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Kickflip
Tattoo artist Cory Easton has been going through the motions—taking care of his grandmother and his dogs while working long hours—and staying busy enough to keep the noise in his head at bay. Until he lays eyes on the quiet and aloof skateboarder Jude York, who is so unreadable, unreachable, and unlike anyone else, he arouses Cory’s curiosity.
As captivating and complex as his ink, Jude is a mystery, and Cory falls fast and hard under his spell. But rumors about Jude’s past overshadow him, whispers of secrets keeping him under the thumb of a local motorcycle club. As Cory digs deeper, he begins to wonder how much he really wants to know.
Except their connection is magnetic, and Jude’s loneliness seems to mirror Cory’s own. Against his better judgment, Cory longs for another opportunity to make the guy smile, even if peeling back too many layers scares the hell out of him. Because Jude has awakened something inside him that’s been buried far too long—and losing him as well might just be Cory's undoing.
**PLEASE NOTE: This book was formerly titled There You Stand before a rights reversion from the publisher. It’s been newly edited, with bonus material added, plus a new cover and title.
**This standalone is essentially a prequel to my Roadmap to Your Heart series, the first two books focusing on the MC club mentioned in Kickflip. You can also find some characters from my MF Between Breaths series and Golden Arrow Casino series, if you’re curious
As captivating and complex as his ink, Jude is a mystery, and Cory falls fast and hard under his spell. But rumors about Jude’s past overshadow him, whispers of secrets keeping him under the thumb of a local motorcycle club. As Cory digs deeper, he begins to wonder how much he really wants to know.
Except their connection is magnetic, and Jude’s loneliness seems to mirror Cory’s own. Against his better judgment, Cory longs for another opportunity to make the guy smile, even if peeling back too many layers scares the hell out of him. Because Jude has awakened something inside him that’s been buried far too long—and losing him as well might just be Cory's undoing.
**PLEASE NOTE: This book was formerly titled There You Stand before a rights reversion from the publisher. It’s been newly edited, with bonus material added, plus a new cover and title.
**This standalone is essentially a prequel to my Roadmap to Your Heart series, the first two books focusing on the MC club mentioned in Kickflip. You can also find some characters from my MF Between Breaths series and Golden Arrow Casino series, if you’re curious
260 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 28, 2019
89 people are currently reading
158 people want to read
About the author
Christina Lee
58 books2,148 followersChristina writes romance in different sub-genres, mostly with LGBTQ characters, not only because she's part of the community, but because representation matters, and everyone deserves a happily-ever-after.
You can find more info on her website: www.christinalee.net. From there you can link to her Facebook reader group as well as her IG account and newsletter.
You can find more info on her website: www.christinalee.net. From there you can link to her Facebook reader group as well as her IG account and newsletter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
September 3, 2019
One of the few Christina Lee books I've not read, Kickflip is an interesting blend of new adult, Motorcycle Club and love after trauma.
I enjoyed pretty much all of it, it never got overly angsty, the stresses and traumas felt real and believable and I loved the UST which built up slowly between Cory and Jude.
The big dramatic moment fit the Motorcycle Club narrative and I didn't find it beyond the realms of possibility.
Loved the secondary characters and the setting and I'm planning on heading into the rest of the series after I'm done with my ARC commitments.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
I enjoyed pretty much all of it, it never got overly angsty, the stresses and traumas felt real and believable and I loved the UST which built up slowly between Cory and Jude.
The big dramatic moment fit the Motorcycle Club narrative and I didn't find it beyond the realms of possibility.
Loved the secondary characters and the setting and I'm planning on heading into the rest of the series after I'm done with my ARC commitments.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
June 7, 2025
I don’t know what I was expecting when I picked up this book, maybe some sort of Avril Lavigne’s Sk8er Boi related plot, but it was definitely not a sad skater hiding in plain sight and a thoughtful tattoo artist looking for love.
Still, I was not disappointed. Even if the skating part wasn’t as prominent as I was expecting, this was still a really sweet story with some very deep moments and a strong connection between the MCs.
The whole subplot with the motorcycle club and the action scenes were a bit out there, but still enjoyable.
Still, I was not disappointed. Even if the skating part wasn’t as prominent as I was expecting, this was still a really sweet story with some very deep moments and a strong connection between the MCs.
The whole subplot with the motorcycle club and the action scenes were a bit out there, but still enjoyable.
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August 30, 2019❤️❤️KICKFLIP is LIVE!❤️❤️
#hurtcomfort #skateboarderandtattooartist #abitofmystery #butstillacontemporary
❤️Universal link: mybook.to/Kickflip
❤️Amazon US (and in KU): https://amzn.to/2Pkfa65
**JUST AN FYI: If you are searching for There You Stand, it no longer exists (though you can find it in your library if you already own it, obviously). Rights have been reverted and it's no longer part of the Between Breaths series. It's been re-edited with bonus material added and released again with a new title and cover as a complete standalone (and a prequel of sorts to my Roadmap series)! It will also be available in KU for the first time as well.
