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Begin Again #1
A Different Light
Bennett Cole had lived next door to Mitchell “Mac” Campbell, III for eighteen years of his life, in the small town of White Acre. They’d never gotten along, never seen eye to eye, and never understood one another…not that they’d ever cared to try.
But when Bennett’s so-called buddies ditched him at a party in the woods where he was assaulted and left for dead, Bennett pulled through. The emotional scars rendered him too terrified to go back to school and face his “friends” or his attackers. With little choice, his family packed up and left town.
Ten years later—at the request of his mother—Bennett returned to the place he’d grown up and the home he’d once felt safe, to oversee the repairs before his childhood house was sold. The contractor? None other than Mac, the once annoying boy next door, who still lives there in the home his parents gifted him.
Being in such close proximity—working together every day, to repair the Coles’ family home—Bennett and Mac’s contentious relationship goes from bad to worse as their personalities continue to clash. But their heated exchanges may not be as antagonistic as they seem. And when new information is revealed, can the men begin to see each other in a different light?
But when Bennett’s so-called buddies ditched him at a party in the woods where he was assaulted and left for dead, Bennett pulled through. The emotional scars rendered him too terrified to go back to school and face his “friends” or his attackers. With little choice, his family packed up and left town.
Ten years later—at the request of his mother—Bennett returned to the place he’d grown up and the home he’d once felt safe, to oversee the repairs before his childhood house was sold. The contractor? None other than Mac, the once annoying boy next door, who still lives there in the home his parents gifted him.
Being in such close proximity—working together every day, to repair the Coles’ family home—Bennett and Mac’s contentious relationship goes from bad to worse as their personalities continue to clash. But their heated exchanges may not be as antagonistic as they seem. And when new information is revealed, can the men begin to see each other in a different light?
286 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 17, 2017
149 people are currently reading
328 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews
January 3, 2018
2 Stars
DNF @ 68%
The blurb was really interesting and it started out really good but then I lost interest the deeper I went into the story. The plot wasn’t as good as I thought and more importantly I couldn’t connect with both characters! I thought maybe the second half would pick up but it didn’t happen and I was really struggling... But I think it was just me so don’t listen to me, read it and enjoy it!
DNF @ 68%
The blurb was really interesting and it started out really good but then I lost interest the deeper I went into the story. The plot wasn’t as good as I thought and more importantly I couldn’t connect with both characters! I thought maybe the second half would pick up but it didn’t happen and I was really struggling... But I think it was just me so don’t listen to me, read it and enjoy it!
December 22, 2017
This is a new to be author and I was drawn in by the blurb. I love a good enemies to lovers story. Bennett is the good boy and Mac is the bad boy next door. Obviously, they got the hots for each other since they were a teenagers, but decided to act like an ass and irritated each other. But after an assault to Bennett, the family leave town. Bennett finally came back after ten years to supervise the renovation of his old home.
Now that they are all grown up, in their late 20s, they still very much acted like a pair of teenagers. Mac still like to annoy the hell out of Bennett by calling him 'Princess'. I understand he thought it as a term of endearment, but with Bennett already stated clearly that he hates it, Mac still continue on and on, which just irked me. And Mac's mum still having the same issue she had previously is just unbelievable.
Bennett was very uptight all along and obviously he can't stand Mac because the guy just keep teasing him and teasing him, even though they are suppose to be grown up now. But everything just change in a blink of an eye when Bennett called his mum and found out Mac actually saved him during the night of the assault. Within minutes they start making out heavily, which led to more. I just can't wrap my head around the 180 degree change all of a sudden. It will be easier to swallow if Bennett just change his opinion on Mac and starts to befriend him and treat him in a non-hostile way to start with.
Now that they are all grown up, in their late 20s, they still very much acted like a pair of teenagers. Mac still like to annoy the hell out of Bennett by calling him 'Princess'. I understand he thought it as a term of endearment, but with Bennett already stated clearly that he hates it, Mac still continue on and on, which just irked me. And Mac's mum still having the same issue she had previously is just unbelievable.
Bennett was very uptight all along and obviously he can't stand Mac because the guy just keep teasing him and teasing him, even though they are suppose to be grown up now. But everything just change in a blink of an eye when Bennett called his mum and found out Mac actually saved him during the night of the assault. Within minutes they start making out heavily, which led to more. I just can't wrap my head around the 180 degree change all of a sudden. It will be easier to swallow if Bennett just change his opinion on Mac and starts to befriend him and treat him in a non-hostile way to start with.
September 5, 2025
The transition from hating each other to having sex was too abrupt for me to fully get into their romance. The length of the book also doesn't do it much justice because a lot of the relationship development happens off page and all we get is snippets, two major conversations and a bunch of time skips. They were cute though!
November 20, 2023
Nice start! Adorable ending
May 15, 2024
This book was a hard one to get through the start. It was so sad but thankfully the tone did change. It was a great story of growth. Bennett and Mac had a super interesting dynamic. They had great chemistry but fought so much. But like in a good way for the most part. I really enjoyed their HEA!
This is the first book I’ve read by this author but I’d definitely read more. I listened to the audiobook and the narrator did a fantastic job. If you enjoy a story with lots of banter, not the greatest communication at times, some sad parts and a great love then I recommend!
