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Balls to the Wall #3
Beach Balls
Adam James is so far in the closet he could find Narnia. As an attorney for the homophobic WMA Development, he can’t come out without risking the million-dollar paycheck waiting for him once they push their big land development deal through the city council—money that will finally allow Adam to live according to his own terms. Then, on an early morning scuba dive, Adam meets a tall, lean rebreather diver named Sky who makes him want to hug a tree.
Sky Sea Mickeljohn stands for the environment, world peace, and being openly gay. He won’t compromise his principles for anyone—even the damned lying developer lawyer he can’t help lusting after. True, the WMA land development deal could put thousands of people at risk, but Sky still wants to risk his heart. In the fight between freedom and integrity, is there a place for love?
Sky Sea Mickeljohn stands for the environment, world peace, and being openly gay. He won’t compromise his principles for anyone—even the damned lying developer lawyer he can’t help lusting after. True, the WMA land development deal could put thousands of people at risk, but Sky still wants to risk his heart. In the fight between freedom and integrity, is there a place for love?
156 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 4, 2012
40 people are currently reading
389 people want to read
About the author
Tara Lain
97 books1,387 followersTara Lain believes in happy ever afters - and magic. Same thing. In fact, she says, she doesn't believe, she knows. Tara shares this passion in her stories that star her unique, charismatic heroes and adventurous heroines. Quarterbacks and cops, werewolves and witches, blue collar or billionaires, Tara's characters, readers say, love deeply, resolve seemingly insurmountable differences, and ultimately live their lives authentically. After many years living in southern California, Tara, her soulmate honey and her soulmate dog decided they wanted less cars and more trees, prompting a move to Ashland, Oregon where Tara's creating new stories and loving living in a small town with big culture. Likely a Gryffindor or maybe a Ravensclaw but possessed of Parseltongue, Tara loves animals of all kinds, diversity, open minds, coconut crunch ice cream from Zoeys, and her readers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
June 4, 2012
This was my favorite one so far. I still spent some time in the beginning trying to remember who these people were or if we met them in the previous books.
I loved in the closet Adam. He was up front about it and spent most of the book questioning his life and the reasons for doing so. Sky was fabulous. The octopus incident had me laughing out loud. He was funny and sexy, and when they got together, they sizzled.
Another good read that is keeping me hooked on the Balls books.
I loved in the closet Adam. He was up front about it and spent most of the book questioning his life and the reasons for doing so. Sky was fabulous. The octopus incident had me laughing out loud. He was funny and sexy, and when they got together, they sizzled.
Another good read that is keeping me hooked on the Balls books.
June 1, 2012
3.5 stars
Not sure how to review Beach Balls it didn't hit every button for me some of it was enjoyable and funny but there was a missing element in the relationship between Adam and Sky it wasn't as sexy or as dreamy as I would have liked. That sizzling attraction that made Fire Balls so good was not there or I just didn't feel it. Still it was a nice light easy read with a few cute moments.
Not sure how to review Beach Balls it didn't hit every button for me some of it was enjoyable and funny but there was a missing element in the relationship between Adam and Sky it wasn't as sexy or as dreamy as I would have liked. That sizzling attraction that made Fire Balls so good was not there or I just didn't feel it. Still it was a nice light easy read with a few cute moments.
September 13, 2024
This was short and sweet with little angst. It wasn’t my favorite book by Tara Lain, but I enjoyed it.
February 17, 2013
Out of the four books in this series " Beach Balls " felt like it had taken a step away from the series. I was expecting this to be Jerry's story but Tara introduced two new characters who have never been mentioned before so that's possibly why it felt different. Looking back now, to when I first read it, I remember thinking then, that it almost felt as if it could have been a standalone outside of the series. Needless to say I still really enjoyed it. Adam and Sky have great chemistry and the plot involving environmental issues and how it affects their relationship was really good, it added a love/hate feel to their romance that always generates great ST and steamy sex and the book never disappoints on that level. In this story both men are quite manly although Sky is more free spirited and settled with his sexuality than Adam, who is still closeted, so it still works in with the General premise of the other books. If pushed I would say this was my least favourite but only because I missed all the hustle, bustle and quirkiness of Laguna Beach and the original gang . The next book " Snow Balls " gets back to all that and is fab! Still worth its 5 stars though.
June 2, 2012
3.5 stars
This book was a light and easy read. I liked both Adam and Sky and thought the story on how they met with the octopus was kinda cute. Unfortunately there just seemed to be something missing with the way the storyline was set up. I felt that as the reader I was given just enough information to move the story along, but never enough to feel connected with what was happening or with the characters completely. Still it was an enjoyable read.
This book was a light and easy read. I liked both Adam and Sky and thought the story on how they met with the octopus was kinda cute. Unfortunately there just seemed to be something missing with the way the storyline was set up. I felt that as the reader I was given just enough information to move the story along, but never enough to feel connected with what was happening or with the characters completely. Still it was an enjoyable read.
