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Groomzilla
When drama threatens to ruin a romance on a reality show, only a true friend can save a groomzilla’s wedding.
Daniel Green, an event planner with a neat, quiet, orderly life, reluctantly agrees to plan the wedding of his childhood friend Ander, an outrageous fashion designer soon to marry a wealthy entertainment lawyer named Rafe. To complicate matters, the happy couple have agreed to have their wedding made into a reality show—something that practical Daniel isn’t sold on.
Daniel is neither a romantic nor a wedding planner, but he’s the only person in the world who can manage Ander. Distracting him from his mission is Owen Grainger, a too-handsome-to-be-true producer whose quiet charm pulls Daniel into his orbit.
When the stress of the show triggers bad behavior from Ander, co-producer Victor Pierce decides it's the key to a ratings bonanza, and he begins to undermine Ander and Rafe’s relationship to create more drama. Daniel is determined to protect his friend and his own reputation, but when he finds himself falling hard for Owen, there’s much more at stake than ratings.
Daniel Green, an event planner with a neat, quiet, orderly life, reluctantly agrees to plan the wedding of his childhood friend Ander, an outrageous fashion designer soon to marry a wealthy entertainment lawyer named Rafe. To complicate matters, the happy couple have agreed to have their wedding made into a reality show—something that practical Daniel isn’t sold on.
Daniel is neither a romantic nor a wedding planner, but he’s the only person in the world who can manage Ander. Distracting him from his mission is Owen Grainger, a too-handsome-to-be-true producer whose quiet charm pulls Daniel into his orbit.
When the stress of the show triggers bad behavior from Ander, co-producer Victor Pierce decides it's the key to a ratings bonanza, and he begins to undermine Ander and Rafe’s relationship to create more drama. Daniel is determined to protect his friend and his own reputation, but when he finds himself falling hard for Owen, there’s much more at stake than ratings.
160 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 10, 2015
6 people are currently reading
302 people want to read
About the author
Tere Michaels
40 books1,023 followersTere Michaels unofficially began her writing career at the age of four when she learned that people got paid to write stories. It seemed the most perfect and logical job in the world and after that, her path was never in question. (The romance writer part was written in the stars—she was born on Valentine’s Day.)
It took thirty-six years of “research” and “life experience” and well… life… before her first book was published but there are no regrets (she doesn’t believe in them). Along the way, she had some interesting jobs in television, animation, arts education, PR, and a national magazine—but she never stopped believing she would eventually earn her living writing stories about love.
Her home base is a small town in New Jersey, very near NYC, a city she dearly loves. She shares her life with her husband, her son—who is also her personal trainer—and an exceedingly spoiled cat. Her spare time is spent watching way too much sports programming, going to the movies and for long walks/runs in the park, reading, and doing yoga.
Nothing makes her happier than knowing she made a reader laugh or smile or cry. It’s the purpose of sharing her work with people. She loves hearing from fans and fellow writers and is always available for speaking engagements, visits, and workshops. Send her a message through her contact page or connect with her on Instagram (@TereMichaels) and Facebook.
She teaches regularly at SavvyAuthors, as well as running a private consulting and developmental editing business.
It took thirty-six years of “research” and “life experience” and well… life… before her first book was published but there are no regrets (she doesn’t believe in them). Along the way, she had some interesting jobs in television, animation, arts education, PR, and a national magazine—but she never stopped believing she would eventually earn her living writing stories about love.
Her home base is a small town in New Jersey, very near NYC, a city she dearly loves. She shares her life with her husband, her son—who is also her personal trainer—and an exceedingly spoiled cat. Her spare time is spent watching way too much sports programming, going to the movies and for long walks/runs in the park, reading, and doing yoga.
Nothing makes her happier than knowing she made a reader laugh or smile or cry. It’s the purpose of sharing her work with people. She loves hearing from fans and fellow writers and is always available for speaking engagements, visits, and workshops. Send her a message through her contact page or connect with her on Instagram (@TereMichaels) and Facebook.
She teaches regularly at SavvyAuthors, as well as running a private consulting and developmental editing business.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
September 1, 2015
So, um... yeah.
Well, that's pretty much all I've got to say. There's nothing that really stands out. I liked it so it gets 3 stars. I liked the writing. The banter was good. There were some humorous parts. So, yeah. There you have it.
OK, so maybe I've more to say. This book frustrated me to no end. Not because of any Big Misunderstanding or stupid plot device. Not because of any UST or angst either. No, this book frustrated me because it is a book of 'almosts'. It almost caused me to laugh out loud. It almost had me tearing up. It almost made me think. Almost, but not quite.
Everything was just so... so... I dunno, glossed over or something. This book had the potential to be so much greater than it was. There were many, many different paths it could have taken that would have elevated this from simple fluff candy to a thought provoking book with depth. It all felt so rushed. It felt to me as though the author may have run out of time and just pieced together what she had so she could get it to her editor by the deadline. Maybe I'm reading more into this than I should. Maybe I'm just projecting my wishes onto a book that was never meant to be more than it is. But, well, I dunno. Gah! This is so hard to put into words. Basically, I wanted this to be more and it wasn't.
So, I'm kinda disappointed but I still liked it.
August 16, 2015
3.5 stars
This was a delightful book. The characters were witty and charming and quirky and I laughed-out-loud several times at their crazy antics. If I had to categorize this book, I'd say it is a comedy featuring gay characters. I just wouldn't go as far as calling it a romantic comedy. The two characters involved in the romance, Daniel and Owen, didn't spark for me. They seemed too casual and only about the sex right until the end. They were the key to label this a romance/comedy, but Daniel and Owen just didn't deliver.
I can highly recommend this for those looking for fun, playful, witty banter in a comedy (Ander is a riot!), but if you are looking for a romance, I'd look elsewhere.
