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Road to Blissville #2
Someone to Call My Own
Psychic Emory Jackson and former black ops specialist Jonathon Silver are men from two completely different worlds with one thing in heartbreak. Emory still mourns the loss of his husband five years prior, and Jon is reeling with grief from the recent death of his twin brother. Sparks fly when mutual friends introduce them, but it’s so much more than basic attraction. There’s an undeniable awareness and a sense of belonging that neither man can deny. Despite Emory’s premonition of a future with Jon, he has vowed never to love again. Jon is convinced that his tainted soul is the reason he will never have someone to call his own. What if they’re both wrong? Maybe these broken men with their jagged edges could somehow align perfectly to form something whole and beautiful. But will that realization come too late for them? Someone to Call My Own is the second book in the Road to Blissville series. These books can be read as standalone or as part of the series. The author first introduced these characters in the Curl Up and Dye Mysteries, but it isn’t necessary to read that series first. This book contains sexually explicit material and is intended for adults 18 and older.
248 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 5, 2017
193 people are currently reading
516 people want to read
About the author
Aimee Nicole Walker
70 books2,001 followersI'm a wife and mother of three teenage kids. I've been married to the same wonderful man for twenty years. I've decided that if I can survive raising three kids then I can survive anything!! I haven't uttered the Mama's curse yet, but it could happen any day now. You know the one..."I hope you have a child just like you someday."
I'm an avid reader and lover of all things romance. I've spent my entire adult life waiting to follow my dreams of becoming a writer. One day this past summer, I decided to just do it. No more wishing and hoping. I haven't quit my day job, but that is my ultimate goal...make a living telling stories of love.
I write contemporary gay fiction. I hope you will love reading my books as much as I enjoy writing them.
I'm an avid reader and lover of all things romance. I've spent my entire adult life waiting to follow my dreams of becoming a writer. One day this past summer, I decided to just do it. No more wishing and hoping. I haven't quit my day job, but that is my ultimate goal...make a living telling stories of love.
I write contemporary gay fiction. I hope you will love reading my books as much as I enjoy writing them.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 233 reviews
July 14, 2020
4 Stars
Much like with Chaz and Kyle in the first Blissville book (Unscripted Love), Emory and Jon’s was a story I’d been looking forward to ever since they were introduced as supporting characters in Aimee Nicole Walker’s sexy and mysterious Curl Up & Dye series.
Once again, the story format of this second Blissville book had a major recapping feel to it, going over many events and key moments we’d already witnessed in Dyed and Gone to Heaven and I Do, or Dye Trying, this time seen through psychic widower Emory Jackson’s and black ops specialist Jonathon Silver’s POV’s.
If you don’t like stories (particularly sequels and spinoffs) that do a lot of retelling, then this may not work for you, but, thankfully, when done in a fresh and riveting way, providing the reader with new insights and original moments, this kind of story can hold me completely captive, as this one did.
With a story that held a lot of personal grief for the characters—one having lost a beloved husband and the other recently having lived through the murder of his twin brother—Emory and Jon’s coming together was emotionally-wrought, with Emory in particular dealing with a lot of heartache and denial over his rapidly growing feelings for a man not his late husband. Emory lashed out a lot at Jon and it hurt, but it was also wholly understandable given their pasts and current mental states.
Due to Emory’s psychic abilities, he was immediately aware of the connection he could/would have with Jon, if only he’d open his heart to the possibilities. And although Emory’s rejection of said connection pushed the story along over months and months, this was still very much an insta-love type of romance, with both Emory and Jon feeling deeply for the other from literally the moment they touched. I don’t really have an issue with insta-love, especially when this kind of supernatural-ish element is involved, with destiny and meant-to-be vibes involved, but I can definitely see how the speed of Jon and Emory’s intense relationship would be off-putting to some readers.
Thankfully, a lot of the themes in this story, and the way in which it was executed, meshed well with my personal tastes and preferences. Emory and Jon’s romance was certainly a welcomed addition for me, to a series that I personally feel is too entrenched with its predecessor series to be considered a standalone series.
Much like with Chaz and Kyle in the first Blissville book (Unscripted Love), Emory and Jon’s was a story I’d been looking forward to ever since they were introduced as supporting characters in Aimee Nicole Walker’s sexy and mysterious Curl Up & Dye series.
Once again, the story format of this second Blissville book had a major recapping feel to it, going over many events and key moments we’d already witnessed in Dyed and Gone to Heaven and I Do, or Dye Trying, this time seen through psychic widower Emory Jackson’s and black ops specialist Jonathon Silver’s POV’s.
If you don’t like stories (particularly sequels and spinoffs) that do a lot of retelling, then this may not work for you, but, thankfully, when done in a fresh and riveting way, providing the reader with new insights and original moments, this kind of story can hold me completely captive, as this one did.
With a story that held a lot of personal grief for the characters—one having lost a beloved husband and the other recently having lived through the murder of his twin brother—Emory and Jon’s coming together was emotionally-wrought, with Emory in particular dealing with a lot of heartache and denial over his rapidly growing feelings for a man not his late husband. Emory lashed out a lot at Jon and it hurt, but it was also wholly understandable given their pasts and current mental states.
Due to Emory’s psychic abilities, he was immediately aware of the connection he could/would have with Jon, if only he’d open his heart to the possibilities. And although Emory’s rejection of said connection pushed the story along over months and months, this was still very much an insta-love type of romance, with both Emory and Jon feeling deeply for the other from literally the moment they touched. I don’t really have an issue with insta-love, especially when this kind of supernatural-ish element is involved, with destiny and meant-to-be vibes involved, but I can definitely see how the speed of Jon and Emory’s intense relationship would be off-putting to some readers.
Thankfully, a lot of the themes in this story, and the way in which it was executed, meshed well with my personal tastes and preferences. Emory and Jon’s romance was certainly a welcomed addition for me, to a series that I personally feel is too entrenched with its predecessor series to be considered a standalone series.
January 7, 2018
This one was not a winner for me. It's my first book by this author and I was pretty excited to read it. Most of my friends loved it and it has a pretty high rate here on GR. For many reasons I just couldn't connect to the story or the main characters.
The writing wasn't what I was expecting and the insta-love took me by surprise. And not in a good way.
I must mention I can't help myself and will slip some spoilers ahead. Read on your own risk.
So, the beginning was sad, Emory lost his husband in a car accident. Then he discovered he had psychic powers and started dreaming his ex. After 5 years he moves to a new town after his ex told him so. At first he doesn't know why he moved here but he also dreams Jon. After a pretty hot dream he desperately avoids the man. Well here I started to dislike this story. It's been 5 whole years and Jon is obviously super attracted to him - insta-lust at its finest, still Emory refuses to give him a chance. He cuts his long hair only because in his dream Jon grabbed him by the hair. Really?! Picture me bored and annoyed. And then, then we get most than half of the book with denial, avoidance and stubbornness!
