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Until You #1
Shipped
Ryan Lowe has been a lonely nobody all his life. The only time he ever feels the rush of living is when he’s acting. Wanting to get as far away from his small town life and alcoholic father as possible, he leaves Australia to pursue a career as an actor in the bright lights of Hollywood, never stopping to consider the fame that might come with it.
Lucas Evers understands fame. He’s been a successful actor on the small-screen for years and loves his career. Nothing comes for free though, and the price he’s paid for his success is keeping who he is hidden from the world. He married his best friend to keep both of their secrets, and until now, he has been content with the cost of his fame.
When Lucas and Ryan are cast in a new television series based on a wildly popular book series everything changes for them. The show is a worldwide hit and together they have just become the most popular ship on the planet. As they begin to realize it’s not just their characters falling in love, the cost of their fame rises. Together they must face stalkers, anxiety, panic attacks, and attempted murder.
Lucas Evers understands fame. He’s been a successful actor on the small-screen for years and loves his career. Nothing comes for free though, and the price he’s paid for his success is keeping who he is hidden from the world. He married his best friend to keep both of their secrets, and until now, he has been content with the cost of his fame.
When Lucas and Ryan are cast in a new television series based on a wildly popular book series everything changes for them. The show is a worldwide hit and together they have just become the most popular ship on the planet. As they begin to realize it’s not just their characters falling in love, the cost of their fame rises. Together they must face stalkers, anxiety, panic attacks, and attempted murder.
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First published June 18, 2018
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About the author
Karrie Roman
13 books36 followersKarrie lives in one of Australia’s sunniest places with her husband and three sons, though she hates the sun with a passion. She dreams of one day living in the wettest and coldest habitable place she can find. She’s been writing stories in her head for years but has finally managed to pull the words out of her head and share them with others. She spends her days trying to type her stories on the computer without disturbing her beloved cat curled up on the keyboard. She knows reads far too much, but can’t seem to stop herself.
Saved is her debut novel.
Saved is her debut novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
June 13, 2018
It took me a long time to get into the story and I found myself skimming at times when there were parts that could have used, in my opinion, a bit of editing to cut back.
That being said, I liked both Lucas and Ryan, I was very happy that Lucas's wife Anna wasn't vilified and that their relationship was explained early on in a way that helped me get over my "Cheater!" vibes quickly, and how absolutely in love and there for each other Ryan and Lucas are from the moment they recognize their feelings for each other.
Dual POV, Out For You, medium angst romance with on page sexy times, a slow burn build up, nice amount of hurt/comfort, and there's a setup for the next book, Sentinel (Until You #2), which makes Shipped end on a teensy tiny cliffhanger.
Advanced Review Galley copy of Shipped provided by NineStar Press in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
That being said, I liked both Lucas and Ryan, I was very happy that Lucas's wife Anna wasn't vilified and that their relationship was explained early on in a way that helped me get over my "Cheater!" vibes quickly, and how absolutely in love and there for each other Ryan and Lucas are from the moment they recognize their feelings for each other.
“What do you think about us coming out?” Lucas’s voice was low, hesitant, as though nervous about Ryan’s response.
“I’m yours, Lucas. That’s the only thing I know for sure in all this craziness. But I’d like to be yours walking down the street holding your hand, and yours when we share a kiss while we’re waiting for our dinner in a less-than-fancy restaurant somewhere, and yours when we hug goodbye at the airport if one of us absolutely has to leave the other—because that’s the only way I’ll be leaving you. If I absolutely have to.”
Dual POV, Out For You, medium angst romance with on page sexy times, a slow burn build up, nice amount of hurt/comfort, and there's a setup for the next book, Sentinel (Until You #2), which makes Shipped end on a teensy tiny cliffhanger.
Advanced Review Galley copy of Shipped provided by NineStar Press in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
October 6, 2018
3.5 stars rounded down to 3 because still no 1/2 stars here on GR and this one just didn't quite make it to 4 stars for me.
WOW!!! Am I ever glad that I read this one...
And for more than one reason. I was presented with the opportunity to read 'Sentinel' the second book in this series and when I was checking things out because...hey what can I say...this is a new to me author and I wanted to be sure or at least as sure as I could that this was a book that I would hopefully at least like. Anyways, somewhere along the line in my poking around I came to the conclusion that I needed to read the first book and fairly quickly I came to the conclusion that I needed to read 'Shipped' which is the first book before jumping into 'Sentinel' and for a number of reasons I was right. I honestly can't say I'd recommend reading book 2 if you haven't read this book first.
I definitely enjoyed 'Shipped' and when you get into 'Sentinel' you quickly realize that by reading this book as well you are far more familiar with all of the players and their background info than if you'd skipped it...which for me makes the story much more enjoyable.
Lucas Evers is an established actor who's already earned a certain level of success for himself while Ryan Lowe is new to the acting scene and anxious to make a name for himself both men really are very likable and there's chemistry from the word go with them but it's not a simple case of boy meets boy, boy falls in love with boy and they all live happily ever after...no, Lucas has a wife but sometimes things are exactly as they seem, there's also the matter of Lucas's family...and don't they just put the fun back in dys-fun-ctional. Plus there's the whole issue of Ryan isn't even sure whether Lucas is straight? gay? or at last bi?
While Ryan's live may seem a little simpler with being estranged from his father, who is also his only family an no love interest in sight...you would thing things would go a little smoother for him...but no, even Ryan has his trials and tribulations and his own personal stalker and as Ryan and Lucas's popularity increase...one of them becomes a target while the other is helpless in the grip of fear and panic.
When Ryan gets cast as Lucas's love interest both men are determined to keep the romance on screen and confine their relationship to something strictly platonic but when their fans and their hearts have other plans what they want and what they get become two different things and fans are more than willing to switch from shipping the couple as 'SamDom' to 'Lovers', yeah it was a little cheesie that their last names could be shipped to 'lovers' but hey, I've read way worse so it's all good in my world.
For the most part not only did I really like Ryan and Lucas but there were a lot of secondary characters that I liked as well. I loved 'Anna, Lucas's 'wife' and for more about that...you know the drill...read the story. I think you'll end up liking her a lot as well. She's pretty awesome and while there wasn't a lot of attention place on it...it was clear that Anna was a 'plus size' woman!!!! There aren't enough characters in fiction who are plus size and portrayed as being comfortable with themselves and we need them in real life and in fiction...it's not ok to shame people because of their religion, gender, sexual orientation or so many other things but fat-shaming...people that's not ok either and it's when I come across something like this that I feel good because I think..."Hey, maybe...just maybe the world is catching on...truly catching on. We're all different and that's what makes us all special and unique. I'd rather be healthy, happy and 40 pounds overweight than someone who's insecure and ruining their body with bizarre yo, yo diets in an effort to become the media image of perfection."
So stepping off of my pulpit let's get back to this story and the fact that there as well as the main characters there are some secondary characters that I really liked and this is the part that ties into the next book because...you guessed it a couple of those characters are the MCs in the next book. Not to mention that several of the characters in this book will reappear at one time or another so as well as being a genuinely enjoyable story there's background for the 'Sentinel' in this one that helps to make the next one equally as enjoyable.
"Shipped" offered a solid and enjoyable start to a new series by a new to me author and I'm looking forward to seeing where the next installment in this series takes me.
WOW!!! Am I ever glad that I read this one...
And for more than one reason. I was presented with the opportunity to read 'Sentinel' the second book in this series and when I was checking things out because...hey what can I say...this is a new to me author and I wanted to be sure or at least as sure as I could that this was a book that I would hopefully at least like. Anyways, somewhere along the line in my poking around I came to the conclusion that I needed to read the first book and fairly quickly I came to the conclusion that I needed to read 'Shipped' which is the first book before jumping into 'Sentinel' and for a number of reasons I was right. I honestly can't say I'd recommend reading book 2 if you haven't read this book first.
I definitely enjoyed 'Shipped' and when you get into 'Sentinel' you quickly realize that by reading this book as well you are far more familiar with all of the players and their background info than if you'd skipped it...which for me makes the story much more enjoyable.
Lucas Evers is an established actor who's already earned a certain level of success for himself while Ryan Lowe is new to the acting scene and anxious to make a name for himself both men really are very likable and there's chemistry from the word go with them but it's not a simple case of boy meets boy, boy falls in love with boy and they all live happily ever after...no, Lucas has a wife but sometimes things are exactly as they seem, there's also the matter of Lucas's family...and don't they just put the fun back in dys-fun-ctional. Plus there's the whole issue of Ryan isn't even sure whether Lucas is straight? gay? or at last bi?
While Ryan's live may seem a little simpler with being estranged from his father, who is also his only family an no love interest in sight...you would thing things would go a little smoother for him...but no, even Ryan has his trials and tribulations and his own personal stalker and as Ryan and Lucas's popularity increase...one of them becomes a target while the other is helpless in the grip of fear and panic.
When Ryan gets cast as Lucas's love interest both men are determined to keep the romance on screen and confine their relationship to something strictly platonic but when their fans and their hearts have other plans what they want and what they get become two different things and fans are more than willing to switch from shipping the couple as 'SamDom' to 'Lovers', yeah it was a little cheesie that their last names could be shipped to 'lovers' but hey, I've read way worse so it's all good in my world.
