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Rainbow Place #3
Better Place
Joe deserves better. Meeting Dylan helps him see that.
After a recent redundancy, Joe takes a few months off to try and make it as a writer. His partner, Harry, is less than supportive but Joe is used to that after ten years together, just like he’s used to Harry’s controlling nature and his drinking habit.
Dylan, a server at Rainbow Place, is fascinated by Joe as he sits in the café and works on his laptop. His attempts to flirt are met with awkwardness at first, but gradually Joe opens up. Dylan is disappointed when he learns Joe isn’t single. As their friendship develops he begins to worry about the nature of Joe’s relationship, especially when he witnesses Harry’s behaviour in person. Abuse isn’t always physical, and Dylan knows that from experience. His concern helps Joe see his relationship for what it is, and gives him the courage to end things with Harry.
Free to act on their mutual attraction, Joe and Dylan dive headlong into something that becomes serious fast. Joe revels in the passion and intimacy he’s been missing out on for so long, but Dylan is worried that Joe is on the rebound. He puts on the brakes, knowing that they need to slow down to make this last. For this new relationship to work, Joe needs to show Dylan that he’s ready to move on from the past.
Although this book is part of a series, it can be read as a standalone and has a satisfying happy ending.
66,000 words approx.
After a recent redundancy, Joe takes a few months off to try and make it as a writer. His partner, Harry, is less than supportive but Joe is used to that after ten years together, just like he’s used to Harry’s controlling nature and his drinking habit.
Dylan, a server at Rainbow Place, is fascinated by Joe as he sits in the café and works on his laptop. His attempts to flirt are met with awkwardness at first, but gradually Joe opens up. Dylan is disappointed when he learns Joe isn’t single. As their friendship develops he begins to worry about the nature of Joe’s relationship, especially when he witnesses Harry’s behaviour in person. Abuse isn’t always physical, and Dylan knows that from experience. His concern helps Joe see his relationship for what it is, and gives him the courage to end things with Harry.
Free to act on their mutual attraction, Joe and Dylan dive headlong into something that becomes serious fast. Joe revels in the passion and intimacy he’s been missing out on for so long, but Dylan is worried that Joe is on the rebound. He puts on the brakes, knowing that they need to slow down to make this last. For this new relationship to work, Joe needs to show Dylan that he’s ready to move on from the past.
Although this book is part of a series, it can be read as a standalone and has a satisfying happy ending.
66,000 words approx.
245 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 22, 2019
69 people are currently reading
297 people want to read
About the author
Jay Northcote
54 books1,655 followersI don't hang out on Goodreads much, so if you'd like to connect with me then Twitter, Facebook or an email is usually best :) All my contact details are on my website.
Jay lives just outside Bristol in the West of England. He comes from a family of writers, but always used to believe that the gene for fiction writing had passed him by. He spent years only ever writing emails, articles, or website content.
One day, Jay decided to try and write a short story—just to see if he could—and found it rather addictive. He hasn’t stopped writing since.
Jay writes contemporary romance about men who fall in love with other men. Jay has five books published by Dreamspinner Press, and he also self-publishes under the imprint Jaybird Press. Many of his books are now available as audiobooks.
Jay is transgender and was formerly known as she/her.
Jay lives just outside Bristol in the West of England. He comes from a family of writers, but always used to believe that the gene for fiction writing had passed him by. He spent years only ever writing emails, articles, or website content.
One day, Jay decided to try and write a short story—just to see if he could—and found it rather addictive. He hasn’t stopped writing since.
Jay writes contemporary romance about men who fall in love with other men. Jay has five books published by Dreamspinner Press, and he also self-publishes under the imprint Jaybird Press. Many of his books are now available as audiobooks.
Jay is transgender and was formerly known as she/her.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 156 reviews
February 14, 2019
3.5
Third book in the series but can be read on it's own as characters from previous books who are present here are well introduced.Each story is loosely connected by Rainbow Place, a LGBT friendly cafe in a small town in Cornwall.
Dylan is in his early 20's and works as a server in the cafe and is growing increasingly attracted/drawn to a man who sits quietly working on his laptop.He's definitely Dylan's type so he tries to engage him in conversations which is met with some reluctance at first but Dylan is persistent and eventually Joe starts to open up a bit.When he finds out Joe is in a relationship he's disappointed but is willing to just be friends and he increasingly starts to worry about the nature of Joe's relationship with his partner after being in a similar situation himself.
Joe is 42 and on a kind of sabbatical writing his first book,something he's very passionate about.He's been in a relationship with Harry for 10 years and to say the relationship is breaking down is an understatement.They find themselves kind of going through the motions.Harry is controlling,has no interest in Joe's writing, and definitely takes Joe for granted.I'm sure a lot of people will identify with the situation these men find themselves in....the breakdown of a relationship is never easy and I just felt overwhelming sadness reading about how their love had died.
Joe is attracted to Dylan but won't act on it until he breaks up with Harry.This is were things got a bit uncomfortable for me.Joe moved onto Dylan very quickly,too quickly I felt.He gave himself no time to grieve for the end of his relationship with Harry at all.And Harry's involvement in the story was obviously very important but at times it over shadowed Joe and Dylan's relationship.
I wasn't really feeling the connection between Joe and Dylan and it wasn't really until the end that they worked as a couple for me.On a positive note I'm loving the small town setting and all the couples are starting to feel like an extended family.
Not my favourite in the series but still enjoyable.
An Arc of Better Place was kindly provided to DirtyBooksObsession in exchange for an honest review.
Third book in the series but can be read on it's own as characters from previous books who are present here are well introduced.Each story is loosely connected by Rainbow Place, a LGBT friendly cafe in a small town in Cornwall.
Dylan is in his early 20's and works as a server in the cafe and is growing increasingly attracted/drawn to a man who sits quietly working on his laptop.He's definitely Dylan's type so he tries to engage him in conversations which is met with some reluctance at first but Dylan is persistent and eventually Joe starts to open up a bit.When he finds out Joe is in a relationship he's disappointed but is willing to just be friends and he increasingly starts to worry about the nature of Joe's relationship with his partner after being in a similar situation himself.
Joe is 42 and on a kind of sabbatical writing his first book,something he's very passionate about.He's been in a relationship with Harry for 10 years and to say the relationship is breaking down is an understatement.They find themselves kind of going through the motions.Harry is controlling,has no interest in Joe's writing, and definitely takes Joe for granted.I'm sure a lot of people will identify with the situation these men find themselves in....the breakdown of a relationship is never easy and I just felt overwhelming sadness reading about how their love had died.
Joe is attracted to Dylan but won't act on it until he breaks up with Harry.This is were things got a bit uncomfortable for me.Joe moved onto Dylan very quickly,too quickly I felt.He gave himself no time to grieve for the end of his relationship with Harry at all.And Harry's involvement in the story was obviously very important but at times it over shadowed Joe and Dylan's relationship.
I wasn't really feeling the connection between Joe and Dylan and it wasn't really until the end that they worked as a couple for me.On a positive note I'm loving the small town setting and all the couples are starting to feel like an extended family.
Not my favourite in the series but still enjoyable.
An Arc of Better Place was kindly provided to DirtyBooksObsession in exchange for an honest review.
This review is posted on DirtyBooksObsession
March 7, 2019
~3.5~
Like the other books in this series, Better Place can be read as a standalone but, in my opinion, will bring more enjoyment if read as part of a whole.
The series revolves around a cafe owned by Seb (MC from book 1), and all the characters interact and are at least tangentially involved in each other's stories.
