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Dance With Destiny
When flights are grounded because of a storm, strangers work together to make the final leg of their trip.
Dominic rented the last car available when all flights were canceled.
Tony's family will never forgive him if he misses his sister's wedding.
What's the worst that could happen if Dom offers him a ride?
Tony could see him again, dressed up in a tux.
If the family only knew what he'd done with the best man...
Whatever happens, this is sure to be a Christmas they'll never forget.
Dance With Destiny was previously released under the pen name Sloan Johnson. It has been lightly revised, but still contains the same instant attraction, awkward reunion in a cathedral, sassy best friends, and stolen moments with or without total privacy.
Dominic rented the last car available when all flights were canceled.
Tony's family will never forgive him if he misses his sister's wedding.
What's the worst that could happen if Dom offers him a ride?
Tony could see him again, dressed up in a tux.
If the family only knew what he'd done with the best man...
Whatever happens, this is sure to be a Christmas they'll never forget.
Dance With Destiny was previously released under the pen name Sloan Johnson. It has been lightly revised, but still contains the same instant attraction, awkward reunion in a cathedral, sassy best friends, and stolen moments with or without total privacy.
284 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 18, 2014
88 people are currently reading
696 people want to read
About the author
Sloan Johnson
26 books836 followersSloan Johnson is a big city girl trapped in a country girl’s body. While she longs for the hustle and bustle of New York City or Las Vegas, she hasn’t yet figured out how to sit on the deck with her morning coffee, watching the deer and wild turkeys in the fields while surrounded by concrete and glass.
When she was three, her parents received their first call from the principal asking them to pick her up from school. Apparently, if you aren’t enrolled, you can’t attend classes, even in Kindergarten. The next week, she was in preschool and started plotting her first story soon after.
Later in life, her parents needed to do something to help their socially awkward, uncoordinated child come out of her shell and figured there was no better place than a bar on Wednesday nights. It’s a good thing they did because this is where she found her love of reading and writing. Who needs socialization when you can sit alone in your bedroom with a good book?
Now, Sloan is a tattooed, purple haired mom of two kids, one of which was a thank you present to her husband for letting her get a Staffordshire Terrier with more anxiety issues than Sloan has, which is saying something. She’s been kicked out of the PTA in two school districts and is no longer asked to help with fundraisers because she’s been known to lose herself in a good book and forget that she has somewhere to be.
When she was three, her parents received their first call from the principal asking them to pick her up from school. Apparently, if you aren’t enrolled, you can’t attend classes, even in Kindergarten. The next week, she was in preschool and started plotting her first story soon after.
Later in life, her parents needed to do something to help their socially awkward, uncoordinated child come out of her shell and figured there was no better place than a bar on Wednesday nights. It’s a good thing they did because this is where she found her love of reading and writing. Who needs socialization when you can sit alone in your bedroom with a good book?
Now, Sloan is a tattooed, purple haired mom of two kids, one of which was a thank you present to her husband for letting her get a Staffordshire Terrier with more anxiety issues than Sloan has, which is saying something. She’s been kicked out of the PTA in two school districts and is no longer asked to help with fundraisers because she’s been known to lose herself in a good book and forget that she has somewhere to be.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
January 1, 2015
This book is rated high...and I have absolutely no idea how that happened. I'm starting to see a disturbing pattern in which the books I rate high aren't generally liked, while the books that have high ratings end up making me want to jab a spoon in my eye.
I didn't necessarily want to perform slapdash ocular surgery with any flatwear after reading this book, but four stars?
The writing is bad. Not terrible, not irredeemable, but bad. Bad enough to make me roll my eyes several times, not just because of simple mistakes, but also because of unrealistic dialogue and smarmy declarations that have no place in realistic discourse. There are the standard badly worded passages, like "his heady scent fills my head", and the rookie mistake of using quotation marks to emphasize a word;
"...from how a relationship 'should' be built."
Italics, people, they have a legitimate purpose, and it's not just to look fancy.
There's also the problem of way too many analogies, and even points when the overused analogies are used incorrectly:
"He hands me a raspberry malt and my face lights up like a kid on Christmas morning."
Problem #1: The first person POV makes this awkward. How would Tony know his own face lit up?
Problem #2: Yes, I know this is nitpicking, but the compound sentence missing a comma irritates me.
Problem #3: Children don't usually light up on Christmas morning unless they have a strand of twinkle lights shoved somewhere unpleasant. In which case, you're doing Christmas (and parenting) wrong.
Aside from grammatical mishaps, the writing itself is just too overwrought and fraught with emotion. There are strangers declaring things to each other, and it's awkward and uncomfortable. Not to mention completely unrealistic. There's also tense confusion, which, as most people know, completely screws up the flow of the story. If you're going to write a story in first-person present, you can't arbitrarily shift to past-tense and future-tense whenever the mood strikes, damn it.
Oh, and that ending?
So there you have it. My final book of the year was a stinker. It's probably some kind of cosmic retribution for a past transgression. I'll accept it because this is the first m/m/ romance I've read that has irritated me this badly.
I didn't necessarily want to perform slapdash ocular surgery with any flatwear after reading this book, but four stars?
The writing is bad. Not terrible, not irredeemable, but bad. Bad enough to make me roll my eyes several times, not just because of simple mistakes, but also because of unrealistic dialogue and smarmy declarations that have no place in realistic discourse. There are the standard badly worded passages, like "his heady scent fills my head", and the rookie mistake of using quotation marks to emphasize a word;
"...from how a relationship 'should' be built."
Italics, people, they have a legitimate purpose, and it's not just to look fancy.
There's also the problem of way too many analogies, and even points when the overused analogies are used incorrectly:
"He hands me a raspberry malt and my face lights up like a kid on Christmas morning."
Problem #1: The first person POV makes this awkward. How would Tony know his own face lit up?
Problem #2: Yes, I know this is nitpicking, but the compound sentence missing a comma irritates me.
Problem #3: Children don't usually light up on Christmas morning unless they have a strand of twinkle lights shoved somewhere unpleasant. In which case, you're doing Christmas (and parenting) wrong.
