Steady Stroke

Off Beat #2

by A.M. Arthur

After a tragic accident, Lincoln West’s dreams of making it big as a guitarist fell apart. Unable to play music, he’s battling a hopeless downward spiral, and takes his friend’s offer to stay at their beach house for the summer. While at an open mic night at local bar Off Beat, he locks eyes with a busboy who doesn’t make Linc feel so broken anymore.

Emmett Westmore lives for the anonymity of busing tables in his aunt’s quirky bar where no one pities him for the fire that killed everyone he loved. He blames himself for the fire, and he doesn’t want anyone to see him—except for Linc. Emmett’s walls drop when he’s around the gorgeous blue-eyed guitarist, but he has a secret that could destroy his budding relationship with Linc.

Both Linc and Emmett are looking for a way to live again…will they let their fears control them or take a chance on something real?

Genres: M M Romance, Romance, Musicians, Contemporary, LGBT, Music, Contemporary Romance

280 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 6, 2016

About the author

No stranger to the writing world, A.M. Arthur has been creating stories in her head since she was a child and scribbling them down nearly as long. She credits an early fascination with male friendships (bromance wasn't a thing yet) with her later discovery of and subsequent affair with m/m romance stories. When not writing, she can be found in her kitchen, pretending she's an amateur chef and trying to not poison herself or others with her cuisine experiments. You can contact her at AM_Arthur(at)yahoo(dot)com

Reviews

[* Meli Mel * · Rating 3 out of 5]

♥ ♥ ♥ 3.75 STARS ♥ ♥ ♥

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“You're the first person I've met in a long time who doesn't make me feel broken.”

Emmett's heart pounded. “You're the first person I've met in a long time who makes me feel alive.”

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Lincoln West's dream of making it big with his band as a guitarist seem to have crashed and burned. It all ended for him the night he was in a car accident, now he is left to deal with the aftereffects being dizziness and intense migraines whenever he plays. This has resulted in Linc feeling depressed but he is tired of it. Linc decides to go out to a bar named Off Beat. That is when he notices a shy yet attractive bus boy that he can't seem to stop staring at.

Emmett Westmore has not been dealt a great hand in life. After tragedy strikes where he loses his entire family, he is left alone with a feeling of guilt. Now, he prefers to not draw any attention to himself. Working at his aunt Beatrice's bar seems like the perfect place since people barely acknowledge him. That is until Linc shows just how interested in him he really is.

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“You don't have to hide from me, Em,” Lincoln said. His voice was so soft, almost musical, and it caressed his skin like a lover's touch.

Emmet swallowed hard against a knot of emotion. “All I know how to do is hide.”

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This book started off really good. I loved the connection these two broken characters shared. They started off as friends but the attraction between them was still very present. It was sweet and hot all at once seeing the tension between them. The fact that both these characters had issues to overcome because of an incident in their past had me hooked to their romantic story. I liked how they supported each other, especially when they struggled so much with their problems. It was really heartbreaking to learn how Emmett lost his family, that I was so happy when Linc and Emmett finally became a couple. They were just so great together. It totally warmed my heart.

I enjoyed the story so very much, however, there were a few things that I didn't particularly care for. There was a big secret that was being kept that definitely added to the drama in the story. I couldn't believe it when it was revealed, but what I couldn't believe more was that it remained a secret to Linc until almost the ending. I would have liked to have seen them both deal with the secret a little sooner. I also felt like it was resolved a little too quickly. I don't care if it would have made it more angsty than it was, it would have been great to see their relationship grow stronger as a result. The pacing in some parts was a little slow, but in other parts, it was just right. I also think an epilogue was needed, at least to me it was because I just needed a little bit more of their story.

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“I feel like we could tell each other anything, no matter how awful. Is that wierd, when we've only known each other a few weeks?”

“No. It means we have a unique connection. Something to fight for.”

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Despite the things I didn't care for, I still really liked this book. I loved the connection Emmett and Linc shared. I loved the characters as individuals and as a couple. They were so perfect for one another. It was a pretty emotional story with some drama and angst which I personally enjoyed. It may have been perfect but overall it was a good read.

[Rachel L]

DNF @44%

I was really enjoying this book, I was. Interesting characters and an intense story line. But then a plot twist was thrown in that was so far fetched I just can't get past it.

I think a lot of people will enjoy this book so please if you are curious, read it for yourself. I've seen lots of positive reviews so I am fairly alone in my opinion.

ARC provided by publisher via netgalley in exchange for an honest review

[CrabbyPatty · Rating 3 out of 5]

Please note that "Steady Strokes" should not be read as a stand-alone in that "Steady Stroke" contains spoilers for Body Rocks

I really enjoyed Body Rocks, the first book in A.M. Arthur's "Off Beat" series, and liked catching up with the characters from that first book in "Steady Strokes." Trey and Dominic are touring the country, Faded Daze is doing the same, and Linc is still recovering from the car accident that derailed his musical dreams. (He's unable to play the bass due to dizziness and stage lights give him migraines.) Linc meets Emmett at Off Beat and is pretty much instantly attracted to the shy nephew of the club owner.

Both Linc and Emmett have issues, but as the book progresses it's mind-boggling just how much everyone in this book has ISSUES, big messy ISSUES - no one remains unscathed. For example, Emmett is a Muslim of Syrian blood who is dealing with the arson death of his parents and sisters by a classmate who hated Muslims (and also bullied Emmett at school), Emmett blames himself for their deaths because he was at his boyfriend's house having sex when the fire occurred, he has scars from the fire, he dyes his hair and wears colored contacts to appear "less foreign," has panic attacks, and by the way, caused the car accident that injured Linc and his band AND it turns out Emmett is a great singer and overcomes almost crippling stage fright by singing with Linc onstage at a concert. Add in unprotected sex / date rape, violence against a transgender individual, Linc reluctantly attending his sister's wedding and dealing with his awful parents, etc. ... and it just began to feel like my empathy / heartbreak receptors were getting burned out.

Linc and Emmett fall in insta-love and do have some serious sexual sizzle, but Emmett keeps a secret from Linc for roughly half the book, and at times the pacing of the book felt very slow and unfocused as the secret brews and festers with Emmett worrying, followed up by hot sex after which Emmett decides not to tell the secret, more panic about the secret, followed by sex, followed by Emmett holding his counsel ... rinse, lather, repeat.

The last 10-15% of the book is very busy as the secret is told (with little to no consequences), the band reunites, Linc and Emmett get their HFN, and the stage is set for the next book in the series. I would recommend this book, but with caution. Personally, I look forward to a book in this series with about 50% less angst and 75% less amazing coincidence. But if you are a regular reader of A.M. Arthur and don't have as low an angst / coincidence threshold, give this book a read!

I received an ARC from the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.

Visit my blog, Sinfully Good Gay Book Reviews

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars rounded up because it's Lincoln's story and I <3 Lincoln and still no 1/2 stars here on GR.

'Steady Stroke' is book 2 in A.M. Arthur's new series 'Off Beat" and it's Lincoln's story. We met him in the first book and at the end of 'Body Rocks' Lincoln was not in the best of places and I really liked him. He's best friend and brother by choice to Dominic Bounds one of the MCs from 'Body Rocks' and even in that book I got the sense that his feelings for Dom were a little stronger than a best friends should be but he never let this deter him from being a true friend and that made me like him a lot because it takes a truly good and strong person to put the happiness of the people they care about above their own.