#hurtcomfort #skateboarderandtattooartist #abitofmystery #butstillacontemporary
❤️Universal link: mybook.to/Kickflip
❤️Amazon US (and in KU): https://amzn.to/2Pkfa65
**JUST AN FYI: If you are searching for There You Stand, it no longer exists (though you can find it in your library if you already own it, obviously). Rights have been reverted and it's no longer part of the Between Breaths series. It's been re-edited with bonus material added and released again with a new title and cover as a complete standalone (and a prequel of sorts to my Roadmap series)! It will also be available in KU for the first time as well.
March 10, 2020
This was an MM with a HEA about Cory, a tattoo artist and a somewhat mysterious guy Jude he falls for.
I really liked this one right from the start because I seem to like the writing style first of all. I like how it starts progressing slowly unlike so many in the genre. There's no too many characters to confuse you and to keep up with the names either for me. There's nothing too much or too little, nothing confusing, nothing to go back and forth for clearing up which I detest. No immediate sex scenes either. No too long descriptions. It's something that feels like real. I liked the characters and it was a pleasant read. An easy read for me. Easy to keep up with, not hard to concentrate on it.
I really liked this one right from the start because I seem to like the writing style first of all. I like how it starts progressing slowly unlike so many in the genre. There's no too many characters to confuse you and to keep up with the names either for me. There's nothing too much or too little, nothing confusing, nothing to go back and forth for clearing up which I detest. No immediate sex scenes either. No too long descriptions. It's something that feels like real. I liked the characters and it was a pleasant read. An easy read for me. Easy to keep up with, not hard to concentrate on it.
September 17, 2022
Since I was planning to read the Roadmap to Your Heart series, I wanted to start with this book, because some characters in that series first introduced here.
As much as I like Cory and Jude, I can't say I loved the book that much.
I'm more curious about the stories of the MC Club!!
As much as I like Cory and Jude, I can't say I loved the book that much.
I'm more curious about the stories of the MC Club!!
March 23, 2024
3.5 stars
August 31, 2019
3.5 Stars
This book is somewhat difficult for me to review because as much as I loved Jude and Cory together, there were some things that really bothered me about their relationship as well.
Cory's a tattoo artist (swoon) and a dog lover (seriously!) and he's got a wandering eye for skater boy Jude. Cory's past is full of sorrow and death, making him skittish around letting someone in.
Jude is an enigma. He's so bottled up, tense and seemingly mute. His world has been unraveling for years and allowing anyone to get close could risk both their lives.
Sometimes, the pull is too rough and you can't fight fate.
Christina Lee can write longing and romance, no question. I felt the need and despair between Cory and Jude. The heat and attraction. The fear. I loved the descriptions of their feelings and the emotions they shared together.
I didn't love the beginning of the story. It was difficult for me to get into when Jude was so cut off and angsty. I also didn't fully understand the motorcycle gang and their influence on the relationship between Cory and Jude.
The writing was gorgeous, the boys were lovely and broken and perfect for each other. Overall, the story was an enjoyable read.
*Galley copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted to http://gaybook.reviews/*
This book is somewhat difficult for me to review because as much as I loved Jude and Cory together, there were some things that really bothered me about their relationship as well.
Cory's a tattoo artist (swoon) and a dog lover (seriously!) and he's got a wandering eye for skater boy Jude. Cory's past is full of sorrow and death, making him skittish around letting someone in.
Jude is an enigma. He's so bottled up, tense and seemingly mute. His world has been unraveling for years and allowing anyone to get close could risk both their lives.
Sometimes, the pull is too rough and you can't fight fate.
Christina Lee can write longing and romance, no question. I felt the need and despair between Cory and Jude. The heat and attraction. The fear. I loved the descriptions of their feelings and the emotions they shared together.
I didn't love the beginning of the story. It was difficult for me to get into when Jude was so cut off and angsty. I also didn't fully understand the motorcycle gang and their influence on the relationship between Cory and Jude.
The writing was gorgeous, the boys were lovely and broken and perfect for each other. Overall, the story was an enjoyable read.
*Galley copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted to http://gaybook.reviews/*
September 3, 2019
I just want to hug these guys, how can I make that happen???
So many feelings, so much sexual tension, so much heartache! Ms. Lee really knows how to pull at my heartstrings- Cory and Jude’s story was so touching and emotional, I really wanted to whisk them away from the world.
