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Delta Restorations #2
Michael, Reinvented
Sequel to David, Renewed
Delta Novel Two
Cute hipster and interior designer Michael doesn’t do love—not after his ex screwed him over. Sex is a different story, though, and the gentle giant who’s painting the mural in the old mansion they’re restoring might be perfect hookup material. Gil is just Michael’s type with his solid muscle, wicked sense of humor, and the hazel eyes that seem to see into Michael’s soul.
Trouble is, Gil does do love. He wants romance and forever, and he’s set his sights firmly on Michael. Michael’s not going there again.
Yet when Michael is the victim of a vandal who’s been plaguing the men working for Delta Restoration, Renovation, and Design, Gil is the first person he tells. No matter how he fights it, it’s becoming harder and harder to deny he’s crazy about the guy—even if that thought terrifies him. But the true fear sets in when the criminal behavior escalates, and Michael realizes he might have lost the chance to tell Gil how he feels—forever.
Delta Novel Two
Cute hipster and interior designer Michael doesn’t do love—not after his ex screwed him over. Sex is a different story, though, and the gentle giant who’s painting the mural in the old mansion they’re restoring might be perfect hookup material. Gil is just Michael’s type with his solid muscle, wicked sense of humor, and the hazel eyes that seem to see into Michael’s soul.
Trouble is, Gil does do love. He wants romance and forever, and he’s set his sights firmly on Michael. Michael’s not going there again.
Yet when Michael is the victim of a vandal who’s been plaguing the men working for Delta Restoration, Renovation, and Design, Gil is the first person he tells. No matter how he fights it, it’s becoming harder and harder to deny he’s crazy about the guy—even if that thought terrifies him. But the true fear sets in when the criminal behavior escalates, and Michael realizes he might have lost the chance to tell Gil how he feels—forever.
220 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 19, 2017
10 people are currently reading
187 people want to read
About the author
Diana Copland
10 books235 followersDiana Copland began writing in the seventh grade, when she shamelessly combined elements of Jane Eyre and Dark Shadows to produce an overwrought gothic tale that earned her an A- in creative writing, thanks entirely to the generosity of her teacher. She wrote for pure enjoyment for the next three decades before discovering LiveJournal and a wonderful group of supportive fanfiction writers, who after gifting her with a "Best New Author" Award encouraged her to try her hand at original gay fiction.
Born and raised in southern California, Diana moved to the Pacific Northwest after losing a beloved spouse to AIDS in 1995. She lives in eastern Washington near her two wonderful adult children and her surprisingly supportive parents.
Born and raised in southern California, Diana moved to the Pacific Northwest after losing a beloved spouse to AIDS in 1995. She lives in eastern Washington near her two wonderful adult children and her surprisingly supportive parents.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
April 25, 2017
~3.5~
This book has no ending. Seriously, the story just sort of peters out. I was happily reading along, flipped the page on my Kindle, and got "More from Diana Copland." I frantically flipped back because surely I skipped something, but NOPE, that was the end.
*stomps foot* Why do authors do that?
I loved the first book and was thrilled to revisit with David and Jackson, particularly on Valentine's Day when Jackson goes all out, but I wanted more of Michael and Gilbert doing something other than snarking at each other.
The relationship devlopment consists of Michael pushing Gil away until a tragedy strikes that makes Michael realize he truly cares for Gil. The men finally connect at 84 percent, but then I blinked and it was over. There were only two steamy scenes, which was also disappointing.
Michael, Reinvented is more crime drama than romance, with a stronger focus on friendship than love. A perp vandalizes Jackson and David's house and attacks Michael. The police think it's the same man who vandalized Jackson's car in book 1. It's definitely a hate crime. The police investigate, and everyone is on edge and nervous.
Vern is as grouchy as ever, but Manny comes out of his shell a little. I really wonder if those two will end up together. Just how old is Vern anyway (this may have been mentioned in book 1, but I don't remember)? What with him calling Michael "sweet boy" and all the jokes about Vern being the "old man," I kept thinking he's 60, but surely that's not true.
This is a good time to mention that this book CANNOT be read as a standalone. The mystery is integral to the story, and that's set up in the first book and will clearly continue in book 3.
I really adored Gil, but Michael's POV filters the story, so we don't really get to know him. We don't even get the full story of what inspired the whimsical mural Gil painted in the children's oncology unit at a local hospital.
The ending is a HFN. The men are together, barely, but there's no long-term plans and no strong resolution to the mystery/crime plot. However, the pacing is spot on (I wanted to keep reading!), and I like this group of friends and the quiet moments Michael and Gil share.
Rounding up because Scooter and Pixie are all kinds of awesome.
P.S. A neurologist is NOT a neurosurgeon. Research, please.
This book has no ending. Seriously, the story just sort of peters out. I was happily reading along, flipped the page on my Kindle, and got "More from Diana Copland." I frantically flipped back because surely I skipped something, but NOPE, that was the end.
*stomps foot* Why do authors do that?
I loved the first book and was thrilled to revisit with David and Jackson, particularly on Valentine's Day when Jackson goes all out, but I wanted more of Michael and Gilbert doing something other than snarking at each other.
The relationship devlopment consists of Michael pushing Gil away until a tragedy strikes that makes Michael realize he truly cares for Gil. The men finally connect at 84 percent, but then I blinked and it was over. There were only two steamy scenes, which was also disappointing.
Michael, Reinvented is more crime drama than romance, with a stronger focus on friendship than love. A perp vandalizes Jackson and David's house and attacks Michael. The police think it's the same man who vandalized Jackson's car in book 1. It's definitely a hate crime. The police investigate, and everyone is on edge and nervous.
Vern is as grouchy as ever, but Manny comes out of his shell a little. I really wonder if those two will end up together. Just how old is Vern anyway (this may have been mentioned in book 1, but I don't remember)? What with him calling Michael "sweet boy" and all the jokes about Vern being the "old man," I kept thinking he's 60, but surely that's not true.
This is a good time to mention that this book CANNOT be read as a standalone. The mystery is integral to the story, and that's set up in the first book and will clearly continue in book 3.
I really adored Gil, but Michael's POV filters the story, so we don't really get to know him. We don't even get the full story of what inspired the whimsical mural Gil painted in the children's oncology unit at a local hospital.
The ending is a HFN. The men are together, barely, but there's no long-term plans and no strong resolution to the mystery/crime plot. However, the pacing is spot on (I wanted to keep reading!), and I like this group of friends and the quiet moments Michael and Gil share.
Rounding up because Scooter and Pixie are all kinds of awesome.
P.S. A neurologist is NOT a neurosurgeon. Research, please.
April 30, 2017
You know how sometimes readers complain that a story is all telling, no showing? Here, it was the exact opposite. Important things kept happening, but the narrative lacked sufficient explanation.
Michael decides to have sex with Gil for the first time after shutting him down for a long time. But how did he get there? Michael declares that he loves Gil, but how did he get there? Gil reciprocates Michael's feelings. But how did they get there? The big incident that resulted in Michael and Gil getting together was the deus ex machina of the whole thing, at least for me.
Big chanks of the story were about the mystery subplot, the business, or the new house they guys were hired to renovate. The couple didn't spend a lot of page time together, at least not meaningful time, and I found no relationship development whatsoever. Not having Gil's POV didn't help at all.
Another thing that bugged me, which is more like a personal preference, is Michael's behaviour. I loath characters that are OTT bitchy and hostile towards another with the excuse that it's their defense mechanism. It's like bad MF. Give me grumpy, asshole MCs any day. But don't give me catty damsels in distress, that act obnoxiously toward the other person, all while giving mixed signals.
Obviously, I had a lot of problems with the story but I'm settling with 3 stars because I still find the series interesting, and although Michael, Reinvented lacked the oomph of David, Renewed , it still held my attention and the writing is pretty good.
David and Jackson really shone in this book, and made me love them even more. There isn't a lot of steam, but the first sex scene is super hot. The mystery is not resolved yet, but I'm very curious to see how it will play out. And the supportive characters are still pretty great.
Recommended for the fans of the series.
-Review posted on Gay Book Reviews.-
Michael decides to have sex with Gil for the first time after shutting him down for a long time. But how did he get there? Michael declares that he loves Gil, but how did he get there? Gil reciprocates Michael's feelings. But how did they get there? The big incident that resulted in Michael and Gil getting together was the deus ex machina of the whole thing, at least for me.
Big chanks of the story were about the mystery subplot, the business, or the new house they guys were hired to renovate. The couple didn't spend a lot of page time together, at least not meaningful time, and I found no relationship development whatsoever. Not having Gil's POV didn't help at all.
Another thing that bugged me, which is more like a personal preference, is Michael's behaviour. I loath characters that are OTT bitchy and hostile towards another with the excuse that it's their defense mechanism. It's like bad MF. Give me grumpy, asshole MCs any day. But don't give me catty damsels in distress, that act obnoxiously toward the other person, all while giving mixed signals.
Obviously, I had a lot of problems with the story but I'm settling with 3 stars because I still find the series interesting, and although Michael, Reinvented lacked the oomph of David, Renewed , it still held my attention and the writing is pretty good.
David and Jackson really shone in this book, and made me love them even more. There isn't a lot of steam, but the first sex scene is super hot. The mystery is not resolved yet, but I'm very curious to see how it will play out. And the supportive characters are still pretty great.
Recommended for the fans of the series.
