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Queen City Rogues #1
Broken Halos
Oliver Knight’s past is shrouded by sorrow and tragedy, but instead of hiding from it, Ollie owns his truth and uses his experiences to uplift others. As an out and proud pastor, he provides a safe place for LGBTQ Christians to gather and worship, and as a recovering addict, he counsels those pursuing sobriety. Ollie’s life is fulfilling but also a little lonely. He may not have a hard time meeting men, but he does have a hard time getting them to stick around once they discover his vocation.
Archie White is a former drag queen who hung up his stilettos to start an HIV transition home in the memory of someone he held near and dear to his heart. All work and no play has made Archie a very dull man, but he thinks his luck is about to change when a friend introduces him to a dark-eyed stranger. That is until he learns the man is a pastor. Archie detests anything to do with religion, and for very good reasons.
Archie’s gut tells him to run, and Ollie’s heart tells him to pursue. What can a pastor and a sometimes-queen possibly have in common? A desire to find unconditional love with someone who truly sees them. What happens next is the poignant, sweet, and sexy journey for two resilient hearts. Ollie and Archie’s halos might be battered and a little tarnished, but they’re definitely not broken.
Broken Halos is a charming story with heart, heat, and humor. Warning: these characters and their quirky sidekicks may take up permanent residence in your heart, so proceed with caution. Each book in the Queen City Rogues series can be read as part of the series or as a standalone novel. This book contains sexually explicit material and colorful language intended for adults 18 and older.
Archie White is a former drag queen who hung up his stilettos to start an HIV transition home in the memory of someone he held near and dear to his heart. All work and no play has made Archie a very dull man, but he thinks his luck is about to change when a friend introduces him to a dark-eyed stranger. That is until he learns the man is a pastor. Archie detests anything to do with religion, and for very good reasons.
Archie’s gut tells him to run, and Ollie’s heart tells him to pursue. What can a pastor and a sometimes-queen possibly have in common? A desire to find unconditional love with someone who truly sees them. What happens next is the poignant, sweet, and sexy journey for two resilient hearts. Ollie and Archie’s halos might be battered and a little tarnished, but they’re definitely not broken.
Broken Halos is a charming story with heart, heat, and humor. Warning: these characters and their quirky sidekicks may take up permanent residence in your heart, so proceed with caution. Each book in the Queen City Rogues series can be read as part of the series or as a standalone novel. This book contains sexually explicit material and colorful language intended for adults 18 and older.
230 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 7, 2018
306 people are currently reading
560 people want to read
About the author
Aimee Nicole Walker
71 books2,007 followersI'm a wife and mother of three teenage kids. I've been married to the same wonderful man for twenty years. I've decided that if I can survive raising three kids then I can survive anything!! I haven't uttered the Mama's curse yet, but it could happen any day now. You know the one..."I hope you have a child just like you someday."
I'm an avid reader and lover of all things romance. I've spent my entire adult life waiting to follow my dreams of becoming a writer. One day this past summer, I decided to just do it. No more wishing and hoping. I haven't quit my day job, but that is my ultimate goal...make a living telling stories of love.
I write contemporary gay fiction. I hope you will love reading my books as much as I enjoy writing them.
I'm an avid reader and lover of all things romance. I've spent my entire adult life waiting to follow my dreams of becoming a writer. One day this past summer, I decided to just do it. No more wishing and hoping. I haven't quit my day job, but that is my ultimate goal...make a living telling stories of love.
I write contemporary gay fiction. I hope you will love reading my books as much as I enjoy writing them.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 124 reviews
November 12, 2018
Was really disappointed with this book, probably because the blurb was so promising. This book should be about Oliver, a Pastor who is a former addict, with his LGBTQ+ church and support group for other substance abusers, and Archie, a former drag queen that runs a transition home for individuals with HIV. Such promise!!!! I was hoping it would deal with these important topics and have a lot of emotional depth, these subjects are still not as common in the MM Romance genre and I feel they should appear more in books.
In actuality this book was a non stop ode to hornyness and physical desires, under the guise of Pastor Ollie being "only human" so he has all the desires and drives, and while that is all well and good I could not get past the sheer amount of time this book takes to describe how horny they are for each other, how much they want in each other's pants. I think there is about 85% solely dedicated to f**ing and thoughts about getting it on. I don't usually mind a high steam book and actually enjoy it, but not in stead of actual plot and substance.
I could also not feel any of the main characters, Pastor Ollie is a selfish egotistical lust filled man, and he shows remarkable lack of humanity (not to mention pastor-hood) when he meets a man from his past. That part was so painful to read and completely put me off Ollie. And after he sees the results of his selfishness he is all like "oh, we must make it better", no s*it Sherlock! God I was so angry with this plot line. Also, Ollie is still facing triggers but it seems like the author only added them to the story for a more dramatic effect and did not actually take the time to make it authentic to the character, and took little time to talk about his work with other substance abusers. Likewise with Archie's HIV transition home, it's just props.
The thing that really got me, was how they first met and were attracted to each other. You don;t really see it but the only thing they Do say is how much they wanted into each other's pants and could not stop thinking about it. Yet as Ollie chases Archie, who is put off by the fact he is a Pastor (which was a stupidest excuse, his past grievances with religion make no sense to him present dislike of Ollie being a pastor and he can clearly see Ollie is nothing like the his image of religion. You never see a reason why they want each other so bad, BUT the physical aspects. And that was also one of the biggest flops about this book, the speak about a big love but you never see how they found all the amazing qualities in each other when all they think and do is bang each other.
