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Set Ablaze
California firefighter Hayden Hurst is starting to realize there’s more to life than fighting fires and drinking with his buddies. He has room in his home and his life for someone special, but no one has stood out among his hookups. And while he’s out at work, admitting he’s gay is very different from showing up at social functions with a man. He’s afraid that’ll be too much for his less-than-accepting “friends.”
Broadway dancer Jez Bouchet hasn’t been mistaken for straight since he was gay-bashed at seventeen. After getting a lucrative job offer in Hollywood, he uproots his life in New York and drives to Los Angeles. His brother, who is Hayden’s best friend, arranges for him to crash at Hayden’s place.
The attraction between Hayden and Jez is unexpected but fiery, and they succumb before they’re even sure they like each other. But Jez hates Hayden’s homophobic friends, and Hayden knows Jez is too flamboyant for him to fly under the radar. Then there’s the complication of Jez’s brother.
Despite those hurdles, they fling themselves into a relationship. But Jez has a tiny spoiled dog and a determined stalker. If he doesn’t come clean, he might torch their burgeoning relationship before it has a chance to bloom.
Broadway dancer Jez Bouchet hasn’t been mistaken for straight since he was gay-bashed at seventeen. After getting a lucrative job offer in Hollywood, he uproots his life in New York and drives to Los Angeles. His brother, who is Hayden’s best friend, arranges for him to crash at Hayden’s place.
The attraction between Hayden and Jez is unexpected but fiery, and they succumb before they’re even sure they like each other. But Jez hates Hayden’s homophobic friends, and Hayden knows Jez is too flamboyant for him to fly under the radar. Then there’s the complication of Jez’s brother.
Despite those hurdles, they fling themselves into a relationship. But Jez has a tiny spoiled dog and a determined stalker. If he doesn’t come clean, he might torch their burgeoning relationship before it has a chance to bloom.
200 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 24, 2018
9 people are currently reading
153 people want to read
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March 25, 2018
1.5 stars
I did not like this. There were a ton of things that bothered me, but the two most important ones were that the pacing felt off and that we got almost all tell and no show.
What I noticed the most when I started reading this was that it seemed like both Jez and Hayden had so many issues with each other it wasn’t even funny. I had absolutely no idea what they saw in each other when every conversation they had was awkward and stilted.
These guys make a problem out of every single thing. Hayden doesn’t know what to do with Jez being vegan. He doesn’t want Jez to act too gay for when his friends come by (this issue is later resolved, but it just seemed like Hayden disliked everything about Jez). He doesn’t want Jez to make a mess. He thinks he is lying about having a job. And Jez wasn’t much better. Jez thinks Hayden has to be a closet case. Or that he doesn’t want Jez around.
These guys were constantly judging each other. And then they were also both thinking how amazing is was to be living together and how attracted they were to each other. You can tell me these things, but when you only show me weird awkward conversations, I’m not going to believe these guys have amazing chemistry.
There were also these weird little things, like we’re suddenly told Hayden went to Vegas with friends for 4 days. But nothing else (what did he do there? Did he hook-up? Since he was single at that time. I want to know these things). Or when it is mentioned that Jez suddenly made two new friends whose names were dropped a lot, but we only get to meet them near the end of the book. Those kinds of things just felt weird and made me feel disconnected.
Also the pacing in this felt off for the entire book. We sometimes had pages and pages of scenes that didn't make sense to me (I do no want to read about Jez going drinking with his buddies if it doesn't contribute to the story). And then all of a sudden Jez gets a phone call that someone slashed his tires but then the next chapter begins and two weeks have past.
Oh, and we got fade to black sex scenes. We got one frotting scene, but everything else is off page.
I was also very surprised about the best friend/brother Miguel. He comes off as a douchebag at first. And since he and Jez hadn’t seen each other in 8 years (but did talk on the phone), and Miguel still didn’t want to get together, I was ready to hate him. Especially because Jez didn’t seem to fond of him (understandably). But then we get this entire story about Miguel saving Jez from their parents when Jez was 17, and finding him an apartment and working double shifts to pay for it. He was basically a saint. And that came out of nowhere. What most surprised me was that Jez knew all of this, so why would he consider his brother a douchebag at first? I got that I thought that and Hayden did a bit too, but Jez’s thoughts made it seem like his brother was not that great a guy, when apparently he was.
There was also a major plot hole, with the stalker ex who had credit cards made in Jez’s name. But the thing was Jez Bouchet was a stage name. Jesus Perez was his real name. I’m pretty sure you cannot get a credit card in a stage name. (It is mentioned that Jez wanted his name officially changed, but he didn’t have the money yet.)
Right, so I guess it is clear that I didn’t like this book. If it hadn’t been an ARC I would have stopped reading after 20%.
------------------------------
An ARC of Set Ablaze was generously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
I did not like this. There were a ton of things that bothered me, but the two most important ones were that the pacing felt off and that we got almost all tell and no show.
What I noticed the most when I started reading this was that it seemed like both Jez and Hayden had so many issues with each other it wasn’t even funny. I had absolutely no idea what they saw in each other when every conversation they had was awkward and stilted.
These guys make a problem out of every single thing. Hayden doesn’t know what to do with Jez being vegan. He doesn’t want Jez to act too gay for when his friends come by (this issue is later resolved, but it just seemed like Hayden disliked everything about Jez). He doesn’t want Jez to make a mess. He thinks he is lying about having a job. And Jez wasn’t much better. Jez thinks Hayden has to be a closet case. Or that he doesn’t want Jez around.
These guys were constantly judging each other. And then they were also both thinking how amazing is was to be living together and how attracted they were to each other. You can tell me these things, but when you only show me weird awkward conversations, I’m not going to believe these guys have amazing chemistry.
There were also these weird little things, like we’re suddenly told Hayden went to Vegas with friends for 4 days. But nothing else (what did he do there? Did he hook-up? Since he was single at that time. I want to know these things). Or when it is mentioned that Jez suddenly made two new friends whose names were dropped a lot, but we only get to meet them near the end of the book. Those kinds of things just felt weird and made me feel disconnected.
Also the pacing in this felt off for the entire book. We sometimes had pages and pages of scenes that didn't make sense to me (I do no want to read about Jez going drinking with his buddies if it doesn't contribute to the story). And then all of a sudden Jez gets a phone call that someone slashed his tires but then the next chapter begins and two weeks have past.
Oh, and we got fade to black sex scenes. We got one frotting scene, but everything else is off page.
I was also very surprised about the best friend/brother Miguel. He comes off as a douchebag at first. And since he and Jez hadn’t seen each other in 8 years (but did talk on the phone), and Miguel still didn’t want to get together, I was ready to hate him. Especially because Jez didn’t seem to fond of him (understandably). But then we get this entire story about Miguel saving Jez from their parents when Jez was 17, and finding him an apartment and working double shifts to pay for it. He was basically a saint. And that came out of nowhere. What most surprised me was that Jez knew all of this, so why would he consider his brother a douchebag at first? I got that I thought that and Hayden did a bit too, but Jez’s thoughts made it seem like his brother was not that great a guy, when apparently he was.
There was also a major plot hole, with the stalker ex who had credit cards made in Jez’s name. But the thing was Jez Bouchet was a stage name. Jesus Perez was his real name. I’m pretty sure you cannot get a credit card in a stage name. (It is mentioned that Jez wanted his name officially changed, but he didn’t have the money yet.)
Right, so I guess it is clear that I didn’t like this book. If it hadn’t been an ARC I would have stopped reading after 20%.
------------------------------
An ARC of Set Ablaze was generously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
December 22, 2025
Set Ablaze by K C Burn
M-M romance. Best friend’s brother troupe.
Jez Bouchet is on his way up. Finally. He lands a lucrative job in Hollywood and arranges stay with his brother’s best friend, firefighter Hayden Hurst. The one little detail Jez didn’t clear ahead of time is his tiny spoiled dog. Well behaved, but definitely not allowed. Of course, Hayden hears the dog one day when Jez is out but he falls in love with the little charmer. And his owner. Jez and Hayden start their own relationship which is a problem since Hayden isn’t out to his fellow firefighters. And those coworkers aren’t the type to casually accept a gay man in their midst. Hayden has decisions to make.
A bit of suspense with an abusive ex, a little humor and loving for the dog, and brother that steps up to help. Some angst with the ex and the situation with the friends.
Jez and Hayden are in for the long term with therapy to help them both.
A romance that burns bright.
M-M romance. Best friend’s brother troupe.
Jez Bouchet is on his way up. Finally. He lands a lucrative job in Hollywood and arranges stay with his brother’s best friend, firefighter Hayden Hurst. The one little detail Jez didn’t clear ahead of time is his tiny spoiled dog. Well behaved, but definitely not allowed. Of course, Hayden hears the dog one day when Jez is out but he falls in love with the little charmer. And his owner. Jez and Hayden start their own relationship which is a problem since Hayden isn’t out to his fellow firefighters. And those coworkers aren’t the type to casually accept a gay man in their midst. Hayden has decisions to make.
A bit of suspense with an abusive ex, a little humor and loving for the dog, and brother that steps up to help. Some angst with the ex and the situation with the friends.
Jez and Hayden are in for the long term with therapy to help them both.
A romance that burns bright.