Oh and what definitely didn't work for me would be the insta-love. I rolled my eyes big time. Just a few examples:
“I hated the hold that Emory unknowingly had on me. It felt like he had my cock in a cage and had the only key. I wasn’t used to being on anyone’s leash, and I hated it with a fucking passion.” - Right after they met. Once. One time.
“It scares me too, Emory. You see, I’ve never had someone to call my own and my soul tells me that you’re the one it’s waited for all these years” - On their second meeting.
“It was a fast, furious fuck that left my body satiated but tore my heart to shreds. The combined feeling of guilt for betraying Emory and shame for taking advantage of my employee sent me home without a word to anyone." - What GUILT for betraying him if the man was running to the hills from HIM?!
Emory was SO in denial and kept pushing Jon away. Then he changed his mind and came to him running.
We get some angst but this story is SO predictable and ... I got really bored. I hate not finishing books and last year I DNF only one so I didn't want to start at the beginning of the year doing that. But it was hard to finish this one. No surprises at all. The writing didn't keep me glued to the pages. All the cheesy lines didn't work for me. They used the L-word way too soon.
“No,” Emory said, shaking his head. “You can’t love me.”
“It’s fucking crazy, it makes zero sense, yet it’s true. I’m not just attracted to you, Emory. I don’t just want to fuck you. I’m in love with you. I want all the pieces of you, including the ones you think are too shattered to repair. I’m not afraid of your jagged edges, baby.”
“I don’t want you to love me.” - Ugh!
So my rating would be 1,5 starts, something between I did not like it and It was OK. The ending was pretty fluffy and sweet. It just wasn't for me.
The writing wasn't what I was expecting and the insta-love took me by surprise. And not in a good way.
I must mention I can't help myself and will slip some spoilers ahead. Read on your own risk.
So, the beginning was sad, Emory lost his husband in a car accident. Then he discovered he had psychic powers and started dreaming his ex. After 5 years he moves to a new town after his ex told him so. At first he doesn't know why he moved here but he also dreams Jon. After a pretty hot dream he desperately avoids the man. Well here I started to dislike this story. It's been 5 whole years and Jon is obviously super attracted to him - insta-lust at its finest, still Emory refuses to give him a chance. He cuts his long hair only because in his dream Jon grabbed him by the hair. Really?! Picture me bored and annoyed. And then, then we get most than half of the book with denial, avoidance and stubbornness!
Oh and what definitely didn't work for me would be the insta-love. I rolled my eyes big time. Just a few examples:
“I hated the hold that Emory unknowingly had on me. It felt like he had my cock in a cage and had the only key. I wasn’t used to being on anyone’s leash, and I hated it with a fucking passion.” - Right after they met. Once. One time.
“It scares me too, Emory. You see, I’ve never had someone to call my own and my soul tells me that you’re the one it’s waited for all these years” - On their second meeting.
“It was a fast, furious fuck that left my body satiated but tore my heart to shreds. The combined feeling of guilt for betraying Emory and shame for taking advantage of my employee sent me home without a word to anyone." - What GUILT for betraying him if the man was running to the hills from HIM?!
Emory was SO in denial and kept pushing Jon away. Then he changed his mind and came to him running.
We get some angst but this story is SO predictable and ... I got really bored. I hate not finishing books and last year I DNF only one so I didn't want to start at the beginning of the year doing that. But it was hard to finish this one. No surprises at all. The writing didn't keep me glued to the pages. All the cheesy lines didn't work for me. They used the L-word way too soon.
“No,” Emory said, shaking his head. “You can’t love me.”
“It’s fucking crazy, it makes zero sense, yet it’s true. I’m not just attracted to you, Emory. I don’t just want to fuck you. I’m in love with you. I want all the pieces of you, including the ones you think are too shattered to repair. I’m not afraid of your jagged edges, baby.”
“I don’t want you to love me.” - Ugh!
So my rating would be 1,5 starts, something between I did not like it and It was OK. The ending was pretty fluffy and sweet. It just wasn't for me.
March 29, 2023
*** I absolutely love this author and her series ! ***
We get to re-engage with some of the Curl Up and Dye, (which I adored), series members here, and we get a fabulous pair of men we have been wondering about.
Psychic Emory,
who's partner died five years ago,
meets Jonathan,
who has a tortured past, where he lost his twin brother.
Jonathan's brother's murder was still an open investigation.
Each man "wants someone to call his own."
Beautifully written tale of two men who just need to give in to destiny and begin to live again. Life held so much promise.
We get intense anticipation, inner conflicts and superb hot sexy times.
It's an absorbing tale of deep thoughts, steamy sex, and a plot line that doesn't let go.
Fabulous ! Many happy tears I shed. I loved this story.
Highly recommended ! ENJOY !
============
We get to re-engage with some of the Curl Up and Dye, (which I adored), series members here, and we get a fabulous pair of men we have been wondering about.
Psychic Emory,
who's partner died five years ago,
meets Jonathan,
who has a tortured past, where he lost his twin brother.
Jonathan's brother's murder was still an open investigation.
Each man "wants someone to call his own."
Beautifully written tale of two men who just need to give in to destiny and begin to live again. Life held so much promise.
We get intense anticipation, inner conflicts and superb hot sexy times.
It's an absorbing tale of deep thoughts, steamy sex, and a plot line that doesn't let go.
Fabulous ! Many happy tears I shed. I loved this story.
Highly recommended ! ENJOY !
============
October 13, 2017
We met Emory and Jon back in the Curl Up and Dye series. Emory, Josh's enigmatic new neighbor who moved into the 'Murder House' and Jon, Nate's twin brother who popped up out of nowhere (literally) have had a somewhat volatile relationship since the first time they set eyes on one another.
Emory is still grieving over the loss of his husband, River, five years ago and isn't looking to ever find love again. He's a bit broken and the guilt and anguish over River's death is eating him up inside and he's living a half-life, just making it day by day. Having suffered a blow to the head in the accident that claimed his husband's life, Emory wakes up with a psychic ability that enables him to 'see' things, past, present and future. This enables him to help solve cold cases so he travels around the country, aiding the local authorities in whatever town he's been 'called' to. He ends up in Blissville after having a vision of an address on an envelope. He doesn't know why he's there but trusts in his visions so he doesn't question it.
Jon is grieving too. After finally meeting his twin brother, whom he never knew existed until his mother's death-bed confession, he only has seven wonderful months with Nate before he's violently taken away. Jon is an enigma. He has no past - at least from Gabe's viewpoint. There are no records of him even existing prior to him finding Nate. Turns out, Jon is ex-military, black ops to be specific. The things he witnessed and was a part of during his term of service have resulted in him feeling as though he is undeserving of love, or even friendship, really.
