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Rainbow Place #1
Rainbow Place
Can Jason find the courage he needs to be the man Seb deserves?
When Seb Radcliffe relocates to a seaside town in Cornwall, he feels like a fish out of water. He misses queer spaces and the sense of community he enjoyed when he was living in the city, and decides to open an LGBT-friendly cafe-bar.
Jason Dunn is the builder Seb hires to help renovate the rundown space where the cafe will be housed. Jason is also gay, but unlike Seb, he's deep in the closet. He's never had a relationship with another man--only allowing himself the occasional hook up with guys who are prepared to be discreet.
The attraction between the two men is instant and impossible to ignore. But while Seb is out and proud, Jason is terrified of being exposed. With the grand opening of Rainbow Place approaching, tension is growing among some locals who object to Seb's plans. When things escalate, Jason is forced to choose whether to hide in the shadows and let Seb down, or to openly support the man he's fallen so hard for.
Although this book is part of a series, it has a satisfying happy ending and can be read as a standalone.
Listening Time: 6 hrs.
When Seb Radcliffe relocates to a seaside town in Cornwall, he feels like a fish out of water. He misses queer spaces and the sense of community he enjoyed when he was living in the city, and decides to open an LGBT-friendly cafe-bar.
Jason Dunn is the builder Seb hires to help renovate the rundown space where the cafe will be housed. Jason is also gay, but unlike Seb, he's deep in the closet. He's never had a relationship with another man--only allowing himself the occasional hook up with guys who are prepared to be discreet.
The attraction between the two men is instant and impossible to ignore. But while Seb is out and proud, Jason is terrified of being exposed. With the grand opening of Rainbow Place approaching, tension is growing among some locals who object to Seb's plans. When things escalate, Jason is forced to choose whether to hide in the shadows and let Seb down, or to openly support the man he's fallen so hard for.
Although this book is part of a series, it has a satisfying happy ending and can be read as a standalone.
Listening Time: 6 hrs.
Audiobook
First published June 15, 2018
212 people are currently reading
821 people want to read
About the author
Jay Northcote
54 books1,652 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 292 reviews
June 3, 2018
If you're looking for an angst fest or cotton candy, Rainbow Place is not the book. It's neither super angsty nor light and fluffy. It's somewhere in between: a well-written, balanced story featuring a Cornwall setting and two British MCs in their 30s.
Seb has been out and proud since he was a teenager. After inheriting some money from his grandfather, Seb moves to Cornwall from London to open a café. Initially, he doesn't have a theme in mind, but after discussing the concept with his friends (a lesbian couple), he realizes he misses his former queer social circle and wants to create an LGBT-friendly place, a safe space in an otherwise "old-fashioned" (read: not always accepting) community.
Jason is the contractor doing the renovations on the café. The men feel a spark immediately, and, against his better judgement, Seb begins a relationship with Jason. And therein lies the conflict: Jason is closeted and deeply ashamed of his sexuality (and ashamed of his shame).
Not everyone in town is happy about Seb's plans, and we witness a nasty hate crime. This is when Jason utterly fails Seb. I was so angry with him and not at all sure I could have forgiven him as quickly as Seb did, despite Jason's "big gesture."
I do wish the book had been longer. I wanted more page time with the MCs, although the relationship never felt rushed and the ending—a strong HFN—was believable and not forced. I typically prefer a blinding HEA, which should be news to exactly no one. But since this is the first novel in a series, I trust that Jay is not abandoning Seb and Jason and we'll revisit with them in subsequent books.
This is a steamy story and definitely on the dirty side of vanilla, which Praise Jesus! Jay really knows his way around a sex scene.
I really appreciate that while the setting and secondary characters, some of whom are clearly potential MCs (I hope Jason's assistant Will gets a story!), are well developed, Rainbow Place doesn't read like a setup for the rest of the series. The focus remains firmly on Seb and Jason.
I'm also thrilled that Jason's ex-wife and tween daughter are both super supportive without being overwhelmingly so. Jason has a great relationship with his ex, and Seb doesn't mind one bit that Jason has a child.
Overall, this is a sexy read with some serious moments that showcase the ugly underbelly of small towns with their deep-seated fear of anyone different, anyone BRAVE.
I am very much looking forward to more book in this series.
Seb has been out and proud since he was a teenager. After inheriting some money from his grandfather, Seb moves to Cornwall from London to open a café. Initially, he doesn't have a theme in mind, but after discussing the concept with his friends (a lesbian couple), he realizes he misses his former queer social circle and wants to create an LGBT-friendly place, a safe space in an otherwise "old-fashioned" (read: not always accepting) community.
Jason is the contractor doing the renovations on the café. The men feel a spark immediately, and, against his better judgement, Seb begins a relationship with Jason. And therein lies the conflict: Jason is closeted and deeply ashamed of his sexuality (and ashamed of his shame).
Not everyone in town is happy about Seb's plans, and we witness a nasty hate crime. This is when Jason utterly fails Seb. I was so angry with him and not at all sure I could have forgiven him as quickly as Seb did, despite Jason's "big gesture."
I do wish the book had been longer. I wanted more page time with the MCs, although the relationship never felt rushed and the ending—a strong HFN—was believable and not forced. I typically prefer a blinding HEA, which should be news to exactly no one. But since this is the first novel in a series, I trust that Jay is not abandoning Seb and Jason and we'll revisit with them in subsequent books.
This is a steamy story and definitely on the dirty side of vanilla, which Praise Jesus! Jay really knows his way around a sex scene.
I really appreciate that while the setting and secondary characters, some of whom are clearly potential MCs (I hope Jason's assistant Will gets a story!), are well developed, Rainbow Place doesn't read like a setup for the rest of the series. The focus remains firmly on Seb and Jason.
I'm also thrilled that Jason's ex-wife and tween daughter are both super supportive without being overwhelmingly so. Jason has a great relationship with his ex, and Seb doesn't mind one bit that Jason has a child.
Overall, this is a sexy read with some serious moments that showcase the ugly underbelly of small towns with their deep-seated fear of anyone different, anyone BRAVE.
I am very much looking forward to more book in this series.
