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Always the Groomsman
He’s my best friend’s best man, and I hate him.
So... why do I keep wanting to kiss him?
Weddings used to be fun... but then I had to be a groomsman in one. Then two. And now ten. The last place I want to be right now is in this Nowhereville, Idaho small town for my friend’s wedding, still single, and still a groomsman, yet again. And even worse: the best man, Sebastian, makes my blood run hot.
Sebastian is a charming, energetic social butterfly--in other words, he’s exactly the opposite of me. I just got dumped by my ex-boyfriend, and right now what I want is time alone. The last thing I need is some over-eager small-town guy to be constantly flitting around me, trying to get me to participate in bachelor party festivities.
But Sebastian isn’t afraid to challenge me. And some primal part of me loves every minute of it.
When he shows up at my hotel room on the night of the bachelor party, hot and desperate, I can’t say no to him. Suddenly, it’s like fire when we’re together, and I can’t keep my hands off of him.
But I can’t ever be with him. The other groomsmen don’t know we’ve been ending up in each other’s beds. And besides, he’s a small-town guy, and I live and breathe the city. I can’t commit to anything, and Sebastian could have any other guy he wanted. Am I destined to forever be just a groomsman, never the star of my own show?
Always the Groomsman is a 78,000-word gay romance novel, complete with a jaded city slicker, a small-town guy with a heart of gold, and a friendly little pug named Jelly. There’s plenty of steam, sleeping-bag cuddling on camping trips, small-town charm in the middle of nowhere, and a happily-ever-after ending.
So... why do I keep wanting to kiss him?
Weddings used to be fun... but then I had to be a groomsman in one. Then two. And now ten. The last place I want to be right now is in this Nowhereville, Idaho small town for my friend’s wedding, still single, and still a groomsman, yet again. And even worse: the best man, Sebastian, makes my blood run hot.
Sebastian is a charming, energetic social butterfly--in other words, he’s exactly the opposite of me. I just got dumped by my ex-boyfriend, and right now what I want is time alone. The last thing I need is some over-eager small-town guy to be constantly flitting around me, trying to get me to participate in bachelor party festivities.
But Sebastian isn’t afraid to challenge me. And some primal part of me loves every minute of it.
When he shows up at my hotel room on the night of the bachelor party, hot and desperate, I can’t say no to him. Suddenly, it’s like fire when we’re together, and I can’t keep my hands off of him.
But I can’t ever be with him. The other groomsmen don’t know we’ve been ending up in each other’s beds. And besides, he’s a small-town guy, and I live and breathe the city. I can’t commit to anything, and Sebastian could have any other guy he wanted. Am I destined to forever be just a groomsman, never the star of my own show?
Always the Groomsman is a 78,000-word gay romance novel, complete with a jaded city slicker, a small-town guy with a heart of gold, and a friendly little pug named Jelly. There’s plenty of steam, sleeping-bag cuddling on camping trips, small-town charm in the middle of nowhere, and a happily-ever-after ending.
283 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 9, 2018
284 people are currently reading
320 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
September 15, 2018
Like a road trip, this ride started off fun but lost its spark along the way.
Zane blew hot and cold. Sebastian sulked like a kid denied a lollipop.
The secondary characters didn't add much to the story. Colby was too good. Tony drank a lot. Austin talked like a bro dude.
I liked the slow burn, cute dog, and picture- perfect HEA, but the story lost tension as it progressed.
I found myself distracted and bored during the last few chapters, especially when reading about the Big Fat Straight Wedding. *yawns*
Easy read but forgettable, like nearly every other book I've read by this author.
Zane blew hot and cold. Sebastian sulked like a kid denied a lollipop.
The secondary characters didn't add much to the story. Colby was too good. Tony drank a lot. Austin talked like a bro dude.
I liked the slow burn, cute dog, and picture- perfect HEA, but the story lost tension as it progressed.
I found myself distracted and bored during the last few chapters, especially when reading about the Big Fat Straight Wedding. *yawns*
Easy read but forgettable, like nearly every other book I've read by this author.
November 2, 2018
Oh. My. God.
I'm not always a fan of 'sappy' romances, but this one worked absolutely perfectly for me.
This love story was pure, distilled romance. I loved every word of it.
Zane just had an awful break-up that ended his 10 year relationship. The man he thought he was gonna spend the rest of his life with kicked him out and Zane is prepared to never love or be loved again.
Worst of all, Zane agreed -again- to be someone's groomsman and being happy and upbeat while organizing a wonderfully romantic wedding is so not in his cards right now.
Luckily he's just one of five groomsmen and the leading best man - Sebastian - seems to have it all figured out anyway, with his happy and positive attitude. Zane knows he's probably gonna ruin Sebastian's week with his sullen moodiness, but Zane simply isn't willing to indulge the spirited country boy.
