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Guarding the Gods #1
Zac's Mulligan
Zac Mulligan is a former Marine now providing personal security for the infamous rock band, Black Ice. Seeing all the guys around him in committed relationships reminds him of his childhood best friend . . . the only person Zac has never managed to get out of his head or his heart.
Ben Holland is an artist. Falling deeply in love with his best friend in his teens, Ben is left alone when Zac leaves him for the military. Ben heads off to college and lives his life “out and proud” as a gay man and creates a brand name for himself with his artwork. Throughout all the years that pass, Ben never forgets his childhood friend, Zac, or the feelings they once shared.
Zac realizes a decade is too long for Ben not to have a presence in his life and finds Ben living on Cape Cod where they spent their summers as kids. Meeting each other as adults stirs up a lot of memories for both of them.
Zac is looking for a mulligan, a “do over,” with his childhood best friend. The question is: Can Ben find a way to put aside his old hurts and fully open his heart to Zac for a second time? Or maybe the past is something better left buried on the beach where it all began.
Ben Holland is an artist. Falling deeply in love with his best friend in his teens, Ben is left alone when Zac leaves him for the military. Ben heads off to college and lives his life “out and proud” as a gay man and creates a brand name for himself with his artwork. Throughout all the years that pass, Ben never forgets his childhood friend, Zac, or the feelings they once shared.
Zac realizes a decade is too long for Ben not to have a presence in his life and finds Ben living on Cape Cod where they spent their summers as kids. Meeting each other as adults stirs up a lot of memories for both of them.
Zac is looking for a mulligan, a “do over,” with his childhood best friend. The question is: Can Ben find a way to put aside his old hurts and fully open his heart to Zac for a second time? Or maybe the past is something better left buried on the beach where it all began.
513 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 9, 2016
118 people are currently reading
396 people want to read
About the author
Ann Lister
54 books838 followers Ann Lister is a native New Englander currently living in Florida with her husband. She has pulled details from her years living in the New England area and uses many local settings and landmarks in her novels.
After graduating art school, marrying, and raising two daughters, she established her own video production company. Her nearly two decades working in video production included work within the music industry and won her a coveted Telly Award. Her 'behind-the-scenes' exposure to the music world and her love of rock music is the inspiration for her erotic rock star romances.
The Rock Gods series gave her Bestselling Author status on Amazon. Beyond The Music, Book 7 in the series, reached #1 in Gay Erotica in the Pre-Order and held that spot for several weeks. The last book in the series launches the spin-off series, Guarding The Gods, which is releasing in early summer 2016.
Fall For Me, Book One in the series was a Finalist in the 2013 Rainbow Award. Each book in this series brings her two favorite elements together: musicians and the love between two men. These stories focus on what it truly means to love; love unconditionally, love without restrictions or labels, love without fear or judgment – to just simply love.
After graduating art school, marrying, and raising two daughters, she established her own video production company. Her nearly two decades working in video production included work within the music industry and won her a coveted Telly Award. Her 'behind-the-scenes' exposure to the music world and her love of rock music is the inspiration for her erotic rock star romances.
The Rock Gods series gave her Bestselling Author status on Amazon. Beyond The Music, Book 7 in the series, reached #1 in Gay Erotica in the Pre-Order and held that spot for several weeks. The last book in the series launches the spin-off series, Guarding The Gods, which is releasing in early summer 2016.
Fall For Me, Book One in the series was a Finalist in the 2013 Rainbow Award. Each book in this series brings her two favorite elements together: musicians and the love between two men. These stories focus on what it truly means to love; love unconditionally, love without restrictions or labels, love without fear or judgment – to just simply love.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews
August 11, 2016
This is the first book in this new spin-off series. It's a spin-off of the awesome "Rocks Gods" series. For those of you who haven't read the series...this can be read as a stand-alone. I just don't see why you would though, because "The Rock Gods" series rocked...lol
Zac Mulligan is a former marine, who's working as a security guard for the two famous bands "Ivory Tower" and "Black Ice". He got injured in the line of duty in the last book of the Rock Gods. Lately he has been thinking a lot about his old best friend ....thinking that maybe he should pay the man a visit and apologize for his mistakes. Since he's recovering from his injury he has some time to look the man up and try to make amends...
Zac and Ben used to best friends when they were in their teens. Soon they became more than just friends. There were stolen kisses which turned into a lot of fooling around. They both knew Zac had signed up for the marines and on the day before he was to leave, they got drunk and took things a step further....
Zac however didn't tell Ben that he was leaving the next day.....he also can't remember everything that happend between them, because he was so drunk. He just packed up his stuff the next day, and left......without saying goodbye and without looking back. He just went on..living his life and even got married....and later divorced.
Now ten years laters, Zac drives to the their family cottages, to confront the man, he was never able to forget.
Ben however is not really welcoming. A lot of shit has gone down, since Zac left him without a word. Ben also went on with his life, only he did it completely different. He has been out and proud, which caused him some major trauma.... Zac wants a do-over, he wants to make things right...he needs Ben to give him another chance.
Ben doesn't know if he can forgive Zac for breaking his heart, but even if he did, Ben has some big secrets that could fuck everything up for them again. He loves Zac though and resistence is futile. Maybe this time they can make things work and maybe Zac won't leave when everthing gets out....
I really enjoyed this new spin-off and I will definitely read every single book in this series. This book was a bit different than "The Rock Gods", which are still my favorite. The steam was also a bit milder, but still very hot. I loved seeing all the old characters from the previous books. Linc is still my man !!! I'm very curious to see what's gonna happen next. We alreasy got a glimpse of the next couple....at least I think they are gonne be next ;)
4 stars from me !!
January 5, 2018
Oh. My. Guard! Zac and Ben rock!
Anyone who's read Ann Lister's Rock Gods series I'm sure waited with their twitching one-click fingers locked and loaded for the clock to strike midnight. You know what the best part is? This book will blow everyone away—their Goddess absolutely, positively, with everything I can think of under the sun, hasn't let them down.
Zac's Mulligan is the first book in the Guarding the Gods spinoff series. As the author promised—to herself, as much as to her fans—we'd not seen the last of our boys from Black Ice mostly, with just enough Ivory Tower to take the edge off.
Remember, this is about a whole new bunch of characters. These are the guys who put themselves out there protecting our rockers.
Okay, first batter up is Zac Mulligan—ex-military, now an employee for Ventura Security Group. Going back to the last book, Beyond the Music, Zac was wounded in the clusterf#ck of all that was Sebastian Keating—knife-wielding, disgruntled, wannabe columnist ~ he's irrelevant after that because he doesn't deserve any more notability. There's someone who's been taking front and center in Zac's mind—Ben Holland. Ben was his childhood friend, and by the time they graduated high school they had already turned into something more.
With Lincoln's suggestion, Zac decides to see what Ben has been up to for the last ten years as he heads back to the States to heal. Yes folks, ten years. A lot can change in ten years.
As much as Ben and Zac have grown, each with an impressive resume—Ben is an accomplished and well sought-after photographer and artist—they still exude innocence, maybe something carried over and not lost from their youth since that's exactly where they left off with each other. Hoping that the years haven't permanently torn them apart, Zac experiences for the first time, the anger and bitterness of Ben's reaction at his intrusive return into Ben's life considering Zac had all but abandoned him when he left for the service. Life wasn't easy for Ben after Zac left. Zac knew going into a war zone who he was going up against, where as Ben was blindsided and left to pick up the pieces of his life that were shattered from the very places and people who should have nurtured him.
