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Off Beat #3
Hot Licks
Benji Moore is living his dream traveling as the lead singer of his band. His life would be perfect if he could get his boyfriend, Josh, to commit to an exclusive relationship. Even though Josh loves Benji, he has good reasons not to trust in long-term relationships. So Josh decides to take some time to himself and sublets a room at a friend’s beach house. But when he walks into the nearby Off Beat bar, he finds a bartender who may be a good distraction from his relationship problems.Van Holt doesn’t do anything deeper than sweaty one-night stands. But when Josh sets his sights on him, Van is surprised by their connection. Except Van also doesn’t do complicated, and the situation between Josh and Benji defines complicated. But the more time Van spends with them, the more he’s realizing how hard it would be to let Josh and Benji go. Can the three of them find a way together, or will they all end up going solo?Hot Licks is part of the Off Beat series by bestselling author A.M. Arthur
278 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 7, 2017
15 people are currently reading
229 people want to read
About the author
A.M. Arthur
87 books1,234 followersNo stranger to the writing world, A.M. Arthur has been creating stories in her head since she was a child and scribbling them down nearly as long. She credits an early fascination with male friendships (bromance wasn't a thing yet) with her later discovery of and subsequent affair with m/m romance stories. When not writing, she can be found in her kitchen, pretending she's an amateur chef and trying to not poison herself or others with her cuisine experiments. You can contact her at AM_Arthur(at)yahoo(dot)com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
February 7, 2017
What the f...that was one harsh 'chapter one: 'Eleven Years Ago'
Joshua and Benji... Joshua wants an open relationship and Benji....not..... after three years they break up, well ....Benji breaks it up. Both deeply hurt by it. And then there is Van, a bartender and very attracted to Joshua and several months before attracted to Benji. It was both times working both ways.
Van helped Joshua to make it up with Benji to get exclusive with him. And after that Benji can't get it out of his mind to have a threesome.
Threesomes stories has a difficulty for me, it has to be real it has to feel real (and right)
I was to much focused on the fact that it has to be right, i made my own toe curl a bit. Not giving up because I'm to excited about how this would develop.
Luckily it did well. A lot a story and interrelation with Benji his band, a lot of friends and family.
But the main story was always about Benji, Joshua and Van.
Benji taking the lead is strong, despite he is the smallest and softer one, he has a determination firm as a rock. They all have their own natural place in this triad. The sex they have is steamy and yes it's getting better all the time.
The story developed in a really nice way, the three men felt honest.
In the beginning there was a lot on the plate: Asexual, gray-A, demisexual, trans, bi, pan, romantically attracted, aesthetically attracted, emotionally attracted, there was more but I skipped it in my head. I hoped this book would not take the whole sexual diversity under the loupe....because that would be just to much....In some way it did. What chance is there to meet this spectrum of people. It was a bit ott. But who gives a sh* when there are not one, not two but three men involved, you only can love them.
That all aside the threesome was well done, they were going strong. All three had their own background and all very different which felt real and acceptable.
Sweet, thoughtful and sizzling hot...with a sharp tail.
The writing style was captivating, respectful and divert.
Joshua and Benji... Joshua wants an open relationship and Benji....not..... after three years they break up, well ....Benji breaks it up. Both deeply hurt by it. And then there is Van, a bartender and very attracted to Joshua and several months before attracted to Benji. It was both times working both ways.
Van helped Joshua to make it up with Benji to get exclusive with him. And after that Benji can't get it out of his mind to have a threesome.
Threesomes stories has a difficulty for me, it has to be real it has to feel real (and right)
I was to much focused on the fact that it has to be right, i made my own toe curl a bit. Not giving up because I'm to excited about how this would develop.
Luckily it did well. A lot a story and interrelation with Benji his band, a lot of friends and family.
But the main story was always about Benji, Joshua and Van.
Benji taking the lead is strong, despite he is the smallest and softer one, he has a determination firm as a rock. They all have their own natural place in this triad. The sex they have is steamy and yes it's getting better all the time.
The story developed in a really nice way, the three men felt honest.
In the beginning there was a lot on the plate: Asexual, gray-A, demisexual, trans, bi, pan, romantically attracted, aesthetically attracted, emotionally attracted, there was more but I skipped it in my head. I hoped this book would not take the whole sexual diversity under the loupe....because that would be just to much....In some way it did. What chance is there to meet this spectrum of people. It was a bit ott. But who gives a sh* when there are not one, not two but three men involved, you only can love them.
That all aside the threesome was well done, they were going strong. All three had their own background and all very different which felt real and acceptable.
Sweet, thoughtful and sizzling hot...with a sharp tail.
The writing style was captivating, respectful and divert.
February 7, 2017
Josh loves Benji and Benji loves Josh...
but still for these two there's something that's missing...something that's not quite right.
'Hot Licks' is the story of how Benji, Josh and Van each meet, it's how they struggle to form a unique relationship that finally gives each man what he needs and who he loves. This story also shows us each man's past and the heartache that has haunted each of them as they struggle to find the life they were meant to have.
Benji and Josh have been in an open relationship for a few years now. It's always been based on a 'one and done' premise...scratching an itch because their lives keep them on the road...a lot...and they don't always get to be with each other as often or in the way that they would like and it's worked for them or at least Josh thought it did...until Benji asked to close the relationship and Josh panicked and said 'no'...leading to their decision that maybe they needed to take a break.
That's when Benji met Van and they flirted...but, fate decided that nothing was going to come of it and Benji went back on the road with his band. Then Josh came to town and guess who he met...
Problem is Benji still loves Josh...Josh still loves Benji and they both still want to be together but turns out they both want something or I should say someone else as well. But Van...well he just doesn't do complicated and Benji and Josh are looking way to complicated for his taste...but none of these men seem to be able to move on from each other. So maybe they all need a bit of complicated in order to find a lot of happy.
I really loved this one. Yes, there was a lot going on but for me it was neither confusing nor overwhelming and it all came together to create a story about a love that, while it may not have been conventional, was right for these men and was what they needed to help them heal their hearts and move on from their past to create a future together that made them happy.
It's A.M. Arthur at her best giving us hot men with bruised and battered hearts who are looking for someplace...someone to call home. There's angst, there's drama, there's very, very sexy times and in the end there's an awesome HEA.
Part of the reason that I enjoyed this one so much is because it brings together 3 of the characters who have interested me the most from the first two books in this series especially Van, needless to say I was more than happy to get his story. I've liked Van from the word go in this series so finally getting his story and seeing him get his own slice of happiness...well, that's no hardship at all. But I've also been more than a little curious about Benji and Josh too because truthfully open relationships are something that I've never been able to quite grasp. So I was curious to see how theirs would play out.
Now, if all this has you thinking that you're getting a story about 3 gay guys who enter into a menage relationship...sorry, you'd be wrong. It's a little more complex and definitely a lot more interesting than that but you'll have to read the story for those details. While I would definitely recommend reading 'Body Rocks' & 'Steady Stroke', the first two books in this series this book does provide you with enough background that you could read it as a standalone.
********************
An ARC of 'Hot Licks' was graciously provided by the publisher via Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
but still for these two there's something that's missing...something that's not quite right.