Total disappointment.
In actuality this book was a non stop ode to hornyness and physical desires, under the guise of Pastor Ollie being "only human" so he has all the desires and drives, and while that is all well and good I could not get past the sheer amount of time this book takes to describe how horny they are for each other, how much they want in each other's pants. I think there is about 85% solely dedicated to f**ing and thoughts about getting it on. I don't usually mind a high steam book and actually enjoy it, but not in stead of actual plot and substance.
I could also not feel any of the main characters, Pastor Ollie is a selfish egotistical lust filled man, and he shows remarkable lack of humanity (not to mention pastor-hood) when he meets a man from his past. That part was so painful to read and completely put me off Ollie. And after he sees the results of his selfishness he is all like "oh, we must make it better", no s*it Sherlock! God I was so angry with this plot line. Also, Ollie is still facing triggers but it seems like the author only added them to the story for a more dramatic effect and did not actually take the time to make it authentic to the character, and took little time to talk about his work with other substance abusers. Likewise with Archie's HIV transition home, it's just props.
The thing that really got me, was how they first met and were attracted to each other. You don;t really see it but the only thing they Do say is how much they wanted into each other's pants and could not stop thinking about it. Yet as Ollie chases Archie, who is put off by the fact he is a Pastor (which was a stupidest excuse, his past grievances with religion make no sense to him present dislike of Ollie being a pastor and he can clearly see Ollie is nothing like the his image of religion. You never see a reason why they want each other so bad, BUT the physical aspects. And that was also one of the biggest flops about this book, the speak about a big love but you never see how they found all the amazing qualities in each other when all they think and do is bang each other.
Total disappointment.
November 26, 2018
3.75 stars.
Broken Halos was a super adorable read. I liked the characters and the supporting ones as well.
It did take me a while to get into it because apparently this is a spinoff and I haven't read all those books. And that leads me to the second point, I was missing a lot of the background on them. I wished Aimee did tell us that because it wasn't brought up in this book and probably did in the others.
Although this wasn't a hit, it wasn't totally bad either. I do want to know how the rest of the books in the series are going to go.
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Broken Halos was a super adorable read. I liked the characters and the supporting ones as well.
It did take me a while to get into it because apparently this is a spinoff and I haven't read all those books. And that leads me to the second point, I was missing a lot of the background on them. I wished Aimee did tell us that because it wasn't brought up in this book and probably did in the others.
Although this wasn't a hit, it wasn't totally bad either. I do want to know how the rest of the books in the series are going to go.
Find me on: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Blog
March 20, 2019
***** This is an amazing story by Aimee Nicole Walker, who I have loved already. Her Blissville tales have been a favorite of mine. Now, we have a connection to Blissville, but new characters, who are a batch of sweet, quirky, genuine people that truly care about each other; who are witty, deep, accepting and real. We learn that every person on earth is unique, plus worthy of our attention, deserving of their chance to make a better life. We all need others in our lives.
Ollie...
is a progressive pastor who is devoted to helping anyone in need.
Archie is a semi-retired drag queen
who opened Ryan's House for LGBT youth and folks in need of a hand up.
The men have met but Archie ran. When Archie figures he needs to give Ollie a chance, the families and friends meet. These two rock each others world. Terrific sexy times with heat and total hotness and it's devilish and heavenly.
A snide ex shows up, but Archie is not interested. For Ollie, a traitor from his past shocks him to the core.
Their lives have really started to meld, and they are devoted.
Ollie is completely accepting of Archie's lacy undies, makeup and his alter ego drag queen persona,
when in the past, Archie's suitors were critical.
We get deeply thought-filled musings, as Ollie and Archie cement their feelings. Romantic and passionate.
ENJOY !
=======
Ollie...
is a progressive pastor who is devoted to helping anyone in need.
Archie is a semi-retired drag queen
who opened Ryan's House for LGBT youth and folks in need of a hand up.
The men have met but Archie ran. When Archie figures he needs to give Ollie a chance, the families and friends meet. These two rock each others world. Terrific sexy times with heat and total hotness and it's devilish and heavenly.
A snide ex shows up, but Archie is not interested. For Ollie, a traitor from his past shocks him to the core.
Their lives have really started to meld, and they are devoted.
Ollie is completely accepting of Archie's lacy undies, makeup and his alter ego drag queen persona,
when in the past, Archie's suitors were critical.
We get deeply thought-filled musings, as Ollie and Archie cement their feelings. Romantic and passionate.
ENJOY !
=======
November 26, 2018
3.5 stars for this book. I enjoyed the dynamic of Ollie & Archie, they were sweet, vulnerable and kind. The storyline felt a little choppy at times with various characters being added into the mix so I can see where spin off stories would come. While I felt this book was laying a foundation it just missed a little something for me.
November 8, 2018
The first in Aimee's new spin off series is an absolute triumph, there wasn't one bit of this story I didn't instantly fall in love with.
I can't pick between Archie or Ollie as to which is my favourite because they were both absolutely perfect not only in their characterisation, but for each other.
There's hot sex in this book, it wouldn't be from this author if there wasn't, but what spoke to me the most was the way Aimee built up the layers of family, friendship and love throughout.
Ollie might be a pastor but this book never preaches, rather like the faith Ollie holds to, this is a book about the healing power of love, through loving yourself, your family and the ones who you hold dear.
