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Colors of Love #2
Touch of a Yellow Sun
It's been a rough couple of years for Marek Hafer, roaming hockey protagonist and pugilistic expert. Ending up in Berger Lake, Pennsylvania, on a financially unstable minor league team might just be the ending his wretched career deserves. On the other side of thirty, Marek knows his time on skates is dwindling. His goal now is to spend a few quiet years playing for the Berger Lake Badgers, knock a few helmets together as needed, and then call it quits before his salty personality gets him booted out of hockey permanently.
After a bloody encounter his first night on the ice, the Badgers coach suggests that Marek find a way to lower his violent tendencies before he’s sent packing yet again. That decree leads Marek to knock on the door of his next-door neighbor, Shey Pierson, the owner of Sun Touch Yoga Studio. Shey ticks every box Marek has with his soft blue eyes, flowing golden hair, and long limber legs. The only problem is that Shey is yin to Marek’s yang.
Can a man famed for throwing punches find serenity in the arms of a man known for his tranquil ways?
After a bloody encounter his first night on the ice, the Badgers coach suggests that Marek find a way to lower his violent tendencies before he’s sent packing yet again. That decree leads Marek to knock on the door of his next-door neighbor, Shey Pierson, the owner of Sun Touch Yoga Studio. Shey ticks every box Marek has with his soft blue eyes, flowing golden hair, and long limber legs. The only problem is that Shey is yin to Marek’s yang.
Can a man famed for throwing punches find serenity in the arms of a man known for his tranquil ways?
ebook
First published February 25, 2019
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About the author
V.L. Locey
212 books728 followersV.L. Locey loves worn jeans, Dr. Who, Torchwood, belly laughs, yoga, reading and writing lusty tales, walking, Greek mythology, the New York Rangers, comic books, and coffee. (Not necessarily in that order.)
She shares her life with her husband, her daughter, one dog, two cats, and a flock of assorted domestic fowl.
When not writing lusty tales, she can be found enjoying her day with her menagerie in the rolling hills of Pennsylvania, fresh cup of java in hand.
Sign up for my newsletter here: http://vllocey.com/Newsletter
She shares her life with her husband, her daughter, one dog, two cats, and a flock of assorted domestic fowl.
When not writing lusty tales, she can be found enjoying her day with her menagerie in the rolling hills of Pennsylvania, fresh cup of java in hand.
Sign up for my newsletter here: http://vllocey.com/Newsletter
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
February 18, 2019
This is right up there at the top of the tree alongside the epic creation that is Victor Kalinski as one of my favourite offerings from Vicki.
Marek is just the sort of growly ice hockey player Vicki writes so well and my heart broke a million times as we found out more and more about his background and the circumstances which led up to his transfer to a barely hanging on team.
Shay, on the other hand, was such a joyous character to read, his personality and tranquil disposition just oozed off the pages.
Together they made magic and seeing the journey as they each found something precious in the other person was delightful.
Even the angst in this one, serious as it is in the subjects it touches on, never felt oppressive.
This was just what I was looking for in a sports romance, enough spice to balance the sweet, enough action to make the quiet times stand up.
Bonus points for an awesome Siamese cat too :)
Book three's sneak peek also looks brilliant.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
Marek is just the sort of growly ice hockey player Vicki writes so well and my heart broke a million times as we found out more and more about his background and the circumstances which led up to his transfer to a barely hanging on team.
Shay, on the other hand, was such a joyous character to read, his personality and tranquil disposition just oozed off the pages.
Together they made magic and seeing the journey as they each found something precious in the other person was delightful.
Even the angst in this one, serious as it is in the subjects it touches on, never felt oppressive.
This was just what I was looking for in a sports romance, enough spice to balance the sweet, enough action to make the quiet times stand up.
Bonus points for an awesome Siamese cat too :)
Book three's sneak peek also looks brilliant.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
March 12, 2019
Full review to follow soonish!
You are the sunshine of my life...that's why I'll always be around...
A while ago I was given the opportunity to read a book entitled ‘Lost in Indigo’ by V.L. Locey and I really loved it so when the opportunity came to read and review the second book in this series ‘Touch Of A Yellow Sun’ saying anything other than ‘oh hell yeah!’ wasn’t even an option and once again I loved the story that I was presented with.
While I really loved this story I have to admit at times I struggled with the character of Marek Hafer, but in the end I was won over by Marek and then there was Shey…I cannot lie I loved Shey just for his name…ok, maybe not just for his name but honestly I just love the name Shey, so he had brownie points before I even started reading the story.
Now the story…Marek Hafer has anger issues and while one might think this could be a bonus for a hockey player...it’s not since often times decisions made in anger are not made with good judgement and Marek frequently displays poor judgement both on the ice and off, but he’s also got issues…issues that cloud his judgement and contribute to his ongoing anger. Marek’s got a past that’s filled with pain and hurt and unanswered questions.
Shey Pierson is Marek’s new neighbor and Marek quickly comes to realize that Shey is also a source of a peace and calm that Marek has rarely if ever known in his life and while his initial attraction is more about lust than love as the two men get to know each other those feelings begin to change.
Shey teaches yoga classes for a living and he’s as drawn to Marek as Marek is to him, but he also sees the internal turmoil that Marek’s fighting with and he wants to help him find peace.
Shey definitely made Marek want to be a better person, while Marek helped Shey to lighten up a little and then there was the tea…so much tea!!! Shey reminded me of a dear friend whose solution to all things like Shey was to make tea. I loved it. The lesson here…when in doubt make tea! And one of my absolute favorite parts of the story was a sweet little meesie named Chula. I’ve got a huge soft spot for Siamese cats so Shey having one and the fact that Marek loved Shey’s cat as much as I did pretty much guaranteed that at the end of it all I was going to adore these two men. But if that wasn’t enough there was the fact that I really enjoyed their interactions…well this one started out good and for me just kept getting better and better.
Marek and Shey were two very different men and yet they both had a common problem that took a different form for each of them…both men had things in their past to deal with and I loved that they did this together…giving each other the love and support they needed to deal with the challenging things and move on.
If you didn’t read ‘Lost In Indigo’ and for whatever reason it’s not your thing but this one appeals to you, reading it without benefit of that story is a total non-issue there is zero overlap in terms of story lines and the only character from that book that appears here is Marek’s agent…so like I said it’s definitely a non-issue to read book two even if you skipped the first one.
‘Touch Of A Yellow Sun’ was a feel good story that just needs a cozy chair and a cup of tea to round out the reading experience and maybe a cookie or two would be nice while you’re at it.
*************************
A copy of ‘Touch Of A Yellow Sun’ was graciously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
You are the sunshine of my life...that's why I'll always be around...
A while ago I was given the opportunity to read a book entitled ‘Lost in Indigo’ by V.L. Locey and I really loved it so when the opportunity came to read and review the second book in this series ‘Touch Of A Yellow Sun’ saying anything other than ‘oh hell yeah!’ wasn’t even an option and once again I loved the story that I was presented with.
While I really loved this story I have to admit at times I struggled with the character of Marek Hafer, but in the end I was won over by Marek and then there was Shey…I cannot lie I loved Shey just for his name…ok, maybe not just for his name but honestly I just love the name Shey, so he had brownie points before I even started reading the story.
Now the story…Marek Hafer has anger issues and while one might think this could be a bonus for a hockey player...it’s not since often times decisions made in anger are not made with good judgement and Marek frequently displays poor judgement both on the ice and off, but he’s also got issues…issues that cloud his judgement and contribute to his ongoing anger. Marek’s got a past that’s filled with pain and hurt and unanswered questions.
Shey Pierson is Marek’s new neighbor and Marek quickly comes to realize that Shey is also a source of a peace and calm that Marek has rarely if ever known in his life and while his initial attraction is more about lust than love as the two men get to know each other those feelings begin to change.
Shey teaches yoga classes for a living and he’s as drawn to Marek as Marek is to him, but he also sees the internal turmoil that Marek’s fighting with and he wants to help him find peace.