One night, Emory has a dream about a man who he at first thinks is River. The dream is erotic and explicit and Emory is horrified to find out at the end that it was not River there with him, but some mystery man. When Emory and Jon meet shortly thereafter, Emory discovers that it was Jon in the dream. He is terrified of the thought of replacing River and so pushes Jon away. The rest of the book is a cat-and-mouse game of Jon trying to first befriend Emory and then get him in his bed. Neither one of them ever expected for their journey to end at love.
This second book in the Road to Blissville series didn't quite meet my expectations. While I liked it and I was happy to be back in this world, I was a bit disappointed in the execution. The book is touted as a standalone and, yeah, I can see how it maybe could be one if you've never read the Curl Up and Dye series but, honestly, I don't recommend reading it by itself. Or, maybe I do? I dunno. It's hard to separate myself from the prior series.
This story, like the first in the series, has a lot of recap. I mean, a lot. While this may be good for first-time readers, it is really annoying to those of us who have read the previous books. I feel the author has done a disservice to herself by putting so much recap in. It moves the story at break-neck speed, causing it to feel very surface level, like we're skimming over it instead of delving deeper into the heart of things. There was a lot of telling instead of showing because of this too.
It wasn't until we got near the end that things got interesting. I think this is because we finally got to a new point in the story, where new material was written. I liked the last third of the book a lot. There were the feelings I was looking for! It was full of depth and heart and emotions and I ended the book with a schmoopy sigh. I just wish it could have been like that for the entire story.
I do plan on continuing this series as I love this town and it inhabitants. Hopefully, now that we've gotten the stories for the secondary characters from the Curl Up and Dye series out of the way, there won't be any recap in future installments. One can only hope.
Emory is still grieving over the loss of his husband, River, five years ago and isn't looking to ever find love again. He's a bit broken and the guilt and anguish over River's death is eating him up inside and he's living a half-life, just making it day by day. Having suffered a blow to the head in the accident that claimed his husband's life, Emory wakes up with a psychic ability that enables him to 'see' things, past, present and future. This enables him to help solve cold cases so he travels around the country, aiding the local authorities in whatever town he's been 'called' to. He ends up in Blissville after having a vision of an address on an envelope. He doesn't know why he's there but trusts in his visions so he doesn't question it.
Jon is grieving too. After finally meeting his twin brother, whom he never knew existed until his mother's death-bed confession, he only has seven wonderful months with Nate before he's violently taken away. Jon is an enigma. He has no past - at least from Gabe's viewpoint. There are no records of him even existing prior to him finding Nate. Turns out, Jon is ex-military, black ops to be specific. The things he witnessed and was a part of during his term of service have resulted in him feeling as though he is undeserving of love, or even friendship, really.
One night, Emory has a dream about a man who he at first thinks is River. The dream is erotic and explicit and Emory is horrified to find out at the end that it was not River there with him, but some mystery man. When Emory and Jon meet shortly thereafter, Emory discovers that it was Jon in the dream. He is terrified of the thought of replacing River and so pushes Jon away. The rest of the book is a cat-and-mouse game of Jon trying to first befriend Emory and then get him in his bed. Neither one of them ever expected for their journey to end at love.
This second book in the Road to Blissville series didn't quite meet my expectations. While I liked it and I was happy to be back in this world, I was a bit disappointed in the execution. The book is touted as a standalone and, yeah, I can see how it maybe could be one if you've never read the Curl Up and Dye series but, honestly, I don't recommend reading it by itself. Or, maybe I do? I dunno. It's hard to separate myself from the prior series.
This story, like the first in the series, has a lot of recap. I mean, a lot. While this may be good for first-time readers, it is really annoying to those of us who have read the previous books. I feel the author has done a disservice to herself by putting so much recap in. It moves the story at break-neck speed, causing it to feel very surface level, like we're skimming over it instead of delving deeper into the heart of things. There was a lot of telling instead of showing because of this too.
It wasn't until we got near the end that things got interesting. I think this is because we finally got to a new point in the story, where new material was written. I liked the last third of the book a lot. There were the feelings I was looking for! It was full of depth and heart and emotions and I ended the book with a schmoopy sigh. I just wish it could have been like that for the entire story.
I do plan on continuing this series as I love this town and it inhabitants. Hopefully, now that we've gotten the stories for the secondary characters from the Curl Up and Dye series out of the way, there won't be any recap in future installments. One can only hope.
September 7, 2017
I love this spin off series and I hope more is to come - the characters are so much fun. Quirky, broody, sassy and at times surprising . This was Emory and Jon's book and it was beautiful. Emory still working through the grief and loss of his husband finds Jonathan in his sights and can't adjust his feelings. Is he disloyal to River ? Is it right to move on ? Should he hide away and ignore his visions ? Poor Jon is in a similar boat after losing his brother. He is a one night stand master and struggles with his new feelings and emotions surrounding Emory. While both of their lives go on, they are slowly brought together with the support of great family & friends. Both men finally find the peace and happiness they deserve. I loved it and can't wait to see who is next !
September 7, 2017
I found these two characters the most interesting from the previous books in this series and the Curl up and Dye series and I was looking forward to their book. Gawd this just was not as good as I wanted it to be. Emory and Jonathan dance around each other for way too long and then towards the end of the book Emory appears to do a complete 180 without any explanation. The book drags on with these two going back and forth and it retells too many aspects of the previous books from their perspectives but I don't feel like I really learned anything new even though it was being told by someone else. I hope I'm making sense. Basically this book took way toooooo long to get where it was going. I'm going to read the next one because I'm invested in the family dynamic that's going on here but I wanted more from this book.
March 8, 2023
Jon is a sweet and lovely character. He oozes uncertainty is some areas and absolute confidence in others. It's his entire make up and he is just right for Emory. I don't think that we got to know Emory as well as we might have, and although he took his time coming to terms with the whole "moving on" from a lost love, it only made him more loveable. The presence of River in this story made it more believable. I thought that the explanation of his abilities and the fact he has no idea know how to tap into them, or to control them, only tells us that he has the ability and the willingness to help and that he is not ego driven but just plain hurt. This is the second book in the series, and it seems the "Road to Blissville" series is going to keep getting better. All the other characters in the story rallied around to support them, which seemed to surprise Emory. I was expecting big things from him. He is a very complex character. The story left us knowing that Nate and River can go on knowing their loved ones are safe and that they want them to be happy...whatever life brings.
September 6, 2017
Cried and Laughed
Five stars for the emotions this book dragged out of me. I cried so hard. I love the evolution Emory went through as he found his way to loving Jon. So well done.
Five stars for the emotions this book dragged out of me. I cried so hard. I love the evolution Emory went through as he found his way to loving Jon. So well done.
September 10, 2017
3.5 stars.