July 3, 2023
Hayden, at the beginning, was so relatable as somebody whose fear of rejection and abandonment lead him to make some really toxic friends, which deepened his insecurities and made him afraid to show who he really was. Jez’s desperation to find a new life away from his abusive ex led him to beg his brother Miguel for a place to stay, who then asks Hayden to put Jez up, as Hayden has a house while Miguel is just renting a room, which allows Hayden to see the freedom he is missing and eventually make some needed changes in his life. There was so much to like about this little book, (13 short chapters). The complexity and depth of the characters were fantastic, and I cheered at how Hayden grew from somebody who was uneasy in his skin to being comfortable and willing to help others...and to stand up for himself and others like him. K.C. Burn put a new twist on the "opposites-attract" theme with the more straight-seeming Hayden falling for the flamboyant and unapologetic Jez. With his acceptance of Jez and then acceptance of himself, he (and we) discovers that they weren't so different after all. The story itself speaks a lot about not judging people. Not by who they hang out with, or their actions...or who they choose to love. Miguel’s character reveal really drove home how we tend to come to conclusions based on the bias of how we perceive things to be...not how they may actually be. I also enjoyed how, rather than jumping in and be the heroes of the day when going to deal with Jez’s abusive ex, the couple took a step back and let the police calmly deal with the situation....and that the police didn't just write it off...even when they were presented with reasons why they might have. The author provided an amazing sub-plot that tied everything up very nicely. In a nutshell... Set Ablaze is a novel that looks at acceptance of who we are and how the people we surround ourselves with can and do, influence and change that acceptance. Oh yes...it also had a very cute little dog:)
Actual rating: 4.5 Stars
Actual rating: 4.5 Stars
March 25, 2018
Hayden is a firefighter who's out, but doesn't really talk about his sexuality at all with his friends, and, in fact, listens to a lot of derogatory and really shitty things his "friends" constantly say to him and around him in the hopes of not rocking the boat.
Jez is a rising star who's been dealing with a lot of personal problems, and when he's offered a chance at a new start on the west coast he takes it. He packs up everything he owns into a U Haul and drives across the country intending to crash with his older brother Miguel who he's apparently barely spoken with in eight years.
Miguel and Hayden have been best friends for decades. Hayden vaguely remembers Jez as a kid with a puppy crush on him, but not much more. When Miguel asks Hayden to put Jez up for a bit until he gets on his feet Hayden agrees reluctantly, even though it makes him anxious. Once Jez moves in it takes some time for the two to connect and work past some preconceptions and start actually communicating with one another.
But Jez's past won't stay there, and Hayden's "friends" are getting worse by the day. It's up to them to step up and work it out so they can be together.
This is a difficult book to explain. The parts are there to make this a great, medium angst romance with a truly lovely HEA, but the way it was put together, with a slower pacing and miscommunication in the beginning and a lot of tell and very little show made it hard to really get a sense of the characters for me.
I can't really get into it all without spoiling the story so I'm going to put my thoughts under spoiler tags so be really, really sure if you want to open it.
The thing is, setting those complaints aside, I still mostly enjoyed the story overall. I just wish it had been more show and less tell.
2.5 Stars rounded up.
Advanced Review Galley copy of Set Ablaze provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
Jez is a rising star who's been dealing with a lot of personal problems, and when he's offered a chance at a new start on the west coast he takes it. He packs up everything he owns into a U Haul and drives across the country intending to crash with his older brother Miguel who he's apparently barely spoken with in eight years.
Miguel and Hayden have been best friends for decades. Hayden vaguely remembers Jez as a kid with a puppy crush on him, but not much more. When Miguel asks Hayden to put Jez up for a bit until he gets on his feet Hayden agrees reluctantly, even though it makes him anxious. Once Jez moves in it takes some time for the two to connect and work past some preconceptions and start actually communicating with one another.
But Jez's past won't stay there, and Hayden's "friends" are getting worse by the day. It's up to them to step up and work it out so they can be together.
This is a difficult book to explain. The parts are there to make this a great, medium angst romance with a truly lovely HEA, but the way it was put together, with a slower pacing and miscommunication in the beginning and a lot of tell and very little show made it hard to really get a sense of the characters for me.
I can't really get into it all without spoiling the story so I'm going to put my thoughts under spoiler tags so be really, really sure if you want to open it.
The thing is, setting those complaints aside, I still mostly enjoyed the story overall. I just wish it had been more show and less tell.
2.5 Stars rounded up.
Advanced Review Galley copy of Set Ablaze provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
January 21, 2019
Mi spiace, ma non è la KC Burn di "Dentro o fuori".
La cover faceva pensare a pompieri, scene d'azione, trama avventurosa.
Niente di tutto ciò, purtroppo.
La solita trama del tizio che si innamora del fratellino dell'amico.
Ma non è solo questo ad avermi deluso. Per quanto ci siano pagine carine e anche argomenti interessanti come la discriminazione omofoba sul luogo di lavoro, la prima parte ha un andamento lento, dove ci si perde in lavori di trasloco, pranzi, visite al supermarket, routine quotidiana, mentre i due si studiano con moooooooooooooolta calma.
Forse l'ho iniziato subito dopo i grandi cenoni festivi, ma per me è stato a tratti soporifero.
Anche la storia d'amore è tiepida, senza grandi scossoni.
L'unico frizzo di vivacità lo porta l'adorabile Fang (ed è tutto dire).
Insomma, una cover hot ma ingannevole.
La cover faceva pensare a pompieri, scene d'azione, trama avventurosa.
Niente di tutto ciò, purtroppo.
La solita trama del tizio che si innamora del fratellino dell'amico.
Ma non è solo questo ad avermi deluso. Per quanto ci siano pagine carine e anche argomenti interessanti come la discriminazione omofoba sul luogo di lavoro, la prima parte ha un andamento lento, dove ci si perde in lavori di trasloco, pranzi, visite al supermarket, routine quotidiana, mentre i due si studiano con moooooooooooooolta calma.
Forse l'ho iniziato subito dopo i grandi cenoni festivi, ma per me è stato a tratti soporifero.
Anche la storia d'amore è tiepida, senza grandi scossoni.
L'unico frizzo di vivacità lo porta l'adorabile Fang (ed è tutto dire).
Insomma, una cover hot ma ingannevole.
September 6, 2018
No 4 alarm fires here, just a slow steady burn...
'Set Ablaze' is essentially a second chance romance with some mystery woven in. When Hayden's best friend, Miguel, asks him to take in Jez, his younger brother, Hayden's not thrilled with he idea but it's his best friend and he gets it...Miguel lives in a small one bedroom apartment while Hayden has a two story house all to himself. So reluctantly he agrees. After all how bad can it be it's just until Jez gets his own place and it's not like he doesn't have the room.
For Jez seeing Hayden again brings back memories of his teenage crush, but he's sure that Hayden's straight...until he discovers that he's not. As Hayden and Jez get to know each other again both men struggle with their attraction.
Jez is hasn't been totally honest with either his brother or Hayden about the real reason that he's run to California. He's running from a relationship that's gone bad and left him with more than a couple of issues of his own. Plus there's his other secret an adorable, small, furry secret named Fang...Jez is sure that Hayden hates dogs and Jez needs a place to stay...at least for a little while.
Hayden may be out about his sexuality but that doesn't necessarily mean he's currently in or has had any relationships because even though he doesn't consciously admit it he knows that telling his fellow firefighters he's gay is one thing having them see it in the form of him in a relationship is totally another issue. Some of the men who Hayden calls 'friends' are to say the least less than friends and more than a little homophobic and it takes Jez's determination to never again be anyone's victim and his courage to speak out to make Hayden see that his feigned indifference not only isn't what's needed but it's in fact endorsing their behavior. Being out while still in the closet isn't Hayden's only issue and Jez is going to have to be both patient and persistent if he wants to get to the heart of Hayden's compulsive tidy/cleanliness.
I definitely appreciated that the author addressed this issue because too often society would rather feign indifference...don't make waves, don't cause a scene...does any of this sound familiar? I think we've all heard something like this before and while the author didn't delve into this intensely it was part of the story but not an overwhelming part of the story and that's as it should be because it's the relationship between Jez and Hayden that's the story's focus. The social issues are wrapped in with this and definitely a driving force contributing to things ending up where they did. Just as in real life neither of these men have been molded by any one particular incident in their life but they are an amalgamation of events both big and small.
The relationship between Hayden and Jez was to say the least built on a lot of awkward moments, definite miscommunication or more accurately a lack of communication because that's what happens when people keep secrets...poor communication and this wasn't helped by Miguel's lack of information sharing. Sadly both of these men have experienced abusive relationships of a very different nature this is far more reflective of the real world than it should be and as is often the case real life is stranger than fiction but fiction is frequently a reflection of real life.
Just like his brother and friend Miguel is also a creation of experiences and circumstances and while he initially seemed like a member of Hayden's Asshat Brigade, he turns out to be a big brother who just wants to protect his brother and his friend from them.
Admittedly there were some things about the story that could have been better or different but overall this for me was a sweet story about two men finding comfort and healing together allowing themselves to move on and build a life together.
Darcy Stark was the narrator for this audio book and while this was only my third time listening to this narrator. It was also the third time that I've been treated a very enjoyable audio experience. I enjoyed his voices and the expressiveness of his voice. This is definitely an author & narrator combination that I'm looking forward to hearing more from in the near future...I mean I might have 'North on Drummond' cued up in audio list...I guess you'll just have to wait for the review.
*************************
An audio book of 'Set Ablaze' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
'Set Ablaze' is essentially a second chance romance with some mystery woven in. When Hayden's best friend, Miguel, asks him to take in Jez, his younger brother, Hayden's not thrilled with he idea but it's his best friend and he gets it...Miguel lives in a small one bedroom apartment while Hayden has a two story house all to himself. So reluctantly he agrees. After all how bad can it be it's just until Jez gets his own place and it's not like he doesn't have the room.
