Signs of Desire

Desires Entwined #4

by Tempeste O'Riley

Desires Book Four Simon Tyler knows his job as a gay romance author makes his lack of faith in love more than a little ironic, but he’s tired of being used for his wallet. When a night out turns into a matchmaking scheme orchestrated by his best friends, Simon’s not thrilled, but since he’s not the target and he’s sworn off happily-ever-after anyway, he goes along with it… until he meets Adrian, the object of their efforts, and finds perhaps he hasn’t given up on love after all.Professor Adrian Keys has tried to date Hearing men before, but being Deaf himself, he’s never had any success at making a connection. After his friends con him into going out and Adrian realizes it’s all an elaborate plan to set him up, he braces for yet another failure, only to discover there is a spark—except it’s not with the man his friends had in mind, but with Simon Tyler instead.Not all their friends have found a way past their romantic failures, but Simon and Adrian might be on the path to happily-ever-after.

Genres: M M Romance, Romance, Disability, Contemporary, LGBT, Gay, M M Contemporary

200 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 30, 2015

About the author

Tempeste O’Riley is an out and proud pansexual (t)man whose best friend growing up had the courage to do what he couldn’t–defy the hate and come out. He has been his hero ever since.

Though new to writing M/M, his has done many things in his life, though writing has always drawn him back–no matter what else life has thrown her way. She counts her friends, family, and Muse as his greatest blessings in life. He lives in Wisconsin with his children, reading, writing, and enjoying life.

Tempe is also a proud member of Romance Writers of America® and Rainbow Romance Writers. Learn more about Tempeste and his writing at http://tempestebooks.com.

Reviews

[Serena Yates · Rating 4 out of 5]

Returning to the world of the ‘Desires Entwined’ series is beginning to feel very comfortable and much like visiting with friends. After stories about James and Seth, Chase and Rhys, and Alex and Dal, I was excited not just to see these guys return in this fourth book of the series, but also to find out more about Simon and Adrian. Both men have had issues with previous lovers, both are great guys, and both are more than ready to meet Mr. Right. The gentle pace of their story added to my enjoyment, and while there were some stressful moments, the level of angst was minimal compared to previous books. I thoroughly enjoyed reading about Simon and Adrian figuring out if and how they’d fit and work together!

Simon writes homoerotic romance and loves giving his couples a happy ending. Unfortunately he has experienced so much disappointment with lovers who only wanted his money, that he has lost faith not just in himself, but in his ability to ever find the right man. And with a super-rich family actively campaigning to “eradicate” anything gay, he would be completely alone if not for his loyal group of friends, led by Chase. In fact it is Chase who gets Simon into “trouble” with his attempt at matchmaking – Chase figures all his single friends deserve to find love too, so he sets up Simon and Adrian (a man he dated once and has since become friends with) – repeatedly. Simon is sure he will never be loved for himself, but he likes Adrian and is curious to find out more about the hot professor.

Adrian is almost as disillusioned about finding a partner as Simon. His attempts to date Hearing men have not led anywhere and his Deaf friends are worried that Simon will be another disappointment. But Adrian is interested enough to keep going, and when Simon begins to learn ASL and makes every attempt to include Adrian in his life, Adrian cannot help but fall for him. But that isn’t their only obstacle. Simon’s hesitancy about getting closer is baffling and frustrating, and more than once Adrian ends up asking Chase for advice. He is one determined professor – which didn’t surprise me since anyone as successful as he is in academia and in life, has got to be just a little bit stubborn.

Simon and Adrian’s relationship isn’t easy. Both men have to adjust to the other’s needs and quirks, and while Adrian being Deaf seems like an obvious barrier that might be difficult for Simon to overcome, it is both men’s internal resistance that is harder to overcome. Learning to sign is comparatively easy – understanding and overcoming years of disappointment and the protective walls around Simon’s emotions turns out to be much harder.

If you like stories about differently abled and emotionally damaged men, if you’re curious what life might be like for a Deaf professor who meets a shy writer, and if you’re looking for a read that is a slow-burn love story as much as it is a fascinating look at two men discovering they can heal each other, then you will probably like this novel.


NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.