-Review posted on Gay Book Reviews.-
May 3, 2017
3.5 Stars
I just love finding a new-to-me author that I just click with. Diana Copeland's writing is so smooth and delicious, I easily lose myself in her words. I am so happy my friends talked me into reading this series (and I can't wait for more!).
Michael Crane is a sarcastic twink who doesn't believe in love. He was burned really badly in college and he just doesn't trust his own judgement when it comes to relationships anymore, so he's sworn them off and sticks to hook-ups. Ever since meeting a hot muscular guy, that ticked all his boxes, when he helped David move some furniture, Michael can't help but gravitate toward the man. But he denies, denies, denies that there is anything there. Stubborn. I liked Michael, in fact, his sarcasm never failed to make me smile, but I have to admit that his running hot and cold did wear a bit thin, at times.
Gil Chandler is the object of Michael's every fantasy, and the feelings are returned in spades. Gil is a good guy. He's been making sure his dad is cared for, he's keeping on top of estate issues, he's a talented artist, he paints houses for a living and he's always there for his friends. Forming a restoration company with his friends gives Gil plenty of work and plenty of opportunity to wear Michael down.
Like David, Renewed, Michael, Reinvented is fairly low angst. We get a good story, a bad guy who seems to be escalating and bonds that strengthen with every instance of tomfoolery. Nothing brings people together like a shared adversary. And Gil is steadfast in his commitment to looking out for Michael. In fact, I can't think of anyone better suited. And even when Michael gets prickly, Gil sticks around.
I quite enjoyed the story, though I admit to liking book 1 a bit better. I just wish that it hadn't taken such a drastic event for Michael to admit his feelings, and I would have liked more steam. Other than that, though, I loved it, and I'm looking forward to more.
---------------------------
ARC of Michael, Reinvented was generously provided by the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.
I just love finding a new-to-me author that I just click with. Diana Copeland's writing is so smooth and delicious, I easily lose myself in her words. I am so happy my friends talked me into reading this series (and I can't wait for more!).
Michael Crane is a sarcastic twink who doesn't believe in love. He was burned really badly in college and he just doesn't trust his own judgement when it comes to relationships anymore, so he's sworn them off and sticks to hook-ups. Ever since meeting a hot muscular guy, that ticked all his boxes, when he helped David move some furniture, Michael can't help but gravitate toward the man. But he denies, denies, denies that there is anything there. Stubborn. I liked Michael, in fact, his sarcasm never failed to make me smile, but I have to admit that his running hot and cold did wear a bit thin, at times.
Gil Chandler is the object of Michael's every fantasy, and the feelings are returned in spades. Gil is a good guy. He's been making sure his dad is cared for, he's keeping on top of estate issues, he's a talented artist, he paints houses for a living and he's always there for his friends. Forming a restoration company with his friends gives Gil plenty of work and plenty of opportunity to wear Michael down.
Like David, Renewed, Michael, Reinvented is fairly low angst. We get a good story, a bad guy who seems to be escalating and bonds that strengthen with every instance of tomfoolery. Nothing brings people together like a shared adversary. And Gil is steadfast in his commitment to looking out for Michael. In fact, I can't think of anyone better suited. And even when Michael gets prickly, Gil sticks around.
I quite enjoyed the story, though I admit to liking book 1 a bit better. I just wish that it hadn't taken such a drastic event for Michael to admit his feelings, and I would have liked more steam. Other than that, though, I loved it, and I'm looking forward to more.
---------------------------
ARC of Michael, Reinvented was generously provided by the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.
April 23, 2017
My second book by this author, and I'd say I'm definitely gonna remain on the lookout for her. Her writing is so smooth, and I get sucked right into her stories.
Michael and Gil are the two best friends of the couple from Book 1, so we know that Gil has had the hots for Michael since the day they moved furniture together in David, Renewed. Michael has constantly pushed Gil away, replying to texts and phone calls with mean snark. Me thinks thou doth protest too much, Michael.
My favorite part of this book was Michael's "discovery" about Gil's life. He has purposefully never let himself ask about Gil to their group of friends, or Gil himself. He finds himself fascinated anyway, and does some digging on his own. I've never seen an author incorporate The Velveteen Rabbit into a story so well before. Serious feelz.
What didn't work? I had a couple niggles with this one that could've made this an easy 4.5 star read if they'd been executed differently.
1. The declarations came out of left field. Michael and Gil weren't THERE yet. Everything was smooth, and pacing was fine with the relationship development, and then BAM - no, no, no. It didn't fit with where they were at all.
2. The same physician, within two chapters, went back and forth from being a neurologist to a neurosurgeon - 5 TIMES. These specialties are NOT. THE. SAME. (Messing up medical terms is a pet peeve, but get the research correct please!)
Niggles aside, this was a great addition to this series. We get to see the continued development of Delta Restorations, Renovations, and Design that was just an idea in Book 1. I love the banter between the core group of men, even Vern.
There is also a mystery side plot - not sure how I felt about that one. The person behind the vandalism of Jackson's truck and David's car from Book 1 was never solved, and the perpetrator escalates in this book. It was done well, but I don't know how I feel about the outcome. Let's leave it at that for fear of spoilers.
I have a feeling that Manny's book is next, and I want him to have his HEA.
I'll stick to 3.75 stars for this one. Enjoyed and recommend!
Michael and Gil are the two best friends of the couple from Book 1, so we know that Gil has had the hots for Michael since the day they moved furniture together in David, Renewed. Michael has constantly pushed Gil away, replying to texts and phone calls with mean snark. Me thinks thou doth protest too much, Michael.
My favorite part of this book was Michael's "discovery" about Gil's life. He has purposefully never let himself ask about Gil to their group of friends, or Gil himself. He finds himself fascinated anyway, and does some digging on his own. I've never seen an author incorporate The Velveteen Rabbit into a story so well before. Serious feelz.
What didn't work? I had a couple niggles with this one that could've made this an easy 4.5 star read if they'd been executed differently.
1. The declarations came out of left field. Michael and Gil weren't THERE yet. Everything was smooth, and pacing was fine with the relationship development, and then BAM - no, no, no. It didn't fit with where they were at all.
2. The same physician, within two chapters, went back and forth from being a neurologist to a neurosurgeon - 5 TIMES. These specialties are NOT. THE. SAME. (Messing up medical terms is a pet peeve, but get the research correct please!)
Niggles aside, this was a great addition to this series. We get to see the continued development of Delta Restorations, Renovations, and Design that was just an idea in Book 1. I love the banter between the core group of men, even Vern.
There is also a mystery side plot - not sure how I felt about that one. The person behind the vandalism of Jackson's truck and David's car from Book 1 was never solved, and the perpetrator escalates in this book. It was done well, but I don't know how I feel about the outcome. Let's leave it at that for fear of spoilers.
I have a feeling that Manny's book is next, and I want him to have his HEA.
I'll stick to 3.75 stars for this one. Enjoyed and recommend!
October 30, 2017
ETA for audio:
Michael Pauley does a great job bringing the characters to life and performing the dialogue so well with distinctive character voices, and great pacing and timing.
I loved getting to see all the guys back together and that Gil finally gets his man. Even though the story is a single POV through Michael's eyes, I thought Gil was well-represented.
Side note: The scene with The Velveteen Rabbit got me to tear up. Seriously Michael Pauley...you performed that scene so well!
The plot with the vandal, who is rapidly escalating, was nail-bitingly good. I was on pins and needles and Pauley makes such to add the suspense to his tone in a way that made a pivotal scene particularly exhilarating. It will be interesting to see how this will all play out in any future stories.
I loved Pauley's performance and I was really happy he returned to do the narration for Michael, Reinvented. I've listened to the David, Renewed audiobook multiple times and I know I'll listen to this one again too.
**~~**~~**~~**~~**~~
I'm so happy this has turned into a series!
I loved so much about this story. The characters, the dialogue, the way it flowed...it made me very happy while reading it.
While I wish Michael would have had a better reason for finally getting to know Gil and letting down his shields, Copland explains his reticence, then his caution, and finally his surrender really well. It's all very compelling to read.
I loved how big, tough, Gil was represented. Even though the story is a single POV through Michael's eyes, Gil was well-represented. And, oh how the scene with The Velveteen Rabbit got me to tear up.
Seriously, Diana Copland? Bravo for that scene.
The side plot with the vandal, who is rapidly escalating, was nail-bitingly good. I was on pins and needles to see the outcome. It's also interesting to see how this will all play out in the future stories.
Speaking of future stories, I'm hoping that Manny sees how much Vern truly loves him and they become the next couple featured.
I did have two niggles - one was the scene with Gil's sister and father. With no outcome presented I was left wondering why it had been included in the first place.
The other was a small editing issue that actually drove me nuts: Dr. Aadi Pillai is introduced as a neurosurgeon, then later referred to as a neurologist. These are actually two different specialties and doctors are not both - Neurosurgeons specialize in performing surgical treatments and Neurologists treat disorders of the nervous system, brain, spinal cord, nerves, muscles and pain. I really hope this mistake is corrected before the final proof is published.
Otherwise, everything from the pacing to the plot was thoroughly enjoyable. I loved the ending and really, really hope Diana Copland will continue the series.
I hope Michael Pauley returns to do the narration for Michael, Reinvented. I absolutely loved the David, Renewed audiobook and have listened to it multiple times.
Diana Copland is quickly becoming a one-click author for me.
