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Homecoming Hearts #2
Spark
Joey Sullivan’s dreams are over. His band, Below Zero, is dead and gone. He knows he’s destined for stardom, but showbiz is tough and he has nowhere to go but the last place on Earth he ever wanted to be: home. His homophobic family have spent their lives trying to tear him down. Now all they will do is gloat over his fall from grace.
Gabe Robinson loves his town. He thought he had it all: a man he loved, purpose as a volunteer firefighter, and a home to call his own. Except now he’s alone, forced to try and rebuild from scratch. But how can he start over when his heart is already broken?
An unexpected road trip brings Joey and Gabe together and the sparks fly between them, but it can’t last. Their worlds are too different. Joey plans to get as far away from home as soon as he can, yet Gabe can't imagine any other life. But when Joey hits rock bottom, Gabe is the only one who can save him. Protect him. Keep him warm.
Gabe’s saved lives before. But can he rescue hearts?
Spark is a steamy, standalone gay romance novel with a guaranteed HEA and absolutely no cliffhanger.
Gabe Robinson loves his town. He thought he had it all: a man he loved, purpose as a volunteer firefighter, and a home to call his own. Except now he’s alone, forced to try and rebuild from scratch. But how can he start over when his heart is already broken?
An unexpected road trip brings Joey and Gabe together and the sparks fly between them, but it can’t last. Their worlds are too different. Joey plans to get as far away from home as soon as he can, yet Gabe can't imagine any other life. But when Joey hits rock bottom, Gabe is the only one who can save him. Protect him. Keep him warm.
Gabe’s saved lives before. But can he rescue hearts?
Spark is a steamy, standalone gay romance novel with a guaranteed HEA and absolutely no cliffhanger.
268 pages, Paperback
First published November 12, 2017
59 people are currently reading
156 people want to read
About the author
H.J. Welch
41 books289 followersHJ Welch is a British author of contemporary American MM small town series and books in multi authored shared universes, including the international number one bestselling Homecoming Hearts. She lives just outside of London with her husband and three balls of fluff that occasionally pretend to be cats.
She began writing at an early age, later honing her craft online in the world of fanfiction on sites like Wattpad. Fifteen years and over half a million words later, she sought out original MM novels to read. By the end of 2016 she had written her first book of her own, and in 2017 she achieved her lifelong dream of becoming a full-time author.
When she’s not writing she’s usually dancing, singing, filming music videos, taking long walks, working on jigsaw puzzles, drinking prosecco, or talking about Eurovision.
She also writes contemporary British MM fairy tale adaptation as Helen Juliet, including bestsellers Thorn in His Side, A Right Royal Affair, and Three.
She began writing at an early age, later honing her craft online in the world of fanfiction on sites like Wattpad. Fifteen years and over half a million words later, she sought out original MM novels to read. By the end of 2016 she had written her first book of her own, and in 2017 she achieved her lifelong dream of becoming a full-time author.
When she’s not writing she’s usually dancing, singing, filming music videos, taking long walks, working on jigsaw puzzles, drinking prosecco, or talking about Eurovision.
She also writes contemporary British MM fairy tale adaptation as Helen Juliet, including bestsellers Thorn in His Side, A Right Royal Affair, and Three.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
May 19, 2018
Okay so far 2 for 2 with this series. Another enjoyable read, even though Joey did try my patience with his self –pitting-over-prideful self. I feel guilty saying that because he did grow up with a shitty homophobic abusive father who needs to be visited and disposed of by the Grimm Reaper.
Joey is the second member of the disbanded boy band Below Zero, to go back home when he finds himself broke and in need of a place to stay. He meets Gabe, a man who has recently come out of 5 year relationship.
Gabe is amazing. He is generous and caring and he wants to take care of Joey. Joey is skittish and has trust issues. He frustrated me because he was so focused on his issues that ended up hurting Gabe.
This story was more angst filled than book 1. There was a while there where it was holding at 3 stars for me. Then the author delivers the feels when Joey and Gabe resolve a misunderstanding and the epilogue was damn beautiful!
Joey is the second member of the disbanded boy band Below Zero, to go back home when he finds himself broke and in need of a place to stay. He meets Gabe, a man who has recently come out of 5 year relationship.
Gabe is amazing. He is generous and caring and he wants to take care of Joey. Joey is skittish and has trust issues. He frustrated me because he was so focused on his issues that ended up hurting Gabe.
