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The Rainbow Connection #1-4
The Rainbow Connection: Volume I
Living a care-free party life-style, junior journalist and gay lifestyle reporter, Liam Adams thought he had it all; the money, the job, the endless supply of men in his bed. But when his work causes him to question the very foundation of the life he has built for himself, Liam finds certain areas are glaringly lacking. All it takes is one assignment to unravel the very fabric of his promiscuous antics, compounded by the arrival of a long-forgotten tryst. With the rusty screech of the mailroom guy's trolley wheels, Liam lands head-first in the arms of something bigger; something more. As the romance burgeons between Liam and the Mail-Manny of his dreams, each article he writes proves to uncover something new and never realized about himself, namely that all the one-night-stands in the world could never give him what he truly wants; love. In a slapstick commentary through the eyes of the world's most hypersensitive journalist, watch as Liam's story unfolds in the most ridiculous of fashions, leading him straight into the arms of love, via The Rainbow Connection.
202 pages, Paperback
First published November 10, 2013
26 people want to read
About the author
B.J. Sheppard
13 books41 followersI'm new to this game, so bear with me while I struggle my way blindly through, with only the help of half a road map and a crystal ball that's more paper-weight than portent. This series of short stories is a nice respite from the Shakespearean melodramas I usually produce, and I hope they give you half the laughs they gave me when I wrote them. More of the series will be available soon, so drop by and check them out when they find their way our of my brain and onto a page.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
August 18, 2017
Cross-posted at Outlaw Reviews and at Shelf Inflicted
Oh, what a loathsome character Liam Adams is! It was so hard for me to care about him initially, that I was tempted to set aside the book more than once. But who am I to judge? It’s not as if I’ve never made bad decisions, or had contempt for some of my co-workers, or gotten stinking drunk at lunchtime. So I kept reading, and while I never fell in love with Liam, I grew to appreciate his thought process, his sense of humor, his witty sarcasm, his view of the world, and empathized with him that at 28 years old, he has never been in love.
Liam is an aspiring author and works as a journalist for an online gay magazine. He’s good at his job and thrives on deadlines. When he writes an article about the reasons women love to read gay romances, and puts his soul into his work, he begins to see what he’s missing and yearns for more than the casual one-night stands he’s accustomed to.
I loved Liam’s relationship with the mail clerk, Manny, that started with a sizzling fuck on Liam’s desk and progressed to dinner and conversation. I also loved his boss, Lourdes, a tiny sassy woman with a penchant for wine.
Liam writes various articles of interest to the gay community and before long, his hilarious and unorthodox methods of research lead to problems in his newfound relationship. At the same time, I enjoyed the solid friendship between Liam and Lourdes and the significant growth in Liam’s character as he and Manny overcome communication barriers and start becoming honest with each other. Once Liam starts to think with his heart, he becomes a much better person, and one I gradually started to like.
Life is never simple, though. With Liam’s boss in rehab, a nasty new boss makes his life very difficult. Even though there is a love interest and hot sex, this is not a typical romance. Each character is unique and well developed, with strengths and flaws. Don’t look for the traditional happy ending, for you won’t find it here. No one is fortunate enough to have everything work out for them, and I’m really glad the author chose to write an unpredictable and more realistic ending. I’m confident that Liam’s strength, capacity for love, humor, and good friends will help him get through life’s difficulties.
I’m very much looking forward to the next installment!
*Book provided by author in exchange for an honest review.
Oh, what a loathsome character Liam Adams is! It was so hard for me to care about him initially, that I was tempted to set aside the book more than once. But who am I to judge? It’s not as if I’ve never made bad decisions, or had contempt for some of my co-workers, or gotten stinking drunk at lunchtime. So I kept reading, and while I never fell in love with Liam, I grew to appreciate his thought process, his sense of humor, his witty sarcasm, his view of the world, and empathized with him that at 28 years old, he has never been in love.
Liam is an aspiring author and works as a journalist for an online gay magazine. He’s good at his job and thrives on deadlines. When he writes an article about the reasons women love to read gay romances, and puts his soul into his work, he begins to see what he’s missing and yearns for more than the casual one-night stands he’s accustomed to.
“I wrote it with hope and I wrote it with my newfound sense of belief that, man or woman, the words of these books were reaching out to people. That it was the journey that mattered. And it flowed out of me like a red wine hangover. Pressure be damned; it was inspiration. I hit send, and off it went, through the interweb to that special place where things go that I have no idea about, ready to be read by our entire readership. I hoped, as I pressed send, that the people who read it would have their own journeys.”
I loved Liam’s relationship with the mail clerk, Manny, that started with a sizzling fuck on Liam’s desk and progressed to dinner and conversation. I also loved his boss, Lourdes, a tiny sassy woman with a penchant for wine.
“On days like these I was glad we were of the same ilk. Any other boss would have canned me on the spot, but not Lourdes. She liked a drink as much as the next hobo and I was completely convinced she sprinkled Prozac on her cornflakes in the morning.”
Liam writes various articles of interest to the gay community and before long, his hilarious and unorthodox methods of research lead to problems in his newfound relationship. At the same time, I enjoyed the solid friendship between Liam and Lourdes and the significant growth in Liam’s character as he and Manny overcome communication barriers and start becoming honest with each other. Once Liam starts to think with his heart, he becomes a much better person, and one I gradually started to like.
Life is never simple, though. With Liam’s boss in rehab, a nasty new boss makes his life very difficult. Even though there is a love interest and hot sex, this is not a typical romance. Each character is unique and well developed, with strengths and flaws. Don’t look for the traditional happy ending, for you won’t find it here. No one is fortunate enough to have everything work out for them, and I’m really glad the author chose to write an unpredictable and more realistic ending. I’m confident that Liam’s strength, capacity for love, humor, and good friends will help him get through life’s difficulties.
I’m very much looking forward to the next installment!
*Book provided by author in exchange for an honest review.
December 21, 2014
'The Rainbow Connection - Vol 1' by BJ Sheppard is, I'm embarrassed to admit, the first book by this incredibly talented young man that I've had the pleasure of reading. It had been recommended so many times, it was inevitable I was going to read it. I'm only sorry it took me so long. This author's voice is one of confidence, and humor, with a cheeky wit. To say the least, I was in love.
Liam, at twenty-eight, has lived his life as one never-ending party, filled with alcohol, and one-night stands. He's never been in love, and no one has ever been in love with him. The entire concept is foreign to him. When his editor assigns him an article for their monthly gay magazine Rainbow Connection, Liam comes up with the idea of writing about why so many women, and middle-aged ones at that, read gay, male on male romance books. Unfortunately, Liam realizes that he wants that kind of romance, and how come he hasn't had it? Bad questions to ponder on a good day. Even worse with a hangover.
Liam and Mail Manny, who've had two trysts on the top of Liam's desk, agree they're both interested in finding the same thing, and venture into this strange world together. Meanwhile Liam's editor, Lourdes, who seems to be one step away from severe alcoholism, if not already drowning in it, decides to make the monthly magazine Liam's main focus. Now he just has to keep coming up with topics that he can write about before his deadline is up. If only the topics he thinks he can write about—salacious lives of gay hookups and other sordid affairs—is what his libido, his mind, and, ultimately his heart, want to write. Liam is just lucky enough to find himself and what he really wants, through the course of his "research", so to speak.
Hands down, this is one of the funniest books I've ever read, and one of the best character studies. Assuming, that is, you like your character to be sarcastic, and having the most bizarre things happen to him that would never happen to a normal person. Example - Manny surprises Liam by showing up at Liam's place with his mother, who then finds Liam's box of D/s supplies. Awkward doesn't begin to cover that. When Lourdes gets sent to mandatory rehab (read the book for that hilarious piece), the CEO's son, Rory, an old and bitter rival of Liam's, becomes his boss for the month, and, well…let me just say that was, and wasn't, one of Liam's better moments.
An absolutely fantastic book that is over the top, with humor, sex, and human foibles. Excellent work, BJ. I look forward to more.
Liam, at twenty-eight, has lived his life as one never-ending party, filled with alcohol, and one-night stands. He's never been in love, and no one has ever been in love with him. The entire concept is foreign to him. When his editor assigns him an article for their monthly gay magazine Rainbow Connection, Liam comes up with the idea of writing about why so many women, and middle-aged ones at that, read gay, male on male romance books. Unfortunately, Liam realizes that he wants that kind of romance, and how come he hasn't had it? Bad questions to ponder on a good day. Even worse with a hangover.
