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Starting with the Unexpected
4 hours and 51 minutes
Zachary Blaise is having a weird week—even by his standards. Though he's gay, the radio personality has been dumped via text by a girl named Marian—and he's never even met her. On top of that, he's developed a massive crush on Marcus, the new waiter at his favorite diner. His best friend thinks the whole thing is hilarious.
Marcus’s week hasn’t been his best either. He's been betrayed by those closest to him, and although he isn't the guilty party, Marcus is the one getting harassed.
Impossibly, things are about to get even weirder. Marian has secrets, and those secrets are going to make some serious ripples in Zach's life. When he discovers that the girl called Marian is actually the man named Marcus, Zach stumbles down a rabbit hole of abusive ex-boyfriends, psychotic relatives, and revelations from his own past. If he can survive the chaos, the journey might prove worth the effort.
Zachary Blaise is having a weird week—even by his standards. Though he's gay, the radio personality has been dumped via text by a girl named Marian—and he's never even met her. On top of that, he's developed a massive crush on Marcus, the new waiter at his favorite diner. His best friend thinks the whole thing is hilarious.
Marcus’s week hasn’t been his best either. He's been betrayed by those closest to him, and although he isn't the guilty party, Marcus is the one getting harassed.
Impossibly, things are about to get even weirder. Marian has secrets, and those secrets are going to make some serious ripples in Zach's life. When he discovers that the girl called Marian is actually the man named Marcus, Zach stumbles down a rabbit hole of abusive ex-boyfriends, psychotic relatives, and revelations from his own past. If he can survive the chaos, the journey might prove worth the effort.
5 pages, Audiobook
First published May 15, 2015
11 people are currently reading
207 people want to read
About the author
Andi Van
10 books39 followersAndi Van is a foul-mouthed troublemaker who lives near San Diego with a baseball bat that's forever being used for things other than baseball and a fondness for rum and caffeine (though not necessarily together).
Andi is fluent in three languages (English, sarcasm, and profanity), and takes pride in a highly developed -- if somewhat bizarre -- sense of humor.
Andi's pronouns are they/them. They identify as nonbinary, and ask that you not misgender them. Thank you!
Andi is fluent in three languages (English, sarcasm, and profanity), and takes pride in a highly developed -- if somewhat bizarre -- sense of humor.
Andi's pronouns are they/them. They identify as nonbinary, and ask that you not misgender them. Thank you!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
August 17, 2016
Starting with the Unexpected was a sweet read with a really interesting premise. I sort of adore books that start with a mix-up (like thinking that the person that you are texting is a girl instead of a guy) and lead to something more. It is a fun way to start a story, but unfortunately for me, the fun just seemed to taper off from there.
This was my first time reading a book from this author, and I think that Andi Van shows real promise. The writing and dialogue flowed well, and it was an easy read for me. However, I had real issues with the plotting and pacing of the story. I really don't like it when there seems to be no set story structure. The tension from the onset of the story (the texting gender mix-up) was resolved easily and early on, and the rest of the story had a sort of meandering pace. It simply took us through Zach and Marcus's relationship as it grew, without any of that tension or anticipation that usually helps to retain readers' interest. I found my mind wandering as the story went on, and I was a bit bored by the bulk of the plot.
And while I enjoyed Zach and Marcus as a couple, I found the extreme melodrama in the later part of the story to be not to my taste. I really dislike soap-opera-esk or melodramatic stories, and this one was a doozy. It could have been pulled right from Soap TV, and it bothered me a lot, so much so that I debated dropping my rating down to 2.5 stars, despite the fact that I enjoyed the bulk of the story. Meh.
Though I'm focusing more on the negatives, there really was a nice story there, especially if you like to see a couple through their relationship without much conflict or tension. I thought that this story was a little too slow and a little too eye-rolling for me, but I can see how this would be a win with other readers.
*Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
This was my first time reading a book from this author, and I think that Andi Van shows real promise. The writing and dialogue flowed well, and it was an easy read for me. However, I had real issues with the plotting and pacing of the story. I really don't like it when there seems to be no set story structure. The tension from the onset of the story (the texting gender mix-up) was resolved easily and early on, and the rest of the story had a sort of meandering pace. It simply took us through Zach and Marcus's relationship as it grew, without any of that tension or anticipation that usually helps to retain readers' interest. I found my mind wandering as the story went on, and I was a bit bored by the bulk of the plot.
And while I enjoyed Zach and Marcus as a couple, I found the extreme melodrama in the later part of the story to be not to my taste. I really dislike soap-opera-esk or melodramatic stories, and this one was a doozy. It could have been pulled right from Soap TV, and it bothered me a lot, so much so that I debated dropping my rating down to 2.5 stars, despite the fact that I enjoyed the bulk of the story. Meh.
Though I'm focusing more on the negatives, there really was a nice story there, especially if you like to see a couple through their relationship without much conflict or tension. I thought that this story was a little too slow and a little too eye-rolling for me, but I can see how this would be a win with other readers.
*Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
March 20, 2015
Starting with the Unexpected was a really good read for me. The blurb was the first thing that drew me to this. It sounded interesting, and I wondered how the whole Marcus/Marian thing would work out and if it would be dragged out for way too long. And for that, I’m really glad, because it made it easier to root for the couple, Zachary and Marcus.
The drama with Marcus’ ex and family was just… wow. I was hoping someone would be a little nicer than the younger sister. But nope. That didn’t happen. The only thing I’m happy about is the fact he didn’t forgive and forget, which was a bit of a worry for a while, I have to admit. They didn’t deserve Marcus at all. He’s such a nice, sweet guy and they seem like poison to me. I also question the sanity of his younger sister and mom.
There were also some issues with Zachary and his brother, Brandon. The issues they had weren’t as crazy as the ones Marcus had with his family, so that was a plus. I was curious to see how it would work out with Zachary and Brandon. I wasn’t sure if I wanted them to work things out or not. I didn’t know if it could after everything that had happened. But I was really happy with the way things worked out between them.
Zachary’s best friend Jordan and parents were awesome, especially the mom. I love that they were supportive, nice characters.
Zachary and Marcus were so sweet together. I love that their relationship seemed very normal and they were there for each other and supported each other. They even fought and made up again! It all seemed very normal, which was good considering some of the other things going on in the book. It was nice to see them facing things together and growing as a couple.
Overall, this was a really good, solid 4 star read. I loved Zachary and Marcus and I loved Zachary’s parents and Jordan. It was a nice read and definitely a book I would re-read again if I was in the mood for something sweet.
An ARC of this book was provided by the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.
The drama with Marcus’ ex and family was just… wow. I was hoping someone would be a little nicer than the younger sister. But nope. That didn’t happen. The only thing I’m happy about is the fact he didn’t forgive and forget, which was a bit of a worry for a while, I have to admit. They didn’t deserve Marcus at all. He’s such a nice, sweet guy and they seem like poison to me. I also question the sanity of his younger sister and mom.
There were also some issues with Zachary and his brother, Brandon. The issues they had weren’t as crazy as the ones Marcus had with his family, so that was a plus. I was curious to see how it would work out with Zachary and Brandon. I wasn’t sure if I wanted them to work things out or not. I didn’t know if it could after everything that had happened. But I was really happy with the way things worked out between them.
Zachary’s best friend Jordan and parents were awesome, especially the mom. I love that they were supportive, nice characters.
Zachary and Marcus were so sweet together. I love that their relationship seemed very normal and they were there for each other and supported each other. They even fought and made up again! It all seemed very normal, which was good considering some of the other things going on in the book. It was nice to see them facing things together and growing as a couple.
Overall, this was a really good, solid 4 star read. I loved Zachary and Marcus and I loved Zachary’s parents and Jordan. It was a nice read and definitely a book I would re-read again if I was in the mood for something sweet.
An ARC of this book was provided by the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.
August 23, 2016
This is probably a 3.79 rounded up...
Let me just say: the humor, was SPOT ON! My favourite author is T.J. Klune; he can make me laugh like no one else, and it is rare that I find another author that makes me laugh like that.
This book though, this book was goddamn close!
Let me just start with this:
"Go fuck yourself," I told him with a glower. The effect was ruined by the fact that I was blushing, but, oh well.
"Zachary," my mother scolded. "Manners."
"Oh, right. Sorry. Please go fuck yourself," I amended.
So Zach is this local celebrity from a VERY local radio station. He works weird hours, and spends the rest of his time with his BFF, Josh. And these two... JEEBUS fucking christ, they were funny, and loving and awesome and FRIENDS!
One morning/evening they go to their favourite diner, where Zach sees the new waiter (Marcus) and develops an immediate crush on him and his dimples!
Around the same time he receives a very angry break-up text from someone, telling him to come get his stuff. Like the good samaritan that Zach is, he lets the texter know that this is a wrong number.
What follows is a classic wrong-identity-plot, but what is not classic is the HONESTY and the HUMOR!
This is not a plot that drags on forever. Marcus is honest (almost) from the beginning, and he fits right in with Zach and Josh and Zach's crazy family.
It turns out that the break-up-text was to Marcus' ex who slept with Marcus' sister (lovely family that one!) And after Zach and Marcus get together, Zach is suddenly being stalked/hurt. It isn't totally clear who's doing the stalking, which I thought was cool.
And let me just COMMEND Zach's mother for one of the most AWESOME questions ever asked at around 87%.
There is a sort of mystery in this book, but it is just a sort of side-plot -IMO- compared to the love between friends and family and lovers.
And the humor! I know I'm repeating myself, but I was laughing, chuckling and snorting throughout this book, such a fucking nice surprise this one!
Yeah, definite re-read for me
Let me just say: the humor, was SPOT ON! My favourite author is T.J. Klune; he can make me laugh like no one else, and it is rare that I find another author that makes me laugh like that.
