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Sunshine and Happiness #1
Here For You
Life is a thread connecting us. One pull and it all unravels.
Cole Gannon arrives in the seaside town of Ocean Vista to work as a bartender and finally find a place to belong. Determined to make a home for himself, Cole lives happily with his four colorful roommates, whom he considers brothers. The only problem is Cole's attraction to Ian Stark—a guy all wrong for him. He wishes he didn’t keep running into the sexy lawyer.
Ian knows Cole is attracted to him, but the younger man keeps him at arm’s length. It only makes Ian more determined to be with Cole and learn all his secrets. But while Ian has built a successful law practice, he hasn’t done too well with relationships.
When a sudden and devastating tragedy occurs, it shatters Cole's world and throws Cole and Ian together in unexpected ways. In an instant, everything between them changes forever.
Cole Gannon arrives in the seaside town of Ocean Vista to work as a bartender and finally find a place to belong. Determined to make a home for himself, Cole lives happily with his four colorful roommates, whom he considers brothers. The only problem is Cole's attraction to Ian Stark—a guy all wrong for him. He wishes he didn’t keep running into the sexy lawyer.
Ian knows Cole is attracted to him, but the younger man keeps him at arm’s length. It only makes Ian more determined to be with Cole and learn all his secrets. But while Ian has built a successful law practice, he hasn’t done too well with relationships.
When a sudden and devastating tragedy occurs, it shatters Cole's world and throws Cole and Ian together in unexpected ways. In an instant, everything between them changes forever.
234 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 27, 2015
40 people are currently reading
663 people want to read
About the author
Skylar M. Cates
30 books298 followersSkylar M. Cates loves a good romance. She is happy to drink coffee, curl up with a good book, and not move all day. Her novels feature strong and passionate men. Skylar loves to craft stories where realistic characters are challenged with emotional situations. Although lately the laundry room is the farthest place she has visited, Skylar loves to chat with folks from all around the globe.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 208 reviews
February 21, 2015
I greatly enjoy Skylar Cates’ writing. The blend of tender and sexy in her novels really works for me. This book, however, is in a category of its own.
I am uncomfortable with emotions, and I generally avoid angsty books. Tears: who needs them?
But there is no avoiding the feels in this story.
Cole, raised by an alcoholic mother who cared more about her revolving door of boyfriends than her son, has worked hard to build a family in Florida. Cole has been on his own since he was 17, and his roommates are his closest friends.
Following a random, horrific tragedy, Cole turns to Ian, a serious, buttoned-up lawyer and his best friend’s boss, for comfort. Cole feels like he’s betraying his friend if he allows himself to fall for Ian, so he pushes Ian away.
But Ian isn’t willing to give up so easily.
Ian and Cole have amazing, explosive chemistry and a deep connection, sexual and otherwise. They are opposites on paper, but they are so good together.
One of the things I loved the most in this book, besides the stellar writing and the fully realized characters, is that Ian and Cole act like adults.
They cry and laugh and heal. They kiss and make love. And they talk; they talk about their families and insecurities and fears.
Cole pushes Ian to be more spontaneous, and Ian’s faith in Cole’s talent makes Cole take risks he wouldn’t have on his own.
The secondary characters, Cole’s roommates and friends, were incredibly well sketched. Each of them has a story to tell, and I hope Cates will tell it.
What I really appreciated is that this wasn’t a parade of potential MCs for other books in a series, not at all.
The secondary characters were necessary to the story; they were real, complex people with their own lives and secrets.
I was particularly moved by the beautiful, caring Brandan and the brooding, angry River.
Even though there is much sadness in this book, none of it is overdone. There is no melodrama, no miscommunication. There is great loss, but there is also hope.
This book is about grief. It’s about friendship and family. It’s about being brave, risking your heart, and trusting yourself enough to let go and love.
I really hope other early reviewers don't give away too many details, because this story is best discovered and savored.
Here for You is going on my best M/M books of 2015 list. I cannot recommend it enough!
I am uncomfortable with emotions, and I generally avoid angsty books. Tears: who needs them?
But there is no avoiding the feels in this story.
Cole, raised by an alcoholic mother who cared more about her revolving door of boyfriends than her son, has worked hard to build a family in Florida. Cole has been on his own since he was 17, and his roommates are his closest friends.
Following a random, horrific tragedy, Cole turns to Ian, a serious, buttoned-up lawyer and his best friend’s boss, for comfort. Cole feels like he’s betraying his friend if he allows himself to fall for Ian, so he pushes Ian away.
But Ian isn’t willing to give up so easily.
“I’m all hot and cold with you . . . Lots of guys would want to be with you, Ian. All the way.”
“I don’t want them.” Ian cupped Cole’s face and looked right into his eyes . . . “I want you.”
Ian and Cole have amazing, explosive chemistry and a deep connection, sexual and otherwise. They are opposites on paper, but they are so good together.
They were all over each other, lips locked, chests pressing, their limbs coiled. They sank briefly under the water, still kissing passionately. When they surfaced, they breathed each other’s air.
One of the things I loved the most in this book, besides the stellar writing and the fully realized characters, is that Ian and Cole act like adults.
They cry and laugh and heal. They kiss and make love. And they talk; they talk about their families and insecurities and fears.
Cole pushes Ian to be more spontaneous, and Ian’s faith in Cole’s talent makes Cole take risks he wouldn’t have on his own.
Cole laughed. “Feel free to say good-bye to me every night.”
Ian’s smile deepened. “I’d rather keep saying hello.”
The secondary characters, Cole’s roommates and friends, were incredibly well sketched. Each of them has a story to tell, and I hope Cates will tell it.
What I really appreciated is that this wasn’t a parade of potential MCs for other books in a series, not at all.
The secondary characters were necessary to the story; they were real, complex people with their own lives and secrets.
I was particularly moved by the beautiful, caring Brandan and the brooding, angry River.
Even though there is much sadness in this book, none of it is overdone. There is no melodrama, no miscommunication. There is great loss, but there is also hope.
“I’ve always had to fight for a place in this world.”
“Not anymore.”
Cole met Ian’s eyes. He framed his face between his hands. “No, not anymore”
This book is about grief. It’s about friendship and family. It’s about being brave, risking your heart, and trusting yourself enough to let go and love.
I really hope other early reviewers don't give away too many details, because this story is best discovered and savored.
Here for You is going on my best M/M books of 2015 list. I cannot recommend it enough!