Liam and Mail Manny, who've had two trysts on the top of Liam's desk, agree they're both interested in finding the same thing, and venture into this strange world together. Meanwhile Liam's editor, Lourdes, who seems to be one step away from severe alcoholism, if not already drowning in it, decides to make the monthly magazine Liam's main focus. Now he just has to keep coming up with topics that he can write about before his deadline is up. If only the topics he thinks he can write about—salacious lives of gay hookups and other sordid affairs—is what his libido, his mind, and, ultimately his heart, want to write. Liam is just lucky enough to find himself and what he really wants, through the course of his "research", so to speak.
Hands down, this is one of the funniest books I've ever read, and one of the best character studies. Assuming, that is, you like your character to be sarcastic, and having the most bizarre things happen to him that would never happen to a normal person. Example - Manny surprises Liam by showing up at Liam's place with his mother, who then finds Liam's box of D/s supplies. Awkward doesn't begin to cover that. When Lourdes gets sent to mandatory rehab (read the book for that hilarious piece), the CEO's son, Rory, an old and bitter rival of Liam's, becomes his boss for the month, and, well…let me just say that was, and wasn't, one of Liam's better moments.
An absolutely fantastic book that is over the top, with humor, sex, and human foibles. Excellent work, BJ. I look forward to more.
April 6, 2015
I received a copy of this book via Goodreads' Don't Buy My Love program in exchange for my honest review.
This is a funny M/M contemporary romance.
Liam is a party boy writing fluff pieces for an e-zine about gay life. He's an expert in most things, except falling in love.
He writes a column about the reasons women like gay romance and it gets him thinking...he's stunned how the women swoon for the vulnerability of men loving men with the whole hearts. Funny, for an active gay man he's never had that. He's had a lot of all kinds of coupling, but not emotional depth or feeling. And, he finds he likes the idea, in theory. And he gets the chance to test it out with Manny, the burly mail clerk.
Liam and Manny had a tryst a couple years back, and Liam hasn't ever forgotten the experience. They decide to give it a go, dating that is, and everything is hectic. Liam is a bit of an insecure man, and his job is an hindrance to romance. Writing articles on fetish experiences and est cruising sites leads to very embarrassing situations for Liam.
I do love Liam's self-deprecating POV. He's also Mayor of Snarkopolis, cutting through the BS with his verbal machete. He and Manny seem to be doing okay, until Liam gets a new boss, Rory, whose entire modus operandi is to one-up Liam in everything, including sexual partners. Rory has a lusty eye on Manny, and everybody knows this is not going to end well.
The book rollicks along with complete (usually unfounded) angst from Liam. He's so nervous he'll get hurt, that he ends up hurting himself. And, Manny.
The end was a bit of an HFN-limbo, which I wasn't taken with. Clearly the full resolution occurs down the road in another volume. I also struggled because I THOUGHT the book was set in London, then it seemed to be set in the US, and that didn't make any sense with the diction or descriptions, to me...perhaps I was wrong about this, but it was jarring to me.
This is a funny M/M contemporary romance.
Liam is a party boy writing fluff pieces for an e-zine about gay life. He's an expert in most things, except falling in love.
He writes a column about the reasons women like gay romance and it gets him thinking...he's stunned how the women swoon for the vulnerability of men loving men with the whole hearts. Funny, for an active gay man he's never had that. He's had a lot of all kinds of coupling, but not emotional depth or feeling. And, he finds he likes the idea, in theory. And he gets the chance to test it out with Manny, the burly mail clerk.
Liam and Manny had a tryst a couple years back, and Liam hasn't ever forgotten the experience. They decide to give it a go, dating that is, and everything is hectic. Liam is a bit of an insecure man, and his job is an hindrance to romance. Writing articles on fetish experiences and est cruising sites leads to very embarrassing situations for Liam.
I do love Liam's self-deprecating POV. He's also Mayor of Snarkopolis, cutting through the BS with his verbal machete. He and Manny seem to be doing okay, until Liam gets a new boss, Rory, whose entire modus operandi is to one-up Liam in everything, including sexual partners. Rory has a lusty eye on Manny, and everybody knows this is not going to end well.
The book rollicks along with complete (usually unfounded) angst from Liam. He's so nervous he'll get hurt, that he ends up hurting himself. And, Manny.
The end was a bit of an HFN-limbo, which I wasn't taken with. Clearly the full resolution occurs down the road in another volume. I also struggled because I THOUGHT the book was set in London, then it seemed to be set in the US, and that didn't make any sense with the diction or descriptions, to me...perhaps I was wrong about this, but it was jarring to me.
November 11, 2014
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this novel, but that has no bearing on this review.
This is very 'raw' writing, unpolished in some respects, (which is no bad thing!) the sort of uncomplicated style that can be painful to read at times. It's 'Marmite' writing, you either love it or loathe it IMHO. In some respects it reminds me of The Cool Part of His Pillow. Its a gutsy, honest portrayal of life, that moves at a steady pace through the highs and lows with rich, detailed descriptions and some cracking good dialogue.
The characters are not easy to read about, but they come to life on the page; Liam is totally believable, as is Manny and teere are some very subtle moments where the author twists events so that I, as a reader, felt embarrassed at my erroneous (and stereotypical) preconceptions of some of the characters.
There were a few SPaG errors, but nothing serious enough to pull me out of the book and I finished it with a sense of satisfaction at having found a detailed, amusing, tragic and also uplifting story.
This is very 'raw' writing, unpolished in some respects, (which is no bad thing!) the sort of uncomplicated style that can be painful to read at times. It's 'Marmite' writing, you either love it or loathe it IMHO. In some respects it reminds me of The Cool Part of His Pillow. Its a gutsy, honest portrayal of life, that moves at a steady pace through the highs and lows with rich, detailed descriptions and some cracking good dialogue.
The characters are not easy to read about, but they come to life on the page; Liam is totally believable, as is Manny and teere are some very subtle moments where the author twists events so that I, as a reader, felt embarrassed at my erroneous (and stereotypical) preconceptions of some of the characters.
There were a few SPaG errors, but nothing serious enough to pull me out of the book and I finished it with a sense of satisfaction at having found a detailed, amusing, tragic and also uplifting story.
May 12, 2015
This book was provided for free by the author in exchange for an honest review.
This book kind of blew me away. The starting of this book is on a very reflective and introspective tone which, right in the beginning of the book put me off because, I had no connection with the MC to be interested in his point of view, no matter how poignant. But I persevered and WOW...this book was an extremely funny read about 'The Life and Times of the very quirky and eccentric Liam Adams'. Liam's POV was really different and enlightening.
I really liked the writing style of the various parts, the whole "'x' days to deadline" thing and the article at the end of a part (even though we didn't get to read the article on New Year Resolutions and I would have loved too) was nicely done and extremely refreshing. Also the whole journalism aspect got a very different perspective from Liam on things that we generally don't get in a conventional romance. But in some ways it felt like at the same time that we were reading Liam's story he was kind of reading about us. I mean the whole "Why do women read M/M romance?" thing gave me this surreal feeling that Liam was trying to analyze me (the reader) which was unique and intriguing.
I liked the changing phases of his life. In a lot of ways side characters in books tend to stay stagnant but in this book, the side characters themselves showed dramatic changes in their personalities and for some, appearances as well.
I loved the way the romance between Liam and Manny has been showcased in this book though I am not at all satisfied with where this book left their relationship. I need more for Liam and Manny and would love to get my hands on the next volume. Also in hindsight I would love more background on those two especially Manny since we basically live inside Liam's head.
Also a very refreshing aspect of this book was Liam's relationship with Lourdes. Those two are meant for each other. I mean they have got to be two people from very different slices of life who have got the same approach to life. I loved their conversations and ridiculous idea and all their liquid lunches.
This book is funny and interesting and at-times poignant and most-of the-times sex obsessed and really eccentrically quirky and definitely entertaining.
Overall I loved the characters, the writing style and the fact that this book actually got me thinking, which is always nice.
This book kind of blew me away. The starting of this book is on a very reflective and introspective tone which, right in the beginning of the book put me off because, I had no connection with the MC to be interested in his point of view, no matter how poignant. But I persevered and WOW...this book was an extremely funny read about 'The Life and Times of the very quirky and eccentric Liam Adams'. Liam's POV was really different and enlightening.