In the course of this brilliant story, Ben and Zac professionally and personally weave their way into each other's lives. Finally, for the both of them, the truthful and bittersweet acknowledgement of a love that never had a proper chance to find its place, rekindles itself—their feelings for each other throughout all the years have never faltered. In order for any of Ann's characters to get their priorities where they should be, in one way or another, they go through hell to get to heaven. Call it "a lesson learned" or "seeing the light," there's always plenty of raw emotion and heart tugging situations swirling around. Zac And Ben are smoking hot together as well—it's more of a slow burn than a jumping in right away. I truly loved watching the two of them as they navigated their way back to each other.
Zac's Mulligan has plenty of banter and fun and games amongst all the band members. Because the story now focuses on a new crew, Ann can do whatever she wants with all or any of the band members. All Rock Gods fans are going to go nuts at what goes on on-stage, or in a bar, or even in Dagger's hotel bathroom (take one guess!) There's also a section that is so intense and well written that I hadn't even realized I was holding my breath the whole time.
Of course there are bits that lead to the next in the series, which will involve Fizzbo and a new character, Kensey.
I can't rave enough about Zac's Mulligan. Ann Lister really knocked this one outta the ballpark. The storyline was brilliant, her attention to detail painstaking, along with Zac and Ben and her cast of epic supporting characters, all helped to make this first book of the Guarding the Gods series, hands down a five plus star read for me. Just an incredible job by an outstanding author!!
Anyone who's read Ann Lister's Rock Gods series I'm sure waited with their twitching one-click fingers locked and loaded for the clock to strike midnight. You know what the best part is? This book will blow everyone away—their Goddess absolutely, positively, with everything I can think of under the sun, hasn't let them down.
Zac's Mulligan is the first book in the Guarding the Gods spinoff series. As the author promised—to herself, as much as to her fans—we'd not seen the last of our boys from Black Ice mostly, with just enough Ivory Tower to take the edge off.
Remember, this is about a whole new bunch of characters. These are the guys who put themselves out there protecting our rockers.
Okay, first batter up is Zac Mulligan—ex-military, now an employee for Ventura Security Group. Going back to the last book, Beyond the Music, Zac was wounded in the clusterf#ck of all that was Sebastian Keating—knife-wielding, disgruntled, wannabe columnist ~ he's irrelevant after that because he doesn't deserve any more notability. There's someone who's been taking front and center in Zac's mind—Ben Holland. Ben was his childhood friend, and by the time they graduated high school they had already turned into something more.
With Lincoln's suggestion, Zac decides to see what Ben has been up to for the last ten years as he heads back to the States to heal. Yes folks, ten years. A lot can change in ten years.
As much as Ben and Zac have grown, each with an impressive resume—Ben is an accomplished and well sought-after photographer and artist—they still exude innocence, maybe something carried over and not lost from their youth since that's exactly where they left off with each other. Hoping that the years haven't permanently torn them apart, Zac experiences for the first time, the anger and bitterness of Ben's reaction at his intrusive return into Ben's life considering Zac had all but abandoned him when he left for the service. Life wasn't easy for Ben after Zac left. Zac knew going into a war zone who he was going up against, where as Ben was blindsided and left to pick up the pieces of his life that were shattered from the very places and people who should have nurtured him.
In the course of this brilliant story, Ben and Zac professionally and personally weave their way into each other's lives. Finally, for the both of them, the truthful and bittersweet acknowledgement of a love that never had a proper chance to find its place, rekindles itself—their feelings for each other throughout all the years have never faltered. In order for any of Ann's characters to get their priorities where they should be, in one way or another, they go through hell to get to heaven. Call it "a lesson learned" or "seeing the light," there's always plenty of raw emotion and heart tugging situations swirling around. Zac And Ben are smoking hot together as well—it's more of a slow burn than a jumping in right away. I truly loved watching the two of them as they navigated their way back to each other.
Zac's Mulligan has plenty of banter and fun and games amongst all the band members. Because the story now focuses on a new crew, Ann can do whatever she wants with all or any of the band members. All Rock Gods fans are going to go nuts at what goes on on-stage, or in a bar, or even in Dagger's hotel bathroom (take one guess!) There's also a section that is so intense and well written that I hadn't even realized I was holding my breath the whole time.
Of course there are bits that lead to the next in the series, which will involve Fizzbo and a new character, Kensey.
I can't rave enough about Zac's Mulligan. Ann Lister really knocked this one outta the ballpark. The storyline was brilliant, her attention to detail painstaking, along with Zac and Ben and her cast of epic supporting characters, all helped to make this first book of the Guarding the Gods series, hands down a five plus star read for me. Just an incredible job by an outstanding author!!
August 16, 2016
WARNING…This cannot be read as a stand-alone. This is a spinoff series from the Rock Gods series and you will probably be very confused without reading the Rock Gods series first
Zac’s Mulligan is the first book in the new spinoff series, Guarding the Gods Zac is returning home after he was wounded at work protecting the rock band, Black Ice. With encouragement from his friend, Lincoln, he decides to try to find his friend he left many years ago, when he joined the Marines. Not a day has gone by that Zac hasn’t thought of his “first love”, Ben Holland, and the innocent love they had for one another.
Ben Holland is hiding out at his beach home recovering from a trauma of his own. When Zac finds him, Ben is less than happy to see his old “friend”. Old wounds are opened, and Zac is hit with the full force of Ben’s anger. Is it too late to begin again and hopefully figure out if it is real love?
Honestly, I was having a problem with the first half of the book. I felt it was boring and I was not fond of Ben at all. It wasn’t until Zac returned to Black Ice, on their European tour, did the book start to pick up and then, the SHIT got real!!!! The book took a totally different turn than what I expected and I couldn’t read fast enough. I ended up loving Ben and Zac together. There are some major ups and downs, and some pretty big secrets are revealed, which put Zac and Ben’s relationship to the test.
You also get to see plenty of the Rock Gods in this one too, especially Lincoln and Aaron!!
Zac’s Mulligan is the first book in the new spinoff series, Guarding the Gods Zac is returning home after he was wounded at work protecting the rock band, Black Ice. With encouragement from his friend, Lincoln, he decides to try to find his friend he left many years ago, when he joined the Marines. Not a day has gone by that Zac hasn’t thought of his “first love”, Ben Holland, and the innocent love they had for one another.
Ben Holland is hiding out at his beach home recovering from a trauma of his own. When Zac finds him, Ben is less than happy to see his old “friend”. Old wounds are opened, and Zac is hit with the full force of Ben’s anger. Is it too late to begin again and hopefully figure out if it is real love?
Honestly, I was having a problem with the first half of the book. I felt it was boring and I was not fond of Ben at all. It wasn’t until Zac returned to Black Ice, on their European tour, did the book start to pick up and then, the SHIT got real!!!! The book took a totally different turn than what I expected and I couldn’t read fast enough. I ended up loving Ben and Zac together. There are some major ups and downs, and some pretty big secrets are revealed, which put Zac and Ben’s relationship to the test.
You also get to see plenty of the Rock Gods in this one too, especially Lincoln and Aaron!!
December 18, 2016
I really did NOT like this. Like at all. Okay, I liked Zac, but that's about it. The couple never clicked for me. Probably because Ben is a raging douchenozzle who can't function if he's not a)the victim or b) outraged. I just hated him. It's bad when you are reading his POV and still find yourself with a look of disgust on your face as you go. I thought he treated Zac like crap. Zac deserved better. Yes Zac did crappy thing when he was 18. But honestly it wasn't that horrible. The fact that Ben was still so bothered, and not able to look back with some degree of understanding after 10 years makes me judge him. Maybe because I just already dislike him, it's hard for me to cut him any slack....idk. I was a little lost on some of the band couples, only because I haven't read those books. But it's more of a just not knowing who anyone is, than being lost plot wise. I don't think you really need to have read the other books to get this one.
August 23, 2017
4 stars
This was a very good story. I liked both Zac and Ben and enjoyed seeing them get together. This is the first story I've read by this author and I liked it well enough that I'm likely to try more of her work.