For the most part not only did I really like Ryan and Lucas but there were a lot of secondary characters that I liked as well. I loved 'Anna, Lucas's 'wife' and for more about that...you know the drill...read the story. I think you'll end up liking her a lot as well. She's pretty awesome and while there wasn't a lot of attention place on it...it was clear that Anna was a 'plus size' woman!!!! There aren't enough characters in fiction who are plus size and portrayed as being comfortable with themselves and we need them in real life and in fiction...it's not ok to shame people because of their religion, gender, sexual orientation or so many other things but fat-shaming...people that's not ok either and it's when I come across something like this that I feel good because I think..."Hey, maybe...just maybe the world is catching on...truly catching on. We're all different and that's what makes us all special and unique. I'd rather be healthy, happy and 40 pounds overweight than someone who's insecure and ruining their body with bizarre yo, yo diets in an effort to become the media image of perfection."
So stepping off of my pulpit let's get back to this story and the fact that there as well as the main characters there are some secondary characters that I really liked and this is the part that ties into the next book because...you guessed it a couple of those characters are the MCs in the next book. Not to mention that several of the characters in this book will reappear at one time or another so as well as being a genuinely enjoyable story there's background for the 'Sentinel' in this one that helps to make the next one equally as enjoyable.
"Shipped" offered a solid and enjoyable start to a new series by a new to me author and I'm looking forward to seeing where the next installment in this series takes me.
June 18, 2018
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.5 stars
Some books are just okay and this book didn’t do its job to fully keep my attention. We get caught up in both characters’ lives fairly quickly as Ryan and Luke become costars on the wildly popular TV show. They have instant chemistry on screen and off and the fandoms go crazy for them. The first half of the book is partly Ryan trying to navigate his new-found fame as he gets caught up in anxiety and too much drinking. Ryan came to California from Australia, but aside from a few uses of the word “mate,” he wasn’t presented as overly Australian. The other part of the book is both men thinking the other is straight, which went on too long for me. Luke is married (in name only), so Ryan thinks he is straight and while the men become the best of friends, they never discuss the terms of their relationship. Luke’s wife, Anna, is fully supportive of Luke telling Ryan how he feels, and while the guys have chemistry, it’s a slow progression to movement on their relationship.
There were also many side plots going on here with Luke’s family, Ryan having severe anxiety over being in the spotlight, and then him being stalked, as well as a brief storyline of Anna finding love. The story line with Luke’s family, as well as with the stalker, never felt finished. When Luke and Ryan need full-time bodyguards, an entire cast is introduced and then this leads up the set-up for the next book in the series, but it was clunky in its presentation.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
3.5 stars
Some books are just okay and this book didn’t do its job to fully keep my attention. We get caught up in both characters’ lives fairly quickly as Ryan and Luke become costars on the wildly popular TV show. They have instant chemistry on screen and off and the fandoms go crazy for them. The first half of the book is partly Ryan trying to navigate his new-found fame as he gets caught up in anxiety and too much drinking. Ryan came to California from Australia, but aside from a few uses of the word “mate,” he wasn’t presented as overly Australian. The other part of the book is both men thinking the other is straight, which went on too long for me. Luke is married (in name only), so Ryan thinks he is straight and while the men become the best of friends, they never discuss the terms of their relationship. Luke’s wife, Anna, is fully supportive of Luke telling Ryan how he feels, and while the guys have chemistry, it’s a slow progression to movement on their relationship.
There were also many side plots going on here with Luke’s family, Ryan having severe anxiety over being in the spotlight, and then him being stalked, as well as a brief storyline of Anna finding love. The story line with Luke’s family, as well as with the stalker, never felt finished. When Luke and Ryan need full-time bodyguards, an entire cast is introduced and then this leads up the set-up for the next book in the series, but it was clunky in its presentation.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
June 24, 2018
This was a fresh and fun take on the famous actor romance trope. Readers will get a quiet kick out of the underlying plot. Best selling book series is made into an ultra popular TV show with rabid fans. M/M Romance readers will get a kick out of two male actors taking the romantic lead away from the original F/M leads. ;-)
Lucas and Ryan are both actors. Lucas is a little more experienced and appears to be a rising star. Ryan is newer on the scene but already making a name for himself acting next to Lucas.
Lucas is gay but married. Don't worry, that gets cleared up very early on and you won't be disappointed. Ryan doesn't label himself. He's only been with women but admits he finds men attractive too.
Lucas and Ryan fall for the other. Both men struggle with admitting their feelings to each other - for obvious reasons. But, once they do, the romance proceeds with very little angst. I'd even say it was all a bit mushy. In a sweet way.
The twists and turns in the plot come from life as a public figure and the things that can go wrong with that seemingly blissful lifestyle.
I enjoyed the story even though it's not the type I'm usually most fond of. For my tastes, it moved a little slow and there were missed opportunities to increase the dramatic effect. Yet, it was a very sweet love story, and if that's what you're looking for, you won't be disappointed.
3.5 stars
Review ARC graciously provided by the publisher via NetGalley
Lucas and Ryan are both actors. Lucas is a little more experienced and appears to be a rising star. Ryan is newer on the scene but already making a name for himself acting next to Lucas.
Lucas is gay but married. Don't worry, that gets cleared up very early on and you won't be disappointed. Ryan doesn't label himself. He's only been with women but admits he finds men attractive too.
Lucas and Ryan fall for the other. Both men struggle with admitting their feelings to each other - for obvious reasons. But, once they do, the romance proceeds with very little angst. I'd even say it was all a bit mushy. In a sweet way.
The twists and turns in the plot come from life as a public figure and the things that can go wrong with that seemingly blissful lifestyle.
I enjoyed the story even though it's not the type I'm usually most fond of. For my tastes, it moved a little slow and there were missed opportunities to increase the dramatic effect. Yet, it was a very sweet love story, and if that's what you're looking for, you won't be disappointed.
3.5 stars
Review ARC graciously provided by the publisher via NetGalley
June 27, 2018
4.5 stars
Synopsis: Ryan auditions for a tv show based on a popular book and gets the part. He's an unknown working with more famous actors, and is really excited to have the job after surviving in LA working odd jobs. The actor who plays his love interest in the show quickly becomes a really good friend. Ryan has never really been interested in labels, and although he has been attracted to men, he has only ever been with women. He quickly develops an attraction to Lucas, his costar, but Lucas seems to be happily married and quite content with mere friendship.
As their friendship develops, feelings deepen on both sides. Ryan, who has never really had friends, doesn't know how to handle his feelings of loneliness...or how to deal with fame.
What I liked: the fact that fame was not portrayed as glamourous, and in fact was quite oppressive to Ryan felt realistic. I liked the friendship between Lucas and Ryan, and the friendship between Ryan and Lucas' wife. Nothing happened between Lucas and Ryan until Ryan had confirmed with Anna, Lucas' wife, that they had never had a real marriage. The secondary characters were vivid and added to the story. There was no manufactured angst or big misunderstanding.
What I didn't like: there were so many highs and lows with everything that was going on with both Lucas and Ryan. Also, Ryan, who had an alcoholic for a father, and got away from him as soon as he was able to, was a lot too fond of the drink, and didn't seem to be able to stop until he was fuzzy.
Overall impression: I liked the writing in this book. Everything flowed really easily together, and the characters were interesting. I would definitely read more books by this author. I would recommend this for someone looking for drama without the angst, with a heartwarming story of friendship that grows to love. Told in alternating 3rd person POV between Ryan and Lucas.
*I received a copy through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Synopsis: Ryan auditions for a tv show based on a popular book and gets the part. He's an unknown working with more famous actors, and is really excited to have the job after surviving in LA working odd jobs. The actor who plays his love interest in the show quickly becomes a really good friend. Ryan has never really been interested in labels, and although he has been attracted to men, he has only ever been with women. He quickly develops an attraction to Lucas, his costar, but Lucas seems to be happily married and quite content with mere friendship.
As their friendship develops, feelings deepen on both sides. Ryan, who has never really had friends, doesn't know how to handle his feelings of loneliness...or how to deal with fame.
What I liked: the fact that fame was not portrayed as glamourous, and in fact was quite oppressive to Ryan felt realistic. I liked the friendship between Lucas and Ryan, and the friendship between Ryan and Lucas' wife. Nothing happened between Lucas and Ryan until Ryan had confirmed with Anna, Lucas' wife, that they had never had a real marriage. The secondary characters were vivid and added to the story. There was no manufactured angst or big misunderstanding.
What I didn't like: there were so many highs and lows with everything that was going on with both Lucas and Ryan. Also, Ryan, who had an alcoholic for a father, and got away from him as soon as he was able to, was a lot too fond of the drink, and didn't seem to be able to stop until he was fuzzy.
Overall impression: I liked the writing in this book. Everything flowed really easily together, and the characters were interesting. I would definitely read more books by this author. I would recommend this for someone looking for drama without the angst, with a heartwarming story of friendship that grows to love. Told in alternating 3rd person POV between Ryan and Lucas.
*I received a copy through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 14, 2018
My mind went straight to some odd, romantic version of ‘Supernatural’ the moment I started ‘Shipped’ and thankfully, Lucas and Ryan aren’t brothers. Just co-stars who have an electrifying connection that neither can separate from screen time when life starts to imitate art. Or rather, fiction imitating art, when UST on-screen bleeds off-screen and turns everything else awkward between a supposedly happily-married rising star in Hollywood and a new guy from Down Under.
Whatever is done onscreen thus, is repeated off-screen so as readers, there’s double the dose of UST to pining to RST—a bonus if you want the repeat for both Lucas/Ryan and Sam/Dom because it all gets washed and rinsed through twice. It actually became confusing to me at times when their stories got so intertwined in the beginning of the story, thereafter sagged in the middle the moment ‘real life’ for Lucas and Ryan took over.
