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The Belladonna Arms #3
Coming Back (3)
A Belladonna Arms Novel Barney Teegarden knows what it’s like to be alone. He knows what it’s like to have a romantic heart, yet no love in his life to unleash the romance on. With the help of a friend, he acquires a lease in a seedy apartment building perched high on a hill in downtown San Diego. The Belladonna Arms is not only filled with the quirkiest cast of characters imaginable, it is also famous for sprinkling love dust on even the loneliest of the lovelorn. At the Arms, Barney finds friendship, acceptance, and an adopted family that lightens his lonely life. Hell, he even finds a cat. But still true love eludes him. When his drag queen landlord, Arthur, takes it into his head to rescue a homeless former tenant, he enlists Barney’s help. It is Barney who shows this lost soul how to trust again―and in return Barney discovers love for the first time in his life. It’s funny how even the hardest battles can be fought and won with laughter, hugs, friends, plus a little faith in the goodness of others. All it takes to begin the healing is the simple act of coming back.
200 pages, Paperback
First published August 17, 2015
5 people are currently reading
171 people want to read
About the author
John Inman
42 books442 followersA Lambda Literary Award finalist and the author of over forty novels, John has been writing fiction for as long as he can remember. Born on a small farm in Indiana, he now resides in San Diego, California where he spends his time gardening, pampering his pets, hiking and biking the trails and canyons of San Diego, and of course, writing. He and his partner share a passion for theater, books, film, and the continuing fight for marriage equality. If you would like to know more about John, check out his website at----
http://www.johninmanauthor.com/John_I... or follow him on Facebook at www.facebook.com/john.inman.79
http://www.johninmanauthor.com/John_I... or follow him on Facebook at www.facebook.com/john.inman.79
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
November 13, 2015
Full review (with spoilers) can be found at -
Fantastic addition to the series. I cried. I laughed. I fell in love with two more residents of Belladonna Arms. Highly recommended. That cover? Wow.
This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for a fair and honest review.
August 31, 2015
I have been following the saga of The Belladonna Arms since day one. I've seen hearts mended, love found and love pollen fall on a regular basis. I have come to love all of the tenants though I do have my favorites. The mother/lord of the arms is the hugest drag queen imaginable with a heart as big as his hips. This installment, which I hope will not be the last, was by far the sweetest and most touching. To say much more would be to start giving away spoilers. If you enjoy some laughter, magic and loyal family with your romance, pick up book one and settle into an apartment. You'll never move out.
January 11, 2016
This was my favorite Belladonna Arms book so far. John Inman just keeps getting better and better, and this was such a pleasure to read.
First we meet Barney, who's moving in to the Belladonna Arms, and feels immediately welcome. While he's a bit of a loner, and doesn't quite think that they're someone out there for him, the love dust of this apartment building gets sprinkled on Barney just the same.
Arthur, the landlord who likes to dress in drag, and who has a heart of gold, features prominently in this book, as he draws Barney into his quest to rescue a former tenant, who is now homeless. If you've read the first two books, you can probably figure out who it is.
There's also a subplot with Sylvia and Pete and the super sekrit secret, which wasn't hard to discern, but I don't think John Inman meant for it to be secret to his readers. It's fabulous, though, and I was super happy for them.
Anyway, Arthur and Barney succeed where Arthur alone did not, and Ramon moves back into the Belladonna Arms, ashamed, and broken, and in so much pain. He refuses to see any of his former friends living in the building, instead hiding in his bed.
Of course, the troops rally anyway, and Barney has some help figuring out what's happened with Ramon, and with a secret door in a closet, he manages to draw Ramon back into the light.
It's ever clear, throughout the book, that the people living in this building all care for each other, that they are one big family, and that they will jump in without delay to help someone in need. It makes this cast of characters so wonderful to read, to the point where I wouldn't mind living in this building myself, just to be surrounded by people who care.
I adore this series, and I do hope that John has more books planned, because I'm not quite ready to be done. Until then, I'll just re-read these again and again, because, despite the drama, and the angst, and the heartache they contain, they leave you feeling happy and hopeful and smiling, and oh so satisfied.
** I received a free copy of this book from its publisher. A positive review was not promised in return. **
First we meet Barney, who's moving in to the Belladonna Arms, and feels immediately welcome. While he's a bit of a loner, and doesn't quite think that they're someone out there for him, the love dust of this apartment building gets sprinkled on Barney just the same.
Arthur, the landlord who likes to dress in drag, and who has a heart of gold, features prominently in this book, as he draws Barney into his quest to rescue a former tenant, who is now homeless. If you've read the first two books, you can probably figure out who it is.
There's also a subplot with Sylvia and Pete and the super sekrit secret, which wasn't hard to discern, but I don't think John Inman meant for it to be secret to his readers. It's fabulous, though, and I was super happy for them.
Anyway, Arthur and Barney succeed where Arthur alone did not, and Ramon moves back into the Belladonna Arms, ashamed, and broken, and in so much pain. He refuses to see any of his former friends living in the building, instead hiding in his bed.
Of course, the troops rally anyway, and Barney has some help figuring out what's happened with Ramon, and with a secret door in a closet, he manages to draw Ramon back into the light.
It's ever clear, throughout the book, that the people living in this building all care for each other, that they are one big family, and that they will jump in without delay to help someone in need. It makes this cast of characters so wonderful to read, to the point where I wouldn't mind living in this building myself, just to be surrounded by people who care.
I adore this series, and I do hope that John has more books planned, because I'm not quite ready to be done. Until then, I'll just re-read these again and again, because, despite the drama, and the angst, and the heartache they contain, they leave you feeling happy and hopeful and smiling, and oh so satisfied.
** I received a free copy of this book from its publisher. A positive review was not promised in return. **
August 27, 2015
LOVED the way this played out. This was probably my favorite of the series.
May 4, 2016
When Barney’s friend and coworker, Pete, gets him an apartment in the Belladonna Arms, he is pretty excited. Ok, well that might be overselling it a bit. He is happy…to have somewhere to go. And the rent is cheap and the people who populate the Belladonna sure do seem unique. He not sure if he is sold on this whole ‘love pollen’ thing that everyone is talking about, but hey, if it happens that would be great.
He never expected that he would find love in the oddest of all places–-under a highway overpass. Or that the man he falls in love with has quite a bit of baggage, even if very few actual possessions. And trying to get his man to recognize that he has friends and someone to love, right there at his doorstep, might be a bit of a tall order for boring old Barney. But he is certainly willing to give it his all.
