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Unleashing Love: MM Romance
Second Chances. Temptation. Hope.
Depressed and at a crossroads following the death of his boyfriend, Drew Lawson dropped out of the cutthroat corporate world and started his own dog walking business.
Pups and Leashes is off to a running start when Drew meets Kyle Bradley. Rich and successful, Kyle is everything Drew rejected after Steven's death. But suddenly saddled with his five-year old nephew as well as a rambunctious new puppy, Kyle is floundering. And Drew can't resist coming to the rescue.
Before long, friendship turns to passion, but Drew is still guilty over Steven's death and afraid to embark on a relationship with someone who comes from the shallow world he rejected and left behind.
Illustrator: K.B. Smith
Editor: Keren Reed
Depressed and at a crossroads following the death of his boyfriend, Drew Lawson dropped out of the cutthroat corporate world and started his own dog walking business.
Pups and Leashes is off to a running start when Drew meets Kyle Bradley. Rich and successful, Kyle is everything Drew rejected after Steven's death. But suddenly saddled with his five-year old nephew as well as a rambunctious new puppy, Kyle is floundering. And Drew can't resist coming to the rescue.
Before long, friendship turns to passion, but Drew is still guilty over Steven's death and afraid to embark on a relationship with someone who comes from the shallow world he rejected and left behind.
Illustrator: K.B. Smith
Editor: Keren Reed
199 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 26, 2016
26 people are currently reading
222 people want to read
About the author
S.C. Wynne
66 books585 followersS.C. Wynne is a Lambda Award-winning author for Gay Romance. S.C. started writing m/m romance and mystery in 2013. Her characters are usually a little jaded, funny, and ultimately redeemed through love.
If you’d like to contact S.C. Wynne she'd love to hear from you. You can contact her at scwynne@scwynne.com
If you’d like to contact S.C. Wynne she'd love to hear from you. You can contact her at scwynne@scwynne.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
dnf-not-4-me
June 4, 2016That is a hard fuck no.
Will not rate since I did not, could not, finish.
January 21, 2017
*** Unleashing Love is a heartwarming story of two men who deserve better in life. ***
Drew has lost his partner in a car accident, and has withdrawn from his high profile financial job, society, and life, as he started a dog walking business.
It's doing well and he likes it.
Uptight Art Dealer, Kyle, needs a dog walker,
because his sister has Lupus and is undergoing treatments, so he steps up to care for her dog, and then her son, Benjamin. Great side characters with Cully, the dogs, and the little boy.
Drew's rescued Brindle Greyhound, he saved from Rottweiler attack...
Benjamin's role is perfect, with tender bits, and funny bits, just right.
This well written tale is funny, serious, caring and understanding. It's "angsty" in parts, a little drama, too, but has almost everything you could possibly want in your romance.
Kyle's a tough cookie at first, until his softer side shows up. Drew is patient, giving, and helpful. The guys are open and talk about their issues, and Kyle never does sleep with his boyfriend after he got together with Drew, he just hadn't made it official, which he does. Drew still is afraid to love.
Is it perfect, no, but worthwhile, yes.
Different events come into play, the guys sort out their feelings, and get a HFN.
I recommend this heartwarming tale. ENJOY !!!
=====================================
Drew has lost his partner in a car accident, and has withdrawn from his high profile financial job, society, and life, as he started a dog walking business.
It's doing well and he likes it.
Uptight Art Dealer, Kyle, needs a dog walker,
because his sister has Lupus and is undergoing treatments, so he steps up to care for her dog, and then her son, Benjamin. Great side characters with Cully, the dogs, and the little boy.
Drew's rescued Brindle Greyhound, he saved from Rottweiler attack...
Benjamin's role is perfect, with tender bits, and funny bits, just right.
This well written tale is funny, serious, caring and understanding. It's "angsty" in parts, a little drama, too, but has almost everything you could possibly want in your romance.
Kyle's a tough cookie at first, until his softer side shows up. Drew is patient, giving, and helpful. The guys are open and talk about their issues, and Kyle never does sleep with his boyfriend after he got together with Drew, he just hadn't made it official, which he does. Drew still is afraid to love.
Is it perfect, no, but worthwhile, yes.
Different events come into play, the guys sort out their feelings, and get a HFN.
I recommend this heartwarming tale. ENJOY !!!
=====================================
January 22, 2017
2.5 stars
I couldn't warm up to any of the characters nor feel their connection.
Also, they start their relationship while Kyle is still in an open relationship with another man.
This one was not for me.
I couldn't warm up to any of the characters nor feel their connection.
Also, they start their relationship while Kyle is still in an open relationship with another man.
This one was not for me.
June 16, 2017
Whoa, what is it, m/m romance for five-year-olds? Not only everything is delivered in the most elementary way but every thought is repeated until it is hammered into the reader's head. Yeah, I know it's free. But my time isn't free. Well, DNF.
May 29, 2016
This is a well written and beautifully edited book.
It tells the story of Drew, who is mourning the death of his boyfriend. Feeling guilty about the fact that his workaholic ways cost him time he could have spent with Stephen, he left the corporate world and opened his dog walking business.