I felt like this was very insta-love. I did love the characters, the plot, and the way the story flowed so easily. The two main characters, Emory & Jackson, fit really well together despite their pasts.
An arc was provided in exchange for an honest review.
I felt like this was very insta-love. I did love the characters, the plot, and the way the story flowed so easily. The two main characters, Emory & Jackson, fit really well together despite their pasts.
An arc was provided in exchange for an honest review.
September 14, 2017
Like the first in this series 2★'s = it was ok.
I am pretty sure that loving the Curl up and Dye Mysteries does not guarantee you will love the Road to Blissville Series.
I think me and this spin-off should part ways. I really disliked the first book and while I liked this one a little bit more, maybe 2.5★'s, I just don’t think I can round up.
First off. It is not fair to readers that have read the original series the spin-off is based off of for you to do pretty much a retelling in the new book. I don’t need you to remind me. I don’t need a refresher. This annoyed me to no end and seriously had me considering going forward. This happened in Chaz’s book too and I mentioned in my review I hoped it wouldn't happen here, it did. Stop doing this! Write us a new story after the end of Josh’s! If I wanted to read what happens to Emory and Jon during the time period of Josh’s book I’ll re-read Josh’s book! We already know all of this!!! You can also tell it is rushed too and just fact, fact, this happened, then this happened and more like an outline. It is not a fun read and it went on way past 40% I think but didn’t write it down. Too long regardless.
I don’t know if I liked these guys. I don’t know anything about Jon to get a feel for him and Emory, well, he really didn’t want to be with Jon. I mean really and that went on the entire book until it just didn’t and well, by then I believed him to tell you the truth and was ready for them both to move on.
So, anyone think the next spin-off is going to be about Jon’s two friends? I mean, that was in your face wasn’t it? Actually, I was pretty interested in that part. Sad to be looking for what is next while still reading someone else’s story, not that I had to look that hard. Probably going to get something with Memphis too…
Anyway, this just didn’t work for me. I loved Josh and Gabe’s stories so very much, the secondary stories just aren’t working out.
I am pretty sure that loving the Curl up and Dye Mysteries does not guarantee you will love the Road to Blissville Series.
I think me and this spin-off should part ways. I really disliked the first book and while I liked this one a little bit more, maybe 2.5★'s, I just don’t think I can round up.
First off. It is not fair to readers that have read the original series the spin-off is based off of for you to do pretty much a retelling in the new book. I don’t need you to remind me. I don’t need a refresher. This annoyed me to no end and seriously had me considering going forward. This happened in Chaz’s book too and I mentioned in my review I hoped it wouldn't happen here, it did. Stop doing this! Write us a new story after the end of Josh’s! If I wanted to read what happens to Emory and Jon during the time period of Josh’s book I’ll re-read Josh’s book! We already know all of this!!! You can also tell it is rushed too and just fact, fact, this happened, then this happened and more like an outline. It is not a fun read and it went on way past 40% I think but didn’t write it down. Too long regardless.
I don’t know if I liked these guys. I don’t know anything about Jon to get a feel for him and Emory, well, he really didn’t want to be with Jon. I mean really and that went on the entire book until it just didn’t and well, by then I believed him to tell you the truth and was ready for them both to move on.
So, anyone think the next spin-off is going to be about Jon’s two friends? I mean, that was in your face wasn’t it? Actually, I was pretty interested in that part. Sad to be looking for what is next while still reading someone else’s story, not that I had to look that hard. Probably going to get something with Memphis too…
Anyway, this just didn’t work for me. I loved Josh and Gabe’s stories so very much, the secondary stories just aren’t working out.
September 12, 2017
According to estimates, I am disappointed with the story itself. The main heroes were by no means well presented, given that half of the story was about how they were hunting each other around. An unfinished and superficial story, that comes close to the good at the end.
September 5, 2017
I think I would really like to find Blissville. The people are amazing, fun and welcoming. But, how these two broken men found their way there was both heart-breaking and hopeful.
Emory Jackson was one very interesting character. He had his fun moments and then his confusing ones. He blamed himself for River’s death. He swore he would never give his heart to anyone again. He tried very hard to push Jon away and did whatever it took to deny the electricity between them. He helps him when he asks but refuses to see or talk to him. After their one night together, he’s convinced that he can’t chance losing his heart to him. It’s River, his true soul-mate, that makes him see that it’s okay to live and love again. But, an illness and his fear of not coming through it is what brings them truly together.
Jonathon is someone truly special. He grew up not knowing that he had a twin brother only to have him tragically taken away from him. His mission is to find his killer and carry on the business. He’s never considered a relationship. He’s a one and gone man. Nonetheless, there is something about Emory that has him thinking long term. But, if the psychic can see into his black heart, there is no way that he would ever love him back. He can’t stop thinking about him. He’s rejected time and time again. But, he can’t stop trying to see him, talk to him, let him know that he’s not giving up on them. For once, his heart is engaged. When he learns about the illness, there is nothing that he won’t do to see him through it and show him just what they can have together.
These two men enthralled me. They were both so solitary, lonely … your heart couldn’t help but go out to both. The people that they had surrounding them were wonderful. Friends, new and old, knew that they were meant to be together and did whatever they could to support both of them.
Aimee Nicole Walker wrote a wonderful story. There were times that I was disappointed with both men, but they were over-shadowed by the beautiful love story. I felt like I knew Jon and Emory and loved that she delved into both of their pasts. The ending had so much meaning and truly brought a tear to my eyes. The big, bad, black-ops soldier actually had a bright and stunning heart. And, Emory, who would have thought that he had it in him?
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
June 8, 2018
I have really been looking forward to Jon and Emory's story. We've seen them since the beginning of the Curl up and Dye series, and they were definitely demanding their own story!
For the most part, I loved their own story and reading about their journey to their HEA. As with the first book, there is a lot of duplication in scenes that we saw the Dye series from Josh or Gabe's POV, but this time now from Jon or Emory's POV. I get that you kinda have to do that to really give the full backstory to their first meetings and have this story work as a standalone, but I think almost the entire first half of the story was catching up to the present. (Although it was nice to know what Emory was doing when he was telling Josh he was leaving those times!)
Once we got caught up and Emory and Jon could really develop their relationship, I thought things moved along very well. These two men come with a lot of baggage, tragic histories, but I loved reading about them and am glad they have a HEA!
For the most part, I loved their own story and reading about their journey to their HEA. As with the first book, there is a lot of duplication in scenes that we saw the Dye series from Josh or Gabe's POV, but this time now from Jon or Emory's POV. I get that you kinda have to do that to really give the full backstory to their first meetings and have this story work as a standalone, but I think almost the entire first half of the story was catching up to the present. (Although it was nice to know what Emory was doing when he was telling Josh he was leaving those times!)
Once we got caught up and Emory and Jon could really develop their relationship, I thought things moved along very well. These two men come with a lot of baggage, tragic histories, but I loved reading about them and am glad they have a HEA!
