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The District Line #2
Break Through
Should falling in love really get in the way of your lifelong dreams? Sebastian Saunders is 3000 miles away from home. Working for his father’s expanded business in New York, he's left behind the music career he craved, the friends he relied upon and possibly the love of his life. In a city that never sleeps, how can the nights cure a broken heart? Jay Ruttman is in London, throwing himself harder into football and his quest to make it on the professional playing field. Locking himself back in the closet, how can he ever open the door, and his heart, again? A chance encounter in New York where Jay and Seb rekindle their lost romance sets them both on a path to self-discovery and coming to terms with their past, their present and their future. This is the second part of the District Line serial, where half-time oranges are swapped for the Big Apple.
304 pages, Paperback
First published May 27, 2018
31 people are currently reading
151 people want to read
About the author
C.F. White
36 books221 followersBrought up in a relatively small town in Hertfordshire, C F White managed to do what most other residents try to do and fail—leave.
She eventually settled for pie and mash, cockles and winkles and a bit of Knees Up Mother Brown to live in the East End of London; securing a job and creating a life, a home and a family.
She writes gritty British based stories about imperfect men falling in love against the odds and has been accused of sprinkling a bit of humour into them from time to time too.
She eventually settled for pie and mash, cockles and winkles and a bit of Knees Up Mother Brown to live in the East End of London; securing a job and creating a life, a home and a family.
She writes gritty British based stories about imperfect men falling in love against the odds and has been accused of sprinkling a bit of humour into them from time to time too.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
April 28, 2020
Audio 4 Stars
Story 4 Stars
Story 4 Stars
May 30, 2018
Review updated
Deep breath.
So, I have a long story with this book, all because of Seb, and only Seb.
In my eyes, Seb was so weak and stupid.
Lemme explain his sins ->
He went away to NY and never really cared to talk to Jay about his problem 'before' his leaving.
He let his father dictated how he's going to live his life.
He let Stephen, his former fuck buddy, aka a married man, aka, his father's right hand, aka the biggest asshole in the world.
He said he loved Jay over and over again (to himself) but had a hook-up four months after he arrived in NY.
He let Stephen lured him to almost sex, it would happen if Stephen's wife didn't come that night.
I talked to the author through emails, lots of emails, and she explained that Seb was so lost without Jay, and he's lonely and felt alone.
Still, IMHO, didn't give him an excuses to cheat on Jay, in relationship or not (because he loved Jay and still looking forward to find a way to be back to Jay).
I have difficulties to forgive him, when Jay easily forgave him without a fight (WTF?!)
My friend Hope, asked me to put it down one or two days, see if I can forgive Seb. I did. I finished this book after I forgave him. Forgive not forget.
Seb's stupidity aside.
Both Jay and Seb needed a communication skill in the future. I didn't see any strong chemistry between the two MCs, except the sex.
I was still had a hard time to adjust with the slang and some abbreviation that's not familiar to me.
I didn't really enjoy the writing style.
I read a lot of British authors books (Garret Leigh, Aleksandr Voinov, Jay Northcote are some of my favorite British authors aside from Agatha Christie. So, I'm not anti British. Don't kill me please).
The book ended with cliffhanger and there's going to be book number three in writing.
I think I'm still going to read book three, just because I'm a tough cake :)
* 1,5 stars *
= = = = =
Previously before I finished the book.
I didn't remember Seb broke up with Jay. Yes he went away to NY leaving Jay, but I think they're still keep in contact, but they didn't, what's so hard about it, long distance is hard, but giving up is a fuck up.
Four months away from Jay and he had a hook-up. And almost fall for Stephen's seduction if his wife didn't came up.
I hate cheating. I hate weak MC.
This book made my stomach hurt and gained my blood-pressure.
* I read the advance reader copy of this book, in exchange of an honest review.
Deep breath.
So, I have a long story with this book, all because of Seb, and only Seb.
In my eyes, Seb was so weak and stupid.
Lemme explain his sins ->
He went away to NY and never really cared to talk to Jay about his problem 'before' his leaving.
He let his father dictated how he's going to live his life.
He let Stephen, his former fuck buddy, aka a married man, aka, his father's right hand, aka the biggest asshole in the world.
He said he loved Jay over and over again (to himself) but had a hook-up four months after he arrived in NY.
He let Stephen lured him to almost sex, it would happen if Stephen's wife didn't come that night.
I talked to the author through emails, lots of emails, and she explained that Seb was so lost without Jay, and he's lonely and felt alone.
Still, IMHO, didn't give him an excuses to cheat on Jay, in relationship or not (because he loved Jay and still looking forward to find a way to be back to Jay).
I have difficulties to forgive him, when Jay easily forgave him without a fight (WTF?!)
My friend Hope, asked me to put it down one or two days, see if I can forgive Seb. I did. I finished this book after I forgave him. Forgive not forget.
Seb's stupidity aside.
Both Jay and Seb needed a communication skill in the future. I didn't see any strong chemistry between the two MCs, except the sex.
