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License to Love #1
Thrown Off Track
Singing about love is one thing. Finding it is another.
Teague Martell has been License to Game’s bassist for over a decade, and he’s played Casanova for just as long, sleeping with almost everyone in his path. But unbeknownst to even his bandmates, it’s always felt like going through the motions.
His best friend and LtG drummer Christian Vogel has secrets of his own. Like that he’s had a crush on Teague for as long as he’s had crushes. And while LtG’s lead singer may have made his solo plans public and sent the band into a tailspin, Christian’s got a side gig as well—one he’s been keeping under wraps.
A nude photoshoot for a charity calendar has Teague seeing Christian in a different light—suddenly he knows what it is to want. But disagreements about the future of the band could impact their future as a couple. Christian and Teague have to decide whether their differences of opinion create a sweet harmony or if there’s too much discord in the duet they’re finally playing.
**Please note: Thrown Off Track appeared originally in the Exposed anthology. This version includes a bonus scene.**
Teague Martell has been License to Game’s bassist for over a decade, and he’s played Casanova for just as long, sleeping with almost everyone in his path. But unbeknownst to even his bandmates, it’s always felt like going through the motions.
His best friend and LtG drummer Christian Vogel has secrets of his own. Like that he’s had a crush on Teague for as long as he’s had crushes. And while LtG’s lead singer may have made his solo plans public and sent the band into a tailspin, Christian’s got a side gig as well—one he’s been keeping under wraps.
A nude photoshoot for a charity calendar has Teague seeing Christian in a different light—suddenly he knows what it is to want. But disagreements about the future of the band could impact their future as a couple. Christian and Teague have to decide whether their differences of opinion create a sweet harmony or if there’s too much discord in the duet they’re finally playing.
**Please note: Thrown Off Track appeared originally in the Exposed anthology. This version includes a bonus scene.**
174 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 11, 2018
About the author
Tamsen Parker
41 books392 followersTamsen Parker is a stay-at-home mom by day, erotic romance writer by naptime. She lives with her family outside of Boston, where she tweets too much, sleeps too little and is always in the middle of a book. Aside from good food, sweet rieslings and gin cocktails, she has a fondness for monograms and subway maps. She should really start drinking coffee.
You can sign up for her newsletter here to find out about her latest release, sales, or other goings on: http://bit.ly/1Bry07O
You can sign up for her newsletter here to find out about her latest release, sales, or other goings on: http://bit.ly/1Bry07O
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
December 14, 2020
Audiobook - 4 stars
Story - 2.5 stars
Story - 2.5 stars
![Profile Image for Megan [Gemini Season].](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/users/1634561405i/25103878._UY200_CR50,0,200,200_.jpg)
November 10, 2023
MM Romance
Friends To Lovers
2 Stars ⭐️
🎵Included for free with my Audible subscription
🎵Audiobook Narrators: John Solo and Chris Chambers🎵
I lost my first review and I just cannot bear to redo it so this will be short and more about the audio itself. My love for Chris Chambers has led me to yet another crap book 😭 and I still can’t figure out if I liked John Solo. I don’t know if it’s his style or just the character he voiced but he made Christian sound super emo and mopey the entire time which made him sound almost melodic and it caused me to fall asleep twice! It is so incredibly hard for me to fall asleep listening to audiobooks because I either do chores or use my phone to color using the app HappyColor but somehow it happened, twice! 🤷🏻♀️ CC did a great job but I was so sad that there wasn’t a real sex scene in this book so I could hear his hot moans. There was a random bonus scene at the end but it was from JS. I can do no to low steam if the book is interesting but this was just not. It took me way too long to listen to a 4 hour book and the entire time I just kept thinking, why now? These two knew each other since age 8 yet a naked photo shoot for a charity event changed Teague’s whole outlook on life yet they’d shared beds over the years while on tour. Whatever, it was too boring to spend much time pondering it and I’m just annoyed I have to write yet another shit review. 😕
Friends To Lovers
2 Stars ⭐️
🎵Included for free with my Audible subscription
🎵Audiobook Narrators: John Solo and Chris Chambers🎵
I lost my first review and I just cannot bear to redo it so this will be short and more about the audio itself. My love for Chris Chambers has led me to yet another crap book 😭 and I still can’t figure out if I liked John Solo. I don’t know if it’s his style or just the character he voiced but he made Christian sound super emo and mopey the entire time which made him sound almost melodic and it caused me to fall asleep twice! It is so incredibly hard for me to fall asleep listening to audiobooks because I either do chores or use my phone to color using the app HappyColor but somehow it happened, twice! 🤷🏻♀️ CC did a great job but I was so sad that there wasn’t a real sex scene in this book so I could hear his hot moans. There was a random bonus scene at the end but it was from JS. I can do no to low steam if the book is interesting but this was just not. It took me way too long to listen to a 4 hour book and the entire time I just kept thinking, why now? These two knew each other since age 8 yet a naked photo shoot for a charity event changed Teague’s whole outlook on life yet they’d shared beds over the years while on tour. Whatever, it was too boring to spend much time pondering it and I’m just annoyed I have to write yet another shit review. 😕
June 11, 2018
2★'s = it was ok. Just barely, but still ok.
Writing reviews for books you didn’t like is not fun. Writing reviews for a book you requested from the author is one hundred times worse. Just ugh. Sorry author! Maybe I should have researched better prior to my request. Maybe.
I'm going to do the research for you guys.
This is not a standalone. It goes against me and my slightly more manageable as I get older OCD to read anything out of order and that includes spin-offs. This my friends is a HUGE spin-off. More about that in my review.
The rest of the books in this series will be M/F. This I know will be a big deal to some of you. I read both but a lot of you do not. So, just putting that out there.