This is the first book I’ve read by this author but I’d definitely read more. I listened to the audiobook and the narrator did a fantastic job. If you enjoy a story with lots of banter, not the greatest communication at times, some sad parts and a great love then I recommend!
February 2, 2018
3.5 stars rounded up!
I quite enjoyed this. Enemies to lovers is my like bread and butter so I was so eager to lap this one up. And it didn't disappoint. These two actually went at each others throats for a good portion of this novel, even as they were falling for each other and I was like "yess this is awesome!" because I've read so many mm romance that are supposed to be enemies to lovers but they aren't really "enemies" for long and they don't really hate each other all that long. And the hate is never all that strong.
Not here. I loved it.
Because it made getting to the point where they were totally in love with each other, no hate, all that much sweeter.
Mac and Bennett both grew up with misconceptions about each other. They each saw in the other what they wanted to see instead of what was there, and that lead to hatred even as they were crushing on each other.
Ya know, if these two had just talked when they were teenagers, they would have totally fell in love earlier - but as it is with teenagers, or well, with any enemies to lovers trope, they take a long time to actually talk about why they hate each other and what their problems are because they hate each other. People who can't stand each other generally don't sit down to have a long talk about it.
It usually takes something to change their views on each other, or at least spark the start of a change in their views on each other.
This one was no different. After truths are discovered on both sides, everything that was keeping them apart and hating each other goes away, and they really start to fall in love then.
And it was cute and sweet and sexy too ;). I quite enjoyed it.
The only reason I'm giving this 3.5 stars was the editing and the clunky writing at times. This isn't top notch writing, in my opinion - in part because of the typos - but also in part because of things like, for awhile whenever Mac or Bennett's best friends were mentioned it would say "Allie, Mac's best friend" after were were already introduced to her in the book. It's like I know! You don't have to to tell me over and over again.
Or just some sentences that didn't flow well - missed commas were a big thing, as well as commas in places that they were not needed, but how the words were put together as well. Some dialogue sometimes didn't flow very well and felt a tad forced or unrealistic. Little things like that.
But Mac and Bennett still had great chemistry and I enjoyed them together, so overall I enjoyed this one. These two both did and said idiotic things at times and they were both in the wrong plenty of times, but in the end they were able to forgive each other, and work through their problems.
I bet the next book will be about Jaden (Bennett's best friend) and Danny (A guy who works with Mac). There was definitely something there for sure ;). I liked this one enough that I'll definitely read that one when it comes out :D
I quite enjoyed this. Enemies to lovers is my like bread and butter so I was so eager to lap this one up. And it didn't disappoint. These two actually went at each others throats for a good portion of this novel, even as they were falling for each other and I was like "yess this is awesome!" because I've read so many mm romance that are supposed to be enemies to lovers but they aren't really "enemies" for long and they don't really hate each other all that long. And the hate is never all that strong.
Not here. I loved it.
Because it made getting to the point where they were totally in love with each other, no hate, all that much sweeter.
Mac and Bennett both grew up with misconceptions about each other. They each saw in the other what they wanted to see instead of what was there, and that lead to hatred even as they were crushing on each other.
Ya know, if these two had just talked when they were teenagers, they would have totally fell in love earlier - but as it is with teenagers, or well, with any enemies to lovers trope, they take a long time to actually talk about why they hate each other and what their problems are because they hate each other. People who can't stand each other generally don't sit down to have a long talk about it.
It usually takes something to change their views on each other, or at least spark the start of a change in their views on each other.
This one was no different. After truths are discovered on both sides, everything that was keeping them apart and hating each other goes away, and they really start to fall in love then.
And it was cute and sweet and sexy too ;). I quite enjoyed it.
The only reason I'm giving this 3.5 stars was the editing and the clunky writing at times. This isn't top notch writing, in my opinion - in part because of the typos - but also in part because of things like, for awhile whenever Mac or Bennett's best friends were mentioned it would say "Allie, Mac's best friend" after were were already introduced to her in the book. It's like I know! You don't have to to tell me over and over again.
Or just some sentences that didn't flow well - missed commas were a big thing, as well as commas in places that they were not needed, but how the words were put together as well. Some dialogue sometimes didn't flow very well and felt a tad forced or unrealistic. Little things like that.
But Mac and Bennett still had great chemistry and I enjoyed them together, so overall I enjoyed this one. These two both did and said idiotic things at times and they were both in the wrong plenty of times, but in the end they were able to forgive each other, and work through their problems.
I bet the next book will be about Jaden (Bennett's best friend) and Danny (A guy who works with Mac). There was definitely something there for sure ;). I liked this one enough that I'll definitely read that one when it comes out :D
December 17, 2017
Mac and Bennett
They know each other from ages ago...neighbors. Bennett doesn't understand Mac, and Mac... has eyes for Bennett...he cares. They were just sixteen and...always fighting...arguing... they didn't like each other...end.
The prologue was fabulous done.... from a perspective I just loved!!
Something extremely disturbing happens, the impact is enormous....and than we are at the 'now'
Bennett returns to his parents house after ten years... their house will be renovated and sold
The company which will do all this is owned by Mac....his pain in the ass Mac...
They have to work together and o gosh they quarrel a lot. So not compatible.....uhuh...
Both men are extremely sensitive and vulnerable...with their own past on their shoulders.
