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Skins #1
Dream
I can’t sleep…
When unrequited love leaves Dylan Hart sleepless and nursing his wounds, instinct draws him to the one place he's found mindless respite in the past—Lovato’s. It’s a place for every fantasy — for crazy-hot encounters — where a night of insane NSA sex brings relief to Dylan’s fragile feelings.
It should be a perfect escape, and for one magical night it seems that way, but then worlds collide, and reality bites when his hookup desperately needs a friend. Surely Dylan can’t trust his instincts when friendship has bruised his heart so badly before?
It’s burying me alive…
The deck is stacked against former ballet dancer Angelo Giordano ever finding real love. At least visiting Lovato’s offers respite from a life defined by illness; a glimmer of light in the dull grey of his so-called life without dance. But then he encounters Dylan — a glorious ray of the brightest sunshine — who makes his heart pound once more with purpose.
Angelo’s mind is blown by this man, but the disease that ended his career won’t let him bask in new love. He’s drowning, and Dylan can’t save him while insecurities swamp them both. The only way to make it means confronting their demons.
If Dylan can turn his back on the past, and Angelo can face his uncertain future, maybe they can chase their dreams together.
Standalone. 60000 words. First in the electric new series from bestselling author Garrett Leigh.
When unrequited love leaves Dylan Hart sleepless and nursing his wounds, instinct draws him to the one place he's found mindless respite in the past—Lovato’s. It’s a place for every fantasy — for crazy-hot encounters — where a night of insane NSA sex brings relief to Dylan’s fragile feelings.
It should be a perfect escape, and for one magical night it seems that way, but then worlds collide, and reality bites when his hookup desperately needs a friend. Surely Dylan can’t trust his instincts when friendship has bruised his heart so badly before?
It’s burying me alive…
The deck is stacked against former ballet dancer Angelo Giordano ever finding real love. At least visiting Lovato’s offers respite from a life defined by illness; a glimmer of light in the dull grey of his so-called life without dance. But then he encounters Dylan — a glorious ray of the brightest sunshine — who makes his heart pound once more with purpose.
Angelo’s mind is blown by this man, but the disease that ended his career won’t let him bask in new love. He’s drowning, and Dylan can’t save him while insecurities swamp them both. The only way to make it means confronting their demons.
If Dylan can turn his back on the past, and Angelo can face his uncertain future, maybe they can chase their dreams together.
Standalone. 60000 words. First in the electric new series from bestselling author Garrett Leigh.
254 pages, Paperback
First published January 23, 2018
232 people are currently reading
1247 people want to read
About the author
Garrett Leigh
94 books2,402 followersShe/Her
Bonus Material available for all books on Garrett's Patreon account. Includes short stories from Misfits, Slide, Strays, What Remains, Dream, and much more. Sign up here: https://www.patreon.com/garrettleigh
Facebook Fan Group, Garrett's Den... https://www.facebook.com/groups/garre...
Garrett Leigh is an award-winning British romance author and artist. Her debut novel, Slide, won Best Bisexual Debut at the 2014 Rainbow Book Awards, and she is a 4 time LAMBDA finalist.
In 2017, she won the EPIC award in contemporary romance with her military novel, Between Ghosts, and the contemporary romance category in the Bisexual Book Awards with her novel What Remains.
Garrett is also an award winning cover designer, taking the silver medal at the Benjamin Franklin Book Awards in 2016. She designs for various publishing houses and independent authors at blackjazzdesign.com
Bonus Material available for all books on Garrett's Patreon account. Includes short stories from Misfits, Slide, Strays, What Remains, Dream, and much more. Sign up here: https://www.patreon.com/garrettleigh
Facebook Fan Group, Garrett's Den... https://www.facebook.com/groups/garre...
Garrett Leigh is an award-winning British romance author and artist. Her debut novel, Slide, won Best Bisexual Debut at the 2014 Rainbow Book Awards, and she is a 4 time LAMBDA finalist.
In 2017, she won the EPIC award in contemporary romance with her military novel, Between Ghosts, and the contemporary romance category in the Bisexual Book Awards with her novel What Remains.
Garrett is also an award winning cover designer, taking the silver medal at the Benjamin Franklin Book Awards in 2016. She designs for various publishing houses and independent authors at blackjazzdesign.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 280 reviews
January 12, 2018
~3.5~
Dream is a total downer like every other Garrett Leigh book. Why do ALL of her MCs suffer so much: chronic illness, mental health issues, drug and sexual abuse, financial woes, PTSD, prostitution. It never stops.
Why can't just ONE lead a happy, fulfilling life? There is good in the world!
I hate the way Leigh's books make me feel. I'm an upbeat person, but this book made me so fucking depressed.
The writing is beautiful, and I loved Dylan and Angelo. Dylan deals with anxiety and insomnia; he was the "third" in a three-way relationship with his best friend Sam and Sam's girlfriend but decided that he needed more.
Angelo used to be a dancer, but now he's exhausted and in constant pain. He works at his parents' deli and is in so much debt, he sees no way out.
Dylan and Angelo meet at a club and have hotter-than-hot anonymous sex. When they meet again, Angelo remembers Dylan's voice.
While this is a steamy book (certainly by Leigh's standards), I prefer a slower burn. All but one of the sex scenes are at a club in public view, which just isn't my jam. I need more tenderness.
There was too much Eddie and Sam here. I don't care about some couple I've never heard of before.
There was also way too much info about the UK's welfare bureaucracy or whatever it was that Dylan did. It came across as a little preachy at times.
Honestly, I loved and hated this book—loved the soul-deep love the men forged; hated the pain and cruelty.
P.S. The cover is stunning!
Dream is a total downer like every other Garrett Leigh book. Why do ALL of her MCs suffer so much: chronic illness, mental health issues, drug and sexual abuse, financial woes, PTSD, prostitution. It never stops.
Why can't just ONE lead a happy, fulfilling life? There is good in the world!
I hate the way Leigh's books make me feel. I'm an upbeat person, but this book made me so fucking depressed.
The writing is beautiful, and I loved Dylan and Angelo. Dylan deals with anxiety and insomnia; he was the "third" in a three-way relationship with his best friend Sam and Sam's girlfriend but decided that he needed more.
Angelo used to be a dancer, but now he's exhausted and in constant pain. He works at his parents' deli and is in so much debt, he sees no way out.
Dylan and Angelo meet at a club and have hotter-than-hot anonymous sex. When they meet again, Angelo remembers Dylan's voice.
While this is a steamy book (certainly by Leigh's standards), I prefer a slower burn. All but one of the sex scenes are at a club in public view, which just isn't my jam. I need more tenderness.
There was too much Eddie and Sam here. I don't care about some couple I've never heard of before.
There was also way too much info about the UK's welfare bureaucracy or whatever it was that Dylan did. It came across as a little preachy at times.
Honestly, I loved and hated this book—loved the soul-deep love the men forged; hated the pain and cruelty.
P.S. The cover is stunning!
April 26, 2018
4.5
Warning...voyeurism,a bit of kink,HOT,great chemistry,beautiful boys,emotional...
This is one of my favourite books by this Author.Right,so this is definitely one of her sexist books in terms of descriptive sex but it almost didn't matter here to a certain extent because Garrett Leigh is one of the best MM Authors who totally nails the chemistry between her characters...and that's pretty special,getting that connection might seem effortless when you're reading her books but that's the beauty of her writing.
This was such an easy book to read,if you get me.I read it in about 24 hours and at no point did I even check my reading progress...I was so caught up in these two men.
Dylan and Angelo hook up in a sex club...yes,I was a bit concerned because BDSM isn't my thing at all but there's no hardcore stuff here....in fact( for once ) I found myself enjoying scenes in a sex club...because...voyeurism,and it was super sexy.Turns out these boys like being watched and that's definitely my kink in books.
A one time thing,so they thought,turns into so much more when their paths cross in their every day lives.
It's not all sunshine and roses here.Both men aren't really in a good place when they meet but it almost seems like fate when they do....they complemented each other so well and I absolutely adored both of them for different reasons.
Highly Recommended.
An Arc of Dream was kindly provided to DirtyBooksObsession in exchange for an honest review.
Warning...voyeurism,a bit of kink,HOT,great chemistry,beautiful boys,emotional...
This is one of my favourite books by this Author.Right,so this is definitely one of her sexist books in terms of descriptive sex but it almost didn't matter here to a certain extent because Garrett Leigh is one of the best MM Authors who totally nails the chemistry between her characters...and that's pretty special,getting that connection might seem effortless when you're reading her books but that's the beauty of her writing.
This was such an easy book to read,if you get me.I read it in about 24 hours and at no point did I even check my reading progress...I was so caught up in these two men.
Dylan and Angelo hook up in a sex club...yes,I was a bit concerned because BDSM isn't my thing at all but there's no hardcore stuff here....in fact( for once ) I found myself enjoying scenes in a sex club...because...voyeurism,and it was super sexy.Turns out these boys like being watched and that's definitely my kink in books.
A one time thing,so they thought,turns into so much more when their paths cross in their every day lives.
It's not all sunshine and roses here.Both men aren't really in a good place when they meet but it almost seems like fate when they do....they complemented each other so well and I absolutely adored both of them for different reasons.
Highly Recommended.