I was glad to see that there was going to be a third book in this series. The odd-ball collection of characters in these books have been a lot of fun to read about, and sometimes you just need a bit of fluff in your life. Coming Back sure gives you that.
I’ll admit that I had a bit of a hard time, initially, getting into this book. A lot of the beginning had the felling of “lets catch up with everyone” and so it was kinda hard to hold my interest. And while I enjoy all the craziness that is this cast of characters, it was starting to feel like they were taking over the story. I’m generally a person who likes to focus on the MCs and let the ensemble move around in the background. The first half of this book kinda felt like it was trying to call attention to all of the other characters–-probably in an effort to give Barney and Ramon some time to figure their shit out–-and I wish it had stuck with the MCs, no matter how much I love Sylvia.
It probably doesn’t help that I have never been much of an Arthur fan. His is just a bit to boisterous for my frail sensibilities.
But once Barney and Ramon finally get together, I totally fell in love with their story. Ramon’s brokenness and guilt is very well written here. And Barney’s loving persistence really balanced out Ramon’s reticence. The fact that they didn’t fall into many tropes (i.e. “I’m not worthy of you so I must flee in all haste w/o ever giving you a chance to have a say in this relationship”) was a bonus. Ramon is one of my favorites out of the Belladonna, and after the last book, I was thrilled to see that he got his HEA. He deserved it.
In the end, once Barney and Ramon got together this became a really enjoyable story. And I started to remember why I loved this series to begin with. While the first half was probably only a three-star read for me, the last half was easily a four. So I think three and a half about sums it up nicely. If you have been reading this series, I would say that you will probably like this. I would rec that if you haven’t started this series yet, to go back to book one and start there.
3.5 stars
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.
He never expected that he would find love in the oddest of all places–-under a highway overpass. Or that the man he falls in love with has quite a bit of baggage, even if very few actual possessions. And trying to get his man to recognize that he has friends and someone to love, right there at his doorstep, might be a bit of a tall order for boring old Barney. But he is certainly willing to give it his all.
I was glad to see that there was going to be a third book in this series. The odd-ball collection of characters in these books have been a lot of fun to read about, and sometimes you just need a bit of fluff in your life. Coming Back sure gives you that.
I’ll admit that I had a bit of a hard time, initially, getting into this book. A lot of the beginning had the felling of “lets catch up with everyone” and so it was kinda hard to hold my interest. And while I enjoy all the craziness that is this cast of characters, it was starting to feel like they were taking over the story. I’m generally a person who likes to focus on the MCs and let the ensemble move around in the background. The first half of this book kinda felt like it was trying to call attention to all of the other characters–-probably in an effort to give Barney and Ramon some time to figure their shit out–-and I wish it had stuck with the MCs, no matter how much I love Sylvia.
It probably doesn’t help that I have never been much of an Arthur fan. His is just a bit to boisterous for my frail sensibilities.
But once Barney and Ramon finally get together, I totally fell in love with their story. Ramon’s brokenness and guilt is very well written here. And Barney’s loving persistence really balanced out Ramon’s reticence. The fact that they didn’t fall into many tropes (i.e. “I’m not worthy of you so I must flee in all haste w/o ever giving you a chance to have a say in this relationship”) was a bonus. Ramon is one of my favorites out of the Belladonna, and after the last book, I was thrilled to see that he got his HEA. He deserved it.
In the end, once Barney and Ramon got together this became a really enjoyable story. And I started to remember why I loved this series to begin with. While the first half was probably only a three-star read for me, the last half was easily a four. So I think three and a half about sums it up nicely. If you have been reading this series, I would say that you will probably like this. I would rec that if you haven’t started this series yet, to go back to book one and start there.
3.5 stars
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.
September 15, 2015
What can I say, i love me some John Inman! And I love this series, this one didn't disappoint. I love these guys. :D
February 13, 2019
I need to reread so I can do justice to this book. It's my favorite of the Belladonna Arms so far (shhhh - don't tell the others).
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
2019
I have a serious soft spot in my heart for the Belladonna Arms series by John Inman. Every time I read a new one I’m all, “ooooooh, this one’s my favorite” and then the next one comes and I do the same thing. So, the audiobooks are a real treat to revisit, because each one gets a chance to be my favorite again! Total book logic that makes sense. Don’t question it, just roll with it.
The series is set in my hometown of San Diego which is an added bonus since I can picture every locale the author describes and he describes San Diego very well. Belladonna Arms feels like home when you get invited in, as terrible as it sounds aesthetically, the Arms are home to those who need the love pollen, and the Arms delivers.
While I may be fickle with my favoriting, in all honesty, Coming Back is probably my favorite of the Belladonna Arms series. The characters are extra deserving of the pollen, and the arc spans from books one through three, heavier on the one and three.
Barney is an unassuming everyman, he’s relatable and kind and I couldn’t help but want the best for him from the moment he moved in. He and Arthur, the resident owner/landlord/drag queen extraordinaire, bond from the moment they meet and it’s a perfect friendship for what Arthur ends up planning to bring an original member of the Arms back to the fold.
Arthur has shenanigans planned, he always seems to, and he’s his altruistic self wrapped in yards of organza and feathered boas gets Barney in on his plans. Coming Back is more than just a meet-cute and romance, it’s redemption and second chances and it has a depth beyond rom-com that I appreciated on every level.
I don’t want to go into too much detail, because spoilers and all (even though you can read every other review by now and figure out who comes back home), suffice it to say, Coming Back is everything you want in a redemption, second chance, first romance story. There’s laughs, a little bit of angst and lots of love. Coming Back delivers a John Inman trait that I love. He doesn’t wait until the very end to bring his MC’s together and that is one of the things that makes him a go-to/auto-buy author for me. I get to see the MC’s as individuals and as a couple, I get to get lots of time with them together as they grow and it makes me buy into an HEA easily.
The audiobooks from the Belladonna Arms series have different narrators for each story. I actually love that they’re all different, it gives each story its own voice, both literally and figuratively. Each one has been a great fit and Coming Back is right in line with the first two. This is the first time I’ve listened to Shawn Hertel narrate and he has Barney down perfectly. And his Arthur is spot in. I liked his tone very much, he was just enough without being too much all the way through.
**a copy of this story was provided for an honest review**
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
2019
I have a serious soft spot in my heart for the Belladonna Arms series by John Inman. Every time I read a new one I’m all, “ooooooh, this one’s my favorite” and then the next one comes and I do the same thing. So, the audiobooks are a real treat to revisit, because each one gets a chance to be my favorite again! Total book logic that makes sense. Don’t question it, just roll with it.
