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Urban Soul #2
Strays
An Urban Soul Novel
Work, sleep, work, repeat. Nero’s lonely life suits him just fine until his best friend, Cass, asks him to take on a new apprentice—a beautiful young man who’s never set foot in a professional kitchen. Despite his irritation and his lifelong ability to shut the world out, Nero is mesmerised by the vibrant stray, especially when he learns what drove him to seek sanctuary on Nero’s battered old couch.
Lenny Mitchell is living under a cloud of fear. Pursued by a stalker, he has nowhere left to run until Nero offers him a port in a storm—a job at the hottest restaurant in Shepherd's Bush. Kitchen life proves heady and addictive, and it’s not long before he finds himself falling hard and fast for the man who has taken him in.
Fast-forward a month and neither man can imagine life without the other, but one thing stands in their a lifetime of horrors Nero can’t bring himself to share with Lenny. Or can he? For the first time ever, happiness is there for the taking, and Nero must learn to embrace it before fate steps in and rips it away.
* * * * * * *
Word 65,300; page 266
Work, sleep, work, repeat. Nero’s lonely life suits him just fine until his best friend, Cass, asks him to take on a new apprentice—a beautiful young man who’s never set foot in a professional kitchen. Despite his irritation and his lifelong ability to shut the world out, Nero is mesmerised by the vibrant stray, especially when he learns what drove him to seek sanctuary on Nero’s battered old couch.
Lenny Mitchell is living under a cloud of fear. Pursued by a stalker, he has nowhere left to run until Nero offers him a port in a storm—a job at the hottest restaurant in Shepherd's Bush. Kitchen life proves heady and addictive, and it’s not long before he finds himself falling hard and fast for the man who has taken him in.
Fast-forward a month and neither man can imagine life without the other, but one thing stands in their a lifetime of horrors Nero can’t bring himself to share with Lenny. Or can he? For the first time ever, happiness is there for the taking, and Nero must learn to embrace it before fate steps in and rips it away.
* * * * * * *
Word 65,300; page 266
249 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 25, 2017
84 people are currently reading
1207 people want to read
About the author
Garrett Leigh
94 books2,400 followersShe/Her
Bonus Material available for all books on Garrett's Patreon account. Includes short stories from Misfits, Slide, Strays, What Remains, Dream, and much more. Sign up here: https://www.patreon.com/garrettleigh
Facebook Fan Group, Garrett's Den... https://www.facebook.com/groups/garre...
Garrett Leigh is an award-winning British romance author and artist. Her debut novel, Slide, won Best Bisexual Debut at the 2014 Rainbow Book Awards, and she is a 4 time LAMBDA finalist.
In 2017, she won the EPIC award in contemporary romance with her military novel, Between Ghosts, and the contemporary romance category in the Bisexual Book Awards with her novel What Remains.
Garrett is also an award winning cover designer, taking the silver medal at the Benjamin Franklin Book Awards in 2016. She designs for various publishing houses and independent authors at blackjazzdesign.com
Bonus Material available for all books on Garrett's Patreon account. Includes short stories from Misfits, Slide, Strays, What Remains, Dream, and much more. Sign up here: https://www.patreon.com/garrettleigh
Facebook Fan Group, Garrett's Den... https://www.facebook.com/groups/garre...
Garrett Leigh is an award-winning British romance author and artist. Her debut novel, Slide, won Best Bisexual Debut at the 2014 Rainbow Book Awards, and she is a 4 time LAMBDA finalist.
In 2017, she won the EPIC award in contemporary romance with her military novel, Between Ghosts, and the contemporary romance category in the Bisexual Book Awards with her novel What Remains.
Garrett is also an award winning cover designer, taking the silver medal at the Benjamin Franklin Book Awards in 2016. She designs for various publishing houses and independent authors at blackjazzdesign.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 381 reviews
February 9, 2017
4.5 Stars.
This is the second book in the series be CAN be read as a standalone as the characters from Misfits ( book one ) are well introduced.
I adored Lenny from the start.Working as a server in Misfits Restaurant he loves to dye his hair and go dancing but his life has been put on hold due to a stalker.With no real evidence the Police seem reluctant to do anything which leaves Lenny at breaking point.This is where Cass,his boss,steps in.He entrusts him to one of his chefs,Nero with strict instructions for Nero to keep a close eye on him.
Nero is a workaholic-he's grumpy and rude and the last thing he needs is one of Cass's Strays to babysit.At first he has no idea what to do with Lenny in the kitchen but soon recognizes that Lenny has quite a flair for putting together flamboyant plates of food.
Before anything sexual happens between them they come to rely on each other in different ways and for different reasons.Nero has a past which he keeps bottled up and is very reluctant to share it with Lenny.Nero becomes fiercely protective of Lenny and Lenny recognizes that there is so much more to Nero than his grumpy exterior.
There's not an abundance of sex scenes but when they do become close it's perfect and,I felt,just right for the story.The dynamics of their sexual relationship was not what I was expecting but it definitely worked.There's a great feeling of family and belonging throughout the book not least because of the involvement of Tom,Cass and Jake from book one.
This book ticked so many boxes for me,
Two highly likeable but different characters.
Great supporting characters.
A bit of angst,but not overdone.
The Kitchen/Restaurant setting,I just loved.
Enough sexy times to keep me happy.
And of course the fact that it's British and set in London was a huge plus.
Highly recommended.
Arc provided by Riptide Publishing via the Author.
This review has been posted on Dirty Books Obsession
This is the second book in the series be CAN be read as a standalone as the characters from Misfits ( book one ) are well introduced.
I adored Lenny from the start.Working as a server in Misfits Restaurant he loves to dye his hair and go dancing but his life has been put on hold due to a stalker.With no real evidence the Police seem reluctant to do anything which leaves Lenny at breaking point.This is where Cass,his boss,steps in.He entrusts him to one of his chefs,Nero with strict instructions for Nero to keep a close eye on him.
Nero is a workaholic-he's grumpy and rude and the last thing he needs is one of Cass's Strays to babysit.At first he has no idea what to do with Lenny in the kitchen but soon recognizes that Lenny has quite a flair for putting together flamboyant plates of food.
Before anything sexual happens between them they come to rely on each other in different ways and for different reasons.Nero has a past which he keeps bottled up and is very reluctant to share it with Lenny.Nero becomes fiercely protective of Lenny and Lenny recognizes that there is so much more to Nero than his grumpy exterior.
There's not an abundance of sex scenes but when they do become close it's perfect and,I felt,just right for the story.The dynamics of their sexual relationship was not what I was expecting but it definitely worked.There's a great feeling of family and belonging throughout the book not least because of the involvement of Tom,Cass and Jake from book one.
This book ticked so many boxes for me,
Two highly likeable but different characters.
Great supporting characters.
A bit of angst,but not overdone.
The Kitchen/Restaurant setting,I just loved.
Enough sexy times to keep me happy.
And of course the fact that it's British and set in London was a huge plus.
Highly recommended.
Arc provided by Riptide Publishing via the Author.
This review has been posted on Dirty Books Obsession
February 7, 2017
~4.5~
I tend to avoid Garrett Leigh's books, not because she isn't a fabulous writer, because she IS, and not because her characters are shallow, because they certainly are NOT; no, I avoid her books because ANGST & PAIN:
- All the MCs have sad, tortured backgrounds.
- A sense of melancholy permeates every story.
- The steamy scenes are muted and sparse.
Strays checks every single one of those boxes. But I still loved it.
Nero has a tragic past, one he doesn't share with anyone. What we know is that he's missing half a finger and has been to prison. Nero excels at keeping people away. He's angry, standoffish, and garrulous.
Lenny's parents weren't into his gay ways, but he still made a life for himself, what with his wild hair and dancing moves. All was well, until he became prey.
When Lenny first meets Nero, he's terrified of his own shadow. He hides in Nero's living room and in the restaurant kitchen. He makes himself useful and decorates Nero's food. Nero hates that—except when Lenny does it.
I never read Misfits, but I still loved Cass, Tom, and Jake, who were so supportive of Nero and Lenny.
Nero and Lenny embark on a slowww, sensual dance. They smoke (sometimes fags, sometimes weed). Lenny loses his mind because Nero won't let him in. And Nero craves Lenny more than he craves nicotine.
The stalker plot is not incidental to the story; there's always a hint of danger. But it's never exaggerated or melodramatic. It feels REAL, and it's fucking scary.
The steam level is on the low side, but when Lenny and Nero come together, it's all passionate touch and HEAT and need.
Nero and Lenny are complex characters with dreams, hopes, and desires. And they are absolutely AMAZING together. Lenny draws tigers because they make him think of Nero. And Nero, well, he just wants to put a smile on Lenny's face.
The plot isn't without angst, but the underlying sweetness stole my heart. I wanted all the joy for these men. Lenny deserved gluten-free pizza and freedom to just be, and Nero deserved to love and FEEL.
I adore the Britishness of Leigh's book. Unlike other authors, she doesn't settle for watered down, Americanized language. Strays feels authentic and TRUE.
I tend to avoid Garrett Leigh's books, not because she isn't a fabulous writer, because she IS, and not because her characters are shallow, because they certainly are NOT; no, I avoid her books because ANGST & PAIN:
- All the MCs have sad, tortured backgrounds.
- A sense of melancholy permeates every story.
- The steamy scenes are muted and sparse.
Strays checks every single one of those boxes. But I still loved it.
Nero has a tragic past, one he doesn't share with anyone. What we know is that he's missing half a finger and has been to prison. Nero excels at keeping people away. He's angry, standoffish, and garrulous.
Lenny's parents weren't into his gay ways, but he still made a life for himself, what with his wild hair and dancing moves. All was well, until he became prey.
When Lenny first meets Nero, he's terrified of his own shadow. He hides in Nero's living room and in the restaurant kitchen. He makes himself useful and decorates Nero's food. Nero hates that—except when Lenny does it.
I never read Misfits, but I still loved Cass, Tom, and Jake, who were so supportive of Nero and Lenny.
Nero and Lenny embark on a slowww, sensual dance. They smoke (sometimes fags, sometimes weed). Lenny loses his mind because Nero won't let him in. And Nero craves Lenny more than he craves nicotine.
"You're different, even since I last saw you."
"I'm different because you saw me, Lenny."
The stalker plot is not incidental to the story; there's always a hint of danger. But it's never exaggerated or melodramatic. It feels REAL, and it's fucking scary.
The steam level is on the low side, but when Lenny and Nero come together, it's all passionate touch and HEAT and need.
Nero and Lenny are complex characters with dreams, hopes, and desires. And they are absolutely AMAZING together. Lenny draws tigers because they make him think of Nero. And Nero, well, he just wants to put a smile on Lenny's face.
Lenny sighed. "You're an arsehole, you know that?"
