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Underneath The Whiskey
Will the truth set him free or drive him deeper into the bottle? Formerly “cured” in therapy, Benjamin Jacobson refuses to further explore or accept his sexuality—that is until the charming Caden Benson waltzes into his independent coffee shop. As Ben plays the role of picture-perfect husband and father of two, he relishes the hidden moments of a secret relationship where he can finally embrace who he is. Soon, the increasing weight of a double life demands to be acknowledged, whether Ben is ready to address it or not. Underneath the Whiskey is the poignant and wrenchingly honest story of a closeted gay man struggling to keep his family and business afloat amidst an affair and alcohol addiction.
262 pages, Paperback
Published May 26, 2017
11 people are currently reading
630 people want to read
About the author
Chelsea Lauren
12 books45 followersChelsea Lauren is a contemporary romance author. Chelsea has been writing ever since she had vivid dreams in middle school. The only cure was to write them down, and only then, did Chelsea realize she could become an author.
She’s an upstate NY native, establishing roots in her hometown with her husband and two pups.
Chelsea is the founder of Represent Publishing, a self-publishing company dedicated to helping authors strengthen their writing, edit, and publish their novels. Her passion lies in helping others accomplish their dreams.
When Chelsea isn’t writing or working on her business, you can find her devouring books, snuggling with her pups, or having game nights with her friends.
She’s an upstate NY native, establishing roots in her hometown with her husband and two pups.
Chelsea is the founder of Represent Publishing, a self-publishing company dedicated to helping authors strengthen their writing, edit, and publish their novels. Her passion lies in helping others accomplish their dreams.
When Chelsea isn’t writing or working on her business, you can find her devouring books, snuggling with her pups, or having game nights with her friends.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
August 23, 2017
A wonderful, emotional piece of writing. This genre is not usually my cup of tea but I have to compliment the author on her ability to create such a complicated romance and really do it justice. This book was gritty and though it was ultimately a romance story the plot followed a dirty (not sexual dirty but more down in the dirt style) journey of self discovery. Benjamin was trapped in a horrible situation that limited him from ever achieving the possibility of being happy. He had everything that would make the man he was trying to be happy, but that was the problem from the get go, he couldn't be that man, he could only be himself and no matter how much he resisted his true self needed more.
What really made this story powerful was the dichotomy of how the outside world viewed Benjamin and how the reader did. We were given first hand knowledge of his thoughts, hopes, loves, and fears, while the world just saw him as a man . If you're looking for a book that captures a wide array of emotions, and are a fan of romance (M/M romance) this is a must read for you.
What really made this story powerful was the dichotomy of how the outside world viewed Benjamin and how the reader did. We were given first hand knowledge of his thoughts, hopes, loves, and fears, while the world just saw him as a man . If you're looking for a book that captures a wide array of emotions, and are a fan of romance (M/M romance) this is a must read for you.
April 29, 2022
Review originally published at https://amanjareads.com/2022/03/10/un...
Thank you to authro Chelsea Lauren for providing me with a copy of her book in exchange for this honest review.
Underneath the Whisky is an LGBTQ novel that deals with many tough subjects such as conversion therapy, alcohol abuse, sexual violence, and suicide. But it also maintains an aura of hope and understanding, never allowing itself to be sucked into the darkness.
Benjamin is a successful business owner about to open a third location of his coffee shop. He has a happy family with his wife and kids. He also has a secret.
Benjamin is gay. Unfortunately Ben got his now wife pregnant before he was able to come out and live his life openly. He committed to taking care of the child and the woman who loves him thinking that it would all be for the best.
At the strong recommendation of his wife he attended conversion therapy, aimed at traumatizing the gay out of him through such extreme measures as electro shock therapy. Ben is brainwashed enough to believe that it worked.
That is, until he meets Caden. He hires Caden as the manager of his new store and instantly starts developing confusing feelings for him. Caden is gay and single and holds an admiration for Ben as well.
They ease into an affair and subsequently fall in love. Of course, this will not be an easy happily ever after. Ben has the wife and kids to worry about as well as the conflict of interest in sleeping with one of his employees.
Ben begins to drink. He wants to take the edge off of all the stress he's feeling. He's feeling pressure from Caden to commit fully to his true self but still having flashbacks of conversion therapy. He feels pressure to stay with his family but can no longer deny that he is gay.
With no plan of how to set things right he spirals into alcoholism. If the beginning of the book is a cute romcom, the middle is a stressful drama where the protagonist just keeps making all the wrong choices.
The best part about Underneath the Whisky is that all of these wrong choices still make sense. I fully understand why he's crippled by indecision in this no win scenario. I can definitely see how someone would turn to an addiction to numb their way through this.
Additionally, how the characters surrounding Ben act are all realistic and understandable. They may not be the same decisions we would make but we all know someone who would act that way. The characters are true to life with all of their flaws but also all of the good that people can have.
Everyone is a mix of good and bad, there are no true antagonists and no one is a villain. Even Ben's wife, who still doesn't see how damaging conversion therapy was, did what she thought was right and the best for them both.
