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Transitions #1
Aiden Inspired
Aiden Fisher does well as a New York artist. In fact, he’s known among the art elite for being the man to watch. That doesn’t keep his critics from arguing that his work lacks personality or emotion. Of course, his life doesn’t have much of that either.
While perusing a dating site that connects urban gay men to their rural counterparts, Aiden comes across a profile of a Washington state rancher. The silhouetted picture and matter-of-fact language trigger his inspiration and spin him into a creative journey that ends with a collection that surpasses perfection. After his collection sells to a prestigious buyer, Aiden feels he has no choice but to meet and thank his muse. Little does he know the journey to the rugged mountains of Southeast Washington could change his life forever.
Devin Pearce is tall, built and remarkably handsome, all of which is accentuated with the personality of an angry bear. When he first comes upon Aiden, he can’t see past his anger -- this stranger is here because his nosy housekeeper set up that damned profile. But Aiden isn’t a typical stranger, not only does this man have the looks but he has a work ethic Devin has seldom seen in another man.
Sure, Devin wants love, but experience has taught him to be leery. Can he trust his instinct that Aiden is an extraordinary person, or will he let the tragedy of past relationships get in his way?
The fire between them burns hot, but they are truly opposites. Only the fates know if they are brave enough to overcome their differences and build the relationship they both dream of.
While perusing a dating site that connects urban gay men to their rural counterparts, Aiden comes across a profile of a Washington state rancher. The silhouetted picture and matter-of-fact language trigger his inspiration and spin him into a creative journey that ends with a collection that surpasses perfection. After his collection sells to a prestigious buyer, Aiden feels he has no choice but to meet and thank his muse. Little does he know the journey to the rugged mountains of Southeast Washington could change his life forever.
Devin Pearce is tall, built and remarkably handsome, all of which is accentuated with the personality of an angry bear. When he first comes upon Aiden, he can’t see past his anger -- this stranger is here because his nosy housekeeper set up that damned profile. But Aiden isn’t a typical stranger, not only does this man have the looks but he has a work ethic Devin has seldom seen in another man.
Sure, Devin wants love, but experience has taught him to be leery. Can he trust his instinct that Aiden is an extraordinary person, or will he let the tragedy of past relationships get in his way?
The fire between them burns hot, but they are truly opposites. Only the fates know if they are brave enough to overcome their differences and build the relationship they both dream of.
364 pages, ebook
First published April 15, 2019
32 people are currently reading
124 people want to read
About the author
Blake Allwood
33 books178 followersBlake Allwood was born in west TN, then moved to Kansas City MO after attending college in Lamoni, Iowa. He met his husband in 1995 and they officially married in 2015, once gay marriage was legalized. In 2017, he and his husband sold their home, purchased an RV and began traveling the country with their two dogs. Their travels provide the inspiration and settings for many of his novels.
Typically, Blake can be found relaxing in the RV or by the fire with his laptop and their Jack Russell Terrier, Buddy, curled up between his legs demanding attention. Denver, their Siberian Husky mix is often asleep at his feet or playing tug of war with Blake’s husband.
Aiden Inspired (Apr 2019) is his first published novel, featuring two disparate characters from New York and Washington State who meet and develop an unlikely bond. His second novel, Suzie Empowered (Feb 2020), is a followup featuring Aiden’s sister Suzie as she overcomes her fear of relationships with straight men due to a sexual assault in high school. In March, Blake returned to gay romance with his release of Bobby Transformed about an Iowa farm boy and a big city publisher. His first three novels share characters and can be read in order or randomly.
Typically, Blake can be found relaxing in the RV or by the fire with his laptop and their Jack Russell Terrier, Buddy, curled up between his legs demanding attention. Denver, their Siberian Husky mix is often asleep at his feet or playing tug of war with Blake’s husband.
Aiden Inspired (Apr 2019) is his first published novel, featuring two disparate characters from New York and Washington State who meet and develop an unlikely bond. His second novel, Suzie Empowered (Feb 2020), is a followup featuring Aiden’s sister Suzie as she overcomes her fear of relationships with straight men due to a sexual assault in high school. In March, Blake returned to gay romance with his release of Bobby Transformed about an Iowa farm boy and a big city publisher. His first three novels share characters and can be read in order or randomly.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
April 13, 2022
This is my second book by Blake Allwood and I really enjoyed this one. It had all the right elements for a sweet romance. I liked Aiden, but it was Devin who still my heart. He was the perfect big tough cowboy with a romantic squishy heart. Oh, and the side characters were delightful. I loved Margie and Suzie, but Claire was the best.
February 15, 2021
Let me just say for a debut book by this author he blew this one away. This book sucked me in and I could not put it down. I fact instead of working when I should have been, I read. Because I could not stop.
Aiden is an artist that is realizing he is ready for a relationship. He signs up for an online dating app and one profile stands out and he is hit with inspiration.
Devin is a ranch owner and he is ready for love. He has not had success in the past but ready to find it.
They find love in the most unlikely way but they have a lot against them. Distance and occupations to be the biggest obstacle.
I loved this book. I loved their journey of finding each other, falling in love, and making their future work. These two guys are different in some ways but so similar in other.