This was a delightful book. The characters were witty and charming and quirky and I laughed-out-loud several times at their crazy antics. If I had to categorize this book, I'd say it is a comedy featuring gay characters. I just wouldn't go as far as calling it a romantic comedy. The two characters involved in the romance, Daniel and Owen, didn't spark for me. They seemed too casual and only about the sex right until the end. They were the key to label this a romance/comedy, but Daniel and Owen just didn't deliver.
I can highly recommend this for those looking for fun, playful, witty banter in a comedy (Ander is a riot!), but if you are looking for a romance, I'd look elsewhere.
October 11, 2016
This was one of those books where you just don't have much to say about it when you are finished. Cute? Check! Fun? Check! Good narrator? Check! But for me, it wasn't a stand-out.
I'm glad the plot wasn't dramatic like I feared. From the title I was afraid of a drama-llama story that would give me a headache. However, it was much... simpler than I had anticipated. Very simple, actually. Sure, there was some drama between Owen and Victor, but mostly it was boy-meets-boy and pretty smooth sailing.
I wish this book had given me a little more of an emotional punch, more humor, more something to make it special. It was a sweet story, but a little forgettable. There wasn't anything wrong with it, and I liked it, but it wasn't a WOW.
The narration was also good, but I wasn't quite as crazy about the voice for Owen. It was decent, but I've liked others more from Nick J. Russo.
Overall, I was pleased with this story. While it won't make my favorites lists, it was a worthwhile listen.
*Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
October 23, 2016
Nicely narrated by Nick J. Russo (though if I'm honest I would have preferred a different voice for Owen), with a nice amount of humor, this was just a fun listen.
Told entirely from Daniel's POV, this solid buddy comedy comes with sweet side of romance, and I'm happy with how it turned out. But a slight warning: I was well prepared for the steam level in this to be low, and for the romance to not be a spotlight plot point. I cannot imagine how disappointed I would have been if I hadn't had forewarning.
I absolutely loved Ander and Daniel's, and also Daniel and Owen's interactions. Though I don't watch "reality" TV, I can understand the allure. But I'm a real sucker for humor, and I felt like it was done really well here. The narration keeps it moving spectacularly well, and Nick J. Russo brings out the humor in spades.
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This is a super funny, playful, and filled with witty banter comedy with a side story romance, which is totally worth 5 hours of your day!
Audio copy of Groomzilla provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
July 26, 2016
This book was on my kindle for quite some time now. Another one of those I forgot to put on a GR shelf. Then I chose it for my July challenge and now I'll give it a try. Keep your fingers crossed! I don't need another DNF.
Finished, but nothing to say about it. It's one of my 3 star reads.
Finished, but nothing to say about it. It's one of my 3 star reads.
August 17, 2015
3.5 stars round down.
I was intrigue by this book because of the blurb. Only to find out that the book didn't quite deliver what was said in the blurb.
First, I liked how Ms. Michales add more depths to her characters than... perhaps average. Ander didn't agreed to do the show for simply the attention..
Owen had his own dicey background. But then... one of his issue seems to be downplayed or... treated with kid gloves? It felt a bit odd with how Daniel and Owen were dealing or not dealing with the issue.
From the blurb, I was expecting to see more of the planning process. I was expected to see how Ander and Daniel planned the weddings. Not to mention to actually see how Victor sabotage the process to rattle Ander. Instead, the planning process was skipped after a few scenes. The sabotage were just one scene on page and we didn't even get to know what Victor actually did to Ander other than being the devil on Ander's shoulder and be the negative voice.
Which lead to how, I as the reader, fill in the blanks of what and how things went south enough to stress Ander to the breaking point. Granted, it wasn't difficult to imagine but with this book's name being 'Groomzilla' and the blurb highlighting it, I felt shortchanged for not getting to read about things lead up to that point. We only gets to read from the absolute near break point onward.
I liked most of the book but the pacing felt slightly uneven. The book felt... off for some reason... I am not sure how to explain it...
The book is enjoyable here and there... It had a decent start but became uneven after 30-40%.
It wasn't bad but not as gripping as I thought it would be.
I was intrigue by this book because of the blurb. Only to find out that the book didn't quite deliver what was said in the blurb.
First, I liked how Ms. Michales add more depths to her characters than... perhaps average. Ander didn't agreed to do the show for simply the attention..
Owen had his own dicey background. But then... one of his issue seems to be downplayed or... treated with kid gloves? It felt a bit odd with how Daniel and Owen were dealing or not dealing with the issue.
From the blurb, I was expecting to see more of the planning process. I was expected to see how Ander and Daniel planned the weddings. Not to mention to actually see how Victor sabotage the process to rattle Ander. Instead, the planning process was skipped after a few scenes. The sabotage were just one scene on page and we didn't even get to know what Victor actually did to Ander other than being the devil on Ander's shoulder and be the negative voice.
Which lead to how, I as the reader, fill in the blanks of what and how things went south enough to stress Ander to the breaking point. Granted, it wasn't difficult to imagine but with this book's name being 'Groomzilla' and the blurb highlighting it, I felt shortchanged for not getting to read about things lead up to that point. We only gets to read from the absolute near break point onward.
I liked most of the book but the pacing felt slightly uneven. The book felt... off for some reason... I am not sure how to explain it...
The book is enjoyable here and there... It had a decent start but became uneven after 30-40%.
It wasn't bad but not as gripping as I thought it would be.
September 12, 2015
I’ve been a fan of Tere Michaels for a very long time so I’m always excited when a new release comes out. GROOMZILLA is an interesting story because if you’re a fan of those reality wedding shows that follow the bride and groom around, then you may be intrigued by this idea.
Personally, I’m like Daniel Green, the hero of this book who isn’t into them AT ALL. But when his friend Ander asks that he help plan his wedding, Daniel cannot refuse. Despite the fact that he isn’t a romantic or even a wedding planner, this will undoubtedly be a real challenge for him. But surprisingly, Daniel’s biggest challenge isn’t getting everything picture perfect ready for his best friend, it’s the presence of the Owen Grainger, the show’s producer that gets Daniel all tied up in a knot.
