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Letting Go #1
Nobody's Hero
Bradley Greene’s family all but discarded him when his brother caught him fooling around with another boy. Now Bradley has seventeen dollars and a gas card, and he’s sleeping in his car. He’s an emotional mess and if he doesn’t land a job soon, he’s up the proverbial creek.
Danny Ortega can take care of himself…most of the time. When what started as a date turns into sexual assault in a dark parking lot, he’s grateful for Brad’s help—and an instant admirer of Brad’s military school-honed muscles. He certainly doesn’t expect to see him again, and definitely not as the newest hire at Ortega Construction.
As Brad and Danny’s quiet attraction turns into more, things start to go sour before they’ve even started. Danny grows frustrated that Brad won’t open up emotionally. And Brad is terrified of being responsible for someone else’s feelings. When Brad’s family makes one last attempt to turn him into an “acceptable” son, all bets are off—he and Danny will need to decide if they’re in this together…or apart.
Danny Ortega can take care of himself…most of the time. When what started as a date turns into sexual assault in a dark parking lot, he’s grateful for Brad’s help—and an instant admirer of Brad’s military school-honed muscles. He certainly doesn’t expect to see him again, and definitely not as the newest hire at Ortega Construction.
As Brad and Danny’s quiet attraction turns into more, things start to go sour before they’ve even started. Danny grows frustrated that Brad won’t open up emotionally. And Brad is terrified of being responsible for someone else’s feelings. When Brad’s family makes one last attempt to turn him into an “acceptable” son, all bets are off—he and Danny will need to decide if they’re in this together…or apart.
212 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 27, 2015
16 people are currently reading
440 people want to read
About the author
J. Leigh Bailey
24 books93 followersj. leigh bailey is an office drone by day and the author of Young Adult and New Adult LGBT Romance by night. She can usually be found with her nose in a book or pressed up against her computer monitor. A book-a-day reading habit sometimes gets in the way of... well, everything...but some habits aren't worth breaking. She's been reading romance novels since she was ten years old. The last twenty years or so have not changed her voracious appetite for stories of romance, relationships and achieving that vitally important Happy Ever After. She's a firm believer that everyone, no matter their gender, age, sexual orientation or paranormal affiliation deserves a happy ending.
She wrote her first story at seven, which was, unbeknownst to her at the time, a charming piece of fan-fiction in which Superman battled (and defeated, of course) the nefarious X Luther. She was quite put out to be told, years later, that the character's name was actually Lex. Her second masterpiece should have been a best-seller, but the action-packed tale of rescuing her little brother from an alligator attack in the marshes of Florida collected dust for years under the bed instead of gaining critical acclaim.
Now she writes Young Adult LGBT Romance novels about boys traversing the crazy world of love, relationships and acceptance.
Sign up for my newsletter--https://t.co/FfL9gFVJLQ --for sneak peeks, news, and upcoming appearances.
She wrote her first story at seven, which was, unbeknownst to her at the time, a charming piece of fan-fiction in which Superman battled (and defeated, of course) the nefarious X Luther. She was quite put out to be told, years later, that the character's name was actually Lex. Her second masterpiece should have been a best-seller, but the action-packed tale of rescuing her little brother from an alligator attack in the marshes of Florida collected dust for years under the bed instead of gaining critical acclaim.
Now she writes Young Adult LGBT Romance novels about boys traversing the crazy world of love, relationships and acceptance.
Sign up for my newsletter--https://t.co/FfL9gFVJLQ --for sneak peeks, news, and upcoming appearances.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
April 12, 2016
I enjoyed this NA read from J. Leigh Bailey, which not only focused on growing up, heading to college and opening up to the possibility of love, but also had a major focus on family. Maybe not the one that you were born with, but family none the less.
At 16, Brad's parents found out that he was gay and shipped him off to the toughest military school in the country. It was either that or a conversion camp; however, that option would prove too embarrassing for a wealthy family as self-important as the Greene's.
Now 18, Brad has earned a full scholarship to a college in Minnesota, so the book begins as he arrives in Minnesota the summer before college, where he hopes to work for a local construction company upon the recommendation of his high school adviser.
However, Brad's first night in Northfield ends with him preventing a date rape in a truck stop parking lot, prompting his first meeting with near-victim Daniel Ortega.
Sexy, snarky, self-confident Danny is 19 and will be a sophomore at the same college that Brad will attend. Their mutual attraction is immediate, but unbeknownst to Brad, Danny is the son of his soon-to-be boss. Danny's also never met a closet that he liked.
Closeted Brad, on the other hand, is still traumatized from his family prior discovery that he likes boys, after which his psychotic brother attempted to *burn his first boyfriend alive*.
Brad's family is a nasty piece of work, to say the least. Brother Nolan is in prison for his tendency to set people ablaze, while their mother makes demands for Brad's return to St. Louis for the appeal. But Brad is DONE and cuts off contact with them.
But Danny's large, Latino family is all-consuming and soon adopt Brad as one of their own, where he learns that, even though someone may be attempting to frame you for stealing from the family's company, family is family. And family doesn't turn its back on those they love. Ever.
And WHAT a family it is, too. When Brad's mother shows up at the Ortega home to bully Brad into attending his brother's appeal hearing, God, Mrs. Ortega's "Come to Jesus" shouting match with Brad's mother was a true thing of beauty.
“It’s this boy, isn’t it?” [Brad's mother] nodded toward Danny with a look like she’d stepped on a worm and had to clean it off the bottom of her shoe. “Have you considered that he’s only after your money? He’s no better than a whore, using you for what you can do for him.”Pretty awe-inspiring, huh?
“You will leave my house. Now.” Mrs. Ortega stood and crowded close to Brad’s mother. “You will not come into my house and talk about my child this way.”
She jabbed her finger at [Brad's] mother and continued her tirade. “You are a disgrace. You are his Madre, no? He is your child and you talk to him of duty and money? What about love and protection? Not in my house. You will leave this minute.”
With every step Mrs. Ortega made, his mother took one back. “Out. Now. You will leave Brad alone. He deserves a Madre who will love him, not one who threatens him. And no one, no one, talks about my child in such a way.”
