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Breaking the Record
“When will I see him again? And why do I want to so badly?”
Ben Lakeland owns a failing record store in small-town Welling, New York, and it's the last place he wants to be. Everything used to be easy: watching football with his frat buddies, drinking beer, and being popular in school. But at 24 years old, everyone else seems to have grown up but Ben. Each day the same: work, run, eat, and sleep, all on his own.
Until he meets Julian.
Everything changes when the mysterious and intriguing new customer enters his store. Who is this man who looks like he walked straight out of a rock band, with his tattoos, leather jacket, and icy blue eyes? And more importantly, why can't Ben stop thinking about him?
“Would you ever do something like that? You know… kiss a guy?”
Julian Hart just wanted to start fresh. Dumped by his last boyfriend in New York City, he thought Welling would be different - he could focus on pursuing his master’s degree without the constant anxiety of dating.
But there's only one shop in town to feed his endless record collecting habit, and a friendly, muscular jock works the front counter. Why is he so nice to Julian? And why can't Julian seem to stop his habit of crushing hard on gorgeous straight guys?
“Can you come home with me? I just don’t want to be alone tonight…”
The two men can't stay away from one another, and as hard as they try, their feelings aren't going away. Ben struggles to navigate what his attraction to Julian might mean. Julian knows he can't have Ben—and that's exactly why he wants him so bad.
Julian agrees to help Ben try to save the record store. But business and music are quickly forgotten when the two of them discover things they didn’t think were possible.
-----
Breaking the Record is a 70,000 word slow-burn, steamy, emotional MM romance, with a first time gay story and mild hurt/comfort - HEA ending guaranteed.
Ben Lakeland owns a failing record store in small-town Welling, New York, and it's the last place he wants to be. Everything used to be easy: watching football with his frat buddies, drinking beer, and being popular in school. But at 24 years old, everyone else seems to have grown up but Ben. Each day the same: work, run, eat, and sleep, all on his own.
Until he meets Julian.
Everything changes when the mysterious and intriguing new customer enters his store. Who is this man who looks like he walked straight out of a rock band, with his tattoos, leather jacket, and icy blue eyes? And more importantly, why can't Ben stop thinking about him?
“Would you ever do something like that? You know… kiss a guy?”
Julian Hart just wanted to start fresh. Dumped by his last boyfriend in New York City, he thought Welling would be different - he could focus on pursuing his master’s degree without the constant anxiety of dating.
But there's only one shop in town to feed his endless record collecting habit, and a friendly, muscular jock works the front counter. Why is he so nice to Julian? And why can't Julian seem to stop his habit of crushing hard on gorgeous straight guys?
“Can you come home with me? I just don’t want to be alone tonight…”
The two men can't stay away from one another, and as hard as they try, their feelings aren't going away. Ben struggles to navigate what his attraction to Julian might mean. Julian knows he can't have Ben—and that's exactly why he wants him so bad.
Julian agrees to help Ben try to save the record store. But business and music are quickly forgotten when the two of them discover things they didn’t think were possible.
-----
Breaking the Record is a 70,000 word slow-burn, steamy, emotional MM romance, with a first time gay story and mild hurt/comfort - HEA ending guaranteed.
- GenresM M RomanceLGBT
234 pages, ebook
First published January 24, 2017
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
June 23, 2017
~3.5~
I continue to enjoy Ruebins' books. Breaking the Record is a low-key, steamy story about two men struggling with loneliness who find happiness together.
Julian is a graduate student, newly moved to upstate New York; he's socially awkward and doesn't have much faith in love. Ben is trying to keep his dad's record store afloat but is barely making ends meet. Ben falls for Julian but is scared of coming out as bisexual.
I liked the secondary characters, especially Aya, Julian's bestie. Aya was awesome and so supportive. Bagel the cat was a close second.
The one thing that had me rolling my eyes a little is that Ben knows nothing about music; that's after working in a record story for basically his entire life. Um . . . yeah, if I worked ANYWHERE for a year, I would have a pretty good grasp of whatever the company was selling. Ben wasn't a dumb guy, so this was really unbelievable.
But I don't care. Much. This is a supremely easy, enjoyable read and free via KU.