Aside from grammatical mishaps, the writing itself is just too overwrought and fraught with emotion. There are strangers declaring things to each other, and it's awkward and uncomfortable. Not to mention completely unrealistic. There's also tense confusion, which, as most people know, completely screws up the flow of the story. If you're going to write a story in first-person present, you can't arbitrarily shift to past-tense and future-tense whenever the mood strikes, damn it.
Oh, and that ending?
So there you have it. My final book of the year was a stinker. It's probably some kind of cosmic retribution for a past transgression. I'll accept it because this is the first m/m/ romance I've read that has irritated me this badly.
April 5, 2015
DNF
I think author "street teams" are KILLING the rating system on goodreads!!! It's to the point that you can't even trust the rating system unless a book has 300-500 ratings. Seems the first 100 or so are basically paid for... And this book is a prime example. No way worth the rating of 4.10/115 it has currently.
I usually ignore writing issues to the point I almost don't even see them but this would jerk me out of the story.
I'm at the 53% mark and I actually don't like either of the MC. So I thought I'd actually read some reviews to see what I was missing... I even read a spoiler which is a typical no-no. So flipping thankful because I'd be PISSED if I kept reading a book I didn't enjoy for that ending!!!! Ugh!!!
Done.
I think author "street teams" are KILLING the rating system on goodreads!!! It's to the point that you can't even trust the rating system unless a book has 300-500 ratings. Seems the first 100 or so are basically paid for... And this book is a prime example. No way worth the rating of 4.10/115 it has currently.
I usually ignore writing issues to the point I almost don't even see them but this would jerk me out of the story.
I'm at the 53% mark and I actually don't like either of the MC. So I thought I'd actually read some reviews to see what I was missing... I even read a spoiler which is a typical no-no. So flipping thankful because I'd be PISSED if I kept reading a book I didn't enjoy for that ending!!!! Ugh!!!
Done.
January 3, 2015
Crap. I lost the review I just wrote. I shouldn't be so peeved, because it's the first time it's happened to me, but I really want to read right now and not redo what took me almost an hour to do already.
Long story short: This book didn't work for me. I keep losing the person whose POV we were on and kept mixing up the MCs. (I don't think it was because of my brain, but if it was, I apologize to the author.) Plus, these two were a bit wishy-washy and there were one too many Three's Company style misunderstanding for my comfort level.
Cannot recommend.
Long story short: This book didn't work for me. I keep losing the person whose POV we were on and kept mixing up the MCs. (I don't think it was because of my brain, but if it was, I apologize to the author.) Plus, these two were a bit wishy-washy and there were one too many Three's Company style misunderstanding for my comfort level.
Cannot recommend.
February 1, 2015
I had to force myself to finish this book. I was ready to just put it to sleep but I kept waiting for it to get better. The only reason I purchased it was the high ratings, which still puzzle me, and it was a total disappointment. The MCs were hard to connect with, the story was rushed and the dialogue was not great.
January 12, 2015
Should have saved my money. This story really had nothing going on other than Dom letting go of his past and making the grand announcement of his past to everyone. I mean come on.....who gathers everyone together to explain the tragedy in their past. It was made into this big production. This book could have had potential but almost from the beginning it failed for me and through the whole book I had trouble figuring out who was the one talking or thinking. A miss all around for me.
March 22, 2020
New to me author. This is a mm contemporary story set in the USA. Main characters are Dom and Tony. This story had lots of twists and turns but a HEA in the end. I’ll read more from this author.
July 24, 2018
Wow.
The worst thing about this book is the lame ending. It's fiction, so while no get that losing the use of a motor function is better than death, having that happen to a man who had already put up with such cruelty and intolerance for most of his life was simply in poor taste. I loved the romance and dance of Destiny that Dominic and Anthony went through, from their fated meeting, period of falling in love, and the way they began their life together. Then, in a !after of chapters and connecting all the hanging threads of supporting characters, our writer managed to turn me so against their continued saga I skimmed through the remaining pages to see whether a miracle might take place. It didn't - in fact, the conclusion to Tony and Dom's epic, sex-filled lives fell so flat I took away two stars from the original five I had awarded the book. I. Hated . This. Ending. When two-thirds of their story was so poignant, emotional, hilarious, and full of life with pure heartache thrown in some could go through a box of Kleenex, the horribly depressing and senseless outcome given to Tony and Dom was a travesty.
The worst thing about this book is the lame ending. It's fiction, so while no get that losing the use of a motor function is better than death, having that happen to a man who had already put up with such cruelty and intolerance for most of his life was simply in poor taste. I loved the romance and dance of Destiny that Dominic and Anthony went through, from their fated meeting, period of falling in love, and the way they began their life together. Then, in a !after of chapters and connecting all the hanging threads of supporting characters, our writer managed to turn me so against their continued saga I skimmed through the remaining pages to see whether a miracle might take place. It didn't - in fact, the conclusion to Tony and Dom's epic, sex-filled lives fell so flat I took away two stars from the original five I had awarded the book. I. Hated . This. Ending. When two-thirds of their story was so poignant, emotional, hilarious, and full of life with pure heartache thrown in some could go through a box of Kleenex, the horribly depressing and senseless outcome given to Tony and Dom was a travesty.
December 30, 2014
*** Advanced Copy Provided By Author ***
I have never read this author before but this won't be my last read from Sloan Johnson.
This is a well written story that I could not put down. Each chapter had me more and more absorbed into the story following the twists and turns as I became more endeared to the main characters. I think I felt the nervousness, anxiety, fear and love just as the characters did.
Dominic Tricoli is trying to fly into New York to go see a client. He is stuck in Washington DC. Hearing that the weather has other plans for the passengers at Reagan Airport, Dominic, or Dom as he is called, decides he will rent a car and drive to New York. Sounds easy enough, right? Before leaving the gate he does an act of kindness and offers to give a ride to a stranger, also stranded, who is trying to get to his sister's wedding in New York. Meet Anthony DeLuca. You know the rule of karma, what goes around comes around...as these two men drive to New York together they get to know each other. Each becomes attracted to the other. They arrive in New York going their separate ways but if you paid attention to the details as you read, you will be secretly cheering them to meet again at an event a little later. And if I continue with the story I will spoil it for you.