Cory was a master of disguise, hiding his loneliness behind laughter and keeping busy. Jude was such an enigma to start, it was hard to get a feel for him until Cory was able to break down his walls. I loved seeing Cory and Jude open up to each other, how they learned to trust.
I enjoyed their story so much- it was angsty, sweet, heartwrenching, and quite intense there at the end.
So many feelings, so much sexual tension, so much heartache! Ms. Lee really knows how to pull at my heartstrings- Cory and Jude’s story was so touching and emotional, I really wanted to whisk them away from the world.
Cory was a master of disguise, hiding his loneliness behind laughter and keeping busy. Jude was such an enigma to start, it was hard to get a feel for him until Cory was able to break down his walls. I loved seeing Cory and Jude open up to each other, how they learned to trust.
I enjoyed their story so much- it was angsty, sweet, heartwrenching, and quite intense there at the end.
July 26, 2024
Cory thinks skateboarding is an extreme sport, making Jude a daredevil for doing kickflips.
Crazy.
Anyways; Jude and Cory are adorable plus there was some mystery to this which was pretty cool.
Iggy Toma's British accent was everything.
Crazy.
Anyways; Jude and Cory are adorable plus there was some mystery to this which was pretty cool.
Iggy Toma's British accent was everything.
August 13, 2023
SkaterBoy
Outwardly Cory Easton is getting through his life as best he can, working as a Tattooist and taking care of his Grandma who lives nearby. Inside he is still broken following the death of his boyfriend in a motorcycle accident a few years ago. He feels some guilt about how it happened and the issues around Damon remaining in the closet.
More recently a boyfriend of several months just upped and left, leaving his dog in Cory’s care. Cory also has his own dog to care for but Chopper is a “mutt with a problem”.
The one good thing about Chopper is that he brought Jude York into Cory’s life.
Jude lives a strange life in Cory’s estimation. He hardly says a word and Cory never stops talking. Both men have reasons they are as they are. Life hasn’t been kind to either of them, each having lost everyone dear to them. Cory has only his Grandma left, and that’s why he treasurers her so much.
Jude’s life for the past 10 years has been horrendous. When he eventually opens up a tiny bit he asks Cory for a Tattoo. This is a turning point for them.
This story is a slow burn for the first 33%, but the chemistry between Cory and Jude cannot be ignored. When Cory finally gets to hear Jude tell his story, he is scared. Very scared.
I thought this book was going to be about a couple of Skater Boys in competition with each other. Was I surprised? Oh yes.
Parts of it had me in tears, parts had me so angry mad I had to put it down and do some shopping therapy.
The storyline was engrossing and I connected with Cory and Jude immediately. There were interesting side characters at the Tattoo Shop and a set of Biker Guys at the Hogs Den Pub, and Cory’s Grandma. Important side creatures are Chopper, Ace and Patch.
Haven’t read any others in this series but I’ve earmarked them plus a few books Christina Lee has written with another author.
Outwardly Cory Easton is getting through his life as best he can, working as a Tattooist and taking care of his Grandma who lives nearby. Inside he is still broken following the death of his boyfriend in a motorcycle accident a few years ago. He feels some guilt about how it happened and the issues around Damon remaining in the closet.
More recently a boyfriend of several months just upped and left, leaving his dog in Cory’s care. Cory also has his own dog to care for but Chopper is a “mutt with a problem”.
The one good thing about Chopper is that he brought Jude York into Cory’s life.
Jude lives a strange life in Cory’s estimation. He hardly says a word and Cory never stops talking. Both men have reasons they are as they are. Life hasn’t been kind to either of them, each having lost everyone dear to them. Cory has only his Grandma left, and that’s why he treasurers her so much.
Jude’s life for the past 10 years has been horrendous. When he eventually opens up a tiny bit he asks Cory for a Tattoo. This is a turning point for them.
This story is a slow burn for the first 33%, but the chemistry between Cory and Jude cannot be ignored. When Cory finally gets to hear Jude tell his story, he is scared. Very scared.
I thought this book was going to be about a couple of Skater Boys in competition with each other. Was I surprised? Oh yes.
Parts of it had me in tears, parts had me so angry mad I had to put it down and do some shopping therapy.
The storyline was engrossing and I connected with Cory and Jude immediately. There were interesting side characters at the Tattoo Shop and a set of Biker Guys at the Hogs Den Pub, and Cory’s Grandma. Important side creatures are Chopper, Ace and Patch.
Haven’t read any others in this series but I’ve earmarked them plus a few books Christina Lee has written with another author.
September 6, 2019
I believe this is Christina's first MM story, and though I read some of her newest books (and loved it), Kickflip held my attention. I love stories about broken men and their secrets.
