second thing that blew me away was the narrator Darcy Stark. 😍 I was very skeptical about listening to him because well, I have never listened to any of his audio before but boy, the man can narrate! 😱💙 His performance of Joshua and Daniel was so vivid and powerful and his female impersonations really fascinated me. Great job choosing the narrator Victoria Sue. 👏 I’m sure I’ll definitely listen more of him. I love how everything worked out in the end. It was a very heartwarming and beautiful HEA. I hope to see more of these two in the upcoming books in the series. 😌 A great book and a lovely narration! 💗 Thoroughly enjoyed it! 👍
5 love is the greatest forgiveness stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Audio rating
Story 4.5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Narration 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Performance 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Overall 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Disclaimer: An audio copy of this book was provided by the author for an honest and unbiased review.
Joshua is a very fascinating human being for me. It simply broke my heart to learn what he had to go through before he even became 18. The world can be a cruel place and humans even crueler. This story teaches us the importance of love, forgiveness, family and most importantly, acceptance. His life changed for the better when he was rescued by Clive and got to Rainbow Key where you can be just as you are. Now Joshua dreams of giving home to misfits and outcasts like him and running a successful hotel that will benefit everyone who works at the hotel. And just when he thought love is not for someone like him, a dashing and kind man who attracts to him like a magnet arrived to his rundown hotel.
Daniel has been simply living until now. After his parents passed away in a sudden accident, he’s been investing his life in making money and expanding his business empire. Home is not the place but the people you love. But the thing is despite being 40, Daniel still hasn’t found his “the one and home” yet. After collapsing at an event due to over-working and stress, he was instructed by his best friend and personal doctor to go on a vacation where he can completely rest his body and soul. Thus the story of our Rainbow Key island getaway begins.
When these two love-starved men met, both thought they are not good enough for each other. 😁 And when they finally hooked up, they both thought the other person wanted only a vacation fling. The ridiculous thing is because the truth is very far from it. 😁 They both want a serious relationship where they can utterly commit to and love each other. As they started to find their common ground and things started going well, Joshua’s ugly past fast caught up to them. Now Daniel must show Joshua how love can heal anything.
The story really blew me away. It was interesting, enthralling and most of all, authentic. And the love making scenes? Though not plenty, they were smoking hot! 🔥 The second thing that blew me away was the narrator Darcy Stark. 😍 I was very skeptical about listening to him because well, I have never listened to any of his audio before but boy, the man can narrate! 😱💙 His performance of Joshua and Daniel was so vivid and powerful and his female impersonations really fascinated me. Great job choosing the narrator Victoria Sue. 👏 I’m sure I’ll definitely listen more of him. I love how everything worked out in the end. It was a very heartwarming and beautiful HEA. I hope to see more of these two in the upcoming books in the series. 😌 A great book and a lovely narration! 💗 Thoroughly enjoyed it! 👍
5 love is the greatest forgiveness stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Audio rating
Story 4.5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Narration 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Performance 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Overall 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Disclaimer: An audio copy of this book was provided by the author for an honest and unbiased review.
May 9, 2018
~2.5~
I'm in the minority with my rating. I just found the plot and characters to be exceedingly flat and uninteresting. I never felt even a smidgen of chemistry between Daniel and Joshua. Joshua's "woe is me" shtick got old fast. Josh was sweet and kind and . . . generic, so very generic.
Daniel wasn't much better. For having passed age 40, he had no clue how to communicate in a relationship. And he was boring. I can't think of a single personality trait that made him an individual.
Both men withheld information from one another, yet the deception was resolved with barely a discussion. Even the reason Daniel had to rush home felt like a plot device.
I did like the secondary character and the romantic island setting. The HEA was super cheesy, but I'm curious enough about Charlie that I'll give his book a shot.
I'm in the minority with my rating. I just found the plot and characters to be exceedingly flat and uninteresting. I never felt even a smidgen of chemistry between Daniel and Joshua. Joshua's "woe is me" shtick got old fast. Josh was sweet and kind and . . . generic, so very generic.
Daniel wasn't much better. For having passed age 40, he had no clue how to communicate in a relationship. And he was boring. I can't think of a single personality trait that made him an individual.
Both men withheld information from one another, yet the deception was resolved with barely a discussion. Even the reason Daniel had to rush home felt like a plot device.
I did like the secondary character and the romantic island setting. The HEA was super cheesy, but I'm curious enough about Charlie that I'll give his book a shot.
December 21, 2021
Joshua’s Rainbow by Victoria Sue
1st book in the Rainbow Key series. Contemporary M-M romance.
After suffering a panic attack, Daniel agrees to unplug at a small hotel on an island off the west coast of Florida. Daniel is worried about the lack of amenities but the first meal is wonderful so he decides to stay a bit longer. Daniel soon starts a relationship with Joshua and realizes the group is special and but under pressure by unscrupulous owners.
An emotional teeter-totter between Joshua and Daniel plus Matt, Charlie, Ben and the situations each has gone through in the past (tragic m-m situations). Load the current insecurities anyone can carry and it’s a bog of attempted emotional healing.
The author isn’t afraid of the tragic but remember this is a romance so of course, we are going to get an hea - for the main couple at least. You’ll have to read the rest of the series for the supporting men.
🎧 I alternated between a paperback copy and the audiobook narrated by John Solo. The narration was well done with distinct voices for the two main male characters and the emotional depth each went through. The most comfortable speed for this for me was 1.4 which was slightly faster than my preferred 1.2.
1st book in the Rainbow Key series. Contemporary M-M romance.
After suffering a panic attack, Daniel agrees to unplug at a small hotel on an island off the west coast of Florida. Daniel is worried about the lack of amenities but the first meal is wonderful so he decides to stay a bit longer. Daniel soon starts a relationship with Joshua and realizes the group is special and but under pressure by unscrupulous owners.
An emotional teeter-totter between Joshua and Daniel plus Matt, Charlie, Ben and the situations each has gone through in the past (tragic m-m situations). Load the current insecurities anyone can carry and it’s a bog of attempted emotional healing.
The author isn’t afraid of the tragic but remember this is a romance so of course, we are going to get an hea - for the main couple at least. You’ll have to read the rest of the series for the supporting men.
🎧 I alternated between a paperback copy and the audiobook narrated by John Solo. The narration was well done with distinct voices for the two main male characters and the emotional depth each went through. The most comfortable speed for this for me was 1.4 which was slightly faster than my preferred 1.2.