In 'Steady Stroke' we watch as Lincoln strives to regain control of his life by taking that first step and heading out to Off Beat the place that a year ago was the beginning of dreams coming true for the members of Off Beat the bar's namesake band. Lincoln's only looking for a night out and maybe a quick hook-up instead what he gets is a one night stand that goes horribly wrong, a new friend named Melody, a chance to play music again and his first glimpse at the man he'll want to spend forever with. Going back to the place where things started for Lincoln and his friends really felt like the right place for this second chance story to begin.

So much of 'Steady Stroke' was about second chances for Lincoln, for Emmett, Melody, Adrian and ultimately even the band, 'Off Beat', gets a second chance to have that moment in time that all performers want...that moment when their star gets to shine the brightest.

It just takes Lincoln one look at Off Beat's sexy, shy busboy who seems to be as nervous as a long-tailed cat in a room full of rocking chairs to know he want to get closer and find out more but Emmett, the object of his attention, has problems of his own and suffers severe social anxiety disorder and it's this knowledge that makes Lincoln decide that going slow and maybe just being friends is what will work best for both him and Emmett, but he's not going to be deterred by this and remains determined to spend time with Emmett, the only person who's looked at him in a long time and made him feel like he wants to live again.

As Emmett and Lincoln get to know each other and explore their mutual attraction the real question becomes whether or not these two men can handle the obstacle course that life seems to want to put in their way and will they still be together at the end of it.

I really enjoyed LIncoln and Emmett's story. Yes it was a bit of insta-love but in spite of the fact that while they both acknowledged the strong attraction they didn't just fall into the relationship. They started out determined to be a friend to the other. So while the attraction was instant, acting on it not so much.

There was a lot of angst and a laundry list of bad things happening to good people and maybe it was a bit over the top, who knows? I tend to expect it with this author and in a way for me it's a bit of book crack. So sue me I enjoy the angst and drama of it all, but I have to admit there was one thing this time that for me didn't work and it's probably what kept this from being a 4 star or more read. It was "the big secret", for me it just didn't work, but in spite of that Lincoln and Emmett did. I liked them for so many reasons and I loved having characters from the first book show up as well as the addition of new ones. The Bounds family. Beatrice, the owner of Off Beat and we got to meet her son, Adrian. Van, one of Off Beat's bartenders was back with much more on page presence and do I like Van...oh,hell yeah. I'm crossing my fingers that we get his story soon? Lincoln's new friend Melody, I really like her and yes, it's another story that I'd love to have.

So while I didn't love this one quite as much as I'd hoped for I definitely enjoyed it and plan on being there to read what comes next. Like a few other authors A.M. Arthur is book crack for me and I look forward to my next fix.

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A copy of 'Steady Stroke' was graciously provided by the publisher through Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.

[Erica Chilson · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received a copy of this title to read and review for Wicked Reads

3 Stars.

Steady Stroke is the second installment in A.M. Arthur's newest series, Off Beat. If you haven't read the previous book, I suggest you start there, as this series shouldn't be read out of order, and this book isn't suited for being read as a standalone.

At the end of Body Rocks, Lincoln was majorly suffering from the car crash, and I was happy to learn Steady Stroke was his book. I felt Lincoln's condition was written well, accurately, especially where the migraines were involved. A little bit more emotion from him would have been nice, but maybe it was just me, and my mood wasn't allowing me to pick up on Lincoln's devastation.

With everyone touring the country, Lincoln feels down on himself and lonely, is still suffering from the lifelong side-effects of his accident, and is unable to play music. He goes to Off Beat to find friends, and the first night there he makes a mistake- a mistake that gutted me to read from the realism. But, he did make a new friend, probably a lifelong friend, as well as meeting Emmett.

Emmett Westmore's aunt is the woman who runs and owns the club, Off Beat. He busses tables and goes to school online, both because of his anxiety. His aunt wants him to get out and be around people. He's hiding many secrets. But a major one is fear because of his Muslim roots, but he's on the outs with his god.

Truthfully, while I liked this facet of the storyline, I'm unsure about the name-change from Emilio to Emmett in order to sound more Americanized. I kept tripping over this part of the storyline, at least where the first name was concerned. Emilio is Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, and Latin in origin, most of which is predominantly Catholic. Emilio is a very common name in the United States, and no one would take issue with it. So I'm unsure how changing Emilio to Emmett was to erase fear of being known for being Muslim when it's not associated in that manner. (I'm not saying there aren't any first-generation American Muslims with the name Emilio, just how that is NOT a conclusion anyone in the United States would jump to) I understood changing his last name, but felt the author giving Westmore, when his love interest's last name was West, was a bit much.

I apologize for getting off-track, but that kept tripping me up. Emilio/West.

I can't dive too deeply into the storyline, as there are many twisty storylines that I'd spoil something major. If you've read one single A.M. Arthur book, you know the author loves to emotionally, physically, and mentally harm the characters.

Every character in every book has a horrid backstory worth telling. Every MC has not only a bad backstory, but bad things happen to him multiple times during his narration. When I first started reading this author, I was emotional. But, now, after so many books with this formula, I'm numb. Desensitized. Simply waiting for the next shoe to drop, and it keeps me from fully connecting with the characters. Some books it's done well, and I 'feel' what the character should be feeling. Other books, it's over-the-top, to the point the characters show no ill-effects in the aftermath, so I'm unsure why the event occurred in the first place.

Steady Stroke is a mix of this for me. Some threads made me ache for the character, and it was fully explored by the author. While others were so out there, I felt nothing, and there was no aftermath. I'd list what occurred in this book alone, and it would be a LONG list, but I don't want to spoil anything.

My point, one or two traumatic events, fully explored and worked through, with realistic emotions, would evoke a gut-wrenching sensation in the reader. Like a pet owner, if you have one or two pets, you can truly connect with them. But if you have twenty cats, you don't have enough time to give them each adequate attention. Hoarder. The author is a hoarder of traumatized characters, with nary a therapist in sight, and sometimes not adequate research on the trauma, to the point the character's mental well-being is not taken care of.

I know I sound as if I don't enjoy this author's writing, and that's far, very far from the truth. I've read pretty much all of Arthur's works. Some are a major hit for me, some okay, and a few misses. This book would be in the miss category for me, sadly, while the first in the series was a hit.

A few threads came from recent issues plaguing our world. I'm sure it was to bring awareness to the problem, but these threads were never fully expanded. If you are Muslim, having suffered a hate-crime, changed your non-sounding Muslim name out of fear, even changed your appearance, were in the closet because of fear and your religion, I'd think religion would play a large role in the characterization of Emmett/Emilio, but it was just glossed over. In fact, I just wrote more about it in this review than was in the story itself, and it was the major driving force for Emmett's characterization.

That, in a nutshell, is why I didn't enjoy Steady Stroke. So much was going on, and most of it was just glossed over. I appreciated the use of the Muslim storyline to bring awareness to the problem, and to educate, but neither happened. With the traumatic events, so many opportunities presented themselves to not only make a poignant read, but to show the reader how to react in a similar situation. Ethics when it comes to harming someone. Standing up for yourself. Reporting assaults so more innocent people don't get harmed. Justice. Therapy and working through your issues instead of just ignoring the problem.

