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San Capistrano #1
The Beach House
The Beach House is the first installment in The San Capistrano Series, following the story of a chance meeting between pediatraic nurse, Alex Davis, and lawyer, Ben Larsen, at a rock concert.
Alex is a shy, quiet man who keeps to himself, the product of a judgemental and abusive upbringing. At a concert he meets Ben. Confident and comfortable with his life, Ben has only ever known unconditional acceptance in his family.
When Ben asks him out, Alex assumes it will be like every date he's had: casual and unimportant. He doesn't count on falling in love. Will Ben be enough to help Alex turn his back on a lifetime of rejection and accept that he can be happy?
Alex is a shy, quiet man who keeps to himself, the product of a judgemental and abusive upbringing. At a concert he meets Ben. Confident and comfortable with his life, Ben has only ever known unconditional acceptance in his family.
When Ben asks him out, Alex assumes it will be like every date he's had: casual and unimportant. He doesn't count on falling in love. Will Ben be enough to help Alex turn his back on a lifetime of rejection and accept that he can be happy?
284 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 1, 2018
111 people are currently reading
476 people want to read
About the author
Angelique Jurd
43 books288 followersPeople driven stories. Slightly broken boys. Safe space MM Romance fiction.
After getting a degree in languages, travelling the world, raising a family, and working as a business journalist, she went back to school and studied English Literature and Media Studies.
In 2018, she published her first novel Jesse’s Smile with Small Black Cat Media. Since then, she’s continued to write contemporary gay (MM) romance and her academic research in fan studies and the queerification of popular fiction characters by fans.
Angelique is owned by three cats, three adult children, two temperamental computers, and a very patient boyfriend (not a partridge in a pear tree). She’s also pierced, painted, pansexual, and proud AF. When she’s not writing (or swearing at her computer) she likes cold champagne, hot coffee, neat whiskey, loud Springsteen, and the Winchester brothers kicking butt.
Stay up to date with new releases and other news by getting Angelique's newsletter: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/636945...
Find online:
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Angelique-Jurd...
Instagram: angeliquejurd
Facebook: http://facebook.com/AngeliqueRJurdWriter
FB Reader Group:
http://facebook.com/groups/cocktailsa...
Bookbub:
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/angel...
After getting a degree in languages, travelling the world, raising a family, and working as a business journalist, she went back to school and studied English Literature and Media Studies.
In 2018, she published her first novel Jesse’s Smile with Small Black Cat Media. Since then, she’s continued to write contemporary gay (MM) romance and her academic research in fan studies and the queerification of popular fiction characters by fans.
Angelique is owned by three cats, three adult children, two temperamental computers, and a very patient boyfriend (not a partridge in a pear tree). She’s also pierced, painted, pansexual, and proud AF. When she’s not writing (or swearing at her computer) she likes cold champagne, hot coffee, neat whiskey, loud Springsteen, and the Winchester brothers kicking butt.
Stay up to date with new releases and other news by getting Angelique's newsletter: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/636945...
Find online:
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Angelique-Jurd...
Instagram: angeliquejurd
Facebook: http://facebook.com/AngeliqueRJurdWriter
FB Reader Group:
http://facebook.com/groups/cocktailsa...
Bookbub:
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/angel...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
June 30, 2018
4 Stars
Alex has grown up in a conservative house. His parents, especially his mother, are very traditional and religious. They think being gay is a sickness and they tried to "cure" Alex. Of course that was impossible but their behavior had some consequences, made Alex insecure. He thinks he can’t be in a relationship. So when he met Ben and started dating him, their relationship makes him confused...
I liked it, very enjoyable. Both characters were so likable. I loved Alex brother for having his back all the time and loved Polly, Ben’s grandma! She was full of joy and made me laugh! I should say it has some editing problems but still it was good. Told in multiple POV (mostly in dual), 3rd person. It’s the first installment in "The San Capistrano" series. It doesn’t end on a cliffhanger but the next books are still about this couple. All in all, it was a good read and hope you enjoy it as well!
Alex has grown up in a conservative house. His parents, especially his mother, are very traditional and religious. They think being gay is a sickness and they tried to "cure" Alex. Of course that was impossible but their behavior had some consequences, made Alex insecure. He thinks he can’t be in a relationship. So when he met Ben and started dating him, their relationship makes him confused...
I liked it, very enjoyable. Both characters were so likable. I loved Alex brother for having his back all the time and loved Polly, Ben’s grandma! She was full of joy and made me laugh! I should say it has some editing problems but still it was good. Told in multiple POV (mostly in dual), 3rd person. It’s the first installment in "The San Capistrano" series. It doesn’t end on a cliffhanger but the next books are still about this couple. All in all, it was a good read and hope you enjoy it as well!
