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Half Moon Bay #2
Hanging The Stars
7 hrs 41 mins
Angel Daniels grew up hard, one step ahead of the law and always looking over his shoulder. A grifter’s son, he’d learned every con and trick in the book but ached for a normal life. Once out on his own, Angel returns to Half Moon Bay where he once found…and then lost…love.
Now, Angel’s life is a frantic mess of schedules and chaos. Between running his bakery and raising his troubled eleven-year-old half-brother, Roman, Angel has a hectic but happy life. Then West Harris returns to Half Moon Bay and threatens to break Angel all over again by taking away the only home he and Rome ever had.
When they were young, Angel taught West how to love and laugh but when Angel moved on, West locked his heart up and threw away the key. Older and hardened, West returns to Half Moon and finds himself face-to-face with the man he’d lost. Now, West is torn between killing Angel or holding him tight.
But rekindling their passionate relationship is jeopardized as someone wants one or both of them dead, and as the terrifying danger mounts, neither man knows if the menace will bring them together or forever tear them apart.
Angel Daniels grew up hard, one step ahead of the law and always looking over his shoulder. A grifter’s son, he’d learned every con and trick in the book but ached for a normal life. Once out on his own, Angel returns to Half Moon Bay where he once found…and then lost…love.
Now, Angel’s life is a frantic mess of schedules and chaos. Between running his bakery and raising his troubled eleven-year-old half-brother, Roman, Angel has a hectic but happy life. Then West Harris returns to Half Moon Bay and threatens to break Angel all over again by taking away the only home he and Rome ever had.
When they were young, Angel taught West how to love and laugh but when Angel moved on, West locked his heart up and threw away the key. Older and hardened, West returns to Half Moon and finds himself face-to-face with the man he’d lost. Now, West is torn between killing Angel or holding him tight.
But rekindling their passionate relationship is jeopardized as someone wants one or both of them dead, and as the terrifying danger mounts, neither man knows if the menace will bring them together or forever tear them apart.
8 pages, Audible Audio
First published December 5, 2016
68 people are currently reading
573 people want to read
About the author
Rhys Ford
79 books1,890 followersRhys Ford is an award-winning author with several long-running LGBT+ mystery, thriller, paranormal, and urban fantasy series and is a two-time LAMBDA finalist and a multiple Gold and Silver Medalist by the Florida Authors and Publishers President’s Book Awards. She is published by Dreamspinner Press, DSP Publications and Rogue Firebird Press.
She shares the house with Harley, a gray tuxedo with a flower on her face, Badger, a disgruntled former alley cat, and Gojira, a mercurial Tabico as well as a ginger cairn terrorist named Gus. Rhys is also enslaved to the upkeep of a 1979 Pontiac Firebird named Tengu and enjoys murdering make-believe people.
She shares the house with Harley, a gray tuxedo with a flower on her face, Badger, a disgruntled former alley cat, and Gojira, a mercurial Tabico as well as a ginger cairn terrorist named Gus. Rhys is also enslaved to the upkeep of a 1979 Pontiac Firebird named Tengu and enjoys murdering make-believe people.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 209 reviews
November 22, 2016
Hanging the Stars is book 2 in Rhys Ford's Half Moon Bay series. It can easily be read as a stand alone, though, so if you haven't read book one, Fish Stick Fridays, feel free to start with this one. That said, I liked Fish Stick Fridays, better. While I liked Hanging the Stars, I didn't really love it. Still, it was interesting and certainly action packed!
Angel Daniels spent a summer in Half Moon Bay when he was a teenager and trying to get away from his abusive, con-artist father. He got a job with a carnival for its stay in Half Moon Bay, and it was there that he met West Harris. That summer changed so much for both of them and even though things didn't end in a great way, neither of them ever forgot the other. And now, Angel has been back in Half Moon Bay for a few years trying to make an honest living and raise his little brother Roman with as much stability as he can manage.
We first met West Harris in Fish Stick Fridays. He's Lang's snobby twin brother. West has spent the bulk of his life being emotionally unavailable and mostly concerned with his next business deal. He's got plenty of money, but his life is pretty empty, so his business is all he has. His grandmother died a few years ago and left Angel the bakery and parking lot along with an iron-clad contract to manage the motel across the lot for as long as he wishes. West wants to put up condos there, but Angel won't budge.
And this is where things get a little shaky for me. West never made any kind of effort to seek out Angel and talk to him, preferring to use a go-between (nothing personal..). But then as soon as they are in the same room, for the first time since they were teenagers, they can't keep their hands off one another. I would have been happier if they would have fought or argued first. But it was all too easy. And while there is plenty of conflict in the book (too much, really), none of it is really between West and Angel.
I did like West and Angel together, though. Angel and Roman humanize West and make him a lot more accessible. Roman, who is 11 years old, pretty much teaches West how to be a big brother. And since West and Lang were never close, in spite of them being twins, it's something that West treasures.
Of course, mixed up in all that is the fact that someone (or maybe more than one someone?) seems to be out to kill West and Angel. And this is the other thing that severely stretched my ability to suspend my disbelief. There was just too much! The guys could barely take a breath without having to dodge bullets or fire or getting beat up. There were 7 major violent events in Hanging the Stars. And when the big reveal happened, I didn't buy it, at all.
What I did like, though were the good guys -- West, Angel, Roman, Lang, Deacon, Zig. These characters are people I liked. I just hope their insurance is up to date because...well, lets just say that between these first two books, there is a lot of fire and a lot of bullets.
All in all, I'd give Hanging the Stars 3 stars. And for some reason, I am craving the oddest sounding cupcakes.
-------------------
ARC of Hanging the Stars was generously provided by the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.
Angel Daniels spent a summer in Half Moon Bay when he was a teenager and trying to get away from his abusive, con-artist father. He got a job with a carnival for its stay in Half Moon Bay, and it was there that he met West Harris. That summer changed so much for both of them and even though things didn't end in a great way, neither of them ever forgot the other. And now, Angel has been back in Half Moon Bay for a few years trying to make an honest living and raise his little brother Roman with as much stability as he can manage.
We first met West Harris in Fish Stick Fridays. He's Lang's snobby twin brother. West has spent the bulk of his life being emotionally unavailable and mostly concerned with his next business deal. He's got plenty of money, but his life is pretty empty, so his business is all he has. His grandmother died a few years ago and left Angel the bakery and parking lot along with an iron-clad contract to manage the motel across the lot for as long as he wishes. West wants to put up condos there, but Angel won't budge.
And this is where things get a little shaky for me. West never made any kind of effort to seek out Angel and talk to him, preferring to use a go-between (nothing personal..). But then as soon as they are in the same room, for the first time since they were teenagers, they can't keep their hands off one another. I would have been happier if they would have fought or argued first. But it was all too easy. And while there is plenty of conflict in the book (too much, really), none of it is really between West and Angel.
I did like West and Angel together, though. Angel and Roman humanize West and make him a lot more accessible. Roman, who is 11 years old, pretty much teaches West how to be a big brother. And since West and Lang were never close, in spite of them being twins, it's something that West treasures.
Of course, mixed up in all that is the fact that someone (or maybe more than one someone?) seems to be out to kill West and Angel. And this is the other thing that severely stretched my ability to suspend my disbelief. There was just too much! The guys could barely take a breath without having to dodge bullets or fire or getting beat up. There were 7 major violent events in Hanging the Stars. And when the big reveal happened, I didn't buy it, at all.
What I did like, though were the good guys -- West, Angel, Roman, Lang, Deacon, Zig. These characters are people I liked. I just hope their insurance is up to date because...well, lets just say that between these first two books, there is a lot of fire and a lot of bullets.
All in all, I'd give Hanging the Stars 3 stars. And for some reason, I am craving the oddest sounding cupcakes.
-------------------
ARC of Hanging the Stars was generously provided by the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.