May 10, 2018
A romance with an age-gap between a billionaire in the hotel business in need of a break from a hectic life and a sweet young man still insecure from a harsh past but doing his best to run the hotel built by the man who once sheltered him.
The blurb was tempting. However, this book didn’t work for me.
First, I couldn’t get a hold on the MCs nor on some of the secondary characters.
As for the storyline, I couldn’t buy it one second : I felt like hiccups or revelations were dropped at my feet, either not discuss about, or easily resolved or not explored - eye-rolling.
I’m puzzled. I enjoyed the “Enhanced” series from this author with a very good world-building and had no issue with the characterization nor the plotline. I didn’t get the same enjoyment from this book, quite the opposite. I feel a bit crestfallen.
The blurb was tempting. However, this book didn’t work for me.
First, I couldn’t get a hold on the MCs nor on some of the secondary characters.
As for the storyline, I couldn’t buy it one second : I felt like hiccups or revelations were dropped at my feet, either not discuss about, or easily resolved or not explored - eye-rolling.
I’m puzzled. I enjoyed the “Enhanced” series from this author with a very good world-building and had no issue with the characterization nor the plotline. I didn’t get the same enjoyment from this book, quite the opposite. I feel a bit crestfallen.
February 25, 2019
3.5*
This was such a beautiful read.
Daniel is forty-two years old when he gets a life changing health scare. He’s been busy building his empire of luxury hotels and keeping up with his much younger boyfriend Eric. Life is telling him he needs to slow down and take stock. But that’s easier said than done when you’re a workaholic.
His doctor and lifetime best friend sends him to stay on Rainbow Key an island off Florida. An island which Daniel has tried to buy in the past. What he finds there is a crumbling hotel held together by Joshua and his group of misfits.
Daniel can’t help picturing what he’ll do once he owns the island. The changes he’ll make and how amazing it will be. But as he comes to know Joshua and his group he realises there’s more to life and this island than a luxury resort.
This is a beautifully written book. The characters are so real, I lost myself in them and their story. I fully intend to continue on and read Charlie’s Rainbow.
That said my rating might be confusing.
Why have I only given 3.5*?
There’s several reasons. While it is a beautiful and enjoyable read it’s not a book I will ever re-read. It’s also not a book that will stay with me or leave any lasting impression. It is what I think of as the perfect 3* story. A read I can enjoy and forget. It’s the quality of the writing that’s given it the extra half a star.
February 13, 2018
Oooooh, this is going to be an amazing series, I can tell after just reading this first book. I loved all the characters and can't wait for their stories. But first, Daniel and Joshua.
Daniel is a 42 year old CEO of a large chain of well known hotels, and suffers an anxiety attack with all the stress he's been under. His friend sends him to Rainbow Key to rest and recover, where he meets Joshua, the young 22 year old who is running the resort.
This is a beautifully written may/december age gap contemporary romance, where every character has his own secrets - Daniel has been trying to buy this very island for years and doesn't want Joshua to know who he really is, and Joshua has a tragic teenage past after his parents kick him out for being gay as well as having low self esteem issues with his weight. And on top of that, the inn might be forced to close, leaving Joshua and the other employees homeless and jobless.
I also really loved the other characters - and hope that they will get their own stories soon. There is Ben, who has scars on his face, and there is Charlie, who suffers from tactile aversion where he can't stand things touching him, being touched, or the textures of things. Ahhh I can't wait for more stories with this group of characters!
There is plenty of emotion, some sexy times, and love. Joshua and Daniel were wonderful together, and I love how Daniel came through for both Josh and the inn - especially Joshua, at the very end.
Highly recommended! Is there anything Victoria Sue CAN'T write?! Whether it be contemporary, paranormal, high fantasy, you name it - when it's written by this author, you know it's going to be amazing.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Daniel is a 42 year old CEO of a large chain of well known hotels, and suffers an anxiety attack with all the stress he's been under. His friend sends him to Rainbow Key to rest and recover, where he meets Joshua, the young 22 year old who is running the resort.
This is a beautifully written may/december age gap contemporary romance, where every character has his own secrets - Daniel has been trying to buy this very island for years and doesn't want Joshua to know who he really is, and Joshua has a tragic teenage past after his parents kick him out for being gay as well as having low self esteem issues with his weight. And on top of that, the inn might be forced to close, leaving Joshua and the other employees homeless and jobless.
I also really loved the other characters - and hope that they will get their own stories soon. There is Ben, who has scars on his face, and there is Charlie, who suffers from tactile aversion where he can't stand things touching him, being touched, or the textures of things. Ahhh I can't wait for more stories with this group of characters!
There is plenty of emotion, some sexy times, and love. Joshua and Daniel were wonderful together, and I love how Daniel came through for both Josh and the inn - especially Joshua, at the very end.
Highly recommended! Is there anything Victoria Sue CAN'T write?! Whether it be contemporary, paranormal, high fantasy, you name it - when it's written by this author, you know it's going to be amazing.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 3, 2019
A beautifully written hurt/comfort story with a delectable age gap, Joshua’s Rainbow is the first in Victoria Sue’s Rainbow Key series. Narrator Darcy Stark’s rich, warm voice pulled me in right from the get-go, and this story flew by much too fast. Luckily for me, there are two more episodes to come and I can’t wait to listen to them.
I really enjoy the compelling backstories Victoria Sue develops for her characters, and the powerful connections she establishes between them. When Josh and Daniel click, damn do they click!
These are wonderful characters and I challenge anyone not to fall in love with Joshua. After everything he’s been through in his life, he still has such a huge heart - I couldn’t wait to see him get his happily-ever-after. And slightly flustered, overworked Daniel needs to re-prioritize, and watching him find something of value in his life is very rewarding.
The way Daniel breaks down Joshua’s walls and helps him overcome his fear of intimacy is very romantic. And I love the way he shows his support of Joshua’s continual journey of recovery. Josh is a strong man and he’s working hard to make a new life for himself and others who need a safe place.
Victoria Sue always tells an amazing story, and she gives me everything I need in a romance with Joshua’s Rainbow. It's wonderful, and I’m moving right on to Charlie’s Rainbow which is also narrated by the wonderful Darcy Stark.
an audiobook copy of Joshua’s Rainbow was provided to me for the purpose of my review
I really enjoy the compelling backstories Victoria Sue develops for her characters, and the powerful connections she establishes between them. When Josh and Daniel click, damn do they click!
