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Brighter Shades of Light
I never meant to fall for my college professor. He has a reputation for being cold... so why do I see that soft look in his eyes when he’s talking to me? Why does my heart feel like it’s beating out of my chest? I want his lips on mine. I want to see what’s beneath that icy exterior. And in class, I imagine him shoving me onto his desk and taking me right there.
Nothing can happen between us. Even if he wasn’t off-limits, I won’t be staying here after graduation. In exchange for paying for my college, I have a 5 year commitment to the Marine Corps, starting the day I get my degree.
Whatever I feel for Dr. Sebastian Vale...it just can’t happen.
Or can it?
*Brighter Shades of Light is a 97k word standalone MM romance. You’ll find a slowburn romance between a Thermodynamics professor and his student, stargazing, steamy times on a desk, a boy who becomes a Marine, and a man who realizes that life is much more than his books and research. HEA guaranteed!*
Nothing can happen between us. Even if he wasn’t off-limits, I won’t be staying here after graduation. In exchange for paying for my college, I have a 5 year commitment to the Marine Corps, starting the day I get my degree.
Whatever I feel for Dr. Sebastian Vale...it just can’t happen.
Or can it?
*Brighter Shades of Light is a 97k word standalone MM romance. You’ll find a slowburn romance between a Thermodynamics professor and his student, stargazing, steamy times on a desk, a boy who becomes a Marine, and a man who realizes that life is much more than his books and research. HEA guaranteed!*
337 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 4, 2019
120 people are currently reading
570 people want to read
About the author
Jaclyn Osborn
50 books1,775 followersAs an avid reader and coffee addict, Jaclyn Osborn can always be found with either a book in her hand or one being written on her laptop. The men in her stories mean the world to her, and she's thankful for each day she's able to do this as a career.
She writes M/M romance across all genres and worlds, including contemporary, historical, fantasy, and paranormal.
She writes M/M romance across all genres and worlds, including contemporary, historical, fantasy, and paranormal.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 136 reviews
April 26, 2020
Audio...4.5 Stars..
Chritian J Gillian is a new to me narrator. It took me awhile to get used to the nasal voice he gave to Cody, but his voice for Sebastian was on point. The best part of his performance was that it was emotional. CJG gets an A+ for Acting and not just reading! Thank you!
Story...4.25 You're My Spark Stars
I loved the story. It was sweet, sexy and sincere.
Chritian J Gillian is a new to me narrator. It took me awhile to get used to the nasal voice he gave to Cody, but his voice for Sebastian was on point. The best part of his performance was that it was emotional. CJG gets an A+ for Acting and not just reading! Thank you!
Story...4.25 You're My Spark Stars
I loved the story. It was sweet, sexy and sincere.
July 26, 2020
All the hearts!
Brighter Shades of Light was just perfect *happy content sigh*
This is a slow-paced love story that spans 8 years.
Jaclyn Osborn takes her time. If this book was a person, they would be soft spoken, take thoughtful breaks before speaking and each word would have been carefully evaluated.
It's one of those stories where you truly delve into the mc's past, the moments that have impacted them and made them into the person the become. The past is ever present. This adds so much depth that by the end of it I felt like I really knew Sebastian and Cody. All their flaws, pains, wants, desires and I might have shed tears during a certain spoiler moment.
There is nothing like secret longing looks shared and forbidden love between student and professor.
I adored Dr. Sebastian Vale despite his perceived flaws. He's a genius and lacks social skills, but it doesn't mean he doesn't have emotions. The way he is with Cody once the walls come down is all heart, tenderness and sweet moments. Despite his outward cold and detached demeanor he still craves a true connection, someone special to share life's moments with.
"My desire for him was the strongest emotion I’d felt in years. For so long, it had felt like I was on this earth but not actually a part of it. As though I was floating through the universe, unseen and alone. I didn’t want to be alone anymore."
"No one had ever looked at me like that before. Other guys had made me feel desirable, but Sebastian made me feel like we were floating through space, the only two people in the universe. This thing between us—whatever it was—excited me. But more than that, it gave me another reason to wake up in the morning."
Cody Miller was everything <3, playful, sweet-natured, intelligent, honorable. One who isn't afraid to reach for what he wants and speak his mind. And there is nothing more adorable then how klutzy Cody gets around Sebastian, all the while Sebastian looks on to him puzzled and with a rare smile finding it's way onto his face.
There are a few minor conflicts here and there but for the most part this story is really about two people finding love and the way they go about it to maintain and grow that love into permanence.
The HEA is so incredibly fulfilling and earned.
“You need to be with the person who makes you feel like you’re floating,” Jared had said one day in the break room. “Without them, you spin round and round like a spinning top, but when you’re with them again, the world comes back into focus and everything feels light, like you’re drifting to the stars. If your man does that for you, then it’s no one else’s business.”