I loved the epilogue. The author seemed to bring it all together beautifully with this epilogue.
I definitely look forward to future books
Aiden is an artist that is realizing he is ready for a relationship. He signs up for an online dating app and one profile stands out and he is hit with inspiration.
Devin is a ranch owner and he is ready for love. He has not had success in the past but ready to find it.
They find love in the most unlikely way but they have a lot against them. Distance and occupations to be the biggest obstacle.
I loved this book. I loved their journey of finding each other, falling in love, and making their future work. These two guys are different in some ways but so similar in other.
I loved the epilogue. The author seemed to bring it all together beautifully with this epilogue.
I definitely look forward to future books
May 17, 2020
Let me start by saying, there are very few books the kept me so interested, to do an all niter. This book was like pager turner from beginning to the end. The MC while both flawed felt so genuine. The secondary characters were a nice touch; but, the wit, the sense of humor, dialogue and the romance was just outstanding. I felt the author, provided a visual picture through his words and even interesting history of art and literature. He is someone to watch and learn from. He took the ordinary and it extraordinary for this reader.
April 13, 2021
This book made my heart happy
Wow such a fantastic read I stayed awake into fhe night reading it because even with the panda eyes I'll be rocking tomorrow I couldn't put it down, so if a sexy cowboy and a city boy stuck on a ranch together is a book you feel you need in your life then you want this book! Brilliant
Wow such a fantastic read I stayed awake into fhe night reading it because even with the panda eyes I'll be rocking tomorrow I couldn't put it down, so if a sexy cowboy and a city boy stuck on a ranch together is a book you feel you need in your life then you want this book! Brilliant
April 16, 2019
A lovely, romantic story of an unaware, hard-working muse and the🎨 artist he inspires😊😍
April 15, 2019
Format: Kindle Edition
👍👍👬🔥💕🌁🐎
I really enjoyed Aiden and Devin's story. It provided plenty of action, well-drawn principal and supporting characters like Aiden's sister Suzie and Devin's housekeeper Claire, with fiery romance and just enough conflict for the couple. These two seemed so distant and ill-suited initially and unlikely to ever fit in each other's world and yet ... Plus, I really liked the way the daily chores and responsibilities of life kept them so occupied that their meeting got delayed unlike so many stories where serendipity has everything happening at once.
I would definitely read this author's works again.👍
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
April 15, 2019
Format: Kindle Edition
👍👍👬🔥💕🌁🐎
I really enjoyed Aiden and Devin's story. It provided plenty of action, well-drawn principal and supporting characters like Aiden's sister Suzie and Devin's housekeeper Claire, with fiery romance and just enough conflict for the couple. These two seemed so distant and ill-suited initially and unlikely to ever fit in each other's world and yet ... Plus, I really liked the way the daily chores and responsibilities of life kept them so occupied that their meeting got delayed unlike so many stories where serendipity has everything happening at once.
I would definitely read this author's works again.👍
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
May 10, 2020
DNF 39%.
Aiden and Devin don't actually meet, or even talk to each other, until 31% of the way into this. Almost 1/3 of this book, they don't know each other.
The dialogue is ridiculous. "When my dad died, I too craved the wild back country." Who talks like that.
Referring to your sister as a "busty diva" is odd.
I dislike Claire. She didn't bother telling Devin his BF was perving on his employee. She tried setting him up women, and then straight men when they first met, against his wishes. She impersonated him and communicated with men on a gay dating site. She gave out his address to a complete stranger.
Editing issues such as words missing or the odd lapse into present tense.
But, in short, I didn't like the writing and the the characters and story were quite dull.
Aiden and Devin don't actually meet, or even talk to each other, until 31% of the way into this. Almost 1/3 of this book, they don't know each other.
The dialogue is ridiculous. "When my dad died, I too craved the wild back country." Who talks like that.
Referring to your sister as a "busty diva" is odd.
I dislike Claire. She didn't bother telling Devin his BF was perving on his employee. She tried setting him up women, and then straight men when they first met, against his wishes. She impersonated him and communicated with men on a gay dating site. She gave out his address to a complete stranger.
Editing issues such as words missing or the odd lapse into present tense.
But, in short, I didn't like the writing and the the characters and story were quite dull.
April 14, 2019
Aiden Inspired is the contemporary debut novel by Blake Allwood. It is a wonderful love story about two men who have an attraction strong and true, although they will have differences and obstacles to overcome in order to be together. Aiden and Devin are great characters and I loved reading their interactions. The story was a great mix of humor, sweetness, drama and heat. Definitely a book worth reading.
I received an advanced reader's copy of the book and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation.
I received an advanced reader's copy of the book and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation.
April 24, 2020
This was a great book from the first page to the last. I felt like I knew both MCs right away and didn't have to wonder what they were feeling. The story flowed nicely, and if I didn't already know this was the author's first book, it definitely would not have been obvious. I'm starting the next book tonight, and I can't wait!