June 5, 2018
4 Stars.
Book one in what looks set to be a great new series by Jay Northcote.A beautiful setting,highly likeable characters,a sexy story with a bit of drama.
Seb Radcliffe has started a new chapter in his life in a charming seaside town in Cornwall.With some inheritance money he's decided to open a Cafe/Bar.While he's looking forward to this new venture he realizes he misses some aspects of his London life and decides to make it LGBT friendly.
Jason Dunn is a local builder he hires to do the renovations.Jason has been married with a daughter and is deep in the closet-getting his hook ups as far away from town as he can.He knows he's hiding and hates himself for it.
The attraction between them is instant and they start a sex only arrangement because,really,that's all Jason can offer Seb initially.But Seb is out and proud of his sexuality and how long before Jason's insecurities start to threaten what's developing between them.
There are a ton of books about closeted characters but Jason's struggle felt real here.The Author perfectly portrayed his turmoil at coming out here.Yes,he makes mistakes but I kind of got him.
-I absolutely loved that this was set in Cornwall,one of my favourite places to visit in England,it's always special when you've visited somewhere and can clearly visualize the setting.
-a big shout out to the female characters here from Jason's brilliant ex,his daughter,and Seb's two friends.
-great sex scenes,perfectly placed in the story and a bit of dirty talk.
-a strong HFN and I'm looking forward to,hopefully,getting more from Seb and Jason in future books.
Overall,very enjoyable and I would recommend it.
An Arc of Rainbow Place was kindly provided to DirtyBooksObsession in exchange for an honest review.
Book one in what looks set to be a great new series by Jay Northcote.A beautiful setting,highly likeable characters,a sexy story with a bit of drama.
Seb Radcliffe has started a new chapter in his life in a charming seaside town in Cornwall.With some inheritance money he's decided to open a Cafe/Bar.While he's looking forward to this new venture he realizes he misses some aspects of his London life and decides to make it LGBT friendly.
Jason Dunn is a local builder he hires to do the renovations.Jason has been married with a daughter and is deep in the closet-getting his hook ups as far away from town as he can.He knows he's hiding and hates himself for it.
The attraction between them is instant and they start a sex only arrangement because,really,that's all Jason can offer Seb initially.But Seb is out and proud of his sexuality and how long before Jason's insecurities start to threaten what's developing between them.
There are a ton of books about closeted characters but Jason's struggle felt real here.The Author perfectly portrayed his turmoil at coming out here.Yes,he makes mistakes but I kind of got him.
-I absolutely loved that this was set in Cornwall,one of my favourite places to visit in England,it's always special when you've visited somewhere and can clearly visualize the setting.
-a big shout out to the female characters here from Jason's brilliant ex,his daughter,and Seb's two friends.
-great sex scenes,perfectly placed in the story and a bit of dirty talk.
-a strong HFN and I'm looking forward to,hopefully,getting more from Seb and Jason in future books.
Overall,very enjoyable and I would recommend it.
An Arc of Rainbow Place was kindly provided to DirtyBooksObsession in exchange for an honest review.
My reviews are posted on DirtyBooksObsession
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May 26, 2018This will be my next release.
It's the first book in a new series. All the books will be standalones like my Housemates series, with new main characters in each story. But they're set in the same universe and many of the side characters will appear in subsequent books - or will get their own stories eventually.
Hope you like the sound of it :)
It's the first book in a new series. All the books will be standalones like my Housemates series, with new main characters in each story. But they're set in the same universe and many of the side characters will appear in subsequent books - or will get their own stories eventually.
Hope you like the sound of it :)
June 7, 2018
After becoming disenchanted with the life he'd been leading in fun and vibrant London, not to mention his recent breakup, Sebastian decided it was time to make a change in his predictable, hum-drum life working for other restaurateurs.
So he moved to Cornwall, a place his family used to go for seaside retreats, for a fresh start. But after being there a short time, he realized that he felt that there was something missing in his new, hetero-centric village life.
A sense of queer community.
With that in mind, instead of moving forward with his initial plans to open a run of the mill, generic cafe/bar, he decided to shift the focus, just a smidge. To make the place a friendly, accepting place for LGBT people and their supporters.
And hence Rainbow Place was born.
Seb then hired local builder (and also local closet case) Jason to perform the needed renovations. And, shocker, Jason was hot and their sizzling connection was almost immediate.
They staved off their feelings of lust for a while, but this is a romance, so sooner or later, you knew they would be Romancing the Bone. And yes, those sexy scenes were fairly steamy.
But outside of the bedroom (and the closet), not everyone in the small town was happy with Seb's Big Gay Plans to homo-tize their "normal" (pronounced 'boring') little town. And let's face it, there's always That One Asshole who likes to stir the shit, which was the case here.
After said asshole started up a stink, courtesy of an opinion piece in the local paper, the cafe was vandalized by local homophobes and the race was on to repair the damage in time for the grand opening.
One of my favorite parts of the story was the unwavering, and very unexpected, support that Seb got from his neighbors in the community. A local rugby team even chipped in.
And my very least favorite part was when Jason let his fear get the better of him and he abandoned Seb in his hour of need. I. Was. Pissed. So pissed.
But as I said, this was a romance, so one Grand Romantic Gesture later, the angst was washed away and the boys had a shot at a relationship again.
The angst was still pretty manageable overall, the steam was good, and there were plenty of cool side-characters, which I'm assuming will get their own books as the series continues.
I'd rate this one at around 3.5 stars and I'm hoping that either Will or Alex's books are next, as I really enjoyed them on-page and could see myself being really into their stories.
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My ARC copy of the book was provided by the author in exchange for a fair, unbiased review.
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June 3, 2018
Sweet and sexy and very... I don’t know, real? It felt real. And natural. And honest. And cute. And yummy.
This is about an openly gay man who falls for a closeted case in a small town. That’s a trope I enjoy and even if not original in the premise it was great and honest in the execution and storytelling.
Seb, AKA, the gay one: Kind, with a great heart trying to help the queer community in a light but meaningful way. Just by opening a LGBT-friendly café in a beautiful but small Cornish town, he is trying to make a difference. A helpful little difference.