'Hot Licks' is the story of how Benji, Josh and Van each meet, it's how they struggle to form a unique relationship that finally gives each man what he needs and who he loves. This story also shows us each man's past and the heartache that has haunted each of them as they struggle to find the life they were meant to have.
Benji and Josh have been in an open relationship for a few years now. It's always been based on a 'one and done' premise...scratching an itch because their lives keep them on the road...a lot...and they don't always get to be with each other as often or in the way that they would like and it's worked for them or at least Josh thought it did...until Benji asked to close the relationship and Josh panicked and said 'no'...leading to their decision that maybe they needed to take a break.
That's when Benji met Van and they flirted...but, fate decided that nothing was going to come of it and Benji went back on the road with his band. Then Josh came to town and guess who he met...
Problem is Benji still loves Josh...Josh still loves Benji and they both still want to be together but turns out they both want something or I should say someone else as well. But Van...well he just doesn't do complicated and Benji and Josh are looking way to complicated for his taste...but none of these men seem to be able to move on from each other. So maybe they all need a bit of complicated in order to find a lot of happy.
I really loved this one. Yes, there was a lot going on but for me it was neither confusing nor overwhelming and it all came together to create a story about a love that, while it may not have been conventional, was right for these men and was what they needed to help them heal their hearts and move on from their past to create a future together that made them happy.
It's A.M. Arthur at her best giving us hot men with bruised and battered hearts who are looking for someplace...someone to call home. There's angst, there's drama, there's very, very sexy times and in the end there's an awesome HEA.
Part of the reason that I enjoyed this one so much is because it brings together 3 of the characters who have interested me the most from the first two books in this series especially Van, needless to say I was more than happy to get his story. I've liked Van from the word go in this series so finally getting his story and seeing him get his own slice of happiness...well, that's no hardship at all. But I've also been more than a little curious about Benji and Josh too because truthfully open relationships are something that I've never been able to quite grasp. So I was curious to see how theirs would play out.
Now, if all this has you thinking that you're getting a story about 3 gay guys who enter into a menage relationship...sorry, you'd be wrong. It's a little more complex and definitely a lot more interesting than that but you'll have to read the story for those details. While I would definitely recommend reading 'Body Rocks' & 'Steady Stroke', the first two books in this series this book does provide you with enough background that you could read it as a standalone.
********************
An ARC of 'Hot Licks' was graciously provided by the publisher via Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
February 25, 2017
Loved it - Benji, Joshua & Van ... all with unique stories that finally aligned into a beautiful triad. Really enjoyed this journey even though there was hurt & angst, the warmth and comfort came through ❤
February 9, 2017
Release day review originally posted at Sinfully.
If you know me, you know I love m/m/m storylines that bring something a bit different and Hot Licks did it for me. All the characters have been briefly introduced before, but I think you could jump into the series here and not really miss anything.
Benji, the sweet and sexy lead singer of Fading Daze, has been struggling with his and Joshua’s open relationship and has finally requested that they close it, needing to know that he is enough for Joshua. During their three years together, this isn’t the only thing he has been struggling with. He has just come to the realization that he is asexual, most likely demisexual, and this new realization sheds light on so much that has troubled him about his physical relationship with Joshua, but putting a label to it doesn’t make it any less complicated. Joshua has his reasons for not wanting to close the relationship. He can’t imagine his life without Benji but fears his ability to remain faithful based on the lousy track record of everyone in his family. Even with these issues and the rocky state of their relationship, it is so clear how much these two love each other and want the relationship to work.
Both Benji and Joshua think Van, the bartender at Off Beat, is sexy and sweet and both have, independently, pursued him to some degree while their relationship was open. Van doesn’t do complicated or men with boyfriends, but he is drawn to both Josh and Benji. As much as he’d like to walk away, he just can’t resist them. After helping Joshua make amends with Benji the three men begin to explore their feelings and the possibility that Van would fit into Josh and Benji’s life perfectly. Benji feels a desire to get to know Van, he sees his beauty in and out and wants to explore that, while Joshua has a palpable sexual desire for him, that Van definitely reciprocates. In fact Van wants both men and they quickly find a way to satisfy everyone’s desires. There are plenty of smoking hot scenes here, whether all three men were together or making things work with Skype while Benji is on the road.
Beyond the initial attraction, each man is looking for something different going into this relationship and has a very different background that colors their viewpoint, so I loved that we were presented with points of view from all three of them. There are brief moments where both Joshua and Benji wonder if Van will take their place and the other won’t need them and Van wonders if he’s about to break up their relationship, but they really want to make it work and jealousy has no place between the three of them. A.M. Arthur never makes it easy for her characters and some of their backstories are horrible. None of them are broken, but they all have something to work through.
There is a lot more going on around the three men trying to work things out. There are issues relating to the band and Benji’s place in it, Joshua is trying to set his life back on track after taking leave from his job and moving to the shore and Van is trying not to let the fear his childhood instilled in him keep him from making a commitment to the first men he’s had feelings for in more than 10 years.
This was my favorite book of the series so far. Although all the men had something they needed to overcome from their pasts, it didn’t weigh the story down. I really liked that the focus was steadily on Benji, Joshua and Van finding a way to make things work even though there were still other storylines at play around them. This book had a little bit of everything – drama, humor, hot sex, tender moments and a satisfying love story and happy ending. Now if we can only find out what happened to former XYZ member Tyson, who mysteriously hasn’t been heard from since the first book.
If you know me, you know I love m/m/m storylines that bring something a bit different and Hot Licks did it for me. All the characters have been briefly introduced before, but I think you could jump into the series here and not really miss anything.
Benji, the sweet and sexy lead singer of Fading Daze, has been struggling with his and Joshua’s open relationship and has finally requested that they close it, needing to know that he is enough for Joshua. During their three years together, this isn’t the only thing he has been struggling with. He has just come to the realization that he is asexual, most likely demisexual, and this new realization sheds light on so much that has troubled him about his physical relationship with Joshua, but putting a label to it doesn’t make it any less complicated. Joshua has his reasons for not wanting to close the relationship. He can’t imagine his life without Benji but fears his ability to remain faithful based on the lousy track record of everyone in his family. Even with these issues and the rocky state of their relationship, it is so clear how much these two love each other and want the relationship to work.
Both Benji and Joshua think Van, the bartender at Off Beat, is sexy and sweet and both have, independently, pursued him to some degree while their relationship was open. Van doesn’t do complicated or men with boyfriends, but he is drawn to both Josh and Benji. As much as he’d like to walk away, he just can’t resist them. After helping Joshua make amends with Benji the three men begin to explore their feelings and the possibility that Van would fit into Josh and Benji’s life perfectly. Benji feels a desire to get to know Van, he sees his beauty in and out and wants to explore that, while Joshua has a palpable sexual desire for him, that Van definitely reciprocates. In fact Van wants both men and they quickly find a way to satisfy everyone’s desires. There are plenty of smoking hot scenes here, whether all three men were together or making things work with Skype while Benji is on the road.