Ok, let’s talk about the book. So, as I mentioned, this is a spin-off from the authors Snow & Ice Games Series. The first book in that series actually and there are 5 total. I am sure that there are times when a spin-off can be read without reading the original series. There may be a single mention of so and so’s cousin or something who then gets his own series. I get that. This was not that. When I state it is not a standalone it is because this book starts like we just finished Love on the Tracks. Which, I did not. I am not even joking. I had no idea what was going on but knew something big went down. There was zero description of the band or introductions of the members. It was like I was supposed to already know who they were. I did not know who they were! So, this was a huge obstacle I could not overcome while reading. There were pieces of what went down dropped here and there, actually, what happened was mentioned a lot but not in a you may not have read my other series let me explain things way. I’ll admit I am not a fan of retelling if I have read the other books but this went too far and was all about the no telling. It’s really hard to get invested in a band when you don’t know anything about any of the members or why this story is even happening.
Chemistry. There was none. NONE. These two guys were not just band members they were supposed to be best friends. It did not read like they were even friends at all. There was no connection, there was no anything and one was supposed to be in love with the other. I didn’t see it and I don’t buy it. We spent so much time in their heads and all their thoughts were so contradictory and just not friend like or love like or even band like. Maybe had there been a better setup with the characters I’d feel like I knew them better.
I’m not even going to get into the sexuality of one of the guys. The world is vast and I know there are all kinds of people in it but I didn’t understand what or why he was doing what he was doing. I just don’t see that happening. And how he went from that to, well. I just didn’t like this aspect of the story. It would have worked better had the guy realized he liked guys for the first time not what this was. I was almost offended.
The writing wasn’t horrible but there were random huge vocabulary words dropped into their thoughts that seemed so out of place especially for Teague since over and over he was described or thought of himself as dumb.
This: Very Seriously™ - Is this a thing? Is it like slang? Here is the sentence: Teague nods, his face grave as though he is taking this Very Seriously™. – I don’t get it. Is this like all the Cocky stuff that was going on? I am so uncool.
So, really, I guess I’ll just say the book was ok. It just was not right for me in story or spin-off. I wish I had known all of the series stuff prior to requesting the book and I totally blame myself for not doing my homework.
Sorry.
**ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.**
Writing reviews for books you didn’t like is not fun. Writing reviews for a book you requested from the author is one hundred times worse. Just ugh. Sorry author! Maybe I should have researched better prior to my request. Maybe.
I'm going to do the research for you guys.
This is not a standalone. It goes against me and my slightly more manageable as I get older OCD to read anything out of order and that includes spin-offs. This my friends is a HUGE spin-off. More about that in my review.
The rest of the books in this series will be M/F. This I know will be a big deal to some of you. I read both but a lot of you do not. So, just putting that out there.
Ok, let’s talk about the book. So, as I mentioned, this is a spin-off from the authors Snow & Ice Games Series. The first book in that series actually and there are 5 total. I am sure that there are times when a spin-off can be read without reading the original series. There may be a single mention of so and so’s cousin or something who then gets his own series. I get that. This was not that. When I state it is not a standalone it is because this book starts like we just finished Love on the Tracks. Which, I did not. I am not even joking. I had no idea what was going on but knew something big went down. There was zero description of the band or introductions of the members. It was like I was supposed to already know who they were. I did not know who they were! So, this was a huge obstacle I could not overcome while reading. There were pieces of what went down dropped here and there, actually, what happened was mentioned a lot but not in a you may not have read my other series let me explain things way. I’ll admit I am not a fan of retelling if I have read the other books but this went too far and was all about the no telling. It’s really hard to get invested in a band when you don’t know anything about any of the members or why this story is even happening.
Chemistry. There was none. NONE. These two guys were not just band members they were supposed to be best friends. It did not read like they were even friends at all. There was no connection, there was no anything and one was supposed to be in love with the other. I didn’t see it and I don’t buy it. We spent so much time in their heads and all their thoughts were so contradictory and just not friend like or love like or even band like. Maybe had there been a better setup with the characters I’d feel like I knew them better.
I’m not even going to get into the sexuality of one of the guys. The world is vast and I know there are all kinds of people in it but I didn’t understand what or why he was doing what he was doing. I just don’t see that happening. And how he went from that to, well. I just didn’t like this aspect of the story. It would have worked better had the guy realized he liked guys for the first time not what this was. I was almost offended.
The writing wasn’t horrible but there were random huge vocabulary words dropped into their thoughts that seemed so out of place especially for Teague since over and over he was described or thought of himself as dumb.
This: Very Seriously™ - Is this a thing? Is it like slang? Here is the sentence: Teague nods, his face grave as though he is taking this Very Seriously™. – I don’t get it. Is this like all the Cocky stuff that was going on? I am so uncool.
So, really, I guess I’ll just say the book was ok. It just was not right for me in story or spin-off. I wish I had known all of the series stuff prior to requesting the book and I totally blame myself for not doing my homework.
Sorry.
**ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.**
June 19, 2018
Una novella muy dulce con unos protagonistas miembros de una boy band. Tierna, bonita, entretenida, con un personaje demisexual que la ha hecho más adorable todavía.
April 21, 2025
"It sounds serial-killer creepy" = the best quote of this entire book (and it's pretty darn quote worth).
Here's the thing - I don't normally like M/M romance. Not because I don't enjoy M/M romance stories, but because every book I've ever read that involved M/M centered around stereotypical men and always made M/M seem like a joke. But this book? It has characters that felt real, with awkward situations that would actually happen, and doesn't make M/M look like some weird fairy tale full of characters without personalities.
I loved it, like normal. Tamsen clicks with me, and all of her nerdy references make me fangirl beyond believe. Narnia? Schrodinger's cat? Heck yes!