This story was more angst filled than book 1. There was a while there where it was holding at 3 stars for me. Then the author delivers the feels when Joey and Gabe resolve a misunderstanding and the epilogue was damn beautiful!
October 4, 2022
Darum geht’s:
Seine Karriere als Mitglied einer Band ist vorbei, sei ganzes Geld ist aufgebraucht. Joey ist am Ende und muss bei seiner homophoben Familie unterkriechen. Gabe und sein langjähriger Partner haben sich gerade getrennt und er hält sich mit seinem sozialen Engagement aufrecht. Gabe will Teil der örtlichen Gemeinschaft sein, während Joey so schnell wie möglich wieder verschwinden würde. Die gegenseitige Anziehung zwischen Joey und Gabe ist da, doch die beiden sind so unterschiedlich wie es nur geht.
Meine Meinung dazu gibt’s hier
Seine Karriere als Mitglied einer Band ist vorbei, sei ganzes Geld ist aufgebraucht. Joey ist am Ende und muss bei seiner homophoben Familie unterkriechen. Gabe und sein langjähriger Partner haben sich gerade getrennt und er hält sich mit seinem sozialen Engagement aufrecht. Gabe will Teil der örtlichen Gemeinschaft sein, während Joey so schnell wie möglich wieder verschwinden würde. Die gegenseitige Anziehung zwischen Joey und Gabe ist da, doch die beiden sind so unterschiedlich wie es nur geht.
Meine Meinung dazu gibt’s hier
November 11, 2017
Characters so well developed you can feel them breath. Emotion depicted with such clarity you feel the hope and despair. Writing is done with a gentle, quite pen and you kinda fall into the story and then there is no putting the book down. i read in one sitting, stayed up way to late!
Gabe is this interesting man who keeps himself always on the move, working at the library, or the homeless shelter or the fire-station or doing something. i got the image of a man that moved quickly to do something so that he didn't feel how lonely he was. He just had a 5 year relationship end and was coming to terms with how empty it had been for a good portion of the time. Realizing that the something special in a relationship, was just not there for him and his ex.
Joey love of music and his talent had taken him out of him hometown and he got to experience a bigger world, where he found acceptance and made good friends with his former band-mates. Joey’s band, Below Zero, breaks up and he struggles to find himself a new successful career. The book opens with him using the last of his money to get a bus home. Home to a family that doesn't support him and a father that is abusive and cruel. Joey has a hard time accepting help, his pride keeps him from letting his friends help him and this places him in a very bad place.
This story brings together two men who are a bit lost, feeling their way to the next day and when they meet, there is a connection. Story has a nice, gentle getting to know each other, kinda bumping into each others spaces. Gabe is so open to exploring this amazing connection between them and Joey has put up so many barriers around his heart that he almost misses the chance to be with Gabe.
I love that Spark is such a descriptive word for what drives these two men together. That spark of real connection is so rare and beautiful and i love that the author found a way to bring both of these individuals together in a powerful and meaningful love relationship.
Story of hope and despair, of being poised on the edge of getting to where you want to be, yet the chasm is so great between here and there. Story of finding that special person and letting them into your life and knowing you can trust them. Highly recommend!
I received an ARC at no cost from the author
Gabe is this interesting man who keeps himself always on the move, working at the library, or the homeless shelter or the fire-station or doing something. i got the image of a man that moved quickly to do something so that he didn't feel how lonely he was. He just had a 5 year relationship end and was coming to terms with how empty it had been for a good portion of the time. Realizing that the something special in a relationship, was just not there for him and his ex.
Joey love of music and his talent had taken him out of him hometown and he got to experience a bigger world, where he found acceptance and made good friends with his former band-mates. Joey’s band, Below Zero, breaks up and he struggles to find himself a new successful career. The book opens with him using the last of his money to get a bus home. Home to a family that doesn't support him and a father that is abusive and cruel. Joey has a hard time accepting help, his pride keeps him from letting his friends help him and this places him in a very bad place.
This story brings together two men who are a bit lost, feeling their way to the next day and when they meet, there is a connection. Story has a nice, gentle getting to know each other, kinda bumping into each others spaces. Gabe is so open to exploring this amazing connection between them and Joey has put up so many barriers around his heart that he almost misses the chance to be with Gabe.
I love that Spark is such a descriptive word for what drives these two men together. That spark of real connection is so rare and beautiful and i love that the author found a way to bring both of these individuals together in a powerful and meaningful love relationship.