This book though, this book was goddamn close!
Let me just start with this:
"Go fuck yourself," I told him with a glower. The effect was ruined by the fact that I was blushing, but, oh well.
"Zachary," my mother scolded. "Manners."
"Oh, right. Sorry. Please go fuck yourself," I amended.
So Zach is this local celebrity from a VERY local radio station. He works weird hours, and spends the rest of his time with his BFF, Josh. And these two... JEEBUS fucking christ, they were funny, and loving and awesome and FRIENDS!
One morning/evening they go to their favourite diner, where Zach sees the new waiter (Marcus) and develops an immediate crush on him and his dimples!
Around the same time he receives a very angry break-up text from someone, telling him to come get his stuff. Like the good samaritan that Zach is, he lets the texter know that this is a wrong number.
What follows is a classic wrong-identity-plot, but what is not classic is the HONESTY and the HUMOR!
This is not a plot that drags on forever. Marcus is honest (almost) from the beginning, and he fits right in with Zach and Josh and Zach's crazy family.
It turns out that the break-up-text was to Marcus' ex who slept with Marcus' sister (lovely family that one!) And after Zach and Marcus get together, Zach is suddenly being stalked/hurt. It isn't totally clear who's doing the stalking, which I thought was cool.
And let me just COMMEND Zach's mother for one of the most AWESOME questions ever asked at around 87%.
There is a sort of mystery in this book, but it is just a sort of side-plot -IMO- compared to the love between friends and family and lovers.
And the humor! I know I'm repeating myself, but I was laughing, chuckling and snorting throughout this book, such a fucking nice surprise this one!
Yeah, definite re-read for me
March 11, 2016
These are the four things you should know before you begin this story:
1. It's wildly entertaining as hell in a soap opera kind of way. Dramatic, suspenseful, funny, with a touch of hurt/comfort.
2. Zach, Marcus, Jordan, and Zach's mom are reason enough to listen to this. I loved these characters and the narration brings them to life.
3. Jonathan David brings all the snark, sarcasm, humor, hurt, comfort, and drama of the story out beautifully. Kudos on the narration!
4. Whether you read or listen to this be prepared for some drama.
Recommended!
Audio copy of Starting with the Unexpected provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
May 28, 2015
3.5 stars
This was a bit of a melodrama. It had a soap opera-like feel to it. I don't mean that to be taken in a negative way. The writing was good and the story was very entertaining so it was an enjoyable book. Also, I'd read more from this author.
This was a bit of a melodrama. It had a soap opera-like feel to it. I don't mean that to be taken in a negative way. The writing was good and the story was very entertaining so it was an enjoyable book. Also, I'd read more from this author.
October 18, 2015
SO MANY happy feelings for this one. I had a grin on my face most of the way through! If you like light, funny, sweet, and feel good you'll probably like this one. This was told in Zach's POV and I adored him. I wanted to be best friends with him and Jordan (the awesome straight room mate) but I also wanted to be Marcus so I could be Zach's boyfriend. Zach's parents were terrific, especially his mom -- I loved when she let the foul mouth out near the end! The romance is sweet, with some sexy moments, and fairly low angst -- just what I was in the mood for. The tension was all from Marcus' ex and family who were pretty awful people. Luckily, Zach's family more than makes up for them. So yeah, overall, I loved this and wouldn't hesitate to recommend!
May 20, 2015
The blurb was a bit confusing, thankfully the story was not.
Nope, liked it a whole lot!
The epilogue wasn't one, but just a continuation of chapter 20.
Nope, liked it a whole lot!
The epilogue wasn't one, but just a continuation of chapter 20.
May 18, 2015
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
I must say that you would be hard pressed to find a more interesting and fun cast of characters in a book. Zach was priceless and being the sarcastic SOB that I am, I found that I could relate to him with ease. Marcus was a super sweet guy, but not so sweet as to be unrealistic. The chemistry between Zach and Marcus felt genuine and I liked that it developed slowly, so slowly that Jordan was convinced that Zach and Marcus had been in a relationship for weeks before they admitted it to each other.
The secondary characters did their part with style, humor, and emotion and supported the story perfectly. The two families could not have been more polar opposite, almost, and I mean almost to the point of being two-dimensional. What kept them real, in my opinion, were the subtle behaviors and traits exhibited by the various individuals, like Kat, Zach’s co-worker, Zach’s mom, and even Marcus’ ex. The little details seeded throughout the story added the authenticity and depth that I love seeing in a book.
Read Jason’s review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
I must say that you would be hard pressed to find a more interesting and fun cast of characters in a book. Zach was priceless and being the sarcastic SOB that I am, I found that I could relate to him with ease. Marcus was a super sweet guy, but not so sweet as to be unrealistic. The chemistry between Zach and Marcus felt genuine and I liked that it developed slowly, so slowly that Jordan was convinced that Zach and Marcus had been in a relationship for weeks before they admitted it to each other.