Beyond the initial attraction, each man is looking for something different going into this relationship and has a very different background that colors their viewpoint, so I loved that we were presented with points of view from all three of them. There are brief moments where both Joshua and Benji wonder if Van will take their place and the other won’t need them and Van wonders if he’s about to break up their relationship, but they really want to make it work and jealousy has no place between the three of them. A.M. Arthur never makes it easy for her characters and some of their backstories are horrible. None of them are broken, but they all have something to work through.
There is a lot more going on around the three men trying to work things out. There are issues relating to the band and Benji’s place in it, Joshua is trying to set his life back on track after taking leave from his job and moving to the shore and Van is trying not to let the fear his childhood instilled in him keep him from making a commitment to the first men he’s had feelings for in more than 10 years.
This was my favorite book of the series so far. Although all the men had something they needed to overcome from their pasts, it didn’t weigh the story down. I really liked that the focus was steadily on Benji, Joshua and Van finding a way to make things work even though there were still other storylines at play around them. This book had a little bit of everything – drama, humor, hot sex, tender moments and a satisfying love story and happy ending. Now if we can only find out what happened to former XYZ member Tyson, who mysteriously hasn’t been heard from since the first book.
February 13, 2017
Benji Moore has everything he wants in life. He is the lead singer of a band, traveling where people know him, and a great boyfriend. But that great boyfriend, Josh, has been burned in a past relationship. He's been hurt beyond belief and is scared to commit. Even though he's happy with Josh, his logic (?!?!?!?!!?!?!?) is to take a break to see if he IS the ONE that he wants to be with forever.
Staying with a friend gives Josh time to think. Visiting a bar he meets the oh so sexy Van Holt. Van Holt is a one night stand kinda guy who refuses to do complicated. The more he finds out about Josh and Benji, the more he realizes they define the word complication. But he is really wanting to spend more time with Josh, and in turn Benji. Could the three of them work together and not have issues? Would that possible? All three men have different needs and different wants to fulfill them; can the three of them make each whole?
I don't read a lot of books that have people kind of stepping out. It's not a hang up of mine, but it's not something that I'm all about. However, the amazing author that A.M. is made this relationship seem like the mold was made with the three of them in it; the three really completed each other. Their past issues, heartaches, hangups, they all were able to help each other cope and move on. This book was so incredibly hot and the dynamics and heat between Josh, Benji and Van Holt was completely off the Richter scale. This is definitely one you don't want to miss!!
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
Staying with a friend gives Josh time to think. Visiting a bar he meets the oh so sexy Van Holt. Van Holt is a one night stand kinda guy who refuses to do complicated. The more he finds out about Josh and Benji, the more he realizes they define the word complication. But he is really wanting to spend more time with Josh, and in turn Benji. Could the three of them work together and not have issues? Would that possible? All three men have different needs and different wants to fulfill them; can the three of them make each whole?
I don't read a lot of books that have people kind of stepping out. It's not a hang up of mine, but it's not something that I'm all about. However, the amazing author that A.M. is made this relationship seem like the mold was made with the three of them in it; the three really completed each other. Their past issues, heartaches, hangups, they all were able to help each other cope and move on. This book was so incredibly hot and the dynamics and heat between Josh, Benji and Van Holt was completely off the Richter scale. This is definitely one you don't want to miss!!
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
February 7, 2017
I received a copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads
This is the 3rd book in this series and this one is about Van! FINALLY! I've loved Van Holt's character in both previous stories and really needed his background/story. So. Hot Licks starts with Benji (lead singer of Faded Daze after Trey left) and his geeky IT tech boyfriend, Joshua. They have had an open relationship for years. After the car accident that almost killed Josh, Benji has been wanting to close the relationship between the two men. But, Josh comes from a pretty messed up family and he's worried that without the open end on the relationship he's bound to hurt Benji and be cheat. Just like his Josh's parents always did to each other. They take a "break" and Josh moves to to beach house with Lincoln while Ben's on tour. Lincoln drags Josh to Off Beat, the little, local, live music venue where Faded Daze got their start. Van has been the bartender at Off Beat for years, he's very popular and the perfect flirt who's openly pansexual. Josh and Van hit it off but a hook up goes astray when Emmett tells Van that Joshua is in a relationship. Van doesn't do "complicated" and never shows for the booty call.
Van is a character I have quite enjoyed reading. He's kind and generous, a total flirt and open with his sexuality. I fell for his character 2 books ago. He tries to help Benji & Josh get back together rather than break them apart and by doing so ends up in the middle of a "throuple", a triad, a threesome. These books really venture into all the small subsets of personalities with pansexual, asexual and bisexual. That being said, i'm not certain I really bought all of Ben's "asexual/demisexual" and felt that Josh's bisexuality was sorta put to the wayside completely. The boys were definitely hot together and really kept my interest piqued with scenes that burned up the pages!
Warning though, these characters are all quite flawed. All 3 have horrible backstories dealing with abuse, hate crime violence and parental issues. It's a lot to take in in one book and Arthur doesn't hold back pulling out all the stops. A bit emotional overkill to the point where I became a bit numb to it all but I did keep reading since I needed to see them have a happy ending!
This is the 3rd book in this series and this one is about Van! FINALLY! I've loved Van Holt's character in both previous stories and really needed his background/story. So. Hot Licks starts with Benji (lead singer of Faded Daze after Trey left) and his geeky IT tech boyfriend, Joshua. They have had an open relationship for years. After the car accident that almost killed Josh, Benji has been wanting to close the relationship between the two men. But, Josh comes from a pretty messed up family and he's worried that without the open end on the relationship he's bound to hurt Benji and be cheat. Just like his Josh's parents always did to each other. They take a "break" and Josh moves to to beach house with Lincoln while Ben's on tour. Lincoln drags Josh to Off Beat, the little, local, live music venue where Faded Daze got their start. Van has been the bartender at Off Beat for years, he's very popular and the perfect flirt who's openly pansexual. Josh and Van hit it off but a hook up goes astray when Emmett tells Van that Joshua is in a relationship. Van doesn't do "complicated" and never shows for the booty call.
Van is a character I have quite enjoyed reading. He's kind and generous, a total flirt and open with his sexuality. I fell for his character 2 books ago. He tries to help Benji & Josh get back together rather than break them apart and by doing so ends up in the middle of a "throuple", a triad, a threesome. These books really venture into all the small subsets of personalities with pansexual, asexual and bisexual. That being said, i'm not certain I really bought all of Ben's "asexual/demisexual" and felt that Josh's bisexuality was sorta put to the wayside completely. The boys were definitely hot together and really kept my interest piqued with scenes that burned up the pages!
Warning though, these characters are all quite flawed. All 3 have horrible backstories dealing with abuse, hate crime violence and parental issues. It's a lot to take in in one book and Arthur doesn't hold back pulling out all the stops. A bit emotional overkill to the point where I became a bit numb to it all but I did keep reading since I needed to see them have a happy ending!
February 18, 2017
Josh & Benji have been on a break but it's not working out for them. However, neither is them being together. There just seems to be something not right. For Benji you have the struggle with his sexuality and which box he needs to squeeze himself into and for Josh you have the deepseated need to be adored. Whilst it takes a while it would seem that what they are in fact missing is Van. Van gives both partners something they couldn't experience without him. I'm not just talking sexually either although the sex does weigh quite heavily in this book. In fact I would go so far to say that I would have preferred to see them in more everyday situations gaining trust and balance together than so many goes around the sheets. Overall it's an easy read to whilst away a few hours with.