Highly recommend!
However, I do think to truly enjoy this you would need to be willing to indulge in a slow paced love story, there is no instant gratification here. It's a deliciously fulfilling slow-burn but don't fret there is no lack of steam here ;) These two are as sweet as they are hot together.
Brighter Shades of Light was just perfect *happy content sigh*
This is a slow-paced love story that spans 8 years.
Jaclyn Osborn takes her time. If this book was a person, they would be soft spoken, take thoughtful breaks before speaking and each word would have been carefully evaluated.
It's one of those stories where you truly delve into the mc's past, the moments that have impacted them and made them into the person the become. The past is ever present. This adds so much depth that by the end of it I felt like I really knew Sebastian and Cody. All their flaws, pains, wants, desires and I might have shed tears during a certain spoiler moment.
There is nothing like secret longing looks shared and forbidden love between student and professor.
I adored Dr. Sebastian Vale despite his perceived flaws. He's a genius and lacks social skills, but it doesn't mean he doesn't have emotions. The way he is with Cody once the walls come down is all heart, tenderness and sweet moments. Despite his outward cold and detached demeanor he still craves a true connection, someone special to share life's moments with.
"My desire for him was the strongest emotion I’d felt in years. For so long, it had felt like I was on this earth but not actually a part of it. As though I was floating through the universe, unseen and alone. I didn’t want to be alone anymore."
"No one had ever looked at me like that before. Other guys had made me feel desirable, but Sebastian made me feel like we were floating through space, the only two people in the universe. This thing between us—whatever it was—excited me. But more than that, it gave me another reason to wake up in the morning."
Cody Miller was everything <3, playful, sweet-natured, intelligent, honorable. One who isn't afraid to reach for what he wants and speak his mind. And there is nothing more adorable then how klutzy Cody gets around Sebastian, all the while Sebastian looks on to him puzzled and with a rare smile finding it's way onto his face.
There are a few minor conflicts here and there but for the most part this story is really about two people finding love and the way they go about it to maintain and grow that love into permanence.
The HEA is so incredibly fulfilling and earned.
“You need to be with the person who makes you feel like you’re floating,” Jared had said one day in the break room. “Without them, you spin round and round like a spinning top, but when you’re with them again, the world comes back into focus and everything feels light, like you’re drifting to the stars. If your man does that for you, then it’s no one else’s business.”
Highly recommend!
However, I do think to truly enjoy this you would need to be willing to indulge in a slow paced love story, there is no instant gratification here. It's a deliciously fulfilling slow-burn but don't fret there is no lack of steam here ;) These two are as sweet as they are hot together.
May 10, 2022
I usually don't fancy the professor/student relationship, but this was a hell of a ride.
The student is in a military program and is a piece of sunshine, both have their issues but the book is so well written and the story so convincing it got me totally hooked
The student is in a military program and is a piece of sunshine, both have their issues but the book is so well written and the story so convincing it got me totally hooked
October 19, 2022
Update: I'ma rate this 3.5 cus sometimes I hate this book, sometimes I love it.
.
.
.
So I guess having mental breakdowns are a part of my reality now WITH every damn book.
God this fuckin book.
I don't know if I hate it or love it.
The duration and just the years of Sebastian and Coby spent together-That-THAT was one the things that hurt so fucking much. God, it broke my heart how the start of their relationship literally felt years and ages away as we continued on with this book. I mean, the art of writing.
But God, my mental breakdowns were literally the source of how much Sebastian did NOT give up on Coby. It took him time and strength and courage to choose Coby but man. When he did, THERE WAS NO GOING BACK and just the way Sebastian loved Coby - I'm literally typing with tears running down my way - is the most selfless thing I have ever seen.
What breaks my heart is I don't know if the kind of love Sebastian has for Coby could ever be real in this world. That's what keeps me up at night, why I'm sobbing as I write this review.
I just need sleep y'all
And tissues
And sleeping pills
.
.
.
So I guess having mental breakdowns are a part of my reality now WITH every damn book.
God this fuckin book.
I don't know if I hate it or love it.
The duration and just the years of Sebastian and Coby spent together-That-THAT was one the things that hurt so fucking much. God, it broke my heart how the start of their relationship literally felt years and ages away as we continued on with this book. I mean, the art of writing.
But God, my mental breakdowns were literally the source of how much Sebastian did NOT give up on Coby. It took him time and strength and courage to choose Coby but man. When he did, THERE WAS NO GOING BACK and just the way Sebastian loved Coby - I'm literally typing with tears running down my way - is the most selfless thing I have ever seen.
What breaks my heart is I don't know if the kind of love Sebastian has for Coby could ever be real in this world. That's what keeps me up at night, why I'm sobbing as I write this review.
