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Small-Town Dreams #1
The Nerd and the Prince
Prince Charming is the man next door.
Small-town business owner Jason Brewster has big dreams: world travel, adventure, and most of all, a passionate romance worthy of a fairy tale. But he doesn’t believe fantasies can come true….
Until Adam moves in next door.
He’s handsome, cultured, European, and best of all, interested in Jason. It’s like something out of the stories Jason loves.
But Adam—whose real name is Amadeo Montefalcone—has a secret. He's royalty, prince of the small country of Monterosia. Only he doesn't want to rule, and especially doesn't want the loveless marriage waiting for him at home. So he ran away in search of true love. With a man. And with Jason, he finds it.
But Adam can't run forever. The truth will come out. If Jason can forgive Adam’s deception, they might find their happily ever after.
Small-town business owner Jason Brewster has big dreams: world travel, adventure, and most of all, a passionate romance worthy of a fairy tale. But he doesn’t believe fantasies can come true….
Until Adam moves in next door.
He’s handsome, cultured, European, and best of all, interested in Jason. It’s like something out of the stories Jason loves.
But Adam—whose real name is Amadeo Montefalcone—has a secret. He's royalty, prince of the small country of Monterosia. Only he doesn't want to rule, and especially doesn't want the loveless marriage waiting for him at home. So he ran away in search of true love. With a man. And with Jason, he finds it.
But Adam can't run forever. The truth will come out. If Jason can forgive Adam’s deception, they might find their happily ever after.
264 pages, Paperback
First published September 18, 2018
15 people are currently reading
129 people want to read
About the author
B.G. Thomas
77 books239 followersB.G. Thomas lives in Kansas City with his husband for nearly fifteen years and was legally married in 2014. Ehey have a fabulous little dog, Sarah Jane. He sees his wonderful daughter just often enough to miss her when she isn't there! He has a romantic soul and is extraordinarily lucky to have many friends.
He loves science fiction & fantasy, horror, romance and more, has gone to SF&F conventions his entire adult life, and been lucky enough to meet many of his favorite writers. He is a “Star Trek” and Joss Whedon fan from way back!
He has written all his life, it is where he finds his joy. In the 90’s, he wrote for gay magazines, but stopped because they wanted him to cut out story and romance, and write only sex.
Then through a few friends, he discovered the growing market of M/M Romance and was thrilled beyond words. FINALLY, a way to write the stories he always wanted to write. Adventure, romantic comedy, science fiction, and more, but with gay characters. And he wouldn't have to fade to black! People wanted to read the erotic as well. Plot and sex! HURRAY!
B.G. Thomas very much believes in The Law of Attraction and that "thoughts become things." A lot of things all started happening at once. He heard the words, "Leap, and the net will appear," and something re-kindled inside. He sent out a story and was thrilled when it was almost immediately accepted.
He believes that we are divine expressions of the Universe, each and everyone. "It is never too late!,” he states. “Pursue your dreams! They will come true!"
He loves science fiction & fantasy, horror, romance and more, has gone to SF&F conventions his entire adult life, and been lucky enough to meet many of his favorite writers. He is a “Star Trek” and Joss Whedon fan from way back!
He has written all his life, it is where he finds his joy. In the 90’s, he wrote for gay magazines, but stopped because they wanted him to cut out story and romance, and write only sex.
Then through a few friends, he discovered the growing market of M/M Romance and was thrilled beyond words. FINALLY, a way to write the stories he always wanted to write. Adventure, romantic comedy, science fiction, and more, but with gay characters. And he wouldn't have to fade to black! People wanted to read the erotic as well. Plot and sex! HURRAY!
B.G. Thomas very much believes in The Law of Attraction and that "thoughts become things." A lot of things all started happening at once. He heard the words, "Leap, and the net will appear," and something re-kindled inside. He sent out a story and was thrilled when it was almost immediately accepted.
He believes that we are divine expressions of the Universe, each and everyone. "It is never too late!,” he states. “Pursue your dreams! They will come true!"
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
September 18, 2018
Jason is a small-town geeky bookstore/café owner and Adam is a royal prince hiding out from his family to keep from being married off to a woman.
This book took me a while to get through. The blurb was really promising when I read it initially, but I really struggled reading this book and had to keep setting it down, and then coming back to it. It was really over the top sweet and a little too cheesy for me, which is to be expected when it comes to some of the Dreamspun Desires books, but it was just too much for me. So, on that note, I’m really not sure if my feelings on this book are just a case of it being “me” or if it was. in fact, the book itself. The writing was good and the pacing of the story flowed nicely, so there’s that. I am sure that other people who really like sweet romance books will enjoy this one. I just had a really hard time connecting to this book and the characters on a personal level. I was really disappointed in my feelings, I wanted to love this book, but I didn’t.