Zane doesn't know, though, that Sebastian is not only the perfect man to be friends with, he's also a lonely soul with a broken heart...
Gosh, this story is so sweet and perfect. I loved both guys... They turned their sad lives around so beautifully by being there for each other.
Who doesn't want something like this in their life?
5 stars and a favorite!
September 14, 2018
Eh, this was a nice, chill romance.
I liked Sebastian better than Zane, but all in all this was not an earthshattering, opinion-changing, horizons-expanding read.
It started on a sort of humorous note, but the tone changed a wee bit the further we got and ended up being very 'no muss, no fuss'-like.
There's nothing wrong with that, but I was sort of sad that Sebastian didn't continue on being a hummingbird soaked in caffeine.
It was a nice romance with not a LOT of drama, but with a cute dog.
I didn't particularly care for Sebastian's mother and that part of the plot, it just read... Weird.
All of a sudden this homophobic bitch, changed her tune because Zane gave her a chess board?!?
And Tony and Austin were asshole-ish characters I never really warmed up to, but didn't all out hate, either.
They just provided this weird The Hangover-type backdrop
Just... Yeah. It could be that I'm in a slump; this wasn't a bad book, but it's not going on my favourites either.
I liked Sebastian better than Zane, but all in all this was not an earthshattering, opinion-changing, horizons-expanding read.
It started on a sort of humorous note, but the tone changed a wee bit the further we got and ended up being very 'no muss, no fuss'-like.
There's nothing wrong with that, but I was sort of sad that Sebastian didn't continue on being a hummingbird soaked in caffeine.
It was a nice romance with not a LOT of drama, but with a cute dog.
I didn't particularly care for Sebastian's mother and that part of the plot, it just read... Weird.
All of a sudden this homophobic bitch, changed her tune because Zane gave her a chess board?!?
And Tony and Austin were asshole-ish characters I never really warmed up to, but didn't all out hate, either.
They just provided this weird The Hangover-type backdrop
Just... Yeah. It could be that I'm in a slump; this wasn't a bad book, but it's not going on my favourites either.
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November 13, 2019 🎁 FREE on Amazon today (11/13/2019)! 🎁
September 28, 2018
4.5 stars!
This was so good! This story was more than I was expecting it to be - it was interesting and fun and riveting, and Zane and Sebastian had wonderful chemistry.
These two have missed perceptions about each other at first, but it didn't take long - just one real conversation - for them to gain a connection between each other.
In the three weeks leading up to their friend Colby's wedding, these two start to fall for each other, all the while aware of Zane leaving back to LA at the end - while Sebastian lives in a small town in Idaho - and trying not to fall for each other because of that fact, but not being able to help it.
The romance was superb in this and I felt their connection and their journey to love - it made sense to me.
The only thing I had a small gripe about was that I thin the sex could have been steamier. Romance and love does not have to take out the heat and passion in sex, mmkay ;). If anything it should make that much steamier and passionate and hot.
I was wondering how they'd get their happy ending by the end of this, but the way it is handled is good and believable.
Two big thumbs up from me for this wonderful, entertaining read! :D
This was so good! This story was more than I was expecting it to be - it was interesting and fun and riveting, and Zane and Sebastian had wonderful chemistry.
These two have missed perceptions about each other at first, but it didn't take long - just one real conversation - for them to gain a connection between each other.
In the three weeks leading up to their friend Colby's wedding, these two start to fall for each other, all the while aware of Zane leaving back to LA at the end - while Sebastian lives in a small town in Idaho - and trying not to fall for each other because of that fact, but not being able to help it.
The romance was superb in this and I felt their connection and their journey to love - it made sense to me.
The only thing I had a small gripe about was that I thin the sex could have been steamier. Romance and love does not have to take out the heat and passion in sex, mmkay ;). If anything it should make that much steamier and passionate and hot.
I was wondering how they'd get their happy ending by the end of this, but the way it is handled is good and believable.
Two big thumbs up from me for this wonderful, entertaining read! :D
May 14, 2022
When a sweet book makes me happy cry then I think it’s a winner. So , although this isn’t the greatest love story I ever read. It was good. I’ve been reading a lot of lot erotic hot stories lately and I just needed something softer, but still well written.
September 29, 2018
3.5 stars. New author for me. I thought the author did a nice job fleshing each character out, especially Sebastian, and I liked the pacing for the first 3/4 of the book. The story was sweet and low-angst which I was craving at the moment. My only quibbles was the ending (it felt rushed) and the writing at times. There are times, writing-wise, when there was a lot of telling rather than showing. Also, the author sometimes relied on cliches rather than her own original voice. I get the feeling this is a young or new writer--but she's one with a lot a promise. I'll keep her on my watchlist to see how she matures as a writer over time.