Kyle was quite content with his life as an art dealer. He and his boyfriend had an open relationship and he lived in his high end condo where everything was as he wanted it.
When Kyle’s sister becomes ill, he finds himself looking after his 5 year old nephew, Benjamin, and a dog named Rascal. That is how he meets Drew.
The first meeting is not a success but as they get to know each other better, Drew has to come to terms with his loss and look to the future. Kyle has to make changes in his life so that it can include a small frightened boy and the possibility of a relationship with someone he doesn’t have to share.
This was a heartwarming story, which I enjoyed very much.
It tells the story of Drew, who is mourning the death of his boyfriend. Feeling guilty about the fact that his workaholic ways cost him time he could have spent with Stephen, he left the corporate world and opened his dog walking business.
Kyle was quite content with his life as an art dealer. He and his boyfriend had an open relationship and he lived in his high end condo where everything was as he wanted it.
When Kyle’s sister becomes ill, he finds himself looking after his 5 year old nephew, Benjamin, and a dog named Rascal. That is how he meets Drew.
The first meeting is not a success but as they get to know each other better, Drew has to come to terms with his loss and look to the future. Kyle has to make changes in his life so that it can include a small frightened boy and the possibility of a relationship with someone he doesn’t have to share.
This was a heartwarming story, which I enjoyed very much.
June 5, 2016
I received an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed Unleashing Love, the story of Kyle and Drew, two men with completely different outlooks on life at the beginning of the story. Drew is still recovering from the death of his lover a year later. He was formerly in the financial field and he walked away to open a dog walking business. Kyle is a very successful art dealer whose life is turned upside down when he has to take in his sister’s dog while she deals with a serious illness. I really didn’t like either MC much at the beginning, but as the story progressed they grew on me. I really didn’t like the side story with Kyle’s ex, I think that was unnecessary and didn’t add much to the story.
I loved the secondary characters, especially Drew’s best friend Cully and Kyle’s nephew Ben. Like I said I didn’t much like the MCs in the beginning but as they opened up to each other I enjoyed reading how the relationship progressed. It was a cute story overall, solid 4 stars.
I enjoyed Unleashing Love, the story of Kyle and Drew, two men with completely different outlooks on life at the beginning of the story. Drew is still recovering from the death of his lover a year later. He was formerly in the financial field and he walked away to open a dog walking business. Kyle is a very successful art dealer whose life is turned upside down when he has to take in his sister’s dog while she deals with a serious illness. I really didn’t like either MC much at the beginning, but as the story progressed they grew on me. I really didn’t like the side story with Kyle’s ex, I think that was unnecessary and didn’t add much to the story.
I loved the secondary characters, especially Drew’s best friend Cully and Kyle’s nephew Ben. Like I said I didn’t much like the MCs in the beginning but as they opened up to each other I enjoyed reading how the relationship progressed. It was a cute story overall, solid 4 stars.
December 30, 2019
3.5 stars. RTC
May 31, 2016
4.5 Stars
*copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review*
After a tragic loss, Drew Lawson, fed up with the cold and fake people of the corporate world quits his cushy job to start a dog walking business. His newest client, Kyle Bradley, is everything Drew despised and left behind. Drew and Kyle come face to face when Drew starts walking Rascal, Drew's sister's dog, which Kyle is taking care of along with his 5 year old nephew, Benjamin.
This was such a sweet story. It had such great character growth. Both Drew and Kyle realize that neither of them are perfect, and they need to make some serious changes to make this new romance work. I adored this book. At times I wanted to smack Drew and Kyle, but once you get past Kyle's brashness, these were both likable characters you wanted to stand on the sidelines and root for.
I absolutely loved Drew's nephew, Benjamin, Drew's best friend, Cully, and of course, the dog, Rascal. They were good supporting characters and added humor and heart to the story.
This book was sweet and sexy. While it had angst the author did an amazing job at adding in lightness and humor along the way. The story is well written and flows well and I was left satisfied, when I got to the end.
Very quick and enjoyable read, I'd highly recommend!!
*copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review*
After a tragic loss, Drew Lawson, fed up with the cold and fake people of the corporate world quits his cushy job to start a dog walking business. His newest client, Kyle Bradley, is everything Drew despised and left behind. Drew and Kyle come face to face when Drew starts walking Rascal, Drew's sister's dog, which Kyle is taking care of along with his 5 year old nephew, Benjamin.
This was such a sweet story. It had such great character growth. Both Drew and Kyle realize that neither of them are perfect, and they need to make some serious changes to make this new romance work. I adored this book. At times I wanted to smack Drew and Kyle, but once you get past Kyle's brashness, these were both likable characters you wanted to stand on the sidelines and root for.
I absolutely loved Drew's nephew, Benjamin, Drew's best friend, Cully, and of course, the dog, Rascal. They were good supporting characters and added humor and heart to the story.
This book was sweet and sexy. While it had angst the author did an amazing job at adding in lightness and humor along the way. The story is well written and flows well and I was left satisfied, when I got to the end.
Very quick and enjoyable read, I'd highly recommend!!
May 26, 2017
Not bad... Just not much of anything else, either.