As usual, Michaels infuses this book with a healthy dose of humor and heart. Just reading the first few pages of the book can make you smile. On the sweeter side, it’s a story that develops organically and realistically. Although I wasn’t much of a big fan of the TV show aspect of the book, one cannot deny the chemistry that Owen and Daniel have. They were so cute and funny with that extra dose of sexiness. So even though the premise didn’t exactly hook me in, GROOMZILLA is still a delightful book.
April 7, 2016
So very dissapointed right now. I had a hard time getting into this story. I liked Owen and Daniel, both as a couple and individually. I even liked Ander and Rafe. Victor was a huge dick though. My biggest problem with the story was we don't actually get to see much happening. There are big time jumps and supposed drama that is all off-page. We got to see almost nothing of the filming of the show. There is brief mention of an eating disorder of Owens, but then it's not really dealt with other than random people asking him if he ate. The first sex scene was great. Then we basically get that same blowjob scene plopped into the story multiple times. I feel like the story could have used probably another 100 pages to fully flesh out all the characters and develop the several story lines going on. It was just way, way too scattered.
September 17, 2016
This story had a surprisingly touching ending.
December 31, 2019
What a wonderful read to finish of the year with! I have NO IDEA why I put reading this one off, maybe I was a bit put-off by the name. If you are - please don't be. It's not the angst filled wedding you're imagining, it's actually a sweet and endearing story of two best friends and finding love in the most unexpected place.
Daniel Green and Ander Valios have been best friends since they were both left in boarding school. Two kids bonding on being unwanted. They might be an unlikely "couple" but they somehow maintained their close friendship, like brothers, always being on each other's side. Now in their mid twenties, Ander a high end designer (still waiting for his big break with his own line) and Daniel an event planner and though his business is doing okay, he isn't doing WELL. But what Ander is offering him - planning his wedding as a part of a reality show - isn't something he wants to agree to, but it's Ander, he can't possibly disappoint him or make him unhappy through his rejection of the whole thing.. So he finds himself agreeing..
Things doesn't go according to plan right from the start. The studio is ran by two men who couldn't be more different - the disgusting Victor Pierce and the devastatingly handsome Owen Grainger. While Daniel can't stop thinking about and wanting Owen, Victor's behavior and his "need" to meddle in a way that makes Ander stressed and unhappy (and through that his fiance Rafe as well) makes managing the event AND Ander quite an ordeal.
Yet through all of that, Daniel and Owen find the time to form something of their own with all the drama going on around them. Daniel doesn't understand what a guy like Owen is doing with a horrible person like Victor. His actions shows they don't actually get along especially with Owen trying to focus on the happy couple and making their day a beautiful one and not about the drama..
While this is somewhere between a novella and a full length novel we still get quite an arc of Daniel and Owen building something together, dealing with difficulties and being genuine and real - each having his own issues brought by their past. I would have loved getting more of these two, but I'm also grateful the story was focused on Daniel and Owen and them trying to make something real between them, seeing the kind of friend Daniel is to Ander, and NOT about the drama Victor was trying to bring into their lives. There was a beautiful balance to friendship, personal growth and an actual relationship buildup which I really liked.
Also Daniel and Ander's relationship was HILARIOUS. It might seem like Daniel is the grown up in this relationship saving Ander from his disasters - okay.. he totally is.. and yet, Ander was there for Daniel in his own way, keeping watch of him, trying to make him better himself, live, love and enjoy life. His methods are a bit unorthodox but that's Ander and Daniel loved him just the way he is.
Sweet, tender, funny, not what you'd expect from the title story. If you have a little time off, give this one a go, you'll surely finish reading this one with a HUGE smile.
More Reviews HERE
Daniel Green and Ander Valios have been best friends since they were both left in boarding school. Two kids bonding on being unwanted. They might be an unlikely "couple" but they somehow maintained their close friendship, like brothers, always being on each other's side. Now in their mid twenties, Ander a high end designer (still waiting for his big break with his own line) and Daniel an event planner and though his business is doing okay, he isn't doing WELL. But what Ander is offering him - planning his wedding as a part of a reality show - isn't something he wants to agree to, but it's Ander, he can't possibly disappoint him or make him unhappy through his rejection of the whole thing.. So he finds himself agreeing..
Things doesn't go according to plan right from the start. The studio is ran by two men who couldn't be more different - the disgusting Victor Pierce and the devastatingly handsome Owen Grainger. While Daniel can't stop thinking about and wanting Owen, Victor's behavior and his "need" to meddle in a way that makes Ander stressed and unhappy (and through that his fiance Rafe as well) makes managing the event AND Ander quite an ordeal.
Yet through all of that, Daniel and Owen find the time to form something of their own with all the drama going on around them. Daniel doesn't understand what a guy like Owen is doing with a horrible person like Victor. His actions shows they don't actually get along especially with Owen trying to focus on the happy couple and making their day a beautiful one and not about the drama..
While this is somewhere between a novella and a full length novel we still get quite an arc of Daniel and Owen building something together, dealing with difficulties and being genuine and real - each having his own issues brought by their past. I would have loved getting more of these two, but I'm also grateful the story was focused on Daniel and Owen and them trying to make something real between them, seeing the kind of friend Daniel is to Ander, and NOT about the drama Victor was trying to bring into their lives. There was a beautiful balance to friendship, personal growth and an actual relationship buildup which I really liked.
Also Daniel and Ander's relationship was HILARIOUS. It might seem like Daniel is the grown up in this relationship saving Ander from his disasters - okay.. he totally is.. and yet, Ander was there for Daniel in his own way, keeping watch of him, trying to make him better himself, live, love and enjoy life. His methods are a bit unorthodox but that's Ander and Daniel loved him just the way he is.