Shey definitely made Marek want to be a better person, while Marek helped Shey to lighten up a little and then there was the tea…so much tea!!! Shey reminded me of a dear friend whose solution to all things like Shey was to make tea. I loved it. The lesson here…when in doubt make tea! And one of my absolute favorite parts of the story was a sweet little meesie named Chula. I’ve got a huge soft spot for Siamese cats so Shey having one and the fact that Marek loved Shey’s cat as much as I did pretty much guaranteed that at the end of it all I was going to adore these two men. But if that wasn’t enough there was the fact that I really enjoyed their interactions…well this one started out good and for me just kept getting better and better.
Marek and Shey were two very different men and yet they both had a common problem that took a different form for each of them…both men had things in their past to deal with and I loved that they did this together…giving each other the love and support they needed to deal with the challenging things and move on.
If you didn’t read ‘Lost In Indigo’ and for whatever reason it’s not your thing but this one appeals to you, reading it without benefit of that story is a total non-issue there is zero overlap in terms of story lines and the only character from that book that appears here is Marek’s agent…so like I said it’s definitely a non-issue to read book two even if you skipped the first one.
‘Touch Of A Yellow Sun’ was a feel good story that just needs a cozy chair and a cup of tea to round out the reading experience and maybe a cookie or two would be nice while you’re at it.
*************************
A copy of ‘Touch Of A Yellow Sun’ was graciously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
March 10, 2019
Marek is a hockey player on his way out. He's had a chip on his shoulder, a motormouth, and a drive of anger since his father was killed when he was 12, and his mother married a preacher. In some ways, that made Marek stand out in hockey as a grinder and a fighter, who could spark a team. His skills took him to the NHL, until a questionable late hit on a player left the man disabled. That was a black mark Marek could never get past, either in the league, with the fans, or in his own head. Now down from the NHL, past the AHL, to the ECHL, Marek figures he has another couple of years to play as a new minor team's bad boy, before his career is over.
The team gives him a rent-free apartment that turns out to be a closet-sized poorly-heated space across the hall from a yoga instructor's studio/apartment. The instructor, Shey, is easy on the eyes, but he drinks tea, believes in non-violence, and meditates. Marek figures the best his neighbor will be is eye candy, which Marek appreciates in either male or female form. Except Shey also has a cat, and Marek still misses his own cat, lost to an ex along the way. And Shey, who is pansexual, is less offended by Marek's attitudes than might be expected. Their small space, a mutual attraction, and an attitude change beginning to take place as Marek faces the end of one way of life with an uncertain future ahead, bring these two men together.
I enjoyed Marek's mouth-engaged-before-brain attitude. The two guys were good together, and I believed the way they came to enjoy each other's company out of bed. I wasn't sure quite what Shey was doing running his yoga studio out of his apartment - it seemed more than necessarily down-market for his situation - but it led to some amusing moments. Homophobia informs Marek's past, but wasn't the driving feature of this story, which was refreshing, and I liked that Marek's self-understanding had some hiccoughs along the way. Marek didn't engage my emotions to the degree that Locey's other characters sometimes have, but I really enjoyed watching his journey toward a better future with Shey.
This story reads just fine as a stand-alone.
The team gives him a rent-free apartment that turns out to be a closet-sized poorly-heated space across the hall from a yoga instructor's studio/apartment. The instructor, Shey, is easy on the eyes, but he drinks tea, believes in non-violence, and meditates. Marek figures the best his neighbor will be is eye candy, which Marek appreciates in either male or female form. Except Shey also has a cat, and Marek still misses his own cat, lost to an ex along the way. And Shey, who is pansexual, is less offended by Marek's attitudes than might be expected. Their small space, a mutual attraction, and an attitude change beginning to take place as Marek faces the end of one way of life with an uncertain future ahead, bring these two men together.
I enjoyed Marek's mouth-engaged-before-brain attitude. The two guys were good together, and I believed the way they came to enjoy each other's company out of bed. I wasn't sure quite what Shey was doing running his yoga studio out of his apartment - it seemed more than necessarily down-market for his situation - but it led to some amusing moments. Homophobia informs Marek's past, but wasn't the driving feature of this story, which was refreshing, and I liked that Marek's self-understanding had some hiccoughs along the way. Marek didn't engage my emotions to the degree that Locey's other characters sometimes have, but I really enjoyed watching his journey toward a better future with Shey.
This story reads just fine as a stand-alone.
December 23, 2019
This series is working for me so far. Each book is a complete standalone. The only thing in common is that the main characters are hockey players who are about to retire, or forced to retire due to different circumstances, thus have to figure out if they want to continue with playing hockey or is there something better out there for them.
If I didn't know any better, I'd say Marek Hafer is related to Vic Kalinski or they're in close acquaintance. Marek is the tamer version of Victor, less like an asshole. He's like a sweet teddy bear.
Upon meeting Shey, his next door neighbor who is a yoga teacher, he's instantly enamored and also a little annoyed. He's not just gonna start drinking tea and get up at the ass crack of dawn to meditate just to impress the guy. Nooo, that's not Marek.
When everyone expects him to be the tough guy on the ice, he realizes he doesn't want that anymore, even though his anger gets the better of him from time to time. But Shey makes him want to be a better person. And he's really trying. Past mistakes and hurt feelings come to the surface and he works really hard to redeem himself.
So all in all, I found Marek really endearing, even in his brutish moments, and the way he behaved towards Shey made me want to constantly hug him.
Looking forward to the next.
December 24, 2019
I firmly believe that someone's background and the way they were raised shape their personality and play a huge role in the way they react to situations. But after a while, blaming everything on your childhood, especially when you do it consciously is just an excuse for your misgivings. At least that was what I felt Marek was doing. I warmed up to him in the second half but the ending cemented my opinion about him.
An ok read.
An ok read.
September 6, 2021
"Touch of a Yellow Sun" is the second book in the "Colors of Love" series but can easily be read as a stand-alone; there is no carry-over from the first book (Lost in Indigo with the exception of one very minor character.
Marek Hafer is a hockey player whose skill set involves cheap hits and making his opponents angry enough to draw penalties. He played in the NHL but after one of his patented dirty hits ended a player's career, Marek's career spirals down until he finds himself in the ECHL in a smallish town in Pennsylvania. He knows he's been hired to stir things up and play the guy fans love to hate. As the book begins, Marek is definitely an un-self-aware jerk who chooses to ignore the consequences of his actions and tells himself he's fine with being hated - hey, he's doing his job and still gets to play hockey.
But then he meets Shey, the gorgeous pansexual yoga teacher with a yoga studio / apartment across the hall from Marek's spartan second-hand store decorated apartment. Marek is immediately enamored with this sunny man with the golden hair and warm personality and it is absolutely charming to see this rough and tough man slowly succumb to the peace he feels in Shey's presence, the kindness and caring ... and yup, some pretty steamy, very bendy sex.
The story balances hockey and team dynamics, Marek working his way through his relationship with his parents, Shey's family background and a subplot involving a stalker, etc. and yet I found myself really looking forward to the simple details of Marek and Shey's relationship - Shey's healing tea that Marek thinks tastes like socks, the way-too-early in the morning meditations, the sheer joy Marek feels just holding this amazing man in his arms, Marek's willingness to deal with his anger in order to share his life with Shey. It's all so lovely to read!
I would have liked Shey's POV and thought the resolution of the stalker situation came about a bit abruptly; however, the epilogue is a sweet insight into Marek and Shey's future plans. 4 stars for "Touch of a Yellow Sun."
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Visit my blog, Sinfully Good Gay Book Reviews
Marek Hafer is a hockey player whose skill set involves cheap hits and making his opponents angry enough to draw penalties. He played in the NHL but after one of his patented dirty hits ended a player's career, Marek's career spirals down until he finds himself in the ECHL in a smallish town in Pennsylvania. He knows he's been hired to stir things up and play the guy fans love to hate. As the book begins, Marek is definitely an un-self-aware jerk who chooses to ignore the consequences of his actions and tells himself he's fine with being hated - hey, he's doing his job and still gets to play hockey.