January 9, 2019
Audiobook: ***4 ❤️***
Story: ***3 ❤️***
A total case of 'Me likey, but not lovey'
For more insight please read R's review. She expressed how I felt to a T. ❤️
Story: ***3 ❤️***
A total case of 'Me likey, but not lovey'
For more insight please read R's review. She expressed how I felt to a T. ❤️
October 18, 2018
3.5 Stars
No worries here, this was classic Rhys Ford, and extra bonus points for a great narration by Trembly.
West and Angel fell in love one heady summer as teens, and through several unfortunate incidents, were horribly torn apart by circumstance. Neither has forgotten the other, and many years later, they’ve nurtured their ball of hurt and have resigned themselves to only remembering the happy times they had way back when.
Now adults, West is a multi-million dollar mogul. Angel on the other hand, is barely scraping by, trying to run his bakery and take care of his younger brother. When West’s company targets Angel’s property for new condominiums, trouble brews for Angel as he refuses to sell. This trouble inevitably embroils West, as unknown players try to violently manipulate the situation to influence both these men into making harsh and rash decisions. Though West has been steadfastly ignoring and avoiding all that involves Angel, he’s finally forced to take a look at what’s truly going on behind his name. Attempts on both their lives bring these two back together whether they like it or not.
Though not the usual insta-love as typically seen in a Ford story (these two have been holding a torch for the other since they were 16) they do however, quickly fall again with nary a hiccough. Prose was purply, smex was smexy, and love was beautiful with its proclamations and grand gestures.
So again, this was standard Ford fare which by no means is a bad thing at all. This just didn’t blow me away as emotionally as the first book for some reason. However, fans will surely be pleased to know that the recipe did not deviate, and I’m confident they’ll be more than satisfied!
No worries here, this was classic Rhys Ford, and extra bonus points for a great narration by Trembly.
West and Angel fell in love one heady summer as teens, and through several unfortunate incidents, were horribly torn apart by circumstance. Neither has forgotten the other, and many years later, they’ve nurtured their ball of hurt and have resigned themselves to only remembering the happy times they had way back when.
Now adults, West is a multi-million dollar mogul. Angel on the other hand, is barely scraping by, trying to run his bakery and take care of his younger brother. When West’s company targets Angel’s property for new condominiums, trouble brews for Angel as he refuses to sell. This trouble inevitably embroils West, as unknown players try to violently manipulate the situation to influence both these men into making harsh and rash decisions. Though West has been steadfastly ignoring and avoiding all that involves Angel, he’s finally forced to take a look at what’s truly going on behind his name. Attempts on both their lives bring these two back together whether they like it or not.
Though not the usual insta-love as typically seen in a Ford story (these two have been holding a torch for the other since they were 16) they do however, quickly fall again with nary a hiccough. Prose was purply, smex was smexy, and love was beautiful with its proclamations and grand gestures.
So again, this was standard Ford fare which by no means is a bad thing at all. This just didn’t blow me away as emotionally as the first book for some reason. However, fans will surely be pleased to know that the recipe did not deviate, and I’m confident they’ll be more than satisfied!
February 3, 2019
High energy reading; the book dives straight into the action and keeps pace. There are bullets and flames, banter and loving. Some hints of purple with poetic thoughts and lots of chapters ending on a punchy line. I loved it. From the first page it dragged me in and didn't let go.
Every character comes alive, with some great secondary characters I hope to get the chance to know better. The kids are clever and wily but still kids, they too felt real rather than props. The villain is suitably despicable. Truly despicable.
Think I enjoyed this more than the first book, perhaps because the style of the series is more set now, and there's not the nicknames to scratch my head over ;)
There's cupcakes and fruit I've never heard of, and why isn't Angel's bakery around here so I can try out these fancy flavours? Why?
Every character comes alive, with some great secondary characters I hope to get the chance to know better. The kids are clever and wily but still kids, they too felt real rather than props. The villain is suitably despicable. Truly despicable.
Think I enjoyed this more than the first book, perhaps because the style of the series is more set now, and there's not the nicknames to scratch my head over ;)
There's cupcakes and fruit I've never heard of, and why isn't Angel's bakery around here so I can try out these fancy flavours? Why?
February 9, 2017
Hanging the Stars starts off with a bang and pretty much continues at a breakneck pace until the very end.
If you're looking for a sweet, low angst romance with some mystery, look elsewhere. This is a full on, lock your seatbelt, grab the oh-shit bar, and hold on kind of mystery romance.
I do not want to give anything away - and it would be way too easy in a review to do just that. There's so much happening here between West and his company, Angel and his little brother, Roman, Angel and West reconnecting and reigniting their relationship...
I felt like there was no time to catch my breath on this one - it's like a shot of pure adrenaline.
It was fun and frantic read, with a super fast pace, and likable characters, including the introduction of Marzo and Justin (who I hope will get stories too). I loved that we got some more time with Lang and Zig, and even Deacon to a lesser degree (boo! I wanted more Deacon!).
But...I did feel like some parts moved so fast that some information was missing and the mystery tie-up lacked a couple of elements I was hoping would be clarified.
If you know Ford's writing, you know she often drops the reader in the middle of the action and sometimes the explanations come later. But it's one hell of a ride while you're on it.
I had a fantastic time reading this and will be looking forward to more stories set in Half Moon Bay!
P.S.: I hope Spencer Goss returns to narrate this - because he is going to rock this.
ETA: Spencer Goss will not return for the audio narration, instead Greg Tremblay will pick up this installment in the series.
For my audio review of the story click here.
Advanced Review Galley copy of Hanging the Stars provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
Four in the morning was way too early to die.
If you're looking for a sweet, low angst romance with some mystery, look elsewhere. This is a full on, lock your seatbelt, grab the oh-shit bar, and hold on kind of mystery romance.
Even as Angel’s mind scrambled, frantic for a way to escape the flame flickering in front of him, luring him in, he knew there would be no running away, not this time. This time he would cheerfully fly straight into the blaze, and he would dance as his wings caught fire, his world burning away around him as he gave in to the temptation of the man he’d always wanted to love.
I do not want to give anything away - and it would be way too easy in a review to do just that. There's so much happening here between West and his company, Angel and his little brother, Roman, Angel and West reconnecting and reigniting their relationship...
Then as the growing storm broke, shattering the sky in flashes of light and booming thunder, West whispered, “I love you, Angel. I always have. And I always will.”
I felt like there was no time to catch my breath on this one - it's like a shot of pure adrenaline.
West murmured, “Are you okay?”
“Yeah,” Angel whispered back in his sweet burned-sugar voice. “More than okay. And just so you know, I love you too, Harris. God help me, I love you too.”
It was fun and frantic read, with a super fast pace, and likable characters, including the introduction of Marzo and Justin (who I hope will get stories too). I loved that we got some more time with Lang and Zig, and even Deacon to a lesser degree (boo! I wanted more Deacon!).
“The truth is, Lang,” Angel whispered, “your brother hangs the stars in my goddamn sky. It sounds stupid and maybe corny, but when he’s around me, it’s like the night’s full of light. So yeah, I love him. I love him pretty hard.”
But...I did feel like some parts moved so fast that some information was missing and the mystery tie-up lacked a couple of elements I was hoping would be clarified.
If you know Ford's writing, you know she often drops the reader in the middle of the action and sometimes the explanations come later. But it's one hell of a ride while you're on it.
I had a fantastic time reading this and will be looking forward to more stories set in Half Moon Bay!
P.S.: I hope Spencer Goss returns to narrate this - because he is going to rock this.
ETA: Spencer Goss will not return for the audio narration, instead Greg Tremblay will pick up this installment in the series.
For my audio review of the story click here.
Advanced Review Galley copy of Hanging the Stars provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
December 10, 2016
I’ve been waiting for this story for what seems like forever! Ever since it was hinted in Fish Stick Fridays that West’s story was next I’ve been on tenterhooks. I just knew it was going to be great! And I was sooo right. From the moment I opened to the first page I was caught up in the storytelling. Rhys dug her claws in and did not let go until the very end.