These are wonderful characters and I challenge anyone not to fall in love with Joshua. After everything he’s been through in his life, he still has such a huge heart - I couldn’t wait to see him get his happily-ever-after. And slightly flustered, overworked Daniel needs to re-prioritize, and watching him find something of value in his life is very rewarding.
The way Daniel breaks down Joshua’s walls and helps him overcome his fear of intimacy is very romantic. And I love the way he shows his support of Joshua’s continual journey of recovery. Josh is a strong man and he’s working hard to make a new life for himself and others who need a safe place.
Victoria Sue always tells an amazing story, and she gives me everything I need in a romance with Joshua’s Rainbow. It's wonderful, and I’m moving right on to Charlie’s Rainbow which is also narrated by the wonderful Darcy Stark.
an audiobook copy of Joshua’s Rainbow was provided to me for the purpose of my review
Did Not Finish
March 30, 2018DNF 70%
This one just wasn’t working for me. I just didn’t feel the connection between the MCs.
This one just wasn’t working for me. I just didn’t feel the connection between the MCs.
February 20, 2018
Reviewed for Sinfully.
Running a run-down hotel on the private island of Rainbow Key, something left to him by his savior Clive, should be everything Joshua could want, but without the proper funds to renovate the hotel and with time ticking down to meet the terms of the trust and the will, Joshua fears he and his friends will be forced to find a new home very soon. Just as Clive helped Joshua, Joshua is now stepping up to do the same with Ben, Charlie, Matt and the others who work and live on Rainbow Key, whether they can stay on the island or not.
When Daniel’s best friend sends him to Rainbow Key, Daniel can’t help but start thinking about the place with the eye of the resort developer he is, especially since he knows his company has tried to buy the island in the past. That mindset is soon put to the test by Joshua and his staff and Daniel tries to be a guest there for relaxation as opposed to a man on a business mission, although he also starts to think that maybe he could be just the person to help Joshua and the resort succeed in its goal. Daniel is quite taken with the shy young Joshua and as the two spend time together, both their secrets start gnawing at them.
The alternating points of view give a good look into the mindset of both men, who are so different on the outside. Josh has self-esteem issues going back to his awful childhood and teenage years and can’t believe that the rich, handsome Daniel would take an interest. Daniel is feeling old and washed up and is just as boggled that the young Joshua wants him. A bit of fun is all well and good, but soon both men know there’s more to it than that.
I really enjoyed the relationship between the men. Daniel sees so much in Joshua, the things Joshua never sees in himself, and brings a whole lot of light to his life. Joshua tries to be strong for and take care of everyone and he jumps right in to make sure Daniel is cared for seeing that Daniel has done little to care for himself. They are a perfect balance for each other and I loved the protective side of Daniel, which quickly extended past just Joshua. When secrets and misunderstandings combine at the worst possible time Joshua fears he was right about his first impression of Daniel and that it will be the end of Rainbow Key and his island family.
Everybody at Rainbow Key is there for sanctuary, to recover or to hide, to find a sense of safety and acceptance for who they are. They have made a family on that island and I loved that part of the book. Without taking anything away from the main storyline and making it seem like a setup vehicle for a series, Victoria Sue introduces the other residents (and I assume future MCs of their own stories) as a natural part of the story and already has me caring and invested in their HEA as well. Charlie, Ben and Matt are all integral to Joshua and Rainbow Key and their presence enhanced what the island and the resort mean. They are a family. Even with all the difficulties the men have faced and the threat to their future, the story is full of hope and love, but I bet you’ll shed a tear or two while reading.
This book hit the right tone for a first in a series and I’ll be looking forward to reading the next book. I highly recommend it to those who enjoy stories about finding unexpected love.
Running a run-down hotel on the private island of Rainbow Key, something left to him by his savior Clive, should be everything Joshua could want, but without the proper funds to renovate the hotel and with time ticking down to meet the terms of the trust and the will, Joshua fears he and his friends will be forced to find a new home very soon. Just as Clive helped Joshua, Joshua is now stepping up to do the same with Ben, Charlie, Matt and the others who work and live on Rainbow Key, whether they can stay on the island or not.
When Daniel’s best friend sends him to Rainbow Key, Daniel can’t help but start thinking about the place with the eye of the resort developer he is, especially since he knows his company has tried to buy the island in the past. That mindset is soon put to the test by Joshua and his staff and Daniel tries to be a guest there for relaxation as opposed to a man on a business mission, although he also starts to think that maybe he could be just the person to help Joshua and the resort succeed in its goal. Daniel is quite taken with the shy young Joshua and as the two spend time together, both their secrets start gnawing at them.
The alternating points of view give a good look into the mindset of both men, who are so different on the outside. Josh has self-esteem issues going back to his awful childhood and teenage years and can’t believe that the rich, handsome Daniel would take an interest. Daniel is feeling old and washed up and is just as boggled that the young Joshua wants him. A bit of fun is all well and good, but soon both men know there’s more to it than that.
I really enjoyed the relationship between the men. Daniel sees so much in Joshua, the things Joshua never sees in himself, and brings a whole lot of light to his life. Joshua tries to be strong for and take care of everyone and he jumps right in to make sure Daniel is cared for seeing that Daniel has done little to care for himself. They are a perfect balance for each other and I loved the protective side of Daniel, which quickly extended past just Joshua. When secrets and misunderstandings combine at the worst possible time Joshua fears he was right about his first impression of Daniel and that it will be the end of Rainbow Key and his island family.
Everybody at Rainbow Key is there for sanctuary, to recover or to hide, to find a sense of safety and acceptance for who they are. They have made a family on that island and I loved that part of the book. Without taking anything away from the main storyline and making it seem like a setup vehicle for a series, Victoria Sue introduces the other residents (and I assume future MCs of their own stories) as a natural part of the story and already has me caring and invested in their HEA as well. Charlie, Ben and Matt are all integral to Joshua and Rainbow Key and their presence enhanced what the island and the resort mean. They are a family. Even with all the difficulties the men have faced and the threat to their future, the story is full of hope and love, but I bet you’ll shed a tear or two while reading.