I was still had a hard time to adjust with the slang and some abbreviation that's not familiar to me.
I didn't really enjoy the writing style.
I read a lot of British authors books (Garret Leigh, Aleksandr Voinov, Jay Northcote are some of my favorite British authors aside from Agatha Christie. So, I'm not anti British. Don't kill me please).
The book ended with cliffhanger and there's going to be book number three in writing.
I think I'm still going to read book three, just because I'm a tough cake :)
* 1,5 stars *
= = = = =
Previously before I finished the book.
I didn't remember Seb broke up with Jay. Yes he went away to NY leaving Jay, but I think they're still keep in contact, but they didn't, what's so hard about it, long distance is hard, but giving up is a fuck up.
Four months away from Jay and he had a hook-up. And almost fall for Stephen's seduction if his wife didn't came up.
I hate cheating. I hate weak MC.
This book made my stomach hurt and gained my blood-pressure.
* I read the advance reader copy of this book, in exchange of an honest review.
November 8, 2021
4 stars audio and story
October 30, 2025
3.5 stars
I'm glad Jay and Seb are finally on the same page and are moving forward together. I love how Jay is this unwavering rock and that he is unwilling to hide their relationship and just wants to be himself openly. I understand that Seb is nervous, but I wish he would stop running so easily. Most of all, I wish Stephen's world would come crashing down around him, and he would face consequences for his actions.
I'm glad Jay and Seb are finally on the same page and are moving forward together. I love how Jay is this unwavering rock and that he is unwilling to hide their relationship and just wants to be himself openly. I understand that Seb is nervous, but I wish he would stop running so easily. Most of all, I wish Stephen's world would come crashing down around him, and he would face consequences for his actions.
June 12, 2018
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
This is the second half of the District Line series, following Kick Off, where we first meet Jay and Seb. While this book can be read on its own, you would miss much of the nuance and depth of the characters without reading book one. The first book dealt heavily with Jay’s growing realization of his sexuality and how he handles coming out to his brother and his friends. In this book, we’re more in Seb’s head, following along as, a year later, the two of them have to deal with the choices they made in the first book.
Seb has issues stemming from parental neglect, abandonment, and a deep-seated lack of self-worth. His mother left when he was ten, his father has only wanted him to be useful, and Stephen — his father’s assistant — befriended him, seduced him, and has been using him since Seb was 18. It was a rough, aggressive relationship that only ended when Stephen got a girl pregnant and Seb realized Stephen didn’t actually love him and he didn’t actually love Stephen. Not that it stopped Stephen from wanting to pick up where they’d left off. Seb began to act out, using endless one-night stands and alcohol to fill the void with music being his only healthy and sane addiction. And then he met Jay.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
This is the second half of the District Line series, following Kick Off, where we first meet Jay and Seb. While this book can be read on its own, you would miss much of the nuance and depth of the characters without reading book one. The first book dealt heavily with Jay’s growing realization of his sexuality and how he handles coming out to his brother and his friends. In this book, we’re more in Seb’s head, following along as, a year later, the two of them have to deal with the choices they made in the first book.
Seb has issues stemming from parental neglect, abandonment, and a deep-seated lack of self-worth. His mother left when he was ten, his father has only wanted him to be useful, and Stephen — his father’s assistant — befriended him, seduced him, and has been using him since Seb was 18. It was a rough, aggressive relationship that only ended when Stephen got a girl pregnant and Seb realized Stephen didn’t actually love him and he didn’t actually love Stephen. Not that it stopped Stephen from wanting to pick up where they’d left off. Seb began to act out, using endless one-night stands and alcohol to fill the void with music being his only healthy and sane addiction. And then he met Jay.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
May 29, 2018
Okay, first things first—if you haven’t read Kick Off, the first book in this series, you’ll want to make sure you read it first before starting Break Through. This second book continues the relationship started between Seb and Jay in book one where things are left off on a cliffhanger at the end of that story, picking up not too long after the end of the first one. I was a bit perturbed by the way things left off at the end of book one, none too happy with either Seb’s father or Seb’s ex, so I was ready to dig in to Break Through as soon as I could.
When things start out, Seb and Jay are still living their separate lives, each following the paths they originally expected to be on. After as intense of a relationship as they shared in the first book, I was hoping for a lot more this second time around; I found that in spades, and honestly I loved this story more than the first one.
It’s a case of getting what you want back when you shouldn’t have ever let it go, then not wanting to give it up again no matter the cost and being brave enough to stick to your choice even when things might go sideways on you. I was proud of Seb and his words and actions, as well as Jay when it came to Seb’s ex. The advancement of their relationship here was satisfying to watch, even as there was still enough doubt and tension introduced on both sides to keep me wondering if they would truly be able to make a go of it.
While Seb’s father didn’t factor as much into this story (though he still did some), Seb’s ex Stephen did—and if I wanted to slap him silly in book one, here in book two I was pretty much ready to strangle him…which made Jay’s handling of him all the more gratifying. With Jay still needing to come out to his parents and eventually his team, that’s just one more aspect that was addressed in a manner that had me riveted to the pages.