Very light, superficial (which might actually add a layer of irony to the story, considering how often Drew complained about how superficial Kyle's life was) story with characters who fail exist outside of the plot. The one time Drew does something that is not Kyle-centric it adds absolutely nothing to the plot or his depth of character (we've already been told he prefers dogs to humans so rescuing a stray isn't that surprising). Not even the dogs got much more than a passing mention most of the time and if you're putting a dog on the cover (regardless off the accuracy of the colour) and 'leash' in the title, the dogs should have had a much bigger presence, but like the humans they weren't very integral to the story.
Very light, superficial (which might actually add a layer of irony to the story, considering how often Drew complained about how superficial Kyle's life was) story with characters who fail exist outside of the plot. The one time Drew does something that is not Kyle-centric it adds absolutely nothing to the plot or his depth of character (we've already been told he prefers dogs to humans so rescuing a stray isn't that surprising). Not even the dogs got much more than a passing mention most of the time and if you're putting a dog on the cover (regardless off the accuracy of the colour) and 'leash' in the title, the dogs should have had a much bigger presence, but like the humans they weren't very integral to the story.
June 6, 2016
**Originally Posted on Kiki's Kinky Picks**
Reviewed by Brandy
Unleashing Love by S.C. Wynne was a fantastic read! It was brilliantly written and had very little angst and just a touch of drama. The characters felt real and even the kid in the book was amusing and not over the top in “kid antics.” It was a refreshing change from some of the more drama ridden, suspenseful books I’ve been reading recently.
Kyle is an amazingly strong character. He starts off seeming like a snooty jerk, but naturally changes into a caring, kind man. It makes a reader believe that he was really the nice guy, and the jerkiness was a facade. His developing relationship with his nephew felt natural, he didn’t automatically become an awesome uncle in a few short days. It grew from hard work and time spent with the kid. I really appreciated this so, so much!
Then there was Drew. The story, being told only through his eyes, was surprisingly enjoyable. Usually, I prefer dual POVs in books to get inside both MCs’ heads. Drew was an incredible opposite of Kyle. Admittedly, he was the same as Kyle at one point, stuck up and stuck on a rat race through life, but when he lost his lover he made drastic changes. I think what I like most about Drew was his ability to step outside his comfort zone, even if he had to push himself. It made him immensely likable and I was rooting for his and Kyle’s relationship from the very beginning!
I loved how there was no huge drama brought into this book. There were a few misunderstandings and a few fights, but given the history of the two MCs it all seemed like a normal progression and reaction to what they had thrown at them. There was nothing far-fetched in this touching story about coming to terms with losing someone you love. I really look forward to reading more from S.C. Wynne and hope to give her more 5 stars! If all her books are this enthralling then I bet the 5 stars will be raining down on her from me!
Copy provided in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Reviewed by Brandy
Unleashing Love by S.C. Wynne was a fantastic read! It was brilliantly written and had very little angst and just a touch of drama. The characters felt real and even the kid in the book was amusing and not over the top in “kid antics.” It was a refreshing change from some of the more drama ridden, suspenseful books I’ve been reading recently.
Kyle is an amazingly strong character. He starts off seeming like a snooty jerk, but naturally changes into a caring, kind man. It makes a reader believe that he was really the nice guy, and the jerkiness was a facade. His developing relationship with his nephew felt natural, he didn’t automatically become an awesome uncle in a few short days. It grew from hard work and time spent with the kid. I really appreciated this so, so much!
Then there was Drew. The story, being told only through his eyes, was surprisingly enjoyable. Usually, I prefer dual POVs in books to get inside both MCs’ heads. Drew was an incredible opposite of Kyle. Admittedly, he was the same as Kyle at one point, stuck up and stuck on a rat race through life, but when he lost his lover he made drastic changes. I think what I like most about Drew was his ability to step outside his comfort zone, even if he had to push himself. It made him immensely likable and I was rooting for his and Kyle’s relationship from the very beginning!
I loved how there was no huge drama brought into this book. There were a few misunderstandings and a few fights, but given the history of the two MCs it all seemed like a normal progression and reaction to what they had thrown at them. There was nothing far-fetched in this touching story about coming to terms with losing someone you love. I really look forward to reading more from S.C. Wynne and hope to give her more 5 stars! If all her books are this enthralling then I bet the 5 stars will be raining down on her from me!
Copy provided in exchange for a fair and honest review.
May 27, 2016
So much love for Drew and Kyle…
I enjoyed this book so much, with Drew and Kyle being such a great compliment to each other, I couldn’t get enough of them. Conflicted by his unresolved guilt over the death of his boyfriend a year earlier, Drew is hesitant to even allow himself to consider the possibility that he is entitled to happiness. He’s abandoned the corporate machine that had consumed him and rebuilt a simpler life that’s left him guarded and isolated. He peeks out from behind those walls long enough to form a friendship with his client Kyle, who just may be deeper than Drew’s initial judgment would have indicated. With Kyle comes his young nephew Benjamin (whom I also loooved), the catalyst for some dramatic changes in Kyle’s daily life and the lure that originally draws Drew in. With the men being of such opposing stances about wealth and lifestyle, I was as entertained by their snark as I was by their sweetness as they took their first steps towards a relationship. As they peeled back the layers they both hide behind, there is such a playful dynamic that grows from the initial tension between them that I stayed charmed by them page after page. And once they crossed the threshold to intimacy? The intensity between them only escalates, even as they struggle with the barriers between them. With sly and witty banter and powerful chemistry, Drew and Kyle were so irresistible to me that I finished this in one sitting. Loved. It.