He has to deal with a lot of very real insecurities that made him a real character. A lovable one.
Jason, AKA, the closeted: Sexy, conflicted with very understandable fears, honest in this thoughts, still trying to deal with his sexuality. He’s a father of a teenager. He’s divorced from a woman (a nice I-want-more-characters-like-this ex wife, if I have to be more specific).
A great read, and even if I wanted a bit more of conflict, the story flows smoothly, with a nice and dirty couple (they are both things and that’s fantastic), with appealing secondaries that would be great main characters and a lovely setting. I will read the next as soon as it comes out and I’m so curious to know who will be next. Alex and the rugby player? Jason’s apparently straight assistant Will? The Rainbow Place is for sure a nice place to go and have some fun.
Recommended!
******An advanced reading copy of this book was generously provided to me by the author, in exchange for an honest review.******
Reviews for Book Lovers
This is about an openly gay man who falls for a closeted case in a small town. That’s a trope I enjoy and even if not original in the premise it was great and honest in the execution and storytelling.
Seb, AKA, the gay one: Kind, with a great heart trying to help the queer community in a light but meaningful way. Just by opening a LGBT-friendly café in a beautiful but small Cornish town, he is trying to make a difference. A helpful little difference.
He has to deal with a lot of very real insecurities that made him a real character. A lovable one.
Jason, AKA, the closeted: Sexy, conflicted with very understandable fears, honest in this thoughts, still trying to deal with his sexuality. He’s a father of a teenager. He’s divorced from a woman (a nice I-want-more-characters-like-this ex wife, if I have to be more specific).
A great read, and even if I wanted a bit more of conflict, the story flows smoothly, with a nice and dirty couple (they are both things and that’s fantastic), with appealing secondaries that would be great main characters and a lovely setting. I will read the next as soon as it comes out and I’m so curious to know who will be next. Alex and the rugby player? Jason’s apparently straight assistant Will? The Rainbow Place is for sure a nice place to go and have some fun.
Recommended!
******An advanced reading copy of this book was generously provided to me by the author, in exchange for an honest review.******
Reviews for Book Lovers
June 22, 2018
This was a nice start to a new series.
I really liked both Seb and Jason. I'm not a huge fan of books where one of the MCs is deep in the closet, but this one played out pretty good. I *did* want to punch Jason a few times though. But he proved himself by the end.
Nice setting. Likable MCs and secondary characters. Low drama, but enough to keep things interesting. Some steam. Overall an enjoyable, easy read.
Curious to see whose book might be next and if it's someone we already met.
I really liked both Seb and Jason. I'm not a huge fan of books where one of the MCs is deep in the closet, but this one played out pretty good. I *did* want to punch Jason a few times though. But he proved himself by the end.
Nice setting. Likable MCs and secondary characters. Low drama, but enough to keep things interesting. Some steam. Overall an enjoyable, easy read.
Curious to see whose book might be next and if it's someone we already met.
June 29, 2018
After the Housemates series, Jay did it again!
This time he built a community with an endless supply of potential MCs to feed his future books. It's a wonderful idea for a series and the first installment wet my appetite for the rest.
"Rainbow Place" is the story of how it all began. It's the story of the cafe that is going to be the connecting point for the rest of the books and it takes place before it's even open. Seb wanted to get away from his life in London and decided that the small, seaside town of Porthladock was the perfect place to start fresh. He always wanted to own a cafe or a bar and he decided that now was his chance to make his dream a reality. Jason is the guy he hired to renovate the place that is to house his business and their attraction is apparent from the beginning.
Seb is an out-and-proud guy, determined to never get attached to a closeted guy. Jason is that guy and even though he has accepted his sexuality, he doesn't want anyone to know about it. They begin a casual thing that lasted for, maybe, a day before it started transforming to something more serious. The development of the relationship was lacking in that regard, but with everything else happening in the story I could look past that. I didn't feel like this was a story focused in the romance. It felt more like it was a social study (in a very, very good way) and an introduction to a series with some romance mixed in. I wasn't disappointed by that. Both characters were likeable and the way the story was developed made everything work. It was very interesting and I never lost interest in what was happening.
There are a lot of people present here and I'm sure we'll get the stories of some of them eventually. The focus is on the community and how the social dynamic works in a small town, but the most amazing thing we saw here was the feeling of unity and support that surrounded this quiet place by the sea. There were some amazing people living there and it wasn't apparent on the first glance how much diversity there was over there.
By reading the first chapter you get the impression that Seb is the only out gay resident of the town, but as the story goes on and he meets more people it becomes apparent that that's not true. That's the moment the full value of a place like the one Seb is envisioning of opening becomes clear. How much help it would be and how important it is for it to open. How necessary it is for an inclusive place like "Rainbow Place" to exist, especially in small towns.
We met so many characters here, though luckily it was never overwhelming and they never stole the spotlight, that I can't even begin to guess whose story is next. I think maybe Alex? But what I really wish for is Will's story (if he's getting one) with, maybe, one of the rugby players? *hint, hint*
This review has been cross-posted on The Novel Approach Reviews.
*An ARC of this book was kindly provided to me by the publisher via The Novel Approach Reviews in exchange for an honest review. *
This time he built a community with an endless supply of potential MCs to feed his future books. It's a wonderful idea for a series and the first installment wet my appetite for the rest.
"Rainbow Place" is the story of how it all began. It's the story of the cafe that is going to be the connecting point for the rest of the books and it takes place before it's even open. Seb wanted to get away from his life in London and decided that the small, seaside town of Porthladock was the perfect place to start fresh. He always wanted to own a cafe or a bar and he decided that now was his chance to make his dream a reality. Jason is the guy he hired to renovate the place that is to house his business and their attraction is apparent from the beginning.
Seb is an out-and-proud guy, determined to never get attached to a closeted guy. Jason is that guy and even though he has accepted his sexuality, he doesn't want anyone to know about it. They begin a casual thing that lasted for, maybe, a day before it started transforming to something more serious. The development of the relationship was lacking in that regard, but with everything else happening in the story I could look past that. I didn't feel like this was a story focused in the romance. It felt more like it was a social study (in a very, very good way) and an introduction to a series with some romance mixed in. I wasn't disappointed by that. Both characters were likeable and the way the story was developed made everything work. It was very interesting and I never lost interest in what was happening.