Dylan has a crush on an "older" (I use this term loosely since Joe is 42) guy who spends hours at the cafe writing on his lap top. Joe is trying his hand at being an author and is working on his first fiction novel. Dylan and Joe engage in subtle flirting and form a tentative friendship. Dylan is interested in more than friendship, but Joe is taken.
And therein lies the rub. Joe's partner of ten years, Harry, takes Joe for granted, isn't supportive, and has a drinking problem. I wouldn't say the relationship is abusive (although Harry is moody and a complete twat) as much as dead.
Joe breaks up with Harry halfway through the story but lives with Harry (understandably, since they owe a house together) until the very end. I don't like stories where one of the MCs is with someone else. Granted, there is no cheating. The guys don't get together until after Joe leaves the relationship, but Dylan is the catalyst for the breakup.
Something about Joe and Dylan's romance didn't fully jive for me. The steam level is fairly subdued, and the ending is a tentative HFN. Because the stories in this series overlap, the epilogues are not particularly satisfying.
However, I liked how real this story was. Dylan had escaped from an abusive relationship and could relate to Joe's plight. The slow burn was very appealing. I understood both Joe's fears and Dylan's reluctance to push the relationship too far too quickly.
I'm intrigued with Lady Gogo and am very much looking forward to that story!
Like the other books in this series, Better Place can be read as a standalone but, in my opinion, will bring more enjoyment if read as part of a whole.
The series revolves around a cafe owned by Seb (MC from book 1), and all the characters interact and are at least tangentially involved in each other's stories.
Dylan has a crush on an "older" (I use this term loosely since Joe is 42) guy who spends hours at the cafe writing on his lap top. Joe is trying his hand at being an author and is working on his first fiction novel. Dylan and Joe engage in subtle flirting and form a tentative friendship. Dylan is interested in more than friendship, but Joe is taken.
And therein lies the rub. Joe's partner of ten years, Harry, takes Joe for granted, isn't supportive, and has a drinking problem. I wouldn't say the relationship is abusive (although Harry is moody and a complete twat) as much as dead.
Joe breaks up with Harry halfway through the story but lives with Harry (understandably, since they owe a house together) until the very end. I don't like stories where one of the MCs is with someone else. Granted, there is no cheating. The guys don't get together until after Joe leaves the relationship, but Dylan is the catalyst for the breakup.
Something about Joe and Dylan's romance didn't fully jive for me. The steam level is fairly subdued, and the ending is a tentative HFN. Because the stories in this series overlap, the epilogues are not particularly satisfying.
However, I liked how real this story was. Dylan had escaped from an abusive relationship and could relate to Joe's plight. The slow burn was very appealing. I understood both Joe's fears and Dylan's reluctance to push the relationship too far too quickly.
I'm intrigued with Lady Gogo and am very much looking forward to that story!
October 3, 2019
Going on the blurb this book should have checked all my boxes, sdly it didn't. I was hoping for an angsty romance between Dylan and Joe, I didn't get that. There was a lot of telling and little to no showing, which made for rather flat characters that I struggled to connect with and was definitely lacking in the feels.
I feel kind of meh about it 🤷
I feel kind of meh about it 🤷
March 17, 2019
Jay Northcote is one of the authors that never disappoint me. No matter what he writes I always end up enjoying whatever I read by him.
"Better Place", the third story in the "Rainbow Place" series, kept with the program. It was a second chance story with an age gap between the characters that dealt with an abusive relationship and new beginnings.
Dylan has recently moved to Porthladock, he's an artist and works at the Rainbow Place until he can support himself with his art. He was in an abusive relationship for a couple of years when he was younger and since then he is very careful about the people he lets get close to him.
Joe has been living in town with his partner of ten years, Harry, for a few years. He used to be a professor but always wanted to try his hand at becoming a writer. When he was let go from his job he decided it was the perfect time for him to focus on writing.
Joe used to go to the cafe to write some days and that's where he met Dylan. They were attracted to each other from the start and Dylan pursued him but Joe wasn't single yet. Dylan having been in an abusive relationship himself helped Joe realise what Harry was doing, see how wrong it was and get the courage and strength to change it. I only wish that Joe would have remained single for a little while before getting involved with Dylan so he could find himself again, find a new normal and fully get over his ex and a relationship that excisted for a decade. There's no cheating in this book, but Joe did jump from one relationship to the next, which was something that never sat well with me. I would have preferred for them to take it slow, as they had originally said, take their time and pace themselves.
The age difference between Joe and Dylan - about 15 years give or take - was never the focus of the story and was barely mentioned. The main plot theme was the abusive relationship that Joe was in and his effort to take back control of his life and get free of Harry.
About Harry, I want to make clear that I don't agree with his behavior, I'd never make excuses for him and I firmly agree that he was abusing Joe. At the same time though I can't help but feel pity for him and wish him a better future. The only thing he did with his days was work, drink and watch TV. He didn't go out, he didn't have friends, he didn't have any hobbies and he didn't want to change any of those things. There is nothing wrong with that if he was happy and content with his life, but I don't think that he was. He seemed sad, like he had given up on everything and didn't want to make an effort for anything. I actually wish that Jay will write his story at some point. I want to see this character redeemed. I want to see him sort himself out, get help for his drinking and for his temper and changing for the best. I wish that we'll see him happy at some point and that eventually he'll get his own happily ever after with someone.
I think that one of the next books is going to be about Lady Gogo and Wicksy, one of the rugby guys that frequent Rainbow Place and who is straight. If I'm right and they are one of the future couples, I won't be missing their story!
*An ARC of this book was kindly provided to me in exchange for an honest review. *
"Better Place", the third story in the "Rainbow Place" series, kept with the program. It was a second chance story with an age gap between the characters that dealt with an abusive relationship and new beginnings.
Dylan has recently moved to Porthladock, he's an artist and works at the Rainbow Place until he can support himself with his art. He was in an abusive relationship for a couple of years when he was younger and since then he is very careful about the people he lets get close to him.
Joe has been living in town with his partner of ten years, Harry, for a few years. He used to be a professor but always wanted to try his hand at becoming a writer. When he was let go from his job he decided it was the perfect time for him to focus on writing.
Joe used to go to the cafe to write some days and that's where he met Dylan. They were attracted to each other from the start and Dylan pursued him but Joe wasn't single yet. Dylan having been in an abusive relationship himself helped Joe realise what Harry was doing, see how wrong it was and get the courage and strength to change it. I only wish that Joe would have remained single for a little while before getting involved with Dylan so he could find himself again, find a new normal and fully get over his ex and a relationship that excisted for a decade. There's no cheating in this book, but Joe did jump from one relationship to the next, which was something that never sat well with me. I would have preferred for them to take it slow, as they had originally said, take their time and pace themselves.
The age difference between Joe and Dylan - about 15 years give or take - was never the focus of the story and was barely mentioned. The main plot theme was the abusive relationship that Joe was in and his effort to take back control of his life and get free of Harry.
About Harry, I want to make clear that I don't agree with his behavior, I'd never make excuses for him and I firmly agree that he was abusing Joe. At the same time though I can't help but feel pity for him and wish him a better future. The only thing he did with his days was work, drink and watch TV. He didn't go out, he didn't have friends, he didn't have any hobbies and he didn't want to change any of those things. There is nothing wrong with that if he was happy and content with his life, but I don't think that he was. He seemed sad, like he had given up on everything and didn't want to make an effort for anything. I actually wish that Jay will write his story at some point. I want to see this character redeemed. I want to see him sort himself out, get help for his drinking and for his temper and changing for the best. I wish that we'll see him happy at some point and that eventually he'll get his own happily ever after with someone.