I fell in love with Angel almost immediately. He’s worked so hard to keep his business, the Pizza Shack Bakery, afloat whilst taking care of his 11-year-old brother Roman who was foisted on him by their father a couple of years ago, plus managing the motel next door. He works night and day, plodding along, just trying to keep ends met. On top of all that he’s having to deal with some big company trying to get him to sell everything so they can tear it down to make way for some high dollar condos. He’s so tired, just run ragged by life in general. So, it’s no wonder that when some moron comes barreling into the bakery kitchen brandishing a gun that he gets a little unhinged.
“Are you going to get on with the shooting me? Cause if you are, do it soon, because this is getting kind of heavy.”
Poor thing is so exhausted I wanted to lead him into a dark room, wrap him up in a soft blanket and just let him take a nap. He just can’t get a break.
Now West… West surprised me. He wasn’t anything like I expected. When I met him in Fish Stick Fridays I disliked him immediately. Frankly, I thought he was a complete douche. But, I have total faith in Rhys Ford as a writer so I was eager to see how she would redeem him. He was still a douche when introduced into this story but as I got further into the story I began to see the caring, compassionate man hiding underneath all that pomp and circumstance. For most of his life West kept everyone, even his own twin brother, at arms-length, never letting anyone in close enough to see himself truly. That was, until Zig came along. Oh, West has such a soft spot for his niece! It was so heartwarming to watch as he interacted with her.
For all the distance he’d wanted to put between himself and Lang’s new family, West simply couldn’t walk away from the little girl who dreamed of ruling the world but still hid tins of food under a pile of stuffed animals just in case her world fell apart… again.
This was a fast-paced adventure riddled with murder, mystery, humor and romance. It was a book about second chances, not just in love but in family and life in general. I started reading this two days before the election and being able to get lost in this story and forget about all the insanity for a little while really helped me get through the horror that was going on in real life.
Speaking of horror, this book has the vilest, most despicable villain I’ve read about in a while. I’m trying to think of a good word to describe how I felt about the villain and what comes to mind the most is appalled. Disgusted. This character was absolutely revolting! I could barely believe what I was reading. To think that there really are people out there in the world who are like this is truly terrifying.
Once again, Rhys Ford has hit it out of the ballpark. The writing was, as per usual, exemplary and every character, even the secondary and tertiary ones, were just full of life and, well, character. My only issue was with the ending. I needed just a little bit more out of the climax of the story. I wanted to see what happened next but when I turned the page it wasn’t there. Yes, it was explained in the epilogue and that was good but I wanted to see it. Everything else about this story was pretty much perfect. This was an intense ride and I can’t wait to see what Rhys does next!
May 21, 2017
So, I'm not going to lie to you - when I first read this high-octane paced story, I kept imagining how Spencer Goss would narrate it. I'd completely fallen head over heels for his narration of the Fish Stick Fridays and was eagerly awaiting Hanging the Stars to hear what he'd do. Alas, it wasn't to be. Spencer Goss did not return for the sequel. Instead, Greg Tremblay stepped into the Half Moon Bay shoes and set about bringing West and Angel to life.
No worries, fans, because Tremblay, as usual, does a fantastic job. This was absolutely, thoroughly enjoyable!
I absolutely loved Tremblay's character voices for everyone, but most of all for Angel and West.
If you're looking for a sweet, low angst romance with some mystery, look elsewhere. This is a full on, lock your seatbelt, grab the oh-shit bar, and hold on kind of mystery romance.
This story is like a shot of pure adrenaline. It's fun and frantic read, with a super fast pace, and likable characters, including the introduction of Marzo and Justin.
I loved the way Tremblay's able to convey the breakneck pacing of the story, without it being frenzied to listen to. I don't mean he literally slowed it down, I mean they way he conveyed the action so that it flowed brilliantly without it being manic.
I love Greg Tremblay's voice acting. And it's a little bit of magic every time he takes one of Rhy's stories and brings it to life. This is no exception.
Recommended!
For my full review of the story click here.
February 4, 2017
Sweet ! Oh West - the typical emotionally neglected rich boy living life with a huge barrier around him, was something else. He loved Angel ever since their 16th summer and never recovered from his loss. Angel felt the pain of West leaving him when he needed him most and worked hard over the next decade to carve a little piece of life out for himself and his brother. This was a sweet reunion but not without the ongoing Half Moon Bays dramas, dramas and more llamas! I loved Zigs contributions and she's my favorite character without doubt ! Perhaps a future Zig & Roman book would be super cute with all those dads / big brothers stressing out
i-m-a-quitter
December 12, 2016DNF @41%
I just couldn't get in to this one. It took me almost a week just to get to 41%. Granted real life was super busy....but I just never found myself motivated to pick this one up.
Which made me sad. Because I really like the first book. Maybe I'll try again another day.
I just couldn't get in to this one. It took me almost a week just to get to 41%. Granted real life was super busy....but I just never found myself motivated to pick this one up.
Which made me sad. Because I really like the first book. Maybe I'll try again another day.
December 5, 2016
“The truth is, Lang,” Angel whispered, “you brother hangs the stars in my goddamn sky. It sounds stupid and maybe corny, but when he’s around me, it’s like the night’s full of light. So yeah, I love him. I love him pretty hard.”
Between having to raise a pre-teen brother with behavioral problems and having his ex trying to shut down his business and tear down his home, Angel Daniels doesn’t need anymore shit happening in his life. But for Angel, shit happening is pretty much all life is. Take being held-up at gunpoint in his own bakery by some punk-ass kid…with a fake gun. Not that the fakeness of the gun matters much when men in a car open fire on the bakery and kill the kid (and an oven) and sets the wheels of shit a’turning in Angel’s life again. The obvious suspect behind the shootings is West Harris, Angel’s teenage love and the man running the company dead set on tearing down Angel’s livelihood, but West seems to be in the shit just as much as Angel.
Their breakup years ago might have left both of them with scars that’ll probably never fade, but it also left them both with memories that would never leave, either. Now with them both caught in a confusing crossfire of bullets and incriminations, they will have to find a way to lay the past to rest and face a future that is looking less certain with every sunset.
In typical Rhys Ford fashion, this book is one hell of a ride from start to finish. Gunfire, actual fire, dead bodies, and a twisty and highly entertaining whodunit keep the pace ratcheting up and the pages a’flipping. I don’t get around to reading very many high-action stories, but I’m always up for Rhys Ford’s fast-paced action thrillers. I found this book to be yet another example of how expertly she can weave a good mystery, a lovely romance, well-rounded characters, and–of course–enough bullets sink a medium size boat.
I’ll admit at first that West was not my kind of guy. He is, to put it plain, an ass. But as the story goes along I really do start to like–and probably even love–him. Once he starts to thaw a bit you can really see what Angel saw in him once upon a time. He is snarky and withdrawn, but he has his reasons. As his life and those he love begin to come under fire he certainly gets his shit together.
There are quite a few parts of this story that I loved. The relationships between the various characters being at the top. Not only were Angel and West really good together, but the side relationships really brought these characters and this story to life. Angel and Roman (Angel’s little brother), West and Zig (West’s brother’s adopted daughter), and West and Marzo (West’s bodyguard and close friend)…they all worked perfectly together to make the readers really care about West, Angel, and the outcome of the story. They brought levity, but also a sense of purpose and determination, to the story. I greatly enjoyed reading about all the action bits, but it was the characters and their relationships that made me love the story.
I won’t say you need to read book one, Fish Stick Fridays, to enjoy this book, but I wouldn’t want you to miss that book either. I like this series quite a bit and am looking forward to whatever comes next. I certainly wouldn’t say no to a book about Justin. I had a lot of fun reading this, and I recommend you pick it up.
4.5 stars
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November 25, 2017
4.1 Stars
This one starts off with a literal bang and rushes through at breakneck speed. I felt like, for a while, with all of the things happening to each of the MCs that I hardly had a chance to catch my breath.