November 24, 2021
3.5 stars - This had some really thoughtful moments, but they were outweighed by a lot of cliches and cheese. Overall, I enjoyed it, but it felt like it had the potential to be more than it was.
October 2, 2018
So outside the fact that all the groomsmen have somehow taken off 3 weeks of work and their lives to be there for this month long bachelor party/wedding prep, this was just meh.
By 45% of the way in, I lost interest. I did not care about the characters, nor did I care about the plot. I couldn't remember whose POV was whose because their voices were indistinguishable. I had to force myself through the last 55% of this book because I just didn't care.
The plot was boring, I didn't really care much for Sebastian. And the whole thing with his mom was dumb. Like the whole "she's toxic and a homophobe but she loves me so I can't abandon her" thing didn't impress me. Nor did the whole "she doesn't respect you as an adult" thing because it was more than that, she refused to accept her son's sexuality until for some reason all the sudden she suddenly did? Not believable at all.
The plot took some weird side detours toward the end, like the thing with Al and Erica's aunt. Didn't care. All in all, meh. Just meh.
By 45% of the way in, I lost interest. I did not care about the characters, nor did I care about the plot. I couldn't remember whose POV was whose because their voices were indistinguishable. I had to force myself through the last 55% of this book because I just didn't care.
The plot was boring, I didn't really care much for Sebastian. And the whole thing with his mom was dumb. Like the whole "she's toxic and a homophobe but she loves me so I can't abandon her" thing didn't impress me. Nor did the whole "she doesn't respect you as an adult" thing because it was more than that, she refused to accept her son's sexuality until for some reason all the sudden she suddenly did? Not believable at all.
The plot took some weird side detours toward the end, like the thing with Al and Erica's aunt. Didn't care. All in all, meh. Just meh.
September 17, 2018
Love happens
This was a sad romance. Ooh with a happy ending.
Both guys had bad experiences in love and relationships.
Zane just came out of a 10year relationship and Sebastain was the gossip of the small town he lived in.
What was good about this connection they both questioned it. Could this be real after such recent heartache.
The process was slow but it worked for these two. My only problem was Sebastian's insecurity.
So for me it's a 3.5 stars.
This was a sad romance. Ooh with a happy ending.
Both guys had bad experiences in love and relationships.
Zane just came out of a 10year relationship and Sebastain was the gossip of the small town he lived in.
What was good about this connection they both questioned it. Could this be real after such recent heartache.
The process was slow but it worked for these two. My only problem was Sebastian's insecurity.
So for me it's a 3.5 stars.
Read
September 29, 2018Read till 60%
Yeah they’re cute, but to story didn’t really kept my attention. Kept wondering why i was still reading.
Yeah they’re cute, but to story didn’t really kept my attention. Kept wondering why i was still reading.
October 7, 2018
Just Lovey!
A bit fairytale-ish, light read, light angst but sweet pairing of Sebastian & Zane. I’ve read many of Raleigh Ruebins’ books and they all are in the same vein...interesting enough, sweet, sexy, in a pleasant setting. This is more of the same.
A bit fairytale-ish, light read, light angst but sweet pairing of Sebastian & Zane. I’ve read many of Raleigh Ruebins’ books and they all are in the same vein...interesting enough, sweet, sexy, in a pleasant setting. This is more of the same.
November 26, 2019
Sweet
This book was fun and sweet with a little drama. I liked the pug and the other groomsmen though I liked Sebastian and Zane best of all.
This book was fun and sweet with a little drama. I liked the pug and the other groomsmen though I liked Sebastian and Zane best of all.
Read
February 11, 2020Freebie, sorry, couldn't hold my interest. Stopped reading at 23%, therefore no star rating.
September 26, 2018
Liked the premise
Opposites attract dual point of view
Standalone
Jaded and very recently out of a long term relationship, Zane is pulled into participation as a groomsman for the 10th time. Sebastian the optimistic but lonely best man looking forward to some much needed male bonding. Will the pain in their pasts prevent them from finding the love they want?
This couple felt co-dependent to me. While there was a good amount of time available for a relationship to develop, it felt like they existed totally separate outside of three events, so it was more instalove that they both wished into existence. There was also no resolution of the past long term relationship, the age difference, or dealing with a small town grapevine. They did handle Sebastian’s past and mother. The friends were oblivious and made to look stupid. What was the whole purpose of the Aunt Clara character arc?