Love does NOT erase past and present trauma, even in a romance novel.

Also, the resolution of this novel was exactly the same as the previous one, taking the stage. I appreciate this in a music book, especially one that was too light on music to be in the music genre. But it was the same resolution. The couple not speaking, and instead of working through the issues, it's written away as one plays an instrument and the other sings, and they live happily ever after.

I apologize for going on a rant, not truly reviewing the book (I feared I'd spoil it), but reviewing the author's writing style instead. If this is what you're looking for, then you know you'll love the book. If it's not...

Many new threads were opened, featuring characters who will no doubt grace the pages of a future novel as the narrator. I look forward to reading those books, even if this book was a miss for me.

Recommended to Arthur fans, fans of MM Romance, and a hurt-comfort, trauma-driven storyline.

[Jay · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars – In spite of having some trouble feeling the connection between the main characters in Body Rocks very strongly, the secondary character the author set up to become the focus in its sequel, Steady Stroke, definitely piqued my interest. So I was looking forward to seeing if my issues were a one-time thing. It turns out that while I liked both of the main characters here and definitely felt their connection more, there were a couple of big things that kept this from being a fantastic read.

A year ago, Lincoln West’s chances to make more than a regional name for himself as a musician ended abruptly when his car was run off the road in the middle of the night on the way to the biggest performance of his band’s career. Now he suffers from the aftereffects of the head injury, with blinding migraines being the worst of it… unless, of course, you count being depressed from having nothing left to do and no prospects to do anything about it. Emmett Westmore carries a heavy guilt after the rest of his family perished in a house fire he blames himself for, so in spite of his anxiety to be around people, being a busboy at his aunt’s bar suits him: it’s the perfect hiding place where no one knows him and no one judges him for his past. But when Lincoln and Emmett share eye contact one night, both feel a connection that quickly blossoms into something more. But Emmett also carries another secret that could destroy the new relationship before it can really get going.

Individually, the issues Lincoln and Emmett have prior to the start of the novel make them compelling characters right from the start. They’re damaged from having important pieces of their lives taken from them, and both are drifting through life as a result. As the story reveals the aftereffects of Lincoln’s accident and the cause behind Emmett’s family’s death, it’s hard not to be pulled into their struggles. So once they’ve met and start to explore the attraction they have for one another, unlike in the previous book, I had no trouble feeling it between them. As a result, I was really enjoying the book, until…

It’s hard to discuss the problem I had with the book without giving something away, so I apologize for deliberately being vague. The trope used as the biggest conflict between Lincoln and Emmett surrounds the secret Emmett has that the blurb alludes to. It is one that I’ve seen used before, though usually it comes up toward the end as the set up for the final drama. Here, though, it is introduced before the halfway point. It’s something that not only surprises Emmett when he learns it, it’s something I didn’t expect either. On its surface, the trope isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but instead of then using it as the basis for the rest of the story line, the author lets it fester, pretty much completely without further mention, for another roughly 40% of the book. During this time, the plot focuses a good deal on some of the secondary characters and their issues rather than on Lincoln and Emmett. While these events work to expand the reader’s understanding of the main characters, the fact that these things happen after the reader learns the secret, and are totally unrelated to it, made it hard for me to stay interested in this section of the book. Instead, I was preoccupied with thoughts about how Lincoln would respond to the secret that had now been relegated to a back burner for so long.

There was enough character and relationship development taking place during this chunk of the book to keep me from being completely turned off by the story. By the time the resolution finally came about, I was underwhelmed, partly because it only took the last 10-15% of the book, partly because it felt a little unrealistic (even though, I guess, it fit in with the story line), and partly because it resulted in a rather abrupt happy-for-now (HFN) ending without some sort of epilogue to push it beyond to the happily-ever-after (HEA). Putting all this together, I wish the second half of the book had been focused almost completely on this big conflict, since I think the author missed the opportunity to turn this story and its emotionally traumatized characters into something truly memorable by doing so.

Despite the fact that Steady Stroke started very strongly for me and was written in a style that was easy to follow and never felt choppy, the direction the author took the plot kept me from enjoying the book as much as I hoped I would. Sure, there was plenty of drama, and it still turned out to be a decent read, but the fact that it focused a good bit on the secondary characters when the key conflict held such potential to become an emotionally powerful story instead of just a good one left me wishing for something more.

The author generously provided me a complimentary copy of Steady Stroke in exchange for this fair and honest review.

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[Debra ~~ seriously slacking on her reviews ~~ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review originally posted at Sinfully.

3.5 stars

This is an A.M. Arthur book so it goes without saying that both Lincoln and Emmett have a lot of issues to deal with and there will be angst. That is what I expected and that is what I got, along with a couple that I absolutely adored together.

Lincoln has healed well from the car accident that occurred in Body Rocks but he is still suffering with severe migraines, vertigo and depression. He also can no longer play guitar because of the effects of the head injury. Perhaps even more upsetting to Lincoln at this point in his recovery is that his best friend Dom is away traveling the country on tour with Trey; something Lincoln always thought he and Dom would have been doing together with their band XYZ. When Lincoln finally decides to get out one night, he finds himself at Off Beat where he makes a few new friends, finds his first hook-up since his accident and notices the skittish bus boy with the pale eyes. Not everything goes as planned that night, but all of it will have a huge impact on his life.

Emmett is 19, living with this aunt and cousin and working as a busboy in his aunt’s club Off Beat, just trying to do his job unnoticed and without a panic attack from being around so many people. Emmett has been through a lot in the past two years and as a result suffers anxiety, guilt and has trouble accepting himself. He just wants to escape his past and start living his life again. In addition to all of this, Emmett is harboring some secrets, one of which could have huge implications for not just him, but those around him. When sexy musician Lincoln offers him a friendly outing he fights his instinct to say no and accepts.

Emmett and Lincoln are so good together. They are both vulnerable, caring and compassionate and by each of them focusing on the other’s well-being, they are able to put aside their own worries for a while when they are together. When Lincoln finds it may be possible to perform again, Emmett encourages and supports him. When Emmett is having trouble putting his parents’ expectations and his own guilt and shame aside, Lincoln listens and provides some good advice. They find a shared love in music and seem to fit each other so well emotionally. When Emmett is ready to move forward, it's clear they are a great fit physically and romantically as well.

Something Lincoln and Emmett have in common is the fear that when they have something good, it’s only a matter of time before it will be taken away. This especially haunts Emmett and he definitely hits a few bumps in the road in accepting that he is entitled to be happy. He and Lincoln fall for each other pretty fast and as they get closer, Emmett realizes that he can’t think about a future with Lincoln until he tells him one last thing he has been hiding; one thing that could cause him to lose Lincoln for good. When Emmett’s final secret is revealed it absolutely devastates Lincoln.

Emmett is a complex character and for the most part, I liked the way A.M. Arthur handled his issues. However, there is quite a build up to the final revelation and I thought that the situation was forgiven a bit too easily for everyone involved. I would have liked to have seen it come out earlier and have spent more time seeing Lincoln and Emmett work through it. Instead, it is revealed close to the end of the book and while Lincoln is trying to work through his feelings, his meddling friends and bandmates are jumping into action to push along a resolution.