March 1, 2015
2 stars. DNF @40%. Review posted March 1, 2015
A sudden loss is a hurt that will go along with you for a long time but you learn to accept it, to live with it because the simple truth is that life goes on -- with or without you. Funny thing is, while I will always rummage around all those fond and great memories, the most visceral and stark moments are of the day he died and the morning after. It's like a movie in high-definition and a voice that never shuts down; the whole tragedy and the aftermath thereof on constant repeat. On the occasion of a very bright and sunny day saying goodbye without knowing it's the last time you saw him. The phone call, the nasty truth of a completely ripped out leg, complemented by head injuries and the resulting shock of the announcement of death. The weeping. Going for a walk with the dog, having red-rimmed eyes, shuffling onwards in a daze, not having a destination but unconsciously knowing where you've got to go and ending on the doorstep of your best friend. Trying to absorb and understand what happened for the first time and failing miserably. The day after; smelling and feeling the gloomy atmosphere enhanced by the crappy weather. The rain intensifying every miserable emotion and vaguely veiling your grief. And, somehow, associating rain with death for many years to come. Sitting at the table and trying to eat a specific lunch (a favorite) but not being hungry. And don't get me started on the crushing moment years later on when you are privy to facts that must have led to said tragedy. Rinse.Repeat.Rinse.Repeat.
I took the liberty and did copy/paste a part of my "non-review" of Summer Symphony where I tried to explain how I experience(d) grief. I mean there's no need to reinvent something I wrote down already.
Grief is as deep and various as women and men are different
Grief is
A hug
A lonely tear rolling down your cheek
An urgent well of weeping
Grief is agony and rage
Grief is a stabbing pain
Grief is being mute
Grief is cathartic
Grief is falling apart, scrambling for the little pieces and putting yourself back together
Grief is the ashes that covers the ground and nurtures the soil
Grief is the little grain that pushes its way through the fertile soil
Grief means something new will grow again
Grief is the ending of an intimate and personal journey and at the same time a means to a new beginning
Grief is love
And sometimes you can't explain grief. It just is.
My point is that I can't equal a very personal experience that shook me up so badly and cut so deeply with this book here. Some authors truly manage to write about a tragedy in a very profound way that will cut right through my heart. It can be very compelling but to thoroughly move me and totally engage me on a much deeper emotional level, an author needs exceptionally great writing skillz. Here For You is a far cry from being that story for me. The first 40% were too shallow and fell totally flat. Neither the characters nor the writing resonated with me. What I read was somehow cheesy, boring, nondescript and just blah. 3% into the story and I knew he'd die (the term tragedy has been mentioned in the blurb). It couldn't get any more obvious and it was so convenient because…let's make room for the other guy, shall we?
Loss and grief is something very personal and we all grieve differently, I get that. Yet I'm sorry to say that Here For You didn't cut it for me at all.
A sudden loss is a hurt that will go along with you for a long time but you learn to accept it, to live with it because the simple truth is that life goes on -- with or without you. Funny thing is, while I will always rummage around all those fond and great memories, the most visceral and stark moments are of the day he died and the morning after. It's like a movie in high-definition and a voice that never shuts down; the whole tragedy and the aftermath thereof on constant repeat. On the occasion of a very bright and sunny day saying goodbye without knowing it's the last time you saw him. The phone call, the nasty truth of a completely ripped out leg, complemented by head injuries and the resulting shock of the announcement of death. The weeping. Going for a walk with the dog, having red-rimmed eyes, shuffling onwards in a daze, not having a destination but unconsciously knowing where you've got to go and ending on the doorstep of your best friend. Trying to absorb and understand what happened for the first time and failing miserably. The day after; smelling and feeling the gloomy atmosphere enhanced by the crappy weather. The rain intensifying every miserable emotion and vaguely veiling your grief. And, somehow, associating rain with death for many years to come. Sitting at the table and trying to eat a specific lunch (a favorite) but not being hungry. And don't get me started on the crushing moment years later on when you are privy to facts that must have led to said tragedy. Rinse.Repeat.Rinse.Repeat.
I took the liberty and did copy/paste a part of my "non-review" of Summer Symphony where I tried to explain how I experience(d) grief. I mean there's no need to reinvent something I wrote down already.
Grief is as deep and various as women and men are different
Grief is
A hug
A lonely tear rolling down your cheek
An urgent well of weeping
Grief is agony and rage
Grief is a stabbing pain
Grief is being mute
Grief is cathartic
Grief is falling apart, scrambling for the little pieces and putting yourself back together
Grief is the ashes that covers the ground and nurtures the soil
Grief is the little grain that pushes its way through the fertile soil
Grief means something new will grow again
Grief is the ending of an intimate and personal journey and at the same time a means to a new beginning
Grief is love
And sometimes you can't explain grief. It just is.
My point is that I can't equal a very personal experience that shook me up so badly and cut so deeply with this book here. Some authors truly manage to write about a tragedy in a very profound way that will cut right through my heart. It can be very compelling but to thoroughly move me and totally engage me on a much deeper emotional level, an author needs exceptionally great writing skillz. Here For You is a far cry from being that story for me. The first 40% were too shallow and fell totally flat. Neither the characters nor the writing resonated with me. What I read was somehow cheesy, boring, nondescript and just blah. 3% into the story and I knew he'd die (the term tragedy has been mentioned in the blurb). It couldn't get any more obvious and it was so convenient because…let's make room for the other guy, shall we?
Loss and grief is something very personal and we all grieve differently, I get that. Yet I'm sorry to say that Here For You didn't cut it for me at all.
September 8, 2015
4.5 Stars!
This one had really mixed reviews among my GRs peeps, so I was a bit nervous going in. But I ended up getting sucked in to the story and really liking this one.
It was definitely a slower paced read. Almost somber. Even heartbreaking at times.
I really felt for the "brothers" and what they went through.
I would love to see them all get books and find their HEAs.
This one had really mixed reviews among my GRs peeps, so I was a bit nervous going in. But I ended up getting sucked in to the story and really liking this one.
It was definitely a slower paced read. Almost somber. Even heartbreaking at times.
I really felt for the "brothers" and what they went through.
I would love to see them all get books and find their HEAs.
Read
August 27, 2015DNF at 22%.
This was a REALLY rough audiobook for me. Too many characters introduced with their back stories (clearly setting up for the next books in the series), which created a serious challenge for the narrator. The voices all sounded the same to me, except for the Latino guy, who sounded Indian. I didn't connect to the main couple and I was SO bored by the slow pace.
I'm not going to rate this because it was a review copy and I didn't get even halfway through it, but let's just just say that if I had paid money for the audiobook, I would be rating it harshly.
This was a REALLY rough audiobook for me. Too many characters introduced with their back stories (clearly setting up for the next books in the series), which created a serious challenge for the narrator. The voices all sounded the same to me, except for the Latino guy, who sounded Indian. I didn't connect to the main couple and I was SO bored by the slow pace.
I'm not going to rate this because it was a review copy and I didn't get even halfway through it, but let's just just say that if I had paid money for the audiobook, I would be rating it harshly.
March 4, 2015
Holy shit, this book kicked my ass! I am completely drained and need some serious fluff now.