July 6, 2020
I have a New favorite author
I think I read these books out of order but it doesn't really matter. The both stood alone. I don't know what it was that made me love this book but I know it was something to do with the feeling of knowing the characters. I don't but hard copies anymore unless I truly love the books. I have a feeling I will be buying all Mr Allwood's books
I think I read these books out of order but it doesn't really matter. The both stood alone. I don't know what it was that made me love this book but I know it was something to do with the feeling of knowing the characters. I don't but hard copies anymore unless I truly love the books. I have a feeling I will be buying all Mr Allwood's books
June 5, 2020
Wonderfully well crafted characters in a believable setting that will make your heart melt.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book which was beautifully edited, with flow, great narration and above all else, a steamy love story that bound it all together. I was sad when the book ended.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book which was beautifully edited, with flow, great narration and above all else, a steamy love story that bound it all together. I was sad when the book ended.
June 15, 2019
Strangely, I liked the story but not the actual writing. Descriptions, dialogue, inner musings, all of them felt slightly wrong but I also couldn't help liking where most everything ended up going.
Devin's personality really grates more often than not and for all the times when he promised himself he wouldn't be like the previous ranch owner he seems to never grasp the moments where he knows he's acting the same way. Even knowing he's doing or saying something hurtful or super grouchy he refuses to alter his behavior. He does eventually come around and tries to make amends, but I'm not sure it's enough for me.
Aiden is a little flighty but he's also very simple. The life he knows he needs is the same one he wants yet when he's asked questions about possible change or thinks about making that happen it's as if he's in denial and that knowledge isn't what he knows at all. It's confusing and disappointing to say the least. It feels like the denial is just a way for the author to cause more potential conflict and make the life change acceptance more powerful at the end. Doesn't work, by the way. What I do love about him is the peace and the satisfaction we see all over him while he's working in the barn, the stalls, with the animals, and absorbing everything that's country and beautiful about where he's stranded.
Their separation before the reunion felt a bit forced, like that was the only way a "see what you had when it's gone" realization could happen. When they finally did come back together I don't know if I'm totally sold on their reconciliation. I would have liked more between the end and the epilogue so the sweetness and "full-circle" feelings could have a chance to settle and warm me to their permanence. Overall though, this was a nice story that somehow won me over despite not being a writing style I typically enjoy.
Devin's personality really grates more often than not and for all the times when he promised himself he wouldn't be like the previous ranch owner he seems to never grasp the moments where he knows he's acting the same way. Even knowing he's doing or saying something hurtful or super grouchy he refuses to alter his behavior. He does eventually come around and tries to make amends, but I'm not sure it's enough for me.
Aiden is a little flighty but he's also very simple. The life he knows he needs is the same one he wants yet when he's asked questions about possible change or thinks about making that happen it's as if he's in denial and that knowledge isn't what he knows at all. It's confusing and disappointing to say the least. It feels like the denial is just a way for the author to cause more potential conflict and make the life change acceptance more powerful at the end. Doesn't work, by the way. What I do love about him is the peace and the satisfaction we see all over him while he's working in the barn, the stalls, with the animals, and absorbing everything that's country and beautiful about where he's stranded.
Their separation before the reunion felt a bit forced, like that was the only way a "see what you had when it's gone" realization could happen. When they finally did come back together I don't know if I'm totally sold on their reconciliation. I would have liked more between the end and the epilogue so the sweetness and "full-circle" feelings could have a chance to settle and warm me to their permanence. Overall though, this was a nice story that somehow won me over despite not being a writing style I typically enjoy.
June 14, 2021
A first read with this book for this author, I couldn't resist this blurb.
❤ Love is always in the cards or a card.
A great start to the book and one I can connect with for Aiden. Oh god Suzie was a hoot in this,. Damm once I got started reading I couldn't put this one down. I loved the scenes where Aiden and Devin meet yah just maybe Aiden had the wrong kinda car but he kinda got where he's was going. Ur yah they didn't have the greatest first meeting. Holly smokes sexy scenes are hottt, and the no commitments thing yah that won't last.lol As scenes played out I didn't want this book to end. The story of a city and country bring them both together but the distance thing was huge. Falling in love so fast well you have to read it to find out it ends. Yah the finish was gorgeous, I'd wondered how the little painting would find a home. includes both povs and adorable characters to love.
Aiden 28 was an artist painting his way to success if only he could get the more of the artist into the paintings. Being in the city Aiden wasn't happy.
Devin was a rancher and didn't have the best luck in grabbing a good boyfriend to date. Alone in the county without love.
❤ Love is always in the cards or a card.
A great start to the book and one I can connect with for Aiden. Oh god Suzie was a hoot in this,. Damm once I got started reading I couldn't put this one down. I loved the scenes where Aiden and Devin meet yah just maybe Aiden had the wrong kinda car but he kinda got where he's was going. Ur yah they didn't have the greatest first meeting. Holly smokes sexy scenes are hottt, and the no commitments thing yah that won't last.lol As scenes played out I didn't want this book to end. The story of a city and country bring them both together but the distance thing was huge. Falling in love so fast well you have to read it to find out it ends. Yah the finish was gorgeous, I'd wondered how the little painting would find a home. includes both povs and adorable characters to love.
