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Sunshine and Happiness #3
Close to You
Sunshine and Book Three
It’s hard to recover from a first love. Some people never do.
How hard would you fight to keep your best friend? Marc Lucas and Tomas Santos have been best friends forever, but now their friendship is in a crisis. When they were boys, betrayals ripped their world apart. They thought it was fixed, but some parts remained broken. Ever since he saved him from a humiliation at school, Marc has loved Tomas. The last thing he expects is for Tomas to love him back. To keep his best friend, Marc revisits an abusive past he’s tried to forget.
For Tomas, loving Marc has been anything but easy. His upbringing told him it was wrong, so why did it feel so right? Accepting who he is as an adult, Tomas decides he needs a committed relationship. To his deep sorrow, he can’t seem to find it with Marc.
When the two find themselves alone and in the grip of a hurricane, long-buried feelings emerge. Being “just friends” is no longer an option. They must risk it all on love.
It’s hard to recover from a first love. Some people never do.
How hard would you fight to keep your best friend? Marc Lucas and Tomas Santos have been best friends forever, but now their friendship is in a crisis. When they were boys, betrayals ripped their world apart. They thought it was fixed, but some parts remained broken. Ever since he saved him from a humiliation at school, Marc has loved Tomas. The last thing he expects is for Tomas to love him back. To keep his best friend, Marc revisits an abusive past he’s tried to forget.
For Tomas, loving Marc has been anything but easy. His upbringing told him it was wrong, so why did it feel so right? Accepting who he is as an adult, Tomas decides he needs a committed relationship. To his deep sorrow, he can’t seem to find it with Marc.
When the two find themselves alone and in the grip of a hurricane, long-buried feelings emerge. Being “just friends” is no longer an option. They must risk it all on love.
248 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 28, 2016
17 people are currently reading
259 people want to read
About the author
Skylar M. Cates
30 books298 followersSkylar M. Cates loves a good romance. She is happy to drink coffee, curl up with a good book, and not move all day. Her novels feature strong and passionate men. Skylar loves to craft stories where realistic characters are challenged with emotional situations. Although lately the laundry room is the farthest place she has visited, Skylar loves to chat with folks from all around the globe.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
February 27, 2016
I've been waiting for Marc and Tomas's story. There's been an aura of mystery surrounding their relationship and past. Marc is unpredictable and angry, but we see glimpses of humor and kindness beneath the hard exterior.
This is not a standalone book. Marc and Tomas are important secondary characters in the first two books, and the previous MCs have a strong presence in Close to You. Andrew deals with a tragedy, Owen a rock by his side, and Cole and Ian are surprised in the best way possible.
It's one of the things I love most about this series: the way it weaves the men's lives into a tapestry of friendship and community.
Close to You is not just a Best Friends to Lovers story. It's an I've Loved You My Whole Life story, an I Will Never Feel Whole Without You story.
Marc and Tomas meet at age 13. Marc lives with his abusive father in squalor and often goes hungry. Tomas's wonderful dad has just passed away from cancer, but he has his mom and strict but loving Brazilian grandparents. Tomas is loved. Marc is not.
The book is told from a dual POV and alternates between the past (when Marc and Tomas are teens) and the present.
Seeing what Marc endured made me sick with rage and horror. I understood why Marc keeps people at a distance, why he's afraid to love or be loved.
Tomas and Marc don't have an easy time of it, but once Tomas moves out, Marc realizes he doesn't want to be without him. Marc's been going to therapy with Morgan and knows he has to let Tomas in or risk losing him forever.
This is such a sexy and intense story, brimming with angst, yes, but also comfort & healing.
Marc shies away from intimacy because letting people in terrifies him. But it's different with Tomas. BETTER with Tomas. It's trust and love and forever.
The HEA is everything. The story doesn't end abruptly. There's closure and forgiveness. There's the beach and JOY and kittens.
This is not a standalone book. Marc and Tomas are important secondary characters in the first two books, and the previous MCs have a strong presence in Close to You. Andrew deals with a tragedy, Owen a rock by his side, and Cole and Ian are surprised in the best way possible.
It's one of the things I love most about this series: the way it weaves the men's lives into a tapestry of friendship and community.
Close to You is not just a Best Friends to Lovers story. It's an I've Loved You My Whole Life story, an I Will Never Feel Whole Without You story.
Marc and Tomas meet at age 13. Marc lives with his abusive father in squalor and often goes hungry. Tomas's wonderful dad has just passed away from cancer, but he has his mom and strict but loving Brazilian grandparents. Tomas is loved. Marc is not.
The book is told from a dual POV and alternates between the past (when Marc and Tomas are teens) and the present.
Seeing what Marc endured made me sick with rage and horror. I understood why Marc keeps people at a distance, why he's afraid to love or be loved.
Tomas and Marc don't have an easy time of it, but once Tomas moves out, Marc realizes he doesn't want to be without him. Marc's been going to therapy with Morgan and knows he has to let Tomas in or risk losing him forever.
This is such a sexy and intense story, brimming with angst, yes, but also comfort & healing.
Marc shies away from intimacy because letting people in terrifies him. But it's different with Tomas. BETTER with Tomas. It's trust and love and forever.
The HEA is everything. The story doesn't end abruptly. There's closure and forgiveness. There's the beach and JOY and kittens.
"So good ... Better than anybody else could ever be. Me and you together—we're ...." Marc's throat locks ....
"We're everything," Tomas finishes for him.
March 28, 2016
"Two lives that have always been one. Two bodies meant to touch.
.................................................
For other people, first love fades away, but not for Tomas. The way he loves Marc might change like the seasons, but it doesn’t ever die."
We 've seen a lot of Marc and Tomas in the first two books of the Sunshine and Happiness series. We saw them fighting, hurting, grieving, and trying to stay away from each other. But nothing prepared me for all this history between them, their heart-wrenching past, and the unbreakable bond they shared.
The story is almost split between the present, , and the past, when Marc and Tomas first met as teenagers.
Tomas was growing up with his old-fashioned, but very caring, Brazilian family. Marc was growing up with a monster, aka his father. Always hungry and dirty, always the school's freak, always alone. Until Tomas saw him and wanted to be his friend.
Their flashbacks made me feel all warm inside and broke me at the same time. But most importantly, they made me understand Marc, who, until then, was a puzzle.
Marc is just not available. He has been through so much, he finds it impossible to open up to someone, to let another person in. Not even Tomas. Especially Tomas! Because he will see all he ugliness inside him. He wants to become intimate with someone, but his body, just like his mind and soul, fight him every time.
Skylar Cates is a very skilled author, and she did an amazing job portraying the complexity of Marc's character, his connection to Tomas, and Tomas' struggle with guilt.
The process of healing starts relatively early and it's very realistic, without magic solutions. Marc needs all the help he can get, and he knows it. There is no sex in this story, only making love. Sensual, comforting touches, and passion that had been building up for years.
Once again, the Ocean Vista gang proves that friends is the family you choose. The sense of brotherhood is even more present in this book.
The ending of the story is everything! There is tender yet passionate lovemaking, an apology long overdue, and a dream "of two young boys racing into the water."
“From here on out”—Tomas smiled—“it’s you and me.”
There is no doubt in my mind that this was among the best and most powerful friends-to-lovers story I have ever read. Highly recommended!
*ARC provided from the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
March 3, 2016
Dude, we finally get Tomas and Marc's story! I have been wondering what occurred between them since book one. I'm so happy that their story lived up to the anticipation of waiting for it.
The love that these men have for each other is swoon worthy. I found myself putting my iPad down, taking a deep breath, then highlighting quotes before being able to continue reading. Great stuff that every romance junkie like myself appreciates I tell you.