Zac is an Ex-marine that is currently working as security for a rock band.In high school, Zac had been "very close" to his BFF, Ben. They experimented with each other some but Zac ended up leaving for the Marines in a way that caused a permanent rift between them. Thinking what was between him and Ben was just harmless experimentation, Zac goes on to try to live a "straight" life.
Ben is an artist that has his own graphic arts business and a very good reputation in the business that keeps him in high demand. Ben has been openly gay since he went to college...where he unfortunately ran into some trouble in the form of hate crimes (leaving him with some facial scars) perpetrated by some jocks that were very anti-gay. Ben has never trusted anyone with his heart after Zac broke it and has had some lovers but never anything serious.
The band that Zac works for is mostly gay/bi and so Zac is surrounded by happy m/m couples all the time. This made him start thinking more and more about his high school BFF, Ben. Zac has always felt something was missing in his life and he begins to realize that the something missing might be Ben. Zac was injured while protecting one of the band members so he's off the tour and back in the US for a bit while recovering and he decides to try to find Ben. He finds out where Ben is staying and goes to find Ben. Their initial reunion isn't good...Ben is understandably angry and has no interest in anything Zac has to say.
It takes a bit of time but Zac is able to get Ben to talk to him and they agree to try to reestablish their friendship. Zac wants more but Ben just isn't willing to take that chance. Zac does have to go back on tour but a trick of fate does help Ben and Zac to see each other again sooner than they expected. Some more time together does allow Ben to be more comfortable with things and he eventually agrees to try for something more than friendship with Zac. Of course there's some drama that pops up and although Zac is firm in his need for Ben, the issues do cause Ben some disquiet. And there's a big "kaboom" at the end (not literally but almost) that really brings things into focus so that Ben and Zac end the story coming solidly together to start on a HEA.
This was a very enjoyable story. I liked Zac and while he made a big mistake when he and Ben split as kids, he was a good guy and I wanted to see him and Ben get a happy reunion. Ben was a good guy too and I liked that he was able to get past his issues and give Zac a chance to make things right. Overall, I liked the characters and the story was very good so I'd recommend it. :D
This was a very good story. I liked both Zac and Ben and enjoyed seeing them get together. This is the first story I've read by this author and I liked it well enough that I'm likely to try more of her work.
Zac is an Ex-marine that is currently working as security for a rock band.In high school, Zac had been "very close" to his BFF, Ben. They experimented with each other some but Zac ended up leaving for the Marines in a way that caused a permanent rift between them. Thinking what was between him and Ben was just harmless experimentation, Zac goes on to try to live a "straight" life.
Ben is an artist that has his own graphic arts business and a very good reputation in the business that keeps him in high demand. Ben has been openly gay since he went to college...where he unfortunately ran into some trouble in the form of hate crimes (leaving him with some facial scars) perpetrated by some jocks that were very anti-gay. Ben has never trusted anyone with his heart after Zac broke it and has had some lovers but never anything serious.
The band that Zac works for is mostly gay/bi and so Zac is surrounded by happy m/m couples all the time. This made him start thinking more and more about his high school BFF, Ben. Zac has always felt something was missing in his life and he begins to realize that the something missing might be Ben. Zac was injured while protecting one of the band members so he's off the tour and back in the US for a bit while recovering and he decides to try to find Ben. He finds out where Ben is staying and goes to find Ben. Their initial reunion isn't good...Ben is understandably angry and has no interest in anything Zac has to say.
It takes a bit of time but Zac is able to get Ben to talk to him and they agree to try to reestablish their friendship. Zac wants more but Ben just isn't willing to take that chance. Zac does have to go back on tour but a trick of fate does help Ben and Zac to see each other again sooner than they expected. Some more time together does allow Ben to be more comfortable with things and he eventually agrees to try for something more than friendship with Zac. Of course there's some drama that pops up and although Zac is firm in his need for Ben, the issues do cause Ben some disquiet. And there's a big "kaboom" at the end (not literally but almost) that really brings things into focus so that Ben and Zac end the story coming solidly together to start on a HEA.
This was a very enjoyable story. I liked Zac and while he made a big mistake when he and Ben split as kids, he was a good guy and I wanted to see him and Ben get a happy reunion. Ben was a good guy too and I liked that he was able to get past his issues and give Zac a chance to make things right. Overall, I liked the characters and the story was very good so I'd recommend it. :D
August 5, 2016
**)
.•.•*) .•*)THIS BOOK IS ON FIRE!!!"
(.• (.•`***
Holy Batman Robin!!! Ann Lister has done it again. Of The Rock Gods fame, this newest sequel promises to carry on in its brother's image. This book came at me out of the woodwork and has wormed its way into my small, private collection.
The Marine & The Artist.
Ex- Marine Zac Mulligan was living a dream being a bodyguard to one of the top rock bands during their European tour. That is, until he placed himself in the path of danger to protect one of his clients and finds himself on downtime. Instead of going home, he makes a pit stop when nostalgia sets in and he tries to right the wrongs he left behind ten years prior. Funny how when he thought of a lasting relationship his head took him back to memories of Ben.
Ben Holland had no reason to be straight up and angry. Zac was the one that got - er - walked away and he thought he could never forgive his former best friend for that. But Zac came with a mission and he was determined to win Ben's heart no matter what. But there were too much history that needed to be revisited and too many old hurts that stood in the way of the guys ever finding their way back to one.
"You're the only straight dude I know who likes the taste of another guy's jizz."
Hot, sizzling and raunchy as hell. There was no way that this book did not set the synapses on fire. There was sexy flirtation, slow to burn chemistry and hot and heavy loving. I needed a box of cigarettes just to recover. The was no denying the sparks that fanned around our MCs and Ms. Lister made it burn!
There was so much going on with this book that anytime I had to put it down, I rushed back to pick it up. There were surprises and mysteries that slowly unfolded and left me with drool on my chin. I will be reading this book again. Hell, I am making it a point to revisit the entire world soon enough.
ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Cee from Alpha Book Club
.•.•*) .•*)THIS BOOK IS ON FIRE!!!"
(.• (.•`***
Holy Batman Robin!!! Ann Lister has done it again. Of The Rock Gods fame, this newest sequel promises to carry on in its brother's image. This book came at me out of the woodwork and has wormed its way into my small, private collection.
The Marine & The Artist.
Ex- Marine Zac Mulligan was living a dream being a bodyguard to one of the top rock bands during their European tour. That is, until he placed himself in the path of danger to protect one of his clients and finds himself on downtime. Instead of going home, he makes a pit stop when nostalgia sets in and he tries to right the wrongs he left behind ten years prior. Funny how when he thought of a lasting relationship his head took him back to memories of Ben.
Ben Holland had no reason to be straight up and angry. Zac was the one that got - er - walked away and he thought he could never forgive his former best friend for that. But Zac came with a mission and he was determined to win Ben's heart no matter what. But there were too much history that needed to be revisited and too many old hurts that stood in the way of the guys ever finding their way back to one.
"You're the only straight dude I know who likes the taste of another guy's jizz."
Hot, sizzling and raunchy as hell. There was no way that this book did not set the synapses on fire. There was sexy flirtation, slow to burn chemistry and hot and heavy loving. I needed a box of cigarettes just to recover. The was no denying the sparks that fanned around our MCs and Ms. Lister made it burn!
There was so much going on with this book that anytime I had to put it down, I rushed back to pick it up. There were surprises and mysteries that slowly unfolded and left me with drool on my chin. I will be reading this book again. Hell, I am making it a point to revisit the entire world soon enough.
ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Cee from Alpha Book Club
December 23, 2016
This is Ann's first book of the new series, Guarding the Gods. I absolutely loved, loved, loved this book. I fell in love with Ben and Zac and the struggles they overcome to find their happily ever after.