Throughout the entirety of Underneath the Whisky I was rooting for Ben to get his shit together and earn that happily ever after, whichever way he chose to go. It was exceedingly stressful to watch him tear his life apart but that's just how attached I got to him.
You'll have to read for yourself to see if Ben is abe to bounce back from rock bottom or if he slips underneath the whisky for good.
Underneath the Whisky is one of the best books I've read so far this year and I look forward to more from author Chelsea Lauren in the future. Please check this one out and make sure to show some understanding and forgiveness toward your loved ones.
Thank you to authro Chelsea Lauren for providing me with a copy of her book in exchange for this honest review.
Underneath the Whisky is an LGBTQ novel that deals with many tough subjects such as conversion therapy, alcohol abuse, sexual violence, and suicide. But it also maintains an aura of hope and understanding, never allowing itself to be sucked into the darkness.
Benjamin is a successful business owner about to open a third location of his coffee shop. He has a happy family with his wife and kids. He also has a secret.
Benjamin is gay. Unfortunately Ben got his now wife pregnant before he was able to come out and live his life openly. He committed to taking care of the child and the woman who loves him thinking that it would all be for the best.
At the strong recommendation of his wife he attended conversion therapy, aimed at traumatizing the gay out of him through such extreme measures as electro shock therapy. Ben is brainwashed enough to believe that it worked.
That is, until he meets Caden. He hires Caden as the manager of his new store and instantly starts developing confusing feelings for him. Caden is gay and single and holds an admiration for Ben as well.
They ease into an affair and subsequently fall in love. Of course, this will not be an easy happily ever after. Ben has the wife and kids to worry about as well as the conflict of interest in sleeping with one of his employees.
Ben begins to drink. He wants to take the edge off of all the stress he's feeling. He's feeling pressure from Caden to commit fully to his true self but still having flashbacks of conversion therapy. He feels pressure to stay with his family but can no longer deny that he is gay.
With no plan of how to set things right he spirals into alcoholism. If the beginning of the book is a cute romcom, the middle is a stressful drama where the protagonist just keeps making all the wrong choices.
The best part about Underneath the Whisky is that all of these wrong choices still make sense. I fully understand why he's crippled by indecision in this no win scenario. I can definitely see how someone would turn to an addiction to numb their way through this.
Additionally, how the characters surrounding Ben act are all realistic and understandable. They may not be the same decisions we would make but we all know someone who would act that way. The characters are true to life with all of their flaws but also all of the good that people can have.
Everyone is a mix of good and bad, there are no true antagonists and no one is a villain. Even Ben's wife, who still doesn't see how damaging conversion therapy was, did what she thought was right and the best for them both.
Throughout the entirety of Underneath the Whisky I was rooting for Ben to get his shit together and earn that happily ever after, whichever way he chose to go. It was exceedingly stressful to watch him tear his life apart but that's just how attached I got to him.
You'll have to read for yourself to see if Ben is abe to bounce back from rock bottom or if he slips underneath the whisky for good.
Underneath the Whisky is one of the best books I've read so far this year and I look forward to more from author Chelsea Lauren in the future. Please check this one out and make sure to show some understanding and forgiveness toward your loved ones.
August 15, 2017
I can't stress enough how much I appreciate Chelsea's message in this book, which is that no matter how far you've fallen, you can still overcome anything and become a better person. I spent years of my life struggling with mental illness, sometimes ruining personal relationships because of it. Likewise, I've known (and been close to) lots of people who have struggled with alcohol and drug abuse, and have destroyed relationships as well. This book will give you hope that no matter what someone has done in their past, everyone has the potential to be better.
Full review here!
http://www.savyleiser.com/2017/08/boo...
Full review here!
http://www.savyleiser.com/2017/08/boo...
September 12, 2018
The initial conflict in this book interested me - a married man with kids struggling with his homosexuality. Unfortunately, I couldn't relate to the characters or feel for them. Perhaps the odds were against me as I'm a straight woman who doesn't want children, but I think the writing just didn't work for me. There were so many sudden mood swings that beggared belief and made me dislike the characters instead of sympathising with their emotions.
Another thing that let me down was the poor presentation of the book. An editor is mentioned in the acknowledgements, but this needs a proofreader. Some of the errors may have been due to bad formatting, but there were times when I found myself lost as the sentence didn't continue on the next page as expected.
For me, the story dragged. I just couldn't get into it.
That's not to say that someone else couldn't enjoy it, and I can see from the reviews that many have. I have also recommended it to a friend who enjoys LGBT stories. It just wasn't for me.
Another thing that let me down was the poor presentation of the book. An editor is mentioned in the acknowledgements, but this needs a proofreader. Some of the errors may have been due to bad formatting, but there were times when I found myself lost as the sentence didn't continue on the next page as expected.
For me, the story dragged. I just couldn't get into it.
That's not to say that someone else couldn't enjoy it, and I can see from the reviews that many have. I have also recommended it to a friend who enjoys LGBT stories. It just wasn't for me.
October 30, 2017
Underneath the Whiskey is incredibly well-written and addicting (pun intended). Chelsea captures the angst and despair a person may endure when they feel as though their life is tail-spinning out of control. It's not your average love story, too. While there is romance involved, I believe it's mainly about the love a person must feel for themselves before they are truly able to open up their heart to another person. I highly recommend this book!!!
