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Love Inscribed #2

Marc Jillson & The Gazebo

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Want true, heart-throbbing romance? Put down the Cheetos, and stop being a jackass.

The question is, can I do it?

I’ve been an epic dick to my friends, my uncle. Him.

Travis Hunter. Photographer, econ-student, paraplegic. Can I redeem myself? Apologize? Make a fresh start?

Hunter seems to think so. Even roped me into saving his favorite gazebo from the bulldozers.

The confidence of this man amazes me. He’s no bullshit where I’m all bullshit. I throw up walls where he knocks them down.

He’s beautiful, too. Strong arms inked with hummingbirds, a wide teasing mouth, and blue eyes that read me like an open book.

He looks at me, and I look away.

These shivery feelings I have for Hunter? They can’t happen. I don’t deserve him.

Where did I put those Cheetos?

~ ~ ~

"Marc Jillson & The Gazebo" is a sweet, sexy M/M romance with humor and a definite HEA. This New Adult, college, redemption story is book two in the "Love Inscribed" series.

The books in the "Love Inscribed" series are standalone romances, and can be read in any order.


LIAM DAVIS & THE RAVEN: Liam & Quinn's story
MARC JILLSON & THE GAZEBO: Marc & Hunter's story

229 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 14, 2020

64 people are currently reading
429 people want to read

About the author

Anyta Sunday

111 books2,734 followers
Specialising in slow-burn romances where emotions reign, intimacy lingers, and chemistry sizzles—stories that leave you holding your breath and cheering for love, with just a splash of spice to sweeten the journey.

Check out my website:
Contact: http://www.anytasunday.com/?page_id=386

Für deutsche Leser:
http://www.anytasunday.de/

In italiano:
http://www.anytasunday.it/

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5 stars
318 (40%)
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337 (42%)
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116 (14%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 181 reviews
Profile Image for ☆ Todd.
1,441 reviews1,583 followers
May 8, 2020

This was a fun, cute continuation of the "Liam Davis & The Raven" story, which ended with Marc Jillson being a right prick, but upbeat Hunter still showing some interest.

As the story began, with his former crush, Jack, in prison, Marc had a lot of soul searching to do, since his previous arsehole ways had burned a lot of bridges that he found himself needing.

You see, while trying to impress Jack, Marc had cruelly and repeatedly made fun of both Liam and Liam's wheelchair-bound BFF Hunter. Pretty shitty, right?

Despite all of that, Hunter was able to cut straight through Marc's bullshit and see the worthwhile person under his well-constructed shell of lies.

The story was told entirely from Marc's POV, and for a large part of the book, his main internal conflict was the realization that Hunter was probably too good for him. A point actively stressed by Quinn, Hunter's friend and Liam's boyfriend.

Then for Hunter, after unsuccessfully dating several guys, he had a deep insecurity that he would ever find someone who could feel that dealing with his paraplegic status was worth the effort required to date him.

The parts where we discovered the true meaning behind his "DeMage" gaming screen name and confession that "Nobody wants to date this forever" broke my heart right down the center. : (

This one was definitely an extreme slow burn, but the first parts of the story seemed a bit slow, too, although I'm not sure precisely why I felt that way, as there was plenty going on, yet mentally, there seemed to be a slight lag.

However, it was during the last half of the book that the story really grew wings and flew for me, as three, yes *three*, different romances began to take shape and take firm steps toward their HEA's.

As the story progressed, after an initial ambivalence, I got attached to that damned gazebo, too, and was about to step in front of The Bulldozers of Destruction myself, all "You Shall Not Pass!" style. Viva la resistance, bitches!

The steam was there, flip-floppy, and pretty hot, but not the main focus of the relationship between Marc and Hunter, plus, I found it to be informative in relation to the mechanics of sex for someone with no feeling from the waist down, which was pretty enlightening.

And regarding the angst, just as a teeny warning, the story did hint at the possibility of martyr behavior and a "Big Misunderstanding" looming on the horizon, but those were blessedly avoided here.

I'd rate this one at 4.25 *the-ending-was-everything* stars and recommend it to Anyta fans, for sure.

-----------------------------------------------

My ARC copy of the book was provided by the author in exchange for a fair, unbiased review.