Other than that, I really did enjoy this book. Though they fell quick, their relationship felt natural to me. I loved it when Emmett finally let go with Lincoln and the fact that Lincoln wasn’t even close to as awful as he seemed in the first book was a big, huge plus. His struggles with Dom in the first book made much more sense when you learn more about his family and how much he came to need Dom in his life.

You could probably read this as a standalone, but I think you might be missing out when it comes to some of the relationships, especially between Lincoln and the Bounds family, especially Dom. If you have read the prior book, almost all the characters from the first are back, except for one band member that remains mysteriously out of touch. If you like stories with musicians and a romance between two MCs that have a lot to overcome, give this story and series a try.

[Ije the Devourer of Books · Rating 3 out of 5]

Overall this is a nice story with a believable happy ending and some interesting characters.

I haven't yet read book one from this series but I was having a great time reading this book and picking up the background to book one from this story. My only misgiving was that there was a lot of angst that felt a bit unreal. It initially started out as a four star for me but by the end, having weathered the angst it ended up as three stars. I don't mind angst, but I like it to feel real and not just some huge bad coincidence.

But generally it was an ok story.

Here we meet Emilio who struggles with his sexuality and the loss of his family. He blames himself for their loss even though it wasn't his fault. He lives with his aunt, working at her bar and hides his burdens and his sexuality from everyone.

And then Lincoln comes into his life. Lincoln is putting his life back together again. He has lost his career in a band and his hope for the future due to a car accident. He struggles with migraines but he is willing to take a risk and try to revive his musical career by playing another instrument. He is deeply interested in Emmett and the scars he hides because Lincoln has scars of his own.

But Lincoln doesn't realise that Emmet's scars go deeper than he could imagine. And so the two men begin to get closer to each other but can they hold together as secrets are revealed?

I would definitely like to read book one of the series. I think the story has a rich cast of characters which I would like to explore further, however the challenges facing the couple were a bit too unrealistic for my tastes.

It is also interesting that Emmett was a muslim. I think this aspect of the story could have been given more depth because I felt that we were told Emmett was muslim but we were not shown what made him muslim.

Altogether it is a nice story.


Copy provided by publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an unbiased review.

[Alisa · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

This is the second book in the Off Beat series. This story picks up a little less than a year later. Linc is living in a beach house that Trey owns and is roommates with Trey's sister. Trey and Dom are out on the road and Linc is continuing to have a really hard time. He misses his best friend and he really misses the music. He is continuing to struggle with migraines and he is unable to play his guitar without bringing them on. A couple of things happen that end up bringing Emmett into Linc's life and the two young men end up being friends and then something more. But, things are much more complicated than either of them initially realize.

This was a good story that had this author's trademark high level of angst in it. They always have some soap opera level type of event in them. I actually didn't see the event coming in this one and while I didn't find it very believable I still found it entertaining. I liked Linc a lot better in this book than I did in book one and Emmett was a likable character too.

I find that I have to put reality aside for a lot of this author's books but nevertheless I always find myself enjoying the stories. They're fast paced and have both sweet romances and some smexy times. A fun read if you're looking for something a little lighter. This can be read as a standalone but if you haven't read book one know that this one does contain major spoilers for that book.

**trigger warning for date rape situation**

[Kim · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

I have been looking forward to Linc's story since we saw him struggling toward the end of Body Rocks. He is still dealing with after effects of an accident with migraines and dizziness, and it has prohibited him playing guitar and being on stage.

He's lost, lonely, depressed, and without much hope. And then he goes through another situation that compounds his issues. But things start looking up when he meets Beatrice's nephew, Emmett, at the club Off Beat and begins to make a few new friends. Emmett especially becomes a bright spot. He is understanding and caring, but also reserved and has his own walls. Emmett has significant anxiety issues and fears and is hiding much of his past and who he really is.

They gradually build a relationship based on understanding, compassion, and mutual need. But they both have problems and demons they need to deal with. They help calm each other's anxiety, fill a void, and encourage each other to grow and adapt. They make each other feel alive and not damaged after their pasts have beat them down.

But there are secrets buried and one especially has the potential to ruin it all.

Emmett has been hiding so much about who he really is due to fear and guilt. But as the layers are peeled back, Linc is accepting and tries to help him get more comfortable in his own skin and with others. But Emmett's biggest secret leaves him guilt stricken and worried that it will be the one thing Linc cannot handle.

Linc begins to find an anchor again with Emmett and discovers new possibilities to revive his ability to play music and perform. He is finally hopeful about a future. They begin to trust, share their burdens, and find passion.

But can these two scarred survivors make it through the biggest reveal of them all unscathed?

I liked the characters and that they had unique issues and back stories. I enjoyed more with the characters from Body Rocks especially Dom, Trey, Benji, Van, Roxy, and the Bounds family. A new character named Melody was an interesting addition.

I liked getting both points of view and seeing them work to try to overcome fears, obstacles, and move forward. But I did have some issues with this installment. I felt like it dragged at times, and sometimes I just felt disconnected. It seemed like perhaps the author tried to do too much. Sometimes all the negative stuff, opposition, and multiple personal and social issues with both the main characters and side characters was a bit overwhelming and distracting. It touched on so many hot button topics, but putting them here would cause spoilers. There were also situations in this one that were a bit similar to things in the first book. I found it to be a bit predictable at times, although there were some interesting plot twists too. The big secret seemed to be handled a bit too easily, and I felt the ending was rushed so I was left wanting a bit more.

Ultimately this is a story about being yourself, connecting, finding acceptance, healing, and following your passions. There are plenty of side characters that are interesting enough to warrant more stories especially Benji, Van, Tyson, and Melody.

I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Bárbara · Rating 4 out of 5]

*ARC received from the publishers via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*

This story is proof that you shouldn't judge the book by its cover.
When I first saw it, I imagined it would be mostly a story about the relationship between Linc and Em, main focus on the physical part, but with little focus on an actual plot outside of that.
Boy I was so wrong.

Steady Stroke focuses on these two characters, both who have a heavy load of baggage to sort out in their personal lives, and whose stories intertwine in some very interesting ways.
It's a very solid story, that stands on its own, with strenght leaning heavily on both MCs but with some brilliantly outlined secondary characters as well.
And if the plot twist seemed a bit much, well... It's nothing that can't be dealt with.

There's a lot of introspection in both POV's (and I enjoyed both, for very differen reasons), which I think the author managed to explore in a very insightful way. Both Linc and Em have some complicated psychological stuff to deal with, and the weight of it translates into physical manifestations, all of which, in my opinion, was accurately and respectfully developed.

The emotional aspect of both characters was also beautifully explored. PLUS, the sex was amongst the most amazing I've ever read. The way the characters interacted made their relationship all the more meaningful and it gave some more depth to their mutual understanding of each other's feelings. It was truly precious.

A compelling story about life, love, loss and the courage it takes to create our own second chances, learning how to make our own music again, even after we thought we'd lost it forever.