Never having read a book from this author I wasn't sure what to expect. I will say the more I read the more I liked Sloan's writing. She had me on the edge of my seat at times, like when the wedding started and at times I felt my heart beat increase waiting to hear the story of Brandon and then in tears when Tony went home for Christmas. It's not what you think. Trust me. You have to read to understand. They were tears of sorrow AND joy.
The two main characters, Dom and Tony, were both strong AND weak in their own ways and as they grew in the story so did their character in the relationship. Surprises always around the corner kept me interested in how the characters progressed. Surprises were both good and bad. I liked how one male did not always dominate the other or the story. There was a beautiful balance between the two. And as I keep saying, very believable. A relationship is not perfect and at times we all need our space and some down time. Watching these two handle those times was
I have to also pay homage to the supporting characters. I loved Cara and Andrew. I wanted to stand up and applaud them on many occasions. Proud for their courage to stand up for their beliefs and their friends and family. Even if it meant turning their back on blood relatives. They were strong characters yet loving and kind. They were the true meaning of family. I honestly can't stand weak characters who become helpless and this book had none of that. Kennedy and Dahlia were the rocks that Tony needed and they embraced Dom when he needed it too. Loved them just as much as Cara and Andrew! Each character had struggles but in the end most came out better than how the book started.
Using the topic of gay/lesbian in this book the author wrote about very realistic situations that were believable and honestly what I imagine many people face today. I appreciate the way the author wrote, not making everything "wine and roses" but sharing the struggles and hardships that people go through to just try and be normal. The bigotry and hatred of others is sad but real. I love Nona and Mama Rossi and thank God for them in the story. Everyone should be so lucky to have a Mama Rossi in their life. The sex scenes were erotic yet sensual and very respectfully written. The scenes were of love and passion. I loved how they were written and I could feel the desire between the characters each time.
This book overall was a pleasant surprise and a delight to read. I highly suggest this book if you like M/M stories. A definite "Favorite" on my bookshelf!
I have never read this author before but this won't be my last read from Sloan Johnson.
This is a well written story that I could not put down. Each chapter had me more and more absorbed into the story following the twists and turns as I became more endeared to the main characters. I think I felt the nervousness, anxiety, fear and love just as the characters did.
Dominic Tricoli is trying to fly into New York to go see a client. He is stuck in Washington DC. Hearing that the weather has other plans for the passengers at Reagan Airport, Dominic, or Dom as he is called, decides he will rent a car and drive to New York. Sounds easy enough, right? Before leaving the gate he does an act of kindness and offers to give a ride to a stranger, also stranded, who is trying to get to his sister's wedding in New York. Meet Anthony DeLuca. You know the rule of karma, what goes around comes around...as these two men drive to New York together they get to know each other. Each becomes attracted to the other. They arrive in New York going their separate ways but if you paid attention to the details as you read, you will be secretly cheering them to meet again at an event a little later. And if I continue with the story I will spoil it for you.
Never having read a book from this author I wasn't sure what to expect. I will say the more I read the more I liked Sloan's writing. She had me on the edge of my seat at times, like when the wedding started and at times I felt my heart beat increase waiting to hear the story of Brandon and then in tears when Tony went home for Christmas. It's not what you think. Trust me. You have to read to understand. They were tears of sorrow AND joy.
The two main characters, Dom and Tony, were both strong AND weak in their own ways and as they grew in the story so did their character in the relationship. Surprises always around the corner kept me interested in how the characters progressed. Surprises were both good and bad. I liked how one male did not always dominate the other or the story. There was a beautiful balance between the two. And as I keep saying, very believable. A relationship is not perfect and at times we all need our space and some down time. Watching these two handle those times was
I have to also pay homage to the supporting characters. I loved Cara and Andrew. I wanted to stand up and applaud them on many occasions. Proud for their courage to stand up for their beliefs and their friends and family. Even if it meant turning their back on blood relatives. They were strong characters yet loving and kind. They were the true meaning of family. I honestly can't stand weak characters who become helpless and this book had none of that. Kennedy and Dahlia were the rocks that Tony needed and they embraced Dom when he needed it too. Loved them just as much as Cara and Andrew! Each character had struggles but in the end most came out better than how the book started.
Using the topic of gay/lesbian in this book the author wrote about very realistic situations that were believable and honestly what I imagine many people face today. I appreciate the way the author wrote, not making everything "wine and roses" but sharing the struggles and hardships that people go through to just try and be normal. The bigotry and hatred of others is sad but real. I love Nona and Mama Rossi and thank God for them in the story. Everyone should be so lucky to have a Mama Rossi in their life. The sex scenes were erotic yet sensual and very respectfully written. The scenes were of love and passion. I loved how they were written and I could feel the desire between the characters each time.
This book overall was a pleasant surprise and a delight to read. I highly suggest this book if you like M/M stories. A definite "Favorite" on my bookshelf!
December 20, 2014
The motto for Dance with Destiny should be, in life one door closes and another opens.....
I have only read two m/m books. Both from Sloan Johnson. I found both fabulous and riveting. She's a straightforward writer that doesn't use unnecessary filler. No bullish*t and no sugarcoating! I love how she can transport you into the life of her characters and make you totally understand their plight. Her books seem to have an underlying message of unacceptance. How some families can reject their child based on their sexual preference. Having to be embarrassed about who they truly are.... Besides the heaviness of that, her books are filled with wonderful complex characters that will have you engrossed in their story. You can not help but fall in love with these boys!!!
We meet Dominic at the airport heading to NY for his best friends wedding. Being around Christmas the weather is horrible and all flights are delayed or cancelled. Instead of sitting around, he decides to rent a car and drive to NY. In the process, he hears another man's frustration over the flights. Being the great guy that he is, he offers the stranger, Tony a ride. Before leaving, they pick up two girls on there way. With a full car, they set off on a journey that will change their lives forever. Could it be fate? The stars aligning??