Story of hope and despair, of being poised on the edge of getting to where you want to be, yet the chasm is so great between here and there. Story of finding that special person and letting them into your life and knowing you can trust them. Highly recommend!
I received an ARC at no cost from the author
December 5, 2017
this one had my emotions everywhere.. it was sad. it was happy.. it was anger and thrilled.. it had my on the edge of my seat and under the cover with tears.. lol i loved it and im glad i got to review it
November 11, 2017
This was a lovely story, called Spark. And there definitely was a spark between Gabe and Joey. Neither man was looking for love at the moment they met, but love has no boundaries and doesn’t care about timing. Gabe is on the way back after his breakup with Lewis and Max (their dog). Joey is on the way back home after his breakup with the boy band Below Zero. Gabe is crazy busy with his jobs as a firefighter and librarian besides his volunteer work for the LGBT center and all other odd chores.
Joey is dreading going back home as his whole family, except his mother, is homophobic to the extreme. The slurs and actions were so raw and intense it was painful to read.
Gabe and Joey were good characters, and a perfect example of opposites attract. Their connection and chemistry were palpable. I loved how Gabe immediately stepped in to help Joey. That is the guy he is. Selfless to a fault. At times, I found Joey a bit whiny. I know he is young and that he comes from a difficult family, but I wished he manned up a bit more. Although, in the end, he helps Gabe big-time. Their journey is a difficult one, but they made it so themselves. If only they would communicate more and not jump to conclusions. I could slap them both for being so stubborn.
This book is the second installment of the Homecoming Hearts series and can be read as a stand-alone. I recommend reading the books in order as there are recurring characters and you will enjoy them more.
I am looking forward which one of the boys gets his own story next.
Joey is dreading going back home as his whole family, except his mother, is homophobic to the extreme. The slurs and actions were so raw and intense it was painful to read.
Gabe and Joey were good characters, and a perfect example of opposites attract. Their connection and chemistry were palpable. I loved how Gabe immediately stepped in to help Joey. That is the guy he is. Selfless to a fault. At times, I found Joey a bit whiny. I know he is young and that he comes from a difficult family, but I wished he manned up a bit more. Although, in the end, he helps Gabe big-time. Their journey is a difficult one, but they made it so themselves. If only they would communicate more and not jump to conclusions. I could slap them both for being so stubborn.
This book is the second installment of the Homecoming Hearts series and can be read as a stand-alone. I recommend reading the books in order as there are recurring characters and you will enjoy them more.
I am looking forward which one of the boys gets his own story next.
November 17, 2017
I'm thoroughly enjoying the Homecoming Hearts series. I like how it follows boy band members but rather than them being currently in the band this is their lives after the band splits. And so far the series is about post the split their new lives initially are not going well or at least not following the rich and famous path you'd think they would have been on.
In Spark we meet Joey, former member of Below Zero. Damn I wanted to give Joey all the hugs. When his money runs out he finds himself back in this hometown and living with his family. Apart from his mum, his family are beyond awful. They are homophobic, cruel and unloving.
Gabe meanwhile loves living in town and he goes out of his way be part of and help out his community. Unfortunately for some members of the town that's not enough to overcome their prejudice.
I love Joey and Gabe together. Gabe is a natural nurturer and although he may not admit it that's exactly what Joey needs. And Joey forces Gabe to live life for himself and not let people take him for granted.
It was great seeing MCs Blake and Elion from book 1 again, always love catching up with characters in a series. Already looking forward to the next book in the series.
In Spark we meet Joey, former member of Below Zero. Damn I wanted to give Joey all the hugs. When his money runs out he finds himself back in this hometown and living with his family. Apart from his mum, his family are beyond awful. They are homophobic, cruel and unloving.
Gabe meanwhile loves living in town and he goes out of his way be part of and help out his community. Unfortunately for some members of the town that's not enough to overcome their prejudice.
I love Joey and Gabe together. Gabe is a natural nurturer and although he may not admit it that's exactly what Joey needs. And Joey forces Gabe to live life for himself and not let people take him for granted.
It was great seeing MCs Blake and Elion from book 1 again, always love catching up with characters in a series. Already looking forward to the next book in the series.
January 31, 2018
Another 5 Stars!
This was another great book in this series. I feel like this has more depth of characters than the first book where both MCs were just so great and awesome. Both Joey and Gabe had complexes they both buried rather deep.