Aiden 28 was an artist painting his way to success if only he could get the more of the artist into the paintings. Being in the city Aiden wasn't happy.
Devin was a rancher and didn't have the best luck in grabbing a good boyfriend to date. Alone in the county without love.
June 15, 2021
Aiden is an artist living in New York whose work lacks passion according to the critics. He is thinking of leaving New York for a country life which he misses when he connects with Devin on a dating website. Devin did not establish the site, it was his house keeper trying to find him a mate. Aiden, thinking of the ranch country where Devin lives, begins a series of paintings of rural scenes and they are to his surprise a huge success with the critics. He plans a quick trip to visit Devin and leave a thank you card but the trip turns into a disaster, with rains and flooded bridges leaving him trapped a few miles from Devins ranch. They spend a week together and after an initial bad start their relationship warms up, but both are afraid of commitment and being hurt. A very enjoyable read with likeable characters through and through.
March 14, 2021
Heart a fluttering! !
Omg. This story filled my heart with love and happiness. This author knows how to pull at the heart strings. Great story, very well written. Oh did I mention the hot bedroom scenes?? Must read!!!
Omg. This story filled my heart with love and happiness. This author knows how to pull at the heart strings. Great story, very well written. Oh did I mention the hot bedroom scenes?? Must read!!!
March 1, 2021
What do you do when you are toasted drunk, you create a profile on dating site. Or your best friend does it for you. LOL
Aiden Inspired was a great read. I was hooked from the first chapter. A true love story with a nosey best friend (I loved Claire's nosiness and bossy attitude) Aiden and Devin story is sweet.
Aiden Inspired was a great read. I was hooked from the first chapter. A true love story with a nosey best friend (I loved Claire's nosiness and bossy attitude) Aiden and Devin story is sweet.
July 23, 2021
Okay this book is good. I am now late for dinner because I finished it. Aiden is good artist living in New York and his paintings sell. He is not happy but he is not wanting a relationship. Devin is a rancher in Washington state. His boyfriend just left him. Devin and Aiden meet because of an ad placed on an internet dating site by Devin’s housekeeper. That is an interesting part of the story. Aiden flies out to meet Devin and the sparks fly. I know the details are sparse but I don’t want to give up anything about the book.
February 8, 2021
I loved this opposites-attract romance that had me singing "I'm a little bit country and you're a little bit rock-and-roll." I'm a romance reader and it's wonderful to find a writer who really understands the complexities and obstacles gay men face in finding relationships that are both meaning full AND hot! I appreciated the slow build that happened in this book and the emphasis on found family (even though S. is his sister the lovely relationship is really built through experience and love not blood). I tore through this book because the main characters were so relatable and the side characters created a wonderful backdrop for the story. If you are looking for an authentic, beautifully told story -- this is the one.
July 1, 2021
In this story we meet Aiden, a good if not so inspired artist searching for something to bring life and heart to his work. Then we meet Devin, a rancher wishing for love but burned in a previous relationship trying not to become a bitter man. Mother nature seems to be working to get these to together when Aiden takes a trip to thank the man who gave him inspiration and becomes stranded. This is a heartwarming story that at times also had me in tears. I will definitely be reading more of this authors work in the future.
April 19, 2019
When artist Aiden is inspired to create his most beautiful paintings of his life by the gorgeous cowboy he sees on the dating site, City Male to Country Male, he knows he has to thank him for the inspiration in person. Unfortunately for Aiden, Devin is less than thrilled to meet him, exhibiting a grumpy ass attitude befitting a bear. But, when he prepares to leave natural conditions prevent him from doing so, and so the two are forced into uncomfortable (at first) confines, and their attraction begs to be consummated.
I liked Aiden Inspired. It's a great look at two very different men who find love with each other. Yes it's pretty much insta-love, even though neither admits it at first, but the short time frame didn't really bother me, as the relationship felt natural and organic. Both Aiden and Devin are likable, engaging characters, and I love how they just fit with each other. I am now looking forward to a lot more from this author.
ARC via LesCourt ARC Team for an honest review.
Full review posted here ---> Live Through Books Blog.
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June 28, 2021
I read that this is the authors debut book, well in that case I need to read more, this sucked me in from page one, both MC's are gorgeous and intense, brilliantly embedded in the pages. You get a profusion of emotions, love, anger, angst, fear, and a huge dollop of sexy sex. There are a couple of mini stories within this main tale which only adds to the entertainment of the whole thing. The sweet epilogue, and I LOVE epilogues, sweeps through several years and give us a beautiful sense of peace and happiness after so much angst.
November 14, 2021
Very Enjoyable Story . . .
Aiden Fisher is a talented artist living in New York. His paintings do sell, but he could do better, and he knows that. He browsed through a dating site that matches urban to rural profiles and he spots Devin, a rancher in Washington State. The man’s picture and straightforward writing style launch Aiden into a creative frenzy to build an inspired collection which easily sells, and he wants to meet the man who fired him up like that. The profile was actually created by Devin’s housekeeper and Devin was not happy about her interference. Regardless, Aiden is intrigued and wants to meet his muse, so he flies to Washington to see Devin.