But then he meets Shey, the gorgeous pansexual yoga teacher with a yoga studio / apartment across the hall from Marek's spartan second-hand store decorated apartment. Marek is immediately enamored with this sunny man with the golden hair and warm personality and it is absolutely charming to see this rough and tough man slowly succumb to the peace he feels in Shey's presence, the kindness and caring ... and yup, some pretty steamy, very bendy sex.
The story balances hockey and team dynamics, Marek working his way through his relationship with his parents, Shey's family background and a subplot involving a stalker, etc. and yet I found myself really looking forward to the simple details of Marek and Shey's relationship - Shey's healing tea that Marek thinks tastes like socks, the way-too-early in the morning meditations, the sheer joy Marek feels just holding this amazing man in his arms, Marek's willingness to deal with his anger in order to share his life with Shey. It's all so lovely to read!
I would have liked Shey's POV and thought the resolution of the stalker situation came about a bit abruptly; however, the epilogue is a sweet insight into Marek and Shey's future plans. 4 stars for "Touch of a Yellow Sun."
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Visit my blog, Sinfully Good Gay Book Reviews
dnf
October 9, 2020DNF @52%
Gah... I tried. I really did. But Marek was just super annoying and not very likeable and Shey just wasn’t much of memorable character. And things both didn’t move fast enough and moved too fast 🤷🏻♀️
Gah... I tried. I really did. But Marek was just super annoying and not very likeable and Shey just wasn’t much of memorable character. And things both didn’t move fast enough and moved too fast 🤷🏻♀️
February 27, 2019
4.5 stars - What a great example of not only opposites attract but opposites that are perfect for one another. Marek is the gruff bruiser of a hockey player who clearly has issues that led to the demise of his professional hockey career. After being knocked down from the NHL to the AHL, he is now starting over with the next lower level, the EHL, where he expects to play out his career. Now he plays for a team on the brink of extinction, the owner bringing Marek on with the hopes of stirring up interest in the team. Ironically, the very things Marek needs to work on are the very reasons he was brought on to the team.
Marek’s new neighbor is Shey, a hippyish yoga instructor who is the complete opposite of Marek. He is soft spoken, gentle and non-violent, focusing on chakras and herbs and pretty much everything Marek isn’t. It doesn’t take long before Shey’s positive energy starts having an affect on Marek. They clearly have physical chemistry, but it is the spiritual and emotional connections that form the basis of their relationship. I really liked how Marek started to change his ways just be being around Shey and his realizing this and how important Shey was to him. It did take a little bit for me to warm up to Marek, as I was in the same boat as his new coach in thinking he just needed to grow up and act like a decent adult. I started warming up as things got more involved with Shey though, so maybe it was his positive energy working on me as well!
There are a number of things that contribute to Marek’s issues, and Shey actually has some small ones of his own, but these guys were so perfect for each other, it just naturally brought out the best in them and helped them each deal with those things together. They truly were the yin to each other’s yang, and it was heartwarming to watch their relationship transform and blossom as they found balance and comfort where it was truly needed. Definitely another winner from Ms. Locey.
Review written for Love Bytes Reviews.
May 15, 2019
A pleasant way to spend an afternoon. Barely a sports story. If you're looking for something like Tigers and Devils or The Last Day Of Summer, you might find yourself a bit disappointed. More a contemporary romance with just a foot inside the hockey rink.
Kudos to the author for deftly drawn characters. She created some great secondary characters, too. I truly enjoyed the contrast between our two protagonists; they could not have been more "opposite". It was a joy to watch a peaceful yogi and a scrappy hockey player find a middleground and eventually love.
Kudos to the author for deftly drawn characters. She created some great secondary characters, too. I truly enjoyed the contrast between our two protagonists; they could not have been more "opposite". It was a joy to watch a peaceful yogi and a scrappy hockey player find a middleground and eventually love.
March 6, 2019
This is a definite case of opposites attract, and if there’s one thing Marek does need in his life, it’s the balance and calm that Shey provides. I usually find myself drawn to the hockey player in a couple in these types of stories with their strong alpha characteristics, but this time around I actually gravitated more to Shey. Marek felt a bit all over the place to me, absolutely in desperate need of Shey’s more serene ways.
Looking at the two of these guys, you wouldn’t ever expect they’d work together, but that balance that Shey gives Marek is important, and Marek definitely amuses Shey. I did find that the parts of the story dealing with Shey’s ex felt extraneous and personally I could have done without them and enjoyed the story just fine.
This story was entertaining, but for me it was more surface-level and I’m attributing that to the lack of connection I felt to Marek. Shey is the one who held everything together for me in this one, and overall Touch of a Yellow Sun was a 3.5-star read for me. Recommended for readers 18+ for adult language and sexual content.
Looking at the two of these guys, you wouldn’t ever expect they’d work together, but that balance that Shey gives Marek is important, and Marek definitely amuses Shey. I did find that the parts of the story dealing with Shey’s ex felt extraneous and personally I could have done without them and enjoyed the story just fine.
This story was entertaining, but for me it was more surface-level and I’m attributing that to the lack of connection I felt to Marek. Shey is the one who held everything together for me in this one, and overall Touch of a Yellow Sun was a 3.5-star read for me. Recommended for readers 18+ for adult language and sexual content.
April 4, 2022
In Pennsylvania, we find our opposites are attracted.
Marek and Shey are neighbors, and Marek sees Shey meditating, holding yoga classes, but most of all he sees the beautiful man. Both characters are wonderful.
Marek is Bi, in his 30s, plays hockey in a minor
league team, dark hair, brown eyes, and in general is a blunt, loud, sassy, grouch.
Shey, is a yoga instructor, younger, slim, lean muscled,
yellow haired, blue eyes, and long legs. He's calm, gentle and caring.
We learn about our chakras, healing fragrances and oils, plus colors, as Shey tends to Marek's injury.
These two men are so different, but Shey gets Marek's humor and sarcasm, and is patient, helpful and steady. Shey comes from wealth, but is making his own way in the world.
We learn that they do have things in common, plus we watch as Shey calms Marek's body and soul.
Their loving, sexy times are intense, super hot, and passion filled. Those sessions rock them to their cores.
If only Marek could control his temper and drinking. We do see how Marek became the way he is, and know he's trying to overcome it.
Marek and Shey are really a great fir, but it's a rocky road. Marek is in trouble with his team violence he dishes out to opponents, and he carries guilt from an earlier event that eats at him. Shey helps him face his Mom and Connor, an injured player, plus we get to witness those acts. Shey also makes amends with his Grandmother.
It takes some upsetting situations and then Shey's stalker, to give our men a chance to come together, to make changes and then come to the decisions. We also get Marek's old Menorah, which brings him happiness. Their trip of righting wrongs is eye-opening.
Marek becomes a better, freer soul and Shey feels like he can really be free of guilt, too.
The epilogue is terrific, with the strength and progress our men have made, the two opposites become bonded and in love.
ENJOY !
=====
Marek and Shey are neighbors, and Marek sees Shey meditating, holding yoga classes, but most of all he sees the beautiful man. Both characters are wonderful.
Marek is Bi, in his 30s, plays hockey in a minor
league team, dark hair, brown eyes, and in general is a blunt, loud, sassy, grouch.
Shey, is a yoga instructor, younger, slim, lean muscled,
yellow haired, blue eyes, and long legs. He's calm, gentle and caring.
We learn about our chakras, healing fragrances and oils, plus colors, as Shey tends to Marek's injury.
These two men are so different, but Shey gets Marek's humor and sarcasm, and is patient, helpful and steady. Shey comes from wealth, but is making his own way in the world.
We learn that they do have things in common, plus we watch as Shey calms Marek's body and soul.
Their loving, sexy times are intense, super hot, and passion filled. Those sessions rock them to their cores.
If only Marek could control his temper and drinking. We do see how Marek became the way he is, and know he's trying to overcome it.