I can say right off the bat that I loved Ian and Cole, but hated how the house fell apart. A sequel would help ease my sad brain! The first half of the book was terribly depressing, but it picked up with a lovely romance in the second half.
Yes, I can recommend this book, but only if you are already in a good mood. If you have a case of the blues, save this for a sunny day.
Read
February 28, 2015Ugh,
DNF @ 35%
Is this a its not you its me? probably,
I think Ive become jaded. I find that the storyline may be altered from the last book I read somewhat, but then again I find only the names have changed....
I need more. Me. Personally.
I'm not a fan of insta-love at all. I'm a fan of passion, and chemistry, a little sexual tension.
I'm a searcher, for the next epic read and unfortunately my expectations were too high, and now Im too low.
So maybe 1 day i will come back and try this again.
Until then, I will try to go and find my next epicness somewhere.
Mare~Slitsread
DNF @ 35%
Is this a its not you its me? probably,
I think Ive become jaded. I find that the storyline may be altered from the last book I read somewhat, but then again I find only the names have changed....
I need more. Me. Personally.
I'm not a fan of insta-love at all. I'm a fan of passion, and chemistry, a little sexual tension.
I'm a searcher, for the next epic read and unfortunately my expectations were too high, and now Im too low.
So maybe 1 day i will come back and try this again.
Until then, I will try to go and find my next epicness somewhere.
Mare~Slitsread
January 12, 2017
Meh… just very very meh..
We meet bartender Cole. He lives with his 4 roommates who he considers his brothers. He is also majorly crushing on Ian, his roommate Brendan’s boss. But because he knows his roommate Brendan is totally in love with Ian, he never acts on his attraction to the man.
That is until something awful happens. It brings Cole and Ian closer together and the attraction is no longer denied.
Cole must find a way to deal with his grief, to keep his ‘family’ together and to deal with his feelings for Ian as well. But Ian is not one to give up and he is just there for Cole, always.
I liked Cole. He was sweet, snarky and my heart broke for him after the tragedy. But I never warmed up to Ian. He was just a bit too correct for my taste. He bored me a little. I admired his determination to make Cole his, but other than that he was just there, nothing more.
I did like the fact that these guys talked to each other. Their relationship was not all hearts and flowers, and there were fights, but they talked it out as adults. None of the angry miscommunication stuff I hate so much.
This book was just a tad too boring for me. I was awakened from my slumber by a very short spanking scene, but it was too short for me too really get into it.
Not a bad book, just not the book for me.
We meet bartender Cole. He lives with his 4 roommates who he considers his brothers. He is also majorly crushing on Ian, his roommate Brendan’s boss. But because he knows his roommate Brendan is totally in love with Ian, he never acts on his attraction to the man.
That is until something awful happens. It brings Cole and Ian closer together and the attraction is no longer denied.
Cole must find a way to deal with his grief, to keep his ‘family’ together and to deal with his feelings for Ian as well. But Ian is not one to give up and he is just there for Cole, always.
I liked Cole. He was sweet, snarky and my heart broke for him after the tragedy. But I never warmed up to Ian. He was just a bit too correct for my taste. He bored me a little. I admired his determination to make Cole his, but other than that he was just there, nothing more.
I did like the fact that these guys talked to each other. Their relationship was not all hearts and flowers, and there were fights, but they talked it out as adults. None of the angry miscommunication stuff I hate so much.
This book was just a tad too boring for me. I was awakened from my slumber by a very short spanking scene, but it was too short for me too really get into it.
Not a bad book, just not the book for me.
March 14, 2016
I'm not sure what to do here...
So I finished this book at somewhere around 2 a.m. because my brain refused to let me put the book down and go to sleep like a sane normal person would have done and I've now spent the day waltzing around, over under, beside, behind and anywhere else that I could think of but not in front of this review because...well, honestly...I didn't know what to write and I still don't.
I can tell you there are some really awesome reviews over on GR that will do a better job of this than I could ever hope to there's Dani's review, https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
or there's my friend Ele's review, be warned it's her fault I ended up reading this now instead of going back to Whyborne & Griffin as I had planned, bad, bad, Ele ;-)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
I don't really think I can improve on anything that either of these lovely ladies did. So I'm not going to try. I'm just going to say I loved this book and all the people in it. Cole and Ian are beautiful, Cole's housemates are a wealth of story opportunity that I sincerely hope the author plans on exploring.
This story is not any easy one to read, it's not all sunshine and rainbows but it's beautiful, it's real from start to finish it's a story that could have been and just like life it's not all tied up with a pretty bow but at the same time there is a sense of completeness about it.
'Here for You' is definitely a must add to the reading list of anyone who wants a story that will leave you sighing with satisfaction for having read it.
So I finished this book at somewhere around 2 a.m. because my brain refused to let me put the book down and go to sleep like a sane normal person would have done and I've now spent the day waltzing around, over under, beside, behind and anywhere else that I could think of but not in front of this review because...well, honestly...I didn't know what to write and I still don't.
I can tell you there are some really awesome reviews over on GR that will do a better job of this than I could ever hope to there's Dani's review, https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
or there's my friend Ele's review, be warned it's her fault I ended up reading this now instead of going back to Whyborne & Griffin as I had planned, bad, bad, Ele ;-)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
I don't really think I can improve on anything that either of these lovely ladies did. So I'm not going to try. I'm just going to say I loved this book and all the people in it. Cole and Ian are beautiful, Cole's housemates are a wealth of story opportunity that I sincerely hope the author plans on exploring.
This story is not any easy one to read, it's not all sunshine and rainbows but it's beautiful, it's real from start to finish it's a story that could have been and just like life it's not all tied up with a pretty bow but at the same time there is a sense of completeness about it.
'Here for You' is definitely a must add to the reading list of anyone who wants a story that will leave you sighing with satisfaction for having read it.
March 21, 2015
4,5 stars
Holy fucking gorgeous, Batman! I loved this one!
The cover intrigued me and on top of this, the premise grabbed my attention. I’m a sucker for hurt/comfort stories and and I was curious if Here For you could keep up with Skylar’s amazing series The Guys.
The story starts out strong and interesting and it pulled me instantly into the complex world of Cole and Ian.
My heart was breaking for Cole. Although we only get the retrospective of what he went through during his childhood, what he had endured is so sad, that it left a knot in my stomach. I felt sick while reading his memories. He has been on his own since he was seventeen, and his roommates, his ‘brothers’ are his family. He’s the one who is determined to keep their ‘family’ together. When tragedy strikes, it hits Cole especially hard.
Ian is lawyer, a workaholic who hasn't dated since his breakup with his last longterm boyfriend. Ever since Ian and Cole met, Ian has felt drawn to Cole, and even though he can tell Cole wants him too, Cole keeps him at arm’s length.