See All My Latest Reads (Review Quick-Links)

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Profile Image for Sheri.
1,418 reviews196 followers
May 20, 2020
Full.
I am...so full. This story has me floating with pure joy, hope, and love. Ohh, so much love. Here's the scoop...I don't read a lot of NA but when I do, it's almost always a Sunday special. There's just something about her writing that draws me in. It's almost as if her pen has a pulse and her masterful slow-burn lights me up every time. Marc and Hunter were no exception, I was glowing right along with them. I read the first book in the series but, indeed, this can easily stand on its own without having met Liam and Quinn. Both Marc (aka Jill) and Hunter are introduced but it's easy to grasp the gist of what parts they played before. Marc was a bully. Keyword...was. He's swamped with guilt and shame. He was trying to impress a boy, the wrong boy, and inadvertently hurt the right boy. Luckily, the right boy has a forgiving soul. His friends are not as easily swayed but they don't know what Hunter does. They don't see Marc as Hunter can. Beneath the gruff exterior lies a tender marshmallow core and Hunter is determined to show the rest of the world what he knows. Gahhh, come on, I can't wait for you to see for yourself!

What's to like: Marc has made bad choices. But he's not a bad person. He has mastered the art of bullshitting. The most abused victim is...himself. Hunter quickly sees through his disguise and can't help desire the man inside. It helps that Marc accidentally bared his true self behind his computer screen. Yep, you guessed it. They were two gamers who spent countless hours online anonymously all summer until one day, the screen fell away. In the game, they trusted each other. While fighting demons they prove to be a formidable team. If forgiveness is granted maybe, just maybe, they can prevail in the real world too. The tension was intense, I felt like we were in a pressure cooker. But the result was worth it. So worth it.

What's to love: Redemption. Buck up buttercup! It's time to face the music. If Marc's going to move forward he must let go of the past. But how can he ask others for forgiveness when he can't forgive himself? Maybe he just needs a helping hand? Or a swift kick in the ass? Better yet, a powerful mage! Hunter may be my favorite of all of Anyta's guys and I would love for you to see why. He is...inspiring. My heart broke when he shares the story of his 'accident'. I felt the click of that piece of Marc's puzzle and the fierce determination that surged from him to do better and be better. I loved their banter. I loved their passion. I loved their meddling. I loved the extra love stories that were rescued in the wake of saving the gazebo. Destiny strikes! And I'm so thrilled that I was able to accompany them on this swoony adventure.

Beware of: Second chances echo and confirm the power of love. The guys remind us that bravery and fear are always connected. And find a comfy spot to read...you'll likely be a puddle of goo by the end. *sigh* That epilogue!

This book is for: If you're in the mood for two young men that will warm your heart and curl your toes, check out this stunning story...Cheetos snacking is not required.

*4.5 simmering-swoony-spectacular stars*

Book UNfunk
Profile Image for Marci.
574 reviews306 followers
March 1, 2022
“I could fucking live off your laugh.”

I love reading a book I loved so much that it makes me question every single other five star I’ve ever given. This gave me the same feeling I had reading Tryst Six Venom / Felix Ever After / The Final Girl Support Group / The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo to name a few. As in how am I ever supposed to find a book I love as much this!!!! But lucky for me - I keep finding that feeling. Five stars doesn’t feel nearly enough for how much I loved this. 💙 My favorite book I’ve read from Anyta Sunday yet!
Profile Image for Virginia Cavanillas.
Author 58 books191 followers
Read
June 12, 2020
4.5 stars as its predecessor.

And I think we need more books like this, Hunter is EVERYTHING.

Special mention to uncle Ben, his love story had me as absorbed and invested as the one between the main characters.

And that third couple... the one joining the storyline and all love stories together... That ending.

Yup, I love it and I HIGHLY RECOMMEND IT

****betaread this was an absolute pleasure as usual. Anyta, I lurrrrrv you****
Profile Image for Leslie.
1,190 reviews305 followers
May 15, 2020
The reigning queen of the slow burn is back with a new book! This is book two in her, "Love Inscribed," series which started with, "Liam Davis and the Raven." I wasn't head over heels in love with that one but I did like it and I do think it should be read prior to this one to better understand Marc and Hunter and where they are coming from.