[Steph ☀️ · Rating 3 out of 5]

***2.6 stars***

Homoerotic author, Simon Tyler, is always unlucky when it comes to love. It surely doesn’t help that his family is a bunch of bigots; even if they are extremely well off. Not only is Simon’s life stuck in rut, but his writing is suffering as well. When he can get the words out on paper he writes more about his dreams and fantasies than what his reality actually is. Simon has all but given up on love, until one of his friends attempts to play matchmaker. Unfortunately, he is not the object of his friends’ efforts. However, when he meets the person in question, he begins to wonder if he can finally get his happily ever after.

IT professor, Adrian Keys, hasn't had the greatest of luck in the past when he has tried to date hearing men; especially when he is hard of hearing. So, when he meets his friend Chase at the restaurant for a night out with the guys, he slowly realizes he's being set up with one of the men at the table. However, the guy Chase has in mind for Adrian is not the guy that catches his attention. Amongst the group of men, it is Simon whom peaks his interests.

From here, the two navigate through personal and physical obstacles while coming closer together. For Simon, it is learning ASL so he can speak to Adrian in his language. In addition, he comes to understand exactly what it means to be with someone who is hard of hearing. For Adrian, it is understanding that not all hearing people are alike. Because, when someone really cares for you, they take the time to include you in their lives.

In the end, Adrian and Simon finally get their HEA; even with Adrian’s meddlesome friends and Simon’s crazy sister.

The story itself was sweet, and actually opened my eyes to what one has to do to keep living their life if they have a hearing impairment. Not to mention, if someone is dating/married to a non-hearing person. All the modifications that are made to make to make their day-to-day lives run smoothly. It seems like the author put some thought into this area of the book, which is nice.

However, IMO the story is seriously lacking conflict. I kept listening, hoping that there was more to it than Simon’s sister/family; it is a very small part by the way, but no. Due to the story’s lack of conflict and the narrators’ robotic performance, I struggled to finish this audiobook. I just need to know one thing though since it was never really answered. Who sent the picture sent to Adrian via text?!? I really don’t think it was Simon’s sister.

This is the fourth book in the “Desires Entwined” series, and it can be read as a standalone.

I am one of many reviewers at Gay Book Reviews and can be found here: http://gaybook.reviews/author/steph/

I received an ARC of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.

[Kara · Rating 4 out of 5]

So you get Simon with this book who was hurt in a previous relationship so he is leery of being in a relationship again.
Then there was Aiden who is deaf and a IT professor who used to date Chase and is now good friends with him. There was a definite attraction between these two as soon as they meet at Chase's dinner party. So you know when you are reading a book and you feel like something is going to happen and it builds up... But then everything wraps up so neatly that you are left there thinking that was it. Unfortunately that is what I felt after reading this book. But do not get me wrong because I really did like the attraction between these two and the steam was off the charts hot! The way Aiden cared so much for Simon and the way Simon cared so much for Aiden that he went out and took classes just so he communicate better with Aiden. I just was expecting something big to happen so I kind of felt like that was wrapped up a little too nicely for me. But other then that I did love the character this author created and the authors pretense of this story.

So all together I really did like this book between the sweet and the steam between Simon and Aiden!
I received this book free in exchange for an honest review from Inked Rainbow Reads.

[Secretobcession · Rating 2 out of 5]

I have loved the other books in this series...but somehow this one was different. As if there wasn't quite enough story/content for one full book. It seemed to be filled with fillers that made my head spin and make me want to throw the book against the wall. (but that would have killed my Kindle, so I restrained myself from doing that...lol) Way too many descriptive words & phrases were overused IMO. I don't care what color the interior of their cars are & how that color goes with the exterior of the car, the exact brand & model of shoes worn, or the color of their bath towels, etc. Seriously.

Previous characters this from series, also seem to make one too many visits too within this book IMO. I do love it when you get invested in a good series and can get updates on the previous characters. I'm all for great friendships, but the MC's couldn't seem to make any decisions or moves without checking with their friends first on what to do. The ending of the book also just didn't set right with me. It just kind of shorted or fizzled out...just leaving me empty & apathetic.

[Annika · Rating 3 out of 5]

Audiobook review

I have many weaknesses and many loves. And one of them is for stories with disabled main characters. Their stories always inspire me, leaves me in awe of their strength - no matter the disability. And it makes me humble, and so very grateful for all the things that I take for granted - listening to audiobooks being one of them.