The secondary characters did their part with style, humor, and emotion and supported the story perfectly. The two families could not have been more polar opposite, almost, and I mean almost to the point of being two-dimensional. What kept them real, in my opinion, were the subtle behaviors and traits exhibited by the various individuals, like Kat, Zach’s co-worker, Zach’s mom, and even Marcus’ ex. The little details seeded throughout the story added the authenticity and depth that I love seeing in a book.
Read Jason’s review in its entirety here.
June 4, 2015
It’s never really a great sign when you start looking for something else to read while reading something. This book wasn’t bad. It was actually very cute with very sweet characters who met in a really charming way. But all the stalkerish drama of the ex’s and family read like a teenage soap opera. I felt like if the author just wanted to write a drama free lovefest that would have been fine, but no throwing that drama in had me annoyed and distracted.
July 9, 2016
Overall book rating: 3.8 Stars
Audio book: Narrator - Jonathan David - 4 Stars
Book Cover: 3 Stars
MC1: Zachary Blaise - Raidio personality
MC2: Marcus - Waiter
It started out with a crazy day... First Zachary received a text message that was not mend for him and he thought it was a girl it terns out to be Marcus and no girl.
There's a lot of CRAZY happening in this book, so if you are in the mood for crazy give this a go LOL
Audio book: Narrator - Jonathan David - 4 Stars
Book Cover: 3 Stars
MC1: Zachary Blaise - Raidio personality
MC2: Marcus - Waiter
It started out with a crazy day... First Zachary received a text message that was not mend for him and he thought it was a girl it terns out to be Marcus and no girl.
There's a lot of CRAZY happening in this book, so if you are in the mood for crazy give this a go LOL
March 26, 2016
Zachary Blaise is a twenty-something radio personality for a late-night LGBTQ talk show. He’s snarky and funny and self effacing and currently single! He mistakenly intercepts a text meant for someone’s boyfriend who cheated on them with the other person’s sister so Zach assumes it’s a girl and that is supported by the texter’s name – Marian.
Marian and Zach end up texting one another several times a day for a few weeks, becoming friends of a sort. When Zach meets Marcus, a cute new waiter at his local diner, he tells his “friend Marian” about the interaction, spurring Marcus to confess that he’s actually Marian. (I’ll let you listen to the story to see why the confusing name.)
After the big reveal, Marcus and Zach become close friends – neither wants to cross into “boyfriends” being as Marcus is on the rebound and still dealing with a crazy, stalker ex.
When things begin to get really scary with the ex, Zach and Marcus can’t deny their attraction anymore and they begin a relationship. There is a bit more drama and some stuff of Zach’s to deal with before they find their HEA.
**
I was surprised I didn’t remember seeing this come around as a book – it’s SO GOOD! I was psyched to be introduced to it as an audiobook and glad to have been given the chance to experience it!
The writing is crisp, clear and delightful! The dialog absolutely sells this story, both between Zach and Marcus but also between Zach and Jordan, too.
This is a slow burn romance but with a very satisfying ending that I think anyone who enjoys witty dialog and lots of feels will really enjoy. I thought the stalker ex was a bit OTT, especially the “twist” there at the end, but it served it’s purpose of getting our MCs together nicely.
Audio
Jonathan David is a new narrator for me. He does a nice job with the “acting” and modifies his voice for effect, though he didn’t give the individual characters unique voices. He was easy to listen to and overall a good way to enjoy this story.
4.5 of 5 stars
Marian and Zach end up texting one another several times a day for a few weeks, becoming friends of a sort. When Zach meets Marcus, a cute new waiter at his local diner, he tells his “friend Marian” about the interaction, spurring Marcus to confess that he’s actually Marian. (I’ll let you listen to the story to see why the confusing name.)
After the big reveal, Marcus and Zach become close friends – neither wants to cross into “boyfriends” being as Marcus is on the rebound and still dealing with a crazy, stalker ex.
When things begin to get really scary with the ex, Zach and Marcus can’t deny their attraction anymore and they begin a relationship. There is a bit more drama and some stuff of Zach’s to deal with before they find their HEA.
**
I was surprised I didn’t remember seeing this come around as a book – it’s SO GOOD! I was psyched to be introduced to it as an audiobook and glad to have been given the chance to experience it!
The writing is crisp, clear and delightful! The dialog absolutely sells this story, both between Zach and Marcus but also between Zach and Jordan, too.
This is a slow burn romance but with a very satisfying ending that I think anyone who enjoys witty dialog and lots of feels will really enjoy. I thought the stalker ex was a bit OTT, especially the “twist” there at the end, but it served it’s purpose of getting our MCs together nicely.
Audio
Jonathan David is a new narrator for me. He does a nice job with the “acting” and modifies his voice for effect, though he didn’t give the individual characters unique voices. He was easy to listen to and overall a good way to enjoy this story.