Words to describe this one? Sweet, funny and sexy. Like all of her books, it's a slow burn however not as slow as other ones. In fact, I was a little shocked that I didn't have to wait till well over the halfway mark before getting a kiss! Now, I had wondered just how Anyta Sunday would make me love Marc aka Jill from book one. He sure was a jerk in that one. I wondered HOW but I didn’t wonder IF because it’s Anyta and she has magical powers. I live for redemption stories. This was an excellent one. Plus, while I didn't love the previous book, I did love Hunter. And a full book with him did not disappoint. He was just the right person to crack through Marc's shell. I also loved how their love story complimented the plot of them saving the Gazebo. This is a spoiler free review so I don't want to go further than that so let's just say the plot and romance meshed wonderfully and I adored the side characters.


**ARC provided by GRR in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Bev .
2,227 reviews481 followers
May 24, 2020
Although the blurb says this is a standalone, I think reading the first book in the series would have at least stopped me from being so lost and as if I was missing something. At times I felt like I had been dropped into the middle of the story and skipping the first book did this one no favours.

I'm guessing Marc was a dick to all and sundry in the past, he certainly didn't come across as one here, so didn't get the hate for the lad?

Definitely would've enjoyed this much more had I read the previous book, that'll teach me to read out of order!
Profile Image for juli✨.
1,181 reviews144 followers
November 7, 2022
ʀᴇʀᴇᴀᴅ ~ ᴀʙᴏᴜᴛ ᴛᴡᴏ ʏᴇᴀʀꜱ ʟᴀᴛᴇʀ ~
ꜰᴏᴜʀ ꜱᴛᴀʀꜱ ~ ɴᴏ ʜᴀʟꜰꜱɪᴇꜱ ᴛʜɪꜱ ᴛɪᴍᴇ



“I want him to admit he wants me here forever.”
“Jason?”
“Yeah?”
“You’re the only one in his world who calls him Harry.”



Another day, another book to reread and possibly ruin for myself 🙃
… no i am not over possibly ruining Glitterland for myself 🙃🙃🙃🙃


LUCKILY, Marc Jillson & The Gazebo held up really well upon reread, and glancing over my old review I mostly concur with past~julia.


My one major niggle honestly has to do with the romance. While I liked Marc and Hunter's romance it, well … It didn't captivate me as much as the minor side romances (V and K + Uncle Ben and Jason's). I mean it's pretty telling that the quote at the top of this review is an Uncle Ben/Jason quote.


“You know it’s true love when you find a person who accepts you, stupid mistakes and all.”



Idk, I'm of the mindset that a side-romance should never outshine the main romance. However, I will say, Hunter and Marc are still pretty cute. They have this really playful friendship that leads to a deep trust that I think both Marc and Hunter needed.


Therefore, I'm happy to report my continued enjoyment of Marc Jillson & The Gazebo. The romance is sweet, the story is interesting, Marc's redemption arc is very nicely done, and the side romances are extremely engaging.


Fingers crossed that Anyta Sunday will eventually come back to this series and finish Tyler Bently & The Jock.


“… This must have been an excellent morning for you.” He quirked a questioning brow.
I stage-whispered, “There was so much cheese.”
Hunter tipped my forehead to his. “And there was my knight in shining armor.”






- - - - - - -
(original review)


4.5 stars!!



Ahhh that hit the spot!! It has been a hot minute since I read Liam Davis & The Raven! I actually read it back in 2014 when it came out and I remember really enjoying it. So, when I saw that Anyta Sunday wrote a companion novel to it I figured I'd check it out. And wow!! Marc Jillson & The Gazebo sure was a sweet heartwarming romantic read!

Even if you haven't read Liam Davis & The Raven recently you get enough hints in the beginning to piece together what happened in the previous book. Marc Jillson & The Gazebo follows Marc on his story of redemption, falling in love, forgiving himself, and saving a Gazebo. The romance in this one was perfect and I could not get enough of him and Hunter!

I have to say I wanted even more from this book! I would have loved to have more page time for Uncle Ben and Jason as well as K and V. There were so many good couples in this book that I selfishly wanted more! I wanted more of a big makeup between Marc and his Uncle. Or I wanted to know more about what Marc was like before in flashbacks and maybe insight to his mind then.



Also maybe this was mentioned in Liam Davis & The Raven but I really wanted to know why no-one called Hunter by his first name? Like why was he called Hunter and not Travis? I don't know its random but I'm curious.

So if you're thinking about checking out Marc Jillson & The Gazebo do it!! READ IT!