Advanced Review Galley copy of Michael, Reinvented provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
Michael Pauley does a great job bringing the characters to life and performing the dialogue so well with distinctive character voices, and great pacing and timing.
I loved getting to see all the guys back together and that Gil finally gets his man. Even though the story is a single POV through Michael's eyes, I thought Gil was well-represented.
Side note: The scene with The Velveteen Rabbit got me to tear up. Seriously Michael Pauley...you performed that scene so well!
The plot with the vandal, who is rapidly escalating, was nail-bitingly good. I was on pins and needles and Pauley makes such to add the suspense to his tone in a way that made a pivotal scene particularly exhilarating. It will be interesting to see how this will all play out in any future stories.
I loved Pauley's performance and I was really happy he returned to do the narration for Michael, Reinvented. I've listened to the David, Renewed audiobook multiple times and I know I'll listen to this one again too.
**~~**~~**~~**~~**~~
I'm so happy this has turned into a series!
I loved so much about this story. The characters, the dialogue, the way it flowed...it made me very happy while reading it.
While I wish Michael would have had a better reason for finally getting to know Gil and letting down his shields, Copland explains his reticence, then his caution, and finally his surrender really well. It's all very compelling to read.
He didn’t understand why Gil riled him more than any man he’d ever met. David’s theory involved sexual tension.
Michael was sure David was out of his damned mind.
I loved how big, tough, Gil was represented. Even though the story is a single POV through Michael's eyes, Gil was well-represented. And, oh how the scene with The Velveteen Rabbit got me to tear up.
Seriously, Diana Copland? Bravo for that scene.
The side plot with the vandal, who is rapidly escalating, was nail-bitingly good. I was on pins and needles to see the outcome. It's also interesting to see how this will all play out in the future stories.
Speaking of future stories, I'm hoping that Manny sees how much Vern truly loves him and they become the next couple featured.
I did have two niggles - one was the scene with Gil's sister and father. With no outcome presented I was left wondering why it had been included in the first place.
The other was a small editing issue that actually drove me nuts: Dr. Aadi Pillai is introduced as a neurosurgeon, then later referred to as a neurologist. These are actually two different specialties and doctors are not both - Neurosurgeons specialize in performing surgical treatments and Neurologists treat disorders of the nervous system, brain, spinal cord, nerves, muscles and pain. I really hope this mistake is corrected before the final proof is published.
Otherwise, everything from the pacing to the plot was thoroughly enjoyable. I loved the ending and really, really hope Diana Copland will continue the series.
I hope Michael Pauley returns to do the narration for Michael, Reinvented. I absolutely loved the David, Renewed audiobook and have listened to it multiple times.
Diana Copland is quickly becoming a one-click author for me.
Advanced Review Galley copy of Michael, Reinvented provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
January 11, 2018
3.5 Stars Not quite as good as David’s story. Gil has wanted Michael for quite awhile and Michael has alternated between flirting and acting like a jerk for almost a year, I think. He finally sleeps with Gil, then turns around and treats him like a hookup. If I were Gil, I would have kicked him to the curb. It’s a trope/characterization I dislike; he got hurt once, yes it was bad, but it’s not a reason to act like a jerk, or treat them like a trick, just to try and push them away.
The best part was the suspense over the vandalism and damage from some unknown person, for unknown reasons, other than they’re a homophobe. It pretty much obscured any real romance though. There was no time with the two of them having an intimate conversation or a dialogue where Michael wasn’t being defensive, snarky and insulting.
I liked seeing the other characters but I sincerely hope Manny and Vern don’t get together. Vern has been made to sound and appear like he’s in his 60’s or 70’s. It will be very hard to buy into a romance and attraction after the way he’s been described. We’ll see if I read the next in this particular series. Kind of disappointing after liking David and Jackson’s story so much.
The best part was the suspense over the vandalism and damage from some unknown person, for unknown reasons, other than they’re a homophobe. It pretty much obscured any real romance though. There was no time with the two of them having an intimate conversation or a dialogue where Michael wasn’t being defensive, snarky and insulting.
I liked seeing the other characters but I sincerely hope Manny and Vern don’t get together. Vern has been made to sound and appear like he’s in his 60’s or 70’s. It will be very hard to buy into a romance and attraction after the way he’s been described. We’ll see if I read the next in this particular series. Kind of disappointing after liking David and Jackson’s story so much.
May 26, 2017
Michael and Gil have been dancing around one another since they first met, way back in the first book, David, Renewed. Though they had an immediate attraction to each other, Michael has no plans of ever being in a relationship. Hiding behind snark and cynicism, Michael tries his best to keep Gil at arm's length. But Gil is determined to get to know the man behind the glasses and he's not going to let a little thing like a cold shoulder from Michael get in the way.
Now, I know that sounds a bit Creepy McCreeperson, but I can assure you that there is nothing about Gil that is creepy or domineering. Gil may be massive in size and stature, but that's only because he needs the extra strength to carry around the gigantic heart he has. Gil is the quintessential 'gentle giant' and I absolutely adored him.
Michael took a bit more to warm up to but, once I was able to see through his facade and gleaned that his insecurities and the hurt from the past he still held onto were the reasons for his tendency to lash out, I understood why he would act the way he did and grew to love him as well. He did frustrate me at times though, but not enough to make me not like him. And, though it took a near tragedy for him to pull his head out of his ass and admit how he felt about Gil, I admired his courage and dedication.
This was a lovely addition to the Delta Restorations series. Diana Copland writes with a simple eloquence that makes reading seem effortless. I was never bored, never rolled my eyes and not once did I have to suspend my disbelief. These characters are realistic to the point I could see myself bumping into Michael at Starbucks or hiring the team to do some restoration work on my home. The scene with the Velveteen Rabbit brought tears to my eyes even though I've never read the book and I knew then and there that this story was going to be a win for me.
I really enjoyed the ending as well. Some stories need to end with a bang. Some stories need a cliffhanger to make you gasp and salivate for the next book. Some need the over-the-top, mushy gushy HEA as a grand finale. But sometimes... sometimes all you need is a quiet reaffirming of the love between two people that fought tooth and nail to get where they are. These types of endings tend to resonate with me more than the flashy HEA.
All told, I would definitely recommend this series to anyone who is looking for a realistic story with likable characters and an interesting plot. I do suggest reading book one, David, Renewed, first though, as this book continues the storyline that was introduced there.
May 16, 2018
Well the last 30% or so was outstanding - and tempered the early reading. Even at the end I didn't like Michael much and it felt very rushed - insta-love even though it really wasn't but it felt sort of artificial and I just didn't trust that Michael really wanted a relationship so much as he got scared for Gil. IDK. I definitely want to read more in the series - but I guess Michael will just be one of the characters I don't enjoy much.
earlier notesSo far I'm 55% and I cannot fathom the more than 3 stars for this book. I'm at 2 which is just o.k. and that's generous to me and largely due to the audio although Michael Pauley has this sort of shake to his voice that always grates on me (that's personal though). Where is any romance? Sure they had sex - but there is no sexual tension that I can feel at all. No romance at all between the characters. I'm not feelin' it whatsoever. This author is an auto buy for me so this really bums me out. The writing itself is really good - I always know who is speaking, there is consistency in characters, and the flow is awesome. None of those are the issues here for me.
Perhaps the reviews here say much of what I feel: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show... and https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
So Michael - OMG the bitchiness. He was awful. I don't like him AT ALL. I'm not sure how anyone would - he was such an utter ass so much of the book that I felt desperately sorry for Gil who seemed like a besotted giant who was hanging around looking for scraps. I mean he didn't seem like he had no other choices - he's constantly described as this hot giant. We get no Gil's perspective though - so who knows what he really thinks or why he is hanging around. He reminded me so much of a few guys I've known through the years who hang around women who treat them terribly (push/pull, hot/cold, selfish and inconsiderate). I keep hoping perhaps I had it wrong and Gil is the type who, once he catches, he's not interested. And you know it's going south when you wish the good character did jerk things.
I could not figure out why Jackson and David would let Gil date Michael or encourage it. It's one thing to be a friend and sort of deal with your friends cattiness and obnoxious attitude - but to encourage it in romance - I'd feel like my friends were more my enemies at this point if I was Gil. Gil seemed like he was so far above Michael's worthiness.
This sentence cracked me up from Michael:
"His narrow bed was cold and lonely and he hated it." and all I could think is That's because you are such a dick dude!
We'll see - the only reason I am continuing is because this has decent points for Scavenger Hunt. And for the Corgi. Because I loved David, Renewed so much that this book is a complete Debby Downer
earlier notesSo far I'm 55% and I cannot fathom the more than 3 stars for this book. I'm at 2 which is just o.k. and that's generous to me and largely due to the audio although Michael Pauley has this sort of shake to his voice that always grates on me (that's personal though). Where is any romance? Sure they had sex - but there is no sexual tension that I can feel at all. No romance at all between the characters. I'm not feelin' it whatsoever. This author is an auto buy for me so this really bums me out. The writing itself is really good - I always know who is speaking, there is consistency in characters, and the flow is awesome. None of those are the issues here for me.