Dominic is classy and reserved. He has a comfortable successful life. While Tony is crass and has no filter. He's the black sheep of his family. What do these two have in common?? Nothing except chemistry! When they get together it's nothing but fireworks. Being so different works for them, each bringing something to the table. Completing each other. Even though Tony stumbles and seems to do everything wrong, Dominic can't stay away. Tony and Dominic have this whirlwind romance that goes from zero to a hundred. Doing everything the opposite of what they should. Both not realizing what is happening to them... They can't possibly have feelings for one another. Can they??? Their venture is humorous, sexy, emotional and complex. Their secret and pasts are revealed. Seems like both have some soul searching to do. Both need to face theirs pasts, so they can move toward a future. Whether it be together or apart. There are many bumps in this road! I loved their personal growth and watching them transform. Especially my boy Tony. (Don't tell Dominic but Tony is my favorite!) I have a great affection for all the characters surrounding them. They were excellent. Each delivering something special to the story. Making my heart swell!! I pray there is a second book because I definitely need more of these boys!!!
I need to thank Sloan Johnson for opening my eyes about gay couples and a whole new genre of books. Love is love! I can not wait to read what she writes next.
I have only read two m/m books. Both from Sloan Johnson. I found both fabulous and riveting. She's a straightforward writer that doesn't use unnecessary filler. No bullish*t and no sugarcoating! I love how she can transport you into the life of her characters and make you totally understand their plight. Her books seem to have an underlying message of unacceptance. How some families can reject their child based on their sexual preference. Having to be embarrassed about who they truly are.... Besides the heaviness of that, her books are filled with wonderful complex characters that will have you engrossed in their story. You can not help but fall in love with these boys!!!
We meet Dominic at the airport heading to NY for his best friends wedding. Being around Christmas the weather is horrible and all flights are delayed or cancelled. Instead of sitting around, he decides to rent a car and drive to NY. In the process, he hears another man's frustration over the flights. Being the great guy that he is, he offers the stranger, Tony a ride. Before leaving, they pick up two girls on there way. With a full car, they set off on a journey that will change their lives forever. Could it be fate? The stars aligning??
Dominic is classy and reserved. He has a comfortable successful life. While Tony is crass and has no filter. He's the black sheep of his family. What do these two have in common?? Nothing except chemistry! When they get together it's nothing but fireworks. Being so different works for them, each bringing something to the table. Completing each other. Even though Tony stumbles and seems to do everything wrong, Dominic can't stay away. Tony and Dominic have this whirlwind romance that goes from zero to a hundred. Doing everything the opposite of what they should. Both not realizing what is happening to them... They can't possibly have feelings for one another. Can they??? Their venture is humorous, sexy, emotional and complex. Their secret and pasts are revealed. Seems like both have some soul searching to do. Both need to face theirs pasts, so they can move toward a future. Whether it be together or apart. There are many bumps in this road! I loved their personal growth and watching them transform. Especially my boy Tony. (Don't tell Dominic but Tony is my favorite!) I have a great affection for all the characters surrounding them. They were excellent. Each delivering something special to the story. Making my heart swell!! I pray there is a second book because I definitely need more of these boys!!!
I need to thank Sloan Johnson for opening my eyes about gay couples and a whole new genre of books. Love is love! I can not wait to read what she writes next.
December 28, 2014
Omg seriously, loved this book!!
I mean LOVED this Story!!!
Better review to come!!
Wow wow wow I've been in a mm rut and this has just blown me away, so perfect in all areas!!
First time I've read this author as well, and I'm totally going to be reading more!!
~~REVIEW~~
As I said, Ive been in a mm rut for a few months, I have been reading the genre for years now and I was so lucky enough to get an Arc copy of Dance with Destiny
by Sloan Johnson.
This was a very sexy story that had my emotions all over the place, I was cringing and crying, i was laughing and i was squirming. I loved where Sloan took me when reading this perfect mm love story!!
Dom and Tony's journey was, brilliant from how they meet, to how they fell in love and all the in between drama..
Both Tony and Dom, Have there own issues to come to terms with and both had there own POV and stories to tell that had my crying to laughing from one min to the next. I can not praise this story enough. I loved how Tony was the more alpha, that Dom is the more tender hearted man that you just cant help to love.
4.5 Stars from me, I would have loved to give it a full 5 Stars, but i felt that there story wasnt finsihed, it is truly the most beautiful love story i have read in a while and i adore everything about these guys, but the ending.. i was left with What next?? But Hey that could be me, as i wanted more Tony and Dom.. Maybe Sloan is going to write more about these two. This is a stroy mi would recomened for everyone to read, a story filled with Love, Destiny and Fate.
Wonderful job Sloan Johnson.
Review by Ang (PNR BOOK LOVER REVIEWS)
I mean LOVED this Story!!!
Better review to come!!
Wow wow wow I've been in a mm rut and this has just blown me away, so perfect in all areas!!
First time I've read this author as well, and I'm totally going to be reading more!!
~~REVIEW~~
As I said, Ive been in a mm rut for a few months, I have been reading the genre for years now and I was so lucky enough to get an Arc copy of Dance with Destiny
by Sloan Johnson.
This was a very sexy story that had my emotions all over the place, I was cringing and crying, i was laughing and i was squirming. I loved where Sloan took me when reading this perfect mm love story!!
Dom and Tony's journey was, brilliant from how they meet, to how they fell in love and all the in between drama..
Both Tony and Dom, Have there own issues to come to terms with and both had there own POV and stories to tell that had my crying to laughing from one min to the next. I can not praise this story enough. I loved how Tony was the more alpha, that Dom is the more tender hearted man that you just cant help to love.
4.5 Stars from me, I would have loved to give it a full 5 Stars, but i felt that there story wasnt finsihed, it is truly the most beautiful love story i have read in a while and i adore everything about these guys, but the ending.. i was left with What next?? But Hey that could be me, as i wanted more Tony and Dom.. Maybe Sloan is going to write more about these two. This is a stroy mi would recomened for everyone to read, a story filled with Love, Destiny and Fate.
Wonderful job Sloan Johnson.
Review by Ang (PNR BOOK LOVER REVIEWS)
May 28, 2015
This is only the second book by Sloan I've read and I've got to say I CAN NOT find a fault anywhere .
The idea of fate having a helping hand in two peoples lives and bring them to such a happy ending is adorable.