4.5 of 5 stars
March 27, 2015
I really enjoyed this book! I've never read any Andi Van before so when I was offered an ARC, I had no idea what to expect! "Starting with the Unexpected" was... unexpectedly lovely!
The writing is smooth and warm, and the love story unrolls in a page turning fest of yum-yum-ness. Hmm, that could just be my experience of reading but I'm sure you know what I mean.
Loved the gender bending bits, both at the beginning and with the surprise ending. Nice little mystery going on in the background, but I was enjoying the romance so much that this was just extra for me.
The only thing I could consider complaining about is that I don't favor characters who are purely hatable and evil, but it didn't bother me in this story for some reason. Maybe because I felt so fiercely protective of the victims that I didn't mind hating the bad guys?
I'll definitely be reading Andi again!
The writing is smooth and warm, and the love story unrolls in a page turning fest of yum-yum-ness. Hmm, that could just be my experience of reading but I'm sure you know what I mean.
Loved the gender bending bits, both at the beginning and with the surprise ending. Nice little mystery going on in the background, but I was enjoying the romance so much that this was just extra for me.
The only thing I could consider complaining about is that I don't favor characters who are purely hatable and evil, but it didn't bother me in this story for some reason. Maybe because I felt so fiercely protective of the victims that I didn't mind hating the bad guys?
I'll definitely be reading Andi again!
May 22, 2015
Nice and sweet, but unfortunately a little forgettable. They meet, they fall in love, they live happily ever after. Right from the beginning you get the feeling this isn't going to be too much drama. It is all fun and laughs. Then there is the crazy sister. She causes trouble, but it is resolved in the end. Even the smexy times are minimal. So no extra star for that. It is just a smooth ride. Maybe too smooth. On one side there is crazy family members, on the other side there are wonderful parents and the greatest of friends. It seemed too extreme of a contradiction to be real. But the main couple are nice. They keep you interested enough to read the whole story.
November 14, 2016
4.5
Well, I definitely wasn't expecting to like this book as much as I did.
The characters and the story had a really good development, considering it's only 200 pages.
It wall all so sweet since the beginning. The chemistry between them was great.
And when they said "I love you" for the first time?
I was like:
Well, I definitely wasn't expecting to like this book as much as I did.
The characters and the story had a really good development, considering it's only 200 pages.
It wall all so sweet since the beginning. The chemistry between them was great.
And when they said "I love you" for the first time?
I was like:
May 27, 2015
I don't know what I was expecting with this story, but it turned out to be a lighthearted and fun read with very likeable characters. I liked how they met, it was different. Even the secondary characters were great.
June 4, 2015
4.5 stars...I really enjoy this book. I thought Zach and Marcus were so sweet together and I loved how they first met. I loved Zach's family and friends who he considered family, but Marcus' family was yeah, you have to read to find out...
August 10, 2015
DNF at 17%.
Awkward, forced, cheesy dialogues never do it for me.
Awkward, forced, cheesy dialogues never do it for me.
February 28, 2018
4 Stars
Listening to this was an entertaining experience; like watching a night-time soap opera. Dramatic and sexy...but also funny at times. Jonathan David did a great job with the narration.
Listening to this was an entertaining experience; like watching a night-time soap opera. Dramatic and sexy...but also funny at times. Jonathan David did a great job with the narration.
May 15, 2015
Reviewed for Rainbow Gold Reviews. 9/10 pots of gold. A copy was received in exchange for an honest review.
After reading the blurb, I have to admit, I was downright confused at what was going to happen in this book.It ended up being very unexpected as the title suggests. Starting with the Unexpected was a sweet but not sappy contemporary story that begins with misdialed texts and mistaken identities. I really enjoyed it.
There is little conflict between the main characters that stands in the way of their being together. Their chemistry is great. Both have similar pasts though Marcus’s is a bit more extreme. Zach doesn’t have much contact with his brother after coming out, and Marcus is considered the black sheep of his crazy family. Which means he’s pretty darn normal. Zach is cynical about the loss of communication though, while Marcus is hopeful, Wanting things to be made right even at the risk of his safety.
For most of the book it appears the trouble that the couple does experience is caused by a obsessive ex of Marcus’s but is actually created by someone more surprising. I just have to say that Marcus is quite a wonderful character after discovering more about what his family is like. For Zach the situation actually helps reconcile him with his brother and that is good, because his family is awesome and becomes Marcus’s as well. The addition of supporting characters like Zach’s straight room mate Jordan and his radio station work partner, Kat bring a lot of humor to the story and leave it feeling very well rounded.
After reading the blurb, I have to admit, I was downright confused at what was going to happen in this book.It ended up being very unexpected as the title suggests. Starting with the Unexpected was a sweet but not sappy contemporary story that begins with misdialed texts and mistaken identities. I really enjoyed it.
There is little conflict between the main characters that stands in the way of their being together. Their chemistry is great. Both have similar pasts though Marcus’s is a bit more extreme. Zach doesn’t have much contact with his brother after coming out, and Marcus is considered the black sheep of his crazy family. Which means he’s pretty darn normal. Zach is cynical about the loss of communication though, while Marcus is hopeful, Wanting things to be made right even at the risk of his safety.