I think part of the issue with this book for me was all the super sugary sweet romance talk. Like it all had to be a perfect fairy tale situation for Jason. Even though this is fiction and not a real-life story, it just seemed way too over the top fake. Call me a cynic, but none of the stuff in this book would ever really happen. There’s a lot of talk about mythical people, gods and beings which adds more the story, but at the same time doesn’t really have any bearing on the storyline and plot itself, this is not a fantasy book, it just felt a little like padding to make the book longer. Add in some light conflicts about the characters being gay, not accepting who they are, family members who don’t approve and previous (non)relationships with guys who are still hiding who they are, some bullying, and you have this book. Timmy was an annoying minor character who needed to just move on and stop denying who he really is.
There is very little drama and action in this book, there were a few small twists that were not predictable while leading up to them so that was nice. There always seemed to be something or someone standing in the way of the two guys having any hot moments to themselves, a lot of missed opportunities for them. And the ending was a little odd for my tastes. But, overall, this book is sweet and cute and anyone who likes a good fairytale romance and/or Mythology will probably get a kick out of reading this one.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by Dreamspinner Press for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
This book took me a while to get through. The blurb was really promising when I read it initially, but I really struggled reading this book and had to keep setting it down, and then coming back to it. It was really over the top sweet and a little too cheesy for me, which is to be expected when it comes to some of the Dreamspun Desires books, but it was just too much for me. So, on that note, I’m really not sure if my feelings on this book are just a case of it being “me” or if it was. in fact, the book itself. The writing was good and the pacing of the story flowed nicely, so there’s that. I am sure that other people who really like sweet romance books will enjoy this one. I just had a really hard time connecting to this book and the characters on a personal level. I was really disappointed in my feelings, I wanted to love this book, but I didn’t.
I think part of the issue with this book for me was all the super sugary sweet romance talk. Like it all had to be a perfect fairy tale situation for Jason. Even though this is fiction and not a real-life story, it just seemed way too over the top fake. Call me a cynic, but none of the stuff in this book would ever really happen. There’s a lot of talk about mythical people, gods and beings which adds more the story, but at the same time doesn’t really have any bearing on the storyline and plot itself, this is not a fantasy book, it just felt a little like padding to make the book longer. Add in some light conflicts about the characters being gay, not accepting who they are, family members who don’t approve and previous (non)relationships with guys who are still hiding who they are, some bullying, and you have this book. Timmy was an annoying minor character who needed to just move on and stop denying who he really is.
There is very little drama and action in this book, there were a few small twists that were not predictable while leading up to them so that was nice. There always seemed to be something or someone standing in the way of the two guys having any hot moments to themselves, a lot of missed opportunities for them. And the ending was a little odd for my tastes. But, overall, this book is sweet and cute and anyone who likes a good fairytale romance and/or Mythology will probably get a kick out of reading this one.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by Dreamspinner Press for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
September 19, 2018
In a story that is super cute from the beginning, where magic is always right around the corner, and gods may just have a hand in how things work, ‘The Nerd and the Prince’ is a modern-day fairy tale that more than did justice to my expectations. With two men desperately looking for true love, neither of them having succeeded in the past for a variety of reasons, this novel could have easily turned into an angsty account of one more failure or maybe even a tragedy. Instead the author takes a prince, who leaves his country because he refuses to marry a woman to produce an heir, and has him meet an adorkable owner of a bookstore/diner in a small town where everyone knows everyone but nobody recognizes the prince. Their love story is truly delightful!
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
October 4, 2018
3.5 stars.
It's a very romantic notion, isn't it - you're a small-town nerdy bookstore/cafe owner, and a prince-in-hiding comes to town and sweeps you off your feet, whisking you away from your mundane life into a world of castles and royalty and legends, to live happily ever after.
Adam/Amadeo Montefalcone, Prince of Monterosia (a tiny fictional kingdom somewhere bordering Italy), has come to the small town Buckman, MO, where Jason, nerdy bookworm, lives. Adam is running from his responsibilities as the Crown Prince, and from being married off to some poor unsuspecting woman for whom he would hold no love or desire. Because Amadeo is gay, and after being almost caught in flagrante on his knees in a dark alley, he feels that he just needs to get away.
His younger brother has helped him escape to the US, obtaining a small house that just happens to be next to Jason's bookstore/cafe/apartment. Jason Evander Brewster has no illusions of grandeur, and while he's not exactly flaunting his sexuality, he's not exactly hiding it either. He had a clandestine thing with Timothy who's deep in the closet, but that's long over, and Jason is still nursing a bit of a broken heart. His dreams are traveling the world, finding adventure and a love like a fairy tale.