The reason I'm not giving it 5 stars, regardless of how amazing this story was, is because there were a couple (and only a couple) mistakes here and there, but nothing annoying, really, just visible enough for the keen eye.

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 rounded up to 4 stars

Trigger warnings: Rape scene and talk of former parental abuse

Lincoln has had a hard time coping with his injuries from the car accident he was in a year ago. His head injury causes him to have crippling migraines that he constantly has to watch for things that may trigger them, including any lights. After his head injury he had to work to get his balance back to even walk and it left lasting effects on his equilibrium. He lost his ability to play guitar because the vibrating strings made him feel dizzy.

Emmett has a lot of anxiety issues due to his traumatic past. He tries blend in and disguise himself behind colored contacts, dyed hair, and even changes his name to keep himself from being recognized as being of Syrian nationality. Coming from Muslim parents he was brought up to believe that homophobia was wrong so he also tries to deny his sexuality.

I thought that Emmett and Lincoln were so sweet together. Emmett was so understanding and helpful when it came to Lincoln's migraines. There were many times that he had to take care of him. Lincoln was really good at getting Emmett to come out of his shell and embrace who he is.

This is the second book in the series and it just as filled with angst as the last one. So. Much. Drama! Even though this is the second in the series, it can be read as a standalone. There was a big secret that got revealed towards the end that I thought was handled a little too well, however. I thought the forgiveness came a little too easily on everyone's part because it wasn't only one person affected.

I am excited for the next one in the series because I want to know more about the other guys in the band and also Melody and Van!

** I received an ARC of this title via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. **

[Joyfully Jay · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Joyfully Jay review.

4.25 stars

Steady Stroke is the second book in A.M. Arthur’s Off Beat series, following Body Rocks. The story takes place about a year after the first as Lincoln has been rehabilitating from the accident (which occurs in the first story). Now we see Lincoln has recovered quite a bit, but he is lonely with Dom traveling and frustrated with the limitations his brain injury is placing on him. He can’t find a job and the migraines knock him flat and he is definitely out of sorts. Things are even worse when a bad date with a guy who can’t take no for an answer leaves him really shaken. When Lincoln meets Emmett, he is drawn to the young man right away. The two of them begin falling for each other almost immediately and their relationship grows quickly and easily. The focus of the conflict is really on Emmett’s past and the secret he has that could destroy their relationship. So things build between them quite easily and the guys fall pretty hard and fast. Sometimes things felt a bit too sweet and easy, and sometimes even over the top perfect, but again, the conflict is external so the focus is on how their rapidly developing relationship might be derailed rather than on their coming together in the first place.

Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.

[T.A. McKay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Copy from netgalley.

Well hot damn! What can I say about this book? Gah? Wow? Sigh?

Yeah all of that! I loved this story, almost more than the first book in the series. I do love a couple that finds love when everything is going against them. Its that finding love against the odds that I love in these books, the love that really shouldn't work but it does.
Poor Emmett has been through so much and it just makes you want everything to work out for him because he deserves it. Only problem is he has a huge secret that could destroy everything he has ever wanted.....but Im not telling you what it is!
Lincoln is....well Lincoln. Sexy, confident...and not living life like he should. After the accident in book one he is struggling to be who he once was, but meeting Emmett is just what he needed.
The pair are super hot together but they have so much baggage that you feel like they may never come out the other side...and if they do it might not be together.

This is a story of one mans struggle with finding himself, of being the man he should always have been no matter what his family believes. And its another mans struggle with remembering who he is, to be the friend he used to be, to just be him.

[Christi Snow · Rating 4 out of 5]

My Review:
This was an interesting story. Linc is still trying to recover from a concussion that he received in a hit and run last year. He's still having real issues...migraines, he can't handle much light, and most importantly he can't play guitar. He's floundering. It's been a year. Thinking this is what his life is going to be for the foreseeable future is tough. But he's at the beach for the summer, so he's determined to get out...not just sit at home and mope. So he sets out to make some new friends (and I loved that that was truly his goal....find some friends...it was rather sweet.) And he meets Emmett.

Emmett desperately needs a friend. His entire family died in a fire and he's been subjected to hate crime abuse. As a result, he's terrified of crowds, but he battles through that every night to work at his aunt's club.

Both of these guys have faced devastating losses but they each find a safe place in each other. I liked the guys together and how much they learn to rely on one another and how they are able to spread their wings a bit with one another. Seriously, they each provide a safe place and I loved that aspect of the story.

There was a twist in the story that I did not see coming, and I'll be honest, I'm still not sure where I stand on that little detail because it's a hard thing to accept 'as is'. Things were done without consequences and as much as I like the characters, that doesn't quite sit right for me. I'm not sure. That one little thing just doesn't feel right. I know that's super vague, but I don't want to give any spoilers. Because the book was good and most definitely worth a read. There just may be a trigger there for some...because consequences are needed...at least in my opinion. But by the same token, that would have totally ruined the story...I get that, but... (totally torn on this one.)

I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.

[Lenore Kosinski · Rating 4 out of 5]

https://celebrityreaders.com/2016/09/...

3.5 stars -- I received a free copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest and unbiased review/opinion.

So I finished this book with a fairly solid 4 star feeling...but the problem is that there were a few things that bothered me, and I made the mistake of going to read other reviews to see if other people were equally bothered, and suddenly I was more bothered. GAH! I have to stop doing that! So now we're at a 3.5 stars and I don't know whether to round up or down. I think I'll still round up since that was my gut feeling upon finishing the book, and I shouldn't be so easily swayed.

So the good: I really enjoyed both characters. I felt like they each had quite a bit of depth, and their own interesting story to tell about coming to terms with being gay and all that good stuff. I also really enjoyed the romance in this one, I could really feel the chemistry between the characters. They were playful at times, and seemed to bring out good things in each other, encouraging each to be themselves and reach for goals. I loved how sweet they could be to each other (Emmett taking care of Linc with the migraines and his more recent trauma, and Linc being there for Em with his past struggles, and his current struggles accepting his homosexuality and exploring it). I really enjoyed the addition of so many intriguing secondary characters...they felt real, had depth, and added to the story, added to our view of the characters in general (though I do have a counterpoint later). Also, I will note that I didn't read the first book in this series, and though some of the plot was given away, it did make me intrigued about picking up Dom and Trey's story and reading it.

And then there's the things that bothered me: first, and FOREMOST, the secret. OK, so this is the first A.M. Arthur book I've read, and from some of the reviews I've seen, it seems the author is a fan of angst. I'm only a medium fan of angst, so maybe it was a bit of a mismatch for me. The problem for me is that there was SO MUCH of it. I mean, each character individually had enough personal strife to satisfy any craving for angst. And quite honestly, if that was all we had to deal with, I would have enjoyed this book so much more. The problems they were dealing with were intriguing, and heartbreaking, and more than enough to make a great plot and provide conflict and resolution. But the author had to one-up it or something. And so came Emmett's secret. I was not a fan. I think I might have blinked in disbelief. It's not that I haven't read books with this twist in it, but they usually aren't accompanied by a bevy of problems that precede it. The problem lies in that with so many issues being addressed, none of them really got the love and attention and respect that they deserved. I became desensitized, and I didn't truly believe in the resolutions then.