February 13, 2017
M/M/M done right!
Benji and Joshua have bee together for 3.5 years, but due to circumstances, they've had an open relationship. Benji is an up and coming rock star, and on the road most of the time, so they agree to one night stands to scratch the itch when needed. At the beginning they've actually been on a break because Benji wants to close it, and Josh isn't ready. That's when we meet Van.
He and Josh almost hook up, but he backs out when he finds out about Benji. He's actually instrumental in getting the other two back together. Problem is, he now feels a connection to both men, which they reciprocate. After some thinking, Benji decides to invite Van into their bed and their lives.
I like that the men are all equal, even though it takes Benji, whose demisexual a while to be comfortable being intimate beyond kissing with Van. He finds other ways to participate, often directing the other two. It's so hot!
I just really liked watching the relationship move from 2 to 3. And while it wasn't completely seamless, they were all committed to making it work.
Recommended
Benji and Joshua have bee together for 3.5 years, but due to circumstances, they've had an open relationship. Benji is an up and coming rock star, and on the road most of the time, so they agree to one night stands to scratch the itch when needed. At the beginning they've actually been on a break because Benji wants to close it, and Josh isn't ready. That's when we meet Van.
He and Josh almost hook up, but he backs out when he finds out about Benji. He's actually instrumental in getting the other two back together. Problem is, he now feels a connection to both men, which they reciprocate. After some thinking, Benji decides to invite Van into their bed and their lives.
I like that the men are all equal, even though it takes Benji, whose demisexual a while to be comfortable being intimate beyond kissing with Van. He finds other ways to participate, often directing the other two. It's so hot!
I just really liked watching the relationship move from 2 to 3. And while it wasn't completely seamless, they were all committed to making it work.
Recommended
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 7, 2017
Complications. The third installment of the Off Beat series is full of them as this sexy trio tries to find a happily ever after. Readers know from the blurb that Van doesn’t do complicated. Joshua and Benji have been doing complicated for nearly three years. Benji is miserable. He never wanted the open relationship he’s desperately trying to close. Joshua believes that closing their relationship will be the beginning of the end. Van is the unbiased friend that they turn to but there’s an attraction there that is too big to ignore.
Straight up there is a lot going on in this book. All three men have some complication in their life that is affecting their happiness whether it is individually or together. A.M. Arthur did a beautiful job of putting it all together, getting all the fine details out, while giving everything its needed resolution in less than three hundred pages and it all worked out, made sense, and never felt rushed or convenient. Hot Licks has become my favorite Off Beat book. I enjoyed the characters and I loved their story.
Be prepared to get a better understanding of various sexuality terms. This was something that came as a bit of a surprise to me. I figured I was getting a menage romance with three gay men. All three guys identifies as something different. Benji is struggling to put himself with a specific label. He knows something has always been missing from his relationship with Joshua. Benji assumed it was the fact that they had an open relationship. He thought closing it was the answer. The more time Benji and Joshua spend with Van each of them discovers a little more about the missing element that they didn’t know they were missing.
I can honestly say Hot Licks easily works as a stand-alone. All three of the guys have had very small roles in the previous books but nothing that happened in the previous books has any effect on what happens in this one.
Straight up there is a lot going on in this book. All three men have some complication in their life that is affecting their happiness whether it is individually or together. A.M. Arthur did a beautiful job of putting it all together, getting all the fine details out, while giving everything its needed resolution in less than three hundred pages and it all worked out, made sense, and never felt rushed or convenient. Hot Licks has become my favorite Off Beat book. I enjoyed the characters and I loved their story.
Be prepared to get a better understanding of various sexuality terms. This was something that came as a bit of a surprise to me. I figured I was getting a menage romance with three gay men. All three guys identifies as something different. Benji is struggling to put himself with a specific label. He knows something has always been missing from his relationship with Joshua. Benji assumed it was the fact that they had an open relationship. He thought closing it was the answer. The more time Benji and Joshua spend with Van each of them discovers a little more about the missing element that they didn’t know they were missing.
I can honestly say Hot Licks easily works as a stand-alone. All three of the guys have had very small roles in the previous books but nothing that happened in the previous books has any effect on what happens in this one.
February 7, 2017
If you want some sexy men who have learned to overcome some very intense past experiences you will love this book. Benji and Joshua have been in a relationship for some time even if it is an open relationship but all that is about to change. Benji is lead singer in a band and is gone on the road quite a bit since they are at the cusp of making it big which leaves Joshua home waiting for his boyfriend to return. Even though it is an open relationship Joshua has a rule of “one and done” but all of a sudden it seems like Van might make this rule hard to follow. He met Van at the bar where Benji and his band got their start and little does Joshua know that Benji and Van have also crossed paths making the other stand up and take notice.
Each of these men have had some pretty traumatic experiences in their past which has left them with various degrees of commitment issues. Will they be able to overcome their pasts and who will be the odd man out? Even though this is book three in this series I don’t feel that I wasn’t able to follow and it just made me want to read the first two books ASAP.
I received this book from NetGalley as an ARC for a freely given honest review.
Each of these men have had some pretty traumatic experiences in their past which has left them with various degrees of commitment issues. Will they be able to overcome their pasts and who will be the odd man out? Even though this is book three in this series I don’t feel that I wasn’t able to follow and it just made me want to read the first two books ASAP.
I received this book from NetGalley as an ARC for a freely given honest review.
January 17, 2017
This is the story of Benji, Josh & Van. Josh and Benji have been a couple with an open relationship for years. Van is a bartender at Off Beat. As we come to find out, Van wanted Benji since the first time he meets him. When he first meets Josh, he wants him but doesn’t know that Josh & Benji are a couple. We come to find out that even though Benji agreed to the open relationship he has been with anyone else. Josh has been with other men but has never violated the “one and done” agreement that they agreed too since the beginning of their relationship. It turns out that Benji believes that he is asexual but has never told Josh this. I loved watching these three’s love grow and they build a life together. I love this series & hope that there will be more to come.
ARC rec’d from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
ARC rec’d from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 14, 2018
I haven't read the other books in this series but had no problem following the story. And this was a really nice, semi-angsty MMM. I liked all these guys and the way their relationship developed felt natural and unrushed. And it was definitely something that they worked at.
They all have their issues but, unlike a lot of MMM, these guys truly complemented each other and were better together than apart. I just wish we saw more of these characters just being together, but what's on the page is definitely enough to while away a few good hours. This one was sexy and heartfelt, without being too OTT.
They all have their issues but, unlike a lot of MMM, these guys truly complemented each other and were better together than apart. I just wish we saw more of these characters just being together, but what's on the page is definitely enough to while away a few good hours. This one was sexy and heartfelt, without being too OTT.
January 30, 2021
So good! I really enjoyed the dynamic between Joshua, Benji and Van. They each brought something unique to the table, either to balance the others or to add to the angst that we all came to love.