My highlights:
*The care that was taken to tell us their complete story. Their story had to be told from the beginning, and I appreciated how thought out it was and not rushed.
*The main characters. Great development of both men.
*The story is narrated from both POVs giving the readers an insight into what both men were feeling and their decision making.
*The intensity of their love and devotion for each other. Sigh.♥
*And their HEA. I was so happy for them to be finally together the way they were destined to.
My only criticism would be the way the flashbacks were handled. For Tomas and Marc's love story to be told correctly, we had to be taken back to their childhood. There were quite a few flashbacks- which I don't like- but understood why they were needed. I just wish that there had been some indication given when were going back to the past. We'd be in the present, turn the page and I'd be thinking we're still in the present, but we'd been taken back to the past. My brain would have to readjust and remember where the past had been left off last time. I found it distracting and disruptive to the story flow. I think this criticism is all about personal preference, though.
As far as this being book 3 in the series- can it be read as a standalone? Definitely no. All these characters are intertwined and with each book, we are being set up for the next protagonists. Which by the way- I can't freakin' wait for River's book!!! And Morgan better be his love interest!!!
All in all, this is another winner for Skylar M. Cates. She did a splendid job with this friends to lovers second chance story. This was simply a beautiful love story. 4.5 Stars.
ARC kindly provided by Dreamspinner Press to Gay Book Reviews for an honest review.
September 26, 2016
I waited a long time to read this one. And once again, because of my challenge I was "forced" to. And I'm glad I finally read this one. But it wasn't an easy read.
I knew going in to this one that it would be on the heavy side. While all of the books in the series feature different characters, I think they should be read in order.
It's apparent in the previous books that Tomas and Marc had a past. A past that was definitely not pleasant for Marc, or Tomas at times.
I don't usually like flashbacks in books, especially when they alternate every chapter. I get why they are used....but every chapter where I get forward progress, the following chapter I am taken back. When most of the time I just want to move forward.
That being said, about halfway through maybe we stay in the present. And I enjoyed that half quite a bit more. I really liked both MCs, and felt for what they went through. I liked how Marc really tried to be the person that he thought Tomas deserved. As the book progressed, he stopped using his past as an excuse. He took steps to overcome what he went through.
While this is generally not my ideal type of read, I am glad I finally gave this one a go.
All signs point to the next book in the series being Morgan and River, which I am super excited to get inside River's head. Definitely recommend this series.
I knew going in to this one that it would be on the heavy side. While all of the books in the series feature different characters, I think they should be read in order.
It's apparent in the previous books that Tomas and Marc had a past. A past that was definitely not pleasant for Marc, or Tomas at times.
I don't usually like flashbacks in books, especially when they alternate every chapter. I get why they are used....but every chapter where I get forward progress, the following chapter I am taken back. When most of the time I just want to move forward.
That being said, about halfway through maybe we stay in the present. And I enjoyed that half quite a bit more. I really liked both MCs, and felt for what they went through. I liked how Marc really tried to be the person that he thought Tomas deserved. As the book progressed, he stopped using his past as an excuse. He took steps to overcome what he went through.
While this is generally not my ideal type of read, I am glad I finally gave this one a go.
All signs point to the next book in the series being Morgan and River, which I am super excited to get inside River's head. Definitely recommend this series.
April 10, 2021
I received an ARC from GRR and this is my honest review.
I have been waiting for Tomas and Marc's story from the time they appeared in book 1. I'm a sucker for second chance, pining romance. and this book delivered!
I loved their relationship and how it morphed from the time they were kids until they reconnected as adults and beyond.
What I loved:
- The Pining and angst. Dude that was painful to read about but so good. It's my catnip.
- The progression. these guys went through so much together and they found their way towards each other, even after years.
- The feels! Tomas is just the biggest sweetheart and Marc just needed someone to understand him, care for him and out him first. and who better than his best friend.
- the love scenes: They were organic and fit Mac's issues. I appreciated that there isn't a quick fix, magic cock thing.
- The found family. We get to see all the guys with a special event from one of them.
niggles:
The present tense was kind of jarring but i got used to it.
The flashbacks were a bit confusing as well... one chapter in the past, then one in the present. Good thing it stopped after the 60%mark.
I have been waiting for Tomas and Marc's story from the time they appeared in book 1. I'm a sucker for second chance, pining romance. and this book delivered!
I loved their relationship and how it morphed from the time they were kids until they reconnected as adults and beyond.
What I loved:
- The Pining and angst. Dude that was painful to read about but so good. It's my catnip.
- The progression. these guys went through so much together and they found their way towards each other, even after years.
- The feels! Tomas is just the biggest sweetheart and Marc just needed someone to understand him, care for him and out him first. and who better than his best friend.
- the love scenes: They were organic and fit Mac's issues. I appreciated that there isn't a quick fix, magic cock thing.
- The found family. We get to see all the guys with a special event from one of them.
niggles:
The present tense was kind of jarring but i got used to it.
The flashbacks were a bit confusing as well... one chapter in the past, then one in the present. Good thing it stopped after the 60%mark.
April 4, 2021
* 3 stars *
It's been so long since the last time that I read a story in present tense that I had a very hard time adapting to it at first. I don't like that narration style, I prefer stories to be told in past tense.
The story is split between the past and the present, as Tomas and Marc have a lot of history between them. I hate to say that I was more invested in their past and what went down back then, than what was happening between them in the present.
Both their childhoods were hard, especially Marc's whose father was not a pleasant man. He hid behind walls in an effort to protect himself and survive the only way he knew how.
Tomas, though, managed to get behind those walls and discover Marc's true self, his kindness and his loyalty. Tomas had his own challenges to overcome while growing up, but it was clear that he had people who loved him in his corner.
In the present, they are going through an awkward phase of trying to find a way to deal with their feelings. They're both in limbo and they know that they have to find a solution if they want to have any hope of salvaging their friendship.
There are some other incidents occuring that ampted up the drama and gave the story a more somber tone, but none of them were over the top and they were handled nicely. Just the right amount of heaviness without it being overbearing.
Close to You is the third book in the series and the previous couples are all side characters. I haven't read the previous two books, but I think they are all connected both by an incident that occured in the first one and by the characters. Marc and Thomas were side characters before, so maybe it will help to read all the books in order. I didn't have a problem treating it as a standalone, but I think reading the whole series will work better.
I generally liked the story, though I did have a problem with the present tense and maybe that's the reason I prefered the chapters that focused on their past.
~ I read an ARC of this book. ~
It's been so long since the last time that I read a story in present tense that I had a very hard time adapting to it at first. I don't like that narration style, I prefer stories to be told in past tense.
The story is split between the past and the present, as Tomas and Marc have a lot of history between them. I hate to say that I was more invested in their past and what went down back then, than what was happening between them in the present.
Both their childhoods were hard, especially Marc's whose father was not a pleasant man. He hid behind walls in an effort to protect himself and survive the only way he knew how.
Tomas, though, managed to get behind those walls and discover Marc's true self, his kindness and his loyalty. Tomas had his own challenges to overcome while growing up, but it was clear that he had people who loved him in his corner.
In the present, they are going through an awkward phase of trying to find a way to deal with their feelings. They're both in limbo and they know that they have to find a solution if they want to have any hope of salvaging their friendship.
There are some other incidents occuring that ampted up the drama and gave the story a more somber tone, but none of them were over the top and they were handled nicely. Just the right amount of heaviness without it being overbearing.