Bennett an adorable nerd in all his nerdy awesomeness. Mac big mouthed, with tattoos and a bike... you almost could put a label on his head... But please... meet and experience before judging...always!!
In this story we get to know them in all their glory... with all their peculiarities and beauty.
"Princess" <3
In Boston Bennett his new job is waiting... but Mac and Bennett are growing to each other every day more and more.. Mac tries so hard to get Bennett out of his box. The moment Bennett is aware of the decisive question he never asked himself... he knows what to do.
Their personalities are standing strong...at every angle... through the whole journey.
There is an emotional level in this story so well put down... convincing and very touching. Also a lot of velvet sarcasm and witty humor. In bed they are very compatible and the moments we can witness them in action are just very sensual, sweet and sexy. Their circle of friends are amazing I just loved them...(will there be more story about them...?)
The writing style is smooth, convincing, with humor and with a positive flow...this all results in a very lovable story.
Kindly received an ARC from the author.
They know each other from ages ago...neighbors. Bennett doesn't understand Mac, and Mac... has eyes for Bennett...he cares. They were just sixteen and...always fighting...arguing... they didn't like each other...end.
The prologue was fabulous done.... from a perspective I just loved!!
Something extremely disturbing happens, the impact is enormous....and than we are at the 'now'
Bennett returns to his parents house after ten years... their house will be renovated and sold
The company which will do all this is owned by Mac....his pain in the ass Mac...
They have to work together and o gosh they quarrel a lot. So not compatible.....uhuh...
Both men are extremely sensitive and vulnerable...with their own past on their shoulders.
Bennett an adorable nerd in all his nerdy awesomeness. Mac big mouthed, with tattoos and a bike... you almost could put a label on his head... But please... meet and experience before judging...always!!
In this story we get to know them in all their glory... with all their peculiarities and beauty.
"Princess" <3
In Boston Bennett his new job is waiting... but Mac and Bennett are growing to each other every day more and more.. Mac tries so hard to get Bennett out of his box. The moment Bennett is aware of the decisive question he never asked himself... he knows what to do.
Their personalities are standing strong...at every angle... through the whole journey.
There is an emotional level in this story so well put down... convincing and very touching. Also a lot of velvet sarcasm and witty humor. In bed they are very compatible and the moments we can witness them in action are just very sensual, sweet and sexy. Their circle of friends are amazing I just loved them...(will there be more story about them...?)
The writing style is smooth, convincing, with humor and with a positive flow...this all results in a very lovable story.
Kindly received an ARC from the author.
February 18, 2025
“You want your dick in my mouth, in my throat, B?”
Well let’s just say this was a fine story. B and Mad were alright Jr. I liked Mad but B really got on my nerves from the jump. I also found their way from basically strangers that disliked each other to lover underwhelming and well strange to say the least. These two fought more than they loved and were just kinda weird all around. Unlike some I didn’t mind the wordy way the book was written I just found it hard to root for the relationship when in general I wasn’t the biggest fan of one character. Idk I think. They needed more time getting to actually know one another. There was a lot written and for that I didn’t get enough payoff with emotion and relationship building. If you’re gonna write a lot I’m gonna need it be worth it. Plus all the dialogue was kinda unrealistic and more monologue than anything. Anyways I do like the writing style in general it just didn’t work for me as a believable romance
December 6, 2019
If your a fan of frenemies to lovers this one's it. I grabbed this from the audible escapes offerings just for the halibut (translation hell-of-it) and it was simply delightful...Sean Crisden is the narrator and yes that may have factored into my decision but whatever the reasons it was definitely a good choice.
This authors new to me and this was a great chance to check them out. I definitely recommend this one it's simply delightful. If your looking for something to give you a few laughs and leave you smiling check it out.
This authors new to me and this was a great chance to check them out. I definitely recommend this one it's simply delightful. If your looking for something to give you a few laughs and leave you smiling check it out.
September 20, 2018
This second novel from Morningstar Ashley, the start of a new series, is a delight. Although it has a serious act of trauma as a teenager as the fulcrum point, it's surprisingly light in tone and has a lot of humour.
I loved both Bennett and Mac for different reasons. Bennett's uptight science nerd may have played to stereotypes but it made sense given his experience as a 16-year-old.
But Mac, he may have looked like the typical tattooed motorcycle riding bad boy, but that was all surface. He was a hard working, humorous and caring soul with a heart that had never stopped beating for his geeky childhood neighbour.
I liked the time and care given to the relationship development between these two. They didn't rush into bed, there wasn't an insta love, more Bennett's realisation of what sat at the heart of Mac's teasing.
A good setting and secondary characters gave this book a great grounding and I'd like to find out more about them all.
#ARC received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
I loved both Bennett and Mac for different reasons. Bennett's uptight science nerd may have played to stereotypes but it made sense given his experience as a 16-year-old.
But Mac, he may have looked like the typical tattooed motorcycle riding bad boy, but that was all surface. He was a hard working, humorous and caring soul with a heart that had never stopped beating for his geeky childhood neighbour.
I liked the time and care given to the relationship development between these two. They didn't rush into bed, there wasn't an insta love, more Bennett's realisation of what sat at the heart of Mac's teasing.
A good setting and secondary characters gave this book a great grounding and I'd like to find out more about them all.
#ARC received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
January 10, 2018
A Joyfully Jay review.