I have to admit Joey was unpleasant at times. Well, I would say he was a little bitter and insecure and scared and desperate to boot. And that made him rather blunt at times. Especially times when he interacted with Gabe and literally shat on Gabe’s life and ideals. But knowing his background and family life, it was understandable. In that sense, Joey was beautifully complexed. Gabe wasn’t far off. He was so giving he literally didn’t know how to save himself.
I was a little worried that books in the series would follow a storyline “formula” that authors have found worked for them. So it was such a relief and a delight to know that no, HJ Welch was a better author than that. Phew!! And, yay!!!
I literally stayed up to finish this book till the wee hours of the morning. Thank goodness it’s a public holiday today! Otherwise I’d be so zombified at work it wouldn’t have been pleasant. As it is, I’m dreading going out to spend the day because I want to read the next book!!
This was another great book in this series. I feel like this has more depth of characters than the first book where both MCs were just so great and awesome. Both Joey and Gabe had complexes they both buried rather deep.
I have to admit Joey was unpleasant at times. Well, I would say he was a little bitter and insecure and scared and desperate to boot. And that made him rather blunt at times. Especially times when he interacted with Gabe and literally shat on Gabe’s life and ideals. But knowing his background and family life, it was understandable. In that sense, Joey was beautifully complexed. Gabe wasn’t far off. He was so giving he literally didn’t know how to save himself.
I was a little worried that books in the series would follow a storyline “formula” that authors have found worked for them. So it was such a relief and a delight to know that no, HJ Welch was a better author than that. Phew!! And, yay!!!
I literally stayed up to finish this book till the wee hours of the morning. Thank goodness it’s a public holiday today! Otherwise I’d be so zombified at work it wouldn’t have been pleasant. As it is, I’m dreading going out to spend the day because I want to read the next book!!
November 14, 2017
In the first book of the series, Scorch, we discovered Joey as a background character who already jumped out of the page to catch your attention and emotions.
Giving him the lead in this book was a stroke of genius!
I loved this story of two men healing each other while healing themselves--the pace rang true, the emotions ran deep without ever falling into unnecessary pathos.
My only concern (and my reason not to give this book 5 stars) is on the safe sex part--while later on in the book you see the characters having sex with condoms, a lot of fellatio happen without one, and that is one peeve of mine.
Giving him the lead in this book was a stroke of genius!
I loved this story of two men healing each other while healing themselves--the pace rang true, the emotions ran deep without ever falling into unnecessary pathos.
My only concern (and my reason not to give this book 5 stars) is on the safe sex part--while later on in the book you see the characters having sex with condoms, a lot of fellatio happen without one, and that is one peeve of mine.
November 11, 2017
The way Joey has been treated all his life colours his perspective on his current situation. He has reached a low point and as much as he wants to pull himself back up life seems to be holding him down. Gabe on the other hand is all about seeing the good and the potential in a situation. Even his previous relationship seemed to have been held together more by hope than love. HJ Welch certainly knows how to tug on your heartstrings. Such a rollercoaster of emotions. Joey is determined to be self sufficient and not seeing things clearly just leads to more heartache. Poor Gabe, people can be so cruel. He is also caught up in slander and misconceptions. Their relationship seems to be about miscommunications and misunderstanding each other. Joey needs to learn he can trust Gabe. They can be so good together. I enjoyed the first book Scorch and in my view this one is just as good, if not better. (Although this is the second book it does stand on its own.) There is a lot more angst and tension and on occasion I wanted to shake some sense into them.The kind of story I can get caught up in. They came to their senses in the end and all ended the way it should. I was glad to see cameos from Blake and Elion (book 1) and from another former bandmate Raiden. I'm looking forward to seeing where the next book takes us.
November 10, 2017
So this wonderful new series continues with Joey's story. The band he found fame with has broken up, his fellow bandmates have all moved on and he is more or less destitue.
What must it feel like to have the world at your feet and end up going home to a family that never wanted you just so you have somewhere to sleep and something to eat.
Not that his Dad even wants to give him that!!!
Gabe loves his small town, the typical all rounder, happy to help anyone in any situation.
The two men couldn't be more different but the broken soul that Gabe sees in Joey calls to him and he knows this boy is his future, even though he has only recently moved on from his past...
The pain Joey was in leapt of the pages of this very well written and thought out book. You could feel the warmth coming from Gabe and just knew that together they would heal, if only they would realise it themselves.