For most of the book it appears the trouble that the couple does experience is caused by a obsessive ex of Marcus’s but is actually created by someone more surprising. I just have to say that Marcus is quite a wonderful character after discovering more about what his family is like. For Zach the situation actually helps reconcile him with his brother and that is good, because his family is awesome and becomes Marcus’s as well. The addition of supporting characters like Zach’s straight room mate Jordan and his radio station work partner, Kat bring a lot of humor to the story and leave it feeling very well rounded.
February 11, 2016
I've never read anything by this author, and I'll be the first to admit that I'll buy if I get bit by cover lust. I had insta-cover lust with this one. And the story- jazz hands!!!
Zach's my kinda guy. He's hilarious and snarky. Love me some sass. Marcus is the calm to Zachs hurricane, the sugar to Zachs sweet iced tea... y'all get where I'm goin with this. Two peas in a pod. They're perfect together. Wish I could pick 'em up and carry 'em in my pocket. I'm hoping Andi Van will give us lots more Zachs and Marcus' to read about.
Zach's my kinda guy. He's hilarious and snarky. Love me some sass. Marcus is the calm to Zachs hurricane, the sugar to Zachs sweet iced tea... y'all get where I'm goin with this. Two peas in a pod. They're perfect together. Wish I could pick 'em up and carry 'em in my pocket. I'm hoping Andi Van will give us lots more Zachs and Marcus' to read about.
July 6, 2016
We have a world record!! Quit this audiobook at 1:09 (min, not hrs). Why?? This lovely line:
Sometimes I feel bad reviewing DFN books ...but I don't even feel a little guilty here. This is too common in m/m and I'm SICK OF IT.
"...and I certainly wouldn't ever sleep with anyone's sister. Ew."Yup. The good 'ol gay-because-women-are-disgusting trope.
Sometimes I feel bad reviewing DFN books ...but I don't even feel a little guilty here. This is too common in m/m and I'm SICK OF IT.
May 16, 2015
This book was a lovely surprise. I haven't read anything from this author before, but certainly will again if the opportunity arises. A truly lovely romance, with a bit of drama and some beautifully done, steamy sex scenes. A great read
May 25, 2017
This was most enjoyable. I praise any author who writes gay fiction without falling into the pitfalls of degenerating into the physical aspects of a homosexual relationship. So I say thank you for creating fairly believable, loveable characters who show some development in their personalities. There is love, self-discovery, and growth within these words. It took me through a range of emotions on a fun journey wishing that life was actually this fun. I don't often enjoy gay fiction, but this was BRILLIANT!!
Thank you!!
Thank you!!
June 11, 2016
Audiobook provided through Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words in exchange for an impartial review.
This audiobook was so good that I immediately bought all the books this author has written, and I’m about to head over to Audible to check out the narrator’s work.
Both the story and Jonathan David’s narration of it made me smile, laugh, and chuckle at the upbeat positive attitude of Zachary Blaise, a morning radio show personality. When the story opens, he receives a text from someone who is dumping her boyfriend—in no uncertain terms. Because he isn’t dating anyone, he kindly texts back to let her know she got the wrong number. When asked her name, she introduces herself as Marian and they begin a fun text conversation. He finds the situation so funny that he brings up the topic on his morning show the next day.
Imagine his surprise when Marian asks if they can meet and it turns out that Marian is actually Marcus—the cute waiter Zach has been crushing on at his favorite diner. When Marcus heard the morning show, he realized he had to come clean because he had plans to ask Zach out after he gets over the whole situation of having caught his boyfriend with his own sister. Zach can’t believe these kinds of things can happen to him, but he really likes Marcus and decides that if friendship is all they can have, he’s going to go for it.
Unfortunately, things don’t run smoothly and Zach starts getting harassed—first it’s his car, then his house and at the station, and he fears that it could get worse. Marcus is beside himself with worry over the fact that he’s caused this whole thing, and then the situation does indeed get worse. Add to the mix the insanity that is Marcus’s family—from his “skanky” sister who cheated with his boyfriend, to his older sister who calls to berate him over the phone for hurting his other sister’s feelings, to his mother and that same sister showing up to accuse him of having his youngest sister jailed—even though she was caught in the act of vandalizing Zach’s car. This family is so far over the top, they can see the moon. And yet, I can well imagine them. I may have even met them once upon a time!
Will Zach and Marcus be okay? Can they find happiness in a relationship when things around them are going to hell in a handbasket?
I’m super impressed by this author. This is the first story I’ve read by her, but as I said at the beginning, it’s not going to be the last. The pace was fast, the humor sharp, the angst, heartbreak, and anxious moments well deserved, and the characters were memorable. They were all very well developed, and I highly enjoyed so many of the secondary characters it’s hard to pick which was my favorite—Zach’s roommate, Jordan, or his brother, Brandon, or maybe one of Marcus’s skanky family members? The ensemble cast all added to the enjoyment of this book.