Perhaps the reviews here say much of what I feel: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show... and https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
So Michael - OMG the bitchiness. He was awful. I don't like him AT ALL. I'm not sure how anyone would - he was such an utter ass so much of the book that I felt desperately sorry for Gil who seemed like a besotted giant who was hanging around looking for scraps. I mean he didn't seem like he had no other choices - he's constantly described as this hot giant. We get no Gil's perspective though - so who knows what he really thinks or why he is hanging around. He reminded me so much of a few guys I've known through the years who hang around women who treat them terribly (push/pull, hot/cold, selfish and inconsiderate). I keep hoping perhaps I had it wrong and Gil is the type who, once he catches, he's not interested. And you know it's going south when you wish the good character did jerk things.
I could not figure out why Jackson and David would let Gil date Michael or encourage it. It's one thing to be a friend and sort of deal with your friends cattiness and obnoxious attitude - but to encourage it in romance - I'd feel like my friends were more my enemies at this point if I was Gil. Gil seemed like he was so far above Michael's worthiness.
This sentence cracked me up from Michael:
"His narrow bed was cold and lonely and he hated it." and all I could think is That's because you are such a dick dude!
We'll see - the only reason I am continuing is because this has decent points for Scavenger Hunt. And for the Corgi. Because I loved David, Renewed so much that this book is a complete Debby Downer
May 22, 2017
Back to the world of Delta Restoration, Renovation & Design...
This is book 2 in Diana Copeland's series 'Delta Restorations' and while I didn't enjoy this one quite as much as the first book it still held my attention and gave me a lot of good moments.
I would definitely recommend reading this series in order as both the characters and events from the previous book factor strongly into this one. We first met Michael and Gil in 'David Renewed' when David dragged Michael along as his muscle to help move some furniture he'd bought from Gil and while the attraction was instant it was a physical thing. Gil liked what he saw when he looked at Michael...yes, he thought that they could have more and wanted to explore the possibility of where things could go for them but the problem is Michael doesn't do relationships. He's tried it and he got burned so he's not willing to take that chance again. Lucky for Michael, Gil's persistent and patient.
Whether he wants to or not Michael eventually finds his life and Gil's getting tangled together because of their work at DRR&D and because as hard as he may want to deny it he's drawn to Gil. Gil's not only sex on legs for him but he cares about Michael and is determined to keep him safe when events from the first book continue and once again this group finds themselves under attack. Plus Gil's not just easy on the eyes, he's one hella' nice guy and try as he might eventually Michael finds himself unable to ignore how much he genuinely likes him.
it's not until things escalate though that Michael realizes how much he wants his mountain of a man and that sometimes taking a chance is better than letting it go and living with regrets.
One of my favorite parts in this book was the solid mystery taking place allowing us to once again see this awesome group of men pull together to take care of each other and keep one another safe.
This type of series where we get a different couple for each story while also having glimpses at past couples and ones that are yet to be explored is total book crack for me, it's like spending time with old friends while meeting new ones. In 'Michael Reinvented' we started off with a bit of David and Jackson as Jackson pulled out all the stops to give David an over the top Valentines day. Which for me, ironically, turned out to be the weakest part of this story. For me this just didn't work, while all the elements were there for it somehow I just didn't feel the romance of the occasion and I have to admit I think that in part this was just a personal preference issue that made it not work for me so pfft, it didn't work not biggie these things happen.
However, there was a scene later in the book that pertained to Michael and Gil, specifically to Michael finding out something about Gil that for him was a bit of an eye opener and this worked so wonderfully well for me that quite honestly it had me in tears. It was beautifully done so again personal preference. Which just goes to show how truly subjective reviews are. What works for one person may not for another and in this case I can easily see where what didn't work for me will work for others and what had me in tears may only be nice or sweet or no big deal for someone else.
Overall though I loved this story. I liked the banter between Michael and Gil both verbally and texting. I was good with the way the relationship developed and grew. I really enjoyed the mystery aspect of the story and how it tied into everything. So yeah, overall just a really good read and one that has me hoping that whatever comes next, comes soon...maybe Vern and Manny? While I'm not sure how I feel about them as a couple if that's even where they're heading because at times I almost feel like their relationship is more of a big brother/little brother type relationship. What I do know for sure is that I'm looking forward to seeing what's in store for this hard working group of friends.
*********************
An ARC of 'Michael Reinvented' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This is book 2 in Diana Copeland's series 'Delta Restorations' and while I didn't enjoy this one quite as much as the first book it still held my attention and gave me a lot of good moments.
I would definitely recommend reading this series in order as both the characters and events from the previous book factor strongly into this one. We first met Michael and Gil in 'David Renewed' when David dragged Michael along as his muscle to help move some furniture he'd bought from Gil and while the attraction was instant it was a physical thing. Gil liked what he saw when he looked at Michael...yes, he thought that they could have more and wanted to explore the possibility of where things could go for them but the problem is Michael doesn't do relationships. He's tried it and he got burned so he's not willing to take that chance again. Lucky for Michael, Gil's persistent and patient.
Whether he wants to or not Michael eventually finds his life and Gil's getting tangled together because of their work at DRR&D and because as hard as he may want to deny it he's drawn to Gil. Gil's not only sex on legs for him but he cares about Michael and is determined to keep him safe when events from the first book continue and once again this group finds themselves under attack. Plus Gil's not just easy on the eyes, he's one hella' nice guy and try as he might eventually Michael finds himself unable to ignore how much he genuinely likes him.
it's not until things escalate though that Michael realizes how much he wants his mountain of a man and that sometimes taking a chance is better than letting it go and living with regrets.
One of my favorite parts in this book was the solid mystery taking place allowing us to once again see this awesome group of men pull together to take care of each other and keep one another safe.
This type of series where we get a different couple for each story while also having glimpses at past couples and ones that are yet to be explored is total book crack for me, it's like spending time with old friends while meeting new ones. In 'Michael Reinvented' we started off with a bit of David and Jackson as Jackson pulled out all the stops to give David an over the top Valentines day. Which for me, ironically, turned out to be the weakest part of this story. For me this just didn't work, while all the elements were there for it somehow I just didn't feel the romance of the occasion and I have to admit I think that in part this was just a personal preference issue that made it not work for me so pfft, it didn't work not biggie these things happen.
However, there was a scene later in the book that pertained to Michael and Gil, specifically to Michael finding out something about Gil that for him was a bit of an eye opener and this worked so wonderfully well for me that quite honestly it had me in tears. It was beautifully done so again personal preference. Which just goes to show how truly subjective reviews are. What works for one person may not for another and in this case I can easily see where what didn't work for me will work for others and what had me in tears may only be nice or sweet or no big deal for someone else.
Overall though I loved this story. I liked the banter between Michael and Gil both verbally and texting. I was good with the way the relationship developed and grew. I really enjoyed the mystery aspect of the story and how it tied into everything. So yeah, overall just a really good read and one that has me hoping that whatever comes next, comes soon...maybe Vern and Manny? While I'm not sure how I feel about them as a couple if that's even where they're heading because at times I almost feel like their relationship is more of a big brother/little brother type relationship. What I do know for sure is that I'm looking forward to seeing what's in store for this hard working group of friends.
*********************
An ARC of 'Michael Reinvented' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
May 19, 2017
Review originally posted at Sinfully.
3.5 stars
After being utterly charmed by David and Jackson in the first book, David, Renewed, I was very happy to see there would be more to come. This story focuses on David’s assistant, Michael, and Jackson’s friend and co-worker Gil. Although there was some minor flirtation between the two in that first book, their story can be read as a standalone.
Michael is a snarky character, using barbs to deflect and stop most people from getting too close and it’s his eyes we get the story through. He knows he has feelings for Gil even as he fights them, but he also knows one night won’t be enough with the sweet, mountain of a man and he’s not going back into a relationship with anyone after being badly burned in the past, no matter how safe the man makes him feel.
Gil sees through Michael and is persistent, perhaps due to Michael’s very mixed signals, in showing he cares and that he wouldn’t hurt him. He has a protective nature and with Michael being threatened, has vowed to keep him safe. You could almost see him chipping away at Michael’s cool exterior with every interaction.
With Gil and all his charms continually flirting with Michael and calling him “baby”, and Michael finding out in a very sweet, tears in your eyes scene, that there may be a lot more to Gil than he thought, Michael can only hold out so long. I did love their first kiss which is always a plus in my book, but when push comes to shove Gil agrees that he won’t push for anything Michael can’t give him, but there is a serious threat to Michael’s safety and he won’t stop being there to protect him. Michael isn’t the only one in danger though and when he realizes that Gil may not always be there, he also realizes just what he stands to lose.
As much in focus as the romance is the continuing storyline of the hate crimes being perpetrated against the men that started in David, Renewed, and ramps up here (the author gives information to jump in here easily if you haven’t read the first book). Gil is almost a bodyguard for Michael most of the time and I feel like I didn’t really get to know either of the men all that well until the very end. I did love it when Michael realized he didn’t know Gil at all as he tours Gil’s house, but as they do spend most of the story at arm’s length I missed some of the romance and charm of the first story. They definitely had a spark though, and their banter, along with that of the other members of their circle, was fun and spoke to the bond they all are building.
Speaking of their friends, Jackson and David are back and moving their relationship forward. These two are still completely sweet and I adored every moment they were on the page. Overall the story was well written and smoothly paced. I have a feeling things aren’t as over with their tormentor as the men would like it to be, but there is some resolution here. I’ll be looking forward to the next installment as Manny definitely needs someone worthy of him, whether will it will be the older, wise-cracking Vern or someone else, we’ll just have to wait and see.