Now I'm intrigued to see where it goes next and with which of the potential pairings the little hints gave clues to in this book.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
I can't pick between Archie or Ollie as to which is my favourite because they were both absolutely perfect not only in their characterisation, but for each other.
There's hot sex in this book, it wouldn't be from this author if there wasn't, but what spoke to me the most was the way Aimee built up the layers of family, friendship and love throughout.
Ollie might be a pastor but this book never preaches, rather like the faith Ollie holds to, this is a book about the healing power of love, through loving yourself, your family and the ones who you hold dear.
Now I'm intrigued to see where it goes next and with which of the potential pairings the little hints gave clues to in this book.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
November 11, 2018
One thing you are always guaranteed for when it comes to a book from Aimee Nicole Walker is emotion, story line and depth of characters and damn does this outing pack a punch!
Though one of our MC's, Oliver, is a pastor and holds services every Sunday, aimed towards the LGBTQIA+ community, it never once feels likes his religion is pushed onto you as a reader. As someone with no religious beliefs, it was beautiful to read, how Oliver came into his faith (and what an emotional part that was!) and he's so earnest in showing compassion, love and awareness of all others regardless of if they have faith or not. It's actually what holds Archie back from his attraction and connection with Oliver. The two together cannot deny what they are feeling, and as a reader it was damn easy to feel how much they felt, but Archie's negative past with religion makes him wary.
One of the things I really love is how open Archie is with his life as a drag queen and how parts of that are also a part of his every day life with how he dresses and acts. It's a real pleasure to read along with how open and accepting Oliver is of everything. A definite shock for Archie but it allows for further exploration between the two men and it doesn't take long for things to heat up.
Both men have hurt, anger and negativity in their pasts but have used what they have in life to move forward and make a difference for others. It's truly inspiring to read characters like that.
Aimee is one of my favourite writers for many reasons but the chosen families that she creates are one of the best. Along with those beloved family members that love you regardless of sexual orientation, your chosen family becomes an inclusive, loving environment allowing our characters to prosper and pass on that love to others.
We have so many supporting characters to love in this story that they are all worth books of their own, including the mothers of the MC's! Hilarious, loving and supportive, with enough to go round for the young men who live at the house Archie runs for those with HIV with nowhere else to go. We hear from Andy and Milo from Blissville along with members of Ollie and Andy's NA support group.
I cannot recommend this book highly enough. It makes for some hard reading at times with the stories that our characters have to tell but it is so very worth it. The Aimee's writing is so easy to fall into and be immersed in what is bound to become yet another fantastic series!
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review
Though one of our MC's, Oliver, is a pastor and holds services every Sunday, aimed towards the LGBTQIA+ community, it never once feels likes his religion is pushed onto you as a reader. As someone with no religious beliefs, it was beautiful to read, how Oliver came into his faith (and what an emotional part that was!) and he's so earnest in showing compassion, love and awareness of all others regardless of if they have faith or not. It's actually what holds Archie back from his attraction and connection with Oliver. The two together cannot deny what they are feeling, and as a reader it was damn easy to feel how much they felt, but Archie's negative past with religion makes him wary.
One of the things I really love is how open Archie is with his life as a drag queen and how parts of that are also a part of his every day life with how he dresses and acts. It's a real pleasure to read along with how open and accepting Oliver is of everything. A definite shock for Archie but it allows for further exploration between the two men and it doesn't take long for things to heat up.
Both men have hurt, anger and negativity in their pasts but have used what they have in life to move forward and make a difference for others. It's truly inspiring to read characters like that.
Aimee is one of my favourite writers for many reasons but the chosen families that she creates are one of the best. Along with those beloved family members that love you regardless of sexual orientation, your chosen family becomes an inclusive, loving environment allowing our characters to prosper and pass on that love to others.
We have so many supporting characters to love in this story that they are all worth books of their own, including the mothers of the MC's! Hilarious, loving and supportive, with enough to go round for the young men who live at the house Archie runs for those with HIV with nowhere else to go. We hear from Andy and Milo from Blissville along with members of Ollie and Andy's NA support group.
I cannot recommend this book highly enough. It makes for some hard reading at times with the stories that our characters have to tell but it is so very worth it. The Aimee's writing is so easy to fall into and be immersed in what is bound to become yet another fantastic series!
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review
November 19, 2018
4.5 stars
It’s really kind of funny that I got a request for this book because the week before I was thinking that it had been awhile since I had read at LGBTQ book where one or more of the characters was religious and boom in pops Broken Halos by Aimee Nicole Walker. For the record, I really loved this book; it was fresh, it had some humor, it had a lot of heart, it was sexy as all get out, and it was relevant.
While Oliver Knight might be a pastor of a LGBTQ friendly church the road to get there wasn’t easy, but it was the caring and love of a pastor and his wife that showed him he could turn his life around and make something of himself and every day he wakes up and intends to keep Pastor Randall’s memory alive one soul at a time. He is also a man with wants and needs and no one in a long time has lit him up quite like Archie White, an ex-drag queen who now runs a HIV transition home.
While Archie was attracted to Ollie, he was uncomfortable with Ollie’s profession which led to a lot of starts and stops in their relationship. I appreciated that Ollie sensed that Archie needed time and backed off when asked, but kept hoping for Archie to come around. Their relationship might have started out on mutual attraction but I loved that they spent time talking and getting to know one another getting their pasts out in the open before they got too serious. With the help of Archie’s mom and a resident at the home, Archie begins to see the appeal of Ollie’s church and the love and acceptance that is practiced there and by the man himself.