2.75 stars
I tried…I really tried with this one, but this book never came together for me. Morningstar Ashley is a new author to me and from what I can see this is her second book and I appreciate and look for new authors to discover. The book read as an early novel to me as it was clearly evident in the dialogue and some of the details and structure.
The book opens with a prologue and we get a short scene of Mac and Bennett. They have lived next door to each other for years and don’t like each other much. They don’t really know each other, but they antagonize each other at every turn. The men are a study in contrasts. Bennett is a good student, gets good grades, and has ambitions, where Mac likes his motorcycles over school. The scene between them is quick and we are told more than we see of their dislike for each other, so it wasn’t as well defined for me. There is then an incident where Bennett is attacked in the woods. The scene was not overly graphic, but I could have used more insight into the whole attack as it came across as muddled.
The book then moves forward twelve years. Bennett and his family moved away after the attack, but rented out their house. The family is now ready to sell and they send Bennett back to oversee the house repairs. The first person he sees is Mac.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
2.75 stars
I tried…I really tried with this one, but this book never came together for me. Morningstar Ashley is a new author to me and from what I can see this is her second book and I appreciate and look for new authors to discover. The book read as an early novel to me as it was clearly evident in the dialogue and some of the details and structure.
The book opens with a prologue and we get a short scene of Mac and Bennett. They have lived next door to each other for years and don’t like each other much. They don’t really know each other, but they antagonize each other at every turn. The men are a study in contrasts. Bennett is a good student, gets good grades, and has ambitions, where Mac likes his motorcycles over school. The scene between them is quick and we are told more than we see of their dislike for each other, so it wasn’t as well defined for me. There is then an incident where Bennett is attacked in the woods. The scene was not overly graphic, but I could have used more insight into the whole attack as it came across as muddled.
The book then moves forward twelve years. Bennett and his family moved away after the attack, but rented out their house. The family is now ready to sell and they send Bennett back to oversee the house repairs. The first person he sees is Mac.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
December 18, 2017
“Being with you is an adventure I wouldn’t miss for the world.”
And boy does this sweet Mac lead Bennett on quite the adventure. Bennett whose nickname “Princess” suits him quite well, as he is in fact one of the most high maintenance characters I have read about in a while. It takes someone with some wit, humor and honestly patience to become what Bennett in fact needs.
Bennett
An adorable nerd with a fetish for sexy science boxers, this character while hard headed at times, is just so goofy adorable that you can’t help but just love him to death. I have been unable to locate these boxers on-line, so I think our Morningstar could make quite a side company creating these nerdy creations…because I need these in my life.
Morningstar manages to not only create two very likable characters but a couple with actually some heartbreaking history. It is not until Bennett sees Mac in “A Different Light” that he knows just what Mac is to him.
“You…saved me that night. You showed them where I was, you…you held my hand…I remember that. I can sometimes still feel that warmth wrapped around my hand. It's what kept me grounded that night. I felt like if I had let go, I would’ve died…You were my anchor that night, and every night after when I thought I was lost.”
Mac may not consider himself a hero…but he is to Bennett. And the cover image for our dear Mac, just perfectly portrays the beauty that is this character.
This book, like the author’s first, has some absolutely beautifully written sexy moments and it is the heart to heart moments where I believe this author is at her best. Passionate and thoughtful, these moments are just so touching. I do wish a few of them had been longer, developing the character’s history, issues and their ultimate connection even further. The body painting scene…good grief…after hundreds of M/M books (even some that from the cover imply body paint), it is not until this book that I have been able to see this scene in all its glory.
Like in “Letting Go”, Morningstar has a way of interjecting such real genuinely funny situations that have me laughing out loud. From the paper plate scene in “Letting Go” to the destruction of paper plates here, to the use of painter’s tape and even oven mittens…it is these moments that I love.
Overall, such a sweet story of finding comfort and home in the most unlikely of places. I eagerly await Jaden and Danny’s story as I fell in love with them almost instantly.
*An ARC was received by the Author in exchange for an honest review*
And boy does this sweet Mac lead Bennett on quite the adventure. Bennett whose nickname “Princess” suits him quite well, as he is in fact one of the most high maintenance characters I have read about in a while. It takes someone with some wit, humor and honestly patience to become what Bennett in fact needs.
Bennett
An adorable nerd with a fetish for sexy science boxers, this character while hard headed at times, is just so goofy adorable that you can’t help but just love him to death. I have been unable to locate these boxers on-line, so I think our Morningstar could make quite a side company creating these nerdy creations…because I need these in my life.
Morningstar manages to not only create two very likable characters but a couple with actually some heartbreaking history. It is not until Bennett sees Mac in “A Different Light” that he knows just what Mac is to him.
“You…saved me that night. You showed them where I was, you…you held my hand…I remember that. I can sometimes still feel that warmth wrapped around my hand. It's what kept me grounded that night. I felt like if I had let go, I would’ve died…You were my anchor that night, and every night after when I thought I was lost.”
Mac may not consider himself a hero…but he is to Bennett. And the cover image for our dear Mac, just perfectly portrays the beauty that is this character.
This book, like the author’s first, has some absolutely beautifully written sexy moments and it is the heart to heart moments where I believe this author is at her best. Passionate and thoughtful, these moments are just so touching. I do wish a few of them had been longer, developing the character’s history, issues and their ultimate connection even further. The body painting scene…good grief…after hundreds of M/M books (even some that from the cover imply body paint), it is not until this book that I have been able to see this scene in all its glory.