This is a sweet, almost too sweet romance. Jason's personality is a bit underdeveloped, especially when viewed against Adam's larger than life joviality and worldliness. The romance is obviously rapid and swept-off-your-feet, and the emotions just drip off the pages. Adam is a perfect human specimen, with a god-like physique and model looks, and Jason is your stereotypical small-town nerd with expressive eyes, who doesn't believe he even has a chance at such a perfect creature. It's just enough over the top to not veer into ridiculous territory, and none of it feels realistic - but then most of the books in this Harlequin-esque series aren't to be taken super seriously. They're grand romance fairy tales, fantasies, and should be read as such - a way to spend a few joyful hours, forgetting about reality.
The book also contains a plethora of information about Greek mythology, which was delightful, and a bunch of Italian phrases that I mostly understood, which was not so delightful. For most of them, a translation is readily provided as part of the narrative or dialogue, and I suppose it fit Amadeo, as that is his primary language, but it became slightly too much after a while. It's never easy to include a foreign language; surely appropriate when one of your MCs is a native to that foreign country, but it can also be tedious for the reader.
While there is a wee bit of drama/angst, it's minor, and only really happens toward the end - the romance between Jason and Adam is completely angst-free - the two spot each other, fall in lust and then in love. I did appreciate that the author did allow them to get to know each other, instead of simply jumping into bed for a romp in the sheets.
The finale and the subsequent HEA (obligatory in this series) in the epilogue were both well done. The solution to Adam's dilemma was rather obvious, so I wasn't surprised at all when that came to pass. The way of getting there however was interesting.
I enjoyed reading this book. It's a sweet, easy romance, with two likable MCs, a good supporting cast, and a lovely way to spend a few hours of your time.
** I received a free copy of this book from its publisher in exchange for an honest review. **
It's a very romantic notion, isn't it - you're a small-town nerdy bookstore/cafe owner, and a prince-in-hiding comes to town and sweeps you off your feet, whisking you away from your mundane life into a world of castles and royalty and legends, to live happily ever after.
Adam/Amadeo Montefalcone, Prince of Monterosia (a tiny fictional kingdom somewhere bordering Italy), has come to the small town Buckman, MO, where Jason, nerdy bookworm, lives. Adam is running from his responsibilities as the Crown Prince, and from being married off to some poor unsuspecting woman for whom he would hold no love or desire. Because Amadeo is gay, and after being almost caught in flagrante on his knees in a dark alley, he feels that he just needs to get away.
His younger brother has helped him escape to the US, obtaining a small house that just happens to be next to Jason's bookstore/cafe/apartment. Jason Evander Brewster has no illusions of grandeur, and while he's not exactly flaunting his sexuality, he's not exactly hiding it either. He had a clandestine thing with Timothy who's deep in the closet, but that's long over, and Jason is still nursing a bit of a broken heart. His dreams are traveling the world, finding adventure and a love like a fairy tale.
This is a sweet, almost too sweet romance. Jason's personality is a bit underdeveloped, especially when viewed against Adam's larger than life joviality and worldliness. The romance is obviously rapid and swept-off-your-feet, and the emotions just drip off the pages. Adam is a perfect human specimen, with a god-like physique and model looks, and Jason is your stereotypical small-town nerd with expressive eyes, who doesn't believe he even has a chance at such a perfect creature. It's just enough over the top to not veer into ridiculous territory, and none of it feels realistic - but then most of the books in this Harlequin-esque series aren't to be taken super seriously. They're grand romance fairy tales, fantasies, and should be read as such - a way to spend a few joyful hours, forgetting about reality.
The book also contains a plethora of information about Greek mythology, which was delightful, and a bunch of Italian phrases that I mostly understood, which was not so delightful. For most of them, a translation is readily provided as part of the narrative or dialogue, and I suppose it fit Amadeo, as that is his primary language, but it became slightly too much after a while. It's never easy to include a foreign language; surely appropriate when one of your MCs is a native to that foreign country, but it can also be tedious for the reader.
While there is a wee bit of drama/angst, it's minor, and only really happens toward the end - the romance between Jason and Adam is completely angst-free - the two spot each other, fall in lust and then in love. I did appreciate that the author did allow them to get to know each other, instead of simply jumping into bed for a romp in the sheets.
The finale and the subsequent HEA (obligatory in this series) in the epilogue were both well done. The solution to Adam's dilemma was rather obvious, so I wasn't surprised at all when that came to pass. The way of getting there however was interesting.
I enjoyed reading this book. It's a sweet, easy romance, with two likable MCs, a good supporting cast, and a lovely way to spend a few hours of your time.