An Arc of Dream was kindly provided to DirtyBooksObsession in exchange for an honest review.
My reviews are posted on DirtyBooksObsession
January 19, 2018
*4.5 stars*
Correct me if I'm wrong but I think this was the sexiest Garrett Leigh book to date! It's also a very sex positive book. This is the part where I feel that a lot of writers screw up, and I love that there is no slut shaming in a Garrett Leigh book. This author nails this genre because she gives the readers what they want, but always without fetishizing anyone's orientation and with a deep respect for people's bisexuality or pansexuality. This is exactly what Skins is all about.
Angelo and Dylan meet in a sex club and their first encounter will set your e-reader on fire! But unexpectedely, fantasy meets real life a few days later. So basically, their story starts with a hook up, turns to friendship, and ends up being a deeply romantic relationship.
There's no hardcore BDSM here but there is a nice dose of kink, mostly exhibitionism. Also, a threesome scene (hot!).
I'm not a doctor, but Angelo's illness seemed very well-researched to me. It's also a big part of what drives the plot. As the story goes, the two men try to navigate their newfound friendship, a blooming love, money and family problems and the debilitating symptoms of a chronic illness.
It might seem too much and I must admit that I was expecting an endless pit of angst, myself. But despite the grittiness, the story read pretty easily and the angst never overwhelmed me.
Dylan first appear in What Matters, so if you 've read that you 'll recognize Sam and Eddie. I also LOVED the shoutout to Cass and Tom from Misfits (highly recommended).
Overall, this was a great beginning to a new series that I will definitely keep reading. Can we hope for a story about Rhys?
"They were different men, but their dreams were the same."
Correct me if I'm wrong but I think this was the sexiest Garrett Leigh book to date! It's also a very sex positive book. This is the part where I feel that a lot of writers screw up, and I love that there is no slut shaming in a Garrett Leigh book. This author nails this genre because she gives the readers what they want, but always without fetishizing anyone's orientation and with a deep respect for people's bisexuality or pansexuality. This is exactly what Skins is all about.
Angelo and Dylan meet in a sex club and their first encounter will set your e-reader on fire! But unexpectedely, fantasy meets real life a few days later. So basically, their story starts with a hook up, turns to friendship, and ends up being a deeply romantic relationship.
There's no hardcore BDSM here but there is a nice dose of kink, mostly exhibitionism. Also, a threesome scene (hot!).
I'm not a doctor, but Angelo's illness seemed very well-researched to me. It's also a big part of what drives the plot. As the story goes, the two men try to navigate their newfound friendship, a blooming love, money and family problems and the debilitating symptoms of a chronic illness.
It might seem too much and I must admit that I was expecting an endless pit of angst, myself. But despite the grittiness, the story read pretty easily and the angst never overwhelmed me.
Dylan first appear in What Matters, so if you 've read that you 'll recognize Sam and Eddie. I also LOVED the shoutout to Cass and Tom from Misfits (highly recommended).
Overall, this was a great beginning to a new series that I will definitely keep reading. Can we hope for a story about Rhys?
February 8, 2024
This story is intense, painful, tearful and exhausting. And perhaps leaves you with a slightly bad feeling? I'm not quite sure. I'm happy with the ending, the story is very well told and written. But the plot is simply not one that can really make you happy.
Nor is it a typical romance. Angelo and Dylan are going about everything kind of wrong, not wrong, but it's just the situation where they "meet" in a sex club and there's just sexual attraction and liking the same kinks between them at first, like sex with multiple people and exhibitionism, there's more but I think you get the picture.
So you should be aware before reading this that there are various sexual situations that are neither romantic nor exclusive, because there is only a relationship between the two towards the very end of the book.
Why it takes so long is simply due to the very dire and very sad situation Angelo finds himself in. And Dylan isn't the easiest character to have a relationship with either.
Normally I would perhaps go into a few of the hot scenes now, but I just can't. I'm still a bit frazzled by Angelo's illness and everything else. Also, the sex is just an outlet for both of them.
Much more important is how they find each other in a beautiful way. When they decide to give it a chance and take it slower.
A lot of drama and all that, but what remains is that everything feels incredibly realistic and genuine.
“You’ve got that look that social workers give you when your school tells them you’re depressed, and I haven’t exactly shown you my happy side.”
“Do you have one?”
“I did once.” Dylan lifted a stool from the table.
“Where did it go?” 😢😢😢
“You do something to me.”
“Do I make your heart feel like it’s stuck on a spinning top?”
“Yeah, actually. You do.”
“Good.” Angelo’s eyes closed. “Because that’s how you make me feel too.” 💞💞💞
Nor is it a typical romance. Angelo and Dylan are going about everything kind of wrong, not wrong, but it's just the situation where they "meet" in a sex club and there's just sexual attraction and liking the same kinks between them at first, like sex with multiple people and exhibitionism, there's more but I think you get the picture.
So you should be aware before reading this that there are various sexual situations that are neither romantic nor exclusive, because there is only a relationship between the two towards the very end of the book.
Why it takes so long is simply due to the very dire and very sad situation Angelo finds himself in. And Dylan isn't the easiest character to have a relationship with either.
Normally I would perhaps go into a few of the hot scenes now, but I just can't. I'm still a bit frazzled by Angelo's illness and everything else. Also, the sex is just an outlet for both of them.
Much more important is how they find each other in a beautiful way. When they decide to give it a chance and take it slower.
A lot of drama and all that, but what remains is that everything feels incredibly realistic and genuine.
“You’ve got that look that social workers give you when your school tells them you’re depressed, and I haven’t exactly shown you my happy side.”
“Do you have one?”
“I did once.” Dylan lifted a stool from the table.
“Where did it go?” 😢😢😢
“You do something to me.”
“Do I make your heart feel like it’s stuck on a spinning top?”
“Yeah, actually. You do.”
“Good.” Angelo’s eyes closed. “Because that’s how you make me feel too.” 💞💞💞
January 24, 2018
***4.5 Stars***
We all have our dreams. Some are small, some are big. Some are viable, others remain what they are, namely dreams. Sometimes they are the only retreat from real life, the only thing that sees us through it. And how boring life would be without them, right?
Angelo Giordano not only has a dream, he lives it. He lives it by doing something he loves, until a devastating diagnosis of a chronic disease not only ends his career as a ballet dancer, but also nearly ruins him financially. Angelo's only escape to hold up the illusion that he is still in control over his own life unfolds at Lovato's, a secret and voyeuristic sex club that fulfills any wet dream's fantasy. A club where he is Angel, a self-confident man who does not need to worry about his future.
Dylan Hart, on the verge of a new chapter in his life after ending a polyamorous relationship, is a worrier. He worries about everyone he cares for, but also about those who come within his responsibility at work as a debt advisor and it is eating him alive. On the one hand it sucks his energy right out of him, but on the other hand kicks him into overdrive, resulting in insomnia and nightmares and the urgent need to let off some steam by going to the club and hand over control to someone else.
When both men meet at said club, it is supposed to be just a living out of fantasies. An acting out on kinks. A onetime encounter. But fate has other plans. When their fantasy world collides with real life and both men are facing each other in a completely different situation, it is the beginning of a relationship originally based on worry...
... and misunderstandings, but soon evolves into deep feelings which have nothing to do with just being friends-with-benefits, but more with love for each other. Now they just have to find a way to build up a new dream together.
A few pages in and I had to go back to check if I unintentionally picked up the wrong book. I am still far from knowing all of Garrett Leigh's works, but as of yet this was the one with the most hot and kinky sex for me and she throws us right into a scene that leaves nothing to be desired. And this was by far not the only one. For those of you who like their smexy times in books being spiced up with a threesome: I can virtually see your ears perking up now and yes, I'm sure you will be very pleased. :) For those of you who are normally not into such a thing: no worries, it happened right at the beginning of their relationship, when there were no deeper feelings involved yet.
On a personal note, I have to thank the author for bringing Angelo's chronic disease to my attention. I didn't even know that it exists, or I should rather say that I didn't know it classifies as an illness at all. I could so sympathize with his health situation. The bone-deep exhaustion that is still there when I drag my sorry carcass out of bed in the morning although I had a night full of sleep. The brain fog, that makes it hard to concentrate at work or even when I read a book nowadays. As for me, I blamed it on too much stress, but I always wondered about the coming and going ache in my bones without any reason to it. I won't claim that I have the same illness as Angelo or that my symptoms are as bad as his, but at least it gave me a new perspective and it might be worth letting it get checked up.
What I always love about Garrett Leigh's books is that her stories not always follow the conventional way. She adds situations or picks up a topic you normally find rarely in books and still makes it feel real. Does she go easy on the characters in doing so? No. Does she go easy on the reader? No way. But this all adds to getting invested in the characters and all the angst and suffering are so worth it in the end.
This time the solution to Angelo's financial situation was a bit too convenient for me and took away some of the authenticity here. Don't get me wrong, I'm the last to begrudge him this outcome and it was more than well-deserved, but sadly real life simply does not work this way. It was a bit too good to be true, more like the ending of a fairy tale, and I just wish the author would have found a more satisfying solution.
Overall, this was an amazing start to a new series and I hope we will get Rhys's story next. Now you wonder who Rhys is, right? He was the third party in the aforementioned threesome and if that was any indication, his book will surely be another hot addition to this series. *cough*
Highly recommended!