"Yes."
"And I love you. You know that too, right?
The plot isn't without angst, but the underlying sweetness stole my heart. I wanted all the joy for these men. Lenny deserved gluten-free pizza and freedom to just be, and Nero deserved to love and FEEL.
I adore the Britishness of Leigh's book. Unlike other authors, she doesn't settle for watered down, Americanized language. Strays feels authentic and TRUE.
April 2, 2017
Tag team review with my fellow uni, The Adam!
4.75 Hearts
This series is a keeper!
I thoroughly enjoyed Strays in a completely different way than Misfits. The characterizations of both Nero and Lenny are just as three-dimensional as those of its predecessor, but these two vibrant characters are bolder than Jake or Tom. Strays can be read as a standalone, but you don't want to miss Misfits if for no other reason than to experience Leigh's range for yourself.
I was heart eyeing Nero in Misfits and Leigh did not disappoint in delivering the grump in Strays. He is a Grumpy McGrumperton of the highest order. He’s intimidating, growly, caustic even! Man, I heart him. He’s pricklier than a porcupine on the outside but with a marshmallow center. I really loved that Leigh didn’t ungrumpify him at the first sweet aroma of TruuuueeeWuuubbbbb. Wait. Sorry, this is MM romancelandia so change that sweet to musky with a hint of something woodsy.
Nero's backstory which he is tightlipped about is doled out like breadcrumbs, and fleshes him out. Honestly, it was pretty tough for me to read. Not because of the abuse he suffered but because the system failed him. I got so worked up that I had to take a break, if that tells you anything.
Cass, Tom and Jake make appearances which I loved! Crunchy twats FTW! It’s Cass that puts Lenny in Nero’s life. Cass and Nero's relationship is more complex than I envisioned and if you've read my review of Misfits you'll know Cass was my favorite. I think, though it's never explicitly said, that Cass put these two together for a reason. Cass asks Nero to not let him be scared and he does, but I think Lenny saves Nero as much as Nero saves Lenny.
Lenny’s got a psycho-stalker that’s got him so rightly freaked out that he’s afraid to even step foot outside when he lands on Nero’s couch. In many ways they are opposites but what they share is an intestinal fortitude that keeps them from giving up. Both are fiercely independent and unapologetic about it, so I think they have more commonalities than differences which gives them balance. Lenny is a bit femme with his guyliner and glitter. He used to be a dancer, creative, artistic and outgoing before everything went to hell in a handbasket.
What I loved most about their relationship is: (1) their interplay. Lenny’s never afraid of Nero’s bluster. He laughs and jokes around with him; he engages in the verbal swordplay whereas most back down; (2) Lenny’s the smaller guy, but surprisingly, it’s the rough and tumble, tattooed, imposing Nero who harbors fantasies of bottoming, when he's thought about having sex with a bloke, that is.
Their romance is a slow burn that builds tension to explosive proportions. The UST backbuilds so that every time they're together it’s fierce, feral and combustive, but don’t expect an excessive amount of sex. There is some and it is pretty amazing but Strays focuses on the development of their relationship as they painstakingly build trust between them. At one point I actually found myself coaching Lenny. Now, that's either hella invested in this narrative or I'm a crazy train. Maybe both. Probably.
The only thing I couldn’t reconcile was the submissive/bottoming thing which I do not think of as one and the same. It was a strange leap for Lenny to make in the first place, struck me as tacked on and weird and what’s more, nothing is done with it. It just sort of sits there like your weird uncle at holiday gatherings that no one knows what to do with.
Aside from that one hiccup, it’s a touching story with two complex characters that are great individually and the love they have for one another makes them greater which is what makes reading this genre worthwhile for me.
Obviously, I adored all the cookery and that Nero never babied Lenny in the kitchen. The Urban Soul organization... *sigh* I wish with all my heart it wasn't fictional, because I would so quit my job and work for them. How the restaurant story arch played out was just as satisfying as the first.
The formatting with sections being from one perspective then switching to the other for a time I really like. It helps me get to know each character in meaningful ways. I’m hopeful this series continues and perhaps the next book will feature Jolen or more of Nero and Lenny and their food truck adventures.
Recommended!
A copy was provided by NetGalley.
4.75 Hearts
This series is a keeper!
I thoroughly enjoyed Strays in a completely different way than Misfits. The characterizations of both Nero and Lenny are just as three-dimensional as those of its predecessor, but these two vibrant characters are bolder than Jake or Tom. Strays can be read as a standalone, but you don't want to miss Misfits if for no other reason than to experience Leigh's range for yourself.
“Nero’s a grumpy sod, but he’s salt of the earth, really. I’d trust ‘im with my life.”
I was heart eyeing Nero in Misfits and Leigh did not disappoint in delivering the grump in Strays. He is a Grumpy McGrumperton of the highest order. He’s intimidating, growly, caustic even! Man, I heart him. He’s pricklier than a porcupine on the outside but with a marshmallow center. I really loved that Leigh didn’t ungrumpify him at the first sweet aroma of TruuuueeeWuuubbbbb. Wait. Sorry, this is MM romancelandia so change that sweet to musky with a hint of something woodsy.
Nero's backstory which he is tightlipped about is doled out like breadcrumbs, and fleshes him out. Honestly, it was pretty tough for me to read. Not because of the abuse he suffered but because the system failed him. I got so worked up that I had to take a break, if that tells you anything.
Cass, Tom and Jake make appearances which I loved! Crunchy twats FTW! It’s Cass that puts Lenny in Nero’s life. Cass and Nero's relationship is more complex than I envisioned and if you've read my review of Misfits you'll know Cass was my favorite. I think, though it's never explicitly said, that Cass put these two together for a reason. Cass asks Nero to not let him be scared and he does, but I think Lenny saves Nero as much as Nero saves Lenny.
Lenny’s got a psycho-stalker that’s got him so rightly freaked out that he’s afraid to even step foot outside when he lands on Nero’s couch. In many ways they are opposites but what they share is an intestinal fortitude that keeps them from giving up. Both are fiercely independent and unapologetic about it, so I think they have more commonalities than differences which gives them balance. Lenny is a bit femme with his guyliner and glitter. He used to be a dancer, creative, artistic and outgoing before everything went to hell in a handbasket.
What I loved most about their relationship is: (1) their interplay. Lenny’s never afraid of Nero’s bluster. He laughs and jokes around with him; he engages in the verbal swordplay whereas most back down; (2) Lenny’s the smaller guy, but surprisingly, it’s the rough and tumble, tattooed, imposing Nero who harbors fantasies of bottoming, when he's thought about having sex with a bloke, that is.
Their romance is a slow burn that builds tension to explosive proportions. The UST backbuilds so that every time they're together it’s fierce, feral and combustive, but don’t expect an excessive amount of sex. There is some and it is pretty amazing but Strays focuses on the development of their relationship as they painstakingly build trust between them. At one point I actually found myself coaching Lenny. Now, that's either hella invested in this narrative or I'm a crazy train. Maybe both. Probably.
“I’m different because you saw me, Lenny.”
The only thing I couldn’t reconcile was the submissive/bottoming thing which I do not think of as one and the same. It was a strange leap for Lenny to make in the first place, struck me as tacked on and weird and what’s more, nothing is done with it. It just sort of sits there like your weird uncle at holiday gatherings that no one knows what to do with.
Aside from that one hiccup, it’s a touching story with two complex characters that are great individually and the love they have for one another makes them greater which is what makes reading this genre worthwhile for me.
Obviously, I adored all the cookery and that Nero never babied Lenny in the kitchen. The Urban Soul organization... *sigh* I wish with all my heart it wasn't fictional, because I would so quit my job and work for them. How the restaurant story arch played out was just as satisfying as the first.
The formatting with sections being from one perspective then switching to the other for a time I really like. It helps me get to know each character in meaningful ways. I’m hopeful this series continues and perhaps the next book will feature Jolen or more of Nero and Lenny and their food truck adventures.
Recommended!
A copy was provided by NetGalley.
February 7, 2017
4.5 Stars!
I used to be a bit more hesitant about requesting a GL book - but these days 9x out of 10 I'm going to like it. And yeah, her stuff is a bit angstier, a bit heavier...but they always manage to bring out the feels.
I'd kind of forgotten all about the Misfits gang...and how much I liked them. So it was great to get some of Cass, Tom and Jake in this one.
The stalker bit didn't take over the story for those worried about that storyline. And while this one was a bit melancholy, there were quite a few LOL moments too. Nero was so sarcastic, everything that came out of his mouth was funny.
The steam factor on this one was definitely a bit on the low to moderate side but it didn't hinder my reading experience.
The beginning of this one really sucks you in, then the momentum slows a bit in the middle, only to pick back up again towards the end. And I loved, loved, loved the ending.
Another successful GL read for me! Definitely recommend this one!
I used to be a bit more hesitant about requesting a GL book - but these days 9x out of 10 I'm going to like it. And yeah, her stuff is a bit angstier, a bit heavier...but they always manage to bring out the feels.
I'd kind of forgotten all about the Misfits gang...and how much I liked them. So it was great to get some of Cass, Tom and Jake in this one.
The stalker bit didn't take over the story for those worried about that storyline. And while this one was a bit melancholy, there were quite a few LOL moments too. Nero was so sarcastic, everything that came out of his mouth was funny.
The steam factor on this one was definitely a bit on the low to moderate side but it didn't hinder my reading experience.
The beginning of this one really sucks you in, then the momentum slows a bit in the middle, only to pick back up again towards the end. And I loved, loved, loved the ending.
Another successful GL read for me! Definitely recommend this one!
February 6, 2017
Amazing Garrett Leigh! Strays is the worthy successor of Misfits (the best polyamorous romance there is), and it embodies everything I adore about Garrett Leigh.
Complex, flawed, and multi-dimentional heroes. Situations that don't happen everyday, but feel real and genuine. Angst without melodrama.
Like all Leigh's characters, Nero and Lenny let their actions speak for themselves. They love, they fight, they hate, they own their mistakes.
I adored Nero. I loved his grumpy, surly exterior, almost as much as I loved the gentle, soft heart he hid underneath. I loved how protective he was toward Lenny, how hard he worked without taking anything for granted, and how open he was in the bedroom department. Great bisexual representation too.
Lenny was just as good. I loved how fierce and sassy he was, and how he transformed his view of others into art. I think he was the perfect partner to Nero. These two really brought out the best in each other.
Nero and Lenny's relationship was strong and real and utterly sweet, starting from friendship and lust, and growing into something so much deeper. That's true love in my book, and I consider the ending a strong HEA.
Other things I loved:
-Like all Garrett Leigh's stories, Strays was really British, meaning that it is written in British English (slang and all!) instead of Americanised.