Continuing on with this series (some characters from SIG, and now LtL) is an excellent way to keep these characters alive. I love Tamsen's creativity with her series - Olympics, boy bands. What's next?! This fantastic author is filling my childhood obsessions up, now she just needs to make a story about a swimmer and she's hit almost every point in my childhood (because I was a highly competitive swimmer...most readers won't understand that reference if you don't know me). Essentially, these series feel like throwbacks, and I love it!
This book is fun, lovable and about boy bands (of all topics...) and raises this genre to a new high for me. I was hooked and addicted (yes, I got side tracked often by the nerdy references and had to tweet Tamsen about it, but what can you expect from me? I embrace my nerdiness). Although, this book isn't as R rated as her past books (the deleted scene is very hot and heavy, but I'm not sure if that will be in the final copy).
Thank you for including LGBT characters in this story - I have never heard of the term demisexual before, and I'm so thankful you're introduced me to more terms that I can totally understand and relate to. On top of that, having these male leads with personalities and likes and dislikes and not being perfect? It makes it even better. It felt more realistic (within the realm of a superstar boy band, realism).
So, delving into these characters - Teague and Christian are a really different/unique pair (in a good way). Teague is a superstar, rock star who is a demisexual. Christian is the drummer (in the same band of Teague) and is a little more shy and awkward (and always JUST on time). Christian likes guys, Teague's been with both genders. And then Teague develops a little crush on Christian, who's been crushing on him for a long time and sexy antics ensue! I feel like everyone saw this coming with the boy band theme, but that doesn't make it any less cute! They're awkward together at first (which felt wildly refreshing, since everyone just seems to mesh well the first time and BAM they're a couple, which isn't always the case in real life) and slowly grow.
Even though most readers could see a relationship between members coming from a mile away, the bassist and the drummer? I wouldn't have seen that pair coming.
If you haven't read anything by Tamsen before, I highly recommend her (as a fan). But, she might not be for you (because it happens). I find her books are fun and uplifting, and are never too serious. They move fast, are full of romance, and will open your eyes up to different worlds (religion, sexuality, lifestyles, etc). I keep praising over and over, and I'll do it again in this review - she doesn't stick to the same old story. There are some really fantastic authors (who I love and still read) that do that, but Tamsen changes it up and keeps me on my toes! The likelihood that there will be one book you like (because she has so many different types of romance books) is high! Read through her catalogue and find the topics you like, but keep in mind all books might not be for you!
My reading style and Tamsen's writing style just click, and the nerdy references on top of that lift these books up. This is definitely a must read and a recommendation from me, as I think it's one of her better books (at this rate, I can't pick a best. It rotates depending on the day and how I feel, but this book will be included in that "top tier", ever rotating list).
On a side note, I really like the little guitar symbol that was above the names of when the characters switch back and forth between point of views. My copy is an ARC, so I'm not sure if that will be on the final copy, but I thought it was a nice addition and looked aesthetically pleasing!
Five out of five! Ten out of five! Fifteen out of five! I'm pulling an Oprah with these stars! Every gets one! Five for every boy in the boy band and Rowan gets six for a surprise cameo!
I received an uncorrected proof from the author Tamsen Parker in exchange for an honest review.
Here's the thing - I don't normally like M/M romance. Not because I don't enjoy M/M romance stories, but because every book I've ever read that involved M/M centered around stereotypical men and always made M/M seem like a joke. But this book? It has characters that felt real, with awkward situations that would actually happen, and doesn't make M/M look like some weird fairy tale full of characters without personalities.
I loved it, like normal. Tamsen clicks with me, and all of her nerdy references make me fangirl beyond believe. Narnia? Schrodinger's cat? Heck yes!
Continuing on with this series (some characters from SIG, and now LtL) is an excellent way to keep these characters alive. I love Tamsen's creativity with her series - Olympics, boy bands. What's next?! This fantastic author is filling my childhood obsessions up, now she just needs to make a story about a swimmer and she's hit almost every point in my childhood (because I was a highly competitive swimmer...most readers won't understand that reference if you don't know me). Essentially, these series feel like throwbacks, and I love it!
This book is fun, lovable and about boy bands (of all topics...) and raises this genre to a new high for me. I was hooked and addicted (yes, I got side tracked often by the nerdy references and had to tweet Tamsen about it, but what can you expect from me? I embrace my nerdiness). Although, this book isn't as R rated as her past books (the deleted scene is very hot and heavy, but I'm not sure if that will be in the final copy).
Thank you for including LGBT characters in this story - I have never heard of the term demisexual before, and I'm so thankful you're introduced me to more terms that I can totally understand and relate to. On top of that, having these male leads with personalities and likes and dislikes and not being perfect? It makes it even better. It felt more realistic (within the realm of a superstar boy band, realism).
So, delving into these characters - Teague and Christian are a really different/unique pair (in a good way). Teague is a superstar, rock star who is a demisexual. Christian is the drummer (in the same band of Teague) and is a little more shy and awkward (and always JUST on time). Christian likes guys, Teague's been with both genders. And then Teague develops a little crush on Christian, who's been crushing on him for a long time and sexy antics ensue! I feel like everyone saw this coming with the boy band theme, but that doesn't make it any less cute! They're awkward together at first (which felt wildly refreshing, since everyone just seems to mesh well the first time and BAM they're a couple, which isn't always the case in real life) and slowly grow.
Even though most readers could see a relationship between members coming from a mile away, the bassist and the drummer? I wouldn't have seen that pair coming.
If you haven't read anything by Tamsen before, I highly recommend her (as a fan). But, she might not be for you (because it happens). I find her books are fun and uplifting, and are never too serious. They move fast, are full of romance, and will open your eyes up to different worlds (religion, sexuality, lifestyles, etc). I keep praising over and over, and I'll do it again in this review - she doesn't stick to the same old story. There are some really fantastic authors (who I love and still read) that do that, but Tamsen changes it up and keeps me on my toes! The likelihood that there will be one book you like (because she has so many different types of romance books) is high! Read through her catalogue and find the topics you like, but keep in mind all books might not be for you!