I really liked the writing style of the various parts, the whole "'x' days to deadline" thing and the article at the end of a part (even though we didn't get to read the article on New Year Resolutions and I would have loved too) was nicely done and extremely refreshing. Also the whole journalism aspect got a very different perspective from Liam on things that we generally don't get in a conventional romance. But in some ways it felt like at the same time that we were reading Liam's story he was kind of reading about us. I mean the whole "Why do women read M/M romance?" thing gave me this surreal feeling that Liam was trying to analyze me (the reader) which was unique and intriguing.
I liked the changing phases of his life. In a lot of ways side characters in books tend to stay stagnant but in this book, the side characters themselves showed dramatic changes in their personalities and for some, appearances as well.
I loved the way the romance between Liam and Manny has been showcased in this book though I am not at all satisfied with where this book left their relationship. I need more for Liam and Manny and would love to get my hands on the next volume. Also in hindsight I would love more background on those two especially Manny since we basically live inside Liam's head.
Also a very refreshing aspect of this book was Liam's relationship with Lourdes. Those two are meant for each other. I mean they have got to be two people from very different slices of life who have got the same approach to life. I loved their conversations and ridiculous idea and all their liquid lunches.
This book is funny and interesting and at-times poignant and most-of the-times sex obsessed and really eccentrically quirky and definitely entertaining.
Overall I loved the characters, the writing style and the fact that this book actually got me thinking, which is always nice.
April 11, 2015
I picked this book up and put it aside time after time.... read a page or two, shake my head, set it down; read another page and clutch my stomach, set it down; rinse and repeat; over and over again.
First and foremost, I didn't like Liam, the main character. Sadly, not a single thing about him was appealing. Not his voice, not his actions, not his sense of humor...nothing.
The only reaction other than apathy that I had to this was the nausea evoked by some of the numerous descriptions. Time and time again I'd tell myself that it must just be my mood and that if I'd set it aside until later I'd discover the wonderful book that earned all of those high ratings that it has. Time and time again I tried and failed to find the humor or any other emotion, but I just couldn't.
I'm sorry to say that this just wasn't for me.
I was provided a copy of this book by the author through the GRs m/m romance group's DBML program in exchange for a fair and honest review.
First and foremost, I didn't like Liam, the main character. Sadly, not a single thing about him was appealing. Not his voice, not his actions, not his sense of humor...nothing.
The only reaction other than apathy that I had to this was the nausea evoked by some of the numerous descriptions. Time and time again I'd tell myself that it must just be my mood and that if I'd set it aside until later I'd discover the wonderful book that earned all of those high ratings that it has. Time and time again I tried and failed to find the humor or any other emotion, but I just couldn't.
I'm sorry to say that this just wasn't for me.
I was provided a copy of this book by the author through the GRs m/m romance group's DBML program in exchange for a fair and honest review.
July 3, 2014
Oh dear. Huge sigh! I love this series. I do. It is so rare that a collection of stories can leave me positively teary-eyed and weak from laughter but The Rainbow Connection: Volume 1 by BJ Sheppard does it every time. I can only say that this author’s humor strikes something within me and truly leaves me shaking my head in giddy wonderment at the way he twists a phrase to wring every ounce of hilarity from it. Having reviewed the first three short stories in this collection already (find those reviews linked at the bottom of this review), I will be focusing on the fourth and latest installment: Blasts From the Past and Plaster Casts. For those of you unfamiliar with this series, this would be the moment when I tell you to stop reading this review and go to the first one listed below as none of this will make a bit of sense without having read the series from the beginning.
Lourdes, Liam’s gin-soaked boss, is doing her stint in rehab and the CEO’s erstwhile son, Rory, has taken over. Rory is quite notably a bit of a whore by anyone’s standard, as well as a pain in the proverbial arse to work under. Never one to back down from a challenge of an opportunity to screw over Liam, Rory manages to home in on the fact that Manny is Liam’s boyfriend, and makes it his business to seduce said mail room worker. As his article deadline approaches, Liam begins to realize he and Manny knew less than they thought they did about each other. Now the question remains, will Manny still be there when the deadline is past, or is there relationship about to crumble?
Oh, BJ Sheppard, what have you done? Once again, the characters in this ongoing saga crash and bumble their way through life with such genuineness it makes your heart hurt to see them suffer the pitfalls of life we all must endure. I really wanted to wrap Liam up and take care of him, particularly as he watches the man he loves being drawn away from him piece by piece. But Manny, so stalwart, so loyal, surely he can be strong against the horribly vile and smarmy machinations of Rory? The sheer genius of this story is the author’s ability to give us this unique window into Liam’s troubled and oft times hilarious inner dialogue. With a keen eye to human behavior and its foibles, the author adds emotional layer after layer to the life story of our dear Liam, and we watch with both compassion and delight as he continually screws things up and yet continually manages to come out on top. Well, almost.
As always, the secondary characters in this story provide more than just comic relief. Indeed, it is in this segment that we are made to realize just how much his co-workers are really looking out for Liam and have his back. We grow to love Lourdes even more, if that is possible, and the scene at the rehab center nearly left me in a puddle of tears—and not from sadness! So, back to that little sentence above, dear Mr. Sheppard, what have you done? I cannot say more other than to remark, if you have been a fan of this series, this one will rock you to the core. If perchance, this is your first dance with the delightful BJ Sheppard and his stunning crew of misfits, then read them all, each one, and savor them! The reviews for Parts, I, 2 and 3 are listed in order below! Enjoy!!
Note to Author: I NEED part 5!!! Please!
Lourdes, Liam’s gin-soaked boss, is doing her stint in rehab and the CEO’s erstwhile son, Rory, has taken over. Rory is quite notably a bit of a whore by anyone’s standard, as well as a pain in the proverbial arse to work under. Never one to back down from a challenge of an opportunity to screw over Liam, Rory manages to home in on the fact that Manny is Liam’s boyfriend, and makes it his business to seduce said mail room worker. As his article deadline approaches, Liam begins to realize he and Manny knew less than they thought they did about each other. Now the question remains, will Manny still be there when the deadline is past, or is there relationship about to crumble?
Oh, BJ Sheppard, what have you done? Once again, the characters in this ongoing saga crash and bumble their way through life with such genuineness it makes your heart hurt to see them suffer the pitfalls of life we all must endure. I really wanted to wrap Liam up and take care of him, particularly as he watches the man he loves being drawn away from him piece by piece. But Manny, so stalwart, so loyal, surely he can be strong against the horribly vile and smarmy machinations of Rory? The sheer genius of this story is the author’s ability to give us this unique window into Liam’s troubled and oft times hilarious inner dialogue. With a keen eye to human behavior and its foibles, the author adds emotional layer after layer to the life story of our dear Liam, and we watch with both compassion and delight as he continually screws things up and yet continually manages to come out on top. Well, almost.
As always, the secondary characters in this story provide more than just comic relief. Indeed, it is in this segment that we are made to realize just how much his co-workers are really looking out for Liam and have his back. We grow to love Lourdes even more, if that is possible, and the scene at the rehab center nearly left me in a puddle of tears—and not from sadness! So, back to that little sentence above, dear Mr. Sheppard, what have you done? I cannot say more other than to remark, if you have been a fan of this series, this one will rock you to the core. If perchance, this is your first dance with the delightful BJ Sheppard and his stunning crew of misfits, then read them all, each one, and savor them! The reviews for Parts, I, 2 and 3 are listed in order below! Enjoy!!
Note to Author: I NEED part 5!!! Please!
April 5, 2015
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Readers first meet Liam as he's waking, hungover, in bed with two strangers. His dissatisfaction at having these one night stand with strangers and not building an emotional aspect is wearing on him. He's twenty-eight yrs old and may or may not have a drinking problem and is at the point in his life where he's ready to settle down and commit. What he seeks is found in the mail room clerk, Manny. Readers follow along on his adventure of mishap while he's researching for the ezine magazine he writes for and the effect it has on his love life.
I loved reading Liam's articles and what he learned from his little forays of research. His insecurities towards his and Manny's relationship was sweet to see and just spotlighted how serious and how much he cared.
His misadventures into new experiences for his articles sometimes had me cracking up just because of the sticky situations and his reactions.
The last part of the book had my heart in a vice grip. The thought of Manny betraying Liam and Liam's own worry about what seemed to be unfolding was sad and a tad terrifying to see. I'll definitely be keeping an eye out for the next volume.
Readers first meet Liam as he's waking, hungover, in bed with two strangers. His dissatisfaction at having these one night stand with strangers and not building an emotional aspect is wearing on him. He's twenty-eight yrs old and may or may not have a drinking problem and is at the point in his life where he's ready to settle down and commit. What he seeks is found in the mail room clerk, Manny. Readers follow along on his adventure of mishap while he's researching for the ezine magazine he writes for and the effect it has on his love life.