-Cass, Tom and Jake have a strong presence here, and they are integral to the plot. I had missed them so much!
-I loved the kitchen environment and I want to eat all the food!
Needless to say, I LOVED this. Highly recommended for all MM readers.
December 8, 2018
***4.5 Stars***
And everybody needs good dreams. Or someone to chase the nightmares away...
I enjoyed Nero's and Lenny's story in Strays a bit more than its predecessor Misfits. Seems like stalker stories apparently have a morbid fascination with pervert little me. Yeah, don't judge me. Garrett Leigh creates a somewhat eerie atmosphere at the beginning, so I got hooked right from the start and although the stalker himself plays a rather minor role in this book, I didn't let go. There is still an underlying tension all over the whole story, first due to the threat to Lenny's life and then due to Nero's past. I was dying to get to know more about what happened to him and when I learned about it my heart just ached.
Grumpy "If you say so" Nero is apart from Cass (Misfits) my favorite in this series. I already told you about my penchant for grumpy curmudgeons, right? Because in 99,99% of all cases it's all about self-preservation mechanism and there is always more to it than meets the eye. And Nero with his quiet and calm -almost zen-like- outward appearance and his bluntness hides a terrible secret which results in him deeming himself worthless and keeping everyone else at bay. Well, until Lenny... Flamboyant Lenny - as different from Nero as day and night - who slowly but surely worms his way into Nero's heart and who proves to be the rock Nero desperately needs to lean on. And I loved the way Lenny handled him.
What I love the most about Garrett Leigh's writing is that she is able to make you suffer with the characters, not to say almost wrecks you, but makes you whole again in the end. Well, obviously the characters too, of course. ;-) And she conveys a familiarity to the characters that makes you feel as if you would know them on a personal level. So, yeah, I would love to read more about the guys from Urban Soul.
Highly recommended!
"You are my dreams. I just never knew it."
And everybody needs good dreams. Or someone to chase the nightmares away...
I enjoyed Nero's and Lenny's story in Strays a bit more than its predecessor Misfits. Seems like stalker stories apparently have a morbid fascination with pervert little me. Yeah, don't judge me. Garrett Leigh creates a somewhat eerie atmosphere at the beginning, so I got hooked right from the start and although the stalker himself plays a rather minor role in this book, I didn't let go. There is still an underlying tension all over the whole story, first due to the threat to Lenny's life and then due to Nero's past. I was dying to get to know more about what happened to him and when I learned about it my heart just ached.
Grumpy "If you say so" Nero is apart from Cass (Misfits) my favorite in this series. I already told you about my penchant for grumpy curmudgeons, right? Because in 99,99% of all cases it's all about self-preservation mechanism and there is always more to it than meets the eye. And Nero with his quiet and calm -almost zen-like- outward appearance and his bluntness hides a terrible secret which results in him deeming himself worthless and keeping everyone else at bay. Well, until Lenny... Flamboyant Lenny - as different from Nero as day and night - who slowly but surely worms his way into Nero's heart and who proves to be the rock Nero desperately needs to lean on. And I loved the way Lenny handled him.
"You are safe with me, Nero. I promise. For as long as you want to be."
What I love the most about Garrett Leigh's writing is that she is able to make you suffer with the characters, not to say almost wrecks you, but makes you whole again in the end. Well, obviously the characters too, of course. ;-) And she conveys a familiarity to the characters that makes you feel as if you would know them on a personal level. So, yeah, I would love to read more about the guys from Urban Soul.
Highly recommended!
February 6, 2017
4.5*
This is the first book I've read by this author and the fact that I read it in one sitting gives you some idea of how much I liked it, I just couldn't put it down.
Since this is the first book I've read I was going purely on the cover and the blurb so I didn't really know what to expect. What I got was more than I imagined and I wished repeatedly that I'd read the previous book 'Misfits' first since I loved Cass, Tom and Jake.
The book opens with Lenny and it's difficult to convey just how fabulous Lenny is but I would imagine it's impossible to read this book and not fall at least a little in love with him.
He's at the police station seeking help for his stalker issue but with no real proof there's not a lot the police can do plus they don't really seem that interested anyway. Lenny is completely alone in the world, his parents disowned him when he came out and so it's just him and it's hard to imagine what it must be like to never feel safe even in your own home, to know someone is watching you, stalking you, getting inside your house. It's driving Lenny to madness and he's no idea what to do, moving only helps for awhile before it starts again, the only life he has left is work and now his stalker is here, at work, work is no longer safe and now Lenny has no one and nowhere to go.
The stalker part was handled really well it never takes over but it's always there, a threat in the background, just enough to ruin Lenny's life.
Luckily for Lenny he has Cass for a boss, he steps in and moves Lenny in with his friend and employee Nero.
Nero again is an amazing yet haunted character, his past controls him and it turns out Nero needs Lenny just as much if not more than Lenny needs him.
Together these two find a balance, Nero is attracted to Lenny (I mean seriously who can blame him) but pushes those feelings down or at least he tries to.
Nero is amazing in the kitchen, he runs a tight ship and controls everything, at first he's not sure what to do with Lenny a kid with no cooking experience but gradually Lenny finds his place and between Nero's amazing cooking and Lenny's natural artistic flare they find they balance each other out perfectly in the kitchen.
The kitchen's one thing, real life is another, Nero never pushes and gradually Lenny learns to trust and open up and a relationship starts to build but a relationship goes both ways and Nero has been an island for so long, barking orders and using his gruff attitude to keep people away but Lenny's getting in there and wanting more but can Nero do that, can he open himself up and willingly relive the horrors of his past.
Lenny is easy to love, he's adorable but Nero isn't far behind as the tortured abused soul. I loved these two and more than anything I wanted everything to work out between them.
I voluntarily read a review copy kindly provided by NetGalley and Riptide Publishing.
June 19, 2024
Reading again June 2024. Won't be adding a review because it'll bloody overwrite this existing one apparently as it just did with Misfits 2nd Ed.
*****
Garrett Leigh is one of the best out there for writing real characters going through real experiences and having background angst which is believable without ever being overwhelming.
Strays, book two in the Urban Souls series, builds on the setting which Misfits began and expands it to give the reader Nero's story, tragic at times but never too much.
I loved Nero, grumpy and closed off, even more so than Cass' feelings of being unworthy in book one, and I loved Lenny, who needed him to bring stability and an odd, but special, sense of connection.
The stalker plot was well done and added a layer of menace throughout as it amped up the tension throughout the book as Lenny and Nero slowly fell in love.
Steam levels are on the quieter side but what's there works well to demonstrate the level of trust they are both building in spite of all their issues.
*****
Garrett Leigh is one of the best out there for writing real characters going through real experiences and having background angst which is believable without ever being overwhelming.
Strays, book two in the Urban Souls series, builds on the setting which Misfits began and expands it to give the reader Nero's story, tragic at times but never too much.
I loved Nero, grumpy and closed off, even more so than Cass' feelings of being unworthy in book one, and I loved Lenny, who needed him to bring stability and an odd, but special, sense of connection.
The stalker plot was well done and added a layer of menace throughout as it amped up the tension throughout the book as Lenny and Nero slowly fell in love.
Steam levels are on the quieter side but what's there works well to demonstrate the level of trust they are both building in spite of all their issues.
March 3, 2017
No one does tortured, flawed MC's as well as Garrett Leigh.She takes heroes, damaged by life, and gives them well fought and much deserved happy endings and I've never picked up one of her stories that I did not enjoy. In fact, the first book in this series, Misfits, is -- hands down -- my favorite book of hers. And though Strays contains the MC's from Misfits as secondary characters, you can read this one as a stand alone, if you wish.
Lenny Mitchell works for Misfits, one of the many Urban Soul restaurants. He's young and grew up in an affluent family where he was expected to follow a particular path in life. He started out doing just that and then decided that living someone else's existence wasn't making him happy. So he dropped out of Uni, died his hair pink and decided to live a little. He wanted to devote time to his art, too, because that is something he truly felt passionate about.
But then, Lenny got noticed by the wrong someone. He would claim to be Lenny's boyfriend and he would send creepy letters. He also broke into Lenny's apartment just so that Lenny knew that he couldn't escape. But the police weren't much help, so Lenny moved around, changed jobs, going from dancing at a gay club to waiting tables at Misfits. However, when his stalker managed to find him there, too, Lenny had a bit of a melt down.
Cass then offers him another opportunity to work at Pippa's, another Urban Soul restaurant, and stay in the apartment upstairs, with one of their chef's, Nero. That arrangement would mean that Lenny could live and work in the same building and maybe take a much needed break from having to watch his back.
Nero Fierro is a chef that works for Cass, Tom and Jake. He moves around between the Urban Soul restaurants depending on where he is needed. He's helped design the kitchens, developed menus and he works harder than anyone. In fact, work is what keeps Nero going and he will take all the work that Cass, Tom and Jake will give him. What he won't take easily, though, are promotions or praise. He is also one of the "strays" that Cass has taken in over the years, and though Nero feels he owes Cass pretty much everything, he still keeps a lot to himself.
In fact, Nero is a very closed off guy. He's been damaged by things that have happened to him and things he's done and Nero doesn't really think he deserves a happily ever after. He's cynical and a bit grumpy, and doesn't let anyone close to him. Even his best friend, Cass, has only gotten so far. Cass is crafty, though, and thinks that helping Lenny is just what Nero needs.
So Nero and Lenny are thrown together at Pippa's. While Nero doesn't, at first, want someone else in his space all the time, he quickly acclimates to having Lenny around. His attraction to Lenny does make it easier, for sure, but Nero isn't one for opening up, so he continually pushes Lenny away, especially when Lenny asks questions trying to get to know Nero. Even after Lenny finally opens up and tells Nero why he's hiding out at Pippa's and they each acknowledge their attraction to one another, Nero still backs off thinking that Lenny deserves better. Meanwhile, Lenny just want to know Nero. And it was that holding pattern - that they stayed in a bit too long for my tastes - that made this a four star read for me instead of 4.5 or 5 stars.
Still though, I loved Nero and Lenny and I thought they were wonderful together, especially once they really found their stride. And while love does not conquer all their issues, it does at least show them that they aren't alone. And I loved that there wasn't a bunch of drama for the sake of drama. That's one of the reasons, actually, that I am such a fan of this author. Yes, there is angst (sometimes quite a lot) and yes the MC's are always damaged by their pasts, but the stories feel genuine and real and Strays is no different.
Recommended.
---------------------------
ARC of Strays was generously provided by the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Lenny Mitchell works for Misfits, one of the many Urban Soul restaurants. He's young and grew up in an affluent family where he was expected to follow a particular path in life. He started out doing just that and then decided that living someone else's existence wasn't making him happy. So he dropped out of Uni, died his hair pink and decided to live a little. He wanted to devote time to his art, too, because that is something he truly felt passionate about.