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I enjoyed this book so much, with Drew and Kyle being such a great compliment to each other, I couldn’t get enough of them. Conflicted by his unresolved guilt over the death of his boyfriend a year earlier, Drew is hesitant to even allow himself to consider the possibility that he is entitled to happiness. He’s abandoned the corporate machine that had consumed him and rebuilt a simpler life that’s left him guarded and isolated. He peeks out from behind those walls long enough to form a friendship with his client Kyle, who just may be deeper than Drew’s initial judgment would have indicated. With Kyle comes his young nephew Benjamin (whom I also loooved), the catalyst for some dramatic changes in Kyle’s daily life and the lure that originally draws Drew in. With the men being of such opposing stances about wealth and lifestyle, I was as entertained by their snark as I was by their sweetness as they took their first steps towards a relationship. As they peeled back the layers they both hide behind, there is such a playful dynamic that grows from the initial tension between them that I stayed charmed by them page after page. And once they crossed the threshold to intimacy? The intensity between them only escalates, even as they struggle with the barriers between them. With sly and witty banter and powerful chemistry, Drew and Kyle were so irresistible to me that I finished this in one sitting. Loved. It.
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
June 4, 2016
***To Love, Lose, and Love Again***
I wasn’t certain what I was going to think of this book. Drew broke my heart, but Kyle seemed absolutely beyond the pale! With his air of entitlement and his utter inability to relate to anything human, I wondered if I’d warm up to him even if he did check the attitude at the door. Lest you think S.C. Wynne doesn’t know her way around attitude, allow me to dissuade you from that notion immediately! I ended up enjoying not only Kyle and Drew, but all of the characters that graced the pages of this book.
The plot is well-written, the main characters are engaging (okay, and infuriating, but hey – drama is necessary!), the dialogue is by turns serious and laugh-out-loud funny, and the peripheral characters really add to the depth and breadth of the novel. The attraction between the main characters is sweet and sultry, and the character building in this book is simply astonishing. To watch each of these men come alive in their respective worlds is a treat to behold. I actually feel slightly bereft that there wasn’t a built-in way to expand this world into more books within the m/m genre, but alas, I shall have to content myself with re-reads. That will be no hardship! Four stars of lovely storytelling – give it a try!!
Brava, Ms. Wynne – well done!
***ARC provided by the author, S.C. Wynne, in exchange for an honest review.***
I wasn’t certain what I was going to think of this book. Drew broke my heart, but Kyle seemed absolutely beyond the pale! With his air of entitlement and his utter inability to relate to anything human, I wondered if I’d warm up to him even if he did check the attitude at the door. Lest you think S.C. Wynne doesn’t know her way around attitude, allow me to dissuade you from that notion immediately! I ended up enjoying not only Kyle and Drew, but all of the characters that graced the pages of this book.
The plot is well-written, the main characters are engaging (okay, and infuriating, but hey – drama is necessary!), the dialogue is by turns serious and laugh-out-loud funny, and the peripheral characters really add to the depth and breadth of the novel. The attraction between the main characters is sweet and sultry, and the character building in this book is simply astonishing. To watch each of these men come alive in their respective worlds is a treat to behold. I actually feel slightly bereft that there wasn’t a built-in way to expand this world into more books within the m/m genre, but alas, I shall have to content myself with re-reads. That will be no hardship! Four stars of lovely storytelling – give it a try!!
Brava, Ms. Wynne – well done!
***ARC provided by the author, S.C. Wynne, in exchange for an honest review.***
May 27, 2016
I really enjoyed this book. I have never read this author before but after reading this book I am going to search out more.
The writing was good, the story was sweet and funny and well written. The characters were believable and lovable and drew you into the story. I loved Janie and Ben and Cully as well. They each brought something to the story adding take anything away from the MCs.
I really liked the whole changing to be a better person and trying not to forget past loves but to start living lives again while remembering the good times.
I received this book free for an honest review.
The writing was good, the story was sweet and funny and well written. The characters were believable and lovable and drew you into the story. I loved Janie and Ben and Cully as well. They each brought something to the story adding take anything away from the MCs.
I really liked the whole changing to be a better person and trying not to forget past loves but to start living lives again while remembering the good times.
I received this book free for an honest review.
December 23, 2016
Kyle is a workaholic and thrown into a situation of having to help his family out
He meets Drew who is suffering from loss and is hard to open up his life to new love.
I felt the two were perfect for each other to show each other what they are missing out on in life. Of course there are people trying to stand in their way of happiness.
I love the interaction with Benjamin. Such a cute kid. I loved Drews best friend Cully.
He meets Drew who is suffering from loss and is hard to open up his life to new love.
I felt the two were perfect for each other to show each other what they are missing out on in life. Of course there are people trying to stand in their way of happiness.