I just need sleep y'all
And tissues
And sleeping pills
Read
May 15, 2022DNF at 24%
This is not holding my attention at all. 😴
This is not holding my attention at all. 😴
August 14, 2020
4.5 Sparkling-Love Stars!! 🤩💖 This is my first book by this author, but I don't think it'll be my last. I really loved the MCs; both unique and original with visible and invisible vulnerabilities. I also loved the slow growth of their relationship through time and distance.
Cody is in the final year of his mechanical engineering program when he finds himself crushing after his thermodynamics professor, Dr Sebastian Vale. Not only is Dr Vale his teacher, he is also one of the most standoffish and reserved people Cody has ever met. Sebastian has his reasons for being cold and detached, having suffered through some past tragedies he has closed himself off to all emotions. But Cody refuses to let go of the "spark" he feels between them and despite the taboo nature of their relationship, they can't ignore their mutual attraction. What complicates matters is the fact that they have to keep their fledgling relationship secret, because if the university board were to find out, Sebastian's career would be in jeopardy. Add to that, Cody is also in the marine program. Once his senior year is over, he has to serve for 5 years before he can get into the reserves. Despite knowing that Cody will be leaving soon, the two do not shy away from their growing feelings.
But will their love survive the test of time and long distance? Will Sebastian open his heart for love and hurt? Will Cody's love survive the long stretches of deployment?
The story is in two parts; the first part dealing with how they find love and the second part with how they fight to keep that love.. ❤️ There is some side drama that I felt was unnecessary, but maybe it was there to show Sebastian's growth from being so closed-off to being more open. There is no superficial angst in the story, the "feels" are genuine; there's loneliness, fear and love.... so much love 😍. This is an emotional and heart-warming love story which felt human. Highly recommended!! 👍👍
Cody is in the final year of his mechanical engineering program when he finds himself crushing after his thermodynamics professor, Dr Sebastian Vale. Not only is Dr Vale his teacher, he is also one of the most standoffish and reserved people Cody has ever met. Sebastian has his reasons for being cold and detached, having suffered through some past tragedies he has closed himself off to all emotions. But Cody refuses to let go of the "spark" he feels between them and despite the taboo nature of their relationship, they can't ignore their mutual attraction. What complicates matters is the fact that they have to keep their fledgling relationship secret, because if the university board were to find out, Sebastian's career would be in jeopardy. Add to that, Cody is also in the marine program. Once his senior year is over, he has to serve for 5 years before he can get into the reserves. Despite knowing that Cody will be leaving soon, the two do not shy away from their growing feelings.
But will their love survive the test of time and long distance? Will Sebastian open his heart for love and hurt? Will Cody's love survive the long stretches of deployment?
The story is in two parts; the first part dealing with how they find love and the second part with how they fight to keep that love.. ❤️ There is some side drama that I felt was unnecessary, but maybe it was there to show Sebastian's growth from being so closed-off to being more open. There is no superficial angst in the story, the "feels" are genuine; there's loneliness, fear and love.... so much love 😍. This is an emotional and heart-warming love story which felt human. Highly recommended!! 👍👍
November 14, 2019
4 Stars
A sweet slow burn with taboo professor/student themes, military obligations (Marines), a May-December romance, and low angst.
I loved how slow burn this story was, with the first 50% being them getting to know each other and deepening their connection. The taboo element wasn't angsty or full of drama. The author showed the smaller moments in life that let us feel their chemistry, focusing much more on that than sex. As someone who loves steam, I was pleasantly surprised that this didn't bother me. Everything was flowery and fade to black, but incredibly sweet and romantic.
My enjoyment did taper off a bit around the 75% mark because it felt as if there was nothing driving the story. Cody does have to but there is nothing else really going on. The story time jumps throughout it and I lost some of my connection with Sebastian and Cody. Additionally, there is some ex-wife drama, friend drama (but it added to the plot IMO), and .
I can understand why some people may not like Sebastian, as he does take a minute to wrap your head around. Ultimately, though, I just felt sorry for him and I adored that he found his "spark" with Cody. The romance did get a bit sappy at times with endless ILYs and talk about how they were each other's everything, but I thought it was sweet and overlooked it for the most part. Overall, I really liked the story and think the plot was well-executed with a charming couple, great supporting characters, and a wonderful slow burn.
"I never meant to fall in love with you. But like you said once before, our love was inevitable. Perhaps it was written in the stars. Destiny. You were destined to walk into my life, bringing light into my dark world. And I was destined to be caught in your energy field, forever changed."
A sweet slow burn with taboo professor/student themes, military obligations (Marines), a May-December romance, and low angst.