While this book dealt with Ollie’s past addictions and Archie’s abusive father and men who didn’t appreciate Archie’s desire to be a queen and wear lacy under things, it wasn’t overly heavy and it definitely wasn’t preach making it a delight to read.
I loved Broken Halos and can’t wait to see who finds love next!
March 25, 2019
Very nice story and two great characters. I picked this up to read before reading book two, which I'm doing for blog review. And I'm happy to say that the location, the secondary characters, and mostly the MCs won me over quickly.
Sweet HEA for these two and a nice setup for book two at the end of this one. Can't wait for more.
Oh, and PS - manties, stockings, and other lingerie for Archie. I'm doubly pleased. :D
Sweet HEA for these two and a nice setup for book two at the end of this one. Can't wait for more.
Oh, and PS - manties, stockings, and other lingerie for Archie. I'm doubly pleased. :D
July 12, 2020
I do like the slow burn and I kind of wanted to see the meet cute, but instead we know the two MC's already know each other. Other than that, I really liked this.
January 23, 2020
Well, I don't know why I put this book on my TBR.
No, I know why, because I love this author so much.
But not this one, and it's purely because of me.
I'm not at all into religion, and this book is mainly about religion to me, and I can't. Thinking over, and over again about the why's, that's too much, and I'm not interested in it.
I think it's a cute book, but not for me.
I tried, and I still love the author, so it was just a mistake on my side.
No, I know why, because I love this author so much.
But not this one, and it's purely because of me.
I'm not at all into religion, and this book is mainly about religion to me, and I can't. Thinking over, and over again about the why's, that's too much, and I'm not interested in it.
I think it's a cute book, but not for me.
I tried, and I still love the author, so it was just a mistake on my side.
November 14, 2018
Something happens with this author's crossovers. It's like you cant read the next book without just finishing the previous. Something gets lost between books and we miss like all the yearning. Wish there was more of that. Too cut and dry.
November 25, 2018
I had high hopes for this one but it bored me to death.
November 7, 2018
OMG the progressive pastor and former drag queen??? SO HOT!! 🔥 LOL Broken Halos is a beautiful, emotional, funny and sexy slow burn romance between two men, not boys, who have overcome their difficult childhoods, surrounded themselves with makeshift family, yet inside, are still lonely. Once again, Aimee has brought out every one of my emotions. I was laughing hysterically (Bingo 😉 ) with tears one minute, then crying with tears and pressing on my heart the next. I love Ollie's determination and patience, he is a pastor after all, in going after what and who he wants…Archie!! The writing and banter was once again top notch with so many LOL and tender moments!! The story is filled with incredibly strong secondary characters whom you can’t help but fall in love with. This is a fantastic start to a new series, Queen City Rogues! Bring on book #2!!
November 9, 2018
I love you Aimee Nicole Walker and I love this book! So much so that I did not want it to end. Archie and Oliver were so freaking perfect and sweet and beautiful. I literally could not put this one down once I started! And I am looking forward to each and every story you bless us with in the series because I just know all these men, and the frat boys are going to be one helluva ride!!!
March 23, 2019
Great book..
I loved this book. New to me author. Looking forward to reading more in this series. I didn't like Ryder at first, but to see him humbled at end of the book makes me want to read his story.
I loved this book. New to me author. Looking forward to reading more in this series. I didn't like Ryder at first, but to see him humbled at end of the book makes me want to read his story.
March 10, 2024
Aimee still remains one of my few favourite authors who knows how to captivate me. Broken halos isn't just a storyline or interesting plot. It's a lesson. And authors who pass lessons while creating beautiful fictions always warm their way into my heart.
I enjoyed this re-read.
I enjoyed this re-read.
April 6, 2019
**2 stars** I DNF’d it at 88%. If I decide to not finish a book, I usually do it well before this. However, as I waited for some emotional-or any- climax to occur, I realized I was rather bored.
January 17, 2022
It was okay. I liked the MC's fine, but the story felt choppy.
November 17, 2018
A new series from this author started off with a white knight! Such an amazing start. I need more already.
Ollie and Archie are opposites but have somethings in common they need to discover. These two men have not so great past. They are living as best the can, only there is something missing... or someone.
When they really start to see the light to each other they just can’t get enough. They have such a strong pull to each other and they can’t stop it. Chemistry and passion just explodes from the pages. They are sweet loving men and I can’t wait to see who’s next! Maybe Ryder???
Ollie and Archie are opposites but have somethings in common they need to discover. These two men have not so great past. They are living as best the can, only there is something missing... or someone.
When they really start to see the light to each other they just can’t get enough. They have such a strong pull to each other and they can’t stop it. Chemistry and passion just explodes from the pages. They are sweet loving men and I can’t wait to see who’s next! Maybe Ryder???
June 2, 2019
This was just okay for me :-/ ... I ended up skimming a lot :-/!!
November 19, 2018
I normally steer clear of books that feature main characters who are in religious positions, have strong religious beliefs, or where religion plays a primary role in the story. But something drew me to Broken Halos after reading the blurb (and okay, yes, maybe the cover also drew me in as well), and since it’s written by an author who I’ve read before and enjoyed I figured I’d give it a go.