Adrian Keys is far from happy when his best friend cons him to tag along to a night out with some of his friends. Friends he's never met before. And not only that, he later discovers that said best friend has set him up. Only things doesn't really turn out the way anyone planned - for any of the involved. The set up was a no go and a fail, at least in the sense of the intended "victim". The romance writer Simon Tyler though is very fascinated, and there is a spark that cannot be ignored.

Simon Tyler does not believe in that elusive happily ever after. After one too many boyfriends using him he's sworn off love and relationships. Still there is something about Adrian that he's drawn to. Making him question his decision of giving up on love.

I liked Simon and Adrian, and I loved how Adrian's deafness was never an issue between them. That the language barrier was as simple to solve as Adrian taking ASL lessons and learning to sign. It was never a question, of if he should do it, it was just a natural progression to their evolving relationship. And I loved how Adrian was never treated as less, less of a human just because he was hard of hearing.

The couple had chemistry from the first night they met and that was never the issue. What they did have to work on were their respective preconceived notions. Hang-ups from lessons learned from the past. Simon trusting another person not to use him, but loving him for who he was. Adrien realising that his lack of hearing was never an issue for Simon, just a fact. Still new relationships needs work, and these two made it seem, not effortless, but not overwhelming either,

This was my first book narrated by Jeff Gelder, and while I wasn't blown away by him, I can't say that it was bad either. He had some change in his voice for the different characters, but it still wasn't enough all the times, especially when there were a lot of people speaking at once. Another thing I did want was some kind of change in his voice for when Adrian was speaking, just to anchor the story to the narration a bit further. I don't mean adding a robotic voice or anything over the top, just adding something that doesn't sound perfect - most people born deaf does not have a perfect accent, there will be some intonations that will be a bit off.

I haven't read any of the previous books in the series but I didn’t feel like I was missing anything pertinent to the story. Sure I didn't know the side characters or their stories, but I didn't need them in order to enjoy this book. And in the end, what I got was a rather sweet love story about two gun-shy men taking a chance at love.

A copy of this book was generously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review

[Leslie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Each book has different circumstances that drag you right in. I loved the intricacies of this book. So glad my sister recommended this book series to me. I just wish I had more time to read. Anyway I definitely loved it. 💜💜💜

[Shirley Frances · Rating 4 out of 5]

Simon Tyler has been used, discarded and cheated on. A romance author who has given up finding love himself, Simon hasn't dated in over a year, but when he meets Adrian Keys he can't help but be drawn to the man. Although he acknowledges that the interest is mutual with Adrian, Simon still has his doubts and lives with the fear of having his heart broken once again.

Adrian Keys is an IT professor who has made a great life for himself in a world where people often see him lacking. Being deaf hasn't stopped him from living a full life, but although he has tried his hand at relationships love keeps eluding him every time. But he has a great supporting father and a wonderful group of friends at the ready. And that is how he finds himself meeting Simon.

Simon and Adrian are both friends with Chase and although they've heard about the other, they had yet to meet. But once they locked eyes on one another, neither could stand to look away.

What I enjoyed the most about this story was how Simon and Adrian's relationship evolved as the story progressed. I enjoyed watching them start a tentative friendship while their attraction hovered in the background. It was great to see them getting to know each other because it allowed me the chance to see that their connection was more than an attraction to one another. With flirty banter, stolen kisses and honest exchanges about their doubts, Tempeste O'Riley reaffirmed that Simon and Adrian's connection was worth exploring. So when the time came for them to come together fully, I was ecstatic for them and cheering them on.

Of course, it helped tremendously that I found both characters intriguing and perfect for one another. It was great to see how understanding and patient Adrian was in regards to Simon's past experiences and his desire to take things slow. His reassurances and support, in turn, boosted Simon's confidence in himself and what was developing with Adrian.

But as much as I enjoyed this story, I can't help but feel like there was something missing from it. After spending a couple of days reading the previous books in the series, I found that Signs of Desire lacked that touch of intrigue and conflict the James and Chase's books had. Although the author brought about the start of a conflict in the form of Simon's family, I thought it was glossed over and wrapped too quickly for it to make any kind of impact. Nevertheless, Adrian and Simon's story was an enjoyable read for me.

All in all, a sweet romantic read with a fantastic side of sizzling heat.