Ben and Zac grew up together. In their teens they fall in love until Zac leaves for the Marines tearing them apart.
Ben is now a well known artist basically living alone and is out of the closet. Zac is now a former Marine working security for Black Ice and just can't get the thoughts of Ben out of his mind and he has never felt for anyone the way he feels for Ben. He wants love and the happily ever after with Ben and decides he is going to find Ben and see if they can get back what was lost.
Ten years have passed and Ben is very angry with Zac for leaving suddenly and never hears from him. Ben makes Zac work for the forgiveness and relationship as he fears Zach is just going to walk away again. Ben is willing to do anything to get Ben back in his life.
Just when you think they can have their happily ever after, Ben is forced to reveal a 10 yr or so secret that he has been asked to not reveal. Can Zac forgive Ben for not telling him the secret as soon as they reconnected?
I loved reconnecting with guys from Black Ice and Ivory Tower. I can't say enough how I love the family they all have developed.
I love that we get a glimpse into book two love interests. Now you didn't think I was going to tell you who, did you? You need to read the book.
Ben and Zac grew up together. In their teens they fall in love until Zac leaves for the Marines tearing them apart.
Ben is now a well known artist basically living alone and is out of the closet. Zac is now a former Marine working security for Black Ice and just can't get the thoughts of Ben out of his mind and he has never felt for anyone the way he feels for Ben. He wants love and the happily ever after with Ben and decides he is going to find Ben and see if they can get back what was lost.
Ten years have passed and Ben is very angry with Zac for leaving suddenly and never hears from him. Ben makes Zac work for the forgiveness and relationship as he fears Zach is just going to walk away again. Ben is willing to do anything to get Ben back in his life.
Just when you think they can have their happily ever after, Ben is forced to reveal a 10 yr or so secret that he has been asked to not reveal. Can Zac forgive Ben for not telling him the secret as soon as they reconnected?
I loved reconnecting with guys from Black Ice and Ivory Tower. I can't say enough how I love the family they all have developed.
I love that we get a glimpse into book two love interests. Now you didn't think I was going to tell you who, did you? You need to read the book.
September 7, 2016
Zac was immature and emotionally stupid. He was in denial of his bisexuality but pursued Ben at the same time. Ben was emotionally savvy but could not keep their relationship from being quite shallow. There wasn't any romance and definitely no chemistry. The family drama was OTT. Zac's father's behavior was bizarre. Just really poor character development all around.
July 16, 2021
Seriously wondering if I read the same book? So many 4 and 5 star ratings. I really didn't like this one much and I didn't feel the chemistry between Zac and Ben. My biggest issue was that I didn't like Ben at all. Okay Zac hurt him when he was 18 but honestly it seemed like Ben treated it like it was this hugely intentional, horrible thing and I just didn't think it was that horrible. They were 18 and one would think you'd get a bit of perspective in the next 10 years. The rekindling just happened way too fast for me especially considering the way Ben treated Zac. I didn't realize this was a spin off which I haven't read the original series so I was a bit lost of who was who in the band and I would probably enjoy this a little more if I had more of a background with all the secondary characters but I'm not sure it's necessary. For me I just couldn't get past Ben and my dislike for him.
August 12, 2016
Zac Mulligan and Ben Holland grew up together, experienced all their firsts together included love and exploring their sexuality together. While their mothers saw the writing on the wall, their fathers, especially Zacs, were quite discouraging. Being caught in the years between a teenager and a man, confused at best about his feelings for Ben and then add his father telling him it was wrong, Zac abandoned Ben and their friendship and joined the marines. He's regretted it damn near every day since.
Watching Lincoln and Aaron(the MC's in the final Rock Gods book) fall in love and defy the odds made Zac think about Ben, miss him and their friendship, wonder what could have been just that much more. Sent back stateside to recover and do physical therapy after being injured on the tour, Zac takes the week between arriving in the states and beginning his PT to track down Ben and at the very least, apologize for walking out on him a decade ago without so much as a goodbye. The problem is, Ben never forgot about Zac either, especially waking up alone all those years ago. And Ben is not so anxious for a repeat performance.
Let me just say, I've been with this Author since the beginning when she decided to go from writing M/F love stories and ventured into her first M/M book with Ryan and Dagger in Fall For Me, the 1st book in the Rock Gods series. With each new book not only does she continue to give us readers the long, lovely books we've become accustomed to, she continues to bring something new to the story. Her characters are perfectly flawed and often broken, but the issues are never the same. Her writing is intense and explorative, the characters three dimensional, the storylines are drenched with emotions, love, angst and depth. This book was no exception, in fact, I think this is my favorite read from Lister to date.
There is a lot of character development from start to finish. Both men are scarred in different ways, for different reasons. And it would seem the writing is on the wall from the beginning. Not so fast though, every time it seems they've jumped the last hurdle, happiness is inevitable, there is another hill to climb. The past won't stay buried and secrets continually threaten to tear them apart. I literally felt Ben's pain as I learned more of his story, how broken he was when Zac left and the permanent repercussions from that loss. The romance is so passionate and intense that it left me just as breathless as the men!
This is a new spin off series from Lister's best selling Rock Gods series. And while this book stands strongly on it's own legs, I would still recommend reading the other series first. Zac is introduced in that series and there is a series of events that took place that tie into this book specifically. It is definitely worth the read to go back to those books if you haven't had the pleasure yet. But hey, that's just my two cents.
Watching Lincoln and Aaron(the MC's in the final Rock Gods book) fall in love and defy the odds made Zac think about Ben, miss him and their friendship, wonder what could have been just that much more. Sent back stateside to recover and do physical therapy after being injured on the tour, Zac takes the week between arriving in the states and beginning his PT to track down Ben and at the very least, apologize for walking out on him a decade ago without so much as a goodbye. The problem is, Ben never forgot about Zac either, especially waking up alone all those years ago. And Ben is not so anxious for a repeat performance.
Let me just say, I've been with this Author since the beginning when she decided to go from writing M/F love stories and ventured into her first M/M book with Ryan and Dagger in Fall For Me, the 1st book in the Rock Gods series. With each new book not only does she continue to give us readers the long, lovely books we've become accustomed to, she continues to bring something new to the story. Her characters are perfectly flawed and often broken, but the issues are never the same. Her writing is intense and explorative, the characters three dimensional, the storylines are drenched with emotions, love, angst and depth. This book was no exception, in fact, I think this is my favorite read from Lister to date.
There is a lot of character development from start to finish. Both men are scarred in different ways, for different reasons. And it would seem the writing is on the wall from the beginning. Not so fast though, every time it seems they've jumped the last hurdle, happiness is inevitable, there is another hill to climb. The past won't stay buried and secrets continually threaten to tear them apart. I literally felt Ben's pain as I learned more of his story, how broken he was when Zac left and the permanent repercussions from that loss. The romance is so passionate and intense that it left me just as breathless as the men!
This is a new spin off series from Lister's best selling Rock Gods series. And while this book stands strongly on it's own legs, I would still recommend reading the other series first. Zac is introduced in that series and there is a series of events that took place that tie into this book specifically. It is definitely worth the read to go back to those books if you haven't had the pleasure yet. But hey, that's just my two cents.
September 5, 2016
What happened here? I'm so confused. I have been in love with this author's series through book after book. After months of waiting for the next one here comes the spin off series featuring confused ass, immature acting Zac and boring Ben. Their relationship was like watching paint dry. The set up to the big misunderstanding was so unrealistic to me. Which 17/18 year old boy after his first taste of nookie with his very best friend starts to think, "I am going to leave so I don't come back to him in a body bag" it would have been better to put the fear engendered by his father front and center. The reunion was also very awkward. This 'I left my childhood love and came back' trope can be a goldmine if done properly.