Reviews for Book Lovers
We all have our dreams. Some are small, some are big. Some are viable, others remain what they are, namely dreams. Sometimes they are the only retreat from real life, the only thing that sees us through it. And how boring life would be without them, right?
Angelo Giordano not only has a dream, he lives it. He lives it by doing something he loves, until a devastating diagnosis of a chronic disease not only ends his career as a ballet dancer, but also nearly ruins him financially. Angelo's only escape to hold up the illusion that he is still in control over his own life unfolds at Lovato's, a secret and voyeuristic sex club that fulfills any wet dream's fantasy. A club where he is Angel, a self-confident man who does not need to worry about his future.
Dylan Hart, on the verge of a new chapter in his life after ending a polyamorous relationship, is a worrier. He worries about everyone he cares for, but also about those who come within his responsibility at work as a debt advisor and it is eating him alive. On the one hand it sucks his energy right out of him, but on the other hand kicks him into overdrive, resulting in insomnia and nightmares and the urgent need to let off some steam by going to the club and hand over control to someone else.
When both men meet at said club, it is supposed to be just a living out of fantasies. An acting out on kinks. A onetime encounter. But fate has other plans. When their fantasy world collides with real life and both men are facing each other in a completely different situation, it is the beginning of a relationship originally based on worry...
"You need to live, Angelo, not just survive."
... and misunderstandings, but soon evolves into deep feelings which have nothing to do with just being friends-with-benefits, but more with love for each other. Now they just have to find a way to build up a new dream together.
A few pages in and I had to go back to check if I unintentionally picked up the wrong book. I am still far from knowing all of Garrett Leigh's works, but as of yet this was the one with the most hot and kinky sex for me and she throws us right into a scene that leaves nothing to be desired. And this was by far not the only one. For those of you who like their smexy times in books being spiced up with a threesome: I can virtually see your ears perking up now and yes, I'm sure you will be very pleased. :) For those of you who are normally not into such a thing: no worries, it happened right at the beginning of their relationship, when there were no deeper feelings involved yet.
On a personal note, I have to thank the author for bringing Angelo's chronic disease to my attention. I didn't even know that it exists, or I should rather say that I didn't know it classifies as an illness at all. I could so sympathize with his health situation. The bone-deep exhaustion that is still there when I drag my sorry carcass out of bed in the morning although I had a night full of sleep. The brain fog, that makes it hard to concentrate at work or even when I read a book nowadays. As for me, I blamed it on too much stress, but I always wondered about the coming and going ache in my bones without any reason to it. I won't claim that I have the same illness as Angelo or that my symptoms are as bad as his, but at least it gave me a new perspective and it might be worth letting it get checked up.
What I always love about Garrett Leigh's books is that her stories not always follow the conventional way. She adds situations or picks up a topic you normally find rarely in books and still makes it feel real. Does she go easy on the characters in doing so? No. Does she go easy on the reader? No way. But this all adds to getting invested in the characters and all the angst and suffering are so worth it in the end.
This time the solution to Angelo's financial situation was a bit too convenient for me and took away some of the authenticity here. Don't get me wrong, I'm the last to begrudge him this outcome and it was more than well-deserved, but sadly real life simply does not work this way. It was a bit too good to be true, more like the ending of a fairy tale, and I just wish the author would have found a more satisfying solution.
Overall, this was an amazing start to a new series and I hope we will get Rhys's story next. Now you wonder who Rhys is, right? He was the third party in the aforementioned threesome and if that was any indication, his book will surely be another hot addition to this series. *cough*
Highly recommended!
***ARC generously provided to me in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!***
Reviews for Book Lovers
January 23, 2018
Just awesome. Full review tomorrow when I'm at the laptop.
ETA: Righty, here we go. This book is very definitely the hottest from the pen of Garrett Leigh that I've read. The opening Chapter is beyond hot in fact, it's scorching and celebrates perfectly the utter pleasure that can be found from having sex.
As Ele says perfectly in her review:
I love that there is no slut shaming in a Garrett Leigh book. This author nails this genre because she gives the readers what they want, but always without fetishizing anyone's orientation and with a deep respect for people's bisexuality or pansexuality. This is exactly what Skins is all about.
In this instance, the sex is at a club renowned for its kink and Dylan (who we met in Garrett's alter ego Gracie Leigh's book What Matters needs to have an anonymous "pound me into the mattress" encounter in which he doesn't have to involve any feelings other than the bliss of release.
What he gets, albeit by accident, is Angelo. He doesn't know this at the time, their encounter is everything he hoped for but - quite against the rules - they exchange a few words and when Dylan next hears the same voice working in his day job for the Citizens Advice Bureau, he can't help but be enthralled by the sexy as all out British Italian who comes with it.
“I’m never going to think any less of you when you’re unwell. It’s part of who you are, but it doesn’t define you.”
But Angelo isn't all he seems, his career in New York as a professional ballet dancer - and again I loved the shout out to English National Ballet (one of my absolute favourite dance companies) - had been cut short with an unexpected illness leaving him with huge debt to American insurance companies.
I bloody loved how his illness was dealt with. There are so many conditions which people live and struggle with on a daily basis which allow them to appear okay on the surface when they're struggling underneath to deal with constant pain, forgetfulness and other symptoms.
Her exploration of Angelo's highs and lows as he battled with a chronic disease were genuinely felt and came across as absolutely real.
This book is also Garrett Leigh at her unashamedly British best. This book is set in the unlikely setting of Romford (look it up, it's not the most glamorous of locales ;) but it has a heart to it indicative of a historic market town before it got eaten by Greater London). There's an amusing shout out to Cass and Tom from Garrett's Misfits and their swanky new deli which made me laugh (and a reference to Dylan's encounter with those two hotties).
There is angst but, for me, this was also one of the least angsty of Garrett's books. She writes about real people, they're gritty and reflect true life, they're raw with a honest truth to them which isn't perfect and light and happy all the time. Both men have issues which makes their relationship stutter and falter at times.
But, they also both need the other man desperately and they both recognise there's more than just friends with incendiary hot benefits. Their relationship brings cathartic relief for the stresses and strains each one is dealing with but they don't always communicate when things are tough.
This is the start of a new series and I'm really hoping Rhys (who participates in one of Dylan and Angelo's ridiculously hot club encounters) will get a story too.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review
ETA: Righty, here we go. This book is very definitely the hottest from the pen of Garrett Leigh that I've read. The opening Chapter is beyond hot in fact, it's scorching and celebrates perfectly the utter pleasure that can be found from having sex.
As Ele says perfectly in her review:
I love that there is no slut shaming in a Garrett Leigh book. This author nails this genre because she gives the readers what they want, but always without fetishizing anyone's orientation and with a deep respect for people's bisexuality or pansexuality. This is exactly what Skins is all about.
In this instance, the sex is at a club renowned for its kink and Dylan (who we met in Garrett's alter ego Gracie Leigh's book What Matters needs to have an anonymous "pound me into the mattress" encounter in which he doesn't have to involve any feelings other than the bliss of release.
What he gets, albeit by accident, is Angelo. He doesn't know this at the time, their encounter is everything he hoped for but - quite against the rules - they exchange a few words and when Dylan next hears the same voice working in his day job for the Citizens Advice Bureau, he can't help but be enthralled by the sexy as all out British Italian who comes with it.
“I’m never going to think any less of you when you’re unwell. It’s part of who you are, but it doesn’t define you.”
But Angelo isn't all he seems, his career in New York as a professional ballet dancer - and again I loved the shout out to English National Ballet (one of my absolute favourite dance companies) - had been cut short with an unexpected illness leaving him with huge debt to American insurance companies.
I bloody loved how his illness was dealt with. There are so many conditions which people live and struggle with on a daily basis which allow them to appear okay on the surface when they're struggling underneath to deal with constant pain, forgetfulness and other symptoms.
Her exploration of Angelo's highs and lows as he battled with a chronic disease were genuinely felt and came across as absolutely real.
This book is also Garrett Leigh at her unashamedly British best. This book is set in the unlikely setting of Romford (look it up, it's not the most glamorous of locales ;) but it has a heart to it indicative of a historic market town before it got eaten by Greater London). There's an amusing shout out to Cass and Tom from Garrett's Misfits and their swanky new deli which made me laugh (and a reference to Dylan's encounter with those two hotties).
There is angst but, for me, this was also one of the least angsty of Garrett's books. She writes about real people, they're gritty and reflect true life, they're raw with a honest truth to them which isn't perfect and light and happy all the time. Both men have issues which makes their relationship stutter and falter at times.
But, they also both need the other man desperately and they both recognise there's more than just friends with incendiary hot benefits. Their relationship brings cathartic relief for the stresses and strains each one is dealing with but they don't always communicate when things are tough.
This is the start of a new series and I'm really hoping Rhys (who participates in one of Dylan and Angelo's ridiculously hot club encounters) will get a story too.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review
January 27, 2018
*** 3 Stars ***
I have read quite a few of GL's books and I can safely say that I am a huge fan. Therefore I cannot help but feel extremely disappointed for not loving this as much as all the others.
The story was incredibly hot however, in the past GL always ended up blowing my mind away in her books. I normally feel her stories in my gut. Emotionally wise this time it was not there.
This time I felt as I was being told what to feel.