What sat oddly with me was the New Adult feel in ’Shipped’, dialogue and all (some were cringeworthy because I’m sure I wasn’t supposed to snort), when I think I just expected something more ‘adult-ish’ in the storytelling. Between Ryan being generally overwhelmed with everything and the constant self-recriminating ‘I’m always unloved’ vibe and Lucas doing the hormonal self-introspection about his own ‘marital’ status, I thought their relationship pretty much wobbled from bursting-at-the-seams-teenage-angst to trying-valiantly-to-adult and back again. Throw in the dark side of fame and fortune and the cycle of dysfunction is quite complete.
On the bright side, if you like 2 very, very earnest men finding their feet around each other while hanging on desperately with everything the world throws at them, ‘Shipped’ is the just book to read.
*ARC by the publisher via Netgalley
Whatever is done onscreen thus, is repeated off-screen so as readers, there’s double the dose of UST to pining to RST—a bonus if you want the repeat for both Lucas/Ryan and Sam/Dom because it all gets washed and rinsed through twice. It actually became confusing to me at times when their stories got so intertwined in the beginning of the story, thereafter sagged in the middle the moment ‘real life’ for Lucas and Ryan took over.
What sat oddly with me was the New Adult feel in ’Shipped’, dialogue and all (some were cringeworthy because I’m sure I wasn’t supposed to snort), when I think I just expected something more ‘adult-ish’ in the storytelling. Between Ryan being generally overwhelmed with everything and the constant self-recriminating ‘I’m always unloved’ vibe and Lucas doing the hormonal self-introspection about his own ‘marital’ status, I thought their relationship pretty much wobbled from bursting-at-the-seams-teenage-angst to trying-valiantly-to-adult and back again. Throw in the dark side of fame and fortune and the cycle of dysfunction is quite complete.
On the bright side, if you like 2 very, very earnest men finding their feet around each other while hanging on desperately with everything the world throws at them, ‘Shipped’ is the just book to read.
*ARC by the publisher via Netgalley
August 21, 2018
I didn’t become versed in all things ‘fandom’ until about ten years ago, when I started reading fanfiction. Until then I would have had no idea what someone meant if they said “I ship it” or used terms like OTP. Now though, I do know what those things mean, and even have a few favorite “ships” of my own. 😉 So, when I read the premise for Karrie Roman’s latest novel, Shipped, it definitely piqued my interest. I quite enjoyed her first novel, Saved, published last year, also with NineStar Press, so was interested to see what she would do with the celebrity romance trope.
Fandom can be a strange, intense place. People get, sometimes very literally, crazy over their favorite characters, actors, actresses, and couples. Which is something actors Ryan Lowe and Lucas Evers very quickly realize in Saved, and something Ryan was in no way prepared for. Ryan is a sweet, humble guy who came to Hollywood to escape his small-town life in Australia and an alcoholic father. He lucked his way into a leading role on a popular TV show The Witches’ Hammer, a role a different big fan-favorite was originally supposed to play. But, surprisingly, even as an unknown, fans of the show embrace Ryan as Sam. An embrace that unfortunately becomes suffocating and leads to anxiety and debilitating panic attacks at fan events. Luckily, though, his costar is there to hold him up.
Lucas Evers has been enjoying moderate success and popularity in Hollywood for some time. He isn’t a stranger to enthusiastic fans or dealing with the events that go along with promo. At the first major event for the show, however, he quickly realizes how serious the struggle is for his costar, and, as a result, finds himself feeling very protective of him. Lucas was immediately attracted to his soon-to-be leading man but was constantly worried about being too obvious. Thankfully the show calls for a certain number of amorous looks and touches, or he would have been sunk and his secret revealed. Because publicly, Lucas is straight and married to his childhood best friend, Anna, but what the world doesn’t know is that the marriage is just a cover for them both.
I liked both MCs a lot. Roman does a nice job developing the relationship, creating first a strong friendship, and then the romance. Lucas is Ryan’s best friend, and vice-versa; Ryan initially doesn’t act on any attraction not only because he believes Lucas is happily married to Anna but because the friendship is so important to him. I also loved Lucas and Anna’s friendship. They were so tight and loyal and so obviously adored each other…I loved them both. And, the romance really was very sweet. Lucas believes he has found his missing piece in Ryan. This little passage warmed my little romance-loving heart:
It was that elusive piece everybody is born without, because the love of your life had it with them. The ache of longing and wanting only eased when that piece was found. He’d found it now—with Ryan, and he wasn’t letting it go.
Where the book went wrong for me was in the story execution. There were so many threads and subplots going on that it took away from the big picture. I think Roman was just trying to do too many things. Evil families, crazy stalkers, attempted murders, alcoholism, etc. There were a couple of things that weren’t properly addressed or explored because there was so much going on. I felt like the first half was strong. As I said, I enjoyed the characters, the relationships, and the premise of fandom, ships, and the intensity of that kind of fame. But, it fell apart a bit in the second half for me as the author tried to catch all the plates she had in the air.
I can’t recommend this one as strongly as I did Roman’s first book, unfortunately. But, I will most likely peek at the next book in the series, as I did totally dig the side character—one of the guys’ bodyguards that was introduced—who I suspect will be the MC there.
Reviewed by Jules for The Novel Approach
Fandom can be a strange, intense place. People get, sometimes very literally, crazy over their favorite characters, actors, actresses, and couples. Which is something actors Ryan Lowe and Lucas Evers very quickly realize in Saved, and something Ryan was in no way prepared for. Ryan is a sweet, humble guy who came to Hollywood to escape his small-town life in Australia and an alcoholic father. He lucked his way into a leading role on a popular TV show The Witches’ Hammer, a role a different big fan-favorite was originally supposed to play. But, surprisingly, even as an unknown, fans of the show embrace Ryan as Sam. An embrace that unfortunately becomes suffocating and leads to anxiety and debilitating panic attacks at fan events. Luckily, though, his costar is there to hold him up.
Lucas Evers has been enjoying moderate success and popularity in Hollywood for some time. He isn’t a stranger to enthusiastic fans or dealing with the events that go along with promo. At the first major event for the show, however, he quickly realizes how serious the struggle is for his costar, and, as a result, finds himself feeling very protective of him. Lucas was immediately attracted to his soon-to-be leading man but was constantly worried about being too obvious. Thankfully the show calls for a certain number of amorous looks and touches, or he would have been sunk and his secret revealed. Because publicly, Lucas is straight and married to his childhood best friend, Anna, but what the world doesn’t know is that the marriage is just a cover for them both.
I liked both MCs a lot. Roman does a nice job developing the relationship, creating first a strong friendship, and then the romance. Lucas is Ryan’s best friend, and vice-versa; Ryan initially doesn’t act on any attraction not only because he believes Lucas is happily married to Anna but because the friendship is so important to him. I also loved Lucas and Anna’s friendship. They were so tight and loyal and so obviously adored each other…I loved them both. And, the romance really was very sweet. Lucas believes he has found his missing piece in Ryan. This little passage warmed my little romance-loving heart:
It was that elusive piece everybody is born without, because the love of your life had it with them. The ache of longing and wanting only eased when that piece was found. He’d found it now—with Ryan, and he wasn’t letting it go.
Where the book went wrong for me was in the story execution. There were so many threads and subplots going on that it took away from the big picture. I think Roman was just trying to do too many things. Evil families, crazy stalkers, attempted murders, alcoholism, etc. There were a couple of things that weren’t properly addressed or explored because there was so much going on. I felt like the first half was strong. As I said, I enjoyed the characters, the relationships, and the premise of fandom, ships, and the intensity of that kind of fame. But, it fell apart a bit in the second half for me as the author tried to catch all the plates she had in the air.
I can’t recommend this one as strongly as I did Roman’s first book, unfortunately. But, I will most likely peek at the next book in the series, as I did totally dig the side character—one of the guys’ bodyguards that was introduced—who I suspect will be the MC there.
Reviewed by Jules for The Novel Approach
June 17, 2018
First of all, I really liked this book, but have some hesitations about it. The story between Ryan and Lucas is good fan fiction, or romance, but not all too realistic. It feels a little like Danielle Steele, only with men. Lucas meets Ryan on what I can only describe as a Supernatural rip off show when their characters fall in love. On a side movie Lucas wins an Oscar and their relationship is compared to Brangelina. The scale on which two actors on a show stolen from the CW live seems absurd. As a fantasy, it works well. Ryan is also hopelessly naive about show business and seems to have walked from Australia right into success, despite our having been told he has not. There is no realistic universe in which most of the plot could happen, but as romantic fantasy, it hits all the right buttons.
The novel is well written, and I have no complaints about the author's talent, but this should be marketed to women, particularly those with involvement with fandom. I doubt men will enjoy the descriptions of romantic eyes, and flowery expressions of devotion. Seriously, they discuss housing arrangements and literally think that what they say to each other is so cheesy it could be on a show. The characters think this about what they are saying. As a long time reader of romance novels and fan fiction, this will check many boxes for fan women. It is good emotional porn, and the playing out of a real fantasy many fans have (especially Supernatural fans).