Again, with the teens reunited as adult lovers trope (I've lost count of how many this is for the week) and so there's a bit of insta-love. Well, maybe never stopped-love that flared again? Either way, the sex was smoking hot...but somehow it wasn't as romantic IMHO as the previous installment love story. *shrug*
Also, instant family! This time it's a much younger brother that felt much older than his age would suggest. Given both Roman & Angel's childhood I can sort of see that as a reality. Having that kind of dad would make you wanna grow up quick - mostly as a necessity.
For some reason it took a while for me to figure out the culprit in this one...which surprised me given that once it's revealed I was like, "well, duh."
Still, I very much loved Greg's narration. (As always.)
Not sure if there's another one planned for this series but if there is I'll certainly read/listen to it!
This one starts off with a literal bang and rushes through at breakneck speed. I felt like, for a while, with all of the things happening to each of the MCs that I hardly had a chance to catch my breath.
Again, with the teens reunited as adult lovers trope (I've lost count of how many this is for the week) and so there's a bit of insta-love. Well, maybe never stopped-love that flared again? Either way, the sex was smoking hot...but somehow it wasn't as romantic IMHO as the previous installment love story. *shrug*
Also, instant family! This time it's a much younger brother that felt much older than his age would suggest. Given both Roman & Angel's childhood I can sort of see that as a reality. Having that kind of dad would make you wanna grow up quick - mostly as a necessity.
For some reason it took a while for me to figure out the culprit in this one...which surprised me given that once it's revealed I was like, "well, duh."
Still, I very much loved Greg's narration. (As always.)
Not sure if there's another one planned for this series but if there is I'll certainly read/listen to it!
January 10, 2019
Excuse me while I do a little happy dance...
I loved 'Fish Stick Fridays' and Rhys Ford is a favorite of mine so I think it goes without saying that I'd be reading this book...but, things got even better when I was able to request the audio book. I admit I was nervous because...kids...me and kids in audiobooks... mmmm...not doing well. I have yet to meet one that I like...wait, I meant to say I had yet to meet one that I liked because I can now say that I've met 2. Zig and Roman. We're talking an 8 year old girl and an 11 year old boy and both of these characters voices worked for me. I did not want to strangle either of them. Their voices were neither irritating or whiny nor were they irritatingly whiny!!! I was over the moon, over joyed! Seriously I want to listen to the audiobook all over again just for that experience. So I just need to say...
"Greg Tremblay....I tip my hat to you because I really despaired of this ever happening."
Now as for the story. 'Hanging the Stars' is the story of Lang's twin brother West. We met him in 'Fish Stick Fridays'. Initially when his character came on page I was pretty sure I wasn't going to like him but surprisingly he wasn't a total tool and I found him to be a brother who sincerely cared.
When West was younger he met a boy named 'Angel' they had a wonderful summer together and fell in love. Unfortunately life and Angel's con-artist father and West's overly controlling father tore them apart and now after years and miles of separation fate has brought them back together, but a lot has changed. West has his heart firmly locked down. Angel has his hands full with keeping his bakery going and taking care of his 11 year old brother Roman, who in spite of his challenges is far more enterprising than an 11 year old should be. Needless to say Roman and Zig are friends...heaven help the world because these two will be taking over soon.
While there was a lot more going on in this book than the first one and it did just fine. I liked that this story gave us more of Lang, Deacon and Zig. I really enjoyed how much West grew as he and Angel worked to sort out their lives together, I also liked seeing West sort out himself as he developed a relationship with Roman and came to realize how much he'd missed out on with his own brother and what he lost out on by letting his father control him.
In general I enjoyed 'Fish Stick Fridays' just a tiny bit more and if I'd read the e-book this probably would have sat somewhere between 4 - 4.5 stars for me but because I still love Zig, I'm saying "What the hell?", bumping it up to 5 stars and calling it a day.
********************
An Audiobook of 'Hanging the Stars' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I loved 'Fish Stick Fridays' and Rhys Ford is a favorite of mine so I think it goes without saying that I'd be reading this book...but, things got even better when I was able to request the audio book. I admit I was nervous because...kids...me and kids in audiobooks... mmmm...not doing well. I have yet to meet one that I like...wait, I meant to say I had yet to meet one that I liked because I can now say that I've met 2. Zig and Roman. We're talking an 8 year old girl and an 11 year old boy and both of these characters voices worked for me. I did not want to strangle either of them. Their voices were neither irritating or whiny nor were they irritatingly whiny!!! I was over the moon, over joyed! Seriously I want to listen to the audiobook all over again just for that experience. So I just need to say...
"Greg Tremblay....I tip my hat to you because I really despaired of this ever happening."
Now as for the story. 'Hanging the Stars' is the story of Lang's twin brother West. We met him in 'Fish Stick Fridays'. Initially when his character came on page I was pretty sure I wasn't going to like him but surprisingly he wasn't a total tool and I found him to be a brother who sincerely cared.
When West was younger he met a boy named 'Angel' they had a wonderful summer together and fell in love. Unfortunately life and Angel's con-artist father and West's overly controlling father tore them apart and now after years and miles of separation fate has brought them back together, but a lot has changed. West has his heart firmly locked down. Angel has his hands full with keeping his bakery going and taking care of his 11 year old brother Roman, who in spite of his challenges is far more enterprising than an 11 year old should be. Needless to say Roman and Zig are friends...heaven help the world because these two will be taking over soon.
While there was a lot more going on in this book than the first one and it did just fine. I liked that this story gave us more of Lang, Deacon and Zig. I really enjoyed how much West grew as he and Angel worked to sort out their lives together, I also liked seeing West sort out himself as he developed a relationship with Roman and came to realize how much he'd missed out on with his own brother and what he lost out on by letting his father control him.
In general I enjoyed 'Fish Stick Fridays' just a tiny bit more and if I'd read the e-book this probably would have sat somewhere between 4 - 4.5 stars for me but because I still love Zig, I'm saying "What the hell?", bumping it up to 5 stars and calling it a day.
********************
An Audiobook of 'Hanging the Stars' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
August 12, 2020
In typical Rhys Ford fashion we got two broken men who had a second chance at love. West Harris is a bit different than his twin brother Lang but I liked him just the same. Pitted against each other from early childhood both brothers were emotionally neglected which resulted in distance and half lives lived until both were rescued by men who were meant for them. In West's case it is his teenage crush and first love Angel Daniels. But grown up Angel comes with a lot more baggage and a troubled younger brother Rome. I liked Rome a lot, actually more than Zig. I loved the connection between brothers and the seamless way West slotted himself into the jigsaw puzzle that they were. Unfortunately the villain was obvious after certain point and the amount of suspense was as per the norm with Ms Ford's books. I enjoyed the interactions between all the men and kids of Half Moon Bay and how they were rebuilding their lives together. West and Angel's confession did tug at my heart and made me want to have a group hug with them. I knew what to expect and I got it - nice mildly angsty read.
December 5, 2016
West. Angel. Head over heels at 16 and torn apart. On opposite sides of a real estate dispute. Have not met face to face in a decade.
Think you know what is going to happen next? Ha! Take all your preconceived ideas and toss 'em.
West and Angel do not follow any rules and the result was addictive. I loved how their dynamic flowed back and forth. They were both strong and vulnerable with each other depending on the situation they found themselves in. Their lack of a power struggle was refreshing.
The mystery part of the story had some good twists a turns. And, yes, Murder is always fun with Rhys!
Roman is a great mixture of Grifter and vulnerable boy and Angel's constant struggle to do right by his brother tugged at my heart. I liked how sometimes he was confident and sometimes anything but. Roman and Zig together are a hoot and could probably rule the world side by side. West's approach to Zig totally delights me and I love that he is unapologetic about it.
This series continues to delight.
Think you know what is going to happen next? Ha! Take all your preconceived ideas and toss 'em.
West and Angel do not follow any rules and the result was addictive. I loved how their dynamic flowed back and forth. They were both strong and vulnerable with each other depending on the situation they found themselves in. Their lack of a power struggle was refreshing.
The mystery part of the story had some good twists a turns. And, yes, Murder is always fun with Rhys!