The series is set in my hometown of San Diego which is an added bonus since I can picture every locale the author describes and he describes San Diego very well. Belladonna Arms feels like home when you get invited in, as terrible as it sounds aesthetically, the Arms are home to those who need the love pollen, and the Arms delivers.
While I may be fickle with my favoriting, in all honesty, Coming Back is probably my favorite of the Belladonna Arms series. The characters are extra deserving of the pollen, and the arc spans from books one through three, heavier on the one and three.
Barney is an unassuming everyman, he’s relatable and kind and I couldn’t help but want the best for him from the moment he moved in. He and Arthur, the resident owner/landlord/drag queen extraordinaire, bond from the moment they meet and it’s a perfect friendship for what Arthur ends up planning to bring an original member of the Arms back to the fold.
Arthur has shenanigans planned, he always seems to, and he’s his altruistic self wrapped in yards of organza and feathered boas gets Barney in on his plans. Coming Back is more than just a meet-cute and romance, it’s redemption and second chances and it has a depth beyond rom-com that I appreciated on every level.
I don’t want to go into too much detail, because spoilers and all (even though you can read every other review by now and figure out who comes back home), suffice it to say, Coming Back is everything you want in a redemption, second chance, first romance story. There’s laughs, a little bit of angst and lots of love. Coming Back delivers a John Inman trait that I love. He doesn’t wait until the very end to bring his MC’s together and that is one of the things that makes him a go-to/auto-buy author for me. I get to see the MC’s as individuals and as a couple, I get to get lots of time with them together as they grow and it makes me buy into an HEA easily.
The audiobooks from the Belladonna Arms series have different narrators for each story. I actually love that they’re all different, it gives each story its own voice, both literally and figuratively. Each one has been a great fit and Coming Back is right in line with the first two. This is the first time I’ve listened to Shawn Hertel narrate and he has Barney down perfectly. And his Arthur is spot in. I liked his tone very much, he was just enough without being too much all the way through.
**a copy of this story was provided for an honest review**
February 3, 2018
I love John Inman and this series is awesome.
In the previous book, Ramon goes through a very traumatic event and it doesn't end well. Thankfully, Arthur doesn't give up on him and he pulls in Barney to help bring Ramon home.
So, so good...and I hope Ramon finally learns to give a decent haircut (hilarious). Lot's of surprises too...with Wilbur the cat and with Pete/Sylvia.
Can't wait for more.
In the previous book, Ramon goes through a very traumatic event and it doesn't end well. Thankfully, Arthur doesn't give up on him and he pulls in Barney to help bring Ramon home.
So, so good...and I hope Ramon finally learns to give a decent haircut (hilarious). Lot's of surprises too...with Wilbur the cat and with Pete/Sylvia.
Can't wait for more.
September 23, 2015
3.5 stars
Not my favourite of the series, although it was nice to see Ramon get his HEA. The Belladonna Arms cast of characters can be very charming, but I found them a little too much in this story. I think I just wasn't in the proper mood!
Not my favourite of the series, although it was nice to see Ramon get his HEA. The Belladonna Arms cast of characters can be very charming, but I found them a little too much in this story. I think I just wasn't in the proper mood!
September 13, 2015
Note: This book was provided to me by the publisher through Hearts on Fire Reviews in exchange for an impartial review.
Barney Teegarden looks exactly the way his name sounds—like a geek with pocket protectors, eyeglasses held together with tape, tiny, thin and cute. What a coincidence that he’s a bookkeeper too! His friend Pete tells him about an opening at the Belladonna Arms where Pete lives with his wife, Sylvia (Work in Progress). He also tells him that the building seems to be sprinkled with some kind of love pollen because everyone who moves in there ends up in love. Though he’s very skeptical of this idea, it does have its appeal since he’s totally alone in the world and would like nothing more than to share his life and love with a partner.
When he meets Arthur, the landlord—a large, flamboyant, drag queen who dresses to the max—he nearly runs away, but it’s pretty evident that Arthur’s heart is as big as the rest of him and the two become friends. And when Arthur needs someone to help him scour the city for a homeless person he knows and is trying to help, Barney is the one who searches with him. The author seemed to keep the identity of the homeless person a secret until he was found, so I’ll put my reference to him behind a spoiler here.
When Arthur and Barney finally get the young man to come back to the Belladonna Arms, he’s put into a vacant apartment next door to Barney’s, and later, when Arthur points out a secret door at the back of the closet, Barney uses it to check on the man. The door eventually always remains open, not so the men can have sex, but so that they can talk, eat, and watch TV together, developing their own friendship. Barney seems to provide a safety net of sorts for the man to be able to slowly get his feet back under him. They slowly move forward from friendship to love, but it’s a leisurely, sweet journey and well worth the wait.
While the main focus is on Barney and his new love interest, other things are happening at the Belladonna Arms, as well, including some mysterious secret pertaining to Sylvia and Pete. And the cat of many names? He’s back in this story again, this time named Wilbur by Barney, and playing an important role in bringing Barney and his mystery man together.
This was a sweet love story, full of both hope and humor. The characters in the Belladonna Arms, their behaviors, their dialogue, and their interactions all combine to provide not only smiles, but outright belly laughs at times. If you’ve been following the series, this one should definitely go on your TBR list. Though it can be read as a standalone, it really shouldn’t. There are so many characters who are familiar from past books that I’d recommend those books be read first. In fact, I suspect this may be the last in the series, and it’s well worth reading. I love the gift of hope the author has given us with this book, and I hope you will too.
3.5 stars rounded up because I love the residents of Belladonna Arms.
Barney Teegarden looks exactly the way his name sounds—like a geek with pocket protectors, eyeglasses held together with tape, tiny, thin and cute. What a coincidence that he’s a bookkeeper too! His friend Pete tells him about an opening at the Belladonna Arms where Pete lives with his wife, Sylvia (Work in Progress). He also tells him that the building seems to be sprinkled with some kind of love pollen because everyone who moves in there ends up in love. Though he’s very skeptical of this idea, it does have its appeal since he’s totally alone in the world and would like nothing more than to share his life and love with a partner.
When he meets Arthur, the landlord—a large, flamboyant, drag queen who dresses to the max—he nearly runs away, but it’s pretty evident that Arthur’s heart is as big as the rest of him and the two become friends. And when Arthur needs someone to help him scour the city for a homeless person he knows and is trying to help, Barney is the one who searches with him. The author seemed to keep the identity of the homeless person a secret until he was found, so I’ll put my reference to him behind a spoiler here.