I think that one of the next books is going to be about Lady Gogo and Wicksy, one of the rugby guys that frequent Rainbow Place and who is straight. If I'm right and they are one of the future couples, I won't be missing their story!
*An ARC of this book was kindly provided to me in exchange for an honest review. *
February 14, 2019
I wanted to love Better Place by Jay Northcote, but in the end, it was ok. I enjoyed the setting, the characters, but there was a disconnect in the relationship development between Dylan and Joe.
Why? Fucken Harry, Joe's boyfriend through half the book and that never went away after the breakup. There was a good reason why- Harry and Joe had been together for ten years, lived together, and their finances were tangled up together. It wasn't a situation that'd have a clean break, but I was tired of this douche. At eighty-something percent we were still dealing with this mofo. This book felt as if it was more about Joe finding himself than a budding romance between Joe and Dylan.
Why? Well, the blurb gave too much information. I hate to say this, but the blurb is basically the entire story minus the very end. There was zero element of surprise. I kept waiting for something more that never came and the end of the book felt more like the beginning of a relationship which is what I'd been waiting for once Joe broke up with his boyfriend at the halfway point.
Now I know everything sounds negative, and as if I didn't like it, but I did. As I mentioned, I like the story I just didn't love it. Joe and Dylan didn't gel for me as a couple. They are together at the end as with all romances, but I wasn't left believing that they'd make it in the long haul. That being said- I am very much looking for the next installment! I think Lady Gogo will give us all a show!
I'll end with: I hate 3 Star reviews, they are the hardest. They always seem to come out more negative than they are.
Why? Fucken Harry, Joe's boyfriend through half the book and that never went away after the breakup. There was a good reason why- Harry and Joe had been together for ten years, lived together, and their finances were tangled up together. It wasn't a situation that'd have a clean break, but I was tired of this douche. At eighty-something percent we were still dealing with this mofo. This book felt as if it was more about Joe finding himself than a budding romance between Joe and Dylan.
Why? Well, the blurb gave too much information. I hate to say this, but the blurb is basically the entire story minus the very end. There was zero element of surprise. I kept waiting for something more that never came and the end of the book felt more like the beginning of a relationship which is what I'd been waiting for once Joe broke up with his boyfriend at the halfway point.
Now I know everything sounds negative, and as if I didn't like it, but I did. As I mentioned, I like the story I just didn't love it. Joe and Dylan didn't gel for me as a couple. They are together at the end as with all romances, but I wasn't left believing that they'd make it in the long haul. That being said- I am very much looking for the next installment! I think Lady Gogo will give us all a show!
I'll end with: I hate 3 Star reviews, they are the hardest. They always seem to come out more negative than they are.
Read
January 27, 2019This is book three in the Rainbow Place series. They don't have to be read in order and it can be read as a standalone.
March 23, 2019
I had to think about my rating for ‘Better Place’ for a bit. Some parts I liked, but ultimately I didn’t really connect to this book at all.
Dylan’s job at the Rainbow Place café is made even better by the quiet writer who becomes a regular. The server never misses an opportunity to awkwardly flirt with his favourite customer.
The customer in question, Joe, thinks Dylan’s sweet. But he’s focused on his writing. And, more importantly, Joe’s already taken.
From the beginning of the book, readers know what the score is: Joe’s partner Harry dictates Joe’s life. What Joe does, where Joe goes, how long Joe spends out of the house.
Everything revolves around douchebag Harry.
It may not be physical violence, but it’s an abusive toxic relationship just the same.
But pretty soon, the only thing Joe looks forward to are his short forays to Rainbow Place - where Dylan is.
Because while Joe’s clear to Dylan that nothing can happen between them, that doesn’t mean he doesn’t appreciate the friendship.
The two men find it easy to connect. Both have their demons, but with each other it’s only smiles and sweet moments.
And underneath it all, there’s a longing for something more.
This is where things didn’t really pan out for me - the “something more.” Because while we’re told that Joe and Dylan are falling madly for each other, the romance was so muted that I never really got a feel for it.
And another big issue was that there’s an ever-present third party - Harry. Though Joe breaks up with Harry about halfway through, Harry’s in the picture right until the end.
Harry’s constant presence in the story was distracting and depressing.The book was not so much about Joe and Dylan’s relationship, as it was about Joe espacing Harry.
By the end, I was pretty ambivalent. I was glad to see Dylan and Joe get their happy ending, but I’d already tuned out well before it.
Though book #3 wasn’t my favourite, I’d still recommend this series if you’re looking for romances that overcome the odds!
Dylan’s job at the Rainbow Place café is made even better by the quiet writer who becomes a regular. The server never misses an opportunity to awkwardly flirt with his favourite customer.
The customer in question, Joe, thinks Dylan’s sweet. But he’s focused on his writing. And, more importantly, Joe’s already taken.
From the beginning of the book, readers know what the score is: Joe’s partner Harry dictates Joe’s life. What Joe does, where Joe goes, how long Joe spends out of the house.
Everything revolves around douchebag Harry.
It may not be physical violence, but it’s an abusive toxic relationship just the same.
But pretty soon, the only thing Joe looks forward to are his short forays to Rainbow Place - where Dylan is.
Because while Joe’s clear to Dylan that nothing can happen between them, that doesn’t mean he doesn’t appreciate the friendship.
The two men find it easy to connect. Both have their demons, but with each other it’s only smiles and sweet moments.
And underneath it all, there’s a longing for something more.
This is where things didn’t really pan out for me - the “something more.” Because while we’re told that Joe and Dylan are falling madly for each other, the romance was so muted that I never really got a feel for it.
And another big issue was that there’s an ever-present third party - Harry. Though Joe breaks up with Harry about halfway through, Harry’s in the picture right until the end.
Harry’s constant presence in the story was distracting and depressing.The book was not so much about Joe and Dylan’s relationship, as it was about Joe espacing Harry.
By the end, I was pretty ambivalent. I was glad to see Dylan and Joe get their happy ending, but I’d already tuned out well before it.
Though book #3 wasn’t my favourite, I’d still recommend this series if you’re looking for romances that overcome the odds!
April 7, 2019
I usually enjoy Jay Northcote’s writing and have read lots of his books. Mostly his books are light, nice and relaxing reads with a good dose of romance. This series though is not doing it for me.
I wasn’t overly excited about book 1 and was hoping for more here. I’m very sorry to say that this didn’t happen. On the contrary. For me this book was decidedly bland.
Two-dimensional MCs, too much telling rather showing, a plot that consisted to big parts of every day routines (as accurate to RL as this might be, it got very boring very quickly!) and mundane conversations made me want to DNF at about half way. I battled through, but that’s all I can say.
It is a shame not more was made of the age gap (Dylan is 27, Joe is 42). Tbh, Dylan often acted like the more mature out of the two! The interactions between them lacked emotion and depth, I simply didn’t feel anything!
So, unfortunately this was a miss.
I wasn’t overly excited about book 1 and was hoping for more here. I’m very sorry to say that this didn’t happen. On the contrary. For me this book was decidedly bland.
Two-dimensional MCs, too much telling rather showing, a plot that consisted to big parts of every day routines (as accurate to RL as this might be, it got very boring very quickly!) and mundane conversations made me want to DNF at about half way. I battled through, but that’s all I can say.
It is a shame not more was made of the age gap (Dylan is 27, Joe is 42). Tbh, Dylan often acted like the more mature out of the two! The interactions between them lacked emotion and depth, I simply didn’t feel anything!
So, unfortunately this was a miss.
February 6, 2019
Just like with his Housemates series, Jay uses a loose theme - in this case the Rainbow Place cafe itself - to hang his stories on.
