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Under My Skin #2
Reawaken
Listening Length: 6 hours and 39 minutes.
Losing his adoring husband shattered Tristan Rogers' world. For the past few years, he's been going through the motions, running their dog grooming business while hiding the loneliness he feels down to his bones. When he witnesses an ugly breakup between a pretentious customer and his boyfriend, Tristan can't help but intervene. Something about the unassuming younger man calls to him, and he can't help wondering if he's experienced some heartache of his own.
Life took a tragic turn for Jonas "West" Hollis as a teen, and he's felt indebted to his overbearing lover ever since. Tristan's kindness draws him from the start, but with his dreams finally in reach, West can't risk getting close to someone else. Not now that he can live his life and stand on his own merit.
From innocent texts to companionable rides on Tristan's boat, what starts as an unexpected friendship between the men sparks into undeniable attraction. Neither are ready for anything deeper than a couple of passionate nights wrapped in each other's arms, but their connection becomes too intense for either to ignore. If Tristan and West want to heal their broken hearts, they'll need a considerable amount of trust and courage - not only in themselves but also each other.
Losing his adoring husband shattered Tristan Rogers' world. For the past few years, he's been going through the motions, running their dog grooming business while hiding the loneliness he feels down to his bones. When he witnesses an ugly breakup between a pretentious customer and his boyfriend, Tristan can't help but intervene. Something about the unassuming younger man calls to him, and he can't help wondering if he's experienced some heartache of his own.
Life took a tragic turn for Jonas "West" Hollis as a teen, and he's felt indebted to his overbearing lover ever since. Tristan's kindness draws him from the start, but with his dreams finally in reach, West can't risk getting close to someone else. Not now that he can live his life and stand on his own merit.
From innocent texts to companionable rides on Tristan's boat, what starts as an unexpected friendship between the men sparks into undeniable attraction. Neither are ready for anything deeper than a couple of passionate nights wrapped in each other's arms, but their connection becomes too intense for either to ignore. If Tristan and West want to heal their broken hearts, they'll need a considerable amount of trust and courage - not only in themselves but also each other.
7 pages, Audible Audio
First published October 31, 2017
109 people are currently reading
470 people want to read
About the author
Christina Lee
55 books2,147 followersChristina writes romance in different sub-genres, mostly with LGBTQ characters, not only because she's part of the community, but because representation matters, and everyone deserves a happily-ever-after.
You can find more info on her website: www.christinalee.net. From there you can link to her Facebook reader group as well as her IG account and newsletter.
You can find more info on her website: www.christinalee.net. From there you can link to her Facebook reader group as well as her IG account and newsletter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 154 reviews
January 28, 2022
4.5 stars
I can't believe I initally wanted to skip this book. After reading the blurb, I expected it to be too heavy and sad, but it wasn't like that at all.
I loved both MCs. They really surprised me as characters. Their relationship progressed very slowly and gradually, with them being friends first. I loved that. It felt very natural and realistic. Also, I didn't find Michael's character that bad here.
This turned out to be a very sweet and lovely story and I thoroughly enjoyed it. So much so, that I read it in one sitting.
************
Re-read 4/2019 via audiobook. Really enjoyed Iggy Toma's narration.
Re-read 4/2020 via audiobook
Re-read 1/2022 via audiobook
I can't believe I initally wanted to skip this book. After reading the blurb, I expected it to be too heavy and sad, but it wasn't like that at all.
I loved both MCs. They really surprised me as characters. Their relationship progressed very slowly and gradually, with them being friends first. I loved that. It felt very natural and realistic. Also, I didn't find Michael's character that bad here.
This turned out to be a very sweet and lovely story and I thoroughly enjoyed it. So much so, that I read it in one sitting.
************
Re-read 4/2019 via audiobook. Really enjoyed Iggy Toma's narration.
Re-read 4/2020 via audiobook
Re-read 1/2022 via audiobook
October 31, 2017
I really enjoyed reading the first book in this series "Regret", so I was very excited about this second instalment ;) After reading the blurb though, I got a bit worried, because this book contains a pet peeve of mine... a deceased spouse.
Thankfully, even though Tristan is still grieving his late husband... I didn't feel that West had to fight some kind of perfect ghost.
It is quite the emotional story though...
Tristan was introduced in the previous book (Brin's boss at Doggy Styles), but no worries for those who haven't read that one yet.. this book can be read as a stand alone.
Tristan has been excisting for the last three years. I say excisiting, because he hasn't been fully living his life, ever since he lost his husband. He is still very much grieving.
Tristan and West know each other from "Doggy Styles", where West and his boyfriend take their dogs. West isn't very happy in his relationship either, and he should have ended things some time ago.
He finally does though and Tristan and West slowly become friends....and eventually much more than that.
Both these men were a bit broken, but they helped each other heal and bit by bit they mended each others broken pieces.