March 17, 2020
This story was full of heart ache for both Emory and Jon but once they both got on the same path their emotions and feeling for each other were amazing!! I love all the wonderful and supportive people of Blissville and I can't wait to read more from this series.
My only criticism was I would have like to learn more of Jon's background and why a mother would give away one twin and keep the other and Jon's best friends were such a mystery that never got revealed. The author hinted at secrets they were keeping from Jon but she never went back to their story so some parts just felt unfinished... Jon also had an situation at work that involved his brothers ex but that never got brought up again. I just hate loose ends.
The story and series I do love so I can look pass the loose ends and maybe just maybe some of those things will work themselves out in the future books?!?
My only criticism was I would have like to learn more of Jon's background and why a mother would give away one twin and keep the other and Jon's best friends were such a mystery that never got revealed. The author hinted at secrets they were keeping from Jon but she never went back to their story so some parts just felt unfinished... Jon also had an situation at work that involved his brothers ex but that never got brought up again. I just hate loose ends.
The story and series I do love so I can look pass the loose ends and maybe just maybe some of those things will work themselves out in the future books?!?
September 10, 2017
Everything I hoped it would be and then some
I've been waiting for this one ever since Gabe got the shock of his life when he thought he saw Nate Turner - a man he'd once slept with and who had been murdered - and it turned out to be his twin Jonathan Silver.
I'd wanted Nate not to be dead, so this was the next best thing I thought but actually, that's doing Silver a disservice as he turned out to be a wonderful character in his own right.
And his perfect man, the one he hadn't seen coming, was Emory Jackson, broken by the death of his husband five years ago, something he blamed himself for, and haunted by psychic abilities which started after the crash.
Together they were dynamite but it took a long time to get there. Jon never gives up though, once he realises Emory is his happy ending, he waits for the other man to acknowledge they have something special.
It was interesting reading through a lot of the story from the insider's perspective as we'd seen Emory and Jon's first meeting through the eyes of Josh and Gabe in their books.
I loved everything about this one, including the side plots which I hope are going to result in stories for Jon's two best friends Beau and Corbin.
I've been waiting for this one ever since Gabe got the shock of his life when he thought he saw Nate Turner - a man he'd once slept with and who had been murdered - and it turned out to be his twin Jonathan Silver.
I'd wanted Nate not to be dead, so this was the next best thing I thought but actually, that's doing Silver a disservice as he turned out to be a wonderful character in his own right.
And his perfect man, the one he hadn't seen coming, was Emory Jackson, broken by the death of his husband five years ago, something he blamed himself for, and haunted by psychic abilities which started after the crash.
Together they were dynamite but it took a long time to get there. Jon never gives up though, once he realises Emory is his happy ending, he waits for the other man to acknowledge they have something special.
It was interesting reading through a lot of the story from the insider's perspective as we'd seen Emory and Jon's first meeting through the eyes of Josh and Gabe in their books.
I loved everything about this one, including the side plots which I hope are going to result in stories for Jon's two best friends Beau and Corbin.
September 10, 2017
This really bums me out to write, but I really didn't enjoy this one at all. Normally, I really love Aimee Nicole Walker's MM romances, but this one drove me nuts. In the synopsis, it says that it can be read as a standalone but I'm not too sure if that's true. Although the first (at least) 25% of the book was rehashing things that have already happened in the both the Road to Blissville AND Curl Up and Dye Mysteries. I was sooo bored because I've already read all of the previous books. I didn't want to reread everything that already happened. Then there's also the fact that at 49% Jon is still sleeping with other people. This is an extreme slow burn between the two of them but once things finally start they are instantly in love. It felt really awkward and strange. Close to the end there's also a unnecessary health scare to add drama. This one just wasn't for me, I guess
July 25, 2018
~ 4 Stars Overall~
(3.5 Stars for the narration, 4 Stars for the book)
This book is not really a standalone, you really need to at least read book one “Unscripted Love” in this series to understand what is going on and where these characters came from. This series is also a spin-off from the Curl up and Dye series, and we actually get our first glance of them in those books as well. So even starting with those books wouldn’t be a bad idea either.
Let’s start with the audio, Joel Leslie is up there as one of my favorite narrators and I’ve listened to around 25 or so of his narrated books so far. I have to say that this might actually be my least favorite narration from him at this point. For the narration alone this one was just okay for me, and not “great” in my personal opinion. Joel always has a wide range of accents and tones for his character voices. I just wasn’t really impressed overall by the narration for Jonathan's “Cajun” style accent, for me it was a little odd/off at times. But I do think that even though this wasn’t my favorite narration, it totally worked with the story we get in this book.
That being said, I absolutely loved the premise, plot and characters in this book and the story is what kept me going through the narration and had me thoroughly enthralled and immersed in this book. I really liked this book and characters a lot more than the first book in this Road to Blissville series. The character dynamic for these two men was off the charts, even though there wasn't a lot of in-depth communication and interaction it still somehow just worked. They had the perfect amount of push and pull in their relationship, neither man wanted it to happen but both knowing it was pretty much inevitable and couldn’t be denied. It’s just a rollercoaster of emotional ups and downs the entire time. And OMG when Jonathan finally pronounces his love for Emory it is Amazing!
Emory’s ex died a few years before in a car accident and since then he has been having psychic visions as to things that happened in the past and will happen in the future. I’m not a huge fan of psychic trope books but this one worked well for me because while Emory is a huge part of the book as a main character, his “Psychic powers” aren’t totally unrealistic and do mesh well with the rest of the book. Jonathan is brash and unyielding when it comes to everything in his life. He is still trying to make sense of the death of his twin after recently just learning he even existed. Both of these men have tragic pasts with a lot of baggage being dragged around that they need to sort through and figure out. But I think Emory was perfect for Jonathan. Emory helps ground him and brings out the better person we can all see that he really is inside.
(3.5 Stars for the narration, 4 Stars for the book)
This book is not really a standalone, you really need to at least read book one “Unscripted Love” in this series to understand what is going on and where these characters came from. This series is also a spin-off from the Curl up and Dye series, and we actually get our first glance of them in those books as well. So even starting with those books wouldn’t be a bad idea either.
Let’s start with the audio, Joel Leslie is up there as one of my favorite narrators and I’ve listened to around 25 or so of his narrated books so far. I have to say that this might actually be my least favorite narration from him at this point. For the narration alone this one was just okay for me, and not “great” in my personal opinion. Joel always has a wide range of accents and tones for his character voices. I just wasn’t really impressed overall by the narration for Jonathan's “Cajun” style accent, for me it was a little odd/off at times. But I do think that even though this wasn’t my favorite narration, it totally worked with the story we get in this book.