** I received a free copy of this book from its publisher in exchange for an honest review. **
October 12, 2018
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.25 stars
This book is a fairy tale carefully covered in a contemporary coat. There is little reality to this cute little tale, for all that it takes place in a small town and involves not one, but two scenes in a Walmart. It’s also very lopsided, with much of the book taking place during the few days of Adam and Jason’s first meeting, first flirting, first kissing, and burgeoning relationship… and then it’s off to Adam’s kingdom, which we get to see in the last five or so pages of the book, for a climactic battle between good and evil. The ‘twist’ came so far out of left field I don’t think it was even in the same neighborhood, let alone the same state. It made zero sense, had nothing to do with anything, and was then over with no explanation. Giving Monterosia a strange and archaic contest in which Adam has to prove himself is fine, but there is absolutely no warning and no build up. The kingdom itself is little more than a painted backdrop so Adam can declare his love for Jason, but there’s no time spent there to make the kingdom, its culture, or its people — let alone Adam’s mother, father, and brother — either interesting or important. While I liked Jason and Adam for all their slightly cliched beginnings, the story they were put in didn’t fully work for me.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
3.25 stars
This book is a fairy tale carefully covered in a contemporary coat. There is little reality to this cute little tale, for all that it takes place in a small town and involves not one, but two scenes in a Walmart. It’s also very lopsided, with much of the book taking place during the few days of Adam and Jason’s first meeting, first flirting, first kissing, and burgeoning relationship… and then it’s off to Adam’s kingdom, which we get to see in the last five or so pages of the book, for a climactic battle between good and evil. The ‘twist’ came so far out of left field I don’t think it was even in the same neighborhood, let alone the same state. It made zero sense, had nothing to do with anything, and was then over with no explanation. Giving Monterosia a strange and archaic contest in which Adam has to prove himself is fine, but there is absolutely no warning and no build up. The kingdom itself is little more than a painted backdrop so Adam can declare his love for Jason, but there’s no time spent there to make the kingdom, its culture, or its people — let alone Adam’s mother, father, and brother — either interesting or important. While I liked Jason and Adam for all their slightly cliched beginnings, the story they were put in didn’t fully work for me.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
February 10, 2019
3 and 1/2 Stars. I guess this was kind of a fairytale. I liked it ok, but there were a few things that were just too ridiculous to overlook. The fighting of the bull was just creepy to me.
April 24, 2019
2.5 stars
October 14, 2018
There were so many promising aspects to the book. I loved the small-town feel, where everyone knows each other and there are still soda shops that people can gather at. I loved Jason's family - his exuberant twin Daphne, his mythology-loving librarian mother, and his hippie father. However, I felt that there could have been more development of Jason and Amadeo's characters and background. I also found the writing hard to get through. The dialogue seemed a bit clunky at times, and definitely OTT flowery at other times (though I took that for granted given the nature of the Dreamspun Desires series.) But I was rooting for them all the way and
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October 3, 2018 2 Hearts
I am normally a sucker for the international royal in hiding in a small American town who falls for a local who has no idea who they are or even heard of the country where they are royalty. I eat these stories up getting lost in how romantic it is to fall for someone this way; to simply be seen for who you are and not your title yet at the same time, shaking my head at the over the top shenanigans that happen once the royal takes the commoner home… yeah. I love this trope but sadly, this story did not work for me.
I had a hard time with this book. I tried three times to really get into it, even starting over completely with a new mindset hoping I could connect with Jason and Adam on some level but never could. From the beginning, Jason read so…so… off. I can’t quite put my finger on what it was, but it was too much. Too much sugar, too much of wanting everything perfect and too much mythology. I love mythology but this seemed to be placed in the story as filler because it made no sense to include it. This wasn’t a fantasy romance and the referencing of gods doing xyz because of fate added nothing to the romance.
Adam read like either an old man or someone who is from the past. I get he’s from another country and all that comes with being royal but this is 2018 and the vast amount of information he could have at his fingertips makes him read far more vintage than his hat and glasses would make one believe.
I won’t go on with a list of what didn’t work for me, just know this didn’t. I couldn’t connect with either man and never felt them as a couple. The flow of the story felt very stop and start and just… ugh. I don’t know. I’ll stop here and hope the next book works out for me.
I am normally a sucker for the international royal in hiding in a small American town who falls for a local who has no idea who they are or even heard of the country where they are royalty. I eat these stories up getting lost in how romantic it is to fall for someone this way; to simply be seen for who you are and not your title yet at the same time, shaking my head at the over the top shenanigans that happen once the royal takes the commoner home… yeah. I love this trope but sadly, this story did not work for me.
I had a hard time with this book. I tried three times to really get into it, even starting over completely with a new mindset hoping I could connect with Jason and Adam on some level but never could. From the beginning, Jason read so…so… off. I can’t quite put my finger on what it was, but it was too much. Too much sugar, too much of wanting everything perfect and too much mythology. I love mythology but this seemed to be placed in the story as filler because it made no sense to include it. This wasn’t a fantasy romance and the referencing of gods doing xyz because of fate added nothing to the romance.
Adam read like either an old man or someone who is from the past. I get he’s from another country and all that comes with being royal but this is 2018 and the vast amount of information he could have at his fingertips makes him read far more vintage than his hat and glasses would make one believe.