Marek and Shey are really a great fir, but it's a rocky road. Marek is in trouble with his team violence he dishes out to opponents, and he carries guilt from an earlier event that eats at him. Shey helps him face his Mom and Connor, an injured player, plus we get to witness those acts. Shey also makes amends with his Grandmother.
It takes some upsetting situations and then Shey's stalker, to give our men a chance to come together, to make changes and then come to the decisions. We also get Marek's old Menorah, which brings him happiness. Their trip of righting wrongs is eye-opening.
Marek becomes a better, freer soul and Shey feels like he can really be free of guilt, too.
The epilogue is terrific, with the strength and progress our men have made, the two opposites become bonded and in love.
ENJOY !
=====
September 10, 2021
A charming story about two men who seem so very different on the outside - but what they share, on the inside, is a history of pain and tragedy. They've each dealt with this in different ways, and one of them seems far more together than the other. What makes this a complex and interesting story is that they're both still thoroughly human, and Shey the yoga master has flaws just as does Marek the hockey hitman.
Locey subtly introduces Marek's true inner nature, which is instinctively kinder and more thoughtful than his brash exterior; Shey is wise enough to see that, too, so the relatively quick start to a relationship is understandable, fuelled as it is by mutual attraction. They still have a long way to go before they reach the happy ending they both deserve, and I enjoyed seeing them work through both internal and external challenges.
What really got me in, though, was the dry humour of Marek's POV voice. I'm not happy without a bit of humour!
I read this as a stand-alone, and can confirm it works just fine. A story well told and engaging!
Locey subtly introduces Marek's true inner nature, which is instinctively kinder and more thoughtful than his brash exterior; Shey is wise enough to see that, too, so the relatively quick start to a relationship is understandable, fuelled as it is by mutual attraction. They still have a long way to go before they reach the happy ending they both deserve, and I enjoyed seeing them work through both internal and external challenges.
What really got me in, though, was the dry humour of Marek's POV voice. I'm not happy without a bit of humour!
I read this as a stand-alone, and can confirm it works just fine. A story well told and engaging!
March 5, 2019
A Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words Review
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
For the full review visit https://wp.me/p220KL-ga3
From that review:
I just love this portrait of a deeply troubled man who just happened to be a hockey player, a sport that no matter how much he loved it brought out the worst in him. From his anger issues to the expectations of the owners and fans, Marek and the manner in which he played "his" sort of game was the only way he could continue his career in hockey, no matter the level.And when we start into the story, we see Marek at the lowest level of his career, the ECHL. His actions, anger, and violence that followed him have sent him down the leagues from the NHL to the AHL on down to this his final team and last chance. As well he knows.
For all our reviews, check out http://scatteredthoughtsandroguewords...
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
For the full review visit https://wp.me/p220KL-ga3
From that review:
I just love this portrait of a deeply troubled man who just happened to be a hockey player, a sport that no matter how much he loved it brought out the worst in him. From his anger issues to the expectations of the owners and fans, Marek and the manner in which he played "his" sort of game was the only way he could continue his career in hockey, no matter the level.And when we start into the story, we see Marek at the lowest level of his career, the ECHL. His actions, anger, and violence that followed him have sent him down the leagues from the NHL to the AHL on down to this his final team and last chance. As well he knows.
For all our reviews, check out http://scatteredthoughtsandroguewords...
Want to read
October 7, 2020Thank you for the gift, Green Grinch!
May 9, 2024
Marek never met a fight he wouldn't finish, and in other cases, a fight that he wouldn't try to instigate. That tendency served him well until a horrible mistake while he was playing in the NHL. Now, after all those years, he has landed at the ECHL, most likely on his last team.
He meets Shey, his next door neighbor. Shey couldn't be more opposite. He runs his own yoga studio and meditates. He doesn't have aspirin. Doesn't have alcohol. He relies on yoga, meditation, herbal teas, essential oils, and different gemstones to cure problems and pain. Even though initially he is intrigued by Shey, Marek thinks he's a kook.
That changes with Shey's calm, centered manner. Shey goes out of his way to help Marek with his physical pains from playing hockey and the internal pain Marek has carried since his father died. I loved Shey's ability to see underneath the hard, crusty, "who cares' shell that Marek presented to the world, especially the hockey world. I loved how he recognized there was a hurting child buried deep in side Marek who was afraid that everyone he cared about would just leave him. It was fun, watching how Marek would initially object to Shey's recommendations, but eventually would give in because Shey asked, only to discover how much those recommendations helped him.
I loved the transformation and healing that Marek went through during the course of the story. That's not to say that Marek didn't have stops and starts along the way. The book leaves the two of them in a very good place.
He meets Shey, his next door neighbor. Shey couldn't be more opposite. He runs his own yoga studio and meditates. He doesn't have aspirin. Doesn't have alcohol. He relies on yoga, meditation, herbal teas, essential oils, and different gemstones to cure problems and pain. Even though initially he is intrigued by Shey, Marek thinks he's a kook.
That changes with Shey's calm, centered manner. Shey goes out of his way to help Marek with his physical pains from playing hockey and the internal pain Marek has carried since his father died. I loved Shey's ability to see underneath the hard, crusty, "who cares' shell that Marek presented to the world, especially the hockey world. I loved how he recognized there was a hurting child buried deep in side Marek who was afraid that everyone he cared about would just leave him. It was fun, watching how Marek would initially object to Shey's recommendations, but eventually would give in because Shey asked, only to discover how much those recommendations helped him.
I loved the transformation and healing that Marek went through during the course of the story. That's not to say that Marek didn't have stops and starts along the way. The book leaves the two of them in a very good place.
March 1, 2019
3.5 stars - I was given a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
This is a sweet and slightly silly story about a washed up hockey enforcer who finds love with a new age yogi. Marek is a hot mess who finds himself broke and playing for a small town minor league team at the end of his career.
The improbable relationship between the yogi and the goon made me smile. Shey’s zenlike approach to life is bloody irritating but he definitely grew on me. I loved the early moments of Shey and Marek’s relationship but I was less keen on the storylines around Shey’s ex and his grandmother and his secrets.
This story is at it’s best when it focuses on Marek and his hockey. I enjoyed the interplay between teammates, coach and owner. I also loved Shey’s yoga women and his fabulous cat. I’m not a huge fan of the ending - I’m not sure we get enough resolution for Marek and the simple story of two very different men kinda spirals into Harlequin fantasy territory. It’s a fun read and I really loved Marek.
This is a sweet and slightly silly story about a washed up hockey enforcer who finds love with a new age yogi. Marek is a hot mess who finds himself broke and playing for a small town minor league team at the end of his career.
The improbable relationship between the yogi and the goon made me smile. Shey’s zenlike approach to life is bloody irritating but he definitely grew on me. I loved the early moments of Shey and Marek’s relationship but I was less keen on the storylines around Shey’s ex and his grandmother and his secrets.
This story is at it’s best when it focuses on Marek and his hockey. I enjoyed the interplay between teammates, coach and owner. I also loved Shey’s yoga women and his fabulous cat. I’m not a huge fan of the ending - I’m not sure we get enough resolution for Marek and the simple story of two very different men kinda spirals into Harlequin fantasy territory. It’s a fun read and I really loved Marek.
February 19, 2019
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is a lovely story of a battering ram hockey warrior finding his peace in his neighbour, the local yogi. From the very beginning these two men are miles apart, one with a reputation for violence, one for his peaceful ways. V.L.Locey manages to write such a convincing story that by the end both men have travelled towards each other, although it has to be said that by Marek releasing his demons, he draws closer to Shey than the other way around. He will however, I am sure, always prefer coffee!
I really enjoyed the hockey elements, even though they served as a harsh reminder of how Marek has used the anger in his life to forge a career, and the people he has damaged along the way. The way it ends is inevitable, but I thought showed a touch of class, given the words that caused him to act. It also throws up an interesting issue - of violence attracting fans, but being against the rules, so enforcers tread a fine line all the time, which has to mess with their heads.