This book hit the right tone for a first in a series and I’ll be looking forward to reading the next book. I highly recommend it to those who enjoy stories about finding unexpected love.
Want to Read
February 22, 2019Freebie at the zon.com right now: https://www.amazon.com/Joshuas-Rainbo...
March 31, 2018
It is a pretty well known trope. Rich guy who owns a hotel chain ends up on a island where a struggling hotel is barely holding on. Rich guy ends up falling for a worker/owner of said failing hotel, and things get complicated. Truths must out, and feelings will be tested.
But there is something about the way that Victoria sue wrote Daniel (our rich guy) and Joshua (our poor struggling hotel owner) that made the trope a bit more than all the rest. And while I won’t say that this book was flawless, I will say that despite the fact I went in almost convinced I had read this actual book before since the blurb sounded so familiar, I came away rather pleased with what I got.
Firstly, it was just well written. I cared about all the characters, even the secondary ones, and never felt like strangling them even when they were being stupid. And I really appreciated how this author choose to write Joshua as a overweight man. He was treated like a real human being and it was very refreshing.
I will say though that this didn’t get a higher rating because there were just too many time that the book gave into the cliche of a given situation. Had it taken a few more chances, subverted or just swerved around the expected action or situation, I would have enjoyed this a bit more. What it did didn’t make the story unreadable, but it certainly made it a bit more predictable at times, and that is a shame.
Overall, though, I really did like this. And for all that I went in expecting this book to be nothing but a rehashing of this trope, it gave me plenty to enjoy.
3.5 stars
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
But there is something about the way that Victoria sue wrote Daniel (our rich guy) and Joshua (our poor struggling hotel owner) that made the trope a bit more than all the rest. And while I won’t say that this book was flawless, I will say that despite the fact I went in almost convinced I had read this actual book before since the blurb sounded so familiar, I came away rather pleased with what I got.
Firstly, it was just well written. I cared about all the characters, even the secondary ones, and never felt like strangling them even when they were being stupid. And I really appreciated how this author choose to write Joshua as a overweight man. He was treated like a real human being and it was very refreshing.
I will say though that this didn’t get a higher rating because there were just too many time that the book gave into the cliche of a given situation. Had it taken a few more chances, subverted or just swerved around the expected action or situation, I would have enjoyed this a bit more. What it did didn’t make the story unreadable, but it certainly made it a bit more predictable at times, and that is a shame.
Overall, though, I really did like this. And for all that I went in expecting this book to be nothing but a rehashing of this trope, it gave me plenty to enjoy.
3.5 stars
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
July 29, 2023
This is the first book I have read by this author, but I intend to find the rest of them...at least the rest of this series. I loved the cast of quirky characters that needed someone to lead them and ground them, and that is what Joshua’s Rainbow is all about. It's also a May/December romance, but these characters blend together so well that they don’t notice the age difference, and neither did I. At first, I really wasn't quite sure how the two guys would even get together but as the story unfolds, you realize the big picture of how perfect their differences make them for each other. Both are at crossroads in their lives which causes them a great deal of uncertainty. Daniel is a forty-two-year-old business executive, who runs a very successful real estate development company specializing in hotels. He’s exceptionally proud of all he has accomplished, but it has come at such a price big to his health and to his general well-being...and now he's answering for it. he was sent to Rainbow Key to recuperate by his doctor and longtime friend, Daniel is learning just how big a toll his lifestyle has taken...not only on his body but on his outlook on life as well. He’s come to realize that he may have just found the one place that feels like home...but now he needs to figure out how he not only can save Rainbow Key and the few inhabitants, but himself as well. Now we have Joshua who came to Rainbow Key as a guest of the previous hotel owner, Clive, who had saved Joshua from a life on the streets. Joshua wants to pass his good fortune on to others who may need it as much as he did. His biggest problem is that no one had ever taught him just how to go about actually running a hotel...plus he couldn't afford a lawyer to look into Clive’s will. Now he’s being pushed out of Rainbow Key...him and the Rainbow Key "family" along with him. Everything Joshua has built is hanging by a thread. What Joshua doesn’t realize is that he is the glue that holds not just the hotel but its inhabitants together. Joshua is hardest on himself, only viewing himself as damaged goods. He doesn’t see the hope he inspires, or the confidence he gives, to the others. He tells himself that falling in love with the overworked businessman that is his only guest now is probably the stupidest thing he’s ever done. The author, Victoria Sue, has introduced her cast of characters and set the foundation for what seems will be a fantastic series.
Actual Rating 3.5 stars
Actual Rating 3.5 stars
August 20, 2021
This is a difficult review to write and very tough for me to rate.
On the one hand, I had a really great time reading this story.
The trope was fun and hit a lot of buttons.
We have Joshua, a twenty-something, running a small run-down hotel on a sunny island in Florida.
Problem is, there are almost no customers, the place needs a lot of work after several hurricanes have hit the island, but of course, there is no money.
If Joshua cannot make the place profitable within a few months, it will be sold.
Enter Daniel, who @42 - surprise- is the CEO of a big and very successful hotel chain, that in the past already tried to buy this place and convert it into a luxury resort.
After a collapse, he is sent to the island from his doctor to relax a little bit.
And here comes the big BUT... Reading this trope you might get an idea of how the story goes. It is really really predictable and although I wouldn`t mind that so much, it is also extremely cheesy, honestly the ending was like a sugar overdose! I love romance, but sometimes I wish authors would just realize when to stop and when the "happy" in HEA just gets too much.
Probably until the Epilogue I would have given it 4 stars and don`t get me wrong, it is fun to read and maybe someone else will completely love the sweetness of this, only for me it was too romance like and constructed to accept. So overall 3 stars, and if your blood sugar level gets too low, go for it, this will give you a solid injection!
On the one hand, I had a really great time reading this story.
The trope was fun and hit a lot of buttons.
We have Joshua, a twenty-something, running a small run-down hotel on a sunny island in Florida.
Problem is, there are almost no customers, the place needs a lot of work after several hurricanes have hit the island, but of course, there is no money.
If Joshua cannot make the place profitable within a few months, it will be sold.
Enter Daniel, who @42 - surprise- is the CEO of a big and very successful hotel chain, that in the past already tried to buy this place and convert it into a luxury resort.
After a collapse, he is sent to the island from his doctor to relax a little bit.