I did truly love the main characters. Ollie was the one I was most concerned about liking because, you know, pastor and all. He actually turned out to be my favorite ;-) He made it easy to see the human side of his position, and his concern for others was clearly evident. With Archie, I understood his initial aversion to Ollie once he found out Ollie was a pastor, though I couldn’t understand why he didn’t get over that a lot sooner considering how steadily Ollie continued to pursue him. They did make a great couple once they got together, sizzling chemistry and all.
There is a large cast of supporting characters which included both Ollie’s and Archie’s friends as well as their moms (blood and chosen) and a wonderful lady who volunteers at Archie’s HIV transition home. I’m guessing their friends and possibly some residents at the home will be a source of more stories, something I’m looking forward to for this series.
What I did think was lacking though was a more thorough background for each of them—we were more told than shown about their pasts, which left me feeling a slight lack of depth to their characters. The other thing that bugged me was how the situations with someone from Ollie’s past, then Archie’s ex and what happens at the museum after they leave, and then the epilogue all felt like they were brought up and handled bam-bam-bam one right after the other like the author was trying to fit them all in before the end of the story (yes, I know you might not know what I’m talking about until you read the book, but these bugged me enough to mention here anyway). It made the last quarter or so of the book feel like it was jumping from one thing to another too quickly. The museum thing that happened after they left felt like it could have been left out and put in another book and it wouldn’t have affected this story in the least. And as for the epilogue…okay, it was cute but also just a tad cheesy (and part of it had that tell-not-show feel to it as well).
Overall Broken Halos was a good read and gets 3.5 stars from me. This story is meant for readers 18+ for adult language and some hot and steamy sexual content (yes, with a pastor!).
I did truly love the main characters. Ollie was the one I was most concerned about liking because, you know, pastor and all. He actually turned out to be my favorite ;-) He made it easy to see the human side of his position, and his concern for others was clearly evident. With Archie, I understood his initial aversion to Ollie once he found out Ollie was a pastor, though I couldn’t understand why he didn’t get over that a lot sooner considering how steadily Ollie continued to pursue him. They did make a great couple once they got together, sizzling chemistry and all.
There is a large cast of supporting characters which included both Ollie’s and Archie’s friends as well as their moms (blood and chosen) and a wonderful lady who volunteers at Archie’s HIV transition home. I’m guessing their friends and possibly some residents at the home will be a source of more stories, something I’m looking forward to for this series.
What I did think was lacking though was a more thorough background for each of them—we were more told than shown about their pasts, which left me feeling a slight lack of depth to their characters. The other thing that bugged me was how the situations with someone from Ollie’s past, then Archie’s ex and what happens at the museum after they leave, and then the epilogue all felt like they were brought up and handled bam-bam-bam one right after the other like the author was trying to fit them all in before the end of the story (yes, I know you might not know what I’m talking about until you read the book, but these bugged me enough to mention here anyway). It made the last quarter or so of the book feel like it was jumping from one thing to another too quickly. The museum thing that happened after they left felt like it could have been left out and put in another book and it wouldn’t have affected this story in the least. And as for the epilogue…okay, it was cute but also just a tad cheesy (and part of it had that tell-not-show feel to it as well).
Overall Broken Halos was a good read and gets 3.5 stars from me. This story is meant for readers 18+ for adult language and some hot and steamy sexual content (yes, with a pastor!).
January 21, 2022
Another strong offering from Walker
This book, a spin off from Walker’s popular Blissville books, creates a tangent universe we can come to love, peoples by intriguing and well written characters we will also come to adore if history is any indication.
The book centers on Ollie and Archie who come to us courtesy of Andy and Milo from Walker’s Blissville series, itself an offshoot of her popular Curl Up and Dye series. Ollie and Archie were introduced to each other as a result of Andy’s friendship with Ollie and Archie’s friendship with Milo. It isn’t necessary to read their book first but it does give the story more depth when you know all the background info.
This book touches on some different themes for this genre, specifically the role of religion and Christianity for people in the LGBTQ community who have a history of being rejected by various churches. It also examines the way that people within the community can find their way back to God. It’s not at all preachy and handles the issues with a deft hand.
Ollie and Archie are complex characters, each with their own baggage and the character development is well done and well paced. The story arc moved a bit slow for me but I understand the desire for the character development to be thorough.
Lots of interesting characters are introduced for the start of this new Queen City series and I look forward to reading more about them. It would appear that forgiveness is also going to be a central theme based on the dangling storylines left unresolved.
This book, a spin off from Walker’s popular Blissville books, creates a tangent universe we can come to love, peoples by intriguing and well written characters we will also come to adore if history is any indication.
The book centers on Ollie and Archie who come to us courtesy of Andy and Milo from Walker’s Blissville series, itself an offshoot of her popular Curl Up and Dye series. Ollie and Archie were introduced to each other as a result of Andy’s friendship with Ollie and Archie’s friendship with Milo. It isn’t necessary to read their book first but it does give the story more depth when you know all the background info.
This book touches on some different themes for this genre, specifically the role of religion and Christianity for people in the LGBTQ community who have a history of being rejected by various churches. It also examines the way that people within the community can find their way back to God. It’s not at all preachy and handles the issues with a deft hand.
Ollie and Archie are complex characters, each with their own baggage and the character development is well done and well paced. The story arc moved a bit slow for me but I understand the desire for the character development to be thorough.