We not only get a chance to fall in love with Cole and Ian but also with the supporting characters, I really adored Cole’s ‘brothers’ Brendan, Tomas, Marc, and River and I liked Sandy and Andrew.
I just love Skylar’s gripping writing style. The story sucked me in from the start and I couldn't stop reading, the conflict of feelings just captured me. Here For You is a sweet, sometimes sad romance and I loved every minute of it. The characters are fresh, real and interesting, the story line sweet and sexy and the plot is romantic, delightful, painful and heartbreaking.
I would love to see more of the others in Cole and Ian's world. Tomas and Marc’s story needs to be told, and especially River needs a chance in finding a new love. And what about Sandy, or Andrew? Luckily a little bird has already told me which couple is going to be the next one. :)
Thanks to Trisha and Kayl for an amazing buddy read over at Leafmarks. :)
March 2, 2015
4.5 Stars
Here For You totally wrung me out. While in some ways, it is an emotionally exhausting book, I just couldn't put it down. It made me cry and it gave me hope and the HEA was more than satisfying. This is a difficult review to write without spoilers, but I will do my level best.
Cole wants a family. His own family never really saw him or even cared if he was there. When he moved to Ocean Vista and found his roommates, he saw them as being his family. He made sure that everyone got together for dinner at least once a week, he would call family meetings if stuff needed to be dealt with, and his goal was for everyone in the household to really feel like they mattered. And they do. They're all close friends and Cole doesn't want anything to change.
Ian is lawyer with his own firm. He's a bit of a workaholic and hasn't dated since his last long term relationship failed. One of Cole's roommates works for him as a paralegal and has had a bit of a crush on Ian. However, Ian's interest lies in Cole. Ever since they met, Ian has felt drawn to Cole, and even though he can tell Cole wants him too, Cole repeatedly shuts him down.
I loved just how vivid even the supporting characters were. I feel like I got to know them and was invested in their happiness. I know that contributed to the emotional effect the tragedy mentioned in the blurb had and it colored the whole story. Throughout the book, even when things are looking up, there is a thread of sadness that is present. But also of hope. And a message that life is short and uncertain - take your happiness where you can, and when you've found someone to love that also loves you, maybe embrace it, rather than run.
And I don't know if there are plans for more books with these characters or not, but I think the supporting characters were written well enough and I found myself invested enough to hope that they will get their HEA's, too.
Highly recommended. And have tissues handy - you'll need them.
Here For You totally wrung me out. While in some ways, it is an emotionally exhausting book, I just couldn't put it down. It made me cry and it gave me hope and the HEA was more than satisfying. This is a difficult review to write without spoilers, but I will do my level best.
Cole wants a family. His own family never really saw him or even cared if he was there. When he moved to Ocean Vista and found his roommates, he saw them as being his family. He made sure that everyone got together for dinner at least once a week, he would call family meetings if stuff needed to be dealt with, and his goal was for everyone in the household to really feel like they mattered. And they do. They're all close friends and Cole doesn't want anything to change.
Ian is lawyer with his own firm. He's a bit of a workaholic and hasn't dated since his last long term relationship failed. One of Cole's roommates works for him as a paralegal and has had a bit of a crush on Ian. However, Ian's interest lies in Cole. Ever since they met, Ian has felt drawn to Cole, and even though he can tell Cole wants him too, Cole repeatedly shuts him down.
I loved just how vivid even the supporting characters were. I feel like I got to know them and was invested in their happiness. I know that contributed to the emotional effect the tragedy mentioned in the blurb had and it colored the whole story. Throughout the book, even when things are looking up, there is a thread of sadness that is present. But also of hope. And a message that life is short and uncertain - take your happiness where you can, and when you've found someone to love that also loves you, maybe embrace it, rather than run.
And I don't know if there are plans for more books with these characters or not, but I think the supporting characters were written well enough and I found myself invested enough to hope that they will get their HEA's, too.
Highly recommended. And have tissues handy - you'll need them.
July 18, 2015
This one was just a wee bit too angsty for me, and the plot device of using a death to bring two characters together just feels low and slimy to me. Especially since the guy who died left behind a distraught lover, and the main focus of said tragedy is Cole's relief that he can now pursue Ian. The whole thing just came off as callous and creepy.
November 17, 2015
2.5 stars
The good thing is ... I finished. That's it.
The not-good things, let me see if I can summarize. Too many characters with insecurities and being immature ... and seemed like EVERYONE was dealing with drama or angst that borders to either too cheesy or too sappy, which didn't appeal to me. Oh, and the supposedly main couple, namely Cole and Ian, they bored me. Instead of my feeling emotionally sympathetic, all I had in my head was "blah blah blah yada yada yada..."
Sorry book, we just didn't have the chemistry for our relationship to work out. And I'm no interested at all with the sequel either *shrugs*.
The good thing is ... I finished. That's it.
The not-good things, let me see if I can summarize. Too many characters with insecurities and being immature ... and seemed like EVERYONE was dealing with drama or angst that borders to either too cheesy or too sappy, which didn't appeal to me. Oh, and the supposedly main couple, namely Cole and Ian, they bored me. Instead of my feeling emotionally sympathetic, all I had in my head was "blah blah blah yada yada yada..."
Sorry book, we just didn't have the chemistry for our relationship to work out. And I'm no interested at all with the sequel either *shrugs*.
July 20, 2015
***story review***
I have to start by saying that is most likely a case of "it's not the book" when it comes to my rating. Most of my friends that have read this gave it a pretty high rating. The writing is good, but this was pretty much ruined for me from the beginning. We are introduced to all of the roommates/friends from the beginning. You already know who the MCs are supposed to be. Because the blurb mentions that the two MC get together because of tragedy, you almost know from the start what is going to happen. I didn't like that. I didn't like that this type of tragedy was used as a plot device to allow the MCs to get together. That just makes me feel sick. Also, it was quite obvious, that this was the set up of a series. We have been introdtuced to the possible MCs for several new books. One of the new MC had to experience the tragedy in this book to make room for a love interest later on. That's just wrong. Yes. I know that tragedy happens in real life. Yes. I know that things like this happen, but it wasn't a requirement for this story. They could have all gotten together in a gazillion other ways.
The pacing on this was SOOOOOOO SLOOOOOOWWWW. By 50%, I was wondering why we were still going. We already had the introductory couple set up. We had been introduced to most of the main players of the new series. What else was there? Why did we have to have the big misunderstanding (really blown way out of proportion to what actually happened)? I hate those as a plot device. It's just so unnecessary to me.
***narration review***
Paul Morey is one of my favorite narrators. Sadly, even he can't make me enjoy every book (though he has improved on several that I've read).
Paul Morey does a very good job with this, but I had a problem with the voice for a secondary character named Tom/Thom (unsure of the spelling since I only did the audio). Tom was described as having a Latin heritage, but Paul Morey does NOT do a very good foreign accent. They all sound similar no matter where the person is supposed to be from. That would throw me whenever Tom was supposed to talk.