And here comes the big BUT... Reading this trope you might get an idea of how the story goes. It is really really predictable and although I wouldn`t mind that so much, it is also extremely cheesy, honestly the ending was like a sugar overdose! I love romance, but sometimes I wish authors would just realize when to stop and when the "happy" in HEA just gets too much.
Probably until the Epilogue I would have given it 4 stars and don`t get me wrong, it is fun to read and maybe someone else will completely love the sweetness of this, only for me it was too romance like and constructed to accept. So overall 3 stars, and if your blood sugar level gets too low, go for it, this will give you a solid injection!
September 4, 2019
A prospering billionaire with a chain of hotels falls for a much younger not exactly an owner of a small struggling hotel business.
We have here quite a big package to unwrap: age gap, rich guy - poor guy, a painful past, hurt-comfort, pull-push, bad communications and insecurities in both MCs.
I didn't like the writing, it read very flat. I didn't like Daniel. For a 42yo man, he seemed very unmatured. I didn't feel the chemistry between MCs. I liked the setup - a beautiful island. I found secondary characters more interesting than the main ones.
We have here quite a big package to unwrap: age gap, rich guy - poor guy, a painful past, hurt-comfort, pull-push, bad communications and insecurities in both MCs.
I didn't like the writing, it read very flat. I didn't like Daniel. For a 42yo man, he seemed very unmatured. I didn't feel the chemistry between MCs. I liked the setup - a beautiful island. I found secondary characters more interesting than the main ones.
April 5, 2018
Very disappointing with a cookie cutter type of plot. The main characters were totally unbelievable and out of touch.
February 28, 2018
Oh so good! I'm not a fan of age gap stories, but I liked this one, simply beacause the older guy wasn't trying to be dominant, and a know-it-all jackass. The connection between them felt natural, and easy, it didn't felt forced at all, they haven't felt the need to hump each other every second.
The secondary characters were very intriguing. This'll be a great series, I can feel it. :)
The secondary characters were very intriguing. This'll be a great series, I can feel it. :)
Want to Read
February 23, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (2/23/2019)! 🎁
Blurb:
Rainbow Key - an idyllic island retreat off the west coast of Florida. Think wedding destination, white sandy beaches, lurve… except at the moment Joshua is struggling to pay the electricity bill, they’ve no paying customers, and even if they did they can’t afford the repairs from the devastating hurricane that struck three years ago – and to top it off they have to take in Daniel, a grumpy businessman who has been ordered by his doctor to take some time off before he has a heart attack from too much stress.
Funnily enough, Daniel owns a very expensive hotel chain that has been trying to buy the island for the past two years. Not that Joshua knows that yet, and boy are sparks gonna fly when he thinks he’s been set up.
Of course, sparks of a different kind are also soon flying between them.
Then there’s Matt who just got let out of prison, Charlie who ran away from home, and Ben, a famous model until a devastating house fire destroyed his face.
Blurb:
Rainbow Key - an idyllic island retreat off the west coast of Florida. Think wedding destination, white sandy beaches, lurve… except at the moment Joshua is struggling to pay the electricity bill, they’ve no paying customers, and even if they did they can’t afford the repairs from the devastating hurricane that struck three years ago – and to top it off they have to take in Daniel, a grumpy businessman who has been ordered by his doctor to take some time off before he has a heart attack from too much stress.
Funnily enough, Daniel owns a very expensive hotel chain that has been trying to buy the island for the past two years. Not that Joshua knows that yet, and boy are sparks gonna fly when he thinks he’s been set up.
Of course, sparks of a different kind are also soon flying between them.
Then there’s Matt who just got let out of prison, Charlie who ran away from home, and Ben, a famous model until a devastating house fire destroyed his face.
April 9, 2020
A businessman looks for recuperation,
but finds a new life and Joshua !
Rainbow’s Key in Florida, is struggling to survive since two hurricanes hurt the resort.
Young Joshua, 22, took over running the tropical locale after his friend, Clive, the owner died. Joshua and his small crew, have each seen hardship. It’s a safe place, a home for the hard working staff. We get descriptions of some abuses they endured in the past, so we are hoping they can stay together.
Businessman Daniel, 42, Is ordered there for a rest after a health scare back home. Daniel has connections in the hotel industry, but doesn’t tell anyone, which allows him to be a hero later on.
There are a few story lines, plus the attraction Daniel and Joshua feel.
Their emotions take over and the sexy times are beautiful. Sweet, deserving, overweight chef Joshua, has a sad past of abusiveness, and with Daniel he has caring, gentle sex for the first time. Daniel sees Joshua’s tender soul.
A lot is happening with repairs, Clive’s wishes in his will being adhered to, a wedding being prepared, an assault, an emergency, and a huge surprise in the epilogue.
This story is fresh, different, entertaining and heartwarming. I liked Daniel’s humanity and Joshua’s tenacity.
Enjoy !
=====
but finds a new life and Joshua !
Rainbow’s Key in Florida, is struggling to survive since two hurricanes hurt the resort.
Young Joshua, 22, took over running the tropical locale after his friend, Clive, the owner died. Joshua and his small crew, have each seen hardship. It’s a safe place, a home for the hard working staff. We get descriptions of some abuses they endured in the past, so we are hoping they can stay together.
Businessman Daniel, 42, Is ordered there for a rest after a health scare back home. Daniel has connections in the hotel industry, but doesn’t tell anyone, which allows him to be a hero later on.
There are a few story lines, plus the attraction Daniel and Joshua feel.
Their emotions take over and the sexy times are beautiful. Sweet, deserving, overweight chef Joshua, has a sad past of abusiveness, and with Daniel he has caring, gentle sex for the first time. Daniel sees Joshua’s tender soul.
A lot is happening with repairs, Clive’s wishes in his will being adhered to, a wedding being prepared, an assault, an emergency, and a huge surprise in the epilogue.
This story is fresh, different, entertaining and heartwarming. I liked Daniel’s humanity and Joshua’s tenacity.
Enjoy !
=====
September 15, 2018
This book felt like the introduction to the beginning of an awesome self-made family and series of books. I really enjoyed listening to the wonderful story that this author, and narrator gave us. I look forward to getting more to the stories for the rest of the minor characters we meet in this book as well. What a great start to this series.