(This might get a little plot spoilery in this paragraph, be warned) And it wasn't just that this additional secret existed, it was that it was introduced to Emmett early on in the book, and then he kept it a secret from Linc until towards the end. And I'm not entirely sure I believed in the purpose for him keeping it a secret, and so I felt myself disliking Emmett for making that choice. And then it was just there, causing him guilt, and making me want to know how Lincoln would react. And then when that finally came to a head, it was so close to the end, I didn't really get the believable resolution I wanted. I know...I'm being vague. But I really have to be in this case.

So back to the other issues. Wasn't really impressed with the resolution to the issue Linc deals with wrt Tom. Too serious of an issue to be handled so flippantly in some ways. I try to tell myself that everyone deals with things differently, and this very well might be how someone would deal with it, but it became a tiny subplot compared to everything else going on, and so it really didn't need to be there if it wasn't going to be treated with respect and sensitivity.

Wasn't really impressed with the additional diversity added for Emmett/Emilio. Could have been so good, and I LOVE diverse books, but making him Muslim felt like a plot device to address the fear, but we got nothing from his religion (and having grown up so devoutly, I would expect to learn more about it regardless of how he feels now). It was a topic that was added, but not given enough time or, again, respect.

I'm hoping that Van and Melody get their own book, and that the author actually deals with their sexual challenges with more insight and respect. They were an intriguing addition, but again not really given time or weight (but at least in this aspect I'm assuming it's because they will be getting their own book, otherwise I don't see the point in adding yet another topic to this overloaded story).

And that's the basic jist of it for me. The story was overloaded. I feel like the author could have done a much better job if she'd pared down the trauma each character (and the secondary characters) experienced and given more weight and thoughtfulness to any of the gagillion topics she chose to address. By adding so many, she kind of watered it down and missed some great opportunities.

So how the hell can I justify a round up to 4 stars now? Hmmm...good question. See? That's the thing. These things that bothered me really did bother me. But the good stuff of the romance and the character interactions cannot be undervalued. They made for a very enjoyable read for me. So I guess the written part of my review is where I rant about those bad things, but the star part of my review is where I convey how much the good parts weighed in the grand scheme of things for me. Well, if nothing else, this book made me think a lot about what I like and all that... (And I thought my last review was long...*rolls eyes*)

[Dan · Rating 5 out of 5]

So good! This hit all the good angsty buttons for me. Complex characters, well developed backstories, tense and sweet moments... i wish the tense reveal had happened later in the book, but the way it adds another layer to the relationship Emmett and Linc is also delicious so it can be easily dismissed

[Simply Love Book Reviews · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rosalie and Slick's reviews posted at Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews

Rosalie's 3.5 star review
His whole life, all Lincoln West has ever wanted to do was make it big in a band, as an amazing guitarist. When an accident caused traumatic brain injury and put a damper on those dreams, Linc tries to live life to the fullest that he feels he has left. And knowing that his dream lover, Dominic is out of his reach, he tries to find someone that can be a filler and maybe help him out of his hole of depression.

In comes Emmett. These two immediately fall for each other. But both have issues and the elephant in the room, for the majority of the book, could very well destroy everything that two have built and gained ground on. I feel like there were times when the book could have had more action going on, but the hot sizzling connection between these two did make up for it. This is the second in the series. I do feel that reading the first might have helped with some background knowledge, but I really didn't struggle to follow the plot without reading it.

Slick's 3 star review
I've been a huge fan of A.M. Arthur's work for a long time, but I seem to be having some issues with the Off Beat series. It is a young adult series but I read a lot of those so I don't think that's the issue. I think it has more to do with there just seems to be so many issues piled upon issues in this book. Both the main characters in this book are struggling; one has anxiety that was brought on from a house fire that took the lives of his parents and sister and the other is recovering from a wreck that left him at a brain injury and is plagued by migraines on top of other lingering issues. In my opinion that alone was enough for them to work through and try to figure out a relationship, but on top of that there were many big things that were piled on that honestly weren't necessary and given everything they were going through it was just too much and lessened my enjoyment of this book.

Lincoln West is doing his best to get through every day almost one year after the hit and run accident on his way to a huge music festival that would have probably changed his life. His life was changed, but not in the way he hoped and he's trying hard to get back to that confident guy he once was and wants to be again. Emmett Westmore doesn't particularly like working in his aunt's nightclub, but she took him in after his family died and he knows he needs to work on his social anxiety. When he is introduced to Lincoln he feels a connection, but he's not sure he's ready to admit to himself, his family and his coworkers his sexuality.

I really enjoyed watching Lincoln and Emmett together and they way they helped each other through their issues. Because they both were dealing with some pretty big things, they didn't judge each other and that made their friendship pretty special and also allowed them both to reach out for something more with each other. I was kind of surprised at the speed in which their relationship changed, yet you could also feel the intense attraction between them from the start. This part of the book I enjoyed thoroughly as I did seeing the characters from the first book for the few scenes they appeared. Unfortunately, the story got bogged down with a lot of other superfluous material which added unnecessary angst and it took so much away from the relationship between Lincoln and Emmett and the way they worked together to get Lincoln back to playing music.

While I did enjoy the relationship and musical aspects of Steady Stroke the undo excess storylines and excessive angst lessened its entertainment value for me.

Review copy provided for an honest review.

[Rafa Brewster · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5 Stars
Reviewed for Just Love: Romance blog
I received an advance review copy in exchange for a fair and honest review.

I was really looking forward to Lincoln’s story after reading Body Rocks, the first book in the Off Beat series. Sad to say, despite some enjoyable moments, I was left pretty unmoved by Lincoln and Emmet’s story.

Don’t get me wrong, I thought Linc and Emmet made a cute couple. They were really sweet together and I loved how caring and supportive they were of each other. Their attraction felt very natural and didn’t seem to hinge on the fact that they were suffering from major trauma and crippling anxiety. And there were definitely other things about the book I enjoyed, such as the reappearance of the awesome Bounds family and a few intriguing side characters named Van and Melody.

I think overall, it was the story that let me down. Just like the first book, Steady Stroke was chockful of drama, but this time, none of it sat right with me. There was just so much going on, and all of it was just so negative. I can’t discuss a lot of it without giving the story away, but suffice it to say that at one point, I had to suspend my disbelief when a major coincidence was introduced into the story. Not only that, but because it directly affected the other MC in a horrible way, it then became the big dirty secret that the one character carried around for most of the book (to add to the other secrets he was burdened with).

Another big grenade lobbed in the book was something about Emmet’s identity, which in theory, I should have totally embraced. Without revealing too much about him, I basically share a similar background with Emmet’s character (to a certain degree). But instead of feeling excited or at least open to the representation, I mentally and emotionally recoiled from the idea as soon as it presented itself. When paired with his tragic background (which was directly related to his identity), the negativity was just too much for me personally. That being said, I suspect most readers wouldn’t have a problem with Emmet’s identity the way I did, and that’s totally okay.

The stuff I mentioned only covers about half the drama that happened in this book (some of it didn’t relate to the plot but I’m assuming is set-up for the next book). With all the bombshells being dropped left and right, I wondered how on earth things would work out for the MCs (who totally deserved some happiness, by the way). When everything finally came to a head, the resolution for the major conflict (aka the big dirty secret) was hardly satisfactory and I finished the book with a sense of disbelief. The ending felt very rushed and anticlimactic and not at all proportionate to all the stuff that happened.