Sweet, tender, funny, not what you'd expect from the title story. If you have a little time off, give this one a go, you'll surely finish reading this one with a HUGE smile.
More Reviews HERE
September 13, 2015
Note: This book was provided to me by the publisher through Hearts on Fire Reviews in exchange for an impartial review.
Drama, drama, drama. Daniel Green’s life has been filled with drama ever since he befriended Ander in boarding school when they were just kids. Ander is loud and flamboyant and holds no prisoners when he’s upset, yet Daniel can calm Ander like no one else, including Ander’s fiancé, Rafe.
Leave it to Ander to decide the road to his wedded bliss should be lined with television cameras. He’s signed a contract to have his wedding filmed as part of a reality TV show. His ultimate goal is to establish himself as a designer so that he can leave the design house where he currently works under the thumb of an outrageously envious designer named Sven. Rafe is willing to go along with whatever Ander wants. Older than Ander, Rafe, an entertainment lawyer, has found joy and new life in being with the younger man, something he had thought his boring old self would never get to have.
Of course, Ander ropes Daniel into being his wedding planner. Daniel, an event planner who generally runs corporate gatherings and enjoys a neat, quiet and orderly life, wants no part in the drama of a TV reality show, but Ander gets his way as usual, and when Daniel meets Owen Grainger, all thoughts of saying no to Ander die a quick sudden death.
Owen is the co-producer on the show and a gorgeous former fashion model. When he shows an interest in Daniel, Daniel thinks that he must be paying attention to him for some ulterior motive. But even when Owen suggests that Daniel undergo a makeover, Daniel is putty in his hands and agrees quickly. It seems too good to be true, but as the show progresses and Ander’s temper flares, and the other producer continually demeans Daniel and his role, Owen is persistent and constantly at Daniel’s side. Could Daniel dare hope that this might last?
The stress of making the show and having Rafe constantly out of town on business trips begins to strain Ander’s last nerve and when things come to a head less than 48 hours before the wedding is due to take place, it takes all the reserves Daniel can muster to do his magic and save the day. But will he? Or will the reality show film more of a disaster than Daniel and Owen counted on?
This was a great story—very fast-paced, fun, romantic, interesting, and surprising in its final chapters. I truly enjoyed reading it. In fact, the humor was sometimes subtle, sometimes in-your-face outlandish, but was surprising in how much it helped me to enjoy this book. Of course, it helps that the author provided a good, solid romance and that there wasn’t an overdose of the push and pull angsty moments that we often get when one MC is outstandingly good-looking and the other is rather plain. These men treated each other as equals and each gave the other what they needed, whether they wanted it or not.
I highly recommend this one if you’re looking for something light and sweet, but with just a touch of suspense and surprise and an out-of-the-ordinary way to spend your day.
Drama, drama, drama. Daniel Green’s life has been filled with drama ever since he befriended Ander in boarding school when they were just kids. Ander is loud and flamboyant and holds no prisoners when he’s upset, yet Daniel can calm Ander like no one else, including Ander’s fiancé, Rafe.
Leave it to Ander to decide the road to his wedded bliss should be lined with television cameras. He’s signed a contract to have his wedding filmed as part of a reality TV show. His ultimate goal is to establish himself as a designer so that he can leave the design house where he currently works under the thumb of an outrageously envious designer named Sven. Rafe is willing to go along with whatever Ander wants. Older than Ander, Rafe, an entertainment lawyer, has found joy and new life in being with the younger man, something he had thought his boring old self would never get to have.
Of course, Ander ropes Daniel into being his wedding planner. Daniel, an event planner who generally runs corporate gatherings and enjoys a neat, quiet and orderly life, wants no part in the drama of a TV reality show, but Ander gets his way as usual, and when Daniel meets Owen Grainger, all thoughts of saying no to Ander die a quick sudden death.
Owen is the co-producer on the show and a gorgeous former fashion model. When he shows an interest in Daniel, Daniel thinks that he must be paying attention to him for some ulterior motive. But even when Owen suggests that Daniel undergo a makeover, Daniel is putty in his hands and agrees quickly. It seems too good to be true, but as the show progresses and Ander’s temper flares, and the other producer continually demeans Daniel and his role, Owen is persistent and constantly at Daniel’s side. Could Daniel dare hope that this might last?
The stress of making the show and having Rafe constantly out of town on business trips begins to strain Ander’s last nerve and when things come to a head less than 48 hours before the wedding is due to take place, it takes all the reserves Daniel can muster to do his magic and save the day. But will he? Or will the reality show film more of a disaster than Daniel and Owen counted on?
This was a great story—very fast-paced, fun, romantic, interesting, and surprising in its final chapters. I truly enjoyed reading it. In fact, the humor was sometimes subtle, sometimes in-your-face outlandish, but was surprising in how much it helped me to enjoy this book. Of course, it helps that the author provided a good, solid romance and that there wasn’t an overdose of the push and pull angsty moments that we often get when one MC is outstandingly good-looking and the other is rather plain. These men treated each other as equals and each gave the other what they needed, whether they wanted it or not.
I highly recommend this one if you’re looking for something light and sweet, but with just a touch of suspense and surprise and an out-of-the-ordinary way to spend your day.
September 20, 2016
Audio version
This was a gem I didn't realized I missed. Funny, sexy & it had some really heart warming & romantic scenes.
The narrator did a great job. Really excellent.
This was a gem I didn't realized I missed. Funny, sexy & it had some really heart warming & romantic scenes.
The narrator did a great job. Really excellent.
June 6, 2020
This one just really didn't work for me. The romance didn't work and I didn't find it all that funny. Maybe it was just my mood because I'm a fan of Tere Michaels.