The narration was very well done, keeping the pace and the humor, with emotions easily discernable and the voices all varied. I highly recommend this narrator as well as this story. Don’t miss a chance to pick up this audiobook if you are in the mood for an MM romance that will keep you on your toes while patiently hoping you don’t miss a word. In a nutshell, it’s terrific!
This audiobook was so good that I immediately bought all the books this author has written, and I’m about to head over to Audible to check out the narrator’s work.
Both the story and Jonathan David’s narration of it made me smile, laugh, and chuckle at the upbeat positive attitude of Zachary Blaise, a morning radio show personality. When the story opens, he receives a text from someone who is dumping her boyfriend—in no uncertain terms. Because he isn’t dating anyone, he kindly texts back to let her know she got the wrong number. When asked her name, she introduces herself as Marian and they begin a fun text conversation. He finds the situation so funny that he brings up the topic on his morning show the next day.
Imagine his surprise when Marian asks if they can meet and it turns out that Marian is actually Marcus—the cute waiter Zach has been crushing on at his favorite diner. When Marcus heard the morning show, he realized he had to come clean because he had plans to ask Zach out after he gets over the whole situation of having caught his boyfriend with his own sister. Zach can’t believe these kinds of things can happen to him, but he really likes Marcus and decides that if friendship is all they can have, he’s going to go for it.
Unfortunately, things don’t run smoothly and Zach starts getting harassed—first it’s his car, then his house and at the station, and he fears that it could get worse. Marcus is beside himself with worry over the fact that he’s caused this whole thing, and then the situation does indeed get worse. Add to the mix the insanity that is Marcus’s family—from his “skanky” sister who cheated with his boyfriend, to his older sister who calls to berate him over the phone for hurting his other sister’s feelings, to his mother and that same sister showing up to accuse him of having his youngest sister jailed—even though she was caught in the act of vandalizing Zach’s car. This family is so far over the top, they can see the moon. And yet, I can well imagine them. I may have even met them once upon a time!
Will Zach and Marcus be okay? Can they find happiness in a relationship when things around them are going to hell in a handbasket?
I’m super impressed by this author. This is the first story I’ve read by her, but as I said at the beginning, it’s not going to be the last. The pace was fast, the humor sharp, the angst, heartbreak, and anxious moments well deserved, and the characters were memorable. They were all very well developed, and I highly enjoyed so many of the secondary characters it’s hard to pick which was my favorite—Zach’s roommate, Jordan, or his brother, Brandon, or maybe one of Marcus’s skanky family members? The ensemble cast all added to the enjoyment of this book.
The narration was very well done, keeping the pace and the humor, with emotions easily discernable and the voices all varied. I highly recommend this narrator as well as this story. Don’t miss a chance to pick up this audiobook if you are in the mood for an MM romance that will keep you on your toes while patiently hoping you don’t miss a word. In a nutshell, it’s terrific!
May 25, 2015
REVIEWED FOR PRISM BOOK ALLIANCE
4.5 Stars
Does the blurb confuse you? Yep, did me too but what a funny, quirky and unique way for two people to meet.
The fun and quirkiness is soon taken out of the situation though with the family from hell!!
Zachary and Marcus meet in the strangest of ways but both are at a point in their lives where they need something, and to begin with it is something as simple as friendship. They date without really dating but the only two people who aren’t aware that they are in a relationship after a few weeks is themselves.
There is a lot going on in this story but it never seems like too much. Marcus is just coming out of relationship with an abusive asshole who committed just about the worst transgression in a relationship. His actions have invoked a she devil in the form of Marcus’s sister who is possibly the worst sibling I have ever come across.
Marcus is such a beautiful person and this is emphasised even more when you see the sort of family background he has risen from. Although he enters into a relationship with Zachary with more than a little trepidation all he really wants is a family and some loving.
Zachary is a fun character with a super supportive family except for his older brother. Somewhere along the way their relationship, once very close, stopped working and Zachary has lived with the hurt for a long time. Seeing how Marcus is treated by his family jolts both the brothers and makes way for a confession that starts to see them both heal.
Beautifully written, completely engrossing – Starting with the Unexpected was an unexpected treat and I will definitely be watching this author closely.
4.5 Stars
Does the blurb confuse you? Yep, did me too but what a funny, quirky and unique way for two people to meet.
The fun and quirkiness is soon taken out of the situation though with the family from hell!!
Zachary and Marcus meet in the strangest of ways but both are at a point in their lives where they need something, and to begin with it is something as simple as friendship. They date without really dating but the only two people who aren’t aware that they are in a relationship after a few weeks is themselves.
There is a lot going on in this story but it never seems like too much. Marcus is just coming out of relationship with an abusive asshole who committed just about the worst transgression in a relationship. His actions have invoked a she devil in the form of Marcus’s sister who is possibly the worst sibling I have ever come across.