Devin Pierce is a very attractive man, tall and well-built. He’s still angry, mostly at his housekeeper, when he and Aiden meet. Fortunately, after Aiden cleaned the kitchen to a shine, including the fan blades, and mucked the stalls in record time, while still being an amazing artist with his gifted hands, Devin is amazed and respects Aiden’s work ethic which definitely attracts him. In fact, both of them are realizing just how interested they really are because neither man is all he seemed at first glance. Devin just isn’t sure if he wants to get into another relationship right now. They are very different personalities. Will Devin go with his instinct here to take a chance? Or will he let his past dictate whether he will risk his future?
The writing is well-done and paints a vivid mental picture for the reader. The interaction of the characters was very realistic and let us know their thought processes and personalities. I would definitely continue reading this author's books. Well done!
Aiden Fisher is a talented artist living in New York. His paintings do sell, but he could do better, and he knows that. He browsed through a dating site that matches urban to rural profiles and he spots Devin, a rancher in Washington State. The man’s picture and straightforward writing style launch Aiden into a creative frenzy to build an inspired collection which easily sells, and he wants to meet the man who fired him up like that. The profile was actually created by Devin’s housekeeper and Devin was not happy about her interference. Regardless, Aiden is intrigued and wants to meet his muse, so he flies to Washington to see Devin.
Devin Pierce is a very attractive man, tall and well-built. He’s still angry, mostly at his housekeeper, when he and Aiden meet. Fortunately, after Aiden cleaned the kitchen to a shine, including the fan blades, and mucked the stalls in record time, while still being an amazing artist with his gifted hands, Devin is amazed and respects Aiden’s work ethic which definitely attracts him. In fact, both of them are realizing just how interested they really are because neither man is all he seemed at first glance. Devin just isn’t sure if he wants to get into another relationship right now. They are very different personalities. Will Devin go with his instinct here to take a chance? Or will he let his past dictate whether he will risk his future?
The writing is well-done and paints a vivid mental picture for the reader. The interaction of the characters was very realistic and let us know their thought processes and personalities. I would definitely continue reading this author's books. Well done!
April 24, 2019
An artist and a rancher? Yes please! Blake Allwood's Aidan Inspired is an compelling and entertaining insta-love romance.
Aiden and Devin meet in the most unusual of ways. They get off to a bad start, but soon they're giving in to the strong chemistry between them. Their romance includes some misconceptions, complications, and some sizzling moments.
I like both men, as both have changed tremendously during their lives. Both have been city men, and both have been farm men. It's an interesting thing to connect them and see how much they've both changed.
Aiden Inspired is fast paced, with two fun main characters, along with some entertaining side characters. It's definitely a fun book, and I look forward to seeing what else this debut author comes up with.
Aiden and Devin meet in the most unusual of ways. They get off to a bad start, but soon they're giving in to the strong chemistry between them. Their romance includes some misconceptions, complications, and some sizzling moments.
I like both men, as both have changed tremendously during their lives. Both have been city men, and both have been farm men. It's an interesting thing to connect them and see how much they've both changed.
Aiden Inspired is fast paced, with two fun main characters, along with some entertaining side characters. It's definitely a fun book, and I look forward to seeing what else this debut author comes up with.
April 17, 2019
Amazing story
This was a great great book. I really enjoyed this story.
It was well written and the writing style was slightly different than other books, but so fitting to the story.
I loved Aiden and Devin. I really enjoyed how you learn both their personalities separately. And the fireworks when they first meet.
The attraction, chemistry and love between these two characters, and the people surrounding them was beautiful.
Overall a great read. This is a new author and I can't wait to read more from them :-)
This was a great great book. I really enjoyed this story.
It was well written and the writing style was slightly different than other books, but so fitting to the story.
I loved Aiden and Devin. I really enjoyed how you learn both their personalities separately. And the fireworks when they first meet.
The attraction, chemistry and love between these two characters, and the people surrounding them was beautiful.
Overall a great read. This is a new author and I can't wait to read more from them :-)
November 22, 2021
Two men looking for love but afraid of being hurt find each other but keep pushing each other away. One decides this can't be real but realizes they belong together. I really enjoyed this book.
April 15, 2019
I really enjoyed this book. The storyline was unique and written well, the characters are well developed, and the world building is done fairly well done. I received an ARC of this book, but I am hoping that the author chooses to use different formatting for publication.
Aiden makes his living as an artist in New York City. He gets decent reviews, but with every showing, the critics always say the same thing: he's not putting himself, or his personality, in his work. He doesn't really see the problem; he's won awards, he's doing what he's supposed to be doing, right?
After finding out that his ex and new boyfriend met on a dating site, and knowing that he has been wanting to relocate to a more rural area, Aiden decides to see what the Web has to offer. He comes across City Male to Country Male, and creates a profile.
Devin is a ranch owner in Washington state. He has just had a disastrous relationship, and he and his friend and housekeeper, Claire, end up getting very intoxicated while drowning his sorrows. Claire decides it would be a great idea to sign Devin up on a dating site, and stumbles across CMTOCM.