This was an emotional, sweet and sexy slown burn. I enjoyed reading it and I am looking forward to see, what Christina Lee has in store for us next ;)
My reviews are posted on DirtyBooksObsession
February 25, 2018
~4.25~
I liked Reawaken much more than the first book in this series. This is a beautiful story about grief, healing, and second chances.
Both MCs have suffered a great loss—Tristan lost his husband, Chris, to cancer three years prior, while West lost his entire family to a house fire when he was a teen—and understand pain and loneliness.
It's not easy to write about mourning for a lost love without enveloping the story in melancholy, but Christina Lee managed to show us Tristan's selfless love for his dead spouse without taking away from Tristan's new love for West. Chris was a quiet, constant presence in the story, and I felt like I knew him through Tristan's memories.
I loved how Tristan and West's friendship evolved naturally into a passionate, loving relationship. Nothing about the transition felt forced.
While the ending is a HFN, I think it worked for these men, both of whom were happy to move slowly and take love and life one step at a time. I have faith that they'll find their HEA together.
I liked Reawaken much more than the first book in this series. This is a beautiful story about grief, healing, and second chances.
Both MCs have suffered a great loss—Tristan lost his husband, Chris, to cancer three years prior, while West lost his entire family to a house fire when he was a teen—and understand pain and loneliness.
It's not easy to write about mourning for a lost love without enveloping the story in melancholy, but Christina Lee managed to show us Tristan's selfless love for his dead spouse without taking away from Tristan's new love for West. Chris was a quiet, constant presence in the story, and I felt like I knew him through Tristan's memories.
I loved how Tristan and West's friendship evolved naturally into a passionate, loving relationship. Nothing about the transition felt forced.
While the ending is a HFN, I think it worked for these men, both of whom were happy to move slowly and take love and life one step at a time. I have faith that they'll find their HEA together.
November 3, 2017
Algo me pasa con esta autora, soy muchas veces crítica con ella y algunos de sus libros no los he logrado terminar. Pero, tiene una forma de escribir que hace que los libros parezca que se lean solos y aunque no destaquen por su originalidad y calidad, a mi a veces me hace pasar unos ratos de lo más agradable. Y este ha sido el caso aquí, lo terminé en un día, disfruté con una pareja y una historia muy tiernas aunque se toquen algunos temas duros.
Le doy cuatro estrellas absolutamente personales.
Le doy cuatro estrellas absolutamente personales.
September 18, 2023
This was pretty good- I enjoyed both characters, especially thought Tristan was really sweet. It was a bit too slow paced for me.
I also feel like the cover model looks like he is 15 and that is very off-putting. 😭
I also feel like the cover model looks like he is 15 and that is very off-putting. 😭
October 30, 2017
This is gorgeous and tugs at the heart strings before wrapping everything up in a slightly squiffy bow which has been tied together with a lot of love but not necessarily any polish. (The bow that is, not the book!)
I've said before how much I love the skill Christina has in connecting the reader to the characters she writes and this one, book two in her new series of intertwined stories, is no exception.
In Tristan and West she's created two fully fleshed out men with their own broken parts and holes in their heart which are looking for the right person to mend them.
It's a slow, slow burn, friendship into attraction into lust and into love and it has to be that way as both men have deep scars which need some tender care.
I felt a twinge of sympathy for Mr V, West's ex-boyfriend, I think he did care for him in his own repressed way, and Tristan's dead husband was a presence in the background who never took over or felt like a missing perfect saint.
Seeing them slowly open up again to the possibility of a new life and a new love was so beautiful to read. I'm looking forward to more from this series.
#ARC received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
I've said before how much I love the skill Christina has in connecting the reader to the characters she writes and this one, book two in her new series of intertwined stories, is no exception.
In Tristan and West she's created two fully fleshed out men with their own broken parts and holes in their heart which are looking for the right person to mend them.
It's a slow, slow burn, friendship into attraction into lust and into love and it has to be that way as both men have deep scars which need some tender care.
I felt a twinge of sympathy for Mr V, West's ex-boyfriend, I think he did care for him in his own repressed way, and Tristan's dead husband was a presence in the background who never took over or felt like a missing perfect saint.
Seeing them slowly open up again to the possibility of a new life and a new love was so beautiful to read. I'm looking forward to more from this series.
#ARC received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
November 3, 2017
Reawaken by Christina Lee is the emotional story of two men with tragic pasts who help each other. Tristan is still healing from the loss of his husband a few years back, and West is learning to stand on his own after leaving a suffocating relationship.
What I loved:
-Fleshed out main characters.
-Emotionally gripping story.
-Hurt/Comfort/Healing
-A delicious friends to lovers slow burn romance. The relationship development felt natural, realistic. It moved at the pace that was adequate for them.
-May/December
-Tristan's and West's phone calls. I loved the subtle banter they started as that grew into more.
-I much appreciated that Tristan's deceased husband never became a ghost that stood between or overtook the story.
-Their chemistry. Once they got together... smokin'!