Close to You is the third book in the series and the previous couples are all side characters. I haven't read the previous two books, but I think they are all connected both by an incident that occured in the first one and by the characters. Marc and Thomas were side characters before, so maybe it will help to read all the books in order. I didn't have a problem treating it as a standalone, but I think reading the whole series will work better.
I generally liked the story, though I did have a problem with the present tense and maybe that's the reason I prefered the chapters that focused on their past.
~ I read an ARC of this book. ~
April 6, 2016
I loved this book! I've been looking forward to Marc and Tomas's story since book 1 and I was not disappointed in the least. Damaged souls are my favorite when they still manage to find their happy. I've had an amazingly busy week, so I'm a bit behind on my reviews, but I will try to get one done for this book in a day or two.
April 22, 2016
LOVE IT ~
This book is a part of a series so we knew a bit of Marc and Tomas from previous books. They were very attractive characters since the beginning, we barely knew that they know each other from high school and although is clear that they are deeply in love, they are not together!!
WHY??
We get the answer in THIS BOOK! Finally!!
I must say I loved the structure that the writer used, she combined two storylines ; The present and Marc and Tomas story since the high school. So we could see how they confront the actual wrecked situation while we are just realizing why they get to that point.
“Can you stay awhile?” Marc nods. “As long as you need me.” Tomas smiles wistfully as they go into the house.The answer to that is “forever”.
I CRY several times; _; They have hard times, specially Marc, he´s so broken and I adore him... I´m not going to say that is a life changing book, but yeah I totally feel the connection with the characters and love them so much!
This book is a part of a series so we knew a bit of Marc and Tomas from previous books. They were very attractive characters since the beginning, we barely knew that they know each other from high school and although is clear that they are deeply in love, they are not together!!
WHY??
We get the answer in THIS BOOK! Finally!!
I must say I loved the structure that the writer used, she combined two storylines ; The present and Marc and Tomas story since the high school. So we could see how they confront the actual wrecked situation while we are just realizing why they get to that point.
“Can you stay awhile?” Marc nods. “As long as you need me.” Tomas smiles wistfully as they go into the house.The answer to that is “forever”.
I CRY several times; _; They have hard times, specially Marc, he´s so broken and I adore him... I´m not going to say that is a life changing book, but yeah I totally feel the connection with the characters and love them so much!
dnf
June 16, 2023Just not working for me. The frequent verb tense changes (within the same page) to denote past vs present had my head spinning. By 40%, there was more time spent with side characters than with the main MCs together and I just didn’t feel the connection. I would not recommend this as a standalone.
March 7, 2017
Back & forth, back & forth, it's like watching a ping, pong game...back & forth...
I did enjoy 'Close to You' more than 'Lovers, Losers & You' but I have to admit I didn't love it. Tomas and Marc didn't leave me feeling all gushy and happy. In all honesty there were times that if anything I was left feeling slightly annoyed and frustrated and this was mostly because of the shifts back and forth between past and present because of their connection and the fact that they've been best friends for a good portion of their lives I both understand and appreciate the value and importance of having the background between these two men since so much of what's between them in the present is directly related to and a result of their past. It's definitely necessary information.
Sadly, this is probably one of my least favorite ways for a story to be told. I've probably only ever read 2 maybe 3 books that were done this way that I ended up really, really liking and 'Close to You' has not added to that list.
There were so many things in this story that should have nailed my hot buttons...second chances, friends to lovers, hurt/healing/comfort, recurring secondary characters which for me makes it feel like I'm spending time with old friends and there were other things but mostly I was looking forward to reading Tomas and Marc's story finding out what was holding these two back from being together.
As much as the shifting back and forth of the timeline kept jerking me out of the story the other thing that frustrated me was the amount of time spent in their heads and I'm not talking about their memories. I'm talking about the self chastisement and the repetition of it that took things for me from being an honest and personal reflection of their lives and events that happened and shaped them into the men that they would become, to what felt like perpetual pity parties.
Don't get me wrong neither of these men had it easy. Especially Marc, his life was heartbreaking. No child should ever have to grow up the way he did. There's an expression that says "It takes a village to raise a child". Sadly for Marc there was no village there was only abuse and neglect. From his father to his teachers...especially Mrs. Lynn. She had a moment...a moment in which she could have chose to make a difference, but did she? No, in that moment she chose to be part of the problem. Not until Tomas did Marc have someone in his life who truly saw him...believed in him and knew that there was a good and kind person hiding behind his protective shell.
Also just a bit of a side note on Tomas. While he did have hardships in his life. Losing his father at an early age and his mother definitely had mental health issues. I liked that he also had loving and supportive albeit strict grandparents but he definitely had a strong positive family influence in his life and that was good and helped to add a positive dimension to the overall story.
For me it comes down to sometimes less is more and while I know that getting the background on these two men was so very integral to their story, I needed for it not to have taken up quite so much of the book as it did. I wanted more of them in the here and now finding their way back to each other, developing a relationship as they dealt with the past that both shaped them and tore them apart.
'Close to You' was ok for me and I liked it well enough but I guess I just wasn't feeling the love...I wanted more of the here and now and less of the then and what was.
I did enjoy 'Close to You' more than 'Lovers, Losers & You' but I have to admit I didn't love it. Tomas and Marc didn't leave me feeling all gushy and happy. In all honesty there were times that if anything I was left feeling slightly annoyed and frustrated and this was mostly because of the shifts back and forth between past and present because of their connection and the fact that they've been best friends for a good portion of their lives I both understand and appreciate the value and importance of having the background between these two men since so much of what's between them in the present is directly related to and a result of their past. It's definitely necessary information.
Sadly, this is probably one of my least favorite ways for a story to be told. I've probably only ever read 2 maybe 3 books that were done this way that I ended up really, really liking and 'Close to You' has not added to that list.
There were so many things in this story that should have nailed my hot buttons...second chances, friends to lovers, hurt/healing/comfort, recurring secondary characters which for me makes it feel like I'm spending time with old friends and there were other things but mostly I was looking forward to reading Tomas and Marc's story finding out what was holding these two back from being together.
As much as the shifting back and forth of the timeline kept jerking me out of the story the other thing that frustrated me was the amount of time spent in their heads and I'm not talking about their memories. I'm talking about the self chastisement and the repetition of it that took things for me from being an honest and personal reflection of their lives and events that happened and shaped them into the men that they would become, to what felt like perpetual pity parties.
Don't get me wrong neither of these men had it easy. Especially Marc, his life was heartbreaking. No child should ever have to grow up the way he did. There's an expression that says "It takes a village to raise a child". Sadly for Marc there was no village there was only abuse and neglect. From his father to his teachers...especially Mrs. Lynn. She had a moment...a moment in which she could have chose to make a difference, but did she? No, in that moment she chose to be part of the problem. Not until Tomas did Marc have someone in his life who truly saw him...believed in him and knew that there was a good and kind person hiding behind his protective shell.
Also just a bit of a side note on Tomas. While he did have hardships in his life. Losing his father at an early age and his mother definitely had mental health issues. I liked that he also had loving and supportive albeit strict grandparents but he definitely had a strong positive family influence in his life and that was good and helped to add a positive dimension to the overall story.
For me it comes down to sometimes less is more and while I know that getting the background on these two men was so very integral to their story, I needed for it not to have taken up quite so much of the book as it did. I wanted more of them in the here and now finding their way back to each other, developing a relationship as they dealt with the past that both shaped them and tore them apart.
'Close to You' was ok for me and I liked it well enough but I guess I just wasn't feeling the love...I wanted more of the here and now and less of the then and what was.
April 3, 2016
Best of the series so far. Dying for River's book now.