My reading style and Tamsen's writing style just click, and the nerdy references on top of that lift these books up. This is definitely a must read and a recommendation from me, as I think it's one of her better books (at this rate, I can't pick a best. It rotates depending on the day and how I feel, but this book will be included in that "top tier", ever rotating list).
On a side note, I really like the little guitar symbol that was above the names of when the characters switch back and forth between point of views. My copy is an ARC, so I'm not sure if that will be on the final copy, but I thought it was a nice addition and looked aesthetically pleasing!
Five out of five! Ten out of five! Fifteen out of five! I'm pulling an Oprah with these stars! Every gets one! Five for every boy in the boy band and Rowan gets six for a surprise cameo!
I received an uncorrected proof from the author Tamsen Parker in exchange for an honest review.
June 14, 2018
Lovely rockstar (rather boy band) romance with an interesting demi rep
a longish novella, boy band m/m romance with an interesting demi rep which I liked though it was completely different from my personal experience. This is a low-heat friend-to-lovers story where two best friends and band mates become a couple. I loved the romance arc which had some virgin feel because it was the first time for Teague to feel sexual attraction and desire. I loved how they were comfortable with each other and freely discussed their feelings, their sex lives, including a lot of explicitly stated consent. I appreciate how considered of his giant statue Teague was, but having this said again and again every couple of pages became repetitive. He did act immature at times, jumping to conclusions but given the general turmoil of his life at the moment, I guess this was understandable.
The romance between Teague and Christian blossomed at the time when the band had to move on and each member had to start thinking about/working on a solo career. This highlighted some interesting perspectives on the life after the boy band bringing forth discussions of popularity and making money vs making the music you love. All the characters read like real people, unique, with their own characters and quirks, no generic stereotypes of the bad boy rock star.
In short, it was an enjoyable, very emotionally charge rockstar romance which I greatly recommend.
a longish novella, boy band m/m romance with an interesting demi rep which I liked though it was completely different from my personal experience. This is a low-heat friend-to-lovers story where two best friends and band mates become a couple. I loved the romance arc which had some virgin feel because it was the first time for Teague to feel sexual attraction and desire. I loved how they were comfortable with each other and freely discussed their feelings, their sex lives, including a lot of explicitly stated consent. I appreciate how considered of his giant statue Teague was, but having this said again and again every couple of pages became repetitive. He did act immature at times, jumping to conclusions but given the general turmoil of his life at the moment, I guess this was understandable.
The romance between Teague and Christian blossomed at the time when the band had to move on and each member had to start thinking about/working on a solo career. This highlighted some interesting perspectives on the life after the boy band bringing forth discussions of popularity and making money vs making the music you love. All the characters read like real people, unique, with their own characters and quirks, no generic stereotypes of the bad boy rock star.
In short, it was an enjoyable, very emotionally charge rockstar romance which I greatly recommend.
May 26, 2018
This contemporary m/m romance novella centering two bandmates just wrecked me. I was a puddle on the ground by the end. The demisexual representation resonated so deeply and intensely for me.
Read my review on my blog.
Read my review on my blog.
June 3, 2018
*ARC provided by the author*
This was one of the most satisfying reads I've experienced in a while.
It's a recently discovered fact about myself, but apparently I have a sort of soft spot for stories about musicians. This one was extremely fulfilling on that front- with the additional perk that in involved a demisexual MC. So, yeah, the story (bandmates/friends-to-lovers, plus the demi rep) was appropriately sold for me to buy right into it.
And Jesus H. Roosevelt Christ it was so, so damn worrrrrrrrrrrrrrth it!!!!!!!! I had so much fun getting to know these characters: they were both incredibly relatable and easily loveable; as characters, in addition to how incredibly satisfying, delightful and heartwarming their relationship was.
I thoroughly enjoyed seeing them fall in love with each other, and tread the path of their relationship together, working through every step with such patience and softness and dedication and... love. *swoons hard*
I also found Teague's personal arc super relatable- being demi myself, I could empathize with many of his thoughts and feelings. It made the reading experience all the more special, to see a character I could feel so close to, to feel seen and understood. For that, I'm super, super grateful to Tamsen Parker. I don't think I can put into words how much this story- Teague's story, not only of figuring himself out, but also of finding the footing within his relationship with Christian (who was incredible himself as well)- means to my heart.
I know I suck at metaphors and analogies, but this story felt as if I'd been starving for months for some reason, and somebody had come to me with a pepperoni pizza. I can't put it better than that.
Happy Pride Month, y'all! I won't speak for all demisexuals, but I think this book is a more than worthy present for me, and I'm cool with that- so that's kind of how I'll consider it in my mind.
This was one of the most satisfying reads I've experienced in a while.
It's a recently discovered fact about myself, but apparently I have a sort of soft spot for stories about musicians. This one was extremely fulfilling on that front- with the additional perk that in involved a demisexual MC. So, yeah, the story (bandmates/friends-to-lovers, plus the demi rep) was appropriately sold for me to buy right into it.
And Jesus H. Roosevelt Christ it was so, so damn worrrrrrrrrrrrrrth it!!!!!!!! I had so much fun getting to know these characters: they were both incredibly relatable and easily loveable; as characters, in addition to how incredibly satisfying, delightful and heartwarming their relationship was.
I thoroughly enjoyed seeing them fall in love with each other, and tread the path of their relationship together, working through every step with such patience and softness and dedication and... love. *swoons hard*
I also found Teague's personal arc super relatable- being demi myself, I could empathize with many of his thoughts and feelings. It made the reading experience all the more special, to see a character I could feel so close to, to feel seen and understood. For that, I'm super, super grateful to Tamsen Parker. I don't think I can put into words how much this story- Teague's story, not only of figuring himself out, but also of finding the footing within his relationship with Christian (who was incredible himself as well)- means to my heart.