*I received a copy of this title in exchange of my honest opinion.

[T.M. Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Adrian Keys has never let his lack of hearing get in the way of living life. He's an accomplished Professor, he's comfortably well off, has an amazing group of friends, both Hearing and Deaf... the one thing that continues to elude him is love. When his friend Chase sets Adrian up on a blind date of sorts, things don't actually go as planned, Adrian isn't really into the guy. Simon, however, Adrian is very smitten with Simon.

Unlucky in life and in love, Author Simon Tyler keeps everyone except his close knit group of friends at arms length. The last thing he wants is a relationship, they never end well. Simon finds himself willing to try for the first time in a long time when he meets Adrian. The relationship is slow to start, both men have their own reservations about dating, but the chemistry and the connection is too keen to ignore. Unfortunately, Simon's family is not only homophobic, they are wealthy, and they are trying to stir up trouble.

What a wonderful addition to the Desires Entwined series. Fans of the series will recognize the characters even though they've only been briefly mentioned in previous books. I really enjoyed the way Adrian and Simon's story unfolded. Their concerns with trusting were valid and the author did a great job of addressing them and showing how, both together and as individuals, they overcame their issues as the relationship grew stronger. I also liked that they were very protective of each other and how as the relationship grew stronger, each man grew stronger as a person.

A must read for my fellow hopeless romantics, cause Adrian is nothing if not a romantic. I don't think I would read this book if I hadn't already read the previous stories in the series. In my opinion, they all compliment each other and would be a better experience for the reader if read in order.

[Chris · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 out of 5 stars

Description ~

When a night out turns into a matchmaking scheme, they thought communication would be their biggest challenge to their happily ever after....

Simon Tyler knows his job as a gay romance author makes his lack of faith in love more than a little ironic, but he’s tired of being used for his wallet. When a night out turns into a matchmaking scheme orchestrated by his best friends—though he’s not the target—Simon’s not thrilled, but since he’s sworn off happily-ever-after anyway, he goes along with it… until he meets the object of their efforts, Adrian, and finds perhaps he hasn’t given up on love after all.

Professor Adrian Keys has tried to date hearing men before, but being deaf himself, he’s never had any success at making a connection. After his friends con him into going out and Adrian realizes it’s all an elaborate plan to set him up, he braces for yet another failure, only to discover there is a spark—except it’s not with the man his friends had in mind, but with Simon Tyler instead.

Not all their friends have found a way past their romantic failures, but Simon and Adrian might be on the path to happily-ever-after.

My Review ~

To come

[The Novel Approach · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Stars I enjoyed Signs of Desire and getting to know Simon and Adrian in their story. I thought that watching their relationship grow from a friendship into a romantic relationship was done really well. Both guys have things that they need to overcome and be reassured about, whether it is physical issue or an issue of trust that causes their reservations, and they work together to make sure these things don’t stand in their way.

The guys from the previous book are here in this edition as well, and show us again how family doesn’t necessarily have anything to do with blood and everything to do with who stands up for you, has your back and wants the best for you.

I found myself rooting for these two guys throughout the book to get their HEA. There really wasn’t much angst in this story, though I’m really not sure if that’s a good thing or not. I guess at the end of the book, I found that I liked it but that maybe it was missing a little something. But overall, I think Signs of Desire is a nice addition to a sweet series.

Reviewed by Karen for The Novel Approach
http://www.thenovelapproachreviews.co...

[Bronwyn · Rating 2 out of 5]

I’m going to call it quits at 60%. The relationship between Simon and Adrian isn’t moving forward - even at this point in the story. That’s frustrating. There’s also a lot of drama that consists of Simon’s wealthy and bigoted family; Adrien’s judgmental friend Airy; and all of Simon’s constant inner doubts and worry about every little thing - it’s just not a story I want to read anymore.

Something I’ve become very aware of this time around while reading this series is how much this author repeats everything. From thoughts to sayings to clothes choices and characters’ abilities, it’s all the same. Everyone calls each other a brat. Everyone’s inner monologue is on constant repeat. Everyone has a cashmere sweater over a green silk t-shirt. One MC is always a fabulous cook and could be a professional chef. Everyone is running a background check on their potential boyfriend. All the repetition is tedious.

This series has come to an end for me, never to be read again. I’ve had enough.