I loved how slow burn this story was, with the first 50% being them getting to know each other and deepening their connection. The taboo element wasn't angsty or full of drama. The author showed the smaller moments in life that let us feel their chemistry, focusing much more on that than sex. As someone who loves steam, I was pleasantly surprised that this didn't bother me. Everything was flowery and fade to black, but incredibly sweet and romantic.
My enjoyment did taper off a bit around the 75% mark because it felt as if there was nothing driving the story. Cody does have to but there is nothing else really going on. The story time jumps throughout it and I lost some of my connection with Sebastian and Cody. Additionally, there is some ex-wife drama, friend drama (but it added to the plot IMO), and .
I can understand why some people may not like Sebastian, as he does take a minute to wrap your head around. Ultimately, though, I just felt sorry for him and I adored that he found his "spark" with Cody. The romance did get a bit sappy at times with endless ILYs and talk about how they were each other's everything, but I thought it was sweet and overlooked it for the most part. Overall, I really liked the story and think the plot was well-executed with a charming couple, great supporting characters, and a wonderful slow burn.
September 20, 2019
Dr. Vale and his Marine
3.75 stars
This book feels like 2 different books which is probably why it has 2 parts. The first being the beginning of the relationship between Cody and Sebastian as student and teacher. The forbidden love that couldn't help but grow. The second was them as an established couple in which Cody, a Marine, being on active duty and getting deployed. Sebastian being the one left at home to worry. Both were interesting. For me, their love is what shines through it all.
Things I liked:
The student teacher aspect
The way their relationship built
Sebastian's love never faltering
Things I didn't like:
The way the story expanded on things that didn't need expanding on and glossed over things that should have been expanded on.
Emily and Sebastian's relationship
In a way it seemed completely unnecessary.
Cody's mini melt down after finding out Sebastian was previously married. Communication is important!
Overall, a solid read. I will admit the second half was drawn out and not as good as the first. Also, I wanted a little more drama thrown in there with the student/teacher relationship. The whole time I was holding my breath thinking they were going to get caught and face the consequences of their actions only for it to be extremely anti-climactic. Nothing really happened with that lol.
Side note: Although I love Cody and Sebastian I would be down to read a prequel that involved Leon and Sebastian. Their story seemed like one worth reading.
3.75 stars
This book feels like 2 different books which is probably why it has 2 parts. The first being the beginning of the relationship between Cody and Sebastian as student and teacher. The forbidden love that couldn't help but grow. The second was them as an established couple in which Cody, a Marine, being on active duty and getting deployed. Sebastian being the one left at home to worry. Both were interesting. For me, their love is what shines through it all.
Things I liked:
The student teacher aspect
The way their relationship built
Sebastian's love never faltering
Things I didn't like:
The way the story expanded on things that didn't need expanding on and glossed over things that should have been expanded on.
Emily and Sebastian's relationship
In a way it seemed completely unnecessary.
Cody's mini melt down after finding out Sebastian was previously married. Communication is important!
Overall, a solid read. I will admit the second half was drawn out and not as good as the first. Also, I wanted a little more drama thrown in there with the student/teacher relationship. The whole time I was holding my breath thinking they were going to get caught and face the consequences of their actions only for it to be extremely anti-climactic. Nothing really happened with that lol.
Side note: Although I love Cody and Sebastian I would be down to read a prequel that involved Leon and Sebastian. Their story seemed like one worth reading.
September 21, 2019
4.5 stars
This was so much more than a teacher/student, May/December romance. It’s a story about how love can change you, how sacrifices and pain can bring you just as much joy as they can sorrow. And how when you find that spark...you move heaven and earth to never let it go.
I really enjoyed this. The first half is very student/teacher taboo romance. Sebastian is an almost unlikeable character when we meet him but he intrigued me. He was awkward and seemed to lack so many social skills. But meeting Cody brings something out in him. And over the course of the book you see just how much falling in love changed him for the better.
And Cody is such a warm, funny character. So loving and brave, when he meets the Professor he falls hard and fast, although their relationship is a very slow burn.
The last half of this has a very different vibe. It’s no secret that there will inevitably be a separation. Cody has signed up for a minimum 5 years in the Marines after he graduates so the book moves from the excitement of new love to the realities of having a relationship and being in the military. But this is where we see these men fight for their HEA. Spanning over 6 years we get glimpses into their lives as they learn how to be together, when they can’t physically be together. It was frustrating and heartbreaking and sad but hopeful. It gave me the feels, over and over again.
This was so much more than a teacher/student, May/December romance. It’s a story about how love can change you, how sacrifices and pain can bring you just as much joy as they can sorrow. And how when you find that spark...you move heaven and earth to never let it go.
I really enjoyed this. The first half is very student/teacher taboo romance. Sebastian is an almost unlikeable character when we meet him but he intrigued me. He was awkward and seemed to lack so many social skills. But meeting Cody brings something out in him. And over the course of the book you see just how much falling in love changed him for the better.