I continue to enjoy Ruebins' books. Breaking the Record is a low-key, steamy story about two men struggling with loneliness who find happiness together.
Julian is a graduate student, newly moved to upstate New York; he's socially awkward and doesn't have much faith in love. Ben is trying to keep his dad's record store afloat but is barely making ends meet. Ben falls for Julian but is scared of coming out as bisexual.
I liked the secondary characters, especially Aya, Julian's bestie. Aya was awesome and so supportive. Bagel the cat was a close second.
The one thing that had me rolling my eyes a little is that Ben knows nothing about music; that's after working in a record story for basically his entire life. Um . . . yeah, if I worked ANYWHERE for a year, I would have a pretty good grasp of whatever the company was selling. Ben wasn't a dumb guy, so this was really unbelievable.
But I don't care. Much. This is a supremely easy, enjoyable read and free via KU.
February 3, 2017
*** With the passing of his Dad, Ben took over the record shop, his Dad's pride and joy. It wasn't doing well in this small town. ***
Julian is new in town, taking classes,
living with his best friend Aya, who has been going to school, too.
Julian has a Vinyl records/music blog and finds himself in the record shop. Ben is straight, was a jock in High School, and notices Julian.
Ben has been unhappy with his life and struggles.
He's not making money, his Uncle harasses him, and he's alone. As these guys talk more, they get along great, even though each man has anxiety in crowds. Focusing on each other allows them to get closer, and we see the slow burn romance taking shape. It's Julian that makes Ben's life brighter, and happier, only Julian. (GFY - gay for you). Julian encourages Ben to examine what he wants; what will make him happy.
Wonderful main characters, plus a diverse cast of friends, this story flows along with low angst and a steadily growing romance. It isn't instant love, and they are super sexy together. From the first kiss with a man, it is first time M/M everything for Ben.
Bagel...
You'll be delighted with this thoughtful tale , an interesting plot, and our author gives us a HEA, no cheating, and it stands alone.
ENJOY !
=============
I recieved a free copy for an honest review.
==================
Julian is new in town, taking classes,
living with his best friend Aya, who has been going to school, too.
Julian has a Vinyl records/music blog and finds himself in the record shop. Ben is straight, was a jock in High School, and notices Julian.
Ben has been unhappy with his life and struggles.
He's not making money, his Uncle harasses him, and he's alone. As these guys talk more, they get along great, even though each man has anxiety in crowds. Focusing on each other allows them to get closer, and we see the slow burn romance taking shape. It's Julian that makes Ben's life brighter, and happier, only Julian. (GFY - gay for you). Julian encourages Ben to examine what he wants; what will make him happy.
Wonderful main characters, plus a diverse cast of friends, this story flows along with low angst and a steadily growing romance. It isn't instant love, and they are super sexy together. From the first kiss with a man, it is first time M/M everything for Ben.
Bagel...
You'll be delighted with this thoughtful tale , an interesting plot, and our author gives us a HEA, no cheating, and it stands alone.
ENJOY !
=============
I recieved a free copy for an honest review.
==================
December 1, 2023
I was in a bit of a reading slump when I started BREAKING THE RECORD and it promptly kicked me out of my slump because I absolutely adored this one! I read it in one sitting, staying up late because I loved Ben and Julian’s relationship and I never wanted the book to end. Ben is hands down one of my favorite characters and I just wanted to give him a hug and tell him things would work out. He’s so sensitive and soulful and has such a gentle heart. He cares for everyone around him and never gives up on his friends even when they grow apart. I related strongly to Julian and his introversion and social anxiety. He doesn’t want to like Ben at first because he assumes they’d never get along but as they spend more time together they slowly become friends. Julian’s protective walls stood no chance against the sweet and charming Ben.
The romance in BREAKING THE RECORD was done so well and I was completely invested in Ben and Julian’s love story. I really liked the way they become friends first while also developing crushes on each other. For Ben in particular it’s quite the journey since he’s never been attracted to guys before so he has to come to terms with his new found sexuality. But it was great to see the way Julian supported him once he knew Ben was interested, and they were so cute together. I also appreciated that Julian never pressured Ben about coming out and was totally fine letting things go at Ben’s pace.