I love the interaction with Benjamin. Such a cute kid. I loved Drews best friend Cully.
June 28, 2016
Sometimes what's most beautiful is hidden under layers that take time to bring to the surface. Kyle tempted Drew with his charismatic personality and handsome exterior. But his arrogant and condescending attitude made Kyle a lot less attractive. His behavior toward the dog he was hiring Drew to walk was also telling. It was obvious he knew nothing about a dog's care or needs beyond providing food and water. It irked Drew that the rich man with ostentatious taste in decor, including valuable paintings and other works of art, bulked at Drew's hourly rate. He felt embarrassed by his attire though he hadn't been previously. His red hoodie served him well while walking his charges.
Drew was so annoyed he mentioned it to his best friend, Cully an outgoing and friendly young woman he'd known since college, who also sometimes helped him with the dogs. She was a great friend. She felt it was time for Drew to ease himself out of his grieving state, as it had been more than a year since the death of his partner. At her insistence he went out to a book club get together at a bar. She assured him there were a couple gay men in her book club group. After finally giving in Drew almost didn't show up, but knew he couldn't disappoint his best friend (and live). The evening didn't turn out the way any of them planned.
Kyle began to reveal the true sides of himself to Drew that usually he kept hidden from all except his sister. Unfortunately, his sister was battling a chronic illness which led Kyle to not only offer to help with her Labrador Retriever, but also his five-year-old nephew. It was very difficult for him to admit it, but Kyle let his guard down and showed his vulnerable side with his young nephew and sick exhausted sister.
Despite his initial impression of Drew, Kyle soon realized there was a great deal within the red hoodie. Impeccable references led to him hiring Drew to walk his sister's rambunctious Lab, but his personality, intelligence, and willingness to go above and beyond, in addition to being an enigma. Kyle sensed that there was a lot under the surface. Including fear.
Kyle challenged Drew. And Drew let himself be gradually drawn out, by this snooty man who actually had more depth than he liked to show. But when Kyle's young nephew came to stay along with the dog Drew really helped him out. The attraction between the two blossomed as Kyle's life became more complicated and stressful. But Drew was still fearful of a new relationship. When Kyle suffered a very distressing family crisis he had a convenient boyfriend he should have been able to count on, but it was Drew he called instead. As he hoped, Drew responded immediately, without any hesitation and this was a huge turning point in their relationship.
I thoroughly enjoyed the story. Learning about the job of and responsibilities of a Dog Walker was very interesting to a dog lover like myself. As well as all the occasions that involved a variety of dogs. This was a strong story of transformation, courage, and assumed / shared responsibility. If you enjoy stories with family situations involving sweet young boys, two men who never expected to be Dads assuming the role. In some books the female characters are portrayed negatively, but the women involved are shown in a positive light. The female best friend and a much-loved sister are central to the story. Also essential are board games, bedtime stories, tiring out a youngster, arranging child care and preparing meals. As stated before if you enjoy family dramas (especially those ones that also include a dog) this story is for you :0)
Drew was so annoyed he mentioned it to his best friend, Cully an outgoing and friendly young woman he'd known since college, who also sometimes helped him with the dogs. She was a great friend. She felt it was time for Drew to ease himself out of his grieving state, as it had been more than a year since the death of his partner. At her insistence he went out to a book club get together at a bar. She assured him there were a couple gay men in her book club group. After finally giving in Drew almost didn't show up, but knew he couldn't disappoint his best friend (and live). The evening didn't turn out the way any of them planned.
Kyle began to reveal the true sides of himself to Drew that usually he kept hidden from all except his sister. Unfortunately, his sister was battling a chronic illness which led Kyle to not only offer to help with her Labrador Retriever, but also his five-year-old nephew. It was very difficult for him to admit it, but Kyle let his guard down and showed his vulnerable side with his young nephew and sick exhausted sister.
Despite his initial impression of Drew, Kyle soon realized there was a great deal within the red hoodie. Impeccable references led to him hiring Drew to walk his sister's rambunctious Lab, but his personality, intelligence, and willingness to go above and beyond, in addition to being an enigma. Kyle sensed that there was a lot under the surface. Including fear.
Kyle challenged Drew. And Drew let himself be gradually drawn out, by this snooty man who actually had more depth than he liked to show. But when Kyle's young nephew came to stay along with the dog Drew really helped him out. The attraction between the two blossomed as Kyle's life became more complicated and stressful. But Drew was still fearful of a new relationship. When Kyle suffered a very distressing family crisis he had a convenient boyfriend he should have been able to count on, but it was Drew he called instead. As he hoped, Drew responded immediately, without any hesitation and this was a huge turning point in their relationship.
I thoroughly enjoyed the story. Learning about the job of and responsibilities of a Dog Walker was very interesting to a dog lover like myself. As well as all the occasions that involved a variety of dogs. This was a strong story of transformation, courage, and assumed / shared responsibility. If you enjoy stories with family situations involving sweet young boys, two men who never expected to be Dads assuming the role. In some books the female characters are portrayed negatively, but the women involved are shown in a positive light. The female best friend and a much-loved sister are central to the story. Also essential are board games, bedtime stories, tiring out a youngster, arranging child care and preparing meals. As stated before if you enjoy family dramas (especially those ones that also include a dog) this story is for you :0)
January 2, 2018
Should have been right up my alley, but didn't work for me
A overly sweet, short romance centered on puppy love should have been perfect for me, but several things just did not work.