Opposites attract dual point of view
Standalone
Jaded and very recently out of a long term relationship, Zane is pulled into participation as a groomsman for the 10th time. Sebastian the optimistic but lonely best man looking forward to some much needed male bonding. Will the pain in their pasts prevent them from finding the love they want?
This couple felt co-dependent to me. While there was a good amount of time available for a relationship to develop, it felt like they existed totally separate outside of three events, so it was more instalove that they both wished into existence. There was also no resolution of the past long term relationship, the age difference, or dealing with a small town grapevine. They did handle Sebastian’s past and mother. The friends were oblivious and made to look stupid. What was the whole purpose of the Aunt Clara character arc?
November 25, 2020
A sweet read! Once I started this book I couldn't put it down. Lovely read and full of feels. It definitely made me teary eyed once or twice with how sweet and romantic it was.
February 17, 2020
Love that lasts
This was a great story, taking what could have just felt like a rebound or a depressing situation and instead making it about love and joy. It was a great story with both the main characters and those around them and turned out to be an overall great read.
Zane has just been broken up with after being in a relationship for ten years so he is a bit of a sad sack. It seems that it should be something that takes a .ong time to move on from, even Zane himself feels convinced that he shouldn't be interested in anyone else. But as more is revealed about the relationship it becomes clear how toxic it was. As Zane gets away from the relationship and begins to lose himself in having fun with friends he can reflect back on things that weren't right. Even more important to his changes are how Sebastian treats him, opening up even when Zane is a grump and being there in ways no one ever has. Despite the long relationship this doesn't feel like a rebound, more like finding something real for the first time.
Sebastian has not had an easy time in his own small town life. Despite being a bubbly and optimistic ray of sunshine his life has had a fair amount of setbacks and let downs. He has never ket that take away from his joy at reaching out to others and making joy in his life. When he sees beyond Zane's walls to the man underneath he is determined to bring that joy to Zane's life. Even more important, Zane sees Sebastian as well, someone bright and joyful who has determinedly been that despite his life, not because of it.
While these two are connecting it all takes place during the wedding events of one of mutual close friends. Seeing the love their friends have and the way they are embracing the pre-wedding activities as a celebration instead of a sentence reminds both of them of all that love can be. Being the groomsman is hard work but sometimes it can be worth it when wedding is really about the love of the couple.
This story has its moments of heat and sexiness but it also had beautiful moments of love and sweet caring. Trying to navigate a relationship when the timing insisted it should just be a fling and the fear of rejection was still fresh was difficult for both men but it was a great story through all the little and big events!
This was a great story, taking what could have just felt like a rebound or a depressing situation and instead making it about love and joy. It was a great story with both the main characters and those around them and turned out to be an overall great read.
Zane has just been broken up with after being in a relationship for ten years so he is a bit of a sad sack. It seems that it should be something that takes a .ong time to move on from, even Zane himself feels convinced that he shouldn't be interested in anyone else. But as more is revealed about the relationship it becomes clear how toxic it was. As Zane gets away from the relationship and begins to lose himself in having fun with friends he can reflect back on things that weren't right. Even more important to his changes are how Sebastian treats him, opening up even when Zane is a grump and being there in ways no one ever has. Despite the long relationship this doesn't feel like a rebound, more like finding something real for the first time.
Sebastian has not had an easy time in his own small town life. Despite being a bubbly and optimistic ray of sunshine his life has had a fair amount of setbacks and let downs. He has never ket that take away from his joy at reaching out to others and making joy in his life. When he sees beyond Zane's walls to the man underneath he is determined to bring that joy to Zane's life. Even more important, Zane sees Sebastian as well, someone bright and joyful who has determinedly been that despite his life, not because of it.
While these two are connecting it all takes place during the wedding events of one of mutual close friends. Seeing the love their friends have and the way they are embracing the pre-wedding activities as a celebration instead of a sentence reminds both of them of all that love can be. Being the groomsman is hard work but sometimes it can be worth it when wedding is really about the love of the couple.
This story has its moments of heat and sexiness but it also had beautiful moments of love and sweet caring. Trying to navigate a relationship when the timing insisted it should just be a fling and the fear of rejection was still fresh was difficult for both men but it was a great story through all the little and big events!
September 11, 2018
WOW!
I think it was one of the best (almost) drama-free love stories I have ever read!
It was simply AMAZING.
This is a book about a wedding, groomsmen, getting cold feet, friendship, broken hearts and how much life can change during 3 weeks. (and Jelly belly rubs)
It is written in a way that made me forget about real life and I couldn't sop reading - I wanted happy ending (even though I didn't want the story to end). I almost SAW Elliesville, Idaho, I almost smelled the forest and heard music. This book was everything I needed - it was calming, heart-warming, sexy and sweet. There was no insta-love, we could witness Sebastian and Zane getting to know each other and slowly falling in love. I LOVED that they spend a lot of time together, talked, danced, camped and explored "Nowhereville". This is exactly what is important to understand MCs, time spend together. Here everything happened for a reason, everything was believable and logical.