In my mind, Lincoln and Emmet did not get the happy ending they deserved. What’s more, as much as I adored the side characters and hope to see them get their own story, I’m not sure I’ll stick around for it. I will probably switch gears and check out the author’s other NA series, All Saints, which so far has been practically drama-free compared to this series.

[Vanessa theJeepDiva · Rating 2 out of 5]

At the end of Body Rocks I was excited about the new Off Beat series. I was also very curious about what would happen to Lincoln. The car crash left him with some fairly serious problems. At the beginning of Steady Stroke readers are quickly reminded of those issues. The head injury prevents him from playing the guitar due to the vibrations causing dizzy spells. Bright lights can lead to migraines. Stress and other things that Lincoln simply can’t prevent have caused finding a job difficult. He’s trying to just enjoy summer on the coast at Trey’s beach house. Lincoln is trying hard to get back to normal with very little success.
Off Beat is where Emmett is trying to find his new normal. His aunt Beatrice is the owner and she’s hoping to get her nephew out of his shell. Emmett is not just in a shy though. He is trying to form a whole new identity for himself after he lost his family. Meeting new people is very difficult for him. Meeting and dating hot musicians is even more difficult. Emmett quickly sees how easy it all can be with Lincoln though. They have so much in common and Lincoln just makes Emmett want things he never believed he can or should have.
It’s easy to see that there was a lot of potential for this book. I completely feel out of interest at nearly the half way point when a huge secret was revealed. I know how romances work. I get a happily ever after at the end of it. I knew this big secret would be a hurdle that Emmett and Lincoln must work through to get their HEA. None of it sat well with me. After the big reveal I’d read a couple of sections and put the book down for a few days. I typically would have devoured this book in a day or two. It took me nearly a month. There was even more disappointment with how this big secret was worked through. It was basically no big deal all around. Just no.
There was a new character introduced that I hope gets a book. There’s so much potential for that to be a very interesting read. I enjoyed the secondary characters and I’m looking forward to finding out who gets future books in this series.

[Diane Dannenfeldt · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars. This is the story of Linc & Em & book two of the Off Beat Series

As we saw in the previous book, Linc's dream of making it big with his band died when he was involved in a hit & run accident. From what we can tell, he was injured the most severely & suffers with dizziness and intense migraines not only in his everyday life but whenever he tries to play. He is finally pushed into going out by Dom's sister Roxey who he is spending the summer with. When who does he spy but a very shy boy that he can't keep his eyes off of. Em Westmore has been through hell and suffers from a very extreme form of social anxiety. He lost his entire family and he is left with a deep feeling of guilt. He is happy to just hide in his own head space under an assumed name. We get to watch these two teach each other how to live again and overcome some of their issues and push each other to step out of their comfort zones. I would have liked maybe some type of confrontation between Linc and his parents at his sister's wedding. Nothing big and bad, just something. There is one huge secret that comes to light about half-way through (and I really hate Aidan for bringing it up) & Em doesn't say anything until towards the end of the book. I would have liked it to have come out sooner (maybe right after he found out about it) so that we could watch them work through the ramifications. The ending just seem rushed, the secret is revealed to the parties involved, there is some anger, there is forgiveness and they ride off into the sunset. I didn't even get the feeling that they had a HEA but maybe a HFN. An epilogue would have been good, showing us where they are a little bit down the road & get the HEA feeling. It just kind of felt unfinished.

I can't wait for the next book in the series. There are so many stories yet that need to be told & I can't wait to read them.

ARC rec'd from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Angie · Rating 4 out of 5]

~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads Review Team~
I didn’t read the first book in the series but I didn’t think I missed too much, I was able to follow everything pretty well. I loved the chemistry and bond between Lincoln and Emmett, they are so perfect for each other. When the past starts to come to light I wasn’t sure what was going to happen and I am not sure if in real life that outcome would have been the same but it was a beautiful story and I loved it. The secondary characters were just as wonderful and added so much to the story too. Couldn’t put it down.
Characters: well written
Sex: yes
Religious: no
Would I recommend to others: yes
More than one book in the series: yes
Genre: M/M
Would I read more by this author: yes
~Wicked Reads Review Team~

[Jayded · Rating 1 out of 5]

There are so many things about this book that did not strike me well. I don't think I can list them all, but here're a few.
mc suffers from anxiety and is terrified of crowds/being in public because he's Muslim and "brown" (his word) yet works in a popular night club bussing tables, where granted he's described as seeming skittish, but anxiety doesn't work that way.
mc doesn't want to be identified as Muslim/Syrian so he changes his first name from Emilio to Emmett. Yes. Because Muslim/Syrian is the first thing I think of when I hear the name Emilio. (note sarcasm)
mc drives seriously impaired and sideswipes a car seriously injuring people in the car, then blacks it out. His cousin who was also impaired and riding shotgun happened to be videotaping him when it happened, but doesn't tell anyone about it (hit & run). The person most seriously injured turns out to be mc number two, cousin tells mc number one what happened, shows him the video, mc number one doesn't tell mc2 right away, but instead develops a relationship with him resulting in them falling in love with each other.
When mc2 finally confesses all to mc1, mc1's response isn't "you've kept this from me for weeks, wtf good-bye and btw I'm calling the cops" (which I think would have been mine) but more along the lines of "how can I believe he really loves me and isn't with me out of some sense of guilt" no, I'm sorry. You find out the person you've fallen in love with has known for weeks that he was directly responsible for your current disability which makes you unable to pursue the career you wanted and instead of telling you right away before you started actually dating he kept it from you and behaved as though everything was normal, I don't think your first reaction is going to be how can I trust why you're with me. It's more likely to be "how can I trust you to be honest with me in the future when things get tough" You find out you were directly responsible for permanently damaging someone, to the point they lose a potential career path, you either come clean right away, or you get out of that person's life for good. You don't act like everything is normal and develop a relationship. I've read a lot of this author's books, and they do tend towards the 'wow everyone is fucked up big time but they're all fine once they find that true love', but I've been willing to suspend disbelief to a point because there is something about them I really like. For some reason, this particular issue I can't get past. It's not the accident itself, although that's bad enough with the legal implications, it's that he didn't confess the moment he found out about it.

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was given a copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.

This is a very angsty story full of very traumatised characters. As the story starts, main character Lincoln is recovering from a traumatic brain injury and mourning the loss of his music career. Lincoln quickly meets Emmett, a young man suffering from paralysing anxiety after losing his family.

My favourite part of this book is the music. At the start, Lincoln is alone, away from his friends, his bandmates and his music. Gone is the confident musician, and in his place is a lonely man struggling with migraines. I loved watching Lincoln get his music back and begin playing again. This is not a standalone, it has to be read after Body Rocks because the characters from the first book reappear frequently and readers are expected to know the events of the previous book.

Emmett was far too damaged for me in parts of this story and there were times I wanted Lincoln to be with someone stronger, braver, or at least older. His personal trauma is never really worked through here, though it colours everything and leaves him scared and hiding. There were very sweet moments when Lincoln and Emmett fully connected, and I loved Emmett’s quiet support for Lincoln.