When Aiden comes across Devin's profile, he becomes inspired, and goes on a painting binge that lasts for weeks. The results of this artistic spree receive international recognition, and Aiden feels that he must thank his muse in some way.
One thing leads to another, and Aiden ends up meeting Devin, but Devin is not happy to see him on his property. As the barbs fly between the two, there is an undeniable attraction as well. Unfortunately, due to Mother Nature, they are stuck with each other for the foreseeable future. Although they both continue to push each other away, the romance grows nonetheless. However, when Aiden's family shows up looking for him, he leaves to return to the city.
Given time apart, they both come to some hard realizations. Of course, this being a great romance, grand gestures are made, hearts are reunited, and our MCs get their HEA, along with several secondary characters.
Overall, the story kept me entertained. It has some parts when I just wanted to shake the two men. The secondary characters are great and play important roles throughout the story. But, in the end, I think that the book is worth the read.
Happy reading!
* I received an ARC of this book. *
Aiden makes his living as an artist in New York City. He gets decent reviews, but with every showing, the critics always say the same thing: he's not putting himself, or his personality, in his work. He doesn't really see the problem; he's won awards, he's doing what he's supposed to be doing, right?
After finding out that his ex and new boyfriend met on a dating site, and knowing that he has been wanting to relocate to a more rural area, Aiden decides to see what the Web has to offer. He comes across City Male to Country Male, and creates a profile.
Devin is a ranch owner in Washington state. He has just had a disastrous relationship, and he and his friend and housekeeper, Claire, end up getting very intoxicated while drowning his sorrows. Claire decides it would be a great idea to sign Devin up on a dating site, and stumbles across CMTOCM.
When Aiden comes across Devin's profile, he becomes inspired, and goes on a painting binge that lasts for weeks. The results of this artistic spree receive international recognition, and Aiden feels that he must thank his muse in some way.
One thing leads to another, and Aiden ends up meeting Devin, but Devin is not happy to see him on his property. As the barbs fly between the two, there is an undeniable attraction as well. Unfortunately, due to Mother Nature, they are stuck with each other for the foreseeable future. Although they both continue to push each other away, the romance grows nonetheless. However, when Aiden's family shows up looking for him, he leaves to return to the city.
Given time apart, they both come to some hard realizations. Of course, this being a great romance, grand gestures are made, hearts are reunited, and our MCs get their HEA, along with several secondary characters.
Overall, the story kept me entertained. It has some parts when I just wanted to shake the two men. The secondary characters are great and play important roles throughout the story. But, in the end, I think that the book is worth the read.
Happy reading!
* I received an ARC of this book. *
April 16, 2019
The author drew me into the characters’ life and mind right off the bat. I immediately liked both characters and had a good idea of their basic personality. I was especially impressed with the author’s ability to draw me into the artistic process when I haven’t had much interest in the past.
Devin turned out to be more of a diverse character than I first thought him to be. I never was comfortable with the inferences the author made about him, and I didn’t get a good read on him for a while after that. I decided to take him as he came and let the rest go. That helped to sustain my interest and affection for his character.
Aiden’s character is pretty much what I thought him to be from the beginning. He is complicated about his work, but his view of everyday life is relaxed and confident as long as he maintains some control over it.
Some parts are wordy. As in, at times, the author tells everything the character is doing when a sentence would suffice. The same can be said about some of the dialogue. A word or two can sometimes replace a sentence.
I like the secondary characters. Aiden’s sister is a particular joy for me. She supports the storyline and main characters beautifully, and her personality is spirited and fun. Claire is a good secondary character also, but I felt that a lot of the attention paid to her and her dialogue would have been better spent in other ways.
For the most part, there is a good flow to the work. The premise is sound, the movement throughout the book is interesting, and the HEA is believable.
The spicy scenes are just that, spicy. I thought they were a bit fast to jump into that, but I enjoyed the steam, nonetheless. The relationship isn't insta love. Insta lust, yes. There is a connection between them from the first though, and the book as a whole is satisfying.
The epilogue is a sweet treat. Various threads of the story and characters were tied in neat bows that gave me the warm fuzzies to know that these characters ended up well.
I look forward to more from this author.
Devin turned out to be more of a diverse character than I first thought him to be. I never was comfortable with the inferences the author made about him, and I didn’t get a good read on him for a while after that. I decided to take him as he came and let the rest go. That helped to sustain my interest and affection for his character.
Aiden’s character is pretty much what I thought him to be from the beginning. He is complicated about his work, but his view of everyday life is relaxed and confident as long as he maintains some control over it.
Some parts are wordy. As in, at times, the author tells everything the character is doing when a sentence would suffice. The same can be said about some of the dialogue. A word or two can sometimes replace a sentence.
I like the secondary characters. Aiden’s sister is a particular joy for me. She supports the storyline and main characters beautifully, and her personality is spirited and fun. Claire is a good secondary character also, but I felt that a lot of the attention paid to her and her dialogue would have been better spent in other ways.
For the most part, there is a good flow to the work. The premise is sound, the movement throughout the book is interesting, and the HEA is believable.