When Arthur and Barney finally get the young man to come back to the Belladonna Arms, he’s put into a vacant apartment next door to Barney’s, and later, when Arthur points out a secret door at the back of the closet, Barney uses it to check on the man. The door eventually always remains open, not so the men can have sex, but so that they can talk, eat, and watch TV together, developing their own friendship. Barney seems to provide a safety net of sorts for the man to be able to slowly get his feet back under him. They slowly move forward from friendship to love, but it’s a leisurely, sweet journey and well worth the wait.
While the main focus is on Barney and his new love interest, other things are happening at the Belladonna Arms, as well, including some mysterious secret pertaining to Sylvia and Pete. And the cat of many names? He’s back in this story again, this time named Wilbur by Barney, and playing an important role in bringing Barney and his mystery man together.
This was a sweet love story, full of both hope and humor. The characters in the Belladonna Arms, their behaviors, their dialogue, and their interactions all combine to provide not only smiles, but outright belly laughs at times. If you’ve been following the series, this one should definitely go on your TBR list. Though it can be read as a standalone, it really shouldn’t. There are so many characters who are familiar from past books that I’d recommend those books be read first. In fact, I suspect this may be the last in the series, and it’s well worth reading. I love the gift of hope the author has given us with this book, and I hope you will too.
3.5 stars rounded up because I love the residents of Belladonna Arms.
October 4, 2015
The first book in the Belladonna Arms series, Serenading Stanley was my first John Inman book. I kept seeing reviews and post on how funny it was and back when it was published in 2013, I was just starting out in the MM genre and funny MM was new to me. After about 20 pages I was hooked, and he has become an auto buy ever since. Now I know he writes across the board from sexy, funny to damn scary. And I love them all.
All three in the series could possibly read as stand alone but all the charaters are heavily involved in all the books so I would read in order.
In this one we have Pete’s friend needing a place to live, Barney is your typical geek friend. Doesn’t think he’s cute, doesn’t think anyone would ever love him back, doesn’t think he’s worthy. Just breaks your heart. I love those charaters.
And then we bring back Ramon, it’s hard to see the former vibrant person he was in the last book, become the person he is in this one.
Barney and Ramon are so perfect together. Helping each other over there insecurities. Understanding they need to be friends first. And the rest of the building helping out, going to bat or under the shears as it were. It’s been a long time since I laughed that hard over a scene in a book!
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review by Crystals Many reviews
All three in the series could possibly read as stand alone but all the charaters are heavily involved in all the books so I would read in order.
In this one we have Pete’s friend needing a place to live, Barney is your typical geek friend. Doesn’t think he’s cute, doesn’t think anyone would ever love him back, doesn’t think he’s worthy. Just breaks your heart. I love those charaters.
And then we bring back Ramon, it’s hard to see the former vibrant person he was in the last book, become the person he is in this one.
Barney and Ramon are so perfect together. Helping each other over there insecurities. Understanding they need to be friends first. And the rest of the building helping out, going to bat or under the shears as it were. It’s been a long time since I laughed that hard over a scene in a book!
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review by Crystals Many reviews
August 30, 2015
"Slight spoilers ahead"!!! - Once again the Belladonna Arms sprinkles it's love pollen on its newest guests. The journey to getting there is unique this time, bringing back Ramon after the tragedy of his partner's death and his subsequent departure from the "Arms". Arthur is such a great matchmaker, his renters never have a chance at staying lonely for long. Throw in a cat and another couple with a huge surprise at the end, and this was a super funny, loving, and highly rewarding read. Five stars all the way.
Can't wait for the next installment.
Can't wait for the next installment.
August 22, 2015
I'm afraid to repeat myself in every review and not because the stories are the same but because everyone is equally beautiful and intense and so well written.The Barney and Ramon's story is one concentrated of love and funny stuff , of pain and sadness, for cry and laugh...I do love this series and this last book.
August 28, 2015
I did not want to finish this book because I knew it would leave me wanting more ... and I was right! I want to move into this place right away!
June 26, 2019
3.5 stars- Fun, quirky characters enhanced by a very good narrator
Coming Back happens to be the first of The Belladonna Arms series I’ve read, but I had no trouble diving in so I’d consider this a standalone with some overlapping characters (though I suspect there will be some spoilers if you read out of order). I found this quirky set of characters and friends vibrant and fun. The upbeat tone and tempo made Coming Back a quick read that’s perfect for a relaxing weekend or keeping you entertained while going about your to-do list.
Coming Back was lighthearted in many ways and often had me smiling, though there were pockets of angst as well, particularly regarding Ramon’s past. I liked both characters and found the eccentricities of all the tenants of The Belladonna Arms endearing. The close knit community is another big draw for me to read more from the series. As much as I enjoyed the characters and liked the way Barney protected Ramon, the romance between them felt a little fast; and though some of that was no doubt due to the infamous Belladonna Arms’ “love pollen”, I wished I had a bit more time seeing the beginning or even middle stages of this couple’s relationship.
Coming Back also happens to be the first time I’ve listened to this narrator. Mr. Hertel did a really good job catching the variety of characters and their different personalities, all while keeping an even rhythm that made for a really pleasant listen. Between the easy-listening vibe, the vivacious characters, and the bright dialogue, this book and series is definitely worth trying.
Reviewed by Annie from Alpha Book Club
Coming Back happens to be the first of The Belladonna Arms series I’ve read, but I had no trouble diving in so I’d consider this a standalone with some overlapping characters (though I suspect there will be some spoilers if you read out of order). I found this quirky set of characters and friends vibrant and fun. The upbeat tone and tempo made Coming Back a quick read that’s perfect for a relaxing weekend or keeping you entertained while going about your to-do list.
Coming Back was lighthearted in many ways and often had me smiling, though there were pockets of angst as well, particularly regarding Ramon’s past. I liked both characters and found the eccentricities of all the tenants of The Belladonna Arms endearing. The close knit community is another big draw for me to read more from the series. As much as I enjoyed the characters and liked the way Barney protected Ramon, the romance between them felt a little fast; and though some of that was no doubt due to the infamous Belladonna Arms’ “love pollen”, I wished I had a bit more time seeing the beginning or even middle stages of this couple’s relationship.
Coming Back also happens to be the first time I’ve listened to this narrator. Mr. Hertel did a really good job catching the variety of characters and their different personalities, all while keeping an even rhythm that made for a really pleasant listen. Between the easy-listening vibe, the vivacious characters, and the bright dialogue, this book and series is definitely worth trying.