And, like that series, each of the three books released in this one has been utterly different in the couple it features but has a similar hook with each pair focused on taking a step into a new future.
This has a small age gap, an MC who has escaped an abusive relationship and one who is in a relationship that seems to have become one after a decade together.
There's cleverly constructed story bites to invest the reader in wanting Dylan and Joe to get together. Joe's partner Harry isn't turned into some demonic future, just a man with his own stresses who's started drinking and isn't invested in their relationship any more but is too controlling to let it go.
I don't think the abuse here is overly triggering, but readers should be mindful it exists and there are a couple of times when Harry's behaviour is obnoxious.
Dylan is a sweetie, he's managed to find himself a new life and friends and we get to catch up with both Seb and James, as well as Alex and Cam, at Rainbow Place.
I absolutely adored Lady Gogo, Seb's mysterious entertainment act, and the set up for book four looks right up my alley with a potential gay/bisexual awakening and a drag queen in the mix.
Another cracking good entry in this series and naturally sweet and steamy, although not as much as some of Jay's other books.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
And, like that series, each of the three books released in this one has been utterly different in the couple it features but has a similar hook with each pair focused on taking a step into a new future.
This has a small age gap, an MC who has escaped an abusive relationship and one who is in a relationship that seems to have become one after a decade together.
There's cleverly constructed story bites to invest the reader in wanting Dylan and Joe to get together. Joe's partner Harry isn't turned into some demonic future, just a man with his own stresses who's started drinking and isn't invested in their relationship any more but is too controlling to let it go.
I don't think the abuse here is overly triggering, but readers should be mindful it exists and there are a couple of times when Harry's behaviour is obnoxious.
Dylan is a sweetie, he's managed to find himself a new life and friends and we get to catch up with both Seb and James, as well as Alex and Cam, at Rainbow Place.
I absolutely adored Lady Gogo, Seb's mysterious entertainment act, and the set up for book four looks right up my alley with a potential gay/bisexual awakening and a drag queen in the mix.
Another cracking good entry in this series and naturally sweet and steamy, although not as much as some of Jay's other books.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
March 18, 2020
un bel gap, una bella storia di presa di coscienza di se stessi, anche 42 anni.
February 26, 2019
I’d like to say right off, that the timing of this review could not have happened at a worse time. This week happens to be one of the busiest we have all year at my day-job, and I’ve been pulling double-digit work days in order to stay on top of everything. Needless to say, I’m a little spacey and a lot tired. Luckily for you, me, and the whole of the cosmos, this book actually turned out to be my favorite of the series. So that means I don’t have to be extremely grumpy on top of exhausted. Unfortunately…my brain is practically a sieve at this point. If this review comes across as a bit vague, that is why. My brain could either retain the correct spelling of “licensure” or the minute details of this story. It went with the one that brings in the (small) bucks. Apologies all ’round
I’m pretty sure that the two main characters in this book, Joe and Dylan, appear in the other two stories, as side characters. I don’t think we knew much about them coming into this story, though. Dylan works at the cafe, Rainbow Place, and Joe is a teacher, between teaching gigs, who is making a stab at finally writing those YA novels he has always wanted to write. Joe had been made redudent (aka “fired,” by any other name), several months ago, and he gave himself six months to focus solely on his writing before he went out looking for another teaching position. He is able to do this because his partner, Harry, has a rather nice job and agreed to support them in the meantime. (Spoiler warning: Harry is a giant douche, don’t get too attached to him.)
Dylan and Joe get talking since Joe uses the cafe as his writing place, and affection soon starts to grow between them. But Joe is still with the asshole…er, Harry, so they try to keep things just friends. I can give you two guesses on how well that is going to go.
Overall I had a lot of fun with this. It sometimes felt like it was taking forever for Dylan and Joe to get together, but I do appreciate that Jay Northcote took the time let the whole Harry situation sort itself out. And slow-burns are always going to be more my style, so I am hardly one to complain about this. For others, though, I can see how the amount of time it takes Joe to realize just how absolute trash Harry is, can be a bit much. But I think if you stick it out, it is well worth the time it takes for things to swing into gear.
I don’t have too many complaints about this story. Like I said, it turned out to be my favorite of the three so far. I think it did tend to swing a bit to far in the direction of focusing more on Joe than Dylan; not really to the level that it affected my enjoyment of the story, but I do wish that I got more about Dylan’s whole life. We did get some really important bits, though, so I’m not too terribly put out.
The writing was good. The characters were interesting. And despite the fact that my brain is an absolute shambles this week, I didn’t have any problem staying immersed in the story. A good read when you are in desperate need of soft come-down from a very stressful day.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
I’m pretty sure that the two main characters in this book, Joe and Dylan, appear in the other two stories, as side characters. I don’t think we knew much about them coming into this story, though. Dylan works at the cafe, Rainbow Place, and Joe is a teacher, between teaching gigs, who is making a stab at finally writing those YA novels he has always wanted to write. Joe had been made redudent (aka “fired,” by any other name), several months ago, and he gave himself six months to focus solely on his writing before he went out looking for another teaching position. He is able to do this because his partner, Harry, has a rather nice job and agreed to support them in the meantime. (Spoiler warning: Harry is a giant douche, don’t get too attached to him.)
Dylan and Joe get talking since Joe uses the cafe as his writing place, and affection soon starts to grow between them. But Joe is still with the asshole…er, Harry, so they try to keep things just friends. I can give you two guesses on how well that is going to go.
Overall I had a lot of fun with this. It sometimes felt like it was taking forever for Dylan and Joe to get together, but I do appreciate that Jay Northcote took the time let the whole Harry situation sort itself out. And slow-burns are always going to be more my style, so I am hardly one to complain about this. For others, though, I can see how the amount of time it takes Joe to realize just how absolute trash Harry is, can be a bit much. But I think if you stick it out, it is well worth the time it takes for things to swing into gear.
I don’t have too many complaints about this story. Like I said, it turned out to be my favorite of the three so far. I think it did tend to swing a bit to far in the direction of focusing more on Joe than Dylan; not really to the level that it affected my enjoyment of the story, but I do wish that I got more about Dylan’s whole life. We did get some really important bits, though, so I’m not too terribly put out.
The writing was good. The characters were interesting. And despite the fact that my brain is an absolute shambles this week, I didn’t have any problem staying immersed in the story. A good read when you are in desperate need of soft come-down from a very stressful day.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
June 5, 2022
This story was absolutely amazing! This whole series has incredible characters and it's so good
to see the support everyone gives to each other. Can't wait to start the next one!
to see the support everyone gives to each other. Can't wait to start the next one!
March 27, 2019
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.25 stars
I’ve been reading the Rainbow Place series right along, and I’ve enjoyed the way this small cast of characters are all finding their HEA. I love that the café brings them together and that Seb has a way of connecting everyone. I will say though, I had some problems with this book, and I think it’s my least favorite of the three so far.
I enjoyed both Dylan and Joe. They each have their own hurdles to face, and they both do a lot of growing throughout the story. Dylan has had a rough past, and he’s finally in a good place with his life, ready to start dating again. Joe is ready for changes and to stop making excuses for his partner’s behavior. They’re both solid, likeable guys, but a bit two dimensional. I would have liked to see their personalities and inner thoughts fleshed out a bit more, as it seemed like we only got the surface. I felt like exploring them more would have really enhanced their characters.