April 11, 2022
This story started oddly, with a harsh abusive look-back opening chapter that IMO wasn't needed and threw the balance of the book off for a while. It's otherwise an interesting M/M/M story that has some unique aspects, and three very different men who work well together. Benji and Josh have an open relationship agreement. Since Benji's on the road a lot, they can have sex with strangers now and then. One and done. Josh thinks it's working because it suits him - he both likes getting sex when Benji's out of town, and lets his occasional hookups reassure him that he'll never chat on Benji because they've already agreed to be open.
Problem is, Benji's not happy with the way things are, and he's discovering things about himself that lead him to believe he's asexual, or maybe demisexual. At the same time, he wants to be exclusive, but how can he ask that of Josh, while revealing that he's not as big a fan of sex as Josh is?
Enter Van, a hot bartender whom Josh had hoped to have that one-and-done with, and who'd also been flirting with Benji a while back. The three men like each other, and as they dance around what a relationship should look like, they begin building something none of them had expected - a working poly triad. The story brings them together, figuring themselves out. All three are doing their best, trying to be honest about wants and needs, and there are difficulties in all their pasts that throw stumbling blocks in their way.
I enjoy poly stories, especially when they're complicated and not all about sex, and I appreciate when the dynamics are unbalanced. This was an interesting version, and I'm adding it to my list of recommended MMM.
Problem is, Benji's not happy with the way things are, and he's discovering things about himself that lead him to believe he's asexual, or maybe demisexual. At the same time, he wants to be exclusive, but how can he ask that of Josh, while revealing that he's not as big a fan of sex as Josh is?
Enter Van, a hot bartender whom Josh had hoped to have that one-and-done with, and who'd also been flirting with Benji a while back. The three men like each other, and as they dance around what a relationship should look like, they begin building something none of them had expected - a working poly triad. The story brings them together, figuring themselves out. All three are doing their best, trying to be honest about wants and needs, and there are difficulties in all their pasts that throw stumbling blocks in their way.
I enjoy poly stories, especially when they're complicated and not all about sex, and I appreciate when the dynamics are unbalanced. This was an interesting version, and I'm adding it to my list of recommended MMM.
February 7, 2017
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is the third book in the series - and follows on from the last one. We get to see our favourites from them, but this revolves around three men who were in the periphery before. It would be easy to read it as a standalone, but all the books are so good, that you should read them all.
I am a huge fan of ménage stories, and am always delighted when an author mixes things up a bit - and of course with three people involved, that can be done really effectively (or become a tangled, contortionist's mess). Here we get a lot of convoluted pasts that have had significant impacts on our trio, both emotionally and sexually. As they, and we, get to understand just what they mean for how they feel right now, the story demands and deserves the reader's attention. I really enjoyed how things came to light, and how each of the men had to come to terms with their past to engage in their future.
On occasion I can become annoyed with lots of detail about what people are eating, and why, but here it was a fundamental issue, which kept reminding me just what Van was facing, and why. Those little jolts were incredibly effective at keeping the tension high, and the need for a good outcome high.
There is only ever one problem with a new Off Beat book - I immediately want the next one! Thank you Ms Arthur for a very good read.
This is the third book in the series - and follows on from the last one. We get to see our favourites from them, but this revolves around three men who were in the periphery before. It would be easy to read it as a standalone, but all the books are so good, that you should read them all.
I am a huge fan of ménage stories, and am always delighted when an author mixes things up a bit - and of course with three people involved, that can be done really effectively (or become a tangled, contortionist's mess). Here we get a lot of convoluted pasts that have had significant impacts on our trio, both emotionally and sexually. As they, and we, get to understand just what they mean for how they feel right now, the story demands and deserves the reader's attention. I really enjoyed how things came to light, and how each of the men had to come to terms with their past to engage in their future.
On occasion I can become annoyed with lots of detail about what people are eating, and why, but here it was a fundamental issue, which kept reminding me just what Van was facing, and why. Those little jolts were incredibly effective at keeping the tension high, and the need for a good outcome high.
There is only ever one problem with a new Off Beat book - I immediately want the next one! Thank you Ms Arthur for a very good read.
October 16, 2021
https://celebrityreaders.com/2017/02/...
4.5 stars -- I received a free copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest and unbiased review/opinion.
Well damn, that was even better than I was anticipating. Again, with this series I dove in to the 2nd book without reading the first, and I had some conflicting feelings about that story and the amount of angst it contained. So when I was offered a widget for this book, I took it with some trepidation. Because I don't mind angst, but I don't seek it out as some do. But I was really intrigued finding out that this was Van's story, and while I didn't really know much about Benji and Joshua b/c they were probably more heavily featured in the first book that I missed, I still really wanted to find out what their story would be like.
And can I just say before I get to the meat of my review that the blurb really doesn't give a good feel for the story and what all in contains? Because it's really just a taste of the very beginning of the story, but there is so much more to it. And as another side niggle, they usually called him Joshua, rarely Josh. And also, can I just say I'm not a fan of the guy on the cover? I'm assuming that's supposed to be Benji, but I really didn't get the impression that he was that cut. Van's really the only one that would fit that physical description for me. OK, enough with the superficial.
So while this book still had the problem of having angst up the hoo-ha, it didn't have a lot of the side story angst that the previous book was bogged down in. I still feel like it seemed a bit much for each main character to have their own tragic childhood story, but I could deal with it a bit more for some reason. Maybe because I expected it? Or maybe it just was because at least there wasn't outside tragedies happening as well that we had to encounter. And even though Van's tragic story was left til the end, it fit with his character and I wasn't surprised by this. I thought each of their childhood traumas were given the proper respect and resolution within their relationship.
I had no idea that this story was going to deal with the gray asexual spectrum, and I actually found that it was dealt with quite well, b/c it is really complicated and all over the place, and Benji's story gave us a flavour of someone within the spectrum. I ADORED that part. And I was satisfied in the way it played out in the story. I was a bit disappointed that Van's pansexuality was never explored, but I guess it didn't really need to be.
I also really loved the way the story addressed poly relationships, and how much time and thought all 3 men took when considering it for themselves. I was especially intrigued since this story contained an established couple, but I never felt like I missed out on anything. It all flowed really nicely, and I loved the way it all expanded when Van was added to the mix. I felt the chemistry between all 3, and the steamy scenes were fantastic.
Honestly, I have no idea why it doesn't get full 5 stars. Just a gut feeling. Probably because of my personal preference away from angst. But yeah, it was nice to see all the things that bothered me about book 2 not becoming a problem in this book as well. And it was nice to see glimpses of the characters we knew from the other stories, I always love that. One tiny note: if you read this book first, you will get a bit of a spoiler for book 2. But I don't think it would spoil it enough that you couldn't go back and read it and enjoy it.
4.5 stars -- I received a free copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest and unbiased review/opinion.
Well damn, that was even better than I was anticipating. Again, with this series I dove in to the 2nd book without reading the first, and I had some conflicting feelings about that story and the amount of angst it contained. So when I was offered a widget for this book, I took it with some trepidation. Because I don't mind angst, but I don't seek it out as some do. But I was really intrigued finding out that this was Van's story, and while I didn't really know much about Benji and Joshua b/c they were probably more heavily featured in the first book that I missed, I still really wanted to find out what their story would be like.