The entire group of people we meet in this book were great to learn about, not just the two main characters Joshua and Daniel. I loved learning about everyone's backstories and reasons as to why and how they came to Rainbow Key. This book was super interesting and kept my attention the entire time. Even though it was pretty low angst and drama we still got a book filled with twists and turns and just an awesome well thought out plot overall. I do wish that Joshua and Daniel had just a bit more chemistry and dialogue together, there relationship seemed a little off at first but I think they just needed more time to let it develop properly. And their story almost ends up being overshadowed by the big picture of what was happening with the Hotel and all of the extra mystery behind the other characters involved. Joshua has a ton of fears and insecurities that I think a lot of people can connect with in real life. I think that added a lot to the story. Daniel seems a lot older than his actual age and I liked that Joshua kind of brought Daniel out of his funk, making him seem and feel younger like he really was. We get to see Daniels protective instincts come front and center in this book, and I am glad he had the money and power to make sure that Joshua and his rag-tag group of friends were kept safe.
Audio - I am really loving all the new audiobooks we are getting from Darcy Stark. I loved his interpretation for this book, all the character voices he gave us, really pulled us into the story and kept us entertained with his voicing and tone for each person in this book. He is quickly becoming a new favorite. He did a great job with this one and I hope *fingers crossed* we get him for the next books in this series.
The entire group of people we meet in this book were great to learn about, not just the two main characters Joshua and Daniel. I loved learning about everyone's backstories and reasons as to why and how they came to Rainbow Key. This book was super interesting and kept my attention the entire time. Even though it was pretty low angst and drama we still got a book filled with twists and turns and just an awesome well thought out plot overall. I do wish that Joshua and Daniel had just a bit more chemistry and dialogue together, there relationship seemed a little off at first but I think they just needed more time to let it develop properly. And their story almost ends up being overshadowed by the big picture of what was happening with the Hotel and all of the extra mystery behind the other characters involved. Joshua has a ton of fears and insecurities that I think a lot of people can connect with in real life. I think that added a lot to the story. Daniel seems a lot older than his actual age and I liked that Joshua kind of brought Daniel out of his funk, making him seem and feel younger like he really was. We get to see Daniels protective instincts come front and center in this book, and I am glad he had the money and power to make sure that Joshua and his rag-tag group of friends were kept safe.
Audio - I am really loving all the new audiobooks we are getting from Darcy Stark. I loved his interpretation for this book, all the character voices he gave us, really pulled us into the story and kept us entertained with his voicing and tone for each person in this book. He is quickly becoming a new favorite. He did a great job with this one and I hope *fingers crossed* we get him for the next books in this series.
March 4, 2019
Can a book be too sweet? I think it can and this one crosses that line for me. Victoria sue is a good author and her story held my interest. It just became a little too over the top toward the end. I liked Daniel and Josh and was rooting for them. The misunderstanding at the end should have been solved easily by a little communication. I believe Daniel would have known better than to disappear and stay silent for a month.
February 20, 2018
Daniel is 42 years old, a success businessman, multimillionaire and has a cute young boy friend Eric. Everything seems perfect in his life, but when he has a panic attack at a ceremony award, Eric leaves him and his best friend Alan, decides to send him in an island in Florida at the Rainbow Key hotel.
Joshua is 22 years old and the director to the Rainbow Key hotel. After a horrible and traumatic past, this hotel in this island is his shelter. But the hotel is in financial difficulties. And If Joshua and his team don’t find a way to save it, they will have to leave.
Daniel and Joshua are attracted to each other at the minute they see each other. But between the hotel to run and the secrets they both keep to each other, everything seems to be against them, except if they decide to trust each other.
I loved this book.
Daniel and Joshua are beautiful and adorable. Daniel is confident and dominant, but not with Joshua, he perfectly understands that something bad must have happened to him and he tries to gain his love and trust with tenderness and patience. I love Daniel, I really love him.
Joshua is traumatized by his past, he’s scared to lose the hotel, and Daniel if he finds out his past. But, he’s also strong for his mismatched family, and ready to fight to protect them. I loved Joshua, I cried for him, happy and sad tears.
This book is not only about Josh and Daniel. Even if they’re the main characters, the secondary characters are very important and present too. They grown on me, and now I’m dyiiiiiing to know more about them.
The author wrote a beautiful story, with a good plot, and very well built. The characters are very good, well developed, and not superficial.
I had a great time with this book, and I can’t wait to read the next one, I hope it will be about Charlie or Ben or Mark…. Ok, ok, just another book in this series, and I’ll be happy.
I highly recommend this book, It’s like a little rainbow in your day
***I would like to thank the author for the privilege and opportunity of reading this ARC. My review is an honest opinion of the book***
Joshua is 22 years old and the director to the Rainbow Key hotel. After a horrible and traumatic past, this hotel in this island is his shelter. But the hotel is in financial difficulties. And If Joshua and his team don’t find a way to save it, they will have to leave.
Daniel and Joshua are attracted to each other at the minute they see each other. But between the hotel to run and the secrets they both keep to each other, everything seems to be against them, except if they decide to trust each other.
I loved this book.
Daniel and Joshua are beautiful and adorable. Daniel is confident and dominant, but not with Joshua, he perfectly understands that something bad must have happened to him and he tries to gain his love and trust with tenderness and patience. I love Daniel, I really love him.
Joshua is traumatized by his past, he’s scared to lose the hotel, and Daniel if he finds out his past. But, he’s also strong for his mismatched family, and ready to fight to protect them. I loved Joshua, I cried for him, happy and sad tears.
This book is not only about Josh and Daniel. Even if they’re the main characters, the secondary characters are very important and present too. They grown on me, and now I’m dyiiiiiing to know more about them.
The author wrote a beautiful story, with a good plot, and very well built. The characters are very good, well developed, and not superficial.
I had a great time with this book, and I can’t wait to read the next one, I hope it will be about Charlie or Ben or Mark…. Ok, ok, just another book in this series, and I’ll be happy.
I highly recommend this book, It’s like a little rainbow in your day
***I would like to thank the author for the privilege and opportunity of reading this ARC. My review is an honest opinion of the book***
November 18, 2018
Victoria Sue had a wonderful contemporary debut with Joshua's Rainbow!!
This book is sweet, hot, emotional and such a great read!
Joshua dreamt of being able to have a safe place for people in need. More than maintaining his hotel, he has huge dreams for it... He just have to way of making those dreams to come true.