Marcus is such a beautiful person and this is emphasised even more when you see the sort of family background he has risen from. Although he enters into a relationship with Zachary with more than a little trepidation all he really wants is a family and some loving.
Zachary is a fun character with a super supportive family except for his older brother. Somewhere along the way their relationship, once very close, stopped working and Zachary has lived with the hurt for a long time. Seeing how Marcus is treated by his family jolts both the brothers and makes way for a confession that starts to see them both heal.
Beautifully written, completely engrossing – Starting with the Unexpected was an unexpected treat and I will definitely be watching this author closely.
May 21, 2016
**3.5 Stars
When I'm not in the mood to write a review the following says why I rated the book the way I did.....sort of. :P
5 Stars – Given to stories that had me falling in love with the characters or stories where I hated the characters but the author had me hooked. For stories that had me so engaged in the plot I couldn’t put the book down and stories that either made me cry buckets and/or laugh until I cried. In short…. these ones rocked my world!!!
4 Stars– Given to stories that I REALLY, REALLY enjoyed reading but had me wishing for just a bit more.
3 Stars – Given to stories that I thought were worth the read but they didn’t knock my socks off.
2 Stars – Given to stories that didn’t work for me. I couldn’t connect to the MCs or feel any sort of connection between them. I couldn’t follow the plot or there wasn’t a plot. Every so often one of these stories just needs work to fix what went wrong but mostly 2 star reads are stories that leave me wondering why I kept reading until the end.
1 Star - I RARELY give out 1 Star so when I do it means the story was a complete train wreck.
I know what I may love another reader may wonder what the hell I was thinking but I’m okay with that!
October 5, 2016
3.5- 4 stars This was a cute story. Definitely a nice easy read if you need a break from dark angsty stuff.
I loved how the narrator, Zach, had a clearly defined personality. He was smart, funny and had a really quick wit.
Marcus was also a nice character and I loved the mix up at the beginning that bought them together without any prolonged drama.
Zach's mum was also a great character. A true mama-bear. The best example I'll paste here made me snort with laughter.
I liked how we followed them on their relationship journey but it lost me a little towards the end when batshit crazy came to town. Still nice though.
I loved how the narrator, Zach, had a clearly defined personality. He was smart, funny and had a really quick wit.
Marcus was also a nice character and I loved the mix up at the beginning that bought them together without any prolonged drama.
Zach's mum was also a great character. A true mama-bear. The best example I'll paste here made me snort with laughter.
“How on earth did you end up becoming such a wonderful young man after being raised by such a fucking cunt?” my mother finally burst out. Marcus’s eyes went wide at Mom’s language, but I just laughed. “Don’t look so surprised, gorgeous. Who do you think I learned it from?” “Seriously,” my mother said, looking exasperated. “That woman needs a love tap from a two-by-four.”
I liked how we followed them on their relationship journey but it lost me a little towards the end when batshit crazy came to town. Still nice though.
April 10, 2016
I really loved the tone of this book, and the narration fit it perfectly. Funny and sweet. The drama didn't overshadow the romance, and it wasn't a huge miscommunication or anything stupid like that. It was something outside our MC's that ended up bringing them closer together. The secondary secondary characters were great as well. I loved Zach's interactions with his best friend and with his family, the added stuff with his brother was really nice.
I don't have a ton to say, which, coming form me, is generally a compliment. I really liked this, both characters were great, thought it was often hilarious, and would highly recommend the audio version.
Received audio version from the publisher in exchange for an honest review, reviewed for Hearts On Fire
I don't have a ton to say, which, coming form me, is generally a compliment. I really liked this, both characters were great, thought it was often hilarious, and would highly recommend the audio version.
Received audio version from the publisher in exchange for an honest review, reviewed for Hearts On Fire
March 22, 2016
Audiobook version.
Atypical M/M Romance in that there were no heaping helpings of endless sex every chapter. I would give it an extra star for not having an overdose of typical M/M erotica, but that would be rewarding it for doing something no M/M romance should ever do. There is still no plot nor high degree of entertainment value.
If I had to read the book instead of just listening while doing other activities I would not have read it but then that goes for almost every M/M romance I have listened too lately on audiobooks. Ladies, it's time to start writing about something interesting and giving up the standard overused plots tropes and memes.
Three stars for good recycling of the same old stuff.
Atypical M/M Romance in that there were no heaping helpings of endless sex every chapter. I would give it an extra star for not having an overdose of typical M/M erotica, but that would be rewarding it for doing something no M/M romance should ever do. There is still no plot nor high degree of entertainment value.
If I had to read the book instead of just listening while doing other activities I would not have read it but then that goes for almost every M/M romance I have listened too lately on audiobooks. Ladies, it's time to start writing about something interesting and giving up the standard overused plots tropes and memes.
Three stars for good recycling of the same old stuff.
April 28, 2015
4.5 stars!
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