Not that Gabe isn't facing problems of his own from small minded bigots who see all gay men as a threat!!!
There was the odd situation where I wanted to shout at them to see what I was seeing and tell them it would all be ok.
When you get that worked up by a story you know it's going to be good.
If these first two books are anything to go by then the rest of the series will be brilliant.
What must it feel like to have the world at your feet and end up going home to a family that never wanted you just so you have somewhere to sleep and something to eat.
Not that his Dad even wants to give him that!!!
Gabe loves his small town, the typical all rounder, happy to help anyone in any situation.
The two men couldn't be more different but the broken soul that Gabe sees in Joey calls to him and he knows this boy is his future, even though he has only recently moved on from his past...
The pain Joey was in leapt of the pages of this very well written and thought out book. You could feel the warmth coming from Gabe and just knew that together they would heal, if only they would realise it themselves.
Not that Gabe isn't facing problems of his own from small minded bigots who see all gay men as a threat!!!
There was the odd situation where I wanted to shout at them to see what I was seeing and tell them it would all be ok.
When you get that worked up by a story you know it's going to be good.
If these first two books are anything to go by then the rest of the series will be brilliant.
April 24, 2018
I was gifted my copy of this book, that I write a review was not required.
This is book two in the series, Homecoming Hearts, but you don't need to have read book one for this one to make sense, they can be all read as stand alones.
Oh! Joey, Joey, Joey! I felt for Joey, deep in my heart! His father is a nasty piece of work, and he makes no effort to hide his feelings about Joey and his life. And while all the band members go home, (Ive already book 4) it's Joey's homecoming that leaves a mark that most.
Gabe is lovely, quite happy with his lot, and his life. He just wants someone else in it. Joey fits the bill but Joey is such a hard nut to crack. His Independence is a hard won thing, and he plans to keep it. even if it might kill him.
Quite a bit more emotionally charged than Scorch and Steam, I've yet to read Burn, but I will get to it shortly!
Read it, but have the tissues ready and be prepared to swear profusely at the waste of space that is Joey's father and brother. His momma though, she surprises you!
5 stars
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
This is book two in the series, Homecoming Hearts, but you don't need to have read book one for this one to make sense, they can be all read as stand alones.
Oh! Joey, Joey, Joey! I felt for Joey, deep in my heart! His father is a nasty piece of work, and he makes no effort to hide his feelings about Joey and his life. And while all the band members go home, (Ive already book 4) it's Joey's homecoming that leaves a mark that most.
Gabe is lovely, quite happy with his lot, and his life. He just wants someone else in it. Joey fits the bill but Joey is such a hard nut to crack. His Independence is a hard won thing, and he plans to keep it. even if it might kill him.
Quite a bit more emotionally charged than Scorch and Steam, I've yet to read Burn, but I will get to it shortly!
Read it, but have the tissues ready and be prepared to swear profusely at the waste of space that is Joey's father and brother. His momma though, she surprises you!
5 stars
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
November 13, 2017
I very much enjoyed this highly addictive book - what a rollercoaster ride! All in all I smiled, laughed, cried and felt deep sadness for the difficulties and prejudices the characters faced at different times. It’s heart-breaking that these experiences are not uncommon for those in the LGBT community. I can’t imagine how awful it must feel not to be accepted by your own family for who you are.
The characters were loveable, engaging and witty - I found myself regularly laughing along with their banter. I would love to read more from these two! It’d be wonderful in a future book to see all the characters we’ve met so far interacting together. I can’t wait for the next in the series. Thanks for another great read!
The characters were loveable, engaging and witty - I found myself regularly laughing along with their banter. I would love to read more from these two! It’d be wonderful in a future book to see all the characters we’ve met so far interacting together. I can’t wait for the next in the series. Thanks for another great read!
November 14, 2017
It was an incredible experience to read this book. I loved everything about it and I could not put it down. It is beautifully written and I was riveted from the first page and blindsided by how emotional it made me. No one should ever be treated the way Joey's family treated him. His mother clearly loves him but she is powerless and unable to help him or herself. Joey has an incredibly beautiful soul in spite of his harsh upbringing and all the failures that forced him to return home broke and out of options. Gabe and Joey as a couple does not make a lot of sense but they are perfect for each other. When Gabe's job is threatened Joey asks his friends for help, something he would never do for himself. They both deserve a good life and a HEA but it won't be easy for them to achieve it. I can't wait to read the first book in this series and any other books by this author.