Break Through was written well, and ends on a happy note—though since there’s another book to come in the series, I’m not going to get too complacent with this ending. This story was a 4.5-star read for me, and is one that I’d definitely recommend to M/M romance fans. Just remember you need to read book one first! Seb and Jay are scorching hot again, so between that and the adult language this story is meant for readers 18+.
When things start out, Seb and Jay are still living their separate lives, each following the paths they originally expected to be on. After as intense of a relationship as they shared in the first book, I was hoping for a lot more this second time around; I found that in spades, and honestly I loved this story more than the first one.
It’s a case of getting what you want back when you shouldn’t have ever let it go, then not wanting to give it up again no matter the cost and being brave enough to stick to your choice even when things might go sideways on you. I was proud of Seb and his words and actions, as well as Jay when it came to Seb’s ex. The advancement of their relationship here was satisfying to watch, even as there was still enough doubt and tension introduced on both sides to keep me wondering if they would truly be able to make a go of it.
While Seb’s father didn’t factor as much into this story (though he still did some), Seb’s ex Stephen did—and if I wanted to slap him silly in book one, here in book two I was pretty much ready to strangle him…which made Jay’s handling of him all the more gratifying. With Jay still needing to come out to his parents and eventually his team, that’s just one more aspect that was addressed in a manner that had me riveted to the pages.
Break Through was written well, and ends on a happy note—though since there’s another book to come in the series, I’m not going to get too complacent with this ending. This story was a 4.5-star read for me, and is one that I’d definitely recommend to M/M romance fans. Just remember you need to read book one first! Seb and Jay are scorching hot again, so between that and the adult language this story is meant for readers 18+.
February 27, 2021
2/27/2021 - Relistening to the series because there’s a book 4!!!!
4/28/2020 - Audible. Also available via KU.
This is the second book in the trilogy and you definitely need to read/listen to Kick Off first. I was totally sucked in by CF White's writing again and, of course, my need to know if Jay and Seb could find their way back together. This is definitely a middle book and ends in a HFN cliffhanger of sorts. You could stop here... but why would you?
White writes an especially compassionate, funny, and poignant "coming out" scene with Jay's family.
I can't wait for the final book, Come Back, which should be on audio next month.
Piers Ryman is a good narrator. I had a little difficulty with his American accents, especially the women - but those take up so little of the story it wouldn't keep me from listening to him again. He does Jay & Seb so well that it's totally worth it. His voice for Stephen is spot-on smarmy.
4/28/2020 - Audible. Also available via KU.
This is the second book in the trilogy and you definitely need to read/listen to Kick Off first. I was totally sucked in by CF White's writing again and, of course, my need to know if Jay and Seb could find their way back together. This is definitely a middle book and ends in a HFN cliffhanger of sorts. You could stop here... but why would you?
White writes an especially compassionate, funny, and poignant "coming out" scene with Jay's family.
I can't wait for the final book, Come Back, which should be on audio next month.
Piers Ryman is a good narrator. I had a little difficulty with his American accents, especially the women - but those take up so little of the story it wouldn't keep me from listening to him again. He does Jay & Seb so well that it's totally worth it. His voice for Stephen is spot-on smarmy.
June 15, 2020
Sebastian and Jay (an audio review)
I enjoyed the first book in The District Line series. The opposites attract thing worked for me. Jay is a Londoner who wants to be a professional footballer. Sebastian is a wannabe rock and roll star who goes to school to appease his father. They ran into each other literally and things sort of fell into place. Until Sebastian’s father decided his son belonged in New York instead of London.
This book picks up after Seb has moved to New York. He’s trying to adapt, plying clients while dodging his father’s assistant who always seems to be trying to get into Seb’s pants despite the fact he’s married. Seb’s doing his best in the Big Apple, but he misses Jay.
Jay, for his part, has a chance to move into the big leagues. He’s been scouted and this is his opportunity – if he can keep his head about him and not lose it again. Truthfully he’s missing Seb and when the opportunity presents itself so he can see his former love, he leaps at the chance – damn the consequences. And those were huge consequences. Part of me cheered because, yay, the two men are together again and part of me wanted to knock some sense into Jay for risking his entire career. Now, the romantic in me loved the two big gestures. Ah, swoon-worthy.
Life’s not simple and staying together and in the closet is a huge risk. For both men. In the end they both have to decide what they’re willing to sacrifice to be together.
This book ends on a solid HEA but there’s more to come and I can’t wait. Interestingly, the book takes place during 7/7 but it’s only mentioned peripherally. I can still remember that horrible morning. One not to be forgotten and nicely woven into the story without it taking center stage.
Piers Ryman narrated this book and he’s quickly becoming a fave of mine. He does Brit brilliantly although his New York/American was a little less consistent. But although it was noticeable, it didn’t in any way detract from the story. So, am starting part three shortly.