We first meet Dominic and Tony trying to get to a wedding but due to bad weather their flight can not get them there . Dominic hires a car but while hiring the car Tony also try's but to no avail . Dominic being Dominic offers Tony a lift but he can't understand why he offered . Looking at Tony something inside Dominic stirs . Over a period of a few months they become very close but with family and past experiences can they both get the happy ever after they are looking for ? Fate knows no bounds .
I got caught up in the story from the very beginning and loved every twist and turn , the loss of a young love , the hateful disapproval by a parent at their son's "lifestyle " . So what if you son is gay !! Gay or straight you love your child unconditionally. But fate finds a way .
I loved the way the ending left you a sense of joy knowing that no matter what , if love is THAT real you can overcome anything life puts in your way . I love the idea of the ending making me wonder if there could be a little extra story there one day .
Well done Sloan . A brilliant story of fate and love which conquers all .
The idea of fate having a helping hand in two peoples lives and bring them to such a happy ending is adorable.
We first meet Dominic and Tony trying to get to a wedding but due to bad weather their flight can not get them there . Dominic hires a car but while hiring the car Tony also try's but to no avail . Dominic being Dominic offers Tony a lift but he can't understand why he offered . Looking at Tony something inside Dominic stirs . Over a period of a few months they become very close but with family and past experiences can they both get the happy ever after they are looking for ? Fate knows no bounds .
I got caught up in the story from the very beginning and loved every twist and turn , the loss of a young love , the hateful disapproval by a parent at their son's "lifestyle " . So what if you son is gay !! Gay or straight you love your child unconditionally. But fate finds a way .
I loved the way the ending left you a sense of joy knowing that no matter what , if love is THAT real you can overcome anything life puts in your way . I love the idea of the ending making me wonder if there could be a little extra story there one day .
Well done Sloan . A brilliant story of fate and love which conquers all .
January 9, 2015
I have just finished Dance With Destiny and am giving it 4 stars! I would love to give it five but it fell short for me in just a few spots. I did enjoy reading about their story and getting to know the characters. I ABSOLUTELY LOVE THEIR NAMES!! Tony DeLuca and Dominic Tricoli <---- Hot right?! Tony's my fav!
Sometimes, I believe that fate does step in the way and align our lives perfectly. I believe that is exactly what happened with these two! Each is just living their life and not taking it by the reigns, just living day by day. That is until the day they are both stranded in an airport. One is going to his best friend's wedding the other to his sister's. Once a flight cancellation put them in the same vehicle you can feel the attraction between the two and it stays throughout the whole book. The reason I gave it only 4 stars is because towards the ending I NEEDED more feeling from Tony's POV. Without giving spoilers away, there is a major turn of events towards the end that I really needed that reaction and didn't get it. It also kind of slowed down in the middle as well, but I thoroughly enjoyed the book and will definitely read more of Sloan's books to come!!!
Sometimes, I believe that fate does step in the way and align our lives perfectly. I believe that is exactly what happened with these two! Each is just living their life and not taking it by the reigns, just living day by day. That is until the day they are both stranded in an airport. One is going to his best friend's wedding the other to his sister's. Once a flight cancellation put them in the same vehicle you can feel the attraction between the two and it stays throughout the whole book. The reason I gave it only 4 stars is because towards the ending I NEEDED more feeling from Tony's POV. Without giving spoilers away, there is a major turn of events towards the end that I really needed that reaction and didn't get it. It also kind of slowed down in the middle as well, but I thoroughly enjoyed the book and will definitely read more of Sloan's books to come!!!
January 1, 2015
I like Sloan Johnson's other books, and this one was much the same. It was very enjoyable...
Until the end.
The end made me so angry, I wanted to throw the book across the room (except it was on my Kindle... so I couldn't, humph!)
Anyway, good story, good idea, the end... no way.
Until the end.
The end made me so angry, I wanted to throw the book across the room (except it was on my Kindle... so I couldn't, humph!)
Anyway, good story, good idea, the end... no way.
April 17, 2020
Serendipity Meeting!
Road trip, lust at the first stop and tons of baggage are elements of Business Owner Dominic’s & Firefighter Tony’s love story. An interesting enough, if average read. It’s a bit of a soap opera and I didn’t feel the connection between MCs as much in the beginning. I also didn’t understand the purpose of hitchhikers Erin & Tracy. Overall, an enjoyable read.
Road trip, lust at the first stop and tons of baggage are elements of Business Owner Dominic’s & Firefighter Tony’s love story. An interesting enough, if average read. It’s a bit of a soap opera and I didn’t feel the connection between MCs as much in the beginning. I also didn’t understand the purpose of hitchhikers Erin & Tracy. Overall, an enjoyable read.
April 26, 2015
This book killed me. It's such a sweet story. It all happens fast which usually I don't like in books but somehow the author manages to make the relationship seem authentic. The mc's are both great guys and the hea is beautifully heartbreaking.
September 28, 2014
Love Dom and Tony - review to come
March 7, 2025
This book started out great for me. I liked the characters, I liked the whole *fated meeting while stranded at an airport* gag.
Then it took a nose dive.
It’s full of miscommunication! The characters are confessing their love for each other without even really having any kind of legitimate conversation, the author seems to think that piling up their traumas makes them more solid characters but holy shit give them a break.
You’re telling me that Tony’s entire character was based on him going against his parents wishes, becoming a firefighter, and then BECOMING A PARAPLEGIC?!?! And we’re left not knowing if he’ll walk again, or if Doms company succeeds. The ending was SO rushed. Like I’m talking; tony gets into a life altering accident at 84%!!!!!!! And then the book is done at 99%. Fuck all the way off.
Then it took a nose dive.
It’s full of miscommunication! The characters are confessing their love for each other without even really having any kind of legitimate conversation, the author seems to think that piling up their traumas makes them more solid characters but holy shit give them a break.
You’re telling me that Tony’s entire character was based on him going against his parents wishes, becoming a firefighter, and then BECOMING A PARAPLEGIC?!?! And we’re left not knowing if he’ll walk again, or if Doms company succeeds. The ending was SO rushed. Like I’m talking; tony gets into a life altering accident at 84%!!!!!!! And then the book is done at 99%. Fuck all the way off.