March 31, 2016
I love this series and these characters and I was eager to get Tomas & Marc's story. Their story was beautiful and painful and real but it was not easy to read at all. Between the horror of what Marc had to survive and the separation that hurt my heart just reading about it, these two more than paid their dues on the way to their HEA.
Even the flashbacks didn't bother me the way they sometimes do in books. The only thing that I didn't care for was the tense. I'm not sure if I've run across it before but I know I don't like it. Present tense is always sort of a challenge for me in books but 3rd person present was enough to make me cringe. It was one of the most awkward (for me) to read and it caused me to take days instead of hours to finish this book. I think I understand the reasons why it was used, but that doesn't mean it didn't drive me crazy.
I have to make special mention of the cover which I really like and the author whom I have had a brief exchange with who is a sweet lady. I love the family feel of these books, bring on book 4, the world needs to know more about River (and Morgan please).
Even the flashbacks didn't bother me the way they sometimes do in books. The only thing that I didn't care for was the tense. I'm not sure if I've run across it before but I know I don't like it. Present tense is always sort of a challenge for me in books but 3rd person present was enough to make me cringe. It was one of the most awkward (for me) to read and it caused me to take days instead of hours to finish this book. I think I understand the reasons why it was used, but that doesn't mean it didn't drive me crazy.
I have to make special mention of the cover which I really like and the author whom I have had a brief exchange with who is a sweet lady. I love the family feel of these books, bring on book 4, the world needs to know more about River (and Morgan please).
May 8, 2016
BR with Trisha!
This is definitely my favorite book in the series! Tomas and Marc's story is one I'll keep close to my heart for a long time. I loved every second of it. Just beautiful.
This is definitely my favorite book in the series! Tomas and Marc's story is one I'll keep close to my heart for a long time. I loved every second of it. Just beautiful.
April 17, 2021
this was sweet and cute... sad and happy.. emotions were real and raw.. the personalities clashed and loved so hard.. it was adorable.
March 27, 2016
*3.5 stars*
After reading Lovers, Losers, and You I was so excited for Marc and Tomas’s story. We already know these two have a history although we don't now what that is; one thing’s for sure thought.. Tomas and Marc love each other, we saw that in the previous book. We watched them fight and argue one moment, go to being best friends the next, and making lovey-dovey faces at each other when they thought the other one wasn’t watching.
In Closer to You we get the full story; it’s not pretty, more heartbreaking than anything, but it reinforces what we already know about their friendship and explains the behavior and the choices they make as adults. It takes a force of nature to bring those two together, but once they get there they hold on to what they have and fight for the happiness they deserve.
Marc’s childhood is terrifying to even think of, and it definitely breaks my heart to think of any child living like that. Raised by an abusive and alcoholic father who plays the perfect police officer during the day, Marc is repeatedly abused both emotionally and physically. He’s also neglected and unkept, and that makes him the dirty kid who always wears tore-up clothes, the stinky one and skinny one, the one who’s more like an animal than a human being. Nobody ever was on Marc’s side, until Tomas.
Tomas’s father passed away when he was still a child, and him and his mother came to live with his very religious grandparents. Tomas knows he’s not supposed to like boys the way he likes Marc, but no matter how much he tries to change that, he can’t deny how right it feels. Marc and Thomas become best friends who never give up on each other, always have each other’s back, and that beautiful friendship turns into a fragile first love. Tomas eventually learns that sometimes doing what’s best for the person you love also means breaking their heart and losing them.
Years later, Tomas and Marc found each other again, but no matter how much Tomas wants a permanent relationship with the one and only man he’s ever loved, Marc is emotionally unavailable. Marc loves Tomas as well, and Tomas knows that, but Tomas is the only person in this world who means more than anything to Marc and he’s afraid to lose that if their relationship doesn’t work. They finally manage to get it together and communicate, and don't you know it, communication solves everything! Their journey wasn't an easy one, but in the end it was all worth it.
I’m not sure if I feel disappointed in how Marc and Tomas’s story was told, because I definitely enjoyed reading the book, but something unsettled me. It took me a long time to really get into the story and that’s easily blamed on the writing style. There are so many flashbacks, it disrupted the flow of the story to the point where I wanted them gone. I wanted to know more about Marc and Tomas, but not through flashbacks; I think a longer epilogue with their lives as children would’ve nicely done its job. As it was, it took FOREVER for Tomas and Marc to give in and figure things out.
Another thing that bothered me is that this book was told from a 3rd person’s POV (author maybe?) in the present tense, and that was awkward as hell. It was like having a creeper spy on these guys and tell you what they do and feel. It really got weird when Tomas and Marc got to have sex, because I can’t feel the intensity and connection between the participants unless one (or both of them) personally tell me about it. The real issue was the present tense, it simply creeped me out. I don’t remember having the same issue with the previous books, but maybe I’m becoming picky.
This really was a good book and a great story, full of friendship and caring and love. I loved how the guys, all of them, made their own little family and helped each other through everything. I’m so excited for the next book, because it’s time for River to stop being miserable and love again. That dude needs to chill; I’m thinking a shot of (Captain)Morgan is what the doctor prescribes.
After reading Lovers, Losers, and You I was so excited for Marc and Tomas’s story. We already know these two have a history although we don't now what that is; one thing’s for sure thought.. Tomas and Marc love each other, we saw that in the previous book. We watched them fight and argue one moment, go to being best friends the next, and making lovey-dovey faces at each other when they thought the other one wasn’t watching.
In Closer to You we get the full story; it’s not pretty, more heartbreaking than anything, but it reinforces what we already know about their friendship and explains the behavior and the choices they make as adults. It takes a force of nature to bring those two together, but once they get there they hold on to what they have and fight for the happiness they deserve.
Marc’s childhood is terrifying to even think of, and it definitely breaks my heart to think of any child living like that. Raised by an abusive and alcoholic father who plays the perfect police officer during the day, Marc is repeatedly abused both emotionally and physically. He’s also neglected and unkept, and that makes him the dirty kid who always wears tore-up clothes, the stinky one and skinny one, the one who’s more like an animal than a human being. Nobody ever was on Marc’s side, until Tomas.
Tomas’s father passed away when he was still a child, and him and his mother came to live with his very religious grandparents. Tomas knows he’s not supposed to like boys the way he likes Marc, but no matter how much he tries to change that, he can’t deny how right it feels. Marc and Thomas become best friends who never give up on each other, always have each other’s back, and that beautiful friendship turns into a fragile first love. Tomas eventually learns that sometimes doing what’s best for the person you love also means breaking their heart and losing them.
Years later, Tomas and Marc found each other again, but no matter how much Tomas wants a permanent relationship with the one and only man he’s ever loved, Marc is emotionally unavailable. Marc loves Tomas as well, and Tomas knows that, but Tomas is the only person in this world who means more than anything to Marc and he’s afraid to lose that if their relationship doesn’t work. They finally manage to get it together and communicate, and don't you know it, communication solves everything! Their journey wasn't an easy one, but in the end it was all worth it.
I’m not sure if I feel disappointed in how Marc and Tomas’s story was told, because I definitely enjoyed reading the book, but something unsettled me. It took me a long time to really get into the story and that’s easily blamed on the writing style. There are so many flashbacks, it disrupted the flow of the story to the point where I wanted them gone. I wanted to know more about Marc and Tomas, but not through flashbacks; I think a longer epilogue with their lives as children would’ve nicely done its job. As it was, it took FOREVER for Tomas and Marc to give in and figure things out.