And can I just say before I get to the meat of my review that the blurb really doesn't give a good feel for the story and what all in contains? Because it's really just a taste of the very beginning of the story, but there is so much more to it. And as another side niggle, they usually called him Joshua, rarely Josh. And also, can I just say I'm not a fan of the guy on the cover? I'm assuming that's supposed to be Benji, but I really didn't get the impression that he was that cut. Van's really the only one that would fit that physical description for me. OK, enough with the superficial.
So while this book still had the problem of having angst up the hoo-ha, it didn't have a lot of the side story angst that the previous book was bogged down in. I still feel like it seemed a bit much for each main character to have their own tragic childhood story, but I could deal with it a bit more for some reason. Maybe because I expected it? Or maybe it just was because at least there wasn't outside tragedies happening as well that we had to encounter. And even though Van's tragic story was left til the end, it fit with his character and I wasn't surprised by this. I thought each of their childhood traumas were given the proper respect and resolution within their relationship.
I had no idea that this story was going to deal with the gray asexual spectrum, and I actually found that it was dealt with quite well, b/c it is really complicated and all over the place, and Benji's story gave us a flavour of someone within the spectrum. I ADORED that part. And I was satisfied in the way it played out in the story. I was a bit disappointed that Van's pansexuality was never explored, but I guess it didn't really need to be.
I also really loved the way the story addressed poly relationships, and how much time and thought all 3 men took when considering it for themselves. I was especially intrigued since this story contained an established couple, but I never felt like I missed out on anything. It all flowed really nicely, and I loved the way it all expanded when Van was added to the mix. I felt the chemistry between all 3, and the steamy scenes were fantastic.
Honestly, I have no idea why it doesn't get full 5 stars. Just a gut feeling. Probably because of my personal preference away from angst. But yeah, it was nice to see all the things that bothered me about book 2 not becoming a problem in this book as well. And it was nice to see glimpses of the characters we knew from the other stories, I always love that. One tiny note: if you read this book first, you will get a bit of a spoiler for book 2. But I don't think it would spoil it enough that you couldn't go back and read it and enjoy it.
February 7, 2017
My Review:
In the past year or so A.M. Arthur has become one of my favorite authors...with good reason...amazingly good books! This one was no exception to the rule. It starts out with a shocking prologue and the story doesn't ever let you go again. I loved this one so much.
Like I said, the book starts with a shock...and it took me a while to figure out which one of these guys were in that scene...my heart just hurt for him. Benji and Joshua have been in a committed, open relationship for three years. They both travelled a ton for their jobs, so it just made sense to stay open when they were away from one another for so long. It was something Joshua wanted, not something that Benji did. But after the horrible car accident last year that almost killed Joshua, Benji wants to close their relationship. Joshua is reluctant, but not for the reasons you would think. He absolutely and without a doubt loves Benji, but he grew up in a family where cheating was accepted and commonplace. He doesn't ever want to hurt Benji that way and it's caused them a lot of strife. In the middle of all that strife, each of them met...and were attracted to...Van. But those meetings happened separately. There's an undeniable connection there for all three characters...and the story goes from there.
The thing I love about this story is that there is NEVER any doubt about the commitment between Joshua and Benji. Even when they are on the outs, there is no doubt that they 100% love one another. That aspect of this story makes it work so well. But that's also what makes it so difficult for Van to accept that he might have a place here. These two guys have 3 years of history and love between them. Van is a good guy...he doesn't want to do anything to come between that. In fact, he works hard to make sure that the guys sort out their issues and takes himself out of the equation. But Van also has such an aloneness to his character. I wanted him to be happy so badly. There's a vulnerability to him.
For me, Van made this story. I love a guy who can be vulnerable. Most people never see it with him, but his walls are down when he's around Joshua and Benji. I liked the perspective of the different sexual spectrums represented in this story, too. It really made the triad aspect work...and explained a lot about Benji.
Overall, I loved this story and there were most definitely some tears in this one. Lots of emotions and I do love that in my romance reading. Another recommend here!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
In the past year or so A.M. Arthur has become one of my favorite authors...with good reason...amazingly good books! This one was no exception to the rule. It starts out with a shocking prologue and the story doesn't ever let you go again. I loved this one so much.
Like I said, the book starts with a shock...and it took me a while to figure out which one of these guys were in that scene...my heart just hurt for him. Benji and Joshua have been in a committed, open relationship for three years. They both travelled a ton for their jobs, so it just made sense to stay open when they were away from one another for so long. It was something Joshua wanted, not something that Benji did. But after the horrible car accident last year that almost killed Joshua, Benji wants to close their relationship. Joshua is reluctant, but not for the reasons you would think. He absolutely and without a doubt loves Benji, but he grew up in a family where cheating was accepted and commonplace. He doesn't ever want to hurt Benji that way and it's caused them a lot of strife. In the middle of all that strife, each of them met...and were attracted to...Van. But those meetings happened separately. There's an undeniable connection there for all three characters...and the story goes from there.
The thing I love about this story is that there is NEVER any doubt about the commitment between Joshua and Benji. Even when they are on the outs, there is no doubt that they 100% love one another. That aspect of this story makes it work so well. But that's also what makes it so difficult for Van to accept that he might have a place here. These two guys have 3 years of history and love between them. Van is a good guy...he doesn't want to do anything to come between that. In fact, he works hard to make sure that the guys sort out their issues and takes himself out of the equation. But Van also has such an aloneness to his character. I wanted him to be happy so badly. There's a vulnerability to him.
For me, Van made this story. I love a guy who can be vulnerable. Most people never see it with him, but his walls are down when he's around Joshua and Benji. I liked the perspective of the different sexual spectrums represented in this story, too. It really made the triad aspect work...and explained a lot about Benji.
Overall, I loved this story and there were most definitely some tears in this one. Lots of emotions and I do love that in my romance reading. Another recommend here!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
February 8, 2017
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
Hot Licks is the third book in A.M. Arthur’s engaging Off Beat series. I have really been enjoying following along with this series and I think this is another great installment. We have met all three characters in previous books, and we have known for a while that Josh and Benji’s relationship has been strained, so it was really interesting to see it explored here in a way I didn’t expect, by transitioning it to a threesome. Overall, while the storyline stands alone reasonably well, there are so many crossover moments among the various characters in the three books, I think you would get much more out of this one knowing the history of the MCs here, as well as other side characters and plot points.
As I mentioned, I think the approach here is interesting, as we take an established couple who is having problems and add a third. I think what makes this work is that despite the fact that Josh and Benji are at odds over whether to close their relationship, we never doubt the love and commitment they have to one another. Even though Josh is wary of closing things, it is not for a lack of commitment to Benji, but a real fear that it would mess things up for them based on some past bad experiences. Josh is tender and caring with Benji and so clearly crazy about him that it immediately made me root for these guys to work it out. I also appreciated how the two men come to some resolution on their own feelings between the two of them before adding in Van. They could have easily been solid on their own, but Van adds a new dimension to their relationship that expands it, rather than “fixing” it.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
Hot Licks is the third book in A.M. Arthur’s engaging Off Beat series. I have really been enjoying following along with this series and I think this is another great installment. We have met all three characters in previous books, and we have known for a while that Josh and Benji’s relationship has been strained, so it was really interesting to see it explored here in a way I didn’t expect, by transitioning it to a threesome. Overall, while the storyline stands alone reasonably well, there are so many crossover moments among the various characters in the three books, I think you would get much more out of this one knowing the history of the MCs here, as well as other side characters and plot points.