-And the end, it left me full of hope.
Can this be read as a standalone? Yes, it can.
All in all, this touching story about loss, trust, healing, and love is not one to be missed. 4.5 Stars!
January 16, 2018
4.25 Hearts
No sophomore slump here!
From the blurb I expected this to be super heavy and was pleasantly surprised to find it wasn't. Both men have suffered losses in their lives and are at varying stages of coming back from that. Tristan has had three years to deal with the loss of his beloved husband whereas West has just broken free of his controlling sorta boyfriend and is trying to stretch his wings. So... heavy adjacent?
Tristan and West have kind of been eyeballing each other for quite some time. We were introduced to West and his overbearing "boyfriend" in Regret. There is some underlying attraction from both parties but West is skittish. He wants to make a life for himself that's all his own thus is relationship averse but he also craves a connection. He begins calling and checking in with Tristan at Doggie Styles after Tristan helped him get away from Michael (the sorta ex); there is some flirtation and they meet up occasionally but he always always takes off before any bonding can happen. They slow burn from friends to friends with bennies to definite strings attached.
The dynamic these two have was delightfully unexpected! I heart me a big guy bottoming and these two even have a little D/s thing happening! Tristan likes to let West run the show and West likes to run it which makes them really compatible as well as smokin' hot! But what got me in the feels was they're both cuddle bunnies with West preferring to be wrapped up by Tristan, who's got some size on him. I thought this evened the power dynamics. Age difference, size difference, big buy bottoming = #WINNING!
I also really liked that West likes to cook and wants to pursue a career in the culinary arts. I thought the way Lee handled all of the restaurant stuff was on point. No matter what happens or what choices West makes, Tristan always supports him and is very perceptive about his boundaries. Both are well constructed characters who are relatable and their decisions and thought processes made sense given their individual histories which is something I appreciate.
Since we got the benefit of both of their perspectives it's clear they are falling for each other and I liked that they sort of energize the other. Tristan starts boating again and West asks to be taught to swim and things just click between them. They have fun together and the trust builds gradually. I'm not really certain what things they have in common for the long-term but I still bought into them as a couple.
And I liked the realism that Lee brought with Tristan's connection to his husband's family and how they will always be important to him as well as some of the interactions with the other guys from Doggie Styles. I'm assuming Elijah's book is next and I'd be interested in reading it if only to see Elijah kick Stewart and his controlling ass to the curb.
Recommend to slow burn, hurt/comfort lite and/or contemporary romance fans.
A review copy was provided.
No sophomore slump here!
From the blurb I expected this to be super heavy and was pleasantly surprised to find it wasn't. Both men have suffered losses in their lives and are at varying stages of coming back from that. Tristan has had three years to deal with the loss of his beloved husband whereas West has just broken free of his controlling sorta boyfriend and is trying to stretch his wings. So... heavy adjacent?
Tristan and West have kind of been eyeballing each other for quite some time. We were introduced to West and his overbearing "boyfriend" in Regret. There is some underlying attraction from both parties but West is skittish. He wants to make a life for himself that's all his own thus is relationship averse but he also craves a connection. He begins calling and checking in with Tristan at Doggie Styles after Tristan helped him get away from Michael (the sorta ex); there is some flirtation and they meet up occasionally but he always always takes off before any bonding can happen. They slow burn from friends to friends with bennies to definite strings attached.
The dynamic these two have was delightfully unexpected! I heart me a big guy bottoming and these two even have a little D/s thing happening! Tristan likes to let West run the show and West likes to run it which makes them really compatible as well as smokin' hot! But what got me in the feels was they're both cuddle bunnies with West preferring to be wrapped up by Tristan, who's got some size on him. I thought this evened the power dynamics. Age difference, size difference, big buy bottoming = #WINNING!
I also really liked that West likes to cook and wants to pursue a career in the culinary arts. I thought the way Lee handled all of the restaurant stuff was on point. No matter what happens or what choices West makes, Tristan always supports him and is very perceptive about his boundaries. Both are well constructed characters who are relatable and their decisions and thought processes made sense given their individual histories which is something I appreciate.
Since we got the benefit of both of their perspectives it's clear they are falling for each other and I liked that they sort of energize the other. Tristan starts boating again and West asks to be taught to swim and things just click between them. They have fun together and the trust builds gradually. I'm not really certain what things they have in common for the long-term but I still bought into them as a couple.
And I liked the realism that Lee brought with Tristan's connection to his husband's family and how they will always be important to him as well as some of the interactions with the other guys from Doggie Styles. I'm assuming Elijah's book is next and I'd be interested in reading it if only to see Elijah kick Stewart and his controlling ass to the curb.
Recommend to slow burn, hurt/comfort lite and/or contemporary romance fans.
A review copy was provided.
November 16, 2017
~3.5 stars~
This book was perfectly lovely, and I enjoyed reading it. However, dead spouses and hurt/comfort are two themes that have to be done just so for me to really enjoy them.