Profile Image for Kaje Harper.
Author 91 books2,727 followers
May 23, 2020
This story ends with a lot of warmth and hope, a positive read for dark times. You do not have to read the first book to enjoy this one (although there is significant character and context overlap, so it will add some understanding if you do.)

Marc Jillson is at a crossroads in his life. He found out a few months ago that the guy he'd been crushing on, and tacitly mirroring in his casual demeaning of others, was also a violent criminal. With Jack now locked up in prison, Marc is faced with all the things he did, not just with Jack, but in the last few years since his father threw him out at sixteen. Marc was taken in by his uncle, but he was angry and hurting, and he turned that on everyone around him. He became a bully and an asshole. And now, he's deeply ashamed.

But he doesn't know how to move forward, so he holes up in his room, playing video games with DaMage - an online friend he knows nothing else about. Someday he plans to apologize to the folks he hurt, to make things right, to do better and move on with his life. But he feels mean and small and unable to start.

Things change when DaMage cyber-stalks him and reveals himself to be Hunter, a good friend of Liam's - one of the people Marc had verbally bullied. Hunter isn't out for revenge, though. After all that time watching each other's backs in the game, Hunter seems to actually like Marc. But Hunter, who is paraplegic, is gorgeous and smart and funny and deserves way better than Marc.

When chance and the need for a school paper story brings them to a gazebo the school is planning to demolish, they find new ties in common. A hidden stash of letters dating back decades gives them a mystery to pursue together. And Hunter's optimism and interest make it hard for Marc to keep his distance.

I enjoyed this one a lot. I liked Marc's journey to find some self-worth. I really appreciated the realistic way Hunter's physical issues are portrayed, neither minimized nor exploited. He's impressively even-keeled and upbeat about his history and limitations, but that makes him able to stay the course in the face of Marc's doubts.

Despite some heavy topics, this felt fairly lightweight. There are touches of humor, and minimal wallowing in angst. I liked that these guys worked their way forward, avoiding misunderstandings and self-martyrdom for the most part. And at the end, we get an extra dose of love and optimism.
Profile Image for Ele.
1,319 reviews40 followers
June 13, 2020
*4.5 stars*

One of my favorites by Anyta Sunday.
Profile Image for Ariana  (mostly offline).
1,680 reviews96 followers
May 23, 2020
4,5 stars

I thoroughly enjoyed this wonderful story about redemption and the courage to face life no matter what.

In their own ways, both, Marc and Hunter, inspire hope and optimism.
For Marc, it’s a case of making up for his past mistakes and awful behaviour, and for Hunter to get on with life as a paraplegic.

It was easy to feel for both guys and to understand their issues and how they try to resolve them. I loved the depth of characterization, the ups and downs and the muddle of feelings they work through. And the sizzle between them is beautiful and their love making incredibly intimate.

However, I’m not sure if there isn’t a bit ’too much’ in this book. Next to the main plot, we also get glimpses of Uncle Ben’s love story and the tale of Victor and Kyle. I really liked all these characters but felt that their HEAs are a bit rushed and easy. But then, it would have gone beyond the scope of one single book to go into more detail here.

Super book, fabulously told!
Profile Image for Papie.
877 reviews185 followers
February 28, 2022
4.5 ⭐️
Hunter was my favourite character in book 1, so I absolutely loved reading his story. I loved him and Marc together, they made me smile, laugh and tear up. They made me swoon. They had me all hot and bothered. 🔥

I liked the gazebo and the underlying romance, although it didn’t hold my interest as long as the Raven did in book 1. I also loved Ben and Jason. But I will say that those two side romances both got resolved too quickly and easily. 🤷‍♀️
Profile Image for Rachel.
941 reviews72 followers
May 12, 2020
I think I was lucky with this one, I read book 1 for the first time yesterday and followed up with this ARC so the events of the first book were still completely fresh in my mind and...I actually felt sorry for Jill, even in book 1. Yes he was a douche of the first degree but, I dunno, I just didn't think he was as bad as everyone else seems to.
Anywho, this was a lovely story, Marc and Hunter were absolutely perfect together, their friendship, their banter, and then the way they crossed over from friends to lovers *swoony sigh*. The secondary characters were marvellous as they always are in Anyta Sunday's books, I wonder if I'm not the only one waiting for Tyler's story? Or wishing we had an Uncle Ben and Jason prequel? The other side story was beautiful and left me with the sniffles. Highly recommended.
Profile Image for Jess Gabriel.
Author 6 books14 followers
May 18, 2020
I absolutely adored this. Sometimes I feel like Anyta's books feel formulaic, but this one felt fresh and new. It even had more steam a bit earlier than we usually see it, and the creative ways that Hunter found pleasure as a paraplegic were so cool.