I have to start by saying that is most likely a case of "it's not the book" when it comes to my rating. Most of my friends that have read this gave it a pretty high rating. The writing is good, but this was pretty much ruined for me from the beginning. We are introduced to all of the roommates/friends from the beginning. You already know who the MCs are supposed to be. Because the blurb mentions that the two MC get together because of tragedy, you almost know from the start what is going to happen. I didn't like that. I didn't like that this type of tragedy was used as a plot device to allow the MCs to get together. That just makes me feel sick. Also, it was quite obvious, that this was the set up of a series. We have been introdtuced to the possible MCs for several new books. One of the new MC had to experience the tragedy in this book to make room for a love interest later on. That's just wrong. Yes. I know that tragedy happens in real life. Yes. I know that things like this happen, but it wasn't a requirement for this story. They could have all gotten together in a gazillion other ways.
The pacing on this was SOOOOOOO SLOOOOOOWWWW. By 50%, I was wondering why we were still going. We already had the introductory couple set up. We had been introduced to most of the main players of the new series. What else was there? Why did we have to have the big misunderstanding (really blown way out of proportion to what actually happened)? I hate those as a plot device. It's just so unnecessary to me.
***narration review***
Paul Morey is one of my favorite narrators. Sadly, even he can't make me enjoy every book (though he has improved on several that I've read).
Paul Morey does a very good job with this, but I had a problem with the voice for a secondary character named Tom/Thom (unsure of the spelling since I only did the audio). Tom was described as having a Latin heritage, but Paul Morey does NOT do a very good foreign accent. They all sound similar no matter where the person is supposed to be from. That would throw me whenever Tom was supposed to talk.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 24, 2015
3 Crossroad stars
My honest opinion this book could have been better. I either expected to much or my previous reads was just better, or it just did't work for me.
First the "thing" that happened to Brendan started the book out wrong. The total feeling around this book just felt wrong. It gave me the impression it's ok to build your happiness on someones loss... I know crazy... (I know lives go on but still) That's me!!!
Second to give so much detail about all the room mates "Brothers" and not have a squeal book makes me think it was a waist of paper, words and time. (I want to know all about them all!!!!) I know I sound like a real bitch but that's just my opinion.
Something was missing in this book. I liked Ian and Cole but....
Ok I will shut my trap, because honesty I don't know how to explain it.
My honest opinion this book could have been better. I either expected to much or my previous reads was just better, or it just did't work for me.
First the "thing" that happened to Brendan started the book out wrong. The total feeling around this book just felt wrong. It gave me the impression it's ok to build your happiness on someones loss... I know crazy... (I know lives go on but still) That's me!!!
Second to give so much detail about all the room mates "Brothers" and not have a squeal book makes me think it was a waist of paper, words and time. (I want to know all about them all!!!!) I know I sound like a real bitch but that's just my opinion.
Something was missing in this book. I liked Ian and Cole but....
Ok I will shut my trap, because honesty I don't know how to explain it.
March 5, 2015
I just finished this story and still wrapped up in the gooey emotions it gave me. Forgive me if I just go with scattered feelings on this review, it’s all I can do right now.
I was unsure about this from the blurb, it promises that Ian and Cole keep one another at arm’s length until… “a sudden and devastating tragedy occurs, it shatters Cole's world and throws Cole and Ian together in unexpected ways. In an instant, everything between them changes forever.” I started reading and a bit of foreshadowing had me guessing at what the tragedy would be and I am a bit mad that I was right. You wanna know what else I was mad at? My damn emotions that I swore wouldn’t get the best of me as I read this. Who am I kidding, this is an emotional book and I am an emotional reader. Though the tears came at times I least expected, when they did they came with punch and I had to pause to collect myself.
Having said all of that, let me tell you that the chemistry with Ian and Cole is off the charts. From the beginning you know that these two want one another and from Cole’s POV that we get first, you know he holds himself away from Ian and you soon learn why. While I believe in the why, I had a similar one with girlfriends, I just wanted him to not be so damn moral, throw his integrity out the window and jump into Ian’s arms. I am half serious with that but half not. What I love about Cole ARE his morals, his integrity and his fierce protectiveness over his friends and housemates.
The friends and housemates are a story all of their own; Brendan, River, Marc, Tomas and Cole have all arrived in this small beach town of Ocean Vista and though their shared rent makes them live together, these boys are fiercely devoted. So devoted that there are times where they sacrifice much of themselves to make someone else happy.
Without going into spoilers; Cole likes Ian but won’t admit so he makes him out to be an arrogant suit in his head. Ian wants Cole and though Cole keeps running away, Ian is determined to make Cole admit the attraction. Then the tragedy happens, I thought the story would take a certain turn and thank goodness the author had other ideas and did not make this cheap. It could have gone that way but the author had this talent to weave emotions in when you are least expecting them and drag you into these men’s lives. You feel them, you understand them and you want for them to be happy. So much you want them for them to be happy and that’s what I love about reading romance. The want of the couple to get everything they deserve. Okay, enough of me waxing the book or whatever you call it. I just love this story and it’s really hard for me to talk about as I have dealt with what they boys have to deal with, the type of tragedy.
Ian… I loved being in his POV, for me it was needed and it was pure joy being in that man’s brain. Not only is he successful on his own terms, the man does not back down when he wants something. That is not to say he is pushy and arrogant, he just knows what he wants and goes for it. That kind of confidence is attractive. His thoughts on Cole; wanting him as a friend, lover and more melted me into a puddle. He is so strong and yet the moments of vulnerability are what shine through with the man. Plus, I really want to see him shoot hoops in is front yard… just saying.
What I can tell you is that I adored Ian and Cole. I would say the best thing about them was the way the acted, as adults. Sure, at times it wasn’t what I wanted, but you want to know a secret? These two talked. They talked when things got rough and they didn’t back down. A fight wasn’t the end all be all of existence, even though they felt like it was at the moment and these two talked. I loved that Ian would call Cole out on his behavior and though he is older, it never felt as if it were a parental deal. Ian is a lawyer, he is used to using his words and he wanted that back equally from Cole.
But these two! Ugh. They are really good together and when they let themselves BE together it’s amazing. I loved the bits of jealousy they admitted to, the date, the seagulls on the beach, the *ahem* moment in the storeroom and the tattoo parlor… Ian and Cole took me a on a wonderful, emotional and oh so romantic ride and I loved every word of it.
I was unsure about this from the blurb, it promises that Ian and Cole keep one another at arm’s length until… “a sudden and devastating tragedy occurs, it shatters Cole's world and throws Cole and Ian together in unexpected ways. In an instant, everything between them changes forever.” I started reading and a bit of foreshadowing had me guessing at what the tragedy would be and I am a bit mad that I was right. You wanna know what else I was mad at? My damn emotions that I swore wouldn’t get the best of me as I read this. Who am I kidding, this is an emotional book and I am an emotional reader. Though the tears came at times I least expected, when they did they came with punch and I had to pause to collect myself.