Another thing that bothered me is that this book was told from a 3rd person’s POV (author maybe?) in the present tense, and that was awkward as hell. It was like having a creeper spy on these guys and tell you what they do and feel. It really got weird when Tomas and Marc got to have sex, because I can’t feel the intensity and connection between the participants unless one (or both of them) personally tell me about it. The real issue was the present tense, it simply creeped me out. I don’t remember having the same issue with the previous books, but maybe I’m becoming picky.
This really was a good book and a great story, full of friendship and caring and love. I loved how the guys, all of them, made their own little family and helped each other through everything. I’m so excited for the next book, because it’s time for River to stop being miserable and love again. That dude needs to chill; I’m thinking a shot of (Captain)Morgan is what the doctor prescribes.
June 30, 2016
Books one and two reviewed here:
Here For You http://kimichanexperience.com/here-fo...
Lovers Losers and You https://thebloggergirls.com/2015/09/1...
This is an amazing series. Though, technically, each is a stand alone, the MCs in the other books all lived together at one point and are all interwoven in the other’s lives, so they pop in and out and having read the previous books will only add to your overall enjoyment of this book – plus they’re all so beautiful.
We’ve met Tomas and Marc – two friends who are clearly avoiding the elephant in the room – that is – why aren’t they lovers?
Finally, we find out their backstory. It’s not a pretty one. This is definitely a book where you need your big-girl-panties, because it’s filled with angst and pain and separation.
But, it’s beautifully written and Skylar Cates gives us an amazingly sweet Epilogue (my favorite!) to sort-of balance things out a little.
The bulk of the story is written in both first person present tense as well as in a series of flashbacks. So, fair warning, those aren’t always a favorite way to read a story. For me, the flashbacks worked, but I wasn’t a big fan of the present tense.
That being said, it was still a gripping and beautiful book about two men finally finding the courage to overcome the past to find love and hope, today.
4.5 of 5 stars
Here For You http://kimichanexperience.com/here-fo...
Lovers Losers and You https://thebloggergirls.com/2015/09/1...
This is an amazing series. Though, technically, each is a stand alone, the MCs in the other books all lived together at one point and are all interwoven in the other’s lives, so they pop in and out and having read the previous books will only add to your overall enjoyment of this book – plus they’re all so beautiful.
We’ve met Tomas and Marc – two friends who are clearly avoiding the elephant in the room – that is – why aren’t they lovers?
Finally, we find out their backstory. It’s not a pretty one. This is definitely a book where you need your big-girl-panties, because it’s filled with angst and pain and separation.
But, it’s beautifully written and Skylar Cates gives us an amazingly sweet Epilogue (my favorite!) to sort-of balance things out a little.
The bulk of the story is written in both first person present tense as well as in a series of flashbacks. So, fair warning, those aren’t always a favorite way to read a story. For me, the flashbacks worked, but I wasn’t a big fan of the present tense.
That being said, it was still a gripping and beautiful book about two men finally finding the courage to overcome the past to find love and hope, today.
4.5 of 5 stars
April 5, 2016
4 stars
Ever since book #1, I've been looking forward to reading Tomas and Marc's story because there's something so beautiful about a second chance at love. This was told partly in flashbacks to middle school and the beginning of Tomas and Marc's friendship. It was lovely watching them turn from friends into something more but it was also heartbreaking at times to learn about what Tomas went through with his abusive father and to see it break Tomas and Marc apart. This contrasted to the current day chapters where there wasn't a huge amount of angst or tension as, from the beginning, both Marc and Tomas were almost ready to open up to a relationship again.
Like the other books of this series, one of the strongest parts of this book was the family of friends. They didn't all have the best biological families, but together as friends they've become a pretty wonderful and supportive family. I can only presume that River and Morgan will be the next two to fall in love ...
The one thing I didn't enjoy here was the use of the present tense in the current day parts of the story. I found it quite awkward and distracting. I think the author used it to separate the current day parts of the story from the flashback but I don't think it was necessary for her to do so as it could have been handled in other ways.
Ever since book #1, I've been looking forward to reading Tomas and Marc's story because there's something so beautiful about a second chance at love. This was told partly in flashbacks to middle school and the beginning of Tomas and Marc's friendship. It was lovely watching them turn from friends into something more but it was also heartbreaking at times to learn about what Tomas went through with his abusive father and to see it break Tomas and Marc apart. This contrasted to the current day chapters where there wasn't a huge amount of angst or tension as, from the beginning, both Marc and Tomas were almost ready to open up to a relationship again.
Like the other books of this series, one of the strongest parts of this book was the family of friends. They didn't all have the best biological families, but together as friends they've become a pretty wonderful and supportive family. I can only presume that River and Morgan will be the next two to fall in love ...
The one thing I didn't enjoy here was the use of the present tense in the current day parts of the story. I found it quite awkward and distracting. I think the author used it to separate the current day parts of the story from the flashback but I don't think it was necessary for her to do so as it could have been handled in other ways.
July 7, 2017
~ Narration Rating 4.5 Stars ~
Marc and Thomas have been friends forever. One of them was beaten and abused by life, and pegged as a bad seed by his father, society, and his best friend’s family; the other has repressed his feelings for so long because he fears disappointing everyone. And for decades, they do a mutual and infuriating dance of coming together and pulling apart. The pointless and tragic death of one of their roommates, draws them together and pulls them apart over the course of the book.
Tristan James takes over the narration for this series, and does a great job with it, but he also makes some character choices that are not consistent with previous narrations, so listeners of the full series will take some time adjusting to the changes. They are not wrong choices, merely different from the previous ones.
The action in the book pushes Thomas and Marc apart for a time, and James does a fine job of communicating that it is a combination of being afraid to ruin a friendship, family pressures from Thomas’ family, and a ridiculous drive from both to not rely on anyone. The listener is driven to the point of anger, wanting them to realize what they can have if they stop the fear, and other people in their lives from getting in the way. James, as usual, conveys that perfectly, as he does the big action set piece of a hurricane that finally pushes Thomas and Marc together.
How they work out what comes next is also a pleasure to hear in James’ capable hands.
As the subtitle of the book hints, by the end of this one there is plenty to be happy about for those who have followed Marc and Thomas through three books. Tristan James is an above average narrator, and he takes the time to give us all of the sub-characters and their voices, since most of them have appeared previously in the series. His voice as we get the backstories for the main characters is lovely and heartbreaking when it needs to be. Good narrators have you rooting for the right people to come out happy and whole, and that happens in this book.
This is a standalone story and you get enough information to follow the past, if you have not read/listened to the previous books in this series. Most romance novels end with a Happily Ever After; this series give us a happy together so far. So, should this series continue, how relationships evolve over time become part of the world being built. So far, this is a good world that readers are happy to return to. Hopefully Tristan James will continue to be the voice of the series as his is one of the more accomplished for this style of book. Buy it for the easy and enjoyable story, great narration, and to visit with friends from previous books.
Reviewed by Mike for The Novel Approach
Marc and Thomas have been friends forever. One of them was beaten and abused by life, and pegged as a bad seed by his father, society, and his best friend’s family; the other has repressed his feelings for so long because he fears disappointing everyone. And for decades, they do a mutual and infuriating dance of coming together and pulling apart. The pointless and tragic death of one of their roommates, draws them together and pulls them apart over the course of the book.
Tristan James takes over the narration for this series, and does a great job with it, but he also makes some character choices that are not consistent with previous narrations, so listeners of the full series will take some time adjusting to the changes. They are not wrong choices, merely different from the previous ones.