Brad and Danny's tentative relationship is extremely slow burn, with lots of hiccups along the way, mainly due to Brad's near panic attacks at the thought of anyone finding out that he's gay.
So Brad has a tendency to flee from his problems, as Danny points out.
“Avoidance is just another form of running away.”
That's not always such a great thing where boyfriends are concerned, since shrinking back from innocent touches and pretending that you're just friends in public can seriously damage even Danny's healthy self-confidence.
“Sometimes you make me feel like I should apologize for who I am.”
That is a serious wake-up call for Brad, but he still momentarily considers fleeing as an option.
What if he couldn’t be the kind of boyfriend Danny wanted? What if he tried and nothing changed? Danny deserved someone proud to be seen with him, not someone who wanted to hide from the world.So Brad tries. And tries again. And keeps on trying, until he finally starts getting it right and the HEA finally starts looking like it will stick.
If Brad left, Danny could find someone better.
Oh, hell no.
The violence of his reaction surprised him. And told him he wouldn’t be going anywhere, not right away.
The pacing of the book was a bit slow toward the middle and for those sex-centric readers among us, there was only really one full-on sex scene (with roles being 'negotiable' - I love that), so if you're looking for a sexy read, this may not be the one for you.
But parts of the book were flat out hilarious, so I'd read the book for those alone.
Picking out condoms in the tampon aisle.
“Yeah, he was there. Inside. He picked out the condoms. *Mi papá* chose the condoms.”
Little kids supergluing nearly an entire head of hair to a pillow.
The "I love you" scene while driving was EPIC.
“Crap, crap, crap. Why are all these people out driving? Where are they going? I need to find a place to pull over, like right now.”And my personal favorite, while driving to a department store and Brad mentions lube, then Danny blurting like very few I've ever experienced before :
“You love me?”
“Shh,” Danny hissed. “Not until I park. Damn it, people,” he shouted at the cars on either side of him, “get the hell off the road! Ah, there!”
“Don’t say lube. You can’t say lube and expect me to keep driving. If you say lube I’ll think of sex. And when I think of sex, I think of you. I think of sex with you and my brain explodes and I become a throbbing mass of hormones, and I can’t be expected to pick out pillows when I’m a throbbing mass of hormones. I’ll probably jump you on the comforter display, or fall into a knife display because I’ll be daydreaming about you and lube and sex. You see how this is a crisis waiting to happen. So don’t say lube, okay?”And I'll add one last morsel, just in case you still need convincing, from outside Brad's brother's appeal as his mother makes another unwelcome appearance:
“He stays or I go,” Brad said simply, and re-laced his fingers with Danny’s.
Her eyes blazed at the connection. “Why do you persist in acting in this deviant way? I had hoped military school would have cured you of that.”
“Deviant?” Danny snapped, releasing Brad’s hand to prop it on his jutting hip. Brad bit his lip. Danny looked like the worst—or the best, depending on one’s perspective—gay stereotype. “You’ll watch your voice or you’ll see how deviant I can be. I’ll take my gay, Mexican ass into that room and flame so bright, the place will erupt in rainbows and glitter.”
As mentioned, the book lags a bit in the middle and the sex-to-page ratio is low, but I thoroughly enjoyed the story, both its serious and the hilarious aspects, so I'd definitely recommend the book.
4 *my-new-family-is-WAY-better-than-my-old-family* stars.
---------------------------
** My copy of the book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley for a fair, unbiased review, with no positive review promised.
June 12, 2015
I'm waffling between 3 or 4 stars. Goodreads really needs half stars!
Bradley Greene's was practically disowned by his ultra-conservative rich family after his brother caught him with another boy. After being forced to spend two years in military school, to "cure him of his deviance", he cuts off any remaining ties with his family and moves to Minnesota to begin a new life. Danny Ortega grew up surrounded by love and acceptance. He's out and proud, and isn't afraid to be himself. When he runs in to some trouble, Brad saves him, but they part ways. The two are surprised when they meet again at the Ortega home.
I loved, loved, loved the Ortega family. They're an average family, but they've got love and compassion in spades. At times, they did feel a bit unrealistic, but I think this book needed that. The Ortegas gave the story an underlying feeling of hope, which would have otherwise been absent.
Especially when taking in to account that Brad's family were absolutely awful. All I can say is that someone needs to deal with them. Pronto.
I also liked that the author broke the usual formula of YA/NA. The conflicts in this book aren't primarily because of the follies of young love, but are instead the result of external factors. I don't enjoy conflicts based on foolish misunderstandings or petty jealousies, which is common in young/new adult romances, so I was glad that J. Leigh Bailey took a different route.
Overall, I enjoyed this story. If it wasn't for the distracting and unnecessary subplot, I would have given 'Nobody's Hero' 4 stars. Brad and Danny's romance is fairly tame and quiet, but I think that's to be expected. After all, it's a young adult romance and Brad's got a few things to work out before he can be truly happy. I'd recommend this book for readers who like their new adult romance with a side of angst.
ARC provided through NetGalley.
Bradley Greene's was practically disowned by his ultra-conservative rich family after his brother caught him with another boy. After being forced to spend two years in military school, to "cure him of his deviance", he cuts off any remaining ties with his family and moves to Minnesota to begin a new life. Danny Ortega grew up surrounded by love and acceptance. He's out and proud, and isn't afraid to be himself. When he runs in to some trouble, Brad saves him, but they part ways. The two are surprised when they meet again at the Ortega home.
I loved, loved, loved the Ortega family. They're an average family, but they've got love and compassion in spades. At times, they did feel a bit unrealistic, but I think this book needed that. The Ortegas gave the story an underlying feeling of hope, which would have otherwise been absent.
Especially when taking in to account that Brad's family were absolutely awful. All I can say is that someone needs to deal with them. Pronto.
I also liked that the author broke the usual formula of YA/NA. The conflicts in this book aren't primarily because of the follies of young love, but are instead the result of external factors. I don't enjoy conflicts based on foolish misunderstandings or petty jealousies, which is common in young/new adult romances, so I was glad that J. Leigh Bailey took a different route.