There are a lot of people present here and I'm sure we'll get the stories of some of them eventually. The focus is on the community and how the social dynamic works in a small town, but the most amazing thing we saw here was the feeling of unity and support that surrounded this quiet place by the sea. There were some amazing people living there and it wasn't apparent on the first glance how much diversity there was over there.
By reading the first chapter you get the impression that Seb is the only out gay resident of the town, but as the story goes on and he meets more people it becomes apparent that that's not true. That's the moment the full value of a place like the one Seb is envisioning of opening becomes clear. How much help it would be and how important it is for it to open. How necessary it is for an inclusive place like "Rainbow Place" to exist, especially in small towns.
We met so many characters here, though luckily it was never overwhelming and they never stole the spotlight, that I can't even begin to guess whose story is next. I think maybe Alex? But what I really wish for is Will's story (if he's getting one) with, maybe, one of the rugby players? *hint, hint*
This review has been cross-posted on The Novel Approach Reviews.
*An ARC of this book was kindly provided to me by the publisher via The Novel Approach Reviews in exchange for an honest review. *
July 17, 2018
This is my first Jay Northcote book and I really enjoyed it. I love that it's set in Cornwall, such a beautiful part of the UK. Northcote also gave it a cute, English village feel which really wanted me to take another holiday there.
The angst with Jason still being in the closet wasn't over done. It was kept so real, I felt his struggles, conflict and terror, warring with himself to man up and come out. It breaks my heart that people still have to go through this, to have to justify themselves.
I must mention the side characters, particularly Jason's ex wife Anna and daughter, along with Seb's friends Trude and Penny. The support that Anna gave Jason was phenomenal. She could so easily have been the bitchy ex from hell, I'm so glad the author avoided that route. Anna is pure class!
Looking forward to more in the series.
The angst with Jason still being in the closet wasn't over done. It was kept so real, I felt his struggles, conflict and terror, warring with himself to man up and come out. It breaks my heart that people still have to go through this, to have to justify themselves.
I must mention the side characters, particularly Jason's ex wife Anna and daughter, along with Seb's friends Trude and Penny. The support that Anna gave Jason was phenomenal. She could so easily have been the bitchy ex from hell, I'm so glad the author avoided that route. Anna is pure class!
Looking forward to more in the series.
April 11, 2019
3.5 stars
My first Jay Northcote book, and I thoroughly enjoyed it!!
My first Jay Northcote book, and I thoroughly enjoyed it!!
June 3, 2018
This book is an absolute joy to read. I was lucky enough to proof read it but it's just as good on a "proper" read through because - like all books from Jay - it has such a sense of honesty and realness about it.
Whenever I read something Jay's written, I always feel like I'm just peeking into the lives of actual people, in this case two blokes in a seaside Cornish town, finding their way through the maze of a new relationship and dealing with both the good and bad of being part of the LGBTQ+ community in a small place.
I loved Seb, his enthusiasm for his cafe and what he wanted it to achieve, I understood Jason, his fears about being out in a hyper masculine profession, the secondary characters and the setting made everything come to life.
They also burn the sheets when they're together, lordy but Jay's upped the sexual chemistry factor in this one. There's also a first-time scene which is superbly done, sex is real here, messy and not perfectly executed but honest and emotionally connected.
ETA I'm reminded by Dani's excellent review, that I wanted to mention how much I loved the strong female characters in this book. Not only Jason's understanding ex-wife and his daughter, but also Seb's friends Penny & Trude and the ladies of the town's other businesses.
This is the first in a new series from Jay and I absolutely can't wait for more. I'm hoping it'll be Alex and Cam's story next :)
#ARC kindly provided by the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
Whenever I read something Jay's written, I always feel like I'm just peeking into the lives of actual people, in this case two blokes in a seaside Cornish town, finding their way through the maze of a new relationship and dealing with both the good and bad of being part of the LGBTQ+ community in a small place.
I loved Seb, his enthusiasm for his cafe and what he wanted it to achieve, I understood Jason, his fears about being out in a hyper masculine profession, the secondary characters and the setting made everything come to life.
They also burn the sheets when they're together, lordy but Jay's upped the sexual chemistry factor in this one. There's also a first-time scene which is superbly done, sex is real here, messy and not perfectly executed but honest and emotionally connected.
ETA I'm reminded by Dani's excellent review, that I wanted to mention how much I loved the strong female characters in this book. Not only Jason's understanding ex-wife and his daughter, but also Seb's friends Penny & Trude and the ladies of the town's other businesses.
This is the first in a new series from Jay and I absolutely can't wait for more. I'm hoping it'll be Alex and Cam's story next :)
#ARC kindly provided by the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
June 18, 2018
*3,5 stars*
I really like Jay Northcote and have read loads of his books.
This one though wasn't quite my cup of tea which is mainly due to Jason. I did struggle to fully understand where his extreme phobia of coming out originated. Yes, some explanation was given, but to me it felt somewhat underdeveloped.
Seb, on the other hand, is just so nice and understanding, he almost feels unreal. He does draw the line at one particular moment - and Thank God for that, but then he forgives Jason in the blink of an eye later on.
I enjoyed the first half of the book definitely more than the second one with Will my favourite secondary character. That guy and his simple straightforwardness made me chuckle on a couple of occasions.
A pleasant book, but the MCs simply didn't ring true to me.
I really like Jay Northcote and have read loads of his books.
This one though wasn't quite my cup of tea which is mainly due to Jason. I did struggle to fully understand where his extreme phobia of coming out originated. Yes, some explanation was given, but to me it felt somewhat underdeveloped.
Seb, on the other hand, is just so nice and understanding, he almost feels unreal. He does draw the line at one particular moment - and Thank God for that, but then he forgives Jason in the blink of an eye later on.
I enjoyed the first half of the book definitely more than the second one with Will my favourite secondary character. That guy and his simple straightforwardness made me chuckle on a couple of occasions.
A pleasant book, but the MCs simply didn't ring true to me.