I won’t go on with a list of what didn’t work for me, just know this didn’t. I couldn’t connect with either man and never felt them as a couple. The flow of the story felt very stop and start and just… ugh. I don’t know. I’ll stop here and hope the next book works out for me.
October 6, 2018
It's hard to go wrong with a rags-to-riches Cinderella story, and while I did find this book satisfactory there were some areas where it came up short. To me, this biggest issue was that the book (and by extension the author himself) seemed too proud of itself. There were many paragraphs in which I felt I was reading the author's recitation of his extensive and impressive reading history rather than a novel. There's a scene in the fantastic Rob Schneider film "The Hot Chick" (lol) wherein the elderly bathroom attendant informs Schneider's character on proper bathroom etiquette: "If you shake it more than twice, you're playing with it." Similarly, if you're quoting more than two outside literary works, for no other reason than to highlight a character's extensive scholarly acumen, "you're playing with it." No where did I more get this feeling than with the main character's name (Evander) and the extent to which the other characters commented on how unusual and unique of a name it was. It felt a little like the author congratulating himself for choosing it.
There were some fun elements in this novel--the culture shock and the mythological fantasy element come to mind--and I wish that they (especially the later) had been drawn out and woven into the narrative more than we saw. Yes, I noticed the passing "hints" that there might be a more metaphysical dimension to the novel than the description might suggest, but even knowing this, the fantasy element's ultimate reveal didn't seem to flow as well as I would have hoped.
"To close, I'd like to add that I think that having a quote said by you within your own 'About the Author' description is always in bad taste." -J1b
Three star book that gets four stars because not one, not two, but Three Gay Characters! One was self-hating, true, but I don't care! I'll take any kind of gay I can get these days (except for those engaged in on-screen heterosexual shenanigans, NO!).
There were some fun elements in this novel--the culture shock and the mythological fantasy element come to mind--and I wish that they (especially the later) had been drawn out and woven into the narrative more than we saw. Yes, I noticed the passing "hints" that there might be a more metaphysical dimension to the novel than the description might suggest, but even knowing this, the fantasy element's ultimate reveal didn't seem to flow as well as I would have hoped.
"To close, I'd like to add that I think that having a quote said by you within your own 'About the Author' description is always in bad taste." -J1b
Three star book that gets four stars because not one, not two, but Three Gay Characters! One was self-hating, true, but I don't care! I'll take any kind of gay I can get these days (except for those engaged in on-screen heterosexual shenanigans, NO!).
March 4, 2019
Audio Update. The book was good to read but it had a lot of Italian in it. Seb Yerrick gives both men such great voices. I especially loved Adams Italian it was so sexy.
If you can get the audio I highly recommend it. It is much better hearing the Italian than trying to sound it out (unless you can read Italian).
Jason loves all things mythology related. He dreams of being swept up in Eagle wings like Ganymede. He runs a bookstore that is a part restaurant. and writes books as well. He longs for a true romance but knows it's hard to come by in his little town in Missouri.
Adam is really a prince from a small foreign country. He doesn't want to rule and marry and become king and produce an heir. He has his brother help him find a place to hide and find himself. His little house needs lots of work and is behind Jason's.
I loved this story. I loved both Jason and Adam. I loved chemistry. Tim was such a big character but suddenly just disappeared I would have liked either more of him or something more conclusive.
There is a lot of foreign language in the book though most are explained. There is also the mythology. Normally I would complain about so many big words and stuff but it all worked in this story.
There are some twists and things I didn't see coming. The story is not predictable, it is sweet, charming and hot. Very entertaining!
If you can get the audio I highly recommend it. It is much better hearing the Italian than trying to sound it out (unless you can read Italian).
Jason loves all things mythology related. He dreams of being swept up in Eagle wings like Ganymede. He runs a bookstore that is a part restaurant. and writes books as well. He longs for a true romance but knows it's hard to come by in his little town in Missouri.
Adam is really a prince from a small foreign country. He doesn't want to rule and marry and become king and produce an heir. He has his brother help him find a place to hide and find himself. His little house needs lots of work and is behind Jason's.
I loved this story. I loved both Jason and Adam. I loved chemistry. Tim was such a big character but suddenly just disappeared I would have liked either more of him or something more conclusive.
There is a lot of foreign language in the book though most are explained. There is also the mythology. Normally I would complain about so many big words and stuff but it all worked in this story.
There are some twists and things I didn't see coming. The story is not predictable, it is sweet, charming and hot. Very entertaining!
February 3, 2019
Audiobook reviewI'm a huge fan of the hidden identity trope, and there's just something about royals in hiding that calls to me. Needless to say I had to give the book a try.
Amadeo Montefalcone, crown prince of the European country Monterosia, does not want to become king, to marry a woman under false pretences. What he does want i love and to be loved. So to find it he leaves home, leaves Monterosia in search of it, leaving the title behind him and taking the name Adam to further his disguise.