Overall, I enjoyed this story. If it wasn't for the distracting and unnecessary subplot, I would have given 'Nobody's Hero' 4 stars. Brad and Danny's romance is fairly tame and quiet, but I think that's to be expected. After all, it's a young adult romance and Brad's got a few things to work out before he can be truly happy. I'd recommend this book for readers who like their new adult romance with a side of angst.
ARC provided through NetGalley.
May 25, 2015
First I want to thank Todd for sending this read my way and threatening to pull the Latina card if I didn't get to it. And thanks to him I was able to enjoy something that excites me: a book with a Latino MC! Which is a rare find! And how can that be? (I mean, we iz everywhere ;-P) But it was more than just a story with a Latino character. It was a peek of what it is like (for most of us) to grow up in a Latino family/household. And being able to relate and having that connection made this story that much more enjoyable!
Ok. So right about now you're probably thinking that that's all fine and dandy, but what's the book all about? Well, I think I'm just going to let the experts answer that. Todd, take it away.
Todd's Review:
(For a proper and kickass review please click on the link below.)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Ok. So right about now you're probably thinking that that's all fine and dandy, but what's the book all about? Well, I think I'm just going to let the experts answer that. Todd, take it away.
Todd's Review:
(For a proper and kickass review please click on the link below.)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
February 21, 2015
Well, the fact that I read this in one sitting on the day I received this from netgalley says something about the way its characters drew me in.
It was the right blend of angsty backstory, contrast of family situations, and perfect young love. Danny and Brad are young, not yet 20, either of them. And while Danny's life has been full of family support, adoration and acceptance, Brad's has not.
So, while Brad has to learn to risk his heart, and learn to live with guilt over an ex boyfriend, Danny has to learn patience, and to not push Brad into being open before he's ready.
They make a great pair. All of the steam is off-page, and there is a mystery involving terrible people threatening a character, but mostly it is a well written narrative as two young men find each other.
Copy provided by publisher via Netgalley and read with thanks. Out on April, 27th.
It was the right blend of angsty backstory, contrast of family situations, and perfect young love. Danny and Brad are young, not yet 20, either of them. And while Danny's life has been full of family support, adoration and acceptance, Brad's has not.
So, while Brad has to learn to risk his heart, and learn to live with guilt over an ex boyfriend, Danny has to learn patience, and to not push Brad into being open before he's ready.
They make a great pair. All of the steam is off-page, and there is a mystery involving terrible people threatening a character, but mostly it is a well written narrative as two young men find each other.
Copy provided by publisher via Netgalley and read with thanks. Out on April, 27th.
June 20, 2021
Bailey handles the trauma Brad has experienced from his homophobic family and every other phobia well. His journey to coming out of the closet and healing and love happens at a believable pace. No magic penises here. Though Danny’s family is a bit of a magical unicorn. They are the loud, noisy, loving, chaotic family that we all wish we had. They are a cozy blanket that’s a lot of fun.
April 22, 2015
4 Stars for this contemporary M/M New Adult romance.
Brad Greene is 18 and choosing to be on his own rather than claim his parents wealth, and his trust fund. Why? Because he's gay and his family is criminally homophobic. And I mean 'criminal' in the literal sense; his brother has committed a hate crime in the recent past. The only reason Brad wasn't shipped off to a conversion camp when he came out was his mother's fear that anyone would get wind of Brad's disgrace--so he was sent to a brutal military school which did nothing but solidify Brad's desire to cut all ties to his 'family.' Brad has arranged for scholarships to pay his tuition to a small Minnesota college. He doesn't have enough funds to make it through the summer, but he has an interview lined up for a construction company in his new college town. He'e essentially homeless and sleeping in a wreck of a truck praying that he'll get thired.
Danny Ortega is an out gay 19 y/o with a huge, loving supportive family. He is the youngest child, and often babied. He's involved in an altercation with a pushy date, and rescued from a beat-down when Brad climbs out of the truck he was sleeping in and intervenes.
While Danny and Brad seem to hit it off, Brad is too concerned with his fears over being known as gay to allow Danny to pursue him. Plus, Brad believes any boy He dates could be at risk for violence...oh, and Danny's dad is the owner of the construction company which hires Brad. And, the Ortega family puts Brad up in an apartment on their property--for super cheap. All this means is that Brad WILL NOT consider dating Danny, because if things go bad between them, he could lose his job and apartment in a flash.
Thing is, the Ortegas are some of the most loving generous people Brad has ever own, and light years from his own cold-spirited family. They can see that Brad's struggling and they effortlessly bring him into their world. Danny is more than a little interested in Brad, but he's respectful. After a few weeks they do start dating, under cover. Brad insists that there can be no PDA, or even telling anyone. It puts a real strain on their budding relationship. Brad's haunted by guilt and his familial issues in his past, which are understandably hard to get over, but Danny eases him through coming out--openly.
There are some subplots going on: missing tools, a jackass brother, accusations of theft, financial worries for Ortega Constuction, vandalism, not to mention Brad's mother is hounding him to return to St. Louis to help his brother's legal case--which is a no-go.
I cannot speak from experience, but the level of homophobia seemed aggressive. I can't speak to its truth, but I noticed it and wished better for Brad. (Probably the mom in me) I liked Danny's persistence. I was glad that he took the time to understand Brad's hang ups. Both Brad and Danny seemed age-appropriate characters, though Brad was far more serious and constrained. I did enjoy that he got his closure with his family. I also just adored the Ortegas. It is so lovely to see such a beautifully rendered Hispanic family, one that didn't succumb to the gang-land style stereotypes. Their characters simply jumped off the pages, and I could feel myself in their warm, shabby-chic home enjoying a family meal.
The sexytimes aren't particularly hot, but they are emotionally rewarding. Now that a lot of the external drama is resolved, I'd like to see how Brad and Danny fare in college. I received a review copy of this book via NetGalley.
Brad Greene is 18 and choosing to be on his own rather than claim his parents wealth, and his trust fund. Why? Because he's gay and his family is criminally homophobic. And I mean 'criminal' in the literal sense; his brother has committed a hate crime in the recent past. The only reason Brad wasn't shipped off to a conversion camp when he came out was his mother's fear that anyone would get wind of Brad's disgrace--so he was sent to a brutal military school which did nothing but solidify Brad's desire to cut all ties to his 'family.' Brad has arranged for scholarships to pay his tuition to a small Minnesota college. He doesn't have enough funds to make it through the summer, but he has an interview lined up for a construction company in his new college town. He'e essentially homeless and sleeping in a wreck of a truck praying that he'll get thired.