But then, Lenny got noticed by the wrong someone. He would claim to be Lenny's boyfriend and he would send creepy letters. He also broke into Lenny's apartment just so that Lenny knew that he couldn't escape. But the police weren't much help, so Lenny moved around, changed jobs, going from dancing at a gay club to waiting tables at Misfits. However, when his stalker managed to find him there, too, Lenny had a bit of a melt down.
Cass then offers him another opportunity to work at Pippa's, another Urban Soul restaurant, and stay in the apartment upstairs, with one of their chef's, Nero. That arrangement would mean that Lenny could live and work in the same building and maybe take a much needed break from having to watch his back.
Nero Fierro is a chef that works for Cass, Tom and Jake. He moves around between the Urban Soul restaurants depending on where he is needed. He's helped design the kitchens, developed menus and he works harder than anyone. In fact, work is what keeps Nero going and he will take all the work that Cass, Tom and Jake will give him. What he won't take easily, though, are promotions or praise. He is also one of the "strays" that Cass has taken in over the years, and though Nero feels he owes Cass pretty much everything, he still keeps a lot to himself.
In fact, Nero is a very closed off guy. He's been damaged by things that have happened to him and things he's done and Nero doesn't really think he deserves a happily ever after. He's cynical and a bit grumpy, and doesn't let anyone close to him. Even his best friend, Cass, has only gotten so far. Cass is crafty, though, and thinks that helping Lenny is just what Nero needs.
So Nero and Lenny are thrown together at Pippa's. While Nero doesn't, at first, want someone else in his space all the time, he quickly acclimates to having Lenny around. His attraction to Lenny does make it easier, for sure, but Nero isn't one for opening up, so he continually pushes Lenny away, especially when Lenny asks questions trying to get to know Nero. Even after Lenny finally opens up and tells Nero why he's hiding out at Pippa's and they each acknowledge their attraction to one another, Nero still backs off thinking that Lenny deserves better. Meanwhile, Lenny just want to know Nero. And it was that holding pattern - that they stayed in a bit too long for my tastes - that made this a four star read for me instead of 4.5 or 5 stars.
Still though, I loved Nero and Lenny and I thought they were wonderful together, especially once they really found their stride. And while love does not conquer all their issues, it does at least show them that they aren't alone. And I loved that there wasn't a bunch of drama for the sake of drama. That's one of the reasons, actually, that I am such a fan of this author. Yes, there is angst (sometimes quite a lot) and yes the MC's are always damaged by their pasts, but the stories feel genuine and real and Strays is no different.
Recommended.
---------------------------
ARC of Strays was generously provided by the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
April 14, 2017
Let's head over to 'Urban Soul' they're opening a new restaurant
'Strays' is the second book in Garrett Leigh's 'Urban Soul' series and while it was very different from the first book it was every bit as good. You could probably read either of these books as stand-alones but seriously? Do you want to miss out on any of the yumminess that is 'Urban Soul'? No, trust me you don't.
Nero is Urban Soul's main chef and he's Cass's best friend. He's been with the company for years and when Cass calls him and ask him to take on an apprentice, saying no isn't even a consideration in his eyes. What he doesn't count on is his apprentice being a beautiful young man that stirs feelings in him that he'd long ago abandoned.
Lenny's scared and he quickly realizes that when he's with Nero, he feels safe. These men are drawn to each other but for their own reasons they're also hesitant to act on their mutual attraction.
Because of his past Nero's sure that love and happiness are not for him. He doesn't deserve them. Lenny's running and hiding from a stalker and he's living under a dark cloud that leaves him too afraid of hoping for anything.
It takes time and being together constantly to wear away at the barriers these two men are hiding behind. When Lenny's circumstances change he starts to reach out and try to build something with Nero but Nero's walls are high and they're solid. Lenny's got his work cut out for him...
In a nutshell these two men have embedded themselves in my heart. I loved them. Every moment spent in their world felt real. There was love and warmth and laughter but there were also moments of heartache, frustration, anger and uncertainty.
In the background of all this we are given moments of Tom, Cass and Jake. It was so awesome to have these three back even the little bit that we got was enough to make me smile and just like in the end of 'Misfits' we were gifted with another Urban Soul restaurant this one was called 'The Stray Tiger' and it specializes in pizza...seriously PIZZA!!! I feel like I'm being teased here because damn! gourmet pizza is totally one of my favorite food groups and I love tigers...they're a close second...ok, third to dragons and panthers...I want to go eat at an Urban Soul restaurant really these places sound incredible so...who wants to join me?
*******************
An ARC of "Strays" was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
'Strays' is the second book in Garrett Leigh's 'Urban Soul' series and while it was very different from the first book it was every bit as good. You could probably read either of these books as stand-alones but seriously? Do you want to miss out on any of the yumminess that is 'Urban Soul'? No, trust me you don't.
Nero is Urban Soul's main chef and he's Cass's best friend. He's been with the company for years and when Cass calls him and ask him to take on an apprentice, saying no isn't even a consideration in his eyes. What he doesn't count on is his apprentice being a beautiful young man that stirs feelings in him that he'd long ago abandoned.
Lenny's scared and he quickly realizes that when he's with Nero, he feels safe. These men are drawn to each other but for their own reasons they're also hesitant to act on their mutual attraction.
Because of his past Nero's sure that love and happiness are not for him. He doesn't deserve them. Lenny's running and hiding from a stalker and he's living under a dark cloud that leaves him too afraid of hoping for anything.
It takes time and being together constantly to wear away at the barriers these two men are hiding behind. When Lenny's circumstances change he starts to reach out and try to build something with Nero but Nero's walls are high and they're solid. Lenny's got his work cut out for him...
"What do you want me to say?"Still talking and opening up doesn't seem to be in the cards with Nero and Lenny is left wondering how they'll ever be able to make things work and how could he possibly leave when Nero keeps asking him to stay...
"I don't care, but don't ever say nothing, Nero. Silence is too loud."
"...Because as addictive as the warmth of Nero's embrace had become, what did it mean if his arms were those of a stranger?"It's a slow burn between these two and sometimes it feels like one step forward and ten steps back but little by little Lenny starts to break through and Nero slowly realizes that he needs to open up and share some of himself with Lenny. If he wants them to have a future together...
"I get that, 'cause I feel the same in reverse, I s'pose. I'd forgotten how to see colour before you came along and trashed my living room. You even brightened up my food."Hey, come on now that's some poetry right there coming from a chef. Plus once you get reading this book you realize it's a very Nero statement.
In a nutshell these two men have embedded themselves in my heart. I loved them. Every moment spent in their world felt real. There was love and warmth and laughter but there were also moments of heartache, frustration, anger and uncertainty.
In the background of all this we are given moments of Tom, Cass and Jake. It was so awesome to have these three back even the little bit that we got was enough to make me smile and just like in the end of 'Misfits' we were gifted with another Urban Soul restaurant this one was called 'The Stray Tiger' and it specializes in pizza...seriously PIZZA!!! I feel like I'm being teased here because damn! gourmet pizza is totally one of my favorite food groups and I love tigers...they're a close second...ok, third to dragons and panthers...I want to go eat at an Urban Soul restaurant really these places sound incredible so...who wants to join me?
*******************
An ARC of "Strays" was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
April 19, 2018
I'm in the minority here, but unfortunately I didn't enjoy this one. It took me almost a week to finish it. To be honest I wasn't sure I will read it until the end because I wanted to abandon many times. It just didn't work for me. This story is my least favorite from this author and definitely the most boring I have read this year. It was a real struggle to pick it up each time.
Nothing happens in this book. Not really. I didn't like the lack of action in the first half. The main characters barely spoke even if they lived and worked together. There are only a few interactions on page. And then BOOM they are in love. I was like "what?!"
We don't even get the fighting scene with the stalker. I was really disappointed.
I wanted so much more. Maybe that's why I am so disappointed. I expected good banter and at least some action, but nope. Nada!
There were only a couple of surprises, and very few hot scenes, but for me this whole story fell flat. Maybe it's me here again, since everybody loved it. I just couldn't connect to the characters.
Nothing happens in this book. Not really. I didn't like the lack of action in the first half. The main characters barely spoke even if they lived and worked together. There are only a few interactions on page. And then BOOM they are in love. I was like "what?!"
We don't even get the fighting scene with the stalker. I was really disappointed.
I wanted so much more. Maybe that's why I am so disappointed. I expected good banter and at least some action, but nope. Nada!
There were only a couple of surprises, and very few hot scenes, but for me this whole story fell flat. Maybe it's me here again, since everybody loved it. I just couldn't connect to the characters.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 1, 2017
**** 4.5****
Not in a mood to write something but I will register a few words, for my sake, bad memory and all...
I am so glad the 2nd story lived up to my expectations.
Both MCs were fantastic but Nero just blew my mind! Loved his quietness, bluntness and taciturn way of being, it made him a complex and very interesting character.
Also loved the Brithshness in the dialogues, it added a unique richness to the story.
I have to say that plot wise, I liked Misfits Urban Souls #1 the most. It was 5 Stars!
My guys:
Not in a mood to write something but I will register a few words, for my sake, bad memory and all...
I am so glad the 2nd story lived up to my expectations.
Both MCs were fantastic but Nero just blew my mind! Loved his quietness, bluntness and taciturn way of being, it made him a complex and very interesting character.
Also loved the Brithshness in the dialogues, it added a unique richness to the story.
I have to say that plot wise, I liked Misfits Urban Souls #1 the most. It was 5 Stars!
My guys:
March 29, 2017
Strays es un libro que he esperado durante meses, lo acabo de terminar y lo primero que me viene a la mente es que me ha gustado, pero se ha quedado corto, la historia está bien, pero podría haber estado muy muy bien. Me ha pasado más de una vez con la autora, algo me ha faltado.
No sé muy bien explicar qué me falta en la historia. Los personajes son interesantes y complejos, el ver dos almas que se sienten perdidas encontrarse la una a la otras es hermoso, pero a lo largo de la lectura he echado de menos el puñetazo al corazón. Leo siempre que Garrett Leigh es una autora muy angst, verdad, sus temas lo son, y aquí vuelve a pasar, pero no consigue transmitirme toda la emoción que yo espero encontrar en ese tipo de temas, por muy melancólico que sea el ambiente en el que todo se desenvuelve. Solo me he sentido satisfecha después de leer Slide, Rare y What Remains, con el resto de sus libros me ha pasado como este.
Nero es un gruñón con un pasado muy complicado, Lenny con su pelo de colores y su maquillaje, es una luz un poco debilitada por ese pasado. Se encuentran, se enamoran, tenemos momentos angst, es bonito, pero falta algo... En el proceso de pensamiento de los personajes, sus emociones, me falta ver muchas cosas, cierro el libro y en parte esos personajes son desconocidos, y no me gusta, pero queizás es una opinión muy personal.