Lots of interesting characters are introduced for the start of this new Queen City series and I look forward to reading more about them. It would appear that forgiveness is also going to be a central theme based on the dangling storylines left unresolved.
November 16, 2018
For some reason, the emotion that came across for these two characters when I was introduced to them in the author's other series did not translate into this story. The story, while good, felt more like I was reading a textbook rather than a love story. The reappearance of someone who hurt Oliver so much that it still triggers him, was so glossed over that I could never understand why it affected Ollie. The same with Archie's hatred for all things church-related. It almost felt like I needed flashbacks to those times for both of these men in order to understand its effect on them now. I am glad that Archie and Ollie found their way to each other, I just wish the path to get there had been a little clearer.
November 16, 2018
A pastor and a drag queen. Each mans history shaping them into the men they are. They have to get past their differences to get their future.
I really wanted to love this book for several reasons. Ollie and Archie were fleshed out and likable. The family they each made was lovely with the supporting characters well done.
The conflict of Ollie being a pastor and Archie wanting nothing to do with him for that reason just didn’t ring true for me. As the basis for the conflict it just didn’t draw me in. As the start of a new spin off series I guess I hoped for more.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
I really wanted to love this book for several reasons. Ollie and Archie were fleshed out and likable. The family they each made was lovely with the supporting characters well done.
The conflict of Ollie being a pastor and Archie wanting nothing to do with him for that reason just didn’t ring true for me. As the basis for the conflict it just didn’t draw me in. As the start of a new spin off series I guess I hoped for more.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
December 23, 2018
3 1/2 stars
I like the characters and they fell deeply in love, yay, but it was flat. The words were there but we didn't actually go through anything with them. I was told to us how they met, had sparks, we were told how Archie reacted to Ollie being a preacher and ran the other way. Again I reiterated, it was told about it. And that happened a lot here. I was a little bored but it could be just ground work for the next book. The most exciting thing happened towards the end but I believe it was setting Ryder up for book two. I don't know but we will see...
I like the characters and they fell deeply in love, yay, but it was flat. The words were there but we didn't actually go through anything with them. I was told to us how they met, had sparks, we were told how Archie reacted to Ollie being a preacher and ran the other way. Again I reiterated, it was told about it. And that happened a lot here. I was a little bored but it could be just ground work for the next book. The most exciting thing happened towards the end but I believe it was setting Ryder up for book two. I don't know but we will see...
December 2, 2018
4.5 von 5*
Oliver Knight ist ein unkonventioneller Priester. Er lebt nicht nur offen schwul, sondern hat auch eine kriminelle Vergangenheit. Und er hat eine kleine Schwäche für Dragqueens. Insbesondere für Lady Bea Trix, aka Archie White. Zu dumm nur, dass Archie ihn abblitzen lässt und sich ganz gewiss nicht auf einen Mann der Kirche einlassen möchte. Zu schlecht sind seine Erfahrungen mit Religionen und auch sonst ist Archie nicht besonders erfolgreich in Beziehungen gewesen.
Oliver ist natürlich enttäuscht, doch er respektiert Archies Zurückweisung irgendwann - auch wenn es ihn verletzt. Doch das Schicksal führt sie wieder zusammen. Denn Archie ist mehr als nur eine Dragqueen. Er führt ein Haus, in dem HIV-Positive einen Unterschlupf finden und dort wieder auf die Beine kommen. Einer seiner Schützlinge braucht spirituellen Beistand und so treffen Archie und Oliver wieder aufeinander. Wieder fliegen die Funken zwischen ihnen und dieses Mal scheint es, als würde Archie über seinen Schatten springen und diesem Mann eine Chance zu geben.
Diese Reihe könnte mich durchaus zu Aimee Nicole Walker zurückführen. Ich mochte die Geschichte, ich mochte die Helden und die Dynamik zwischen ihnen. Leicht macht es Archie dem armen Oliver nicht. Aber dieser ist schon durch eine Hölle durchgegangen und hat seinen Frieden gefunden, auch wenn er durchaus etwas einsam ist. Sein Leben würde er gern mit einem besonderen Menschen teilen, doch Archie muss erst überzeugt und zuvor handzahm gemacht werden.
Obwohl es natürlich ein wenig Drama gibt, überwiegt ein sehr angenehmes, wohliges und liebenswertes Gefühl. Oliver ist sowieso der Sympathieträger schlechthin und Archie ist wie ein scheues Tier, das erst wieder zutraulich werden und Vertrauen lernen muss. Mir gefiel die unkonventionelle Art, wie Oliver sein Leben gestaltet. Aber auch sein Mut sich Situationen zu stellen, die selbst für einen Nicht-Geistlichen eine Herausforderung darstellen.
In der Geschichte gibt es einige interessante, aber sehr viele sympathische und liebenswürdige Nebencharaktere. So auch die Mutter von Archie und die Ziehmutter von Oliver, die ihn unterstützt, liebt und auch pusht.
Oliver Knight ist ein unkonventioneller Priester. Er lebt nicht nur offen schwul, sondern hat auch eine kriminelle Vergangenheit. Und er hat eine kleine Schwäche für Dragqueens. Insbesondere für Lady Bea Trix, aka Archie White. Zu dumm nur, dass Archie ihn abblitzen lässt und sich ganz gewiss nicht auf einen Mann der Kirche einlassen möchte. Zu schlecht sind seine Erfahrungen mit Religionen und auch sonst ist Archie nicht besonders erfolgreich in Beziehungen gewesen.