Danny Ortega is an out gay 19 y/o with a huge, loving supportive family. He is the youngest child, and often babied. He's involved in an altercation with a pushy date, and rescued from a beat-down when Brad climbs out of the truck he was sleeping in and intervenes.
While Danny and Brad seem to hit it off, Brad is too concerned with his fears over being known as gay to allow Danny to pursue him. Plus, Brad believes any boy He dates could be at risk for violence...oh, and Danny's dad is the owner of the construction company which hires Brad. And, the Ortega family puts Brad up in an apartment on their property--for super cheap. All this means is that Brad WILL NOT consider dating Danny, because if things go bad between them, he could lose his job and apartment in a flash.
Thing is, the Ortegas are some of the most loving generous people Brad has ever own, and light years from his own cold-spirited family. They can see that Brad's struggling and they effortlessly bring him into their world. Danny is more than a little interested in Brad, but he's respectful. After a few weeks they do start dating, under cover. Brad insists that there can be no PDA, or even telling anyone. It puts a real strain on their budding relationship. Brad's haunted by guilt and his familial issues in his past, which are understandably hard to get over, but Danny eases him through coming out--openly.
There are some subplots going on: missing tools, a jackass brother, accusations of theft, financial worries for Ortega Constuction, vandalism, not to mention Brad's mother is hounding him to return to St. Louis to help his brother's legal case--which is a no-go.
I cannot speak from experience, but the level of homophobia seemed aggressive. I can't speak to its truth, but I noticed it and wished better for Brad. (Probably the mom in me) I liked Danny's persistence. I was glad that he took the time to understand Brad's hang ups. Both Brad and Danny seemed age-appropriate characters, though Brad was far more serious and constrained. I did enjoy that he got his closure with his family. I also just adored the Ortegas. It is so lovely to see such a beautifully rendered Hispanic family, one that didn't succumb to the gang-land style stereotypes. Their characters simply jumped off the pages, and I could feel myself in their warm, shabby-chic home enjoying a family meal.
The sexytimes aren't particularly hot, but they are emotionally rewarding. Now that a lot of the external drama is resolved, I'd like to see how Brad and Danny fare in college. I received a review copy of this book via NetGalley.
March 16, 2015
So far this is the only book I like from Netgalley. The writing was good and I finished it one sitting. Danny is open with his sexuality, Brad is the opposite and they compliment each other. I liked Danny's family, his dad, mom and his cousins were very supportive and that is usually is a plus for me in my books if one of the MC's family is accepting and loving. The drama surrounding Brad and his family ,especially his mother. It was a bit too much, annoying and I just find the family drama unrealistic. Both MCs are very young and the chemistry was just ok. It's there but it's not up there. Im not sure if these 2 will sill be together 10 years from now. Overall, I enjoyed it still.
Thanks Netgalley for the arc
Thanks Netgalley for the arc
April 10, 2015
One night at a truck stop, Brad saves Danny from a date gone wrong and they decide to have a cup of coffee. Even though they both can feel an attraction to one another, Brad has to concentrate on his job interview the next day for a summer job before college begins in September. They part ways thinking they will never see each other again. Brad was surprised when he is at his interview and he sees Danny. It turns out that Danny is his new boss’ son. Not only does Brad get the job, Danny’s family takes him in and he becomes part of the Ortega family. Being part of a family is something Bradley knows nothing about.
Brad and Danny had their bumps in the road and worked on some of Brad’s issues revolving around a horrific event and family scandal. But they were adorable together and had me cracking up at times.
" If you say lube I'll think of sex. And when I think of sex, I think of you. I think of sex with you and my brain explodes and I become a throbbing mass of hormones, and I can't be expected to pick out pillows when I'm a throbbing mass of hormones. I'll probably jump you on the comforter display, or fall into a knife display because I'll be daydreaming about you and lube and sex. You see how this is a crisis waiting to happen. So don't say lube, okay?"
"Man, what a night. Super-glued hair, declarations of love, sex talk. And it's not even seven."
This story is heartwarming and sweet, but mostly deals with family issues. Brad is estranged from his family after they sent him to military school when they found out he was gay. It is hard for him to understand how the Ortega’s are so accepting of him. I guess it just proves that sometimes your true family isn’t the one you were born into, but rather the one you choose to be part of.
**I was provided a copy of this book via Net Galley in exchange for an honest review ***
Brad and Danny had their bumps in the road and worked on some of Brad’s issues revolving around a horrific event and family scandal. But they were adorable together and had me cracking up at times.
" If you say lube I'll think of sex. And when I think of sex, I think of you. I think of sex with you and my brain explodes and I become a throbbing mass of hormones, and I can't be expected to pick out pillows when I'm a throbbing mass of hormones. I'll probably jump you on the comforter display, or fall into a knife display because I'll be daydreaming about you and lube and sex. You see how this is a crisis waiting to happen. So don't say lube, okay?"
"Man, what a night. Super-glued hair, declarations of love, sex talk. And it's not even seven."
This story is heartwarming and sweet, but mostly deals with family issues. Brad is estranged from his family after they sent him to military school when they found out he was gay. It is hard for him to understand how the Ortega’s are so accepting of him. I guess it just proves that sometimes your true family isn’t the one you were born into, but rather the one you choose to be part of.
**I was provided a copy of this book via Net Galley in exchange for an honest review ***
March 1, 2016
This was my first time reading this author and I'm now a big fan. This book was really good. Brad comes from a wealthy family but something horrible has happened in his past and he's trying to get by on his own. He literally has nothing and is sleeping in his car. He has no friends, no family and no support system at all. A chance encounter leads him to meeting Danny. Danny is Brad's total opposite. He has a job, school and most importantly a family that loves and adores him. Another chance meeting leads to the two boys being friends and then something more. Things don't come easily though as Brad continues to struggle with his inner demons.