Reviewed by Annie from Alpha Book Club
September 3, 2018
A tragic death. So much pain, anger and guilt. Ramon suffers all of these and takes to the streets to become invisible, leaving his friends at the Belladonna Arms behind.
The great and wonderful Arthur makes it his mission to find Ramon and bring him back to the living. He brings along Barney, a new tenant and friend. Sweet Barney, shy, lonely and obscure. He’s a good soul.
A journey begins and it is wonderful to see. How two individuals, one brought low by grief and the other simply trying to find out what living is all about, and maybe, just maybe, finding friends along the way. Love? It’s a sweet bonus.
We get some fabulous surprises here people, and some truly wild haircuts! And, let’s not forget the laughter. It feels sooo good to laugh doesn’t it? You’ll find it here.
Perfect
***** plus stars and highly recommended :)
The great and wonderful Arthur makes it his mission to find Ramon and bring him back to the living. He brings along Barney, a new tenant and friend. Sweet Barney, shy, lonely and obscure. He’s a good soul.
A journey begins and it is wonderful to see. How two individuals, one brought low by grief and the other simply trying to find out what living is all about, and maybe, just maybe, finding friends along the way. Love? It’s a sweet bonus.
We get some fabulous surprises here people, and some truly wild haircuts! And, let’s not forget the laughter. It feels sooo good to laugh doesn’t it? You’ll find it here.
Perfect
***** plus stars and highly recommended :)
November 14, 2018
God I love this series!
We met Ramon in earlier books. He was the lover of the misbegotten ChiChi and since ChiChi’s death, he’s been living on the streets. When Barney, Pete’s friend, moves into the Arms, Arthur knows just who to recruit to bring Ramon back to the family, back to Belladonna Arms.
Barney falls in love easily, but know one loves him back the way he needs. Ramon thinks he can never love again, not after what happened with ChiChi. Will the Love Pollen work it’s magic or will Ramon and Barney be the first to fail?
**
This series is so damn cute! It’s fun, sweet, a little bit sexy and wonderful!
It’s great seeing the entire gang and though this might be okay as a standalone, I don’t recommend it, because you really benefit by reading the others in order.
John Inman is a master of making wonderful characters who are absolutely imperfect but so easy to love. He doesn’t shy away from giving them “difficulties” or making them less than perfect physically or even mentally.
Barney is so shy and sweet and it was wonderful to watch him come in to his own while being “strong” for Ramon.
Ramon started out so broken, but with the daily doses of love coming from Arthur, Barney and the rest of the crew, he finally began to heal.
I love Sylvia and Pete so much! I was so happy for them!
I can’t say enough about this series and I highly recommend it!
6 of 5 stars
We met Ramon in earlier books. He was the lover of the misbegotten ChiChi and since ChiChi’s death, he’s been living on the streets. When Barney, Pete’s friend, moves into the Arms, Arthur knows just who to recruit to bring Ramon back to the family, back to Belladonna Arms.
Barney falls in love easily, but know one loves him back the way he needs. Ramon thinks he can never love again, not after what happened with ChiChi. Will the Love Pollen work it’s magic or will Ramon and Barney be the first to fail?
**
This series is so damn cute! It’s fun, sweet, a little bit sexy and wonderful!
It’s great seeing the entire gang and though this might be okay as a standalone, I don’t recommend it, because you really benefit by reading the others in order.
John Inman is a master of making wonderful characters who are absolutely imperfect but so easy to love. He doesn’t shy away from giving them “difficulties” or making them less than perfect physically or even mentally.
Barney is so shy and sweet and it was wonderful to watch him come in to his own while being “strong” for Ramon.
Ramon started out so broken, but with the daily doses of love coming from Arthur, Barney and the rest of the crew, he finally began to heal.
I love Sylvia and Pete so much! I was so happy for them!
I can’t say enough about this series and I highly recommend it!
6 of 5 stars
July 10, 2017
Uhhhhhhmmmm, okay heads-up: this book should NOT be read before reading book 2, if you want to avoid spoilers, and if you want the whole story of 'Belladonna Arms' from start to finish.
I didn't read the second book first, since I liked the blurb for this, but with the spoilers in this book I kind of regretted it (until I started reading book 2 and gave up, because Harlie was a judgmental prick!)
I LOVE the secondary characters in this series though, and Arthur is almost an all-time favourite. He is fucking wonderful!
The first book in this series wasn't a huge hit for me, and this one was the same. I think it's the 'FEEL' of this series that's not working for me.
I am a HUGE fan of John Inman, since he makes me laugh more often than not, but this series is too... Cutesy, insta-everything and sugary sweet for my tastes.
So yeah, I'm not finished with Inman, and I'll probably give the last book in this series a try, but I'm going at it with a more low-key-expectation.
I didn't read the second book first, since I liked the blurb for this, but with the spoilers in this book I kind of regretted it (until I started reading book 2 and gave up, because Harlie was a judgmental prick!)
I LOVE the secondary characters in this series though, and Arthur is almost an all-time favourite. He is fucking wonderful!
The first book in this series wasn't a huge hit for me, and this one was the same. I think it's the 'FEEL' of this series that's not working for me.
I am a HUGE fan of John Inman, since he makes me laugh more often than not, but this series is too... Cutesy, insta-everything and sugary sweet for my tastes.
So yeah, I'm not finished with Inman, and I'll probably give the last book in this series a try, but I'm going at it with a more low-key-expectation.
September 21, 2015
I have really enjoyed the other two books in this series, and this one was my favorite. First there is lots of Arthur, I love that man, hes so funny but so loving and caring for all the people who live in his apartment building. He warns Barney about the love pollen when he first arrives but Barney doesn't believe him. By the end of the story he is totally convinced. John Inman is a very versatile author, he can write some really scary stories, and some super funny ones. This book had some of the funniest stuff yet. The haircut part was so funny I was laughing out loud at work, which is in a hair salon ironically. Parts were so touching and real that I had to hold back tears. Its such a totally good read, you cant help but love them all. And Sylvia, I loved how it all ended up for them. I really hope there is someone who is moving into that empty apartment because I cannot wait for more of this series.
December 24, 2015
I can't believe I overlooked leaving a rating. Like all the other Belladora books this was just as hilarious, hot and just freakin good. I would love to see it continue. This is one of my favorite series and John once again had me in stitches. I can always rely on him for a great, entertaining story.