Shey was an immediately endearing character, for his yogi pronouncements, his cat Chula, and his desire to do good by Marek. He is no softy though, and is old enough to stand up for himself - he is also honest about his background, but definitely not limited by it. His Grandmother was less dictatorial than I expected, which was a good thing, and as family relationships healed, she was important in the process.
By turns cute, but also containing Locey's trademark level of grittiness, I really enjoyed this story, and definitely envied them the epilogue!
This is a lovely story of a battering ram hockey warrior finding his peace in his neighbour, the local yogi. From the very beginning these two men are miles apart, one with a reputation for violence, one for his peaceful ways. V.L.Locey manages to write such a convincing story that by the end both men have travelled towards each other, although it has to be said that by Marek releasing his demons, he draws closer to Shey than the other way around. He will however, I am sure, always prefer coffee!
I really enjoyed the hockey elements, even though they served as a harsh reminder of how Marek has used the anger in his life to forge a career, and the people he has damaged along the way. The way it ends is inevitable, but I thought showed a touch of class, given the words that caused him to act. It also throws up an interesting issue - of violence attracting fans, but being against the rules, so enforcers tread a fine line all the time, which has to mess with their heads.
Shey was an immediately endearing character, for his yogi pronouncements, his cat Chula, and his desire to do good by Marek. He is no softy though, and is old enough to stand up for himself - he is also honest about his background, but definitely not limited by it. His Grandmother was less dictatorial than I expected, which was a good thing, and as family relationships healed, she was important in the process.
By turns cute, but also containing Locey's trademark level of grittiness, I really enjoyed this story, and definitely envied them the epilogue!
February 28, 2019
I really liked this book. Both Marek and Shey were interesting, the plot didn't feel totally overdone (although I could do without ever reading another book with a stalker) and the romance was heartfelt.
I loved that Shey was a bit prissy about things and that Marek didn't get it but still got him. I liked that Marek was a total goon but had an unexpected romantic heart and Shey got him.
For this series, I liked this book much better than the first one.
I loved that Shey was a bit prissy about things and that Marek didn't get it but still got him. I liked that Marek was a total goon but had an unexpected romantic heart and Shey got him.
For this series, I liked this book much better than the first one.
February 13, 2020
It’s taken me a few minutes to figure out how to describe Merek Hafer. I still don’t know. He’s complicated, snarky, flippant, callous at times, rude at others… he’s distant and fickle and standoffish and brash and broody… but he’s also so wounded and sensitive, and aware and stubborn and he has the biggest heart, he’s just not used to showing it to anybody because nobody’s ever cared to wanna see it. I adored him throughout this story, from beginning to end, even when I did wanna mom him and tell him to stop acting like a brat and grow up.
I understood his apprehension and his need to make people leave him before they would’ve on their own. He had such little self-worth and for all the confidence he lacked, he tried to prove he had all the confidence in the world… but, then he met Shey… his new neighbor in the new town that hired him to play hockey for them. Shey saw through all of jumbled up stuff and saw his goodness. I loved Shey for Merek, as opposite as they were from each other, they were perfect together.
I loved that Shey never gave up on Merek, even though Merek expected him to and almost pushed him to at times. I loved that as big and hard and carefree as Merek tried to be, he showed emotion and trusted Shey with all the parts of him that he tried to keep hidden. I loved Merek’s snarkiness, he’s actually really charming and really funny and I liked how he helped Shey to loosen up and not need to have control everything. They complimented each other really well and I loved their chemistry. I truly, truly adored this book.
Now, what I didn’t like about it, was any of the hockey stuff. I get that it was Merek’s life, but I hated how people treated him, how his bosses treated him and the nasty way people spoke to him and just got away with it. (aside from Merek punching them, of course lol) I hate when people (like Murray and Jim Jenny) get away with being bad people, people that say hurtful things and hatefilled things and we don’t get to see the karmic backlash.
Oh, I did love getting to see the relationship progression with Merek and his mom, he deserved everything to work out for him… even if it was a kind of rough road getting there. I’ll say now that you’ll totally guess who the villain is the story, it’s kind of obvious, though I loved the way Merek handled it and the support they got from Shey’s grandmother. Overall, it’s just a really good story with windy roads and emotional trauma and a whole lot of healing on all corners. If you like low-angst, snarky hotties and tea-drinking yogi’s, you’ll love this story as much as I did.
5 stars with me, can’t wait to see whos next!
I understood his apprehension and his need to make people leave him before they would’ve on their own. He had such little self-worth and for all the confidence he lacked, he tried to prove he had all the confidence in the world… but, then he met Shey… his new neighbor in the new town that hired him to play hockey for them. Shey saw through all of jumbled up stuff and saw his goodness. I loved Shey for Merek, as opposite as they were from each other, they were perfect together.
I loved that Shey never gave up on Merek, even though Merek expected him to and almost pushed him to at times. I loved that as big and hard and carefree as Merek tried to be, he showed emotion and trusted Shey with all the parts of him that he tried to keep hidden. I loved Merek’s snarkiness, he’s actually really charming and really funny and I liked how he helped Shey to loosen up and not need to have control everything. They complimented each other really well and I loved their chemistry. I truly, truly adored this book.
Now, what I didn’t like about it, was any of the hockey stuff. I get that it was Merek’s life, but I hated how people treated him, how his bosses treated him and the nasty way people spoke to him and just got away with it. (aside from Merek punching them, of course lol) I hate when people (like Murray and Jim Jenny) get away with being bad people, people that say hurtful things and hatefilled things and we don’t get to see the karmic backlash.
Oh, I did love getting to see the relationship progression with Merek and his mom, he deserved everything to work out for him… even if it was a kind of rough road getting there. I’ll say now that you’ll totally guess who the villain is the story, it’s kind of obvious, though I loved the way Merek handled it and the support they got from Shey’s grandmother. Overall, it’s just a really good story with windy roads and emotional trauma and a whole lot of healing on all corners. If you like low-angst, snarky hotties and tea-drinking yogi’s, you’ll love this story as much as I did.
5 stars with me, can’t wait to see whos next!
March 1, 2019
VL Locey's Touch Of A Yellow Sun, is an amazing romance. The second in the Colors Of Love series, it's a divine addition.
Marek's a fun character, as he's surly and aggressive, and in trouble with the hockey world. He's the bad boy of hockey and as we all know, once a troublemaker, always a troublemaker. But everything changes when the bisexual Marek meets his pansexual yoga instructor neighbor, as he's instantly enamored by the sexy, flexible man.
What follows is a great story of two men helping one another to better themselves, and finding love in the process. Shey's around to help Marek find his inner peace and help him calm down. If Marek wants to be in Shey's life, he needs to deal with his anger issues. I love that just being in Shey's presence calms him down.
The author does a stellar job developing Marek's tragic background, and everything that's led him to where he is now. It's emotional, full of understanding and will leave you suffering along side him.
Shey's free-flowing, tranquil personality is a great opposite for this tough hockey guy. Watching the power he holds over Marek is spectacular. Shey's a calm, charming, and kind man who can help to balance the gruff brute.
Their story has it's tough moments, it's sweet moments, and it's steamy moments, as well as some scary moments. I love the author's writing style, and her empathy for her characters.
Marek's journey is beautiful and fulfilling, as he finally finds something more important than hockey. They have to deal with family issues, the loss of a father, and a stalker along the way, but everything changes when he realizes Shey is all that matters to him, instead of hockey.
Touch Of A Yellow Sun is a great, compelling book, full of heart and soul. VL Locey perfectly tackles Marek dealing with his fall from grace, and finding love in the process. Despite the heavy nature of this tale at some times, it's delivered in a wonderful manner, and lacks the potential heaviness on your heart. In all, it's a tremendous read which I highly recommend.
Marek's a fun character, as he's surly and aggressive, and in trouble with the hockey world. He's the bad boy of hockey and as we all know, once a troublemaker, always a troublemaker. But everything changes when the bisexual Marek meets his pansexual yoga instructor neighbor, as he's instantly enamored by the sexy, flexible man.