I thought this story was really well done. I really felt for Brad and understood how desolate he was. My heart just broke for him as he struggled to accept things that all people should have like friendship and love. Danny and his family were wonderful and it was touching to see how they included Brad and slowly pulled him into their midst. I thought the writing was really well done and everything flowed well. The plot was good, the characters made sense, the dialogue was strong. Most importantly I really cared for these two young men. I was rooting for them and their hea all the way. Again, I really enjoyed this book. I highly recommend it and I know I will searching out other work by this author right away.
I thought this story was really well done. I really felt for Brad and understood how desolate he was. My heart just broke for him as he struggled to accept things that all people should have like friendship and love. Danny and his family were wonderful and it was touching to see how they included Brad and slowly pulled him into their midst. I thought the writing was really well done and everything flowed well. The plot was good, the characters made sense, the dialogue was strong. Most importantly I really cared for these two young men. I was rooting for them and their hea all the way. Again, I really enjoyed this book. I highly recommend it and I know I will searching out other work by this author right away.
May 1, 2015
Excellent!!!
This is absolutely a must read for those who enjoy the YA/NA romance genre.
I've been anticipating this book coming out and jumped to purchase it. I'm so glad I did.
It's just a simple love story with an actual storyline! Throw in a little mystery and suspense with just the right amount of angst and of course and HEA ending and I'm happy!
I'm so glad I followed my hunches on this one. j. leigh bailey gives us another great book to add to the YA/NA must read collection.
* * * * * FIVE GIGANTIC STARS * * * * *
This is absolutely a must read for those who enjoy the YA/NA romance genre.
I've been anticipating this book coming out and jumped to purchase it. I'm so glad I did.
It's just a simple love story with an actual storyline! Throw in a little mystery and suspense with just the right amount of angst and of course and HEA ending and I'm happy!
I'm so glad I followed my hunches on this one. j. leigh bailey gives us another great book to add to the YA/NA must read collection.
* * * * * FIVE GIGANTIC STARS * * * * *
August 19, 2015
Perhaps 3.5 stars
It was a good read for most of the time, but with the development of the final chapters it lost me.
Somehow I got the feeling as if the MCs were about 10 years older than they were supposed to be.
It was a good read for most of the time, but with the development of the final chapters it lost me.
Somehow I got the feeling as if the MCs were about 10 years older than they were supposed to be.
October 3, 2015
This was a sweet young love story set in a small town during summer. The issue was nothing new, but I enjoyed Ms. Bailey's writing and her characters with their opposite personalities were both endearing.
April 27, 2015
My Review:
This was a sweet book about family and what that really means...which is so much more than simply blood ties.
Brad's family is all about appearance, so when they discovered he was gay, they lost it. His brother tried to kill his boyfriend and Brad was shipped off to the worst military school to finish off high school. His parents hoped that being surrounded by all that masculinity would "cure him". Brad's simply tried to survive the last two years, trying to make it until he was 18 and could make his own decisions without his parents' influence. He's finally made that break, but that's left him broke and homeless until he finds work with the Ortega family construction company.
The Ortega's are the exact opposite of Brad's family. They are a huge bunch and immediately accept Brad into the fold. They feed, shelter, and offer him a job...no questions asked. They also completely accept the fact that Danny is gay and always have...no questions asked. Their love is not conditional which is so different from what Brad has grown up with.
This is all so different from what Brad has known. He wants to stay firmly and safely in his closet...where no one can hurt him in any way. Brad hasn't known trust or acceptance, so he has a really hard time accepting that from the Ortega family or from Danny. But as the book progresses, he learns that from both Danny and his family.
This is a sweet coming of age story for both these guys. Brad's had to grow up fast because he's learned some really hard lessons along the way. Seeing what Brad has had to deal with is an eye-opener for Danny, which forces him to take a new view on his world too. Not everything is as easy as he's always had it. He's taken that for granted before he sees all that Brad has dealt with.
In the midst of all this is a little mystery. Equipment is going missing from the construction company and the disappearances just happened to coincide with Brad's arrival within the company. There are also some weird things happening with Danny's older brother Ray, but it's hard to know if he just has an issue with Brad or if something more is going on there.
Overall I enjoyed the book. I'm not usually a fan of having the main characters quite this young, but the book was entertaining to read and I liked the severe contrasts between the two families and what the definition of family meant for each of them. For anyone that enjoys m/m and coming of age stories, this is a good one.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
This was a sweet book about family and what that really means...which is so much more than simply blood ties.
Brad's family is all about appearance, so when they discovered he was gay, they lost it. His brother tried to kill his boyfriend and Brad was shipped off to the worst military school to finish off high school. His parents hoped that being surrounded by all that masculinity would "cure him". Brad's simply tried to survive the last two years, trying to make it until he was 18 and could make his own decisions without his parents' influence. He's finally made that break, but that's left him broke and homeless until he finds work with the Ortega family construction company.
The Ortega's are the exact opposite of Brad's family. They are a huge bunch and immediately accept Brad into the fold. They feed, shelter, and offer him a job...no questions asked. They also completely accept the fact that Danny is gay and always have...no questions asked. Their love is not conditional which is so different from what Brad has grown up with.
This is all so different from what Brad has known. He wants to stay firmly and safely in his closet...where no one can hurt him in any way. Brad hasn't known trust or acceptance, so he has a really hard time accepting that from the Ortega family or from Danny. But as the book progresses, he learns that from both Danny and his family.
This is a sweet coming of age story for both these guys. Brad's had to grow up fast because he's learned some really hard lessons along the way. Seeing what Brad has had to deal with is an eye-opener for Danny, which forces him to take a new view on his world too. Not everything is as easy as he's always had it. He's taken that for granted before he sees all that Brad has dealt with.
In the midst of all this is a little mystery. Equipment is going missing from the construction company and the disappearances just happened to coincide with Brad's arrival within the company. There are also some weird things happening with Danny's older brother Ray, but it's hard to know if he just has an issue with Brad or if something more is going on there.