3.5 stars
After being utterly charmed by David and Jackson in the first book, David, Renewed, I was very happy to see there would be more to come. This story focuses on David’s assistant, Michael, and Jackson’s friend and co-worker Gil. Although there was some minor flirtation between the two in that first book, their story can be read as a standalone.
Michael is a snarky character, using barbs to deflect and stop most people from getting too close and it’s his eyes we get the story through. He knows he has feelings for Gil even as he fights them, but he also knows one night won’t be enough with the sweet, mountain of a man and he’s not going back into a relationship with anyone after being badly burned in the past, no matter how safe the man makes him feel.
Gil sees through Michael and is persistent, perhaps due to Michael’s very mixed signals, in showing he cares and that he wouldn’t hurt him. He has a protective nature and with Michael being threatened, has vowed to keep him safe. You could almost see him chipping away at Michael’s cool exterior with every interaction.
With Gil and all his charms continually flirting with Michael and calling him “baby”, and Michael finding out in a very sweet, tears in your eyes scene, that there may be a lot more to Gil than he thought, Michael can only hold out so long. I did love their first kiss which is always a plus in my book, but when push comes to shove Gil agrees that he won’t push for anything Michael can’t give him, but there is a serious threat to Michael’s safety and he won’t stop being there to protect him. Michael isn’t the only one in danger though and when he realizes that Gil may not always be there, he also realizes just what he stands to lose.
As much in focus as the romance is the continuing storyline of the hate crimes being perpetrated against the men that started in David, Renewed, and ramps up here (the author gives information to jump in here easily if you haven’t read the first book). Gil is almost a bodyguard for Michael most of the time and I feel like I didn’t really get to know either of the men all that well until the very end. I did love it when Michael realized he didn’t know Gil at all as he tours Gil’s house, but as they do spend most of the story at arm’s length I missed some of the romance and charm of the first story. They definitely had a spark though, and their banter, along with that of the other members of their circle, was fun and spoke to the bond they all are building.
Speaking of their friends, Jackson and David are back and moving their relationship forward. These two are still completely sweet and I adored every moment they were on the page. Overall the story was well written and smoothly paced. I have a feeling things aren’t as over with their tormentor as the men would like it to be, but there is some resolution here. I’ll be looking forward to the next installment as Manny definitely needs someone worthy of him, whether will it will be the older, wise-cracking Vern or someone else, we’ll just have to wait and see.
May 30, 2017
*** 3.5 Stars ***
Dani said all of the thoughts in my brain (seriously, we have a freaky mind meld) with far more eloquence - go read her review!
Dani said all of the thoughts in my brain (seriously, we have a freaky mind meld) with far more eloquence - go read her review!
00-mm-horrible-disaster-fail-dnf
May 13, 2017Though I normally give things a chance and rely heavily on my instinct, as opposed to focusing solely on reviews, my instinct tells me to trust the reviews I've read. My instinct also tells me this will piss me off :-/!
Based on the reviews I've read, it sounds like this author really copped out on a proper HEA; no proper ending, no proper closure. This'll piss me off and ratings will plummet.
I have to wonder though ... why do authors skimp on glorious endings after all the hard work they do (i.e. taking their readers AND their characters through all the trials and tribulations said characters go through). Seriously, why?!!?
More to the point, why don't beta readers and/or editors say anything?!? I mean, we ALL want the HEA, don't we?!? Don't answer that, because I know you do!
I have a theory ... is it because authors just want to keep things wide open for a sequel? Otherwise it's just like finishing mid sent ...
I don't want to get annoyed, most definitely not intentionally, so I'll be hard-passing on this one :-/!!
Oooooooooooo I WANT (and I will have) :-)!!
Also, love love LOVE this cover :-)!! Spoiler alert: Michael is smokin' hot *continues to stare*!
Based on the reviews I've read, it sounds like this author really copped out on a proper HEA; no proper ending, no proper closure. This'll piss me off and ratings will plummet.
I have to wonder though ... why do authors skimp on glorious endings after all the hard work they do (i.e. taking their readers AND their characters through all the trials and tribulations said characters go through). Seriously, why?!!?
More to the point, why don't beta readers and/or editors say anything?!? I mean, we ALL want the HEA, don't we?!? Don't answer that, because I know you do!
I have a theory ... is it because authors just want to keep things wide open for a sequel? Otherwise it's just like finishing mid sent ...
I don't want to get annoyed, most definitely not intentionally, so I'll be hard-passing on this one :-/!!
Also, love love LOVE this cover :-)!! Spoiler alert: Michael is smokin' hot *continues to stare*!
June 1, 2017
I was such a happy Peach when I found out that David, Renewed was going to be turned into the series Delta Restorations. There’re way too many great characters for them to be done. I was so anxious to read Michael’s story, he’s such a snarky little brat on the surface, I wanted to know more about him. It’s pretty obvious from David, Renewed that Michael is going to be pairing with Gil, it’s the perfect opposites-attract setup. That all being said, Michael, Reinvented shouldn’t be read as a standalone. This isn’t one of those series that moves from couple to couple with just a little mention here and there about past characters. This is a series about a group of men finding their happiness on their terms.
Michael, Reinvented is romantic but it’s also so much more. There is a heavy emphasis on friendship and community and there is an element of crime-drama that we got a taste of in David’s story. The vandalism that started in David continues in Michael and it does play a large part in the story. And while I would have loved more Michael and Gil time, the way the story was told it put the real emphasis on the friendships and motivations among all the characters. There was a lot of strength in that telling and it laid more groundwork for additional stories in the series organically. A lot more information about each character was revealed as Michael was integrated into the Delta Renovations crew more fully. We learned more about Michael too and his reticence in entering into a new relationship no matter how much he longed to climb Gil like a tree and cuddle him all night.
I loved that David and Jackson were a big part of Michael’s story and the beginning was delicious and just soooo, them. They set a good example for the rest of the guys. The continuation of their HEA and the big part they play in one another’s lives flowed throughout the story and as the story is told from Michael’s perspective we get plenty of his snark but also a glimpse into how much he’d really like a relationship of his own. Michael is the only one standing in his own way so the angst level is actually pretty low. Gil is a patient, patient man and it’s obvious he’ll be waiting for Michael as soon as Michael pulls his well-coiffed head out of his ass.
It takes a tragic event for that to happen, which while unfortunate, makes sense for Michael. Once he does realize what he could have, the relationship between Michael and Gil moves pretty quickly and by this time the book is just about over and that would be my only gripe. I want more Michael and Gil together. The series is pretty rational in its setups and the flow so the guys don’t necessarily talk about forever, but it’s implied. As a reader, I want to be a part of that journey, much like I was in David and Jackson’s story. I don’t feel like I know Gil enough and I really want to. Michael admits he doesn’t know Gil well since he’s never given him the chance and since we really only know Gil through Michael, we don’t know enough yet and I want to know. So, I hope the next installment of the series continues on with Michael and Gil’s story, I really like Gil and I want to know about his murals (don’t even get me started on the Velveteen Rabbit – there will be tears), his art, his dad and so much more. I also want to see more of Michael’s softer side and to see him settle into some happiness.
I love Diana Copland’s writing, it’s so easy to get caught up in her stories and characters. Everything just flows so well and I feel like anything I might be missing isn’t actually missing, it just hasn’t been addressed yet which is what is making the Delta Restoration series such a treat. It’s a whole world I get to see come together and evolve with characters I want to know in RL. I feel invested in their happiness which makes me all kinds of happy along with them.
Michael, Reinvented is romantic but it’s also so much more. There is a heavy emphasis on friendship and community and there is an element of crime-drama that we got a taste of in David’s story. The vandalism that started in David continues in Michael and it does play a large part in the story. And while I would have loved more Michael and Gil time, the way the story was told it put the real emphasis on the friendships and motivations among all the characters. There was a lot of strength in that telling and it laid more groundwork for additional stories in the series organically. A lot more information about each character was revealed as Michael was integrated into the Delta Renovations crew more fully. We learned more about Michael too and his reticence in entering into a new relationship no matter how much he longed to climb Gil like a tree and cuddle him all night.
I loved that David and Jackson were a big part of Michael’s story and the beginning was delicious and just soooo, them. They set a good example for the rest of the guys. The continuation of their HEA and the big part they play in one another’s lives flowed throughout the story and as the story is told from Michael’s perspective we get plenty of his snark but also a glimpse into how much he’d really like a relationship of his own. Michael is the only one standing in his own way so the angst level is actually pretty low. Gil is a patient, patient man and it’s obvious he’ll be waiting for Michael as soon as Michael pulls his well-coiffed head out of his ass.
It takes a tragic event for that to happen, which while unfortunate, makes sense for Michael. Once he does realize what he could have, the relationship between Michael and Gil moves pretty quickly and by this time the book is just about over and that would be my only gripe. I want more Michael and Gil together. The series is pretty rational in its setups and the flow so the guys don’t necessarily talk about forever, but it’s implied. As a reader, I want to be a part of that journey, much like I was in David and Jackson’s story. I don’t feel like I know Gil enough and I really want to. Michael admits he doesn’t know Gil well since he’s never given him the chance and since we really only know Gil through Michael, we don’t know enough yet and I want to know. So, I hope the next installment of the series continues on with Michael and Gil’s story, I really like Gil and I want to know about his murals (don’t even get me started on the Velveteen Rabbit – there will be tears), his art, his dad and so much more. I also want to see more of Michael’s softer side and to see him settle into some happiness.