Roman is a great mixture of Grifter and vulnerable boy and Angel's constant struggle to do right by his brother tugged at my heart. I liked how sometimes he was confident and sometimes anything but. Roman and Zig together are a hoot and could probably rule the world side by side. West's approach to Zig totally delights me and I love that he is unapologetic about it.
This series continues to delight.
November 28, 2016
Book 2 in the Half Moon Bay series
Despite the vast differences between them, West and Angel fell in love as teens but life and their cruel, nasty, controlling fathers separated them and they haven't seen each other since. Strange happenings have forced them to deal with each other now though and it's time to step up and admit that their feelings for each other haven't changed.
This book literally starts with a bang and is action packed throughout. Loved Angel and Roman immediately but took some time to warm up to West who has been burying his emotions for a long, long time. Good mystery with some lovely cameos with Deke, Lang and Zig.
*ARC generously provided by author Rhys Ford
Despite the vast differences between them, West and Angel fell in love as teens but life and their cruel, nasty, controlling fathers separated them and they haven't seen each other since. Strange happenings have forced them to deal with each other now though and it's time to step up and admit that their feelings for each other haven't changed.
This book literally starts with a bang and is action packed throughout. Loved Angel and Roman immediately but took some time to warm up to West who has been burying his emotions for a long, long time. Good mystery with some lovely cameos with Deke, Lang and Zig.
*ARC generously provided by author Rhys Ford
May 5, 2020
3,5 stars.
This was a nice story but I think I was a bit disappointed. And I am not quite sure about what ..🤔
I liked West, although I was surprised by his openness regarding his feelings and how open he wooed Angel.
Angel was also a good character but contrary to West he didn't really convince me that he was in love
Rome was great
And I hoped for more Land and Deacon and Zig.
The mystery part was kind of not really there and that is something I am not used to in books by Rhys Ford
So, all in all it was a nice read but not more ....
This was a nice story but I think I was a bit disappointed. And I am not quite sure about what ..🤔
I liked West, although I was surprised by his openness regarding his feelings and how open he wooed Angel.
Angel was also a good character but contrary to West he didn't really convince me that he was in love
Rome was great
And I hoped for more Land and Deacon and Zig.
The mystery part was kind of not really there and that is something I am not used to in books by Rhys Ford
So, all in all it was a nice read but not more ....
December 4, 2016
I might be a teeny tiny tad biased. I love Rhys Ford, so I'm always going to fangirl over her writing and books. Hanging the Stars is book 2 in the Half Moon Bay series. This book started off with a bang, and definitely ended with one. I sometimes tell myself that I wish Rhys could write a straight contemporary story with no mystery heavy plot. Well, I do believe she did that with Fish Stick Fridays which I love. But to me Hanging the Stars is so much more contemporary then anything she's every written in my opinion. I mean, I feel all gooey inside with these two. It was like BAM with the love, romance, and feelings. I'm not complaining, because it's what I want constantly from her, but I'm shocked. West and Daniels start a relationships after not seeing each other for 10 years. They are each in different places in their lives, but past grievances seems to put them right back where they left off.
Do you see what I'm saying? That quote was so romantic to me. Angel surprised me the most. I swear, when I started reading this that I didn't expect him to be so warm & loving. I expected plenty of angst from these two based on how it ended. I mean of course West was a hard ass and didn't disappoint. My opinion of his has definitely changed from book 1. He's had years now to form some sort of relationship with Lang, Deacon and Zig. He seems to be a less bitter man. Angel is taking care of his younger brother and trying to show Rome that nothing or no one can come between them or take him away from him either.
It wouldn't be a Rhys book without an explosion, shooting, or action packed car crash. This one didn't disappoint. I kinda guessed who the bad guy was after a while. It was a pretty easy process of elimination. I mean, they both went through blood, sweat, and tears in this book. I did have a minor issue with after not seeing, or hearing from one another for so long that as soon as they are in direct contact with one another the passion ignites. I'm not bad at it, but it didn't seem real. If I didn't see my first love after ten years, or talk to them but seen them again. I think anger, tears and frustration would be my first reaction. Everyone is different so I digress on this point.
Ford is still able to produce the best side characters as well. Frank, Marzo, and Justin were amazing. I truly loved them, and liked what they were able to do for their respected counterparts. Justin definitely needs a novella or a book soon. I was crushing on him by the end of the story.
West and Angel decide to give this a relationship a go. It's not the best of times, but waiting seems dumb when someone is trying to kill them obviously. Sure some of these events were a tad bit over the top. But it didn't stop Angel & West from being together. There relationship moved fast on the page to me, but I do like how Angel & Rome made West a better person. They actually gave him a heart, or something similar that he's never got. Also liked Lang & West brotherhood progressing. These two are different as night and day, but the love is still there. All in all, I thought this was a pretty enjoyable book. I find myself having super grabby hands when it comes to a Rhys Ford novel. I can never say no, she's a favorite author of mine for a reason. It can be read as a standalone, but why would you? Fish Stick Fridays is awesome, and everything is better in pairs!
"What makes you think I'm not already in love, Just?" Angel whispered. "Because I've been in love with him before I even knew his damned name."
Do you see what I'm saying? That quote was so romantic to me. Angel surprised me the most. I swear, when I started reading this that I didn't expect him to be so warm & loving. I expected plenty of angst from these two based on how it ended. I mean of course West was a hard ass and didn't disappoint. My opinion of his has definitely changed from book 1. He's had years now to form some sort of relationship with Lang, Deacon and Zig. He seems to be a less bitter man. Angel is taking care of his younger brother and trying to show Rome that nothing or no one can come between them or take him away from him either.
It wouldn't be a Rhys book without an explosion, shooting, or action packed car crash. This one didn't disappoint. I kinda guessed who the bad guy was after a while. It was a pretty easy process of elimination. I mean, they both went through blood, sweat, and tears in this book. I did have a minor issue with after not seeing, or hearing from one another for so long that as soon as they are in direct contact with one another the passion ignites. I'm not bad at it, but it didn't seem real. If I didn't see my first love after ten years, or talk to them but seen them again. I think anger, tears and frustration would be my first reaction. Everyone is different so I digress on this point.
Ford is still able to produce the best side characters as well. Frank, Marzo, and Justin were amazing. I truly loved them, and liked what they were able to do for their respected counterparts. Justin definitely needs a novella or a book soon. I was crushing on him by the end of the story.
West and Angel decide to give this a relationship a go. It's not the best of times, but waiting seems dumb when someone is trying to kill them obviously. Sure some of these events were a tad bit over the top. But it didn't stop Angel & West from being together. There relationship moved fast on the page to me, but I do like how Angel & Rome made West a better person. They actually gave him a heart, or something similar that he's never got. Also liked Lang & West brotherhood progressing. These two are different as night and day, but the love is still there. All in all, I thought this was a pretty enjoyable book. I find myself having super grabby hands when it comes to a Rhys Ford novel. I can never say no, she's a favorite author of mine for a reason. It can be read as a standalone, but why would you? Fish Stick Fridays is awesome, and everything is better in pairs!
"The truth is, Lang," Angel whispered, " your brother hangs the stars in my goddamn sky. It sounds stupid and maybe corny, but when he's around me, it's like the night's full of light. So yeah, I love him. I love him pretty hard."
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February 6, 2017
One thing is absolutely sure when you pick a book by Rhys Ford: Pretty much ANYTHING written by Rhys is a guaranteed roller-coaster, and 'Hanging the Stars' is no exception.
As Rhys takes us back to the small California heaven called Half Moon Bay, we return to old and new characters. The two main ones of this murder-mystery story are West Harris (who we meet back in Fish Stick Fridays) and Angel Daniels.
Let me start telling you that the chemistry between these two is the sweetest I have read in many, many, many years. We learn a lot about West and his inner demons, and I am surprised to say I thought he was a real jerk back in FSF but he most definitely redeemed himself here. Angel is that guy you just know you will like, no matter the circumstance, and he shows it in spades. One of the sweetest thing about Angel is the love and devotion he shows for his baby brother Roman, who one day ended up on his doorstep. Now, as his sole caretaker, Angel has a bigger responsibility (along with his beloved Pizza Shack Bakery) to provide for Rome and be the big bro AND father his little brother needs.