Overall I enjoyed the book. I'm not usually a fan of having the main characters quite this young, but the book was entertaining to read and I liked the severe contrasts between the two families and what the definition of family meant for each of them. For anyone that enjoys m/m and coming of age stories, this is a good one.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
May 26, 2015
3.5 stars
Nobody’s Hero is my first book by j. leigh bailey, but it won’t be my last. The characters and dialogue were engaging. The leads, Brad and Danny, are sweet together. They’re each struggling with growing up, and they’re doing it from very different perspectives and life views.
Brad’s effort to overcome his history with his family is his biggest motivator for every step he takes in life. They’ve done immeasurable harm to him, and his story trickles out slowly in a way where each detail felt like a new wound being scored into my heart for him.
In stark contrast, Danny has an incredibly close relationship with his whole family. He lives with them and is supported by them emotionally and financially. His closest friends are members of the family, and his coming out was far less traumatic than any moment in Brad’s life.
The book is long. At around the 30% mark, I wondered how there could still be so much left. It felt like things were going to wrap up quickly. Then, all of a sudden, I was at 70%, and I was still engaged. I’m not sure what that says about pacing, but I didn’t get bored.
The character development was my favorite part of the book. It was lovely to watch Brad transcend the horrors of his past—and present—inflicted upon him by his family and reach a place where he can be with Danny openly. Danny shows incredible patience and a lovable naiveté throughout the story. He feels much younger than Brad, despite being a year older.
I do have a few complaints. Some of the secondary storyline felt incredibly obvious from the outset. I suppose from the character perspectives (Brad’s and Danny’s), this plotline shows their personalities and youth that they don’t see the obvious until real damage occurs. There was foreshadowing for some of it, but the scene where things came to a head hit me unexpectedly with panic and pain. I was as unsure of what was happening in the moment as the characters, but in a good, grab my attention kind of way. In that respect, the writing was well done. Unfortunately, the foreshadowing and “bad guy” were fairly clear from the outset. As far a mystery/danger storyline, this was underwhelming.
I enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys YA or NA m/m. It’s not going into my reread pile, but it’s sweet and worth the first read. I’ll be reading more by j. leigh bailey.
Review first posted to All About Romance. Copy of book provided by publisher.
Nobody’s Hero is my first book by j. leigh bailey, but it won’t be my last. The characters and dialogue were engaging. The leads, Brad and Danny, are sweet together. They’re each struggling with growing up, and they’re doing it from very different perspectives and life views.
Brad’s effort to overcome his history with his family is his biggest motivator for every step he takes in life. They’ve done immeasurable harm to him, and his story trickles out slowly in a way where each detail felt like a new wound being scored into my heart for him.
In stark contrast, Danny has an incredibly close relationship with his whole family. He lives with them and is supported by them emotionally and financially. His closest friends are members of the family, and his coming out was far less traumatic than any moment in Brad’s life.
The book is long. At around the 30% mark, I wondered how there could still be so much left. It felt like things were going to wrap up quickly. Then, all of a sudden, I was at 70%, and I was still engaged. I’m not sure what that says about pacing, but I didn’t get bored.
The character development was my favorite part of the book. It was lovely to watch Brad transcend the horrors of his past—and present—inflicted upon him by his family and reach a place where he can be with Danny openly. Danny shows incredible patience and a lovable naiveté throughout the story. He feels much younger than Brad, despite being a year older.
I do have a few complaints. Some of the secondary storyline felt incredibly obvious from the outset. I suppose from the character perspectives (Brad’s and Danny’s), this plotline shows their personalities and youth that they don’t see the obvious until real damage occurs. There was foreshadowing for some of it, but the scene where things came to a head hit me unexpectedly with panic and pain. I was as unsure of what was happening in the moment as the characters, but in a good, grab my attention kind of way. In that respect, the writing was well done. Unfortunately, the foreshadowing and “bad guy” were fairly clear from the outset. As far a mystery/danger storyline, this was underwhelming.
I enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys YA or NA m/m. It’s not going into my reread pile, but it’s sweet and worth the first read. I’ll be reading more by j. leigh bailey.
Review first posted to All About Romance. Copy of book provided by publisher.
February 29, 2016
What I enjoyed the most about this story was the way Brad and Danny complemented each other. While Danny was open about his sexuality, carefree and shared a great bond with his family Brad struggled with his sexuality and was estranged from his family and carrying the burden of surviving on his own. I loved them together and their journey to love was sweet, romantic and thoroughly enjoyable.
J. Leigh Bailey is a new-to-me author and one I will definitely be on the lookout for. I loved the realness of her characters, their sense of camaraderie and how she went about bringing their connection to the page. Be it Danny and Brad's bickering, their flirting or their honest confessions their every interaction served to solidify their connection on the page.
As the first book in the series, Nobody's Hero worked well and I can't wait to see what other characters J. Leigh Bailey has in store for us.
All in all, a great character-driven story with plenty of sweet romance, heated moments and rampant emotions to round it all up.
*I received a copy of this title in exchange of my honest opinion.
J. Leigh Bailey is a new-to-me author and one I will definitely be on the lookout for. I loved the realness of her characters, their sense of camaraderie and how she went about bringing their connection to the page. Be it Danny and Brad's bickering, their flirting or their honest confessions their every interaction served to solidify their connection on the page.
As the first book in the series, Nobody's Hero worked well and I can't wait to see what other characters J. Leigh Bailey has in store for us.
All in all, a great character-driven story with plenty of sweet romance, heated moments and rampant emotions to round it all up.
*I received a copy of this title in exchange of my honest opinion.
August 31, 2016
That was one angsty ride FULL of drama! Which I really enjoyed, nothing better than
This book almost had the full range of everything, only thing missing was an evil ex-girlfriend...
My only disappointment is the realization that book #2 is NOT about Carson. Why not?? I would really love to read his story
This book almost had the full range of everything, only thing missing was an evil ex-girlfriend...
My only disappointment is the realization that book #2 is NOT about Carson. Why not?? I would really love to read his story
December 22, 2015
This book makes me happy. A sweet love story with two very likable young men. I randomly burst into tears during one particular touching scene, and that doesn't happen very often. Ten pages later I was laughing out loud. I need the Ortegas to adopt me, please....
Definitely recommend!
Definitely recommend!
June 1, 2015
3.5 stars
I liked this, but just not feeling the romance itself enough.