The positives: getting an opportunity to revisit loved characters from the Rock Gods. Cons: pretty much everything else.
There were way too many issues going on in this book. injuries, PTSD, fire, adultery of non -main characters, simpleminded (selfish) parents, loosening of previously close fraternal bonds, the obligatory crowding in of the characters from the previous books and the 'am I straight or gay confusion' from the main character ( who laughably is trying to rekindle the flame with his obviously male love and yet still seemingly confused about his sexual orientation. Who cares? Love who you want and forget what to call it.) None of the multiple issues seemed fully developed but all thrown together to see what would stick. I got the sense the author was driving the book to enough pages to finally call it quits. In the final analysis, I can't list enough of the reasons that this book did NOT do it for me; suffice it to say, it didn't. I can't believe that I struggled through this book. From 17% to the conclusion, I simply put one foot (or rather page) in front of the other and kept moving. Ann has done, and likely will continue to do, muuuuuch better. I will wait for the next. 2 stars
The positives: getting an opportunity to revisit loved characters from the Rock Gods. Cons: pretty much everything else.
There were way too many issues going on in this book. injuries, PTSD, fire, adultery of non -main characters, simpleminded (selfish) parents, loosening of previously close fraternal bonds, the obligatory crowding in of the characters from the previous books and the 'am I straight or gay confusion' from the main character ( who laughably is trying to rekindle the flame with his obviously male love and yet still seemingly confused about his sexual orientation. Who cares? Love who you want and forget what to call it.) None of the multiple issues seemed fully developed but all thrown together to see what would stick. I got the sense the author was driving the book to enough pages to finally call it quits. In the final analysis, I can't list enough of the reasons that this book did NOT do it for me; suffice it to say, it didn't. I can't believe that I struggled through this book. From 17% to the conclusion, I simply put one foot (or rather page) in front of the other and kept moving. Ann has done, and likely will continue to do, muuuuuch better. I will wait for the next. 2 stars
August 21, 2016
Zac and Ben had been friends since they were young children. They had always been inseparable, joined at the hip. As they grew older the feelings changed, became deeper and much more than friendship, but at 18, Zac leaves for the Marines without even saying goodbye. Something he has always regretted. Now he's back after 10 years to try to make things right between him and Ben. Is it too late?
The worst part about starting a book by Ann Lister, is it'll end. You want to get to the conclusion, but you also want to read the story slowly to savor each word, because you know you'll have to wait close to a year before the next one is released. Ann always makes them well worth the wait though, and Zac's Mulligan was no exception. As with all of her MC's, Zac and Ben share an undeniable chemistry almost from their first on page scene together. This story was a slow burn, and you could cut the sexual tension between Zac and Ben with a knife. I kept waiting for that first kiss. I felt we'd never get there, but once we did... well, holy hotness, it was electric.
I loved the storyline. We've seen the Rock Gods on tour before, but it was really eye opening to see all that goes into guarding our beloved Gods. Ann gives us a backstage pass to the security system and how it all works. It was great to get to revisit the guys from both Black Ice and Ivory Tower. This is a new series, but it's a spinoff from the Rock Gods series. The RG's, especially Linc and Aaron play a huge role in this story, but Ann gives you enough information that it can definitely be read as a standalone, but why would you want to do that!? You'd be missing out on so much if you don't catch the Rock Gods series.
This story was packed with heartbreak, emotion, sweetness, romance, smoking hot sex, but most of all love and friendship. There was even some twists I never saw coming. Highly recommended!!
The worst part about starting a book by Ann Lister, is it'll end. You want to get to the conclusion, but you also want to read the story slowly to savor each word, because you know you'll have to wait close to a year before the next one is released. Ann always makes them well worth the wait though, and Zac's Mulligan was no exception. As with all of her MC's, Zac and Ben share an undeniable chemistry almost from their first on page scene together. This story was a slow burn, and you could cut the sexual tension between Zac and Ben with a knife. I kept waiting for that first kiss. I felt we'd never get there, but once we did... well, holy hotness, it was electric.
I loved the storyline. We've seen the Rock Gods on tour before, but it was really eye opening to see all that goes into guarding our beloved Gods. Ann gives us a backstage pass to the security system and how it all works. It was great to get to revisit the guys from both Black Ice and Ivory Tower. This is a new series, but it's a spinoff from the Rock Gods series. The RG's, especially Linc and Aaron play a huge role in this story, but Ann gives you enough information that it can definitely be read as a standalone, but why would you want to do that!? You'd be missing out on so much if you don't catch the Rock Gods series.
This story was packed with heartbreak, emotion, sweetness, romance, smoking hot sex, but most of all love and friendship. There was even some twists I never saw coming. Highly recommended!!
Read
October 11, 2016I don't think I'm gonna be able to finish this...
"'Looks like you're in pain. Is your hand healing okay?' 'How's the hand?' he asked."
"Would Zac still want to be with him once he knew everything? He wasn't so sure, and for that reason he had to keep his mouth shut."
Ben was also keeping Zac at a distance because of whatever "everything" consisted of. Which is just brilliant logic.
Ben is a photographer. This is Zac expounding on Ben's photographic genius:
"Ben moved the guys around the room and positioned them in various areas of the floor space and with different backgrounds, too."
Even different backgrounds?! Genius!!
"'You've been with women," he spouted. "For fuck's sake, you were married to one! What happens when you decide to jump back over the fence to pussy land?'"
"'After you left for boot camp I shut down and closed myself off from everyone around me. I developed a thick skin and an 'I don't give a fuck' attitude and lived every day with walls so high and thick I was sure no one would ever be able to scale them to find me on the other side. That's how I wanted it, but it was lonely as hell.'"
*eyeroll*
"'Looks like you're in pain. Is your hand healing okay?' 'How's the hand?' he asked."
"Would Zac still want to be with him once he knew everything? He wasn't so sure, and for that reason he had to keep his mouth shut."
Ben was also keeping Zac at a distance because of whatever "everything" consisted of. Which is just brilliant logic.
Ben is a photographer. This is Zac expounding on Ben's photographic genius:
"Ben moved the guys around the room and positioned them in various areas of the floor space and with different backgrounds, too."
Even different backgrounds?! Genius!!
"'You've been with women," he spouted. "For fuck's sake, you were married to one! What happens when you decide to jump back over the fence to pussy land?'"
"'After you left for boot camp I shut down and closed myself off from everyone around me. I developed a thick skin and an 'I don't give a fuck' attitude and lived every day with walls so high and thick I was sure no one would ever be able to scale them to find me on the other side. That's how I wanted it, but it was lonely as hell.'"
*eyeroll*
May 9, 2017
This book was picked for me in a pick it for me challenge.