Both MCs are lovable. They are different, come from different worlds and yet they just clicked. I had no doubt they would end up together. We get to know both MCs point of view which makes it easier to understand them (and is also my favorite type of narration).
I absolutely loved every second of this.
Thank You, Raleigh Ruebins!
* I was gifted an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review *
I think it was one of the best (almost) drama-free love stories I have ever read!
It was simply AMAZING.
This is a book about a wedding, groomsmen, getting cold feet, friendship, broken hearts and how much life can change during 3 weeks. (and Jelly belly rubs)
It is written in a way that made me forget about real life and I couldn't sop reading - I wanted happy ending (even though I didn't want the story to end). I almost SAW Elliesville, Idaho, I almost smelled the forest and heard music. This book was everything I needed - it was calming, heart-warming, sexy and sweet. There was no insta-love, we could witness Sebastian and Zane getting to know each other and slowly falling in love. I LOVED that they spend a lot of time together, talked, danced, camped and explored "Nowhereville". This is exactly what is important to understand MCs, time spend together. Here everything happened for a reason, everything was believable and logical.
Both MCs are lovable. They are different, come from different worlds and yet they just clicked. I had no doubt they would end up together. We get to know both MCs point of view which makes it easier to understand them (and is also my favorite type of narration).
I absolutely loved every second of this.
Thank You, Raleigh Ruebins!
* I was gifted an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review *
September 11, 2018
💕Will it be always a groomsman and never a groom for Zane?!💒👬👫👬
September 10, 2018
Format: Kindle EditionVerified Purchase
👍👍 I loved this very warm, second chance 💕romance with L.A. accountant Zane and small town waiter Sebastian heading the cast of characters. Both burned in previous relationships and brought together as groomsmen in their hetero friends' wedding, three weeks of pre-wedding male bonding amongst the groom and groomsman in small Ellisville, Idaho nudges them together, along with the enthusiastic affection Zane's pug Jelly exhibits for Sebastian. Throughout the story, more than anything, these two support each other emotionally, though passion does 💥explode eventually.
Both of the MCs are sympathetic characters who wade their way through issues like unsupportive family, feelings of low self worth brought on by former partners and regrets related to their past relationships. In a male bonding resort getaway, one of them even falls upon his blast from the past who has clearly and happily moved on.
I am a great fan of Raleigh Ruebins MM romances because they focus on complex characters, firm friendships, romance and emotional connection. The small town settings are the best at providing a serene, slow-paced environment for a relationship to blossom. I was offered a complimentary advance copy of the book but decided it was a keeper I had to buy. Always a Groomsman is a gentle, affirming story of love finding its way into even the most wary heart.
September 10, 2018
Format: Kindle EditionVerified Purchase
👍👍 I loved this very warm, second chance 💕romance with L.A. accountant Zane and small town waiter Sebastian heading the cast of characters. Both burned in previous relationships and brought together as groomsmen in their hetero friends' wedding, three weeks of pre-wedding male bonding amongst the groom and groomsman in small Ellisville, Idaho nudges them together, along with the enthusiastic affection Zane's pug Jelly exhibits for Sebastian. Throughout the story, more than anything, these two support each other emotionally, though passion does 💥explode eventually.
Both of the MCs are sympathetic characters who wade their way through issues like unsupportive family, feelings of low self worth brought on by former partners and regrets related to their past relationships. In a male bonding resort getaway, one of them even falls upon his blast from the past who has clearly and happily moved on.
I am a great fan of Raleigh Ruebins MM romances because they focus on complex characters, firm friendships, romance and emotional connection. The small town settings are the best at providing a serene, slow-paced environment for a relationship to blossom. I was offered a complimentary advance copy of the book but decided it was a keeper I had to buy. Always a Groomsman is a gentle, affirming story of love finding its way into even the most wary heart.
February 26, 2019
Incongruities Squared
This is really a 3 1/2 star rating, but four isn't that far off the beam. The problem with this one is that there are too many incongruities that you have to swim through.
Let's start off by saying that I really liked Sebastian as one of the MC's, and had my doubts all along about Zane but did warm up to him as the tale unfolded. They are walls apart in personality, culture and ability to gain the love of a pug dog. Both have been crushed in their major relationship, but Sebastian comes across with more depth of feeling than the hot man on the cover, Zane, who really is a bit shallow for much of the book.