I enjoyed the first book in The District Line series. The opposites attract thing worked for me. Jay is a Londoner who wants to be a professional footballer. Sebastian is a wannabe rock and roll star who goes to school to appease his father. They ran into each other literally and things sort of fell into place. Until Sebastian’s father decided his son belonged in New York instead of London.
This book picks up after Seb has moved to New York. He’s trying to adapt, plying clients while dodging his father’s assistant who always seems to be trying to get into Seb’s pants despite the fact he’s married. Seb’s doing his best in the Big Apple, but he misses Jay.
Jay, for his part, has a chance to move into the big leagues. He’s been scouted and this is his opportunity – if he can keep his head about him and not lose it again. Truthfully he’s missing Seb and when the opportunity presents itself so he can see his former love, he leaps at the chance – damn the consequences. And those were huge consequences. Part of me cheered because, yay, the two men are together again and part of me wanted to knock some sense into Jay for risking his entire career. Now, the romantic in me loved the two big gestures. Ah, swoon-worthy.
Life’s not simple and staying together and in the closet is a huge risk. For both men. In the end they both have to decide what they’re willing to sacrifice to be together.
This book ends on a solid HEA but there’s more to come and I can’t wait. Interestingly, the book takes place during 7/7 but it’s only mentioned peripherally. I can still remember that horrible morning. One not to be forgotten and nicely woven into the story without it taking center stage.
Piers Ryman narrated this book and he’s quickly becoming a fave of mine. He does Brit brilliantly although his New York/American was a little less consistent. But although it was noticeable, it didn’t in any way detract from the story. So, am starting part three shortly.
November 24, 2020
times has passed and the road don't get easier
Overall 5 out of 5 stars
Performance 4 out of 5 stars
Story 5 out of 5 stars
Seb and Jay are back and this time we get even more heat, passion, chemistry, truth, and reality. Their journey was not easy or simple. There were obstacle and time in the way, but these two find themselves back in the same sphere. The bubble a bit bruised and weary but not completely busted.
I want to give so much more but that would defeat the purpose of you coming in relaxing and popping in the earbuds and taking a listen as Piers Ryman take you on a journey of the words that came from CF White. This was fantastic. I loved having the visual cues of what the author envisioned the cast to look like. I had vivid pictures to go with the narration and it made things even clearer.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Easy-to-read Entertaining Page-turner Realistic Unpredictable Wonderful characters
Overall 5 out of 5 stars
Performance 4 out of 5 stars
Story 5 out of 5 stars
Seb and Jay are back and this time we get even more heat, passion, chemistry, truth, and reality. Their journey was not easy or simple. There were obstacle and time in the way, but these two find themselves back in the same sphere. The bubble a bit bruised and weary but not completely busted.
I want to give so much more but that would defeat the purpose of you coming in relaxing and popping in the earbuds and taking a listen as Piers Ryman take you on a journey of the words that came from CF White. This was fantastic. I loved having the visual cues of what the author envisioned the cast to look like. I had vivid pictures to go with the narration and it made things even clearer.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Easy-to-read Entertaining Page-turner Realistic Unpredictable Wonderful characters
Want to read
December 10, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (12/10/2019)! 🎁
June 3, 2020
I loved it!! This was a great sequel. I couldn’t turn it off! I need the third book so bad. I loved the narration. I just loved everything about this book. I think this one was even better than the first. Seb really grew as a person/character. Made him really lovable.
November 26, 2020
Por qué leo tanta mierda parte II
April 22, 2020
Having listened to the previous book in this series, I went into this one prepared for angst. Thankfully, in the midst of angst, confusion, fear, and Seb's continuing self-esteem issues, (which are mostly due to a couple reappearing villains who I'd be happy to see thrown off a cliff), there are also truly funny moments, sexy moments, and wonderfully sweet moments.
Jay seemed a bit more self-assured in this book than the previous, but he had his moments of understandable wallowing during separation & justifiable bitterness about people in football who are reluctant for him to be out.
As for Seb, oh man, Seb. Just as in the last book, I wanted to wrap him up in a hug & tell him how much more he's worth than he's been led to believe, that he's not just a great musician, but a decent person worthy of love. Thank goodness that he's got Jay & his bandmates to keep him from throwing himself into the abyss. Seb's bandmates, along with Jay's family & best friend. (who is also also his neighbor & ex-girlfriend in one), provide a good deal of comic relief and, as friends often do, keep the two leads from doing something stupid from time to time.
I will definitely be looking for more of C.F. White's work, going beyond this series.
So far as the narration, Piers Ryman is fantastic with expressing emotion & his pacing is good. One unfortunate bit about this book for him is that he is not terribly skilled at voicing Americans/New Yorkers, and there are some in this story. His voice for one of the female Americans in particular made me shake my head. Thank goodness that they're minor characters and not present at all times, Overall voice differentiation was decent and I appreciated that they were consistent with the previous book. During the first chunk of the book, Seb & Jay are on opposite chores & chapters begin with a quick line of where things are taking place. However, once they are in the same country, perspective periodically changes mid-chapter. Ryman did pause between these changes, but sometimes it still took me a moment of context to figure out whose head I was in. However, again, the emotion that came through the narration and the pacing were fantastic, in my opinion, and I wouldn't hesitate in buying a book with him narrating; (well, maybe if all the characters are American women, I'd pause..)