And as a newbie in MM world (we have to look backward), Christina wrote MM really good, especially the dynamic and chemistry in MM that not everyone can do.
Cory and Jude started their 'relationship' with a dog. And we know that dogs are the best medium to start a relationship, huh?
Especially when Jude was really good with a wild dog that Cory cannot really understand how to tamed.
The dynamic between Cory and Jude ran smoothly with tattoo and all.
This is actually a very sweet story, with low to medium angst that I preferred.
Well done, Christina!
November 5, 2021
**Audiobook Version Review**
And this book here pervs and pervets is where and why I feel in love with the narrator Iggy Toma 😍😍😍😍😍.
Gahhh!! I don't know where to start!! Iggy Toma did such a good job with narrating and bringing these two lonely souls to life. I literally felt like I was at the skate park at times with them just being a whole creep watching their whole love story unfold. From Cory's New Yorkish accent to Jude's British one I just couldn't help but fall in love with both of them!!! And I loved the doggies also!!!!
After listening to this audiobook I made it my mission to find any and everything Iggy and listen to it!! So glad I did 😍 because that's how my X-men of narrators was born!
And this book here pervs and pervets is where and why I feel in love with the narrator Iggy Toma 😍😍😍😍😍.
Gahhh!! I don't know where to start!! Iggy Toma did such a good job with narrating and bringing these two lonely souls to life. I literally felt like I was at the skate park at times with them just being a whole creep watching their whole love story unfold. From Cory's New Yorkish accent to Jude's British one I just couldn't help but fall in love with both of them!!! And I loved the doggies also!!!!
After listening to this audiobook I made it my mission to find any and everything Iggy and listen to it!! So glad I did 😍 because that's how my X-men of narrators was born!
August 29, 2019
A Beautiful Story
I truly loved Cory and Jude’s story and I read it in one sitting! This was a bit of a departure from a usual read for me on the hurt/comfort aspect and I couldn’t be more glad that I went outside that zone for myself. Jude just grabbed me from the start and my heart aches for his sadness and I loved seeing him slowly open up to Cory. In turn, Cory’s patience with Jude, never giving up and holding true to himself, just kept me on the edge of my seat. I enjoyed the mystery and intrigue surrounding Jude’s past and present. The chemistry between Cory and Jude was palpable and was super hot. I truly enjoyed Cory and Jude’s story and I can’t wait to read more about the other characters in this book in the follow up series! I couldn’t recommend this book more! Truly wonderful, but make sure to have. a tissue handy - you may need it!
I truly loved Cory and Jude’s story and I read it in one sitting! This was a bit of a departure from a usual read for me on the hurt/comfort aspect and I couldn’t be more glad that I went outside that zone for myself. Jude just grabbed me from the start and my heart aches for his sadness and I loved seeing him slowly open up to Cory. In turn, Cory’s patience with Jude, never giving up and holding true to himself, just kept me on the edge of my seat. I enjoyed the mystery and intrigue surrounding Jude’s past and present. The chemistry between Cory and Jude was palpable and was super hot. I truly enjoyed Cory and Jude’s story and I can’t wait to read more about the other characters in this book in the follow up series! I couldn’t recommend this book more! Truly wonderful, but make sure to have. a tissue handy - you may need it!
September 5, 2019
This book was a good romance. it was intriguing and I enjoyed the suspense and mystery surrounding Jude. Its kept me at just the right amount of curious to keep reading even though I would have preferred to have the connection between the MC's be built more on them getting to know each other then the pining for the unknown they share for each other. I mean, insta love (or lust) is fine but the intensity is a bit too much for me when they know so little about each other and have almost no interactions.
It was a sweet romance all the same, with some very emotional backstories for both Jude and Cory. The lust and later love they share is explosive, yet healing and both men find themselves more then who they started out as in the end.
It was a sweet romance all the same, with some very emotional backstories for both Jude and Cory. The lust and later love they share is explosive, yet healing and both men find themselves more then who they started out as in the end.
September 15, 2019
This book took me days to read. It was super slow and took forever for the main characters to get together.
Jude’s constant standoffish ways... just wasn’t working for me. I needed more. Him not talking for a good chunk of the book was also getting to me.
I was expecting something different.
Unfortunately this book just didn’t work for me. I skimmed a lot because I wanted to get to the meat of this book. Which was only hear and there.
I loved the cover of this book and was hoping for something different.
*ARC provided for an honest review.*
Jude’s constant standoffish ways... just wasn’t working for me. I needed more. Him not talking for a good chunk of the book was also getting to me.
I was expecting something different.
Unfortunately this book just didn’t work for me. I skimmed a lot because I wanted to get to the meat of this book. Which was only hear and there.