The side characters were also really great as well! Troy was fantastic and his friendship with Ben was really sweet as a sort of surrogate older brother. And Julian’s roommate and friend Aya was a lot of fun and it was obvious how much she cared for Julian.
Content Warning: occasional references to grief over the death of Ben’s father; homophobic remarks from a side character; Ben’s uncle is verbally abusive to Ben and his mother
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Favorite Quotes:
He was genuinely comfortable with Ben, and couldn’t think of anyone else he’d felt so relaxed with so soon. Things like this didn’t happen to Julian. He didn’t make friends easily, and usually didn’t make them at all.
- - - - -
The only thing that kept Ben from slipping into those shadows had been Julian. It was like every time Ben laid eyes on him it was the first time all over again. He couldn’t remember what his life had been like before Julian had been there. Just watching him go through a pile of papers was sexy, and Ben couldn’t wrap his head around how it was even possible. But most of all, his presence was comforting, a ballast when Ben needed it most.
The romance in BREAKING THE RECORD was done so well and I was completely invested in Ben and Julian’s love story. I really liked the way they become friends first while also developing crushes on each other. For Ben in particular it’s quite the journey since he’s never been attracted to guys before so he has to come to terms with his new found sexuality. But it was great to see the way Julian supported him once he knew Ben was interested, and they were so cute together. I also appreciated that Julian never pressured Ben about coming out and was totally fine letting things go at Ben’s pace.
The side characters were also really great as well! Troy was fantastic and his friendship with Ben was really sweet as a sort of surrogate older brother. And Julian’s roommate and friend Aya was a lot of fun and it was obvious how much she cared for Julian.
Content Warning: occasional references to grief over the death of Ben’s father; homophobic remarks from a side character; Ben’s uncle is verbally abusive to Ben and his mother
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Favorite Quotes:
He was genuinely comfortable with Ben, and couldn’t think of anyone else he’d felt so relaxed with so soon. Things like this didn’t happen to Julian. He didn’t make friends easily, and usually didn’t make them at all.
- - - - -
The only thing that kept Ben from slipping into those shadows had been Julian. It was like every time Ben laid eyes on him it was the first time all over again. He couldn’t remember what his life had been like before Julian had been there. Just watching him go through a pile of papers was sexy, and Ben couldn’t wrap his head around how it was even possible. But most of all, his presence was comforting, a ballast when Ben needed it most.
February 7, 2017
4.5 stars
‘Raleigh Ruebins’ is a completely new author to me. After reading this book I have added her to my auto-buy list. The writing is very good with solid characters, beautiful display of emotions and a plot that is equally sweet, mellow and angsty. It’s a story about self-discovery, acceptance, friendship and love.
The MCs here are real and beautiful in their own unique way. They have both suffered from heartache and loss. After they meet a tentative friendship develops which gradually turns into love.
Ben Lakeland is a very lonely, young man who dropped out of college to take care of his dying father. Now he is the owner of his dad’s record store which is not doing very well business-wise. Ben does not have any girlfriend; he does not fit in with the college crowd and he is continuously harassed by his uncle to sell the store. Ben is a man without any specific direction or purpose in life.
Julian Hart is a grad student who has recently shifted from New York City to Welling. He is a complete homebody, painfully introvert and not too comfortable with people except for his best friend and roommate, Aya. After a bad breakup, Julian has sworn off trusting any guy enough to open his heart. Julian is a music nerd and his one vice is collecting vinyl records. And that’s what brings him to ‘Lakeland Records’ and thus to Ben.
This is a GFY romance as Ben is shown here as straight with Julian being the first guy whom he is physically attracted to. Ben’s sexuality is not labelled here in so many words. He was in love and that was the most important thing of all. Ben’s new and budding feelings for the first time towards a man very beautifully. He had his doubts and of course, he is scared but he goes after what he really wanted and that was, Julian. It was not too overdramatic but had the right amount of angst involved before a very satisfactory HEA.
Ben is unsure of his future and a little lost. He feels guilty that he did not love music like his father and now after his death, Ben is trying to make to make his father proud by taking care of the store with love and devotion. But deep down that is not what he actually wants out of his life. Julian gives him the direction as well as the encouragement to build a life he actually wanted for himself.