For Jez seeing Hayden again brings back memories of his teenage crush, but he's sure that Hayden's straight...until he discovers that he's not. As Hayden and Jez get to know each other again both men struggle with their attraction.
Jez is hasn't been totally honest with either his brother or Hayden about the real reason that he's run to California. He's running from a relationship that's gone bad and left him with more than a couple of issues of his own. Plus there's his other secret an adorable, small, furry secret named Fang...Jez is sure that Hayden hates dogs and Jez needs a place to stay...at least for a little while.
Hayden may be out about his sexuality but that doesn't necessarily mean he's currently in or has had any relationships because even though he doesn't consciously admit it he knows that telling his fellow firefighters he's gay is one thing having them see it in the form of him in a relationship is totally another issue. Some of the men who Hayden calls 'friends' are to say the least less than friends and more than a little homophobic and it takes Jez's determination to never again be anyone's victim and his courage to speak out to make Hayden see that his feigned indifference not only isn't what's needed but it's in fact endorsing their behavior. Being out while still in the closet isn't Hayden's only issue and Jez is going to have to be both patient and persistent if he wants to get to the heart of Hayden's compulsive tidy/cleanliness.
I definitely appreciated that the author addressed this issue because too often society would rather feign indifference...don't make waves, don't cause a scene...does any of this sound familiar? I think we've all heard something like this before and while the author didn't delve into this intensely it was part of the story but not an overwhelming part of the story and that's as it should be because it's the relationship between Jez and Hayden that's the story's focus. The social issues are wrapped in with this and definitely a driving force contributing to things ending up where they did. Just as in real life neither of these men have been molded by any one particular incident in their life but they are an amalgamation of events both big and small.
The relationship between Hayden and Jez was to say the least built on a lot of awkward moments, definite miscommunication or more accurately a lack of communication because that's what happens when people keep secrets...poor communication and this wasn't helped by Miguel's lack of information sharing. Sadly both of these men have experienced abusive relationships of a very different nature this is far more reflective of the real world than it should be and as is often the case real life is stranger than fiction but fiction is frequently a reflection of real life.
Just like his brother and friend Miguel is also a creation of experiences and circumstances and while he initially seemed like a member of Hayden's Asshat Brigade, he turns out to be a big brother who just wants to protect his brother and his friend from them.
Admittedly there were some things about the story that could have been better or different but overall this for me was a sweet story about two men finding comfort and healing together allowing themselves to move on and build a life together.
Darcy Stark was the narrator for this audio book and while this was only my third time listening to this narrator. It was also the third time that I've been treated a very enjoyable audio experience. I enjoyed his voices and the expressiveness of his voice. This is definitely an author & narrator combination that I'm looking forward to hearing more from in the near future...I mean I might have 'North on Drummond' cued up in audio list...I guess you'll just have to wait for the review.
*************************
An audio book of 'Set Ablaze' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
September 29, 2018
Audiobook review:
This is one of those reviews I hate to do because I liked the story but hated the narration and that dropped my rating. Darcy Stark just does not have the voice(s) to do this story. That’s my personal opinion, of course, but his narration ruined my enjoyment. To be honest, by midpoint, I borrowed the book through the kindle lending feature so I could finish the story by reading it.
Firefighter Hayden Hurst isn’t in the closet, but he’s not one to remind his homophobic friends that their slurs are hurtful. That may be fine for him, but when his friend Miguel’s brother, Jez Bouchet, needs a temporary roommate, Hayden finds out what it is to be out and proud. The young, flamboyant dancer is deeply offended by some of the comments made by Hayden’s friends and vows to leave as soon as he can.
But of course, before that happens, the two act on their attraction for one another and Jez never leaves. In the meantime, his former boyfriend has continued his stalking behavior all the way from New York to LA. A pro hockey player, he’s managed to get himself traded to a West Coast team so he’ll be able to harass Jez nearer to home.
The mess eventually blows up. The guys and Jez’s little pug puppy, Fang, end up together and they all live happily ever after. Not without angst and drama and some hot sex scenes, though.
I’m going to give the author the benefit of doubt and recommend this story to those who enjoy a sweet, sometimes sappy romance, with an element of danger, insta-love, and a cute pug. I enjoyed the last chapters much more than the first that were narrated on audio, so I would not recommend the audio format.
Audiobook provided through Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words in exchange for an impartial review.
This is one of those reviews I hate to do because I liked the story but hated the narration and that dropped my rating. Darcy Stark just does not have the voice(s) to do this story. That’s my personal opinion, of course, but his narration ruined my enjoyment. To be honest, by midpoint, I borrowed the book through the kindle lending feature so I could finish the story by reading it.
Firefighter Hayden Hurst isn’t in the closet, but he’s not one to remind his homophobic friends that their slurs are hurtful. That may be fine for him, but when his friend Miguel’s brother, Jez Bouchet, needs a temporary roommate, Hayden finds out what it is to be out and proud. The young, flamboyant dancer is deeply offended by some of the comments made by Hayden’s friends and vows to leave as soon as he can.
But of course, before that happens, the two act on their attraction for one another and Jez never leaves. In the meantime, his former boyfriend has continued his stalking behavior all the way from New York to LA. A pro hockey player, he’s managed to get himself traded to a West Coast team so he’ll be able to harass Jez nearer to home.
The mess eventually blows up. The guys and Jez’s little pug puppy, Fang, end up together and they all live happily ever after. Not without angst and drama and some hot sex scenes, though.
I’m going to give the author the benefit of doubt and recommend this story to those who enjoy a sweet, sometimes sappy romance, with an element of danger, insta-love, and a cute pug. I enjoyed the last chapters much more than the first that were narrated on audio, so I would not recommend the audio format.
Audiobook provided through Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words in exchange for an impartial review.
August 8, 2023
It could not keep my focus for the first 70%. The narrator was a reader. I missed the highs and lows of the story because they were not performed well.
The story was fine but I like it more if the tension comes from the couple's life, in stead of a side character.
And also, the noise reduction was missing.
The story was fine but I like it more if the tension comes from the couple's life, in stead of a side character.
And also, the noise reduction was missing.
December 27, 2022
Audiobook Review:
Overall – 5
Performance – 5
Story – 5
I thoroughly enjoyed listening to this audiobook.
I’ve enjoyed everything I’ve read by KC Burn and Set Ablaze was no exception. I’ve also enjoyed several audiobooks performed by Darcy Stark and I think he did a great job with this one.
Set Ablaze is a great best friend’s younger brother story. Hayden Hurst agrees to let his best friend’s younger brother stay when him temporarily when he moves to LA. He doesn’t anticipate the attraction they feel for each other. Jez has secrets that he doesn’t give up easily but he can’t fight his attraction to Hayden.
Set Ablaze has a nice mix of mystery and angst concerning Jez and it kept me thoroughly entertained while I performed mundane household tasks. It certainly made laundry day much more palatable. 😊
Overall – 5
Performance – 5
Story – 5
I thoroughly enjoyed listening to this audiobook.
I’ve enjoyed everything I’ve read by KC Burn and Set Ablaze was no exception. I’ve also enjoyed several audiobooks performed by Darcy Stark and I think he did a great job with this one.
Set Ablaze is a great best friend’s younger brother story. Hayden Hurst agrees to let his best friend’s younger brother stay when him temporarily when he moves to LA. He doesn’t anticipate the attraction they feel for each other. Jez has secrets that he doesn’t give up easily but he can’t fight his attraction to Hayden.
Set Ablaze has a nice mix of mystery and angst concerning Jez and it kept me thoroughly entertained while I performed mundane household tasks. It certainly made laundry day much more palatable. 😊
April 27, 2018
KC Burn’s stories are hits and misses with me … and her latest, unfortunately, is a miss. I genuinely didn’t understand WHY Hayden was willing to deal with his homophobic friends. Seriously, the things that came from their mouth are derogatory! I felt myself fuming on his behalf. Because of this, I thought Hayden was quite a doormat.
In addition, this story seemed to rely on our heroes making LOTS of internal assumptions and lack of communication. There was a scene where they got into an argument and immediately Hayden thought they broke up… which left me with “huh” reaction.
Also, Jez thought his brother was unwilling to deal with his sexuality – which was totally weird case for me considering Michael was the ONLY one in their family who cares for him. For the things that Michael did whenever Jez needed help, it was very strange that they didn’t really TALK or see each other face to face for EIGHT bloody years.
On that note, Michael’s reasoning for his behavior towards Hayden and Jez was so lame.
There were moments that I thought was important to be dealing with off page – like the two of them making appointment with therapist, or when the stalker made a more serious threat – but things that were not explained to be described on page, like Hayden’s obsessive cleanliness.
Yeah, this story didn’t work for me. At all. Sorry, book.
A Guest Review for The Blogger Girls
The ARC is provided by the publisher for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
In addition, this story seemed to rely on our heroes making LOTS of internal assumptions and lack of communication. There was a scene where they got into an argument and immediately Hayden thought they broke up… which left me with “huh” reaction.
Also, Jez thought his brother was unwilling to deal with his sexuality – which was totally weird case for me considering Michael was the ONLY one in their family who cares for him. For the things that Michael did whenever Jez needed help, it was very strange that they didn’t really TALK or see each other face to face for EIGHT bloody years.