Jason Brewster is a small town business owner who wants to see and experience the world and all it has to offer. But more than that he wants to find that fairy-tale love, wants to find his Prince Charming. Little did he know that he Prince Charming just moved in right next door. Title and all....
I don't know, but Adam and Jason just didn't mesh for me. The constant back and forth between them. Yet it still had this feel of sugary sweet perfection to it. It didn't jive in my mind, didn't make sense. There was also quite a lot of minor plots added that didn't really add anything but words to the story. In themselves they weren't bad ones, they were just underdeveloped or just plain didn't fit.
The first part of the book was kind of okay-ish (or not) - but then it took a turn for the ridiculous and utterly unbelievable. Not that the rest of the book made me a believer, but still it got worse. I'm sorry, but the whole mythology aspect just didn't work for me. It just didn’t fit with the rest of the story, and I just have to question why it was included. By then I was kind of over it and just hung on waiting for the end. Kind of waiting for the crash to happen - unable to look away from the oncoming mayhem.
Seb Yarrick was still not a hit, but then I didn't expect it to. And I have to say that his narration was probably the best part of this (very) flawed book. I did love his accents, and since Adam did have a distinct accent it was easy to tell the main characters apart this time around.
I have not had much luck with the dreamspun desires series lately. But then again isn't that the way of life - win some and lose some. And like I said, I had to give the book a try. So in the end I might not have ended up loving it and I can't really recommend it either.
A copy of this book was generously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review
August 8, 2018
✩ ✩ ✩ ✩ 4-STAR ✩ REVIEW ✩ ✩ ✩ ✩
> > Judging a Book by its Cover < <
A well-dressed man standing in front of what looks like a small-town main street with older buildings in the background. Synopsis sounds light and enjoyable.
> > Looking Deeper < <
POV ~> Third-person
This story was much more fanciful and whimsical than I’d anticipated.
Jason owns a small used bookstore/eatery in small-town Missouri. He and his sister are named after Greek Mythological beings and share a love and some belief in them to this day.
Adam is a runaway prince trying to find true love instead of being forced to marry and produce a legitimate heir for the throne. With the help of his brother, he escapes to America and settles into a tiny house in a tiny town in the middle of nowhere, Missouri.
It’s love at first sight and they can’t help but wonder if the Gods are at play.
I’m not sure if it was all the mythological jargon or the broken language issues but I found myself struggling to bond with these guys and their relationship. Some of their dialogue and interactions felt a bit “over the top”. There were a lot of “interrupted” moments of “almost kisses” and it took a while to kick up the heat (as per usual in the Dreamspun line).
Secondary cast was alright. Daphne and Cristiano were enjoyable. Tim was an open-ended douchecanoe that I’d thought we’d suffer later on as he was asked to do more work. I’d have liked to have seen Sally be in-the-know. While the plot was much different than I’d hoped for, the writing flowed nicely and the story was paced well. The conflicts were minimal. Predictability was fairly low. The conclusion was solid and satisfying.
Overall, it was well-written but not necessarily something I’d pick up on my own had I’d had more insight into the plot.
.
Rating: [R] ~ Score: 4.05 ~ Stars: 4
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⭐ ⭐ **** Disclosure of Material: I received a copy of this book from the Author/Publisher with the hope that I would voluntarily leave 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 its Cover < <
A well-dressed man standing in front of what looks like a small-town main street with older buildings in the background. Synopsis sounds light and enjoyable.
> > Looking Deeper < <
POV ~> Third-person
This story was much more fanciful and whimsical than I’d anticipated.
Jason owns a small used bookstore/eatery in small-town Missouri. He and his sister are named after Greek Mythological beings and share a love and some belief in them to this day.
Adam is a runaway prince trying to find true love instead of being forced to marry and produce a legitimate heir for the throne. With the help of his brother, he escapes to America and settles into a tiny house in a tiny town in the middle of nowhere, Missouri.
It’s love at first sight and they can’t help but wonder if the Gods are at play.
I’m not sure if it was all the mythological jargon or the broken language issues but I found myself struggling to bond with these guys and their relationship. Some of their dialogue and interactions felt a bit “over the top”. There were a lot of “interrupted” moments of “almost kisses” and it took a while to kick up the heat (as per usual in the Dreamspun line).
Secondary cast was alright. Daphne and Cristiano were enjoyable. Tim was an open-ended douchecanoe that I’d thought we’d suffer later on as he was asked to do more work. I’d have liked to have seen Sally be in-the-know. While the plot was much different than I’d hoped for, the writing flowed nicely and the story was paced well. The conflicts were minimal. Predictability was fairly low. The conclusion was solid and satisfying.
Overall, it was well-written but not necessarily something I’d pick up on my own had I’d had more insight into the plot.