The MCs were sexually drawn to each other and holy hotness, what a fantastic chemistry!
But that was that. Somehow it felt superficial, it was missing something, that beautiful soul connection I feel when reading a GL book. And surprisingly, despite the drama being heavy which is something I love in her books because it throws me in an emotional loop, this time I didn't connect.
The pace of it wasn't right. A few more layers of depth in their relationship development department would have been nice. It was too fast.
Even Angelo's mother's atittude felt weird to me. She had a sudden change of heart towards her son, going against all her bad, insensible and selfish behaviour from one page to the next. Why did she change so much?
And what about Sam and Eddie? Sam and Eddie who? Loose ends.
The bottom line is that I didn't emotionally connect with the story.
I'll go for a 3 Stars because her writing voice was great as always. Besides, once more, she was incredibly skilled creating imperfect characters so perfectly. GL masters the art of creating flaws in characters without overdoing and I heart that.
Available on Kindle Unlimited ATM
I have read quite a few of GL's books and I can safely say that I am a huge fan. Therefore I cannot help but feel extremely disappointed for not loving this as much as all the others.
The story was incredibly hot however, in the past GL always ended up blowing my mind away in her books. I normally feel her stories in my gut. Emotionally wise this time it was not there.
This time I felt as I was being told what to feel.
The MCs were sexually drawn to each other and holy hotness, what a fantastic chemistry!
But that was that. Somehow it felt superficial, it was missing something, that beautiful soul connection I feel when reading a GL book. And surprisingly, despite the drama being heavy which is something I love in her books because it throws me in an emotional loop, this time I didn't connect.
The pace of it wasn't right. A few more layers of depth in their relationship development department would have been nice. It was too fast.
Even Angelo's mother's atittude felt weird to me. She had a sudden change of heart towards her son, going against all her bad, insensible and selfish behaviour from one page to the next. Why did she change so much?
And what about Sam and Eddie? Sam and Eddie who? Loose ends.
The bottom line is that I didn't emotionally connect with the story.
I'll go for a 3 Stars because her writing voice was great as always. Besides, once more, she was incredibly skilled creating imperfect characters so perfectly. GL masters the art of creating flaws in characters without overdoing and I heart that.
Available on Kindle Unlimited ATM
May 1, 2018
4.5 Stars!
I knew GL could bring the steam. I knew it.
That cover tho. #drools
Loved this bit of a departure for GL. Yeah, it still had that melancholy feel, it was still a bit heavy, the MCs still had issues. And it wasn't super romance-y.
But as always there were lots of feels and a great connection between the MCs.
Really loving this new series!
I knew GL could bring the steam. I knew it.
That cover tho. #drools
Loved this bit of a departure for GL. Yeah, it still had that melancholy feel, it was still a bit heavy, the MCs still had issues. And it wasn't super romance-y.
But as always there were lots of feels and a great connection between the MCs.
Really loving this new series!
June 20, 2018
3.5 stars
I am really struggling with the rating for this one because I felt like I was reading two different books, which totally confused me.
The first half of the book, I didn’t like either M/C and I didn’t feel their connection either. While Dylan was more likeable and friendly, Angelo was angry and I don’t think liked anybody. They both had their issues that they struggled with. Dylan just got out of a three way relationship and was trying to figure out life without his best friend. While Angelo had major financial issues which involved his family.
The second half of the book had a different vibe, at least for me. Many things are discovered and explained, plus a little drama thrown in.
So if you decide to read this one and find yourself struggling, push through the first half. It does get better.
I am really struggling with the rating for this one because I felt like I was reading two different books, which totally confused me.
The first half of the book, I didn’t like either M/C and I didn’t feel their connection either. While Dylan was more likeable and friendly, Angelo was angry and I don’t think liked anybody. They both had their issues that they struggled with. Dylan just got out of a three way relationship and was trying to figure out life without his best friend. While Angelo had major financial issues which involved his family.
The second half of the book had a different vibe, at least for me. Many things are discovered and explained, plus a little drama thrown in.
So if you decide to read this one and find yourself struggling, push through the first half. It does get better.
June 19, 2018
Original. For me.
It starts off with one MC breaking off a 3-way relationship. Then quickly takes us to a sex club scene where our MCs meet for the first time. And yet, it's not erotica. Not in the least. There's no escaping Leigh's signature melancholy in her novels.
Both men have issues. Some physical, some psychological, some financial. There are always issues. Deep, real issues to be dealt with in this author's novels. The MCs often have to find happiness by finding a way to, not necessarily overcome their problems, but at least learn to move past them and live with them. They have to find happiness within their own, and each other's, restrictions.
Something that is not a big part of the plot arch but that I personally appreciated in this story is how all the characters were open minded and frank about sex. There was never any shaming nor even any surprise or drama in relation to their sexuality. It simply was a fact and nothing more. It didn't define their lives or personalities. But it was an integral part of who and how they were.
Because the setting is foreign to me, it felt like a utopian type of environment in spite of the issues most of the characters dealt with. A wonderful, fresh look at "acceptance" for everyone around us.
3.5 stars
It starts off with one MC breaking off a 3-way relationship. Then quickly takes us to a sex club scene where our MCs meet for the first time. And yet, it's not erotica. Not in the least. There's no escaping Leigh's signature melancholy in her novels.
Both men have issues. Some physical, some psychological, some financial. There are always issues. Deep, real issues to be dealt with in this author's novels. The MCs often have to find happiness by finding a way to, not necessarily overcome their problems, but at least learn to move past them and live with them. They have to find happiness within their own, and each other's, restrictions.
Something that is not a big part of the plot arch but that I personally appreciated in this story is how all the characters were open minded and frank about sex. There was never any shaming nor even any surprise or drama in relation to their sexuality. It simply was a fact and nothing more. It didn't define their lives or personalities. But it was an integral part of who and how they were.
Because the setting is foreign to me, it felt like a utopian type of environment in spite of the issues most of the characters dealt with. A wonderful, fresh look at "acceptance" for everyone around us.
3.5 stars
January 31, 2018
Dudaba de leer el libro, la pareja protagonista se conocen y son asiduos de un club de sexo y normalmente no es algo que me atraiga demasiado. Sin embargo, confié en la autora y no me equivoqué. Dream sigue la línea de Garrett Leigh con personajes muy humanos, una atmósfera melancólica, muy british y muy emotivo. He disfrutado mucho la historia de amor con un Angelo y un Dylan con muchísima química, tanto sexual como emocional y con un mensaje real, la vida nos puede dar muchos palos, puede ser muy injusta, pero hay gente buena, es posible encontrar el amor, y aunque no todo se solucione, o la solución a nuestros problemas no sea fácil, también a veces podemos buscar y encontrar una manera de convivir con ellos y ser felices. Tal y como yo lo veo, es todo un canto a la esperanza.
Me ha gustado mucho. Bien escrito, entretenido, enternecedor, romántico, triste, emotivo y muy sexy.
Me ha gustado mucho. Bien escrito, entretenido, enternecedor, romántico, triste, emotivo y muy sexy.
May 5, 2018
4.5 Stars
Dream is the story of two very different men who find each other in the unlikeliest of places - a sex club. It's about the many different masks we all wear and how we get from day to day. It's about striking your balance and learning to cope and finding love.
Dream is also the hottest and sexiest of all of Garrett Leigh's books, that I've read. It starts with a bang and just keeps going! And yet, it never feels overdone. This book is erotic romance at its finest. It's a novel that celebrates sex and I cannot tell you just how gorgeous that is.
Dylan Hart is a nurturer. A carer. He's always there for those that need him, even if it means he goes without or suffers. His job at the Citizen Advice Bureau is stressful, but he goes the extra mile to try to get people the help they need. He actually cares about people; whether he knows them, or not.
Dylan has been in love with his best friend, Sam, for ages, and his occasional 'with benefits' status with Sam and his girlfriend Eddie just complicates things. After deciding that his sanity, and their friendship, won't survive if things continue, he steps away in hopes that some distance will help. In an effort to help himself forget, if only for a little while, he visits his favorite sex club for some anonomos sex. He never expected that his encounter with a man whom he doesn't even know what he looks like to trigger fantasies long after the encounter was over.
Angelo is a former ballet dancer who had to give up his career because of chronic illness. He's a proud man, but he also doesn't really manage his illness all that well. And to top it off, he's taken over running the family deli that has been sinking in debt for years, after his father gambled away all its profits and left a mountain of debt.
Angelo craves connection, even while he can't fathom ever actually achieving it. He loves sex at the club because there is no pressure there. At least not the kind of pressure that results in expectations. Even still, he can't get the encounter with Dylan out of his head.
Both men are complex and well sketched. Angelo's illness seemed really well researched. And Dylan was both caring and a touch insecure. Both are amazingly human, with flaws and strengths and they feel so deeply, even they have trouble measuring.
Dream is more than a romance - it's a love story. And I loved every moment I was lost in this book.
Recommended.
-----------------------------
ARC of Dream was generously provided by the author, in exchange for an honest review.
Dream is the story of two very different men who find each other in the unlikeliest of places - a sex club. It's about the many different masks we all wear and how we get from day to day. It's about striking your balance and learning to cope and finding love.