Entretenido y bonito, lo recomiendo, es solo que yo esperaba más.
No sé muy bien explicar qué me falta en la historia. Los personajes son interesantes y complejos, el ver dos almas que se sienten perdidas encontrarse la una a la otras es hermoso, pero a lo largo de la lectura he echado de menos el puñetazo al corazón. Leo siempre que Garrett Leigh es una autora muy angst, verdad, sus temas lo son, y aquí vuelve a pasar, pero no consigue transmitirme toda la emoción que yo espero encontrar en ese tipo de temas, por muy melancólico que sea el ambiente en el que todo se desenvuelve. Solo me he sentido satisfecha después de leer Slide, Rare y What Remains, con el resto de sus libros me ha pasado como este.
Nero es un gruñón con un pasado muy complicado, Lenny con su pelo de colores y su maquillaje, es una luz un poco debilitada por ese pasado. Se encuentran, se enamoran, tenemos momentos angst, es bonito, pero falta algo... En el proceso de pensamiento de los personajes, sus emociones, me falta ver muchas cosas, cierro el libro y en parte esos personajes son desconocidos, y no me gusta, pero queizás es una opinión muy personal.
Entretenido y bonito, lo recomiendo, es solo que yo esperaba más.
February 12, 2020
Strays is one of GL's best, by far and I think Nero is one of my all time favourite characters. Once again the author gave Nero and Lenny their perfect other halves, and to see them working towards it was just magic.
Everything was done to perfection, from the slow burn Nero barely tolerating anyone, let alone Lenny, to see him falling totally for him. And then to witness Lenny growing from this terrified victim to the fun loving, confident man he once was, again magic.
I loved every word of their story and days after finishing this book I'm still thinking about it. That right there is a 5 star read. Ding, ding, ding, we have a winner and at last a book for my 2020 favourites shelf. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Everything was done to perfection, from the slow burn Nero barely tolerating anyone, let alone Lenny, to see him falling totally for him. And then to witness Lenny growing from this terrified victim to the fun loving, confident man he once was, again magic.
I loved every word of their story and days after finishing this book I'm still thinking about it. That right there is a 5 star read. Ding, ding, ding, we have a winner and at last a book for my 2020 favourites shelf. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
March 27, 2017
Grumpy big mouthed Nero doesn't know what happens to him when he meets Lenny.
Smart mouth Lenny finding the shelter he desperate need, in Nero's home and kitchen.
Nero don't ask why and Lenny hesitates to share.
Their interaction is raw and rude but underneath all the sturdy behavior lies a sea of emotions.
And briefly now and than they can laugh and Nero getting softer. Lenny is soft only holding back because Nero is almost impermeable. Lenny just gives Nero some light in his lonely life and it is addictive.
Working for the three man who are living together, from book one in this serie I didn't read, is the best thing happened to Nero. He works hard for them.
Nero and Lenny work and live together they get used to each other and after a while both are desperate to to be in the others company. Nero educates Lenny in the kitchen and restaurant.
He feels safe in the kitchen and four walls of Nero's apartment and knows Neto will protect him at al costs from his stalker.
Their feelings to each other is quickly growing, only Nero can't open himself. There is a lock on his mouth and Lenny tries to find the right key.
Sometimes Nero talks a whole other 'language' and simply doesn't understand what Lenny wants.
Finally he understands he has to open up to keep Lenny and when he does the chills are running down your back. The intimacy when he opens up is emotional.
Nero looks and talks tough and he is, but also not.
“I didn’t know I needed you until you found me, but I do need you, so much"
This story is written in a intriguing way.
Complicated personalities, complicated circumstances, real and genuine.
You could feel the desperation, the powerlessness, the confusion, the resistance the contradiction and the attraction, the positive tension, the unraveling....
Awesome read part of a serie which can easily read as a stand alone.
Sometimes I needed subtitles because of the 'slangly' language but that was my part of being the foreigner :)
~ an ARC received by Netgalley for a honest review ~
This review is published on Divine Magazine
https://www.divinemagazine.biz/strays/
Smart mouth Lenny finding the shelter he desperate need, in Nero's home and kitchen.
Nero don't ask why and Lenny hesitates to share.
Their interaction is raw and rude but underneath all the sturdy behavior lies a sea of emotions.
And briefly now and than they can laugh and Nero getting softer. Lenny is soft only holding back because Nero is almost impermeable. Lenny just gives Nero some light in his lonely life and it is addictive.
Working for the three man who are living together, from book one in this serie I didn't read, is the best thing happened to Nero. He works hard for them.
Nero and Lenny work and live together they get used to each other and after a while both are desperate to to be in the others company. Nero educates Lenny in the kitchen and restaurant.
He feels safe in the kitchen and four walls of Nero's apartment and knows Neto will protect him at al costs from his stalker.
Their feelings to each other is quickly growing, only Nero can't open himself. There is a lock on his mouth and Lenny tries to find the right key.
Sometimes Nero talks a whole other 'language' and simply doesn't understand what Lenny wants.
Finally he understands he has to open up to keep Lenny and when he does the chills are running down your back. The intimacy when he opens up is emotional.
Nero looks and talks tough and he is, but also not.
“I didn’t know I needed you until you found me, but I do need you, so much"
This story is written in a intriguing way.
Complicated personalities, complicated circumstances, real and genuine.
You could feel the desperation, the powerlessness, the confusion, the resistance the contradiction and the attraction, the positive tension, the unraveling....
Awesome read part of a serie which can easily read as a stand alone.
Sometimes I needed subtitles because of the 'slangly' language but that was my part of being the foreigner :)
~ an ARC received by Netgalley for a honest review ~
This review is published on Divine Magazine
https://www.divinemagazine.biz/strays/
March 29, 2017
4.5 stars
Tag team review with Cupcake!
Misfits was one my favourite reads in 2015. It was a the perfect blend of angsty and romantic. So I was stoked when I learned that we’d be getting a sequel about Nero, Cass’ grumpy best friend.
At the beginning of the book, we’re introduced to Lenny, a server at Misfits. Lenny is sunshine and colours. He likes flashy clothing, nail polish, and changing his hair dye every few weeks. He lives life in the moment.
But an increasingly dangerous stalker has pulled the light out of Lenny’s life. Nero agrees to take Lenny in as a favour to Cass.
Nero was exactly as I remembered him from book 1. He’s constantly grouchy and not really someone you’d want to be around. But by getting his POV, it becomes clear that his standoffish-ness is the result of the emotional walls he built over the years.
Lenny slowly works his way under Nero’s walls. Nero begins taking care of Lenny without even realizing it. He makes sure that Lenny eats more than just sugar, and does what he can so that Lenny feels safe.
For his part, Lenny’s experiences with a stalker have a big psychological impact on him. Anything outside of the restaurant's walls become dangerous. The only person Lenny trusts, the only one he knows is really on his side, is Nero.
As the weeks pass, the two slowly fall for each other. They ignore what’s growing between them at first, but eventually something has to give.
Garrett Leigh doesn’t do particularly steamy scenes, but the few sex scenes between Lenny and Nero were definitely hot. And there was an underlying sweetness to them.
The big stumbling block in their relationship is that Nero finds it hard to open up. He won’t tell Lenny what his childhood was like, or where the scars on his body came from. Lenny gives everything to Nero, but Nero finds it difficult to reciprocate.
Readers find out what Nero’s story is the same time Lenny does in the last quarter of the book. I thought that was a good move, because it left me in as much suspense as Lenny was.
When the truth finally came out, I felt Nero’s pain. But what’s also obvious is his hope and how much he heals because of the love that Lenny gives him.
The happy ever after takes a lot of work, but Lenny and Nero get a brilliant ending.
This book has a good amount of angst, but it’s also incredibly sweet. If you’re looking for a contemporary MM romance with strong themes of comfort/healing, I’d recommend ‘Strays’!
Tag team review with Cupcake!
Misfits was one my favourite reads in 2015. It was a the perfect blend of angsty and romantic. So I was stoked when I learned that we’d be getting a sequel about Nero, Cass’ grumpy best friend.
At the beginning of the book, we’re introduced to Lenny, a server at Misfits. Lenny is sunshine and colours. He likes flashy clothing, nail polish, and changing his hair dye every few weeks. He lives life in the moment.
But an increasingly dangerous stalker has pulled the light out of Lenny’s life. Nero agrees to take Lenny in as a favour to Cass.
Nero was exactly as I remembered him from book 1. He’s constantly grouchy and not really someone you’d want to be around. But by getting his POV, it becomes clear that his standoffish-ness is the result of the emotional walls he built over the years.
Lenny slowly works his way under Nero’s walls. Nero begins taking care of Lenny without even realizing it. He makes sure that Lenny eats more than just sugar, and does what he can so that Lenny feels safe.
For his part, Lenny’s experiences with a stalker have a big psychological impact on him. Anything outside of the restaurant's walls become dangerous. The only person Lenny trusts, the only one he knows is really on his side, is Nero.
As the weeks pass, the two slowly fall for each other. They ignore what’s growing between them at first, but eventually something has to give.
Garrett Leigh doesn’t do particularly steamy scenes, but the few sex scenes between Lenny and Nero were definitely hot. And there was an underlying sweetness to them.
The big stumbling block in their relationship is that Nero finds it hard to open up. He won’t tell Lenny what his childhood was like, or where the scars on his body came from. Lenny gives everything to Nero, but Nero finds it difficult to reciprocate.
Readers find out what Nero’s story is the same time Lenny does in the last quarter of the book. I thought that was a good move, because it left me in as much suspense as Lenny was.
When the truth finally came out, I felt Nero’s pain. But what’s also obvious is his hope and how much he heals because of the love that Lenny gives him.
The happy ever after takes a lot of work, but Lenny and Nero get a brilliant ending.
This book has a good amount of angst, but it’s also incredibly sweet. If you’re looking for a contemporary MM romance with strong themes of comfort/healing, I’d recommend ‘Strays’!
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March 19, 2017
4.5 stars
The book starts by being told in Lenny's point of view. He's working as a waiter at Misfits but his life is in shambles due to a stalker. He's scared to death and he's isolated with no support from his family or friends. Cass steps in and the next thing Lenny knows he's hiding out with Nero, the grumpy chef of one of Cass's other restaurants.
A big chunk of the book is told from Nero's point of view. If you've read Misfits we met Nero briefly in that. He's a good friend of Cass's and they share a background. Nero is emotionally distant and he isolates himself from people as a sort of penance. Despite himself he can't help but be attracted to Lenny.