February 3, 2018
Underneath The Whiskey was such a heart-wrenching, raw book. I would highly suggest to anyone who is looking for a good read, or anyone who is struggling with being honest with themselves. It may just set you free.
June 1, 2023
Underneath The Whiskey is a New Adult MM romance tale. This is the first time I have read Chelsea’s work and let me tell you it pulled on my heart and made it ache. The emotions are real people.
There are many hard subjects dealt with in this story alcoholism, mental illness, sexual assault, violence and suicide. Chelsea has done a good job in writing these issues.
Underneath The Whiskey is dark and complex story of a closeted gay man who is living a life of lies. The pain, the suffering, the longing, the wants, denial, the horrors of what our MC had to go through just about broke me.
Conversion therapy oh h*ll no! no, no. Sexual violence no! just no. But this is what our characters had to deal with. I have too many family members and friends that have had to deal with these issues, so it hit an extra spot in me.
The characters are complex, full of flaws and raw and not easy to like. There is a harshness to them that comes from trying to protect oneself. We see inner struggles and watch as they finally work through demons and on the way to self-acceptance.
This book will not be for everyone, but I encourage you to give it a go.
There are many hard subjects dealt with in this story alcoholism, mental illness, sexual assault, violence and suicide. Chelsea has done a good job in writing these issues.
Underneath The Whiskey is dark and complex story of a closeted gay man who is living a life of lies. The pain, the suffering, the longing, the wants, denial, the horrors of what our MC had to go through just about broke me.
Conversion therapy oh h*ll no! no, no. Sexual violence no! just no. But this is what our characters had to deal with. I have too many family members and friends that have had to deal with these issues, so it hit an extra spot in me.
The characters are complex, full of flaws and raw and not easy to like. There is a harshness to them that comes from trying to protect oneself. We see inner struggles and watch as they finally work through demons and on the way to self-acceptance.
This book will not be for everyone, but I encourage you to give it a go.
June 27, 2018
First off, this isn't my type of book. Personally I want something that takes me out of my head, out of the real world and this book isn't going to allow for that. Chelsea does an excellent job of world building, creating a story that is incredibly complex. I give this 4.5 stars because I'm a little disappointed in the ending, but being LGBT, the emotions and feelings I've dealt with are so similar to what Chelsea describes, I'm blown away.
June 4, 2017
The story of Benjamin touches on subjects that are often missing from most adult fiction books—especially gay fiction. Rather than gloss over the very real reality of struggling to embrace one's sexuality and having to challenge society's hyper masculine mindset, Underneath the Whiskey dives headfirst into the topic(s). The main character, Ben, is often times attempting to maintain the happiness of others while neglecting his own, but in turn tends to appear cowardly and selfish by refusing to be honest and upfront. Ultimately, the reader finds sympathy in knowing that his actions and thought process is due in part to the fact that Ben is loyal to a fault—and has endured so many hardships for the sake of the ones he loves. Rather than have a clean-cut protagonist, the author embraces the many flaws of her main character in what seems to be in hopes of sharing a story that is messy and tragic—such is life. In the end, the reader will be encouraged to live honestly; to live unapologetically; and to love others, but never in ways that disregard oneself. While most coming-of-age stories are presented early in life, Ben's, while delayed, is no less important. And neither is yours.
July 1, 2017
This is a very well written book. Excellent!
Without giving too much away, as much as I didn't want to like the lead character Ben, he and his struggle were so eloquently described. The humanizing story, though fiction could have been the autobiography of your brother, cousin, or neighbor. It is an insightful luck into a genre I normally wouldn't have read and the life and struggles we all face. Well worth the read. This young author is going places.
Without giving too much away, as much as I didn't want to like the lead character Ben, he and his struggle were so eloquently described. The humanizing story, though fiction could have been the autobiography of your brother, cousin, or neighbor. It is an insightful luck into a genre I normally wouldn't have read and the life and struggles we all face. Well worth the read. This young author is going places.
December 20, 2018
Emotional Story
I loved this book. It was emotional, raw and intense. Ben the most pivotal MC of this story faced inner struggles from self-acceptance of his sexuality coupled with the lack of acceptance from his wife based on internal beliefs and a hope and personal dream or desire. Ben lived and suffered with pain, depression and not wanting to disappoint other's expectations. Caden a survivor and love of Ben's enduring his pain and struggle for a love no one anticipated. Beautifully written characters and storyline. While the author was descriptive in communicating their love, pain and struggle I couldn't help but wish their lovemaking scenes would have had the same detail and more description to allow those intimate moments to read with more of the same impact and intensity.
I loved this book. It was emotional, raw and intense. Ben the most pivotal MC of this story faced inner struggles from self-acceptance of his sexuality coupled with the lack of acceptance from his wife based on internal beliefs and a hope and personal dream or desire. Ben lived and suffered with pain, depression and not wanting to disappoint other's expectations. Caden a survivor and love of Ben's enduring his pain and struggle for a love no one anticipated. Beautifully written characters and storyline. While the author was descriptive in communicating their love, pain and struggle I couldn't help but wish their lovemaking scenes would have had the same detail and more description to allow those intimate moments to read with more of the same impact and intensity.