Daniel is the owner of a huge hotel chain and when he arrives at Rainbow Kay, all he sees are possibilities... until he start to really SEE the people around him, until he start to REALLY SEE and care for Joshua.
This book is a wonderful trip into Joshua and Daniel's lives... their struggles, their fears and they increase love... for each other and for all around them.
Don't miss this awesome book
This book is sweet, hot, emotional and such a great read!
Joshua dreamt of being able to have a safe place for people in need. More than maintaining his hotel, he has huge dreams for it... He just have to way of making those dreams to come true.
Daniel is the owner of a huge hotel chain and when he arrives at Rainbow Kay, all he sees are possibilities... until he start to really SEE the people around him, until he start to REALLY SEE and care for Joshua.
This book is a wonderful trip into Joshua and Daniel's lives... their struggles, their fears and they increase love... for each other and for all around them.
Don't miss this awesome book
February 24, 2018
I don’t normally like slow burn and this is slowwww.. hence not a 5 star for me as I prefer more smexy times. There’s a good story though and I was kept engaged and interested to finish the book. I’m looking forward to the rest of the series
March 5, 2018
I tend not to read "sweet" because i get easily bored. This is "sweeter" than Victoria Sue usually writes but not so you're gonna get a cavity.I think i liked it because the problems they faced weren't forced. Daniel is hung up on his age but even then wants to give the relationship a chance. Joshua is scarred from his childhood, his weight, and has no self confidence. The whole book was classily done and I want Matt's story please. Like now. Now would be good.
Read
February 26, 2018I'll get back to this later when I'm in the mood for it.-
June 7, 2019
Sweet story, somewhat of a Pretty Woman trope, and most certainly a stretch of the imagination. Daniel Morgon, owner of a highly successful hotel chain is sent to Rainbow Key for rest and recuperation from an anxiety attack brought on by work stress. There he meets Joshua, hotel manager, former hooker, with major body image problems and a world of unprocessed hurt. Joshua is also housing several young men who have their own set of traumas, which I'm sure we'll learn more about in future stories.
I liked both characters and give me age gap any day. I'm in. Daniel was a bit too controlling, but it's most certainly part of his corporate personality. What bugged me is what bugs me about most of these types of stories: the Big Misunderstanding. Or in this case, Miscommunication. And then Lack of Communication. In fact, Daniel's failure to contact Josh after his sister's trauma, was very off-putting. The author gave an explanation (lame) at the end, but nevertheless, it dragged my rating down. Too irritating, by far.
And though I don't usually knock ratings down for editing, and I won't in this case, this book needed at least one pass by a proofreader. Seriously, poor editing and/or proofreading detracts from my overall enjoyment of a book and this one most certainly could have been better.
I liked both characters and give me age gap any day. I'm in. Daniel was a bit too controlling, but it's most certainly part of his corporate personality. What bugged me is what bugs me about most of these types of stories: the Big Misunderstanding. Or in this case, Miscommunication. And then Lack of Communication. In fact, Daniel's failure to contact Josh after his sister's trauma, was very off-putting. The author gave an explanation (lame) at the end, but nevertheless, it dragged my rating down. Too irritating, by far.
And though I don't usually knock ratings down for editing, and I won't in this case, this book needed at least one pass by a proofreader. Seriously, poor editing and/or proofreading detracts from my overall enjoyment of a book and this one most certainly could have been better.
August 6, 2024
9/11/18 - edited to add my comments on the audio edition
I read and reviewed this book when it was first released in February 2018 and now I've had the opportunity to listen to this wonderful story performed by Darcy Stark, who is a new-to-me narrator. I have to say that his voice is perfect for this book (and I hope he does the rest of the series).
The various voices he does for the wide range of characters were spot on (no I'm not British but I couldn't think of a better term to use 😊). Darcy Stark brought the story back to life for me. I'm not a re-reader of books as there are just too many great books in my TBR for me to take time to re-read something – even if I loved it. However, listening to a book I've already read is a different story. I'm always eager to see how the narrator interprets the different characters. I thought by listening to a book I'd already read that I would be able to listen with half and ear – and that is the case with some books, but not with this one. Darcy's voice was so compelling I found myself just as engrossed in the story as I was when I first read it.
I highly recommend this audiobook and I will be looking at more books performed by Darcy Stark.
I received a free copy of this audiobook from the author but no review was required.
What follows is my original review of the book when it was first published:
5 stars - A wonderful start to a new series.
Once again, Victoria Sue's wonderful prose had my emotions all over the place. I laughed and cried and felt lots of things in between the laughter and tears.
Daniel is a successful businessman but his health is suffering and his doctor has ordered him to go for a vacation/rest on Rainbow Key. When he checks the place out before leaving he finds that his company has tried to purchase the island in the past.
Josh/Joshua was given the task of trying to run the hotel on Rainbow Key as self-supporting after the owner died. He had two years and they were almost up. There is no way he will be able to keep the hotel from being sold.
When Daniel and Josh meet there is a spark of attraction but Josh has a terrible inferiority complex about his looks and Daniel is 20 years older than Josh and feels that there is no way that such an attractive young man could be interested in someone as old as he is. Both Josh and Daniel are keeping big secrets from each other that they feel will cause the other to want to run from a relationship.
These two have quite a few obstacles to overcome on the way to their HEA but I always trust Victoria Sue to get her men there. This story had me reading way into the early morning. With 40% of the book left to read at 4:00 A.M. I finally had to put it aside to sleep but I picked it back up first thing after I woke up and didn't stop until I was finished.
Joshua's Rainbow touched my heart in so many ways. Josh has assembled a cadre of misfits who live with him on Rainbow Key. They are people who needed rescuing, just like he did 5 years ago, and he will do just about anything to keep them all safe and together.
I have learned so much from reading M/M romance books and they have helped me to become a better, more accepting person. I grew up among people with various physical disabilities, which taught me tolerance but I never knew much about other types of disabilities and had no exposure to members of the gay community (at least not that I knew of). Reading stories like Joshua's Rainbow has broadened my knowledge and taught me to look beyond the obvious when meeting new people.
An advanced copy of this book was provided to me but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com***
I read and reviewed this book when it was first released in February 2018 and now I've had the opportunity to listen to this wonderful story performed by Darcy Stark, who is a new-to-me narrator. I have to say that his voice is perfect for this book (and I hope he does the rest of the series).