December 24, 2016
What a wonderful ending to the trilogy
John Inman has done it again he is a master storyteller with this genre and the characters he's created are so heartbreaking in their humanity and with their wants and needs and insecurities. I love every single one of them this story ended perfectly for me and I can't wait to read more from him
Thank you
John Inman has done it again he is a master storyteller with this genre and the characters he's created are so heartbreaking in their humanity and with their wants and needs and insecurities. I love every single one of them this story ended perfectly for me and I can't wait to read more from him
Thank you
August 25, 2015
LOVED IT!!! Ramon finally gets his story!
September 10, 2016
The cat scene near the end was hilarious!!
The rest of the book was touching and endearing. Well written, as is typical of the author, John Inman.
The rest of the book was touching and endearing. Well written, as is typical of the author, John Inman.
February 5, 2018
Barney Teegarden ist von den Belladonna Arms und den Mietern nicht wirklich überzeugt. Passt er wirklich in diesen Wohnkomplex mit all seinen Bewohnern, die doch ein wenig seltsam erscheinen? Allen voran der Vermieter – Arthur, der Barney nicht geheuer ist. Doch schnell zeigt sich, dass Arthur nicht nur eine exaltierte Dragqueen, sondern ein selten herzensguter Mensch ist. Anstrengend, aber herzensgut und überaus liebenswert. Kaum ist Barney eingezogen, wird er auch schon von Arthur zu einem Abenteuer genötigt. Ein Freund von Arthur braucht Hilfe und Barney muss nun frühmorgens mit Arthur sich auf die Suche nach dem Obdachlosen begeben. Er muss, denn Arthur kann nichts und niemand aufhalten.
Gesucht wird Ramon, ein früherer Bewohner der Belladonna Arms, der eines Tages einfach verschwunden ist und sich auch nie wieder hat blicken lassen. Eine Tragödie, ein Unglück hat Ramons Leben zerstört und auch ihn selbst. Die Schuld einem Menschen das Leben genommen zu haben, wiegt schwer. Was hilft es, dass es ein Akt der Notwehr war? Nichts! Ramon lebt nun auf der Strasse und will auch gar nicht gefunden werden. Eigentlich. Doch dann kommen Arthur und Barney und viel Widerstand kann Ramon auch nicht leisten. Doch er ist beschämt. Zutiefst beschämt und er will die früheren Nachbarn und Freunde auch gar nicht sehen. Doch sein neuer Nachbar, Barney, ist willkommen. Ramon fühlt sich in seiner Nähe wohl und lässt es zu, dass sich zwischen ihnen ein zarte Freundschaft entwickelt und dass Barney beginnt sich um ihn zu kümmern.
Zurück in den Belladonna Arms – es ist wie ein Besuch bei liebgewordenen Freunden. Es ist einfach herrlich zu sehen wie sich die Paare gefunden und nun auch weiterentwickelt haben. Die Hauptprotagonisten Barney und Ramon sind ein wunderbares Paar, das sich auf eine wirklich charmante, amüsante und sehr liebenswerte Art und Weise findet. Ramon ist kein Unbekannter und man leidet wirklich Seite für Seite mit ihm mit. Erst glaubt man ja in Barney den ’schwachen‘ Part zu finden, doch er entwickelt im Laufe der Geschichte unerwartete Stärke und Beständigkeit.
Diese Geschichte hat alles – Drama, Humor, Witz, Romantik, Erotik und viel Gefühl. John Inman ist wirklich ein Meister seines Faches. Bei dieser Reihe bringt er so eine Fülle von Emotionen und so viel Abwechslung in seine Geschichten, wie ich sie sonst nur selten gelesen habe. Auch hier unterscheidet sich das Paar wieder völlig von den Paaren der vorigen Büchern und doch sind sie einem doch so seltsam vertraut in ihren Marotten, Ängsten, Sehnsüchten und Träumen.
Gesucht wird Ramon, ein früherer Bewohner der Belladonna Arms, der eines Tages einfach verschwunden ist und sich auch nie wieder hat blicken lassen. Eine Tragödie, ein Unglück hat Ramons Leben zerstört und auch ihn selbst. Die Schuld einem Menschen das Leben genommen zu haben, wiegt schwer. Was hilft es, dass es ein Akt der Notwehr war? Nichts! Ramon lebt nun auf der Strasse und will auch gar nicht gefunden werden. Eigentlich. Doch dann kommen Arthur und Barney und viel Widerstand kann Ramon auch nicht leisten. Doch er ist beschämt. Zutiefst beschämt und er will die früheren Nachbarn und Freunde auch gar nicht sehen. Doch sein neuer Nachbar, Barney, ist willkommen. Ramon fühlt sich in seiner Nähe wohl und lässt es zu, dass sich zwischen ihnen ein zarte Freundschaft entwickelt und dass Barney beginnt sich um ihn zu kümmern.
Zurück in den Belladonna Arms – es ist wie ein Besuch bei liebgewordenen Freunden. Es ist einfach herrlich zu sehen wie sich die Paare gefunden und nun auch weiterentwickelt haben. Die Hauptprotagonisten Barney und Ramon sind ein wunderbares Paar, das sich auf eine wirklich charmante, amüsante und sehr liebenswerte Art und Weise findet. Ramon ist kein Unbekannter und man leidet wirklich Seite für Seite mit ihm mit. Erst glaubt man ja in Barney den ’schwachen‘ Part zu finden, doch er entwickelt im Laufe der Geschichte unerwartete Stärke und Beständigkeit.
Diese Geschichte hat alles – Drama, Humor, Witz, Romantik, Erotik und viel Gefühl. John Inman ist wirklich ein Meister seines Faches. Bei dieser Reihe bringt er so eine Fülle von Emotionen und so viel Abwechslung in seine Geschichten, wie ich sie sonst nur selten gelesen habe. Auch hier unterscheidet sich das Paar wieder völlig von den Paaren der vorigen Büchern und doch sind sie einem doch so seltsam vertraut in ihren Marotten, Ängsten, Sehnsüchten und Träumen.
September 1, 2015
The crazy cast at Belladonna Arms is back again in this continuation of the series. Like always, there are terrific characters and great descriptions. Reading this book felt like coming back home to a group of familiar misfit friends. As with all of the books in this series, the description of the characters drives the story forward.
In this installment, Barney, a geeky accountant type, joins the crew at the belladonna arms where he hopes that he may be sprinkled with the "love pollen" that seems to be everywhere in that apartment complex.
Well, the love pollen brings Arthur (the super drag queen landlord) and Barney on a search for a former resident of belladonna arms named Ramon. (Ramon was the partner of ChiChi in the earlier books in the series. Ramon is now homeless, but Arthur feels some need to help Ramon.). You know that ultimately Barney will end up with Ramon, and he does.