I love Diana Copland’s writing, it’s so easy to get caught up in her stories and characters. Everything just flows so well and I feel like anything I might be missing isn’t actually missing, it just hasn’t been addressed yet which is what is making the Delta Restoration series such a treat. It’s a whole world I get to see come together and evolve with characters I want to know in RL. I feel invested in their happiness which makes me all kinds of happy along with them.
May 14, 2018
While I wasn't blown away by book one, I liked it enough to check out book two. But after reading this story I can't say I am particularly compelled to read further into this series.
Mostly because I came away from this book feeling like the author didn't actually care about the MCs here--at least not enough for starring roles. Michael and Gil, despite the fact that this book was told exclusively from Michael's pov, aren't really the focus of this story at all. Things happen to them, but it is more like wrong-place, wrong-time kind of shit. This book kinda made me think that the author wanted to continue David and Jackson's story from book one, but felt compelled for some reason to chose different MCs. The first 15% of this book was basically a set up for romantic date (not involving the MCs). At least half, if not more, of the story takes place in David's house. The "villain" is D&J's stalker from book one. Even most of the family/friends here feel more like D&J's. I know Gil and Jackson share friends, but except for a few of the guys from their group, a lot of the people in the "rally the troupe" scenes were D&J's family and neighbors.
Honestly, this story would have been a lot better if it had been David and Jackson. At least then some of the emotional stuff that happens would've actually had some oomph to it. Because as it it, the book was disinclined to let us even start to get to know Gil and Michael till almost the end of the book. I'm not entirely sure why I was supposed to care about these characters. We hardly get more than a couple paragraphs (if that) of information about Gil at all, and Michael is so standoffish the whole story that no one, not even the reader, has a chance to really like him. As far as I can tell, since we didn't get Gil's pov, Gil like Michael because he is hot...that's it. I have no clue why he is attracted to Michael at all because the story is disinclined to tell us (which is probably a result of the lack of any actual meaningful conversation between the MCs in this book). That also made the "romance" here incredibly hard to swallow. And I can't help but think that the author was well aware of it, since she pulled the whole "tragic accident brings enlightenment" cliche near the end so that Michael could magically change his mind about relationships with no work whatsoever on the part of the character, the story, or the author.
Even the "mystery"--which, let me say, fizzled completely near the end--was barely a compelling reason to keep reading this story. Though I would like to point out that while some people are calling it a mystery, it is only that in the most basic of terms, as in the characters not knowing what is going on. They in no way investigate the attacks, or do anything proactive in solving the "mystery". If that is what you are looking for, you will not find it here.
To each their own, but if you want my advise, there are better ways to spend five hours of your life. It won't leave you angry after you read it, but it's kinda dissatisfying in practically all aspects.
Mostly because I came away from this book feeling like the author didn't actually care about the MCs here--at least not enough for starring roles. Michael and Gil, despite the fact that this book was told exclusively from Michael's pov, aren't really the focus of this story at all. Things happen to them, but it is more like wrong-place, wrong-time kind of shit. This book kinda made me think that the author wanted to continue David and Jackson's story from book one, but felt compelled for some reason to chose different MCs. The first 15% of this book was basically a set up for romantic date (not involving the MCs). At least half, if not more, of the story takes place in David's house. The "villain" is D&J's stalker from book one. Even most of the family/friends here feel more like D&J's. I know Gil and Jackson share friends, but except for a few of the guys from their group, a lot of the people in the "rally the troupe" scenes were D&J's family and neighbors.
Honestly, this story would have been a lot better if it had been David and Jackson. At least then some of the emotional stuff that happens would've actually had some oomph to it. Because as it it, the book was disinclined to let us even start to get to know Gil and Michael till almost the end of the book. I'm not entirely sure why I was supposed to care about these characters. We hardly get more than a couple paragraphs (if that) of information about Gil at all, and Michael is so standoffish the whole story that no one, not even the reader, has a chance to really like him. As far as I can tell, since we didn't get Gil's pov, Gil like Michael because he is hot...that's it. I have no clue why he is attracted to Michael at all because the story is disinclined to tell us (which is probably a result of the lack of any actual meaningful conversation between the MCs in this book). That also made the "romance" here incredibly hard to swallow. And I can't help but think that the author was well aware of it, since she pulled the whole "tragic accident brings enlightenment" cliche near the end so that Michael could magically change his mind about relationships with no work whatsoever on the part of the character, the story, or the author.
Even the "mystery"--which, let me say, fizzled completely near the end--was barely a compelling reason to keep reading this story. Though I would like to point out that while some people are calling it a mystery, it is only that in the most basic of terms, as in the characters not knowing what is going on. They in no way investigate the attacks, or do anything proactive in solving the "mystery". If that is what you are looking for, you will not find it here.
To each their own, but if you want my advise, there are better ways to spend five hours of your life. It won't leave you angry after you read it, but it's kinda dissatisfying in practically all aspects.
May 22, 2017
4.5 stars for this 2nd installment in the Delta Restorations series!
First off, this shouldn't be read as a standalone. That's not to say that you couldn't - you just shouldn't. I think that to understand the progression of Michael and Gil's relationship, you should have read "David, Renewed", because the underlying UST between the two men develops in book 1, and is carried to its explosive conclusion in this book.
But I'm getting ahead of myself.
Michael is still David's assistant, and since David is still happily in love with Jackson (now living in the same house), and since Jackson and his band of merry men have formed a renovation company, with David slated as the interior designer, Michael still sees Gil on a fairly regular basis. Their relationship consists of a lot of teasing (on Gil's side) and a lot of "the lady doth protest too much" on Michael's side.
See, Michael is scared to admit to himself and anyone else that he's attracted to Gil, and that Gil possibly has the power to get past the brick walls Michael has erected around his heart due to past hurt. Therefore, Michael thinks that as long as he keeps Gil at bay and does not allow the man close, he'll be safe. So he snarks a lot. A lot. A whole lot. I giggled quite a bit at Michael's prickly responses to Gil's pursuit, knowing that it was inevitable, and just sat back to enjoy the ride to bliss.
Except the unknown entity from the first book who seems to be hellbent on hurting Michael's friends and business partners is still lurking in the bushes, and there's still the threat of David's abusive ex coming back to wreak more havoc, and when Michael is house-sitting for David and Jackson and finds a vandal outside of the house, his first call is not to the police but Gil.
Wonder why.
There's a lot more to Gil than Michael realized, and slowly but surely, as Michael discovers more about who Gil really is, his opinion of the man is changing, and Michael sees that maybe, just maybe, it's safe to be honest with himself and acknowledge with his head that what his heart has known for a while.
And just when Michael seems ready to take that step, tragedy strikes.
Nothing like a wake-up call to get your act together, is there?
I adored Gil - he was such a good, kind, and super patient guy, someone with a somewhat gruff exterior but a heart of gold. And Michael, prickly, hurt, and scared Michael, just grows on you - I realized in the first book that he must have had some real heartache in his life to become so standoffish and hide himself from what is definitely a good thing.
I can't say enough good things about the writing - super smooth and engaging, without any lulls or abrupt time jumps, with excellent pacing. While the book is told entirely from Michael's POV, and while Michael is a bit of an unreliable narrator, we get plenty of between the lines information about Gil. Michael may not always understand what makes Gil tick, but it's always very clear what Gil's priorities are, and how much he loves Michael, even if Michael refuses to see it.
Obviously, the men from Delta Restorations all make multiple appearances here, so we get to revisit with Vern, an older man with a rough exterior, (pretend-)grouchy most of the time, and Manny, who comes a bit more out of his shell in this book, but who still carries the scars from a previous relationship inside and out. I do hope that Manny's book will be next, because he sure as hell deserves someone who loves him fully and completely. Hopefully, that person will be Vern. I loved the easy banter between the group of men, and it was clear that they all respect each other and have formed a strong, supportive friendship.
This was a wonderful continuation of this series, and I can hardly wait to read the next book. Extra kudos for including the Velveteen Rabbit in this story - brilliant idea and execution, and thanks so much for making me cry.
One niggle - a neurologist isn't the same as a neurosurgeon, and these terms cannot be used interchangeably. I'm not sure if this was a research fail or an editing fail, but hopefully this was fixed in the final version.
Highly recommended that you pick up this book and its predecessor.
** I received a free advanced copy of this book from its publisher. A positive review was not promised in return. **
First off, this shouldn't be read as a standalone. That's not to say that you couldn't - you just shouldn't. I think that to understand the progression of Michael and Gil's relationship, you should have read "David, Renewed", because the underlying UST between the two men develops in book 1, and is carried to its explosive conclusion in this book.
But I'm getting ahead of myself.
Michael is still David's assistant, and since David is still happily in love with Jackson (now living in the same house), and since Jackson and his band of merry men have formed a renovation company, with David slated as the interior designer, Michael still sees Gil on a fairly regular basis. Their relationship consists of a lot of teasing (on Gil's side) and a lot of "the lady doth protest too much" on Michael's side.
See, Michael is scared to admit to himself and anyone else that he's attracted to Gil, and that Gil possibly has the power to get past the brick walls Michael has erected around his heart due to past hurt. Therefore, Michael thinks that as long as he keeps Gil at bay and does not allow the man close, he'll be safe. So he snarks a lot. A lot. A whole lot. I giggled quite a bit at Michael's prickly responses to Gil's pursuit, knowing that it was inevitable, and just sat back to enjoy the ride to bliss.