Julian is intrigued by Ben from their first meeting. With a little push from Aya, Julian finds himself building a genuine friendship with Ben. He opens up to him more than he ever did to anybody else in such a short time. At first he is sure that Ben is straight but later he gets hopeful of starting something real with him.
I loved the gradual pace of the romance. Ben’s realization about his feelings for Julian is very sweet and nicely described. Both the MCs are a little hesitant in pursuing their feelings for different reasons but they fall in love quite quickly. The story is not too heavy on the steam front but it perfectly complimented the romance.
The flow of the story is great. In addition to a solid plot this book has the required combination of strong and relatable characters, a good mix of well-developed secondary characters and lastly a blooming romance at its heart. So all in all this book has been a complete win for me. I would look forward to books from this author.
Recommended!!!
*This review has been cross posted at GayBookReviews*
‘Raleigh Ruebins’ is a completely new author to me. After reading this book I have added her to my auto-buy list. The writing is very good with solid characters, beautiful display of emotions and a plot that is equally sweet, mellow and angsty. It’s a story about self-discovery, acceptance, friendship and love.
The MCs here are real and beautiful in their own unique way. They have both suffered from heartache and loss. After they meet a tentative friendship develops which gradually turns into love.
Ben Lakeland is a very lonely, young man who dropped out of college to take care of his dying father. Now he is the owner of his dad’s record store which is not doing very well business-wise. Ben does not have any girlfriend; he does not fit in with the college crowd and he is continuously harassed by his uncle to sell the store. Ben is a man without any specific direction or purpose in life.
Julian Hart is a grad student who has recently shifted from New York City to Welling. He is a complete homebody, painfully introvert and not too comfortable with people except for his best friend and roommate, Aya. After a bad breakup, Julian has sworn off trusting any guy enough to open his heart. Julian is a music nerd and his one vice is collecting vinyl records. And that’s what brings him to ‘Lakeland Records’ and thus to Ben.
This is a GFY romance as Ben is shown here as straight with Julian being the first guy whom he is physically attracted to. Ben’s sexuality is not labelled here in so many words. He was in love and that was the most important thing of all. Ben’s new and budding feelings for the first time towards a man very beautifully. He had his doubts and of course, he is scared but he goes after what he really wanted and that was, Julian. It was not too overdramatic but had the right amount of angst involved before a very satisfactory HEA.
Ben is unsure of his future and a little lost. He feels guilty that he did not love music like his father and now after his death, Ben is trying to make to make his father proud by taking care of the store with love and devotion. But deep down that is not what he actually wants out of his life. Julian gives him the direction as well as the encouragement to build a life he actually wanted for himself.
Julian is intrigued by Ben from their first meeting. With a little push from Aya, Julian finds himself building a genuine friendship with Ben. He opens up to him more than he ever did to anybody else in such a short time. At first he is sure that Ben is straight but later he gets hopeful of starting something real with him.
“And when his conscious thought returned to him, Julian knew all of his carefully placed walls had crumbled for good. Even if Ben was straight, even if he was just confused or uninterested in anything more, Julian was fucking crazy about him. He knew it would probably lead to him getting hurt in the end, but he couldn’t stop, couldn’t turn away.”
I loved the gradual pace of the romance. Ben’s realization about his feelings for Julian is very sweet and nicely described. Both the MCs are a little hesitant in pursuing their feelings for different reasons but they fall in love quite quickly. The story is not too heavy on the steam front but it perfectly complimented the romance.
The flow of the story is great. In addition to a solid plot this book has the required combination of strong and relatable characters, a good mix of well-developed secondary characters and lastly a blooming romance at its heart. So all in all this book has been a complete win for me. I would look forward to books from this author.
Recommended!!!
*This review has been cross posted at GayBookReviews*
February 5, 2017
4.5 Stars
I absolutely fell in love with this story, Julian and Ben are so very different and so very perfect! This was one of those stories that grabbed me from the start and I just couldn't put it down! Ben is trying to run his father's record store and it's not going well, he doesn't really know anything about music and even with his excellent customer service skills can't seem to bring in business and it doesn't help that he's getting pressure from his uncle to sell. Julian is new to town, having moved to go to grad school with his best friend Aya. He's a bit of a loner and loves music and is excited about Ben's vintage store. Ben's just happy to see a customer, but Julian becomes so much more than that!