The action in the book pushes Thomas and Marc apart for a time, and James does a fine job of communicating that it is a combination of being afraid to ruin a friendship, family pressures from Thomas’ family, and a ridiculous drive from both to not rely on anyone. The listener is driven to the point of anger, wanting them to realize what they can have if they stop the fear, and other people in their lives from getting in the way. James, as usual, conveys that perfectly, as he does the big action set piece of a hurricane that finally pushes Thomas and Marc together.
How they work out what comes next is also a pleasure to hear in James’ capable hands.
As the subtitle of the book hints, by the end of this one there is plenty to be happy about for those who have followed Marc and Thomas through three books. Tristan James is an above average narrator, and he takes the time to give us all of the sub-characters and their voices, since most of them have appeared previously in the series. His voice as we get the backstories for the main characters is lovely and heartbreaking when it needs to be. Good narrators have you rooting for the right people to come out happy and whole, and that happens in this book.
This is a standalone story and you get enough information to follow the past, if you have not read/listened to the previous books in this series. Most romance novels end with a Happily Ever After; this series give us a happy together so far. So, should this series continue, how relationships evolve over time become part of the world being built. So far, this is a good world that readers are happy to return to. Hopefully Tristan James will continue to be the voice of the series as his is one of the more accomplished for this style of book. Buy it for the easy and enjoyable story, great narration, and to visit with friends from previous books.
Reviewed by Mike for The Novel Approach
Read
March 28, 2016I had ridiculously high hopes going into this book. Tomas and Marc with their tumultuous relationship or lack thereof has been talked about through books one and two. We know these two are in love but won’t let it happen. We’ve seen the downfall of their friendship and of Tomas moving out to take care of his grandfather and how it has wrecked both men. We know they have been friends since middle school… but we didn’t know the whole story… until now.
Told in the dual (Thank Fuck for that!) POV of Tomas and Marc, we begin with a middle of the night call for help. Tomas needs Marc and Marc will never say no to Tomas, unless it has to do with his heart. So he rushes off to help find his grandfather who has left home in the middle of the night and ease the anxiety and pain that his best friend is going through.
I want to be with you. Why can’t you be with me? I fell when we were only kids. With all my heart and soul.
Immediately we get into the back story of these two; how they met and when they first see one another and I was so happy for that. We been told how long they have been friends but I was desperate to see it and going back tens of years with Tomas and Marc was not disappointing at all.
Marc, you have always intrigued me from the first time I met you in Here For You. Your rough childhood had been mentioned but when we get the first glimpse of it, I was a bit of a mess. I am so sorry you dealt with that but then I think all things happen for a reason and it all led you to Tomas, even when you wanted it not to.
Tomas, you sir wear your heart on your sleeve and it has always bled for Marc. Knowing that you would give all if he would just let you love him, even from the first two books, tore my heart out. Seeing you as a young man, stole my heart and my respect. Speaking up to be Marc’s partner was so sweet, even though you had no idea what you were getting yourself into.
…but once, they loved each other. Love in the way best friends only can – fully and completely, without borders.
Marc and Tomas are an amazing couple who have been through so much together and even more when they were so horribly parted. I love that we get a back and forth time jump of them so we know where it all went wrong, how the boys were hurt and how it shaped them into them men they are today. I had a love/hate issue for the back stories because they were bittersweet but so damn worth it. Getting the bits of their past up to the reunion and how it became a reunion? Ugh. I get why Marc did what he did to try and protect himself when he sees Tomas after all those years apart and I LOVE what he did when he finally decided to put it all on the line to get the man he has always loved.
I have one small gripe with the story and that is the tense it’s told in; third person present tense. For me, knowing HOW MUCH these two want to be together and HOW MUCH we know this from the first two books it bummed me out that the tense made it feel more mechanical when all I wanted was the feelings. Though it bugged me, it wasn’t enough of an issue for me to stop reading because I couldn’t stop reading this story, no matter what.
Close to You, was a gorgeous story of first love, of true love told in only the way it could be for Marc and Tomas, with everything – heart, body and soul. This story will take you on a ride of emotional angst that will have you begging to be hurt by these two over and over again because everything in this book is worth it.
March 28, 2016
Als Tomas Vater stirbt und seine Mutter mit Depressionen kämpft, zieht Tomas mit ihr zu den Großeltern nach Miami und sein Großvater übernimmt die Rolle des Vaters, Erziehers und Vertrauten. In der neuen Schule muss Tomas sich erst zurechtfinden und macht dort Bekanntschaft mit Marc. Ein schmaler Einzelgänger, der bei den Lehrern wenig angesehen ist, keine Freunde hat und sich hinter schnippischen Bemerkungen versteckt. Doch Tomas hat ein gutes Herz und versucht Marc kennenzulernen. Da holt er sich erst eine blutige Nase, doch dann entwickelt sich zwischen den Jungen eine fragile Freundschaft.
Marc lebt in keinen guten Verhältnissen. Seine Mutter ist tot und sein Vater - ein Cop - ist ein gewalttätiger Säufer, der seinen Sohn bei jeder sich bietenden Gelegenheit verprügelt und verbal demütigt. Der Junge hat niemanden an den er sich wenden kann und hat sich schon früh in seine eigene Welt zurückgezogen. Tomas ist sein erster und einziger Freund. Zwar hat Tomas Familie keine besondere Freude mit dieser Freundschaft, doch die Jungen finden immer wieder einen Weg um sich zu sehen. Ihre Freundschaft ist nicht immer einfach und Marc, wie auch Tomas spüren dass da mehr zwischen ihnen ist. Allerdings kommt dies nie wirklich zur Sprache und plötzlich eskaliert die Lage in Marc's Elternhaus. Dann zerbricht diese kleine Welt und Marc und Tomas werden für Jahre getrennt.
Marc und Tomas sind Nebenakteure in den ersten Büchern dieser Reihe und die Autorin deutete ihre Beziehung immer nur vage an. Im zweiten Teil verlässt Tomas die Wohngemeinschaft und lässt Marc zurück. Im dritten Teil von Sunshine and Happiness erfährt man nun alles über diese komplizierte und herzzerreissende Beziehung. Wie immer schreibt Skylar M. Cates sehr intensiv, berührend und auch aufwühlend. Tomas ist nun ein Krankenpfleger und geht zurück nach Miami um sich um seinen Großvater zu kümmern, der an Alzheimer leidet.
Zwar will er voran kommen und sein Glück finden, doch ohne Marc erscheint ihm alles so leer. Marc ist seine erste Liebe und keine Beziehung war jemals von Belang. Auch Marc kommt nicht über seine Gefühle für Tomas hinweg. Es zieht ihn zu Tomas, doch er fühlt sich nicht genug. Marc fühlt sich nie genug und ist tief in seiner Vergangenheit gefangen. Vertrauen kann er niemanden. Nicht einmal sich selbst. Ihre Geschichte ist wirklich unglaublich tiefgreifend und intensiv. Die Erzählweise - Gegenwart - ist etwas gewöhnungsbedürftig und die Autorin wechselt auch immer wieder zwischen Gegenwart und Vergangenheit hin und her. Jedoch gewöhnt man sich schnell daran und so kommt man der tragischen Vergangenheit sehr nahe.
Marc ist ein unsicherer und gebrochener Mensch, der über keinen Selbstwert verfügt. Seine Bedürftigkeit und seinen Kummer versucht er hinter seinem impulsiven Wesen und seiner Scharfzüngigkeit zu verstecken. Tomas ist hingegen ein Keeper und ein feinfühliger, warmherziger Mensch. Er durchschaut Marc sehr schnell, doch es dauert viele Jahre bis Marc ihn wirklich bis in den letzten Winkel seines Herzens lässt. Trotz der Erzählweise ist dieses Buch großartig und bewegend. Volle Leseempfehlung.