I loved reading Liam's articles and what he learned from his little forays of research. His insecurities towards his and Manny's relationship was sweet to see and just spotlighted how serious and how much he cared.
His misadventures into new experiences for his articles sometimes had me cracking up just because of the sticky situations and his reactions.
The last part of the book had my heart in a vice grip. The thought of Manny betraying Liam and Liam's own worry about what seemed to be unfolding was sad and a tad terrifying to see. I'll definitely be keeping an eye out for the next volume.
October 8, 2015
I got this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
So let me start off by saying that I've read a few of BJ Sheppard's works. And those were really, really sweet, emotional kinda stories. The kind where, you know, you sigh a little, and you coo a little and generally go 'aww'.
'The Rainbow Connection' is most definitely not a work that will make you go 'aww' (okay maybe it might do that. Occasionally.). But it will most definitely make you laugh. It will also make you sigh with exasperation (and a whole lot of amusement) at all the shenanigans that our MC gets into.
Liam Adams writes a column for the LGBT section of a magazine, and he has a thing for Mailroom Manny, who he's fucked on his desk and still has the scuff marks to remember him by.
The stories that desk could tell. Indeed.
He's a little paranoid, a whole lot funny, but also pretty judgmental and some of his comments about his co-workers made me cringe (even if it was meant to be funny, I've never liked the kind of humor that attacks someone else).
But then again, I know people like that exist, and people really do say such things about other people, and that leads me to the conclusion that Liam is pretty shallow. He's a little insecure, a little whiny, and quite a bit difficult to like at this point.
I really liked all the supporting characters. I loved mailroom Manny, who is apparently not all he seems he is (There's a big surprise at the end of this book oh my), and I really liked his simple and straightforward character. He's really kind of adorable. He was like. A Golden retriever or something. (Opposed to Liam's personality, which is sort of like a pug, or a chihuahua, or something? IDK where I'm going with this.)
I also like Lourdes, the Alcoholic editor. I really liked her.
“I didn’t do it.” The words escaped automatically, my only-child retort as unbelievable as it had been with my parents when I was a kid.
“Beg to differ. Aside from the fact that you smell like penis, I just got a call from Bill Hayward and Primary Inc. Apparently he just saw an Asian schoolgirl getting murdered by a great ape in the corner office on floor six.”
See? Difficult to not like a person who reacts like that on finding out that her employees had desk sex during office hours.
Liam gets into all sorts of adventures, and really, it's a hoot to read about. Like his foray into BDSM with Manny (his safe word is Shotgun, btw):
“Prepare yourself, boy,” he whispered, bringing the leather tines up in line with my exposed ass.
Oh God. Oh Jesus Fucking Christ.
I clenched my body to receive the strike, praying it would not hurt as much as I thought it would.
Thwack.
It didn’t hurt as much as I thought it would. It hurt more.
“SHOTGUN SHOTGUN SHOTGUN.”
I laughed so hard at that. I laugh whenever I think about it. I might laugh every time I hear the word shotgun, but I digress.
On one hand, this is an entertaining book. I enjoyed reading it, even if I felt like at some parts it was kind of predictable and stuff. It was full of funny moments (except for a few dramatic moments towards the end), and I liked seeing Dramatic, over-the-top, shallow Liam grow into someone I actually learned to like by the end of the book, so kudos to the author on that.
The heat levels were also pretty intense, and so damn yummy to read.
On the other hand, this book is obviously part of a series, , and I was disappointed by that. I want to read what happens later right NOW. It's just not fair.
There were also quite a few typos in the book, like 'scold' instead of 'scald', but I guess I can excuse that.
I liked this book because of the characters, the humor, Manny, the humor, Lourdes, and the humor. Liam's thought processes are priceless, even when he's imagining killing people.
I would have given it five, but it just didn't take me to that five star place, give me that five star high. Perhaps because I didn't really get a feel for the MC till later on, maybe, or because it didn't make me emotionally invest myself. But it is definitely worth a read for the smart writing.
Four stars.
So let me start off by saying that I've read a few of BJ Sheppard's works. And those were really, really sweet, emotional kinda stories. The kind where, you know, you sigh a little, and you coo a little and generally go 'aww'.
'The Rainbow Connection' is most definitely not a work that will make you go 'aww' (okay maybe it might do that. Occasionally.). But it will most definitely make you laugh. It will also make you sigh with exasperation (and a whole lot of amusement) at all the shenanigans that our MC gets into.
Liam Adams writes a column for the LGBT section of a magazine, and he has a thing for Mailroom Manny, who he's fucked on his desk and still has the scuff marks to remember him by.
The stories that desk could tell. Indeed.
He's a little paranoid, a whole lot funny, but also pretty judgmental and some of his comments about his co-workers made me cringe (even if it was meant to be funny, I've never liked the kind of humor that attacks someone else).
But then again, I know people like that exist, and people really do say such things about other people, and that leads me to the conclusion that Liam is pretty shallow. He's a little insecure, a little whiny, and quite a bit difficult to like at this point.
I really liked all the supporting characters. I loved mailroom Manny, who is apparently not all he seems he is (There's a big surprise at the end of this book oh my), and I really liked his simple and straightforward character. He's really kind of adorable. He was like. A Golden retriever or something. (Opposed to Liam's personality, which is sort of like a pug, or a chihuahua, or something? IDK where I'm going with this.)
I also like Lourdes, the Alcoholic editor. I really liked her.
“I didn’t do it.” The words escaped automatically, my only-child retort as unbelievable as it had been with my parents when I was a kid.
“Beg to differ. Aside from the fact that you smell like penis, I just got a call from Bill Hayward and Primary Inc. Apparently he just saw an Asian schoolgirl getting murdered by a great ape in the corner office on floor six.”
See? Difficult to not like a person who reacts like that on finding out that her employees had desk sex during office hours.
Liam gets into all sorts of adventures, and really, it's a hoot to read about. Like his foray into BDSM with Manny (his safe word is Shotgun, btw):
“Prepare yourself, boy,” he whispered, bringing the leather tines up in line with my exposed ass.
Oh God. Oh Jesus Fucking Christ.
I clenched my body to receive the strike, praying it would not hurt as much as I thought it would.
Thwack.
It didn’t hurt as much as I thought it would. It hurt more.
“SHOTGUN SHOTGUN SHOTGUN.”
I laughed so hard at that. I laugh whenever I think about it. I might laugh every time I hear the word shotgun, but I digress.
On one hand, this is an entertaining book. I enjoyed reading it, even if I felt like at some parts it was kind of predictable and stuff. It was full of funny moments (except for a few dramatic moments towards the end), and I liked seeing Dramatic, over-the-top, shallow Liam grow into someone I actually learned to like by the end of the book, so kudos to the author on that.
The heat levels were also pretty intense, and so damn yummy to read.
On the other hand, this book is obviously part of a series, , and I was disappointed by that. I want to read what happens later right NOW. It's just not fair.
There were also quite a few typos in the book, like 'scold' instead of 'scald', but I guess I can excuse that.
I liked this book because of the characters, the humor, Manny, the humor, Lourdes, and the humor. Liam's thought processes are priceless, even when he's imagining killing people.
I would have given it five, but it just didn't take me to that five star place, give me that five star high. Perhaps because I didn't really get a feel for the MC till later on, maybe, or because it didn't make me emotionally invest myself. But it is definitely worth a read for the smart writing.
Four stars.
April 19, 2015
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review as part of the Goodreads M/M Romance Group Don't Buy My Love program.
4.5 Stars
Ok I'm just getting around to writing the review for The Rainbow Connection Volume I but I have a good reason...I've been searching for the next installment in the series. I mean really, what does coming soon mean? I want it now!
I'll admit I'm hooked. B.J. Sheppard is a fresh new voice to the m/m genre and oh how sweet it is. This is the second book I've read by the author, the first made me want to cry, Always Have, Always Will and this one gave me bouts of laughing fits.
I don't think I can do this book justice with my review. You've read the blurb so you know we have a reformed party boy (Liam) looking for love with a past fling (Mail-Manny). This story could have been called Liam's Great Adventure as he discovers what he has been missing by only having one-offs with men because the things Laim does for the sake of article and his relationship are not for the faint of heart.