Half Moon Bay is a small ocean front city 25 minutes south from San Francisco. I've been there before and I can tell you with no doubt that there is no town as cute and quirky as this to be the perfect background for this awesome mystery. I loved everything from the town, the banter between brothers, the love Angel has for Rome and the fierce protectiveness he shows.
I’m not sure if this story could fall in this particular category, but I would consider this a ‘second chance’ romance, mostly cause West and Angel had somewhat of an innocent ‘summer fling’ when they were younger, and years later, reunite and rekindle the obvious attraction they had from one another. From drive by shootings to explosions, the adrenaline rush you feel throughout the whole story is only increased by their denial in wanting each other.
HELLOOOOO! IT’S MORE THAN OBVIOUS!
I don’t want to spoil it. You HAVE to continue reading this series, not only because it promises action, mystery, love and a lot of fun-filled moments, but because there are many more amazing stories to be told. *crosses fingers*:3
As Rhys takes us back to the small California heaven called Half Moon Bay, we return to old and new characters. The two main ones of this murder-mystery story are West Harris (who we meet back in Fish Stick Fridays) and Angel Daniels.
Let me start telling you that the chemistry between these two is the sweetest I have read in many, many, many years. We learn a lot about West and his inner demons, and I am surprised to say I thought he was a real jerk back in FSF but he most definitely redeemed himself here. Angel is that guy you just know you will like, no matter the circumstance, and he shows it in spades. One of the sweetest thing about Angel is the love and devotion he shows for his baby brother Roman, who one day ended up on his doorstep. Now, as his sole caretaker, Angel has a bigger responsibility (along with his beloved Pizza Shack Bakery) to provide for Rome and be the big bro AND father his little brother needs.
Half Moon Bay is a small ocean front city 25 minutes south from San Francisco. I've been there before and I can tell you with no doubt that there is no town as cute and quirky as this to be the perfect background for this awesome mystery. I loved everything from the town, the banter between brothers, the love Angel has for Rome and the fierce protectiveness he shows.
I’m not sure if this story could fall in this particular category, but I would consider this a ‘second chance’ romance, mostly cause West and Angel had somewhat of an innocent ‘summer fling’ when they were younger, and years later, reunite and rekindle the obvious attraction they had from one another. From drive by shootings to explosions, the adrenaline rush you feel throughout the whole story is only increased by their denial in wanting each other.
HELLOOOOO! IT’S MORE THAN OBVIOUS!
I don’t want to spoil it. You HAVE to continue reading this series, not only because it promises action, mystery, love and a lot of fun-filled moments, but because there are many more amazing stories to be told. *crosses fingers*:3
December 6, 2016
“Because the last thing he did in life was something pretty stupid. I’d hate to face God and have to explain I died holding a bakery up with a fake gun.”
Rhys Ford is back with her acerbic wit, stunning descriptive imagery, and a murder mystery to keep me hopping. Not to mention the sulky, angry, snarky twin of Lang's whom I briefly met in book one. West Harris is the kind of man who lingers in your mind and I wanted more of him.
Angel and West have history from when they were teenagers in Half Moon Bay but they haven't spoken in over a decade. West's company wants to buy the bakery and parking lot that Angel owns so they can tear down the motel and build condos. Well, Angel isn't having it no matter how much money he gets offered. There are other reasons at play and since it's also the only stable home Angel's little brother, Roman, has ever had, it stands to reason he's sticking to his guns. The little brother their deadbeat, con-man dad dumped on Angel's doorstep and left.
When someone makes an attempt on West's life, again, the same morning someone shoots up the bakery, well it's time for West to come back to Half Moon Bay even if it's just to recuperate. It doesn't take long before these two run into each other, and even less time for all the emotions from that long ago summer to return. Talking about then and now starts the healing process, but first they have to figure out who is trying to kill them, and screw Angel over.
On a Rhys Ford scale I have to say that 'Hanging with Stars' is murder light, but the characters and interactions are the strengths of this novel. The secondary characters are phenomenal also, but it is the relationship between Angel and Roman that is sheer perfection. Every emotion the author caught pretty much hit me hard in the stomach and left me reeling. Don't get me wrong. This is still a suspenseful thriller and, as always, I couldn't figure out all the twists and turns until the author revealed them.
An emotional thrill-ride that left me jonesing for more.
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews
Rhys Ford is back with her acerbic wit, stunning descriptive imagery, and a murder mystery to keep me hopping. Not to mention the sulky, angry, snarky twin of Lang's whom I briefly met in book one. West Harris is the kind of man who lingers in your mind and I wanted more of him.
Angel and West have history from when they were teenagers in Half Moon Bay but they haven't spoken in over a decade. West's company wants to buy the bakery and parking lot that Angel owns so they can tear down the motel and build condos. Well, Angel isn't having it no matter how much money he gets offered. There are other reasons at play and since it's also the only stable home Angel's little brother, Roman, has ever had, it stands to reason he's sticking to his guns. The little brother their deadbeat, con-man dad dumped on Angel's doorstep and left.
When someone makes an attempt on West's life, again, the same morning someone shoots up the bakery, well it's time for West to come back to Half Moon Bay even if it's just to recuperate. It doesn't take long before these two run into each other, and even less time for all the emotions from that long ago summer to return. Talking about then and now starts the healing process, but first they have to figure out who is trying to kill them, and screw Angel over.
On a Rhys Ford scale I have to say that 'Hanging with Stars' is murder light, but the characters and interactions are the strengths of this novel. The secondary characters are phenomenal also, but it is the relationship between Angel and Roman that is sheer perfection. Every emotion the author caught pretty much hit me hard in the stomach and left me reeling. Don't get me wrong. This is still a suspenseful thriller and, as always, I couldn't figure out all the twists and turns until the author revealed them.
An emotional thrill-ride that left me jonesing for more.
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews
April 10, 2017
~ 3.5 stars ~
I liked this one a little better than Fish Stick Fridays but not by much.
Angel and Roman were great characters and I liked them. West, though... It's not that I didn't like him but having met him briefly in the first book of the series, he now felt like a completely different character to me.
Also, them falling into each other's arms after not having seen each other since their teenage years and not having left things on a good note, wasn't very realistic. I wished for more talking between the MCs, more working through their feelings and heartbreak. It all seemed so easy and it didn't make a lot of sense that West never tried to contact Angel although he knew where to find him.
And did someone else catch the huge flaw in the story or did I confuse things? In Fish Stick Fridays it was said that
The narration was great! Greg Tremblay did a superb job and I'm especially happy that he did such a good impression of the kid's voices.
I liked this one a little better than Fish Stick Fridays but not by much.
Angel and Roman were great characters and I liked them. West, though... It's not that I didn't like him but having met him briefly in the first book of the series, he now felt like a completely different character to me.
Also, them falling into each other's arms after not having seen each other since their teenage years and not having left things on a good note, wasn't very realistic. I wished for more talking between the MCs, more working through their feelings and heartbreak. It all seemed so easy and it didn't make a lot of sense that West never tried to contact Angel although he knew where to find him.
And did someone else catch the huge flaw in the story or did I confuse things? In Fish Stick Fridays it was said that
The narration was great! Greg Tremblay did a superb job and I'm especially happy that he did such a good impression of the kid's voices.
July 22, 2018
3 stars!! This was a good book too featuring Lang's twin West. The two MCs Lang and Angel were again opposites in every way but somehow had fallen in innocent love when they were young, but unfortunately had drifted apart. Now almost a decade later their paths cross as adversaries, with West trying to buy Angel's business out to start a new construction project. However Angel is no longer a grifter, he has a brother to take care of and roots to grow and therefore he fights back against the corporate acquisition.