This was the first book in the "Guarding The Gods" A new series from an author that I love reading. Zac Mulligan is s security guard for Black Ice more importantly Lincoln and Aaron he was hurt when he took on Sebastian Keating when he tried to take Ryan in Paris. When he has surgery on his hand he is sent home to recover Zac can't stop thinking about his childhood friend Ben so he goes to Cape Cod to see him. Turns out Zac left for the military and didn't say goodbye to Ben the two had sex the night before although Zac didn't remember. Ben who was attacked for being gay had his face cut up he is also dealing with the death of his father who had his own secrets and he is still mad at Zac. I really liked both of these character's Zac who was a Marine is still adjusting to life outside of the Military he is still having nightmares about his time in Afghanistan. This was a good book it was long at times. This book had a lot of hot sex in it. Ben didn't forgive Zac right away and that made it really real for me. Ben and Zac agree to take it slow when Zac is healed he goes back on the road with Black Ice and Ivory Tower. Dagger has finally got an artist to do an album cover for them turns out its Ben and Zac is really happy to see him. While their Zac learns some shocking news about his father and Ben's father. While performing in Belin the theater catches fire while Black Ice is performing several member's of both bands are hurt and so is a lot of the security guys also. Zac, Lincoln, Aaron, Cooper and Mason are trapped and although he is Zac does his best to save them along with Aaron. This book was well written with no errors in grammar or spelling. I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
This was the first book in the "Guarding The Gods" A new series from an author that I love reading. Zac Mulligan is s security guard for Black Ice more importantly Lincoln and Aaron he was hurt when he took on Sebastian Keating when he tried to take Ryan in Paris. When he has surgery on his hand he is sent home to recover Zac can't stop thinking about his childhood friend Ben so he goes to Cape Cod to see him. Turns out Zac left for the military and didn't say goodbye to Ben the two had sex the night before although Zac didn't remember. Ben who was attacked for being gay had his face cut up he is also dealing with the death of his father who had his own secrets and he is still mad at Zac. I really liked both of these character's Zac who was a Marine is still adjusting to life outside of the Military he is still having nightmares about his time in Afghanistan. This was a good book it was long at times. This book had a lot of hot sex in it. Ben didn't forgive Zac right away and that made it really real for me. Ben and Zac agree to take it slow when Zac is healed he goes back on the road with Black Ice and Ivory Tower. Dagger has finally got an artist to do an album cover for them turns out its Ben and Zac is really happy to see him. While their Zac learns some shocking news about his father and Ben's father. While performing in Belin the theater catches fire while Black Ice is performing several member's of both bands are hurt and so is a lot of the security guys also. Zac, Lincoln, Aaron, Cooper and Mason are trapped and although he is Zac does his best to save them along with Aaron. This book was well written with no errors in grammar or spelling. I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
August 9, 2016
***5 Star Start to an Amazing New Series!***
Guarding band members of Black Ice has shown Zac that he needs to face his actions toward his best friend and their aftermath, even if it has been a decade since they last saw or spoke to one another. Recuperating from an injury sends him stateside, and now is as good a time as any to get back in touch with Ben.
Ben was shattered by Zac’s departure from his life and the way in which he made his exit when they were eighteen. It altered Ben irrevocably, and an incident in college altered his course yet again. Now an artist with a waiting list for his services, he’s put his life on the course of his choosing and achieved great success.
When Zac shows up at Ben’s front door, both men are shocked by the changes in the other, but will Ben open his heart up to another possible exit by the best friend he fell in love with as a child, or will a potential second departure be more than he can risk?
As has become the norm with her books, Ms. Lister walks the reader through one intense story. The reticence of both his mother as well as Ben’s to put him in touch with his former best friend baffles him, but his perseverance takes him to Cape Cod and the site of a million memories. The descriptions, as always, are fluid and graphic, taking the reader to the location in question and dropping them directly into the characters’ living rooms as silent observers, seeing, smelling, and tasting everything her characters do.
The peripheral characters are vast, and if you have read the Rock Gods series, you’ll have a significantly greater understanding of the background all of these characters share, really enriching this story. However, that said, this certainly can be read as a standalone. There are no references that aren’t explained, and the other couples (and one triple) are clearly delineated as to their respective bands. The chemistry between these two men is beyond explosive! Sensual and evocative, they play to each other like finely tuned guitars for seriously steamy encounters.
The character development on both their parts is significant and crafted in such a way that the reader feels a strong empathy for both men and their troubles. This is a long book, but the end still came entirely too quickly for my liking!
Her books are chock full of, and I’m going to quote directly from this book, because I couldn’t say it any better, “loud, in your face debauchery laced music...” couched as a love story. She’s crafted another winner, and the glimpse of the next love story to come just whet my appetite for more!
Review copy of Zac’s Mulligan provided by the author, Ann Lister, for an honest review.
Merged review:
***5 Star Start to an Amazing New Series!***
Guarding band members of Black Ice has shown Zac that he needs to face his actions toward his best friend and their aftermath, even if it has been a decade since they last saw or spoke to one another. Recuperating from an injury sends him stateside, and now is as good a time as any to get back in touch with Ben.
Ben was shattered by Zac’s departure from his life and the way in which he made his exit when they were eighteen. It altered Ben irrevocably, and an incident in college altered his course yet again. Now an artist with a waiting list for his services, he’s put his life on the course of his choosing and achieved great success.
When Zac shows up at Ben’s front door, both men are shocked by the changes in the other, but will Ben open his heart up to another possible exit by the best friend he fell in love with as a child, or will a potential second departure be more than he can risk?
As has become the norm with her books, Ms. Lister walks the reader through one intense story. The reticence of both his mother as well as Ben’s to put him in touch with his former best friend baffles him, but his perseverance takes him to Cape Cod and the site of a million memories. The descriptions, as always, are fluid and graphic, taking the reader to the location in question and dropping them directly into the characters’ living rooms as silent observers, seeing, smelling, and tasting everything her characters do.
The peripheral characters are vast, and if you have read the Rock Gods series, you’ll have a significantly greater understanding of the background all of these characters share, really enriching this story. However, that said, this certainly can be read as a standalone. There are no references that aren’t explained, and the other couples (and one triple) are clearly delineated as to their respective bands. The chemistry between these two men is beyond explosive! Sensual and evocative, they play to each other like finely tuned guitars for seriously steamy encounters.
The character development on both their parts is significant and crafted in such a way that the reader feels a strong empathy for both men and their troubles. This is a long book, but the end still came entirely too quickly for my liking!
Her books are chock full of, and I’m going to quote directly from this book, because I couldn’t say it any better, “loud, in your face debauchery laced music...” couched as a love story. She’s crafted another winner, and the glimpse of the next love story to come just whet my appetite for more!
Review copy of Zac’s Mulligan provided by the author, Ann Lister, for an honest review.
Guarding band members of Black Ice has shown Zac that he needs to face his actions toward his best friend and their aftermath, even if it has been a decade since they last saw or spoke to one another. Recuperating from an injury sends him stateside, and now is as good a time as any to get back in touch with Ben.
Ben was shattered by Zac’s departure from his life and the way in which he made his exit when they were eighteen. It altered Ben irrevocably, and an incident in college altered his course yet again. Now an artist with a waiting list for his services, he’s put his life on the course of his choosing and achieved great success.
When Zac shows up at Ben’s front door, both men are shocked by the changes in the other, but will Ben open his heart up to another possible exit by the best friend he fell in love with as a child, or will a potential second departure be more than he can risk?
As has become the norm with her books, Ms. Lister walks the reader through one intense story. The reticence of both his mother as well as Ben’s to put him in touch with his former best friend baffles him, but his perseverance takes him to Cape Cod and the site of a million memories. The descriptions, as always, are fluid and graphic, taking the reader to the location in question and dropping them directly into the characters’ living rooms as silent observers, seeing, smelling, and tasting everything her characters do.
The peripheral characters are vast, and if you have read the Rock Gods series, you’ll have a significantly greater understanding of the background all of these characters share, really enriching this story. However, that said, this certainly can be read as a standalone. There are no references that aren’t explained, and the other couples (and one triple) are clearly delineated as to their respective bands. The chemistry between these two men is beyond explosive! Sensual and evocative, they play to each other like finely tuned guitars for seriously steamy encounters.
The character development on both their parts is significant and crafted in such a way that the reader feels a strong empathy for both men and their troubles. This is a long book, but the end still came entirely too quickly for my liking!
Her books are chock full of, and I’m going to quote directly from this book, because I couldn’t say it any better, “loud, in your face debauchery laced music...” couched as a love story. She’s crafted another winner, and the glimpse of the next love story to come just whet my appetite for more!
Review copy of Zac’s Mulligan provided by the author, Ann Lister, for an honest review.