April 3, 2018
This turned out to be a pleasant surprise. I'll admit, I had to get used to the writing and get past some editing issues before I really started enjoying Alex and Ben's story.
Alex is shy and insecure. He's been raised by conservative parents, who become emotionally abusive when they discover he is gay. His mother is plain horrible, and his father is an ignorant prick. I have no idea why, as an adult, Alex continues to subject himself to their cruelty.
Ben has the opposite experience. He is raised by a supportive and loving mother and grandmother (Polly is the most adorable character. We should all have a Polly in our lives). Ben is secure, and when he meets Alex, he is patient and loving.
There are some rocky moments in the story, but I love the way these guys work out their issues. I am looking forward to the rest of the series.
Alex is shy and insecure. He's been raised by conservative parents, who become emotionally abusive when they discover he is gay. His mother is plain horrible, and his father is an ignorant prick. I have no idea why, as an adult, Alex continues to subject himself to their cruelty.
Ben has the opposite experience. He is raised by a supportive and loving mother and grandmother (Polly is the most adorable character. We should all have a Polly in our lives). Ben is secure, and when he meets Alex, he is patient and loving.
There are some rocky moments in the story, but I love the way these guys work out their issues. I am looking forward to the rest of the series.
November 23, 2024
Reread May 2020
It's been a while since I read this so I decided to do a reread. I really love these two. I forgot how much. The writing is still different and probably won't appeal to some, but it's a sweet read.
Originally read April 2018
Once I got used to the writing, this turned out to be a very sweet read. I was glad I took a chance and kept going.
Ben is the perfect hero. He has a wonderful family in his mother and grandmother. He is patient and loving towards Alex. Poor Alex. He has been beaten down and brainwashed by his horrible parents. But luckily, he takes a chance on Ben and Ben is there to help him and push him through his insecurities and anxiety.
I really, really wish I didn't have to read Alex's mother's thoughts. What a horrible person she is. I wanted to reach through the book and strangle her with my own hands. I was a little disappointed that someone didn't really tell her or his father off like they deserved. I honestly didn't see why it was necessary for any of them to continue a relationship with those miserable, bigoted, ignorant fuckers!
I'm really looking forward to more of these two. I'm sure they will have their ups and downs but I know they are solid and will work it out.
It's been a while since I read this so I decided to do a reread. I really love these two. I forgot how much. The writing is still different and probably won't appeal to some, but it's a sweet read.
Originally read April 2018
Once I got used to the writing, this turned out to be a very sweet read. I was glad I took a chance and kept going.
Ben is the perfect hero. He has a wonderful family in his mother and grandmother. He is patient and loving towards Alex. Poor Alex. He has been beaten down and brainwashed by his horrible parents. But luckily, he takes a chance on Ben and Ben is there to help him and push him through his insecurities and anxiety.
I really, really wish I didn't have to read Alex's mother's thoughts. What a horrible person she is. I wanted to reach through the book and strangle her with my own hands. I was a little disappointed that someone didn't really tell her or his father off like they deserved. I honestly didn't see why it was necessary for any of them to continue a relationship with those miserable, bigoted, ignorant fuckers!
I'm really looking forward to more of these two. I'm sure they will have their ups and downs but I know they are solid and will work it out.
May 17, 2020
Reread May 17, 2020
I’m upping my rating to 5⭐️. I loved this one even more the second time around. These two are so absolutely perfect for each other. They compliment each other’s strengths and weaknesses.
Original review
Loved both Alex and Ben. Poor Alex and what he went through with his family. I don’t think I’ve ever despised a fictional character as much as I did Alex’s Mom. She is a horrible human being. The rest of the secondary characters were awesome especially Allie and Polly. Polly is hilarious!!
I’m upping my rating to 5⭐️. I loved this one even more the second time around. These two are so absolutely perfect for each other. They compliment each other’s strengths and weaknesses.
Original review
Loved both Alex and Ben. Poor Alex and what he went through with his family. I don’t think I’ve ever despised a fictional character as much as I did Alex’s Mom. She is a horrible human being. The rest of the secondary characters were awesome especially Allie and Polly. Polly is hilarious!!
May 26, 2018
*** I think this is a fun read, a lovely romance ! ***
Our two men meet on common ground, a U2 Concert.
Ben is 6'1" black belt in Judo, with green eyes, light brown hair, is a Lawyer, and LGBT advocate.
Alex, 6'5" dimpled, APRN, Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, has a Masters in Pediatrics, has curly brown hair, hazel eyes and is a fitness nut.