The fan reactions to two tv actors hooking up seem a bit much for real life. On the Internet sure, but actors hook up all the time and it's hardly the end of the world, even for entertainment news. A Brangelina hasn't really come out again in recent years and People magazine still brings up Jennifer Aniston years later. New couples don't seem to have the interest and staying power in the media, and I doubt the unfortunately named Lovers could have the hype they reach in the book. Also, it makes me feel creepy reading the fan reaction on top of each chapter, since it just reminds me that as a reader, I am a fan, and actively shipping this couple by reading. The characters hate the fan attention, feel they deserve privacy in their relationship, and the reader becomes an intrusive fan girl hanging on to the narrative hoping the two co-workers hook up. This is one book that might have been better in the first person, just to avoid the reader following two characters around hoping they hook up when they clearly resent it.
There is some throwaway trans and lesbian representation, and I appreciated how positive it was. Women were treated with respect, and as equals and no one was a villain despite the set up of a potential love triangle. Ryan even asks to meet with Lucas' beard wife before pursuing him, since Lucas could have been lying to him and he didn't want to start a hurtful affair behind her back. Even a stalker one night stand is treated not as a villain, but as someone with mental health issues who was manipulated and in need of help.
This book fills an obvious fantasy for many women, and does it well for the romance genre. The story follows many great fan fics and has drama, romance, erotica, betrayal, hurt/comfort, mystery and two likeable leads. I really enjoyed it for what it was and think there is an audience for this. I just wish the book downplayed some elements to make me feel less creepy for shipping and following these two guys who only want privacy.
The novel is well written, and I have no complaints about the author's talent, but this should be marketed to women, particularly those with involvement with fandom. I doubt men will enjoy the descriptions of romantic eyes, and flowery expressions of devotion. Seriously, they discuss housing arrangements and literally think that what they say to each other is so cheesy it could be on a show. The characters think this about what they are saying. As a long time reader of romance novels and fan fiction, this will check many boxes for fan women. It is good emotional porn, and the playing out of a real fantasy many fans have (especially Supernatural fans).
The fan reactions to two tv actors hooking up seem a bit much for real life. On the Internet sure, but actors hook up all the time and it's hardly the end of the world, even for entertainment news. A Brangelina hasn't really come out again in recent years and People magazine still brings up Jennifer Aniston years later. New couples don't seem to have the interest and staying power in the media, and I doubt the unfortunately named Lovers could have the hype they reach in the book. Also, it makes me feel creepy reading the fan reaction on top of each chapter, since it just reminds me that as a reader, I am a fan, and actively shipping this couple by reading. The characters hate the fan attention, feel they deserve privacy in their relationship, and the reader becomes an intrusive fan girl hanging on to the narrative hoping the two co-workers hook up. This is one book that might have been better in the first person, just to avoid the reader following two characters around hoping they hook up when they clearly resent it.
There is some throwaway trans and lesbian representation, and I appreciated how positive it was. Women were treated with respect, and as equals and no one was a villain despite the set up of a potential love triangle. Ryan even asks to meet with Lucas' beard wife before pursuing him, since Lucas could have been lying to him and he didn't want to start a hurtful affair behind her back. Even a stalker one night stand is treated not as a villain, but as someone with mental health issues who was manipulated and in need of help.
This book fills an obvious fantasy for many women, and does it well for the romance genre. The story follows many great fan fics and has drama, romance, erotica, betrayal, hurt/comfort, mystery and two likeable leads. I really enjoyed it for what it was and think there is an audience for this. I just wish the book downplayed some elements to make me feel less creepy for shipping and following these two guys who only want privacy.
June 20, 2018
Find all my reviews on www.kisslikeagirl.com
3.5/5 rounded up.
I'm really struggling to write this review. The story was fine, good even, I enjoyed it but I didn't connect with it. It seems to me the book could have been a great work of fan fiction, but it was a bit of a struggle to read this from a romance perspective.
You see, usually, there's a bit of every book where you can see yourself as one of the characters. The average person who catches the celebrities eye, for example. You can convince yourself there still a chance. Reading about two celebrities didn't allow for that, it left me feeling a bit awkward, to be honest.
It wasn't a big deal though; the story was engaging and easy to follow. There was some repetitive, I shouldn't have these feelings - he's straight type thoughts that came up too often and for too long. Although I understand their role in the book, I couldn't help but think they should talk things out like grown-ups.
I enjoyed the bits and pieces of the cost of fame; the crowds, the screaming, the flashing cameras. I also appreciated the way Ryan reacted to everything, it felt very genuine, and it was much appreciated that he wasn't completely flawless. Anxiety disorders are not written about as often as they should be. It was also sweet how Lucas could comfort him and ease his anxiety when necessary. I enjoyed watching protective streak develop as the story went on.
The steamy bits were sweet and frequent. It was clear how much the characters cared about each other and that is so important in a good sex scene. I loved that Ryan and Lucas started their relationship as friends because I think friendship provides a great foundation for a romantic relationship. Another thing I appreciated was how they both tried to fight their feelings for the other.
I've heard about a trope in LGBT romance called gay-for-you or out-for-you. I'll admit, I was curious how that worked. Not curious enough to seek a book out, I worried it would seem fake. After reading this book I think it would fall into that category. I'm happy to say the development of the relationship felt genuine even while other parts of the book felt unrealistic.
There was also some stalker action/ suspense type drama through the book. I don't read a lot of books with drama like that and I was able to guess who the bad guy was early on, which is rare for me so I'm proud of myself right now.
Overall, Shipped was a cute, light summer read. I would recommend it to anyone who wants relax with a good book by the pool.
3.5/5 rounded up.
I'm really struggling to write this review. The story was fine, good even, I enjoyed it but I didn't connect with it. It seems to me the book could have been a great work of fan fiction, but it was a bit of a struggle to read this from a romance perspective.
You see, usually, there's a bit of every book where you can see yourself as one of the characters. The average person who catches the celebrities eye, for example. You can convince yourself there still a chance. Reading about two celebrities didn't allow for that, it left me feeling a bit awkward, to be honest.
It wasn't a big deal though; the story was engaging and easy to follow. There was some repetitive, I shouldn't have these feelings - he's straight type thoughts that came up too often and for too long. Although I understand their role in the book, I couldn't help but think they should talk things out like grown-ups.
I enjoyed the bits and pieces of the cost of fame; the crowds, the screaming, the flashing cameras. I also appreciated the way Ryan reacted to everything, it felt very genuine, and it was much appreciated that he wasn't completely flawless. Anxiety disorders are not written about as often as they should be. It was also sweet how Lucas could comfort him and ease his anxiety when necessary. I enjoyed watching protective streak develop as the story went on.
The steamy bits were sweet and frequent. It was clear how much the characters cared about each other and that is so important in a good sex scene. I loved that Ryan and Lucas started their relationship as friends because I think friendship provides a great foundation for a romantic relationship. Another thing I appreciated was how they both tried to fight their feelings for the other.
I've heard about a trope in LGBT romance called gay-for-you or out-for-you. I'll admit, I was curious how that worked. Not curious enough to seek a book out, I worried it would seem fake. After reading this book I think it would fall into that category. I'm happy to say the development of the relationship felt genuine even while other parts of the book felt unrealistic.
There was also some stalker action/ suspense type drama through the book. I don't read a lot of books with drama like that and I was able to guess who the bad guy was early on, which is rare for me so I'm proud of myself right now.
Overall, Shipped was a cute, light summer read. I would recommend it to anyone who wants relax with a good book by the pool.
July 1, 2018
I really enjoyed this take on a costar relationship. Ryan is new to Hollywood, but jumps quickly into the limelight when he gets a role on a popular TV show. He is costarring opposite Lucas-the "straight, married" actor. There is immediate chemistry between them, and it shows even on camera. When the guys finally get to realizing that they have feelings for each other, things get a little crazy when stalkers come into play.
I thought the story was really intriguing and well written. I loved the flow of the story, and I really loved that despite all of the obstacles thrown in their way, Ryan and Lucas never wavered in their support and love for the other. The stalker story line was interesting and remained a mystery for quite some time. I thought it was well thought out. The only thing I wish we had a little more of was family interaction for Lucas. His family was pretty aloof throughout the book, and when the did come into the picture, it was glossed over a little.
I loved Lucas' wife/best friend Anna, and I would LOVE to read her love story. <3 I really liked this a lot.
I am voluntarily reviewing an ARC provided by IndiGo Marketing & Design
I thought the story was really intriguing and well written. I loved the flow of the story, and I really loved that despite all of the obstacles thrown in their way, Ryan and Lucas never wavered in their support and love for the other. The stalker story line was interesting and remained a mystery for quite some time. I thought it was well thought out. The only thing I wish we had a little more of was family interaction for Lucas. His family was pretty aloof throughout the book, and when the did come into the picture, it was glossed over a little.
I loved Lucas' wife/best friend Anna, and I would LOVE to read her love story. <3 I really liked this a lot.
I am voluntarily reviewing an ARC provided by IndiGo Marketing & Design
June 24, 2018
Shipped has such a unique premise that I absolutely couldn’t turn down the opportunity to read it. This title is the first I’ve read from the author but I found her style to be pretty smooth with well-flushed out characters. I think we’ve all seen celebrities or co-stars with fantastic chemistry that you hope will get together, so it seemed like Shipped would be an easy homerun in which those moments “come true”. Yet, for some reason, I simply kept putting this book down in favor of another title, audiobook, or whatever caught my attention at the moment.