The sympathetic, every day hero hadn't had any sex for a year after his lover had suddenly died. Too grief-stricken and guilt-filled, he repeatedly expressed he wasn't ready, but his attraction to the over-bearing hero narrowly won out, and they slipped into the bedroom. So far so good, as a guy who hasn't had sex in a year was barely, finally letting his guard down to get off with another person he liked. But within two short pages they had moved from reluctantly agreeing to full penetration. My experience (born out by national research statistics) is that men loving men only very rarely start with full intercourse, and it would be even less common for someone who hasn't been sexually *touched* in a year, let alone penetrated (and who also clearly stated he didn't use toys at all). I'm sure this reads as hot and sweet to many readers, but it was so jarring and unrealistic to me it ruined the scene.
If I ignore the incredibly low probability of someone so reluctant and separated from sex to be fully penetrated so quickly, the author actually does some of the mechanics o.k. (Although the prep was way, way too quick in terms of the time I perceived the oral/digital work taking, but at least it was there.) The start of the actual intercourse read well, but it slowly turned into even more of a male/female vibe to me than a male/male vibe. The bottom got off with just the brush of the tops abs, which is possible in the right circumstance but also incredibly, incredibly unlikely. The writing certainly didn't build to the point where I would expect a hands-free climax.
Again, I'm drawing on my own experience and discussions with gay/bi men (although also backed up by national research on what and how often men do certain activities), so this "unrealistic" portrayal probably won't be problematic for many/most readers.
On the other hand, some readers complained about the fact that one of the two characters was in an open relationship, and that bothered them. Normally, as long as all parties agree, this type of arrangement doesn't bother me. However, in the afterglow of Drew's first sex in years, they immediately have a serious talk about Kyle's relationship with his (open relationship) boyfriend Pierce, dissecting what an ass the beau was and basically working through a decision to break them up. It just struck me as much more like cheating than I had expected - "I just had mind-blowing sex with you and my current boyfriend is a bit of a dick so I'll decide to drop him because you just let me f*** you." It just came off as more creepy to me than sweet. Dissecting what a jerk your official boyfriend is in the immediate aftermath of first sex in a year isn't too endearing to me.
A overly sweet, short romance centered on puppy love should have been perfect for me, but several things just did not work.
The sympathetic, every day hero hadn't had any sex for a year after his lover had suddenly died. Too grief-stricken and guilt-filled, he repeatedly expressed he wasn't ready, but his attraction to the over-bearing hero narrowly won out, and they slipped into the bedroom. So far so good, as a guy who hasn't had sex in a year was barely, finally letting his guard down to get off with another person he liked. But within two short pages they had moved from reluctantly agreeing to full penetration. My experience (born out by national research statistics) is that men loving men only very rarely start with full intercourse, and it would be even less common for someone who hasn't been sexually *touched* in a year, let alone penetrated (and who also clearly stated he didn't use toys at all). I'm sure this reads as hot and sweet to many readers, but it was so jarring and unrealistic to me it ruined the scene.
If I ignore the incredibly low probability of someone so reluctant and separated from sex to be fully penetrated so quickly, the author actually does some of the mechanics o.k. (Although the prep was way, way too quick in terms of the time I perceived the oral/digital work taking, but at least it was there.) The start of the actual intercourse read well, but it slowly turned into even more of a male/female vibe to me than a male/male vibe. The bottom got off with just the brush of the tops abs, which is possible in the right circumstance but also incredibly, incredibly unlikely. The writing certainly didn't build to the point where I would expect a hands-free climax.
Again, I'm drawing on my own experience and discussions with gay/bi men (although also backed up by national research on what and how often men do certain activities), so this "unrealistic" portrayal probably won't be problematic for many/most readers.
On the other hand, some readers complained about the fact that one of the two characters was in an open relationship, and that bothered them. Normally, as long as all parties agree, this type of arrangement doesn't bother me. However, in the afterglow of Drew's first sex in years, they immediately have a serious talk about Kyle's relationship with his (open relationship) boyfriend Pierce, dissecting what an ass the beau was and basically working through a decision to break them up. It just struck me as much more like cheating than I had expected - "I just had mind-blowing sex with you and my current boyfriend is a bit of a dick so I'll decide to drop him because you just let me f*** you." It just came off as more creepy to me than sweet. Dissecting what a jerk your official boyfriend is in the immediate aftermath of first sex in a year isn't too endearing to me.
July 30, 2016
4.25 stars
S.C. Wynne is a new auto-buy author for me. I’ve been blown away by many of her books and Unleashing Love was another great one. This book wasn’t as hard hitting or emotional as my favorite, Believing Rory, but it was a sweet romance with great characters.