The plot is paced pretty well, on the whole, but I had issues with he dialogue at points. Dylan, in particular, burst out with questions that seemed out of place, or at least not something he would say in the situation, and it felt like they were just there to move the plot forward. And that’s where I had the biggest issue. There were times when the story felt choppy to me, where it would just abruptly move forward. I’m not talking about time jumps here, but rather the questions asked would seem slightly out of left field, with seemingly the sole intent of moving the plot to the next point.
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
3.25 stars
I’ve been reading the Rainbow Place series right along, and I’ve enjoyed the way this small cast of characters are all finding their HEA. I love that the café brings them together and that Seb has a way of connecting everyone. I will say though, I had some problems with this book, and I think it’s my least favorite of the three so far.
I enjoyed both Dylan and Joe. They each have their own hurdles to face, and they both do a lot of growing throughout the story. Dylan has had a rough past, and he’s finally in a good place with his life, ready to start dating again. Joe is ready for changes and to stop making excuses for his partner’s behavior. They’re both solid, likeable guys, but a bit two dimensional. I would have liked to see their personalities and inner thoughts fleshed out a bit more, as it seemed like we only got the surface. I felt like exploring them more would have really enhanced their characters.
The plot is paced pretty well, on the whole, but I had issues with he dialogue at points. Dylan, in particular, burst out with questions that seemed out of place, or at least not something he would say in the situation, and it felt like they were just there to move the plot forward. And that’s where I had the biggest issue. There were times when the story felt choppy to me, where it would just abruptly move forward. I’m not talking about time jumps here, but rather the questions asked would seem slightly out of left field, with seemingly the sole intent of moving the plot to the next point.
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
January 10, 2020
Ok, so I wasn’t sure I would like this book once the story got going. I was rooting for Dylan so hard, and Joe oh Joe his situation had my heart sad. I ended up loving the way this book unfolded.
So many people are in long term relationships and either they feel like everything is fine and dandy and never take a deeper look. Are they really happy or are they just content. You don’t want to be content in your relationship. Or afraid to be yourself. You should never have to ask permission to do something. You can inform your partner and but to ask permission seems wrong to me.
I loved the way Dylan handled everything with Joe he really was the sounding board Joe needed. And then when he asked for his own space I was like heck yes!
Another great story for this series and the narration again hitting it out of the park. I am sad I am onto the last book that is in audio format.
So many people are in long term relationships and either they feel like everything is fine and dandy and never take a deeper look. Are they really happy or are they just content. You don’t want to be content in your relationship. Or afraid to be yourself. You should never have to ask permission to do something. You can inform your partner and but to ask permission seems wrong to me.
I loved the way Dylan handled everything with Joe he really was the sounding board Joe needed. And then when he asked for his own space I was like heck yes!
Another great story for this series and the narration again hitting it out of the park. I am sad I am onto the last book that is in audio format.
March 2, 2019
*sigh*
I'm disappointed. And...I'm disappointed that I'm disappointed.
I don't know why exactly this series isn't giving me my usual Northcote feels. It's as though it's missing something but I can't put my finger on what? Ugh.
So here's the thing...I knew going in that Joe was in a relationship when he initially meets Dylan. That's clearly stated in the blurb. Not ideal, but okay.
However, I had *hoped* they would split early on giving ample time for Joe and Dylan to be together.
That did not happen.
The book was more than half over before Harry becomes Joe's ex. And then Joe and Harry are in a bit of limbo during the separation. He literally hops from his bed he shared with Harry for a decade to Dylan's and despite there being no official 'cheating' it still didn't feel...good.
I was glad to see Joe claiming his freedom and happiness.
I was happy to see Dylan's crush develop into a relationship.
It was nice to see the rest of the guys.
I do adore Rainbow Place and Lady GoGo is brilliant!
BUT...it lacked severely in the romance for me.
AND!
For the love of good oral hygiene, please stop sharing toothbrushes. Some things are personal. And should remain that way. There is NOTHING sexy or momentous about sharing a toothbrush. This RDH is begging you...toss a few new spares in the cupboard please??
I'm disappointed. And...I'm disappointed that I'm disappointed.
I don't know why exactly this series isn't giving me my usual Northcote feels. It's as though it's missing something but I can't put my finger on what? Ugh.
So here's the thing...I knew going in that Joe was in a relationship when he initially meets Dylan. That's clearly stated in the blurb. Not ideal, but okay.
However, I had *hoped* they would split early on giving ample time for Joe and Dylan to be together.
That did not happen.
The book was more than half over before Harry becomes Joe's ex. And then Joe and Harry are in a bit of limbo during the separation. He literally hops from his bed he shared with Harry for a decade to Dylan's and despite there being no official 'cheating' it still didn't feel...good.
I was glad to see Joe claiming his freedom and happiness.
I was happy to see Dylan's crush develop into a relationship.
It was nice to see the rest of the guys.
I do adore Rainbow Place and Lady GoGo is brilliant!
BUT...it lacked severely in the romance for me.
AND!
For the love of good oral hygiene, please stop sharing toothbrushes. Some things are personal. And should remain that way. There is NOTHING sexy or momentous about sharing a toothbrush. This RDH is begging you...toss a few new spares in the cupboard please??
February 22, 2019
Maybe this is the hardest review I ever made this year because I have a huge dilemma when I wrote it. I have some issues with what had happened in this book that made me a bit in struggling to finish it.
I’ve known Jay for years and enjoying his works so much. Almost ALL the books I read always ended with 4 and 5 stars, but I need to admit that this book is not one of his best works and it’s hard for me to give this 3 stars but I think I need to be truth (at least) to myself and finally decided not to sugar coating my review this time.
I didn’t want to say much about what had bother me while reading this book, but the point is…you should completely ended your previous relationship clearly before you decided to hanky-panky with the new one. No matter how ‘believable’ the excuses that had been made to support the action, still it feels not quite right for me…
The saddest thing is… I’ve been so excited to read Dylan and Joe story but it ended not as what I expected. But even this one is not going well with me, still….there’s one thing that successfully drawn my attention and curiosity while reading this story. Yes! Lady GoGo! And I want to know more about this eccentric person.
March 22, 2020
3.75
Una storia dolce che affronta delle belle tematiche attraverso un percorso graduale in cui si prende consapevolezza dei propri limiti, degli errori e di una relazione abusante.
Una storia dolce che affronta delle belle tematiche attraverso un percorso graduale in cui si prende consapevolezza dei propri limiti, degli errori e di una relazione abusante.
March 3, 2019
ARC provided by the publisher through Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words in exchange for an impartial review.
CONTAINS SPOILERS
I generally love Jay Northcote’s stories. His writing style is pure Brit and his characters are always believable, three-dimensional, and endearing. I’ve enjoyed the Rainbow Place series and always look forward to the glimpse of past characters and a chance to catch up with them. We get that here, and it was enjoyable, but I had a few problems with the romance in this story. From here to the end, I’ve included detail that some will consider spoilers so please don’t read if you don’t want details on the relationship dynamics in this book.
CONTAINS SPOILERS
I generally love Jay Northcote’s stories. His writing style is pure Brit and his characters are always believable, three-dimensional, and endearing. I’ve enjoyed the Rainbow Place series and always look forward to the glimpse of past characters and a chance to catch up with them. We get that here, and it was enjoyable, but I had a few problems with the romance in this story. From here to the end, I’ve included detail that some will consider spoilers so please don’t read if you don’t want details on the relationship dynamics in this book.
February 25, 2019
I'm a pretty big fan of Jay Northcote but this one was not my favourite. I felt the potential escalation of abuse in Joe's relationship with Harry really compromised the romance in this story. I liked both Dylan and Joe but didn't connect with them as much as I'd have liked. I've had my own experiences with exiting a relationship with a controlling alcoholic so this might just be me but I did not enjoy revisiting that in any way. This one probably just wasn't for me.