April 20, 2021
This book should have either dealt with the core relationship/coming out of Ben OR Ben's addiction and recovery. It doesn't successfully do both.
June 2, 2023
Underneath the Whiskey is a gut-wrenching tale of a man who is struggling with his sexuality and feels compelled to be what society and his wife expect him to be. Benjamin is a successful businessman with a wife and young children. On the outside he seemingly has everything, but appearances can be deceiving. His marriage is more of a charade, and he has tried to force himself to be the man that his wife wants him to be. He went to conversion therapy as his wife insisted and was “cured” of his homosexuality after he had a brief affair with another man. Benjamin wanted to leave his wife but was unable to because she became pregnant, and he felt obligated to stay and care for her and the baby. Instead, he stayed, went to therapy, and forced himself to be happy in the life he had. Benjamin placed his time, focus, and energy into starting his dream business of owning a coffee shop.
Benjamin’s coffee shop business is thriving, with several locations now open, and he needs to hire a manager to help run the daily operations. This is when he meets Caden, who applies for the position of manager. Benjamin feels attracted to Caden and the two have an instant connection and he no longer must hide who he is. As the two spend time together and carry on a secret affair Benjamin finds himself conflicted with the double lives he is living. Both men have issues and baggage that they must work through as Benjamin is forced to face the demons from his past. Will Benjamin continue leading a double life? Will he finally leave his wife and come out of the closet?
This was a heart-wrenching and compelling read that had me riveted to the end. The storyline and scenes were well written, and the characters were ones that you instantly feel a connection to. Benjamin was a man that was unhappy in his life but felt obligated to stay out of a sense of duty to provide for his wife and children. He struggled with his sexuality, but his wife and therapist told him that he was wrong to feel that way and that his affair with another man was a mistake. This story was not full of sunshine and lollipops as Benjamin struggled through self-doubt, he sinks into despair, begins to drink to take the edge off, and starts to spiral out of control. Crippled by fear, doubt, insecurity, and familial obligation, Benjamin begins to hit rock bottom. This book may have triggers for some as it dealt with issues like alcoholism, suicidal thoughts, mental illness, conversion therapy, and abuse. It was filled with raw emotions that will take you on a rollercoaster ride and have you reaching for the Kleenex. I highly recommend!
Benjamin’s coffee shop business is thriving, with several locations now open, and he needs to hire a manager to help run the daily operations. This is when he meets Caden, who applies for the position of manager. Benjamin feels attracted to Caden and the two have an instant connection and he no longer must hide who he is. As the two spend time together and carry on a secret affair Benjamin finds himself conflicted with the double lives he is living. Both men have issues and baggage that they must work through as Benjamin is forced to face the demons from his past. Will Benjamin continue leading a double life? Will he finally leave his wife and come out of the closet?
This was a heart-wrenching and compelling read that had me riveted to the end. The storyline and scenes were well written, and the characters were ones that you instantly feel a connection to. Benjamin was a man that was unhappy in his life but felt obligated to stay out of a sense of duty to provide for his wife and children. He struggled with his sexuality, but his wife and therapist told him that he was wrong to feel that way and that his affair with another man was a mistake. This story was not full of sunshine and lollipops as Benjamin struggled through self-doubt, he sinks into despair, begins to drink to take the edge off, and starts to spiral out of control. Crippled by fear, doubt, insecurity, and familial obligation, Benjamin begins to hit rock bottom. This book may have triggers for some as it dealt with issues like alcoholism, suicidal thoughts, mental illness, conversion therapy, and abuse. It was filled with raw emotions that will take you on a rollercoaster ride and have you reaching for the Kleenex. I highly recommend!
June 19, 2023
What a great romance story. Ben is an entrepreneur, loving husband and doting father. He remembers the trauma he previously experienced when his family learned of his indiscretion with another man, leading to him being treated in the controversial means of conversion therapy. His wife honestly believes that Ben being gay can be handled if he stays the course and focuses on what was learned in therapy and his love for his wife and children.
We find Ben struggling with his personal thoughts when confronted with an interesting moment while interviewing an intriguing young man named Caden who often frequents Ben’s coffee shop. Ben immediately finds himself wanting to know more about him and even hires him to help run his second business location. To keep things on the up and up, he mentions Caden and how interesting he is to his wife. Even in doing so, he finds himself thinking of ways to spend more time with Caden.
The reader is brought along with Ben’s journey through conflicts and awakening throughout the book. While the journey is difficult, I think it could truly be an eye opening story for anyone looking to explore their own personal journey and experiences, or simply learn how someone in this situation tries to deal with life altering situations.
The author did a great job expanding on the depth of the two main characters and the complexity of the subject matter.
I thoroughly recommend reading this book.
We find Ben struggling with his personal thoughts when confronted with an interesting moment while interviewing an intriguing young man named Caden who often frequents Ben’s coffee shop. Ben immediately finds himself wanting to know more about him and even hires him to help run his second business location. To keep things on the up and up, he mentions Caden and how interesting he is to his wife. Even in doing so, he finds himself thinking of ways to spend more time with Caden.