And Cody is such a warm, funny character. So loving and brave, when he meets the Professor he falls hard and fast, although their relationship is a very slow burn.
The last half of this has a very different vibe. It’s no secret that there will inevitably be a separation. Cody has signed up for a minimum 5 years in the Marines after he graduates so the book moves from the excitement of new love to the realities of having a relationship and being in the military. But this is where we see these men fight for their HEA. Spanning over 6 years we get glimpses into their lives as they learn how to be together, when they can’t physically be together. It was frustrating and heartbreaking and sad but hopeful. It gave me the feels, over and over again.
September 30, 2019
Super sweet romance with just a pinch of angst.
I much enjoyed this sweet and sassy novel with Ms Osborn's beautiful prose and charming characters. There is a little angst but mostly a satisfying tale of finding love and laughter in reclaiming your own happy ending.
I much enjoyed this sweet and sassy novel with Ms Osborn's beautiful prose and charming characters. There is a little angst but mostly a satisfying tale of finding love and laughter in reclaiming your own happy ending.
June 29, 2023
4/5 stars
This was such a good book. I loved it.
My world had been dark and cold before Cody breathed life back into me. He chased away the dark and warmed me from the inside out. Like shades of light dancing in a night sky, growing brighter and brighter. Bringing me home.
This was such a good book. I loved it.
My world had been dark and cold before Cody breathed life back into me. He chased away the dark and warmed me from the inside out. Like shades of light dancing in a night sky, growing brighter and brighter. Bringing me home.
May 2, 2020
4 stars audio and story
January 30, 2021
I loved every second and every word of this book. It wore its heart on its sleeve and is definitely taking a spot in my top ten books of all time!
July 30, 2020
4.25 stars from me for this sweet May/December 'forbidden' romance.
I honestly thought I'd given up on reading any more Jaclyn Osborn, after the epic fail [for me] that was Tangled Up In You BUT...the blurb for this one caught my eye on Amazon and I thought what the hell, give her another try. Pleasantly surprised I have to admit.
Yes, we had stupid typos...breaks [when you're talking about a vehicle 😡] and of course when you're studying a ship [as you do, and not a person's body] naval instead of navel *groans*, but the main thrust of the story was the lengthy budding relationship between Cody and Seb, not the sex. If I were into labelling [which I'm not], I would say that Sebastian was pansexual i.e. the gender didn't matter, it was the person he fell in love with and in view of the very lonely life he'd led, he deserved all the happiness that came his way. Cody was his spark, the person that had made his heart start to beat again from the moment they'd met.
I honestly thought I'd given up on reading any more Jaclyn Osborn, after the epic fail [for me] that was Tangled Up In You BUT...the blurb for this one caught my eye on Amazon and I thought what the hell, give her another try. Pleasantly surprised I have to admit.
Yes, we had stupid typos...breaks [when you're talking about a vehicle 😡] and of course when you're studying a ship [as you do, and not a person's body] naval instead of navel *groans*, but the main thrust of the story was the lengthy budding relationship between Cody and Seb, not the sex. If I were into labelling [which I'm not], I would say that Sebastian was pansexual i.e. the gender didn't matter, it was the person he fell in love with and in view of the very lonely life he'd led, he deserved all the happiness that came his way. Cody was his spark, the person that had made his heart start to beat again from the moment they'd met.
Read
July 27, 2020DNF at 22%. It's very stilted, and there is not a hint of romance, or even friendly connection, in sight.
May 18, 2022
In the Special Thanks at the end, the author said that she wrote the book she wanted to read and that, afterwards, she had been afraid to release Sebastian and Cody to the world. I'm so glad she decided to share them because their story was really beautiful. What started as a taboo student/professor, age gap romance turned into an incredibly deep and passionate love story with a lot of emphasis on the military. It was paced slowly and stretched to encompass years and was not at all what I expected from the blurb.
During the first half of this book, Sebastian was Cody's college professor and while the "spark" between them was fairly instant, it was a slooooooow burn from there. I would call this the First Act, where Sebastian's past and career held center stage and Cody was auditioning for the role of Love Interest. In the Second Act, the tone of the book changed and the spotlight moved to Cody's burgeoning career in the Marines and what it meant for his relationship with Sebastian.
I don't read a lot of military based romances. The few years I spent in my high school JROTC program were enough for me to learn where my interests most definitely do not lie. But this book focused a lot of attention on the people who get left behind when their family member is deployed and how hard that disconnect can be. We've all seen those videos of soldiers coming home and surprising their loved ones, but what we don't see are the months and months of worry and fear and loneliness beforehand. Sebastian was so supportive of Cody's dream to be a Marine. The brave face he put on for every goodbye made the times he crumbled that much more heartbreaking. His support never wavered and it was so admirable. Of course Cody's service was admirable too, but I think sometimes we forget that it's not only the people serving who are making sacrifices. This book really put that into perspective for me.