I was given an ARC to review by the author.
I was given an ARC to review by the author.
November 14, 2017
I loved Spark. Joey and Gabe’s story almost ripped my heart out. Joey has a horrible father and left home when he was 16. He made it famous, but when his band breaks up and his solo career doesn’t go as planned, he has to move back home. And Gabe, who ended a long-term relationship, compensates by putting everything into his work, both paid and volunteer. But when he and Joey meet, they have a secret attraction for the other and become friends.
There are a lot of ups and downs in Jowy and Gabe's lives. Joey already had a bias against the town he grew up in and Gabe has found his home in the same place Joey hates. On top of that, there is miscommunication, some pain and introspection in both men’s lives, their happy ending is sweeter because of it. Joey learns that he can depend on Gabe and when they fall in love, it's deeper than either of them expected. I loved it!!
There are a lot of ups and downs in Jowy and Gabe's lives. Joey already had a bias against the town he grew up in and Gabe has found his home in the same place Joey hates. On top of that, there is miscommunication, some pain and introspection in both men’s lives, their happy ending is sweeter because of it. Joey learns that he can depend on Gabe and when they fall in love, it's deeper than either of them expected. I loved it!!
November 13, 2017
I don't even know where to start with this review. Spark was such a beautiful book. Gabe and Joey were such lovable characters from the beginning. It was good to see their relationship develop and I couldn't help want to argue back with them every time there was a misunderstanding.
I don't want to give away spoilers but there was a scene that just crushed my heart. Thank goodness I knew there was going to be a HEA.
I totally recommend this book. It's well written and the story is delightful. Keep'em coming, HJ Welch.
I don't want to give away spoilers but there was a scene that just crushed my heart. Thank goodness I knew there was going to be a HEA.
I totally recommend this book. It's well written and the story is delightful. Keep'em coming, HJ Welch.
November 15, 2017
This story was everything: sweet, sad, infuriating, endearing, sexy, and happy. The battles that Joey and Gabe had to go through hurt my heart; and the horrible people they had to deal with made me angry. Thankfully, they also had good friends, precious pets, and wonderful feelings for each other.
I read this story before book one, but that did not cause any problems in my enjoyment of it. I will read the first book in the series though, since I liked this group of people and want to know more about them.
I read this story before book one, but that did not cause any problems in my enjoyment of it. I will read the first book in the series though, since I liked this group of people and want to know more about them.
November 16, 2017
A beautiful, sweet, and emotional story that I could not put down to the very end. This story captivated me and pulled me in right from the beginning and get me glue to its pages. Joey and Gabe are wonderful characters with lots of chemistry and an undeniable attraction. Neither one was looking for love but could not deny the spark that ignited between them. But will stubbornness and miscommunications pull them apart.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
November 13, 2017
i really enjoyed this book, it was exhausting to read...in the sense that Gabe needs to take a day of and veg. lol talk about a man that was always working. loved the emotional story, and felt for Joey and everything he went through, so glad he found love with Gabe. the both deserved their HEA.
November 18, 2017
I have read everything by this author so far, but this is by far the best.
Joey and Gabe are opposites but somehow ‘click’ and love blooms.
I thought I loved Elion and Blake (especially as I am a lover of dance!), but these two surpass them.
Every book is getting better! Keep writing HJ! Please!
Joey and Gabe are opposites but somehow ‘click’ and love blooms.
I thought I loved Elion and Blake (especially as I am a lover of dance!), but these two surpass them.
Every book is getting better! Keep writing HJ! Please!
April 2, 2018
A great story about opening your heart.
It was also incredibly intense and heartbreaking.
When Below Zero broke up, Joey was forced to go back to his childhood home and his abusive father.
But he made it out, thanks to Gabe. A wonderful man with a huge heart.
It was also incredibly intense and heartbreaking.
When Below Zero broke up, Joey was forced to go back to his childhood home and his abusive father.
But he made it out, thanks to Gabe. A wonderful man with a huge heart.
January 2, 2022
Amazing book with both MCs wonderfully developed. Joey!!! Joey is so sweet with a disgusting family and Gabe is such a community guy always there to help everybody
Their relationship is full of ups and downs mainly due to lack of communication.
Great book, great author!
Their relationship is full of ups and downs mainly due to lack of communication.
Great book, great author!