[Angie · Rating 3 out of 5]

~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Inked Rainbow Reads Review Team~
3 stars for this M/M
I was so excited to read this book. The blurb had me and I thought it could be a great book. Ugh, it was just ok. It reminded me when people tell me to go see a movie it was soooo good and then it was just ok. There was a good build up and I was all excited and then ehhh, that’s it. The chemistry was good and I liked the whole deaf/hearing aspect of the book and the building of the relationship, it just felt like I was missing something or there could have been more. I guess every relationship can’t be off the charts and this was just more real life and just ok.

[Sylvia · Rating 2 out of 5]

I loved reading the series but I wasn't feeling this one.

[Claudia Lezár · Rating 4 out of 5]

PLEASE READ MY RATING SYSTEM!!!

To my ratings:
A 3,5* is clicked with a 4* but in review marked as 3,5*:

5* - very very good and rare (it would be a Blow-Away-book like ‘Jesse's Smile’ or ‘Joey’ from Angelique Jurd, ‘Save the the kids’ series
from EM Leya, ‘Love’s Tethered Heart’ from C.L. Etta or ‘Liberty’ from Seth King),
it's like an A+

4* - very good and will be often reread and is a WOW-book with interesting plot and surprises (like most of Andrew Grey books and Davidson Kings 'Haven Hart'-series)
it's like an A

3,5* - a really good book, which will be reread a few times (most romances where you can enjoy for relaxing and during waiting times in
hospitals). I can recommend them definitively!
It's like an B+

3* - it could be more then a one-time-reader (2-3 times a year),
it's like a B

2* - it was ok to read, but it's more a one-time-reader (I wouldn't recommend it heartily, but it was ok)
It's like a C-, D

1* - sorry, but that isn't really a book for me (too many mistakes, not nice plot, illogical, so an absolute NO-GO). It's like failure in the
whole line, dismissed, repeat the class

[Pat · Rating 5 out of 5]

Simon Tyler a romance author who has not dated for a long while .

Adrian Keys arrives in his life .

Adrian is a I.T. Professor he is also deaf .

His deafness hasn't stopped in fulfilling his life but love always seems to escape him.

One thing in common is Chase who is in the previous books..



Adrian and Simon had friends who they could confide in and who were always there for both men.

They had a fair bit of sorting out not so much with their lives but with themselves and family .

Family is not always supportive .

Family can be cruel.

Sometimes you have to so what you think is right ...

A strong story that I enjoyed reading .



I have read books 1,2,3,in this series I applaud the author this series was very well written and flowed .

[Gavin Stephenson-Jackman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was hoping that when Adrian's character was first introduced that he would get his HEA and this instalment gives him that. Adrian is a college professor in cyber security and he's deaf. He went on a date some time ago with Chase when Chase's friends were trying to get him together with Rhys. He and Chase are now good friends and he's been coerced into a night out with the boys it turns out it was a matching scheme to set him up. It works but not as expected. Turns out he's more interested in Simon. Simon's shy and reluctant to date after some challenging relationships. The two hit it off and Simon starts to learn ASL so he can better communicate with Adrian. Finding someone who can accept you as you are is a new experience for both men and brings them to trust each other. A great read.

[Tj · Rating 3 out of 5]

Adrian is deaf and instead of going the woe is me route, O'Riley wrote him as a strong accomplished character. Simon was working on learning ASL. No miracle cures were needed or wanted. This was refreshing.

I would have like more on page time for Simon and Adrian. It felt a little disconnected. While they have built a great network of friends, I would have loved less friends and more couple.

[CB · Rating 5 out of 5]

2nd time I've this series but first time I read this novel (there are now a total of 4 novels and 3 shorts that weren't all out when I read it the first time). Interesting stories and lovely, unique characters that are carried out through all the books - an engaging read.

[Sali · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was a okey read to me.
First book I read by this author and the writing style didn't do it for me, too descriptive, too much telling, not enough emotion..

[Diane Dannenfeldt · Rating 4 out of 5]

They are a perfect couple. I still would have liked to know why Simon's sister was doing what she did. Why should she even care. I still do not like the narrator.

[Rae Wedding · Rating 3 out of 5]

This wasn't as good as the other stories.

[Kristina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review coming Soon!