I loved the cover of this book and was hoping for something different.
*ARC provided for an honest review.*
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 30, 2024
My rating is actually more like 3.5 points.
The story is a bit too predictable and a bit too cutesy for me but the suspense added in with Jude's mysterious past gave me enough to enjoy it. It really had several good moments but I doubt I will remember this book a year from now - it just doesn't stand out enough.
The story is a bit too predictable and a bit too cutesy for me but the suspense added in with Jude's mysterious past gave me enough to enjoy it. It really had several good moments but I doubt I will remember this book a year from now - it just doesn't stand out enough.
September 2, 2019
Amaizing!!!
I love , love this two, Cory and Jude, what a beatiful story, exactly what I like, a beatiful love story with a shot of suspense and a happy end. I live your books Christina Lee, this one don't disappointed.
I love , love this two, Cory and Jude, what a beatiful story, exactly what I like, a beatiful love story with a shot of suspense and a happy end. I live your books Christina Lee, this one don't disappointed.
September 13, 2019
Loved this! A slow burn with a little angst. So good. I love Corey & Jude!
November 11, 2021
Yup it seriously took me this long to finish this book. Not one of CL’s best.
October 16, 2020
"...without fail my gaze was immediately drawn to him, like a damned weed to the sun."
THESE. BOYS. UGH.
I think I have officially found another favourite MM couple. Like, how can you get any better than Cory and Jude?? You can't.
Cory is a tattoo artist who can't help but be drawn to Jude York, the new guy in town who has a lot of rumours circulating about him, and doesn't seem to talk if he doesn't have to, but Cory and his big mouth can't seem to stop rambling and filling the silence in a bid to get Jude to open up.
This book is only told from Cory's POV, and I was a little sad about this at first because I absolute love dual POVs, but when you start reading this book and come to know Jude's character, it's obvious that we couldn't have read from his point of view without finding out the whole reason why he is the way he is. Can somebody say spoiler? Besides, because he doesn't speak much, Jude's character is so expressive through his eyes or simply his posture and his actions that we get a lot of insight into how he actually feels about certain things. (Especially Cory.)
These boys captured my heart from the first chapter! I read The Darkest Flame first and wasn't too invested in Cory and Jude's story just from the tidbits that we got, but I was too curious not to read the sample chapter offered at the end of the book... and here we are. One measly chapter about Jude, Cory, and Chopper, and I was GONE.
Can I just say though: they are honestly the sweetest. They come to care so deeply for one another, would do anything for each other, and some of the lines between these two just melted my heart.
THESE. BOYS. UGH.
I think I have officially found another favourite MM couple. Like, how can you get any better than Cory and Jude?? You can't.
Cory is a tattoo artist who can't help but be drawn to Jude York, the new guy in town who has a lot of rumours circulating about him, and doesn't seem to talk if he doesn't have to, but Cory and his big mouth can't seem to stop rambling and filling the silence in a bid to get Jude to open up.
This book is only told from Cory's POV, and I was a little sad about this at first because I absolute love dual POVs, but when you start reading this book and come to know Jude's character, it's obvious that we couldn't have read from his point of view without finding out the whole reason why he is the way he is. Can somebody say spoiler? Besides, because he doesn't speak much, Jude's character is so expressive through his eyes or simply his posture and his actions that we get a lot of insight into how he actually feels about certain things. (Especially Cory.)
These boys captured my heart from the first chapter! I read The Darkest Flame first and wasn't too invested in Cory and Jude's story just from the tidbits that we got, but I was too curious not to read the sample chapter offered at the end of the book... and here we are. One measly chapter about Jude, Cory, and Chopper, and I was GONE.
Can I just say though: they are honestly the sweetest. They come to care so deeply for one another, would do anything for each other, and some of the lines between these two just melted my heart.
June 23, 2024
I believe this slow-burn, friends-to-lovers story might have been Christina’s first MM book. It precedes the Roadmap to Your Heart series that circles a small-town motorcycle club. 'Kickflip' tells the story of quiet, mysterious skateboarder Jude (who has some dealings with the club) and tattoo artist Cory who has been working on Jude’s new tattoos. (Please note that this story was formerly published as There You Stand, this is a newly revised version.)
Small-town tattoo artist Cory carries heavy sadness with him everywhere he goes, even if nobody really notices it since he puts on a good facade. He lost his partner in a motorcycle accident that also gravely injured him but hides his constant emotional and physical pain from everyone. He lives for his art, for his grandma, his dogs and pretty much keeps everyone at arms length. He is truly intrigued by skateboarder Jude, who also hides some secrets and a grave trauma that he tries to cover up with a new tattoo. The two men are inexplicably drawn to each other but it frustrates Cory beyond measure that Jude barely talks about himself and Cory cannot learn anything about him. Jude is an enigma, so bottled up and tense all the time. It takes numerous accidental meetings and planned tattoo appointments for them to become friends … and slowly admit their attraction to each other. An unhurried, steady start filled with some sexual tension and tentative chemistry allows more than ample time for these men to grow a viable, realistic friendship … and eventually gain the courage to take their relationship to a new level. After all the pain, you can rest assured that they find their HEA with each other.