The reader is brought along with Ben’s journey through conflicts and awakening throughout the book. While the journey is difficult, I think it could truly be an eye opening story for anyone looking to explore their own personal journey and experiences, or simply learn how someone in this situation tries to deal with life altering situations.
The author did a great job expanding on the depth of the two main characters and the complexity of the subject matter.
I thoroughly recommend reading this book.
June 22, 2023
This was a really moving and emotional story that really makes you stop and think about the struggle some people go through behind the scenes when everything looks great from the outside.
The author deals with some really tough subject such as depression, alcoholism, confused sexuality and the struggle of living a lie and the toll it takes.
Ben from the outside has life mind. He has a loving wife, children who adore him and a successful business but he's not happy. He is hiding a secret about himself, I secret he has been told to hide and avoid all his life.
However like with most secrets hiding them takes it toll and when Caden walks into Ben's life everything falls apart. For so long he has denied who he is but now with Caden he has a chance to be true to himself.
But the stress of having 2 separate lives start to take their toll on Ben so he turns to drink to ease the pain.
Now he has 2 demons to fight, the drink and his true sexuality.
Both of these things leave him on the verge of losing everything he loves.
This is such a moving and emotional story of one man's fights and struggles to come to terms with himself and be his true self while also fighting against alcoholism.
My heart hurt for the things Ben had to go through and it makes it even harder when you realise that even though this is a fiction story that people are living this life and struggling like this right now. It is a very emotional and thought provoking read
The author deals with some really tough subject such as depression, alcoholism, confused sexuality and the struggle of living a lie and the toll it takes.
Ben from the outside has life mind. He has a loving wife, children who adore him and a successful business but he's not happy. He is hiding a secret about himself, I secret he has been told to hide and avoid all his life.
However like with most secrets hiding them takes it toll and when Caden walks into Ben's life everything falls apart. For so long he has denied who he is but now with Caden he has a chance to be true to himself.
But the stress of having 2 separate lives start to take their toll on Ben so he turns to drink to ease the pain.
Now he has 2 demons to fight, the drink and his true sexuality.
Both of these things leave him on the verge of losing everything he loves.
This is such a moving and emotional story of one man's fights and struggles to come to terms with himself and be his true self while also fighting against alcoholism.
My heart hurt for the things Ben had to go through and it makes it even harder when you realise that even though this is a fiction story that people are living this life and struggling like this right now. It is a very emotional and thought provoking read
June 2, 2023
3.5 Stars
Underneath The Whiskey by Chelsea Lauren is the first book that I have read by her. It proved to be an interesting New Adult story- an MM romance packed full of emotion, angst, and drama. The story contains some sensitive topics that may be triggering for some readers- subjects such as alcohol abuse/addiction, suicidal thoughts, violence, past conversion therapy + electroshock therapy, mental illness, struggles, challenges, and sexual abuse – so if have issues with any of these topics, then this is probably not the book for you.
I may not have ‘liked’ the behaviour of our MC/s at times, but I understood why they were like that, and I really felt for them and everything they had been through. Having endured what they did, but then living a lie, to deny who they truly are, and then basically forced to live a double life and not being true to themselves- I can fully understand the mental anguish and toll that took on their emotional and mental health, and their downward spiral. So, if you were expecting a light, fluffy, boy meets boy and the birds start singing type story, then you are going to be disappointed- because this is raw, gritty, angsty, thought-provoking, and confronting ------ but it is also much more.
Now I am off to see what else I can find of Ms. Lauren’s to explore.
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Chelsea Lauren!
Underneath The Whiskey by Chelsea Lauren is the first book that I have read by her. It proved to be an interesting New Adult story- an MM romance packed full of emotion, angst, and drama. The story contains some sensitive topics that may be triggering for some readers- subjects such as alcohol abuse/addiction, suicidal thoughts, violence, past conversion therapy + electroshock therapy, mental illness, struggles, challenges, and sexual abuse – so if have issues with any of these topics, then this is probably not the book for you.
I may not have ‘liked’ the behaviour of our MC/s at times, but I understood why they were like that, and I really felt for them and everything they had been through. Having endured what they did, but then living a lie, to deny who they truly are, and then basically forced to live a double life and not being true to themselves- I can fully understand the mental anguish and toll that took on their emotional and mental health, and their downward spiral. So, if you were expecting a light, fluffy, boy meets boy and the birds start singing type story, then you are going to be disappointed- because this is raw, gritty, angsty, thought-provoking, and confronting ------ but it is also much more.
Now I am off to see what else I can find of Ms. Lauren’s to explore.
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Chelsea Lauren!
June 16, 2023
Underneath the Whiskey by Chelsea Lauren is available now in eBook and Physical Book
⭐️⭐️⭐⭐⭐ Book Review
Underneath the Whiskey is about a successful business owner who is living a double life. Ben is the perfect husband and father, but he knows deep down this life isn't for him. Although he is content, this lifestyle doesn’t make him feel whole. When Caden comes to Ben’s shop for an interview there is tension in the air, tension that Ben just can't shake. Will Ben be able to be honest with his family and take back his life and happiness?