[Love Bytes Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Heart Review by Roberta

Wow, I was really excited when I say that the next book in the Desires Entwined Series was coming out and I couldn’t wait to get my hands on it. I was lucky enough to be able to review this book and let me say…I’m really glad that I did.

This story is Simon & Adrian’s story. We’ve met them both in the previous books. We met Adrian in Desires’ Guardian when he went on a date with Chase. We also met Simon in that book as well. Adrian was such a really great character. He wasn’t in the story for long, however, he did make a lasting impression, not only on Chase, but on the reader as well. Simon as well left an impression. Here is this guy who is a romance writer and yet, he has the worst luck when it comes to relationships, yet Simon is AMAZING when it comes to his friends.

Adrian has been Deaf all his life and that has NEVER slowed him down!! Adrian lives such a wonderfully full life with great friends and a Father who loves him just the way he is. His Mother…well, we never got to meet her on screen, but from what we heard…she’s one of those people who say that he needs to “act normal”. Sigh. Adrian is this really wonderful guy who is intelligent, kind, loving and just an all-around great guy. I’ve liked him since the moment I read about him in Desires Entwined. Just an Awesome Character and I had hoped to read more about him in a future book.

Simon has these wonderful friends/family who absolutely Love him!! Simon comes from money and in the past, he’s had boyfriends who have used him for money. Simon also has the family from Hell. Parents and sister who are so damn anti-gay, it’s not even funny. They are big into anti-gay policy and trying to make Simon into who they would like him to be and not even accepting who he is. Simon has been strong enough to stand his ground about being who he is and how he chooses to live his life. I like that Simon has these wonderful people in his life who love him just the way he is. Simon has a hard time believing that he’s worth being loved just as he is.

These two guys are so sweet together. This story didn’t have lots of angst, it was just a really sweet story that just made your heart warm. I really liked that this one didn’t have lots of whodunit and was just sweet and loving and about two men getting to know each other and falling in love.

Of course there were the characters that we met in the previous books and it was great to see again. I love seeing how their lives have continued and the love that we saw start is still going strong. I love seeing the continuation of some love stories.

Now there is some good sexy time loving on going on in this story, however, I will say that was never just sex for sex sake, it was to show the growing relationship between Simon and Adrian. It was sweet and tender and so very loving.

This book was a wonderful addition to the series and I can’t wait for the next book.

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.

[Alicia Nordwell · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fan of the series, especially the first book, I really enjoyed Signs of Desire. Each story in this series involves couples who really have to go the extra mile to be together--but it's always worth reading to follow their journey. The main characters for this book have one very important difference; Simon can hear but Adrian is deaf.

Both men have had a spotty record dating. Simon is a romance author who can't seem to find it himself. His trouble finding a man who wants him for him has led to a writing block, and he lets that push him into accepting an invite from friends to get away from the blinking cursor on a blank page. Adrian, a successful man who has put a phenomenal effort into fitting into "normal" society, has only found men who end up frustrated putting up with his inability to hear.

But Simon's different, or at least Adrian hopes he is. But can Adrian overcome the distrust that pushes him into punishing Simon for some of his past boyfriend's mistakes? Can Simon believe Adrian can care about him--just him--for no other reason? What happens when they both face hatred and discrimination for things they can't change; will it pull them closer or tear them apart?

As always, Tempeste has written a story that tugged at my heartstrings. I really cared about Adrian and Simon, and I was rooting for them to make it as a couple. The story has angst, but it's believable and realistic for a contemporary story; just enough to create conflict without being overdone. My biggest complaint is the completely random grammar call to capitalize Hearing and Deaf to describe people in the story. It felt wrong because those words are not proper nouns, yet they're being used that way to segregate characters based on a physical ability or lack thereof. A person is hearing or deaf--but that isn't who they are--so giving the words that level of import felt like it was deliberate to create a schism between the groups which didn't work for me as a reader. While that might work with another plot, Adrian doesn't want his partner to view him as incapable or capable based on whether or not he can hear, so to have him think that way in the writing was hypocritical.

[Barb ~rede-2-read~ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Audiobook provided through Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words in exchange for an impartial review.

My fourth audiobook in this series and it’s the one I liked best. Both MCs are sweet and special in their own way. Adrian is a professor at the local college and a computer expert. He’s deaf but that doesn’t stop him from doing whatever he wants to do. He’s the cutie we met in Chase’s story when Chase was trying to date him and Rhys got super jealous.