At the start, I was really interested in the storyline and found Lucas and Ryan likable. Though I won’t say that changed much over the course of the book, the characters didn’t develop as much as I’d hoped- individually or as a couple. Given the degree of immediate attraction between the men, I expected this book to sizzle with a palpable connection but Lucas and Ryan’s chemistry never exploded from the page for me. I also found the amount of drama the men faced to be just this side of too much. Ultimately, Shipped felt a bit imbalanced- with more of a focus on the melodrama rather than character and relationship development- and at times it failed to keep my attention. I think if you enjoy fan fiction and don’t mind a good dose of Hollywood stylized conflict in your romance, Shipped could make for a fun, heat-filled romance.
*eARC received via Netgalley. The author and publisher had no influence over this review*
At the start, I was really interested in the storyline and found Lucas and Ryan likable. Though I won’t say that changed much over the course of the book, the characters didn’t develop as much as I’d hoped- individually or as a couple. Given the degree of immediate attraction between the men, I expected this book to sizzle with a palpable connection but Lucas and Ryan’s chemistry never exploded from the page for me. I also found the amount of drama the men faced to be just this side of too much. Ultimately, Shipped felt a bit imbalanced- with more of a focus on the melodrama rather than character and relationship development- and at times it failed to keep my attention. I think if you enjoy fan fiction and don’t mind a good dose of Hollywood stylized conflict in your romance, Shipped could make for a fun, heat-filled romance.
*eARC received via Netgalley. The author and publisher had no influence over this review*
July 4, 2018
✩ ✩ ✩ ✩ FOUR-STAR ✩ REVIEW ✩ ✩ ✩ ✩
> > Judging a Book by it's Cover < <
A very busy cover. The top half contains two men standing facing off-centered with a blazing sunset behind them. The bottom half shows a large city with a large, long bridge. I did not even read the synopsis before picking it up. I fell in love with Ms Roman's 2017 debut, SAVED, and jumped at this one with unbridled excitement.
> > Looking Deeper < <
POV ~> Third-person
Ryan left Australia with dreams of acting in Hollywood but never considered how fame would change life as he knew it. Lucas was already established in Hollywood. He and his wife kept one another grounded, reminding one another who they really were.
When the two men meet, there's an undeniable pull toward one another but neither would make a move because, well, "he's straight" and "He's married" were factoring obstacles. Fans fell hard for their natural chemistry though and soon it was hard to tell where the characters' feelings left off and the off-screen feelings began.
Plenty of drama and conflict. I had my suspect pegged and, although close, I was wrong! It's always nice to be wrong when reading a story! Character interaction was good. Dialogue was believable and it all flowed well. The ONLY reason it took so long to read this one is because I picked it up two days before our moving truck was dropped off and had very little time or wakefulness to read in these last, nearly, two weeks.
The ending, for me, was a big let down. The story ended WIDE OPEN, without even an implied HEA. Instead, we get a glimpse into book 2, SENTINEL, which will pick up where SHIPPED left off, allowing Lucas and Ryan to continue their story in the background of the new couple's story (must read book 1 before reading book 2, this will be a saga-style series, it seems).
.
Rating: [R] ~ Score: 4.15 ~ Stars: 4
==========================
⭐ ⭐ **** Disclosure of Material: I received a copy of this book from Netgalley but also pre-ordered it from the Publisher and am voluntarily leaving unbiased and unsolicited feedback. I was not asked, encouraged, or required to leave a review - nor was I compensated in any way. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising". ***** ⭐ ⭐
> > Judging a Book by it's Cover < <
A very busy cover. The top half contains two men standing facing off-centered with a blazing sunset behind them. The bottom half shows a large city with a large, long bridge. I did not even read the synopsis before picking it up. I fell in love with Ms Roman's 2017 debut, SAVED, and jumped at this one with unbridled excitement.
> > Looking Deeper < <
POV ~> Third-person
Ryan left Australia with dreams of acting in Hollywood but never considered how fame would change life as he knew it. Lucas was already established in Hollywood. He and his wife kept one another grounded, reminding one another who they really were.
When the two men meet, there's an undeniable pull toward one another but neither would make a move because, well, "he's straight" and "He's married" were factoring obstacles. Fans fell hard for their natural chemistry though and soon it was hard to tell where the characters' feelings left off and the off-screen feelings began.
Plenty of drama and conflict. I had my suspect pegged and, although close, I was wrong! It's always nice to be wrong when reading a story! Character interaction was good. Dialogue was believable and it all flowed well. The ONLY reason it took so long to read this one is because I picked it up two days before our moving truck was dropped off and had very little time or wakefulness to read in these last, nearly, two weeks.
The ending, for me, was a big let down. The story ended WIDE OPEN, without even an implied HEA. Instead, we get a glimpse into book 2, SENTINEL, which will pick up where SHIPPED left off, allowing Lucas and Ryan to continue their story in the background of the new couple's story (must read book 1 before reading book 2, this will be a saga-style series, it seems).
.
Rating: [R] ~ Score: 4.15 ~ Stars: 4
==========================
⭐ ⭐ **** Disclosure of Material: I received a copy of this book from Netgalley but also pre-ordered it from the Publisher and am voluntarily leaving unbiased and unsolicited feedback. I was not asked, encouraged, or required to leave a review - nor was I compensated in any way. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising". ***** ⭐ ⭐
July 4, 2018
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
3.5*s
This is the first in a new series, and I am looking forward to reading the next installment already!
I really enjoyed the story and the writing style is easy, my only real criticism is that it felt overly long. Part of that might have been that I wanted the answers, to see how it could work, and everything be reconciled. The first half of the book certainly didn't give me any clue as to the drama that would unfold in the second. Slow, easy falling in love, possibly with the wrong person, turned into quite a dangerous, hospital needing rollercoaster of a second half.
It was a revealing insight into how many celebrities are hounded for any gossip available, and a reminder that they are people too. Ryan's unease was vividly written, and Lucas's support was, from the very beginning an indication of how in tune they would be. Their connection and care for each other shone through, as well as the chemistry which fuelled the shippers.
Plenty more story to come and I will definitely be reading on. Thank you Karrie Roman.
3.5*s
This is the first in a new series, and I am looking forward to reading the next installment already!
I really enjoyed the story and the writing style is easy, my only real criticism is that it felt overly long. Part of that might have been that I wanted the answers, to see how it could work, and everything be reconciled. The first half of the book certainly didn't give me any clue as to the drama that would unfold in the second. Slow, easy falling in love, possibly with the wrong person, turned into quite a dangerous, hospital needing rollercoaster of a second half.
It was a revealing insight into how many celebrities are hounded for any gossip available, and a reminder that they are people too. Ryan's unease was vividly written, and Lucas's support was, from the very beginning an indication of how in tune they would be. Their connection and care for each other shone through, as well as the chemistry which fuelled the shippers.
Plenty more story to come and I will definitely be reading on. Thank you Karrie Roman.
June 30, 2018
3.5 stars - I was given a copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
This is an angst filled story about the romance between two young Hollywood stars. The relationship between co-stars Ryan and Lucas unfolds between the celeb gossip soundbites and the self-awareness of the book made me smile. The story doesn’t deviate too far from a traditional celebrity romance. The crazed stalker storyline has been told before but the boys’ celeb nickname is a Millennial invention.
While we get both Lucas and Ryan’s points of view in this book, I found Ryan easier to like than Lucas. Where Ryan is an open book, Lucas’ is oblivious to too many important things going on around him - and his closeted life feels quite dated. The chemistry between Ryan and Lucas is instantaneous and I loved the slow build sexual tension between the boys.
The ending of this story unravels into soap opera worthy drama. Between police action scenes, harrowing injuries, miraculous recoveries and complicated stalker plots, it all became a bit too much for me. Ultimately, this is a sweet and self-aware romance between two gorgeous leading men. It’s a Hollywood fantasy romance and while it isn’t always terribly plausible, it is very entertaining.
This is an angst filled story about the romance between two young Hollywood stars. The relationship between co-stars Ryan and Lucas unfolds between the celeb gossip soundbites and the self-awareness of the book made me smile. The story doesn’t deviate too far from a traditional celebrity romance. The crazed stalker storyline has been told before but the boys’ celeb nickname is a Millennial invention.
While we get both Lucas and Ryan’s points of view in this book, I found Ryan easier to like than Lucas. Where Ryan is an open book, Lucas’ is oblivious to too many important things going on around him - and his closeted life feels quite dated. The chemistry between Ryan and Lucas is instantaneous and I loved the slow build sexual tension between the boys.
The ending of this story unravels into soap opera worthy drama. Between police action scenes, harrowing injuries, miraculous recoveries and complicated stalker plots, it all became a bit too much for me. Ultimately, this is a sweet and self-aware romance between two gorgeous leading men. It’s a Hollywood fantasy romance and while it isn’t always terribly plausible, it is very entertaining.
June 20, 2018
A great read. Two hot actors fall in love on screen and off.
Luke and Ryan. A paranormal TV show, two great actors and a great plot.
Luke is married but it is not a real marriage. Ryan starts crushing on his co-star. They have a good time working together, then start a romance in their off time. Then there comes some trouble in the form of crazy stalker people.
I really enjoyed this book. Was entertained, engrossed enough to read all in one go.
Well done.
(Given a copy for an honest review) (Thanks) (NetGalley)
Luke and Ryan. A paranormal TV show, two great actors and a great plot.
Luke is married but it is not a real marriage. Ryan starts crushing on his co-star. They have a good time working together, then start a romance in their off time. Then there comes some trouble in the form of crazy stalker people.
I really enjoyed this book. Was entertained, engrossed enough to read all in one go.
Well done.