Having said all of that, let me tell you that the chemistry with Ian and Cole is off the charts. From the beginning you know that these two want one another and from Cole’s POV that we get first, you know he holds himself away from Ian and you soon learn why. While I believe in the why, I had a similar one with girlfriends, I just wanted him to not be so damn moral, throw his integrity out the window and jump into Ian’s arms. I am half serious with that but half not. What I love about Cole ARE his morals, his integrity and his fierce protectiveness over his friends and housemates.
The friends and housemates are a story all of their own; Brendan, River, Marc, Tomas and Cole have all arrived in this small beach town of Ocean Vista and though their shared rent makes them live together, these boys are fiercely devoted. So devoted that there are times where they sacrifice much of themselves to make someone else happy.
Brothers not by blood but by their own choosing, they stuck together through good and bad, like migrating birds in a vee formation who’d finally made it home.
Without going into spoilers; Cole likes Ian but won’t admit so he makes him out to be an arrogant suit in his head. Ian wants Cole and though Cole keeps running away, Ian is determined to make Cole admit the attraction. Then the tragedy happens, I thought the story would take a certain turn and thank goodness the author had other ideas and did not make this cheap. It could have gone that way but the author had this talent to weave emotions in when you are least expecting them and drag you into these men’s lives. You feel them, you understand them and you want for them to be happy. So much you want them for them to be happy and that’s what I love about reading romance. The want of the couple to get everything they deserve. Okay, enough of me waxing the book or whatever you call it. I just love this story and it’s really hard for me to talk about as I have dealt with what they boys have to deal with, the type of tragedy.
Ian… I loved being in his POV, for me it was needed and it was pure joy being in that man’s brain. Not only is he successful on his own terms, the man does not back down when he wants something. That is not to say he is pushy and arrogant, he just knows what he wants and goes for it. That kind of confidence is attractive. His thoughts on Cole; wanting him as a friend, lover and more melted me into a puddle. He is so strong and yet the moments of vulnerability are what shine through with the man. Plus, I really want to see him shoot hoops in is front yard… just saying.
What I can tell you is that I adored Ian and Cole. I would say the best thing about them was the way the acted, as adults. Sure, at times it wasn’t what I wanted, but you want to know a secret? These two talked. They talked when things got rough and they didn’t back down. A fight wasn’t the end all be all of existence, even though they felt like it was at the moment and these two talked. I loved that Ian would call Cole out on his behavior and though he is older, it never felt as if it were a parental deal. Ian is a lawyer, he is used to using his words and he wanted that back equally from Cole.
Ian had never understood the expression “losing yourself in someone” until this moment.
But these two! Ugh. They are really good together and when they let themselves BE together it’s amazing. I loved the bits of jealousy they admitted to, the date, the seagulls on the beach, the *ahem* moment in the storeroom and the tattoo parlor… Ian and Cole took me a on a wonderful, emotional and oh so romantic ride and I loved every word of it.
“You—you’re going?”
Ian’s smile was gorgeous and bright. “Yes. I just wanted to tell you good-bye properly.”
Cole laughed. “Feel free to say good-bye to me every night.”
Ian’s smile deepened. “I’d rather keep saying hello.”
3.5 stars
January 20, 2016
Wow. Just wow. This book blew me away. I love Skylar Cates books. I've loved them since I read Exposed a couple of years ago and fell in love with the characters and the story. I've read everything she's written since then and loved them all. But this, this book has to be my new favorite.
Cole wants Ian and Ian wants Cole but it's complicated because Cole knows his best friend Brendan is in love with Ian, so that means they can never do anything. But that doesn't stop the attraction and it doesn't help when Ian always comes up in conversation. Cole ignores Ian and does his best to avoid temptation. But Ian is a hard man to ignore.
Ian couldn't recall anybody else ever devouring him with his eyes the way Cole did, right before he would look away.
And then something horrible happens. Something that's eluded to in the blurb. And that changes the way things are. It was emotional and the grief was raw and real and I connected with the book and the characters even more at that point. I'll admit, I felt the same way Cole did. I didn't think it was possible, didn't want it to happen, but knew I couldn't change it. I was a little surprised I felt so strongly about it since it happened early in the book. But that shows the power this book has.
Things between Cole and Ian don't change instantly. It takes time and the process is slow and beautiful and I fell in love with these guys even more. They are an amazing, amazing couple and I'm so glad I got to read their story.
This also happens to be the first book in a series. Some of the other characters, the roommates, are going to get their stories told. I'm excited for all of them, but I'll admit, I cannot wait for Marc and Tomas because those two definitely have a story to tell and I want to see them be happy together. Oh God, I want to see that so bad.
"I remember my first Crush," Tomas said.
His eyes locked on Marc's. Cole waited to see if either of them would say more, but as usual, Marc and Tomas remained quiet on all the history between them.
Such an amazing book and I would definitely recommend it!
Love was the best home of all.
Merged review:
Fell in love with these guys all over again. <3
Cole wants Ian and Ian wants Cole but it's complicated because Cole knows his best friend Brendan is in love with Ian, so that means they can never do anything. But that doesn't stop the attraction and it doesn't help when Ian always comes up in conversation. Cole ignores Ian and does his best to avoid temptation. But Ian is a hard man to ignore.
Ian couldn't recall anybody else ever devouring him with his eyes the way Cole did, right before he would look away.
And then something horrible happens. Something that's eluded to in the blurb. And that changes the way things are. It was emotional and the grief was raw and real and I connected with the book and the characters even more at that point. I'll admit, I felt the same way Cole did. I didn't think it was possible, didn't want it to happen, but knew I couldn't change it. I was a little surprised I felt so strongly about it since it happened early in the book. But that shows the power this book has.
Things between Cole and Ian don't change instantly. It takes time and the process is slow and beautiful and I fell in love with these guys even more. They are an amazing, amazing couple and I'm so glad I got to read their story.
This also happens to be the first book in a series. Some of the other characters, the roommates, are going to get their stories told. I'm excited for all of them, but I'll admit, I cannot wait for Marc and Tomas because those two definitely have a story to tell and I want to see them be happy together. Oh God, I want to see that so bad.
"I remember my first Crush," Tomas said.
His eyes locked on Marc's. Cole waited to see if either of them would say more, but as usual, Marc and Tomas remained quiet on all the history between them.
Such an amazing book and I would definitely recommend it!
Love was the best home of all.
Merged review:
Fell in love with these guys all over again. <3
April 9, 2021
I received an ARC from GRR and this is my honest review.
I liked alot of aspects in this book so let's start with those.