The premise of the plot was strong and the raw chemistry between West and Angel was sizzling, but what irked me was how predictable the mystery was. From the very beginning I could pinpoint who the bad guy would be and so it was just skipping pages of the innumerable incidents of arson and shootings till we reach the climax. It was a bit tedious and "meh" to be honest since the first book had the same kind of action. I understand that Ms Ford wanted to add in some murder and mayhem.. but there should have been a little variety..., this felt repetitive and lazy.
Nevertheless the emotion, angst and love was very relatable and saved the book from being a poor duplicate. I will recommend this book, but I still prefer the first one in the series.
The premise of the plot was strong and the raw chemistry between West and Angel was sizzling, but what irked me was how predictable the mystery was. From the very beginning I could pinpoint who the bad guy would be and so it was just skipping pages of the innumerable incidents of arson and shootings till we reach the climax. It was a bit tedious and "meh" to be honest since the first book had the same kind of action. I understand that Ms Ford wanted to add in some murder and mayhem.. but there should have been a little variety..., this felt repetitive and lazy.
Nevertheless the emotion, angst and love was very relatable and saved the book from being a poor duplicate. I will recommend this book, but I still prefer the first one in the series.
January 18, 2019
Ok
3 ⭐️
I’m not really sure how to rate this one. While there were parts that I enjoyed, it didn’t fit into my really like category either which is a disappointment because I Rhys Ford’s work usually.
There is a lot going on and when it held my attention it was good and enjoyable, but I did struggle with it holding my attention. I found myself actually watching the TV and chatting online rather than reading at times, and I honestly can’t pinpoint why.
I loved Angel and Rome, the brothers had such a great relationship. Rome was well portrayed with his struggle to believe that Angel wouldn’t leave him. I thought Angel was hard but fair. Their joking at times reminded me of my own family.
But I struggled with West, I thought he was a jerk early and it hard to alter this even when his attitude improved. I loved his relationship with his bodyguard and Aggie. Neither took his rubbish. I just never really understood why he was the way he was. It probably was explained I just didn’t get it.
I’ll read more from this world
3 ⭐️
I’m not really sure how to rate this one. While there were parts that I enjoyed, it didn’t fit into my really like category either which is a disappointment because I Rhys Ford’s work usually.
There is a lot going on and when it held my attention it was good and enjoyable, but I did struggle with it holding my attention. I found myself actually watching the TV and chatting online rather than reading at times, and I honestly can’t pinpoint why.
I loved Angel and Rome, the brothers had such a great relationship. Rome was well portrayed with his struggle to believe that Angel wouldn’t leave him. I thought Angel was hard but fair. Their joking at times reminded me of my own family.
But I struggled with West, I thought he was a jerk early and it hard to alter this even when his attitude improved. I loved his relationship with his bodyguard and Aggie. Neither took his rubbish. I just never really understood why he was the way he was. It probably was explained I just didn’t get it.
I’ll read more from this world
Want to read
December 11, 2016Another gift I'm super excited for from the sweet and generous Smutty Elf, thank you thank you!! xx
July 7, 2017
Reviewed for Boy Meets Boy Reviews .
4.5 Hearts
Greg Tremblay is always magical in narration, and I have not listened to an audiobook yet where I didn’t love his performance. He has a pretty impressive range, and his character presentation is always unique from one character to the next. This book was no different. Five Hearts for narration.
This story was pretty fun to listen to. The first in the series took a while for me to warm up to, but I’m glad I have that backstory before listening to this one. It is pretty much a requirement. I don’t think this would be half as enjoyable without reading book one. So if you haven’t read/listened to Fish Stick Fridays, go and do that now.
Angel was a great character, and I loved how he was portrayed. Strong, independent, but somewhat vulnerable, Angel was the star in this story for me. His rough past has certainly created a core of steel within, but he is still open to life, and making sure his brother gets whatever he can give him. He is loyal, and determined, with a heart of gold, and the life experience to know when to give it out, and when to keep it concealed.
West is introduced in book one, as Lang’s twin brother. He is surly, stiff, and unapproachable, with a hidden mischief and warm heartedness. He was more subtle in his character development, and warmth. It was a battle to like him, and not eyeroll at his stiff upper lip. I did like him as I got to know him more. I enjoyed his progression in this relationship, but he had to win me over a lot more than Angel did. I didn’t quite understand the past interplay, or the reasoning behind their separation (yes, it is stated, but I wasn’t wholly convinced), but I reminded myself that they were teenagers, and teenagers are still bound by the parental trap of guilt, fear, and loyalty.
The mystery in this was a lot cleaner than the one in the first book. I appreciated that, and I think other readers will enjoy the simplicity of it too. It took more of a back seat in this book than I felt it did in Fish Stick Fridays. I was able to enjoy it more and keep all the clues in mind, while I got stuck into the reunion between West and Angel. There are some twisty bits, but it still made sense, and worked as a whole. Of course, this is action movie drama, so expect some outrageous gun-fire in the beginning to set the tone of the story.
Rhys Ford has earned my loyalty with the rich characters and descriptive nature of the world building in all her stories, and while Fish Stick Fridays was not one of my favourites, Hanging The Stars made an impression on me, and I’m interested to see where this series takes me.
A review copy was provided in exchange for an honest opinion
4.5 Hearts
Greg Tremblay is always magical in narration, and I have not listened to an audiobook yet where I didn’t love his performance. He has a pretty impressive range, and his character presentation is always unique from one character to the next. This book was no different. Five Hearts for narration.
This story was pretty fun to listen to. The first in the series took a while for me to warm up to, but I’m glad I have that backstory before listening to this one. It is pretty much a requirement. I don’t think this would be half as enjoyable without reading book one. So if you haven’t read/listened to Fish Stick Fridays, go and do that now.
Angel was a great character, and I loved how he was portrayed. Strong, independent, but somewhat vulnerable, Angel was the star in this story for me. His rough past has certainly created a core of steel within, but he is still open to life, and making sure his brother gets whatever he can give him. He is loyal, and determined, with a heart of gold, and the life experience to know when to give it out, and when to keep it concealed.
West is introduced in book one, as Lang’s twin brother. He is surly, stiff, and unapproachable, with a hidden mischief and warm heartedness. He was more subtle in his character development, and warmth. It was a battle to like him, and not eyeroll at his stiff upper lip. I did like him as I got to know him more. I enjoyed his progression in this relationship, but he had to win me over a lot more than Angel did. I didn’t quite understand the past interplay, or the reasoning behind their separation (yes, it is stated, but I wasn’t wholly convinced), but I reminded myself that they were teenagers, and teenagers are still bound by the parental trap of guilt, fear, and loyalty.
The mystery in this was a lot cleaner than the one in the first book. I appreciated that, and I think other readers will enjoy the simplicity of it too. It took more of a back seat in this book than I felt it did in Fish Stick Fridays. I was able to enjoy it more and keep all the clues in mind, while I got stuck into the reunion between West and Angel. There are some twisty bits, but it still made sense, and worked as a whole. Of course, this is action movie drama, so expect some outrageous gun-fire in the beginning to set the tone of the story.
Rhys Ford has earned my loyalty with the rich characters and descriptive nature of the world building in all her stories, and while Fish Stick Fridays was not one of my favourites, Hanging The Stars made an impression on me, and I’m interested to see where this series takes me.
A review copy was provided in exchange for an honest opinion
April 9, 2017
3.5 Hanging the Star Stars
I have to say second chance romances are a favorite of mine. And getting more of the characters from the first book is kinda awesome.
Lang has a twin West and West is who this book is about. I kinda loved that. They didn’t have a very tight bond of brotherhood but I think that is changing.
West fell in love in high school with Angel. But as most things go they were not ready for what was to come. So they grew apart.
Years later Angel and West meet again and all those old feeling come back. But the past can’t stay in the past they have to work through it and Angel is the guardian of his 11 year old brother Roman.
That comes with challenges of its own. But I loved the connection and the feeling this book gave me. It might not have been my favorite MM book but it was still a great read and I am glad I took the chance on this series.
*You don't have to like my review but its 100% my opinion, and I am allowed to have it.*
I have to say second chance romances are a favorite of mine. And getting more of the characters from the first book is kinda awesome.