Hurt/Comfort
Slow Burn
Friends to Lovers
Low Angst
Small-town tattoo artist Cory carries heavy sadness with him everywhere he goes, even if nobody really notices it since he puts on a good facade. He lost his partner in a motorcycle accident that also gravely injured him but hides his constant emotional and physical pain from everyone. He lives for his art, for his grandma, his dogs and pretty much keeps everyone at arms length. He is truly intrigued by skateboarder Jude, who also hides some secrets and a grave trauma that he tries to cover up with a new tattoo. The two men are inexplicably drawn to each other but it frustrates Cory beyond measure that Jude barely talks about himself and Cory cannot learn anything about him. Jude is an enigma, so bottled up and tense all the time. It takes numerous accidental meetings and planned tattoo appointments for them to become friends … and slowly admit their attraction to each other. An unhurried, steady start filled with some sexual tension and tentative chemistry allows more than ample time for these men to grow a viable, realistic friendship … and eventually gain the courage to take their relationship to a new level. After all the pain, you can rest assured that they find their HEA with each other.
Hurt/Comfort
Slow Burn
Friends to Lovers
Low Angst
May 28, 2024
🛹🛹
Kickflip || Christina Lee
Tattoo artist, Cory has been going through a rough few years, after an accident leaves him with a back injury and 2 dogs to look after - as well as his grandma.
When Jude comes in to get a tattoo, he is intrigued and attracted to the quiet and private skater. He doesn’t really speak, but they run into each all over town, and form a quiet bond. Jude is getting a large tree tattoo on his back to cover up a myriad of scars which has Cory even more intrigued. When they start to spend more time together, and Jude starts actually talking to him they get closer and admit to having feelings for each other.
““True or false,” I said, leaning forward. “You want me to touch you.” He trembled.
“Yes. More than anything.””
But even though Cory shares details about his past, Jude still refuses to open up to him - saying he can’t, that it is dangerous. It frustrates Cory, but he can’t stay away, neither of them can. They share a few intimate moments before Jude is finally open with Corey and they spend a night together. But one night isn’t enough and they navigate the demons of Jude’s past together.
I really liked this story, I thought it was super sweet and had some lovely intimate moments.
““Jude?” My thumb lazily circled his stomach. There was a question I’d been gearing up to ask him for days.
“Hmmm?” he replied, his fingers still grazing my temples.
“That note you wrote me,” I mumbled. “When you had to leave…”
“Meant every single word,” he said without hesitation, then curled his arm over my waist, settling in.
“Thank God,” I murmured. “Because I love you too.””
🛹MM Romance
🛹Past Trauma
🛹MC Club
🛹HEA
Kickflip || Christina Lee
Tattoo artist, Cory has been going through a rough few years, after an accident leaves him with a back injury and 2 dogs to look after - as well as his grandma.
When Jude comes in to get a tattoo, he is intrigued and attracted to the quiet and private skater. He doesn’t really speak, but they run into each all over town, and form a quiet bond. Jude is getting a large tree tattoo on his back to cover up a myriad of scars which has Cory even more intrigued. When they start to spend more time together, and Jude starts actually talking to him they get closer and admit to having feelings for each other.
““True or false,” I said, leaning forward. “You want me to touch you.” He trembled.
“Yes. More than anything.””
But even though Cory shares details about his past, Jude still refuses to open up to him - saying he can’t, that it is dangerous. It frustrates Cory, but he can’t stay away, neither of them can. They share a few intimate moments before Jude is finally open with Corey and they spend a night together. But one night isn’t enough and they navigate the demons of Jude’s past together.
I really liked this story, I thought it was super sweet and had some lovely intimate moments.
““Jude?” My thumb lazily circled his stomach. There was a question I’d been gearing up to ask him for days.
“Hmmm?” he replied, his fingers still grazing my temples.
“That note you wrote me,” I mumbled. “When you had to leave…”
“Meant every single word,” he said without hesitation, then curled his arm over my waist, settling in.
“Thank God,” I murmured. “Because I love you too.””