- Ian was a pillar of strength for Cole. he was there for him and refused to back out even when Cole pushed him away
- Cole was vulnerable and loyal to a fault. what happens in the beginning of the book shook him to his core and it left I'm struggling. angry and depressed until Ian saved him.
- I loved the found family aspect here. these guys were more than brothers, living under one roof and are so different but it all works.
- Steamy sex scenes which were sensual as well.
- The Romance was sweet and paced well.
niggles:
The conversation was a bit of a paradox here. sometimes they talked like normal guys but sometimes the way they talked became stilted and unrealistic. it was jarring at times.
the story dragged a bit in the middle with some unnecessary drama.
I didn't like the fact that
I liked alot of aspects in this book so let's start with those.
- Ian was a pillar of strength for Cole. he was there for him and refused to back out even when Cole pushed him away
- Cole was vulnerable and loyal to a fault. what happens in the beginning of the book shook him to his core and it left I'm struggling. angry and depressed until Ian saved him.
- I loved the found family aspect here. these guys were more than brothers, living under one roof and are so different but it all works.
- Steamy sex scenes which were sensual as well.
- The Romance was sweet and paced well.
niggles:
The conversation was a bit of a paradox here. sometimes they talked like normal guys but sometimes the way they talked became stilted and unrealistic. it was jarring at times.
the story dragged a bit in the middle with some unnecessary drama.
I didn't like the fact that
February 28, 2015
4.5 stars, but rounded more to 4 than 5. I thoroughly enjoyed this story. I spent the first half loving them because of the tragedy (that isn't a spoiler, it's in the blurb), and the second half watching Ian and Cole get their shit together. This FELT real - and I love it when authors make their fiction realistic! My only beef is over the overdramatic moment that took the place of "the big misunderstanding." It doesn't appear to be a series at this point, but the secondary characters are set up in a way that I'd be surprised if they didn't get their own stories.
April 3, 2015
I really struggled with this one. I just didn't feel connected to Ian or Cole or their story. I'm clearly in the minority because others have raved about this book. I found myself getting distracted easily and skimming over the sex scenes, which is *never* a good sign!
August 2, 2016
I cried like a baby, but I loved it. It was real, emotional, but not overdone. Highly recommended.
March 12, 2015
4 STARS
So this story was really good. It was really heartfelt and the dynamics of the story, characters, and relationships were believable and lovely.
From the start, I could feel the sexual tension and chemistry from Ian and Cole. It was undeniable. But I understood why Cole wouldn't accept Ian's advances. His reasons were very understandable.
I loved the family Cole had and their house. It felt real. It was like the misfits were thrown together and Cole held them together like a glue to create their unconventional yet amazing family. Brendan, Marc, Tomas, and River were great characters in the story and added more realistic things in the events in the story.
There were some really boring parts in the beginning because of over detailed things. I mean I love details but the parts I found boring were kind of repetitive. But that changed after the big event in the book.
I really hated everything about what happened but in a good way because it made me want to read the book. I could feel all of their grief.
Ian was Cole's anchor. And I was glad Ian didn't give up on Cole. And Cole realizing he deserved the happiness he was keeping himself from.
About the River revelation it felt so sad and the emotions were all over the place. I just wanted to hug River and Cole.
After that, it was all about Ian and Cole's relationship. Their banter was amazing. The sex was amazing. BUTT SPANKING. ♥
But yeah, I still didn't think lying by omission no matter what the reason was was not a good thing for me. Already discussed with my GR friends.
The ending was really nice and it fitted the mood of the story. It was believable and it was kind of HFN but HEA at the same time too.
Overall, this was an amazing read.
So this story was really good. It was really heartfelt and the dynamics of the story, characters, and relationships were believable and lovely.
From the start, I could feel the sexual tension and chemistry from Ian and Cole. It was undeniable. But I understood why Cole wouldn't accept Ian's advances. His reasons were very understandable.
I loved the family Cole had and their house. It felt real. It was like the misfits were thrown together and Cole held them together like a glue to create their unconventional yet amazing family. Brendan, Marc, Tomas, and River were great characters in the story and added more realistic things in the events in the story.
"Brothers not by blood but by their own choosing, they stuck together through good and bad, like migrating birds in a vee formation who'd finally made it home."
There were some really boring parts in the beginning because of over detailed things. I mean I love details but the parts I found boring were kind of repetitive. But that changed after the big event in the book.
I really hated everything about what happened but in a good way because it made me want to read the book. I could feel all of their grief.
Ian was Cole's anchor. And I was glad Ian didn't give up on Cole. And Cole realizing he deserved the happiness he was keeping himself from.
About the River revelation it felt so sad and the emotions were all over the place. I just wanted to hug River and Cole.
After that, it was all about Ian and Cole's relationship. Their banter was amazing. The sex was amazing. BUTT SPANKING. ♥
But yeah, I still didn't think lying by omission no matter what the reason was was not a good thing for me. Already discussed with my GR friends.
The ending was really nice and it fitted the mood of the story. It was believable and it was kind of HFN but HEA at the same time too.
Overall, this was an amazing read.
January 15, 2017
3.25 stars rounded down to 3.
This novel was first published early in 2015, which surprised me as the plot and character interaction felt more dated than that, felt more early to mid naughties.
It was ...sweet, cute even.
Cole, protagonist 1, is a barman with a healthy, sexual appetite, sharing a house with four "colourful" room mates. Cole is attracted to one of the room mates' boss, a lawyer and after a tragic play of events Cole and the Lawyer-boss Ian (Protagonist 2) are thrown together and become an item.
Forced angst resulting from misunderstandings, blah!
The room-mates are not "colourful", we don't hear enough from them to be colourful, the angst felt a little too contrived and I didn't/couldn't believe the set up......Cole was a teenage girl.....there I said it.....Cole does not behave like a normal man, gay or otherwise.....he's too....touchy/feely/emotional girly, and I personally would have avoided him like the plague. He's a female character turned into a gay-male character for the purpose of selling an m/m story.
Sorry, I couldn't really recommend this novel. M/M has progressed so much in recent years and this just felt a little too dated and a little too girly.
This novel was first published early in 2015, which surprised me as the plot and character interaction felt more dated than that, felt more early to mid naughties.
It was ...sweet, cute even.
Cole, protagonist 1, is a barman with a healthy, sexual appetite, sharing a house with four "colourful" room mates. Cole is attracted to one of the room mates' boss, a lawyer and after a tragic play of events Cole and the Lawyer-boss Ian (Protagonist 2) are thrown together and become an item.
Forced angst resulting from misunderstandings, blah!
The room-mates are not "colourful", we don't hear enough from them to be colourful, the angst felt a little too contrived and I didn't/couldn't believe the set up......Cole was a teenage girl.....there I said it.....Cole does not behave like a normal man, gay or otherwise.....he's too....touchy/feely/emotional girly, and I personally would have avoided him like the plague. He's a female character turned into a gay-male character for the purpose of selling an m/m story.