On that note, Michael’s reasoning for his behavior towards Hayden and Jez was so lame.
There were moments that I thought was important to be dealing with off page – like the two of them making appointment with therapist, or when the stalker made a more serious threat – but things that were not explained to be described on page, like Hayden’s obsessive cleanliness.
Yeah, this story didn’t work for me. At all. Sorry, book.
A Guest Review for The Blogger Girls
The ARC is provided by the publisher for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
February 3, 2019
Recensione a cura di Cleo per Feel The Book
Come con altri romanzi di K.C. Burn, leggendo “Come un incendio” ho pensato che non fosse perfetto ma che meritasse di essere letto, perché quest’autrice riesce a creare dei personaggi con un vissuto toccante senza farli diventare stereotipi, raccontando storie che non si limitano all’aspetto romantico ma si aprono sempre a tematiche più profonde.
Hayden, con la sua mania per l’ordine e la pulizia e la tendenza a evitare i conflitti al punto da seppellire la testa nel più profondo della sabbia, non incarna affatto lo stereotipo del pompiere: è coraggioso e bravo nel suo lavoro ma nel medesimo tempo è quasi inconsapevole di vivere condizionato da traumi passati che lui, nella sua testa, non considera nemmeno tali. I suoi problemi emergono da pensieri quasi affannosi, dalla tendenza a negare l’evidenza di situazioni sbagliate nonostante dovrebbe sentirsi ferito. Devono essere i suoi colleghi a sottolineare quanto siano discriminatori e offensivi i discorsi di quelli che chiama amici, perché lasciato a se stesso forse continuerebbe a subirli, pur di non turbare l’equilibrio della sua vita e rischiare di perdere le persone che ne fanno parte.
L’arrivo di Jez sul portico di casa sua non si limita a turbare l’equilibrio, lo infrange definitivamente. Ed è un bene, perché è esattamente ciò di cui Hayden aveva bisogno. Ballerino talentuoso, Jez si è faticosamente costruito una vita dopo che la famiglia l’ha rinnegato per la sua omosessualità; gli è rimasto solamente il fratello Miguel, con il quale però si limita a sentirsi per telefono.
Anche con Jez, l’autrice ha ribaltato in parte lo stereotipo del ballerino gay, creando un personaggio leggermente effeminato nelle movenze ma con un carattere forte, nonostante il recente trauma subito per colpa di un ex con tendenze ossessive che l’ha portato a soffrire di attacchi di panico. Non una sorta di damigella in pericolo ma un uomo determinato a ripartire da zero, consapevole di potercela fare ancora una volta da solo.
.Sia Hayden che Jez, però, non dovranno più continuare a cavarsela da soli nella vita, perché abitare sotto lo stesso tetto li avvicinerà in modi inaspettati, facendo capire a entrambi di avere bisogno di qualcuno a cui appoggiarsi, un compagno da amare. L’attrazione istantanea che tutti e due provano non si concretizza per lungo tempo, a dimostrazione della loro forza di volontà, nonché della bravura dell’autrice, che costruisce la loro storia in modo graduale, dando modo a entrambi di crescere e al loro rapporto di svilupparsi con i giusti tempi.
Oltre al lato romantico, nel romanzo trova spazio anche un discorso più ampio riguardante l’accettazione del diverso all’interno della società: Jez è stato picchiato per la sua palese omosessualità, da ragazzo, e la sua stessa famiglia praticamente ha giustificato i suoi aggressori, mentre Hayden ha trovato rifugio presso la nonna perché non voleva sottoporsi a una terapia di conversione. Più volte nella storia viene ribadito come tacere di fronte alle discriminazioni o accettare di subirle nonostante si abbiano gli strumenti per difendersi sia sbagliato, non solo per chi ne è oggetto ma anche per chi si limita ad assistere, perché si diventa complici silenziosi e in qualche modo si sdogana come normale un comportamento che non lo è.
L’unico elemento un po’ traballante del romanzo è una risoluzione finale del problema con lo stalker troppo veloce e semplicistica, secondo me forse avrebbe meritato uno sviluppo più articolato, ma questo non intacca più di tanto il valore della storia, che mi sento comunque di promuovere ampiamente.
Editing della recensione a cura di Lilith per Feel The Book
Come con altri romanzi di K.C. Burn, leggendo “Come un incendio” ho pensato che non fosse perfetto ma che meritasse di essere letto, perché quest’autrice riesce a creare dei personaggi con un vissuto toccante senza farli diventare stereotipi, raccontando storie che non si limitano all’aspetto romantico ma si aprono sempre a tematiche più profonde.
Hayden, con la sua mania per l’ordine e la pulizia e la tendenza a evitare i conflitti al punto da seppellire la testa nel più profondo della sabbia, non incarna affatto lo stereotipo del pompiere: è coraggioso e bravo nel suo lavoro ma nel medesimo tempo è quasi inconsapevole di vivere condizionato da traumi passati che lui, nella sua testa, non considera nemmeno tali. I suoi problemi emergono da pensieri quasi affannosi, dalla tendenza a negare l’evidenza di situazioni sbagliate nonostante dovrebbe sentirsi ferito. Devono essere i suoi colleghi a sottolineare quanto siano discriminatori e offensivi i discorsi di quelli che chiama amici, perché lasciato a se stesso forse continuerebbe a subirli, pur di non turbare l’equilibrio della sua vita e rischiare di perdere le persone che ne fanno parte.
L’arrivo di Jez sul portico di casa sua non si limita a turbare l’equilibrio, lo infrange definitivamente. Ed è un bene, perché è esattamente ciò di cui Hayden aveva bisogno. Ballerino talentuoso, Jez si è faticosamente costruito una vita dopo che la famiglia l’ha rinnegato per la sua omosessualità; gli è rimasto solamente il fratello Miguel, con il quale però si limita a sentirsi per telefono.
Anche con Jez, l’autrice ha ribaltato in parte lo stereotipo del ballerino gay, creando un personaggio leggermente effeminato nelle movenze ma con un carattere forte, nonostante il recente trauma subito per colpa di un ex con tendenze ossessive che l’ha portato a soffrire di attacchi di panico. Non una sorta di damigella in pericolo ma un uomo determinato a ripartire da zero, consapevole di potercela fare ancora una volta da solo.
.Sia Hayden che Jez, però, non dovranno più continuare a cavarsela da soli nella vita, perché abitare sotto lo stesso tetto li avvicinerà in modi inaspettati, facendo capire a entrambi di avere bisogno di qualcuno a cui appoggiarsi, un compagno da amare. L’attrazione istantanea che tutti e due provano non si concretizza per lungo tempo, a dimostrazione della loro forza di volontà, nonché della bravura dell’autrice, che costruisce la loro storia in modo graduale, dando modo a entrambi di crescere e al loro rapporto di svilupparsi con i giusti tempi.
Oltre al lato romantico, nel romanzo trova spazio anche un discorso più ampio riguardante l’accettazione del diverso all’interno della società: Jez è stato picchiato per la sua palese omosessualità, da ragazzo, e la sua stessa famiglia praticamente ha giustificato i suoi aggressori, mentre Hayden ha trovato rifugio presso la nonna perché non voleva sottoporsi a una terapia di conversione. Più volte nella storia viene ribadito come tacere di fronte alle discriminazioni o accettare di subirle nonostante si abbiano gli strumenti per difendersi sia sbagliato, non solo per chi ne è oggetto ma anche per chi si limita ad assistere, perché si diventa complici silenziosi e in qualche modo si sdogana come normale un comportamento che non lo è.
L’unico elemento un po’ traballante del romanzo è una risoluzione finale del problema con lo stalker troppo veloce e semplicistica, secondo me forse avrebbe meritato uno sviluppo più articolato, ma questo non intacca più di tanto il valore della storia, che mi sento comunque di promuovere ampiamente.
Editing della recensione a cura di Lilith per Feel The Book
April 24, 2018
4.25 stars!
I enjoyed this story. It had some angst, some mystery, and a good HEA.
Hayden Hurst is a firefighter. He's out at work, but some of his "friends" regularly make nasty comments. He likes to think those comments roll off his back, but they make him very wary of dating. He really wants to find a boyfriend, but doesn't think it's in the cards for him. Out of the blue, Hayden's best friend, Miguel, asks if his younger brother can crash at Hayden's house for a bit since Miguel's apartment is too small for another person. Hayden is reluctant, but agrees. Hayden doesn't remember much of Jez and only knows what Miguel divulges; Jez is an actor and moving suddenly from New York.
Jez was a Broadway dancer, who landed a new role. He's exhausted by his quick move across the country and worried about temporarily moving in with Hayden. These two men make for an uneasy roommate situation for a while, especially since Jez is hiding a dog in his room among other things. Both are wary of the other, but so very attracted at the same time. It's also clear to the reader that Jez is running from something or someone, but he's not very forthcoming about his life to Hayden or Miguel.
I really liked both of these characters, even as there were a lot of misunderstandings and assumptions made by both at the beginning. It was nice when they finally started talking to each other more. Hayden is a good guy, but has problems with confrontation and some other quirks. Jez reinvented himself after he left his family home and had a pretty good life in New York until things went sour. I don't want to spoil any of the details, but these two characters both have secrets and issues that they needed to deal with. I loved that they both eventually recognized that they needed help. I loved when Jez opened Hayden's eyes to the way he was being treated by some of his friends. It was an uncomfortable scene, but one that was sorely needed. I liked that Hayden finally started to stand up for himself, finding new and better friends in the process. I was happy that Miguel eventually explained himself, but in my eyes, I don't think he redeemed himself completely. While I could see where he was coming from, I wish that he had been more forthright with Hayden and Jez about his feelings and worries. Honestly, they all would have been happier had they communicated better with each other. Nevertheless, I was happy that I read this one and may find myself rereading it in the future.