I know I suck at metaphors and analogies, but this story felt as if I'd been starving for months for some reason, and somebody had come to me with a pepperoni pizza. I can't put it better than that.
Happy Pride Month, y'all! I won't speak for all demisexuals, but I think this book is a more than worthy present for me, and I'm cool with that- so that's kind of how I'll consider it in my mind.
October 3, 2018
2.5 stars
At first, I was going YAY ... because this featured best friends, a little one-sided love, and hey, look, a demisexual character who just discovers sexual attraction to his best friend. But then it turned out into long and detailed sex scene, because, you know apparently the sex was better, and the readers have to experience that ...
I got BORED.
Skimmed it, read what happened after, and done.
At first, I was going YAY ... because this featured best friends, a little one-sided love, and hey, look, a demisexual character who just discovers sexual attraction to his best friend. But then it turned out into long and detailed sex scene, because, you know apparently the sex was better, and the readers have to experience that ...
I got BORED.
Skimmed it, read what happened after, and done.
March 27, 2019
It was pretty short so I think more could've been done with extra length, but it was a nice dose of friends-to-lovers. And I'm happy to add another book to my "ace spec character's ace-ness isn't the source of the entire conflict" recommendation list.
June 7, 2018
What a great friends to lovers story! Can’t wait for more from this series!
Read the full review on my blog.
Read the full review on my blog.
August 20, 2018
I jumped into this book because I heard it was a rockstar story with demisexual representation, and boy was I not disappointed. My main worry about reading it right now was that it would blend too much with Anna Zabo's Syncopation, which I read recently.
But, no. This band is at a completely different phase of their career. Although their band manager doesn't always get them, he's not a dick. And Zane has just kicked off what might be the beginning of the end of the ten years that License to Game have had together.
At the same time, Teague is trying to figure out what a sudden burst of actual sexual attraction towards Christian means, and more importantly what to do about it. Christian, meanwhile, is long suffering in his fruitless crush on Teague. Teague, of course, is this gorgeous, over six foot tall monster of a man, described similarly to the lead in Alexis Daria's Take the Lead, while Christian is thin, white and twinky.
It's terrifically angsty, as it should be, but the characterisation and experience of Teague was definitely what got to me, given how he's a demisexual character. I loved him just completely being flawed by sudden interest in attraction to having sex, and not knowing how to get anything else done at the same time. MATE, I HAVE BEEN THERE.
Also, the very real parts of how they try to navigate creative and financial interests, given that they each hold very different values, is quite interesting. The story was basically exactly the right length for what it was.
But, no. This band is at a completely different phase of their career. Although their band manager doesn't always get them, he's not a dick. And Zane has just kicked off what might be the beginning of the end of the ten years that License to Game have had together.
At the same time, Teague is trying to figure out what a sudden burst of actual sexual attraction towards Christian means, and more importantly what to do about it. Christian, meanwhile, is long suffering in his fruitless crush on Teague. Teague, of course, is this gorgeous, over six foot tall monster of a man, described similarly to the lead in Alexis Daria's Take the Lead, while Christian is thin, white and twinky.
It's terrifically angsty, as it should be, but the characterisation and experience of Teague was definitely what got to me, given how he's a demisexual character. I loved him just completely being flawed by sudden interest in attraction to having sex, and not knowing how to get anything else done at the same time. MATE, I HAVE BEEN THERE.
Also, the very real parts of how they try to navigate creative and financial interests, given that they each hold very different values, is quite interesting. The story was basically exactly the right length for what it was.
June 2, 2018
Ahhh i'm gonna struggle with this review but lemme just start with: this book is good. i'd recommend it but it just wasn't for me.
the demisexual rep is okay but i didn't enjoy it. and that's okay. the spectrum is so vast and different. not one representation is gonna fit all. also i didn't see any chemistry between the two leads i just... didn't. i thought i'd be excited for this but the more i read the more i didn't care for them. also, i didn't have enough friends to be sold on their lovers.
the demisexual rep is okay but i didn't enjoy it. and that's okay. the spectrum is so vast and different. not one representation is gonna fit all. also i didn't see any chemistry between the two leads i just... didn't. i thought i'd be excited for this but the more i read the more i didn't care for them. also, i didn't have enough friends to be sold on their lovers.
September 14, 2020
I didn't think I would enjoy this book so much, so yay! There was a moment of 'what did you just say?!!' but the unforseen cuteness and sweet romance made it all better. I love freinds to lovers so much!
July 18, 2020
It just went on and on about what they thought and seldom I meet a book with too much inner monologue but this was one. And the narration part by Chris Chambers was uninspired.
June 15, 2018
In this friends-to-lovers tale, bandmates Teague and Christian give into to their attraction to each other, but find that there's more to having a relationship than just falling into bed.
This is a bit of a different story since Teague and Christian have a lot to work out. The changes in the band LtG have everyone on edge and it becomes a bit of a source of conflict for these two. And they both have expectations and issues with intimacy to deal with. I did like the conversations between these two since it's not the usual romance faire. I found this to be more about the journey rather then the HEA destination, so if that's what you are looking for, you might like this m/m title.
This is a bit of a different story since Teague and Christian have a lot to work out. The changes in the band LtG have everyone on edge and it becomes a bit of a source of conflict for these two. And they both have expectations and issues with intimacy to deal with. I did like the conversations between these two since it's not the usual romance faire. I found this to be more about the journey rather then the HEA destination, so if that's what you are looking for, you might like this m/m title.