Jay seemed a bit more self-assured in this book than the previous, but he had his moments of understandable wallowing during separation & justifiable bitterness about people in football who are reluctant for him to be out.
As for Seb, oh man, Seb. Just as in the last book, I wanted to wrap him up in a hug & tell him how much more he's worth than he's been led to believe, that he's not just a great musician, but a decent person worthy of love. Thank goodness that he's got Jay & his bandmates to keep him from throwing himself into the abyss. Seb's bandmates, along with Jay's family & best friend. (who is also also his neighbor & ex-girlfriend in one), provide a good deal of comic relief and, as friends often do, keep the two leads from doing something stupid from time to time.
I will definitely be looking for more of C.F. White's work, going beyond this series.
So far as the narration, Piers Ryman is fantastic with expressing emotion & his pacing is good. One unfortunate bit about this book for him is that he is not terribly skilled at voicing Americans/New Yorkers, and there are some in this story. His voice for one of the female Americans in particular made me shake my head. Thank goodness that they're minor characters and not present at all times, Overall voice differentiation was decent and I appreciated that they were consistent with the previous book. During the first chunk of the book, Seb & Jay are on opposite chores & chapters begin with a quick line of where things are taking place. However, once they are in the same country, perspective periodically changes mid-chapter. Ryman did pause between these changes, but sometimes it still took me a moment of context to figure out whose head I was in. However, again, the emotion that came through the narration and the pacing were fantastic, in my opinion, and I wouldn't hesitate in buying a book with him narrating; (well, maybe if all the characters are American women, I'd pause..)
June 12, 2022
This follow-up story succeeded the expectations created by the first book. In this book the struggle of the MC's to come to terms with themselves, their fears and what they really want from life was more palpable and felt more real. It made me feel a little more connected to them and I really felt for them. As we get to know a little more of Seb's past, his choices and fears also made more sense. I loved the side characters who set Jay and Seb straight when they wanted to let their fears take over and "run".
Now I really need to know how their story will end. How will his coming out affect Jay's soccer carreer and how will Seb cope with the band's new success and speculations of him being a kept man...
Now I really need to know how their story will end. How will his coming out affect Jay's soccer carreer and how will Seb cope with the band's new success and speculations of him being a kept man...
April 28, 2020
Such a great story. I loved this middle book in the series. I feel like we really got to know Seb and Jay on their own while they were separated. it was a testament to their relationship that they were able to give up their lives to be what the other one needed.
I will say, I just love Seb. He leads with his emotions and his heart and is so afraid of being left behind. This was such a great story. I can't wait to hear Book 3!
I will say, I just love Seb. He leads with his emotions and his heart and is so afraid of being left behind. This was such a great story. I can't wait to hear Book 3!
December 23, 2020
Im finding these books super long-winded and so much happening my brain keeps getting overwhelmed.
And sorry but Seb annoyed the crap.outta me in this book, so mopey and I wanted to shout stand up for yourself!
And sorry but Seb annoyed the crap.outta me in this book, so mopey and I wanted to shout stand up for yourself!
May 30, 2018
This second in the District Line series continues Seb and Jay's story, which ended in quite the cliffy for book one. I loved this pair in Kick Off, particularly Seb and his snark, and they are so good together that I had some expectations for where I thought this book would go. Rather, I knew where I hoped it would go, so to say I was excited to read this one would be an understatement. Happily, I wasn't disappointed.
The fun-loving Seb is more serious this time and dare I say it, almost mopey, but given the circumstances, it's understandable and my heart broke for him as he goes through the motions of each day while secretly yearning for Jay. And Jay! Our sweet Jay has done some growing up, but he's still got that touch of innocence about him. At least until he needs to get tough - one of my favorite parts of the story. Both of these guys frustrated me at different times throughout the book, but I still couldn't help but love them and want to see them together.
The big issues here are Jay's struggle with coming out and Seb's fear of standing on his own without his father's support. While Seb's father is still a big part of that problem, it's more abstract as Stephen steps up his game to keep Seb for himself. Break Through does end with more hope than its predecessor, but it's a bit open-ended and we'll have to wait and see what's next for this relationship. This pair does have great chemistry and they are nothing short of scorching hot together, so this reader will be anxiously awaiting the rest of their story.
The fun-loving Seb is more serious this time and dare I say it, almost mopey, but given the circumstances, it's understandable and my heart broke for him as he goes through the motions of each day while secretly yearning for Jay. And Jay! Our sweet Jay has done some growing up, but he's still got that touch of innocence about him. At least until he needs to get tough - one of my favorite parts of the story. Both of these guys frustrated me at different times throughout the book, but I still couldn't help but love them and want to see them together.