January 2, 2023
Unterhaltsame Geschichte mit gut entwickelten Charakteren, in der das Leben nicht immer wie geplant läuft. Mir hat die Entwicklung der Beziehung zwischen Joey und Gabe gefallen und es war interessant die Below Zero-Freunde aus dem ersten Buch noch einmal zu treffen.
November 25, 2017
Must have!
I honestly and truly love this book. The story is incredible! I've give 5 stars for this amazing book. I would recommend it to those whose life was infected with injustice!
I honestly and truly love this book. The story is incredible! I've give 5 stars for this amazing book. I would recommend it to those whose life was infected with injustice!
November 26, 2017
This book was delightful! This author has very quickly become one of my genre favourites and a definite auto-buy for me. I love her writing style and she writes such engaging stories and awesome characters!
Spark is book two in the Homecoming Hearts series but can be read alone (I did read the first book though, which I also really enjoyed and would also recommend!), and this one gives us Joey’s story and introduces us to Gabe <3 Joey and Gabe were brilliant together and I absolutely LOVED their story and the chemistry between them was just so good and absolutely spot on. The emotion in it was just perfect too, at times in good and hopeful ways, and at other times in bad heart wrenching ways because there are some parts that really kick you in the feels and hurt your heart! All you want is a beautiful happy ending for these guys and it’s such a joy to read and follow their developing love for each other :D
I am sooooo looking forward to more of this series and more by this author!
Spark is book two in the Homecoming Hearts series but can be read alone (I did read the first book though, which I also really enjoyed and would also recommend!), and this one gives us Joey’s story and introduces us to Gabe <3 Joey and Gabe were brilliant together and I absolutely LOVED their story and the chemistry between them was just so good and absolutely spot on. The emotion in it was just perfect too, at times in good and hopeful ways, and at other times in bad heart wrenching ways because there are some parts that really kick you in the feels and hurt your heart! All you want is a beautiful happy ending for these guys and it’s such a joy to read and follow their developing love for each other :D
I am sooooo looking forward to more of this series and more by this author!
March 11, 2020
Man, this was angst central for me right now, so it took me way longer to read it than it probably should. I don't even think it was really that angsty, and maybe it was just my mood recently.
Liked it less than the first book, but its still a decent read with a sweet story about found family.
Liked it less than the first book, but its still a decent read with a sweet story about found family.
February 1, 2021
I give this 4.5 stars because the sweetness and love was overloaded and I LOVED IT!
Joey and Gabe's story was a perfect opposites attract, major trust issues, learning to see the good in people story.
Joey was out of luck after his boyband broke apart. He desperatly wanted to make it but he had to move home to a town he run away from because he ran out of money. His dad and brother hated him because of his sexuality, he had limited options with work, and he only saw the wicked and ugly in people.
But then he met Gabe. The sweetest, kindest, most genuinly good hearted person in town. For Joey asking for help is the hardest thing. For Gabe helping others is essential. Joey is bitter and dreams big while Gabe is kind and sweet.
They are the most unlikely pair. And somehow they cannot seem to keep distance.
I loved this book because it was not afraid to state the ugly shit that sometimes goes on in the world. And it openly showed misfortunes. Also it was a cute and hinest love story with all the ugly parts of fighting and mistrust. But also with the love and support and warmth.
All in all, it was a very sweet story. I felt like the author imlroved a lot in writing since the first book and I was happy to see less grammar mistakes. I will definetly start the thirs book soon.
Joey and Gabe's story was a perfect opposites attract, major trust issues, learning to see the good in people story.
Joey was out of luck after his boyband broke apart. He desperatly wanted to make it but he had to move home to a town he run away from because he ran out of money. His dad and brother hated him because of his sexuality, he had limited options with work, and he only saw the wicked and ugly in people.
But then he met Gabe. The sweetest, kindest, most genuinly good hearted person in town. For Joey asking for help is the hardest thing. For Gabe helping others is essential. Joey is bitter and dreams big while Gabe is kind and sweet.
They are the most unlikely pair. And somehow they cannot seem to keep distance.
I loved this book because it was not afraid to state the ugly shit that sometimes goes on in the world. And it openly showed misfortunes. Also it was a cute and hinest love story with all the ugly parts of fighting and mistrust. But also with the love and support and warmth.
All in all, it was a very sweet story. I felt like the author imlroved a lot in writing since the first book and I was happy to see less grammar mistakes. I will definetly start the thirs book soon.
May 12, 2021
Joey and Gabe deserved a better story.