June 15, 2018
I wasn’t a fan. The book starts in the middle of a huge storyline that was explained in a different series. I was lost, I felt no connection between the characters and I was really bothered by the blatant attitude of the author towards Western Pennsylvania. She made it sound like it’s the worst place in the world to live. Whatever.
I hate giving bad reviews. But I promised I would give a review since she was kind enough to give me the book for free.
*It doesn’t help that I read this in between Outlander, which is superbly written.
I hate giving bad reviews. But I promised I would give a review since she was kind enough to give me the book for free.
*It doesn’t help that I read this in between Outlander, which is superbly written.
July 19, 2019
A solid friends-to-lovers with a band backdrop, most definitely made more by it being an ace romance. I'm not sure I'll read the others in this series, but I enjoyed this one.
November 25, 2018
*I received the book in exchange for an honest review*
I’ve only later seen that this is a kind of spin-off to the previous series and while I did not notice it before, it made sense as the characters weren’t really…presented in more details. What I’ve gotten to know is that Zane just got a girlfriend and that the way he took was the beginning of the end for the band. Mostly all of the guys are preparing to branch out, some louder, and some quieter.
Christian has had a crush on his band-mate Teague for ages but Teague only notices that he has feelings for Christian during the charity photoshoot. It did seem slightly…sudden, but in general I liked the demisexual rep.
Especially nice was that Christian was patient and allowed Teague to experiment and to do it all on his own terms, not forcing him into anything. What I didn’t like that much was that Teague knew he was irrationally jealous but he still kind of forced Christian to explain to him who Dylan was and what they were doing.
The ending was very sweet though and the book was good in general. It had it’s flaws and all but it was still a quite enjoyable read.
I’ve only later seen that this is a kind of spin-off to the previous series and while I did not notice it before, it made sense as the characters weren’t really…presented in more details. What I’ve gotten to know is that Zane just got a girlfriend and that the way he took was the beginning of the end for the band. Mostly all of the guys are preparing to branch out, some louder, and some quieter.
Christian has had a crush on his band-mate Teague for ages but Teague only notices that he has feelings for Christian during the charity photoshoot. It did seem slightly…sudden, but in general I liked the demisexual rep.
Especially nice was that Christian was patient and allowed Teague to experiment and to do it all on his own terms, not forcing him into anything. What I didn’t like that much was that Teague knew he was irrationally jealous but he still kind of forced Christian to explain to him who Dylan was and what they were doing.
The ending was very sweet though and the book was good in general. It had it’s flaws and all but it was still a quite enjoyable read.
June 11, 2018
This is the first book by Tamsen Parker that I'm reviewing. The first one I've ever read, in fact. As an intro to Tamsen's writing, I've got to say: not bad.
I expected more band-related content as this is a book about musicians, but the author is concentrating more on the relationship between the two main characters - Christian and Teague. As a matter of fact, all the other characters take a huge step away from the spotlight, to the point where I think the series would've benefitted from them having more screen time. Well, book time. Page time?
Whichever.
As for Christian and Teague: what is happening between them is entirely new so a lot of the book is about each man exploring the other, something I appreciate, because sometimes authors are so concentrated on giving us the physical aspects of a relationship that they forget that there's more to it than just lusting after each other's bodies. However...
There's a scene from Teague's POV - the POV switches between the two leads - in which he's getting to know Christian in this new light he sees him and it just doesn't read that well for me. One: he acts like he's never had sex, and yes, I realize he's never been with someone in the way he's with Christian so it's new to him, but he's just too inadequate at reading his partner, which leads us to two: this is Christian, and Teague should be able to understand him better even in the current circumstances.
That scene aside and some repetitions - mind you, I got an ARC so the finished copy might be improved - Thrown off Track was a good book for me. It's one of those novels that I read and I can't pinpoint exactly what I like, but I keep on going not just because I have to finish it and write a review. It also made me pause and think about the characters, and I like books that make me think, so thumbs up for that.
I'd recommend Thrown off Track to people looking for a quick read and enjoying the friends to lovers theme.
I expected more band-related content as this is a book about musicians, but the author is concentrating more on the relationship between the two main characters - Christian and Teague. As a matter of fact, all the other characters take a huge step away from the spotlight, to the point where I think the series would've benefitted from them having more screen time. Well, book time. Page time?
Whichever.
As for Christian and Teague: what is happening between them is entirely new so a lot of the book is about each man exploring the other, something I appreciate, because sometimes authors are so concentrated on giving us the physical aspects of a relationship that they forget that there's more to it than just lusting after each other's bodies. However...
There's a scene from Teague's POV - the POV switches between the two leads - in which he's getting to know Christian in this new light he sees him and it just doesn't read that well for me. One: he acts like he's never had sex, and yes, I realize he's never been with someone in the way he's with Christian so it's new to him, but he's just too inadequate at reading his partner, which leads us to two: this is Christian, and Teague should be able to understand him better even in the current circumstances.
That scene aside and some repetitions - mind you, I got an ARC so the finished copy might be improved - Thrown off Track was a good book for me. It's one of those novels that I read and I can't pinpoint exactly what I like, but I keep on going not just because I have to finish it and write a review. It also made me pause and think about the characters, and I like books that make me think, so thumbs up for that.
I'd recommend Thrown off Track to people looking for a quick read and enjoying the friends to lovers theme.
May 23, 2025
Teague Martell, bass player for world-famous boy band, License to Game, is notorious for his bisexual bedroom tally, but behind the façade, Teague actually finds sex completely unfulfilling—he’s never met anyone he’s actually been sexually attracted to. Meanwhile, his best friend, LtG’s quiet drummer, Christian Vogel, has been attracted to Teague for years but has always resigned himself to his feelings being unrequited. However, during a nude photo shoot, Teague finds himself attracted to Christian sexually for the very first time, but things are complicated by the fact that the lead singer has announced his intention to pursue a solo career, which might spell the end of the band.