June 18, 2018
Una lectura muy ligera, mona, dulce, entre dos personajes normales. Le ha faltado intensidad y desarrollo de la relación, se queda un tanto pobre al centrarse más en otros aspectos. No le ha sobrado nada, pero sí le ha faltado.
Es el comienzo de una serie y se nota en la forma en cómo la autora nos sitúa en el lugar y en los personajes que lo van a rodear. No me ha robado el corazón, no lo reeleré, pero seguro que seguiré con el número 1.
Es el comienzo de una serie y se nota en la forma en cómo la autora nos sitúa en el lugar y en los personajes que lo van a rodear. No me ha robado el corazón, no lo reeleré, pero seguro que seguiré con el número 1.
January 29, 2021
I was so pleased with Haimish Long's performance in the audio version of Rainbow Place. I've never heard him do so many different voices - kids, OAPs, all variety of accents. Really wonderful job!
A nice story by Jay Northcote, just what I expected from him.
A nice story by Jay Northcote, just what I expected from him.
did-not-finish
March 20, 2020DNF @21%
The writing style fell flat for me 🤷
At least I tried...
The writing style fell flat for me 🤷
At least I tried...
Currently reading
June 17, 2018Wonderful
This book was all sorts of warm fuzzies. Wonderful, low-angst story about coming out and being proud of who you are. Really sweet story.
This book was all sorts of warm fuzzies. Wonderful, low-angst story about coming out and being proud of who you are. Really sweet story.
June 4, 2018
RAINBOW PLACE
I know, a while ago, I told a friend of mine that I'm done with closeted case story. But apparently, Jay knew a way to my heart that not everyone's does.
Know how to write this kind of story that not everyone does.
This is a sweet, adorable story about coming out and struggling with your sexuality for Jason, adjusting with the new place for Seb. Not overly sweet, but with the right portion with some internal problem and their living place.
I know how Seb's feeling about having relationship with Jason, and how Jason tried hard to be himself, and kinda failed in a first attempt.
I felt a tuck in my stomach every time Jason struggled with his sexuality and how he didn't want to lose Seb for his cowardice to coming out.
Until one day Raibow Place had some serious issue and Seb said something that made him thinking and decided to make a move about it.
I really liked the struggling feeling in Jason's head, and how Seb being 'normal', and sweet without being too sweet and nauseated.
There's some secondary characters, that in the future, I think Jay gave us a hint about who's going to be in the next book. Cannot wait!
Rainbow Place is a nice, sweet, enjoyable romance, with some likable characters and real problem.
Jay did it very well on this one.
Recommended!
* I read the advance review copy of this book.*
January 9, 2020
You know when you start a book that feeling like you know you won’t want to stop it. This book gave me that feeling right from the very beginning these characters stole my heart. Jason’s inability to be out struck a nerve for me. Maybe if he had a supportive family, something I personally strive to be for my own children. Maybe that is why I felt so deeply for Jason. I wanted his growing up years to be a safe place. But it wasn’t and that is ultimately that is why he was still so against being who he was to anyone that might know him.
I did love that his ex-wife was so supportive. She was the hero in this book for me.
Seb is a great guy but I do wish he had been a little more understanding at parts. He said he knew what it was like to be bullied growing up. So maybe if he had thought about that and what it would be like at his age he might have seen why it was so hard for Jason.
Overall I loved the message in this book. It’s what I as a parent of a Bi daughter want. For her and her friends to feel 100% safe to be whoever they are. No judgment here.
The narration was lovely, I am a huge fan of the way this book was written and with the mix of the perfect person to narrate it was a huge hit for me. More, please! Just MORE.
I did love that his ex-wife was so supportive. She was the hero in this book for me.
Seb is a great guy but I do wish he had been a little more understanding at parts. He said he knew what it was like to be bullied growing up. So maybe if he had thought about that and what it would be like at his age he might have seen why it was so hard for Jason.
Overall I loved the message in this book. It’s what I as a parent of a Bi daughter want. For her and her friends to feel 100% safe to be whoever they are. No judgment here.
The narration was lovely, I am a huge fan of the way this book was written and with the mix of the perfect person to narrate it was a huge hit for me. More, please! Just MORE.
July 4, 2018
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.75 stars
I knew going into this book that it would be fairly low angst, with just enough heft to give the story some weight. Northcote delivers a solid story here. Not too long, but still long enough to really dive into the characters and the story. This wasn’t a perfect book for me, but there were parts I really enjoyed and it was nice read.
So I really enjoyed both characters. Northcote is great at characterization and he has a knack for making characters that seem real. I was totally on board with Seb and his enthusiasm for what he was doing and his positivity. Jason, in particular, felt real. His fears and worries were absolutely valid for the experiences he’s had, and everything about him made sense. I think, for me, Jason worked a touch better than Seb. Jason was a little deeper and had a bit more going on inside. But I liked both the MCs and I liked the way they drove the story.
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
3.75 stars
I knew going into this book that it would be fairly low angst, with just enough heft to give the story some weight. Northcote delivers a solid story here. Not too long, but still long enough to really dive into the characters and the story. This wasn’t a perfect book for me, but there were parts I really enjoyed and it was nice read.
So I really enjoyed both characters. Northcote is great at characterization and he has a knack for making characters that seem real. I was totally on board with Seb and his enthusiasm for what he was doing and his positivity. Jason, in particular, felt real. His fears and worries were absolutely valid for the experiences he’s had, and everything about him made sense. I think, for me, Jason worked a touch better than Seb. Jason was a little deeper and had a bit more going on inside. But I liked both the MCs and I liked the way they drove the story.
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
January 29, 2021
2.5 stars.
June 15, 2018
Seb has just moved to Cornwall from London. Distressed that there is no LGBT friendly places nearby, his neighbors convince him to make the new cafe he’s opening a safe place.
Jason is the contractor he hires to turn the space he rented into a cafe/bar. He’s also deeply closeted. Despite this, the two start an affair.
When feelings are engaged, Jason has to decide to come out, or risk losing Seb. While Seb would never force him to come out, and understands his fear, he doesn’t like hiding.