I do have one gripe in general about the sex scenes (and I think I have said/thought the same thing every time I read one of Inman's book): the sex scenes are way too graphic. The words used to describe man/man sex, while accurate, are simply not romantic at all. I mean words like "slurp" and "gobble" simply do not make for a romantic sex scene, although they certainly give the reader the carnal picture of the love scene that the author is portraying.
I won't talk about the spoiler involving Pete and Sylvia, who are also residents of Belladonna Arms, but it is the ending of the book. I thought the ending was a bit of a let down compared to the rest of the book. But, maybe others will like it. Overall, four stars from me.
In this installment, Barney, a geeky accountant type, joins the crew at the belladonna arms where he hopes that he may be sprinkled with the "love pollen" that seems to be everywhere in that apartment complex.
Well, the love pollen brings Arthur (the super drag queen landlord) and Barney on a search for a former resident of belladonna arms named Ramon. (Ramon was the partner of ChiChi in the earlier books in the series. Ramon is now homeless, but Arthur feels some need to help Ramon.). You know that ultimately Barney will end up with Ramon, and he does.
I do have one gripe in general about the sex scenes (and I think I have said/thought the same thing every time I read one of Inman's book): the sex scenes are way too graphic. The words used to describe man/man sex, while accurate, are simply not romantic at all. I mean words like "slurp" and "gobble" simply do not make for a romantic sex scene, although they certainly give the reader the carnal picture of the love scene that the author is portraying.
I won't talk about the spoiler involving Pete and Sylvia, who are also residents of Belladonna Arms, but it is the ending of the book. I thought the ending was a bit of a let down compared to the rest of the book. But, maybe others will like it. Overall, four stars from me.
February 10, 2016
I think this one is my favourite of the three Belladonna Arms books......Barney and Arthur just blew me away in this one.....Arthur needed to find his "friend" and i'm so glad I was right about who that was.....I loved how Barney found love...How he helped to get Arthurs friend back to who he was.....I'm sad this series is only three long...because there's a spare room at the Belladonna Arms Mr Inman......just saying x
December 27, 2018
Welcome back to the Belladonna Arms with John Inman’s Coming Back. Reminiscent of Armistead Maupin’s Tales of the City, the Belladonna Arms is occupied by a quirky, zany, ragtag bunch of individuals. This episode from The Belladonna Arms series can be read independently, however to best enjoy their antics read them in order, you won’t be disappointed.
Barney, a bookkeeper, needs new living arrangements and his friend and coworker, Pete recommends him for an apartment in the Belladonna Arms, “A rundown little apartment building perched atop a hill in downtown San Diego, home to the city’s lost and lovelorn.” Self-proclaimed dork, Barney folds right in with the loveable and motley crew inhabiting the Arms.
Upon receiving a tip, Arthur engages Barney on a quest to find his missing friend. Let’s back up a minute… Arthur – the owner of the Arms – is a cigar smoking, flamboyant, lavishly dressed, large drag queen with a heart of gold. Back to the quest…. Out of character, Arthur keeps Barney in the dark as to the why and who they are looking for. Eventually, they succeed in locating Ramon and bring him back to the Arms.
Ramon, a beauty school dropout, disappeared from the Arms after the untimely and tragic death of his former lover ChiChi. He has been living on the streets ashamed, creating a self-imposed isolation, and your heart breaks for Ramon and the events of his recent past.
Ramon gets the apartment next to Barney, and using the secret door between the two abodes (the door is always left open for the resident cat, of course), a slow and steady bond is forged between the two men. Surrounded by friendship, and with the Belladonna Arms love pollen sprinkled liberally, Ramon drifts down a path toward healing and, BAM!, a romance blooms.
Alongside Ramon and Barney’s story… the cat with many names returns. Jeez, they need to curb this cat’s food intake, he is getting fatter by the day. And residents Sylvia and Pete have a secret – look at all the toys for tots they are accumulating. Meanwhile Barney, Milan, Harlie, Roger, Charlie, Pete, Stanley, and Bruce all partake in haircuts from Ramon; a debacle Arthur affectionately thinks is “an orgy of butchery not seen since Vlad the Impaler started hosting block parties at his fixer-upper castle with the dungeon to die for back in Romania in the fifteenth century.”
The shenanigans going on at the Arms will keep you in stitches. As Roman’s past unfolds, truths are revealed and the darker side of life peeks through. The talent of John Inman shines creating a magnificent set of imperfect characters who take hold of your heart.
Shawn Hertel’s narration adds immense depth to the cast. The emotion, energy, and voice of each character is genuine. Along the way you never once lose track of who is center stage.
I absolutely adore the Belladonna Arms series and Coming Back is an excellent addition. I love the characters John Inman has created along with the love, compassion, understanding, and camaraderie traipsing the halls of the Arms – it’s a hoot!
At the Arms you are immediately invited in and made to feel at home. Some tips for a memorable stay:
* You don’t need a haircut.
* If something goes missing, check with Charlie and Bruce.
* The cat is a prick.
* Prepare for an abundance of fun and laughter.
* Remember, there is no privacy at the Arms.
Barney, a bookkeeper, needs new living arrangements and his friend and coworker, Pete recommends him for an apartment in the Belladonna Arms, “A rundown little apartment building perched atop a hill in downtown San Diego, home to the city’s lost and lovelorn.” Self-proclaimed dork, Barney folds right in with the loveable and motley crew inhabiting the Arms.
Upon receiving a tip, Arthur engages Barney on a quest to find his missing friend. Let’s back up a minute… Arthur – the owner of the Arms – is a cigar smoking, flamboyant, lavishly dressed, large drag queen with a heart of gold. Back to the quest…. Out of character, Arthur keeps Barney in the dark as to the why and who they are looking for. Eventually, they succeed in locating Ramon and bring him back to the Arms.
Ramon, a beauty school dropout, disappeared from the Arms after the untimely and tragic death of his former lover ChiChi. He has been living on the streets ashamed, creating a self-imposed isolation, and your heart breaks for Ramon and the events of his recent past.
Ramon gets the apartment next to Barney, and using the secret door between the two abodes (the door is always left open for the resident cat, of course), a slow and steady bond is forged between the two men. Surrounded by friendship, and with the Belladonna Arms love pollen sprinkled liberally, Ramon drifts down a path toward healing and, BAM!, a romance blooms.