If you like your books fast and furious and packed full of action, you won't find that here. This book was a birds eye view of two people falling in love and overcoming adversity to make it work. Very little drama, very little angst. Just lots and lots of love.
During the first half of this book, Sebastian was Cody's college professor and while the "spark" between them was fairly instant, it was a slooooooow burn from there. I would call this the First Act, where Sebastian's past and career held center stage and Cody was auditioning for the role of Love Interest. In the Second Act, the tone of the book changed and the spotlight moved to Cody's burgeoning career in the Marines and what it meant for his relationship with Sebastian.
I don't read a lot of military based romances. The few years I spent in my high school JROTC program were enough for me to learn where my interests most definitely do not lie. But this book focused a lot of attention on the people who get left behind when their family member is deployed and how hard that disconnect can be. We've all seen those videos of soldiers coming home and surprising their loved ones, but what we don't see are the months and months of worry and fear and loneliness beforehand. Sebastian was so supportive of Cody's dream to be a Marine. The brave face he put on for every goodbye made the times he crumbled that much more heartbreaking. His support never wavered and it was so admirable. Of course Cody's service was admirable too, but I think sometimes we forget that it's not only the people serving who are making sacrifices. This book really put that into perspective for me.
If you like your books fast and furious and packed full of action, you won't find that here. This book was a birds eye view of two people falling in love and overcoming adversity to make it work. Very little drama, very little angst. Just lots and lots of love.
February 27, 2021
3.5 stars
This book was cute, I did like Sebastian and Cody’s characters. I did like how there was low angst in here and nothing truly bad happened to the characters, it was something i needed.
But with that said I just felt like i can’t rate it higher than a 3 star, I can’t really pin point why, i just wanted more and i started skimming towards the end.
Don’t get me wrong, this book was good I liked almost all of it, I love a nerdy character who opens up to that special someone and a marine dannng all things i love, but just for me something was missing.
This book was cute, I did like Sebastian and Cody’s characters. I did like how there was low angst in here and nothing truly bad happened to the characters, it was something i needed.
But with that said I just felt like i can’t rate it higher than a 3 star, I can’t really pin point why, i just wanted more and i started skimming towards the end.
Don’t get me wrong, this book was good I liked almost all of it, I love a nerdy character who opens up to that special someone and a marine dannng all things i love, but just for me something was missing.
September 17, 2022
..to each their own...
#mmromance
#agegap
#Professorstudent
#military
#grumphyandsunshine
#emotional
#steamy
Audio:4/5⭐️
Chritian J. Gilliland is a new to me narrator. It took me sometimes to get used to the voice he used for Cody but he nailed it on Sebastian. The best part of his performance was the EMOTION. I love it that he seems to act and not just read! Amazing!
Story: 4/5⭐️
This is my first book from this author and its just wow! I love both of the MC. Their love story spans eight years and their personality and relationship development was just devine. I don’t usually fancy slow-pace but this was beautifully written and it didn’t feel slow to me. If this is the way Jaclyn Osborn writes her characters and story then I’m so ready to devour her popular series Son’s of fallen.
This book was slowburn, fullfilling and deliciously steamy. Their love story was sweet, sexy and sincere. I was hooked.
#mmromance
#agegap
#Professorstudent
#military
#grumphyandsunshine
#emotional
#steamy
Audio:4/5⭐️
Chritian J. Gilliland is a new to me narrator. It took me sometimes to get used to the voice he used for Cody but he nailed it on Sebastian. The best part of his performance was the EMOTION. I love it that he seems to act and not just read! Amazing!
Story: 4/5⭐️
This is my first book from this author and its just wow! I love both of the MC. Their love story spans eight years and their personality and relationship development was just devine. I don’t usually fancy slow-pace but this was beautifully written and it didn’t feel slow to me. If this is the way Jaclyn Osborn writes her characters and story then I’m so ready to devour her popular series Son’s of fallen.
This book was slowburn, fullfilling and deliciously steamy. Their love story was sweet, sexy and sincere. I was hooked.
September 5, 2019
So, I’m really familiar with this authors work. I have a sense of how her brain works when it comes to her books. They’re not similar, but they have a Jaclyn feel to it. Brighter Shades of Light is no different. You can feel how much love and heart (is that the same thing?) that she put into these pages. It’s so easy to get lost in her books. Before you know it, you’re finished and hours have passed.
Cody and Sebastion…
Oh, these two! I love books where the MC’s have that intense connection. That massive chemistry. You just knew that their future was already written in the stars before they even met.