Despite the very appealing cover, there is very little heat between Lincoln and Emmett in this story. Both men find sexual relationships difficult and while the romance between the two is sweet, something always happens to make the sex less than sexy.

For me, the combination of Lincoln and Emmett’s stories was a little much in one book. And the supporting characters face equally traumatic situations. The result is sticking plaster solutions for incredibly serious problems. At one point, a rape is downplayed as an assault and the resulting trauma is solved by a conversation with another character. No police, no hospital treatment, no psychiatric care, just a simple confession to a friend. A second sexual assault is dealt with even quicker. A first aid kit manages to solve that one. To me, this felt insensitive and disrespectful to real victims of sexual assault.

I think my biggest problem with this story is the cluttered plot. Too many story threads and too many character backstories makes it almost impossible for the author to fully work through any single story thread. There are some very sweet moments in this book, but I felt a little bit battered by the trauma each character experiences.

[Tracy~Bayou Book Junkie · Rating 4 out of 5]

**copy provided by author/publisher via Divine Magazine in exchange for an honest review**

Lincoln and Emmett are both damaged. They've both faced tragedies. Lincoln has severe migraines and vertigo, after a hit and run car accident left him and some of the members of his then band lucky to be alive. Emmett suffers from anxiety and panic attacks after losing his entire family in a house fire. They meet at Off Beat, a night club owned and run by Emmett's aunt. They hit it off, but after being raised by a devote religious family, who believes homosexuality leads to eternal damnation, Emmett can't bring himself to go against his parents beliefs.

The first thing I'll say is, this is a series, and although they can be read as a standalone, some of the main and secondary characters from book one play pretty big roles in this story. I didn't read book one, and while I never felt lost, I probably would have benefited from reading book one and knowing all the characters. Ms. Arthur is one of my favorite authors, so I have no clue how I missed book one.

I liked the storyline, but I thought Linc and Em's relationship moved a bit too fast. I wish the author had taken more time with the getting to know you phase. The book has a lot of scenes with the secondary characters, and I felt some of those could have been eliminated and more time spent on Lincoln and Emmett getting to know one another. Maybe a few more dates and such. That being said, I loved both of these characters. They were both lovable, yet so broken you just wanted to cuddle them. I loved the chemistry and connection between them and the way the supported and cared for one another.

My only other complaint is, I thought the secret Emmett was left keeping is added drama and angst that wasn't needed, and it's dragged out almost until the very end and resolved much too quickly. Although, I will say it was a twist I never saw coming.

The story was well-written and mostly paced well. It's a story packed with heartbreak, but also friendship, hope, laughter and love. Totally recommended!!

[Kris · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads

This is the 2nd book in Off Beat series and this one focuses on Lincoln West. He was the bass player from the band XYZ. Lincoln was hurt in the car accident that caused XYZ to have to give up their spot on the Unbound festival. Which also ultimately lead to the demise of the band, as Lincoln could no longer even strum his guitar with severe vertigo & migraines due to the closed head injury he incurred as a result of the accident.
He's staying at the beach house that his best friend's boyfriend owned while they are both on tour as a duo. Pretty much wallowing in his self pity he's barely living. After finally getting fed up with himself and his own moping he heads to Off Beat, the local club to have a drink and check out the open mic night. Emmett is the bar back at Off Beat and while he tries to remain unnoticed due to his severe anxiety he piques the interest of Lincoln immediately.

Both boys having their own problems but find themselves drawn to each other. Lincoln finally feels a spark for someone other than Dominic, his old best friend and very taken ex-bandmate. Emmett has to admit to himself what he's been hiding since he was in high school, he's attracted to men. Especially one man, Lincoln! Their ups & downs and starts and stops are well worth the angsty read. There are some crazy plot twists that just about ruin the budding relationship between Linc & Em. Probably would ruin most couples but young love is strong! I really liked the new addition of more side characters including hot bartender Van taking a bigger role in this edition. I enjoyed the story especially the sweet ending and all the guys from Fading Daze & XYZ being back together.

[Ruthie Taylor · Rating 3 out of 5]

~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~

This is the second in the series, and I would recommend that you read Body Rocks first, as it does make more sense of Lincoln's condition and musical aspirations.

This is quite a different book, with much less emphasis on music, and far more on angst and abuse. I read a lot of books, and recognise the benefit of a twist in the tale, a degree of drama, and even shock factors, but this did stretch my levels of credibility very thin. That said there are some lovely scenes, and some real signs of friendship - Ms Arthur knows how to write, and write well, of that there is no doubt. Just maybe the plot was too much -and I am not sure it needed to be. Linc meeting Melody, and then Emmett, changes his life - that is already huge. I kept that at the forefront of my mind.

I hope that we get an update on them, and Trey and Dom, with another tale in the Off Beat series soon.

[Christine · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not feeling it as much with the 1st book. Linc is still adjusting to the side effects from the crash when he meets Emmett. Emmett also has skeletons in closet that need to be exercised before they have a chance at something special.

[Indus · Rating 1 out of 5]

As a Muslim American, though not much of a practicing one, I found this book incredibly offensive. Considering what is happening in Syria it felt as if the author was exploiting Emilio's background as a plot device without taking the time or effort to do so properly. Being Syrian American is more than just throwing Allah out in a few sentences- in fact, few Arabs I've met do it in such a way. There's no specific phrases, no cultural context, nothing.

Also, I don't think anyone in this book was a real musician, even Dominic, who sacrifices his friendship and band to run off and establish himself with his boyfriend but without any kind of backup or band (wtf) when his best friend needs him most. We are supposed to buy a world in which lincoln is okay with that because music comes first as long as it's with love, but when love cones at the expense of music, then who needs music. Without going into details, lincoln is supposedly so injured his professional music career is over and he's apparently unable to work anymore though that's left wholly unclear at the end, and the person responsible for that is totally blameless because trauma. That doesn't feel at all credible. I don't know about you but even if I could forgive that, I'm not sure I could forget it.

The last part of the book is wholly unsatisfying because it feels like nothing is resolved and too much is glossed over, and defies credibility. A very unsatisfying book from a great author.

[Astra Astrid · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars.

I love the characters, the plot is pretty good, and so is the dialogue. Definitely recommended for readers who are into this subgenre.

There are 2 things that really bother me, in this book. I'll tackle the more common, and non-spoiler one, first.

Have you noticed that "my family is very religious" has become code for a very specific kind of religious? It invariably means the kind of people who believe in a... vindictive...god, not a loving one.

I may be agnostic, but I do recognize that it's possible to be "very religious" and not think everyone that disagrees with you is heading for a bad end (since this isn't limited to Christianity, I'm not sure how to refer to the threat, generically). I object to the fact that religious has become synonymous with rigid fundamentalism.

The second thing that bothered me is a spoiler, so I'll hide it. I strenuously object to the...moral...of the story. I'm not sure, given the circumstances, that Emmett should have been held legally responsible for the accident that impacted so many people. Adrian, on the other hand, knew exactly what he was doing, when he covered it up.

Just because Emmett and Lincoln fell in love, doesn't make the rest ok. Covering up this accident was about as far from ok as it gets.