Dream is also the hottest and sexiest of all of Garrett Leigh's books, that I've read. It starts with a bang and just keeps going! And yet, it never feels overdone. This book is erotic romance at its finest. It's a novel that celebrates sex and I cannot tell you just how gorgeous that is.
“Who takes care of you?”
Dylan Hart is a nurturer. A carer. He's always there for those that need him, even if it means he goes without or suffers. His job at the Citizen Advice Bureau is stressful, but he goes the extra mile to try to get people the help they need. He actually cares about people; whether he knows them, or not.
Dylan has been in love with his best friend, Sam, for ages, and his occasional 'with benefits' status with Sam and his girlfriend Eddie just complicates things. After deciding that his sanity, and their friendship, won't survive if things continue, he steps away in hopes that some distance will help. In an effort to help himself forget, if only for a little while, he visits his favorite sex club for some anonomos sex. He never expected that his encounter with a man whom he doesn't even know what he looks like to trigger fantasies long after the encounter was over.
“I’m never going to think any less of you when you’re unwell. It’s part of who you are, but it doesn’t define you.”
Angelo is a former ballet dancer who had to give up his career because of chronic illness. He's a proud man, but he also doesn't really manage his illness all that well. And to top it off, he's taken over running the family deli that has been sinking in debt for years, after his father gambled away all its profits and left a mountain of debt.
Angelo craves connection, even while he can't fathom ever actually achieving it. He loves sex at the club because there is no pressure there. At least not the kind of pressure that results in expectations. Even still, he can't get the encounter with Dylan out of his head.
"They were different men, but their dreams were the same."
Both men are complex and well sketched. Angelo's illness seemed really well researched. And Dylan was both caring and a touch insecure. Both are amazingly human, with flaws and strengths and they feel so deeply, even they have trouble measuring.
Dream is more than a romance - it's a love story. And I loved every moment I was lost in this book.
Recommended.
-----------------------------
ARC of Dream was generously provided by the author, in exchange for an honest review.
January 22, 2018
Dream by Garret Leigh is smokin' hot, emotional, hurt/comfort/healing goodness. We have two men, Dylan and Angelo, who anonymously hook up at a sex club. Fast forward a few days later, and their lives collide. Things start off shaky, but soon they find themselves unable to resist each other.
Some highlights:
-Dual POVs
-The emotional connection between the characters was intense and romantic. The sex can be hot as all hell, but without a connection, it'd be just pwp. We get two both in this instance.
-Chemistry that is palpable with every encounter between the two main characters...and maybe an extra at one point. ;)
-Hurt/comfort/healing. If you're a hurt/comfort whore like me, this book won't disappoint.
-The pace of the story was smooth and quick.
-The end moved me more than I anticipated.
Garrett Leigh has always been an outstanding author, but I admit I wished she'd add a bit more steam to her stories. *don't judge me!* It seems that my wish came true because her last two books- phew! Hot!
If you're looking for a beautiful story about trust, friendships, love, with a side of kink then give this a try! 4.5 Stars!
February 5, 2025
This was a book, but on the positive side of the "3 star - this was a book" scale.
I needed a horny palate cleanser, and I think this was close to what I wanted?
I think I'd continue this series, as I see the star average goes up.
It got a bit dramatic, and then a bit lovey dovey at the end, but I didn't actually mind it.
The MC's sharing and railing another dude was actually really enjoyable 🥵🥵🥵
Good times, had by me.
(The narration was pretty horrid, NGL. Super robotic and kinda made one of the MC's sound like a chav, but it was tolerable)
I needed a horny palate cleanser, and I think this was close to what I wanted?
I think I'd continue this series, as I see the star average goes up.
It got a bit dramatic, and then a bit lovey dovey at the end, but I didn't actually mind it.
The MC's sharing and railing another dude was actually really enjoyable 🥵🥵🥵
Good times, had by me.
(The narration was pretty horrid, NGL. Super robotic and kinda made one of the MC's sound like a chav, but it was tolerable)
Read
February 9, 2020Audiobook - 3 stars
Story - No rating DNF @ 50%
Maybe it is time to accept GL's books are not for me. We don't mesh well.
I tried but i can't connect with the characters, the chemistry is just not there.
It is me not the book, this series has fave reviews.
Story - No rating DNF @ 50%
Maybe it is time to accept GL's books are not for me. We don't mesh well.
I tried but i can't connect with the characters, the chemistry is just not there.
It is me not the book, this series has fave reviews.
January 28, 2018
First things first…I freaking LOVED this book. Garrett’s books are apologetically painful in the very best way and this angst-ridden ride was no exception. When Leigh creates literary works of art, I imagine they parallel her edible art. Delectable but sometimes biting, succulent and most definitely spicy. My mouth automatically waters when she releases a new book and this was even better because it’s the start of a new series. Yay! What surprised me this round was the character crossovers. To be honest, I didn’t truly pay attention to ‘who’ was in the blurb. I just knew it was the latest and greatest Garrett Special and I had to have it. Interestingly enough, this story intermingles with my favorite and least favorite books from Leigh’s bookshelves. Misfits is easily my favorite and I was thrilled to see Dylan step up to the center stage. Dylan also appeared in What Matters and sadly, Eddie and Sam’s story did not work so well for me. I can’t say I really enjoyed Eddie’s page time anymore than before but it didn’t diminish my enjoyment either.
Leave it to Garrett to start this story with a bang…or more precisely a ruthless shag. Dylan is recovering from a brutal breakup. He was in a poly relationship with his best friend and his girl but a shift occurred and he realized he was on the other side of the rift. Licking his wounds, he decided a distraction was in order. A visit to the local sex club with a session in the basement (blind and ferocious) should help jump-start his clean slate. It was certainly a night to remember. When he runs into his sensational lover at work, his equilibrium is rattled. There’s no denying their fierce attraction. The air around them thrums with electricity, charged like a loose live wire. And just like a power surge the impressive spike leaves them stunned. Dylan craves Angelo with an incessant hunger. Dylan awakens something buried deep in Angelo and he yearns to hold onto it. But Angelo won’t let him in. They both want each other but…something’s gotta give.
What's to like: A polished product is always a guarantee when it comes to anything with Leigh’s signature. Her fastidious research is clear every time. My eyes open a little bit wider with every book. This round it was ME or CFS that she presents and Angelo is desperately trying to hide his condition while fighting a losing battle with his family’s dire situation. He’s hung up his dancing shoes and donned an apron in hopes of salvaging his family’s business. In a final grasp at holding things together, he seeks help from a debt adviser. Of course, the man who has been haunting his dreams since his visit to Lovato’s the week before is the same man searching for a hope and a prayer in his finances. His dreams are simple yet appear completely out of reach. Unless he opens his heart. Which brings me to…..
What's to love: I love how genuine the emotions are between Angelo and Dylan. They are overcome from the very first moment with a torrent of feels. Their passion is intense but they quickly become friends. But Angelo is terrified of allowing anyone past his walls. His life isn’t stable and he can’t saddle a partner to him while he’s sinking. Hitting rock bottom brings everything into focus. But is he too late? And why would Dylan want him with all of his baggage? Because he’s strapped like a pack mule at the moment. He’s better off alone. Right? *hint* Nope. Angelo isn’t the only one struggling. Dylan craves to move forward but he must stop lingering with one foot in the past. I desperately wished for them find their footing together. Can they set their hearts on the same path? You should really find out.
Beware of: Angst. Heat. And more angst. With a heavy dose of real life. Oh and a scorching ménage scene at the sex club should pick up your heartbeat a notch or ten.
This book is for: Garrett fans will most definitely want to grab this little dream as soon as possible. And don’t forget, several more Skins releases are coming this year!
Book UNfunk
Leave it to Garrett to start this story with a bang…or more precisely a ruthless shag. Dylan is recovering from a brutal breakup. He was in a poly relationship with his best friend and his girl but a shift occurred and he realized he was on the other side of the rift. Licking his wounds, he decided a distraction was in order. A visit to the local sex club with a session in the basement (blind and ferocious) should help jump-start his clean slate. It was certainly a night to remember. When he runs into his sensational lover at work, his equilibrium is rattled. There’s no denying their fierce attraction. The air around them thrums with electricity, charged like a loose live wire. And just like a power surge the impressive spike leaves them stunned. Dylan craves Angelo with an incessant hunger. Dylan awakens something buried deep in Angelo and he yearns to hold onto it. But Angelo won’t let him in. They both want each other but…something’s gotta give.
What's to like: A polished product is always a guarantee when it comes to anything with Leigh’s signature. Her fastidious research is clear every time. My eyes open a little bit wider with every book. This round it was ME or CFS that she presents and Angelo is desperately trying to hide his condition while fighting a losing battle with his family’s dire situation. He’s hung up his dancing shoes and donned an apron in hopes of salvaging his family’s business. In a final grasp at holding things together, he seeks help from a debt adviser. Of course, the man who has been haunting his dreams since his visit to Lovato’s the week before is the same man searching for a hope and a prayer in his finances. His dreams are simple yet appear completely out of reach. Unless he opens his heart. Which brings me to…..