I liked this, I was pulled in from the start and could barely put it down until I finished. I liked both characters, and could empathize with Jason’s dilemma. All the secondary and tertiary characters were great, and added depth to the story. I love how the most of the town comes together when Seb has a setback that threatens the cafe.
This isn’t a ball of fluff, but the conflicts are minimal, though a bit serious.
*ARC provided by author
Jason is the contractor he hires to turn the space he rented into a cafe/bar. He’s also deeply closeted. Despite this, the two start an affair.
When feelings are engaged, Jason has to decide to come out, or risk losing Seb. While Seb would never force him to come out, and understands his fear, he doesn’t like hiding.
I liked this, I was pulled in from the start and could barely put it down until I finished. I liked both characters, and could empathize with Jason’s dilemma. All the secondary and tertiary characters were great, and added depth to the story. I love how the most of the town comes together when Seb has a setback that threatens the cafe.
This isn’t a ball of fluff, but the conflicts are minimal, though a bit serious.
*ARC provided by author
June 3, 2022
This story deals well with homophobia experienced in the public eye but also the fighting spirit of a local community.
The attraction between the main characters is well written and I love the way that everything plays out for the two men.
The attraction between the main characters is well written and I love the way that everything plays out for the two men.
June 26, 2018
3 1/2 stars. Sweet, typical Jay Northcote story. Decent amount of steam and two guys that act their age.
April 10, 2019
3.75 Stars
September 9, 2018
Tag team review with Ann!
3.5 stars
‘Rainbow Place’ is quintessential Jay Northcote! Sweet, sexy, easy-to-read, and leaves you feeling happy.
The book introduces readers to Seb Radcliffe, who moves from London to the Cornish coast to begin a new chapter in his life - opening an LGBT friendly cafe/bar called ‘Rainbow Place’.
He knows it won’t be easy, especially not in a small and fairly conservative town, but he’s determined to build a safe place from the local queer community.
I immediately liked Seb. Despite his recent rough patch, he was determined to make a fresh start in Cornwall, and to create something he could be proud of.
Making matters more complicated is Jason Dunn, the builder Seb hires to renovate the cafe building. The attraction between Seb and Jason is immediate, but Jason’s deep in the closet, and Seb can’t live a life in hiding.
I could understood where Jason was coming from. His family background and the community he lived in weren’t exactly the best circumstances. Plus, I liked how devoted he was to his daughter and ex-wife.
Seb and Jason start off very cutesy. There’s flirting, longing looks, and daydreaming. They try to keep things professional, but eventually the two give in to the attraction between them.
And when they do, they’re hot. These were some steamy scenes!
Before long, the chemistry between them in the bedroom follows them outside, and both men find themselves falling for the other.
But Jason’s paranoia and refusal to come out put a damper on things. At some point, Jason’s hot and cold routine just got old and I found myself wanting better for Seb. Especially given Jason’s actions in Seb’s hour of need.
But, Jason does make amends and their happy ever after was all sunshine and roses.
Overall, this was a nice and easy read. While I wasn’t as invested by the end, I still enjoyed ‘Rainbow Place’.
3.5 stars
‘Rainbow Place’ is quintessential Jay Northcote! Sweet, sexy, easy-to-read, and leaves you feeling happy.
The book introduces readers to Seb Radcliffe, who moves from London to the Cornish coast to begin a new chapter in his life - opening an LGBT friendly cafe/bar called ‘Rainbow Place’.
He knows it won’t be easy, especially not in a small and fairly conservative town, but he’s determined to build a safe place from the local queer community.
I immediately liked Seb. Despite his recent rough patch, he was determined to make a fresh start in Cornwall, and to create something he could be proud of.
Making matters more complicated is Jason Dunn, the builder Seb hires to renovate the cafe building. The attraction between Seb and Jason is immediate, but Jason’s deep in the closet, and Seb can’t live a life in hiding.
I could understood where Jason was coming from. His family background and the community he lived in weren’t exactly the best circumstances. Plus, I liked how devoted he was to his daughter and ex-wife.
Seb and Jason start off very cutesy. There’s flirting, longing looks, and daydreaming. They try to keep things professional, but eventually the two give in to the attraction between them.
And when they do, they’re hot. These were some steamy scenes!
Before long, the chemistry between them in the bedroom follows them outside, and both men find themselves falling for the other.
But Jason’s paranoia and refusal to come out put a damper on things. At some point, Jason’s hot and cold routine just got old and I found myself wanting better for Seb. Especially given Jason’s actions in Seb’s hour of need.
But, Jason does make amends and their happy ever after was all sunshine and roses.
Overall, this was a nice and easy read. While I wasn’t as invested by the end, I still enjoyed ‘Rainbow Place’.
June 19, 2018
Another great read. This book was a great road map on how to deal with bigotry and homophobia in Small Town, USA. It is also a good example of what being in the closet or dating someone in the closet is like. It was very sweet and very angst free in some ways. The relationship develops nicely and Seb is just a ray of sunshine.
Very good read. My only complaint is that I wanted more of an HEA but I have a feeling we will see this couple again the books to come in this series so I'm looking forward to it.
Very good read. My only complaint is that I wanted more of an HEA but I have a feeling we will see this couple again the books to come in this series so I'm looking forward to it.
July 2, 2018
Another winner for me by Jay Northcote.
Rainbow nail art!
I like a book with an ex who isn't evil. Adults who can make things work when their relationship didn't work is awesome.
I also now want to try some Cornish Pasties (when I first read that I thought, uh...aren't pasties the things that go over your nipples? I googled it. Google understood my confusion and let me know, on the same page, that I could buy pasties you put over your nipples but I could also drool over the delicious meat-filled pastry in the pictures on the same search).
Jackson is sweet and a bit lonely and sometimes vulnerable. Going against his initial inclination he accepts the job to renovate Seb's soon to be LGBT friendly cafe as he searches for his tribe in this small community.
Seb is out and proud and having a closeted partner isn't an ideal situation, but he can't resist Jackson.