It's kismet when they meet, which is followed by many dates, movies, cooking, and conversations. They discuss Alex's parents, who are the opposite of Ben's Mom, Allie, and Grandma, Polly, who raised him in an openly loving home. Alex's folks are disgusting, stiff, bigots. Luckily, Alex has a great brother, Matthew, and his wife, lively Claire.
There have been no relationships in Alex's life, and he's afraid. The hate his folks spew is ingrained. The men decide to try to make it work. If Ben looks at Alex, he sees a wonderful man who is smart, sweet, kind and funny.
They visit Ben's family Beach house, and Alex doesn't know they (Mom and Gran) are both famous people. Later, Alex unloads his secret to Ben, and his sad story is met with hugs, love, and comfort. We get to hate Alex's folks just a bit more.
I loved Matthew and Claire, and the wild Allie and Polly. We see the epic fail at Thanksgiving, and then a glorious Christmas.
Loved this tale; this beautiful romance. Of course we get very spicy sexy times, including a box of toys.
This is Angelique Jurd's first book, but was published second. I will be watching for more from her.
I recommend this love story. ENJOY !
=====
Thank you for the recommendation, darling Stephanie !
=====
=====
Our two men meet on common ground, a U2 Concert.
Ben is 6'1" black belt in Judo, with green eyes, light brown hair, is a Lawyer, and LGBT advocate.
Alex, 6'5" dimpled, APRN, Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, has a Masters in Pediatrics, has curly brown hair, hazel eyes and is a fitness nut.
It's kismet when they meet, which is followed by many dates, movies, cooking, and conversations. They discuss Alex's parents, who are the opposite of Ben's Mom, Allie, and Grandma, Polly, who raised him in an openly loving home. Alex's folks are disgusting, stiff, bigots. Luckily, Alex has a great brother, Matthew, and his wife, lively Claire.
There have been no relationships in Alex's life, and he's afraid. The hate his folks spew is ingrained. The men decide to try to make it work. If Ben looks at Alex, he sees a wonderful man who is smart, sweet, kind and funny.
They visit Ben's family Beach house, and Alex doesn't know they (Mom and Gran) are both famous people. Later, Alex unloads his secret to Ben, and his sad story is met with hugs, love, and comfort. We get to hate Alex's folks just a bit more.
I loved Matthew and Claire, and the wild Allie and Polly. We see the epic fail at Thanksgiving, and then a glorious Christmas.
Loved this tale; this beautiful romance. Of course we get very spicy sexy times, including a box of toys.
This is Angelique Jurd's first book, but was published second. I will be watching for more from her.
I recommend this love story. ENJOY !
=====
Thank you for the recommendation, darling Stephanie !
=====
=====
August 18, 2018
** 3.5 stars **
This book is really cute. It has some mild angst, a host of secondary characters that make this book humorous and a bit sassy. I liked Ben very much. He has this outgoing personality, a sort of charm, that makes him irresistible. He is smart and willing to put himself out there in search of love. Alex, on the other hand, while shy and sweet at times was a little too languid and even bordering on doormat. He is in his late twenties and he just takes all the verbal abuse from his mother. He should stand up for himself but he just takes it all in and that affects him as a person and also affects his relationship with Ben. Their romance is sweet and there are moments that made me tickled - so adorable. What I didn't feel was chemistry - for more than a half of the book it felt very awkward between them in that department. Also at times it felt as if the book was told from a third person's perspective and then suddenly switching to either Ben's or Alex's POVs. It was slightly off-putting. But I enjoyed the book despite these minor issues and will probably continue with the series.
Note: There are mentions of domestic verbal and physical abuse, suicide attempt, extreme bigotry and hatred. Be in the know.
This book is really cute. It has some mild angst, a host of secondary characters that make this book humorous and a bit sassy. I liked Ben very much. He has this outgoing personality, a sort of charm, that makes him irresistible. He is smart and willing to put himself out there in search of love. Alex, on the other hand, while shy and sweet at times was a little too languid and even bordering on doormat. He is in his late twenties and he just takes all the verbal abuse from his mother. He should stand up for himself but he just takes it all in and that affects him as a person and also affects his relationship with Ben. Their romance is sweet and there are moments that made me tickled - so adorable. What I didn't feel was chemistry - for more than a half of the book it felt very awkward between them in that department. Also at times it felt as if the book was told from a third person's perspective and then suddenly switching to either Ben's or Alex's POVs. It was slightly off-putting. But I enjoyed the book despite these minor issues and will probably continue with the series.
Note: There are mentions of domestic verbal and physical abuse, suicide attempt, extreme bigotry and hatred. Be in the know.