I loved the premise of this a lot, especially the exploration of Teague’s demisexuality and the world’s expectations on him as a rock star and as a big, tall guy. Unfortunately, the execution of the story left me a bit flat. I was looking forward to more band interaction and drama, more of the celebrity lifestyle, and some performances, but the story mostly focused Teague and Christian’s tentative, mostly chaste relationship. And apart from a very quick bonus scene at the end, their interactions lacked chemistry, passion, or any detail—almost fade-to-black. I liked the two main characters, they were decent guys, but as a romance this lacked spark. 🎧 Chris Chambers (as Teague) and John Solo ( as Christian) were their usual excellent selves, I love them both.
I loved the premise of this a lot, especially the exploration of Teague’s demisexuality and the world’s expectations on him as a rock star and as a big, tall guy. Unfortunately, the execution of the story left me a bit flat. I was looking forward to more band interaction and drama, more of the celebrity lifestyle, and some performances, but the story mostly focused Teague and Christian’s tentative, mostly chaste relationship. And apart from a very quick bonus scene at the end, their interactions lacked chemistry, passion, or any detail—almost fade-to-black. I liked the two main characters, they were decent guys, but as a romance this lacked spark. 🎧 Chris Chambers (as Teague) and John Solo ( as Christian) were their usual excellent selves, I love them both.
November 9, 2024
I think the narrators deserve a lot of credit for this one. Both do a very good job of making this story seem special, even though only one was necessary, but on reflection, there really isn't much to it. I didn't dislike it, but it seemed that all the things that could have made this book interesting either happened off-screen, in info drops, or were glossed over. Why was MC1 attracted to MC2 in the first place (apart from him being 6ft7 *sigh*)? It seems the guy slept with men as well as women, so why doesn't MC1 just just ask him out? How has MC1 coped with seeing MC2 sleeping with everyone except them? How are the bandmates and the band as a commodity affected by the two of them seeing each other? What happened once they got together? Were they even close friends? What are their lives like beyond the band and the fame? These are things that could have been explored in the narrative. Instead, there's a rush to get the guys together, then there is a melodramatic spat over nothing and so much inner-monologue about it, but a month of missing info! Honestly, if you read the synopsis, you've read the whole story. The writing isn't bad, but the plot is not substantive. This is a well-narrated copy-and-paste MM Romance with a music theme and one character changed to a promiscuous (which doesn't make any sense) "asexual/demisexual" to drum up obligatory community praise reviews.
June 11, 2018
***ARC provided by author in exchange for honest review.***
If you've read any of my other reviews of rock star romances, you know that rock stars are my kryptonite, and Thrown Off Track did not disappoint. The story has funny moments, serious moments, and informative--without being preachy and boring--moments.
Teague is a gentle giant trying to figure out his sexual identity and is confused by his "pants-feels" for Christian. Christian is the quiet, introspective best friend and band mate who is harboring his own secret crush for Teague. Teague finally takes action and attempts to show Christian how he feels. I love how Christian helps Teague navigate his sexuality and helps educate him. I also love how consent is such a big part of the story. The respect they have for each other is sweet, and I appreciated how the author makes their intimate moments hot while establishing boundaries. The heated argument, resulting in each saying some pretty nasty and hurtful things to the other, is one I could see happening between best friends and lovers. I am excited to read the other band members' stories to be released in this series.
In short, the "schmoopiness" is adorable, the development of the MCs relationship is enlightening, and the conflict is realistic.
If you've read any of my other reviews of rock star romances, you know that rock stars are my kryptonite, and Thrown Off Track did not disappoint. The story has funny moments, serious moments, and informative--without being preachy and boring--moments.
Teague is a gentle giant trying to figure out his sexual identity and is confused by his "pants-feels" for Christian. Christian is the quiet, introspective best friend and band mate who is harboring his own secret crush for Teague. Teague finally takes action and attempts to show Christian how he feels. I love how Christian helps Teague navigate his sexuality and helps educate him. I also love how consent is such a big part of the story. The respect they have for each other is sweet, and I appreciated how the author makes their intimate moments hot while establishing boundaries. The heated argument, resulting in each saying some pretty nasty and hurtful things to the other, is one I could see happening between best friends and lovers. I am excited to read the other band members' stories to be released in this series.
In short, the "schmoopiness" is adorable, the development of the MCs relationship is enlightening, and the conflict is realistic.
August 21, 2023
If people are in a band with their supposed best friends, you'd think you'd see them interacting as friends. I mean, this book only had a few settings and in most of them, you'd think these bandmates barely knew one another and that their only concern about being in a band is making a lot of money and being famous and that only one person in the band actually likes making music, and he hasn't even pursued playing the music he actually likes until now, years after their band started. I'm sorry, but if you are only in a band to please your friends who apparently don't care about your music preferences, then you are seriously codependent and need some new friends. And Teague's sexuality arc would have made much more sense as a gay awakening as opposed to suddenly learning he's demisexual. I mean, from my limited understanding, demisexuality doesn't work the way it's implied to work in this book. I didn't even buy Christian and Teague falling in love, as I didn't see any friendship or caring outside the bedroom.
June 16, 2018
When I read Zane’s story, Teague seemed a pretty straightforward kinda guy. A rather typical rockstar, womanizer but in a sweet guy sort of way. I didn’t pick up any bi-vibes from him.
Christian on the other hand, being the quiet type, was intriguing. A lot intriguing, in fact. Christian is all for his friends’ happiness, which is what got him to where he is today. And he’s openly gay. What he’s not open about is his feelings for Teague. His best friend.
As they all figure out what they want to do when they disband the group, Teague fears Christian is too nonchalant or oblivious, which puts a strain on their relationship. That and the fact that Christian seems to be hiding something, and won’t tell Teague about it.