The major incongruity is the timeline. I don't know where the author lives but I have never heard of a bachelor party being planned over a three week period. That groom Colby is rich and his best man Sebastian is poor puts an interesting spin on the cultural dynamics of the small Idaho town where the shebang takes place, and three weeks gives us a chance to get used to this crowd.
However, I could never come to grips with the fact that Colby's other two groomsmen are also counted as his best friends along with Sebastian and Zane. Tony is a hyperactive 30-year-old boychild with a constant need for action, booze, and excitement. Austin, on the other hand, never rises to any more than a self-centered dolt. Where did Colby find these four incongruities?
But the activities are varied and give the groom and his groomsmen a chance to interact with each other, and that gives Sebastian and Zane their opening to chance a romance. This aspect of the book is handled very nicely with some real pangs and some real heat. In the end I warmed up to Zane and wept and cheered for Sebastian. I also will try a few other books by the author.
This is really a 3 1/2 star rating, but four isn't that far off the beam. The problem with this one is that there are too many incongruities that you have to swim through.
Let's start off by saying that I really liked Sebastian as one of the MC's, and had my doubts all along about Zane but did warm up to him as the tale unfolded. They are walls apart in personality, culture and ability to gain the love of a pug dog. Both have been crushed in their major relationship, but Sebastian comes across with more depth of feeling than the hot man on the cover, Zane, who really is a bit shallow for much of the book.
The major incongruity is the timeline. I don't know where the author lives but I have never heard of a bachelor party being planned over a three week period. That groom Colby is rich and his best man Sebastian is poor puts an interesting spin on the cultural dynamics of the small Idaho town where the shebang takes place, and three weeks gives us a chance to get used to this crowd.
However, I could never come to grips with the fact that Colby's other two groomsmen are also counted as his best friends along with Sebastian and Zane. Tony is a hyperactive 30-year-old boychild with a constant need for action, booze, and excitement. Austin, on the other hand, never rises to any more than a self-centered dolt. Where did Colby find these four incongruities?
But the activities are varied and give the groom and his groomsmen a chance to interact with each other, and that gives Sebastian and Zane their opening to chance a romance. This aspect of the book is handled very nicely with some real pangs and some real heat. In the end I warmed up to Zane and wept and cheered for Sebastian. I also will try a few other books by the author.
September 11, 2018
What a delightful and sweet story! It is beautifully written, emotional, low angst, has fabulous characters, a sweet Pug named Jelly and is fun to read. Once I started I could not put it down and even though it brought me to tears a few times it is mostly a happy and positive story. Sebastian and Zane are very different but they are perfect for each other. I love the progression of their relationship as they get to know each other in the three weeks leading up to the wedding. Sebastian is a sweetheart with a happy and outgoing personality, the complete opposite of Zane who is private and introverted. They both have bad relationships in their pasts and are cautious about what is happening between them as they both know it can only be temporary as they live in different states. The problem is that it doesn't feel temporary and they fall hard for each other. Their journey is full of romance, good friends, a few adventures and a lot of love. The secondary characters are wonderful, especially Colby and the other groomsmen. They add a lot to this story and the ending is amazing. Raleigh Ruebens is one of my favorite authors and I can't wait to see what she has in store for us next.
June 21, 2020
Such a sweet storyline
I liked them Zane and Sebastian, including the instant click between them. It was a hard road to love, even if a short one. They met because they were going to be in the wedding of best friend Colby and Erica. Zane had been first choice of best man but his recent breakup made the idea too difficult. Then there was Sebastian, the annoying, happy-go-lucky replacement - or so it seemed before they met and Zane was getting all of these text messages.
As great as they are, side character Colby was quite the interesting guy. One thing in particular was during the three week long bachelor party, Zane and Sebastian ended up sharing a tent. Come next morning, Colby didn't make any assumptions that two guys in a tent together automatically meant sex. He just saw them as two friends in a tent for the night, just as he had shared one with Tony, one of the other groomsmen (who shockingly had more depth to him, which we learned about on the camping trip).
You know the main thing I didn't like. Constantly starting sentences with "and", "but" and "because". It's not the worst thing in the world but it stands out to me.
On the whole, a thoroughly enjoyable book, especially if you're a sap for gay romance like I am.
I liked them Zane and Sebastian, including the instant click between them. It was a hard road to love, even if a short one. They met because they were going to be in the wedding of best friend Colby and Erica. Zane had been first choice of best man but his recent breakup made the idea too difficult. Then there was Sebastian, the annoying, happy-go-lucky replacement - or so it seemed before they met and Zane was getting all of these text messages.
As great as they are, side character Colby was quite the interesting guy. One thing in particular was during the three week long bachelor party, Zane and Sebastian ended up sharing a tent. Come next morning, Colby didn't make any assumptions that two guys in a tent together automatically meant sex. He just saw them as two friends in a tent for the night, just as he had shared one with Tony, one of the other groomsmen (who shockingly had more depth to him, which we learned about on the camping trip).