(Given a copy for an honest review) (Thanks) (NetGalley)
June 22, 2018
Shipped had a cute premise but I found it to be a bit too cheesy. The emotions were over the top, and the drama was very soap opera-like. The MCs were likable but enjoyed talking too much about their feelings. Okay, I get it. You guys like each other. Move along, please. The drama was predicable and not exciting enough to keep my interest. I noticed I was skimming through more than reading every sentence. The book ended on a cliffhanger, but I don't think I'm interested enough to read the second in the series.
May 7, 2019
So bad, so so so so so so bad >:-o!!!!!!
September 17, 2018
3.5 Stars. There were some things I really liked about this book and few things that I thought could have been better. However, for a new author - this being her second book I thought it was well written and interesting and it definitely has me looking forward to the next book (more on that later in this review).
This book started out really interesting to me. Ryan and Luke are costars who are playing two characters who are witch hunters and who are attracted to each other. I kept thinking of supernatural but they aren't brothers when reading this. The fans go crazy about the pairing of the two characters and they become a wildly popular couple. The chemistry on screen is also felt off screen but both actors assume the other is straight. Luke is the veteran actor who is married to a woman (but don't worry it's obvious quickly that this isn't a typical marriage so there isn't any cheater vibes). Ryan is from a small town in Australia and new to fame. I never really felt like Ryan was from Australia other than a couple of "mates" thrown out their in his dialogue he could have been American. I liked both characters but the plot of them thinking the other was straight went on a bit too long IMO. I also thought there were a bit too many subplots going on at once. Ryan is struggling with alcohol and anxiety through part of the book although the struggles with alcohol just stops at some point without any real reason/resolution as to how he's able to combat this. Luke has some big issues with his family and their is also a small romance sub-plot that his wife has. On top of that their is a stalker plot that introduces a whole crew of bodyguards who will be in the next book.
So here is where it gets clunky for me and yet I loved the bodyguards. In fact for me the scenes with Ethan and Ben kind of stole the show for me. I was caught up more in their story than I was in the one between Luke and Ryan. The stalker plot was all wrapped up very quickly and seemed to just be a plot device to introduce the bodyguards.
I really enjoyed the UST between Luke and Ryan although again some of it went on a bit long. I liked the relationship between Luke and his wife Anna. I liked the friendship to more relationship between the two men. The biggest issue I had was that there was just too much going on and so all of the sub plots weren't able to be fleshed out as well as I would have liked. However, I was intrigued and caught up in Ben and Ethan who will be the MC's of the next book so I definitely see myself reading that book.
So while I have a few issues with this book I still think it's a good beginning to a series I think will only get better as it goes along. For that reason, I recommend this sweet, Hollywood M/M romance.
A copy of this book was provided to me by the publisher with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book and my comments here are my honest opinion.
This book started out really interesting to me. Ryan and Luke are costars who are playing two characters who are witch hunters and who are attracted to each other. I kept thinking of supernatural but they aren't brothers when reading this. The fans go crazy about the pairing of the two characters and they become a wildly popular couple. The chemistry on screen is also felt off screen but both actors assume the other is straight. Luke is the veteran actor who is married to a woman (but don't worry it's obvious quickly that this isn't a typical marriage so there isn't any cheater vibes). Ryan is from a small town in Australia and new to fame. I never really felt like Ryan was from Australia other than a couple of "mates" thrown out their in his dialogue he could have been American. I liked both characters but the plot of them thinking the other was straight went on a bit too long IMO. I also thought there were a bit too many subplots going on at once. Ryan is struggling with alcohol and anxiety through part of the book although the struggles with alcohol just stops at some point without any real reason/resolution as to how he's able to combat this. Luke has some big issues with his family and their is also a small romance sub-plot that his wife has. On top of that their is a stalker plot that introduces a whole crew of bodyguards who will be in the next book.
So here is where it gets clunky for me and yet I loved the bodyguards. In fact for me the scenes with Ethan and Ben kind of stole the show for me. I was caught up more in their story than I was in the one between Luke and Ryan. The stalker plot was all wrapped up very quickly and seemed to just be a plot device to introduce the bodyguards.
I really enjoyed the UST between Luke and Ryan although again some of it went on a bit long. I liked the relationship between Luke and his wife Anna. I liked the friendship to more relationship between the two men. The biggest issue I had was that there was just too much going on and so all of the sub plots weren't able to be fleshed out as well as I would have liked. However, I was intrigued and caught up in Ben and Ethan who will be the MC's of the next book so I definitely see myself reading that book.
So while I have a few issues with this book I still think it's a good beginning to a series I think will only get better as it goes along. For that reason, I recommend this sweet, Hollywood M/M romance.
A copy of this book was provided to me by the publisher with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book and my comments here are my honest opinion.
June 18, 2018
3.5 stars.
This is a cute, easy M/M read with plenty of angst, self-doubt and sex, plus some acting, anxiety and stalker suspense. Lucas and Ryan are both nice and adorable, and most of the people around them are understanding and supportive. It’s a bit too fluffy to be believable, but it was good enough to keep me interested.
Which is a surprise, because at first I was really not sure I’d like this. The writing style was all tell, making me feel distanced from the characters. The pacing in the first few chapters was really off too. There is no introduction or lead up. We’re thrown into Ryan’s audition, then fast-forwarded to a convention panel after a few episodes have been shot, with nothing in between. It was a bit clunky and awkward, made worse by being told what Ryan was doing and feeling, rather than experiencing it with him.
Luckily the pacing does settle down after this and either I got used to the “tell” feel or it improved, because the deeper into the book I got, the less any of that bothered me. For someone who doesn’t watch a lot of TV or films, I love reading books set behind the scenes, and although this book is pretty minimal on acting and on-set action, there was enough there for me to enjoy.
Mostly, though, this book is about fame and the difficulties of dealing with it in the social media age. Ryan in particular really struggles with this, especially when it comes to the weight of fan expectations. This is something that plays on his mind a lot, but I don’t feel like it was something that was really properly addressed by the end. He does get help, but the way things were left felt rather HFN instead of HEA, where this side of things was concerned. As for his drinking problems… that wasn’t handled at all, which was disappointing.
Lucas has his own issues to deal with too, and I felt like one thing that happens to him was pretty much brushed aside, except at the end when it became pretty pivotal in how things shook out. He also doesn’t really act his age throughout the book – closer to 19 than his actual 29 – but the whole tone of the book definitely skews more towards New Adult discovering themselves amidst much angst than full adult contemporary. I did, however, love his relationship with his wife. That was wonderful.
So it’s not perfect. It does deal with some deep issues, but not particularly deeply, and I do feel that some of them could have been handled better. There is a bit of repetition when it comes to the angst too. But, overall, this was fun and enjoyable and cute with a bit of heat and lots of tension between the characters. I liked it and I’ll definitely be keeping an eye out for the next one.
(ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley.)
This is a cute, easy M/M read with plenty of angst, self-doubt and sex, plus some acting, anxiety and stalker suspense. Lucas and Ryan are both nice and adorable, and most of the people around them are understanding and supportive. It’s a bit too fluffy to be believable, but it was good enough to keep me interested.
Which is a surprise, because at first I was really not sure I’d like this. The writing style was all tell, making me feel distanced from the characters. The pacing in the first few chapters was really off too. There is no introduction or lead up. We’re thrown into Ryan’s audition, then fast-forwarded to a convention panel after a few episodes have been shot, with nothing in between. It was a bit clunky and awkward, made worse by being told what Ryan was doing and feeling, rather than experiencing it with him.
Luckily the pacing does settle down after this and either I got used to the “tell” feel or it improved, because the deeper into the book I got, the less any of that bothered me. For someone who doesn’t watch a lot of TV or films, I love reading books set behind the scenes, and although this book is pretty minimal on acting and on-set action, there was enough there for me to enjoy.
Mostly, though, this book is about fame and the difficulties of dealing with it in the social media age. Ryan in particular really struggles with this, especially when it comes to the weight of fan expectations. This is something that plays on his mind a lot, but I don’t feel like it was something that was really properly addressed by the end. He does get help, but the way things were left felt rather HFN instead of HEA, where this side of things was concerned. As for his drinking problems… that wasn’t handled at all, which was disappointing.
Lucas has his own issues to deal with too, and I felt like one thing that happens to him was pretty much brushed aside, except at the end when it became pretty pivotal in how things shook out. He also doesn’t really act his age throughout the book – closer to 19 than his actual 29 – but the whole tone of the book definitely skews more towards New Adult discovering themselves amidst much angst than full adult contemporary. I did, however, love his relationship with his wife. That was wonderful.
So it’s not perfect. It does deal with some deep issues, but not particularly deeply, and I do feel that some of them could have been handled better. There is a bit of repetition when it comes to the angst too. But, overall, this was fun and enjoyable and cute with a bit of heat and lots of tension between the characters. I liked it and I’ll definitely be keeping an eye out for the next one.
(ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley.)
June 18, 2018
*I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review*
When newcomer Ryan Lowe is cast as one of the leads in a television series he finds himself catapulted from being a nobody into stardom overnight. Struggling with his newfound fame, Ryan relies very much on the support of his co-star, established actor Lucas Evers. As their television characters make the transition from friends to lovers, Ryan begins to realise that he is developing feelings for Lucas. As their on-screen relationship spills over into real life, Ryan suddenly finds himself being drawn into the darker side of fame when he is targeted by a stalker. Together Ryan and Lucas must face the rapidly escalating threats whilst dealing with the pressures of becoming the hottest new couple in Hollywood.