The story is told from Liam's POV and the thoughts that go through his head will have you cracking up. I loved Liam's boss/friend Lourdes, her comments are just as in your face as Liam's thoughts. The only thing I wish was that there was a little more insight to Manny. I don't think I knew as much about him as some of the other characters which made me think Liam didn't as well and lead to the events towards the end story.
Yeah that's something didn't care for was the ending but that's okay because there is going to be more...I just have to figure out when "coming soon" is!
Either way I think you will enjoy this collection of stories. Mr. Sheppard has a unique writing style and the layout of this collection is very different in a fun way. If you have a problem with people drinking before noon, making fun of your co-workers in their head or on their lunch break, and steamy office sex then this might not be for you LOL! This story is amazingly funny and sweet, I'm enjoying watching Liam grow along with what's turning into his merry band of co-works.
Honestly I want the next installment NOW!
4.5 Stars
Ok I'm just getting around to writing the review for The Rainbow Connection Volume I but I have a good reason...I've been searching for the next installment in the series. I mean really, what does coming soon mean? I want it now!
I'll admit I'm hooked. B.J. Sheppard is a fresh new voice to the m/m genre and oh how sweet it is. This is the second book I've read by the author, the first made me want to cry, Always Have, Always Will and this one gave me bouts of laughing fits.
I don't think I can do this book justice with my review. You've read the blurb so you know we have a reformed party boy (Liam) looking for love with a past fling (Mail-Manny). This story could have been called Liam's Great Adventure as he discovers what he has been missing by only having one-offs with men because the things Laim does for the sake of article and his relationship are not for the faint of heart.
The story is told from Liam's POV and the thoughts that go through his head will have you cracking up. I loved Liam's boss/friend Lourdes, her comments are just as in your face as Liam's thoughts. The only thing I wish was that there was a little more insight to Manny. I don't think I knew as much about him as some of the other characters which made me think Liam didn't as well and lead to the events towards the end story.
Yeah that's something didn't care for was the ending but that's okay because there is going to be more...I just have to figure out when "coming soon" is!
Either way I think you will enjoy this collection of stories. Mr. Sheppard has a unique writing style and the layout of this collection is very different in a fun way. If you have a problem with people drinking before noon, making fun of your co-workers in their head or on their lunch break, and steamy office sex then this might not be for you LOL! This story is amazingly funny and sweet, I'm enjoying watching Liam grow along with what's turning into his merry band of co-works.
Honestly I want the next installment NOW!
January 12, 2015
I . Loved. This. Story. So much.
It’s a quick read, full of snark, humor and ends with super hot sexy time. Liam’s voice is pretty much my favorite thing and his inner musings had me chuckling out loud and cringing (in a funny, ha-ha, ewwww) way repeatedly. And while he’s hilarious, he’s also brave enough to tackle the questions about the fans of MM romance. Why are they mostly woman and why does that even work? The author did an AMAZING job of getting the ideas and personalities together of MM fans in general. It was sweet, smart and thoughtful without being pandering or patronizing.
Liam is questioning his ideals and the path his life is on while he is tasked to write an article for the magazine he works for. His research has consisted of cruising online porn to an endless stream of writes and rewrites and nothing is working for him. His struggles with his article (and his newly discovered wants) are punctuated by his colorful coworkers and his commentary on them is priceless.
Then Liam finally finds his path and admits that his life is missing an important thing or two and the words start to flow. He learns about more than just the MM fandom, he also learns about himself and he sees it’s ok to want more than what he has gotten use to settling for.
“I wanted to cry that male-male romance writers had stolen my happily ever after, that I never knew I wanted but now could not stop thinking about. I wanted, in all honesty though it is embarrassing to admit, to ask if anyone in the office thought they could love me (*note to self: desperation is a home shopping channel fleece covered in picture of wolves that is in no way a good look for you).”
I love enlightened Liam. I also love slightly buzzed Liam and Liam under deadline pressure with “more caffeine in his bloodstream than humanly possible”.
There are more parts to this story and I can’t wait to read them. This one ends with an incredibly steamy (and hopeful) HFN. Nothing may come of this particular encounter, but dammit I hope it does. At least Liam leaves us at the end of Volume 1 satiated and with a hopeful and completely amused heart.
It’s a quick read, full of snark, humor and ends with super hot sexy time. Liam’s voice is pretty much my favorite thing and his inner musings had me chuckling out loud and cringing (in a funny, ha-ha, ewwww) way repeatedly. And while he’s hilarious, he’s also brave enough to tackle the questions about the fans of MM romance. Why are they mostly woman and why does that even work? The author did an AMAZING job of getting the ideas and personalities together of MM fans in general. It was sweet, smart and thoughtful without being pandering or patronizing.
Liam is questioning his ideals and the path his life is on while he is tasked to write an article for the magazine he works for. His research has consisted of cruising online porn to an endless stream of writes and rewrites and nothing is working for him. His struggles with his article (and his newly discovered wants) are punctuated by his colorful coworkers and his commentary on them is priceless.
Then Liam finally finds his path and admits that his life is missing an important thing or two and the words start to flow. He learns about more than just the MM fandom, he also learns about himself and he sees it’s ok to want more than what he has gotten use to settling for.
“I wanted to cry that male-male romance writers had stolen my happily ever after, that I never knew I wanted but now could not stop thinking about. I wanted, in all honesty though it is embarrassing to admit, to ask if anyone in the office thought they could love me (*note to self: desperation is a home shopping channel fleece covered in picture of wolves that is in no way a good look for you).”
I love enlightened Liam. I also love slightly buzzed Liam and Liam under deadline pressure with “more caffeine in his bloodstream than humanly possible”.
There are more parts to this story and I can’t wait to read them. This one ends with an incredibly steamy (and hopeful) HFN. Nothing may come of this particular encounter, but dammit I hope it does. At least Liam leaves us at the end of Volume 1 satiated and with a hopeful and completely amused heart.
April 23, 2015
*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
It was very hard to figure out how many start to give this book: I couldn’t decide between 1 or 4,5.
All in all, I liked this book. Maybe even liked it very much. It was funny, sharp and had a nice pace. But… there are a few very, very big buts here, which made it hard for me.
First of all: the alcohol. The MC, Liam, and his boss Lourdes consume vast amounts of alcohol. Huge. Liam even refers to himself as an alcoholic a few times, and, quite frankly, if I knew someone who drank like that, I’d call them an alcoholic too.
But it’s just not treated with the respect that alcohol abuse should be treated.
It’s more like a Bridget Jones, liquid-lunch, another-Merlot-dahling kinda thing, and I just can’t stomach that. There’s nothing fun, charming or romantic about alcoholism, and I resent people who try to make light of it.
Second, the writing is funny, engaging and sharp, but it also tends to be quite over-the-top. For a book that makes fun of bad porn clichés, there sure are a lot of “sweet, sweet love tunnels”, “stiff tower of his frantically quivering meat” and bitchy gay men who simper and roll their eyes and have sex with everything.
Liam was a challenge for me. It’s a first person narrative, and Liam doesn’t start out as the most charming man to share headspace with. He’s a drunk, judgmental, hyperbolic drama queen. However, as the story progresses he starts to reveal a more interesting layer; suddenly you see some vulnerability, some softness.
This is a book that grows on you. I almost quit after the first twenty pages, but now I’m really glad that I didn’t. It turned out to be a funny – actually hilarious at times – and sweet story about a young man who’s vulnerable, unsure and a kind of an idiot.
And after the up-in-the-air ending, I just want to know when the next book comes out.
It was very hard to figure out how many start to give this book: I couldn’t decide between 1 or 4,5.
All in all, I liked this book. Maybe even liked it very much. It was funny, sharp and had a nice pace. But… there are a few very, very big buts here, which made it hard for me.
First of all: the alcohol. The MC, Liam, and his boss Lourdes consume vast amounts of alcohol. Huge. Liam even refers to himself as an alcoholic a few times, and, quite frankly, if I knew someone who drank like that, I’d call them an alcoholic too.
But it’s just not treated with the respect that alcohol abuse should be treated.
It’s more like a Bridget Jones, liquid-lunch, another-Merlot-dahling kinda thing, and I just can’t stomach that. There’s nothing fun, charming or romantic about alcoholism, and I resent people who try to make light of it.
Second, the writing is funny, engaging and sharp, but it also tends to be quite over-the-top. For a book that makes fun of bad porn clichés, there sure are a lot of “sweet, sweet love tunnels”, “stiff tower of his frantically quivering meat” and bitchy gay men who simper and roll their eyes and have sex with everything.