I think KC Burn fans will really enjoy this book.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by Dreamspinner Press for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
I enjoyed this story. It had some angst, some mystery, and a good HEA.
Hayden Hurst is a firefighter. He's out at work, but some of his "friends" regularly make nasty comments. He likes to think those comments roll off his back, but they make him very wary of dating. He really wants to find a boyfriend, but doesn't think it's in the cards for him. Out of the blue, Hayden's best friend, Miguel, asks if his younger brother can crash at Hayden's house for a bit since Miguel's apartment is too small for another person. Hayden is reluctant, but agrees. Hayden doesn't remember much of Jez and only knows what Miguel divulges; Jez is an actor and moving suddenly from New York.
Jez was a Broadway dancer, who landed a new role. He's exhausted by his quick move across the country and worried about temporarily moving in with Hayden. These two men make for an uneasy roommate situation for a while, especially since Jez is hiding a dog in his room among other things. Both are wary of the other, but so very attracted at the same time. It's also clear to the reader that Jez is running from something or someone, but he's not very forthcoming about his life to Hayden or Miguel.
I really liked both of these characters, even as there were a lot of misunderstandings and assumptions made by both at the beginning. It was nice when they finally started talking to each other more. Hayden is a good guy, but has problems with confrontation and some other quirks. Jez reinvented himself after he left his family home and had a pretty good life in New York until things went sour. I don't want to spoil any of the details, but these two characters both have secrets and issues that they needed to deal with. I loved that they both eventually recognized that they needed help. I loved when Jez opened Hayden's eyes to the way he was being treated by some of his friends. It was an uncomfortable scene, but one that was sorely needed. I liked that Hayden finally started to stand up for himself, finding new and better friends in the process. I was happy that Miguel eventually explained himself, but in my eyes, I don't think he redeemed himself completely. While I could see where he was coming from, I wish that he had been more forthright with Hayden and Jez about his feelings and worries. Honestly, they all would have been happier had they communicated better with each other. Nevertheless, I was happy that I read this one and may find myself rereading it in the future.
I think KC Burn fans will really enjoy this book.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by Dreamspinner Press for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
April 24, 2018
**Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by DreamSpinner Press for my reading pleasure in hopes of an unbiased opinion, a review was not a requirement. **
This book is difficult for me to rate and review. It took me more than half of the book to like the character of Hayden. He’s a firefighter, who is “out”, but his friends and co-workers are disgusting people and he sits idly by and doesn’t want to make “waves”. They’re homophobes and misogynists. They make horrible, degrading comments and he has no reaction and continues to hang with them. And, he’s judgemental because he’s a manly gay and doesn’t like that Jez flaunts his gayness. And, I had real trouble from his complete change at the halfway point. It was hard for me to believe that one fight with Jez and he was suddenly reformed.
I loved Jez. He was who he was and he didn’t need anyone’s approval. He was working through issues of his own, but he was strong and continued to try to improve his life. I felt like he was a little shortchanged in the story, I would have liked more about him and his work. Just more of him because I felt like it could really add to the story. Also, I found the relationship with his brother a little confusing, but that was cleared up after one meeting, too.
For me, I found this book to be a little boring. There were times in this story that a scene would have several pages about something mundane and boring, but then other more important issues that didn’t get more than a sentence or paragraph. There was a stalker in this story that should have really spiced up this story, but it was still bland. And, when the stalker is caught, he just easily vomits out everything he’s done and provides the evidence, all off-page. I don’t like a lot of angst in my stories, so for me, it’s not needed, but I feel like when one character has a stalker who follows him across the country, it would be to create some issues. It was more, oh this happened, darn that stalker but all is fine now because he’s caught and confessed.
This is definitely a book you’ll want to check out for yourself. There’s a sweet HEA between Hayden and Jez because once Hayden does his complete shift, he’s a nice guy and sweet boyfriend. There’s not a lot of heat between them, and it’s mostly off-page as well.
Rating: 3.5 stars
This book is difficult for me to rate and review. It took me more than half of the book to like the character of Hayden. He’s a firefighter, who is “out”, but his friends and co-workers are disgusting people and he sits idly by and doesn’t want to make “waves”. They’re homophobes and misogynists. They make horrible, degrading comments and he has no reaction and continues to hang with them. And, he’s judgemental because he’s a manly gay and doesn’t like that Jez flaunts his gayness. And, I had real trouble from his complete change at the halfway point. It was hard for me to believe that one fight with Jez and he was suddenly reformed.
I loved Jez. He was who he was and he didn’t need anyone’s approval. He was working through issues of his own, but he was strong and continued to try to improve his life. I felt like he was a little shortchanged in the story, I would have liked more about him and his work. Just more of him because I felt like it could really add to the story. Also, I found the relationship with his brother a little confusing, but that was cleared up after one meeting, too.
For me, I found this book to be a little boring. There were times in this story that a scene would have several pages about something mundane and boring, but then other more important issues that didn’t get more than a sentence or paragraph. There was a stalker in this story that should have really spiced up this story, but it was still bland. And, when the stalker is caught, he just easily vomits out everything he’s done and provides the evidence, all off-page. I don’t like a lot of angst in my stories, so for me, it’s not needed, but I feel like when one character has a stalker who follows him across the country, it would be to create some issues. It was more, oh this happened, darn that stalker but all is fine now because he’s caught and confessed.
This is definitely a book you’ll want to check out for yourself. There’s a sweet HEA between Hayden and Jez because once Hayden does his complete shift, he’s a nice guy and sweet boyfriend. There’s not a lot of heat between them, and it’s mostly off-page as well.
Rating: 3.5 stars
May 10, 2018
Set Ablaze is a little darker than I'd expected, with heavy themes of homophobia and stalking. The story is overall well told, and the characters are interesting. Hayden, a firefighter by profession, is a neat freak who is out to his friends but only in the literal sense—several of the said 'friends' are bullies and verbally abusive, and Hayden's past keeps him from standing up for himself, so he's not confident enough to date anyone around them.
Jez has an even more traumatic past than his new housemate, and his messy habits trigger all Hayden's pain points. Jez is a Broadway dancer and actor, on the run from a scary situation in New York, where he'd had a good deal of success in show business. There are some lovely moments, little flashes really, that show off Jez's artistry, and I wish we'd gotten to see more of that and more of him on set at his job.
This story has some great feel-good moments, and I adored the epilogue. I enjoyed the characters, with all their quirks, and their chemistry was stellar through the whole story. This is a recommended read for people who love contemporary gay romance with a little angst, a little suspense, and a lot of heart.
Jez has an even more traumatic past than his new housemate, and his messy habits trigger all Hayden's pain points. Jez is a Broadway dancer and actor, on the run from a scary situation in New York, where he'd had a good deal of success in show business. There are some lovely moments, little flashes really, that show off Jez's artistry, and I wish we'd gotten to see more of that and more of him on set at his job.
This story has some great feel-good moments, and I adored the epilogue. I enjoyed the characters, with all their quirks, and their chemistry was stellar through the whole story. This is a recommended read for people who love contemporary gay romance with a little angst, a little suspense, and a lot of heart.
August 9, 2018
I’ve read several KC Burns stories that I’ve really loved.
Ie
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
This wasn’t one of them.
To me it felt disconnected and uncertain and I didn’t feel the chemistry between the MCs like I’d wanted to.
I also strongly dislike (you might say hate) “Big Misunderstanding” as a trope and that’s a big theme here.
I’m not sure I understand why these “friends” are friends and why - since we aren’t really told why – they aren’t just dropped. I always support reading of many reviews before judging and this just might be me, but this wasn’t a great fit for me.
2.5 of 5 stars
Ie
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
This wasn’t one of them.
To me it felt disconnected and uncertain and I didn’t feel the chemistry between the MCs like I’d wanted to.
I also strongly dislike (you might say hate) “Big Misunderstanding” as a trope and that’s a big theme here.
I’m not sure I understand why these “friends” are friends and why - since we aren’t really told why – they aren’t just dropped. I always support reading of many reviews before judging and this just might be me, but this wasn’t a great fit for me.
2.5 of 5 stars
January 5, 2019
Recensione a cura del Blog Piume di Carta
Alcune delle ultime letture del 2018 sono state all’insegna di lavori in cui l’omosessualità non è vista bene; nell’altra recensione si parlava di sport e, come ho scritto, nel rugby sembrano essere più aperti di vedute che in molti altri ambienti. In questo romanzo di KC Burn, l’ambiente è quello di una stazione dei pompieri, dove in molti pensano che essere gay stoni con il lavoro che portano avanti, come se con chi vai a letto o chi ami ti renda più o meno bravo in un determinato lavoro.
La recensione continua sul blog a questo link: https://www.piumedicarta.it/2019/01/c...
Alcune delle ultime letture del 2018 sono state all’insegna di lavori in cui l’omosessualità non è vista bene; nell’altra recensione si parlava di sport e, come ho scritto, nel rugby sembrano essere più aperti di vedute che in molti altri ambienti. In questo romanzo di KC Burn, l’ambiente è quello di una stazione dei pompieri, dove in molti pensano che essere gay stoni con il lavoro che portano avanti, come se con chi vai a letto o chi ami ti renda più o meno bravo in un determinato lavoro.