February 27, 2019
I had to push myself to finish this story.
I like Northcote's stories, and I do like the Rainbow series, but this story not so much.
For whatever reason I felt a disconnect with the characters and the plot. I just didn't care.
For me, as a reader, the story, the romance, the conflict, whatever comfort and hurt showed in the story was just muted or toned down to the point where (for me) it didn't matter.
I'm kinda disappointed. This one is a 2.5 rate because Northcote is a competent writer.
I like Northcote's stories, and I do like the Rainbow series, but this story not so much.
For whatever reason I felt a disconnect with the characters and the plot. I just didn't care.
For me, as a reader, the story, the romance, the conflict, whatever comfort and hurt showed in the story was just muted or toned down to the point where (for me) it didn't matter.
I'm kinda disappointed. This one is a 2.5 rate because Northcote is a competent writer.
March 13, 2019
I usually love Jay Northcote's work, but this just didn't work for me.
Joe is older and more experienced, but comes off as childish and selfish. Dylan is sweet, but intrusive.
I guess I just didn't connect to either MC and their romance just didn't have time to develop enough for me to enjoy it. I spent a lot of time wondering how things with Harry would escalate and was disappointed in Joe.
Harry had his flaws, absolutely, but after 10 years I think they both deserved a solid conversation. Some time to work through their issues. And, as much of a jerk as Harry could be, Joe should have kept his hands to himself until his relationship was truly over.
Could Harry have changed? I don't know. Could their relationship have stood a chance? Not sure. Was Harry abusive? The author wanted us to believe so, but it really felt like that was more Dylan projecting than anything else.
Joe's partner of 10 years had started drinking more and his personality had started to shift. This should have been cause for concern from Joe for his partner and at some point, before Dylan entered the picture, Joe could have offered help to his partner of a decade. Deciding to move to a single income household sounds easy in theory, but can be stressful in reality. Maybe a serious conversation between Joe and Harry could have helped strengthen their bond, provided Harry an opportunity to convey his fears and maybe even have allowed Joe to offer help that Harry would have accepted. Then this would have been a different book.
Or, you know, if half the book hadn't been spent with Joe deep in a long term relationship and we had an opportunity to watch Joe and Dylan actually form a relationship that wasn't essentially a rebound, that would have also been a different book.
I guess I just had different expectations here so I was disappointed and this ended up not being the book for me.
Joe is older and more experienced, but comes off as childish and selfish. Dylan is sweet, but intrusive.
I guess I just didn't connect to either MC and their romance just didn't have time to develop enough for me to enjoy it. I spent a lot of time wondering how things with Harry would escalate and was disappointed in Joe.
Harry had his flaws, absolutely, but after 10 years I think they both deserved a solid conversation. Some time to work through their issues. And, as much of a jerk as Harry could be, Joe should have kept his hands to himself until his relationship was truly over.
Could Harry have changed? I don't know. Could their relationship have stood a chance? Not sure. Was Harry abusive? The author wanted us to believe so, but it really felt like that was more Dylan projecting than anything else.
Joe's partner of 10 years had started drinking more and his personality had started to shift. This should have been cause for concern from Joe for his partner and at some point, before Dylan entered the picture, Joe could have offered help to his partner of a decade. Deciding to move to a single income household sounds easy in theory, but can be stressful in reality. Maybe a serious conversation between Joe and Harry could have helped strengthen their bond, provided Harry an opportunity to convey his fears and maybe even have allowed Joe to offer help that Harry would have accepted. Then this would have been a different book.
Or, you know, if half the book hadn't been spent with Joe deep in a long term relationship and we had an opportunity to watch Joe and Dylan actually form a relationship that wasn't essentially a rebound, that would have also been a different book.
I guess I just had different expectations here so I was disappointed and this ended up not being the book for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 18, 2019
3.5 stars for me.
Better Place is the third book in the Rainbow Place series. This one works well as a standalone, as I haven't read the first two books in the series but I also never felt like I was missing something. Joe is an aspiring writer in his early 40's who has been in a committed relationship for ten years that has definitely gone stale over the years. Dylan is a waiter who works at the cafe where Joe comes in to work on his story.
I really enjoyed the first half of the story where Dylan and Joe are becoming friends and the slow burn to their relationship. When Dylan discovers that Joe is in a toxic relationship, he wants to help, and I appreciated that this story dealt with mental/emotional abuse within a relationship, and how it's not just always physical to be an unhealthy relationship.
I somewhat felt like the second half of the story just didn't fully work for me and the story lost me a bit. Although Joe ended things with his partner, he continued to live with him until almost the end of the story. It's hard to set boundaries and move on when you're still living together, and between that and the (what I felt like was unnecessary) angst over Dylan's worries that they are moving too quickly, the romance felt just a bit off and lacking for me. I wish we could have seen more of them as a settled couple?
And now I want Lady Gogo and Wicksy's story!!
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.
Better Place is the third book in the Rainbow Place series. This one works well as a standalone, as I haven't read the first two books in the series but I also never felt like I was missing something. Joe is an aspiring writer in his early 40's who has been in a committed relationship for ten years that has definitely gone stale over the years. Dylan is a waiter who works at the cafe where Joe comes in to work on his story.
I really enjoyed the first half of the story where Dylan and Joe are becoming friends and the slow burn to their relationship. When Dylan discovers that Joe is in a toxic relationship, he wants to help, and I appreciated that this story dealt with mental/emotional abuse within a relationship, and how it's not just always physical to be an unhealthy relationship.
I somewhat felt like the second half of the story just didn't fully work for me and the story lost me a bit. Although Joe ended things with his partner, he continued to live with him until almost the end of the story. It's hard to set boundaries and move on when you're still living together, and between that and the (what I felt like was unnecessary) angst over Dylan's worries that they are moving too quickly, the romance felt just a bit off and lacking for me. I wish we could have seen more of them as a settled couple?
And now I want Lady Gogo and Wicksy's story!!
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.
June 12, 2020
EDIT TO INCLUDE AUDIOBOOK (JUNE 12, 2020)
I enjoyed Jay’s third story set in and around the cafe. Better Place is an everyday romance, and even though there is some drama between Joe and his long-term selfish partner, there’s nothing OTT about this tale. There’s plenty of eating, drinking, working, and watching TV in this slow-burn, low-angst romance.
Dylan works in the Rainbow Place cafe and that’s where he meets Joe, who’s attempting to write his first novel. I liked how they gradually get to know each other and how their tentative conversations blossom into a supportive friendship. As readers/listeners, we hope this will turn into something more.
I don’t think Joe cheated on Harry, his current partner. We know (and Joe came to realise) that particular controlling/mentally abusive relationship was all but over. Kudos to Dylan for respecting Joe's feelings and situation, remaining his friend and offering him advice. I liked how they move from friends to lovers, but didn’t want to rush their relationship. This is a gentle, sweet romance. My only issue is that Joe comes across as a lot younger than his 42 years at times.
It was great to see more of Seb and Alex and other familiar characters offering Dylan and Joe their support. Plus, we get our first glimpse of the fabulous Lady Gogo!
The narration was spot on. Hamish matched his voice to the various characters’ personalities and their emotions. Clear and enjoyable from start to finish. Great job!
I enjoyed Jay’s third story set in and around the cafe. Better Place is an everyday romance, and even though there is some drama between Joe and his long-term selfish partner, there’s nothing OTT about this tale. There’s plenty of eating, drinking, working, and watching TV in this slow-burn, low-angst romance.