Ben and Julian really are so very different! Ben is sweet and kind, but he's a bit lonely. He has a few friends and Troy, his only employee, who is totally out there, bisexual and absolutely awesome! Julian too is lonely, coming off a bad relationship and now only has Aya but meeting Ben changes something in him. Sure he thinks he's just crushing on another straight guy, but he discovers that may not be the case.
These two start out as unlikely friends, but it works and they spend more and more time together. Both Ben and Julian struggle with their feelings as they develop, Ben has always been straight and Julian thinks he can't have Ben. I definitely felt for them during this part, both wanting more but not quite sure...felt that in my heart!
Ben and Julian are sweet and wonderful together, they bring out the best in each other and have such a beautiful connection. They don't always have an easy journey but it's definitely worth it and oh how I fell in love with the way they fell in love! This is another wonderful story from Raleigh Ruebins that made my smile and made my heart happy! I highly recommend Breaking the Record, it really has it all! I can't wait for whatever is next from Raleigh, I will definitely be reading whatever it is!
I absolutely fell in love with this story, Julian and Ben are so very different and so very perfect! This was one of those stories that grabbed me from the start and I just couldn't put it down! Ben is trying to run his father's record store and it's not going well, he doesn't really know anything about music and even with his excellent customer service skills can't seem to bring in business and it doesn't help that he's getting pressure from his uncle to sell. Julian is new to town, having moved to go to grad school with his best friend Aya. He's a bit of a loner and loves music and is excited about Ben's vintage store. Ben's just happy to see a customer, but Julian becomes so much more than that!
Ben and Julian really are so very different! Ben is sweet and kind, but he's a bit lonely. He has a few friends and Troy, his only employee, who is totally out there, bisexual and absolutely awesome! Julian too is lonely, coming off a bad relationship and now only has Aya but meeting Ben changes something in him. Sure he thinks he's just crushing on another straight guy, but he discovers that may not be the case.
These two start out as unlikely friends, but it works and they spend more and more time together. Both Ben and Julian struggle with their feelings as they develop, Ben has always been straight and Julian thinks he can't have Ben. I definitely felt for them during this part, both wanting more but not quite sure...felt that in my heart!
Ben and Julian are sweet and wonderful together, they bring out the best in each other and have such a beautiful connection. They don't always have an easy journey but it's definitely worth it and oh how I fell in love with the way they fell in love! This is another wonderful story from Raleigh Ruebins that made my smile and made my heart happy! I highly recommend Breaking the Record, it really has it all! I can't wait for whatever is next from Raleigh, I will definitely be reading whatever it is!
January 29, 2017
This is my first Raleigh book and it has made me a fan
Ben is owner and running the record shop that his dad passed onto him. He is a very friendly person and doesn't know anything about the music. One day he meets, Julian in the store. Julian has a wealth of music knowledge Julian is very much an introvert but these two hit it off
Ben goes on a self discovery trip to find himself falling I love with Julian. These two are just so darn sweet together and in my opinion perfect for each other. Ben has the weight on his shoulder. Can he come out? will he be able to make Ben happy? Can he sell the store?
We get to go on their journey of self discovery, falling in love, and their future. I loved the book.
Ben is owner and running the record shop that his dad passed onto him. He is a very friendly person and doesn't know anything about the music. One day he meets, Julian in the store. Julian has a wealth of music knowledge Julian is very much an introvert but these two hit it off
Ben goes on a self discovery trip to find himself falling I love with Julian. These two are just so darn sweet together and in my opinion perfect for each other. Ben has the weight on his shoulder. Can he come out? will he be able to make Ben happy? Can he sell the store?
We get to go on their journey of self discovery, falling in love, and their future. I loved the book.
February 3, 2017
I love gfy romances. Both of these guys are kind of insecure, keep to themselves, figuring out their lives. When they find each other, it helps them discover what, and who, they want out of life. It's sweet and sexy. Well developed characters, the story flows nicely. This is becoming one of my fave authors, truly.