La recensione continua sul blog a questo link: https://www.piumedicarta.it/2019/01/c...
June 9, 2018
What a great read. Enjoyed it greatly. Jez and Hayden's story. Jez is a dancer and Actor. Hayden is a Fireman. Jez needs a place to stay, his brother Miguel asks his friend Hayden if Jez can stay with him for a while and their slow burn romance starts there.
December 16, 2019
Loved this story. The main characters had some difficult stereotypes to work through, but I feel like the author handled the topics well. The romance was adorable, complete with some puppy-makes-three warm-and-fuzzies. And like most of Burn's work, there was a bit of a crime thriller aspect woven throughout the story. Another great job!
July 13, 2022
RECENSIONE A CURA DI EVELYNE
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October 22, 2018
forgot to write a review ... but I enjoyed it
April 18, 2018
•*´¨)✨✨Blazing toward love.✨✨ ¸.•*¨)
There was plenty going on in this story and it was a lot to take in. You have to read this book to understand everything that I am hinting at and being totally vague about, sorry. I hate spoilers in reviews.
The two main characters, Hayden and Jez, are known to each other. However, they have not seen each other in over eight years. Hayden is a firefighter, whom I admire for his skills but had to shake my head at his handling of his mostly homophobic friends. THOSE men deserved more than just what they got in this story. And I am glad of the way it was handled. Hayden was also a LOT OCD and this played on his living situation when Jez moved in.
Broadway dancer Jez was a sweetie pie. After enduring so much at home, he escaped small town USA pretty much like Hayden did. He excelled at what he did, but found himself in a situation which had him running yet again. I will say this...whenever your gut says something does not feel right, believe it. His brother, best friend to Hayden was also a bit sketchy to me, but I once again forgave him for the role he played in everything.
Hayden and Jez sorta, kinda fell into their relationship due to proximity and Jez unrequited forever crush. Both taught each other much and I can truly say, glad they got together. It was an okay story for me and I thank the persons involved for allowing me to review it.
I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this book without bias or persuasion from Dreamspinner Press.
Reviewed by Cee from Alpha Book Club
There was plenty going on in this story and it was a lot to take in. You have to read this book to understand everything that I am hinting at and being totally vague about, sorry. I hate spoilers in reviews.
The two main characters, Hayden and Jez, are known to each other. However, they have not seen each other in over eight years. Hayden is a firefighter, whom I admire for his skills but had to shake my head at his handling of his mostly homophobic friends. THOSE men deserved more than just what they got in this story. And I am glad of the way it was handled. Hayden was also a LOT OCD and this played on his living situation when Jez moved in.
Broadway dancer Jez was a sweetie pie. After enduring so much at home, he escaped small town USA pretty much like Hayden did. He excelled at what he did, but found himself in a situation which had him running yet again. I will say this...whenever your gut says something does not feel right, believe it. His brother, best friend to Hayden was also a bit sketchy to me, but I once again forgave him for the role he played in everything.
Hayden and Jez sorta, kinda fell into their relationship due to proximity and Jez unrequited forever crush. Both taught each other much and I can truly say, glad they got together. It was an okay story for me and I thank the persons involved for allowing me to review it.
I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this book without bias or persuasion from Dreamspinner Press.
Reviewed by Cee from Alpha Book Club
April 18, 2018
3.5 stars - I was given a copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
I really enjoyed this sweet and reflective romance but it isn’t quite what I expected from the cover or the blurb. It’s the story of Hayden, a not-quite-closeted firefighter and Jez, his new roommate (and a Broadway dancer). Jez’ flamboyant arrival forces Hayden to reevaluate his own identity and the toxic bro-culture he clings to.
While I was expecting steamy firefighter scenes, this book takes a hard look at friendship, respect and identity. There is some heat, but I liked the way the story pushes beyond romance tropes to examine some difficult realities faced by gay men - even in liberal environments like LA and New York.
I didn't love this story. I’m not sure two men would ever talk so earnestly with each other and there were a few moments when Jez and Hayden push past cute into adorable in a way that made me feel slightly nauseous. Time lurches in the story and I didn't always have a good grip on the timeline of the book. Some of the characters are too cliche to be believable or have an impact, and other characters like Jez' brother aren't coherent through the book. But I appreciated the ideas and I loved Jez’ fierce resilience and Hayden’s aptitude for reflection and change.
I really enjoyed this sweet and reflective romance but it isn’t quite what I expected from the cover or the blurb. It’s the story of Hayden, a not-quite-closeted firefighter and Jez, his new roommate (and a Broadway dancer). Jez’ flamboyant arrival forces Hayden to reevaluate his own identity and the toxic bro-culture he clings to.
While I was expecting steamy firefighter scenes, this book takes a hard look at friendship, respect and identity. There is some heat, but I liked the way the story pushes beyond romance tropes to examine some difficult realities faced by gay men - even in liberal environments like LA and New York.
I didn't love this story. I’m not sure two men would ever talk so earnestly with each other and there were a few moments when Jez and Hayden push past cute into adorable in a way that made me feel slightly nauseous. Time lurches in the story and I didn't always have a good grip on the timeline of the book. Some of the characters are too cliche to be believable or have an impact, and other characters like Jez' brother aren't coherent through the book. But I appreciated the ideas and I loved Jez’ fierce resilience and Hayden’s aptitude for reflection and change.
March 14, 2019
K.C. Burn è un’autrice che abbiamo avuto modo di apprezzare fin dal primo libro tradotto dalla Dreamspinner Press: riesce a raccontare storie ordinarie, di tutti i giorni, rendendole straordinarie.
Jez e Hayden, i protagonisti di "Come un incendio", sono ragazzi comuni. Jez potrebbe essere il nostro vivace vicino di casa, Hayden il grande, grosso e gentile pompiere della porta accanto. Ehi, dopotutto ci sarà pure qualcuno di noi ad avere come dirimpettaio di pianerottolo un aitante vigile del fuoco… non è che vivono come eremiti sui cucuzzoli delle montagne!
Hayden, infatti, vive in una villetta con giardino, ereditata dalla amata nonna. La sua vita è incanalata su un unico binario e scorre liscia e senza intoppi: ha un lavoro che ama, un migliore amico, Miguel, che conosce fin da bambino — ed è, nemmeno a dirlo, il fratello maggiore di Jez —, un gruppetto di colleghi e amici con i quali uscire nelle sere libere dal lavoro, e una vita sessuale piuttosto varia. Non gli manca dunque niente per essere felice… o forse sì?
Recensione completa su: https://bit.ly/2F87Bbu
Jez e Hayden, i protagonisti di "Come un incendio", sono ragazzi comuni. Jez potrebbe essere il nostro vivace vicino di casa, Hayden il grande, grosso e gentile pompiere della porta accanto. Ehi, dopotutto ci sarà pure qualcuno di noi ad avere come dirimpettaio di pianerottolo un aitante vigile del fuoco… non è che vivono come eremiti sui cucuzzoli delle montagne!
Hayden, infatti, vive in una villetta con giardino, ereditata dalla amata nonna. La sua vita è incanalata su un unico binario e scorre liscia e senza intoppi: ha un lavoro che ama, un migliore amico, Miguel, che conosce fin da bambino — ed è, nemmeno a dirlo, il fratello maggiore di Jez —, un gruppetto di colleghi e amici con i quali uscire nelle sere libere dal lavoro, e una vita sessuale piuttosto varia. Non gli manca dunque niente per essere felice… o forse sì?
Recensione completa su: https://bit.ly/2F87Bbu
June 23, 2019
This one was just okay for me. I really had a hard time with Hayden's character. I really just winced every time he was hanging around with his "friends." I just don't see how any adult can think that the way his friends treated him is not only acceptable but that they are friends. I can see maybe not wanting to make waves but to call them friends was just delusional. I liked Jez and could certainly see why he was concerned about being in a relationship with Hayden but found his relationship with his brother a bit bizarre. Overall it wasn't bad but I just didn't really feel the connection between Hayden and Jez nor did I feel a connection to either character.
January 16, 2019
un buon romanzo,piacevole
December 10, 2018
3 Stars for the book
3.5 Stars for the narration
I’m going to start my review with the audio portion since this is what I liked best about this book and was the main factor in what kept me going to the end. I really liked the narration for this story. I think Darcy Stark did a great job with what he was given. His voice and cadence were pretty much on-point throughout the entire book. His voice is really pleasant to listen to while he tells us the story, no matter what the book itself might contain.
I’ve read this author before and really liked the books (The Toronto Tales Series is fantastic) but this one did not hit the mark for me. Although the premise sounded great when I read the blurb - firefighter and Broadway dancer - I wasn’t super impressed by the storyline we got.
The plot of the story moved along at a decent pace, but when I comes down to it, I think that maybe my lack of connection to any and all of the characters might have thrown off the story a bit too much for me to actually enjoy this one. There was just too much drama, judgment, horrible interaction and lack of communication between basically every character in this book. They were all contradicting and condescending to each other and much was left to be desired. In my personal opinion the only redeeming factor that either of the main characters, Jez and Hayden, had is that they both liked dogs, that’s it. These guys just did not seem to fit together; it’s really hard to explain but they just did not seem right for each other, even up to the end of this book. Sad to say, but I was honestly hoping this didn’t actually have a HEA and that they ended up with completely different people than each other. Lol.