I liked this, but just not feeling the romance itself enough.
November 15, 2015
Enjoyed this one, and well done Brad for telling your family where to stick their prejudices and money. 4 stars.
November 15, 2017
Super cute new adult romance. Brad is a broke ex-rich boy living in his truck and hoping to get a job with a construction company. He meets Danny is a parking lot and the next day applies for the job to Danny's dad's company. We had instant attraction but the relationship didn't start right away due to Brad's reservations and his horrible past. I adored Danny's family as much as I hated Brads, which was a lot! One fabulous and one so heinous I can't even... This one was low on the sex scale but I didn't miss it. I enjoyed the development and building of their relationship. Overall a sweet read with a pretty lame mystery thrown in for fun.
April 27, 2015
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
When we first meet Brad, we cannot help but feel for him, considering his back story, which Bailey doled out in nice, small doses. Now the fact that the guy Brad saves happens to be the son of the man Brad is meeting the following day could be considered entirely too coincidental, but knowing what life is like in small towns, I was more than able to see the plausibility in the events.
There were some great scenes in Nobody’s Hero, such as when the guys go on a camping trip with some of Danny’s family. This section was emotional, extremely well written, and moving. I also felt that both Brad and Danny were well portrayed as the 18 and 19 year olds that they were. It got me thinking back to my youth (I feel so old!), and yes, I remember being a stupid, oversexed teen at one point (but their questionable decisions still bugged the crap out of me). I seriously loved the Ortega clan. With their generous hearts and open mindedness, they exemplified family, giving without expecting anything in return. They gave unconditional acceptance, and because of that, they had blinders on when it came to one of their own, which worked perfectly into that thread I was mentioning earlier.
One of the things I liked about the story was that no one was perfect. Danny, Brad, nor any of the secondary characters was ever portrayed as perfect and so I felt that this added to the realism of the story because honestly, who among us is perfect?
I really did like this story. It was not what I was expecting based on the blurb, it was much, much more. I can definitely recommend Nobody’s Hero, but be warned, is gets mushy and a little cheesy at the end (awww!).
Read Jason’s review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
When we first meet Brad, we cannot help but feel for him, considering his back story, which Bailey doled out in nice, small doses. Now the fact that the guy Brad saves happens to be the son of the man Brad is meeting the following day could be considered entirely too coincidental, but knowing what life is like in small towns, I was more than able to see the plausibility in the events.
There were some great scenes in Nobody’s Hero, such as when the guys go on a camping trip with some of Danny’s family. This section was emotional, extremely well written, and moving. I also felt that both Brad and Danny were well portrayed as the 18 and 19 year olds that they were. It got me thinking back to my youth (I feel so old!), and yes, I remember being a stupid, oversexed teen at one point (but their questionable decisions still bugged the crap out of me). I seriously loved the Ortega clan. With their generous hearts and open mindedness, they exemplified family, giving without expecting anything in return. They gave unconditional acceptance, and because of that, they had blinders on when it came to one of their own, which worked perfectly into that thread I was mentioning earlier.
One of the things I liked about the story was that no one was perfect. Danny, Brad, nor any of the secondary characters was ever portrayed as perfect and so I felt that this added to the realism of the story because honestly, who among us is perfect?
I really did like this story. It was not what I was expecting based on the blurb, it was much, much more. I can definitely recommend Nobody’s Hero, but be warned, is gets mushy and a little cheesy at the end (awww!).
Read Jason’s review in its entirety here.
August 15, 2015
Brad’s family has sent him off to military school to “get the gay gone” and essentially written him off, even when his brother attacks his ex-boyfriend and almost kills him. Brad runs away to Minnesota to go to school, determined to be free of them. He’s got pennies to his name but a strong work ethic.
Danny is on a “date” set up by his brother when the “date” gets a little to handsy. Brad happens to intervene and the two share some dessert as a thanks for the rescue. Brad doesn’t want any distractions right now, so he turns down a second date.
Brad manages to land a job and an apartment right away, as it happens, with Danny’s dad’s construction firm.
At first Brad pushes the out and proud Danny away, afraid of setting off any bells and losing his only work and home, but Danny can’t be resisted.
When things start going missing and vandals attack the work sites where Brad happens to be, Brad pulls away from Danny and prepares for the worst.
When the worst happens, Brad agrees to help his family and “be a good boy” again, by leaving Danny behind.
**
This was such a sweet story. Danny is wonderful! He and his family are the exact opposite of Brad and his. It’s fabulous how they all support one another and by extension Brad.
I got a little sick of Brad’s behavior where it concerned Danny – he didn’t deserve it – but in the end the very sappy and sweet ending made it all worth it.
4.5 of 5 stars
Danny is on a “date” set up by his brother when the “date” gets a little to handsy. Brad happens to intervene and the two share some dessert as a thanks for the rescue. Brad doesn’t want any distractions right now, so he turns down a second date.
Brad manages to land a job and an apartment right away, as it happens, with Danny’s dad’s construction firm.
At first Brad pushes the out and proud Danny away, afraid of setting off any bells and losing his only work and home, but Danny can’t be resisted.
When things start going missing and vandals attack the work sites where Brad happens to be, Brad pulls away from Danny and prepares for the worst.
When the worst happens, Brad agrees to help his family and “be a good boy” again, by leaving Danny behind.
**
This was such a sweet story. Danny is wonderful! He and his family are the exact opposite of Brad and his. It’s fabulous how they all support one another and by extension Brad.
I got a little sick of Brad’s behavior where it concerned Danny – he didn’t deserve it – but in the end the very sappy and sweet ending made it all worth it.
4.5 of 5 stars
April 28, 2015
I really enjoyed this book! Brad and Danny captured my heart from the very beginning and I absolutely loved the Ortega family!
Brad was shipped off to military school when his parents found he was gay, but that hasn't stopped him. He is one determined man, and now has a scholarship to college but he just needs a job for the summer and to find a place to stay until school starts. He just has to nail this interview for this construction job.
Danny is an out and proud college guy with a loving family. But after his brother set him up on a date that won't take no for an answer, it's Brad who comes to the rescue. The two men are definitely attracted to each other, but both men are surprised that it's Danny's family's company that Brad is interviewing with.