Simon is his newest love interest. Simon, one of James’s friends, has been around from the beginning of the series. He’s sweet and shy and an LGBTQ+ romance writer. He’s also extremely wealthy from a rich and powerful family who are pushing for reform that will counteract all the work done by gay rights groups. Needless to say, Simon doesn’t associate with them, but he’s been burned before by guys who only wanted his money, and he’s at the point where he doesn’t trust easily. When he meets Adrian, though, things change for the better.

From Adrian’s perspective, Simon is a great person to get to know better. He seems unlike many of the men in his past who treated him as if he was inferior, and he’s far from that. Simon immediately signs up to learn sign language and spends as much time as he can with Adrian so they can get to know one another.

The angst in this story comes primarily from Simon’s family and from both MCs’ distrust of relationships based on their past experiences. Overall, it’s a great romance and one that I would recommend to those who want to read something sweet and hopeful.

The narration was not bad, the vocalizations varied, but it could be better. This is the same narrator as books 2 and 3, and I finally figured out what I don’t like about his narration—he makes an extra-long pause at each comma. But it’s not just at each compound sentence comma—it’s each and every comma. This means he pauses for the commas used in direct address, appositives, and interrupters. It becomes annoying quickly. If I could wave a magic wand, I’d ask that he not do that, and then I’d be able to say the audiobook was perfect.

[Federica Lemme · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really like broken or imperfect characters and in my opinion, with the way this author describes (so delicately) her characters, she has mastered this with perfection. I also like the way she makes her characters so real and with the reintroduction of previous couples from earlier books, it makes addictive reading.

The storylines are always so strong. But I have to say, the writing is never brutal and that’s another reason why I continue to read this author.

Simon Tyler comes from a homophobic family that has never accepted him. Though very rich, he is what I would class as a “good guy”. He sees this as a handicap – how would he ever determine if someone was with him, for him? not his money? Though a gay romance writer, he has lost faith in true love and this is all down to a traumatic incident that left deep scars on his heart.

His one saviour, is his group of close and special friends, these are the MCs I spoke about from previous books.

One night he goes out with his friends and meets Adrian.

The attraction is instantaneous but Adrian is not sure? He is deaf and though he never lets his disability define the man he is, he is aware that it can cause problems. He was in a previous relationship with someone with full hearing and it didn’t end well! He is an IT Professor, has personal friends and a successful life…..can he take the risk again?

But he knows that Simon is different, he is special and he proves it by learning how to sign, who else but Simon, would do that?

Adrian can’t resist him, he’s sweet and so caring but most of all, hungry for Adrian’s love – together they can both face their fears and learn to trust again.

As in the previous books, there is not a lot of angst just a bit to make it interesting to readers, it’s a simple sweet love story with an added bonus of some wonderful characters.

So looking forward to the next book.

https://threebooksovertherainbow.word...

[Nikyta · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reviewed on The Blogger Girls.

When Chase convinces Adrian to come out for drinks, he doesn’t expect Chase to play matchmaker. And when he meets Simon, there’s an instant attraction but Adrian’s tried dating Hearing men before and hasn’t had much luck. Plus, Simon has his own issues and not looking to be in another relationship. Even with their own problems, the two can’t help but want to spend time together but someone’s determined to break them up. Will they be able to get passed the hurdles that seem to be inevitable when it comes to their relationship or will their insecurities and doubts be the downfall for them?

I really enjoyed this one. I absolutely loved Adrian as a character because he was confident and very comfortable in his own skin, which meant him being Deaf didn’t make him vulnerable. At the same time, I liked that Simon was willing to learn sign language for Adrian because it showed how serious he was for Adrian from the start. Add to that, I liked that Adrian wasn’t after Simon’s money and he proved that to Simon over and over. Together, they were such a cute couple and I just loved reading about them!

This was probably my favorite of the series so far but there was too much sex for my tastes. Aside from that, there wasn’t much of a conflict, IMO, so I felt like the story was a little too ‘easy’. With the way the other stories were, I expected something more…. intense towards the end. But I felt like the conflict was still unsolved a little (such as who took the picture of Simon).