What's to love: I love how genuine the emotions are between Angelo and Dylan. They are overcome from the very first moment with a torrent of feels. Their passion is intense but they quickly become friends. But Angelo is terrified of allowing anyone past his walls. His life isn’t stable and he can’t saddle a partner to him while he’s sinking. Hitting rock bottom brings everything into focus. But is he too late? And why would Dylan want him with all of his baggage? Because he’s strapped like a pack mule at the moment. He’s better off alone. Right? *hint* Nope. Angelo isn’t the only one struggling. Dylan craves to move forward but he must stop lingering with one foot in the past. I desperately wished for them find their footing together. Can they set their hearts on the same path? You should really find out.
Beware of: Angst. Heat. And more angst. With a heavy dose of real life. Oh and a scorching ménage scene at the sex club should pick up your heartbeat a notch or ten.
This book is for: Garrett fans will most definitely want to grab this little dream as soon as possible. And don’t forget, several more Skins releases are coming this year!
Book UNfunk
January 31, 2024
3.5 ⭐️
Their relationship was messy, but it was realistic. If you are familiar with this author, you’ll find the angst pretty much the same, but I can’t help rooting for them together because I understand how hard it is to be in their place, to love and to be loved. I am glad that they didn’t give up on each other.
Their relationship start from sex, but then actually take their time to slow down and learn about each other, love that very much.
I also love the touch of them not getting married in the epilogue. Both still share the same dreams and it might sound complicated but yes, marriage is not for everyone.
I didn’t give this higher because it wasn’t an excellent book. Also there was OM in this book without any warnings. I dislike that.
Their relationship was messy, but it was realistic. If you are familiar with this author, you’ll find the angst pretty much the same, but I can’t help rooting for them together because I understand how hard it is to be in their place, to love and to be loved. I am glad that they didn’t give up on each other.
Their relationship start from sex, but then actually take their time to slow down and learn about each other, love that very much.
I also love the touch of them not getting married in the epilogue. Both still share the same dreams and it might sound complicated but yes, marriage is not for everyone.
I didn’t give this higher because it wasn’t an excellent book. Also there was OM in this book without any warnings. I dislike that.
Want to read
April 28, 20184/28/18 Currently FREE via Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0792NRTH6/
January 23, 2018
I’ve never met a Garrett Leigh book I didn’t like, including this one. It’s a little bleak at times, but with POV’s from both characters pulling me right into their thoughts and feelings. Dylan appeared in another book that I did not read, that was MF with Dylan as a third. Dylan and Angelo “meet”, sort of, in a voyeuristic sex club called Lovato’s, where men can indulge certain fantasies. As a financial advisor for people down on their luck, Dylan doesn’t realize who Angelo is when he later appears in his office, until Angelo gets angry and reveals it. It takes a lot of misunderstandings and struggles to communicate to get to a solid relationship. Finding out the disease Angelo had blew me away, as it’s my own condition, and I’ve never seen it addressed in a story before. I really got into his character, especially seeing his trouble getting diagnosed while in the US, costing him all his savings. Dylan’s job was a little hard to understand, but Garrett adds context that makes it easier for Americans to understand the difference about social services in the UK.
Angelo is incredibly stubborn and Dylan has to persevere to get anywhere with him, also getting fed up a few times. He’s no doormat but he has great empathy and can admit to his own shortcomings too. I did really enjoy a lot of it, but the story didn’t reach its full potential with plot, seeming to lose its way towards the end. I never quite understood Angelo and his mother, why he didn’t try harder to talk to her and then her sudden 180. It made the ending and solutions too fast and easy after all the problems for Angelo. I also didn’t always care for some of the sex scenes in the club, not that anything’s wrong with them, just not my taste. Last, the attack on Dylan seemed disconnected from anything else in the story, kind of unnecessary. Nevertheless, Angelo and Dylan were characters I connected with and the relationship development was solid. The epilogue did offer an HFN with a strong promise of an HEA.
*An ARC was provided by the author, publisher or promotional service and I have chosen to publish a fair and honest review for Hearts On Fire Reviews blog*
Angelo is incredibly stubborn and Dylan has to persevere to get anywhere with him, also getting fed up a few times. He’s no doormat but he has great empathy and can admit to his own shortcomings too. I did really enjoy a lot of it, but the story didn’t reach its full potential with plot, seeming to lose its way towards the end. I never quite understood Angelo and his mother, why he didn’t try harder to talk to her and then her sudden 180. It made the ending and solutions too fast and easy after all the problems for Angelo. I also didn’t always care for some of the sex scenes in the club, not that anything’s wrong with them, just not my taste. Last, the attack on Dylan seemed disconnected from anything else in the story, kind of unnecessary. Nevertheless, Angelo and Dylan were characters I connected with and the relationship development was solid. The epilogue did offer an HFN with a strong promise of an HEA.
*An ARC was provided by the author, publisher or promotional service and I have chosen to publish a fair and honest review for Hearts On Fire Reviews blog*
February 2, 2018
Really enjoyed this.
Another very touching book by Garrett Leigh.
Another very touching book by Garrett Leigh.
July 17, 2018
*shrugs*
There was something off about this book that stopped me from loving it. I enjoy GL's writing, I have enjoyed it ever since Rented Heart. I like the flawed characters she builds. I liked Angelo and Dylan's struggles and how they defined their journey.
However I couldn't connect so well to the MCs as to give this book 4 or 5 stars. It felt to me that the book might have been written too fast and maybe it needed one more rewriting to strengthen some of the scenes before being published. I'm adding the scenes I'm referring to under spoiler.
The sex scenes were hot, GL knows how to write 'em.
She's still on my auto buy even if I gave Dream 3 stars.
Still recommend the book, maybe it's me, not the book.
There was something off about this book that stopped me from loving it. I enjoy GL's writing, I have enjoyed it ever since Rented Heart. I like the flawed characters she builds. I liked Angelo and Dylan's struggles and how they defined their journey.
However I couldn't connect so well to the MCs as to give this book 4 or 5 stars. It felt to me that the book might have been written too fast and maybe it needed one more rewriting to strengthen some of the scenes before being published. I'm adding the scenes I'm referring to under spoiler.
The sex scenes were hot, GL knows how to write 'em.
She's still on my auto buy even if I gave Dream 3 stars.
Still recommend the book, maybe it's me, not the book.
May 16, 2018
A complimentary copy was provided in exchange for an honest review (but I was also able to grab this for free from Amazon).
I enjoyed this more than I did Whisper (book 2). The relationship between Dylan and Angelo was very insta (which I hate), but I was able to overlook it in this case (for the most part) because the chemistry between these guys was so amazing! I love Garrett Leigh as a writer and will read anything she writes. I can't say this (or Whisper) will make it to my top 5 GL books, but that doesn't mean I didn't like it/them. Dream is on the lighter side to what GL traditionally writes, and that was fun.
When Angelo and Dylan meet for the first time, I was so, so anxious and excited, eager to what would happen between them. If nothing else, I will re-read that scene over and over. ;) These guys are just explosive together, and they recognize they burned hot and bright right from the start and need to slow things down before they burn out. It's obvious they both care about the other (despite Angelo being standoffish) and they don't want to ruin what they could have together by simply having sex and not talking to each other and getting to know the other.
I would have loved to have seen Dylan and Sam and Eddie together. How hot would that have been? And I was totally thrown to learn Eddie was a girl!!! In the beginning of the story when Dylan is doing his internal monologue about Sam and Eddie and their 3-way relationship, I was like, whoa baby!! And then - then Dylan uses "she" to describe Eddie, and I was like, awwwww, well shoot. So I had to re-read the beginning of the story and picture it a totally new way. But, I did get to read about Angelo and Dylan playing at Lovato's with Rhys, and that was very nice. ;)
The dramafest for this story is a little unbelievable. Angelo's mother is a completely selfish and self absorbed, clueless person. Her husband bankrupted them and gambled their money away, doing a piss-poor job of managing their restaurant/diner. When Angelo comes home to help, she is ungrateful and does not do ANYTHING to help relieve the financial burden. She refused to sell her home or raise the menu prices to help from going in the hole. When creditors finally came calling and took the diner's supplies and things to get their money, Angelo's mother has a hissy fit and says he didn't do enough to save the business. Uh - seriously? I wanted to punch her. She does eventually see the light, but Angelo is too forgiving of her. Had she done what needed to be done right from the start, everything would have been much better off.
Despite that dramafest situation (and another that happens later to Dylan) I had fun with this story and think Angelo and Dylan are my favs of the series so far. I give this 4 stars.
I enjoyed this more than I did Whisper (book 2). The relationship between Dylan and Angelo was very insta (which I hate), but I was able to overlook it in this case (for the most part) because the chemistry between these guys was so amazing! I love Garrett Leigh as a writer and will read anything she writes. I can't say this (or Whisper) will make it to my top 5 GL books, but that doesn't mean I didn't like it/them. Dream is on the lighter side to what GL traditionally writes, and that was fun.
When Angelo and Dylan meet for the first time, I was so, so anxious and excited, eager to what would happen between them. If nothing else, I will re-read that scene over and over. ;) These guys are just explosive together, and they recognize they burned hot and bright right from the start and need to slow things down before they burn out. It's obvious they both care about the other (despite Angelo being standoffish) and they don't want to ruin what they could have together by simply having sex and not talking to each other and getting to know the other.