September 19, 2019
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
The cover pulls together how the men meet and also the love they have for each other and after reading the book, you will get to know the story to go with the photograph. The book is told in third person, which is not always my favorite, but this was well done and tightly written and the book had a dreamy, movie-like feel to it.
The story moves through the men meeting, going on their first date, and then just naturally wanting to spend all of their time together. Alex is unsure of everything and while he lets Ben knows that his parents have disapproved of him since they learned he was gay, it takes a little while for Alex to tell Ben the full story of what happened. Alex’s parents are horrible, cruel, and abusive, yet Alex still wants their approval and hasn’t yet cut them out of his life, which you will want him to do. In contrast, Ben’s mother and grandmother exude love and acceptance and family and the beach house they live in is the perfect retreat.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
The cover pulls together how the men meet and also the love they have for each other and after reading the book, you will get to know the story to go with the photograph. The book is told in third person, which is not always my favorite, but this was well done and tightly written and the book had a dreamy, movie-like feel to it.
The story moves through the men meeting, going on their first date, and then just naturally wanting to spend all of their time together. Alex is unsure of everything and while he lets Ben knows that his parents have disapproved of him since they learned he was gay, it takes a little while for Alex to tell Ben the full story of what happened. Alex’s parents are horrible, cruel, and abusive, yet Alex still wants their approval and hasn’t yet cut them out of his life, which you will want him to do. In contrast, Ben’s mother and grandmother exude love and acceptance and family and the beach house they live in is the perfect retreat.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
maybe
January 23, 2019Freebie at the zon.com right now: https://smile.amazon.com/Beach-House-...
April 8, 2018
I liked the plot line but the Ms Jurd's writing write killed the story for me.
January 31, 2023
The Beach House: Book 1 (San Capistrano Series)
Two guys queuing to go into a U2 Concert each of them alone. Ben is about 6’ but the guy a few people in front of him is 6’4”. He’s gorgeous. Ben tries to keep him in sight but as soon as Ben gets through the gateway he’s lost sight of Tall Guy. He wanders off to view the merchandise stalls and buys a t-shirt. Disappointed that he didn’t catch up with Tall Guy, he plonks down on the grass, and admires his purchase.
Looking up he sees him, sitting on the grass too, just a few feet away.
Ben doesn’t miss this opportunity and starts chatting.
Introductions are made and they sit through the Concert together. Not wanting the evening to end, Ben invites Tall Guy for coffee.
Ben is a 28 year old lawyer with his own apartment and two cars, one a BMW and the other a flashy sporty model. He loves his cars and his family, consisting of his Mother Allie, a famous Architect and his Grandmother Polly, a sometimes crazy, loose cannon aged 90. She has talents of her own, in spades. A really loving, happy family unit living in their beach house in San Capistrano.
Alexander (Tall Guy) late 20’s is a Paediatric Nurse at a local hospital where he works since he completed his Masters Degree. He lives alone, runs, walks or gets the bus to work each day. He likes cooking and has learned from his older brother Matthew who is a Chef. Matthew and his wife Claire are his only close family. His parents are his worse live nightmare.
Following their meeting at the Concert Ben and Alex have been socialising together, much to Alex’s confusion. Why does bright, shiny funny Ben have any interest in him? He’s not worth Ben’s attention.
But Ben doesn’t give up and soon they are dating seriously. Enjoying their time together, staying over at each others apartments. Then Ben wants to meet families and Alex never, ever wants that to happen. No. Way.
/=/=/=/=/=/=/=/
OMG, I just loved these two MC characters, Ben in particular, his mother and his grandmother.
I wanted to EX TERM MIN ATE, Alex’s parents. People like them, especially parents, are my triggers for wanting to commit murder, 🤬😡👺🤮. Specifically when they try aversion/conversion therapy on their child. Plus, humiliating them in front of their so called friends from their church.
So far they have featured little in this story, on page, but as this is a series which continues covering Ben and Alex’s relationship story I’m hoping they disappear never to come into their lives again.
Hoping that Ben and Alex keep their faith in each other in Book 2, “Tides of Love”
and that Granny Polly is celebrating birthday 91 with her “darling boys”, Ben and Alex.
Just checked out this author Angelique Jurd as this was my first time reading her. Yey, there are 9 books in this San Capistrano series, 8.75 already available in KU, so I guess No. 9 is still fermenting in Angelique’s computer. I guess I’ll be through the previous 8 by the time it’s available to download.