Liam was a challenge for me. It’s a first person narrative, and Liam doesn’t start out as the most charming man to share headspace with. He’s a drunk, judgmental, hyperbolic drama queen. However, as the story progresses he starts to reveal a more interesting layer; suddenly you see some vulnerability, some softness.
This is a book that grows on you. I almost quit after the first twenty pages, but now I’m really glad that I didn’t. It turned out to be a funny – actually hilarious at times – and sweet story about a young man who’s vulnerable, unsure and a kind of an idiot.
And after the up-in-the-air ending, I just want to know when the next book comes out.
April 16, 2015
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review
This is such a tough one to review for me. On one hand, I absolutely LOVED it, and on the other hand, I hated some parts.
I absolutely loved the humor in this book. It was snarky, funny, outlandish at times, and awesome. I found myself laughing at Liam throughout it and I thought this was very well written.
It took me a while to fall in like with the characters (I can't say I am in love yet. I started to, and then by the end I was so frustrated with them that they fell out of love status). The story is told from Liam's point of view, which is what makes this book so funny. Despite that, I never really got a sense of his relationship with Manny. Why did Liam fall in love with him? We are just told that Liam likes him and is falling for him, we never really see it. I think that had I seen more of this, I would have been more invested in them. As it was, they have great sex, start dating, and then are in love. Very quick with very little insight into the actual relationship.
The guys finally start communicating and things go well, until they stop communicating again. Angst ensues. Now for my frustration,
I don't want to wait for another volume for resolution, or if I have to, let there be another volume waiting for me to read, or the promise of a new one soon. I am left in limbo with the feeling like Liam and I were cheated of a complete story. I don't like that feeling. If there is another volume to come, I may end up re-reading this and finding that I love it more since I have more to know about. Knowing it ended here, though, pulls me out of love with the book.
With that said, though, the writing was great. It was funny it was smart. I LOVED Liam's articles. Very clever career to write about that you don't see often. I did enjoy that.
This is such a tough one to review for me. On one hand, I absolutely LOVED it, and on the other hand, I hated some parts.
I absolutely loved the humor in this book. It was snarky, funny, outlandish at times, and awesome. I found myself laughing at Liam throughout it and I thought this was very well written.
It took me a while to fall in like with the characters (I can't say I am in love yet. I started to, and then by the end I was so frustrated with them that they fell out of love status). The story is told from Liam's point of view, which is what makes this book so funny. Despite that, I never really got a sense of his relationship with Manny. Why did Liam fall in love with him? We are just told that Liam likes him and is falling for him, we never really see it. I think that had I seen more of this, I would have been more invested in them. As it was, they have great sex, start dating, and then are in love. Very quick with very little insight into the actual relationship.
The guys finally start communicating and things go well, until they stop communicating again. Angst ensues. Now for my frustration,
I don't want to wait for another volume for resolution, or if I have to, let there be another volume waiting for me to read, or the promise of a new one soon. I am left in limbo with the feeling like Liam and I were cheated of a complete story. I don't like that feeling. If there is another volume to come, I may end up re-reading this and finding that I love it more since I have more to know about. Knowing it ended here, though, pulls me out of love with the book.
With that said, though, the writing was great. It was funny it was smart. I LOVED Liam's articles. Very clever career to write about that you don't see often. I did enjoy that.
April 18, 2015
I received a copy of this book in exchange for review as part of Don't Buy My Love program.
3.5 stars
First,this is not your typical romance. This book is about Liam,and his inner musings,how he sees himself in a relationship and how he tries to make it work. Manny is just a guy that Liam is in relationship with...he really is just that in this story. We don't get his POV,we don't know much about him,because,as I said,this is a Liam's story. All we get from Liam about Manny is how their relationship progresses,and we are mostly told about it,not showed.
Now,to Liam...Liam is your stereotypical gay man - sarcastic,little over-dramatic,but deep down vulnerable,especially when it comes to love - whose love life (if you can even call it that way) has,up until now,been all about meaningless sex with strangers,and drinking regret and shame away with cheap store liquor morning after. Then he relizes that he wants love,the real kind...And that's when Manny steps in. Seeing that they are very compatible in sexual way (hot session on Liam's desk more than proved it),Liam decides to ask Manny out,and they start dating.
Although Liam is more than well versed in wonders of gay sex,he is quite inexperienced when it comes to relationship. He and Manny stumble,than get up,than stumble again,and so on and on...
But this book is so much more...it's genuinely funny. I enjoyed Liam's interactions with Lourdes,their bond that progressed from shared love for anything alcohol-based and work to true friendship. And Sheila...endless source of humor.
And than in the last part,all went downhill for me. We are introduced to Rory,new Liam's boss,and for what purpose? Does he need a purpose at all? Can't he just be convenient plot device,so he can make Liam jealous,and indirectly cause break-up between Liam and Manny (which,by the way,is all Manny's fault),so the author can continue their story? Well,I suppose he can,but my rating reflects my opinion about it.
So,if you didn't figure it out,this is not finished story...I haven't decided if I'll be reading the rest. Not that I can,even if I want,because author hasn't published next volume....
3.5 stars
First,this is not your typical romance. This book is about Liam,and his inner musings,how he sees himself in a relationship and how he tries to make it work. Manny is just a guy that Liam is in relationship with...he really is just that in this story. We don't get his POV,we don't know much about him,because,as I said,this is a Liam's story. All we get from Liam about Manny is how their relationship progresses,and we are mostly told about it,not showed.
Now,to Liam...Liam is your stereotypical gay man - sarcastic,little over-dramatic,but deep down vulnerable,especially when it comes to love - whose love life (if you can even call it that way) has,up until now,been all about meaningless sex with strangers,and drinking regret and shame away with cheap store liquor morning after. Then he relizes that he wants love,the real kind...And that's when Manny steps in. Seeing that they are very compatible in sexual way (hot session on Liam's desk more than proved it),Liam decides to ask Manny out,and they start dating.
Although Liam is more than well versed in wonders of gay sex,he is quite inexperienced when it comes to relationship. He and Manny stumble,than get up,than stumble again,and so on and on...
But this book is so much more...it's genuinely funny. I enjoyed Liam's interactions with Lourdes,their bond that progressed from shared love for anything alcohol-based and work to true friendship. And Sheila...endless source of humor.
And than in the last part,all went downhill for me. We are introduced to Rory,new Liam's boss,and for what purpose? Does he need a purpose at all? Can't he just be convenient plot device,so he can make Liam jealous,and indirectly cause break-up between Liam and Manny (which,by the way,is all Manny's fault),so the author can continue their story? Well,I suppose he can,but my rating reflects my opinion about it.
So,if you didn't figure it out,this is not finished story...I haven't decided if I'll be reading the rest. Not that I can,even if I want,because author hasn't published next volume....
April 12, 2015
I received a free copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review.
Hmmm... This is difficult. There were some things in this book, that I absolutely adored but other parts that I absolutely hated - so what to do, for an overall score...?
Liam is a journalist on a gay online magazine, living the life with new men in his bed every night and a side of alcoholism. His addiction is aided an abetted by his boss and friend Lourdes, - a complete clone of Karen from Will & Grace - who excel in long alcohol fueled business lunches.
After waking up with another case of "absinthe amnesia" after a three some with two guys who are clearly a well established couple, he begins to long for more. He find this "more" with the mail room clerk Manny.
The story is told through Liams point of view, in small slice of life novellas, which are easily read and quite entertaining. I did laugh out loud quite a few times. Liam is funny, snarky and neurotic. He is also, however, not a very nice person. His snark is hateful at times and even if he does show a bit of character growth through out the story, there is not enough for me to truly believe the 'warm' feelings he seem to show towards his co-workers in the end.
The book is clearly comprised of several novellas, that may first have been published as a serial? But they work fine as a full story and I felt rather cheated that the story was not complete. The story arc was rounded off nicely enough - no horrible cliff hanger as such - but where we leave Liam, there is not exactly a happy ending in sight.
There are quite a few errors in grammar, spelling, missing words etc. But not so much that it removes you from the story. The author's voice is interesting - very raw and unpolished - and I will probably try him again - if he writes a complete story. Serials is a pet peeve of mine, so the 'part IV coming soon' did not go down too well.
3 stars.
Hmmm... This is difficult. There were some things in this book, that I absolutely adored but other parts that I absolutely hated - so what to do, for an overall score...?