Like in “Letting Go”, Morningstar has a way of interjecting such real genuinely funny situations that have me laughing out loud. From the paper plate scene in “Letting Go” to the destruction of paper plates here, to the use of painter’s tape and even oven mittens…it is these moments that I love.
Overall, such a sweet story of finding comfort and home in the most unlikely of places. I eagerly await Jaden and Danny’s story as I fell in love with them almost instantly.
*An ARC was received by the Author in exchange for an honest review*
December 26, 2017
Sometimes taming someone takes time but the reward is worth the effort, try this one you will be rewarded.
September 10, 2020
I love books where two people hate each then fall in love. Mac and Bennett are wonderful characters. I didn’t like the flashbacks in the beginning and almost walked away from the book. I’m so glad I didn’t.
Morningstar, I hope you’re writing a sequel about Evan and Darrell. I know I’ll buy it.
Morningstar, I hope you’re writing a sequel about Evan and Darrell. I know I’ll buy it.
October 11, 2018
The blurb sucked me in but the story, while interesting, was way too wordy and clumsy. This was the first book of Ms. Ashley's that I have read. A good editor would have done wonders for this story.
December 22, 2019
New to me author. I listened to the audiobook. This was a mm contemporary story set in the USA. Enemies to lovers, old neighbours meeting after a long time. Narrator was great and played each character wonderfully. Mac and Bennett are very different but make it work in the end. I’ll read more from this author.
January 7, 2018
Bennett Cole thought his friends were true and would have his back despite what the boy next door, Mac Campbell said. He was wrong and Mac was right. After a horrendous and bigotted attack, Bennet and his family leave their home in White Acre but ten years later he returns to fix up the family home so it can be sold. He wasn't counting on the boy next door still living there and being the contractor his parents arranged to do the work he can't. Will they still have the same contentious comradre they had as kids or will adulthood mature them into a new relationship?
I always love giving new authors a read, whether they're new to me or to the publishing world as Morningstar Ashley is, the adrenaline rush I get from wondering "will they be worth my time?" always spurs me on. Well, I can safely say that Morningstar Ashley is definitely worth my time. Authors are always learning and growing, frankly an author that doesn't think they have anything to learn is not an author I want to read, so when my first experience with one is as wonderful as Morningstar's A Different Light is I am on a natural high just waiting to see what future stories lurk in her imagination. This is the author's second book and I have not read her first, Letting Go, but I will most certainly be going back and giving it a read in the weeks to come as I wait for her next one.
A Different Light is an emotional ride that will leave you breathless. I really loved how Bennett is a Sheldon Cooper-like character that is slightly better at the social aspect of relationships/connections. Having compared him to Sheldon, don't think that this is a straight up romantic comedy. There is definitely some humorous moments, the camping trip from hell comes to mind. A Different Light is a story about romance obviously but its also about friendship, overcoming past trauma and misunderstandings, going home, and second chances. Mostly though it is about life. I certainly wanted to whack the two men upside the heads at times but I also wanted to bundle them up in bubblewrap that I had left over from Christmas deliveries. Morningstar Ashley writes her characters in a way that will confound you and leave you screaming "UGH!!!!" at their stubbornness but also leaving you sighing "AWWWWW" with all the heart she's put into their journey.
A brilliant must read that I know will be on my re-read list for years to come.
I always love giving new authors a read, whether they're new to me or to the publishing world as Morningstar Ashley is, the adrenaline rush I get from wondering "will they be worth my time?" always spurs me on. Well, I can safely say that Morningstar Ashley is definitely worth my time. Authors are always learning and growing, frankly an author that doesn't think they have anything to learn is not an author I want to read, so when my first experience with one is as wonderful as Morningstar's A Different Light is I am on a natural high just waiting to see what future stories lurk in her imagination. This is the author's second book and I have not read her first, Letting Go, but I will most certainly be going back and giving it a read in the weeks to come as I wait for her next one.
A Different Light is an emotional ride that will leave you breathless. I really loved how Bennett is a Sheldon Cooper-like character that is slightly better at the social aspect of relationships/connections. Having compared him to Sheldon, don't think that this is a straight up romantic comedy. There is definitely some humorous moments, the camping trip from hell comes to mind. A Different Light is a story about romance obviously but its also about friendship, overcoming past trauma and misunderstandings, going home, and second chances. Mostly though it is about life. I certainly wanted to whack the two men upside the heads at times but I also wanted to bundle them up in bubblewrap that I had left over from Christmas deliveries. Morningstar Ashley writes her characters in a way that will confound you and leave you screaming "UGH!!!!" at their stubbornness but also leaving you sighing "AWWWWW" with all the heart she's put into their journey.
A brilliant must read that I know will be on my re-read list for years to come.
January 4, 2018
4 Stars
I love a good enemies to lovers story. There is something special about two people who despise each other, but still can’t deny the attraction they feel.
Mac and Bennett have been neighbors forever and as they grow up the animosity between them grows, but a tragedy when they are just 17 causes Bennett and his parents to move away. Now, 10 years later Bennett is back to supervise the renovations of his parents' home in preparation for its sale. Guess who the contractor is?