Oliver ist natürlich enttäuscht, doch er respektiert Archies Zurückweisung irgendwann - auch wenn es ihn verletzt. Doch das Schicksal führt sie wieder zusammen. Denn Archie ist mehr als nur eine Dragqueen. Er führt ein Haus, in dem HIV-Positive einen Unterschlupf finden und dort wieder auf die Beine kommen. Einer seiner Schützlinge braucht spirituellen Beistand und so treffen Archie und Oliver wieder aufeinander. Wieder fliegen die Funken zwischen ihnen und dieses Mal scheint es, als würde Archie über seinen Schatten springen und diesem Mann eine Chance zu geben.
Diese Reihe könnte mich durchaus zu Aimee Nicole Walker zurückführen. Ich mochte die Geschichte, ich mochte die Helden und die Dynamik zwischen ihnen. Leicht macht es Archie dem armen Oliver nicht. Aber dieser ist schon durch eine Hölle durchgegangen und hat seinen Frieden gefunden, auch wenn er durchaus etwas einsam ist. Sein Leben würde er gern mit einem besonderen Menschen teilen, doch Archie muss erst überzeugt und zuvor handzahm gemacht werden.
Obwohl es natürlich ein wenig Drama gibt, überwiegt ein sehr angenehmes, wohliges und liebenswertes Gefühl. Oliver ist sowieso der Sympathieträger schlechthin und Archie ist wie ein scheues Tier, das erst wieder zutraulich werden und Vertrauen lernen muss. Mir gefiel die unkonventionelle Art, wie Oliver sein Leben gestaltet. Aber auch sein Mut sich Situationen zu stellen, die selbst für einen Nicht-Geistlichen eine Herausforderung darstellen.
In der Geschichte gibt es einige interessante, aber sehr viele sympathische und liebenswürdige Nebencharaktere. So auch die Mutter von Archie und die Ziehmutter von Oliver, die ihn unterstützt, liebt und auch pusht.
December 4, 2018
Oliver "Ollie" Knight is a pastor who's come a long way from the streets where he was found. Kicked out of his home at fifteen because of being gay, Ollie did whatever he had to to survive. Landing in jail led him to the best thing that had ever happened to him, Pastor Randall Givens and his wife Millie. Getting clean and sober and putting his life on the straight and narrow wasn't easy but it was what he had to do. Now fourteen years later he is the pastor of a LGBT church and does counseling in a NA program.
Archie White is a former drag queen who runs Ryan's House, a home for HIV+ people who need help getting back on their feet. Ryan was the police officer who saved Archie and his mother from his abusive father and then helped them get on their feet. Archie has been hurt before by men just wanting some fun and nothing serious, so now he's all about the one night stands. That is until he meets Ollie.
Ollie and Archie have mutual friends so they end up meeting and instant attraction. Ollie is all for dating and seeing where the attraction leads but Archie just wants a quick one off, or does he. Archie fights the attraction well but Ollie doesn't give up and next thing you know, they're seeing where it's going. Archie gets back into drag to see what Ollie's reaction will be. He's convinced that Ollie will dump him when he sees him in drag, just like the men before. When Ollie reacts the exact opposite Archie can't fight his feelings anymore. Archie escorts his mother Maria to seniors bingo night and it turns out Ollie is the pastor calling numbers that night. Bingo calling has never been better. These two lonely, hurt and healing men find that they can trust each other and open their hearts. Sharing their past brings them closer together and the true healing begins.
This was a very good story and very well written. All of the side characters play an integral part and make the story even better. It was nice seeing Andy and Milo again and witnessing the next step in their relationship. I definitely recommend this book and I'll definitely be re-reading it again soon.
Archie White is a former drag queen who runs Ryan's House, a home for HIV+ people who need help getting back on their feet. Ryan was the police officer who saved Archie and his mother from his abusive father and then helped them get on their feet. Archie has been hurt before by men just wanting some fun and nothing serious, so now he's all about the one night stands. That is until he meets Ollie.
Ollie and Archie have mutual friends so they end up meeting and instant attraction. Ollie is all for dating and seeing where the attraction leads but Archie just wants a quick one off, or does he. Archie fights the attraction well but Ollie doesn't give up and next thing you know, they're seeing where it's going. Archie gets back into drag to see what Ollie's reaction will be. He's convinced that Ollie will dump him when he sees him in drag, just like the men before. When Ollie reacts the exact opposite Archie can't fight his feelings anymore. Archie escorts his mother Maria to seniors bingo night and it turns out Ollie is the pastor calling numbers that night. Bingo calling has never been better. These two lonely, hurt and healing men find that they can trust each other and open their hearts. Sharing their past brings them closer together and the true healing begins.
This was a very good story and very well written. All of the side characters play an integral part and make the story even better. It was nice seeing Andy and Milo again and witnessing the next step in their relationship. I definitely recommend this book and I'll definitely be re-reading it again soon.
November 23, 2018
3.5 stars rounded to 4
A romance between a gay pastor and a drag queen… Yes, please, sign me up! I had to read this book for the potential of that dynamic alone.
This book is a spin-off of another series and through the first third of the book, I felt a little lost as I hadn’t read all of the books from the original series. All the characters had established relationships and rapport from the start of the book, including the MCs Ollie and Archie. So, I was a little lost from the get-go.