You know the main thing I didn't like. Constantly starting sentences with "and", "but" and "because". It's not the worst thing in the world but it stands out to me.
On the whole, a thoroughly enjoyable book, especially if you're a sap for gay romance like I am.
December 1, 2019
On the weekend I read Always the Groomsman by Raleigh Ruebins. I think I got it on sale. It was a cute story about Zane who is heading to Idaho to be a groomsman for his best friend. This is his 10th (and last) wedding and his long-term boyfriend just dumped him 3 weeks ago. He's not in the mood, especially for best man (perkiest man ever) Sebastian and his "plans" for the next 3 weeks. But maybe there's more to everyone than meets the eye.
I liked that characters are portrayed in a certain way, sort of how you would meet someone and say "Oh, that guys is a partier with no common sense" and then as you get to know them you realize there is more than meets the eye and first impressions can be only part of the story. There is a bit of angst as they get together and then their own demons kind of pull them apart before they get their heads out of their asses, but it was a cute story and Jelly the pug was cute as well. Also it was nice that the groom/bride were totally not bridzillas and were just genuinely nice people. So it was a nice read, a little fluffy for some folks maybe but it hit the spot for me.
I liked that characters are portrayed in a certain way, sort of how you would meet someone and say "Oh, that guys is a partier with no common sense" and then as you get to know them you realize there is more than meets the eye and first impressions can be only part of the story. There is a bit of angst as they get together and then their own demons kind of pull them apart before they get their heads out of their asses, but it was a cute story and Jelly the pug was cute as well. Also it was nice that the groom/bride were totally not bridzillas and were just genuinely nice people. So it was a nice read, a little fluffy for some folks maybe but it hit the spot for me.
September 19, 2018
Two men - both lonely but looking for acceptance and love.
Zane was in the dumps since being jilted by his boyfriend of 10 years and now he's stuck driving 14 hours to a podunk town in Idaho with his dog Jelly to be a groomsman again.This was to be his last time for such a thankless task but at least it was for his bestest friend Colby who was finally marrying Erica. When Zane arrives he meets the epitome of a best man in Sebastian, the essence of a bubbly personality loaded with enthusiasm. Bot, what a downer for Zane 's "who's is me" attitude. But not is all as it seems with Sebastian who has his crossed to beat but he's one to bury his feelings for the betterment of this special time. Each go f2f what they seem in the other. This was a charming story of love list and then going again.
Zane was in the dumps since being jilted by his boyfriend of 10 years and now he's stuck driving 14 hours to a podunk town in Idaho with his dog Jelly to be a groomsman again.This was to be his last time for such a thankless task but at least it was for his bestest friend Colby who was finally marrying Erica. When Zane arrives he meets the epitome of a best man in Sebastian, the essence of a bubbly personality loaded with enthusiasm. Bot, what a downer for Zane 's "who's is me" attitude. But not is all as it seems with Sebastian who has his crossed to beat but he's one to bury his feelings for the betterment of this special time. Each go f2f what they seem in the other. This was a charming story of love list and then going again.
October 8, 2018
Zane is low because his boyfriend of 10 years broke up with him. But he’s a groomsman for the tenth time, and travels to his friend’s small town wedding.
Sebastian is the best man, who has lots of energy and a cheery outlook on life. Just what Zane needs, though it takes him awhile to figure it out.
As Zane heals from his breakup and Sebastian gets to know him, they find lots to share. Their relationship blooms, and they manage to get past their fears and challenges, from Sebastian’s mother to Zane living in LA, 14 hours drive away.
I like the people, though some of the story isn’t quite believable. A three week bachelor party makes little sense, and the couple getting married seem nice, but don’t come into the story enough until the end. It’s also strange that the ten time groomsman theme isn’t capitalized in a bit more.
Nice light read.
KU
Sebastian is the best man, who has lots of energy and a cheery outlook on life. Just what Zane needs, though it takes him awhile to figure it out.
As Zane heals from his breakup and Sebastian gets to know him, they find lots to share. Their relationship blooms, and they manage to get past their fears and challenges, from Sebastian’s mother to Zane living in LA, 14 hours drive away.
I like the people, though some of the story isn’t quite believable. A three week bachelor party makes little sense, and the couple getting married seem nice, but don’t come into the story enough until the end. It’s also strange that the ten time groomsman theme isn’t capitalized in a bit more.
Nice light read.
KU
November 18, 2019
Squee alert!