I received an exclusive arc.
I received an exclusive arc.
June 13, 2018
This author is new to me and I would recommend this sweet and satisfying story. I had a couple of problems with a few details -- for example Julian is getting a master's in computer science which is pretty much useless unless he's doing research, -- but the heart of the story, the romance, was very nice and well done. No
August 30, 2017
Love
Julian and Ben are sweet and beautiful Ben struggles with who he is scared about what people think but once he gotten overed that realized what he has Ben took what he wanted and didn't let go and the moved to Seattle was what they both needed
Julian and Ben are sweet and beautiful Ben struggles with who he is scared about what people think but once he gotten overed that realized what he has Ben took what he wanted and didn't let go and the moved to Seattle was what they both needed
December 24, 2017
Loved these guys!
April 30, 2019
great read, easy story line, sweet, romantic, made me cry in a good way. happily ever after!!!
July 20, 2019
Really good
Loved it so much. Tge characters are developed in such a way that they 're believable and loveable with flaws and everything. Great story, I enjoyed it very much.
Loved it so much. Tge characters are developed in such a way that they 're believable and loveable with flaws and everything. Great story, I enjoyed it very much.
March 3, 2017
A love for vinyl brings together Ben and Julian, very different young men. Ben is stuck in a gigantic rut at age 24 running the eponymous Lakeland Record Store, his father's legacy. Although this isn't Ben's dream, he doesn't want to lose the associated memories, decades of memorabilia. He can't see a way to succeed and he can't bear to fail.
It's a college town and that is the only thing keeping the failing record store alive when Julian, a master's degree student, drops in. Julian is sad, shy and introverted despite his rock star appearance.
This is an interesting, emotional story of two young men, very different by all appearances, who find exactly what they need in each other. It wouldn't be a romance novel if there weren't some tribulations along the way and there are times when you wish one or the other would communicate but isn't that also the case in real life.
I sincerely enjoyed this story!
It's a college town and that is the only thing keeping the failing record store alive when Julian, a master's degree student, drops in. Julian is sad, shy and introverted despite his rock star appearance.
This is an interesting, emotional story of two young men, very different by all appearances, who find exactly what they need in each other. It wouldn't be a romance novel if there weren't some tribulations along the way and there are times when you wish one or the other would communicate but isn't that also the case in real life.
I sincerely enjoyed this story!
January 25, 2017
If you're looking for a love story with a beautiful array of descriptions, from the spines of the records to the smell of the shop, you've chosen the right book. My favorite line from the story is as follows: "he’d lit a candle up front, and its soft, woodsy smell filled the room, covering up the worn plastic smell of the vinyl." This is so artistic in an antique way. It sets up the reader for the tone of the novel. I love the almost foreshadowing effect you get here from Ben's disinterest with the records in contrast to Julien's adoration.
The reoccuring theme of courage is exchanged between both men, making their story so much more heartfelt. Julien setting aside his anxieties to fit in with the group while Ben struggled with verbalizing his sexual orientation created a nice balance. A bit of give and take adds to the authenticity that relationships don't develop in the snap of a finger. From the beginning I've had a painted picture of this little shop that brought them together, and I don't believe they would have found each other without it. The shop is a key point in their narrative.
Something I can say with certainty is that this story gave me more appreciation for things that may be a bit outdated- namely records, by putting into perspective how even though something may be older, it is good nonetheless. I definitely recommend picking up this book on Amazon and reading it for yourself. Take my word for it.
*I recieved a copy from the author in exchange for a written review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
The reoccuring theme of courage is exchanged between both men, making their story so much more heartfelt. Julien setting aside his anxieties to fit in with the group while Ben struggled with verbalizing his sexual orientation created a nice balance. A bit of give and take adds to the authenticity that relationships don't develop in the snap of a finger. From the beginning I've had a painted picture of this little shop that brought them together, and I don't believe they would have found each other without it. The shop is a key point in their narrative.