🛹MM Romance
🛹Past Trauma
🛹MC Club
🛹HEA
November 17, 2019
made it 70% or so through the book. Just couldn't finish. It was overly dramatic. Cory and Jude have to be two of the most annoying characters I've ever come across. I thought Cory was much older than Jude in the beginning because I thought he was more mature with his great losses throughout his life. I thought Jude was younger because he was this mysterious guy who hung out at the skate park. I was really surprised when the author said that Cory was only a few years older than Jude. His stalking of Jude didn't seem so creepy as it had before.
They acted like 14 year old kids with all their undying passion. They could give Romeo and Juliet lessons on the whole star-crossed lovers bit.
We find out that Jude is on the run from his stepfather and is hiding out under the protection of the feds and a motorcycle gang. Really? Why haven't the feds arrested the stepfather by now? Why haven't the motorcycle gang taken care of the stepfather? I'm guessing there's some sort of showdown at the climax of the book and that's why this guy is still walking around.
It was just a horrible book. Sorry
They acted like 14 year old kids with all their undying passion. They could give Romeo and Juliet lessons on the whole star-crossed lovers bit.
We find out that Jude is on the run from his stepfather and is hiding out under the protection of the feds and a motorcycle gang. Really? Why haven't the feds arrested the stepfather by now? Why haven't the motorcycle gang taken care of the stepfather? I'm guessing there's some sort of showdown at the climax of the book and that's why this guy is still walking around.
It was just a horrible book. Sorry
June 8, 2022
I read "The Darkest Flame" in 2018 and hadn't the chance to get my hands on any of the rest of the Roadmap to Your Heart series until now, but the story line of the Disciples and their lives is so intriguing to me. Just the right bit of darkness and mystery to draw you in and let you live in their world for a while. Cory and Jude's love story is beautiful, very realistic in a world like the Disciples live in. These two would make an incredible movie (though from the two books I've now read, I'd argue Roadmap to Your Heart would make a fantastic movie series). I'm so glad I've gotten back into this little world of the Disciples and the Hog's Den - I cannot wait to read every word written in this series. Christina really knows how to create a world that surrounds you as you read - you fall in love with these characters and feel at home with them, you feel that sense of family with them. Sexy, angsty and sweet - beyond worth the read.
Audiobook narrator for this book - Iggy Toma - portrays the story wonderfully and his voice acting brings it all to life.
Audiobook narrator for this book - Iggy Toma - portrays the story wonderfully and his voice acting brings it all to life.
June 16, 2024
🅁🄴🅅🄸🄴🅆
“When you’re around, that quiet inside me doesn’t feel so lonely.”
This is an older book from Christina Lee, and I highly enjoyed it! Kickflip is part of the Roadmap to your Heart series but can be read as a standalone. Jude and Cory had such a lovely slow burn romance—when the heat hits, it hits! I loved the twists and turns this book took—from the cover, you would never guess how angsty this book is. Overall, really liked it and glad I finally got around to reading this one!! 🫶🏻
🄷🄸🄶🄷🄻🄸🄶🄷🅃🅂
🛹 tattoo artist/skateboarder
🛹 slow burn
🛹 hurt/comfort
🛹 HEA
🛹 found family
🅀🅄🄾🅃🄴🅂
“His lips slipped dangerously close to mine. I couldn’t risk frightening him away, even as my heart was clawing its way out of my chest. I begged and pleaded and prayed that he’d slant his mouth across mine. Instead, he ghosted his lips directly above, mere inches away, as if we were mirror images. And as he stared into my eyes while hovering over me, I was gone. Dead. Dying of hunger. Thirst. To finally sip from his lips, taste his tongue.”
🛹available on KU!🛹
“When you’re around, that quiet inside me doesn’t feel so lonely.”
This is an older book from Christina Lee, and I highly enjoyed it! Kickflip is part of the Roadmap to your Heart series but can be read as a standalone. Jude and Cory had such a lovely slow burn romance—when the heat hits, it hits! I loved the twists and turns this book took—from the cover, you would never guess how angsty this book is. Overall, really liked it and glad I finally got around to reading this one!! 🫶🏻
🄷🄸🄶🄷🄻🄸🄶🄷🅃🅂
🛹 tattoo artist/skateboarder
🛹 slow burn
🛹 hurt/comfort
🛹 HEA
🛹 found family
🅀🅄🄾🅃🄴🅂
“His lips slipped dangerously close to mine. I couldn’t risk frightening him away, even as my heart was clawing its way out of my chest. I begged and pleaded and prayed that he’d slant his mouth across mine. Instead, he ghosted his lips directly above, mere inches away, as if we were mirror images. And as he stared into my eyes while hovering over me, I was gone. Dead. Dying of hunger. Thirst. To finally sip from his lips, taste his tongue.”