Hayden is a firefighter who is “out” but yet, not really. He acts like he’s in the closet, hides who he is from all of his “friends” and avoids all conflict because he is afraid of what every single person on the planet will think of him, whether he even knows them or not. Hayden has never been with a woman but at the beginning of this book has no issue with comparing Jez’s body to being soft like a woman’s and not like the manly men he usually goes for?!?!? Whaaatt?!?!
But seriously, the lack of actual communication, and then miscommunication between the two main characters drove me kind of crazy. OMG and don’t even get me started on Hayden’s horrible d-bag “friends”! How the hell did he seriously put up with their homophobic crap for so long without defending himself, or OK, you don’t like conflict – fine - WHY DIDN’T HE JUST STOP HANGING OUT WITH THEM?? I simply didn’t get that at all; he just lets them use and abuse him and that was my major complaint with Hayden as a person and a character.
Jez is a Broadway dancer turned actor. He runs across the country to get away from a crazy ex and moves in with his brother Miguel’s best friend, Hayden, who he hasn’t seen or talked to in years. Jez is super judgmental right from the start; he lies and hides things and even when the truth starts coming out, he leaves major parts of the story out. He also assumes the worst things about every person he comes into contact with. Like, I get he had to deal with some crazy crap his ex-boyfriend put him through, but dude, Jez is kind of crazy himself in a completely different way. As a person, he was just really hard for me to like. There were parts of Jez’s life after he moved in with Hayden that got added into the book, almost like added content that wasn’t needed and had no bearing on the actual storyline. One thing I did agree with Jez, was that yes, they both could use some therapy, and that they both have some major issues they need to work through, separately and together.
Miguel, Jez’s brother and Hayden’s best friend…. Hmm. Miguel - is he a homophobic jerk, or is he just a jerk, or is he really a good guy in disguise..? I was super confused and conflicted about his character. He is the only person who stepped up in his family to help Jez when he was “forced out” but yet he doesn’t stick up for Hayden when their horrible friends treat them like crap for years. And he doesn’t even step up and defend Jez one he comes back into the picture.
I just didn’t understand any of these guys or any of their actions.
*** Audiobook copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by Dreamspinner Press for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
3.5 Stars for the narration
I’m going to start my review with the audio portion since this is what I liked best about this book and was the main factor in what kept me going to the end. I really liked the narration for this story. I think Darcy Stark did a great job with what he was given. His voice and cadence were pretty much on-point throughout the entire book. His voice is really pleasant to listen to while he tells us the story, no matter what the book itself might contain.
I’ve read this author before and really liked the books (The Toronto Tales Series is fantastic) but this one did not hit the mark for me. Although the premise sounded great when I read the blurb - firefighter and Broadway dancer - I wasn’t super impressed by the storyline we got.
The plot of the story moved along at a decent pace, but when I comes down to it, I think that maybe my lack of connection to any and all of the characters might have thrown off the story a bit too much for me to actually enjoy this one. There was just too much drama, judgment, horrible interaction and lack of communication between basically every character in this book. They were all contradicting and condescending to each other and much was left to be desired. In my personal opinion the only redeeming factor that either of the main characters, Jez and Hayden, had is that they both liked dogs, that’s it. These guys just did not seem to fit together; it’s really hard to explain but they just did not seem right for each other, even up to the end of this book. Sad to say, but I was honestly hoping this didn’t actually have a HEA and that they ended up with completely different people than each other. Lol.
Hayden is a firefighter who is “out” but yet, not really. He acts like he’s in the closet, hides who he is from all of his “friends” and avoids all conflict because he is afraid of what every single person on the planet will think of him, whether he even knows them or not. Hayden has never been with a woman but at the beginning of this book has no issue with comparing Jez’s body to being soft like a woman’s and not like the manly men he usually goes for?!?!? Whaaatt?!?!
But seriously, the lack of actual communication, and then miscommunication between the two main characters drove me kind of crazy. OMG and don’t even get me started on Hayden’s horrible d-bag “friends”! How the hell did he seriously put up with their homophobic crap for so long without defending himself, or OK, you don’t like conflict – fine - WHY DIDN’T HE JUST STOP HANGING OUT WITH THEM?? I simply didn’t get that at all; he just lets them use and abuse him and that was my major complaint with Hayden as a person and a character.
Jez is a Broadway dancer turned actor. He runs across the country to get away from a crazy ex and moves in with his brother Miguel’s best friend, Hayden, who he hasn’t seen or talked to in years. Jez is super judgmental right from the start; he lies and hides things and even when the truth starts coming out, he leaves major parts of the story out. He also assumes the worst things about every person he comes into contact with. Like, I get he had to deal with some crazy crap his ex-boyfriend put him through, but dude, Jez is kind of crazy himself in a completely different way. As a person, he was just really hard for me to like. There were parts of Jez’s life after he moved in with Hayden that got added into the book, almost like added content that wasn’t needed and had no bearing on the actual storyline. One thing I did agree with Jez, was that yes, they both could use some therapy, and that they both have some major issues they need to work through, separately and together.
Miguel, Jez’s brother and Hayden’s best friend…. Hmm. Miguel - is he a homophobic jerk, or is he just a jerk, or is he really a good guy in disguise..? I was super confused and conflicted about his character. He is the only person who stepped up in his family to help Jez when he was “forced out” but yet he doesn’t stick up for Hayden when their horrible friends treat them like crap for years. And he doesn’t even step up and defend Jez one he comes back into the picture.
I just didn’t understand any of these guys or any of their actions.
*** Audiobook copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by Dreamspinner Press for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
April 20, 2018
Premise of the book is, Jaz has up and moved from NYC under stressful circumstances. He is estranged from everyone in his family except Miquel. Miquel asks his best friend Hayden if Hayden could put Jaz up until his brother gets settled. Hayden reluctantly agrees, remembering Jaz from when he and Miquel used to hang out. But that was a much younger Jaz, not the mature young man who shows up on his door step. And that’s when everything changes.
I liked this story quite a bit more than I expected when all was said and done. In retrospect, I think it was because the main characters came across as real people, with legit anxieties and worries, and behaved accordingly. They both had an inability to communicate (Hayden and his ‘friends’), they both had preconceived notions based upon life’s experiences (Jaz believing Hayden hated dogs) and they had issues they recognized they needed to deal with but tried to keep shoved back into the closet (NYC for Jaz, Hayden’s Gran).
The other thing that kept surprising me was my expectations of how a situation was going to unfold, for example, I fully expected a big blow-up scene over Fang, then tears and conflict resolution. Yeah…didn’t happen. There were a handful of little things like that in the book that just didn’t go the way I expected. In a good way.
When the big argument scene did happen? Yeah, that felt real to me, because with two people dealing with past trauma and an inability to communicate the scene made sense in the context given. Yes, it was a misunderstanding, couples have those all the time, but it wasn’t a Big Misunderstanding situation and for that I was very grateful.
I also thought the dramatic tension regarding Jaz’s NY boyfriend was handled quite adroitly. The buildup was subtle, an observant reader knows what’s coming, but the author totally avoided all the typical clichés and brought in the police to handle it! Bravo! ((golf clap! Golf clap!))
A handful of things niggled at me: I would have liked to have seen conflict between Hayden and his “friends” come to a head between them, before being resolved off-page. The situation felt smoothed over rather than a growing experience. I would have liked to have seen some tension here.
The dinner scene between Hayden, Jaz and Miquel was a bit weird. The topic so stressful that it couldn’t be discussed over food, everyone’s tummies are upset, then when all is well with the world, let’s have pie! Umm… really?
And I had one small issue with Jaz’s NYC boyfriend/stalker that didn’t jive for me, but because it would be a major spoiler, I’ll just leave it at that.
Ultimately, this book was a slow burn romance that I felt had good character development, just the right amount of dramatic tension, and had some “oh…that’s so sweet” moments to balance everything out. And in fully recognizing that none of us read the same book the same way, this book worked for me.
Review is cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews
A copy of the book was provided by the author and publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
I liked this story quite a bit more than I expected when all was said and done. In retrospect, I think it was because the main characters came across as real people, with legit anxieties and worries, and behaved accordingly. They both had an inability to communicate (Hayden and his ‘friends’), they both had preconceived notions based upon life’s experiences (Jaz believing Hayden hated dogs) and they had issues they recognized they needed to deal with but tried to keep shoved back into the closet (NYC for Jaz, Hayden’s Gran).
The other thing that kept surprising me was my expectations of how a situation was going to unfold, for example, I fully expected a big blow-up scene over Fang, then tears and conflict resolution. Yeah…didn’t happen. There were a handful of little things like that in the book that just didn’t go the way I expected. In a good way.
When the big argument scene did happen? Yeah, that felt real to me, because with two people dealing with past trauma and an inability to communicate the scene made sense in the context given. Yes, it was a misunderstanding, couples have those all the time, but it wasn’t a Big Misunderstanding situation and for that I was very grateful.
I also thought the dramatic tension regarding Jaz’s NY boyfriend was handled quite adroitly. The buildup was subtle, an observant reader knows what’s coming, but the author totally avoided all the typical clichés and brought in the police to handle it! Bravo! ((golf clap! Golf clap!))
A handful of things niggled at me: I would have liked to have seen conflict between Hayden and his “friends” come to a head between them, before being resolved off-page. The situation felt smoothed over rather than a growing experience. I would have liked to have seen some tension here.
The dinner scene between Hayden, Jaz and Miquel was a bit weird. The topic so stressful that it couldn’t be discussed over food, everyone’s tummies are upset, then when all is well with the world, let’s have pie! Umm… really?