Ollie is a gay pastor who oversees a congregation serving the LGBTQ+ community. Archie is a former drag queen that runs a HIV transition home. They meet and the sparks fly before the start of the book. Unfortunately, due to trauma in his childhood, Archie resists the attraction to Ollie because Ollie is a pastor and this is where the book starts - Ollie’s pursuit of Archie. Over a few months of the MCs missing each other (which made no sense to me as they hadn’t had a previous romantic relationship), they finally come together. Once the two decide to try, the chemistry is hot and the romance is fast-paced.
I wasn’t completely sold on Ollie and Archie as a couple. Ollie was unconditionally accepting of Archie and his kinks, but he did not get that in return from Archie. I got the feeling Archie fell in love with Ollie despite him being a pastor, whereas Ollie loved Archie for all his lingerie-wearing, snarky, bad driving, drag queen diva ways…
This is a sweet, feel-good read, mostly about being yourself and your chosen family. I think there were unnecessary elements in the book around ex-boyfriends and an art heist. And, while this is billed as a standalone romance, it really isn’t. The reader misses the Ollie/Archie origin story in this book alone.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
A romance between a gay pastor and a drag queen… Yes, please, sign me up! I had to read this book for the potential of that dynamic alone.
This book is a spin-off of another series and through the first third of the book, I felt a little lost as I hadn’t read all of the books from the original series. All the characters had established relationships and rapport from the start of the book, including the MCs Ollie and Archie. So, I was a little lost from the get-go.
Ollie is a gay pastor who oversees a congregation serving the LGBTQ+ community. Archie is a former drag queen that runs a HIV transition home. They meet and the sparks fly before the start of the book. Unfortunately, due to trauma in his childhood, Archie resists the attraction to Ollie because Ollie is a pastor and this is where the book starts - Ollie’s pursuit of Archie. Over a few months of the MCs missing each other (which made no sense to me as they hadn’t had a previous romantic relationship), they finally come together. Once the two decide to try, the chemistry is hot and the romance is fast-paced.
I wasn’t completely sold on Ollie and Archie as a couple. Ollie was unconditionally accepting of Archie and his kinks, but he did not get that in return from Archie. I got the feeling Archie fell in love with Ollie despite him being a pastor, whereas Ollie loved Archie for all his lingerie-wearing, snarky, bad driving, drag queen diva ways…
This is a sweet, feel-good read, mostly about being yourself and your chosen family. I think there were unnecessary elements in the book around ex-boyfriends and an art heist. And, while this is billed as a standalone romance, it really isn’t. The reader misses the Ollie/Archie origin story in this book alone.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
November 13, 2018
Another great start to a new series. I love anything that Aimee Nicole Walker writes and I was not shocked that I loved this. Oliver Knight and Archie White are two great characters and I can't choose which one is my new favorite. Oliver "Ollie" is a out and proud pastor who is wanting to find his special someone who can really see him and not just his job. Archie has had to deal with loser after loser who don't accept all of him and want to hide his Drag side in the closet. With a huge chip on his shoulder he doesn't want to fall for Ollie. We slowly see these two open up to each other, one step at a time you can build a foundation for more. Their connection and love was sweet, hot and breathtaking. Finding each other and getting deeper emotional left me smiling. I was with them every step of the way and the best side characters that I can't wait to know more about. With this new series its a world where we get to see more about some side characters we met briefly before in 'This Time Around (Road To Blissville #4)'. You don't have to read anything before this one and won't be lost at all if you want to jump right into this. Can't wait for the next.
May 23, 2019
There may be some spoilers so read at your own risk.
This was ok. I didn’t know if I’d like it, simply because I really don’t like books that bring religion into the story. However, I thought maybe it wouldn’t be so bad. Now, I was raised very Catholic, but I’m now an atheist. The thing is, I think some of my old religion stuck around, because I hard an issue with the way Ollie - the pastor - behaved and talked to Archie. He was kind of crude, super aggressive. I also get that he’s a “different” kind of pastor, but getting strapped to a bench and spanked by a drag queen in a gay club, on stage, just left an icky taste in my mouth. Now Archie gave me issues too. His whole “stop it, we’re just friends” but “oh I want to f*uck you so bad” gave me freaking whiplash.
That being said, the test of the book was not bad. Low angst, some drama but not too bad. The proposal was .... disappointing. It’s all set up beautifully, and right when you would expect a heartfelt speech ..... you only get “will you marry me”. Really ? That’s it ??? So, not a book I will ever re read, but I also didn’t hate it.
This was ok. I didn’t know if I’d like it, simply because I really don’t like books that bring religion into the story. However, I thought maybe it wouldn’t be so bad. Now, I was raised very Catholic, but I’m now an atheist. The thing is, I think some of my old religion stuck around, because I hard an issue with the way Ollie - the pastor - behaved and talked to Archie. He was kind of crude, super aggressive. I also get that he’s a “different” kind of pastor, but getting strapped to a bench and spanked by a drag queen in a gay club, on stage, just left an icky taste in my mouth. Now Archie gave me issues too. His whole “stop it, we’re just friends” but “oh I want to f*uck you so bad” gave me freaking whiplash.
That being said, the test of the book was not bad. Low angst, some drama but not too bad. The proposal was .... disappointing. It’s all set up beautifully, and right when you would expect a heartfelt speech ..... you only get “will you marry me”. Really ? That’s it ??? So, not a book I will ever re read, but I also didn’t hate it.
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