🛹available on KU!🛹
September 16, 2019
This was such a sweet, slow burn of tale of two young, damaged and very brave young men. So much trust had to be earned here, by the both of them and to watch them slowly let the other in was really beautiful. Jude was born in England, and being English myself, it was so good to see that research was done to make him sound authentic and not what some authors think an English person would sound like, and the words they'd use, so that was refreshing and a big tick for the book from me as it can really ruin a book if it's not done well. Jude and Cory's love for each other grew so naturally and I could feel their hesitancy, their heartbreak and their growing love for each other come off page. It's one of the rare reads that I picked up for a few pages then put it down because I couldn't bear for it to end... It's one of my favourite books this year and now I'm going back to reread the Roadmap to Your Heart series.
October 9, 2023
Rounded up from 3.5.
Listened to the audio, I didn't realize it was part of a series right away, only thought so once the club characters started showing up. The audio was good, except for the parts with Jude... The narrator just couldn't pull off the British accent and just kind of made his voice gravelly instead. The story itself was interesting, glad I listened to it instead of reading it as I feel like I would have DNF due to the pacing and the constant silence from Jude. The climax resolution was a little weak, but I liked the characters and really felt for how they were feeling and what they were going through. Cory's constant suspicion of Jude being a Bad Guy was a bit frustrating, but I get it since Jude just wouldn't say anything. Did I mention how annoying that was? I get the whole mysterious angle of it, but since we didn't get his viewpoint at all, it was hard to really relate at first. It did get better once he started opening up.
Listened to the audio, I didn't realize it was part of a series right away, only thought so once the club characters started showing up. The audio was good, except for the parts with Jude... The narrator just couldn't pull off the British accent and just kind of made his voice gravelly instead. The story itself was interesting, glad I listened to it instead of reading it as I feel like I would have DNF due to the pacing and the constant silence from Jude. The climax resolution was a little weak, but I liked the characters and really felt for how they were feeling and what they were going through. Cory's constant suspicion of Jude being a Bad Guy was a bit frustrating, but I get it since Jude just wouldn't say anything. Did I mention how annoying that was? I get the whole mysterious angle of it, but since we didn't get his viewpoint at all, it was hard to really relate at first. It did get better once he started opening up.
March 18, 2021
I loved this book so much!
I had already read it as There You Stand, and I appreciated it just as much this second time, as Kickflip. The story hasn't undergone substantial changes, only minor adjustments and is just as sweet and intriguing as ever.
I loved Jude and Cory, their skittish way of approaching and retreating and getting closer and closer until they're in too deep and they can't imagine not being together.
There are sexy moments, a whole lot of sweet moments, scary moments and two guarded guys who learn to let go of their pasts and start to think of their future, together.
This is the perfect premise to the Roadmap series, though it can absolutely be read as a standalone, you won't want to miss the awsomeness that is the Roadmap series, starting with the first two books set in the motorcycle club that is a central focus in Kickflip, too.
I had already read it as There You Stand, and I appreciated it just as much this second time, as Kickflip. The story hasn't undergone substantial changes, only minor adjustments and is just as sweet and intriguing as ever.
I loved Jude and Cory, their skittish way of approaching and retreating and getting closer and closer until they're in too deep and they can't imagine not being together.
There are sexy moments, a whole lot of sweet moments, scary moments and two guarded guys who learn to let go of their pasts and start to think of their future, together.
This is the perfect premise to the Roadmap series, though it can absolutely be read as a standalone, you won't want to miss the awsomeness that is the Roadmap series, starting with the first two books set in the motorcycle club that is a central focus in Kickflip, too.
September 16, 2019
★★★★ FOUR STARS!!!
I absolutely love Cory and Jude!! I initially read this back when it was There You Stand and fell in love with these boys. This revised edition is just as great. I love that Christina Lee writes with such emotion and love that's put into these characters.
Jude is this sexy, mysterious skaterboarder that has piqued the interest of the super sweet and loveable Cory. There is so much sexual tension between these two. The unexpected friendship these two form is written so beautifully. I love the slow burn and emotional journey between Cory and Jude.
I love this author's writing talent. This is another great read to add to the reread list and a must to add the paperback to my bookshelf with this gorgeous new cover!
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review***
I absolutely love Cory and Jude!! I initially read this back when it was There You Stand and fell in love with these boys. This revised edition is just as great. I love that Christina Lee writes with such emotion and love that's put into these characters.
Jude is this sexy, mysterious skaterboarder that has piqued the interest of the super sweet and loveable Cory. There is so much sexual tension between these two. The unexpected friendship these two form is written so beautifully. I love the slow burn and emotional journey between Cory and Jude.
I love this author's writing talent. This is another great read to add to the reread list and a must to add the paperback to my bookshelf with this gorgeous new cover!
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review***
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