This one definitely goes on to my rereadable shelf. Highly recommended.

*Received in exchange for an honest review
Profile Image for Lelyana's Reviews.
3,412 reviews400 followers
May 14, 2020
Anyta Sunday once again delivered a unique slow burn romance, her style.
Marc Jillson & the Gazebo is a heartwarming story about redemption, forgiveness and a helluva second chances!

Marc has many things to do and revised in his life before he deserves Hunter.
But Hunter has his own issue he needs to cope.
Together Marc and Hunter did things that drove them finally realized that they're good people and deserves good things in life. Like, a boyfriend.

I loved the chemistry between Marc and Hunter. Also, Marc's relationship with his uncle Ben, a very good man he is.

Marc Jillson & the Gazebo was a unputdownable story, fun, adorable and kinda a bit emotional and made me cry a bit.
Loved this book so much.
Recommended!
Profile Image for BevS.
2,853 reviews2 followers
May 27, 2020




Absolutely LOVED it, so heartwarming...and yes, there were a few tears!! What you're getting here folks is not one, not two but THREE love stories...not giving anything else away. Marc's redemption was just wonderful to read about, although I knew at the end of Liam Davis & The Raven that things were changing for him...people would eventually see how sorry he was for his admittedly vile and idiotic behaviour. Thank God he finally saw the light about his bigoted 'mate' Jack [what a piece of s**t he was, ugh!!]. Hunter was...well, Hunter IS one of my fave characters ever. They've both had a really long wait for their Happy Ever After, hehe.

Would LOVE Tyler to get a HEA of his own too Anyta...and he IS - Tyler Bentley & The Jock. Great story. 💜🧡💛💚💙
Profile Image for Athira.
531 reviews30 followers
May 14, 2020
I loved this book. Hunter is everything!!! Nobody writes a slowburn like Anyta Sunday but this one is not as slow as some of her other works.

It is sexy, cute and funny and I just didn't want this book to be over. I love how Marc and Hunter got close through online gaming. I love Hunter saw the best in Marc when all he could see was his shortcomings. Same with Marc.

I love the secondary characters. I wish there was a book for Uncle Ben and Jason. I loved them so much. But the other couple stole my heart! The gazebo storyline is so swoon worthy. And I'm a hopeless romantic!!

This is a single POV standalone novel and I highly recommend it!!

*ARC provided by the author via A Novel Take PR in exchange for an honest and unbiased review
Profile Image for jazmin.
364 reviews73 followers
June 11, 2020
I loved Marc's redemption story and I loved how Hunter brought out the best in him. Hunter is definitely one of those characters you wish you were friends with in real life. It was very nice to read about them getting to know each other through online gaming (without realizing they knew each other in real life), and I loved that we got to read their old conversations that they had when they didn't know who the person they were chatting to was.

You know when a book is good when you don't want it to end and you wish you could keep reading it, even if it only ever were about Marc and Hunter doing mundae things or playing videogames. Their fight to save the gazebo was really entertaining to read about and I also really loved the other love stories the author waved in and I kept rooting for all of them. Nobody writes slow burn like Anyta Sunday.

I absolutely recommend this book and also book one in the series where you get to read Liam and Quinn's story.

I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to A Novel Take PR!
Profile Image for Amanda.
1,398 reviews326 followers
May 16, 2020
I have been waiting for Hunter's story ever since I read Liam's book. This is so worth the wait and I love it more than Liam's.
I never thought Marc Jillson will be paired with Hunter. He is such an arse in the previous book and we definitely see much growth to his character in here with Marc coming to term with his past and strive to be a better person for Hunter.
Hunter is such a memorable character. He might be a paraplegic, but he doesn't let his disability define him. He is so full of life and didn't have lack of male attention. But the vulnerability he showed Marc in the privacy of their bedroom is something special. I appreciate that the author didn't try to make everything nice and dandy. I want to read about the challenges they face in their everyday life.
Beside of Marc and Hunter's budding romance, the highlight of the book for me was the side story of Uncle Ben & Jason and the owner of the mysterious letter, K & VA. I'm over the moon with the multiple HEAs I'm getting here.
Profile Image for Sebastian.
215 reviews15 followers
May 14, 2020
I really liked this but I would advice against reading it before the first book in the series as Marc's internal conflict devolves from his actions in the first novel. I did it and, while it isn't had to understand and follow the plot, you missed an important part the his story. I'll be sure to check Liam Davis & the Raven soon - it's been on my kindle for over a year!