So, we know that Cody has an emotional and difficult future ahead of him (in the blub) but Sebastion has a pretty emotion and difficult past.
Watching these two slowly make their way to one another was one heck of an emotional journey. It had my feels all over the place. It was just so very good and I loved absolutely every single word.
The last little bit had me in tears and then the ending had me smiling so big my cheeks started to hurt. It really is a fantastic book. Definitely getting this one in PB for my shelf.
Dare I say that this is probably my favorite of her books. That’s hard to say because she’s written so many wonderful stories. Two (now three) of which are still in my top 10 favorite books of all time. (I’ll link them below)
So, go grab a copy. Get comfortable and start reading. Don’t forget a tissue or two. If you’re anything like me, you’ll need them.
Cody and Sebastion…
Oh, these two! I love books where the MC’s have that intense connection. That massive chemistry. You just knew that their future was already written in the stars before they even met.
So, we know that Cody has an emotional and difficult future ahead of him (in the blub) but Sebastion has a pretty emotion and difficult past.
Watching these two slowly make their way to one another was one heck of an emotional journey. It had my feels all over the place. It was just so very good and I loved absolutely every single word.
The last little bit had me in tears and then the ending had me smiling so big my cheeks started to hurt. It really is a fantastic book. Definitely getting this one in PB for my shelf.
Dare I say that this is probably my favorite of her books. That’s hard to say because she’s written so many wonderful stories. Two (now three) of which are still in my top 10 favorite books of all time. (I’ll link them below)
So, go grab a copy. Get comfortable and start reading. Don’t forget a tissue or two. If you’re anything like me, you’ll need them.
September 28, 2019
3.5 maybe 4 Stars for the writing (3 stars for my enjoyment)
Honestly... me and just plane ole contemporary romances do not get along too often. While I thought the writing was good and the romance was solid, I was truly just bored shitless through out most of the book.
I really did love and enjoy the beginning of the book. The build into the romance was beautiful and exciting but once everything was established I was just waiting for the story to peak, which I unfortunately didn’t feel happen. And while their separations towards the end were meant to add dramatics and heart to the story, I felt it was just long winded....
Anyways I always recommend people read books for themselves, because I know so many would love that book... I just want one of them.
Honestly... me and just plane ole contemporary romances do not get along too often. While I thought the writing was good and the romance was solid, I was truly just bored shitless through out most of the book.
I really did love and enjoy the beginning of the book. The build into the romance was beautiful and exciting but once everything was established I was just waiting for the story to peak, which I unfortunately didn’t feel happen. And while their separations towards the end were meant to add dramatics and heart to the story, I felt it was just long winded....
Anyways I always recommend people read books for themselves, because I know so many would love that book... I just want one of them.
February 1, 2020
**5 stars**
I loved this!!! A good-hearted student, on track to become an officer in the Marines, is excited that he gets into the class taught by a brilliant, world reknowned chemistry/physics professor. But it seems the professor isn't destined to ever fall in love. Recently divorced, Dr. Vale admits he never loved his wife. And in his late 30s, he is resigned to focus on his work. How can a shy, sweet 22-year old student break through to his professor’s heart?
"Every part of me wanted him. Sexually, emotionally. He not only staked his claim on my body but on my very soul."
This is a wonderful slow-burn, where readers get to learn about the MCs, become invested in their lives, and cheer as these very different people find they are perfect for each other.
I loved this!!! A good-hearted student, on track to become an officer in the Marines, is excited that he gets into the class taught by a brilliant, world reknowned chemistry/physics professor. But it seems the professor isn't destined to ever fall in love. Recently divorced, Dr. Vale admits he never loved his wife. And in his late 30s, he is resigned to focus on his work. How can a shy, sweet 22-year old student break through to his professor’s heart?
"Every part of me wanted him. Sexually, emotionally. He not only staked his claim on my body but on my very soul."
This is a wonderful slow-burn, where readers get to learn about the MCs, become invested in their lives, and cheer as these very different people find they are perfect for each other.
July 30, 2020
3.75 Stars
Usually I try to write a review the moment I finish reading ‘cause I’m not sure I will remember what I wanted to say about it. However, I really don’t know what I think about this book, Ugh, frustrating!
I kind of liked it but sometimes it got on my nerves. I liked Sebastian and his awkwardness around other people and could relate to him but I didn’t get Cody.
Also, I’m well aware that in some books you don’t really need steamy scenes to feel the connection between the characters (or not a lot of them anyway) but its serious lack of steam kind of ruined it for me and that reminds me of the last book I read by Jaclyn Osborn (Royal).
Overall, it was a nice love story with great HEA.
Usually I try to write a review the moment I finish reading ‘cause I’m not sure I will remember what I wanted to say about it. However, I really don’t know what I think about this book, Ugh, frustrating!