Merged review:
***5 Star Start to an Amazing New Series!***
Guarding band members of Black Ice has shown Zac that he needs to face his actions toward his best friend and their aftermath, even if it has been a decade since they last saw or spoke to one another. Recuperating from an injury sends him stateside, and now is as good a time as any to get back in touch with Ben.
Ben was shattered by Zac’s departure from his life and the way in which he made his exit when they were eighteen. It altered Ben irrevocably, and an incident in college altered his course yet again. Now an artist with a waiting list for his services, he’s put his life on the course of his choosing and achieved great success.
When Zac shows up at Ben’s front door, both men are shocked by the changes in the other, but will Ben open his heart up to another possible exit by the best friend he fell in love with as a child, or will a potential second departure be more than he can risk?
As has become the norm with her books, Ms. Lister walks the reader through one intense story. The reticence of both his mother as well as Ben’s to put him in touch with his former best friend baffles him, but his perseverance takes him to Cape Cod and the site of a million memories. The descriptions, as always, are fluid and graphic, taking the reader to the location in question and dropping them directly into the characters’ living rooms as silent observers, seeing, smelling, and tasting everything her characters do.
The peripheral characters are vast, and if you have read the Rock Gods series, you’ll have a significantly greater understanding of the background all of these characters share, really enriching this story. However, that said, this certainly can be read as a standalone. There are no references that aren’t explained, and the other couples (and one triple) are clearly delineated as to their respective bands. The chemistry between these two men is beyond explosive! Sensual and evocative, they play to each other like finely tuned guitars for seriously steamy encounters.
The character development on both their parts is significant and crafted in such a way that the reader feels a strong empathy for both men and their troubles. This is a long book, but the end still came entirely too quickly for my liking!
Her books are chock full of, and I’m going to quote directly from this book, because I couldn’t say it any better, “loud, in your face debauchery laced music...” couched as a love story. She’s crafted another winner, and the glimpse of the next love story to come just whet my appetite for more!
Review copy of Zac’s Mulligan provided by the author, Ann Lister, for an honest review.
September 2, 2017
LOVED IT!
Zac and Ben were best friends separated when they were 18. Both men were deeply in love with the other but it took 10 long years for them to reconnect and come to terms with their love. Zac had left for the Marines without saying goodbye. This was just following one night of passion only Ben remembered so clearly. 10 years of hurt...can Ben forgive Zac and have a do-over? Further family secrets come to light which threatens their relationship once again.
Action, angst, and strong men...this book has it all. Totally worth reading!
Zac and Ben were best friends separated when they were 18. Both men were deeply in love with the other but it took 10 long years for them to reconnect and come to terms with their love. Zac had left for the Marines without saying goodbye. This was just following one night of passion only Ben remembered so clearly. 10 years of hurt...can Ben forgive Zac and have a do-over? Further family secrets come to light which threatens their relationship once again.
Action, angst, and strong men...this book has it all. Totally worth reading!
November 4, 2018
This is a beautiful story of love, love lost and second chances. Zac and Ben are reunited after ten years of being apart and sparks are flying. The heartaches they have both suffered have made them skittish about reconnecting but they can't deny their feelings for each other. Loved this story and looking forward to more.
Want to read
December 15, 2018Thanks for the awesome gift Santa's Secret Helper, you made my day!! <3
August 10, 2016
Anyone who's read Ann Lister's Rock Gods series I'm sure waited with their twitching one-click fingers locked and loaded for the clock to strike midnight. You know what the best part is? This book will blow everyone away—their Goddess absolutely, positively, with everything I can think of under the sun, hasn't let them down.
Zac's Mulligan is the first book in the Guarding the Gods spinoff series. As the author promised—to herself, as much as to her fans—we'd not seen the last of our boys from Black Ice mostly, with just enough Ivory Tower to take the edge off.
Remember, this is about a whole new bunch of characters. These are the guys that put themselves out there protecting our rockers.
Ok, first batter up is Zac Mulligan—ex-military, now an employee for Ventura Security Group. Going back to the last book, Beyond the Music, Zac was wounded in the clusterf#ck of all that was Sebastian Keating—knife-wielding, disgruntled, wannabe columnist ~ he's irrelevant after that because he doesn't deserve any more notability. There's someone that's been taking front and center in Zac's mind—Ben Holland. Ben was his childhood friend, and by the time they graduated high school they had already turned into something more.
With Lincoln's suggestion, Zac decides to see what Ben has been up to for the last ten years, as he heads back to the States to heal. Yes folks, ten years. A lot can change in ten years.
As much as Ben and Zac have grown, each with an impressive resume—Ben is an accomplished and well sought-after photographer and artist—they still exhume innocence, maybe something carried over and not lost from their youth since that's exactly where they left off with each other. Hoping that the years haven't permanently torn them apart, Zac experiences for the first time, the anger and bitterness of Ben's reaction at his intrusive return into Ben's life considering Zac had all but abandoned him when he left for the service. Life wasn't easy for Ben after Zac left. Zac knew going into a war zone who he was going up against, where as Ben was blindsided and left to pick up the pieces of his life that were shattered from the very places and people that should have nurtured him.
In the course of this brilliant story, Ben and Zac professionally and personally weave their way into each other's lives. Finally, for the both of them, the truthful and bittersweet acknowledgement of a love that never had a proper chance to find its place, rekindles itself—their feelings for each other throughout all the years have never faltered. In order for any of Ann's characters to get their priorities where they should be, in one way or another, they go through hell to get to heaven. Call it "a lesson learned" or "seeing the light", there's always plenty of raw emotion and heart tugging situations swirling around. Zac And Ben are smoking hot together as well—it's more of a slow burn than a jumping in right away. I truly loved watching the two of them as they navigated their way back to each other.
Zac's Mulligan has plenty of banter and fun and games amongst all the band members. Because the story now focuses on a new crew, Ann can do whatever she wants with all or any of the band members. All Rock Gods fans are going to go nuts at what goes on on-stage, or in a bar, or even in Dagger's hotel bathroom (take one guess!) There's also a section that is so intense and well written that I hadn't even realized I was holding my breath the whole time.
Of course there are bits that lead to the next in the series that will involve Fizzbo and a new character, Kensey.
I can't rave enough about Zac's Mulligan. Ann Lister really knocked this one outta the ballpark. The storyline was brilliant, her attention to detail painstaking, along with Zac and Ben and her cast of epic supporting characters, made this first book of the Guarding the Gods series, hands down a five plus star read for me. Just an incredible job by an outstanding author!!
August 8, 2016
Zac is a former marine who is now security for two of the hottest bands on tour, Black Ice and Ivory Tower. Over the course of working with these men Zac has become close to them, especially Lincoln and Aaron. After relieving an injury to his hand protecting two of his wards, he took time off and headed home to heal and do his physical therapy. For a while now he has not been able to get Ben off of his mind and feels the need to finally get closure on their past together and find a way to move forward in his life.
Ben is a graphic artist that makes his living being self employed. After Zac walked out of his life at the age of 18, Ben had a hard time letting go of and forgetting the one person he loved most in the world.
Once Zac steps back into Ben's life both men have to deal with the pain and heartache they both felt when Zac left for the marines without saying goodbye. Not only did he leave but it has been ten years since they last seen each other and a lot has happened in their lives both good and bad.
These two men have to decide if what they had as teenagers was real. If it was real can they both get over all the pain, deception, heartache, and loneliness they both felt without each other. Zac and Ben are in for a long road with one another and each has secrets that the other dos not know about. They will have to learn to forgive each other before they are able to love one another and trust each other completely. But fate may intervene before they are able to reach this point.