That being said, I absolutely loved the premise, plot and characters in this book and the story is what kept me going through the narration and had me thoroughly enthralled and immersed in this book. I really liked this book and characters a lot more than the first book in this Road to Blissville series. The character dynamic for these two men was off the charts, even though there wasn't a lot of in-depth communication and interaction it still somehow just worked. They had the perfect amount of push and pull in their relationship, neither man wanted it to happen but both knowing it was pretty much inevitable and couldn’t be denied. It’s just a rollercoaster of emotional ups and downs the entire time. And OMG when Jonathan finally pronounces his love for Emory it is Amazing!
Emory’s ex died a few years before in a car accident and since then he has been having psychic visions as to things that happened in the past and will happen in the future. I’m not a huge fan of psychic trope books but this one worked well for me because while Emory is a huge part of the book as a main character, his “Psychic powers” aren’t totally unrealistic and do mesh well with the rest of the book. Jonathan is brash and unyielding when it comes to everything in his life. He is still trying to make sense of the death of his twin after recently just learning he even existed. Both of these men have tragic pasts with a lot of baggage being dragged around that they need to sort through and figure out. But I think Emory was perfect for Jonathan. Emory helps ground him and brings out the better person we can all see that he really is inside.
October 31, 2020
Ah, I love the Curl Up and Dye Mysteries Series and this spin-off series!
As expected, this part had some sad moments, drama and angst. It's the love story of two broken men, widower and psychic Emory Jackson and former black ops specialist Jonathon Silver. And while the way they fell in love, or rather just knew that they'd love each other before they really knew each other, might not be everyone's thing, I really loved it. It was all about Emory accepting that there could be another love besides the one for his late husband. I think the author did a great job by splitting the book into the three parts - Denial/ Acceptance/ Embrace.
Overall the story never got too dark, instead was lightened up here and there with some humor, snark and of course some Josh moments. ;)
4.5 stars
As expected, this part had some sad moments, drama and angst. It's the love story of two broken men, widower and psychic Emory Jackson and former black ops specialist Jonathon Silver. And while the way they fell in love, or rather just knew that they'd love each other before they really knew each other, might not be everyone's thing, I really loved it. It was all about Emory accepting that there could be another love besides the one for his late husband. I think the author did a great job by splitting the book into the three parts - Denial/ Acceptance/ Embrace.
Overall the story never got too dark, instead was lightened up here and there with some humor, snark and of course some Josh moments. ;)
I was a broken widower, and he was the mysterious man who’d witnessed the worst in humanity too many times to count. We were broken men with jagged edges that could cut a person deep if they were foolish enough to venture too close, but, somehow, we aligned perfectly to form something whole and beautiful.
4.5 stars
September 7, 2017
Sugar
Sugary sweet read. The characters are lovable and engaging. A lot going on, but easy enough to follow. Enjoyable, cotton candy read.
Sugary sweet read. The characters are lovable and engaging. A lot going on, but easy enough to follow. Enjoyable, cotton candy read.
September 9, 2017
3-3.5 Stars~~
There are only a handful of interactions between Emory and Jon during the first half of the book, which is not enough for them to live up to the hype of a couple being brought together by fate. IMO.
The mystical aspect is a romantic twist, but relying so heavily on that to solidify a bond between the two men was disappointing.
Cheating?
The last 30% of the story is packed full of heart. I just think the missing piece in this story is conversations between the pair. Of course, the gut-punching reminder of life is short, love as much as you can, warmed me up to this story enough to bump it up from 2 Stars.
There are only a handful of interactions between Emory and Jon during the first half of the book, which is not enough for them to live up to the hype of a couple being brought together by fate. IMO.
The mystical aspect is a romantic twist, but relying so heavily on that to solidify a bond between the two men was disappointing.
Cheating?
The last 30% of the story is packed full of heart. I just think the missing piece in this story is conversations between the pair. Of course, the gut-punching reminder of life is short, love as much as you can, warmed me up to this story enough to bump it up from 2 Stars.
September 16, 2017
2.5 stars
Great plot idea, not very good execution. This author's style is not my jam at all.
I really liked the premise of this story and the prologue drew me right in. Unfortunately as the story went on it didn't keep the same pace of excitement for me. I had never read this author before so I did not know what to expect. There is nothing wrong with the writing other than it is a style that doesn't work for me. It was a bit too sweet and fluffy for my tastes. I was expecting something a bit gritty from the blurb and prologue.
Another thing I struggled with is that this story is insta-love on crack. They literally meet one time at a dinner party and are instantly in love with each other. Because of the psychic aspect to the plot it was basically a fated mate story. I struggled with it though because they were both human and it just seemed so unrealistic I couldn't get past it. I found the entire love story completely unbelievable and I was not emotionally connected to this couple at all. I was actually more interested in Emory and his dead husband and any emotions I felt while reading this were attached to that aspect of the story. There were some very touching scenes between those two.
Someone to Call My Own is the second book in the Road to Blissville series. These books can be read as standalone or as part of the series. The author first introduced these characters in the Curl Up and Dye Mysteries, but it isn’t necessary to read that series first. I had not read any other books in either series and I was able to follow along with the plot and characters with no problem.
Great plot idea, not very good execution. This author's style is not my jam at all.
I really liked the premise of this story and the prologue drew me right in. Unfortunately as the story went on it didn't keep the same pace of excitement for me. I had never read this author before so I did not know what to expect. There is nothing wrong with the writing other than it is a style that doesn't work for me. It was a bit too sweet and fluffy for my tastes. I was expecting something a bit gritty from the blurb and prologue.
Another thing I struggled with is that this story is insta-love on crack. They literally meet one time at a dinner party and are instantly in love with each other. Because of the psychic aspect to the plot it was basically a fated mate story. I struggled with it though because they were both human and it just seemed so unrealistic I couldn't get past it. I found the entire love story completely unbelievable and I was not emotionally connected to this couple at all. I was actually more interested in Emory and his dead husband and any emotions I felt while reading this were attached to that aspect of the story. There were some very touching scenes between those two.
Someone to Call My Own is the second book in the Road to Blissville series. These books can be read as standalone or as part of the series. The author first introduced these characters in the Curl Up and Dye Mysteries, but it isn’t necessary to read that series first. I had not read any other books in either series and I was able to follow along with the plot and characters with no problem.
March 1, 2022
I knew going in to this one that it wasn't going to be an easy read, and it certainly wasn't.
It was beautiful though. Heartbreaking, but beautiful with a gorgeous HEA.
When I re-read/listen to this series again, I'll probably skip this one. Not because I didn't enjoy it, it really was one of the most sensitively written and narrated works I've consumed in a while, but because the content is a bit too close to home.
Do not read this one as a standalone. You must read at least books 1 - 4 of the Curl Up & Dye series first, otherwise you just won't understand everything that is happening with the MCs and the strong supporting cast.