Overall, It was a very solid read. Hunter was precious - I loved the representation and his relationship with Marc.

Marc was a great main character. While his internal conflict was the main driver of the story, it never got old, it wasn't overbearing and luckily Jack wasn't at all present in the story.

I loved Marc's relationship with this Uncle and all the relationships that developed with the saving of the Gazebo.

Another win for Anyta Sunday.

ARC provided by the author through A Novel Take PR.
Profile Image for UltraMeital.
1,283 reviews49 followers
May 14, 2020
I ADORED this book. Marc, Hunter, the issues the book dealt with, everyone who was given a second chance - in romance or generally in life. There was so much optimism and also acceptance. Let's be honest, Marc wasn't always a "good guy", if you've read "Liam Davis & The Raven" you might recall, but even if you didn't, Marc takes ownership on his behavior, only thing is, he isn't sure how to actually express his apology and mostly how to BECOME the person who DESERVED to be forgiven or maybe just accepted. His struggle is even more intense with Hunter but it's also complex with his uncle Ben (whom we've met as Chief Benedict the guy in charge of the "Scribe" newspaper).

As I don't want to spoiler the previous book I'll just start by saying Marc Jillson was HIGHLY affected by the occurrence of last year leaving him isolated. Most of it was self imposed. He simply couldn't step outside of the basement he lives in with his uncle Ben, spending his time playing online games and eating Cheetos - that's how or rather where he "met" DeMage. They play the game together, or rather DeMage keeps saving him, but they also chat quite a lot about their lives. Yet once DeMage reveals he has figured out who he is, things change. Marc would never have guessed it's actually Travis Hunter who also works at the "Scribe". The same guy he more than just rude to more times than he can count.

As this book is only written from Marc's POV it's hard to know what Hunter is thinking and HOW he can be so forgiving / accepting. If I'm being honest, I'm not sure I would have been. But considering he saw SUCH a different side to Marc and considering what Marc has been through lately it's no wonder he was willing to give Marc a chance as his friend and maybe even more. Marc wants to impress Hunter, to show him he DESERVES him, even if just as his friend, maybe a bit more? He WANTS so much more, he YEARNS for everything Hunter offers.

Marc's only mode is hiding. His feelings, his wants, his fears. He lives behind a mask and though a lot affect him, showing his vulnerability is something he doesn't even know how to do. Hunter humbles him, it's really not the fact he is paraplegic. It's his confidence in himself and the authentic way he lives. Hunter SEES Marc. That's why he doesn't accept his attitude and offers a shoulder to lean on with sensitivity and acceptance.

Marc would do anything and everything to deserve Hunter which is why he immerses himself in the mission of saving a run down gazebo on the campus. It used to be such a "landmark" where lovers etched their names into the wood like Hunter's parents did and they certainly weren't the only ones. There's also K and V who shared a tragic love story Marc and Hunter try to decipher.

This book had everything I could have wished for. It was a heartfelt story of love, second chance and redemption. It was a story about forgiveness of others and oneself. I'm not easy to forgive bullies and though Marc was exactly THAT guy toward so many people including Liam (the MC of the previous installment as well as a close friend of Hunter) he was trying his best to do the right thing, to BE the best person he can be. He also tries to help Ben fix the thing he feels he has "broken" for him. It's not as easy as that, but he truly wants to be and do better and I believed him. People make mistakes and with Marc's past I could see how he built himself to be someone he is not.

I simply CANNOT end this review without addressing the issue of Hunter's disability. It's so rare that a romance novel brings a disabled character, especially a main character and not to mention someone with such a major disability. Hunter might be in control of his life, so very independent and confident. Yet he did have issues that weren't "ideal" for him as well as for anyone considering to be in a relationship with him. I loved how Anyta addressed these issues. How Hunter was portrayed. Yes he struggled with quite a lot, but he was also strong mentally and physically. He's the kind of guy I'll call a role model and not because of his disability - despite of it.