Tristan's deceased husband played too big a role, for me. The story line was done with grace and respect, no doubt. But I need the MC to be ALL IN with the other MC, not constantly thinking of and talking to the deceased spouse. Just a personal preference.
The writing was solid, the connection between Tristan and West was on point, and the sexy times were sweet and sizzling.
This book was perfectly lovely, and I enjoyed reading it. However, dead spouses and hurt/comfort are two themes that have to be done just so for me to really enjoy them.
Tristan's deceased husband played too big a role, for me. The story line was done with grace and respect, no doubt. But I need the MC to be ALL IN with the other MC, not constantly thinking of and talking to the deceased spouse. Just a personal preference.
The writing was solid, the connection between Tristan and West was on point, and the sexy times were sweet and sizzling.
April 6, 2020
Audio 5 Stars
Story 3.75 Dominate Twink Stars 😍
Story 3.75 Dominate Twink Stars 😍
February 19, 2018
3,25 stars
I expected this second book to be much better than the first one, but unfortunately I didn't get to truly love this one either. I expected so much more!
I love age gaps in my book, but here I felt both characters acted pretty childish. They tiptoed too much around each other. West was too shy at first and afraid to trust Tristan. And Tristan did everything in his power not to scare West away. I felt he held back too much, all the time.
Well my biggest complain would be how West and Tristan's building friendship took too much time. I got so bored by all the tiptoeing. Then, we get some smoking hot scenes and I will have to agree this author surely knows how to write great hot scenes. But I am sorry we don't get much of the building relationship and even if the ending was sweet, I wanted much more.
What I did enjoy, besides the hot scenes I've already mentioned: their chats about the "shitty bike", their messages, their sailings and swimming sessions.
Overall we got a sweet and almost no angst story, even if their pasts were both heartbreaking.
West's final meeting with Mr. V, his ex, wasn't at all what I expected. I kind of resented West for how he chose to leave Mr. V, after their history. Call me crazy, but it felt wrong to dump the man in the parking lot, and leave with a stranger. OK, Mr. V was overbearing and a snob, but he took care of West for the past 8 years. I just wish the author would have found another way to bring West and Tristan together. So that's why I'm rating this story with only 3,25 stars.
I expected this second book to be much better than the first one, but unfortunately I didn't get to truly love this one either. I expected so much more!
I love age gaps in my book, but here I felt both characters acted pretty childish. They tiptoed too much around each other. West was too shy at first and afraid to trust Tristan. And Tristan did everything in his power not to scare West away. I felt he held back too much, all the time.
Well my biggest complain would be how West and Tristan's building friendship took too much time. I got so bored by all the tiptoeing. Then, we get some smoking hot scenes and I will have to agree this author surely knows how to write great hot scenes. But I am sorry we don't get much of the building relationship and even if the ending was sweet, I wanted much more.
What I did enjoy, besides the hot scenes I've already mentioned: their chats about the "shitty bike", their messages, their sailings and swimming sessions.
Overall we got a sweet and almost no angst story, even if their pasts were both heartbreaking.
West's final meeting with Mr. V, his ex, wasn't at all what I expected. I kind of resented West for how he chose to leave Mr. V, after their history. Call me crazy, but it felt wrong to dump the man in the parking lot, and leave with a stranger. OK, Mr. V was overbearing and a snob, but he took care of West for the past 8 years. I just wish the author would have found another way to bring West and Tristan together. So that's why I'm rating this story with only 3,25 stars.
Read
November 2, 2017REAWAKEN is now live and available in KU. It's a May-December, hurt-comfort story and though it's the second book in a series (REGRET is book one), it can definitely be read as a standalone.
A teaser:
A teaser:
September 26, 2022
3.5 stars
Tristan and West have been through a lot. They both suffered loss, Tristan with losing his husband and West with losing his family. West has a hard time trusting, so it was great to see him grow and learn to trust Tristan especially after Wests poor relationship with Michael.. and Michael does have a story (book 4) so that’ll be interest to read if I do pick that up.
This can also be a standalone, yes the first couple shows up, but wasn’t a big part of the book.
Overall cute read I am glad I read it. And Iggy Toma narrates so that was a win!
Tristan and West have been through a lot. They both suffered loss, Tristan with losing his husband and West with losing his family. West has a hard time trusting, so it was great to see him grow and learn to trust Tristan especially after Wests poor relationship with Michael.. and Michael does have a story (book 4) so that’ll be interest to read if I do pick that up.
This can also be a standalone, yes the first couple shows up, but wasn’t a big part of the book.
Overall cute read I am glad I read it. And Iggy Toma narrates so that was a win!