This is my second time reading this author, Scorch being the first, and I expected better. The Joey that appeared in Blake's story seemed like a vibrant ball of energy. This story does nothing but tear down his personality and spirit for no good reason. Then the author introduces a great character like Gabe to pair with Joey and they were a great pairing, but the needless hurdles the author put between them in this story ruins it for me. The homophobia in this is ridiculous. Joey's horrible father was more than enough. Adding the sudden hate against Gabe just for "drama" pushed the themes to absurd levels. The scene where Lewis came back just to be an a*hole was utterly unnecessary and not at all fitting with what we were supposed to believe about his breakup with Gabe. And Joey seeing them together just to have a fit was, again, needless and absurd drama. I proceed hesitantly to the next installment of this series.
This is my second time reading this author, Scorch being the first, and I expected better. The Joey that appeared in Blake's story seemed like a vibrant ball of energy. This story does nothing but tear down his personality and spirit for no good reason. Then the author introduces a great character like Gabe to pair with Joey and they were a great pairing, but the needless hurdles the author put between them in this story ruins it for me. The homophobia in this is ridiculous. Joey's horrible father was more than enough. Adding the sudden hate against Gabe just for "drama" pushed the themes to absurd levels. The scene where Lewis came back just to be an a*hole was utterly unnecessary and not at all fitting with what we were supposed to believe about his breakup with Gabe. And Joey seeing them together just to have a fit was, again, needless and absurd drama. I proceed hesitantly to the next installment of this series.
February 10, 2020
Plenty of emotion and lots of 🔥 heat🔥 for two guys who deserve better👍
5🌟stars💘
😍 I loved this story even more than the first book in this Homecoming Hearts series. Gabe is the sweetest, most generous guy and he does not deserve any of the grief he goes through. Joey has his reasons, mostly rooted in his awful family situation, for thinking he can't trust to ask anyone for help and fighting against his connection with Gabe. All of their woes, separately and together, really brought me into the story, hoping for better days. Their passion sizzles, their emotions boil over, and there's a snowy day and night that just totally moved me almost to tears.
I love a romance that gets me emotionally involved and this one definitely did it!😊
I purchased this story as part of a boxed set; this is my voluntary and honest review.
5🌟stars💘
😍 I loved this story even more than the first book in this Homecoming Hearts series. Gabe is the sweetest, most generous guy and he does not deserve any of the grief he goes through. Joey has his reasons, mostly rooted in his awful family situation, for thinking he can't trust to ask anyone for help and fighting against his connection with Gabe. All of their woes, separately and together, really brought me into the story, hoping for better days. Their passion sizzles, their emotions boil over, and there's a snowy day and night that just totally moved me almost to tears.
I love a romance that gets me emotionally involved and this one definitely did it!😊
I purchased this story as part of a boxed set; this is my voluntary and honest review.
June 13, 2018
🎤Joey and Gabe 👨🏼🚒
This is the second book in the Homecoming Hearts series. It can definitely be read as a stand-alone without feeling lost. Joey is down on his luck after his successful boy band broke up. Gabe is a do-gooder with a huge heart and hates to see anyone struggling. Their love story is very sweet and steamy. There were many parts of this book that I was in tears over everything that poor Joey has to go through. But it’s totally worth the read. And they get a beautiful HEA!
This is the second book in the Homecoming Hearts series. It can definitely be read as a stand-alone without feeling lost. Joey is down on his luck after his successful boy band broke up. Gabe is a do-gooder with a huge heart and hates to see anyone struggling. Their love story is very sweet and steamy. There were many parts of this book that I was in tears over everything that poor Joey has to go through. But it’s totally worth the read. And they get a beautiful HEA!
January 27, 2019
Satisfying Read with a Wonderful Conclusion
Down on his luck (as in, rock bottom down in the pits) ex-pop music star meets a too-giving people-person in his small home town. This story hits a nice balance between those who are open minded and friendly, with those who would let their bigotry take over and ruin a person’s reputation. There’s also a lot of family involved, with characters from the first book making an appearance.
*read in KU (I own the first & last book in the series)
Down on his luck (as in, rock bottom down in the pits) ex-pop music star meets a too-giving people-person in his small home town. This story hits a nice balance between those who are open minded and friendly, with those who would let their bigotry take over and ruin a person’s reputation. There’s also a lot of family involved, with characters from the first book making an appearance.
*read in KU (I own the first & last book in the series)
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