March 21, 2022
Coerced into being the wedding planner of his childhood friend only to find out that the entire process from start to finish is going to be broadcast as an online reality TV series is not what Daniel expected. When one of the shows producers doesn't think Daniel will look good on screen it's up to the co-producer, Owen, to give Daniel a makeover. As Victor tries to create more drama by throwing wrenches into Ander and Rafe's relationship it's up to Daniel and Owen to make things right even as they fall for each other. I've never been a fan of 'Reality TV" and this rather enjoyable look into that world just confirms the un-reality of the whole genre. So all-in-all a great entertaining read.
September 11, 2018
3.5 stars
August 18, 2015
4 Heart Review by Vicki
Ander and Rafe are getting married! Ander asks/demands that Daniel, his best friend, plan their wedding. Daniel does plan corporate events, but he’s never planned a wedding. Oh, and it’s being filmed for a reality show. Daniel says no, then maybe, then yes, seeing the advantage of the publicity for his business, and how excited this will make Ander. Daniel has spent years caring for, calming down, and catering to the very high maintenance Ander.
Daniel goes to the first meeting with the producers, and is quite surprised to find himself lusting after Owen, one of the co-producers. There is some flirting and a connection… This turns in to lunch, a request by Owen (well actually Owen’s asshole co-producer Victor) for a makeover for Daniel. Which leads to new clothing, and the need for a dry cleaner! Then on to some dating.
As the story progresses we get the background of these men, Owen’s story and why he is involved with the horrid Victor, and the story that explains the deep bond between Daniel and Ander. This book started off pretty fluffy for me, but once the back stories came out, it got much deeper. Ander and Daniel both had family issues, and met in boarding school. Both miserable and lonely. Owen also has family issues, that lead to his business relationship with Victor.
I liked this story, I loved the bond between Ander and Daniel, and the one that forms between Owen and Daniel. Parts of it are light and fluffy, Ander is a pill and was amusing. Daniel is so calm and caring. Owen is harder to get to know, I liked him, but didn’t get in to his brain as much as Daniel’s. I liked Ander and Rafe, I’d actually like to see a book with their story. Rafe is very much a mystery, he’s gone for a good portion of the story and I found myself wondering about him. I liked the drama between Victor and Owen, and his nasty treatment of Daniel. Well, I didn’t LIKE it, Victor is an asshole, but I liked the drama he causes. But best of all for me was the friendship between Ander and Daniel. So sweet!
There was some sex, not overly graphic, but just enough to keep my interest and explore the relationship between Daniel and Owen.
Tere writes a good book! This one is lighter than others I have read by her, which is fine, I can take a light romance now and then. I enjoyed it, but it doesn’t have the emotional impact of her Faith, Love, and Devotion series. Read this one for fun, go read the others for angst…. Groomzilla is just a nice sweet story!
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
Ander and Rafe are getting married! Ander asks/demands that Daniel, his best friend, plan their wedding. Daniel does plan corporate events, but he’s never planned a wedding. Oh, and it’s being filmed for a reality show. Daniel says no, then maybe, then yes, seeing the advantage of the publicity for his business, and how excited this will make Ander. Daniel has spent years caring for, calming down, and catering to the very high maintenance Ander.
Daniel goes to the first meeting with the producers, and is quite surprised to find himself lusting after Owen, one of the co-producers. There is some flirting and a connection… This turns in to lunch, a request by Owen (well actually Owen’s asshole co-producer Victor) for a makeover for Daniel. Which leads to new clothing, and the need for a dry cleaner! Then on to some dating.
As the story progresses we get the background of these men, Owen’s story and why he is involved with the horrid Victor, and the story that explains the deep bond between Daniel and Ander. This book started off pretty fluffy for me, but once the back stories came out, it got much deeper. Ander and Daniel both had family issues, and met in boarding school. Both miserable and lonely. Owen also has family issues, that lead to his business relationship with Victor.
I liked this story, I loved the bond between Ander and Daniel, and the one that forms between Owen and Daniel. Parts of it are light and fluffy, Ander is a pill and was amusing. Daniel is so calm and caring. Owen is harder to get to know, I liked him, but didn’t get in to his brain as much as Daniel’s. I liked Ander and Rafe, I’d actually like to see a book with their story. Rafe is very much a mystery, he’s gone for a good portion of the story and I found myself wondering about him. I liked the drama between Victor and Owen, and his nasty treatment of Daniel. Well, I didn’t LIKE it, Victor is an asshole, but I liked the drama he causes. But best of all for me was the friendship between Ander and Daniel. So sweet!
There was some sex, not overly graphic, but just enough to keep my interest and explore the relationship between Daniel and Owen.
Tere writes a good book! This one is lighter than others I have read by her, which is fine, I can take a light romance now and then. I enjoyed it, but it doesn’t have the emotional impact of her Faith, Love, and Devotion series. Read this one for fun, go read the others for angst…. Groomzilla is just a nice sweet story!
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
August 10, 2016
I received a free copy via Inked Rainbow Reads in exchange for an honest review.
I found this book a little disappointing. It's obvious that the author is a skilled writer, and at first, I thought maybe it was just me and simply not my kind of story. But by the time I finished it, I realized what had been bothering me. The whole thing is a lot of the author telling us stuff is happening but never quite taking us into the moment.
The story simply never feels like it arrives at any destination. There are several great plot threads--the reality show wedding, Daniel's lack of confidence about himself, Owen's multiple issues, and Victor's manipulation. None of them really ever become fully fleshed out on the pages.
I assumed from the blurb that we would see a lot more of the planning and reality show mess. That's what I tuned in for. But Victor was never really the bad guy he was supposed to be, and mostly it felt like everyone being kind of jerks to him. No wonder he was miserable.
Ander was annoying, and I never felt like we really saw much build-up to his meltdown (which, honestly, wasn't much of a meltdown). He came off as condescending and nasty toward Daniel to the point I wondered why they were friends.