October 12, 2020
This shit was slow! I mean, they made me suffer for it that's for sure! 😖❤
The story was a heartfelt one, where one character has lost all his family and can't live with his boyfriend anymore because shit is complicated, then we have the other character who is still grieving the loss of his husband to cancer. Both man grieving and needing human warmth found each other, defining the idea that people appear into your life exactly when you need them to, some temporary, but some stay forever and that was the case with West and Tristan. *swoons*
Even though it was slow burn I appreciated it because it made sense for the story, their love grew gradually wich was perfect, their dynamics were sweet and the chemistry was always there from the beginning, even when they were costumer and clerk. The sexy times were fire but short, only complaint here, but still hot so I'll shut my mouth.
It was lovely to see them find happiness with each other, lovely, lovely read. 🥰❤
The story was a heartfelt one, where one character has lost all his family and can't live with his boyfriend anymore because shit is complicated, then we have the other character who is still grieving the loss of his husband to cancer. Both man grieving and needing human warmth found each other, defining the idea that people appear into your life exactly when you need them to, some temporary, but some stay forever and that was the case with West and Tristan. *swoons*
Even though it was slow burn I appreciated it because it made sense for the story, their love grew gradually wich was perfect, their dynamics were sweet and the chemistry was always there from the beginning, even when they were costumer and clerk. The sexy times were fire but short, only complaint here, but still hot so I'll shut my mouth.
It was lovely to see them find happiness with each other, lovely, lovely read. 🥰❤
November 15, 2017
I'd love some more tension, but all in all I enjoyed it. One of my favorites by this author.
April 1, 2024
3.5 ⭐ rounded up
Tristan has lost his husband. West is just out of a controlling relationship and trying desperately to find himself after a shocking family tragedy. Both of these men are so broken in their different ways but after Tristan helps West (and then West steals his bike!), they begin a slow friendship; cautious, comforting and gentle.
West is so very skittish at the beginning and it leaves us wondering what really happened in his relationship with Michael. Tristan is still so raw with grief over his husband's death but he is so gentle with West, never pushing him further than he is willing or able to go with their friendship. He always leave the power with West. And West blooms with Tristan's attention.
Their gentleness and care with each other was what made this book so sweet and despite my lack of love for the 'dead spouse' trope, this still worked because enough time had passed and Tristan wasn't overly caught up in unresolved issues.
This was a sweet, sexy, emotional read and a great addition to the series
ARC provided for my honest review
Tristan has lost his husband. West is just out of a controlling relationship and trying desperately to find himself after a shocking family tragedy. Both of these men are so broken in their different ways but after Tristan helps West (and then West steals his bike!), they begin a slow friendship; cautious, comforting and gentle.
West is so very skittish at the beginning and it leaves us wondering what really happened in his relationship with Michael. Tristan is still so raw with grief over his husband's death but he is so gentle with West, never pushing him further than he is willing or able to go with their friendship. He always leave the power with West. And West blooms with Tristan's attention.
Their gentleness and care with each other was what made this book so sweet and despite my lack of love for the 'dead spouse' trope, this still worked because enough time had passed and Tristan wasn't overly caught up in unresolved issues.
This was a sweet, sexy, emotional read and a great addition to the series
ARC provided for my honest review
November 13, 2017
4.5 stars.
This book was sweet and hawt! Tristan and West are the best.
And holly hot sex, Batman! I loved, loved the two MCs! A toppy twink with a penchant for being in charge and an otter that gets his boat floated by bottoming and taking orders? Gimme, gimme!
Highly recommend! Unlike the first one in the series, this one had an amazing character connection and relationship development.
This book was sweet and hawt! Tristan and West are the best.
And holly hot sex, Batman! I loved, loved the two MCs! A toppy twink with a penchant for being in charge and an otter that gets his boat floated by bottoming and taking orders? Gimme, gimme!
Highly recommend! Unlike the first one in the series, this one had an amazing character connection and relationship development.
April 27, 2019
Learning to love again isn’t easy for Tristan and he wasn’t looking, but he wasn’t closed off either. He just wanted to help Wes out of a bad situation. I love how they became friends then lovers they helped each other heal. These are the best kinds of stories. It felt organic.
I loved the narration I think Iggy is a favorite MM narrator for me.
I loved the narration I think Iggy is a favorite MM narrator for me.
November 2, 2017
4 stars.
This is book #2 in the Under My Skin series and it can be read as a standalone.
I really enjoyed the story. I'm a huge fan of age gap and I loved the part where they become friends before lovers. I've always had a soft spot for those in regards to books. Tristan and West really worked together and just fit. It was adorable seeing them grow and become free.
I'm excited to see if Christina keeps writing a few more in this series. I can see what characters she might write about!
An arc was provided in exchange for an honest review.
This is book #2 in the Under My Skin series and it can be read as a standalone.
I really enjoyed the story. I'm a huge fan of age gap and I loved the part where they become friends before lovers. I've always had a soft spot for those in regards to books. Tristan and West really worked together and just fit. It was adorable seeing them grow and become free.
I'm excited to see if Christina keeps writing a few more in this series. I can see what characters she might write about!
An arc was provided in exchange for an honest review.
February 27, 2019
DNF.