The big issues here are Jay's struggle with coming out and Seb's fear of standing on his own without his father's support. While Seb's father is still a big part of that problem, it's more abstract as Stephen steps up his game to keep Seb for himself. Break Through does end with more hope than its predecessor, but it's a bit open-ended and we'll have to wait and see what's next for this relationship. This pair does have great chemistry and they are nothing short of scorching hot together, so this reader will be anxiously awaiting the rest of their story.
May 29, 2018
Jay and Seb have been apart for a few months, and neither are functioning well. When Jay finally makes the big time for Football (i.e., Soccer in America), he goes on a tour with a game in New York, where Seb has moved. They are reunited, and Seb finally takes what he wants and fights for Jay rather than run away and do what his father wants.
Kick Off made me tear up at the end with the abrupt and sad ending. I chugged through knowing it wouldn’t be a great ending because I was promised a second book to help bring them back together. I was so glad to see that they finally got their happy ending in this book. Break Through made the end of Kick Off worth it. I was able to see them fight for their happy ending, and knowing what they had to do to get there made it so much more worth it.
I am voluntarily reviewing an ARC received by the author
Kick Off made me tear up at the end with the abrupt and sad ending. I chugged through knowing it wouldn’t be a great ending because I was promised a second book to help bring them back together. I was so glad to see that they finally got their happy ending in this book. Break Through made the end of Kick Off worth it. I was able to see them fight for their happy ending, and knowing what they had to do to get there made it so much more worth it.
I am voluntarily reviewing an ARC received by the author
December 16, 2018
Good, good things happened here.
I hate to give away the entire story, which I feel like is all I can do to give an accurate description of this bridge book between Kick Off and Come Back, so I'll try to summarize my feelings about this book without recapping the story.
First of all, I have so much love for Seb. He is true to himself, even when he makes royally stupid decisions. But, he doesn't care about his pride when he's screwed up... he will make amends and in a big way.
Jay is no stranger to big decisions and life changes and he's quite brilliant when it comes to making them. He's also pretty spectacular when it comes to grand gestures, as is Seb.
This book was a firework of declarations and grand gestures and it was all about the feelings. I loved how many issues there were and how each was overcome. This was an exceptional followup to Kick Off and I can't wait to read more of Jay and Seb's tale in Come Back.
*Galley copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted on http://gaybook.reviews/ *
I hate to give away the entire story, which I feel like is all I can do to give an accurate description of this bridge book between Kick Off and Come Back, so I'll try to summarize my feelings about this book without recapping the story.
First of all, I have so much love for Seb. He is true to himself, even when he makes royally stupid decisions. But, he doesn't care about his pride when he's screwed up... he will make amends and in a big way.
Jay is no stranger to big decisions and life changes and he's quite brilliant when it comes to making them. He's also pretty spectacular when it comes to grand gestures, as is Seb.
This book was a firework of declarations and grand gestures and it was all about the feelings. I loved how many issues there were and how each was overcome. This was an exceptional followup to Kick Off and I can't wait to read more of Jay and Seb's tale in Come Back.
*Galley copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted on http://gaybook.reviews/ *
May 29, 2018
Break Through is a great addition to The District Line series. I really am enjoying Jay and Sebs story. Seeing them figure out how much they mean to each other. Watching them work towards building something good. I'm looking forward to more in this series.
June 24, 2020
Meh...
June 2, 2018
A much more compelling read than the first in this series, we are invited to witness Jay and Seb's journey as they find each other and discover that love trumps all other stresses in life. We are treated to Sebastian's stumbling in New York City, having made the decision at the end of the first book that he has no choice but to live his father's vision for him. I found it tough to agree with his alcohol-fuelled decision-making, especially where relieving pent-up sexual energy was concerned in the most populated city in the USA, usually due to the feeling of loneliness that he ironically carried with him. Jay's fears about coming out felt authentic, even though readers who don't play professional football would likely struggle to understand the dark underbelly of homophobia that characterises the English end of things. It was truly ingenious of Jay to figure out a way past the goalkeepers to Seb's life - a testament to his skill at the sport, and perhaps at life.
I would've preferred to see more about the terrorist attack in London, even though it didn't substantially affect characters in the plot. The churning of the minds of the two lead protagonists was a pleasure to navigate through, what with a focus on how their minds seemed clearer about how they wanted each other. This lent the reader a grounded feeling, perhaps because of the agony of separation that the characters previously underwent. Seb's instincts appeared to be rooted in long-term thinking for once by the second half of the book. Jay's big moment of revelation to his family felt anxiety-ridden, which was as it would've doubtless felt at the time. The ending was satisfying, rendering the reader enthusiastic about where the story goes next - a salute to the author's skill at their craft of weaving together unlikely lovers as characters in a story that feels accurate, profound and gritty.
*Received an ARC in exchange for a candid review.