Marc lebt in keinen guten Verhältnissen. Seine Mutter ist tot und sein Vater - ein Cop - ist ein gewalttätiger Säufer, der seinen Sohn bei jeder sich bietenden Gelegenheit verprügelt und verbal demütigt. Der Junge hat niemanden an den er sich wenden kann und hat sich schon früh in seine eigene Welt zurückgezogen. Tomas ist sein erster und einziger Freund. Zwar hat Tomas Familie keine besondere Freude mit dieser Freundschaft, doch die Jungen finden immer wieder einen Weg um sich zu sehen. Ihre Freundschaft ist nicht immer einfach und Marc, wie auch Tomas spüren dass da mehr zwischen ihnen ist. Allerdings kommt dies nie wirklich zur Sprache und plötzlich eskaliert die Lage in Marc's Elternhaus. Dann zerbricht diese kleine Welt und Marc und Tomas werden für Jahre getrennt.
Marc und Tomas sind Nebenakteure in den ersten Büchern dieser Reihe und die Autorin deutete ihre Beziehung immer nur vage an. Im zweiten Teil verlässt Tomas die Wohngemeinschaft und lässt Marc zurück. Im dritten Teil von Sunshine and Happiness erfährt man nun alles über diese komplizierte und herzzerreissende Beziehung. Wie immer schreibt Skylar M. Cates sehr intensiv, berührend und auch aufwühlend. Tomas ist nun ein Krankenpfleger und geht zurück nach Miami um sich um seinen Großvater zu kümmern, der an Alzheimer leidet.
Zwar will er voran kommen und sein Glück finden, doch ohne Marc erscheint ihm alles so leer. Marc ist seine erste Liebe und keine Beziehung war jemals von Belang. Auch Marc kommt nicht über seine Gefühle für Tomas hinweg. Es zieht ihn zu Tomas, doch er fühlt sich nicht genug. Marc fühlt sich nie genug und ist tief in seiner Vergangenheit gefangen. Vertrauen kann er niemanden. Nicht einmal sich selbst. Ihre Geschichte ist wirklich unglaublich tiefgreifend und intensiv. Die Erzählweise - Gegenwart - ist etwas gewöhnungsbedürftig und die Autorin wechselt auch immer wieder zwischen Gegenwart und Vergangenheit hin und her. Jedoch gewöhnt man sich schnell daran und so kommt man der tragischen Vergangenheit sehr nahe.
Marc ist ein unsicherer und gebrochener Mensch, der über keinen Selbstwert verfügt. Seine Bedürftigkeit und seinen Kummer versucht er hinter seinem impulsiven Wesen und seiner Scharfzüngigkeit zu verstecken. Tomas ist hingegen ein Keeper und ein feinfühliger, warmherziger Mensch. Er durchschaut Marc sehr schnell, doch es dauert viele Jahre bis Marc ihn wirklich bis in den letzten Winkel seines Herzens lässt. Trotz der Erzählweise ist dieses Buch großartig und bewegend. Volle Leseempfehlung.
March 25, 2016
https://threebooksovertherainbow.word...
It’s strong and emotional and that’s why I love this series so much. We’ve been kept waiting for Marcus and Thomas’s story for 2 books now and the author really was playing a dangerous game on this, our expectations were set very high – were we going to be disappointed after all this time? No way! The author delivered BIG TIME on this.
The author and the book gave me exactly what I was looking for and what I needed.
Marc has always been angry and the relationship between him and Thomas was very strange, to say the least. These guys are obviously made for each other but they can’t be together. Why? What happened? These were the questions we all wanted to know and finally we now have all the answers.
Their story is told in flashbacks, their past and their present. Some may find this slightly annoying, but for me, it worked so well, I felt like I was reading two books at once and enjoyed every word.
But I have to say, Marc’s story broke my heart! It’s hard to imagine what such a young boy had suffered and how he amazingly survived to become what he is today. Because despite all that happened in his past, Marc is a wonderful guy. He is a good friend but he can’t think in the terms of being a good boyfriend to Thomas. He loves him so much, but believes it is not enough.
But you can’t fight against your destiny forever and Tomas has always been his forever – it was Tomas who was the first one to see the real Marc, the first friend, the first love, the good guy who would have done anything for him, to keep him safe and loved. But when you are only a child, it’s not always possible, especially if what happens is so much bigger than you are!
But neither distance or time can destroy what there is between them.
The physical part of their relationship was just so melting and sweet, it wasn’t hot sex, it was slow and tender, in other words, just perfect.
Like all the other books in this series, it was engaging but also exciting, I couldn’t put it down. I loved the way the author included Brendan throughout the series, he became a real friend and I will miss him, the power this character had was just beautiful to read.
I fell in love with this author after I read “Exposed” and I can say she has never disappointed me.
As this is a series, you cannot read them as standalone’s, you must read them in order of the series, it truly is the only way to totally understand and appreciate these wonderful stories. So looking forward to reading River’s story and when you have finished “Close to you” yourselves, you are going to agree with me.
Five big fat stars from me.
**** The ARC was provided by Dreamspinner Press in Exchange of an honest review.****
It’s strong and emotional and that’s why I love this series so much. We’ve been kept waiting for Marcus and Thomas’s story for 2 books now and the author really was playing a dangerous game on this, our expectations were set very high – were we going to be disappointed after all this time? No way! The author delivered BIG TIME on this.
The author and the book gave me exactly what I was looking for and what I needed.
Marc has always been angry and the relationship between him and Thomas was very strange, to say the least. These guys are obviously made for each other but they can’t be together. Why? What happened? These were the questions we all wanted to know and finally we now have all the answers.
Their story is told in flashbacks, their past and their present. Some may find this slightly annoying, but for me, it worked so well, I felt like I was reading two books at once and enjoyed every word.
But I have to say, Marc’s story broke my heart! It’s hard to imagine what such a young boy had suffered and how he amazingly survived to become what he is today. Because despite all that happened in his past, Marc is a wonderful guy. He is a good friend but he can’t think in the terms of being a good boyfriend to Thomas. He loves him so much, but believes it is not enough.
But you can’t fight against your destiny forever and Tomas has always been his forever – it was Tomas who was the first one to see the real Marc, the first friend, the first love, the good guy who would have done anything for him, to keep him safe and loved. But when you are only a child, it’s not always possible, especially if what happens is so much bigger than you are!
But neither distance or time can destroy what there is between them.
The physical part of their relationship was just so melting and sweet, it wasn’t hot sex, it was slow and tender, in other words, just perfect.
Like all the other books in this series, it was engaging but also exciting, I couldn’t put it down. I loved the way the author included Brendan throughout the series, he became a real friend and I will miss him, the power this character had was just beautiful to read.
I fell in love with this author after I read “Exposed” and I can say she has never disappointed me.
As this is a series, you cannot read them as standalone’s, you must read them in order of the series, it truly is the only way to totally understand and appreciate these wonderful stories. So looking forward to reading River’s story and when you have finished “Close to you” yourselves, you are going to agree with me.
Five big fat stars from me.
**** The ARC was provided by Dreamspinner Press in Exchange of an honest review.****
March 28, 2016
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
Close to You is the third book in the Sunshine and Happiness series. I would not suggest reading this book as a stand alone. Marc and Tomas have been fixtures in the first two books and all of the stories and characters overlap and intertwine as the guys all consider themselves a family. There has been a lot of mystery surrounding their story and this was the book I had been waiting for.