The book shifts from Lenny to Nero's points of view a few times within the book and it does so seemlessly each time. The relationship is a slow burn mostly due to the fact that Nero can't accept that he deserves something good in his life. Despite the more serious plot line the story doesn't feel overly angsty or heavy. It's a bit melancholy as most of this author's books are, but it's also a beautiful love story.
This book works fine as a standalone and you do not have to have read Misfits first (although you should because it's a fantastic story). If you have read it though, you'll be happy to know there are a lot of appearances by Cass, Jake and Tom and they each play important roles in this story. I loved how much we saw of Cass in this since his pov was limited in Misfits. There were also some touching scenes between Tom and Nero. It made my heart happy to see them all doing so well a few years down the road.
The ending was really touching. I *might* have gotten a little teary-eyed. This book reminded me why this author is one of my favorites. This is a definite recommend from me.
The book starts by being told in Lenny's point of view. He's working as a waiter at Misfits but his life is in shambles due to a stalker. He's scared to death and he's isolated with no support from his family or friends. Cass steps in and the next thing Lenny knows he's hiding out with Nero, the grumpy chef of one of Cass's other restaurants.
A big chunk of the book is told from Nero's point of view. If you've read Misfits we met Nero briefly in that. He's a good friend of Cass's and they share a background. Nero is emotionally distant and he isolates himself from people as a sort of penance. Despite himself he can't help but be attracted to Lenny.
The book shifts from Lenny to Nero's points of view a few times within the book and it does so seemlessly each time. The relationship is a slow burn mostly due to the fact that Nero can't accept that he deserves something good in his life. Despite the more serious plot line the story doesn't feel overly angsty or heavy. It's a bit melancholy as most of this author's books are, but it's also a beautiful love story.
This book works fine as a standalone and you do not have to have read Misfits first (although you should because it's a fantastic story). If you have read it though, you'll be happy to know there are a lot of appearances by Cass, Jake and Tom and they each play important roles in this story. I loved how much we saw of Cass in this since his pov was limited in Misfits. There were also some touching scenes between Tom and Nero. It made my heart happy to see them all doing so well a few years down the road.
The ending was really touching. I *might* have gotten a little teary-eyed. This book reminded me why this author is one of my favorites. This is a definite recommend from me.
September 28, 2020
I love Garrett Leigh, and book 1 in the series is one of the best m/m/m romances I’ve read. It truly convinced me that polyamorous relationships can work.
While it was lovely to revisit Tom, Cass and Jake and their universe, and I really enjoyed Nero and Lenny’s story, this book didn’t grab me as much as the previous one.
Nero is a seriously gruff character. I’ve always been very fond of big, grumpy a******s with a soft, gooey centre, but – for me - Nero often takes this character trait too far. He simply doesn’t behave like a nice person, at all, most of the time.
I couldn’t help being annoyed at him when he doesn’t control his bad temper around his staff, very often when it isn’t necessary. So, as you can probably figure, I had trouble really liking the guy. His problematic past explains his attitude to some extent, but it surely doesn’t excuse it.
I had no problems connecting with Lennie who is a cute, sympathetic guy suffering from a stalker problem which has troublesome consequences on his life. The author does a great job of communicating the horrors of his situation and my heart went out for the guy big time.
There’s no doubt that these guys are hot together - and all the firsts for Nero helped a lot, too - but I was not 100% sure why Lenny falls for Nero beyond the physical.
All in all this is a good read, but I’d advise you not to go there, if you don’t like the very gruff and rough.
While it was lovely to revisit Tom, Cass and Jake and their universe, and I really enjoyed Nero and Lenny’s story, this book didn’t grab me as much as the previous one.
Nero is a seriously gruff character. I’ve always been very fond of big, grumpy a******s with a soft, gooey centre, but – for me - Nero often takes this character trait too far. He simply doesn’t behave like a nice person, at all, most of the time.
I couldn’t help being annoyed at him when he doesn’t control his bad temper around his staff, very often when it isn’t necessary. So, as you can probably figure, I had trouble really liking the guy. His problematic past explains his attitude to some extent, but it surely doesn’t excuse it.
I had no problems connecting with Lennie who is a cute, sympathetic guy suffering from a stalker problem which has troublesome consequences on his life. The author does a great job of communicating the horrors of his situation and my heart went out for the guy big time.
There’s no doubt that these guys are hot together - and all the firsts for Nero helped a lot, too - but I was not 100% sure why Lenny falls for Nero beyond the physical.
All in all this is a good read, but I’d advise you not to go there, if you don’t like the very gruff and rough.
May 11, 2024
✰ 3.25 stars ✰
“You’re all heart.”
“Not really, but what I have is yours.”
Strays is the second installment of Garrett Leigh's Urban Soul series, featuring one of Cass' close friends and Urban Soul's chef, Nero and Lenny, the wayward stray that Cass entrusts Nero to take care of, when he sees how much he is need of not only a place to stay, but a safety net from a dangerous stalker situation that he's found himself embroiled in. They may be complete opposites in every way, but between time spent trading recipes and learning the way around the kitchen to exchanging softly intimate truths in the safety of their apartment's balcony, slowly but surely, the two of them start to see just how very well they belong together. 🫶🏻🫶🏻
Nero really does go above and beyond to ensure the safety and well-being of Lenny - both mentally and physically. While Lenny is challenged about stepping out into the outside world - and rightfully so, considering how intense his stalker situation is - I loved that Nero did his best to make him feel as comfortable as possible, but slowly inching him towards venturing out - in the smallest of steps, but enough to know and feel that someone is looking out for him. 😟 'He had much to learn, but the frighteningly beautiful man in front of him was far from a stranger. He had to be, or Nero’s heart was as crippled as his soul.' That he isn't alone. Nero may come off as stoic and grumpy, but his heart is always in the right place; shown by the gentle, if not nurturing way he minds not only his kitchen, but how he turns the tentative movements of Lenny to a more confident presence alongside him. ❤️🩹❤️🩹
“Or were they one and the same, pouring their hearts and souls into each other? And was that the point?
That separately they were drifters, but together they’d made a home? ”
And there was something very solid in the way Lenny didn't rattle Nero's nerves, but made him see how much he was being affected by him. 'I’m worried about me too. I’ve never felt like this . . . so out of control. I swear, you’re the only thing keeping me sane.' 😢 It is a quiet push, but still so impactful that Nero starts to sense that no matter how tragic or traumatic his past may be, no matter how hard he has worked to not let anyone come close, something about Lenny's open-heartedness and expressive nature that is a sharp contrast to the very troubling situation he's found himself in - was worth it. Lenny was worth the risk of opening up his heart to someone, to make himself be more honest and affectionate, shedding that aloof side of him that wards others away from him. 😥
But, what I admired most about Lenny was how he realized that for as much as he was pushing Nero into seeing how much he wanted him, it was that soft realization that Nero needed someone to support him just as much was such a tender, and yet heartbreaking scene. 🥺 'Nero was his rock, his port in the storm. How had he not seen that Nero needed sanctuary too?' His troubled past weighed down on him heavily so much that it made it difficult for him to ever get close to anyone. Lenny immediately understood that as much as he was seeking solace and comfort in Nero's reassuring words, he, too, needed that pillar to lean on - and he rose to that challenge without preamble or doubt. ❤️🩹❤️🩹
“You’re different, even since I last saw you.”
“I’m different because you saw me, Lenny.”
The writing was as solid as before, with a certain depth and realism to the characters' interactions and dialogue that somehow transported me to not only London, but the hectic chaos of managing a restaurant. It was nice to see Cass, Tom, and Jake make slight appearances throughout - ones that, in their own way, pushed their relationship in a positive direction and gave their friendship a more purposeful intent with how involved they are in the restaurant business. 💞💞 Each of them helped out in their own way that made Nero and Lenny feel more comfortable in their presence, which I appreciated how naturally it all played out. 👍🏻
It made their feelings for each other feel so genuine and heartfelt; It felt good to see them work through the angst and hurt. 'You are safe with me, Nero. I promise. For as long as you want to be... You don’t have to fight me for it. It’s yours, whenever you want.' 🥹🥹It's not only the organic produce that they're working with that felt fresh (sorry, couldn't help myself), but I really felt that they cared for each other and liked being in each other's company. Despite the dark tones of the story, there was a certain sweetness and levity to the nature of their romance that I liked. 🩶💜
As much as I enjoyed seeing them be each other's guiding light out of the darkness, what did bother me and made my frustration of what could have been a more promising read - plummet towards the end, which again, is my previous grievance from the first book. It is the rather abrupt, if not impromptu way in which the nature of the story shifts in a direction that is too sudden for me to grasp and fully appreciate. For it just - happens - and then it neither gets developed through the eyes of the respective person for it to feel believable or garner any real emotion for it. 😕 The story was progressing perfectly fine for me till that moment and then -- I still liked the closure the characters got - I just was not pleased with the nature of how it was written. 😮💨 Too much off-screen action of what was such an integral part of the story.
“... My dreams are everything I’ve ever wanted. How about you?”
Nero smiled. “You are my dreams. I just never knew it.”
Still, I would not mind reading more works by this author, since the two that I have read were well-written, despite my grievances with how the endings of both respective reads wrapped. Even if it is just to get my fill of British boys 😄, I like how natural her words feel, nothing too overly showy, but still manage to capture a moving and beautiful, if at times, heartbreaking story that is filled with all the emotions that make her characters seem so believable to me. The romances have such a weight to them that makes me feel their connection. I can see myself reading more of their works in the future; hopefully there are some good stand-alone ones that I can find that will hopefully be worth it. 🤞🏻🤞🏻
“You’re all heart.”
“Not really, but what I have is yours.”
Strays is the second installment of Garrett Leigh's Urban Soul series, featuring one of Cass' close friends and Urban Soul's chef, Nero and Lenny, the wayward stray that Cass entrusts Nero to take care of, when he sees how much he is need of not only a place to stay, but a safety net from a dangerous stalker situation that he's found himself embroiled in. They may be complete opposites in every way, but between time spent trading recipes and learning the way around the kitchen to exchanging softly intimate truths in the safety of their apartment's balcony, slowly but surely, the two of them start to see just how very well they belong together. 🫶🏻🫶🏻
Nero really does go above and beyond to ensure the safety and well-being of Lenny - both mentally and physically. While Lenny is challenged about stepping out into the outside world - and rightfully so, considering how intense his stalker situation is - I loved that Nero did his best to make him feel as comfortable as possible, but slowly inching him towards venturing out - in the smallest of steps, but enough to know and feel that someone is looking out for him. 😟 'He had much to learn, but the frighteningly beautiful man in front of him was far from a stranger. He had to be, or Nero’s heart was as crippled as his soul.' That he isn't alone. Nero may come off as stoic and grumpy, but his heart is always in the right place; shown by the gentle, if not nurturing way he minds not only his kitchen, but how he turns the tentative movements of Lenny to a more confident presence alongside him. ❤️🩹❤️🩹
“Or were they one and the same, pouring their hearts and souls into each other? And was that the point?