I really like both Bennett and Mac and my heart broke for Mac and the way his parents, and some of the others in their small town, made him feel about himself. I kinda wanted to throat punch them. Mac and Bennett had amazing chemistry and when they finally fell into bed they sizzled between the sheets. While I liked Mac and Bennett, they came off as very immature at times and in some scenes they felt like a couple of kids throwing a temper-tantrum.
For the most part the story was well-written and held my attention, but if I had any critiques, it would be that some of the scenes were too detailed and descriptive and I think had they been cut down a bit the story would have flowed better.
Still, this was a really enjoyable story filled with likable main characters as well as some great secondary characters. Very enjoyable and definitely recommendable!
*copy provided by author/publisher in exchange for an honest review*
December 18, 2017
4.5 Stars...Morningstar Ashley has another hit on her hands…A Different Light was a great read!! Enemies to lovers/unrequited crush…yeah, that’s all me!. I loved Mac and Bennett (aka Princess) :) I did, however, want to smack them around a few times as well!! It was funny, sweet, smart, snarky and very SEXY!!! I didn’t want it to end…The supporting characters were awesome as well!! I’m also really looking forward to Jaden’s story, and I hope we get to see more of Mac and Princess! A must read!
December 19, 2017
Four bright shiny stars for A Different Light.
This is a first time read from an author new to me, and I'll happily read her stories again. This is a sweet, enemies to lovers story, filled with so many humorous moments, I found myself reading them out loud to my daughter.
Bennet is the classic geek, wearing nerdy clothes, and working in a lab developing nanotechnology. Mac is an outdoorsy contracted remodeling Bennett's childhood home where the two used to be neighbors growing up in small town America.
Bennett moved away after a horrific near death beating. He closed himself off from the world, not trusting anyone again with his heart. He hides away in his lab, choosing to bury his nose in books.
Mac is the boy that secretly pined after Bennett, but always was made to feel lacking by his parents comparison to the super smart boy next door. Bennett's return brings back old feeling of resentment, and spurs him on to snipe and bicker constantly with Bennett, even though he has to see him daily as the owner of the construction company remodeling Bennet's childhood home.
I found myself falling in love with Bennett and Mac. Mac taking Bennett camping, and the series of mishaps that ensue left me laughing out loud. Bennet's adorable secret boxer with silly sayings on them were so endearing to me, they made me look forward to them being revealed when sexy times occurred.
I also like the everyday normal life shown written in this book. The author makes eating dinner, hanging out with family and friends so lifelike, I forgot I was reading a book, being transported into a small town where everyone knows your name.
I recommend this book if you want a feel good read, and want to soak up romance, beautiful scenery, hilarious conversations, and hot bedroom scenes. Oh, there was one scene that involved paintbrushes, water colors, and a glass window that left me fanning myself.
This is a first time read from an author new to me, and I'll happily read her stories again. This is a sweet, enemies to lovers story, filled with so many humorous moments, I found myself reading them out loud to my daughter.
Bennet is the classic geek, wearing nerdy clothes, and working in a lab developing nanotechnology. Mac is an outdoorsy contracted remodeling Bennett's childhood home where the two used to be neighbors growing up in small town America.
Bennett moved away after a horrific near death beating. He closed himself off from the world, not trusting anyone again with his heart. He hides away in his lab, choosing to bury his nose in books.
Mac is the boy that secretly pined after Bennett, but always was made to feel lacking by his parents comparison to the super smart boy next door. Bennett's return brings back old feeling of resentment, and spurs him on to snipe and bicker constantly with Bennett, even though he has to see him daily as the owner of the construction company remodeling Bennet's childhood home.
I found myself falling in love with Bennett and Mac. Mac taking Bennett camping, and the series of mishaps that ensue left me laughing out loud. Bennet's adorable secret boxer with silly sayings on them were so endearing to me, they made me look forward to them being revealed when sexy times occurred.
I also like the everyday normal life shown written in this book. The author makes eating dinner, hanging out with family and friends so lifelike, I forgot I was reading a book, being transported into a small town where everyone knows your name.
I recommend this book if you want a feel good read, and want to soak up romance, beautiful scenery, hilarious conversations, and hot bedroom scenes. Oh, there was one scene that involved paintbrushes, water colors, and a glass window that left me fanning myself.
December 19, 2017
This is the first book I've read by Morningstar Ashley and I have to say I'm impressed. The two characters were both well thought out and extremely frustrating at times. LOL My favorite. Bennett goes back to his hometown to get his parents house ready to put on the market.
When he is awoken the first morning by construction workers who are also working on the house, he's shocked to see his old nemesis Mac working with them. At first he just wants to avoid him. He left town years ago to avoid him and other guys he thought were his friends that turned out to be anything but. But there is so much he doesn't know about Mac, and so much that Mac doesn't know about Bennett. When they finally talk, they realize that there really is a lot of chemistry between them, but both are afraid to act. Bennett's not going to be around after a few weeks, he's moving to start his dream job. And just the idea of staying in town longer than that is something he really doesn't want to imagine. Then they start spending time together, at first it's just to work together, but then they have dinner together a few times. Their camping trip has to go down as one of the worst weekends anyone has had camping EVER. But with all of the time they spend together, things change between them, and feelings grow. Both of them know what it's like to be treated badly, but together they're so happy that they're able to move past some of that hurt.