The tale features dog walker Drew Lawson and wealthy Kyle Bradley; two men who would never have met unless fate hadn’t stepped in. Kyle wouldn’t normally have a dog but when his sister gets sick he first takes in her dog and then her nephew for a short time. He hires Drew, who is mourning the loss of his boyfriend, to walk the dog, Rascal. Their first meeting was wonderfully written with subtext. Kyle can see right away Drew is hiding from life and Drew is not impressed with Kyle’s attitude.
I loved how neither guy put up with each other’s bullshit. They seem to be opposites but have far more in common than it seems at first. Their commonalities show up slowly but their attraction is fast and furious.
One thing that might be an issue to some readers is that Kyle is in an open relationship with an actor named Pierce, and is in that relationship when he and Drew have sex for the first time. Some people might see that as cheating but I didn’t and it didn’t bother me at all. In fact, the open relationship aspect of the story made it stand out from other stories in the genre. Lots of gay couples, as well as straight ones, have such relationships. It added to the realism and made the conflicts interesting.
I’m normally not a fan of kids in my gay romance stories, but Wynne did a great job with Benjamin. He acted age appropriately without becoming too precocious or annoying and he didn’t overtake the story when he was present.
Kyle and Drew are a wonderfully fabulous couple. Wynne truly did a great job. Now I’m off to check out her backlist.
Reviewed at Prism Book Alliance: http://www.prismbookalliance.com/2016...
S.C. Wynne is a new auto-buy author for me. I’ve been blown away by many of her books and Unleashing Love was another great one. This book wasn’t as hard hitting or emotional as my favorite, Believing Rory, but it was a sweet romance with great characters.
The tale features dog walker Drew Lawson and wealthy Kyle Bradley; two men who would never have met unless fate hadn’t stepped in. Kyle wouldn’t normally have a dog but when his sister gets sick he first takes in her dog and then her nephew for a short time. He hires Drew, who is mourning the loss of his boyfriend, to walk the dog, Rascal. Their first meeting was wonderfully written with subtext. Kyle can see right away Drew is hiding from life and Drew is not impressed with Kyle’s attitude.
I loved how neither guy put up with each other’s bullshit. They seem to be opposites but have far more in common than it seems at first. Their commonalities show up slowly but their attraction is fast and furious.
One thing that might be an issue to some readers is that Kyle is in an open relationship with an actor named Pierce, and is in that relationship when he and Drew have sex for the first time. Some people might see that as cheating but I didn’t and it didn’t bother me at all. In fact, the open relationship aspect of the story made it stand out from other stories in the genre. Lots of gay couples, as well as straight ones, have such relationships. It added to the realism and made the conflicts interesting.
I’m normally not a fan of kids in my gay romance stories, but Wynne did a great job with Benjamin. He acted age appropriately without becoming too precocious or annoying and he didn’t overtake the story when he was present.
Kyle and Drew are a wonderfully fabulous couple. Wynne truly did a great job. Now I’m off to check out her backlist.
Reviewed at Prism Book Alliance: http://www.prismbookalliance.com/2016...
January 19, 2017
Hmmm. I wanted to give this more stars, but I got impatient with Drew. His constant whining about Steven, then his constant worrying about whether he could trust Kyle, then back and forth and around and around and.... I figured out about halfway through the book that it was going to take a crisis with Janie (poor girl) to resolve things. We met none of Drew's other clients, although the dogs were mentioned from time to time. I would have liked the dog-walking business to be a bit more than something Drew could just toss off whenever he felt like it. I liked Kyle though, and was relieved when Drew finally "got a clue" (right at the end) that the relationship was worth the effort. Reasonably good read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 3, 2016
Drew and Kyle are like oil and water when they first meet. The events that happen early in the story help them see each other more clearly, past the superficial exterior images they each present and read for the other. I have to say I was quite nervous for a good portion of the story, expecting that bad thing to happen as a catalyst to the end of the story. And I have to also say that I'm really glad it didn't as, for me, it made the progress and ending more genuine.
June 14, 2016
Pretty good read
This was the first book from this author that I've read. It was a fast read. I felt like the book was moving forward but then it just stopped. I wanted more. Looking forward to reading other books from this author
This was the first book from this author that I've read. It was a fast read. I felt like the book was moving forward but then it just stopped. I wanted more. Looking forward to reading other books from this author
May 31, 2017
An enjoyable read
I really enjoyed this book. It was a pretty fast read.
Good story, great characters, good descriptions to details, and nice flowing dialogue.
Would I recommend this book? Yes
Would I read more from this author? Yes
Sassy Beta Reading and Review
I really enjoyed this book. It was a pretty fast read.
Good story, great characters, good descriptions to details, and nice flowing dialogue.
Would I recommend this book? Yes
Would I read more from this author? Yes
Sassy Beta Reading and Review
May 30, 2016
Sweet and easy read❤
June 5, 2016
Great story! I didn't know which one of them I wanted to smack first.
June 5, 2016
Loved this! So fun!
November 13, 2021
Not for me I got the sense leaving these characters that things would not be ok
January 27, 2018
3.5 stars rounded up. Overall I enjoyed this story about Kyle and Drew as they worked to overcome some personal hang-ups and build a relationship. Although they were both the same age (28), there was a world of difference between their maturity levels. Kyle seemed mature and grounded while Drew often came across as petulant child. For someone who was so overly sensitive to how others judged him, he was the most judgemental of all. I’m glad he seemed to be getting his act together by the end of the story and Kyle was willing to forgive and move forward.