I personally found this book be as amazing as the previous books I have read by Ann Lister. Ann is an amazing author who is able to make her readers feel all of the emotions that each of her characters are going through. This book was no different. It had my heart beating fast when the characters first seen each other again. It had me crying with the characters through their heart break. It also had me cheering them on when they realized they still had feelings for one another.
If you want an incredible read, this book is it. I loved every twist and turn and I would definitely give this book a five star rating.
I was given this advanced copy of Zac's Mulligan from Ann Lister for an honest review
Ben is a graphic artist that makes his living being self employed. After Zac walked out of his life at the age of 18, Ben had a hard time letting go of and forgetting the one person he loved most in the world.
Once Zac steps back into Ben's life both men have to deal with the pain and heartache they both felt when Zac left for the marines without saying goodbye. Not only did he leave but it has been ten years since they last seen each other and a lot has happened in their lives both good and bad.
These two men have to decide if what they had as teenagers was real. If it was real can they both get over all the pain, deception, heartache, and loneliness they both felt without each other. Zac and Ben are in for a long road with one another and each has secrets that the other dos not know about. They will have to learn to forgive each other before they are able to love one another and trust each other completely. But fate may intervene before they are able to reach this point.
I personally found this book be as amazing as the previous books I have read by Ann Lister. Ann is an amazing author who is able to make her readers feel all of the emotions that each of her characters are going through. This book was no different. It had my heart beating fast when the characters first seen each other again. It had me crying with the characters through their heart break. It also had me cheering them on when they realized they still had feelings for one another.
If you want an incredible read, this book is it. I loved every twist and turn and I would definitely give this book a five star rating.
I was given this advanced copy of Zac's Mulligan from Ann Lister for an honest review
March 31, 2017
3.5 stars for classic Ann Lister
In this first of the Guarding the Gods stories, it seems to be written in much the same tradition as the original Rock Gods series. Familiar elements from those are present, with Zac as the character being unaware or uncertain about his sexuality. Since the two bands are on tour together, our favorite characters all have parts to play and it was enjoyable seeing them. The theme of chosen family and close ties of brotherhood is present as well. So it was mostly enjoyable but I wasn't captivated by it as I was by the earliest books.
Maybe I'm just too nit-picky lately, but Zac and Ben weren't characters I was able to care about much. I can't really detail all the issues I had without spoilers, so I won't list them. In general, I felt the conversations and internal dialogue in the first few chapters was inconsistent and awkward. I disliked the approach used with Zac's thoughts and views of his sexuality. I also didn't care for some of the details regarding Zac and Ben's family issues. Last, there was some logic and realism missing in the big action sequence. I also felt the first half of the story moved far too slowly. It wasn't overwhelmed by sex scenes, though.
Since there was a great deal of detail about the bands and other characters, I did move past it and the second half was faster to read. It certainly won't keep me from reading the next book as this first two Rock Gods books are among my earliest MM reads. I have a loyalty to the series that I doubt will ever change.
In this first of the Guarding the Gods stories, it seems to be written in much the same tradition as the original Rock Gods series. Familiar elements from those are present, with Zac as the character being unaware or uncertain about his sexuality. Since the two bands are on tour together, our favorite characters all have parts to play and it was enjoyable seeing them. The theme of chosen family and close ties of brotherhood is present as well. So it was mostly enjoyable but I wasn't captivated by it as I was by the earliest books.
Maybe I'm just too nit-picky lately, but Zac and Ben weren't characters I was able to care about much. I can't really detail all the issues I had without spoilers, so I won't list them. In general, I felt the conversations and internal dialogue in the first few chapters was inconsistent and awkward. I disliked the approach used with Zac's thoughts and views of his sexuality. I also didn't care for some of the details regarding Zac and Ben's family issues. Last, there was some logic and realism missing in the big action sequence. I also felt the first half of the story moved far too slowly. It wasn't overwhelmed by sex scenes, though.
Since there was a great deal of detail about the bands and other characters, I did move past it and the second half was faster to read. It certainly won't keep me from reading the next book as this first two Rock Gods books are among my earliest MM reads. I have a loyalty to the series that I doubt will ever change.
October 4, 2016
Enjoyable read. Loved Zac and Ben's story. But I think my favorite aspect of this book was the dynamic between the men of Black Ice, Ivory Tower, and their new security teams. The way they've formed an unconventional family unit, their ability to pull together and support one another in the face of tragedy, and the love, empathy and respect they have for one another. Really enjoying this rock-&-roll world Ann Lister has created, and look forward to more stories in this universe. Fizzbo and Kenley's story, perhaps???
November 21, 2016
Great start to the new series. I loved Zac and Ben. I’m so happy Zac went back and fought for Ben. I just could not believe he waited 10 years to do it. I also enjoyed that all the band members were a part of the story as usual. I’m sorry the tour turned out the way it did though, but I’m curious to see where the author takes the rest of the series.
August 23, 2016
Amazing!! Awesomely Beautiful!!
I loved this book so much. It is the perfect spinoff and start to what is shaping up to be beautiful series and I can't wait to read more.
I loved this book so much. It is the perfect spinoff and start to what is shaping up to be beautiful series and I can't wait to read more.
August 25, 2016
4.25 Stars
September 5, 2017
2.75 stars.
October 15, 2018
2.5 stars - I’ll start by saying how much I really enjoyed most of The Rock Gods series. Towards the end, it lost its allure for me and I stopped after Lincoln and Aaron’s story (book 7). When this spin-off series was released, I had no desire to read it. Fast forward to not so long ago when the books were reduced in price and I bought them all. I was feeling nostalgic for Dagger, Zander, Cooper, and Wheland. Silly, silly girl.
Zac’s Mulligan brought back all of my niggles that caused me to stop reading the series to begin with. Changing a character’s name? Yup. At the beginning of the book, Ben’s father’s name is Ken. By the end of the book it has been changed to Kent. This happened in The Rock Gods with the MC Tony (the keyboardist for Ivory Tower). His name was Tony Walcott in books 2 and 3, then lo and behold, it’s changed to Tony Wilcox. WHY does this happen??? Surely someone should have picked up on this! There were plenty of punctuation errors, as well. “What’d you mean?” basically says, “What did you mean?” NOT “What do you mean?” which is how it’s used. If that’s what it should say, the proper contraction should have read, “What d’you mean?” It could even be “Whaddya mean?” if the really wanted it to be casual.
I have several other issues with this book, but I just really didn’t like Ben. He was an a$s and I thought Zac deserved better. It wasn’t until about 75% into the book when I finally saw the appeal. So, even though I am really not enjoying this series, I will continue on because I’ve already spent the money. Plus, I REALLY want to read Alex’s follow-up book, Reinventing Us, that was just released. I just won’t write anymore (rants) reviews.
Zac’s Mulligan brought back all of my niggles that caused me to stop reading the series to begin with. Changing a character’s name? Yup. At the beginning of the book, Ben’s father’s name is Ken. By the end of the book it has been changed to Kent. This happened in The Rock Gods with the MC Tony (the keyboardist for Ivory Tower). His name was Tony Walcott in books 2 and 3, then lo and behold, it’s changed to Tony Wilcox. WHY does this happen??? Surely someone should have picked up on this! There were plenty of punctuation errors, as well. “What’d you mean?” basically says, “What did you mean?” NOT “What do you mean?” which is how it’s used. If that’s what it should say, the proper contraction should have read, “What d’you mean?” It could even be “Whaddya mean?” if the really wanted it to be casual.
I have several other issues with this book, but I just really didn’t like Ben. He was an a$s and I thought Zac deserved better. It wasn’t until about 75% into the book when I finally saw the appeal. So, even though I am really not enjoying this series, I will continue on because I’ve already spent the money. Plus, I REALLY want to read Alex’s follow-up book, Reinventing Us, that was just released. I just won’t write anymore (rants) reviews.
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