No one ever truly dealt with Owen's eating disorder outside of several people urging him to eat, which is seriously uncool. It felt like a continuation of the weird "everyone must be hot" vibe I kept getting from the story. Even Daniel was never allowed to just be himself--he was mocked a lot for being "presumed straight," as though there is some special way gay men must behave or dress to qualify.
Even the relationship between Daniel and Owen--which was probably what saved this novel--didn't follow what I thought it would. I was anticipating more of a "chase" between them, perhaps a misunderstanding related to Victor's manipulation. Instead, they got together pretty quickly and spent the rest of the time focusing on being a couple and their personal dramas rather than the show. Owen seemed to have dropped all his misgivings about getting with one of the show's stars pretty fast, since it really never came up again.
All of those would have been terrific touchpoints to work off, and there was definitely at least some attempt to do so. I wonder if there were simply too many threads and not enough time to explore them properly in the context of a reality show wedding. It seems like that should have been the focus, since that's what was promised in the blurb.
There's some witty dialog and the story's premise is interesting. I enjoyed the part where they're all at the wedding (and in fact wish both the lead-up and the denouement were stronger surrounding it). But overall, this one just didn't live up to my expectations.
I found this book a little disappointing. It's obvious that the author is a skilled writer, and at first, I thought maybe it was just me and simply not my kind of story. But by the time I finished it, I realized what had been bothering me. The whole thing is a lot of the author telling us stuff is happening but never quite taking us into the moment.
The story simply never feels like it arrives at any destination. There are several great plot threads--the reality show wedding, Daniel's lack of confidence about himself, Owen's multiple issues, and Victor's manipulation. None of them really ever become fully fleshed out on the pages.
I assumed from the blurb that we would see a lot more of the planning and reality show mess. That's what I tuned in for. But Victor was never really the bad guy he was supposed to be, and mostly it felt like everyone being kind of jerks to him. No wonder he was miserable.
Ander was annoying, and I never felt like we really saw much build-up to his meltdown (which, honestly, wasn't much of a meltdown). He came off as condescending and nasty toward Daniel to the point I wondered why they were friends.
No one ever truly dealt with Owen's eating disorder outside of several people urging him to eat, which is seriously uncool. It felt like a continuation of the weird "everyone must be hot" vibe I kept getting from the story. Even Daniel was never allowed to just be himself--he was mocked a lot for being "presumed straight," as though there is some special way gay men must behave or dress to qualify.
Even the relationship between Daniel and Owen--which was probably what saved this novel--didn't follow what I thought it would. I was anticipating more of a "chase" between them, perhaps a misunderstanding related to Victor's manipulation. Instead, they got together pretty quickly and spent the rest of the time focusing on being a couple and their personal dramas rather than the show. Owen seemed to have dropped all his misgivings about getting with one of the show's stars pretty fast, since it really never came up again.
All of those would have been terrific touchpoints to work off, and there was definitely at least some attempt to do so. I wonder if there were simply too many threads and not enough time to explore them properly in the context of a reality show wedding. It seems like that should have been the focus, since that's what was promised in the blurb.
There's some witty dialog and the story's premise is interesting. I enjoyed the part where they're all at the wedding (and in fact wish both the lead-up and the denouement were stronger surrounding it). But overall, this one just didn't live up to my expectations.
October 1, 2016
4.3*
I’m not a fan of reality TV shows so wasn’t sure what to expect from this story. In fact, I listened to it twice back to back because it took me a few chapters to get into the plot and characters, but as I loved the story so much by the end, I wanted to go back and give the beginning another chance.
Ander, the featured Groomzilla and best friend of the main character, irritated me at first as he came across as self-absorbed and I failed to understand why Daniel had remained friends with him for so long. But as their story unfolds, the friendship they share is actually warm and touching. We gradually see another side of Ander and get glimpses into his backstory. Daniel’s past is pretty sad too and these two guys helped each other through a lonely part of their lives.
So, the story is told from the main love interest’s point of view, i.e Daniel and Owen, rather than the two grooms. Daniel is the best man, but roped into the role of wedding planner for the TV show. His instant attraction to Owen, one of the producers, had him agreeing to his best friend’s wishes.
Fortunately (for me) the story didn’t focus too much on the filming and the show itself. The main emphasis is on the background preparation and the blossoming love between Daniel and Owen. Although we do get to see the drama starting to unfold for Ander the weekend of the wedding.
Victor, the other co-producer and antagonist, was a creep. He takes an instant dislike to Daniel for some reason, stating he is too dull and boring for the show, and wanted to relegate him to the sidelines. Owen is courteous and charming in his treatment of Daniel and did his best to let Daniel know how gorgeous he thought he was.
I particularly like the writing in this story and how superbly Nick narrates it. His voice for Owen is deep and sexy, and his characterization of the other personalities was spot on. There are many humorous quips and comments throughout that had me laughing, particularly about the way Daniel and Ander dress. The last few chapters and epilogue are delightful, with ‘I love yous’ and a happy ending for everyone.
I adored Daniel and Owen’s scenes together from the start. The chemistry between them was super, even though they hardly ever made it to the bedroom. We are treated to several hot bjs and hand jobs, but not a full-on sex scene. I would have liked more intimate scenes, but I think what Tere wrote works well for the story.
Review also posted on Gay Book Reviews:
http://gaybook.reviews/2016/10/01/lil...
I’m not a fan of reality TV shows so wasn’t sure what to expect from this story. In fact, I listened to it twice back to back because it took me a few chapters to get into the plot and characters, but as I loved the story so much by the end, I wanted to go back and give the beginning another chance.
Ander, the featured Groomzilla and best friend of the main character, irritated me at first as he came across as self-absorbed and I failed to understand why Daniel had remained friends with him for so long. But as their story unfolds, the friendship they share is actually warm and touching. We gradually see another side of Ander and get glimpses into his backstory. Daniel’s past is pretty sad too and these two guys helped each other through a lonely part of their lives.