January 6, 2021
Trying to get to New York after cancelled flights, Tony & Dom share a hire car and a moment, then head their separate ways, only to end up at the same wedding. I could forgive the main characters up until the wedding when they revealed not only their immaturity but also their constant self-centredness by making it all about themselves, rather than the bride and groom. Lots of the dialogue and behaviours were melodramatic, earning regular eye-rolls. Maybe there are guys like these out there, but I just couldn’t respect them or want to spend time with them. Christopher Rain narrates the audiobook and, while some reviewers mention his periodic mispronunciations, monotone, and squeaky female character voices, I didn’t find them too distracting or egregious.
December 1, 2021
What happened near the end of this story stopped me from rating it higher and what a shame that is. Except for a few niggles along the way I was really enjoying myself then... BAM! Yeah that didn't sit well with me, the very end was sweet though.
TAGS
-- Holiday/Christmas (even though Christmas is such a tiny, tiny part) -- flight cancellation -- shared ride -- some sweet moments -- a few chuckles -- insta everything -- lots of angst -- best friends wedding -- in the closet -- coming out -- a family I'd like to punch -- a family I'd love to be a part of -- more than likeable MCs... Dominic & Tony -- had a few missteps
January 29, 2022
When destiny intervenes, go with it. A snowstorm, grounded flights, and a wedding see Dominic and Tony thrown together in a rental car driving to New York. A little flirting and a little more is all either expected until it meant just a little more. When they find themselves at the same wedding and both well known to the bride and groom who could imagine that wedding traditions would actually come true. A very interesting story of a chance meeting leading to much more.
June 19, 2017
I really enjoyed this book. It was not as formula as many male romances. The characters were much deeper, more emotion driven instead of just hormone driven. Sexy, yes, of course, but not just that. This book has awesome families to offset the horrible ones, and great friendships. I would love to read more about this couple.
May 6, 2017
Couldn't finish it! I found the insta-physical relationship a little too insta... and I just found both MCs to be blah and I had absolutely no interest in them. Sorry. This is going into my DNF shelf and I won't be reaching for it again.
July 7, 2017
Absolutely best storyline so far this year!!!
The characters Dom and Tony have so many twists and turns nut fit together so well they the story just flows and keeps you turning pages till your through and wanting more, loved it!
The characters Dom and Tony have so many twists and turns nut fit together so well they the story just flows and keeps you turning pages till your through and wanting more, loved it!
May 31, 2018
The story was rather average, but I had serious problems with the writing. It was seriously cringe worthy sometimes. I just couldn't keep my eyes to roll. How this book could even have a rating above 4 I can not comprehend.
It did nothing for me but serving a purpose of having the right cover.
It did nothing for me but serving a purpose of having the right cover.
August 21, 2018
(audio full of mispronunciations)
January 7, 2015
** Review for BareNakedWords **
Since getting my first insight of the M/M genre earlier this year it has fast become one of my favourite genres to read; and finishing Dance With Destiny has only confirmed my love of this genre.
Sloan Johnson has produced a remarkable, eye opening story of the real difficulties people can face today when it comes to being open about their sexual preferences. The hate and malice they face; even from their own family is disgusting but real, and I applaud Sloan for bringing this subject to the surface instead of making everything 'perfect'.
When Dom finds himself stranded at the airport due to bad weather and needing to get to New York for a meeting and a wedding he decides to waste no more time and sets in for a long drive in the hopes of getting to the City in time. Whilst on his way to pick up the car he overhears a deep husky voice pleading for a flight to get him to his sister's wedding. Taking pity on the handsome stranger and deciding he could use the company he extends an invitation for a lift.
Little did he know that that one chance encounter will change his life forever.
"Tony is, without the slightest bit of doubt, one of the most gorgeous men I have seen in a long time".
Dom is laid back and reserved type of guy who lives for his work and the success of his business. Tony is the complete opposite. The black sheep of his family. He has spent the last 10years pretending to be someone he's not. He has no filter and when he sees something he wants, he goes for it. And what he wants is Dom.
They are the polar opposite of each other but the connection they have is instantaneous and fireworks are soon set alight.
"I’ll never know why I feel so comfortable with him, but I feel as if we’ve known each other more than a few hours. Even better, I don’t feel like I have a reason to hold back the way I do when I’m home"
What starts out as an innocent offer soon turns in to a whole lot more as fate keeps them crossing paths. They embark on a whirlwind romance going from zero to one hundred in a matter of days.. and fast developing strong feelings toward each other.
Secrets and pasts are revealed which need to be overcome in order to move forward.
Will fate win out and keep them together or will they end up going their separate ways?
"I’ve never had a relationship with anyone because I’ve always known in the back of my mind that I didn’t deserve it until I reached a point where I could be honest with my family about who I am. Then, I wound up stranded in an airport one night and my other half walked up to offer me a ride. You make me want to be a better man than I’ve been for the past twenty-eight years."
As the story progressed I found myself falling more in love with Dom and Tony. They are both strong characters You get to see them grow both as individuals and as a couple. They bring out a side of each other which was long buried but gives them the courage to finally face what they've been too afraid to face. Yes, They still have their weaknesses but with the other standing at their side and a group of family and friends they are able to overcome the obstacles standing in the way to obtain the happiness they both deserve and want.
I could feel every single emotion rolling off the pages as I read. There were tears of sadness as well as tears of joy. The anger and hate emanating off the pages at times was intense that I just wanted to scream and knock people's head together. And the love....oh the love was raw, passionate and HOT.
Dance with Destiny really is a fantastic read that will have you constantly turning the pages until you're finished. The writing is amazing and well thought out and the characters are very likeable....well most anyway.
The only thing that disappointed me was the end. I felt as though Tony and Dom's story was unfinished....or it could just be that I wanted to read more of them. I truly did fall in love with this couple.
This is the first book I've read by Sloan Johnson but it definitely won't be my last.
Since getting my first insight of the M/M genre earlier this year it has fast become one of my favourite genres to read; and finishing Dance With Destiny has only confirmed my love of this genre.