Except the unknown entity from the first book who seems to be hellbent on hurting Michael's friends and business partners is still lurking in the bushes, and there's still the threat of David's abusive ex coming back to wreak more havoc, and when Michael is house-sitting for David and Jackson and finds a vandal outside of the house, his first call is not to the police but Gil.
Wonder why.
There's a lot more to Gil than Michael realized, and slowly but surely, as Michael discovers more about who Gil really is, his opinion of the man is changing, and Michael sees that maybe, just maybe, it's safe to be honest with himself and acknowledge with his head that what his heart has known for a while.
And just when Michael seems ready to take that step, tragedy strikes.
Nothing like a wake-up call to get your act together, is there?
I adored Gil - he was such a good, kind, and super patient guy, someone with a somewhat gruff exterior but a heart of gold. And Michael, prickly, hurt, and scared Michael, just grows on you - I realized in the first book that he must have had some real heartache in his life to become so standoffish and hide himself from what is definitely a good thing.
I can't say enough good things about the writing - super smooth and engaging, without any lulls or abrupt time jumps, with excellent pacing. While the book is told entirely from Michael's POV, and while Michael is a bit of an unreliable narrator, we get plenty of between the lines information about Gil. Michael may not always understand what makes Gil tick, but it's always very clear what Gil's priorities are, and how much he loves Michael, even if Michael refuses to see it.
Obviously, the men from Delta Restorations all make multiple appearances here, so we get to revisit with Vern, an older man with a rough exterior, (pretend-)grouchy most of the time, and Manny, who comes a bit more out of his shell in this book, but who still carries the scars from a previous relationship inside and out. I do hope that Manny's book will be next, because he sure as hell deserves someone who loves him fully and completely. Hopefully, that person will be Vern. I loved the easy banter between the group of men, and it was clear that they all respect each other and have formed a strong, supportive friendship.
This was a wonderful continuation of this series, and I can hardly wait to read the next book. Extra kudos for including the Velveteen Rabbit in this story - brilliant idea and execution, and thanks so much for making me cry.
One niggle - a neurologist isn't the same as a neurosurgeon, and these terms cannot be used interchangeably. I'm not sure if this was a research fail or an editing fail, but hopefully this was fixed in the final version.
Highly recommended that you pick up this book and its predecessor.
** I received a free advanced copy of this book from its publisher. A positive review was not promised in return. **
July 8, 2018
I enjoyed this story but felt that it really had 4 MC's as a lot of the story seemed to rotate around David and Jackson not Michael and Gil. Unlike some I liked Michael and didn't find him overly whiny at all but just a person who guarded his heart and took a long time to let someone in. Must read D&J's story sometime.
4 stars
4 stars
Read
April 8, 2018Audiobook version DNF'd.
May 18, 2017
3.5 stars
This was a fairly enjoyable second installment in the Delta Restorations series. This picks up a few months down the road from the end of book one. The guys have put their company together and have worked a few smaller jobs. At the start of this, they land a big job of a grand old house. It's the kind of job that could really make them a successful company.
If you read book one, you will remember Michael was David's close friend and assistant at work. Michael has continued to be a part of the company and this new job puts him in constant contact with Gil. Michael says Gil annoys him but he's secretly attracted to the man. They snark and banter back and forth with each other but everyone can tell there is more between the two men. A series of series incidents cause Michael to need to rely on Gil for some help and they become friends of a sort. As the story goes on though, Michael realizes he may lose Gil forever and he needs to make some serious decisions.
The mystery part of the book was a big piece of the story. It actually over rode the romance which I didn't necessarily mind. It was fast paced and entertaining and I enjoyed it a lot. The work on the house as well as the mystery gave us an interesting plot and it gave a us a good chance to see all of the other characters for much of the book.
The romance part was not as good for me. I liked the two men together but it felt very insta-love. They'd apparently gotten to know each other during the time from when the last book ends to when this one starts. They problem for me was we don't see any of that. They're snarking at each other and then they're pledging their undying love. I didn't really understand how we got from one point to the next.
Overall though, I did like this. I liked the mystery aspect and I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series. This book could technically be read as a standalone but I think it's best if you read book one first. They background of the characters as well as the mystery part were set up in book one. I think a reader would like this book more if they had all that background.
On a side note, I think the author is doing a horrible job setting up Vern's character. She has made him so unappealing to me with the constant "grandpa" and "old man" comments. Older MC's can be well done but this one sounds like he's a wrinkled old man in a nursing home. It almost looks like she's going to set up Vern and Manny and that's going to be a big "heck no" from me. This, and the insta-love, are why I rounded down my rating.
This was a fairly enjoyable second installment in the Delta Restorations series. This picks up a few months down the road from the end of book one. The guys have put their company together and have worked a few smaller jobs. At the start of this, they land a big job of a grand old house. It's the kind of job that could really make them a successful company.
If you read book one, you will remember Michael was David's close friend and assistant at work. Michael has continued to be a part of the company and this new job puts him in constant contact with Gil. Michael says Gil annoys him but he's secretly attracted to the man. They snark and banter back and forth with each other but everyone can tell there is more between the two men. A series of series incidents cause Michael to need to rely on Gil for some help and they become friends of a sort. As the story goes on though, Michael realizes he may lose Gil forever and he needs to make some serious decisions.
The mystery part of the book was a big piece of the story. It actually over rode the romance which I didn't necessarily mind. It was fast paced and entertaining and I enjoyed it a lot. The work on the house as well as the mystery gave us an interesting plot and it gave a us a good chance to see all of the other characters for much of the book.
The romance part was not as good for me. I liked the two men together but it felt very insta-love. They'd apparently gotten to know each other during the time from when the last book ends to when this one starts. They problem for me was we don't see any of that. They're snarking at each other and then they're pledging their undying love. I didn't really understand how we got from one point to the next.
Overall though, I did like this. I liked the mystery aspect and I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series. This book could technically be read as a standalone but I think it's best if you read book one first. They background of the characters as well as the mystery part were set up in book one. I think a reader would like this book more if they had all that background.
On a side note, I think the author is doing a horrible job setting up Vern's character. She has made him so unappealing to me with the constant "grandpa" and "old man" comments. Older MC's can be well done but this one sounds like he's a wrinkled old man in a nursing home. It almost looks like she's going to set up Vern and Manny and that's going to be a big "heck no" from me. This, and the insta-love, are why I rounded down my rating.
October 14, 2017
This book like the previous one in the series has everything I look for in a love story! Once I started reading I couldn't put them down. I'm really hoping there will be, at the very least, a third book (I want Manny to have his very own HEA he deserves one) and I will be ecstatic if there are plans for more!
Well done, Diana Copland!
January 2, 2018
This is the kind of book I love. It was well-written, fast-paced, with engaging characters and believable situations. From the moment I started reading, I couldn’t put it down. Finished in one day and I felt as if every minute was well-spent.
Michael is David’s interior design assistant whom we first met in David, Renewed. In fact, it was in that book that we all met big, strong, bald, and sexy Gil Chandler when he sold his dad’s furniture to David. It wasn’t David Gil was looking at though, as it was the cute, slender Michael who captured his attention that day. And given that they are all going to be working together in their new redesign company, they’ll have plenty of chances to interact.
But Michael is a stubborn son of a gun and doesn’t want to give in to his attraction to Gil. Nor does he want to admit it even to himself. He was hurt badly when the man he thought he knew and loved walked out on him several years before, destroying his trust in happy-ever-afters. But circumstances throw Michael and Gil together enough that the spark between them flickers and begins to grow.
At first, it seems as if the very stubborn Michael is going to have his way and manage to resist the gentle giant, but perseverance wins the day and when the two get together—caution—readers will need to get their personal fans out. Hot and sexy goodness. But even more important—the beginning of what could be more than just a one-night stand.
Naturally, the course of true love doesn’t run smoothly, and there’s a continuation of the underlying homophobia and gay-bashing theme started in book one with both Michael and Gil in the culprit’s sights at various times in this story. Michael’s true awakening of his feelings doesn’t come until he’s faced with the possibility of losing Gil permanently. When the situation does occur, it’s both heartbreaking and heartwarming.
I truly enjoyed the author’s ability to sketch a scene, and more importantly, to create characters that were so three-dimensional and engaging. There really was nothing about this story I didn’t like and I’m looking forward to another installment in this series, hopefully in the near future. Please, Ms. Copland. Hurry. Highly recommended.
ARC provided through Hearts on Fire Reviews in exchange for an honest review.
Michael is David’s interior design assistant whom we first met in David, Renewed. In fact, it was in that book that we all met big, strong, bald, and sexy Gil Chandler when he sold his dad’s furniture to David. It wasn’t David Gil was looking at though, as it was the cute, slender Michael who captured his attention that day. And given that they are all going to be working together in their new redesign company, they’ll have plenty of chances to interact.
But Michael is a stubborn son of a gun and doesn’t want to give in to his attraction to Gil. Nor does he want to admit it even to himself. He was hurt badly when the man he thought he knew and loved walked out on him several years before, destroying his trust in happy-ever-afters. But circumstances throw Michael and Gil together enough that the spark between them flickers and begins to grow.