What begins is a truly great story! Brad and Danny definitely have a slow start, but it's so worth it. Brad needs to learn what it's like to be part of a loving family, because he certainly doesn't come from one. They are pretty horrendous actually. If anyone can show Brad what a loving family actually is, it will be the all consuming Ortegas!
I loved so many things about this story, including some unexpected twists and turns that surprised me, and I absolutely fell in love with Brad and Danny! I can't wait to read more from this author!
I received an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
Brad was shipped off to military school when his parents found he was gay, but that hasn't stopped him. He is one determined man, and now has a scholarship to college but he just needs a job for the summer and to find a place to stay until school starts. He just has to nail this interview for this construction job.
Danny is an out and proud college guy with a loving family. But after his brother set him up on a date that won't take no for an answer, it's Brad who comes to the rescue. The two men are definitely attracted to each other, but both men are surprised that it's Danny's family's company that Brad is interviewing with.
What begins is a truly great story! Brad and Danny definitely have a slow start, but it's so worth it. Brad needs to learn what it's like to be part of a loving family, because he certainly doesn't come from one. They are pretty horrendous actually. If anyone can show Brad what a loving family actually is, it will be the all consuming Ortegas!
I loved so many things about this story, including some unexpected twists and turns that surprised me, and I absolutely fell in love with Brad and Danny! I can't wait to read more from this author!
I received an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
April 24, 2015
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Brad has left his family and what many would see as a privileged life behind. Now, he's arrived in his college town at the beginning of the summer with no place to stay and the hope of a job. But the night before his interview he helps out a guy in trouble in the parking lot of the diner where he was sleeping in his truck. Danny is interested--and Brad is, too, to be honest--but Brad can't go down that road. He did once before and it ended badly for everyone. He's in town for school, and that's it. He's not looking for complications. But complications are exactly what he finds when he gets the job and it comes with a place to stay above the boss's garage--and Danny is the boss's son...
Wonderful. I really enjoyed this and I found myself rooting for both Brad and Danny at every single turn. These two are such so adorable and they've both been through so much that one just can't help hoping they get what they need. Brad's family is infuriating--to say the very least--and is such a stark contrast to Danny's. Well-written and engaging, I found myself easily engrossed in this story set in a town not far from where I grew up. And it all just rings so true.
Brad has left his family and what many would see as a privileged life behind. Now, he's arrived in his college town at the beginning of the summer with no place to stay and the hope of a job. But the night before his interview he helps out a guy in trouble in the parking lot of the diner where he was sleeping in his truck. Danny is interested--and Brad is, too, to be honest--but Brad can't go down that road. He did once before and it ended badly for everyone. He's in town for school, and that's it. He's not looking for complications. But complications are exactly what he finds when he gets the job and it comes with a place to stay above the boss's garage--and Danny is the boss's son...
Wonderful. I really enjoyed this and I found myself rooting for both Brad and Danny at every single turn. These two are such so adorable and they've both been through so much that one just can't help hoping they get what they need. Brad's family is infuriating--to say the very least--and is such a stark contrast to Danny's. Well-written and engaging, I found myself easily engrossed in this story set in a town not far from where I grew up. And it all just rings so true.
October 30, 2015
Other than the fact that I could not believe that Danny was so damn oblivious, this was good. But seriously? How could he have not known. It was by far the most easy 'mystery' to solve ever.
I also kinda wanted Bradley to just leave the bastard to solve his own damn problems. Bailing him out seems like just enabling the dude. Bradley is a great guy and all for doing it, but what it cost him, does not even come close to what he got back.
Other than that? Pretty good story. A nice balance between Danny's need to have his boyfriend 'out' and the huge mountain of issues that Bradley had to go thru to get there.
I also kinda wanted Bradley to just leave the bastard to solve his own damn problems. Bailing him out seems like just enabling the dude. Bradley is a great guy and all for doing it, but what it cost him, does not even come close to what he got back.
Other than that? Pretty good story. A nice balance between Danny's need to have his boyfriend 'out' and the huge mountain of issues that Bradley had to go thru to get there.
September 11, 2015
This was a sweet, slightly angsty family story. Brad and Danny are very young, just starting college and the difference in their families have shaped their lives. Brad’s family is ultra conservative and homophobic and Danny’s family is large, Latino and loving. I could not believe the coldness of Brad’s family and that they seem to condone his brother’s horrible actions. Danny’s family was wonderful and supportive. They accepted Brad and gave him the love and affection he needed. The development of Danny and Brad’s relationship was very sweet and it matched their youth. I also liked that they both grew up a bit in the end. I would read more from this author.
August 21, 2015
Update:
For some reason I found myself thinking about this book a bit, a couple of days after I read it. I have upped my rating. I loved the way the MC moved into his own integrity and stood up for himself. I've put the sequel (not out yet) on my wish listt.
Dude's living in his car when he gets building job with nice family. They kind of take him over and look after him. Actually he is a rich kid trying to keep away from his horrible rich family for very good reasons.
Nice story. Okay characters.
For some reason I found myself thinking about this book a bit, a couple of days after I read it. I have upped my rating. I loved the way the MC moved into his own integrity and stood up for himself. I've put the sequel (not out yet) on my wish listt.
Dude's living in his car when he gets building job with nice family. They kind of take him over and look after him. Actually he is a rich kid trying to keep away from his horrible rich family for very good reasons.
Nice story. Okay characters.
August 15, 2021
First, please know that Todd's review of Nobody's Hero is wonderful (and yeah, his pics of Brad and Danny are spot on what I imagined them to look like). He says so beautifully what I had formulated in my brain so far as "good book, liked the story, liked Danny, Brad had a lot of crap in his life but ended up heroically well-adjusted, and I want to be around Danny's family and absorb all that love!"
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August 1, 2015
I guess I am out of step with most reviewers but this book was nothing special. It was a very simple plot. Brad and Danny are nice but kind of an odd fit. Brad goes from hot to cold every few minutes. A lot of what happens is so unrealistic and superficial. If Brad cracked his knuckles one more time I would have screamed! All the people are unrealistically wonderful or awful. Definitely would not read anymore of this series and probably not this author.
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