The spicy scenes are just that, spicy. I thought they were a bit fast to jump into that, but I enjoyed the steam, nonetheless. The relationship isn't insta love. Insta lust, yes. There is a connection between them from the first though, and the book as a whole is satisfying.
The epilogue is a sweet treat. Various threads of the story and characters were tied in neat bows that gave me the warm fuzzies to know that these characters ended up well.
I look forward to more from this author.
April 19, 2019
[I received a digital arc for an honest review]
"I was ashamed I'd let myself get caught up in a kiss with a stranger and worse than that, a stranger I didn't even like."
Aiden Inspired is the debut release of new author Blake Allwood. An MM opposites attract romance between a talented artist and a stern rancher.
Aiden Fisher is lacking in inspiration when it comes to his artwork. He is extremely talented but is told his paintings lack emotion. At the same time he is growing tired of the city life, so he decides to sign up on a dating website that connects rural folks with city folks. It's on the site that he stumbles across a rancher whose profile reminds him of his childhood visits to the farm and inspires him to create the best work he has ever done. That rancher is Devin Pearce and the dating profile was a drunken accident, so when Aiden shows up at his ranch to thank him he is far from happy. They get off to a rocky start but since bad weathers strands Aiden at the ranch he makes the most of it. They may butt heads, but they can't resist the sexual chemistry between them.
"damn, this man rocked me. I was desperate for him."
I was really enjoying the story in the beginning but somewhere along the lines the dialogue between our main characters seemed forced. Then at times when I would have enjoyed dialogue we received long out-of-place descriptions of events. The highlight of the novel for me were the characters themselves. Aiden was had an emotional side but had a strong backbone and didn't let Devin intimidate him. Devin was dominate in and out of the bedroom but I loved how his house keeper and Aiden were able to bring him down to reality when need be. The angst and sexual chemistry seemed natural and together I think Aiden and Devin worked well.
"I'd rather regret loving on you tonight than regret letting the opportunity slip away."
Overall, I think it was a good first novel and I would be interested in reading more by Blake Allwood in the future.
"I was ashamed I'd let myself get caught up in a kiss with a stranger and worse than that, a stranger I didn't even like."
Aiden Inspired is the debut release of new author Blake Allwood. An MM opposites attract romance between a talented artist and a stern rancher.
Aiden Fisher is lacking in inspiration when it comes to his artwork. He is extremely talented but is told his paintings lack emotion. At the same time he is growing tired of the city life, so he decides to sign up on a dating website that connects rural folks with city folks. It's on the site that he stumbles across a rancher whose profile reminds him of his childhood visits to the farm and inspires him to create the best work he has ever done. That rancher is Devin Pearce and the dating profile was a drunken accident, so when Aiden shows up at his ranch to thank him he is far from happy. They get off to a rocky start but since bad weathers strands Aiden at the ranch he makes the most of it. They may butt heads, but they can't resist the sexual chemistry between them.
"damn, this man rocked me. I was desperate for him."
I was really enjoying the story in the beginning but somewhere along the lines the dialogue between our main characters seemed forced. Then at times when I would have enjoyed dialogue we received long out-of-place descriptions of events. The highlight of the novel for me were the characters themselves. Aiden was had an emotional side but had a strong backbone and didn't let Devin intimidate him. Devin was dominate in and out of the bedroom but I loved how his house keeper and Aiden were able to bring him down to reality when need be. The angst and sexual chemistry seemed natural and together I think Aiden and Devin worked well.
"I'd rather regret loving on you tonight than regret letting the opportunity slip away."
Overall, I think it was a good first novel and I would be interested in reading more by Blake Allwood in the future.
Read
August 7, 2022If you had told me that the Chester County High School marching band would produce three published authors--that I know of--then I would've told you that you were crazy. Heck, even I didn't have designs on publishing at that time.
But I have FINALLY, and most belatedly, read the debut of one of my fellow alumni and am not shocked in the least to discover that this book is as full of humor and warmth as he is.
Aiden is a midwest boy with serious artistic talent who's gone off to NYC. His art doesn't have much heart--at least not until he sees a profile on City Men to Country Men and finds some much needed inspiration.
Devin, a grumpy ranch owner, signed up for CMTOCM as a drunken lark. Rather his feisty housekeeper signed him up for it while they were both in the wines. He sure doesn't expect to inspire an artist and really, really doesn't anticipate having that artist come all the way to Washington state to thank him.
This book has humor, forced proximity, and HORSES. It has opposites attract with a city boy and a country boy--neither is exactly who he seems. It has an ill-fated Miata, copious amounts of wine, and an ugly couch. There are sexy times and angst and...canned biscuits? (Say it isn't so on the last one)
A few of my favorite quotes:
About the couch: "the baby blue behemoth with gigantic man-eating flowers in mismatched and clashing colors"
"Horses were so similar to humans. They loved attention, craved company, and were suckers for swee talkers."
"And here I am sitting on your front porch improving your property value and I'm doing it for free."
"Top or bottom?' he said, never taking his eyes off of me. "Yes," I said.
"You lit the match in my heart, a place I didn't even know was missing the light."
But I have FINALLY, and most belatedly, read the debut of one of my fellow alumni and am not shocked in the least to discover that this book is as full of humor and warmth as he is.