At first, it seems as if the very stubborn Michael is going to have his way and manage to resist the gentle giant, but perseverance wins the day and when the two get together—caution—readers will need to get their personal fans out. Hot and sexy goodness. But even more important—the beginning of what could be more than just a one-night stand.
Naturally, the course of true love doesn’t run smoothly, and there’s a continuation of the underlying homophobia and gay-bashing theme started in book one with both Michael and Gil in the culprit’s sights at various times in this story. Michael’s true awakening of his feelings doesn’t come until he’s faced with the possibility of losing Gil permanently. When the situation does occur, it’s both heartbreaking and heartwarming.
I truly enjoyed the author’s ability to sketch a scene, and more importantly, to create characters that were so three-dimensional and engaging. There really was nothing about this story I didn’t like and I’m looking forward to another installment in this series, hopefully in the near future. Please, Ms. Copland. Hurry. Highly recommended.
ARC provided through Hearts on Fire Reviews in exchange for an honest review.
May 29, 2017
I didn't like this as much as David and Jackson's story but it was enjoyable nonetheless. I really adored Gil. He was relentless in his pursuit of Michael. He constantly showed him that they were friends first and foremost, and hat wouldn't change even if they never got together. I do wish Michael would have figured his stuff out soon and we got to see more of them as an actual couple. And I was nice to revisit David, Jackson, Vern and Manny.
July 24, 2017
We met both these guys in the first book so I felt ahead of the curve going in. Michael is David's assistant at the crappy design firm and Gil is one of the guys that's part of the new business they're starting. We got a hint of their attraction in book one so I was waiting to read this one. Michael is snarky and closed off when it comes to Gil but is a great bestie to David. Gil's been flirting with him since they met but really does like him a whole lot. Michael was badly burned in college so wants nothing to do with a relationship. This one continues with the danger and mystery of the first book which I actually love in this series. Their relationship seemed to go from 0 to 60 in the middle of the book and I wish there was more development but overall a great addition and I will for sure continue with this series.
August 31, 2023
On va dire que c'était sympa mais je n'ai rien de bien farfelue à raconter non plus.
Il le repousse jusqu'à qu'il ait un accident et qu'il se rende compte que c'était l'homme de sa vie, basic bitch quoi mdrr
Il le repousse jusqu'à qu'il ait un accident et qu'il se rende compte que c'était l'homme de sa vie, basic bitch quoi mdrr
November 21, 2018
This couple and this book just didn't work for me.
But it gained a star for David and Jackson cause those 2...
But it gained a star for David and Jackson cause those 2...
January 10, 2023
To say I've been eagerly awaiting the release of 'Michael, Reinvented' would be a mild statement considering my building excitement ever since I discovered the author was making this a series, AND writing about Michael and Gil for book two. I adored Michael when I met him in David's story. He's snarky, says it like it is, is a bitch, and, as I suspected, hiding far more vulnerabilities under his exterior than most would imagine. Gil is my definition of a gentle giant, but he's no Ferdinand. He knows what he wants and is going after it with both eyes open to the realities of the world.
At the end of 'David, Renewed', an idea of Michael's created the company of Delta Restoration, Renovation, and Design - a company owned and operated by gay men with their focus (primarily) being the new interest in restoring the old homes and buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Jackson, Gil, Manny, Vernon, David, and Michael comprise this new venture. Unfortunately, the new company isn't making enough money, yet, for David and Michael to leave their current positions with a downtown design firm, but it might not be long. Of course, this also puts Michael in uncomfortably close proximity to Gil far more than he likes.
"Most men fell into two categories for Michael: men he’d screw and those he wouldn’t. He’d given up on anything more than that a long time ago. He could certainly see himself sleeping with Gil, but the idea of doing it made his palms sweat and his mouth go dry with the fear there might be more to it."
The first night Michael is housesitting for David, he interrupts a man vandalizing David's property with homophobic slurs, who proceeds to chase Michael with a shovel, intent on doing serious harm. There's no question this isn't David's ex, but they never caught the man who vandalized Jackson and David's vehicles in their story. Now it appears this person might be escalating. Michael is scared out of his mind, which I would have been too, and Gil comes over while the police are there. However nasty the circumstances for putting these two together, it is about time Michael deals with his issues.
Oh, the dance between Michael and Gil was practically sublime. Unfortunately it's interrupted, or perhaps stimulated, by a disaster occurring on Delta's job site that appears to have been caused by foul play. Regardless, Michael is determined to not let his fears from his childhood and his past stop him from making a life with the man he loves.
Again Diana Copland has completely wowed me with her writing, her characters, and her overall story. I was hooked (through the nose) at the 5 percent mark and the tug just got stronger and stronger. I absolutely loved the ending, although the author has left enough small cracks that the investigation into the man they believe responsible for everything might not be completely finished and tied up in a bow. Regardless, I thought Gil and Michael were incredible characters, I'm excited to see Delta RRD continue its work on the historical mansion, and now I'll need to ponder whether the couple I think is going to be featured next, will be. Hmm.
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews
At the end of 'David, Renewed', an idea of Michael's created the company of Delta Restoration, Renovation, and Design - a company owned and operated by gay men with their focus (primarily) being the new interest in restoring the old homes and buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Jackson, Gil, Manny, Vernon, David, and Michael comprise this new venture. Unfortunately, the new company isn't making enough money, yet, for David and Michael to leave their current positions with a downtown design firm, but it might not be long. Of course, this also puts Michael in uncomfortably close proximity to Gil far more than he likes.
"Most men fell into two categories for Michael: men he’d screw and those he wouldn’t. He’d given up on anything more than that a long time ago. He could certainly see himself sleeping with Gil, but the idea of doing it made his palms sweat and his mouth go dry with the fear there might be more to it."
The first night Michael is housesitting for David, he interrupts a man vandalizing David's property with homophobic slurs, who proceeds to chase Michael with a shovel, intent on doing serious harm. There's no question this isn't David's ex, but they never caught the man who vandalized Jackson and David's vehicles in their story. Now it appears this person might be escalating. Michael is scared out of his mind, which I would have been too, and Gil comes over while the police are there. However nasty the circumstances for putting these two together, it is about time Michael deals with his issues.
Oh, the dance between Michael and Gil was practically sublime. Unfortunately it's interrupted, or perhaps stimulated, by a disaster occurring on Delta's job site that appears to have been caused by foul play. Regardless, Michael is determined to not let his fears from his childhood and his past stop him from making a life with the man he loves.
Again Diana Copland has completely wowed me with her writing, her characters, and her overall story. I was hooked (through the nose) at the 5 percent mark and the tug just got stronger and stronger. I absolutely loved the ending, although the author has left enough small cracks that the investigation into the man they believe responsible for everything might not be completely finished and tied up in a bow. Regardless, I thought Gil and Michael were incredible characters, I'm excited to see Delta RRD continue its work on the historical mansion, and now I'll need to ponder whether the couple I think is going to be featured next, will be. Hmm.
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews
July 5, 2017
Man this book punched me right in the emotions. I loved Michael and Gil's relationship. (Though lets be honest, Gil is a straight up sexual harasser and everyone is just okay with it. Problematic to say the least). I loved how much we got to see of David/Jackson. I still love Manny/Vern (book 3 please please please). The mystery was intense but I kind of hate how unresolved it is. It didn't feel wrapped up enough for me.
May 27, 2017
Gil and Michael are wonderful. This book has it all. Laughter, tears, weird stalker/crazy homophobe, two incredible Moms, lovely neighbors, caring medical staff.... it's a cornucopia of feelings and emotions. The hard-won "I love you" was a long time coming, but very satisfying. Now I can't wait to find out what happens next!!
September 8, 2021
Comme pour le premier, j'ai adoré l'histoire. J'espère qu'il y aura un tome 3 racontant l'histoire de Manny et pourquoi pas un tome 4 pour Vern.
June 10, 2017
I didn't like this as much as the first book. Michael was an asshole to Gil for no reason at all.
Gil was amazing. I loved him so much and he could do way better than Michael.
I loved seeing Manny open up and come out of his shell a bit. I can't wait for his story.
This also didn't have an ending. It just ended. Not cool at all. Overall, I still love the Delta Restorations gang, minus Michael.
Gil was amazing. I loved him so much and he could do way better than Michael.
I loved seeing Manny open up and come out of his shell a bit. I can't wait for his story.
This also didn't have an ending. It just ended. Not cool at all. Overall, I still love the Delta Restorations gang, minus Michael.
May 16, 2017
I received a copy to read and review for Wicked Reads
I did not read the first book in the series and at times I felt like I was missing something but not so much that I couldn't enjoy the story. I loved both Michael and Gil. I liked their banter back and forth. In fact I liked the banter between all of the characters. It reminded me of my friends. I will say there eas a lot of build up to Michael and Gil getting together. Then there was an accident which of course made Michael realize what he really felt. I really wished we would have seen more of the after. Maybe we will in the next installment? Overall a good story but it left mw wanting more.
I did not read the first book in the series and at times I felt like I was missing something but not so much that I couldn't enjoy the story. I loved both Michael and Gil. I liked their banter back and forth. In fact I liked the banter between all of the characters. It reminded me of my friends. I will say there eas a lot of build up to Michael and Gil getting together. Then there was an accident which of course made Michael realize what he really felt. I really wished we would have seen more of the after. Maybe we will in the next installment? Overall a good story but it left mw wanting more.
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