Something I can say with certainty is that this story gave me more appreciation for things that may be a bit outdated- namely records, by putting into perspective how even though something may be older, it is good nonetheless. I definitely recommend picking up this book on Amazon and reading it for yourself. Take my word for it.
*I recieved a copy from the author in exchange for a written review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
January 30, 2017
When I read Raleigh Reubins Can't Stop Now, I had a feeling I was going to fall in love with this wonderful new author and after finishing Breaking the Record, let me tell you all I want to do now is break out my turn table and play all those great 70's and 80's rock bands I have loved! And no surprise here I absolutely adored Ben and Julian. There was so much soul and great vibes going on throughout this unassuming story of discovering oneself and letting go to allow love shine in. From Ben's confident and super friendly exterior masking the pain and confusion that lies beneath the surface,and Julian's broody anti social yet desperate for that real connection, Breaking The Record had me swept into this small upstate NY College town and its lone authentic Record shop that served up far more than tunes but something that connected for me stirred a lot of good sensations. The secondary characters that inhabited this story and that were of significance to our fantastic couple were wonderfully written and some even surprised me in very good ways. But of course there is the main story and when these two young men finally get past each of their walls and connect there are some very very HOT moments and I couldn't get enough.I was thrilled to be giving a chance to read this ARC and if you have not checked out Raleigh yet, get on the board !! I see a long string of hits still to follow!!
January 26, 2017
“You deserve to have something of your own. Something you choose.”
I really enjoyed this book, as Ben and Julian’s relationship evolved, they seemed to have a very natural fit. There is such a slow burn while they tentatively form a new friendship, but once these two men work up the courage to admit their attraction to each other, things rapidly escalate to something fun and sexy. There’s a melancholy about Ben that tugged at me from the beginning, like he’s completely adrift in his own life, and I loved how his confidence blossomed as he finally took steps towards finding something and someone that felt right for him. With Julian battling his own issues with his sense of self-worth, the two bring out the best in each other, which is why I was so disappointed, but not entirely surprised, when Ben’s confidence flounders and they stumble over the hurdle. I also developed a really soft spot for Troy, who is such an eccentric character while being so grounded and level-headed when Ben needed him. This is an entertaining choice if you’re looking for something that will warm you up on the inside…
Please note that I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this book.
I really enjoyed this book, as Ben and Julian’s relationship evolved, they seemed to have a very natural fit. There is such a slow burn while they tentatively form a new friendship, but once these two men work up the courage to admit their attraction to each other, things rapidly escalate to something fun and sexy. There’s a melancholy about Ben that tugged at me from the beginning, like he’s completely adrift in his own life, and I loved how his confidence blossomed as he finally took steps towards finding something and someone that felt right for him. With Julian battling his own issues with his sense of self-worth, the two bring out the best in each other, which is why I was so disappointed, but not entirely surprised, when Ben’s confidence flounders and they stumble over the hurdle. I also developed a really soft spot for Troy, who is such an eccentric character while being so grounded and level-headed when Ben needed him. This is an entertaining choice if you’re looking for something that will warm you up on the inside…
Please note that I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this book.
January 19, 2017
When the message from Raleigh popped into my inbox I was slightly skeptical. I usually only read ARCs from authors who have been recommended to me hence the 5* ratings for most of my reviews. Anyway just had to say what a wonderful book this is.
Ben is a lonely young man, no girlfriend and his Uncle is trying to make him sell his business. His father died and left him his record shop not his uncle. Ben is trying his hardest to keep it going as he thinks it is what his father wanted. He admits he knows nothing about vinyls and relies upon Troy his only employee to run the business.
Julian is another lonely young man and gay. He has recently moved to the area to go to college with his best friend Aya and lives with her too. He hates parties and people but finds himself opening up to Ben who is the straight guy....or is he?
This is such a well crafted story. It flows seamlessly along. I actually read 3/4 of it overnight when my insomnia kicked in. Now I am not sure if it was because I really wanted to finish the book!!
I received a complimentary ARC and this is my voluntary review.
Ben is a lonely young man, no girlfriend and his Uncle is trying to make him sell his business. His father died and left him his record shop not his uncle. Ben is trying his hardest to keep it going as he thinks it is what his father wanted. He admits he knows nothing about vinyls and relies upon Troy his only employee to run the business.