So, the story is told from the main love interest’s point of view, i.e Daniel and Owen, rather than the two grooms. Daniel is the best man, but roped into the role of wedding planner for the TV show. His instant attraction to Owen, one of the producers, had him agreeing to his best friend’s wishes.
Fortunately (for me) the story didn’t focus too much on the filming and the show itself. The main emphasis is on the background preparation and the blossoming love between Daniel and Owen. Although we do get to see the drama starting to unfold for Ander the weekend of the wedding.
Victor, the other co-producer and antagonist, was a creep. He takes an instant dislike to Daniel for some reason, stating he is too dull and boring for the show, and wanted to relegate him to the sidelines. Owen is courteous and charming in his treatment of Daniel and did his best to let Daniel know how gorgeous he thought he was.
I particularly like the writing in this story and how superbly Nick narrates it. His voice for Owen is deep and sexy, and his characterization of the other personalities was spot on. There are many humorous quips and comments throughout that had me laughing, particularly about the way Daniel and Ander dress. The last few chapters and epilogue are delightful, with ‘I love yous’ and a happy ending for everyone.
I adored Daniel and Owen’s scenes together from the start. The chemistry between them was super, even though they hardly ever made it to the bedroom. We are treated to several hot bjs and hand jobs, but not a full-on sex scene. I would have liked more intimate scenes, but I think what Tere wrote works well for the story.
Review also posted on Gay Book Reviews:
http://gaybook.reviews/2016/10/01/lil...
November 6, 2015
How could I possibly resist a book titled 'Groomzilla'? The fact it's also my first read by Tere Michaels didn't hurt in my decision either. And the description pretty much capped it. I was looking forward to fun, a little drama, some hot sex, and a happy ever after.
"Ander fussed with his collar. “Yes, Daniel, you’re my booty call.” He regarded Daniel with a fond smile. “My emotional booty call.” Daniel couldn’t help but laugh at that......“That’s the most accurate description of our friendship I’ve ever heard.”
There are some things in life that you will make an ultimate sacrifice for. The best friend you've had since you were eight is very high on that list. Which is how Daniel ends up agreeing to be Ander’s wedding planner on a reality show. Now, Daniel isn't a wedding planner, he's an event planner, and he tries everything he can to say no, but he can't hold out against his bestie for too long. Plus, if he'd said no, he never would've met Owen.
The author very pleasantly surprised me with some slightly intense drama I wasn't expecting. Let's face it, the title led me to believe fun, happy, sexy, etc., right? Well, there's more to these characters than meets the eye. Daniel and Ander with their sad, lonely childhoods at boarding school, Owen a teenage model who got stuck in the eating disorder frenzy, and very weird Victor, Owen's business partner, who needs to be seen to be believed.
This is a very cute and sweet story that I enjoyed. If you like reality TV and want to see the craziness that goes on behind the scenes, along with good characters and a solid story, then this might be the book for you.
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews
"Ander fussed with his collar. “Yes, Daniel, you’re my booty call.” He regarded Daniel with a fond smile. “My emotional booty call.” Daniel couldn’t help but laugh at that......“That’s the most accurate description of our friendship I’ve ever heard.”
There are some things in life that you will make an ultimate sacrifice for. The best friend you've had since you were eight is very high on that list. Which is how Daniel ends up agreeing to be Ander’s wedding planner on a reality show. Now, Daniel isn't a wedding planner, he's an event planner, and he tries everything he can to say no, but he can't hold out against his bestie for too long. Plus, if he'd said no, he never would've met Owen.
The author very pleasantly surprised me with some slightly intense drama I wasn't expecting. Let's face it, the title led me to believe fun, happy, sexy, etc., right? Well, there's more to these characters than meets the eye. Daniel and Ander with their sad, lonely childhoods at boarding school, Owen a teenage model who got stuck in the eating disorder frenzy, and very weird Victor, Owen's business partner, who needs to be seen to be believed.
This is a very cute and sweet story that I enjoyed. If you like reality TV and want to see the craziness that goes on behind the scenes, along with good characters and a solid story, then this might be the book for you.
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews
August 11, 2015
I was so excited to read this book, I love Tere, here faith and fidelity series is one of my all time favourites,but this was disappointing. Everything was there to make it a great story, the characters were fantastic and the story Idea was good, but it just didn't come together. The relationship between the mc's occurred mostly off page and because of this I didn't feel any connection to them as a couple. They got together shared a blow job and then it was 3 months later and time for the wedding. Their intimate scenes only showed one act over and over, and because of that, they didn't feel like they were truly connected to me. I also wished that we could have seen more of the lead up to the wedding, it went from the first suit designing session to the wedding, and mentioned all this drama that supposedly happened, we just missed it all!
Overall I found this book to be confusing and I was disappointed.
Overall I found this book to be confusing and I was disappointed.
August 19, 2015
Cute story!
This was a cute and funny engaging story! While I loved Ander and Rate, it was quiet Daniel who stole my heart! Supportive and loving to his friend getting married, he is dragged into the craziness of reality TV and there he meets Owen, one of the producers. Their story is weaved around the antics of filming, the derailment of the show by Victor, the other producer, and trying to keep the happy couple focused. Daniel and Owen liked each other right off and watching their relationship unfold amidst the chaos was grand! Lots of love and humor, it was just a great read!!
This was a cute and funny engaging story! While I loved Ander and Rate, it was quiet Daniel who stole my heart! Supportive and loving to his friend getting married, he is dragged into the craziness of reality TV and there he meets Owen, one of the producers. Their story is weaved around the antics of filming, the derailment of the show by Victor, the other producer, and trying to keep the happy couple focused. Daniel and Owen liked each other right off and watching their relationship unfold amidst the chaos was grand! Lots of love and humor, it was just a great read!!