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Rating: [R] ~ Score: 4.05 ~ Stars: 4
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⭐ ⭐ **** Disclosure of Material: I received a copy of this book from the Author/Publisher with the hope that I would voluntarily leave 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". ***** ⭐ ⭐
January 18, 2019
I liked that Jason was a gay man in a small town who really didn't face a lot of hate for being gay and his parents were cool about his sexuality. I liked the fairy tale aspect of the story. The ending was a bit too rushed and I was hoping for a scene where both family could sit town and talk, especially the mothers. I think Jason's mom had a bit of unearthliness about her and maybe Adam's father. It would have been great if they were touched by the Gods a bit.
This was a cute story until the end when things just went too fast for me. I don't know if I want to read book 2 because I suspect Timothy will be the hero in that book and I don't really care to read his story.
This was a cute story until the end when things just went too fast for me. I don't know if I want to read book 2 because I suspect Timothy will be the hero in that book and I don't really care to read his story.
May 16, 2019
this was an interesting story.. it made me laugh.. it did take a little bit for me to really get into it but once i did i really enjoyed it. the characters were likeable.. it is def a cheesy type of story.. but sometimes those can be fun. i liked it
May 14, 2019
I liked the characters, I liked the narrator, but the plot.....weird!
Hoopla audible
Hoopla audible
July 25, 2022
Very sweet and fast-paced.
Hallmark movie in book form.
More thoughts in next week’s vlog.
Hallmark movie in book form.
More thoughts in next week’s vlog.
September 4, 2018
The Nerd and The Prince
Who doesn't love a good romance story where the main character is a prince.
I loved Jason. Bookstore owner with a cafe, who loves to cook and bake who gets rewarded with smiles and compliments from his customers. I loved how he knew everyone's name and talked with them and everyone was his friend. He has a wonderful relationship with his sister which is heartwarming. .
Adam, the prince, moves in next door, or rather behind Jason's establishment, and things get interesting. Tim, Jason's ex, starts work on Adam's house. He was one sad individual and a little bit creepy. So, my least favorite scenes in the book involved Tim.
The developing friendship, then romance, of Jason and Adam was very sweet. Adam seemed a little over the top though. Like everyone's fantasy of a prince and how they would talk and act kicked up another notch. I wish it would have been lowered a bit to be more real and everyday.
I was happy to read that Jason got to go back to Adam's country. I loved how Adam did not hesitate to include Jason in his trip back home. Jason did not hesitate to accept the offer. Jason got to meet Adam's Family and it all went well. The story has a nice happy ending
I do recommend this book. If you love a Princely story with sweet relationships and if you enjoy cooking and love stories that revolve around a diner, then you will love this book.
Who doesn't love a good romance story where the main character is a prince.
I loved Jason. Bookstore owner with a cafe, who loves to cook and bake who gets rewarded with smiles and compliments from his customers. I loved how he knew everyone's name and talked with them and everyone was his friend. He has a wonderful relationship with his sister which is heartwarming. .
Adam, the prince, moves in next door, or rather behind Jason's establishment, and things get interesting. Tim, Jason's ex, starts work on Adam's house. He was one sad individual and a little bit creepy. So, my least favorite scenes in the book involved Tim.
The developing friendship, then romance, of Jason and Adam was very sweet. Adam seemed a little over the top though. Like everyone's fantasy of a prince and how they would talk and act kicked up another notch. I wish it would have been lowered a bit to be more real and everyday.
I was happy to read that Jason got to go back to Adam's country. I loved how Adam did not hesitate to include Jason in his trip back home. Jason did not hesitate to accept the offer. Jason got to meet Adam's Family and it all went well. The story has a nice happy ending
I do recommend this book. If you love a Princely story with sweet relationships and if you enjoy cooking and love stories that revolve around a diner, then you will love this book.
October 21, 2018
This book really never caught me and I had to drag my way through it. Starting with the first half centering on this idea of the gods and the fact that they could have sway in the relationship and maybe magic in the world. But then that idea sort of falls out and it is instead just the fact of these two getting together- which honestly has nothing in the way but seems to be the most dramatic thing to ever happen. Then it swings around to being a fairy tale, but to need the introduction of a villain in the last 20 pages. Well, the 'bug bad villain' is no villain at all but an old tradition and really ridiculous choices, leading to an equally ridiculous ending.
This in an of itself is not necessarily a bad lay out for a book. I enjoy the fantastical, would have no problem with gods or fairy tales, and ancient traditions make sense for an ancient culture. But it was how it was all written. There was never any connection to the characters themselves. They were superficial, even when the book tried so desperately to make everything deep and meaningful, with lots of longing looks and crying. Things happened over a long period of time and equally all too suddenly in ways that felt choppy and unusual. Above all I just didn't like the characters or the writing style and wouldn't feel any desire to look into this series further.