The book alternated between present day and the past. The flashbacks were absolutely necessary to lay the foundation of their relationship and subsequently their breaking apart. Marc was raised in an abusive home and since his father was a cop, no one paid any attention. His childhood years were unbearable as he was hurt and hungry most of the time, but his father, and then subsequently his teacher, read as more stereotypical caricatures to me. The one bright spot in Marc’s life was Tomas and the two became the best of friends.
Tomas had a better life at home comparatively. Tomas’ father died when Tomas was young and he and his mother moved in with his grandparents. While he was loved and sheltered and fed, his mother suffered from depression and his grandparents had their own ideas of how things should be done. Tomas’ family didn’t really care for Marc as they thought he was a bad influence on Tomas, but tolerated their friendship to a certain extent. When things at home continue to escalate for Marc, Tomas becomes scared and in the fallout loses the only person that mattered to him.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
4 stars
Close to You is the third book in the Sunshine and Happiness series. I would not suggest reading this book as a stand alone. Marc and Tomas have been fixtures in the first two books and all of the stories and characters overlap and intertwine as the guys all consider themselves a family. There has been a lot of mystery surrounding their story and this was the book I had been waiting for.
The book alternated between present day and the past. The flashbacks were absolutely necessary to lay the foundation of their relationship and subsequently their breaking apart. Marc was raised in an abusive home and since his father was a cop, no one paid any attention. His childhood years were unbearable as he was hurt and hungry most of the time, but his father, and then subsequently his teacher, read as more stereotypical caricatures to me. The one bright spot in Marc’s life was Tomas and the two became the best of friends.
Tomas had a better life at home comparatively. Tomas’ father died when Tomas was young and he and his mother moved in with his grandparents. While he was loved and sheltered and fed, his mother suffered from depression and his grandparents had their own ideas of how things should be done. Tomas’ family didn’t really care for Marc as they thought he was a bad influence on Tomas, but tolerated their friendship to a certain extent. When things at home continue to escalate for Marc, Tomas becomes scared and in the fallout loses the only person that mattered to him.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
August 10, 2016
I have been waiting to read about Marc and Tomas and I was not let down. Marc and Tomas have been dancing around each other since book one. FINALLY they figure their shit out!
Marc had a craptastic childhood. His father was an abusive alcoholic that used his police officer status to further threaten Marc. Marc built up walls around his heart and put people off by his bad attitude. Everyone except Tomas.
Tomas was a soft spoken, sweet guy who knew Marc wasn't the asshat he made himself out to be. Tomas saved him from being put on the spot for a project and eventually became best friends.
In this book you get flashbacks of what happen so many years ago and why Both blame themselves for not being able to be together. I like that Marc is trying and that therapy doesn't make him better overnight. He still has triggers but knows how to handle it after. They talk now instead of deciding what is better for the other person. They finally realize that there is no one better.
Cannot wait for River's book. I have a pretty good idea who will help mend his broken heart :-)
Marc had a craptastic childhood. His father was an abusive alcoholic that used his police officer status to further threaten Marc. Marc built up walls around his heart and put people off by his bad attitude. Everyone except Tomas.
Tomas was a soft spoken, sweet guy who knew Marc wasn't the asshat he made himself out to be. Tomas saved him from being put on the spot for a project and eventually became best friends.
In this book you get flashbacks of what happen so many years ago and why Both blame themselves for not being able to be together. I like that Marc is trying and that therapy doesn't make him better overnight. He still has triggers but knows how to handle it after. They talk now instead of deciding what is better for the other person. They finally realize that there is no one better.
Cannot wait for River's book. I have a pretty good idea who will help mend his broken heart :-)
March 19, 2016
I have been waiting for Tomas and Marc's story from the first book in this series. This is the 3rd and I feel the stories themselves are getting better and more in depth. Marc and Tomas found each other in high school and became best friends. Through some bad things that happened in Marc's life they are separated for quite a few years. When they reconnect it is as friends again but they were each others first love and you can tell it never went away for either of them. Marc's story broke my heart, it was of abuse from his parent and he just couldnt seem to get past it for a long time but Tomas never gave up on him. Of course they take there relationship to the next level and they are both so in love it is just great to read about. Marc is trying to find his way and Tomas is helping him. All the guys are back and it was nice to see how well they are doing. They all still miss Brandon but they are getting on with their lives. I am hoping Logan and River's story is next. cant wait !!!
April 1, 2016
As other readers I was waiting the Marc and Tomas's story. From last books we knew , we sensed rather some things of their history but I was surprised the same: one story so emotionally intense, so beautiful also in her painfulness and drama . And the author is been so good to portray their characters. The poignant and yearning relationship is so strong as sweet and scorching is their love making, that is impossible not struggle with them while reading the book because the raw emotions were overwhelming. Marc+Tomas, ever and forever, what better story. Finally the happy end not is the usually "the happy after" rather, means closure, the point where there is peace, because all is been told and forgiven: one new start without forget the past.
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August 20, 2016In Queue
*ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Jaime from Alpha Book Club
and Gay Book Reviews
*ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Jaime from Alpha Book Club
and Gay Book Reviews
April 25, 2021
~3.5 STARS~
I am not a fan of constant back and forth from past to present type of stories. I found myself skimming through the past parts just to get back to the present and have the story move forward.
The overall story I did like and I liked Tomas and Marc.
I am not a fan of constant back and forth from past to present type of stories. I found myself skimming through the past parts just to get back to the present and have the story move forward.
The overall story I did like and I liked Tomas and Marc.
April 16, 2016
BR with Cristina!
This book.
OMG. This book is amazing!
I'm SO glad Tomas and Marc finally got their story.
This book.
OMG. This book is amazing!
I'm SO glad Tomas and Marc finally got their story.
May 6, 2016
I love this story hopefully we will get Rivers story next
April 24, 2021
This is the third book in this wonderful series and equally as good as the previous ones.
While it includes characters from the previous books, it is the story of Marc and Tomas and their second chance at love. They met in school and became best friends but Marc, due to a bad childhood, already had a bad reputation which Tomas’s family did not like. Separated for several years, until Marc found Tomas again, they rekindled their friendship but were scared to admit to the deeper feelings they were both experiencing. This book gave me all the feels, I felt so sad for the childhood Marc had to put up with and while Tomas’s family had the best intentions he suffered too. They were beautiful together and Tomas was so giving in understanding and allowing Marc to deal with his past and insecurities as they started their new relationship, which they both desperately wanted.
This was one beautiful read about two lonely, hurting men who were so hot together and who, despite their history, shared a wonderful love story. I highly recommend this book which could be read as a stand-alone but why miss out on the rest of the great stories. I can’t wait for the last book to hear what River’s story is.
I received an ARC of this book to review and this is my honest and voluntary opinion.
While it includes characters from the previous books, it is the story of Marc and Tomas and their second chance at love. They met in school and became best friends but Marc, due to a bad childhood, already had a bad reputation which Tomas’s family did not like. Separated for several years, until Marc found Tomas again, they rekindled their friendship but were scared to admit to the deeper feelings they were both experiencing. This book gave me all the feels, I felt so sad for the childhood Marc had to put up with and while Tomas’s family had the best intentions he suffered too. They were beautiful together and Tomas was so giving in understanding and allowing Marc to deal with his past and insecurities as they started their new relationship, which they both desperately wanted.
This was one beautiful read about two lonely, hurting men who were so hot together and who, despite their history, shared a wonderful love story. I highly recommend this book which could be read as a stand-alone but why miss out on the rest of the great stories. I can’t wait for the last book to hear what River’s story is.
I received an ARC of this book to review and this is my honest and voluntary opinion.
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