I kind of liked it but sometimes it got on my nerves. I liked Sebastian and his awkwardness around other people and could relate to him but I didn’t get Cody.
Also, I’m well aware that in some books you don’t really need steamy scenes to feel the connection between the characters (or not a lot of them anyway) but its serious lack of steam kind of ruined it for me and that reminds me of the last book I read by Jaclyn Osborn (Royal).
Overall, it was a nice love story with great HEA.
October 22, 2019
This book is a little long for the content it provides. Could have ended sooner than it did. Towards the end it just seems we are filling things in as we go along. I loved the build up and the relationship development. As we got into it there was some skipping time that irritated me because thats the stuff I wanted to see. However, overall it's a good book with two loveable characters and I loved how much they loved each other.
November 21, 2019
4.5 stars!
July 24, 2020
4.5
Genuinely enjoyed this one.
Genuinely enjoyed this one.
February 22, 2022
3.5 stars. Too stress free for my taste.
May 15, 2020
Sucked me in agian
This author. I don’t know if it’s the blubs or what, but it makes me waver on reading the book. I go back and forth about it then I read it and the book turns out to be amazing!! This was another great one. Maybe one of my go to authors.
Oh this book where to start. Loneliness, loss, and love. The three Ls. This book was that. Two men starting on a fresh journey finding love with each other and making a better path. This is a low angst book. It’s more of a get together love each other and experience the hardships of that come with that while remaining in love. And gosh darn it this book made me cry 2 separate times. Had me sitting in the bath weeping like a baby. I loved watching them. Age gap, nerdy men, and a military man. Can it get any more swoon worthy for me. I’m wonder though if Doctor had a bit of Aspergers? The writing was great, the smexy was YES!!!! And the love was amazing. I’m wondering if there will be a book for Tristen????
This author. I don’t know if it’s the blubs or what, but it makes me waver on reading the book. I go back and forth about it then I read it and the book turns out to be amazing!! This was another great one. Maybe one of my go to authors.
Oh this book where to start. Loneliness, loss, and love. The three Ls. This book was that. Two men starting on a fresh journey finding love with each other and making a better path. This is a low angst book. It’s more of a get together love each other and experience the hardships of that come with that while remaining in love. And gosh darn it this book made me cry 2 separate times. Had me sitting in the bath weeping like a baby. I loved watching them. Age gap, nerdy men, and a military man. Can it get any more swoon worthy for me. I’m wonder though if Doctor had a bit of Aspergers? The writing was great, the smexy was YES!!!! And the love was amazing. I’m wondering if there will be a book for Tristen????
March 31, 2021
Niby wszystko powinno tu dla mnie zagrać, a jednak...
Było miejscami nudno, miejscami ckliwie aż do bólu. Było kilka fajnych momentów, kilka świetnych, ale generalnie jak książka zaczyna się od nudno i trwa to przez pierwsze 1/3 historii, to nie równoważą one ani tego "nudno", ani "ckliwie"...
I choć lubiłam obydwu bohaterów, to przez większość książki myślałam "niech ona się już skończy". I to nie dlatego, że chciałam koniecznie dowiedzieć się jak, tylko żeby to czytanie było już za mną...
Było miejscami nudno, miejscami ckliwie aż do bólu. Było kilka fajnych momentów, kilka świetnych, ale generalnie jak książka zaczyna się od nudno i trwa to przez pierwsze 1/3 historii, to nie równoważą one ani tego "nudno", ani "ckliwie"...
I choć lubiłam obydwu bohaterów, to przez większość książki myślałam "niech ona się już skończy". I to nie dlatego, że chciałam koniecznie dowiedzieć się jak, tylko żeby to czytanie było już za mną...
September 8, 2019
Cody and Sebastian are extreme opposites and ohhhh how they perfectly fit together!!!
I love how Cody manage to break into Sebastian coldness and how they develop their relationship into such a solid one that nothing is able to break their love.
This book is simply awesome! loved every second of it ❤😍🔥
I love how Cody manage to break into Sebastian coldness and how they develop their relationship into such a solid one that nothing is able to break their love.
This book is simply awesome! loved every second of it ❤😍🔥
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October 21, 2020I was gonna give this 5 stars. It started off so good. The romance, the stolen glances...
I think they got together too soon. I would’ve liked to see more back and forth, so when they finally did get together, it would’ve been more explosive than it was.
I don’t know if I’m going to finish this one. Started off so good, but it’s failing to keep my interest.
I’m such a picky bitch!
I think they got together too soon. I would’ve liked to see more back and forth, so when they finally did get together, it would’ve been more explosive than it was.
I don’t know if I’m going to finish this one. Started off so good, but it’s failing to keep my interest.
I’m such a picky bitch!
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