Benjamin was a delightful part of this story although many times he seemed older and wiser than his five years. It was also nice to watch his relationship grow with his uncle and the overall affect Benjamin, Rascal and Jamie had on Kyle’s priorities..
The whole Pierce thing was just a bit much at times. While Pierce and Kyle can have any kind of relationship they want, I did agree with Drew’s reluctance to start anything with Kyle while he was still technically attached to Pierce. The limo meeting between Drew and Pierce came across as a set up for something bigger to come but turned out to be rather anticlimatic.
And I do have to vent a bit about one of my pet pieves with M/M romance authors: having cover art that does not match the story. Grant it, unlike most cover art portraying impossibly perfect and unrealistic adonises, the cover of Unleashing Love was minor. In the open sequence, Rascal is introduced as a yellow lab. So why is the cover art showing a chocolate lab?
Benjamin was a delightful part of this story although many times he seemed older and wiser than his five years. It was also nice to watch his relationship grow with his uncle and the overall affect Benjamin, Rascal and Jamie had on Kyle’s priorities..
The whole Pierce thing was just a bit much at times. While Pierce and Kyle can have any kind of relationship they want, I did agree with Drew’s reluctance to start anything with Kyle while he was still technically attached to Pierce. The limo meeting between Drew and Pierce came across as a set up for something bigger to come but turned out to be rather anticlimatic.
And I do have to vent a bit about one of my pet pieves with M/M romance authors: having cover art that does not match the story. Grant it, unlike most cover art portraying impossibly perfect and unrealistic adonises, the cover of Unleashing Love was minor. In the open sequence, Rascal is introduced as a yellow lab. So why is the cover art showing a chocolate lab?
September 30, 2017
Drew gave up the corporate lifestyle after the death of his boyfriend a year ago and now runs a successful dog walking business where he only needs to interact with his best friend Cully and their canine clients.
His new client represents everything Drew left behind. Kyle is a career focused art distributor with a showcase home, a famous boyfriend and no time to care for his sick sister's clumsy yellow lab.
The two develop an unlikely friendship which gradually progresses to more...but can both bend enough to make it work?
The story is told from Drew's POV. It would be easy to assume that Kyle, with his shallow lifestyle, would be the primary source of angst. It was refreshing that the author instead focused on Drew's unresolved issues. It's a short, but enjoyable book.
His new client represents everything Drew left behind. Kyle is a career focused art distributor with a showcase home, a famous boyfriend and no time to care for his sick sister's clumsy yellow lab.
The two develop an unlikely friendship which gradually progresses to more...but can both bend enough to make it work?
The story is told from Drew's POV. It would be easy to assume that Kyle, with his shallow lifestyle, would be the primary source of angst. It was refreshing that the author instead focused on Drew's unresolved issues. It's a short, but enjoyable book.
June 28, 2019
Great story but where is the ending?
I loved this book, I really did. The characters were awesome, there was light relief in the form of dog antics and small boy philosophy, there was lots of emotional plot, and a little angst without needing to cry your eyes out.
BUT... The 'resolution' happened in a couple of pages and didn't resolve anything for me! I have so many questions: what happened to Janie? Is Kyle keeping the dog? Who is B gonna live with long term. Don't get me all invested in these secondary characters then leave them in the middle of a crisis. Grr, I want an epilogue.
Apart from that it would have been 4 or 5 stars
I loved this book, I really did. The characters were awesome, there was light relief in the form of dog antics and small boy philosophy, there was lots of emotional plot, and a little angst without needing to cry your eyes out.
BUT... The 'resolution' happened in a couple of pages and didn't resolve anything for me! I have so many questions: what happened to Janie? Is Kyle keeping the dog? Who is B gonna live with long term. Don't get me all invested in these secondary characters then leave them in the middle of a crisis. Grr, I want an epilogue.
Apart from that it would have been 4 or 5 stars
October 3, 2021
Still grieving the death of his partner Drew convinces himself he doesn't want to date, while uptight and slightly pompous Kyle slowly grows an attachment to his dog walker. I didn't like Kyle at first, who would! The man was arrogant and a little sneering towards Drew's lifestyle and dress. But the casual way about Drew broke through the snobby ways and an affection began. It's not all hunky dory, there's angst, in the form of a previous boyfriend and a wanna be boyfriend. Luckily for Kyle Drew is easy going and patient, up to a point that is, even he had his limits. A good read about letting go, of the past and of the rich lifestyle and attitude.
January 22, 2024
Uggg! I was hoping for an epilog at least! Needless to say this was a good read but I did find the ending a little abrupt. Kyle is completely overwhelmed when he's suddenly caring for his sister's dog while she's I'll. Drew is fed up with the corporate world and the constant need to climb the social ladder. Kyle is still very much in that competitive world and the dog and soon his nephew don't fit his style. Drew is emotionally closed off after the death of his boyfriend, but these two find a connection as they care for their charges. Making it work through their insecurities isn't going to be easy.
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