Liam is a journalist on a gay online magazine, living the life with new men in his bed every night and a side of alcoholism. His addiction is aided an abetted by his boss and friend Lourdes, - a complete clone of Karen from Will & Grace - who excel in long alcohol fueled business lunches.
After waking up with another case of "absinthe amnesia" after a three some with two guys who are clearly a well established couple, he begins to long for more. He find this "more" with the mail room clerk Manny.
The story is told through Liams point of view, in small slice of life novellas, which are easily read and quite entertaining. I did laugh out loud quite a few times. Liam is funny, snarky and neurotic. He is also, however, not a very nice person. His snark is hateful at times and even if he does show a bit of character growth through out the story, there is not enough for me to truly believe the 'warm' feelings he seem to show towards his co-workers in the end.
The book is clearly comprised of several novellas, that may first have been published as a serial? But they work fine as a full story and I felt rather cheated that the story was not complete. The story arc was rounded off nicely enough - no horrible cliff hanger as such - but where we leave Liam, there is not exactly a happy ending in sight.
There are quite a few errors in grammar, spelling, missing words etc. But not so much that it removes you from the story. The author's voice is interesting - very raw and unpolished - and I will probably try him again - if he writes a complete story. Serials is a pet peeve of mine, so the 'part IV coming soon' did not go down too well.
3 stars.
April 20, 2015
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Rainbow Connection V1 was a solid 1 star for me.
There was no sugar or vodka to make this one go down and boy did I need it.
Within in the first 20 pages…I had doubts about whether I could finish and those doubts continued on as I kept reading…I can only assume that this just wasn’t my cup of tea. I’m not a huge fan of 1st person POV but I’ve appreciated it a few times when the introspection didn’t go down too many rabbit holes and the character was fairly active and thought provoking.
The problem for me was Liam. I couldn’t like him. I didn’t like his drunkenness, ubiquitous mean girl-ness, or his decision making skills. The fact that the reader is subjected to 140 pages of him…makes this extremely dull and annoying. I would have perhaps appreciated some other points of view…maybe Manny or Lourdes…anybody else to break up the monotony.
Call me stodgy but I like my romances to involve two (or more) people who are trying at life. I like to see my characters grow and mature...and not just below the belt. I like jokes and a snarky sense of humor or a few Lucy/Ethel moments but I never felt like Liam brought anything to the relationship except a pert (if growing) behind. He wasn't supportive and to be honest you never feel like he and Manny get to know each other. Way too shallow for me.
To be fair. I shook my head a few times at some of his antics…the BDSM dungeon debacle, the holiday party from hell, the sage wisdom over milking, and Liam fighting for his man, but they didn’t save the story for me. They only served to show how unfunny (in a train wreck sort of way) everything was.
I didn't mind the ending and I'm actually cheering that
Rainbow Connection V1 was a solid 1 star for me.
There was no sugar or vodka to make this one go down and boy did I need it.
Within in the first 20 pages…I had doubts about whether I could finish and those doubts continued on as I kept reading…I can only assume that this just wasn’t my cup of tea. I’m not a huge fan of 1st person POV but I’ve appreciated it a few times when the introspection didn’t go down too many rabbit holes and the character was fairly active and thought provoking.
The problem for me was Liam. I couldn’t like him. I didn’t like his drunkenness, ubiquitous mean girl-ness, or his decision making skills. The fact that the reader is subjected to 140 pages of him…makes this extremely dull and annoying. I would have perhaps appreciated some other points of view…maybe Manny or Lourdes…anybody else to break up the monotony.
Call me stodgy but I like my romances to involve two (or more) people who are trying at life. I like to see my characters grow and mature...and not just below the belt. I like jokes and a snarky sense of humor or a few Lucy/Ethel moments but I never felt like Liam brought anything to the relationship except a pert (if growing) behind. He wasn't supportive and to be honest you never feel like he and Manny get to know each other. Way too shallow for me.
To be fair. I shook my head a few times at some of his antics…the BDSM dungeon debacle, the holiday party from hell, the sage wisdom over milking, and Liam fighting for his man, but they didn’t save the story for me. They only served to show how unfunny (in a train wreck sort of way) everything was.
I didn't mind the ending and I'm actually cheering that
April 20, 2015
I was provided this book free in exchange for an honest review...
3 stars...would have been 4 if the HEA had been in this book. My first book by this author.
At first I was not that enamored with Liam (I have personal issues with alcoholics) but, he kinda grew on me as HE grew throughout the book. In my opinion though the alcohol use in this book was taken WAY to lightly considering the amounts Liam puts away and the aftermath is often quite ugly.
Liam has finally met the man he didn't know he was waiting for in Manny. I did not very much insight into Manny until 95% in, but what was there was enjoyable. He is a bit to clueless to be believable at times in my opinion. I mean really! Liam is a journalist writing (unexpectedly to him) from the heart in some very good articles showing his road to responsible adulthood. I found this part very good.
The humor is what saved this book for me and got me to the end. Well, it was a cliffhanger more than an end. I was ticked at that point that I made it that far and was abruptly left hanging without an end of any kind much less the HEA I was expecting after that long of a book. I did hear that the next part will be out this summer so if a HEA is a must for you I would wait until the next installment comes out before reading the series.
3 stars...would have been 4 if the HEA had been in this book. My first book by this author.
At first I was not that enamored with Liam (I have personal issues with alcoholics) but, he kinda grew on me as HE grew throughout the book. In my opinion though the alcohol use in this book was taken WAY to lightly considering the amounts Liam puts away and the aftermath is often quite ugly.
Liam has finally met the man he didn't know he was waiting for in Manny. I did not very much insight into Manny until 95% in, but what was there was enjoyable. He is a bit to clueless to be believable at times in my opinion. I mean really! Liam is a journalist writing (unexpectedly to him) from the heart in some very good articles showing his road to responsible adulthood. I found this part very good.
The humor is what saved this book for me and got me to the end. Well, it was a cliffhanger more than an end. I was ticked at that point that I made it that far and was abruptly left hanging without an end of any kind much less the HEA I was expecting after that long of a book. I did hear that the next part will be out this summer so if a HEA is a must for you I would wait until the next installment comes out before reading the series.
April 20, 2015
I received the book in exchange for a honest review
This one was difficult to review and rate.
I had problems with Liam, the MC. The story is told from his point of view, and while his very interesting look at life is sometimes amusing to no end, it annoyed me at other times. It also forced me to take breaks from reading the book, since I couldn't stand to hear Liam anymore.
All I saw him doing was drinking, having sex, writing or stumbling from one disaster into the next. These disasters are sometimes funny, sometimes just painful for Liam, but with time I simply wanted Liam to grow up and acknowledge what he has with Manny.
This brings me to my next point: What I really missed was the romance with Manny, the mailman. Manny is Liam's boyfriend, yet there's surprisingly few in the story about them. I get that this is not a romance, but a bit more wouldn't have hurt. Manny was a side-character for me, someone who didn't do anything for me (not in the way you might think now) He left me cold. I didn't root for him to keep Liam, which says it all.
On a more positive note: the conversations with Lourdes, Liam's boss, are beyond funny and had me laugh out loud. They also involved more alcohol than two persons could possibly drink.
My overall impression is that this is a funny read, with some really awkward accidents, lots and lots of alcohol and a hot hunky boyfriend.
My rating 3,5 of 5 stars
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This one was difficult to review and rate.
I had problems with Liam, the MC. The story is told from his point of view, and while his very interesting look at life is sometimes amusing to no end, it annoyed me at other times. It also forced me to take breaks from reading the book, since I couldn't stand to hear Liam anymore.
All I saw him doing was drinking, having sex, writing or stumbling from one disaster into the next. These disasters are sometimes funny, sometimes just painful for Liam, but with time I simply wanted Liam to grow up and acknowledge what he has with Manny.
This brings me to my next point: What I really missed was the romance with Manny, the mailman. Manny is Liam's boyfriend, yet there's surprisingly few in the story about them. I get that this is not a romance, but a bit more wouldn't have hurt. Manny was a side-character for me, someone who didn't do anything for me (not in the way you might think now) He left me cold. I didn't root for him to keep Liam, which says it all.
On a more positive note: the conversations with Lourdes, Liam's boss, are beyond funny and had me laugh out loud. They also involved more alcohol than two persons could possibly drink.
My overall impression is that this is a funny read, with some really awkward accidents, lots and lots of alcohol and a hot hunky boyfriend.
My rating 3,5 of 5 stars
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April 25, 2015
***I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review***
Where foreart thou, Books 5, 6, etc, etc????