Sloan Johnson has produced a remarkable, eye opening story of the real difficulties people can face today when it comes to being open about their sexual preferences. The hate and malice they face; even from their own family is disgusting but real, and I applaud Sloan for bringing this subject to the surface instead of making everything 'perfect'.
When Dom finds himself stranded at the airport due to bad weather and needing to get to New York for a meeting and a wedding he decides to waste no more time and sets in for a long drive in the hopes of getting to the City in time. Whilst on his way to pick up the car he overhears a deep husky voice pleading for a flight to get him to his sister's wedding. Taking pity on the handsome stranger and deciding he could use the company he extends an invitation for a lift.
Little did he know that that one chance encounter will change his life forever.
"Tony is, without the slightest bit of doubt, one of the most gorgeous men I have seen in a long time".
Dom is laid back and reserved type of guy who lives for his work and the success of his business. Tony is the complete opposite. The black sheep of his family. He has spent the last 10years pretending to be someone he's not. He has no filter and when he sees something he wants, he goes for it. And what he wants is Dom.
They are the polar opposite of each other but the connection they have is instantaneous and fireworks are soon set alight.
"I’ll never know why I feel so comfortable with him, but I feel as if we’ve known each other more than a few hours. Even better, I don’t feel like I have a reason to hold back the way I do when I’m home"
What starts out as an innocent offer soon turns in to a whole lot more as fate keeps them crossing paths. They embark on a whirlwind romance going from zero to one hundred in a matter of days.. and fast developing strong feelings toward each other.
Secrets and pasts are revealed which need to be overcome in order to move forward.
Will fate win out and keep them together or will they end up going their separate ways?
"I’ve never had a relationship with anyone because I’ve always known in the back of my mind that I didn’t deserve it until I reached a point where I could be honest with my family about who I am. Then, I wound up stranded in an airport one night and my other half walked up to offer me a ride. You make me want to be a better man than I’ve been for the past twenty-eight years."
As the story progressed I found myself falling more in love with Dom and Tony. They are both strong characters You get to see them grow both as individuals and as a couple. They bring out a side of each other which was long buried but gives them the courage to finally face what they've been too afraid to face. Yes, They still have their weaknesses but with the other standing at their side and a group of family and friends they are able to overcome the obstacles standing in the way to obtain the happiness they both deserve and want.
I could feel every single emotion rolling off the pages as I read. There were tears of sadness as well as tears of joy. The anger and hate emanating off the pages at times was intense that I just wanted to scream and knock people's head together. And the love....oh the love was raw, passionate and HOT.
Dance with Destiny really is a fantastic read that will have you constantly turning the pages until you're finished. The writing is amazing and well thought out and the characters are very likeable....well most anyway.
The only thing that disappointed me was the end. I felt as though Tony and Dom's story was unfinished....or it could just be that I wanted to read more of them. I truly did fall in love with this couple.
This is the first book I've read by Sloan Johnson but it definitely won't be my last.
September 30, 2022
I loved the beginning and i think this book has one of the creatives sex scenes i read in a long time.
But in the second half of the book was not as strong as the first half. I liked both MC's there where likeable did i mention there where likeable although for me the real star was Dom's BFF's and thats a problem if you like one of the second characters more then the main.
But in the second half of the book was not as strong as the first half. I liked both MC's there where likeable did i mention there where likeable although for me the real star was Dom's BFF's and thats a problem if you like one of the second characters more then the main.
December 27, 2014
This book is a mix of sweet, sexy, drama and humor. Tony and Dom are both pretty likable guys. Both have painful parts of their lives that need the other's healing. The reader goes through the full roller coaster of them meeting, discovering a connection, revealing secrets, facing fears and overcoming life-changing obstacles. Destiny seems to constantly step into the lives of these two men causing them to have to take notice of the other, repeatedly. No matter what distrations pop up in their way, the heart doesn't lie.
Not long after the story started, I wanted to call Dom a diva because he always seemed to be having hissy fits. Then, after finding out his background, I understood him much better. I instantly liked Tony because he is such a clown and so forward. He totally goes after Dom. He does has some big issues of his own that he needs to get past.
I think this is well-written story of love. It's very full. There isn't one exact part that makes the book. It's sexy, but doesn't depend on the sex. The main characters are great, but all the supporting characters are fully developed also. Family plays a big role. The over all message in my opinion is love, whether is self, familial or romantic.
***Copy given in exchange for an honest review***
FULL REVIEW CAN BE FOUND AT http://fangirlmomentsandmytwocents.bl...
Not long after the story started, I wanted to call Dom a diva because he always seemed to be having hissy fits. Then, after finding out his background, I understood him much better. I instantly liked Tony because he is such a clown and so forward. He totally goes after Dom. He does has some big issues of his own that he needs to get past.
As much as I want to, I can't stay cooped up in this room all day; I have gifts to open and parents to piss off. Such is the life of black sheep...
I think this is well-written story of love. It's very full. There isn't one exact part that makes the book. It's sexy, but doesn't depend on the sex. The main characters are great, but all the supporting characters are fully developed also. Family plays a big role. The over all message in my opinion is love, whether is self, familial or romantic.
***Copy given in exchange for an honest review***
FULL REVIEW CAN BE FOUND AT http://fangirlmomentsandmytwocents.bl...
January 12, 2015
http://watch-and-word-society.blogspot.com/2015/01/review-dance-with-destiny-highly.html
I was lucky enough to read Ms. Johnson's earlier book, Teach Me, and I really enjoyed it. I was really excited to read this one, and it totally surpassed my high levels of excitement! This book was amazing, and I can't wait to re-read it. I hope for more about these two guys, because Dom, and especially Tony, really captured my heart!
The story begins with two men driving a rental car to New York during a storm. After a hot, but slightly awkward start, they meet up at a wedding, one there for the groom and the other for the bride.
I was definitely captured from the start of the book. I had a little bit of trouble keeping the MC's straight with the alternate point of views in the beginning, but I very quickly determined their very different personalities. I really loved watching these guys realize how strong their feelings were, and I appreciated that Ms. Johnson really took the time to explore their complex backgrounds.