Alongside Ramon and Barney’s story… the cat with many names returns. Jeez, they need to curb this cat’s food intake, he is getting fatter by the day. And residents Sylvia and Pete have a secret – look at all the toys for tots they are accumulating. Meanwhile Barney, Milan, Harlie, Roger, Charlie, Pete, Stanley, and Bruce all partake in haircuts from Ramon; a debacle Arthur affectionately thinks is “an orgy of butchery not seen since Vlad the Impaler started hosting block parties at his fixer-upper castle with the dungeon to die for back in Romania in the fifteenth century.”
The shenanigans going on at the Arms will keep you in stitches. As Roman’s past unfolds, truths are revealed and the darker side of life peeks through. The talent of John Inman shines creating a magnificent set of imperfect characters who take hold of your heart.
Shawn Hertel’s narration adds immense depth to the cast. The emotion, energy, and voice of each character is genuine. Along the way you never once lose track of who is center stage.
I absolutely adore the Belladonna Arms series and Coming Back is an excellent addition. I love the characters John Inman has created along with the love, compassion, understanding, and camaraderie traipsing the halls of the Arms – it’s a hoot!
At the Arms you are immediately invited in and made to feel at home. Some tips for a memorable stay:
* You don’t need a haircut.
* If something goes missing, check with Charlie and Bruce.
* The cat is a prick.
* Prepare for an abundance of fun and laughter.
* Remember, there is no privacy at the Arms.
December 31, 2018
God I love this series!
We met Ramon in earlier books. He was the lover of the misbegotten ChiChi and since ChiChi’s death, he’s been living on the streets. When Barney, Pete’s friend, moves into the Arms, Arthur knows just who to recruit to bring Ramon back to the family, back to Belladonna Arms.
Barney falls in love easily, but know one loves him back the way he needs. Ramon thinks he can never love again, not after what happened with ChiChi. Will the Love Pollen work it’s magic or will Ramon and Barney be the first to fail?
**
This series is so damn cute! It’s fun, sweet, a little bit sexy and wonderful!
It’s great seeing the entire gang and though this might be okay as a standalone, I don’t recommend it, because you really benefit by reading the others in order.
John Inman is a master of making wonderful characters who are absolutely imperfect but so easy to love. He doesn’t shy away from giving them “difficulties” or making them less than perfect physically or even mentally.
Barney is so shy and sweet and it was wonderful to watch him come in to his own while being “strong” for Ramon.
Ramon started out so broken, but with the daily doses of love coming from Arthur, Barney and the rest of the crew, he finally began to heal.
I love Sylvia and Pete so much! I was so happy for them!
I can’t say enough about this series and I highly recommend it!
6 of 5 stars
Previous Reviews :
Book 1 http://kimichanexperience.com/serenad...
Book 2 http://kimichanexperience.com/work-in...
Audio
How delightful! We’ve got a new (to me) narrator here who seems wonderful! I really enjoyed his take on the Beladonna Arms. He handled all the drama, sexiness and humor equally well. He manages to give everyone unique voices and not go OTT.
Highly recommended!
5 of 5 stars
We met Ramon in earlier books. He was the lover of the misbegotten ChiChi and since ChiChi’s death, he’s been living on the streets. When Barney, Pete’s friend, moves into the Arms, Arthur knows just who to recruit to bring Ramon back to the family, back to Belladonna Arms.
Barney falls in love easily, but know one loves him back the way he needs. Ramon thinks he can never love again, not after what happened with ChiChi. Will the Love Pollen work it’s magic or will Ramon and Barney be the first to fail?
**
This series is so damn cute! It’s fun, sweet, a little bit sexy and wonderful!
It’s great seeing the entire gang and though this might be okay as a standalone, I don’t recommend it, because you really benefit by reading the others in order.
John Inman is a master of making wonderful characters who are absolutely imperfect but so easy to love. He doesn’t shy away from giving them “difficulties” or making them less than perfect physically or even mentally.
Barney is so shy and sweet and it was wonderful to watch him come in to his own while being “strong” for Ramon.
Ramon started out so broken, but with the daily doses of love coming from Arthur, Barney and the rest of the crew, he finally began to heal.
I love Sylvia and Pete so much! I was so happy for them!
I can’t say enough about this series and I highly recommend it!
6 of 5 stars
Previous Reviews :
Book 1 http://kimichanexperience.com/serenad...
Book 2 http://kimichanexperience.com/work-in...
Audio
How delightful! We’ve got a new (to me) narrator here who seems wonderful! I really enjoyed his take on the Beladonna Arms. He handled all the drama, sexiness and humor equally well. He manages to give everyone unique voices and not go OTT.
Highly recommended!
5 of 5 stars
November 20, 2018
This is a book three and I would read in order. i hadn't and didn't relay know the characters or what was happening at first, however there is good backdrop of information and you do eventually get filled in.
Barney finds a new home at the Belladonna Arms, full of quirky characters and said to sprinkle love dust around. He kinda hopes to get a sprinkle.
Arthur his Landlord keeps teasing him to help him look for a missing friend to bring back home. Barney believes the friend a myth until one day they do find him
Ramon has a sad story and is a very broken man, getting him to return and stay wot be an easy job but Arthur has faith in Barney.
Barney not only found friends at the Belladonna but also a cat.
This story has a a lot of angst but its also lighthearted and fun to read. there is a silly little twist at the end that will have you laughing out loud. speaking of laughing out loud, you will do this several times throughout the book so Hense, the warning about NSFW
I liked the narration. Shawn Hertel gave Ramon his cute accent and Arthur is drag one spot on. He made the book even more fun to listen too!
Barney finds a new home at the Belladonna Arms, full of quirky characters and said to sprinkle love dust around. He kinda hopes to get a sprinkle.
Arthur his Landlord keeps teasing him to help him look for a missing friend to bring back home. Barney believes the friend a myth until one day they do find him
Ramon has a sad story and is a very broken man, getting him to return and stay wot be an easy job but Arthur has faith in Barney.
Barney not only found friends at the Belladonna but also a cat.
This story has a a lot of angst but its also lighthearted and fun to read. there is a silly little twist at the end that will have you laughing out loud. speaking of laughing out loud, you will do this several times throughout the book so Hense, the warning about NSFW
I liked the narration. Shawn Hertel gave Ramon his cute accent and Arthur is drag one spot on. He made the book even more fun to listen too!
February 16, 2025
I have really loved this series and hope there are more books coming. This was another 5 star read in the series. We met the same characters with a couple of new ones and one returning. The story was wonderful and as always this was a very easy read. The perfect amount of narrative around super conversations. Twists and turns that were cute. This made me chuckle out loud several times and brought a tear to my eyes a time or two. This is probably one of my favorite M/M series and I honestly recommend these books to lovers of that genre.
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