Joel Leslie did an amazing job of ratcheting up the emotion in this one, his narration was perfection!
This is a book that has to be listened to at least once if you are reading this series. It's such a beautiful story it's worth the heartbreak it puts you through to get to that gorgeous ending.
September 18, 2017
3.5 ~ Not nearly as fun as Chaz and Kyle's storey but much darker characters to begin with. I never really felt the MC were fleshed out completely and until the end they really didn't spend that much time together. Although when they finally gave in to each other DAMN - it was HOT 🔥🔥
It would have been nice to have a little closure on the Montana thing but perhaps that's the next one - or - Andy and Memphis, or Milo and Andy, or Memphis and Milo - what's next.
It would have been nice to have a little closure on the Montana thing but perhaps that's the next one - or - Andy and Memphis, or Milo and Andy, or Memphis and Milo - what's next.
July 28, 2018
Okay, this one just might have been my favorite!
While we still had the back and forth that I despise.... the constant, I love him but I can't back and forth...as this isn't my first with this author, so I knew to expect it. Even if I did want to throw my kindle since I couldn't shake some sense into these imaginary people.
Another thing... I am not a fan of paranormal, in no way shape or form; but Emory being a psychic seemed so genuine. He didn't go all Ms. Chleo or anything, so I enjoyed his visions and the way he got to connect with his late husband....
In saying that, Emory, in the beginning, broke my heart. His grief was so real to me, having lost his husband in a car accident five years ago. He lived for the times that River came to him in his dreams, so he was confused when River persistently told him about a little town in Ohio called Blissville. When he finally stopped ignoring it, he knew there was something for him there, he just didn't expect or appreciate that it might be another love.
I loved the way Josh and Gabe and their crew welcomed Emory, even though Josh was hesitant at first.. YOu can't help but love them all!
Johnathon was in Blissville after losing the twin brother he'd only gotten to know and taking over his business and wanting to memorialize him. He spent a lot of his life doing black ops things, and you get reminded of it, often. That was kind of annoying, but, meh.... when he meets Emory at Easter dinner at Gabe and Josh's (Gabe was the detective on the case of finding who killed his twin)....once he met Emory, he seemed like a completely different person.
He knew, just as Emory did that they were supposed to be together. If I didn't believe in destiny or fate, I believed it with these two. I could understand the back and forth a little more with this one, because I could understand how Emory would feel like he was betraying his late husband. I couldn't imagine having to move on after losing someone so unfairly. They didn't break up or have a falling out; his husband died. No goodbye, no closure, just grief.... so I was less irritated with Emory than I was Chaz and Kyle and Gabe and Josh..... so, I was also suprrised how unwavering Jon was in his love for Emory....though he did doubt, and he did come close to giving up and he did make a major mistake, which I hate.... but he loved him so much, even when he was being pushed away.
This one was a bit of a roller coaster fo rme, but I loved it. I truly do think it's my favorite of this series and the ones before it. I really hope we get a good story for Milo and Beefcake Andy, (I have a feeling I"m going to love Andy).... I hope for some love for Memphis and Dare, (that we didn't see in this book, but did in Chaz and Kyle's)... maybe moody Wren (that we also didn't see but I remember well).... so I'm hoping the series continues with more love for these guys!
I'm glad I'm late to this party, because I don't have to wait until the next one comes out to jump right in!!
Loved the ending! 4 stars from me!
While we still had the back and forth that I despise.... the constant, I love him but I can't back and forth...as this isn't my first with this author, so I knew to expect it. Even if I did want to throw my kindle since I couldn't shake some sense into these imaginary people.
Another thing... I am not a fan of paranormal, in no way shape or form; but Emory being a psychic seemed so genuine. He didn't go all Ms. Chleo or anything, so I enjoyed his visions and the way he got to connect with his late husband....
In saying that, Emory, in the beginning, broke my heart. His grief was so real to me, having lost his husband in a car accident five years ago. He lived for the times that River came to him in his dreams, so he was confused when River persistently told him about a little town in Ohio called Blissville. When he finally stopped ignoring it, he knew there was something for him there, he just didn't expect or appreciate that it might be another love.
I loved the way Josh and Gabe and their crew welcomed Emory, even though Josh was hesitant at first.. YOu can't help but love them all!
Johnathon was in Blissville after losing the twin brother he'd only gotten to know and taking over his business and wanting to memorialize him. He spent a lot of his life doing black ops things, and you get reminded of it, often. That was kind of annoying, but, meh.... when he meets Emory at Easter dinner at Gabe and Josh's (Gabe was the detective on the case of finding who killed his twin)....once he met Emory, he seemed like a completely different person.
He knew, just as Emory did that they were supposed to be together. If I didn't believe in destiny or fate, I believed it with these two. I could understand the back and forth a little more with this one, because I could understand how Emory would feel like he was betraying his late husband. I couldn't imagine having to move on after losing someone so unfairly. They didn't break up or have a falling out; his husband died. No goodbye, no closure, just grief.... so I was less irritated with Emory than I was Chaz and Kyle and Gabe and Josh..... so, I was also suprrised how unwavering Jon was in his love for Emory....though he did doubt, and he did come close to giving up and he did make a major mistake, which I hate.... but he loved him so much, even when he was being pushed away.
This one was a bit of a roller coaster fo rme, but I loved it. I truly do think it's my favorite of this series and the ones before it. I really hope we get a good story for Milo and Beefcake Andy, (I have a feeling I"m going to love Andy).... I hope for some love for Memphis and Dare, (that we didn't see in this book, but did in Chaz and Kyle's)... maybe moody Wren (that we also didn't see but I remember well).... so I'm hoping the series continues with more love for these guys!
I'm glad I'm late to this party, because I don't have to wait until the next one comes out to jump right in!!
Loved the ending! 4 stars from me!
September 19, 2017
So, when an author rips my heart out within the first several pages of a story and a box of tissues is needed at the very start, I can usually expect to have an emotional read on my hands—and Someone to Call My Own did not disappoint. I can’t imagine the heartbreaking pain Emory went through losing his husband when and how he did, and I was immediately attached to him from the very start of this book.
Jonathan’s own loss of his twin brother is similarly tragic, though where Emory is more emotional in his grief thanks to the psychic gift he seemed to gain around the same time he lost his husband, Jon is more concentrated on finding out who killed his brother and getting resolution and closure to his case.
For me, I didn’t quite feel the connection between the two men when they first met…but as time went on my opinion changed as I felt their link grow and develop. There’s no denying that once Emory gives in to the desire that’s been growing within him for Jon, the two of them are scorching hot together. It was just getting to that point that left me feeling a bit frustrated at times. Emory’s tenuous bond to his late husband via his psychic gift just kept him too entrenched in his past and unable to let go and truly move on, which is from where the root of my frustration evolved.