What follows is a great story of two men helping one another to better themselves, and finding love in the process. Shey's around to help Marek find his inner peace and help him calm down. If Marek wants to be in Shey's life, he needs to deal with his anger issues. I love that just being in Shey's presence calms him down.
The author does a stellar job developing Marek's tragic background, and everything that's led him to where he is now. It's emotional, full of understanding and will leave you suffering along side him.
Shey's free-flowing, tranquil personality is a great opposite for this tough hockey guy. Watching the power he holds over Marek is spectacular. Shey's a calm, charming, and kind man who can help to balance the gruff brute.
Their story has it's tough moments, it's sweet moments, and it's steamy moments, as well as some scary moments. I love the author's writing style, and her empathy for her characters.
Marek's journey is beautiful and fulfilling, as he finally finds something more important than hockey. They have to deal with family issues, the loss of a father, and a stalker along the way, but everything changes when he realizes Shey is all that matters to him, instead of hockey.
Touch Of A Yellow Sun is a great, compelling book, full of heart and soul. VL Locey perfectly tackles Marek dealing with his fall from grace, and finding love in the process. Despite the heavy nature of this tale at some times, it's delivered in a wonderful manner, and lacks the potential heaviness on your heart. In all, it's a tremendous read which I highly recommend.
March 2, 2019
When this book began, Marek was a smart mouthed, sarcastic, insensitive jerk. He didn't expect anyone to throw out the welcome mat for him, and he really didn't seem to care about anything but playing hockey. He was what I think of as an anti-hero. Then he met his new neighbor Shey, a yoga instructor who seemed as calm and steady as he was beautiful. Shey wanted to pass on some of his calm and positive energy to Marek. Marek wanted to get closer to Shey. This was the beginning of a surprisingly lovely romance.
There are so many hurts bottled up in Marek, there were moments I wanted to hug him and tell him to shut up all at once. He was a guy who would hide his pain and anger until it exploded out of him uncontrolled. Thank goodness he now had Shey there to give him the hugs and love he'd needed for so long. It wasn't long before Marek would do anything for Shey, which was good because Shey had a lot more going on than he showed on the outside. He needed Marek as much as Marek needed him. These men were at different times funny, sexy, frustrating, and heartbreaking. I loved the moments that Marek caused Shey to lose his cool, as well as the times when Shey attempted to help Marek find peace - both when it worked and when it didn't. Mostly, I just loved these two together. What you see isn't always the whole truth, even when the story is told from the point of view of the guy almost everyone hates. I will re-read this one when I'm feeling alone or frustrated with my life. Watching Marek and Shey build a life together was soothing to my soul, and I'll come back for more of that. This was a truly excellent story.
There are so many hurts bottled up in Marek, there were moments I wanted to hug him and tell him to shut up all at once. He was a guy who would hide his pain and anger until it exploded out of him uncontrolled. Thank goodness he now had Shey there to give him the hugs and love he'd needed for so long. It wasn't long before Marek would do anything for Shey, which was good because Shey had a lot more going on than he showed on the outside. He needed Marek as much as Marek needed him. These men were at different times funny, sexy, frustrating, and heartbreaking. I loved the moments that Marek caused Shey to lose his cool, as well as the times when Shey attempted to help Marek find peace - both when it worked and when it didn't. Mostly, I just loved these two together. What you see isn't always the whole truth, even when the story is told from the point of view of the guy almost everyone hates. I will re-read this one when I'm feeling alone or frustrated with my life. Watching Marek and Shey build a life together was soothing to my soul, and I'll come back for more of that. This was a truly excellent story.
February 16, 2019
I sit here trying to come up with what I want to say, to get across to those who haven't read this , just how great this story was.
Marek tore my heart out with his past and what he was dealing with . Shey calms things down just by being himself and being present. He too has a past story, as we all do but he is able to help Marek deal with his past and in turn Marek is supportive and there for Shey. They found just who they needed in their lives. These two together were magical, at least they are to me.
So much happens in this story. Events take place that cause so many feelings for the reader. I went through feeling happy, sad, angry, fanning myself, excitement, wanting revenge and wanting to meet these men in real life cause I just really want to hug them hard! You'll meet Chula the Siamese who, all by herself , is an amazing part of this story and quite frankly deserves her own love.. It's as if she "KNOWS" things.
This is a must get book as far as I am concerned. People need to meet Shey , Marek and Chula, read their story and fall in love with them.
I received an Advanced Readers Copy in exchange for an honest review.
Marek tore my heart out with his past and what he was dealing with . Shey calms things down just by being himself and being present. He too has a past story, as we all do but he is able to help Marek deal with his past and in turn Marek is supportive and there for Shey. They found just who they needed in their lives. These two together were magical, at least they are to me.
So much happens in this story. Events take place that cause so many feelings for the reader. I went through feeling happy, sad, angry, fanning myself, excitement, wanting revenge and wanting to meet these men in real life cause I just really want to hug them hard! You'll meet Chula the Siamese who, all by herself , is an amazing part of this story and quite frankly deserves her own love.. It's as if she "KNOWS" things.
This is a must get book as far as I am concerned. People need to meet Shey , Marek and Chula, read their story and fall in love with them.
I received an Advanced Readers Copy in exchange for an honest review.
March 17, 2019
V.L Locey writes a lovely character driven sports romance with opposites attract at its heart.
Our yoga instructor hero, Pierson, is a mystery that slowly reveals itself and he has a great cat. I would love Pierson to get some the same deep character work that Marek got. Everything that Marek does makes sense and his personal path to happiness is really a wonder.
Complex, grumpy, and shut down, Marek blooms as he falls in love with Pierson.
The plot goes drifts off course in places with a bit too much in the mix but the romance is always on point.
A pleasure.
Our yoga instructor hero, Pierson, is a mystery that slowly reveals itself and he has a great cat. I would love Pierson to get some the same deep character work that Marek got. Everything that Marek does makes sense and his personal path to happiness is really a wonder.
Complex, grumpy, and shut down, Marek blooms as he falls in love with Pierson.
The plot goes drifts off course in places with a bit too much in the mix but the romance is always on point.
A pleasure.
March 6, 2019
Funny story – As a hockey fan I’ve been dying to read V.L. Locey’s work for some time now. I’ve seen so many wonderful recommendations I just knew I had to take off the mitts and try Touch of a Yellow Sun. So why would I choose one with yoga? I mean that particular subject is as far from my wheelhouse as I could get. As character Shey Pierson says, “Remember that life begins at the end of your comfort zone,” and so does reading.
You won’t miss a thing by first enjoying this second book in the Colors of Love series. Within the first few paragraphs of a book, when you’re hysterically laughing at the “salty and somewhat aggressive personality” of the main player, and in the next breath are feeling sorry for the man, you know the author has succeeded in selling their character and drawing their reader in. That is exactly what V.L. Locey does. Let’s just say, for a girl who doesn’t do many audiobooks… I’d love for this to hit my ears!
How much more opposite can two men be? Cut from the pros due to his aggressive behavior, bitter Marek Hafer has been sent back to ECHL in a Podunk town playing under the banner of a beer company who is struggling to make a go of their hockey team. Which plunks him right next door to Shey Pierson, a sexy, gentile yoga instructor who’s about to tame the aggressor in ways Marek could never have expected.
As neighborly relations ensue Marek is stunned to find Shey become his calming force, a voice of reason that soothes him and teaches him to love himself. It’s beautiful how these two ease into compatibility, a relationship – a “home” – without even realizing it.
Within the first few paragraphs of a book, when you’re hysterically laughing at the “salty and somewhat aggressive personality” of the main player, and in the next breath are feeling sorry for the man, you know the author has succeeded in selling their character and drawing their reader in. That is exactly what V.L. Locey does.
It’s not all tea time and Zen, however. Shey’s past stalks in testing the new man Marek wants to become; leaving him to question where he wants to go in life, and just how his love of hockey might fit in. After all, true love makes us look inside to not only be a better person for our ourselves but for our partner.
Having been subjected to what Shey faces, I can’t begin to tell you how beautifully V.L. Locey touched my emotions, showing how it impacts the victim as well as a caring lover. So much so I gained a sense of peace that has me ready to attempt meditation right now!