About 50% of the way through the book, I wondered how much more could happen. The MC's were beginning to fall in love, Tony was getting close to standing up for his love, and Dom was coming along well, and I expected this to wrap up like a typical love story. I was so glad it wasn't over, but I wondered what could come next. What came next set this book apart for me.
We really were able to experience the loss Dom had in his past, and we got to see the transformation that Tony went through. Both Tony and Dom as a couple grew and faced challenges that were difficult, but which never tested their love.
I really connected with these two, and I loved their supporting characters. The friends and families that supported them helped provide the support that these men both needed, and sadly lacked in their own lives. I found them to be very realistic in their actions and reactions.
As for the end of the novel, while I won't give any spoilers, I will say that I really enjoyed it. I know there are challenges that Tony and Dom will face, but I have every feeling that they will face them together. I believe that the challenges are temporary, and I have every positive hope for their future. I would love to see more from these two, as they are definitely at their HEA for love, and I want to see them get their life HEA too! Great story and a very, very highly recommended read!
Also, I would be remiss if I didn't take the time to say that this book was HOT. Like turn the fan on hot. The sex scenes were emotional and SO sexy!
Advanced copy received from author for an honest review.
I was lucky enough to read Ms. Johnson's earlier book, Teach Me, and I really enjoyed it. I was really excited to read this one, and it totally surpassed my high levels of excitement! This book was amazing, and I can't wait to re-read it. I hope for more about these two guys, because Dom, and especially Tony, really captured my heart!
The story begins with two men driving a rental car to New York during a storm. After a hot, but slightly awkward start, they meet up at a wedding, one there for the groom and the other for the bride.
I was definitely captured from the start of the book. I had a little bit of trouble keeping the MC's straight with the alternate point of views in the beginning, but I very quickly determined their very different personalities. I really loved watching these guys realize how strong their feelings were, and I appreciated that Ms. Johnson really took the time to explore their complex backgrounds.
About 50% of the way through the book, I wondered how much more could happen. The MC's were beginning to fall in love, Tony was getting close to standing up for his love, and Dom was coming along well, and I expected this to wrap up like a typical love story. I was so glad it wasn't over, but I wondered what could come next. What came next set this book apart for me.
We really were able to experience the loss Dom had in his past, and we got to see the transformation that Tony went through. Both Tony and Dom as a couple grew and faced challenges that were difficult, but which never tested their love.
I really connected with these two, and I loved their supporting characters. The friends and families that supported them helped provide the support that these men both needed, and sadly lacked in their own lives. I found them to be very realistic in their actions and reactions.
As for the end of the novel, while I won't give any spoilers, I will say that I really enjoyed it. I know there are challenges that Tony and Dom will face, but I have every feeling that they will face them together. I believe that the challenges are temporary, and I have every positive hope for their future. I would love to see more from these two, as they are definitely at their HEA for love, and I want to see them get their life HEA too! Great story and a very, very highly recommended read!
Also, I would be remiss if I didn't take the time to say that this book was HOT. Like turn the fan on hot. The sex scenes were emotional and SO sexy!
Advanced copy received from author for an honest review.
March 1, 2015
Dance with Destiny is my first Sloan Johnson book. I love all things m/m so I thought I would give her a try.
At first I loved it. I thought I was going to read a lot of kinky sex with two incredibly hot boys but what I got was a long series of drama and a serious health scare.
Dom is on his way to New York for his best friends wedding and a business meeting when he finds all the flights have been cancelled due to the weather. He rents a car thinking better of the situation to make time. In the airport he sees a guy he's attracted to instantly who is looking for a flight to New York. Dom feeling generous and wanting to get to know this young man offers him a ride since the guy seems to be in a rush to get where he's going as well. Tony accepts the ride needing to make it to his sisters wedding before he finds himself in any more hot water with his family.
The instalust happens in the truck making for a pretty hott scene between the two on the way up to New York.
After getting to NY the boys separate are a terrible case if miscommunication happens between the two men.
Planning to just forget about each other they both end up at the same wedding the next day. There's the typical angst that miscommunication provides and a few funny aspects as well. In the end the boys talk things out opting for one night of passion with each other and see where things go from there.
Of course the next day things go wrong when Tony tells Dom he's not out to his parents and plans to ignore Dom while they are in the same room. This pisses Dom off which leads to more fighting and bickering between the two.
The constant cycle of fighting and miscommunication continues throughout the book. Through it all both men find that living is easier with each other then without each other.
These two don't have an easy relationship. Just dealing with family issues will be a test for them to survive as a couple but they did.
More drama happens when Tony gets hurt in a ATV accident but in the end it was their two Destiny to be together.
Altogether I give this book 4 stars. It was well written, funny at times, the hot scene in the car was great. It's worth reading.
~Nickea
At first I loved it. I thought I was going to read a lot of kinky sex with two incredibly hot boys but what I got was a long series of drama and a serious health scare.
Dom is on his way to New York for his best friends wedding and a business meeting when he finds all the flights have been cancelled due to the weather. He rents a car thinking better of the situation to make time. In the airport he sees a guy he's attracted to instantly who is looking for a flight to New York. Dom feeling generous and wanting to get to know this young man offers him a ride since the guy seems to be in a rush to get where he's going as well. Tony accepts the ride needing to make it to his sisters wedding before he finds himself in any more hot water with his family.
The instalust happens in the truck making for a pretty hott scene between the two on the way up to New York.
After getting to NY the boys separate are a terrible case if miscommunication happens between the two men.
Planning to just forget about each other they both end up at the same wedding the next day. There's the typical angst that miscommunication provides and a few funny aspects as well. In the end the boys talk things out opting for one night of passion with each other and see where things go from there.
Of course the next day things go wrong when Tony tells Dom he's not out to his parents and plans to ignore Dom while they are in the same room. This pisses Dom off which leads to more fighting and bickering between the two.
The constant cycle of fighting and miscommunication continues throughout the book. Through it all both men find that living is easier with each other then without each other.
These two don't have an easy relationship. Just dealing with family issues will be a test for them to survive as a couple but they did.
More drama happens when Tony gets hurt in a ATV accident but in the end it was their two Destiny to be together.
Altogether I give this book 4 stars. It was well written, funny at times, the hot scene in the car was great. It's worth reading.
~Nickea
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