Two guys queuing to go into a U2 Concert each of them alone. Ben is about 6’ but the guy a few people in front of him is 6’4”. He’s gorgeous. Ben tries to keep him in sight but as soon as Ben gets through the gateway he’s lost sight of Tall Guy. He wanders off to view the merchandise stalls and buys a t-shirt. Disappointed that he didn’t catch up with Tall Guy, he plonks down on the grass, and admires his purchase.
Looking up he sees him, sitting on the grass too, just a few feet away.
Ben doesn’t miss this opportunity and starts chatting.
Introductions are made and they sit through the Concert together. Not wanting the evening to end, Ben invites Tall Guy for coffee.
Ben is a 28 year old lawyer with his own apartment and two cars, one a BMW and the other a flashy sporty model. He loves his cars and his family, consisting of his Mother Allie, a famous Architect and his Grandmother Polly, a sometimes crazy, loose cannon aged 90. She has talents of her own, in spades. A really loving, happy family unit living in their beach house in San Capistrano.
Alexander (Tall Guy) late 20’s is a Paediatric Nurse at a local hospital where he works since he completed his Masters Degree. He lives alone, runs, walks or gets the bus to work each day. He likes cooking and has learned from his older brother Matthew who is a Chef. Matthew and his wife Claire are his only close family. His parents are his worse live nightmare.
Following their meeting at the Concert Ben and Alex have been socialising together, much to Alex’s confusion. Why does bright, shiny funny Ben have any interest in him? He’s not worth Ben’s attention.
But Ben doesn’t give up and soon they are dating seriously. Enjoying their time together, staying over at each others apartments. Then Ben wants to meet families and Alex never, ever wants that to happen. No. Way.
/=/=/=/=/=/=/=/
OMG, I just loved these two MC characters, Ben in particular, his mother and his grandmother.
I wanted to EX TERM MIN ATE, Alex’s parents. People like them, especially parents, are my triggers for wanting to commit murder, 🤬😡👺🤮. Specifically when they try aversion/conversion therapy on their child. Plus, humiliating them in front of their so called friends from their church.
So far they have featured little in this story, on page, but as this is a series which continues covering Ben and Alex’s relationship story I’m hoping they disappear never to come into their lives again.
Hoping that Ben and Alex keep their faith in each other in Book 2, “Tides of Love”
and that Granny Polly is celebrating birthday 91 with her “darling boys”, Ben and Alex.
Just checked out this author Angelique Jurd as this was my first time reading her. Yey, there are 9 books in this San Capistrano series, 8.75 already available in KU, so I guess No. 9 is still fermenting in Angelique’s computer. I guess I’ll be through the previous 8 by the time it’s available to download.
September 23, 2023
5 star series. Sweet, easy, low angst, low drama, introduction to main characters and side characters in the start to an epic story of Ben and Alex. Book one of nine (!). If you like to KNOW your characters and like an epilogue or extended epilogue, then this series is for you. It gets so much better as you move through the books, stick with it and you are rewarded with so much good stuff.
The authors website says “People-driven stories. Slightly broken boys”, which is an incredibly succinct and accurate summation of this book. This book is ALL about the people and their relationships, you get to know them SO well. There is clearly more to the story, since there are items that were left not fully hashed out. Ends on a HFN. Looking forward to what the future holds for this couple, they are sweet, caring, kind and loving. Spice is medium. I love the us-against-the-world vibe that’s happening. I was surprised to see that it’s 284 pages, as it reads really fast, always interesting, always moving.
There were a few time leaps that were jarring, skipping over big events that had a lot of lead up and maybe should have been given more page space. Possibly a victim of over editing to keep the book under 300 pages, but that’s just a guess on my part.
Contemporary, lawyer, nurse, m/m, HFN, series about same couple, 3rd person POV, vers. One of the closest series to the much beloved Temptation Series by Ella Frank, similar relationship-focused slice-of-life vibe. Reviewed as a series, each individual book is a 4-5 with the series coming in as a solid 5 overall.
The authors website says “People-driven stories. Slightly broken boys”, which is an incredibly succinct and accurate summation of this book. This book is ALL about the people and their relationships, you get to know them SO well. There is clearly more to the story, since there are items that were left not fully hashed out. Ends on a HFN. Looking forward to what the future holds for this couple, they are sweet, caring, kind and loving. Spice is medium. I love the us-against-the-world vibe that’s happening. I was surprised to see that it’s 284 pages, as it reads really fast, always interesting, always moving.
There were a few time leaps that were jarring, skipping over big events that had a lot of lead up and maybe should have been given more page space. Possibly a victim of over editing to keep the book under 300 pages, but that’s just a guess on my part.