That separately they were drifters, but together they’d made a home? ”
And there was something very solid in the way Lenny didn't rattle Nero's nerves, but made him see how much he was being affected by him. 'I’m worried about me too. I’ve never felt like this . . . so out of control. I swear, you’re the only thing keeping me sane.' 😢 It is a quiet push, but still so impactful that Nero starts to sense that no matter how tragic or traumatic his past may be, no matter how hard he has worked to not let anyone come close, something about Lenny's open-heartedness and expressive nature that is a sharp contrast to the very troubling situation he's found himself in - was worth it. Lenny was worth the risk of opening up his heart to someone, to make himself be more honest and affectionate, shedding that aloof side of him that wards others away from him. 😥
But, what I admired most about Lenny was how he realized that for as much as he was pushing Nero into seeing how much he wanted him, it was that soft realization that Nero needed someone to support him just as much was such a tender, and yet heartbreaking scene. 🥺 'Nero was his rock, his port in the storm. How had he not seen that Nero needed sanctuary too?' His troubled past weighed down on him heavily so much that it made it difficult for him to ever get close to anyone. Lenny immediately understood that as much as he was seeking solace and comfort in Nero's reassuring words, he, too, needed that pillar to lean on - and he rose to that challenge without preamble or doubt. ❤️🩹❤️🩹
“You’re different, even since I last saw you.”
“I’m different because you saw me, Lenny.”
The writing was as solid as before, with a certain depth and realism to the characters' interactions and dialogue that somehow transported me to not only London, but the hectic chaos of managing a restaurant. It was nice to see Cass, Tom, and Jake make slight appearances throughout - ones that, in their own way, pushed their relationship in a positive direction and gave their friendship a more purposeful intent with how involved they are in the restaurant business. 💞💞 Each of them helped out in their own way that made Nero and Lenny feel more comfortable in their presence, which I appreciated how naturally it all played out. 👍🏻
It made their feelings for each other feel so genuine and heartfelt; It felt good to see them work through the angst and hurt. 'You are safe with me, Nero. I promise. For as long as you want to be... You don’t have to fight me for it. It’s yours, whenever you want.' 🥹🥹It's not only the organic produce that they're working with that felt fresh (sorry, couldn't help myself), but I really felt that they cared for each other and liked being in each other's company. Despite the dark tones of the story, there was a certain sweetness and levity to the nature of their romance that I liked. 🩶💜
As much as I enjoyed seeing them be each other's guiding light out of the darkness, what did bother me and made my frustration of what could have been a more promising read - plummet towards the end, which again, is my previous grievance from the first book. It is the rather abrupt, if not impromptu way in which the nature of the story shifts in a direction that is too sudden for me to grasp and fully appreciate. For it just - happens - and then it neither gets developed through the eyes of the respective person for it to feel believable or garner any real emotion for it. 😕 The story was progressing perfectly fine for me till that moment and then -- I still liked the closure the characters got - I just was not pleased with the nature of how it was written. 😮💨 Too much off-screen action of what was such an integral part of the story.
“... My dreams are everything I’ve ever wanted. How about you?”
Nero smiled. “You are my dreams. I just never knew it.”
Still, I would not mind reading more works by this author, since the two that I have read were well-written, despite my grievances with how the endings of both respective reads wrapped. Even if it is just to get my fill of British boys 😄, I like how natural her words feel, nothing too overly showy, but still manage to capture a moving and beautiful, if at times, heartbreaking story that is filled with all the emotions that make her characters seem so believable to me. The romances have such a weight to them that makes me feel their connection. I can see myself reading more of their works in the future; hopefully there are some good stand-alone ones that I can find that will hopefully be worth it. 🤞🏻🤞🏻
December 23, 2022
4.8 stars
December 16, 2017
I don’t know what happened here. All the ingredients are there for an awesome read : Garrett Leigh’s great writing, the Britishness with the setting in London and the cockney slang, the characters with their flaws and but also their strengths. Add the slow burn, the “opposite attract” trope and a grumpy character who doesn’t say much but when he does, throws a punch line.
But something was off for me. Hard to explain : I just never really figured out Nero nor Lenny, nor the dynamics of their relationship. Reading Misfits before could have helped ? Don’t know…So, I liked it, but not as much as I'm used to with Garrett Leigh's other books.
Don’t mind me : there are a lot of great reviews out there. A case of “it’s me, not the book”.
**Note for Jewel : thank you so much for this gift : I was really glad I read it and get that Britishness that I’m so found of !! Merry Christmas to you <3**
But something was off for me. Hard to explain : I just never really figured out Nero nor Lenny, nor the dynamics of their relationship. Reading Misfits before could have helped ? Don’t know…So, I liked it, but not as much as I'm used to with Garrett Leigh's other books.
Don’t mind me : there are a lot of great reviews out there. A case of “it’s me, not the book”.
**Note for Jewel : thank you so much for this gift : I was really glad I read it and get that Britishness that I’m so found of !! Merry Christmas to you <3**
March 27, 2017
4.5 stars
Oh my goodness, this book was amazing!!!! I loved every single minute of it. Leigh packs a healthy punch of angst in her for those lovers, but it was non-angsty enough for me to enjoy it. I mean let's be honest here who does flawed characters like Garrett Leigh? NOBODY! She is Reigning Queen and this book solidifies it. I thought I could pick it up to start reading to take my mind off things, but I ended up reading the entire book in one sitting. (NTS: go back and re-read Misfits)
Lenny & Nero were so good together. I can't stop gushing about it. What is it about grumpy ass men? I'm so attached to them. At first grump glance, Nero was mine. He just wants to be in the shadows and maintain a kitchen, but he can't. LOL. Well he can, but he realizes really late in life how amazing he is. He is the team of a-holes, but with his past its no wonder why. Realizing his sexuality and never acting on it is driving him part mad when in flounces Lenny. Pretty Lenny, who I adored and who adapted to this new situation. I really loved Lenny. He was going through a traumatic experience but was able to mold into something new for himself. The attraction to one another is pretty obvious. Its definitely a waiting game to see who is going to fold first. I didn't care at this point. Feelings were being made, angst was being dropped, but when moves were made and action was had in this story. It was great seeing Cass, Tom & Jake from Misfits. Loved how they all fitted so well within this book.
Both guys have some sort of trauma that they are dealing with. Lenny's is most recent, and Nero is in the past. How can he help Lenny, and still deal with his monsters in the dark? I like that Lenny kinda reinforced to Nero that the communicating is a 2 way street. If you want to know all of my flaws, and scares then give up yours. It was a lovely for me to have the emotions that I did have, but I think once again its why I like Leigh's books. They are definitely realistic and very much you can know these characters off hand in one way or another.
Strays is a definite recommend for me. You can read it as a standalone, but why do that? If you are looking for great writing, and an equally amazing story then pick this book up. You will not be disappointed!
Oh my goodness, this book was amazing!!!! I loved every single minute of it. Leigh packs a healthy punch of angst in her for those lovers, but it was non-angsty enough for me to enjoy it. I mean let's be honest here who does flawed characters like Garrett Leigh? NOBODY! She is Reigning Queen and this book solidifies it. I thought I could pick it up to start reading to take my mind off things, but I ended up reading the entire book in one sitting. (NTS: go back and re-read Misfits)
Lenny & Nero were so good together. I can't stop gushing about it. What is it about grumpy ass men? I'm so attached to them. At first grump glance, Nero was mine. He just wants to be in the shadows and maintain a kitchen, but he can't. LOL. Well he can, but he realizes really late in life how amazing he is. He is the team of a-holes, but with his past its no wonder why. Realizing his sexuality and never acting on it is driving him part mad when in flounces Lenny. Pretty Lenny, who I adored and who adapted to this new situation. I really loved Lenny. He was going through a traumatic experience but was able to mold into something new for himself. The attraction to one another is pretty obvious. Its definitely a waiting game to see who is going to fold first. I didn't care at this point. Feelings were being made, angst was being dropped, but when moves were made and action was had in this story. It was great seeing Cass, Tom & Jake from Misfits. Loved how they all fitted so well within this book.
Both guys have some sort of trauma that they are dealing with. Lenny's is most recent, and Nero is in the past. How can he help Lenny, and still deal with his monsters in the dark? I like that Lenny kinda reinforced to Nero that the communicating is a 2 way street. If you want to know all of my flaws, and scares then give up yours. It was a lovely for me to have the emotions that I did have, but I think once again its why I like Leigh's books. They are definitely realistic and very much you can know these characters off hand in one way or another.
Strays is a definite recommend for me. You can read it as a standalone, but why do that? If you are looking for great writing, and an equally amazing story then pick this book up. You will not be disappointed!
October 6, 2024
I spent so much of this book thinking 'Wait...I've read this before' and I cannot figure out why! There were some parts I remembered so clearly and I do recall starting a book and not realising there was another first, so maybe I put it aside until I got the first book?? I can't even say how much it was bugging me trying to figure it out, but I usually write it down if I need to come back to a book because it's actually part of a series!!
That aside, I really loved the relationship between Nero and Lenny. They were both shut off but in very different ways. Nero was afraid that if he opened up he'd be left with nothing and didn't know what he would do if that were to happen. Lenny was scared to open up because he was in survival mode and didn't want Nero to think he was weak. I do love when emotionally scarred characters find a home in each other. I love how they made The Stray Tiger their place.
I also loved how prominent Jake, Cass and Tom were throughout the story and they all feel like a family - I would love to read more books in the Urban Soul world! I did see a lot of links to other books and that always makes me happy, there really is a six degrees of separation thing going on in the Garrett Leigh universe and all of the characters can be linked together in various ways, which is something I absolutely love in extended story universes.
That aside, I really loved the relationship between Nero and Lenny. They were both shut off but in very different ways. Nero was afraid that if he opened up he'd be left with nothing and didn't know what he would do if that were to happen. Lenny was scared to open up because he was in survival mode and didn't want Nero to think he was weak. I do love when emotionally scarred characters find a home in each other. I love how they made The Stray Tiger their place.
I also loved how prominent Jake, Cass and Tom were throughout the story and they all feel like a family - I would love to read more books in the Urban Soul world! I did see a lot of links to other books and that always makes me happy, there really is a six degrees of separation thing going on in the Garrett Leigh universe and all of the characters can be linked together in various ways, which is something I absolutely love in extended story universes.