And I had one small issue with Jaz’s NYC boyfriend/stalker that didn’t jive for me, but because it would be a major spoiler, I’ll just leave it at that.
Ultimately, this book was a slow burn romance that I felt had good character development, just the right amount of dramatic tension, and had some “oh…that’s so sweet” moments to balance everything out. And in fully recognizing that none of us read the same book the same way, this book worked for me.
Review is cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews
A copy of the book was provided by the author and publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
December 10, 2018
Set Ablaze By KC Burn (Audio) and Darcy Stark (Narrator)
Reviewed by Shee Reader for Boy Meets Boy Reviews
Find us on the web at www.boymeetsboyreviews.com
Rating 4.5 Hearts
Blurb
California firefighter Hayden Hurst is starting to realize there's more to life than fighting fires and drinking with his buddies. He has room in his home and his life for someone special, but no one has stood out among his hookups. And while he's out at work, admitting he's gay is very different from showing up at social functions with a man. He's afraid that'll be too much for his less-than-accepting "friends".
Broadway dancer Jez Bouchet hasn't been mistaken for straight since he was gay-bashed at 17. After getting a lucrative job offer in Hollywood, he uproots his life in New York and drives to Los Angeles. His brother, who is Hayden's best friend, arranges for him to crash at Hayden's place.
The attraction between Hayden and Jez is unexpected but fiery, and they succumb before they're even sure they like each other. But Jez hates Hayden's homophobic friends, and Hayden knows Jez is too flamboyant for him to fly under the radar. Then there's the complication of Jez's brother.
Despite those hurdles, they fling themselves into a relationship. But Jez has secrets: a tiny spoiled dog and a determined stalker. If he doesn't come clean, he might torch their burgeoning relationship before it has a chance to bloom.
Hayden is the big loveable lug who doesn’t realise he’s tolerating a lot of ‘low-grade’ homophobic behaviour from his so called friends until his new room mate (and best friend’s brother) the altogether fabulous Jez gives him a short sharp wake up call. By the time this takes place, Hayden is already more than halfway in love with the beautiful dancer, and it’s not a one-way affection either!
This story is a lovely coming-to-terms-with-himself love story where the two guys Hayden and Jez are exactly what the other needs, but the crazy stalker, awful ‘friends’ and learning to communicate with each other leads to plenty of interest. Plus there is a secret puppy. I mean, who doesn’t love a secret puppy!
One of my favourite bits of the story is Jez coming home to find Fang has escaped from his room and got who knows where. Before he can completely hyperventilate, Hayden comes home with Fang and half the contents of the pet store! The idea that Jez could be jealous of the love and affection Hayden showered on the puppy is adorable.
There is plenty of working through stuff to make this a thoroughly engaging tale, but it is relatively low angst with good communication on the whole. I do really love a book where the is good development of relationships and the characters, but I’m not sobbing myself to sleep!
I’d recommend this to anyone who likes a buff and sweet firefighter hero, and gorgeous and sassy talented partner.
I was given a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Shee Reader for Boy Meets Boy Reviews
Find us on the web at www.boymeetsboyreviews.com
Rating 4.5 Hearts
Blurb
California firefighter Hayden Hurst is starting to realize there's more to life than fighting fires and drinking with his buddies. He has room in his home and his life for someone special, but no one has stood out among his hookups. And while he's out at work, admitting he's gay is very different from showing up at social functions with a man. He's afraid that'll be too much for his less-than-accepting "friends".
Broadway dancer Jez Bouchet hasn't been mistaken for straight since he was gay-bashed at 17. After getting a lucrative job offer in Hollywood, he uproots his life in New York and drives to Los Angeles. His brother, who is Hayden's best friend, arranges for him to crash at Hayden's place.
The attraction between Hayden and Jez is unexpected but fiery, and they succumb before they're even sure they like each other. But Jez hates Hayden's homophobic friends, and Hayden knows Jez is too flamboyant for him to fly under the radar. Then there's the complication of Jez's brother.
Despite those hurdles, they fling themselves into a relationship. But Jez has secrets: a tiny spoiled dog and a determined stalker. If he doesn't come clean, he might torch their burgeoning relationship before it has a chance to bloom.
Hayden is the big loveable lug who doesn’t realise he’s tolerating a lot of ‘low-grade’ homophobic behaviour from his so called friends until his new room mate (and best friend’s brother) the altogether fabulous Jez gives him a short sharp wake up call. By the time this takes place, Hayden is already more than halfway in love with the beautiful dancer, and it’s not a one-way affection either!
This story is a lovely coming-to-terms-with-himself love story where the two guys Hayden and Jez are exactly what the other needs, but the crazy stalker, awful ‘friends’ and learning to communicate with each other leads to plenty of interest. Plus there is a secret puppy. I mean, who doesn’t love a secret puppy!
One of my favourite bits of the story is Jez coming home to find Fang has escaped from his room and got who knows where. Before he can completely hyperventilate, Hayden comes home with Fang and half the contents of the pet store! The idea that Jez could be jealous of the love and affection Hayden showered on the puppy is adorable.
There is plenty of working through stuff to make this a thoroughly engaging tale, but it is relatively low angst with good communication on the whole. I do really love a book where the is good development of relationships and the characters, but I’m not sobbing myself to sleep!
I’d recommend this to anyone who likes a buff and sweet firefighter hero, and gorgeous and sassy talented partner.
I was given a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
April 23, 2018
3.5 Stars
Full review at :
https://optimumm.blog/2018/04/23/review-set-ablaze-by-kc-burn/
Hayden is a California firefighter, gay, practically out, who shares his life between his work and his buddies.
Jez is a Broadway dancer who came to live in California to start his life over. His brother, Miguel, asked his best friend Hayden to host Jez while he searches for somewhere to live.
Even if Jez and Hayden had known each other all their lives, after a decade without any contact, they’re like two strangers. The fact that Jez has two big secrets, one named Fang a little pug puppy and the other a stalker, doesn’t help at first, and worse, the strong physical attraction between them complicated things a little bit.
I liked this book. I had a good time with them.
Hayden is gay, his parents had threatened him with conversion therapy when he came out, and he ran away to live with his grandmother. But even if Hayden is gay and out, he lives in the closet…let me explain. People at his work know he’s gay, but he never brings a boyfriend to their gatherings, never talk about his life, and when his so-called buddies are homophobic, he doesn’t say a word, and thinks it’s just jokes. He lives in a closet. But when Jez came into his life with his unicorn t-shirt and his flamboyant temper, he realizes that maybe something is wrong with his friends. Jez shows him that he doesn’t have to live a half-life.
Jez is my favorite. I like him a lot. He had a traumatic past after a gay-bashing at 17 years old, and his family had turned their back to him… Except his big brother Miguel. He was on his own, healing his body, soul, and mind. He’s refused to be mistreated since, and when he meets Hayden’s homophobic friends, he refuses to shut up. Besides, Jez has a creepy stalker who make his life hell, but with Hayden’s love and support, he starts to take back what belongs to him.
KC Burn wrote a sweet book with a good plot. She tackles difficult subjects, but she transforms them into a beautiful message of hope that no matter what people think of you, you’re still in control of who you want to be.
Jez and Hayden were adorable together, sweet and funny. The only thing that I missed a little bit was the absence of sex scene, I would have loved to read at least their first night together.
It’s 3.5 OptimuMMs for Fang!
***The ARC was provided by Dreamspinner Press. My review is an honest opinion of the book ***
Full review at :
https://optimumm.blog/2018/04/23/review-set-ablaze-by-kc-burn/
Hayden is a California firefighter, gay, practically out, who shares his life between his work and his buddies.
Jez is a Broadway dancer who came to live in California to start his life over. His brother, Miguel, asked his best friend Hayden to host Jez while he searches for somewhere to live.
Even if Jez and Hayden had known each other all their lives, after a decade without any contact, they’re like two strangers. The fact that Jez has two big secrets, one named Fang a little pug puppy and the other a stalker, doesn’t help at first, and worse, the strong physical attraction between them complicated things a little bit.
I liked this book. I had a good time with them.
Hayden is gay, his parents had threatened him with conversion therapy when he came out, and he ran away to live with his grandmother. But even if Hayden is gay and out, he lives in the closet…let me explain. People at his work know he’s gay, but he never brings a boyfriend to their gatherings, never talk about his life, and when his so-called buddies are homophobic, he doesn’t say a word, and thinks it’s just jokes. He lives in a closet. But when Jez came into his life with his unicorn t-shirt and his flamboyant temper, he realizes that maybe something is wrong with his friends. Jez shows him that he doesn’t have to live a half-life.
Jez is my favorite. I like him a lot. He had a traumatic past after a gay-bashing at 17 years old, and his family had turned their back to him… Except his big brother Miguel. He was on his own, healing his body, soul, and mind. He’s refused to be mistreated since, and when he meets Hayden’s homophobic friends, he refuses to shut up. Besides, Jez has a creepy stalker who make his life hell, but with Hayden’s love and support, he starts to take back what belongs to him.
KC Burn wrote a sweet book with a good plot. She tackles difficult subjects, but she transforms them into a beautiful message of hope that no matter what people think of you, you’re still in control of who you want to be.
Jez and Hayden were adorable together, sweet and funny. The only thing that I missed a little bit was the absence of sex scene, I would have loved to read at least their first night together.
It’s 3.5 OptimuMMs for Fang!
***The ARC was provided by Dreamspinner Press. My review is an honest opinion of the book ***
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