Contemporary, lawyer, nurse, m/m, HFN, series about same couple, 3rd person POV, vers. One of the closest series to the much beloved Temptation Series by Ella Frank, similar relationship-focused slice-of-life vibe. Reviewed as a series, each individual book is a 4-5 with the series coming in as a solid 5 overall.
December 29, 2022
I think I'll agree with the majority on the rating. The story is good and well written, but it has to grow on you. I thought at first that this was not for me, but then I warmed up to Alex and Ben.
There was some laughing and also sad things, a bit of miscommunication and a lot of affection, all in all a nice cozy thing.
However, I absolutely fell in love with Polly, I could read a whole book about her:
“I like to think of them as historical romances, but I believe some critics refer to them as purple prose.”
Ben tilts his head up, mouths “porn” and sniggers.
“Oh.” Alex gulps his champagne.
“Sex sells,” Polly says. “I don’t understand why everyone is so silly about it. Perfectly natural part of life. Wonderful way to express your feelings and nothing is anywhere near as relaxing as a really good orgasm.” 💞💞💞
There was some laughing and also sad things, a bit of miscommunication and a lot of affection, all in all a nice cozy thing.
However, I absolutely fell in love with Polly, I could read a whole book about her:
“I like to think of them as historical romances, but I believe some critics refer to them as purple prose.”
Ben tilts his head up, mouths “porn” and sniggers.
“Oh.” Alex gulps his champagne.
“Sex sells,” Polly says. “I don’t understand why everyone is so silly about it. Perfectly natural part of life. Wonderful way to express your feelings and nothing is anywhere near as relaxing as a really good orgasm.” 💞💞💞
January 22, 2019
1.5 stars
The third person present tense format didn’t help me cozy up to Alex and Ben. It felt distancing. And the many grammar errors only compounded the frustration. They were distracting at first and then downright irritating. Did no one edit this? And as the story progressed, the dynamic between Alex and Ben became odd—a mix of precious and passive aggressive. Alex’s constant use of ‘idiot’ with Ben, and then Ben calling him ‘uptight’ when he didn’t get his way, and all the silly spats were truly eye rolling. The horrible enforced Thanksgiving dinner with Alex's awful homophobic parents? Why would Ben put his lover through that? I really wondered where this relationship would be a year later. There are sequels, but, unfortunately, I don’t feel interested enough to find out.
June 30, 2018
2.5 stars. This was okay, but the writing style put me off at times. I didn’t take to it enough to bother with any more books in the series, especially after reading the blurbs and reviews for the sequels.
March 26, 2018
I couldn't understand why Alex just kept taking what his parents were dishing out. It was so awful and mother especially just never stopped. Kudos to Ben for stepping up.
June 10, 2022
Cóż za orzeźwiająca, dobra i przyjemna niespodzianka 😁
Nie do końca typowe pisanie, krótkie rozdziały, dwóch absolutnie kochanych bohaterów, świetny drugi plan - mama i babka Bena wymiatają, do tego brat Alexa z żoną - i po raz kolejny pokazane, jak Ci, którzy powinni Cię kochać bezwarunkowo potrafią uczynić z Twojego życia piekło, pieprzyć się z Twoją głową nawet wtedy, kiedy jesteś dorosły i jak trudno potem z tego wyjść, uwierzyć w siebie, ruszyć do przodu choć o krok. Kolejny raz z dwójki rodziców, fanatycznych katolików, to matka jest tą zdecydowanie gorszą, plującą i ociekającą jadem i nienawiścią podróbką człowieka, suczą w czystej i nieskazitelnej postaci. Obawiam się, że jeszcze nie jeden raz się z nią spotkamy w kolejnych częściach i że to, czego się dowiedzieliśmy o Alexie i jego życiu rodzinnym w tym tomie, to nie koniec...
Połknęłam na jedno posiedzenie, lecę dalej 😁
Nie do końca typowe pisanie, krótkie rozdziały, dwóch absolutnie kochanych bohaterów, świetny drugi plan - mama i babka Bena wymiatają, do tego brat Alexa z żoną - i po raz kolejny pokazane, jak Ci, którzy powinni Cię kochać bezwarunkowo potrafią uczynić z Twojego życia piekło, pieprzyć się z Twoją głową nawet wtedy, kiedy jesteś dorosły i jak trudno potem z tego wyjść, uwierzyć w siebie, ruszyć do przodu choć o krok. Kolejny raz z dwójki rodziców, fanatycznych katolików, to matka jest tą zdecydowanie gorszą, plującą i ociekającą jadem i nienawiścią podróbką człowieka, suczą w czystej i nieskazitelnej postaci. Obawiam się, że jeszcze nie jeden raz się z nią spotkamy w kolejnych częściach i że to, czego się dowiedzieliśmy o Alexie i jego życiu rodzinnym w tym tomie, to nie koniec...