I ended the review of the previous installment with a request for Hunter to get his own book - So now I'm making another - Tyler. He has made an appearance in both books so I'm guessing Anyta has her plans for him as well. Fingers crossed!

I kindly received this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

More Reviews HERE
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Profile Image for iam.
1,238 reviews159 followers
May 10, 2020
Cute romance about guilt and forgiveness, both forgiving other people and forgiving oneself.

Read the full review on the blog!

Content warnings include: ableism. Mentions of: bullying, death of parent, absent parent, homophobia, hate crime, violent assault leading to disability, loss of leg during war, drafting.

I adored Hunter in Liam Davis & The Raven, and I was thrilled when I heard he would be in the sequel. I had more mixed feelings about Marc, previously known as Jill, being the protagonist. He played a very different role in the previous book than I would have thought from his partying bully persona, which I did find intriguing, but I definitely not a fan of bully romances. Still, I trust Anyta Sunday to pull this off, and I loved Liam Davis & The Raven, so I decided to give Marc Jillson & The Gazebo a try, and I’m happy to say I do not regret it!

There’s in depth talks about righting past wrongs, feeling unworthy due to one’s past or present, guilt, forgiveness, numbness and helplessness. It plays a while after book 1 ended, and Marc has changed a lot. No longer partying, no longer a bully, he has retreated into himself and wallows in guilt and self-pity – but realizing he knows the person behind his favourite online gaming companion brings him out of his shell.

There was a lot of angst, mostly around Marc agonizing over his past mistakes and getting stuck in a feeling of unworthiness. It wasn’t too bad, but got a bit old, but there are so many side angles going on that it was never boring even when it sometimes felt repetetive.

My favourite part was definitely Hunter. I adore him. He was already great in the first book of the series, but this book gave him much more depth and dimension. He seemed almost too good to be true at times, but he’s not all sunshine and roses, and I loved how he and Marc learned to be vulnerable around each other and see through the walls they built around themselves.

I received an ARC and reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
Profile Image for Rolito.
333 reviews1 follower
March 2, 2022
~~~~
Meine Wangen brannten, weil das verdammte Lächeln nicht von meinem Gesicht verschwinden wollte. „Ich meinte es nicht ernst, dass du sowas mitbringen sollst.“
„Du vielleicht nicht. Ich schon.“
Von oben meldete sich eine dritte Stimme.
Onkel Ben rief aus dem Fenster, „ich stelle keine Vermutungen an.“
„Gut“, rief ich zu ihm hoch.
„Jetzt ziehe ich Schlussfolgerungen.“
😄❤️
~~~~

Das Marc und Hunter von sich selbst denken, nicht gut genug für den jeweils anderen zu sein, hat mich rasend gemacht! 🤯😅 Die beiden sind so hinreißend zusammen… ich liebe die Chemie zwischen ihnen, ihre Gespräche und Neckereien.. 🥰❤️ Ich habe dem HE sehr entgegengefiebert, weil die zwei es einfach sooooo sehr verdient hatten!
Beim Koch-Live-Stream hab ich zu Anfang wirklich herzlich gelacht.. einfach zuckersüß!! 🙈😂❤️ Und dann waren da noch Onkel Ben & Jason, sowie Kyle & Victor.. hach.. 😍🥰❤️ Eine tolle Story mit bezaubernden Protas. Sowas von Leseempfehlung!! 👍🏼
Profile Image for Erika.
453 reviews
May 8, 2020
Thanks to the author and publisher via A Novel Take for a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.

This is a sequel to Liam David & The Raven, and although it's a standalone, many of the characters overlap so I'd recommend reading that one first.

Marc Jillson didn't come out of the first book looking so great, but this is his redemption story with the help of Hunter and a certain gazebo. I really liked Marc and Hunter together. They both saw the best in each other, despite only seeing the damaged parts of themselves. I also really liked the fact they got to know each other through online gaming. Not only is it wonderfully geeky, they were both more able to show their true selves behind the bs walls that they might normally show the world.

The story of the gazebo was also great. I liked how the author managed to weave so many different couple's stories in with it. And how all those stories interconnected within the narrative beyond the gazebo was so enriching.
Profile Image for Achim.
1,297 reviews86 followers
May 15, 2020
3.5
Mostly everything there to work the Sunday magic but I never got past the first sparks which was probably because I couldn't remember the first book and without knowing what happened in that book and Marc's role there it was impossible for me to click with Marc in this book, too much insecurity and guilt leading into this 'he deserves better' I'm a bit weary of reading.