Touch of a Yellow Sun never loses the blade, and constantly leaves you checking your heart…. a hat trick of enticement: captivating leading characters, witty humor, and for hockey fans, plays and action that are on goal for their accuracy and excitement. Score!
You won’t miss a thing by first enjoying this second book in the Colors of Love series. Within the first few paragraphs of a book, when you’re hysterically laughing at the “salty and somewhat aggressive personality” of the main player, and in the next breath are feeling sorry for the man, you know the author has succeeded in selling their character and drawing their reader in. That is exactly what V.L. Locey does. Let’s just say, for a girl who doesn’t do many audiobooks… I’d love for this to hit my ears!
How much more opposite can two men be? Cut from the pros due to his aggressive behavior, bitter Marek Hafer has been sent back to ECHL in a Podunk town playing under the banner of a beer company who is struggling to make a go of their hockey team. Which plunks him right next door to Shey Pierson, a sexy, gentile yoga instructor who’s about to tame the aggressor in ways Marek could never have expected.
As neighborly relations ensue Marek is stunned to find Shey become his calming force, a voice of reason that soothes him and teaches him to love himself. It’s beautiful how these two ease into compatibility, a relationship – a “home” – without even realizing it.
Within the first few paragraphs of a book, when you’re hysterically laughing at the “salty and somewhat aggressive personality” of the main player, and in the next breath are feeling sorry for the man, you know the author has succeeded in selling their character and drawing their reader in. That is exactly what V.L. Locey does.
It’s not all tea time and Zen, however. Shey’s past stalks in testing the new man Marek wants to become; leaving him to question where he wants to go in life, and just how his love of hockey might fit in. After all, true love makes us look inside to not only be a better person for our ourselves but for our partner.
Having been subjected to what Shey faces, I can’t begin to tell you how beautifully V.L. Locey touched my emotions, showing how it impacts the victim as well as a caring lover. So much so I gained a sense of peace that has me ready to attempt meditation right now!
Touch of a Yellow Sun never loses the blade, and constantly leaves you checking your heart…. a hat trick of enticement: captivating leading characters, witty humor, and for hockey fans, plays and action that are on goal for their accuracy and excitement. Score!
March 7, 2019
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian, I was gifted my copy of this book.
Marek has been sent a lower league after one too many outbursts on the ice. He knows this could be his last posting. After yet another outburst, Marek is forced to try to lower his anger levels and who better than the most lovely neighbour of his, Shey, who just happens to be the owenr of a yoga studio? Helps that Shey pushes all of Marek's buttons, but does Marek push Shey's? Can Marek get his temper under control enough to help Shey when his past comes back to haunt him?
I really enjoyed this one second book in the Colors of Love series, not quite as much as book one though! My only gripe (and this WILL make you laugh once you read my review for Lost In Indigo!) was that only Marek has a say!
Told ya!
I'll explain. In my review for Indigo, I said that Ms Locey has a way of negating my dislike of single point of view but strong voiced characters. And while Marek has a strong voice, it's not AS strong as Matt in Indigo, and here, I really missed that! I have NO clue why Marek isn't up to muster cos the man has a LOT to say: about his hockey, his career, his attraction to Shey, his feelings (once they hit him square in the face!) for Shey, and just how he feels about that cat! It's maybe just Marek himself, who didn't push MY buttons, maybe it's just me, I dunno! I hate not being able to say!
I did enjoy the way Shey's home crept up on Marek, very quickly, he was calling Shey's apartment, HIS home. I loved Shey's history, and his grandma! The twist with the past was a surprise, and I loved how Marek handled that, even if it cost him so much. Shey really is his whole world!
Other than the hockey theme, and the colours in the titles, I'm not sure I see a commen thread, but is Arn, Marek's agent, the same one that is Matt's agent?? The name rang a bell, is all!
I'm sorry this is far shorter than my usual fayre, I'm not doing so well with my reading at the moment, and my reviews are few and far between.
A very VERY good. . . .
4 star read
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
Marek has been sent a lower league after one too many outbursts on the ice. He knows this could be his last posting. After yet another outburst, Marek is forced to try to lower his anger levels and who better than the most lovely neighbour of his, Shey, who just happens to be the owenr of a yoga studio? Helps that Shey pushes all of Marek's buttons, but does Marek push Shey's? Can Marek get his temper under control enough to help Shey when his past comes back to haunt him?
I really enjoyed this one second book in the Colors of Love series, not quite as much as book one though! My only gripe (and this WILL make you laugh once you read my review for Lost In Indigo!) was that only Marek has a say!
Told ya!
I'll explain. In my review for Indigo, I said that Ms Locey has a way of negating my dislike of single point of view but strong voiced characters. And while Marek has a strong voice, it's not AS strong as Matt in Indigo, and here, I really missed that! I have NO clue why Marek isn't up to muster cos the man has a LOT to say: about his hockey, his career, his attraction to Shey, his feelings (once they hit him square in the face!) for Shey, and just how he feels about that cat! It's maybe just Marek himself, who didn't push MY buttons, maybe it's just me, I dunno! I hate not being able to say!
I did enjoy the way Shey's home crept up on Marek, very quickly, he was calling Shey's apartment, HIS home. I loved Shey's history, and his grandma! The twist with the past was a surprise, and I loved how Marek handled that, even if it cost him so much. Shey really is his whole world!
Other than the hockey theme, and the colours in the titles, I'm not sure I see a commen thread, but is Arn, Marek's agent, the same one that is Matt's agent?? The name rang a bell, is all!
I'm sorry this is far shorter than my usual fayre, I'm not doing so well with my reading at the moment, and my reviews are few and far between.
A very VERY good. . . .
4 star read
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
May 27, 2024
Touch of a Yellow Sun is not badly written, it’s just not for me. I made it to 65% while it slowly went downhill and left me bored to tears. I then skimmed the rest of the way to the end. Marek Hafer is a 33-year-old hockey player who’s basically blown his career because of his anger management issues. He’s gone from the NHL to the AHL to a little town in Pennsylvania to play out the last two years of his career with the ECHL. So, there he is in small town Pennsylvania, playing for Jim Jenny’s Berger Lake Badgers and enjoying the luxury accommodations in the closet apartment above Jim’s sister Jenny Jenny’s fashion Emporium. Marek is not a bad guy. His aggression on the ice got him into trouble with an unintended really bad hit that there was no coming back from. He also has unresolved grief issues from childhood and reasons to be salty; but really, he just needs to grow up.
Marek is Bi and his unexpected love interest turns out to be Shey Pierson who both lives and runs the Sun Touch Yoga Studio across the hall. It’s a grumpy/sunshine story. Shey being a yogi is very Zen to Marok’s salty, off-color sarcasm. Shey, who is Pan, has a backstory, but as a character he reads more like a caricature. His whole personality is his yoga and meditation and cleansing chakras and offering medicinal teas. Marek and Shey are an unlikely and frankly imo uninspiring couple. There’s no relationship drama which is good; but also, no chemistry, again imo; which is not so good.
There’s some family and career drama for Marek which is boring; and some family and past drama for Shey which is boring. Although really, I have to say I thought Marek’s mother was a self-absorbed See you Next Tuesday poor excuse of a mother; so I get his internalized anger. Everything works out and there’s a very happy ending. Low drama, low angst. It was a nice story, it was just me.
Marek is Bi and his unexpected love interest turns out to be Shey Pierson who both lives and runs the Sun Touch Yoga Studio across the hall. It’s a grumpy/sunshine story. Shey being a yogi is very Zen to Marok’s salty, off-color sarcasm. Shey, who is Pan, has a backstory, but as a character he reads more like a caricature. His whole personality is his yoga and meditation and cleansing chakras and offering medicinal teas. Marek and Shey are an unlikely and frankly imo uninspiring couple. There’s no relationship drama which is good; but also, no chemistry, again imo; which is not so good.