After a non detailed scene of one of the hero hooking up with a stranger, I was disgruntled. Still I continued to read. And then it was insinuated that he was with other guy. All after meeting the other hero. And I lost interest.
After a non detailed scene of one of the hero hooking up with a stranger, I was disgruntled. Still I continued to read. And then it was insinuated that he was with other guy. All after meeting the other hero. And I lost interest.
April 23, 2018
3.5 stars only because I wasn't a big fan of West/Jonas. I enjoyed the book and reading about Tristan and West falling in love and learning to live again, very sweet. I felt bad for Tristan always having to watch how he worded things to West in fear if he said the wrong thing he'd disappear from his life so that was my only complaint regarding the book, overall I loved it and the audio version with Iggy Toma as the narrator was excellent! Looking forward to starting the next book in this series 😍
October 30, 2017
4.5 stars
We got to know Tristan a bit in Regret as he is Brin's boss at Doggie Styles Grooming. Tristan has been a widower 3 years and has been living life in a rut. He runs his business, has his friends at work, and is living a pretty lonely existence. He is not looking for anyone to replace his beloved husband, and is still grieving his loss.
West and his boyfriend would bring their dogs to Tristan's shop. He was intrigued by their relationship as West's boyfriend was older, controlling, and rude, while West seemed to be quiet and in the background. West stayed longer in the relationship than he should have but felt indebted. His past has left him lost and alone, but one day he decides he needs to get away and make his own way in life. And Tristan gives him assistance when he needed it.
Slowly they begin communication with calls, texts, and eventually a fragile friendship. Both have up walls and are not looking to get emotionally attached. But both could use a friend and seem to fill a void and ease the loneliness. As trust builds and they become more of a lifeline to hold onto, attraction also keeps building.
But can these two hurt and lost men find a connection that has the potential to stick and grow?
These guys were so sweet, vulnerable, and broken. Tristan was such a good, mature, stable guy, but was also passionate, patient, and kind. He needed a push to get back to living and feeling. And West was younger and unsettled, but he had such a strong need to be cared for and feel safe while also wanting to be his own man. They both challenged the other. They both had so much love to give, but were so scared of getting hurt or getting into a situation they could not handle. Companionship comfort, friendship, respect, a few kisses, some tenderness and touches....I enjoyed their tentative and gradual transition together and their personal growth.
This is an emotional, slow burn, May-December, friends-to-lovers, M/M love story of two people trying to move on from tragedy and heartbreak and find hope. I was glad to get both of their points of view since they were both guarded and afraid of sharing at times. I really loved them together. They were so different, but at the same time had commonalities and could understand the other.
This brings back Brin and Nick, Elijah, Stewart, Kam, Brooke, and the mysterious Mr. V from Regret, but it can be read as a stand-alone. I hope we see a books for Elijah and Kam in the future.
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review.
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We got to know Tristan a bit in Regret as he is Brin's boss at Doggie Styles Grooming. Tristan has been a widower 3 years and has been living life in a rut. He runs his business, has his friends at work, and is living a pretty lonely existence. He is not looking for anyone to replace his beloved husband, and is still grieving his loss.
West and his boyfriend would bring their dogs to Tristan's shop. He was intrigued by their relationship as West's boyfriend was older, controlling, and rude, while West seemed to be quiet and in the background. West stayed longer in the relationship than he should have but felt indebted. His past has left him lost and alone, but one day he decides he needs to get away and make his own way in life. And Tristan gives him assistance when he needed it.
Slowly they begin communication with calls, texts, and eventually a fragile friendship. Both have up walls and are not looking to get emotionally attached. But both could use a friend and seem to fill a void and ease the loneliness. As trust builds and they become more of a lifeline to hold onto, attraction also keeps building.
But can these two hurt and lost men find a connection that has the potential to stick and grow?
These guys were so sweet, vulnerable, and broken. Tristan was such a good, mature, stable guy, but was also passionate, patient, and kind. He needed a push to get back to living and feeling. And West was younger and unsettled, but he had such a strong need to be cared for and feel safe while also wanting to be his own man. They both challenged the other. They both had so much love to give, but were so scared of getting hurt or getting into a situation they could not handle. Companionship comfort, friendship, respect, a few kisses, some tenderness and touches....I enjoyed their tentative and gradual transition together and their personal growth.
This is an emotional, slow burn, May-December, friends-to-lovers, M/M love story of two people trying to move on from tragedy and heartbreak and find hope. I was glad to get both of their points of view since they were both guarded and afraid of sharing at times. I really loved them together. They were so different, but at the same time had commonalities and could understand the other.
This brings back Brin and Nick, Elijah, Stewart, Kam, Brooke, and the mysterious Mr. V from Regret, but it can be read as a stand-alone. I hope we see a books for Elijah and Kam in the future.
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review.
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December 18, 2017
Though Reawaken is the second in this series, it can be read as a stand alone. There are hints of Tristan and West in Regret but nothing so significant that you’d really lose anything if you skipped it.