This is a really good read, I really enjoyed it.
When he is awoken the first morning by construction workers who are also working on the house, he's shocked to see his old nemesis Mac working with them. At first he just wants to avoid him. He left town years ago to avoid him and other guys he thought were his friends that turned out to be anything but. But there is so much he doesn't know about Mac, and so much that Mac doesn't know about Bennett. When they finally talk, they realize that there really is a lot of chemistry between them, but both are afraid to act. Bennett's not going to be around after a few weeks, he's moving to start his dream job. And just the idea of staying in town longer than that is something he really doesn't want to imagine. Then they start spending time together, at first it's just to work together, but then they have dinner together a few times. Their camping trip has to go down as one of the worst weekends anyone has had camping EVER. But with all of the time they spend together, things change between them, and feelings grow. Both of them know what it's like to be treated badly, but together they're so happy that they're able to move past some of that hurt.
This is a really good read, I really enjoyed it.
December 18, 2017
Bennett and Mac's story is a wonderful read! Enemies to lovers to enemies to lovers :)
They lived next door when they were kids, never gotten along and Mac loved to rile up Bennett's feathers, until something awful happens and Bennett moves.
Ten years after, a house needing repairs and they meet again.
They think they know each other, but they are in for a surprise.
Sometimes, words hurt more than punches and omg Mac's parents were awful! That's verbal abuse from my pov!
I adored this story, laughed alongside the characters, felt for them, loved the bickering!
Now I want to read more about Jaden!
Congratulations, Morningstar Ashely!
They lived next door when they were kids, never gotten along and Mac loved to rile up Bennett's feathers, until something awful happens and Bennett moves.
Ten years after, a house needing repairs and they meet again.
They think they know each other, but they are in for a surprise.
Sometimes, words hurt more than punches and omg Mac's parents were awful! That's verbal abuse from my pov!
I adored this story, laughed alongside the characters, felt for them, loved the bickering!
Now I want to read more about Jaden!
Congratulations, Morningstar Ashely!
December 18, 2017
ARC provided by author for an honest review.
A Different Light is a gorgeous read. I loved Mac and Bennett. They grew up next door to each other but didn’t get along as teenagers. Although they had secret crushes on each other.
Now all grown up, Bennett is back in his home town where Mac still lives.
I love enemies to lovers stories and this one is fun, flirty, sexy and that first kiss I was like ‘YES! Finally!’ I liked the fact that their relationship wasn’t rushed tho, they spent time getting to really know one another and there were some beautiful moments between them as well as some that were hilarious...Bennett and camping..Lol
I can’t wait for Jaden and Danny’s story now.
A Different Light is a gorgeous read. I loved Mac and Bennett. They grew up next door to each other but didn’t get along as teenagers. Although they had secret crushes on each other.
Now all grown up, Bennett is back in his home town where Mac still lives.
I love enemies to lovers stories and this one is fun, flirty, sexy and that first kiss I was like ‘YES! Finally!’ I liked the fact that their relationship wasn’t rushed tho, they spent time getting to really know one another and there were some beautiful moments between them as well as some that were hilarious...Bennett and camping..Lol
I can’t wait for Jaden and Danny’s story now.
December 22, 2017
A pleasure to read...
Great read, pulled me in and I couldn't put it down. Great loveable characters, hope to see it there is a chance for the rest of the Motley Crew that is B and Mac's friends get thier HEA'S too.
Great read, pulled me in and I couldn't put it down. Great loveable characters, hope to see it there is a chance for the rest of the Motley Crew that is B and Mac's friends get thier HEA'S too.
December 22, 2019
It was just boring for me and took me 7 months to complete. Also, I liked Mac a lot, but Bennett (for most of the book) just pissed me off.
Read
December 20, 2017DNFd at 33%. I'm not the target audience for this.
September 26, 2018
This books starts really good, teenager neighbours that are bickering everyday, something dreatful happens to one of them and they are separated until the present time. So again they start a bit like enemies... but slowly goes becoming friends and more.
I love those plots!! But these two are too much! They always end up fussing after a good scene because a misunderstood! ANd I end totaly bored about it! Then there are some scenes in the secondhalf of the book like the camping or the motorcycle ones that I found totally unnecessary!
I love those plots!! But these two are too much! They always end up fussing after a good scene because a misunderstood! ANd I end totaly bored about it! Then there are some scenes in the secondhalf of the book like the camping or the motorcycle ones that I found totally unnecessary!
December 19, 2017
What do you do when you are faced having to go back to a place that holds the most terrify night of your existence? The night that has changed how you precieve another's attention towards you. That is what Bennett Cole is about to find out. Having left his home town ten years ago after almost dying in a field alone, being betrayed by people he had considered friend s for over two years. If that isn't bad enough, the love/ hate relationship that he had for his next neighbor just happens to be the contractor that his mother has hired to help renovated his childhood home so that it can be finally be sold. The one thing that gives Bennett any consultation is that after this summer he leaves for his dream job! Now, if he can only get through this summer without either throttling his annoying next door neighbor or climbing his body like a tree he will be great!