So whoever is reading this: do yourself a favour and don't treat this as a standalone and make sure you remember more than only the plot of the first book.
Profile Image for Marina.
401 reviews7 followers
May 7, 2020
This book... made me feel so many things. It was emotional and funny and beautiful.

This is a story about Marc, previously known as Jill, and Hunter and their quest of saving the gazebo with rich history. We both meet them in the first book in this series.

Marc... What do I have to say about Marc? Honestly, I thought I would hate him some more after reading Liam Davis & the Raven multiple times, but... He's changed, he's struggling with his feelings and after learning his whole sad story... It made me look at him differently. After Jack ended up in prison and once he stopped crushing on him, he became aware of everything he did wrong. He wanted to make amends with everyone so he started with Hunter.

Marc was used to hiding his feelings and it was amazing how much influence Hunter had on him. But not just Hunter, this whole project of saving the gazebo, learning the history of it, and just being aware of how many lives this gazebo changed... Because at the end of the book, he definitely wasn't hiding anything anymore and I realized how much I adore cheesy Marc.

I really loved Hunter, from the first time I read about him in the first book. And while everyone else struggled with the idea of Hunter and Marc together, I was rooting for them. They completed each other in a way nobody understood. At least not in the beginning.

What I was waiting for the most is Liam and Marc's conversation, apology and understanding. Seeing Liam from a different perspective made me love him even more.

There were so many happy endings in this book, Ben and Jason, Victor and Kyle... I gotta say, I feel very emotional right now.

Thank you to A Novel Take PR for sending me an ARC of this book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for LOVink.
181 reviews
May 13, 2020
Marc Jillson and the gazebo

Heartwarming and emotional
funny and cute
so many feels
loooved it


I think Marc might be one of my fav book characters because he is so perfectly unperfect, so real. Flaws, insecurities and all. And he is so hard on himself I just had to root for him.
And Hunter, I admire him for looking past Marcs mistakes and giving him the chance he didn‘t know he needed and deserved.

His hands locked onto my shoulders, sure and firm. A rush of giddiness stole my breath and I yielded, folding toward him. His warm breath slipped over my nose, my jaw. His quiet expression surged into me full of gentleness and warmth and wanting. He leaned in, tips of his thumbs under my ears, fingers curling around my nape, and he kissed me. Just the brush of his lips.

I love that there are even two more beautiful lovestories and Anyta Sunday made me absolutely fall in love with all three couples. There were quite a few heartbreaking, teary-eye moments.
And seeing Liam and Quinn again was so nice :)

Marc Jillson and the gazebo is def. one of my fav books of Anyta Sunday
5 cute & emotional stars

„Would you let someone piggyback you places?“.“Maybe. If they‘re cute and I can nibble kisses on their neck.“

ARC in exchange for an honest review
Profile Image for Ed Davis.
2,888 reviews99 followers
July 15, 2020
Oh, Anyta Sunday, how you can make me cry happy tears. I love the way you write.

There are certain writers that I save their books for when I know I have to read something I’ll love. Anyta Sunday is right at the top of that list. So, after starting two different books and walking away, I needed a sure fire winner. I started looking over things I hadn’t read by Anyta and found this.

Jill was such an ass in the first book that I still hated him when I started reading this one. When he said he didn’t deserve Hunter I agreed. But Hunter was so wonderful and patient. Their HEA was truly wonderful. It was also nice to visit the characters from the first book.

Can’t wait for Tyler to find his HEA.
Profile Image for Karen Wellsbury.
820 reviews42 followers
May 14, 2020
Lovely, really lovely
I read the previous book , Liam Davies and the Raven , and I liked it but this was brilliant.
Totally missed all the cliches that could have been part of the story, there was communication, and so much love. Marc was self aware, wanted to make amends for his previous bad behavior ( bullying and general arseholery) and did such a poor job of not getting involved with Hunter.
Marc Uncle Ben , who took Mar in aged 16 and had looked after him while sacrificing his own relationship got a HEA, as did the a pair of estranged lovers .
I smiled all the way through this, apart from the parts where I got a little misty eyed.
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