Aiden is a midwest boy with serious artistic talent who's gone off to NYC. His art doesn't have much heart--at least not until he sees a profile on City Men to Country Men and finds some much needed inspiration.
Devin, a grumpy ranch owner, signed up for CMTOCM as a drunken lark. Rather his feisty housekeeper signed him up for it while they were both in the wines. He sure doesn't expect to inspire an artist and really, really doesn't anticipate having that artist come all the way to Washington state to thank him.
This book has humor, forced proximity, and HORSES. It has opposites attract with a city boy and a country boy--neither is exactly who he seems. It has an ill-fated Miata, copious amounts of wine, and an ugly couch. There are sexy times and angst and...canned biscuits? (Say it isn't so on the last one)
A few of my favorite quotes:
About the couch: "the baby blue behemoth with gigantic man-eating flowers in mismatched and clashing colors"
"Horses were so similar to humans. They loved attention, craved company, and were suckers for swee talkers."
"And here I am sitting on your front porch improving your property value and I'm doing it for free."
"Top or bottom?' he said, never taking his eyes off of me. "Yes," I said.
"You lit the match in my heart, a place I didn't even know was missing the light."
April 18, 2019
Masterful, With a Singular (non-fatal) Flaw. 20 years ago right around now, I gave an extemporaneous speech in my high school speech class that told this fantastical tale of alien adventures that took place over an extended time period. I thought it was an awesome story, and I had fun telling it. I thought the speech went amazing! And then my classmates and teacher started chiming in just absolutely eviscerating it. As it turned out, I had forgotten the very premise I had been told to work with: that the story had begun just the night before.
This book is an absolute masterpiece of a romance, with the fairly explicit sex MM romance is somewhat known for. The primary characters are charming in their own ways, and each has their flaws that are never glossed over as is the case of some tales in the general romance genre. The settings are amazing, and the extended time in the remote southeastern corner of Washington State (I googled the location) was astounding - it worked to further the plot while also enhancing the story.
The one flaw this story has is the same one my speech had all those years ago - in telling such a superior tale, the author gets his timings mixed up quite a bit. Things that happen overnight are spoken of in the section after speaking of things that happened over a much longer period of time,and this is a recurring problem of this tale - enough that I felt I had no choice but to ding it a star, as a one time blip of even that level could have been simply noted in this review yet forgiven on the rating.
Truly a masterful work, and I want to read the stories alluded to in the epilogue... ;)
This book is an absolute masterpiece of a romance, with the fairly explicit sex MM romance is somewhat known for. The primary characters are charming in their own ways, and each has their flaws that are never glossed over as is the case of some tales in the general romance genre. The settings are amazing, and the extended time in the remote southeastern corner of Washington State (I googled the location) was astounding - it worked to further the plot while also enhancing the story.
The one flaw this story has is the same one my speech had all those years ago - in telling such a superior tale, the author gets his timings mixed up quite a bit. Things that happen overnight are spoken of in the section after speaking of things that happened over a much longer period of time,and this is a recurring problem of this tale - enough that I felt I had no choice but to ding it a star, as a one time blip of even that level could have been simply noted in this review yet forgiven on the rating.
Truly a masterful work, and I want to read the stories alluded to in the epilogue... ;)
April 16, 2019
Really enjoyed this story and the two men we get to meet. It's slightly different in that there are three parts to the story and it flows really well together.
There are interesting characters, the MC's and supporting characters. Aiden is the artist currently living in New York who finds inspiration for his latest art paintings from Devin's online dating profile. For this to happen it sounds like a fairy tale but there are definitely moments that aren't happy and full of love. There is an emotional roller-coaster for both men for what they each go through, separately and together once they meet. Aiden's sister is fun and so supportive of his work and finding love. Devin's best friend/house keeper, Claire, is a hoot and a half for a 50 year old, lots of drinking, telling it as it is and motherly love.
Aiden and Devin work well together, their attraction is clear from the start and it's lovely to read their relationship grow, though in fits and starts. At first the story jumps between POV's and I wasn't sure on the timeline but it soon settled down.
This is Blake's first book and I am looking forward to reading their work again in the future. Highly recommend giving this book a go!
I received an ARC and I'm happily giving a review.
There are interesting characters, the MC's and supporting characters. Aiden is the artist currently living in New York who finds inspiration for his latest art paintings from Devin's online dating profile. For this to happen it sounds like a fairy tale but there are definitely moments that aren't happy and full of love. There is an emotional roller-coaster for both men for what they each go through, separately and together once they meet. Aiden's sister is fun and so supportive of his work and finding love. Devin's best friend/house keeper, Claire, is a hoot and a half for a 50 year old, lots of drinking, telling it as it is and motherly love.
Aiden and Devin work well together, their attraction is clear from the start and it's lovely to read their relationship grow, though in fits and starts. At first the story jumps between POV's and I wasn't sure on the timeline but it soon settled down.
This is Blake's first book and I am looking forward to reading their work again in the future. Highly recommend giving this book a go!
I received an ARC and I'm happily giving a review.
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