Połknęłam na jedno posiedzenie, lecę dalej 😁
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March 12, 2018💝 FREE on Amazon today (3/12/2018)!💝
Blurb:
The Beach House is the first installment in The San Capistrano Series, following the story of a chance meeting between pediatraic nurse, Alex Davis, and lawyer, Ben Larsen, at a rock concert.
Alex is a shy, quiet man who keeps to himself, the product of a judgemental and abusive upbringing. At a concert he meets Ben. Confident and comfortable with his life, Ben has only ever known unconditional acceptance in his family.
When Ben asks him out, Alex assumes it will be like every date he's had: casual and unimportant. He doesn't count on falling in love. Will Ben be enough to help Alex turn his back on a lifetime of rejection and accept that he can be happy?
Blurb:
The Beach House is the first installment in The San Capistrano Series, following the story of a chance meeting between pediatraic nurse, Alex Davis, and lawyer, Ben Larsen, at a rock concert.
Alex is a shy, quiet man who keeps to himself, the product of a judgemental and abusive upbringing. At a concert he meets Ben. Confident and comfortable with his life, Ben has only ever known unconditional acceptance in his family.
When Ben asks him out, Alex assumes it will be like every date he's had: casual and unimportant. He doesn't count on falling in love. Will Ben be enough to help Alex turn his back on a lifetime of rejection and accept that he can be happy?
November 22, 2021
Mixing Ben, Alex & U2 = ❤️
The romance between Ben & Alex is sweet and sexy with dynamic drama. I liked the MCs, co-characters and the storytelling. The god awful parents adds the antagonistic drama to this story. I wonder why no one has suggested psychological treatment for the MC. Overall, a good story, not especially original but good. Aside: this edition need a bit of editing, found several errors.
The romance between Ben & Alex is sweet and sexy with dynamic drama. I liked the MCs, co-characters and the storytelling. The god awful parents adds the antagonistic drama to this story. I wonder why no one has suggested psychological treatment for the MC. Overall, a good story, not especially original but good. Aside: this edition need a bit of editing, found several errors.
April 8, 2019
Low key, lovely romance.
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May 23, 20185/23/18 Currently FREE via Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/Beach-House-Sa...
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April 10, 2023Medio libro esperando a que pase algo me parece excesivo así que abandono el intento no vaya a ser que siga por estos mismos derroteros la otra mitad y muera de aburrimiento....
May 11, 2020
Alex was raised by a crazy religious fanatic set of parents that believed being gay was a defect that could be prayed away, or better yet sent to a camp to be 'cured'. Fully grown, working in the professional medical field Alex still has hangups from his childhood and his horrible mother.
Ben was raised the complete opposite. Raised by his mother and his grandmother, Ben was always shown love and support. Now a lawyer on track to make partner, Ben meeting Alex and making him his has definitely become a priority.
Really good book, reads well. Touches on important subjects, but not so much that it could seem 'preachy'.
Ben was raised the complete opposite. Raised by his mother and his grandmother, Ben was always shown love and support. Now a lawyer on track to make partner, Ben meeting Alex and making him his has definitely become a priority.
Really good book, reads well. Touches on important subjects, but not so much that it could seem 'preachy'.
July 30, 2020
Depends
I think the blurb is more angsty than the storyline. The angst level of this book is so low that I don't feel the heat of passion and romamce from the main characters. Just like a delicious pot of stew, it sizzles with great flavors leading up to their HEA. What I like most is that the two main characters got together fast enough early in the story. So the book is about how they love and interact with each other more through their relationship.
I think the blurb is more angsty than the storyline. The angst level of this book is so low that I don't feel the heat of passion and romamce from the main characters. Just like a delicious pot of stew, it sizzles with great flavors leading up to their HEA. What I like most is that the two main characters got together fast enough early in the story. So the book is about how they love and interact with each other more through their relationship.
March 29, 2018
Hit it on the first try
Very well written and great characters. Ben's family is awesome! I love Alli and Polly with her blue hair. Thank God Alex has his brother and Clair because his parents are just horrible. Very sweet story and looking forward to the next book in the series.
Very well written and great characters. Ben's family is awesome! I love Alli and Polly with her blue hair. Thank God Alex has his brother and Clair because his parents are just horrible. Very sweet story and looking forward to the next book in the series.
November 22, 2019
Great read!
I really enjoyed this story. My only complaint is it ended rather abruptly, or maybe, I expected something a little more with the ending. There were some slight issues with grammar and typos I noticed, but nothing that threw me out of the story.