I did love the full cast of characters in this story, and especially how Gabe and Josh pulled both Emory and Jon into their circle of friends so easily. It was great to see characters from previous stories here, like coming home while reading.
Someone to Call My Own was a solid 4-star read for me, and is a story I would definitely recommend to any M/M romance fan. Even though at times I grew a tad weary of the psychic angle, it really did provide the mechanism for Emory’s grief and healing and added a bit of a paranormal touch to the book. This story is meant for readers 18+ for adult language and sexual content.
Jonathan’s own loss of his twin brother is similarly tragic, though where Emory is more emotional in his grief thanks to the psychic gift he seemed to gain around the same time he lost his husband, Jon is more concentrated on finding out who killed his brother and getting resolution and closure to his case.
For me, I didn’t quite feel the connection between the two men when they first met…but as time went on my opinion changed as I felt their link grow and develop. There’s no denying that once Emory gives in to the desire that’s been growing within him for Jon, the two of them are scorching hot together. It was just getting to that point that left me feeling a bit frustrated at times. Emory’s tenuous bond to his late husband via his psychic gift just kept him too entrenched in his past and unable to let go and truly move on, which is from where the root of my frustration evolved.
I did love the full cast of characters in this story, and especially how Gabe and Josh pulled both Emory and Jon into their circle of friends so easily. It was great to see characters from previous stories here, like coming home while reading.
Someone to Call My Own was a solid 4-star read for me, and is a story I would definitely recommend to any M/M romance fan. Even though at times I grew a tad weary of the psychic angle, it really did provide the mechanism for Emory’s grief and healing and added a bit of a paranormal touch to the book. This story is meant for readers 18+ for adult language and sexual content.
October 9, 2023
Buddy read with the gals from Turning Pages At Midnight
While part of the Road to Blissville Series, each book can be read as a standalone.
September 5, 2017
The second book in the Road to Blissville series, and I enjoyed it more than the first, but unfortunately still fell just short of the mark for being as good as the Curl & Dye series.
I enjoyed reading back on parts we originally seen from Gabe & Josh's book, it was fun to see from their POV and I loved learning more about Emory and Jon.
The only thing that really let the book down for me was how long it took Emory to come to his senses and acknowledge his feelings for Jon. I understand he was going through a lot of grief but I kinda felt cheated that he just all of a sudden comes to this big epiphany because of what was going on in his life. I feel he should of had to fight more for Jon and his love and proof that this wasn't just a matter of circumstances that had him changing his mind.
I am looking forward to reading more in the series.
I enjoyed reading back on parts we originally seen from Gabe & Josh's book, it was fun to see from their POV and I loved learning more about Emory and Jon.
The only thing that really let the book down for me was how long it took Emory to come to his senses and acknowledge his feelings for Jon. I understand he was going through a lot of grief but I kinda felt cheated that he just all of a sudden comes to this big epiphany because of what was going on in his life. I feel he should of had to fight more for Jon and his love and proof that this wasn't just a matter of circumstances that had him changing his mind.
I am looking forward to reading more in the series.
October 9, 2017
A beautifully written story of two damaged men fated to be together. I loved the back and forth POV. I can see how this will become a successful series from the interesting characters waiting in the wings.
i-give-up
June 28, 2018*****narration review only*****
Let me preface this by saying that I'm a Joel Leslie fan. I have enjoyed quite a few of his narrations. (I listen to The Weight of It All and Switched at least once a month) Sometimes, a voice chosen for a character just doesn't work for me. That was the case here. I have no idea if I would have enjoyed this story because the voice for Jonathon grated on my nerves. I couldn't get beyond it. I gave up on the narration at 8%. No rating.
Let me preface this by saying that I'm a Joel Leslie fan. I have enjoyed quite a few of his narrations. (I listen to The Weight of It All and Switched at least once a month) Sometimes, a voice chosen for a character just doesn't work for me. That was the case here. I have no idea if I would have enjoyed this story because the voice for Jonathon grated on my nerves. I couldn't get beyond it. I gave up on the narration at 8%. No rating.
October 23, 2019
3.5 stars- good characters, but the romance felt lackluster
Someone to Call My Own is the second book in the Road to Blissville series but takes part within the Curl Up and Dye universe. There’s a lot of overlap with characters and storylines which will be enjoyable to those familiar to the series. Luckily, there’s also enough backtracking and explanations of the continued plot arcs and previous couples’ stories that this book can be read as a standalone.
Someone to Call My Own was one of those books that was up and down for me. The characters and their backstories were really appealing. I enjoyed the storyline of how Emory’s visions began after being in the accident that claimed his husband’s life. I also liked the push and pull of his feelings over the move to Blissville and the emotions Jonathon stirred to life. However, the connection between Jonathon and Emory left me wanting and smacked a bit too much of insta-love. When the two circled each other for months, my interest wanted. Thankfully, the ending and unexpected conflict that arose in the latter half offered a good change of pace and reawakened my interest. Though I thought Emory and Jonathon’s relationship developed a bit more at that point, it felt almost too convenient. I finished the book liking the characters and couple, but let down by their romance.
All that said, I really do enjoy the characters of Blissville and find their fun, quirky personalities thoroughly entertaining. The interwoven friendships truly make for a series that keeps readers coming back for more. Once again Miss Walker’s writing was bright with good pacing and the dialogue flowed well. I just found myself wishing I’d gotten more spark from this couple early on. But will I be back for more from this series? Without a doubt.
Reviewed by Annie from Alpha Book Club
Someone to Call My Own is the second book in the Road to Blissville series but takes part within the Curl Up and Dye universe. There’s a lot of overlap with characters and storylines which will be enjoyable to those familiar to the series. Luckily, there’s also enough backtracking and explanations of the continued plot arcs and previous couples’ stories that this book can be read as a standalone.
Someone to Call My Own was one of those books that was up and down for me. The characters and their backstories were really appealing. I enjoyed the storyline of how Emory’s visions began after being in the accident that claimed his husband’s life. I also liked the push and pull of his feelings over the move to Blissville and the emotions Jonathon stirred to life. However, the connection between Jonathon and Emory left me wanting and smacked a bit too much of insta-love. When the two circled each other for months, my interest wanted. Thankfully, the ending and unexpected conflict that arose in the latter half offered a good change of pace and reawakened my interest. Though I thought Emory and Jonathon’s relationship developed a bit more at that point, it felt almost too convenient. I finished the book liking the characters and couple, but let down by their romance.
All that said, I really do enjoy the characters of Blissville and find their fun, quirky personalities thoroughly entertaining. The interwoven friendships truly make for a series that keeps readers coming back for more. Once again Miss Walker’s writing was bright with good pacing and the dialogue flowed well. I just found myself wishing I’d gotten more spark from this couple early on. But will I be back for more from this series? Without a doubt.
Reviewed by Annie from Alpha Book Club
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