I wish this book had been a bit longer to be able to explore Seb's confidence issues. He makes references to past relationships gone bad, but we don't really get to unpack his problems as much. Also, since part of Jackson's major reluctance was coming out to his parents, I wish that had happened on page. For something that was a driving force for much of Jackson's reasoning, we kind of missed that happening.
Jackson also does a piss poor job of standing up with his guy even when everyone else is pitching in, but he does make a grand gesture - though I would have required more groveling :D
Other than those things, I really enjoyed this book. Relatively low on the drama, it was quick and steamy with a warm community who embraced Seb as one of their own. I can't wait to read more in this series.
Rainbow nail art!
I like a book with an ex who isn't evil. Adults who can make things work when their relationship didn't work is awesome.
I also now want to try some Cornish Pasties (when I first read that I thought, uh...aren't pasties the things that go over your nipples? I googled it. Google understood my confusion and let me know, on the same page, that I could buy pasties you put over your nipples but I could also drool over the delicious meat-filled pastry in the pictures on the same search).
Jackson is sweet and a bit lonely and sometimes vulnerable. Going against his initial inclination he accepts the job to renovate Seb's soon to be LGBT friendly cafe as he searches for his tribe in this small community.
Seb is out and proud and having a closeted partner isn't an ideal situation, but he can't resist Jackson.
I wish this book had been a bit longer to be able to explore Seb's confidence issues. He makes references to past relationships gone bad, but we don't really get to unpack his problems as much. Also, since part of Jackson's major reluctance was coming out to his parents, I wish that had happened on page. For something that was a driving force for much of Jackson's reasoning, we kind of missed that happening.
Jackson also does a piss poor job of standing up with his guy even when everyone else is pitching in, but he does make a grand gesture - though I would have required more groveling :D
Other than those things, I really enjoyed this book. Relatively low on the drama, it was quick and steamy with a warm community who embraced Seb as one of their own. I can't wait to read more in this series.
May 27, 2020
I can’t believe I’m rating a book by Jay Northcote as 1 Star. I couldn’t forgive Jason and I couldn’t forgive Seb for forgiving him. No no no. I would never be able to forgive the person who walked away from me in my biggest moment of need. I could barely finish the book I was so disappointed. I hate that I’ve already bought the next book. This book made me feel so bad.
April 14, 2019
Adorable story!
I'm looking forward to reading more books from Rainbow Place :)
3.5 stars
I'm looking forward to reading more books from Rainbow Place :)
3.5 stars
December 8, 2019
4.5 stars rounded up because still no 1/2 stars here on GR and this one was truly delightful!!!
This one was totally delightful...
I ended up absolutely loving this story. For me everything was well balanced. There was conflict and tension but not to much...but just enough to keep the interest in the story going.
When Seb Radcliffe moved to a seaside town in Cornwall he never realized how much he was going to miss the sense of LGBTQ community that he had in a larger city and it's this sense of loss and a timely suggestion from a friend that prompts him to open not just a cafe/bar but an LGBTQ friendly cafe/bar that prompts him to undertake a project that not all of the community will welcome with open minds, much less open arms.
Jason Dunn's business definitely needs the infusion of cash that doing the renovations for Seb's venture would bring but what he's not sure of is can he handle working so closely with an out and proud man that he's so strongly attracted to without stepping out the closet that he's built for himself.
The whole relationship dynamic between Seb and Jason held a more realistic feeling than I've encountered in other stories, at times. Seb and Jason's interactions and how they both struggled with Jason's choice to stay in the closet and what that meant for each of them, if they decided to pursue a relationship beyond their business interactions overall just worked.
And then there was the collection of secondary characters...seriously a whole rugby team worth, and then some, not to mention some amazing women!!!! I know I'm a fan of the m/m stories but that doesn't mean I'm not a fan of awesome women. I personally happen to know a few...as in many!!! So when I get the chance to read a story where not all the women are an embarrassment to the gender, I'm all for that added bonus.
Last but not least there's the ending...while I'm not normally a fan of 'the grand gesture' since I find that more often than not, it tends to detract from the story and on occasion has actually spoiled the story for me...so, here's where I would like to tip my hat to the author because for me 'the grand gesture' that Jason made at the end of the story nailed it. It simply worked and worked well. It wasn't anything that I would have expected and somehow it felt like a genuine and sincere thing for him to do. I guess when you make an epically big screw-up, you can get away with an over the top apology.
Oops...sorry just one last little detail. I held out for the audio version and it was narrated by Hamish Long a new to me narrator and from the looks of things the narrator of choice for this series...which can I just say 'makes me happy'. I very much enjoyed the narration and I know that it only made the story that much better for me. I admit it I love a British/Welsh/Irish/Scottish (in other words I love all of those wonderful UK accents) and the characters are much more vivid when I'm listening to a British character speak with a British voice rather than the Canadian voice that my linguistically challenged brain gives to everyone.
*************************
An audio book of "Rainbow Place" was graciously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
This one was totally delightful...
I ended up absolutely loving this story. For me everything was well balanced. There was conflict and tension but not to much...but just enough to keep the interest in the story going.
When Seb Radcliffe moved to a seaside town in Cornwall he never realized how much he was going to miss the sense of LGBTQ community that he had in a larger city and it's this sense of loss and a timely suggestion from a friend that prompts him to open not just a cafe/bar but an LGBTQ friendly cafe/bar that prompts him to undertake a project that not all of the community will welcome with open minds, much less open arms.
Jason Dunn's business definitely needs the infusion of cash that doing the renovations for Seb's venture would bring but what he's not sure of is can he handle working so closely with an out and proud man that he's so strongly attracted to without stepping out the closet that he's built for himself.
The whole relationship dynamic between Seb and Jason held a more realistic feeling than I've encountered in other stories, at times. Seb and Jason's interactions and how they both struggled with Jason's choice to stay in the closet and what that meant for each of them, if they decided to pursue a relationship beyond their business interactions overall just worked.
And then there was the collection of secondary characters...seriously a whole rugby team worth, and then some, not to mention some amazing women!!!! I know I'm a fan of the m/m stories but that doesn't mean I'm not a fan of awesome women. I personally happen to know a few...as in many!!! So when I get the chance to read a story where not all the women are an embarrassment to the gender, I'm all for that added bonus.