May 2, 2016
Really cute story! I wish it was a little longer, because I would have liked to delve into Owen's issues a little more, but overall I liked it. Daniel is such a great guy and an even better friend. I also liked that there were opportunities for some cliché scenes near the end that the author didn't take for either couple.
November 16, 2016
Yeah, I didn't love it. I honestly only picked this book because I really like Nick J. Russo, but even he couldn't save this one. The plot was just too silly and the pacing was off. The characters were pretty one dimensional and the whole thing came off very formulaic and just meh.
If you're looking for something easy to read... well I still think you could do better than this.
If you're looking for something easy to read... well I still think you could do better than this.
January 22, 2016
A cute book. When I first read the blurb I thought it was going to be all about the grooms and the wedding. Instead it focused on Daniel the best friend / best man . wedding planner and his relationship with Owen.
It was a light easy read which I enjoyed.
It was a light easy read which I enjoyed.
October 4, 2016
***Audiobook***Narrated by Nick J. Russo***3.5 stars rounded up because Nick Russo does a fantastic job of narrating. And because of Daniel's love of Pop Tarts... "Look, it's unfrosted and blueberry inside. I'm practically eating fruit for breakfast." :)
August 26, 2015
Cute story!
October 25, 2016
2.5 stars
Nice story.
Nice story.
October 21, 2016
Daniel Green is an event planner. His best friend, Ander, has asked him to plan the ultimate event—Ander’s wedding to his fiancé, Rafe. But there’s a catch: the leisurely year Daniel thought he had to make the event spectacular has just been shortened to a few months, because Ander has somehow gotten his wedding to be the subject of a reality show.
Co-producer, Owen, meets Daniel, and flirtation is nearly instantaneous. Meanwhile, the other TV producer, Victor, has decided to make the impending wedding as drama filled as possible. Naturally, the course of true love—in this case five men, two couples, and drama—does not run smooth.
Every wedding, even one with two grooms, is a trial of love and will. Every event planner has his hands full. The wedding planner has his hands full of TV producer, Owen. One couple is growing closer and more expressive, the other seems to be unravelling. The event planner gets what he’s looking for; he even gets to finally be as happy as his best friend, Ander.
Tere Michaels delivers a tight, short, sweet story that leaves the listener satisfied and sorry the ride was so short, but it is totally complete. I’ve come to expect that from Michaels, and she does not disappoint this time either.
Once again, Nick J. Russo provides a stellar narration. It’s hard to find a flaw here because Russo is one of the best voice talents doing M/M books. The story is full of fun and not a little drama. The developing relationship between Owen and Daniel is fun to hear unfold. The characters, here, all get treated well, and the female characters are fully voiced, which is a lovely change from the lispy or nasal way some narrators present female characters. I fully recommend buying this book for both the story and narration. Buy it, you will not be sorry.
Reviewed by Mike for The Novel Approach Reviews
Co-producer, Owen, meets Daniel, and flirtation is nearly instantaneous. Meanwhile, the other TV producer, Victor, has decided to make the impending wedding as drama filled as possible. Naturally, the course of true love—in this case five men, two couples, and drama—does not run smooth.
Every wedding, even one with two grooms, is a trial of love and will. Every event planner has his hands full. The wedding planner has his hands full of TV producer, Owen. One couple is growing closer and more expressive, the other seems to be unravelling. The event planner gets what he’s looking for; he even gets to finally be as happy as his best friend, Ander.
Tere Michaels delivers a tight, short, sweet story that leaves the listener satisfied and sorry the ride was so short, but it is totally complete. I’ve come to expect that from Michaels, and she does not disappoint this time either.
Once again, Nick J. Russo provides a stellar narration. It’s hard to find a flaw here because Russo is one of the best voice talents doing M/M books. The story is full of fun and not a little drama. The developing relationship between Owen and Daniel is fun to hear unfold. The characters, here, all get treated well, and the female characters are fully voiced, which is a lovely change from the lispy or nasal way some narrators present female characters. I fully recommend buying this book for both the story and narration. Buy it, you will not be sorry.
Reviewed by Mike for The Novel Approach Reviews
September 10, 2018
Groomzilla is the first book I have read by Tere Michaels. I am sure it will not be my last one. I was expecting a love story, a happily ever after, a typical romance. I was surprised by the back stories of the character and what made them who they were in the book. Each having secrets, and each dealing with their troubled past and friendships forged out of similar past. Daniel and Ander's relationship as best friends had me crying at points as I wondered what would have become of them if they had not had one another. Victor was a character I just hated from the beginning to the end. Without him though Owen may have never found his inner strength to stand up for himself. Very well written and filled with many emotions and lots of humor. Ander and his antics to get at Daniel to admit his feelings had me laughing so hard.
November 24, 2023
3.5 Stars - An entertaining foray into the world of reality TV weddings, balancing humor and heart as event planner Daniel Green navigates the challenges of orchestrating his friend Ander's nuptials. The characters, especially the flamboyant Ander and the charming Owen, contribute depth to the narrative.
However, the novel's exploration of deeper subjects introduced, such as eating disorders and the negative aspects of reality TV, feels somewhat glossed over but not fully delved into, leaving a sense that the story could have benefited from a more profound examination of these themes.
Despite this missed opportunity for depth, it still earns 3.5 stars for its witty dialogue, engaging characters, and the captivating interplay between love and the glitzy world of reality television. It does have several steamy scenes that feel a little repetitive.
However, the novel's exploration of deeper subjects introduced, such as eating disorders and the negative aspects of reality TV, feels somewhat glossed over but not fully delved into, leaving a sense that the story could have benefited from a more profound examination of these themes.
Despite this missed opportunity for depth, it still earns 3.5 stars for its witty dialogue, engaging characters, and the captivating interplay between love and the glitzy world of reality television. It does have several steamy scenes that feel a little repetitive.
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