I really like the premise for this novel. An on-screen ship becoming a real life pairing is every fandoms dream, and taking this and making it a reality makes for a really great read. I liked how the negative aspects of their fame was also very prominent; that it wasn’t just romance, money and parties. Ryan’s increasing anxiety and panic attacks when dealing with being a part of such a high-profile couple were a very realistic portrayal. I was pleased that the author didn’t sugar-coat it and addressed how difficult for stars their fame can be. I enjoyed reading the growing relationship between Ryan and Lucas. It was very sweet seeing how much they cared for each other, and how protective Lucas became of Ryan throughout the novel. For me though I did feel that there was not enough chemistry between Ryan and Lucas. They were a cute couple but lacked that spark that made the changing dynamic in their relationship really believable. Also the dialogue in places made me cringe and it sounded very over-the-top as though they were constantly acting in a very bad movie.
Overall I did enjoy reading Shipped. The stalker plot brought some added tension and danger to the romance, and I liked the way the author had included fan comments at the start of each chapter. Shipped is the first book in the Until You series and I am intrigued to see how their relationship develops further in later books in the series.
When newcomer Ryan Lowe is cast as one of the leads in a television series he finds himself catapulted from being a nobody into stardom overnight. Struggling with his newfound fame, Ryan relies very much on the support of his co-star, established actor Lucas Evers. As their television characters make the transition from friends to lovers, Ryan begins to realise that he is developing feelings for Lucas. As their on-screen relationship spills over into real life, Ryan suddenly finds himself being drawn into the darker side of fame when he is targeted by a stalker. Together Ryan and Lucas must face the rapidly escalating threats whilst dealing with the pressures of becoming the hottest new couple in Hollywood.
I really like the premise for this novel. An on-screen ship becoming a real life pairing is every fandoms dream, and taking this and making it a reality makes for a really great read. I liked how the negative aspects of their fame was also very prominent; that it wasn’t just romance, money and parties. Ryan’s increasing anxiety and panic attacks when dealing with being a part of such a high-profile couple were a very realistic portrayal. I was pleased that the author didn’t sugar-coat it and addressed how difficult for stars their fame can be. I enjoyed reading the growing relationship between Ryan and Lucas. It was very sweet seeing how much they cared for each other, and how protective Lucas became of Ryan throughout the novel. For me though I did feel that there was not enough chemistry between Ryan and Lucas. They were a cute couple but lacked that spark that made the changing dynamic in their relationship really believable. Also the dialogue in places made me cringe and it sounded very over-the-top as though they were constantly acting in a very bad movie.
Overall I did enjoy reading Shipped. The stalker plot brought some added tension and danger to the romance, and I liked the way the author had included fan comments at the start of each chapter. Shipped is the first book in the Until You series and I am intrigued to see how their relationship develops further in later books in the series.
June 18, 2018
Shipped is everything I love in a romance. I am thrilled to have discovered this gem by Karrie Rowan.
Ryan and Lucas meet on set of their tv show. Their characters fall in love, and their show's fandom is going crazy for this couple. Off set, they are becoming the best of friends, as well as becoming extremely attracted to each other.
Ryan has always been straight, and Lucas has no reason to suspect that Ryan has real feelings for him. Lucas, of course, appears to be straight to everyone, as he is married to a woman.
As the sexual tension grows, Lucas's wife works hard to convince him to tell Ryan the truth. Their marriage has been a cover all this time. Lucas is gay. And Lucas has fallen head over heels in love with Ryan.
To make things difficult, there is also someone stalking Ryan. And they will be messing with both boys.
One of my favorite parts of this story is the character of Lucas's wife, Anna. She is such a refreshing female character for a M/M Romance. She is nice, caring, kind, and a wonderful person.
Hands down the best scene takes place on the yacht. Ryan's bad introduction to the other people is unforgettable.
Ryan and Lucas are now one of my favorite book couples. Their connection, emotions, and electricity are so well written. They are unequivocally in love.
Karrie Roman does a fantastic job with this story. The writing style is fantastic, the plot is both romantic and mysterious, and the pace is great. I am super impressed by this new author and look forward to her future books.
I highly recommend that you read Shipped. It is fun, emotional, and will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Ryan and Lucas meet on set of their tv show. Their characters fall in love, and their show's fandom is going crazy for this couple. Off set, they are becoming the best of friends, as well as becoming extremely attracted to each other.
Ryan has always been straight, and Lucas has no reason to suspect that Ryan has real feelings for him. Lucas, of course, appears to be straight to everyone, as he is married to a woman.
As the sexual tension grows, Lucas's wife works hard to convince him to tell Ryan the truth. Their marriage has been a cover all this time. Lucas is gay. And Lucas has fallen head over heels in love with Ryan.
To make things difficult, there is also someone stalking Ryan. And they will be messing with both boys.
One of my favorite parts of this story is the character of Lucas's wife, Anna. She is such a refreshing female character for a M/M Romance. She is nice, caring, kind, and a wonderful person.
Hands down the best scene takes place on the yacht. Ryan's bad introduction to the other people is unforgettable.
Ryan and Lucas are now one of my favorite book couples. Their connection, emotions, and electricity are so well written. They are unequivocally in love.
Karrie Roman does a fantastic job with this story. The writing style is fantastic, the plot is both romantic and mysterious, and the pace is great. I am super impressed by this new author and look forward to her future books.
I highly recommend that you read Shipped. It is fun, emotional, and will keep you on the edge of your seat.
June 23, 2018
Shipped, Karrie Roman
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: LGBTQIA, Romance
I love M/M and books involving fame, such great potential for jealousy plots, fan over action etc. I really wanted to love this but...I liked it, a lot but it fell flat of being one I love, a re-reader.
Ryan seems to have walked into fame from nothing, top star Lucas has a wife, a beard only, but that seems to have escaped notice and I wondered just how realistic either of those things could be. The romance angle was kind of cute really, some sensual sex scenes but lots of sweet and nice between that and it felt a little too cheesy for me. I like some drama!
We did get drama later by way of a dangerous stalker, and the pressure that brings, and a climatic attack towards the end. Somehow though even that didn't feel enough for me. There was endless talking about feelings, mulling things over, cutesy times out with yet more nice, sweet people. Ryan was nice, Lucas was nice, his wife was nice, the two sisters that owned the boat were nice...you get the idea? Everyone is so darned Good, helpful, pleasant. I wanted a bit of nasty, some jealousy, some real world maliciousness and back-biting.
It felt a little too fairy-tale charming when real life has highs and lows, pleasant people and ones that are bitchy and unpleasant. That won't matter for many readers but for me its essential that I can feel things are real, that I'm “there” with the characters as action happens and here I simply felt like an onlooker, distanced from the action.
Stars: three and a half, a decent story but let down for me by the lack of reality.
ARC supplied by Netgalley and Publishers.
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: LGBTQIA, Romance
I love M/M and books involving fame, such great potential for jealousy plots, fan over action etc. I really wanted to love this but...I liked it, a lot but it fell flat of being one I love, a re-reader.
Ryan seems to have walked into fame from nothing, top star Lucas has a wife, a beard only, but that seems to have escaped notice and I wondered just how realistic either of those things could be. The romance angle was kind of cute really, some sensual sex scenes but lots of sweet and nice between that and it felt a little too cheesy for me. I like some drama!
We did get drama later by way of a dangerous stalker, and the pressure that brings, and a climatic attack towards the end. Somehow though even that didn't feel enough for me. There was endless talking about feelings, mulling things over, cutesy times out with yet more nice, sweet people. Ryan was nice, Lucas was nice, his wife was nice, the two sisters that owned the boat were nice...you get the idea? Everyone is so darned Good, helpful, pleasant. I wanted a bit of nasty, some jealousy, some real world maliciousness and back-biting.
It felt a little too fairy-tale charming when real life has highs and lows, pleasant people and ones that are bitchy and unpleasant. That won't matter for many readers but for me its essential that I can feel things are real, that I'm “there” with the characters as action happens and here I simply felt like an onlooker, distanced from the action.
Stars: three and a half, a decent story but let down for me by the lack of reality.
ARC supplied by Netgalley and Publishers.
June 12, 2018
I really liked the idea of this one. The basic story goes like this: Book series becomes a huge success- it gets made into a TV show - supposedly straight main cast (our main characters whose characters fall in love in the book series) get shipped by millions of fans - and they end up falling in love with each other in real life.
A fan's dream come true, right? Only for Ryan and Lucas, the people actually involved, it turns out to be a bit of a nightmare. For Ryan especially, who is new to Hollywood, the sudden fame and attention are awful and threaten to destroy all his happiness.
The book shows a lot of the darker sides of acting and stardom. Alcohol, false friends, overzealous fans, mental disorders - Ryan and Lucas have to deal with all of that. It will never stop me from supporting my favorite ships but it was definitely food for thought.
Other than that Shipped is a little...blah unfortunately. It felt really long and dragged out sometimes. The romance, while nice and not rushed, was a given and actually a bit too sweet sometimes.
And I wasn't a fan of the crime aspects at all. That storyarc was really far fetched and I think the book would have worked better without it.
Sooo, all in all it was only ok. I did like it enough though to want to read the next book in the series which seems to involve a certain pair of bodyguards I was really hoping to see again. :)
A fan's dream come true, right? Only for Ryan and Lucas, the people actually involved, it turns out to be a bit of a nightmare. For Ryan especially, who is new to Hollywood, the sudden fame and attention are awful and threaten to destroy all his happiness.
The book shows a lot of the darker sides of acting and stardom. Alcohol, false friends, overzealous fans, mental disorders - Ryan and Lucas have to deal with all of that. It will never stop me from supporting my favorite ships but it was definitely food for thought.