Underneath the Whiskey is a M/M romance. This was my first time reading a novel written by Lauren and I was extremely satisfied with this one. There have not been many M/M romances that really struck my fancy but this one had me hooked from the very beginning. Lauren introduces you to some very hard topics: abuse, mental health, and homosexuality. She discusses these topics with such hospitality. Her characters are extremely likable. The story line is believable and flows extremely well. The story is so detailed, I felt like I was on this journey with Ben, his family, and Caden. I will not hesitate to pick up another novel written by Lauren in the future. If you are looking for a fast paced, heart felt, action packed novel for the weekend, this one is highly recommended.
⭐️⭐️⭐⭐⭐ Book Review
Underneath the Whiskey is about a successful business owner who is living a double life. Ben is the perfect husband and father, but he knows deep down this life isn't for him. Although he is content, this lifestyle doesn’t make him feel whole. When Caden comes to Ben’s shop for an interview there is tension in the air, tension that Ben just can't shake. Will Ben be able to be honest with his family and take back his life and happiness?
Underneath the Whiskey is a M/M romance. This was my first time reading a novel written by Lauren and I was extremely satisfied with this one. There have not been many M/M romances that really struck my fancy but this one had me hooked from the very beginning. Lauren introduces you to some very hard topics: abuse, mental health, and homosexuality. She discusses these topics with such hospitality. Her characters are extremely likable. The story line is believable and flows extremely well. The story is so detailed, I felt like I was on this journey with Ben, his family, and Caden. I will not hesitate to pick up another novel written by Lauren in the future. If you are looking for a fast paced, heart felt, action packed novel for the weekend, this one is highly recommended.
April 15, 2022
This is the first story I’ve read by this author. It is a total heart wrenching book. Benjamin is pretending to be the perfect husband and father. His life seems to have been successful. He owns his own growing business. He has a beautiful wife, kids and home. Yet he feels just something missing. When he decides his business is in need of more employees one of his interviews is Caden. Instantly his attraction is toward this young man who appears to have a crush on him. Suddenly he is having to face being in the closet isn’t working anymore.
Caden has been through his share of problems. Having been in abusive relationships before he is trying to find his way to more stability. He has been focused on work and when he is instantly hired by Benjamin he is overjoyed. As their relationship develops into more than employee and boss, Benjamin is forced to face his past.
This stories flow is perfect. The main characters are so likable. The secondary characters are so well described it’s easy to picture them. This is one of those books that left me with book hangover. I received a copy from Book Siren and this is my opinion.
Caden has been through his share of problems. Having been in abusive relationships before he is trying to find his way to more stability. He has been focused on work and when he is instantly hired by Benjamin he is overjoyed. As their relationship develops into more than employee and boss, Benjamin is forced to face his past.
This stories flow is perfect. The main characters are so likable. The secondary characters are so well described it’s easy to picture them. This is one of those books that left me with book hangover. I received a copy from Book Siren and this is my opinion.
June 2, 2023
Underneath The Whiskey by Chelsea Lauren. This genre is not usually my favorite but this book is so well written I loved it. Its the story of a guy named Ben who is married with kids and has a booming business. He seems like every other guy but inside he's dying. Ben is gay but hasn't been able to come out to anyone. His wife now knows but he told her he would stay married to her and take care of her and their child. His wife thinks she can change him with therapy and when he goes to therapy he gets brainwashed enough that he thinks he's changed. Enter Caden, Ben hires Caden to run one of his new stores and he's young, single and openly gay. Ben begins to have feelings for Caden. Not just friendly feelings either, as they spend more time together they fall in love and ease into a secret relationship. With pressure from Caden to tell his wife the truth and pressures of owning his booming business and coming out as gay he begins to drink and drink heavily. Will Ben be able to live his life completely happy and tell everyone the truth or will the alcohol ruin it all. This is a wonderful read that is so emotional on a deep level.
June 2, 2023
🌟🌟🌟🌟
This story is raw, gut wrenching and truly a roller coaster of emotion. Overall a really good story that I know hits home.
Emotions are high between Benjamin, Sophia and Caden...trying to navigate life, family and true feelings...sometimes just doing what has to be done day to day. Ben and Sophia are trying to raise their family the best way possible, but Ben also has turmoil within, struggling with his sexuality.
Ben believes that having a successful family after being made to go through torcherous therapy per Sophia is what he has to do. Everything changes when Ben meets Caden.....at first Ben hiring Caden on with his company but it turns into something more. When lies turn into more lies of Ben struggling to be with Sophia and Caden at the same time....the inner emotional turmoil comes to a full boil.
Will Ben be able to overcome and be truthful with both Sophia and Caden about his sexuality and stop hurting all that want to love him back?
This story is a lot of ups and downs, the heartbreaks, lies, abuse.....this was a very good story....
This story is raw, gut wrenching and truly a roller coaster of emotion. Overall a really good story that I know hits home.
Emotions are high between Benjamin, Sophia and Caden...trying to navigate life, family and true feelings...sometimes just doing what has to be done day to day. Ben and Sophia are trying to raise their family the best way possible, but Ben also has turmoil within, struggling with his sexuality.