I would've preferred to see more about the terrorist attack in London, even though it didn't substantially affect characters in the plot. The churning of the minds of the two lead protagonists was a pleasure to navigate through, what with a focus on how their minds seemed clearer about how they wanted each other. This lent the reader a grounded feeling, perhaps because of the agony of separation that the characters previously underwent. Seb's instincts appeared to be rooted in long-term thinking for once by the second half of the book. Jay's big moment of revelation to his family felt anxiety-ridden, which was as it would've doubtless felt at the time. The ending was satisfying, rendering the reader enthusiastic about where the story goes next - a salute to the author's skill at their craft of weaving together unlikely lovers as characters in a story that feels accurate, profound and gritty.
*Received an ARC in exchange for a candid review.
May 29, 2018
Where I struggled to get into book one, I dived straight into this one and loved it!
We've had a bit of a time jump with Sebastian now in New York work at his father's company and Jay is still at university waiting on his big chance.
We get to see the boys grow into men, mostly, and take steps towards what they want for their future rather than others.
In book one, Sebastian definitely grated on the nerves a bit with his holier than thou attitude but he gets a chance to shine in this book, showcasing his mistakes but also his way to learn from them.
Jay also has choices to make but he has a great support system with his best friend Ann and brother Bryan, both of whom crack me up with their cockney slang and attitude to everything. At times when needed, they bring a little humour to the situation.
We also get appearances from Martin and Noel, both in London and New York. Martin especially helps Seb at his times of need, often with a much needed talking/shouting to.
There are surprises on both sides in regards to parents. One set up learning some news and one we have not yet met.....
You need to have read book one, Kick Off, to get the story and character connections in this book and I'd definitely recommend it for those who have! Cannot wait for book 3!
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
We've had a bit of a time jump with Sebastian now in New York work at his father's company and Jay is still at university waiting on his big chance.
We get to see the boys grow into men, mostly, and take steps towards what they want for their future rather than others.
In book one, Sebastian definitely grated on the nerves a bit with his holier than thou attitude but he gets a chance to shine in this book, showcasing his mistakes but also his way to learn from them.
Jay also has choices to make but he has a great support system with his best friend Ann and brother Bryan, both of whom crack me up with their cockney slang and attitude to everything. At times when needed, they bring a little humour to the situation.
We also get appearances from Martin and Noel, both in London and New York. Martin especially helps Seb at his times of need, often with a much needed talking/shouting to.
There are surprises on both sides in regards to parents. One set up learning some news and one we have not yet met.....
You need to have read book one, Kick Off, to get the story and character connections in this book and I'd definitely recommend it for those who have! Cannot wait for book 3!
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
May 29, 2018
Break Through is a follow up to Kick Off, in The District Line series.
At the end of Kick Off, Jay and Seb have one last night together. Jay and Seb are now living in different countries. Both men are still thinking of each other as the one that got away and unable to move on with their lives.
When Jay does manage to visit Seb at his NY office, they have a wonderful night together. But Jay leaves the next morning. Again. The same as he did at the end of Kick Off. Seb realizes that he needs to fight for Jay. He wants a relationship with Jay. If he can just convince Jay, they can figure out the logistics later.
Jay is still in the closet, unable to come out to the soccer world. And Seb has been working for his father, thinking he has no choice. They each will need to make sacrifices if they want to be together.
Break Through is a wonderful follow up to Kick Off. I was upset with the ending of Kick Off. But this follow-up makes the whole story so endearing. I love watching Jay and Seb fight for the man they love. I found that both men were well written and compliment each other well.
At the end of Kick Off, Jay and Seb have one last night together. Jay and Seb are now living in different countries. Both men are still thinking of each other as the one that got away and unable to move on with their lives.
When Jay does manage to visit Seb at his NY office, they have a wonderful night together. But Jay leaves the next morning. Again. The same as he did at the end of Kick Off. Seb realizes that he needs to fight for Jay. He wants a relationship with Jay. If he can just convince Jay, they can figure out the logistics later.
Jay is still in the closet, unable to come out to the soccer world. And Seb has been working for his father, thinking he has no choice. They each will need to make sacrifices if they want to be together.
Break Through is a wonderful follow up to Kick Off. I was upset with the ending of Kick Off. But this follow-up makes the whole story so endearing. I love watching Jay and Seb fight for the man they love. I found that both men were well written and compliment each other well.
April 23, 2020
Audiobook review:
Overall: 5
Performance: 5
Story: 5
A very satisfying HFN – but more is coming.
Break Through is book 2 of 3 in The District Line series. When I read book 1, I didn't realize that there was a cliffhanger but I was OK with that because I knew the series was complete (in ebook format). I was grateful that C.F. White gifted me with an Audible code for book 2 so I could continue listening rather than reading the ebook copy I had already bought. This one has a satisfying HFN but I'm still looking forward to reading or listening to the final book, Come Back.