I really enjoyed Reawaken. The heavy themes of loss, grief and healing were handled thoughtfully, with sensitivity and grace. Even though this is a story whose main focus throughout is on both of the main character’s journeys through grief, growth and moving on, it felt comforting and unexpectedly light. That’s not to say that these heavy topics were handled lightly though, they were handled skillfully, with depth and insight which resulted in a lovely, emotional journey.
The gradual evolution of Tristan and West’s relationship felt right. Even though a lot of their time is spent separately, it was satisfying to witness how they each inspired the other to grow and move on. The time they did spend together was gentle in a way that felt fresh, entertaining and moving.
At times, Tristan almost seemed too perfect, his thoughtfulness, insight and sensitivity were on par with that of my therapist and that’s saying a lot. Who’s that well adjusted and emotionally healthy? Certainly not me. But I liked it, the way Tristan and West responded to and supported each other was inspirational.
The only thing that kept Reawaken from getting a full 5 star rating is that, like its predecessor, the writing felt a little clunky at times. I think it felt more fluid than Regret but I did notice myself having to reread sentences and passages because the wording felt awkward or to figure out who was talking. It wasn’t overly distracting but was noticeable to me.
Reawaken is a really lovely story that I can see myself reading again. 4.5
I really enjoyed Reawaken. The heavy themes of loss, grief and healing were handled thoughtfully, with sensitivity and grace. Even though this is a story whose main focus throughout is on both of the main character’s journeys through grief, growth and moving on, it felt comforting and unexpectedly light. That’s not to say that these heavy topics were handled lightly though, they were handled skillfully, with depth and insight which resulted in a lovely, emotional journey.
The gradual evolution of Tristan and West’s relationship felt right. Even though a lot of their time is spent separately, it was satisfying to witness how they each inspired the other to grow and move on. The time they did spend together was gentle in a way that felt fresh, entertaining and moving.
At times, Tristan almost seemed too perfect, his thoughtfulness, insight and sensitivity were on par with that of my therapist and that’s saying a lot. Who’s that well adjusted and emotionally healthy? Certainly not me. But I liked it, the way Tristan and West responded to and supported each other was inspirational.
The only thing that kept Reawaken from getting a full 5 star rating is that, like its predecessor, the writing felt a little clunky at times. I think it felt more fluid than Regret but I did notice myself having to reread sentences and passages because the wording felt awkward or to figure out who was talking. It wasn’t overly distracting but was noticeable to me.
Reawaken is a really lovely story that I can see myself reading again. 4.5
October 10, 2020
3.5
I can’t tell if it was the book or me. It was a beautiful story, for some reason it took me a while to get into it. I found the beginning to be kinda slow. This is about two men healing from past losses, learning how to be themselves with out the ones they loved, and finding love with each other. I guess my other issue was them trying to paint Michael as this really bad guy. Sure he was a pompous jerk with treatment towards others but I feel like he wasn’t bad towards west. I think he was trying his best to take care of west and crossed a few lines that west never told him were lines. The writing was good, the smexy was hawt, and the side characters were amazing.
I can’t tell if it was the book or me. It was a beautiful story, for some reason it took me a while to get into it. I found the beginning to be kinda slow. This is about two men healing from past losses, learning how to be themselves with out the ones they loved, and finding love with each other. I guess my other issue was them trying to paint Michael as this really bad guy. Sure he was a pompous jerk with treatment towards others but I feel like he wasn’t bad towards west. I think he was trying his best to take care of west and crossed a few lines that west never told him were lines. The writing was good, the smexy was hawt, and the side characters were amazing.
November 6, 2017
4.5 Stars
This is the second in the Under My Skin series but can be read as a stand alone. We meet Tristan in the first book but only know that he is the owner of Doggy Styles. What this author always brings to the table when she writes, is the down and dirty, nuts and bolts of what makes us human. Tristan has loved deeply and lost. His heart still stuttering and unsure about the future.
West has also suffered great loss and in trying to overcome it, has left himself vulnerable and questioning who he really is. What brings these two together is the desperate need for a friend. Someone to just BE with. Someone to trust. No judgement's.
I loved the age difference between the two men. I loved the slow burn to romance. The bond of friendship being more important to each of them than the spark of chemistry each time they were together. I also liked they they were both able to get to a point of trust that they could unload their burdens on each other and help to carry the weight.
Love comes when we least expect it. Tristan and West hadn't planned for anything to be forever, but together, they each became MORE.
So happy to once again meet the characters Christina creates. Looking forward to more stories from her.
*Complimentary copy provided for an honest review.
This is the second in the Under My Skin series but can be read as a stand alone. We meet Tristan in the first book but only know that he is the owner of Doggy Styles. What this author always brings to the table when she writes, is the down and dirty, nuts and bolts of what makes us human. Tristan has loved deeply and lost. His heart still stuttering and unsure about the future.