Even so, I really enjoyed this one. I loved that Adrian being deaf didn’t make him a victim and that Simon was so willing to learn sign language for Adrian. They were adorable together and it was great seeing everyone else again. Definitely looking forward to the next book in this series!!!

[Avid Reader · Rating 4 out of 5]

Signs of Desire (Desires Entwined #4) by Tempeste O'Riley
3.5 stars
M/M Romance
I was given this book for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.

I really enjoyed this story. I liked that it was not an instant love connection. These stories are a good balance of romantic relationship and friendship. There was both give and take between the two characters and the sex was very hot.

Simon has been burned too many times and he is gun-shy when it comes to trust and developing relationships. He has a horrible family, that I wish had more to do with this story. I felt the situation could have been resolved more. While he is successful in all that he does, his wealth and status seem to be a deterrent for developing meaningful romantic relationship. But, Simon has amazing friends. And, when they set him up with Adrian, sparks not only fly, they catch fire.

Adrian is an amazing man. He is deaf, but that is only a part of what makes him so awesome. I wish that we had more about him in this story - what he does for the community of people he serves. I also wished that we knew more about his mom. She was talked about a lot, but nothing was really resolved in regard to her role and place in Adrian's life.

Overall, this was a sweet story that developed over a good amount of time. It had the previous characters in the story and created an even more awesome look inside this tight knit family. But, this story also left me wanting more development. I felt that O'Riley touched on a lot of things that could have been expounded on, but weren't. So, in the end, while it's a sweet story, I was left with a feeling of, "huh, guess that's it."

[Mari Cardenas · Rating 5 out of 5]

*** ARC provided to Bayou Book Junkie in exchange for a fair and honest review. ***

Simon Tyler hasn't had the best luck when it comes to relationships, and even if he's not sure he's ready to date again when his friend Chase introduces them to Adrian, so he can set him up with another of their friends, he's very attracted to him and hopes the attraction is reciprocated.

Adrian, a Deaf college professor, hasn't been all that lucky in love himself. Dating Hearing men in the past hasn't really worked for him, but he is more than willing to try again with Simon. Simon is really skittish, so he has to be very patient, but Adrian is nothing if not determined.

I really loved Simon and Adrian together. They were just what each of them needed in their life and while it was a somewhat rocky road at first, what with Simon's hangups and all, they managed to make the most of it and create something beautiful and lasting. I loved the way the author dealt with Adrian being Deaf and Simon's way of seeing it, never considering it a disability, and doing his best to learn to communicate with Adrian. I also enjoyed that their group of friends were such a big part of the story, as they made it richer. The only thing I can complain about is I would've have liked having more of a resolution on the Zoey—Simon's sister—issue, as I think it was left kind of hanging in the end. Still, the writing, as always, was awesome, the characters were really likeable and the chemistry between Simon and Adrian was both sweet and hot and even if it is part of a series, it can be read as a standalone. Very recommendable!

Rating: 4.5 Stars!!!

[Morgan Skye · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nikyta reviewed the book first here: https://thebloggergirls.com/2015/11/3...

I agree with her review for the most part. I really liked Adrian as a character and thought that all the information regarding being Deaf was fascinating. I thought Simon’s willingness to learn ASL and Adrian’s appreciation of that fact was perfect!

I thought Simon’s parents situation was a little odd, I wasn’t exactly sure how his sister fit into things or why she was acting so crazy, but I get that the story needed something to give it a little conflict and her shenanigans did that.

It was nice seeing the other couples again and I thought that the amount of sex was actually pretty appropriate given how slow this couple was to even move toward physical intimacy.

I really enjoyed this and again, I agree with Nikyta, that this was my favorite of the series.

4.5 of 5 stars

Audio

Jeff Gelder narrated the others in this series and I have to say that I just didn’t find his narration all that good. I think Adrian really deserved some sort of alteration to his voice – or at least an attempt at some sort of modulation – to illustrate his lack of hearing. When all the guys get together the voices begin to blur and it wasn’t always easy to discern which of them was speaking. I think Jeff Gelder tends to be sort of “flat” in his narration and though he isn’t hard to listen to, he doesn’t really add to the overall experience. If you need to listen, rather than read this, it’s a passable narration, but it isn’t necessarily the best way to enjoy this story.

2.5 of 5 stars

Overall 4 of 5 stars