The blurb is good so I won't repeat it. This book started off just a bit slow for me but I think it's my fault because I was listening while I was doing something else. As soon as I was able to concentrate fully on this story, I quickly became engrossed in what was going on with Seb in the U.S. and Jay back in London.
There were some pretty sad things happening but overall, I thought the story was pretty uplifting. Like I said earlier, there was a very satisfying HFN but I'm glad there is still one more story to come.
Overall: 5
Performance: 5
Story: 5
A very satisfying HFN – but more is coming.
Break Through is book 2 of 3 in The District Line series. When I read book 1, I didn't realize that there was a cliffhanger but I was OK with that because I knew the series was complete (in ebook format). I was grateful that C.F. White gifted me with an Audible code for book 2 so I could continue listening rather than reading the ebook copy I had already bought. This one has a satisfying HFN but I'm still looking forward to reading or listening to the final book, Come Back.
The blurb is good so I won't repeat it. This book started off just a bit slow for me but I think it's my fault because I was listening while I was doing something else. As soon as I was able to concentrate fully on this story, I quickly became engrossed in what was going on with Seb in the U.S. and Jay back in London.
There were some pretty sad things happening but overall, I thought the story was pretty uplifting. Like I said earlier, there was a very satisfying HFN but I'm glad there is still one more story to come.
July 21, 2024
This was a tough one! I really wanted things to be okay immediately for Seb and Jay but that's clearly not what life is like. I really appreciate that White doesn't let characters take the easy road.
Seb's challenges are complex and not the kind of things that can be overcome, in fact, I think it's completely in character that he has spent a lot of his life feeling trapped and yet, running from the issues. If you've never been through anything that rough, it can be difficult to understand.
This book picks up here the first novel ends up. Seb is in NY wrestling with the life forced upon him. Jay is in London making the most of his football dreams. The problem with love though, is that it's not easy to snuff out and when you manage to occupy the same map spot once more...things ignite.
Another well-written, well thought out novel. Love this series.
Seb's challenges are complex and not the kind of things that can be overcome, in fact, I think it's completely in character that he has spent a lot of his life feeling trapped and yet, running from the issues. If you've never been through anything that rough, it can be difficult to understand.
This book picks up here the first novel ends up. Seb is in NY wrestling with the life forced upon him. Jay is in London making the most of his football dreams. The problem with love though, is that it's not easy to snuff out and when you manage to occupy the same map spot once more...things ignite.
Another well-written, well thought out novel. Love this series.
June 3, 2020
So, this carries on where book one finished, Seb and Jay have begrudgingly gone their separate ways to carry on with their careers but neither one of them is over the other.
With the realization, and a bit of luck for both of them, they end up in the same area.
What follows is some shock revelations for the reader as well as Seb & Jay!
Yet again I absolutely LOVED this but still, as with book one, wish the POV changes were marked out better. Don't get me wrong, at times they were but there were also times when they weren't, meaning I'd have backtrack on what I'd read to see whose POV it was.
Overall another fan-bloody-tastic story!!
With the realization, and a bit of luck for both of them, they end up in the same area.
What follows is some shock revelations for the reader as well as Seb & Jay!
Yet again I absolutely LOVED this but still, as with book one, wish the POV changes were marked out better. Don't get me wrong, at times they were but there were also times when they weren't, meaning I'd have backtrack on what I'd read to see whose POV it was.
Overall another fan-bloody-tastic story!!
May 16, 2018
The second in this series and better than the first, which I thought was very good. A second chance story where love prevails over family pressure and expectations and the subtle blackmail of an abusive ex. Well written and full of complex characters and steamy sex. it's also a quiet coming out story with surprising reactions. A good read and able to stand alone but more potent if you have read the first book, Kick Off, before reading this one.
An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review.
An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review.
May 31, 2018
This book took me about 9 hours to read, I was so sad to finish it, the story starts with Jay and Seb in totally different countries Jay fighting for his football dreams and Seb working for his father's company in NYC,
So the first few chapters they're apart but as soon as they're together it's like they'd never been apart which is truly incredible, who doesn't want a relationship like that?
Once again I adore how relatable each character is, and how you instantly connect with the character like you're somehow in the story.
Can we have book #3 now pleaseeee?:D
THIS IS A MUST READ.
So the first few chapters they're apart but as soon as they're together it's like they'd never been apart which is truly incredible, who doesn't want a relationship like that?
Once again I adore how relatable each character is, and how you instantly connect with the character like you're somehow in the story.
Can we have book #3 now pleaseeee?:D
THIS IS A MUST READ.
April 21, 2020
I had so much trouble putting this second book in the series down - highly recommended! After accompanying his father to America, Seb has been going through the motions. Jay, hurt by Seb’s choice to leave, has closed the closet door firmly and gotten on with his A-League football career in the UK. When Jay’s team play an exhibition match in the States, there may be a chance to set things right. I thoroughly enjoyed the many memorable scenes, but the scenes in the stadium and with Jay’s family were so moving! 🎧 Piers Ryman gives another great narrative performance, I love his Cockney accent!
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