I would have loved to have seen Dylan and Sam and Eddie together. How hot would that have been? And I was totally thrown to learn Eddie was a girl!!! In the beginning of the story when Dylan is doing his internal monologue about Sam and Eddie and their 3-way relationship, I was like, whoa baby!! And then - then Dylan uses "she" to describe Eddie, and I was like, awwwww, well shoot. So I had to re-read the beginning of the story and picture it a totally new way. But, I did get to read about Angelo and Dylan playing at Lovato's with Rhys, and that was very nice. ;)
The dramafest for this story is a little unbelievable. Angelo's mother is a completely selfish and self absorbed, clueless person. Her husband bankrupted them and gambled their money away, doing a piss-poor job of managing their restaurant/diner. When Angelo comes home to help, she is ungrateful and does not do ANYTHING to help relieve the financial burden. She refused to sell her home or raise the menu prices to help from going in the hole. When creditors finally came calling and took the diner's supplies and things to get their money, Angelo's mother has a hissy fit and says he didn't do enough to save the business. Uh - seriously? I wanted to punch her. She does eventually see the light, but Angelo is too forgiving of her. Had she done what needed to be done right from the start, everything would have been much better off.
Despite that dramafest situation (and another that happens later to Dylan) I had fun with this story and think Angelo and Dylan are my favs of the series so far. I give this 4 stars.
June 27, 2024
I'm reading all these books in completely the wrong order but I'm obsessed with this story universe - it feels like every character is a real person, and I love that they're all set in places I actually know 😂
Loved getting to know Angelo better - he's popped up in a few books now so it's nice to finally see who he is. Also liked getting to know Dylan but only his name has been mentioned before so he was more of a mystery.
I like how Garrett Leigh always includes some kind of medical issue in these stories too because that makes it feel more realistic to me.
Ready for Harry and Joe next!
Loved getting to know Angelo better - he's popped up in a few books now so it's nice to finally see who he is. Also liked getting to know Dylan but only his name has been mentioned before so he was more of a mystery.
I like how Garrett Leigh always includes some kind of medical issue in these stories too because that makes it feel more realistic to me.
Ready for Harry and Joe next!
April 11, 2019
Audiobook reviewI’m a huge fan of Garrett Leigh, she’s written some pretty fantastic books. Broken and dented characters and plenty of angst and feels are par for course in all her stories. As far as dented characters and angst filled pages Dream is right up there. But as far as the rest goes, this book didn’t speak to me as much as her previous books have.
Dylan and Angelo are both dented in their own way. Dylan is wary of relationship since his latest one ended up hurting him more than he imagined. Add in insomnia and anxiety and he had enough on his plate without adding another person to the mix. Angelo on the other hand lost his dream as a professional dancer when his constant exhaustion and pain forced him out. To escape from reality they both frequent Lovato's, a place not for the shy or faint-hearted. Their encounter made them both want more. Much more.
For everyone loving hot and dirty sex scenes with kink and exhibition thrown in this book will definitely be right up your alley. It starts right off the bat and has a strong presence throughout. It's not really my thing and made me wish for more. More of a connection, emotional one, not one based on lust, need or want. That's all on me though.
I think that a lot of the reasons why I didn’t enjoy Dream was Shaun Grindell’s narration. When I started listening to this book I immediately noticed two things; I loved Grindell's accent, the Irish one was also great. They were without a doubt the best part of the narration. The second thing I noticed was that he didn't have a natural flow in his narration. He added small pauses between sentences and it made the book feel stilted and a bit off. It kept the listener from connecting to the story and character, to the point where I feel that I most likely won't listen to the rest of the series. Which is a shame as I've been looking forward to it for a long time.
A copy of this book was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
November 30, 2020
Writing this review is somewhat painful. I generally LOVE Leigh’s writing and characters, her books move me, immerse me, envelop me in warmth and feels. Dream felt like Garrett Leigh in as much as it was gritty and heavy, with flawed, complex characters but the story didn’t seem to flow as seamlessly as usual.
Dream had good bones and interesting, compelling characters but, for me, the story failed somewhat in execution. There were inconsistencies in the plot and at times it felt disjointed and forced. Plot elements that went nowhere were abruptly introduced out of the blue and then left unexplained. It almost felt like these references were setting up for future events but then were never revisited. Because these elements didn’t fit seamlessly into the story, they just stuck out as confusing and odd.
I fully expected Dream to leave me feeling wonderfully wrung out, full of all the beautiful feelings I have come to expect from a Garrett Leigh book. I am sad to say that for me, it just didn’t flow with the same fluid, organic ease and grace that Leigh’s books usually do. Still, the characters are lovely and their lives, interactions and hardships moved me, so even though I haven’t given it the highest rating, I do recommend it.
3.5 stars rounded down.
Dream had good bones and interesting, compelling characters but, for me, the story failed somewhat in execution. There were inconsistencies in the plot and at times it felt disjointed and forced. Plot elements that went nowhere were abruptly introduced out of the blue and then left unexplained. It almost felt like these references were setting up for future events but then were never revisited. Because these elements didn’t fit seamlessly into the story, they just stuck out as confusing and odd.
I fully expected Dream to leave me feeling wonderfully wrung out, full of all the beautiful feelings I have come to expect from a Garrett Leigh book. I am sad to say that for me, it just didn’t flow with the same fluid, organic ease and grace that Leigh’s books usually do. Still, the characters are lovely and their lives, interactions and hardships moved me, so even though I haven’t given it the highest rating, I do recommend it.
3.5 stars rounded down.
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January 17, 2018DNF pretty early on.
I can tell this is not my cuppa. I'm so sorry for not being able to do this.
*ARC provided by the author*
I can tell this is not my cuppa. I'm so sorry for not being able to do this.
*ARC provided by the author*
January 25, 2018
This book doesn't need any explanation.
ENJOY! :) With <3
ENJOY! :) With <3
January 24, 2018
4 Stars
Reviewed for Just Love https://justlovereviews.com/2018/01/2...
ARC received courtesy of author in exchange for an honest and fair review.
So… Dream is like, PHWOARRR hot. Anyone who’s read Garrett Leigh is aware that fuck-hot sex is her signature, but Dream literally starts off with a bang. An anonymous, sweaty, no-holds-barred kink club marathon bang. Yes, I do realize I just spoiled the opening salvo for you but I regret nothing. Consider it a warning of sorts. To y’know, sit down and remember to breathe through it.
While the raw passion between Dylan and Angelo took my breath away, even the dark and mysterious club setting couldn’t mute the magnetic chemistry between them – yet another Garrett Leigh signature. Even though their subsequent encounters outside the club didn’t go as smoothly, their attraction was undeniable and I loved the way they kept gravitating to each other despite having more than enough on their plates in their busy lives.
Dream started off with Dylan, who had been pining for his best friend Sam for years, pulling back from their friendship in the hopes of finding his own happiness. Having been introduced to Dylan in What Matters (the author’s M/F debut under the pseudonym Gracie Leigh), I was very excited to read his story. I may have been intrigued by him in What Matters but I was a complete and total goner for him in Dream. He was an easy character to love from the very start – open and giving and so, so vulnerable – both in his complicated relationship with Sam and for his developing feelings for Angelo. I never really understood the term “cinnamon roll” until I met Dylan – I just wanted to cuddle him and keep him safe. I loved that he was not afraid to let his feelings show when he wanted to see where things could go with Angelo.
And who wouldn’t want more Angelo? Drop dead gorgeous with sultry looks and a dancer’s killer bod, his character was in many ways even more vulnerable than Dylan’s. But with the weight of the world on his once strong shoulders, Angelo seemed more like a wounded lion past his prime, too proud and too scared to let down his guard. It broke my heart to see him afraid to hope and take everything Dylan had to offer after barely surviving practically on his own for so long. This was a stark contrast to the persona he presented to the world, particularly at Lovato’s. I was especially fascinated by his transformation whenever he was in Lovato’s – it was probably reminiscent of his former carefree self, oozing confidence and sex appeal.
What I liked the most about the book was seeing the two of them attempt to build something together outside of the club. It was a slow and sometimes torturous process that required honesty and patience and the kind of trust both men were in short supply of. Angelo had to learn that it was okay to lean on someone else as he struggled with his family’s dying business, his own crippling health and debt to match. Once Dylan got over his own hangups (tied to his messy relationship with Sam and Sam’s girlfriend Eddie), I adored how present and supportive he was of Angelo. I also appreciated that despite his steady job, financial know-how and desire to help, Dylan did not in any way come off as Angelo’s savior.
It’s no surprise that I adored the bi rep in as seen through Dylan’s eyes as he struggled with letting go the fantasy of him and his best friend Sam. I also loved the bit of open play the two men indulged in at the club, as well as the possibility for more in their future together. There was some social commentary on healthcare, social and financial services and the general state of the world that resonated with me and I should note, did not come off as preachy.
Despite how much I was loving our heroes and the steady build of their relationship, the book sort of lost me after a shakeup well into the final third. The story was thrown into overdrive and unfortunately adversely affected what would have been a very convincing HEA for me. While logically I know that dramatic events spur people to grab life (and love) by the horns, something about the way this played out for them took me out of the story. I also questioned the unexpected change in Angelo’s fortunes and thought perhaps that would have been more suitable for the epilogue, especially seeing the way he was slowly getting his life together.