Okay, this was just shy of 5 stars for me; there were a few editing errors, but not enough to pull me out of the story too much, so I rounded up.
I freakin' loved Liam! Loved Manny too, though I really wish I'd gotten to know him better.
Told from Liam's POV, this is the humorous story of the adventures of Liam, mirrored in the various articles he is writing for the online column, "The Rainbow Connection." Liam is an over the top, totally lovable, self-proclaimed bottom-boy alcoholic. And he's in love with the guy from the mailroom: Mailroom Manny.
Though the relationship doesn't start at love, it starts before the book does with some very hot desk sex... but this is the story about how that relationship and Liam as a person grows. I laughed out loud the whole way through. This was not your typical MM romance... thank goodness; it gave the reader so many moments of fun and lovin' I don't even know where to begin... and actually, I don't think I will, I will let you laugh your way through them yourself.
The reader should be warned however, this volume does not end happily, it is comic however, two alcoholics, two sober folk, an SUV, and a fart... well, you'll have to read to figure out how that all comes together.
Highly recommended... I really can't wait for the next installment.
Where foreart thou, Books 5, 6, etc, etc????
Okay, this was just shy of 5 stars for me; there were a few editing errors, but not enough to pull me out of the story too much, so I rounded up.
I freakin' loved Liam! Loved Manny too, though I really wish I'd gotten to know him better.
Told from Liam's POV, this is the humorous story of the adventures of Liam, mirrored in the various articles he is writing for the online column, "The Rainbow Connection." Liam is an over the top, totally lovable, self-proclaimed bottom-boy alcoholic. And he's in love with the guy from the mailroom: Mailroom Manny.
Though the relationship doesn't start at love, it starts before the book does with some very hot desk sex... but this is the story about how that relationship and Liam as a person grows. I laughed out loud the whole way through. This was not your typical MM romance... thank goodness; it gave the reader so many moments of fun and lovin' I don't even know where to begin... and actually, I don't think I will, I will let you laugh your way through them yourself.
The reader should be warned however, this volume does not end happily, it is comic however, two alcoholics, two sober folk, an SUV, and a fart... well, you'll have to read to figure out how that all comes together.
Highly recommended... I really can't wait for the next installment.
April 14, 2015
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
My rating is really 3 1/2 but rounded down to 3. The Rainbow Connection is about Liam, the king of the one night stand, and how he finds and loses (?) true love with Manny. I find myself torn about this book. The pros: Liam's seriously acerbic inner monologues, the well-developed secondary characters, the emotional leap Liam had to make to surrender to his relationship with Manny. The cons: Liam's seriously acerbic inner monologues (some were so extreme as to be off-putting), the over-the-top drinking, the lack of communication between Liam and Manny. Partway through the book, I was annoyed by the cons, but then got totally sucked into the story and now I'm planning on getting the sequel.
The Rainbow Connection has some hysterically funny moments. I adore Liam's boss, Lourdes, who should be dead from alcohol poisoning. She is Liam's truest confidant, who dispenses spot-on relationship advise during their boozy lunches. Author BJ Sheppard manages to portray his characters with true flaws, yet makes the reader care about them. I felt both Liam's happiness when he allowed himself to love Manny, and his despair when their relationship floundered. This was a good smarmy read and I can't wait to see how things end for the boys.
My rating is really 3 1/2 but rounded down to 3. The Rainbow Connection is about Liam, the king of the one night stand, and how he finds and loses (?) true love with Manny. I find myself torn about this book. The pros: Liam's seriously acerbic inner monologues, the well-developed secondary characters, the emotional leap Liam had to make to surrender to his relationship with Manny. The cons: Liam's seriously acerbic inner monologues (some were so extreme as to be off-putting), the over-the-top drinking, the lack of communication between Liam and Manny. Partway through the book, I was annoyed by the cons, but then got totally sucked into the story and now I'm planning on getting the sequel.
The Rainbow Connection has some hysterically funny moments. I adore Liam's boss, Lourdes, who should be dead from alcohol poisoning. She is Liam's truest confidant, who dispenses spot-on relationship advise during their boozy lunches. Author BJ Sheppard manages to portray his characters with true flaws, yet makes the reader care about them. I felt both Liam's happiness when he allowed himself to love Manny, and his despair when their relationship floundered. This was a good smarmy read and I can't wait to see how things end for the boys.
April 26, 2015
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
At the beginning, Liam was not a likeable character for me. While obviously clever and intelligent, some of the inner monologue was, in all honesty, over my head. Maybe it's a culture thing. Anyway, I'm not opposed to learning, which I certainly did, but stopping in the middle of a witty rant to do research sort of disrupted the overall flow for me. But once I got the hang of it, I couldn't put it down and Liam made me laugh out loud many, many times with his cattiness and self-discovery.
I did eventually accepted the stupor-inducing amount of wine he and his boss drank even though that, along with Liam's willingness to sleep with just about anyone, supported stereotypes about gay men that I don't like to see encouraged (even in light-hearted fiction).
I happily read about the budding relationship with Manny--it seemed like such a significant turning point for Liam. I was proud of him. And then I'd want to smack Liam upside the head for the times he failed to communicate and as a result, almost ruin the great thing he and Manny had going on. As said in another review, the ending was a little too not-resolved for me, although I'll be checking out the next installment to see if the resolution is more to my liking.
At the beginning, Liam was not a likeable character for me. While obviously clever and intelligent, some of the inner monologue was, in all honesty, over my head. Maybe it's a culture thing. Anyway, I'm not opposed to learning, which I certainly did, but stopping in the middle of a witty rant to do research sort of disrupted the overall flow for me. But once I got the hang of it, I couldn't put it down and Liam made me laugh out loud many, many times with his cattiness and self-discovery.
I did eventually accepted the stupor-inducing amount of wine he and his boss drank even though that, along with Liam's willingness to sleep with just about anyone, supported stereotypes about gay men that I don't like to see encouraged (even in light-hearted fiction).
I happily read about the budding relationship with Manny--it seemed like such a significant turning point for Liam. I was proud of him. And then I'd want to smack Liam upside the head for the times he failed to communicate and as a result, almost ruin the great thing he and Manny had going on. As said in another review, the ending was a little too not-resolved for me, although I'll be checking out the next installment to see if the resolution is more to my liking.
April 20, 2015
I got this book for free in exchange for an honest review from the author through the DBML program of the M/M Romance Group at Goodreads.
I found this story to be well written but I wasn't emotionally invested in the characters. The character seemed to be stock characters and had no sense of life to them. Maybe it was how the plot was conveyed. All I know is that I couldn't tell unless they gave clue what month we were in just how many days from the deadline for the e-zine. Even if I was invested in the characters, the ending was disappointing and sort of petered out their is a hint that they will get together in a later book around valentine's. even the sex when it was there wasn't great moving sex.
Was hoping for more, but never moved from a well written (grammatically) story to an moving great story that pulled you in.
I found this story to be well written but I wasn't emotionally invested in the characters. The character seemed to be stock characters and had no sense of life to them. Maybe it was how the plot was conveyed. All I know is that I couldn't tell unless they gave clue what month we were in just how many days from the deadline for the e-zine. Even if I was invested in the characters, the ending was disappointing and sort of petered out their is a hint that they will get together in a later book around valentine's. even the sex when it was there wasn't great moving sex.
Was hoping for more, but never moved from a well written (grammatically) story to an moving great story that pulled you in.
April 18, 2015
I was given a copy of this book free by the author in return for an unbiased review.
First of all let me say I really enjoyed about 90% of this book.
Liam's writings were funny, especially his foray into the fetish world and Manny subsequently dressing as a leather daddy.
However, for myself and alot of my MM reading friends a HFN as a minimum but preferably a HEA is a must. Sadly, the ending of the story wasn't to my taste. It kind of just ends.
The author mentions a part 5 but I dont know if it was ever available as the title wasn't recognized.
Had the ending been better, then it would have been a 4 star read.
First of all let me say I really enjoyed about 90% of this book.
Liam's writings were funny, especially his foray into the fetish world and Manny subsequently dressing as a leather daddy.
However, for myself and alot of my MM reading friends a HFN as a minimum but preferably a HEA is a must. Sadly, the ending of the story wasn't to my taste. It kind of just ends.
The author mentions a part 5 but I dont know if it was ever available as the title wasn't recognized.
Had the ending been better, then it would have been a 4 star read.
September 26, 2014
YAY!!! IT'S LIVE ON AMAZON NOW.
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