Julian is another lonely young man and gay. He has recently moved to the area to go to college with his best friend Aya and lives with her too. He hates parties and people but finds himself opening up to Ben who is the straight guy....or is he?
This is such a well crafted story. It flows seamlessly along. I actually read 3/4 of it overnight when my insomnia kicked in. Now I am not sure if it was because I really wanted to finish the book!!
I received a complimentary ARC and this is my voluntary review.
February 7, 2017
Raleigh Ruebins has got to be one of the best MM authors I've ever read!! This book was very well written with all the emotional components which a great book should have. I was taken in from the very beginning. The story line was strong and the characters were well developed and amazing... Ben Lakeland owned and operated a vintage record store. In this day not many people bought old vinyl records and his business was struggling. One day a grad college student, Julian, came in to purchase some records. Julian was a collector and was surprisingly attracted to Ben. Julian was a definite introvert and recluse. He had been hurt in the past and tried to stay away from straight guys. But Ben was different, kind and sweet. Ben struggled with his sexuality, but he knew he wanted Julian...when they actually got together, Ben wasn't ready to Out himself to his best friend, so he broke it off with Julian... This is their story. Love wins. Coming Out was worth everything..A future was in the cards for these two amazing men. Great story!! Don't miss it❤️
January 28, 2017
This is the first book I have read by this author and boy, I wasn't disappointed. A story of a young man, Ben, who is lonely and dissatisfied with where his life is at this point. A college dropout who runs his late father's struggling record store is intrigued the first time Julian walks through the shop's doors. He is everything Ben is not. Graduate student, confident in who he is, and a music lover. No matter how much he tries, Ben can't get Julian out of his head and he has no idea why.
This m/m coming out romance is filled with friendship, a young man coming to terms with his bisexuality and another trying to build his confidence and believe that someone could possibly love him for who he is. Can I just say, the anticipation of that first kiss was everything! The patience was well worth it in the end. I loved this book and can't wait to read another from this author.
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
This m/m coming out romance is filled with friendship, a young man coming to terms with his bisexuality and another trying to build his confidence and believe that someone could possibly love him for who he is. Can I just say, the anticipation of that first kiss was everything! The patience was well worth it in the end. I loved this book and can't wait to read another from this author.
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 18, 2017
This was a beautifully written story that chronicles, almost daily, the journey taken by two young men on the path to love. The author delved deep into the heart and mind of Ben and Julian, allowing us to see and feel the hope, doubts and joy experienced as they began to care for each other. The author led them through the beginnings of their attraction for each other and let us know and feel what they were thinking and feeling. The hurt, dismay, anger and fear had me on the edge of my seat, wondering what they would do and how they would react. It is just sooooooo good! I loved this book.
I voluntarily read an Advanced Reader Copy of this book
I voluntarily read an Advanced Reader Copy of this book
January 31, 2017
This was a wonderful story of two characters that has some issue that is holding them back from a relationship. Julian is new town and is having some issue fitting in with new people. Julian passion is old record and writing for his blog. When he meets Ben sparks fly. Ben has had to take over his dad record shop when his father died. Every day is a struggle with Ben and when can he fine time for himself. Can Julian be able to help Ben fine some happiness in the dark? They take us on a journey of let yourself go and be true to yourself. Recommend this book
July 22, 2017
Exquisite. Perfect. Delightful. The flow of the mood and story. The characters being flawed but so appealing. The writing. I think the only improvement I could suggest is that the bonus chapter be included in the book in the correct time/place. Otherwise, this was delicious.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
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January 29, 2017This was a cute story that pulled me in and kept me entertained until I finished it. Ben and Julian were both great characters, and they made a very cute couple. I really liked seeing them fall in love, and following their story to their HEA. I was gifted an exclusive copy.
January 30, 2017
Once again, this author has blown my mind. Patience is so hard to have sometimes, but this slow burn m/m romance was worth it. Well thought out and written. Sexy, sweet, and meant to be. I received an Advance Reader Copy for my honest opinion and review.
February 3, 2017
This was a ok book. I'm not much for m/m books but it had a great storyline if you can look past that
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