Despite the shaky end, I absolutely adored Dylan and Angelo and am dying to read more of this new series. Those of you who read What Matters will appreciate that Sam and Eddie are well featured in the book, and there’s even an easter egg for lovers of Misfits and Strays.
Reviewed for Just Love https://justlovereviews.com/2018/01/2...
ARC received courtesy of author in exchange for an honest and fair review.
So… Dream is like, PHWOARRR hot. Anyone who’s read Garrett Leigh is aware that fuck-hot sex is her signature, but Dream literally starts off with a bang. An anonymous, sweaty, no-holds-barred kink club marathon bang. Yes, I do realize I just spoiled the opening salvo for you but I regret nothing. Consider it a warning of sorts. To y’know, sit down and remember to breathe through it.
While the raw passion between Dylan and Angelo took my breath away, even the dark and mysterious club setting couldn’t mute the magnetic chemistry between them – yet another Garrett Leigh signature. Even though their subsequent encounters outside the club didn’t go as smoothly, their attraction was undeniable and I loved the way they kept gravitating to each other despite having more than enough on their plates in their busy lives.
Dream started off with Dylan, who had been pining for his best friend Sam for years, pulling back from their friendship in the hopes of finding his own happiness. Having been introduced to Dylan in What Matters (the author’s M/F debut under the pseudonym Gracie Leigh), I was very excited to read his story. I may have been intrigued by him in What Matters but I was a complete and total goner for him in Dream. He was an easy character to love from the very start – open and giving and so, so vulnerable – both in his complicated relationship with Sam and for his developing feelings for Angelo. I never really understood the term “cinnamon roll” until I met Dylan – I just wanted to cuddle him and keep him safe. I loved that he was not afraid to let his feelings show when he wanted to see where things could go with Angelo.
And who wouldn’t want more Angelo? Drop dead gorgeous with sultry looks and a dancer’s killer bod, his character was in many ways even more vulnerable than Dylan’s. But with the weight of the world on his once strong shoulders, Angelo seemed more like a wounded lion past his prime, too proud and too scared to let down his guard. It broke my heart to see him afraid to hope and take everything Dylan had to offer after barely surviving practically on his own for so long. This was a stark contrast to the persona he presented to the world, particularly at Lovato’s. I was especially fascinated by his transformation whenever he was in Lovato’s – it was probably reminiscent of his former carefree self, oozing confidence and sex appeal.
What I liked the most about the book was seeing the two of them attempt to build something together outside of the club. It was a slow and sometimes torturous process that required honesty and patience and the kind of trust both men were in short supply of. Angelo had to learn that it was okay to lean on someone else as he struggled with his family’s dying business, his own crippling health and debt to match. Once Dylan got over his own hangups (tied to his messy relationship with Sam and Sam’s girlfriend Eddie), I adored how present and supportive he was of Angelo. I also appreciated that despite his steady job, financial know-how and desire to help, Dylan did not in any way come off as Angelo’s savior.
It’s no surprise that I adored the bi rep in as seen through Dylan’s eyes as he struggled with letting go the fantasy of him and his best friend Sam. I also loved the bit of open play the two men indulged in at the club, as well as the possibility for more in their future together. There was some social commentary on healthcare, social and financial services and the general state of the world that resonated with me and I should note, did not come off as preachy.
Despite how much I was loving our heroes and the steady build of their relationship, the book sort of lost me after a shakeup well into the final third. The story was thrown into overdrive and unfortunately adversely affected what would have been a very convincing HEA for me. While logically I know that dramatic events spur people to grab life (and love) by the horns, something about the way this played out for them took me out of the story. I also questioned the unexpected change in Angelo’s fortunes and thought perhaps that would have been more suitable for the epilogue, especially seeing the way he was slowly getting his life together.
Despite the shaky end, I absolutely adored Dylan and Angelo and am dying to read more of this new series. Those of you who read What Matters will appreciate that Sam and Eddie are well featured in the book, and there’s even an easter egg for lovers of Misfits and Strays.
May 17, 2018
3.75 stars rounded up
I really did enjoy this story and Angelo and Dylan together. They were scorching hot together and their connection was really good and lovely.
I think my biggest problem is not even that there is a threesome in this it's more that they talk about others they find attractive with each other like they wouldn't mind being with more people in the future - but nothing else happens with anyone so I was unclear if they were monogamous or their relationship was an open one.
As one who isn't a fan of open relationships it bothered me because I have no idea if Angelo and Dylan are just them together (even when they had thoughts like "he was the only one for me, no one else compared" or "I was in love with him" there were still comments made that made it unclear if they were joking or serious about them still "playing" with others at the club? idk) or if they have threesomes occasionally like they did at 30%. I mean neither had thoughts of being bothered or jealous of them with someone else in a sexual way (with romantic feelings, a tad, but even then...not much).
So I have no idea, and that bothers me, that it isn't clear. I mean I can assume that they're monogamous but at the end there was a preview for them which tells me there will be another novel with them - and who knows if it'll be just them in that book? Idk, it bothers me, while I get it might not bother others, but yeah...just a little clarity would have been nice.
I spent like...the whole book worried a threesome would happen again. And the characters didn't help to dispel that worry.
But despite all that...this was an interesting read, and fun during the sexy times between Angelo and Dylan and hot - I don't mind people looking at them having sex (I just mind anyone else involved *sigh*).
If you don't mind threesomes and a potentially (?) open relationship then I think you'll enjoy this a lot.
I was actually expecting a ton more angst than what was in this. Don't get me wrong, there was plenty of Garret Leigh angst, but it wasn't unbearable angst.
I felt so bad for Angelo - having that disease would freak me out all the time, wondering if I would get exhausted at any moment, and so on - and what he had to deal with, but it was awesome seeing him learning to deal with it and get better at managing his disease and being able to live life almost normally with Dylan.
Dylan, I felt we didn't get as much of him as with Angelo. We got stuff, but he wasn't really focused - maybe because he didn't have as much angst in his life as Angelo, but I think characters can be just as interesting without a ton of angst, so I would have loved more with Dylan and his life, and maybe more on his father and his mother who left them.
Not that Dylan was an absent character, he had plenty of characterization and complexity - just not a ton of focus on him. This mainly felt like Angelo's story and journey.
Dylan did have some stuff of his own to deal with, but it wasn't as big as Angelo's so it wasn't focused on that much.
So overall I enjoyed this (although I wasn't that impressed by the threesome and didn't much care for it. But maybe that's because with romantic couples threesomes really isn't my thing, idk *shrug*) and it was well written with well developed, complex characters.
I dunno if I'll continue the series. Maybe. But if you haven't read this book yet and you wish too (and can either get past threesomes or don't mind them and love them) then I recommend this book. It was good.
I really did enjoy this story and Angelo and Dylan together. They were scorching hot together and their connection was really good and lovely.
I think my biggest problem is not even that there is a threesome in this it's more that they talk about others they find attractive with each other like they wouldn't mind being with more people in the future - but nothing else happens with anyone so I was unclear if they were monogamous or their relationship was an open one.
As one who isn't a fan of open relationships it bothered me because I have no idea if Angelo and Dylan are just them together (even when they had thoughts like "he was the only one for me, no one else compared" or "I was in love with him" there were still comments made that made it unclear if they were joking or serious about them still "playing" with others at the club? idk) or if they have threesomes occasionally like they did at 30%. I mean neither had thoughts of being bothered or jealous of them with someone else in a sexual way (with romantic feelings, a tad, but even then...not much).
So I have no idea, and that bothers me, that it isn't clear. I mean I can assume that they're monogamous but at the end there was a preview for them which tells me there will be another novel with them - and who knows if it'll be just them in that book? Idk, it bothers me, while I get it might not bother others, but yeah...just a little clarity would have been nice.
I spent like...the whole book worried a threesome would happen again. And the characters didn't help to dispel that worry.
But despite all that...this was an interesting read, and fun during the sexy times between Angelo and Dylan and hot - I don't mind people looking at them having sex (I just mind anyone else involved *sigh*).
If you don't mind threesomes and a potentially (?) open relationship then I think you'll enjoy this a lot.
I was actually expecting a ton more angst than what was in this. Don't get me wrong, there was plenty of Garret Leigh angst, but it wasn't unbearable angst.
I felt so bad for Angelo - having that disease would freak me out all the time, wondering if I would get exhausted at any moment, and so on - and what he had to deal with, but it was awesome seeing him learning to deal with it and get better at managing his disease and being able to live life almost normally with Dylan.
Dylan, I felt we didn't get as much of him as with Angelo. We got stuff, but he wasn't really focused - maybe because he didn't have as much angst in his life as Angelo, but I think characters can be just as interesting without a ton of angst, so I would have loved more with Dylan and his life, and maybe more on his father and his mother who left them.
Not that Dylan was an absent character, he had plenty of characterization and complexity - just not a ton of focus on him. This mainly felt like Angelo's story and journey.
Dylan did have some stuff of his own to deal with, but it wasn't as big as Angelo's so it wasn't focused on that much.
So overall I enjoyed this (although I wasn't that impressed by the threesome and didn't much care for it. But maybe that's because with romantic couples threesomes really isn't my thing, idk *shrug*) and it was well written with well developed, complex characters.
I dunno if I'll continue the series. Maybe. But if you haven't read this book yet and you wish too (and can either get past threesomes or don't mind them and love them) then I recommend this book. It was good.
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