Lang has a twin West and West is who this book is about. I kinda loved that. They didn’t have a very tight bond of brotherhood but I think that is changing.
West fell in love in high school with Angel. But as most things go they were not ready for what was to come. So they grew apart.
Years later Angel and West meet again and all those old feeling come back. But the past can’t stay in the past they have to work through it and Angel is the guardian of his 11 year old brother Roman.
That comes with challenges of its own. But I loved the connection and the feeling this book gave me. It might not have been my favorite MM book but it was still a great read and I am glad I took the chance on this series.
*You don't have to like my review but its 100% my opinion, and I am allowed to have it.*
September 20, 2021
This is a second chance romance with a lot of external conflicts, drama and action. We run into my favorite characters from the first book (Fish Stick Fridays), mostly Lang, Deke and Zig.
Angel and Roman’s relationship was sweet, and it was endearing to watch Angel and West reconnect after so many issues keeping them apart.
Angel and Roman’s relationship was sweet, and it was endearing to watch Angel and West reconnect after so many issues keeping them apart.
December 5, 2016
REVIEWED FOR PRISM BOOK ALLIANCE
3.75 Stars
Hanging the Stars starts out running and I felt as though I had been dropped into a story and maybe missed a vital part at the start.
Angel has had it tough but through sheer determination and a bit of stubbornness he has come out on top – almost. He has been left bringing up his younger brother and is adamant that Roman will have a completely different childhood to the one he suffered through. Between making sure his brother has everything he needs and running his newly opened bakery Angel’s life is hectic. Angel lives in Half Moon Bay now he’s responsible for himself – a move that was bitter sweet as he has returned to the place he first found and then lost love.
West Harris has also returned to Half Moon Bay and Angel is caught by surprise at his feelings for the first man he fell in love with. It’s complicated – West is trying to clear a building which just happens to be where Angel’s bakery is so the two men have no choice but to come face to face. It would appear that they years have been kind to both men and that they still hold feelings for each other after all this time.
They fall for each other fast – maybe a bit too fast and after everything that has happened to them and between them they seem to forgive and forget very quickly. A big part of the story revolves around a mystery that proves fatal for some and I would have liked a bit more depth to their romance which felt secondary. There is time spent with characters from book 1 and Zig is her usual boisterous self. This was a good addition to the series it just didn’t have quite the same pull as book 1 for me.
3.75 Stars
Hanging the Stars starts out running and I felt as though I had been dropped into a story and maybe missed a vital part at the start.
Angel has had it tough but through sheer determination and a bit of stubbornness he has come out on top – almost. He has been left bringing up his younger brother and is adamant that Roman will have a completely different childhood to the one he suffered through. Between making sure his brother has everything he needs and running his newly opened bakery Angel’s life is hectic. Angel lives in Half Moon Bay now he’s responsible for himself – a move that was bitter sweet as he has returned to the place he first found and then lost love.
West Harris has also returned to Half Moon Bay and Angel is caught by surprise at his feelings for the first man he fell in love with. It’s complicated – West is trying to clear a building which just happens to be where Angel’s bakery is so the two men have no choice but to come face to face. It would appear that they years have been kind to both men and that they still hold feelings for each other after all this time.
They fall for each other fast – maybe a bit too fast and after everything that has happened to them and between them they seem to forgive and forget very quickly. A big part of the story revolves around a mystery that proves fatal for some and I would have liked a bit more depth to their romance which felt secondary. There is time spent with characters from book 1 and Zig is her usual boisterous self. This was a good addition to the series it just didn’t have quite the same pull as book 1 for me.
December 5, 2016
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
Hanging the Stars is a follow up to the excellent Fish Stick Fridays, a book I totally adored in both ebook and audio form. We first meet West in that story as Lang’s identical twin. There is a grudging affection between the brothers, but West is definitely somewhat dislikable there, so I was excited to see his redemption story here. For fans of the first book, we see Zig and Lang quite a bit as side characters here, and Deacon makes an appearance or two. However if you haven’t read that first book, I still think this works as a standalone.
The story has two main focuses — West and Angel reuniting and working out how to be together as adults after their young romance, and the mystery/suspense end as someone is clearly out to harm them. For me, the romance end really worked well. I loved seeing these guys navigate moving forward with a relationship after the problems of the past. I kind of expected they would be dancing around each other for a while, so I was really happy to see that these guys are pretty much upfront from the start with their feelings. West is honest about his regret over what happened and very clear he wants to pick up their relationship. And Angel has shares both his feelings for West and his fears about the impact on his brother, his business, and his life. So it is not always smooth, but the guys are moving forward together and figuring out how to make things work.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
Hanging the Stars is a follow up to the excellent Fish Stick Fridays, a book I totally adored in both ebook and audio form. We first meet West in that story as Lang’s identical twin. There is a grudging affection between the brothers, but West is definitely somewhat dislikable there, so I was excited to see his redemption story here. For fans of the first book, we see Zig and Lang quite a bit as side characters here, and Deacon makes an appearance or two. However if you haven’t read that first book, I still think this works as a standalone.
The story has two main focuses — West and Angel reuniting and working out how to be together as adults after their young romance, and the mystery/suspense end as someone is clearly out to harm them. For me, the romance end really worked well. I loved seeing these guys navigate moving forward with a relationship after the problems of the past. I kind of expected they would be dancing around each other for a while, so I was really happy to see that these guys are pretty much upfront from the start with their feelings. West is honest about his regret over what happened and very clear he wants to pick up their relationship. And Angel has shares both his feelings for West and his fears about the impact on his brother, his business, and his life. So it is not always smooth, but the guys are moving forward together and figuring out how to make things work.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
November 30, 2024
The second book in this series fell a bit flat for me. I had a hard time connecting to West, and their first kiss was a WTF moment for me. I would have thought at least Angel to have shown a bit more resolve.
The set up to get Angel to sell, was a bit too convenient, especially for who the thugs were.
While I thought West was pictured as the ice-king, I think Marzo humanised him. I liked their interactions, with Marzo not taking shit from him.
But, while I understood that everything happening was to get Angel to sell, I did not understand the attempts on West's life. Why was that and was it the same as Angel's?
Part of the Half Moon Bay Series that is best enjoyed when read in order:
June 28, 2017
I love Rhys
I loved Fishstick Fridays ( book one). Unfortunately Hanging the Stars (Angel and West's romance) was hard for me to fall in love with.
I always suspend belief whenever I'm reading an OTT ( Over The Top) book, especially when the author sets the tone that this tale is going to be over the top. With the expectation set, it's up to the reader to decide if they can go with or if the story is not their cup of tea. I really wanted to love this one but there were too many OTT moments and the OTT overshadowed the romance. Once the truth was revealed I didn't quite buy it.
I'm a very picky reader. I love books rich in dialogue and the romance and characters must always be center stage not pushed aside for plot. My advice is to read other reviews and decide if this book is up your alley. The overwhelming majority love this book and to be honest I'm an odd duck. Read their opinions and then decide for yourself.
BTW, if you're looking for a great Rhys Ford, read start with her Cole McGinnis series if you haven't already. I absolutely love every one of those books! Happy reading!
I loved Fishstick Fridays ( book one). Unfortunately Hanging the Stars (Angel and West's romance) was hard for me to fall in love with.
I always suspend belief whenever I'm reading an OTT ( Over The Top) book, especially when the author sets the tone that this tale is going to be over the top. With the expectation set, it's up to the reader to decide if they can go with or if the story is not their cup of tea. I really wanted to love this one but there were too many OTT moments and the OTT overshadowed the romance. Once the truth was revealed I didn't quite buy it.
I'm a very picky reader. I love books rich in dialogue and the romance and characters must always be center stage not pushed aside for plot. My advice is to read other reviews and decide if this book is up your alley. The overwhelming majority love this book and to be honest I'm an odd duck. Read their opinions and then decide for yourself.
BTW, if you're looking for a great Rhys Ford, read start with her Cole McGinnis series if you haven't already. I absolutely love every one of those books! Happy reading!
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