Sorry, I couldn't really recommend this novel. M/M has progressed so much in recent years and this just felt a little too dated and a little too girly.
March 2, 2015
Oh, my heart. Beautifully done, Skylar. Always a fan but I think this is your best yet.
August 20, 2015
Okay, this was not for me. Don't get me wrong, it wasn't bad; it was strongly... okay.
I've read books of this author before and I liked them, even though the writing didn't exactly click with me then either. But at least I liked the general story and the characters then. Here... not so much.
I know, most people disagree with me here, so it could be just me. But Ian and Cole, there was just nothing interesting about them for me, nothing appealing. Honestly, I didn't care about them all that much. I felt profoundly glad when the book was over, skipped over all the sex scenes to make that happen sooner actually, in the end.
I'll stop here in this series. Too bad, really!
I've read books of this author before and I liked them, even though the writing didn't exactly click with me then either. But at least I liked the general story and the characters then. Here... not so much.
I know, most people disagree with me here, so it could be just me. But Ian and Cole, there was just nothing interesting about them for me, nothing appealing. Honestly, I didn't care about them all that much. I felt profoundly glad when the book was over, skipped over all the sex scenes to make that happen sooner actually, in the end.
I'll stop here in this series. Too bad, really!
April 2, 2016
I should add a « it’s not you, it’s me » shelf where to store this book because, despite the good reviews, I couldn’t get into the story nor connect with the characters, even though the premise seemed solid for me.
Don’t get me wrong, I like the need for Cole to fight for his “made-up family”, the friendship among all the characters, the steam,…Still, I felt distracted and a bit bothered that there wasn’t more development around the background of Cole, his life and his friends.
May be it was not the right moment for me.
This said, I will still keep going on with the series because I liked this author and the general story of this bunch of friends.
Don’t get me wrong, I like the need for Cole to fight for his “made-up family”, the friendship among all the characters, the steam,…Still, I felt distracted and a bit bothered that there wasn’t more development around the background of Cole, his life and his friends.
May be it was not the right moment for me.
This said, I will still keep going on with the series because I liked this author and the general story of this bunch of friends.
February 6, 2016
I enjoyed this very much. The gamut of emotions were realistically portrayed and often spot on. Having been there myself I can relate. It could have lost itself in melodrama but that didn't happen. A beautiful story of friendship, love and hope. The writing improved I thought in the second half. Somewhat abrupt and stilted early on. 4.5 stars. Recommended.
January 13, 2016
So my first time through this book, I couldn't get into it. I however went back and listened to the story when it came out on Audiobook.. and I loved it! This just goes to show you that you can't always judge a book by your first reaction to it.. This is a wonderful story and an excellent audiobook!!
April 14, 2015
This had some good touching, heartbreaking moments, and it had "eye roll" moments, 3 stars
November 29, 2015
It was okay. Interesting set up for series but the book seemed slow in parts and I wasn't thrilled with the main couple in this book.
January 11, 2016
Cole Gannon + Ian Stark
seti in Florida
REVIEW @Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words
I’m an emotional person, I know, but this book really wrecked my heart. I cried almost through all of it. I’ll try to not talk much about the plot cause I don’t want to give away any little detail that could spoil your reading. I have read other books by Skylar M. Cates and I can say I have always loved them. I like her writing style, it’s easy to read even when the subject isn’t easy at all, but to me Here For You was something else for different reasons.
As I already said it’s really emotional, not just for the tragedy that occur in it, but in the background created for some of the characters or in the way Cole is working hard to make a family of his own, where his blood family was a failure. Reading about this strong need he has and seeing him insecure and scared of losing the most important people in his life when everything was crushing down, was what left had me sobbing and gasping for breath. I love Cole, he’s caring and so strong, but the change (he and his friends have to face) is so irreversible it’s not easy not let go. Its not just the fear of failure but hoping that everyone will help him to continue and try to put together all the broken pieces his family has became.
I found the first thirty pages (more or less) really slow, because the author focused her writing on the secondary characters, introducing them very well. We see nothing about the MCs together. In fact this is a choral book, obviously required in a story like this. I was able to know a lot about Cole and Ian’s pasts, I got to meet the second characters and feel how they hurt, each one in a different way. I fell for them as I fell for the sweet Cole and the protective and too perfect Ian.
Most of all, Here For You is Cole and Ian’s story, they are hot together and perfect for each other. Cole is taking care of himself since he was a little boy but when he meet Ian and once he stop running away from him, Cole discovers Ian can be his anchor, the one who can take care of him.
From the beginning I had the strong feeling this was going to be a part of a new series, there are all the premises of a great series, I already can see one couple having its beautiful and troubled story (I hope!).
This is the kind of book I like to read. It has already a place in my best of 2015. Highly highly recommended!!
Cover art by AngstyG. This artist is slowly becoming one of my favorite. I love this cover, has something magical and sweet.
seti in Florida
REVIEW @Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words
I’m an emotional person, I know, but this book really wrecked my heart. I cried almost through all of it. I’ll try to not talk much about the plot cause I don’t want to give away any little detail that could spoil your reading. I have read other books by Skylar M. Cates and I can say I have always loved them. I like her writing style, it’s easy to read even when the subject isn’t easy at all, but to me Here For You was something else for different reasons.
As I already said it’s really emotional, not just for the tragedy that occur in it, but in the background created for some of the characters or in the way Cole is working hard to make a family of his own, where his blood family was a failure. Reading about this strong need he has and seeing him insecure and scared of losing the most important people in his life when everything was crushing down, was what left had me sobbing and gasping for breath. I love Cole, he’s caring and so strong, but the change (he and his friends have to face) is so irreversible it’s not easy not let go. Its not just the fear of failure but hoping that everyone will help him to continue and try to put together all the broken pieces his family has became.
I found the first thirty pages (more or less) really slow, because the author focused her writing on the secondary characters, introducing them very well. We see nothing about the MCs together. In fact this is a choral book, obviously required in a story like this. I was able to know a lot about Cole and Ian’s pasts, I got to meet the second characters and feel how they hurt, each one in a different way. I fell for them as I fell for the sweet Cole and the protective and too perfect Ian.
Most of all, Here For You is Cole and Ian’s story, they are hot together and perfect for each other. Cole is taking care of himself since he was a little boy but when he meet Ian and once he stop running away from him, Cole discovers Ian can be his anchor, the one who can take care of him.
From the beginning I had the strong feeling this was going to be a part of a new series, there are all the premises of a great series, I already can see one couple having its beautiful and troubled story (I hope!).
This is the kind of book I like to read. It has already a place in my best of 2015. Highly highly recommended!!
Cover art by AngstyG. This artist is slowly becoming one of my favorite. I love this cover, has something magical and sweet.
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