Dylan works in the Rainbow Place cafe and that’s where he meets Joe, who’s attempting to write his first novel. I liked how they gradually get to know each other and how their tentative conversations blossom into a supportive friendship. As readers/listeners, we hope this will turn into something more.
I don’t think Joe cheated on Harry, his current partner. We know (and Joe came to realise) that particular controlling/mentally abusive relationship was all but over. Kudos to Dylan for respecting Joe's feelings and situation, remaining his friend and offering him advice. I liked how they move from friends to lovers, but didn’t want to rush their relationship. This is a gentle, sweet romance. My only issue is that Joe comes across as a lot younger than his 42 years at times.
It was great to see more of Seb and Alex and other familiar characters offering Dylan and Joe their support. Plus, we get our first glimpse of the fabulous Lady Gogo!
The narration was spot on. Hamish matched his voice to the various characters’ personalities and their emotions. Clear and enjoyable from start to finish. Great job!
April 15, 2019
Meh. This one didn't really do it for me. To be honest, I've not really been overly impressed with any of the books in this series. They aren't *bad* but they feel a little like the author is just phoning it in. The chemistry in this one was just lacking, and I didn't really feel invested at all in Joe and Dylan's relationship.
I also just really didn't enjoy the heeeavy focus on Joe and Henry's relationship, the man he is dating for the first 50% of the book. The fact that it was so drawn out really killed the flow here.
Again, the book wasn't bad, but it wasn't good either. I didn't care much about the characters or their relationship, and almost DNF'd a couple of times out of sheer lack of interest. I'm thinking this series just isn't doing it for me, which is a shame, because I've really enjoyed some of Northcote's other works, but I just don't feel like he's bringing his A game here.
I also just really didn't enjoy the heeeavy focus on Joe and Henry's relationship, the man he is dating for the first 50% of the book. The fact that it was so drawn out really killed the flow here.
Again, the book wasn't bad, but it wasn't good either. I didn't care much about the characters or their relationship, and almost DNF'd a couple of times out of sheer lack of interest. I'm thinking this series just isn't doing it for me, which is a shame, because I've really enjoyed some of Northcote's other works, but I just don't feel like he's bringing his A game here.
February 18, 2019
The author and publisher note this could be read as a standalone, and I mostly agree, though reading the books in order will help explain the background and characters more clearly.
The blurb summarizes the book and plot quite well and accurately, so I won’t rehash. Also one trigger warning as relates to abuse.
The plot was a reminder that abuse can be mental or physical, that it can happen in all relationships, and that it sometimes takes someone who’s been there to point out the signs. In this instance, Joe is coping with mental abuse and an alcoholic partner, but Joe excuses Harry’s behavior due to a recent move, Joe being laid off, and the stress of a new job. Which is all entirely understandable. But as the reader continues on, even the reader can see this isn’t a healthy relationship.
I quite enjoyed this selection. I thought Joe’s emotional turmoil was quite well written – the realization that where he and Harry are at is unhealthy, the growing attraction to someone who engages him, and the desire for healthy physical touch.
Dylan added a well balanced counter-point to Joe. Dylan had been in an abusive relationship that resulted in trauma and therapy (a counselor). It’s Dylan who recognizes the signs, and it’s Dylan who knows when to say “No” in a budding rebound relationship. This is what really made the story for me – Dylan’s strength and insight.
My one tiny grumble with the plot would be the parallel situations between Dylan and Joe. I’m trying hard not to give spoilers here, but the astute reader will see from a mile a way what Harry is going to do. I would have liked a bit more originality, something that said no situation is like another.
For those of you reading the series, our supporting cast is back – Alex and Cam from book two, and of course Seb and the Rainbow Place café.
Ultimately, a well written third book that explores mental and physical abuse in a relationship and the positivity of strong friendships.
Review is cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews
A copy of the book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
The blurb summarizes the book and plot quite well and accurately, so I won’t rehash. Also one trigger warning as relates to abuse.
The plot was a reminder that abuse can be mental or physical, that it can happen in all relationships, and that it sometimes takes someone who’s been there to point out the signs. In this instance, Joe is coping with mental abuse and an alcoholic partner, but Joe excuses Harry’s behavior due to a recent move, Joe being laid off, and the stress of a new job. Which is all entirely understandable. But as the reader continues on, even the reader can see this isn’t a healthy relationship.
I quite enjoyed this selection. I thought Joe’s emotional turmoil was quite well written – the realization that where he and Harry are at is unhealthy, the growing attraction to someone who engages him, and the desire for healthy physical touch.
Dylan added a well balanced counter-point to Joe. Dylan had been in an abusive relationship that resulted in trauma and therapy (a counselor). It’s Dylan who recognizes the signs, and it’s Dylan who knows when to say “No” in a budding rebound relationship. This is what really made the story for me – Dylan’s strength and insight.
My one tiny grumble with the plot would be the parallel situations between Dylan and Joe. I’m trying hard not to give spoilers here, but the astute reader will see from a mile a way what Harry is going to do. I would have liked a bit more originality, something that said no situation is like another.
For those of you reading the series, our supporting cast is back – Alex and Cam from book two, and of course Seb and the Rainbow Place café.
Ultimately, a well written third book that explores mental and physical abuse in a relationship and the positivity of strong friendships.
Review is cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews
A copy of the book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
March 15, 2019
🌟🌟🌟🌟 4.5 stars
🔥🔥🔥 Heat Level: 3.5
A wonderful story about taking your life back and deserving better!
This was the first story of Jay’s that I’ve read and I loved it! Great, detailed writing style with whimsical romance and witty characters with depth and heart.
An easy to read, story about realizing you deserve better. Joe is in this situation with his long term partner, Harry. I liked how Jay approaches Harry’s controlling ways and subtle abuse of Joe. Abuse isn’t always physical and it’s important to acknowledge it in all its forms and this story shows that with Joe and his strength to come out of his situation stronger and with a new life that’s better for him. I love Rainbow Place and definitely need to read the other stories of Seb and Jason and Alex and Cam. All the characters are awesome and I hope there will be a story with Lady Gogo and Wicksy as there could be an interesting story there 😉
Jay had created such great characters in Dylan & Joe and their connection and chemistry is palpable. I really enjoyed their early interactions and witty banter. I enjoyed the balance between sexual tension, emotional connection, and their individual situations. While Harry’s ‘the bad guy’ of the story he’s not vindictive and the way Jay approached Harry as a character was great in that he has his flaw that he can’t/won’t change and becomes resigned in the end but thankfully there is no maliciousness or extreme danger as with other stories. I feel Jay has created a real-life story that reflects the real world and the ups and downs we can face in life.
I really enjoyed Joe and Dylan’s story and look forward to more stories from Jay and more from Rainbow Place!! A highly recommended read!!
Thanks for reading! For great stories, reviews and more please visit https://bookstattoosandtea.wordpress.com 📚
🔥🔥🔥 Heat Level: 3.5
A wonderful story about taking your life back and deserving better!
This was the first story of Jay’s that I’ve read and I loved it! Great, detailed writing style with whimsical romance and witty characters with depth and heart.
An easy to read, story about realizing you deserve better. Joe is in this situation with his long term partner, Harry. I liked how Jay approaches Harry’s controlling ways and subtle abuse of Joe. Abuse isn’t always physical and it’s important to acknowledge it in all its forms and this story shows that with Joe and his strength to come out of his situation stronger and with a new life that’s better for him. I love Rainbow Place and definitely need to read the other stories of Seb and Jason and Alex and Cam. All the characters are awesome and I hope there will be a story with Lady Gogo and Wicksy as there could be an interesting story there 😉
Jay had created such great characters in Dylan & Joe and their connection and chemistry is palpable. I really enjoyed their early interactions and witty banter. I enjoyed the balance between sexual tension, emotional connection, and their individual situations. While Harry’s ‘the bad guy’ of the story he’s not vindictive and the way Jay approached Harry as a character was great in that he has his flaw that he can’t/won’t change and becomes resigned in the end but thankfully there is no maliciousness or extreme danger as with other stories. I feel Jay has created a real-life story that reflects the real world and the ups and downs we can face in life.