A chance charity photoshoot for illiteracy changes everything for Teague, and being truthful with Christian changes everything.
This sweet story has an angsty vibe to it, and quite a bit of drama. I adored the progression of this romance, and I absolutely thrilled at the end of the story.
But the thing I’ll remember the most is when the rest of the band found out about them. That was epic.
I love both boys so much, I kind of wish the entire LtG boys were gay (lol not really).
I want the rest of the LtG books now.
Christian on the other hand, being the quiet type, was intriguing. A lot intriguing, in fact. Christian is all for his friends’ happiness, which is what got him to where he is today. And he’s openly gay. What he’s not open about is his feelings for Teague. His best friend.
As they all figure out what they want to do when they disband the group, Teague fears Christian is too nonchalant or oblivious, which puts a strain on their relationship. That and the fact that Christian seems to be hiding something, and won’t tell Teague about it.
A chance charity photoshoot for illiteracy changes everything for Teague, and being truthful with Christian changes everything.
This sweet story has an angsty vibe to it, and quite a bit of drama. I adored the progression of this romance, and I absolutely thrilled at the end of the story.
But the thing I’ll remember the most is when the rest of the band found out about them. That was epic.
I love both boys so much, I kind of wish the entire LtG boys were gay (lol not really).
I want the rest of the LtG books now.
March 31, 2021
Long time friends and band mates find themselves in uncharted territory.
Christian has been pining for Teague for nearly his entire life. He is his best friend and constant rescuer. As Teague seems to be determined to sleep his way through the population, Christian has no hope they will ever be more than friends.
Teague has sex because that’s what rock stars do. He’s not particularly attracted to people but hey he’s a rockstar. Then during a sexy band photo shoot he is hot with an intense attraction to Christian. He has no idea what to do.
I loved how Christian was so patient and clear with Teague about what his revelation could mean. I loved how they were able to talk openly during sex and adjacent activities.
I was a bit concerned about how ugly they got in the big fight and I’m not sure I’d have been so forgiving. Pictures or no.
Christian has been pining for Teague for nearly his entire life. He is his best friend and constant rescuer. As Teague seems to be determined to sleep his way through the population, Christian has no hope they will ever be more than friends.
Teague has sex because that’s what rock stars do. He’s not particularly attracted to people but hey he’s a rockstar. Then during a sexy band photo shoot he is hot with an intense attraction to Christian. He has no idea what to do.
I loved how Christian was so patient and clear with Teague about what his revelation could mean. I loved how they were able to talk openly during sex and adjacent activities.
I was a bit concerned about how ugly they got in the big fight and I’m not sure I’d have been so forgiving. Pictures or no.
July 27, 2025
Interesting!
The plot was really intriguing, the characters were fun, I enjoyed my time with this book! Kudos to Tamsen Parker!
This book is part of the series Licence to Love, the second book is M/F Romance, it is important to me to have this information so I'm putting out there.
The art cover was not accurate with the main characters...
Lovely performance from Chris Chambers and John Solo, the acting was superb, completely committed, I was so pleased, definitely they made the book even better!!! High praises to them!!!
The plot was really intriguing, the characters were fun, I enjoyed my time with this book! Kudos to Tamsen Parker!
This book is part of the series Licence to Love, the second book is M/F Romance, it is important to me to have this information so I'm putting out there.
The art cover was not accurate with the main characters...
Lovely performance from Chris Chambers and John Solo, the acting was superb, completely committed, I was so pleased, definitely they made the book even better!!! High praises to them!!!
November 13, 2023
💜🖤🤍
I only started listening to this book because I could not sleep and I like the narrator's voice. I honestly would never have picked this up because the premise does not especially appeal to me... but I am pleased to report this was actually so good!
One of the MCs is on the Ace spectrum (demi)-- this isn't in the blurb but is major to the story and I loved it. It felt well done and honest in a way I've not seen elsewhere in genre fiction. The MCs honestly could not be more different from me, but the way the MCs managed the ace thing was like nourishment to my ace soul.
I only started listening to this book because I could not sleep and I like the narrator's voice. I honestly would never have picked this up because the premise does not especially appeal to me... but I am pleased to report this was actually so good!
One of the MCs is on the Ace spectrum (demi)-- this isn't in the blurb but is major to the story and I loved it. It felt well done and honest in a way I've not seen elsewhere in genre fiction. The MCs honestly could not be more different from me, but the way the MCs managed the ace thing was like nourishment to my ace soul.
Did Not Finish
January 27, 2023DNF @ 15%
I loved the idea behind this story and was really intrigued by Christian's quiet, calm nature, but unfortunately after getting about halfway I just couldn't handle Teague's voice anymore. I felt like I was in the mind of a sugar-hyped 16 year old and while I'm sure most will find him goofy and endearing, I just couldn't enjoy it.
I loved the idea behind this story and was really intrigued by Christian's quiet, calm nature, but unfortunately after getting about halfway I just couldn't handle Teague's voice anymore. I felt like I was in the mind of a sugar-hyped 16 year old and while I'm sure most will find him goofy and endearing, I just couldn't enjoy it.
August 8, 2024
Ohhh lala! 🌶💖
Loved it 😍 the characters were adorable as one of them fights the feelings he has for his best friend and bandmate; and the other one is discovering more about himself and his sexuality..... The longing, tension and eventually spice were deliciously written.
Christian is a sweetheart , but T can be a bit of a douche bag.
Great narration.
Included on audible plus catalogue and KU too.
Loved it 😍 the characters were adorable as one of them fights the feelings he has for his best friend and bandmate; and the other one is discovering more about himself and his sexuality..... The longing, tension and eventually spice were deliciously written.
Christian is a sweetheart , but T can be a bit of a douche bag.
Great narration.
Included on audible plus catalogue and KU too.
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