West has also suffered great loss and in trying to overcome it, has left himself vulnerable and questioning who he really is. What brings these two together is the desperate need for a friend. Someone to just BE with. Someone to trust. No judgement's.
I loved the age difference between the two men. I loved the slow burn to romance. The bond of friendship being more important to each of them than the spark of chemistry each time they were together. I also liked they they were both able to get to a point of trust that they could unload their burdens on each other and help to carry the weight.
Love comes when we least expect it. Tristan and West hadn't planned for anything to be forever, but together, they each became MORE.
So happy to once again meet the characters Christina creates. Looking forward to more stories from her.
*Complimentary copy provided for an honest review.
February 7, 2022
3.5 stars
April 6, 2020
Good Read!
Overall, a sweet, romantic story about Tristan & West. I liked Tristan’s patience & calm personality as his relationship developed with West and West perseverance to take charge of his life. A good story. Special Note: Cleveland, Ohio Rock!
Overall, a sweet, romantic story about Tristan & West. I liked Tristan’s patience & calm personality as his relationship developed with West and West perseverance to take charge of his life. A good story. Special Note: Cleveland, Ohio Rock!
January 31, 2022
Omg christina Lee I'm sending you a bill for my tissues!!!!!
So beautiful!!!!!
So beautiful!!!!!
August 22, 2020
3.5 ⭐
Quelle lecture émouvante ! J'ai été très touchée par les personnages, par leur histoire et leur parcours, que ce soit Tristan ou West.
West m'a fait l'effet d'un petit animal fragile et sauvage, comme un petit oiseau tombé du nid. Et si je continue à filer la métaphore, je peux dire que Tristan le prend sous son aile, mais il doit constamment faire attention à ne pas les brusquer, à ne pas l'effrayer, il est toujours là en soutien, et le laisse aller à son rythme. On est vraiment dans le pur hurt/confort ici, les deux hommes s'appuient l'un sur l'autre et s'apportent amitié, réconfort et bienveillance. C'est très doux et délicat, leur lien est ténu, fragile. Certains passages m'ont serré le coeur, face à la souffrance de West, et à ce besoin qu'il a de pouvoir sans cesse être en position de fuir, fuir pour se protéger et s'assurer qu'il maîtrise la situation.
J'ai aimé leurs coups de fil, cette douceur qui se dégage de leurs échanges, cette confiance qu'ils établissent progressivement, et ce réconfort qu'ils s'apportent mutuellement. On est tout à fait dans le registre du slow burn et je dois dire que tout est tellement délicat entre eux que j'aurais préféré ne pas avoir de scènes intimes explicites, car je me suis fait l'effet d'une intruse, et j'ai trouvé qu'elles offraient un sacré contraste avec le reste du livre.
Une belle lecture donc, portée par la jolie plume de Christina Lee, qui offre ici une belle histoire de réconfort, d'amitié et d'espoir.
Quelle lecture émouvante ! J'ai été très touchée par les personnages, par leur histoire et leur parcours, que ce soit Tristan ou West.
West m'a fait l'effet d'un petit animal fragile et sauvage, comme un petit oiseau tombé du nid. Et si je continue à filer la métaphore, je peux dire que Tristan le prend sous son aile, mais il doit constamment faire attention à ne pas les brusquer, à ne pas l'effrayer, il est toujours là en soutien, et le laisse aller à son rythme. On est vraiment dans le pur hurt/confort ici, les deux hommes s'appuient l'un sur l'autre et s'apportent amitié, réconfort et bienveillance. C'est très doux et délicat, leur lien est ténu, fragile. Certains passages m'ont serré le coeur, face à la souffrance de West, et à ce besoin qu'il a de pouvoir sans cesse être en position de fuir, fuir pour se protéger et s'assurer qu'il maîtrise la situation.
J'ai aimé leurs coups de fil, cette douceur qui se dégage de leurs échanges, cette confiance qu'ils établissent progressivement, et ce réconfort qu'ils s'apportent mutuellement. On est tout à fait dans le registre du slow burn et je dois dire que tout est tellement délicat entre eux que j'aurais préféré ne pas avoir de scènes intimes explicites, car je me suis fait l'effet d'une intruse, et j'ai trouvé qu'elles offraient un sacré contraste avec le reste du livre.
Une belle lecture donc, portée par la jolie plume de Christina Lee, qui offre ici une belle histoire de réconfort, d'amitié et d'espoir.
November 11, 2017
Everything about this book screamed "you have to be sad, you have to cry and feel endless sorrow for West and Tristan, because their lives were so shitty and tragic". As you can see by my rating, i was not feeling it at all and felt zero connection with them, because their drama was unnecessary, Wests need for independence was over the top and let me tell you, if dead husband is talking to you, then, Tristan, you have a big problem. Not with your head, but with how stupid it sounds and how hard i rolled my eyes. I was hoping this book would be as great as the first one, but it was such a dissapointing read.
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