I really enjoyed this story. My only complaint is it ended rather abruptly, or maybe, I expected something a little more with the ending. There were some slight issues with grammar and typos I noticed, but nothing that threw me out of the story.
February 2, 2021
Beautiful
The Beach House deals with homophobia, finding love when your own parents don't want to see you happy and the best mom-grandma duo I've ever met. Alex and Ben's story was sweet, a bit heartbreaking, and I'm looking forward to reading more of them.
The Beach House deals with homophobia, finding love when your own parents don't want to see you happy and the best mom-grandma duo I've ever met. Alex and Ben's story was sweet, a bit heartbreaking, and I'm looking forward to reading more of them.
June 22, 2022
SWOON WORTHY HURT COMFORT!
I received this book as a gift by the author and was not disappointed in Alex Davis and Ben Larson's swoon worthy, tear-jerker of a story. of two guys that meet at a U2 concert!
Ben is an out and proud lawyer who has had many relationships but never found the one until he goes to an U2 concert and sees a gorgeous tall guy a couple of inches taller then him a row ahead in front of him and this is where their sweet journey to self love, self acceptance and above all love begins when Ben invites Alex to meet his mother and grandmother for her ninetieth birthday at their beach house...
An eccentric 90 year old grandmother and her daughter together with a sweet, caring sexy man teaches Alex that there are other people besides his brother and sister in law who will love and accept you for who you are and not what you are!
The Beach House is a sweet, swoon worthy story about realising there is nothing to be ashamed of regarding your sexual orientation regarding bigotry and religious beliefs as long as you have support from those who show you love is endless and abiding!
I received this book as a gift by the author and was not disappointed in Alex Davis and Ben Larson's swoon worthy, tear-jerker of a story. of two guys that meet at a U2 concert!
Ben is an out and proud lawyer who has had many relationships but never found the one until he goes to an U2 concert and sees a gorgeous tall guy a couple of inches taller then him a row ahead in front of him and this is where their sweet journey to self love, self acceptance and above all love begins when Ben invites Alex to meet his mother and grandmother for her ninetieth birthday at their beach house...
An eccentric 90 year old grandmother and her daughter together with a sweet, caring sexy man teaches Alex that there are other people besides his brother and sister in law who will love and accept you for who you are and not what you are!
The Beach House is a sweet, swoon worthy story about realising there is nothing to be ashamed of regarding your sexual orientation regarding bigotry and religious beliefs as long as you have support from those who show you love is endless and abiding!
August 21, 2025
I bought this entire series back in 2019 after reading Jesse's Smile, but I never got around to reading it. Now that I've finally taken the plunge and made it through the first book, I'm completely in love with Ben and Alex (and Polly!!)... although I've got to admit, I'm also a total wuss when it comes to reading horrible on-page homophobia and characters like Alex's mom. *Especially* since the author shoves us right into her head 😣😣😣 I sincerely hope she gets her comeuppance somewhere along the line... although I suppose a better person would wish for her to come around and actually love her son.
Clearly, I am not that person, though 😆
Clearly, I am not that person, though 😆
February 4, 2023
Ok read.
I put this aside, and read over a few days. Very light, low angst overall. Easy enough to pick up again, will I remember them 🤷♀️
Centered around Ben and Alex, with brief moments with family. I loved Ben. Would have enjoyed more insight from Alex, rather than the small teases, we saw more of who he was in the last chapter.
I probably enjoyed Ben’s grandmother Polly most overall.
The ending came out of nowhere and felt incomplete for me. The pov slipped back and forth, with too many grammatical errors. Really could do with an edit.
CW homophobia from family.
I put this aside, and read over a few days. Very light, low angst overall. Easy enough to pick up again, will I remember them 🤷♀️
Centered around Ben and Alex, with brief moments with family. I loved Ben. Would have enjoyed more insight from Alex, rather than the small teases, we saw more of who he was in the last chapter.
I probably enjoyed Ben’s grandmother Polly most overall.
The ending came out of nowhere and felt incomplete for me. The pov slipped back and forth, with too many grammatical errors. Really could do with an edit.
CW homophobia from family.
July 24, 2023
Very sweet yet moving tale of two guys, Ben, a successful lawyer and Alex, a pediatric nurse. Alex has had a tragic upbringing with two violently homophobic parents which has affected his ability to develop relationships. Ben's life was far different, raised by two successful women - his mother and grandmother. The story revolves around how the two men grow to love each other amidst Alex' emotional struggles. Great secondary characters in Matt and Claire. Just loved the romance between Ben and Alex. So wonderfully written.
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