March 16, 2019
Two years ago I read a book that shook my world. Misfits smashed any preconceived notions I had to bits and helped me not only understand but appreciate the beauty and complexity of a triad. Poly relationships never quite made sense to me…until Tom, Cass, and Jake. Suddenly, I could see and feel the extraordinary bond they have. This fiery trio commandeered a place in my heart. I was so excited for this sequel and then…I was afraid. What if something happened? What if things changed? What if…what if…what if. So I waited until I was recently reminded that I was still holding this at arm’s length. And I needed to trust them and their glorious maker…and move forward. See how they are getting on and well, Nero was waiting. And let me tell you, Nero doesn’t like to wait. Nero and Lenny have a compelling and piercing story to share. I was caught, bound, and unresisting…desperately lost to the pages.
And *spoiler* the backbone of Urban Soul are still steadfast and true. *gleeful smile* Thank you, Garrett.
What's to like: If you’re new to the mouth-watering world of Urban Soul, I encourage you to stop and head back to the beginning. It’s not “technically” necessary but definitely worth starting with the first book. It’s clear Leigh masters both literary art and culinary art and we have double the pleasure while feasting on her creations. I would love nothing more than to eat my way through each and every component of Urban Soul. This time around we spend significant time at Pippa’s. It was fun slipping into the back of the house, spying on the intricate dance of a smooth and efficient kitchen. Nero has very little peace in his life, but creating luscious creations for patrons to enjoy is one of the few. When his best friend calls in a favor, he is helpless to resist him. Then he meets the colorful but skittish man he’s tasked with and any defenses he thought he had vanished. Lenny does something that no other soul has done before. He doesn’t just see him…he sees into him. Nero has spent most of his life hiding the core of his pain and Lenny splits him open. No hiding. No secrets. But can Nero share his burden? It may prove to be more than he can handle. But wait! This is a GL special…never fear.
What's to love: As ever, the emotional upheaval was intense. Both Nero and Lenny are running from monsters. They may take different forms, but the crippling effect is the same. Their fear was palpable. their pain pulsating, and the absent drifting was distressing at best. A couple of stray cats, both Nero and Lenny have been wandering, unable to settle. Nero’s natural defense mechanism consists of a knitted brow accompanied by biting words. He’s put up walls. He doesn’t do people. He does food. And he does food properly. He’s the captain of any kitchen he walks into for good reason. Controlling the intricate harmony of the “back” with an iron fist, he’s the best of the best. But he’s a sourpuss lonely best. Until he finds the vital and elusive piece he’s been missing…Lenny. I would not be exaggerating when I say Lenny makes Nero better. As luck would have it, Nero makes Lenny better too. And that’s what I loved best. The city, the food, the nervous excitement and of course, the sensual lovemaking delivered everything I was craving and then some. I was expecting the shattering of my happy bubble in regards to Lenny’s demons but I was blown away by Nero’s nightmare.
Oh, my heart!
It was hard but I was grateful karma got her say. I’m not much for quotes but this one, in particular, sang to me…
“You did know what it meant, just not what it meant to me. And I like that. You don’t have to know it all to know what matters.”
A building was restored, freedom was recovered, and a soul was resurrected. It’s an exceptionally touching tale that you don’t want to miss. If you decide to give it a go, give all the boys my love will you please? Oh, and remind Cass to take care of himself. He’s an essential puzzle piece I don’t want to see missing.
Beware of: A hideous huntsman. A torturous childhood with seeping scars. A roaming scrapper that sends most running…until he finds what he never knew he needed. And a love story that only comes along once in a lifetime.
This book is for: If you can handle a punch in the gut on the road to a love story that’s unlike anything you’ve ever experienced…grab a seat and prepare for a story full of real life and loads of heart.
*4.5 stars*
Book UNfunk
And *spoiler* the backbone of Urban Soul are still steadfast and true. *gleeful smile* Thank you, Garrett.
What's to like: If you’re new to the mouth-watering world of Urban Soul, I encourage you to stop and head back to the beginning. It’s not “technically” necessary but definitely worth starting with the first book. It’s clear Leigh masters both literary art and culinary art and we have double the pleasure while feasting on her creations. I would love nothing more than to eat my way through each and every component of Urban Soul. This time around we spend significant time at Pippa’s. It was fun slipping into the back of the house, spying on the intricate dance of a smooth and efficient kitchen. Nero has very little peace in his life, but creating luscious creations for patrons to enjoy is one of the few. When his best friend calls in a favor, he is helpless to resist him. Then he meets the colorful but skittish man he’s tasked with and any defenses he thought he had vanished. Lenny does something that no other soul has done before. He doesn’t just see him…he sees into him. Nero has spent most of his life hiding the core of his pain and Lenny splits him open. No hiding. No secrets. But can Nero share his burden? It may prove to be more than he can handle. But wait! This is a GL special…never fear.
What's to love: As ever, the emotional upheaval was intense. Both Nero and Lenny are running from monsters. They may take different forms, but the crippling effect is the same. Their fear was palpable. their pain pulsating, and the absent drifting was distressing at best. A couple of stray cats, both Nero and Lenny have been wandering, unable to settle. Nero’s natural defense mechanism consists of a knitted brow accompanied by biting words. He’s put up walls. He doesn’t do people. He does food. And he does food properly. He’s the captain of any kitchen he walks into for good reason. Controlling the intricate harmony of the “back” with an iron fist, he’s the best of the best. But he’s a sourpuss lonely best. Until he finds the vital and elusive piece he’s been missing…Lenny. I would not be exaggerating when I say Lenny makes Nero better. As luck would have it, Nero makes Lenny better too. And that’s what I loved best. The city, the food, the nervous excitement and of course, the sensual lovemaking delivered everything I was craving and then some. I was expecting the shattering of my happy bubble in regards to Lenny’s demons but I was blown away by Nero’s nightmare.
Oh, my heart!
It was hard but I was grateful karma got her say. I’m not much for quotes but this one, in particular, sang to me…
“You did know what it meant, just not what it meant to me. And I like that. You don’t have to know it all to know what matters.”
A building was restored, freedom was recovered, and a soul was resurrected. It’s an exceptionally touching tale that you don’t want to miss. If you decide to give it a go, give all the boys my love will you please? Oh, and remind Cass to take care of himself. He’s an essential puzzle piece I don’t want to see missing.
Beware of: A hideous huntsman. A torturous childhood with seeping scars. A roaming scrapper that sends most running…until he finds what he never knew he needed. And a love story that only comes along once in a lifetime.
This book is for: If you can handle a punch in the gut on the road to a love story that’s unlike anything you’ve ever experienced…grab a seat and prepare for a story full of real life and loads of heart.
*4.5 stars*
Book UNfunk
January 19, 2024
Loved this. RTC maybe.
March 18, 2017
It was great to be back in the Urban Soul world and catch up with Tom, Jake and Cass. This time we get a closer look at Nero, the unstoppable and grumpy chef we met in Misfits.
Nero has reasons to be as gruff and standoffish as he is. His is a dark and bitter past. No one has managed to break through his barriers to learn the truth.
Lenny is a terrified young man at the end of his wits. Cass reaches out with a helping hand and sets him up under Nero's wing.
Nero and Lenny's relationship is a slow build and a slow burn. Both men have a lot to overcome before allowing someone in to their hearts.
This is a low angst, low drama story of two damaged men finding "the one" in each other. It's beautiful to see.
I love Garrett Leigh's writing. It is utterly captivating. In this story, however, there's a selfish part of me that wanted more. I wanted to live through more of the MCs' backgrounds. I wanted to spend more time in their heads while they sorted out their feelings. I definitely wanted to be with Lenny when he was forced to confront his fears.
It's a great love story and it's selfish of me to want more. But, there you have it, *selfish is me*.
Review ARC graciously provided by Riptide Publishing via NetGalley
Nero has reasons to be as gruff and standoffish as he is. His is a dark and bitter past. No one has managed to break through his barriers to learn the truth.
Lenny is a terrified young man at the end of his wits. Cass reaches out with a helping hand and sets him up under Nero's wing.
Nero and Lenny's relationship is a slow build and a slow burn. Both men have a lot to overcome before allowing someone in to their hearts.
This is a low angst, low drama story of two damaged men finding "the one" in each other. It's beautiful to see.
I love Garrett Leigh's writing. It is utterly captivating. In this story, however, there's a selfish part of me that wanted more. I wanted to live through more of the MCs' backgrounds. I wanted to spend more time in their heads while they sorted out their feelings. I definitely wanted to be with Lenny when he was forced to confront his fears.
It's a great love story and it's selfish of me to want more. But, there you have it, *selfish is me*.
Review ARC graciously provided by Riptide Publishing via NetGalley
April 7, 2018
4 stars.
Garrett Leigh's books are some of the best I've read but they're also filled with a lot of angst and feelings. She creates such unique characters with that have tortured pasts but it's not too much. Also, the fact that the steam level is mostly always on the lower side.
And all of that is included in this book.
I read and loved Misfits so I was super excited that Nero had his own book as well. Him and Lenny are opposites but they work so well together. Add in the slow burn romance, opposites attract, this book was a win/win. And the fact that Lenny doesn't take any shit from Nero made me love him even more.
With a Garrett Leigh book I expect all the feels and that's exactly what I got when I read this book. There was also the issue of Lenny having a stalker but I'm happy that it didn't take over the story. I liked the concept of having the dual pov which helped me get to know each character personally.
And I loved seeing Jake, Tom and Cass in this book as well since I loved reading their story in Misfits.
“You are my dreams. I just never knew it.”
Garrett Leigh's books are some of the best I've read but they're also filled with a lot of angst and feelings. She creates such unique characters with that have tortured pasts but it's not too much. Also, the fact that the steam level is mostly always on the lower side.
And all of that is included in this book.
I read and loved Misfits so I was super excited that Nero had his own book as well. Him and Lenny are opposites but they work so well together. Add in the slow burn romance, opposites attract, this book was a win/win. And the fact that Lenny doesn't take any shit from Nero made me love him even more.
“I didn’t know I needed you until you found me, but I do need you, so much, Lenny...”
With a Garrett Leigh book I expect all the feels and that's exactly what I got when I read this book. There was also the issue of Lenny having a stalker but I'm happy that it didn't take over the story. I liked the concept of having the dual pov which helped me get to know each character personally.
And I loved seeing Jake, Tom and Cass in this book as well since I loved reading their story in Misfits.
Nero was his rock, his port in the storm. How had he not seen that Nero needed sanctuary too?
October 31, 2018
4.5 stars
September 1, 2021
Hmm, I'm waffling on this one. I didn't expect this to be the same as book one but this was just not anywhere near that level so I think I'm extra disappointed as a result. There's really nothing wrong with this book, and it's still really well written with a few lovely turns of phrase, but I had almost no emotional connection to this one and it was a little.. boring? So, yeah, bummed.
Probably a 2.5 but I can't quite round up. Still definitely keen to read more by this author though!
Probably a 2.5 but I can't quite round up. Still definitely keen to read more by this author though!
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