As I mentioned, I think the approach here is interesting, as we take an established couple who is having problems and add a third. I think what makes this work is that despite the fact that Josh and Benji are at odds over whether to close their relationship, we never doubt the love and commitment they have to one another. Even though Josh is wary of closing things, it is not for a lack of commitment to Benji, but a real fear that it would mess things up for them based on some past bad experiences. Josh is tender and caring with Benji and so clearly crazy about him that it immediately made me root for these guys to work it out. I also appreciated how the two men come to some resolution on their own feelings between the two of them before adding in Van. They could have easily been solid on their own, but Van adds a new dimension to their relationship that expands it, rather than “fixing” it.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
April 29, 2020
Hot Licks is a super sexy, emotional ménage rockstar romance. Benji, Josh, and Van each bring something different to their triad, each has different needs. Originally, Benji and Josh were in a committed, but open, relationship for three years. Its openness was only at Josh's insistence, not because they didn't love each other. Josh didn't think he was capable of fidelity because his whole family has cheated on their partners his entire life and it's left a significant impact on Josh. Benji wanted the relationship to be closed, and when Josh couldn't agree, they broke up. Along came Van into their lives, at the perfect time. He helped Josh and Benji get back together and to realize just how much they mean to each other.
But, something is missing in their relationship, even now that they're in a committed, closed relationship. Van is that missing piece, in his own unique, sexy way. I think what I love most about Hot Licks is that each man identifies himself as something different. Benji has come to the realization that he's asexual to a degree, Josh is bi and Van calls himself pan. I didn't know much of the degrees of sexuality other than gay, straight and bi, so Hot Licks gave me a really good education of the entire sexual spectrum. It's these differences that give the three men's relationship its depth, their connection is really strong, not just physically, but emotionally and mentally as well. Seeing Benji, Josh and Van make their way through their poly relationship is so interesting, unique in its emotional intensity, and of course, the sex is off the charts hot! If you like m/m and/or m/m/m you really should pick up Hot Licks, you will not regret it!
I received an ARC through NetGalley for an honest review.
But, something is missing in their relationship, even now that they're in a committed, closed relationship. Van is that missing piece, in his own unique, sexy way. I think what I love most about Hot Licks is that each man identifies himself as something different. Benji has come to the realization that he's asexual to a degree, Josh is bi and Van calls himself pan. I didn't know much of the degrees of sexuality other than gay, straight and bi, so Hot Licks gave me a really good education of the entire sexual spectrum. It's these differences that give the three men's relationship its depth, their connection is really strong, not just physically, but emotionally and mentally as well. Seeing Benji, Josh and Van make their way through their poly relationship is so interesting, unique in its emotional intensity, and of course, the sex is off the charts hot! If you like m/m and/or m/m/m you really should pick up Hot Licks, you will not regret it!
I received an ARC through NetGalley for an honest review.
February 19, 2017
I loved the simplicity of this romance. Benji and Josh has been in a relationship for three years, even though its an open relationship and they both travel for their separate jobs.
Each of them meet Van on different times, in the same bar.
Josh is taking time off to revaluate his and Ben's relationship.
Van does not do relationships and its really tender the way the author brings these men together.
Following how they form a relationships between these 3 men was really touching
Each of them meet Van on different times, in the same bar.
Josh is taking time off to revaluate his and Ben's relationship.
Van does not do relationships and its really tender the way the author brings these men together.
Following how they form a relationships between these 3 men was really touching
November 25, 2017
As a fan of rockstar romances I couldn’t wait to start reading this book! Add in a scorching romance between not two, but three, engaging men carrying their own emotional baggage and I quickly became consumed by their rocky road to HEA.
Lead singer Benji has been with his boyfriend Joshua since they met in college. It’s been a bit rocky for their open relationship lately though as Benji’s insecurities, and Joshua’s fears over his ability to commit, are putting their HEA in doubt. Add in the tempting bartender Van and readers have even more doubt about their future as Van is a temptation that neither can ignore. A drunken night and a lot of soul searching soon has Benji proposing an unconventional idea that slowly binds them together more tightly than ever before in a journey full of emotional ups and downs. Benji’s a sweet young man with a past full of pain that’s left its mark. He endured horrific bullying in high school for being gay, leading to feelings of betrayal by someone pretending to be his friend, and ending in an event that‘s made him feel insecure when it comes to sex. He’s shy, despite being a rockstar, but has a kind heart and a desire to do whatever necessary to make the man he loves happy...even if bringing Van into their relationship brings back his painful past. He seems a bit unsure at the start but gains strength to become more self-assured as the story progresses. As he discovers who he is, and admits what he needs, he finally starts standing up for himself in an empowering act late in the story that had me cheering.
Joshua has his own emotional baggage because of his rocky relationship with his family and has felt very much alone when it comes to familial love. He’s always enjoyed the openness of his relationship with Benji, but when Benji wants him to commit it leads to a break-up and a meeting with the sexy and soulful Van that changes all of their lives irrevocably. Time apart makes them realize how much they mean to each other, but it also leads to lots of soul searching and admissions about their sexual needs. Part of that need revolves around Van and how much better they are when he’s in the picture. From there it’s a juggling of needs and boundaries that scorched up the pages. Joshua’s a likable guy who’s going through a crisis of trying to find himself and what makes him happy. He never thought himself capable of commitment but he works very hard on making his relationship with Benji work through lots of honesty and heartfelt talks. He’s supportive and caring and I enjoyed his sweet side as well as his commanding one.
Van Holt’s the typical fun and flirty bartender, but his past is anything but typical. He was adopted by a farm family who were deeply religious, judgmental, and physically punished him for being gay. The only joy he found back then was music and the boy next door who introduced him to making music...along with other steamier things he taught him. It ultimately led to tragedy and years on the road that changed Van inside and out. He’s leery of opening up his heart again, content to go from one coupling to another, but the moment he meets Benji and Joshua he can’t get them out of his head. Not wanting to harm their close connection has him hesitant to agree to their unconventional proposal, but once he does it leads to lots of erotically-charged encounters and an opening of the emotional floodgates through quiet moments of talking. Van’s a wonderful balance to Benji and Joshua, the perfect conduit to both of their needs, and a good sounding board as they work through their relationship. On the outside he appears carefree, but his past is very painful as his father hurt him in the worst way possible by crushing his dreams and his hopes for the future. He clawed his way back to living and I was rooting for him every step of the way to find a chance to love and be loved again.