This was the cutest romance I’ve read in ages. I loved it so much. The heroes were both adorable in their own way, although Sebastien holds a special place in my heart. He’s just so perky and sweet and reminds me of an excited little puppy who you’d never want to let down. Plus he babbles when he’s nervous, which is something I’m guilty of, so I could relate so much. He’s had a really rough time of it, but he hasn’t let it get him down, and I think that’s such an admirable trait.
Zane is more reserved, but he feels everything so deeply and is a calming influence on everyone around him, which makes him a great match for talkative Sebastien. He also has a cute pug. Who wouldn’t love a man with a pug?
This story filled me with warm fuzzies, and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it to anyone.
This was the cutest romance I’ve read in ages. I loved it so much. The heroes were both adorable in their own way, although Sebastien holds a special place in my heart. He’s just so perky and sweet and reminds me of an excited little puppy who you’d never want to let down. Plus he babbles when he’s nervous, which is something I’m guilty of, so I could relate so much. He’s had a really rough time of it, but he hasn’t let it get him down, and I think that’s such an admirable trait.
Zane is more reserved, but he feels everything so deeply and is a calming influence on everyone around him, which makes him a great match for talkative Sebastien. He also has a cute pug. Who wouldn’t love a man with a pug?
This story filled me with warm fuzzies, and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it to anyone.
January 14, 2020
Loved it
Zane is reeling from a recent break up but somehow sweet, energetic Sebastian manages to bring him out of his shell. Sebastian may be an upbeat social butterfly on the surface but he has issues and hidden pain. It is the little things they notice that draws them together and becomes the start of something beautiful. They will have some ups and downs and drama to deal with but in the end, Zane and Sebastian are the perfect couple, they see things in each other, and understand each other like no one else does and this leads to a sweet and loving HEA.
Clever writing, laughs, realistic situations, heartbreak, passion, and interesting characters make this a worthy read.
Zane is reeling from a recent break up but somehow sweet, energetic Sebastian manages to bring him out of his shell. Sebastian may be an upbeat social butterfly on the surface but he has issues and hidden pain. It is the little things they notice that draws them together and becomes the start of something beautiful. They will have some ups and downs and drama to deal with but in the end, Zane and Sebastian are the perfect couple, they see things in each other, and understand each other like no one else does and this leads to a sweet and loving HEA.
Clever writing, laughs, realistic situations, heartbreak, passion, and interesting characters make this a worthy read.
September 8, 2018
Raleigh Ruebins latest book, Always the Groomsman, leaves behind his popular series but continues his unlikely pairings. I liked both of the main characters, Zane, who is more than a typical accountant, and Sebastian, the small-town guy with heart. Their coming together as groomsmen of a major wedding and the diversity of environments for pre-wedding festivities allowed both men to learn more about each other, both good and bad. While the resolution to a long-distance relationship was easy to see, it nonetheless added to the sweet factor in this story. I enjoyed the setting of much of the story in rural Idaho, but can’t see another story set here, unlike Rose Falls.
September 19, 2018
Heartfelt and fun!
I really liked this book. Sebastian & Zane had a connection that I could almost feel, whatever they were doing. Zane especially had some baggage to overcome but together they just clicked. I loved how Sebastian has what seemed to me like hidden depths and knew just what to say or do-except a couple emotional times...I do sometimes wish characters would get their heads on straight in certain situations but then again stories wouldn’t be the same without a problem for them to tackle! I enjoyed the quiet setting with the interaction with a small group-lots of little humorous moments that kept it fun and light. Overall a very enjoyable book’
I really liked this book. Sebastian & Zane had a connection that I could almost feel, whatever they were doing. Zane especially had some baggage to overcome but together they just clicked. I loved how Sebastian has what seemed to me like hidden depths and knew just what to say or do-except a couple emotional times...I do sometimes wish characters would get their heads on straight in certain situations but then again stories wouldn’t be the same without a problem for them to tackle! I enjoyed the quiet setting with the interaction with a small group-lots of little humorous moments that kept it fun and light. Overall a very enjoyable book’
December 11, 2018
Zane has been a groomsman so many times that he's sick and tired of it, not to mention he's only just broken up with a his partner. Now alone he forces himself to be a groomsman for the last time for a good friend he had in college. Zane is moody and doesn't want to there but the best man, Sebastian is the opposite of Zane and is determined to make everything be a hit and is more than willing to keep Zane out of a slump and a happy participant of the festivities.
It was a good read and I liked both characters. I read this a few months ago and writing a good review is hard but I do remember enjoying the book and what happened. I enjoyed getting to know Zane and Sebastian.
It was a good read and I liked both characters. I read this a few months ago and writing a good review is hard but I do remember enjoying the book and what happened. I enjoyed getting to know Zane and Sebastian.
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