Ben believes that having a successful family after being made to go through torcherous therapy per Sophia is what he has to do. Everything changes when Ben meets Caden.....at first Ben hiring Caden on with his company but it turns into something more. When lies turn into more lies of Ben struggling to be with Sophia and Caden at the same time....the inner emotional turmoil comes to a full boil.
Will Ben be able to overcome and be truthful with both Sophia and Caden about his sexuality and stop hurting all that want to love him back?
This story is a lot of ups and downs, the heartbreaks, lies, abuse.....this was a very good story....
June 18, 2023
I found this book enjoyable, and at times hard to read, drawing you into the very emotional and hard hitting story of Benjamin.
I feel the author spoke from the heart and with lots of empathy when telling this story; encompassing mental health, depression and the struggles that many people have when dealing with their sexuality and their family.
Relationships are tricky things at the best of times but when you bring into it some forms of therapy, abuse and suicide then this book covers many things. And some may find it touches on triggers.
Benjamin, his family consisting of a supportive but controlling wife, two children and best friend is a successful business owner, and should have everything to make him happy, but he cannot be himself until he has found himself, this story full of twists and turns hope and denial will keep you hooked and take you along for the ride to a possible happy ending.
I feel the author spoke from the heart and with lots of empathy when telling this story; encompassing mental health, depression and the struggles that many people have when dealing with their sexuality and their family.
Relationships are tricky things at the best of times but when you bring into it some forms of therapy, abuse and suicide then this book covers many things. And some may find it touches on triggers.
Benjamin, his family consisting of a supportive but controlling wife, two children and best friend is a successful business owner, and should have everything to make him happy, but he cannot be himself until he has found himself, this story full of twists and turns hope and denial will keep you hooked and take you along for the ride to a possible happy ending.
June 23, 2023
Underneath the Whiskey is a compelling, gut wrenching story about a man trying to be who he is expected to be by everyone in his life but it comes at the cost of his own sense of self. It contains things that can be triggering including addiction, attempted suicide, conversion therapy, and cheating.
I honestly didn't want to like Ben. I am usually not interested in stories that include cheating, but this is a very well-written story that is honest and raw. The reason events happen makes sense. Ben goes through so much but doesn't recognize the trauma as he was doing it for what he felt was the good of his family. Each of the characters starts out appearing one way, but as the layers get peeled away, their truth is revealed, sometimes for the better and sometimes not. Ben's journey absolutely broke my heart and I am so glad there is a happy ending. Definitely well-worth the pain to experience this story.
I honestly didn't want to like Ben. I am usually not interested in stories that include cheating, but this is a very well-written story that is honest and raw. The reason events happen makes sense. Ben goes through so much but doesn't recognize the trauma as he was doing it for what he felt was the good of his family. Each of the characters starts out appearing one way, but as the layers get peeled away, their truth is revealed, sometimes for the better and sometimes not. Ben's journey absolutely broke my heart and I am so glad there is a happy ending. Definitely well-worth the pain to experience this story.
August 1, 2021
An amazing story that keeps you interested in it till the very end.
Cw: Conversion therapy, alcohol including alcohol abuse, attempted suicide, rape
This was a splendid book. The author has done a splendid job in portraying Ben - From his attraction towards Caden, his love for his family, his business ambition to his spiral towards rock bottom before getting better in the end. Every page of the story was amazing and I simply could not put it down. I loved how the author did not force the MC to get married before the end of the book. Instead, we r left with the knowledge that Ben and Caden got back together and a belief that they were able to achieve all their goals as a couple.
I seriously recommend reading this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Cw: Conversion therapy, alcohol including alcohol abuse, attempted suicide, rape
This was a splendid book. The author has done a splendid job in portraying Ben - From his attraction towards Caden, his love for his family, his business ambition to his spiral towards rock bottom before getting better in the end. Every page of the story was amazing and I simply could not put it down. I loved how the author did not force the MC to get married before the end of the book. Instead, we r left with the knowledge that Ben and Caden got back together and a belief that they were able to achieve all their goals as a couple.
I seriously recommend reading this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 1, 2023
I enjoyed reading this story. This is an author that I enjoyed reading and look forward to seeing what is next for her. I found this book to be well written and hard to put down. It is a story that has characters that pop off the pages and will take you on an emotional roller coaster. This is a story about accepting and living with who you truly are. Ben is a great character that has a secret and honestly just wants to be himself for once. He is my favorite of the story and I enjoyed what he brought to the story. This is a fast paced story where the characters pull you into their world and keep you coming back for more. They made it easy and entertaining to read. They also made it realistic and I had no problems connecting with them. Great chemistry and growth throughout the story. I highly recommend this book and this author.
June 6, 2023
Underneath the Whiskey
By: Chelsea Lauren
This is a fantastic story. It looks at Benjamin who at first glance seems to have everything. However, as we all know, there is more than meets the eye. When he meets Caden he is forced to face things that he thought he had put behind him, or at least he would be able to ignore. Benjamin is such a well written character who faces situations that are like those we face in our lives - those situations where there is no easy answer and where there is no way that everyone involved can be happy. Benjamin and the story are so wrought with emotion. I definitely found myself unable to put this book down, reading as fast as I could, as I felt I was riding every emotion that Benjamin was. I definitely recommend reading this, as I can guarantee you will be unable to put it down and will be taken on an emotional journey.