There’s some family and career drama for Marek which is boring; and some family and past drama for Shey which is boring. Although really, I have to say I thought Marek’s mother was a self-absorbed See you Next Tuesday poor excuse of a mother; so I get his internalized anger. Everything works out and there’s a very happy ending. Low drama, low angst. It was a nice story, it was just me.
March 16, 2019
4 Stars!
Marek Hafer is on the last leg of his career. His style of play, and personality, has him just hoping to play a few more years before retiring. A place on a minor league team in the middle of nowhere isn't the best, but it's his last chance.
Shey runs a yoga studio out of his apartment, next door to Marek's place. Shey is almost the complete opposite to Marek. He meditates daily, eats healthily, and dislikes violence.
I'm going to admit that for the first half of the book, I found myself not really liking Marek, and his initial treatment of Shey didn't help. I really was at a loss as to why Shey was so nice to him at the beginning, even after Marek was a jerk to him. However, as they spent more time together, Marek started to grow on me; I actually liked him by the end. Marek really gravitated to Shey for reasons that he couldn't understand, but as more of Marek's past is revealed, it becomes more obvious why Shey appeals to him. Marek needs someone who will be there for him and who’ll listen to what he can't say. He needed someone to ground him and help him find his center. Shey does that for him, just by being himself. Marek grows and learns and becomes a better person for it.
I liked that Marek helped Shey feel safe and protected. I almost wanted to have a better understanding of Shey's perspective at the beginning, but as the story continued I found that it wasn't as important as I initially thought. While I was unsure if I was going to like this one, I was very happy I read it by the end. Marek has more layers than he shows initially, and is a good person underneath all that anger.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
Marek Hafer is on the last leg of his career. His style of play, and personality, has him just hoping to play a few more years before retiring. A place on a minor league team in the middle of nowhere isn't the best, but it's his last chance.
Shey runs a yoga studio out of his apartment, next door to Marek's place. Shey is almost the complete opposite to Marek. He meditates daily, eats healthily, and dislikes violence.
I'm going to admit that for the first half of the book, I found myself not really liking Marek, and his initial treatment of Shey didn't help. I really was at a loss as to why Shey was so nice to him at the beginning, even after Marek was a jerk to him. However, as they spent more time together, Marek started to grow on me; I actually liked him by the end. Marek really gravitated to Shey for reasons that he couldn't understand, but as more of Marek's past is revealed, it becomes more obvious why Shey appeals to him. Marek needs someone who will be there for him and who’ll listen to what he can't say. He needed someone to ground him and help him find his center. Shey does that for him, just by being himself. Marek grows and learns and becomes a better person for it.
I liked that Marek helped Shey feel safe and protected. I almost wanted to have a better understanding of Shey's perspective at the beginning, but as the story continued I found that it wasn't as important as I initially thought. While I was unsure if I was going to like this one, I was very happy I read it by the end. Marek has more layers than he shows initially, and is a good person underneath all that anger.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
February 26, 2019
Marek is at the end of his hockey career. He figures he has two years left to play. His playing is rough and he’s not afraid to take somebody down. Part of the reason he is back at the bottom of the hockey ladder. He is given a crappy apartment in a backwater town and expects this will be his dreary life for a while. When he meets his neighbor he is very surprised to find that he is breathtakingly beautiful. Life might of just improved for him.
Shey, is a yoga instructor, who looks like and angel and accepts Marek into his life without a second thought. He helps Marek find some inner peace while forcing truly disgusting tea on him any chance that he can. When he doubts himself, Shey’s advice of not to hide inside the little fort your inner child has built gives him belief in his future. Shey, along with a very demanding and spiritual Siamese cat, give Marek a home he never expected to have.
I can’t express how much I adored these guys. I think Marek is right up there with my other favorite hockey player Stan (from the authors Harrisburg Railers series). This book was funny and sweet with some drama (it added to the story and took nothing away from it). This book makes me want to sit and have a cup of tea in a sunshine yellow cup.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
Shey, is a yoga instructor, who looks like and angel and accepts Marek into his life without a second thought. He helps Marek find some inner peace while forcing truly disgusting tea on him any chance that he can. When he doubts himself, Shey’s advice of not to hide inside the little fort your inner child has built gives him belief in his future. Shey, along with a very demanding and spiritual Siamese cat, give Marek a home he never expected to have.
I can’t express how much I adored these guys. I think Marek is right up there with my other favorite hockey player Stan (from the authors Harrisburg Railers series). This book was funny and sweet with some drama (it added to the story and took nothing away from it). This book makes me want to sit and have a cup of tea in a sunshine yellow cup.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
February 24, 2019
This was a case of opposite's attract at its finest.
Marek Hafer has attitude and snark and he's not afraid to use his fists on the ice or off it. He's so close to retirement, but all he knows is hockey and fighting. When he's transferred to a minor league team in Pennsylvania, he fine with it. His plan was to go out with gusto and why not in the small town of Berger Lake.
Shey Pierson is a yogi. He's sweet and cute and hippy and loves his tea and a cleansed chakra. When he ends up next door to a loud, booming hockey player, he's surprised at how quickly they become friends. And more...
Marek was so fun. He's muscly and bullish, but with a heart of gold. I loved how buttery soft he could be in Shey's presence. I also loved how emotional he got. He had a painful past, in many ways, and Shey brought out the very best in him. But it wasn't one sided. Shey was painfully uptight and rigid. He wanted control and Marek's lighthearted sweetness melted Shey down and kept him fun.
The writing was awesome as always and the characters were sophisticated and fun. The story flew by and won me over.
*Galley copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted to http://gaybook.reviews/ *
Marek Hafer has attitude and snark and he's not afraid to use his fists on the ice or off it. He's so close to retirement, but all he knows is hockey and fighting. When he's transferred to a minor league team in Pennsylvania, he fine with it. His plan was to go out with gusto and why not in the small town of Berger Lake.
Shey Pierson is a yogi. He's sweet and cute and hippy and loves his tea and a cleansed chakra. When he ends up next door to a loud, booming hockey player, he's surprised at how quickly they become friends. And more...
Marek was so fun. He's muscly and bullish, but with a heart of gold. I loved how buttery soft he could be in Shey's presence. I also loved how emotional he got. He had a painful past, in many ways, and Shey brought out the very best in him. But it wasn't one sided. Shey was painfully uptight and rigid. He wanted control and Marek's lighthearted sweetness melted Shey down and kept him fun.
The writing was awesome as always and the characters were sophisticated and fun. The story flew by and won me over.
*Galley copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted to http://gaybook.reviews/ *
March 1, 2019
Touch of a Yellow Sun is a story of opposites attracting. Marek Hafer is a tough hockey player, known for getting in trouble on the ice. His trip to the ECHL is his last shot to stay in hockey. While the team's owner brought him in for the drama he causes, the team's coach and the league are tired of his antics.
Shey Pierson is Marek's new neighbor. He runs a yoga studio out of his apartment and is anti-violence. I really liked how both of the characters are not what one would imagine they'd find love with, but they work. Shey invokes a calmness in Marek that he hasn't experienced before. He encourages him to make peace with his past and the incident that sent him on a downward spiral.
This can be read as a standalone. I haven't read the previous book in the series and had no issues following along with the characters or the storyline.
Other than the fact I thought the stalker situation was wrapped up too quickly, I really enjoyed this book. The characters were wonderfully written and there's very little angst. I'm looking forward to more from this series.
**An ARC was provided to voluntarily review**
Shey Pierson is Marek's new neighbor. He runs a yoga studio out of his apartment and is anti-violence. I really liked how both of the characters are not what one would imagine they'd find love with, but they work. Shey invokes a calmness in Marek that he hasn't experienced before. He encourages him to make peace with his past and the incident that sent him on a downward spiral.
This can be read as a standalone. I haven't read the previous book in the series and had no issues following along with the characters or the storyline.
Other than the fact I thought the stalker situation was wrapped up too quickly, I really enjoyed this book. The characters were wonderfully written and there's very little angst. I'm looking forward to more from this series.
**An ARC was provided to voluntarily review**
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