Last but not least there's the ending...while I'm not normally a fan of 'the grand gesture' since I find that more often than not, it tends to detract from the story and on occasion has actually spoiled the story for me...so, here's where I would like to tip my hat to the author because for me 'the grand gesture' that Jason made at the end of the story nailed it. It simply worked and worked well. It wasn't anything that I would have expected and somehow it felt like a genuine and sincere thing for him to do. I guess when you make an epically big screw-up, you can get away with an over the top apology.
Oops...sorry just one last little detail. I held out for the audio version and it was narrated by Hamish Long a new to me narrator and from the looks of things the narrator of choice for this series...which can I just say 'makes me happy'. I very much enjoyed the narration and I know that it only made the story that much better for me. I admit it I love a British/Welsh/Irish/Scottish (in other words I love all of those wonderful UK accents) and the characters are much more vivid when I'm listening to a British character speak with a British voice rather than the Canadian voice that my linguistically challenged brain gives to everyone.
*************************
An audio book of "Rainbow Place" was graciously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
June 22, 2018
So, I think I seem to be a minority on this one.
I was really on the fence.....
Seb seems to be one of the only out gay men in his town, everyone else seems to be deep in the closet, wanting to be discreet or way too young for him. So, at the insistence of his out and proud married neighbors, after running an idea by them, he decides to make the cafe he was going to open, an LGBT+- friendly cafe. I loved the idea of this, man, if there were more places like this, especially in smaller communities, like mine... it would go such a long way in opening some minds and making our community a safer place for those who need it.
Sighhhh, if only.
Finding a contractor who sees his vision might be tricky, but he lucks out when he gets Jason and his assistant Will.... I was pleasantly surprised by Will, I thought he was going to be a problem, but he wasn't, he was so great.... Jason, on the other hand, was deep, deep in the closet to everyone except his ex-wife, who he remained best friends with and they raised their daughter together.
Because Jason was so deep in the closet, the attraction he and Seb felt towards one another had to be kept a secret... I couldn't imagine how that would feel for either of them. Seb being out, and Jason being afraid... I understood it, I seriously did; I don't think anyone should be forced to come out before they're ready, and some may never be ready... but it's selfish to ask the person you have feelings for and who has feelings for you, to keep that a secret. Not keep your secret a secret, but keep a relationship or their feelings a secret. I didn't like that. I felt like, even though I understood it, I still felt it selfish, because I knew that Seb had deeper feelings for Jason.
In saying that, I really didn't feel much of a connection between these two until the very end. It was very clinical hookups, it almost felt like a doctor and patient exchanging of mutual pleasure.
I'm sure it was enjoyed, but the way it was explained and the dialogue just seemed....I dunno, clinical is the only way to describe it. I didn't get it, didn't feel it at all.
I was also disappointed when things go wrong and the one time.... the absolute time in wich Seb would need Jason, he cut and run and hid away. That was..... I couldn't believe that, it made me incredibly sad. I dunno if there would've been redemption for me. Of course, he makes a grand gesture that I thought was nice, but it seemed to me like he done it for the wrong reason and I dunno, I just didn't like it.
What I loved, was when Seb needed it, the community came together to support him and his cafe.
You don't have to be a memeber of the LGBT+ community, to support them, and I loved loved loved seeing that!!
By the end, I was glad that it worked out because I love getting a HEA, but I mostly wanted it for Seb because I thought that he deserved it and because I know he had feelings for Jason.
Jason I felt got lucky and I never really warmed up to him. I'm not sure I'll continue the series, but I would like to see more from this Alex, who was the bigots son... so perhaps we'll see?
3 stars from me.
I was really on the fence.....
Seb seems to be one of the only out gay men in his town, everyone else seems to be deep in the closet, wanting to be discreet or way too young for him. So, at the insistence of his out and proud married neighbors, after running an idea by them, he decides to make the cafe he was going to open, an LGBT+- friendly cafe. I loved the idea of this, man, if there were more places like this, especially in smaller communities, like mine... it would go such a long way in opening some minds and making our community a safer place for those who need it.
Sighhhh, if only.
Finding a contractor who sees his vision might be tricky, but he lucks out when he gets Jason and his assistant Will.... I was pleasantly surprised by Will, I thought he was going to be a problem, but he wasn't, he was so great.... Jason, on the other hand, was deep, deep in the closet to everyone except his ex-wife, who he remained best friends with and they raised their daughter together.
Because Jason was so deep in the closet, the attraction he and Seb felt towards one another had to be kept a secret... I couldn't imagine how that would feel for either of them. Seb being out, and Jason being afraid... I understood it, I seriously did; I don't think anyone should be forced to come out before they're ready, and some may never be ready... but it's selfish to ask the person you have feelings for and who has feelings for you, to keep that a secret. Not keep your secret a secret, but keep a relationship or their feelings a secret. I didn't like that. I felt like, even though I understood it, I still felt it selfish, because I knew that Seb had deeper feelings for Jason.
In saying that, I really didn't feel much of a connection between these two until the very end. It was very clinical hookups, it almost felt like a doctor and patient exchanging of mutual pleasure.
I'm sure it was enjoyed, but the way it was explained and the dialogue just seemed....I dunno, clinical is the only way to describe it. I didn't get it, didn't feel it at all.
I was also disappointed when things go wrong and the one time.... the absolute time in wich Seb would need Jason, he cut and run and hid away. That was..... I couldn't believe that, it made me incredibly sad. I dunno if there would've been redemption for me. Of course, he makes a grand gesture that I thought was nice, but it seemed to me like he done it for the wrong reason and I dunno, I just didn't like it.
What I loved, was when Seb needed it, the community came together to support him and his cafe.
You don't have to be a memeber of the LGBT+ community, to support them, and I loved loved loved seeing that!!
By the end, I was glad that it worked out because I love getting a HEA, but I mostly wanted it for Seb because I thought that he deserved it and because I know he had feelings for Jason.
Jason I felt got lucky and I never really warmed up to him. I'm not sure I'll continue the series, but I would like to see more from this Alex, who was the bigots son... so perhaps we'll see?
3 stars from me.
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