This was an entertaining read full of intense emotions and scorching encounters. Sexuality was discussed in all its various definitions, giving a wide spectrum that was never judgemental. At times the discussion pulled me out of the story, but it helped give greater insight into Benji and Joshua’s relationship. I enjoyed getting to know each of these men through glimpses into their pasts, the tragic stories they told, that have left them bruised but not broken. Together they found love and wholehearted acceptance and they were a formidable force when things got difficult. There was a perfect balance between the erotic interludes and emotional talks that kept me fully invested in the story too. The interludes were both tender and dominant with each man’s unique personalities shining through in the heat of the moment. Readers once again got to see the colorful members of Fading Daze and the affect Benji’s relationship has on their future. It leads to harsh words, hurt feelings, but ultimately makes them stronger. Though this is the third installment in the Off Beat series, I had no trouble immersing myself in this world. The characters were immensely likable, the feelings both raw and sentimental, and from the first page to the last I felt like I’d been put through the wringer alongside the characters. Though the story got a bit off track when delving into the definition of sexuality, and a reveal late in the story came out of nowhere, I still found this an appealing story that now has me wanting to go back and see where it all started.
Lead singer Benji has been with his boyfriend Joshua since they met in college. It’s been a bit rocky for their open relationship lately though as Benji’s insecurities, and Joshua’s fears over his ability to commit, are putting their HEA in doubt. Add in the tempting bartender Van and readers have even more doubt about their future as Van is a temptation that neither can ignore. A drunken night and a lot of soul searching soon has Benji proposing an unconventional idea that slowly binds them together more tightly than ever before in a journey full of emotional ups and downs. Benji’s a sweet young man with a past full of pain that’s left its mark. He endured horrific bullying in high school for being gay, leading to feelings of betrayal by someone pretending to be his friend, and ending in an event that‘s made him feel insecure when it comes to sex. He’s shy, despite being a rockstar, but has a kind heart and a desire to do whatever necessary to make the man he loves happy...even if bringing Van into their relationship brings back his painful past. He seems a bit unsure at the start but gains strength to become more self-assured as the story progresses. As he discovers who he is, and admits what he needs, he finally starts standing up for himself in an empowering act late in the story that had me cheering.
Joshua has his own emotional baggage because of his rocky relationship with his family and has felt very much alone when it comes to familial love. He’s always enjoyed the openness of his relationship with Benji, but when Benji wants him to commit it leads to a break-up and a meeting with the sexy and soulful Van that changes all of their lives irrevocably. Time apart makes them realize how much they mean to each other, but it also leads to lots of soul searching and admissions about their sexual needs. Part of that need revolves around Van and how much better they are when he’s in the picture. From there it’s a juggling of needs and boundaries that scorched up the pages. Joshua’s a likable guy who’s going through a crisis of trying to find himself and what makes him happy. He never thought himself capable of commitment but he works very hard on making his relationship with Benji work through lots of honesty and heartfelt talks. He’s supportive and caring and I enjoyed his sweet side as well as his commanding one.
Van Holt’s the typical fun and flirty bartender, but his past is anything but typical. He was adopted by a farm family who were deeply religious, judgmental, and physically punished him for being gay. The only joy he found back then was music and the boy next door who introduced him to making music...along with other steamier things he taught him. It ultimately led to tragedy and years on the road that changed Van inside and out. He’s leery of opening up his heart again, content to go from one coupling to another, but the moment he meets Benji and Joshua he can’t get them out of his head. Not wanting to harm their close connection has him hesitant to agree to their unconventional proposal, but once he does it leads to lots of erotically-charged encounters and an opening of the emotional floodgates through quiet moments of talking. Van’s a wonderful balance to Benji and Joshua, the perfect conduit to both of their needs, and a good sounding board as they work through their relationship. On the outside he appears carefree, but his past is very painful as his father hurt him in the worst way possible by crushing his dreams and his hopes for the future. He clawed his way back to living and I was rooting for him every step of the way to find a chance to love and be loved again.
This was an entertaining read full of intense emotions and scorching encounters. Sexuality was discussed in all its various definitions, giving a wide spectrum that was never judgemental. At times the discussion pulled me out of the story, but it helped give greater insight into Benji and Joshua’s relationship. I enjoyed getting to know each of these men through glimpses into their pasts, the tragic stories they told, that have left them bruised but not broken. Together they found love and wholehearted acceptance and they were a formidable force when things got difficult. There was a perfect balance between the erotic interludes and emotional talks that kept me fully invested in the story too. The interludes were both tender and dominant with each man’s unique personalities shining through in the heat of the moment. Readers once again got to see the colorful members of Fading Daze and the affect Benji’s relationship has on their future. It leads to harsh words, hurt feelings, but ultimately makes them stronger. Though this is the third installment in the Off Beat series, I had no trouble immersing myself in this world. The characters were immensely likable, the feelings both raw and sentimental, and from the first page to the last I felt like I’d been put through the wringer alongside the characters. Though the story got a bit off track when delving into the definition of sexuality, and a reveal late in the story came out of nowhere, I still found this an appealing story that now has me wanting to go back and see where it all started.
April 3, 2017
I didn't like this series especially, odd that it is, but then it started progressing also into this threesome thingie too - and just no. Sorry, but not for me.
May 9, 2017
Another 5* read from this talented author.
This is Benji, Joshua and Van's story. In Hot Licks we learn how the three of them met and how each of the three men struggle to get what they want and need from the relationship.
We also get to read the struggles and heartache that each man has gone through which explains why each individually is the way he is.
Your be happy to read that this book does end in a happily ever after but along the way there is drama, angst and plenty of hot scenes.
This is Benji, Joshua and Van's story. In Hot Licks we learn how the three of them met and how each of the three men struggle to get what they want and need from the relationship.
We also get to read the struggles and heartache that each man has gone through which explains why each individually is the way he is.
Your be happy to read that this book does end in a happily ever after but along the way there is drama, angst and plenty of hot scenes.
February 10, 2017
I Loved this book, I loved how the readers got to learn more about the characters. What they went thru before they came together. How they all grew and came to realize that they were meant to be all together to make a perfect relationship.
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April 3, 2018I picked this book up largely because it features an asexual spectrum character. I really, deeply, truly appreciate its existence, though of course this is an adult erotica novel (if you're here because I write for children or because I read/rec a lot of kids books).
February 18, 2017
3.5 stars
March 19, 2017
The darkest story so far, but, oh, what amazing characters. You feel like you want to have them all as your best gay friends. A. M. Arthur is incredible when it comes to creating feelings and situations that drag you right into the story. She describes locations with exactly the right amount of details to carry the atmosphere across, but not an adjective too much to distract from the flow of the story. And there's a lot of story happening here. And just when you sit back and relax and think now our throuple have got their HEA, she drops another bomb...
My favourite line is the summary of their relationship that sounds like the beginning of a joke" a pan guy, a bit guy and an ace guy walk into a senior center... "
My favourite line is the summary of their relationship that sounds like the beginning of a joke" a pan guy, a bit guy and an ace guy walk into a senior center... "
December 26, 2017
Understanding is the key to bringing love back into your arms and open doors to expand that love in way you never knew was possible.
May 22, 2017
Strong ending to the series. I wasn't sure how she was going to wrap up Benji and Joshua, but it was a lovely way to pull together their relationship.
December 29, 2017
Good contemporary romance.
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