Other than that Shipped is a little...blah unfortunately. It felt really long and dragged out sometimes. The romance, while nice and not rushed, was a given and actually a bit too sweet sometimes.
And I wasn't a fan of the crime aspects at all. That storyarc was really far fetched and I think the book would have worked better without it.
Sooo, all in all it was only ok. I did like it enough though to want to read the next book in the series which seems to involve a certain pair of bodyguards I was really hoping to see again. :)
June 23, 2018
3.5 Stars!
What I Loved: I loved both Lucas and Ryan and thought they were great as both friends and lovers. They had a really good chemistry and really worked as a couple you wanted to see get that HEA. I could see the reality of them as friends and more and it definitely reminded me of a few real-life actors that have a pretty well-known group of fans who love to ship them.
What I Liked: I liked the idea of two characters who fans have shipped becoming an actual real-life couple. I know I have personally thought about how two of my favorite characters would be as a couple and I’m a huge fan of some fun fanfics.
I also liked Lucas's wife Anna quite a bit. It was nice that there was a female character that was likable and relatable in the story and wasn't a villain or a victim. It was clear from the very beginning where she stood in Lucas’s life and an explanation of their relationship was given to us before the story progressed too far.
What I Didn’t Like: I’m going to be honest, it took me a long time to get into this story. I was extremely tempted to start skimming right away which isn’t really a good sign for me. I understood the buildup and groundwork the author was going for but it just really didn’t work for me. I think it could have been trimmed up a bit more and been just fine.
Overall, I found Shipped entertaining. It was sweet and sexy, yet filled with humor, angst and action.
***Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by the author/publisher for my reading pleasure in hopes of an unbiased opinion, a review was not a requirement.***
What I Loved: I loved both Lucas and Ryan and thought they were great as both friends and lovers. They had a really good chemistry and really worked as a couple you wanted to see get that HEA. I could see the reality of them as friends and more and it definitely reminded me of a few real-life actors that have a pretty well-known group of fans who love to ship them.
What I Liked: I liked the idea of two characters who fans have shipped becoming an actual real-life couple. I know I have personally thought about how two of my favorite characters would be as a couple and I’m a huge fan of some fun fanfics.
I also liked Lucas's wife Anna quite a bit. It was nice that there was a female character that was likable and relatable in the story and wasn't a villain or a victim. It was clear from the very beginning where she stood in Lucas’s life and an explanation of their relationship was given to us before the story progressed too far.
What I Didn’t Like: I’m going to be honest, it took me a long time to get into this story. I was extremely tempted to start skimming right away which isn’t really a good sign for me. I understood the buildup and groundwork the author was going for but it just really didn’t work for me. I think it could have been trimmed up a bit more and been just fine.
Overall, I found Shipped entertaining. It was sweet and sexy, yet filled with humor, angst and action.
***Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by the author/publisher for my reading pleasure in hopes of an unbiased opinion, a review was not a requirement.***
June 13, 2018
4 Stars
Review by Amy W.
Late Night Reviewer
Up All Night W/ Books Blog
Who hasn't shipped their favorites together?? Karrie Roman's Shipped is all about what happens when a ship turns into real life feelings.
Ryan is new to the scene of Hollywood while Lucas is a veteran. When they land coveted roles as the leads in a popular book to TV series, they have to play up to the fantasy ship for the fans and ratings. But what happens when those feelings turn all to real?
This was a super cute storyline, the way a ship became truth. However Roman also did a terrific job at showing the darker side to fame. Hollywood is all glitz and glamour on the outside and dark and seedy on the inside.
I love Ryan and Lucas together and I like a bit of a slow burn at times, but this may have been just a bit much. It made the book seem longer than it actually was.
I recommend this book to fandom lovers, it's a chance to 'experience' what happens when the ship becomes reality. This book is cute, fun, at times a bit drawn out but worth taking a chance on.
**ARC provided by author for honest review**
Review by Amy W.
Late Night Reviewer
Up All Night W/ Books Blog
Who hasn't shipped their favorites together?? Karrie Roman's Shipped is all about what happens when a ship turns into real life feelings.
Ryan is new to the scene of Hollywood while Lucas is a veteran. When they land coveted roles as the leads in a popular book to TV series, they have to play up to the fantasy ship for the fans and ratings. But what happens when those feelings turn all to real?
This was a super cute storyline, the way a ship became truth. However Roman also did a terrific job at showing the darker side to fame. Hollywood is all glitz and glamour on the outside and dark and seedy on the inside.
I love Ryan and Lucas together and I like a bit of a slow burn at times, but this may have been just a bit much. It made the book seem longer than it actually was.
I recommend this book to fandom lovers, it's a chance to 'experience' what happens when the ship becomes reality. This book is cute, fun, at times a bit drawn out but worth taking a chance on.
**ARC provided by author for honest review**
June 30, 2018
I have mixed feelings about this book.
First, the good—I really liked both main characters, Ryan and Lucas, and I liked them together as a couple. If the focus had just been on them and their developing relationship, on things like when and how they should come out as a couple to the fans of their hit TV show, I would have been perfectly happy.
BUT . . . the author interjected so much drama into the story that it actually took away from the romance. Both characters are burdened with problem families. Ryan has severe panic attacks based on his new-found fame as an actor. There’s a crazy stalker. Lucas is involved in a severe car accident. And then the final chapters bring a revelation that is so over the top, it felt like the story had gone off the rails.
So, I don’t know. I think how much a reader likes this novel will be based on their tolerance for that kind of dramatic storytelling. For me, it was merely an OK read, but I’d still be willing to try another book by the author.
A copy of this book was provided through NetGalley for review; all opinions expressed are my own.
First, the good—I really liked both main characters, Ryan and Lucas, and I liked them together as a couple. If the focus had just been on them and their developing relationship, on things like when and how they should come out as a couple to the fans of their hit TV show, I would have been perfectly happy.
BUT . . . the author interjected so much drama into the story that it actually took away from the romance. Both characters are burdened with problem families. Ryan has severe panic attacks based on his new-found fame as an actor. There’s a crazy stalker. Lucas is involved in a severe car accident. And then the final chapters bring a revelation that is so over the top, it felt like the story had gone off the rails.
So, I don’t know. I think how much a reader likes this novel will be based on their tolerance for that kind of dramatic storytelling. For me, it was merely an OK read, but I’d still be willing to try another book by the author.
A copy of this book was provided through NetGalley for review; all opinions expressed are my own.
June 25, 2018
I wanted to like this book, I really did! I stopped and started it several times and when I finally put my foot down and made myself read it, I did a lot of skimming. I hate when I force myself to read something and not just DNF it. Anyway, our MC’s meet on a TV series. Luke is married to Anna, who I really liked, and Ryan thinks he’s straight. Luke does come clean to Ryan and explains what the deal is before they really get going. Ryan is from Australia but I never really got the feeling that he was. If I hadn’t been told this, I never would have known it. The issues with Luke's family and the stalker felt unfinished. While I did like their chemistry, I don’t think it was enough to carry the book. I think the book could have used some series editing getting the plot tightened down before running off to the next point. Even though I only rated this 2.5 stars, I might continue on as it isn’t really finished.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 25, 2018
Shipped by Karrie Roman is the first book in the Until You series. I found this story to be really sweet, fiery, and a touch of action/adventure.
Ryan is a lonely soul who has been through a lot in his life. He loves acting and that is where he really shines. Getting a roll in a TV series is a great break for him. Allows him to get away from his former life and make something of himself.
Lucas is running from his past. He is an established successful actor who knows the price of fame. He is a strong character who really has a lot of layers to him.
Overall a great fast-paced read. Some really touching steamy romance. And a little mystery sprinkled in for fun. I loved this start to this series and look forward to more in the future.
Five Shooting Stars
Ryan is a lonely soul who has been through a lot in his life. He loves acting and that is where he really shines. Getting a roll in a TV series is a great break for him. Allows him to get away from his former life and make something of himself.
Lucas is running from his past. He is an established successful actor who knows the price of fame. He is a strong character who really has a lot of layers to him.
Overall a great fast-paced read. Some really touching steamy romance. And a little mystery sprinkled in for fun. I loved this start to this series and look forward to more in the future.
Five Shooting Stars
July 7, 2018
Shipped appealed to me as soon as I read the blurb. I am an avid shipper, and I can't resist a story set in the world of filmmaking. So it seemed a match made in heaven. And mostly, it was. I really enjoyed entering Ryan and Lucas' world, and I loved their pairing (much as their fans did!) from the get-go. At times, their early relationship felt a little obsessive, but that soon dissipated once the main thrust of the plot got underway. There was a nice balance of action and drama, with good pacing, and a satisfying ended that provided a fun set-up for book two. All in all, it was a fun, enjoyable read, and I would definitely check out future works from this author.
I received this book as a free eBook ARC via NetGalley.
I received this book as a free eBook ARC via NetGalley.
June 18, 2018
Awesome start to the series. First time author for me and I am in love. Ryan and Lucas are everything I want in a romance. The story plot that they are TV actors and their show is based on a book, their characters being together is a cool idea that kept my attention for sure. This is a complicated situation with these guys where one is "straight" and one is "married", these guys have a lot to go through before they can find each other. You'll love not only the main characters but the side characters too. It's fun, sexy and leaves you wanting to know more. Can't wait for the next. This book was provided by the author via IndiGo Marketing & Design in exchange for an honest review.
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