By: Chelsea Lauren
This is a fantastic story. It looks at Benjamin who at first glance seems to have everything. However, as we all know, there is more than meets the eye. When he meets Caden he is forced to face things that he thought he had put behind him, or at least he would be able to ignore. Benjamin is such a well written character who faces situations that are like those we face in our lives - those situations where there is no easy answer and where there is no way that everyone involved can be happy. Benjamin and the story are so wrought with emotion. I definitely found myself unable to put this book down, reading as fast as I could, as I felt I was riding every emotion that Benjamin was. I definitely recommend reading this, as I can guarantee you will be unable to put it down and will be taken on an emotional journey.
June 19, 2023
Underneath the Whiskey is an interesting read about a man struggling to balance his life. Benjamin struggles maintaining balance between his blossoming coffee shop business, his tumultuous relationship with his wife, and the sexuality he has worked very hard to repress. I found some aspects of the story very compelling, such as the use of reparative therapy along with shock therapy in order to convince Ben he isn't gay. But overall, I felt the story was a little slow and drawn out. I often found myself thinking of other things while reading (which rarely happens). I just didn't feel fully connected to this book like I thought I would be. While Underneath the Whiskey wasn’t quite my cup of tea story wise, I do feel like Chelsea Lauren still delivered authentic, believable and relatable characters that the reader could connect with.
June 23, 2023
This was my first book by this author, so I wasn’t sure what to expect. I really enjoy reading in my spare time and typically it takes me a chapter or two to really find my groove. That was not the case with Underneath the Whiskey. I was immediately drawn into the story from page one. It was SO unbelievable how quickly everything played out in my mind. This is an emotional rollercoaster that takes your heart and puts it in a vice. On paper, it can sometimes seem easy to make decisions especially when you’re not involved, but I was completely and utterly invested in Benjamin’s life. I’ve already grabbed a couple of other books by this author because her writing style is stunning! As always, you should check the potential triggers that she has lovingly put in the front. Trust me on this one, don’t pass on picking this book up. It’s a must read!
December 11, 2018
Surprisingly good read
Underneath the Whiskey is a highly emotional book dealing with mental health and sexuality issues. Ben has it all, the perfect family the perfect job or though it seems. Ben is living a lie and his life is unraveling. When Ben expands his business he hires Caden a recent business major as his manager to his new store. Caden can’t believe he landed his dream job and his boss is gorgeous. The two men start seeing each other first professionally and then privately. The stress of cheating and keeping everyone happy soon leads to complications in Ben and Caden’s lives. The book deals with alcoholism, abuse and repressed memories. The tone of the book while dealing with heavy topics is still entertaining.
Underneath the Whiskey is a highly emotional book dealing with mental health and sexuality issues. Ben has it all, the perfect family the perfect job or though it seems. Ben is living a lie and his life is unraveling. When Ben expands his business he hires Caden a recent business major as his manager to his new store. Caden can’t believe he landed his dream job and his boss is gorgeous. The two men start seeing each other first professionally and then privately. The stress of cheating and keeping everyone happy soon leads to complications in Ben and Caden’s lives. The book deals with alcoholism, abuse and repressed memories. The tone of the book while dealing with heavy topics is still entertaining.
December 24, 2021
While this is one of the most heartbreaking story’s I read in a while it is also very optimistic. The bigotry is sad, actually there is a lot of sadness intertwined between the pages, not to say that’s a negative thing. No, in fact, the sadness only makes the happiness that much better. Ben and Sophia are great characters. Luke and Caden, as well, the story needs all of these players, they, indeed, bring the story to life. You can feel the pain, the struggles, guilt and betrayal. Becoming wrapped up into the words is what gives the book such great strength. You lose yourself in their emotional pain and their hurt. Following the struggles makes the HEA that much stronger and better. A terrific reading, in my opinion. I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book.
June 22, 2023
Underneath The Whiskey is gut wrenching, emotional, and heartbreaking in every way possible. It is not for the faint of heart as this story contains many difficult subjects, such as alcoholism, suicide, sexual assault, violence, and mental illness. The issues seem so real and the author, Chelsea Lauren, does a great job writing about all of the issues at hand.
Underneath The Whiskey tells the story of Benjamin, a closeted gay man, who is living a lie with his wife and children. He tried so hard to hide and cope with his pain, but can't do it forever.
The characters are flawed, well-developed, and easy to hate because we witness all their struggles and demons. Once the characters find their truth they become lovable despite their flaws and harsh reality.
Underneath The Whiskey tells the story of Benjamin, a closeted gay man, who is living a lie with his wife and children. He tried so hard to hide and cope with his pain, but can't do it forever.
The characters are flawed, well-developed, and easy to hate because we witness all their struggles and demons. Once the characters find their truth they become lovable despite their flaws and harsh reality.
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