Mitchell (Mac) Campbell has always felt that he needed to prove himself not only to his parents but to his hometown! He has had to fight not only because he is gay, but because of his appearance with his tattoos and love for riding his bike. As a teenager he never seemed to be good enough for his parents. His mother always used to compare him to Bennett his next door neighbor. Although, he had a major crush on him he always seemed to take out his anger on him! He tried to warn Bennett of the kids he was hanging out with but his cocky attitude only irritated Mac! So he has always blamed himself the night Bennett almost died and was crushed when he found out they were moving. Now, Bennett is back and makes nerdy sexy as hell!
However, with old hurts it seems like whenever the two of them get together it's nothing but a big explosive fight with neither one backing down but the sexual tension is just as thick!
It takes a few friends of theirs to make them both see the error of their ways and once they do the passion that inidiates is beyond what either one of them ever could have imagined! Soon the weeks go by and their time is almost up before Bennett is due to leave, will their new found passion be strong enough once Bennett leaves?
Mitchell (Mac) Campbell has always felt that he needed to prove himself not only to his parents but to his hometown! He has had to fight not only because he is gay, but because of his appearance with his tattoos and love for riding his bike. As a teenager he never seemed to be good enough for his parents. His mother always used to compare him to Bennett his next door neighbor. Although, he had a major crush on him he always seemed to take out his anger on him! He tried to warn Bennett of the kids he was hanging out with but his cocky attitude only irritated Mac! So he has always blamed himself the night Bennett almost died and was crushed when he found out they were moving. Now, Bennett is back and makes nerdy sexy as hell!
However, with old hurts it seems like whenever the two of them get together it's nothing but a big explosive fight with neither one backing down but the sexual tension is just as thick!
It takes a few friends of theirs to make them both see the error of their ways and once they do the passion that inidiates is beyond what either one of them ever could have imagined! Soon the weeks go by and their time is almost up before Bennett is due to leave, will their new found passion be strong enough once Bennett leaves?
January 2, 2018
I am confused by Mac, he just seemed like an utter jackass throughout. He judged Bennet right from the outset, coloured by his own feelings of inadequacy, and continued to hold onto the ill formed judgement in adulthood. In addition, he constantly taunted Bennet. It was particularly annoying when Bennet, understandably, lost his temper after prolonged taunting about his (physical inadequacy) and, later, apologised for losing his temper. Why? He was entirely justified, Mac is an immature bully who doesn’t seem to have worked out that good natured teasing and taunting are two different things and the former only works when you have, at the very least, a cordial relationship. He is the adult equivalent of the schoolboy who pulls the pigtails of the girl he likes and is extremely unlikeable.
Maybe I am missing something, but Bennet never really did anything that justified Mac’s perception of him. Mac had a massive sense of entitlement, essentially he felt entitled to Bennet’s friendship and reacted poorly when he didn’t automatically receive it.
Bennet was just preposterous!! As an academic myself, I can tell you I am utterly clueless when it comes to DIY. But you know what ALL academics are good at? Googling. I don’t know of a single nerd, even those that have been mollycoddled into uselessness, whose first thought wouldn’t be to find a Youtube instructional video on any new task they attempted.
I get that the author is trying to give her characters personality but, regrettably, she has fallen short of any element of believability or likeability. Her characters are painful cliches, the tatted, badass biker is actually a misunderstood, tortured artist. The socially awkward genius that’s somewhere on the spectrum. *eye roll*
That said, despite the MCs’ shortcomings, I read the book, was entertained and didn’t feel like I had to force myself to finish. That’s worth 3 stars.
On a side note, what the hell are laminate hardwood floors. Aren’t floors either laminate (over MDF) or hardwood. Why on earth would you put laminate over hardwood. That’s like buying premium leather sofas and covering them with pleather.
Maybe I am missing something, but Bennet never really did anything that justified Mac’s perception of him. Mac had a massive sense of entitlement, essentially he felt entitled to Bennet’s friendship and reacted poorly when he didn’t automatically receive it.
Bennet was just preposterous!! As an academic myself, I can tell you I am utterly clueless when it comes to DIY. But you know what ALL academics are good at? Googling. I don’t know of a single nerd, even those that have been mollycoddled into uselessness, whose first thought wouldn’t be to find a Youtube instructional video on any new task they attempted.
I get that the author is trying to give her characters personality but, regrettably, she has fallen short of any element of believability or likeability. Her characters are painful cliches, the tatted, badass biker is actually a misunderstood, tortured artist. The socially awkward genius that’s somewhere on the spectrum. *eye roll*
That said, despite the MCs’ shortcomings, I read the book, was entertained and didn’t feel like I had to force myself to finish. That’s worth 3 stars.
On a side note, what the hell are laminate hardwood floors. Aren’t floors either laminate (over MDF) or hardwood. Why on earth would you put laminate over hardwood. That’s like buying premium leather sofas and covering them with pleather.
February 19, 2020
I listened to the audio book and the first 2 1/2 hours or so I really enjoyed but after that point most of the conflict was already resolved and I became bored for most of the rest of the audio book. I don't mind a story being mostly fluffy romance but it's just not what I was expecting from this book given the summary so that left me disappointed. There was also definitely a lot of instant attraction in this book. The author tries to get around this by having the characters have been childhood neighbors but because we didn't really get to read much of this background, when there was attraction as soon as the characters reunited it seemed very insta-love. As I've read more romance I've figured out more what I like out of them and this just didn't hit the mark for me.
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