The various voices he does for the wide range of characters were spot on (no I'm not British but I couldn't think of a better term to use 😊). Darcy Stark brought the story back to life for me. I'm not a re-reader of books as there are just too many great books in my TBR for me to take time to re-read something – even if I loved it. However, listening to a book I've already read is a different story. I'm always eager to see how the narrator interprets the different characters. I thought by listening to a book I'd already read that I would be able to listen with half and ear – and that is the case with some books, but not with this one. Darcy's voice was so compelling I found myself just as engrossed in the story as I was when I first read it.
I highly recommend this audiobook and I will be looking at more books performed by Darcy Stark.
I received a free copy of this audiobook from the author but no review was required.
What follows is my original review of the book when it was first published:
5 stars - A wonderful start to a new series.
Once again, Victoria Sue's wonderful prose had my emotions all over the place. I laughed and cried and felt lots of things in between the laughter and tears.
Daniel is a successful businessman but his health is suffering and his doctor has ordered him to go for a vacation/rest on Rainbow Key. When he checks the place out before leaving he finds that his company has tried to purchase the island in the past.
Josh/Joshua was given the task of trying to run the hotel on Rainbow Key as self-supporting after the owner died. He had two years and they were almost up. There is no way he will be able to keep the hotel from being sold.
When Daniel and Josh meet there is a spark of attraction but Josh has a terrible inferiority complex about his looks and Daniel is 20 years older than Josh and feels that there is no way that such an attractive young man could be interested in someone as old as he is. Both Josh and Daniel are keeping big secrets from each other that they feel will cause the other to want to run from a relationship.
These two have quite a few obstacles to overcome on the way to their HEA but I always trust Victoria Sue to get her men there. This story had me reading way into the early morning. With 40% of the book left to read at 4:00 A.M. I finally had to put it aside to sleep but I picked it back up first thing after I woke up and didn't stop until I was finished.
Joshua's Rainbow touched my heart in so many ways. Josh has assembled a cadre of misfits who live with him on Rainbow Key. They are people who needed rescuing, just like he did 5 years ago, and he will do just about anything to keep them all safe and together.
I have learned so much from reading M/M romance books and they have helped me to become a better, more accepting person. I grew up among people with various physical disabilities, which taught me tolerance but I never knew much about other types of disabilities and had no exposure to members of the gay community (at least not that I knew of). Reading stories like Joshua's Rainbow has broadened my knowledge and taught me to look beyond the obvious when meeting new people.
An advanced copy of this book was provided to me but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com***
April 6, 2025
Joshua et Daniel avec un Culomètre à 🍑🍆
📣 Livre reçu en service presse.
Voilà une nouvelle série qui a titillé mon œil grâce à son résumé !
Daniel est un quarantenaire qui ne vit que travail et, quand son corps lâche, son meilleur ami va lui imposer des vacances sur une île où il ne pourra que se reposer. Seulement, c'est aussi une île qu'il voudrait intégrer à son empire hôtelier... Il va y faire la rencontre de Joshua, un jeune homme de 22 ans, qui essaye de tout faire pour que ne pas que son coin de paradis ne lui soit enlevé.
Alors, on ne peut pas dire que ce soit une lecture que j'ai trouvée fluide, j'ai mis du temps à rentrer dans le récit, pas à cause du texte en lui-même, mais vraiment par l'écriture qui n'a pas matché avec moi. Malgré tout, le fond m'a beaucoup plus et, bien que la différence d'âge soit un peu embêtante avec la jeunesse de Joshua, les thèmes durs abordés m'ont beaucoup plus !
Joshua est un jeune homme qui a vécu le pire, prostitué de ses 15 ans à ses 17 ans, l'île de Rainbow Key est un havre de paix où il a pu revivre et accueillir des personnes qui n'avaient pas d'endroit pour être safe. Sa rencontre avec Daniel sera un coup de foudre, mais, nous, lecteurs, qui savons que Daniel est une sorte de promoteur, on s'attend à tout moment au pire. Cette romance accueille toutes les tropes liées à la proximité forcée et aux secrets qui ne peuvent qu'exploser à un moment donné et ça passe bien !
Bref, j'ai été convaincu par ce premier tome et je lirais la suite avec plaisir !
📣 Livre reçu en service presse.
Voilà une nouvelle série qui a titillé mon œil grâce à son résumé !
Daniel est un quarantenaire qui ne vit que travail et, quand son corps lâche, son meilleur ami va lui imposer des vacances sur une île où il ne pourra que se reposer. Seulement, c'est aussi une île qu'il voudrait intégrer à son empire hôtelier... Il va y faire la rencontre de Joshua, un jeune homme de 22 ans, qui essaye de tout faire pour que ne pas que son coin de paradis ne lui soit enlevé.
Alors, on ne peut pas dire que ce soit une lecture que j'ai trouvée fluide, j'ai mis du temps à rentrer dans le récit, pas à cause du texte en lui-même, mais vraiment par l'écriture qui n'a pas matché avec moi. Malgré tout, le fond m'a beaucoup plus et, bien que la différence d'âge soit un peu embêtante avec la jeunesse de Joshua, les thèmes durs abordés m'ont beaucoup plus !
Joshua est un jeune homme qui a vécu le pire, prostitué de ses 15 ans à ses 17 ans, l'île de Rainbow Key est un havre de paix où il a pu revivre et accueillir des personnes qui n'avaient pas d'endroit pour être safe. Sa rencontre avec Daniel sera un coup de foudre, mais, nous, lecteurs, qui savons que Daniel est une sorte de promoteur, on s'attend à tout moment au pire. Cette romance accueille toutes les tropes liées à la proximité forcée et aux secrets qui ne peuvent qu'exploser à un moment donné et ça passe bien !
Bref, j'ai été convaincu par ce premier tome et je lirais la suite avec plaisir !
February 26, 2018
3.5 stars
I liked this story and the characters. It was a tad bit melodramatic in some places but still a sweet story.
My main issue is the author is apparently British and used some British words such as marquee for a party tent, jumper for a shirt/sweater and a few other things. This story was set in Florida so those words didn’t fit.
I liked this story and the characters. It was a tad bit melodramatic in some places but still a sweet story.
My main issue is the author is apparently British and used some British words such as marquee for a party tent, jumper for a shirt/sweater and a few other things. This story was set in Florida so those words didn’t fit.
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