I really enjoyed Joe and Dylan’s story and look forward to more stories from Jay and more from Rainbow Place!! A highly recommended read!!
Thanks for reading! For great stories, reviews and more please visit https://bookstattoosandtea.wordpress.com 📚
March 2, 2021
4.5 Stars. Better Place is book 3 in the Rainbow Place series but it can be read as standalone since each book in the series is about a different couple. This book is a friends to lovers, age gap, MM romance.
Dylan is an employee of Rainbow Place Cafe. That is how he meets Joe, a customer who has started working remotely while at the cafe. Dylan is 26 and Joe is 42. When Dylan and Joe meet, Joe is still in a long term relationship that is severely broken. Joe's partner of 10 years is cold, manipulative, controlling, and emotionally abusive. He is also an alcoholic. As Joe finds the strength to end his relationship, he also finds that he wants much more than friendship with Dylan who feels the same way but is super cautious of it being a rebound type thing.
I wasn't sure if I was going to enjoy this storyline but it actually ended up being my favorite from the series so far. One of my favorite things about this series is that even though each book is about a different couple, we still get to see the other couples and characters from the prior books since the series is centered around Rainbow Place. The more I see of Rainbow Place's owner, Seb, the more I love him. He is such a great guy and really ends up being a father/uncle/big brother figure for all of the other characters.
The narration is fine. It is the same narrator from the other books and he doesn't have a wide variety of voices, but he is pleasant to listen to and easy to understand.
I will definitely continue this series.
Dylan is an employee of Rainbow Place Cafe. That is how he meets Joe, a customer who has started working remotely while at the cafe. Dylan is 26 and Joe is 42. When Dylan and Joe meet, Joe is still in a long term relationship that is severely broken. Joe's partner of 10 years is cold, manipulative, controlling, and emotionally abusive. He is also an alcoholic. As Joe finds the strength to end his relationship, he also finds that he wants much more than friendship with Dylan who feels the same way but is super cautious of it being a rebound type thing.
I wasn't sure if I was going to enjoy this storyline but it actually ended up being my favorite from the series so far. One of my favorite things about this series is that even though each book is about a different couple, we still get to see the other couples and characters from the prior books since the series is centered around Rainbow Place. The more I see of Rainbow Place's owner, Seb, the more I love him. He is such a great guy and really ends up being a father/uncle/big brother figure for all of the other characters.
The narration is fine. It is the same narrator from the other books and he doesn't have a wide variety of voices, but he is pleasant to listen to and easy to understand.
I will definitely continue this series.
March 8, 2019
The third book in the series, Better Place does stay true to Rainbow Place being a center point for the characters (Dylan works there, and Joe starts coming in as a customer). When the story begins, Joe is already in a relationship with someone else—with whom he lives—so there’s an immediate obstacle which Dylan does try to respect even though he is drawn to Joe.
Joe does have issues with his current relationship, and Dylan recognizes certain “signs” that echo issues he had with his own prior relationship. This is where things become a tad messy since Dylan does become kind of protective of Joe, but still needs to respect the boundaries in place. Once Joe is free to start something with Dylan, things happen rapidly between them—still complicated though by Joe’s living situation. I once again found myself frustrated (a common thing for me with this series), because not only did it feel like things moved very fast with Dylan and Joe at that point, but with Joe’s ex still in his life—albeit in a sidelined way—it kind of felt weird. I actually felt sorry for the ex since he seemed a bit clueless and self-centered.
We do get to see characters from the previous stories in the series, and there’s also some setup for another story to come. You don’t need to have read those stories to enjoy Better Place, though you may want their backstory once you meet Seb and Alex, whose respective stories were told in the other books.
I did have a harder time feeling a full connection between Dylan and Joe due to the complications of the situation, and that along with my frustrations mentioned earlier has me putting this book at 3.5 stars. Better Place is meant for readers 18+ for adult language and sexual content.
Joe does have issues with his current relationship, and Dylan recognizes certain “signs” that echo issues he had with his own prior relationship. This is where things become a tad messy since Dylan does become kind of protective of Joe, but still needs to respect the boundaries in place. Once Joe is free to start something with Dylan, things happen rapidly between them—still complicated though by Joe’s living situation. I once again found myself frustrated (a common thing for me with this series), because not only did it feel like things moved very fast with Dylan and Joe at that point, but with Joe’s ex still in his life—albeit in a sidelined way—it kind of felt weird. I actually felt sorry for the ex since he seemed a bit clueless and self-centered.
We do get to see characters from the previous stories in the series, and there’s also some setup for another story to come. You don’t need to have read those stories to enjoy Better Place, though you may want their backstory once you meet Seb and Alex, whose respective stories were told in the other books.
I did have a harder time feeling a full connection between Dylan and Joe due to the complications of the situation, and that along with my frustrations mentioned earlier has me putting this book at 3.5 stars. Better Place is meant for readers 18+ for adult language and sexual content.
March 5, 2019
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is the third book in the series, and whilst it could be read as a standalone, I think the experience would be richer if you know the background to the Rainbow Place, its owner and staff. That said, you do get quick updates on who is who as we go along.
I really enjoyed this story, a lot, because it really does deal with the nitty gritty of life, rather than just the sparkly bits. I do think that the blurb gives away a lot of the plot, but the emotions and the revelations that Joe experiences are beautifully written. He is undoubtedly helped by the very aware Dylan, but he does choose to deal with the issue now he is aware of it, which makes him a stronger person than one might expect. I also think that he is very lucky to make some good friends at Rainbow Place, not just Dylan.
I think this is a good addition to the series, and once again tells a story which is both a good read, but may well spur someone into thinking more widely about how life really is. Thank you Jay Northcote for another lovely installment of quirky, realistic Cornish seaside life.
This is the third book in the series, and whilst it could be read as a standalone, I think the experience would be richer if you know the background to the Rainbow Place, its owner and staff. That said, you do get quick updates on who is who as we go along.
I really enjoyed this story, a lot, because it really does deal with the nitty gritty of life, rather than just the sparkly bits. I do think that the blurb gives away a lot of the plot, but the emotions and the revelations that Joe experiences are beautifully written. He is undoubtedly helped by the very aware Dylan, but he does choose to deal with the issue now he is aware of it, which makes him a stronger person than one might expect. I also think that he is very lucky to make some good friends at Rainbow Place, not just Dylan.
I think this is a good addition to the series, and once again tells a story which is both a good read, but may well spur someone into thinking more widely about how life really is. Thank you Jay Northcote for another lovely installment of quirky, realistic Cornish seaside life.
June 27, 2021
Meh. Incredibly bland and lacklustre - I swear there was more page space devoted to details of café orders, meal preparation and other mundane, unnecessary minutiae than there was to plot or characterisation. Also more than half the book focuses on Joe's deeply depressing relationship with his deeply shitty boyfriend, and the main romance *still* barely managed to be more interesting or worth investing in. The whole thing just had no spark at all and neither Joe nor Dylan felt like real, fleshed-out people. I'm used to Northcote's books generally playing in the shallower end of the pool, but this one felt like it barely even dipped in a toe.
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