This in an of itself is not necessarily a bad lay out for a book. I enjoy the fantastical, would have no problem with gods or fairy tales, and ancient traditions make sense for an ancient culture. But it was how it was all written. There was never any connection to the characters themselves. They were superficial, even when the book tried so desperately to make everything deep and meaningful, with lots of longing looks and crying. Things happened over a long period of time and equally all too suddenly in ways that felt choppy and unusual. Above all I just didn't like the characters or the writing style and wouldn't feel any desire to look into this series further.
September 19, 2018
A Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words Review An Alisa Review:
Rating: 4 stars out of 5
This was just adorable. Jason hasn’t really had any luck finding love but he dreams of being swept off his feet. Amadeo just wants to be able to live his life as himself and finds more than just shelter when he runs away to a small town.
Jason and Amadeo build a quick friendship that they let slowly build into love. Amadeo is basically Jason’s dream come true and with both of their love of the Greek god and mythology they have a lot of common ground.
I liked how this story really focused on the love between these characters and any “obstacles” were quickly taken care of or settled. Getting to see both of the characters’ points of view helped with understand them, though for the most part they were quite open. Amadeo was a genuinely nice man and it came out even more as we went about wooing Jason and how he feared hurting his family. I loved Jason’s innocence, he knows what he wants but has never found someone to share it with and isn’t scared to let Amadeo be that someone. I loved that everything turned out in the end with Amadeo’s family, I just wish we knew how they were going to spend their life (stay in Monterosia or in their small town).
The cover art by Alexandria Corza is gives a cute visual of their small town and Amadeo.
Rating: 4 stars out of 5
This was just adorable. Jason hasn’t really had any luck finding love but he dreams of being swept off his feet. Amadeo just wants to be able to live his life as himself and finds more than just shelter when he runs away to a small town.
Jason and Amadeo build a quick friendship that they let slowly build into love. Amadeo is basically Jason’s dream come true and with both of their love of the Greek god and mythology they have a lot of common ground.
I liked how this story really focused on the love between these characters and any “obstacles” were quickly taken care of or settled. Getting to see both of the characters’ points of view helped with understand them, though for the most part they were quite open. Amadeo was a genuinely nice man and it came out even more as we went about wooing Jason and how he feared hurting his family. I loved Jason’s innocence, he knows what he wants but has never found someone to share it with and isn’t scared to let Amadeo be that someone. I loved that everything turned out in the end with Amadeo’s family, I just wish we knew how they were going to spend their life (stay in Monterosia or in their small town).
The cover art by Alexandria Corza is gives a cute visual of their small town and Amadeo.
January 12, 2019
I loved this book. It is the sweetest fairytale with the happiest ending. I will definitely read more of B. G. Thomas’ books and desperately hope more come to audiobooks. This m/m romance had a slow sizzling burn that left to some hot intimacy and gave me my happy ever after. I had not heard Seb Yarrick’s voice, will be seeking out more of his books in just a moment. I love adult fairytales and just can’t seem to get enough.
June 21, 2019
Jason has resigned himself to what it means to be gay in a small town. He may never find love. And when he does, it may not be the fairy tale dream that many other people seem to have. Until Adam moves to town. Adam is mysterious, but kind--and attractive. There's an instant connection. But Adam has a secret of his own. Not a bad concept, but parts of the story seem forced--and the random former fling of Jason's who pops up probably could have been left out entirely.
September 26, 2018
This book is super sweet and I knew that I wanted read it from the blurb. I liked Jason, nerdy but mature and nice too. Amedeo is a bit of stereotype Italian dude, even as a prince. What have me deluded is the talk about mythical people and gods without a truly connection at the story, if not in the last part of book about the minotaur myth. However I enjoyed the reading .
March 5, 2019
Uhhhhmmm
It was okay for the most part, it really read like a fantasy fairy tale but.....the near ending ...was a bit disturbing...I don't want to spoil it but....did they really just gloss it over and not address what happened to a character that they called Maschione aka "the bull" this ending is gonna haunt me...
It was okay for the most part, it really read like a fantasy fairy tale but.....the near ending ...was a bit disturbing...I don't want to spoil it but....did they really just gloss it over and not address what happened to a character that they called Maschione aka "the bull" this ending is gonna haunt me...
March 26, 2019
I hate to give such a low rating, but honestly, it really was "just ok". It could be me, as I've loved this author's work before, but this book just couldn't hold my interest and honestly I just wanted it done. I found Jason way too naive to be true, and Adam seemed almost a caricature. It was all just way too over the top for me to become invested in the story and the characters.
September 23, 2018
I love the magical romance of this story. Each man is able to find their dreams come true. I also love how they were able to work things out so that everyone wins.
September 26, 2018
Very sweet and romantic. I loved it!
October 9, 2018
This is awkward😯
October 15, 2018
3.5 stars
April 21, 2019
2.5 stars
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July 31, 20192.5 : boring
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