March 22, 2015
After reading the recent FAST Balls, I realized I had missing one in the Balls to the Walls series--this one--and hurried to remedy that.
As usual with Tara Lain, I enjoyed this quick, easy-to-read romance. Sky and Adam were both very appealing, and I liked the antagonism sub-plot and how they both affected each other's outlooks on life. It was rewarding to see Adam come out of the closet and find himself.
This was quite a good read. Not my favorite in the series but very good. Recommended!
As usual with Tara Lain, I enjoyed this quick, easy-to-read romance. Sky and Adam were both very appealing, and I liked the antagonism sub-plot and how they both affected each other's outlooks on life. It was rewarding to see Adam come out of the closet and find himself.
This was quite a good read. Not my favorite in the series but very good. Recommended!
June 4, 2020
My rating falls between 2.5 stars and 3 stars
This is the case , it's me not you. I had high expectations for Beach Balls , due to reviews. However, I just kept falling sleep; story couldn't hold my attention.
Granted the sexy times were plentiful but it isn't enough , for me , when the storyline , narrative , even the heroes dialogue felt dated and campy . Anywho, it's just my opinion.
#ReadOn2020 #KU #KindleFire #Amazon
This is the case , it's me not you. I had high expectations for Beach Balls , due to reviews. However, I just kept falling sleep; story couldn't hold my attention.
Granted the sexy times were plentiful but it isn't enough , for me , when the storyline , narrative , even the heroes dialogue felt dated and campy . Anywho, it's just my opinion.
#ReadOn2020 #KU #KindleFire #Amazon
June 3, 2012
I really, really liked this one. Best of the series so far i think. It was cute, sweet, funny, a touch of angst but not too much, and some serious underwater making out. Such a great read from start to finish.
January 3, 2015
Two words: Underwater blowjob.
This was my favorite book in the series so far (but that's not really saying much).
This was my favorite book in the series so far (but that's not really saying much).
June 5, 2015
Definitely better than the first two in this series, but still not impressing me. I think it's safe to say I'm not a huge fan of Tara Lain.
June 2, 2020
This is my favorite of the series so far. I liked Adam and Sky as men individually which is important. I liked that they each brought out something in each other that they needed. It's a short book so the resolution happened really fast but I didn't feel like it was rushed.
Yeah, just like the others in the series, maybe the "I love you's" came a litte too soon but so what, it's fiction. That's where this is supposed to happen, right?? :)
Each of these in the series are nice quick reads with fun men. Not angsty (IMO). I'm looking forward to reading the next one.
This book was provided to my by the author for an honest review.
Yeah, just like the others in the series, maybe the "I love you's" came a litte too soon but so what, it's fiction. That's where this is supposed to happen, right?? :)
Each of these in the series are nice quick reads with fun men. Not angsty (IMO). I'm looking forward to reading the next one.
This book was provided to my by the author for an honest review.
June 10, 2020
It's good to have strong principles, but we need to reexamine them from time to time to make sure they are still relevant. Broad, sweeping generalizations such as all developers are crooks and all conservationists are reactionaries isn't healthy or fair. Adam and Sky of Tara Lain's book 'Beach Balls' are both very determined men with very specific attitudes toward certain things which seemingly put them on different sides of the fence. If they want to be together, they need to dig deep and decide what's important and what isn't.
Adam has trapped himself in the closet, in a life of lies which constantly keeps him from being himself. He's a handsome, charming guy and, deep down, under that tough, all-business exterior, he's sincere. People like Adam. The problem is they aren't seeing the real him. He is rich, but miserable and all the money in the world can't make up for the emptiness he feels inside. To put it from Adam's perspective: “He sat in a room he didn’t love filled with things he didn’t need that his money had bought. He had friends who weren’t really friends, and family that wasn’t really family, because they didn’t know him. He had a stake in a project he didn’t believe in that would bring him more money to buy more stuff he didn’t like.”
Adam immediately realizes that his relationship with Sky has something that goes beyond what he's ever experienced before and never knew was possible. Adam and Sky become mirrors reflecting the admirable and not so admirable traits of each of them. They're confronted with some uncomfortable facts that neither of them want to face. It shakes their worlds and causes them to question everything, to the point of wondering what they could change to be together.
Sky is his own person, he doesn't hide anything, but he has no diplomacy either. He believes in his causes which makes him admirable, but his personality borders on arrogant. His “I'm right and everyone else is wrong” attitude is obnoxious at times. He may be smart and an expert in his field, but he's not endearing. He's not comfortable with people, so he acts as if they don't matter. When Adam begins to realize that everything he has isn't worth anything without Sky, he confronts him with a desperate plea saying that he's willing to change if it will help them be together. Adam is willing to compromise, but Sky can't see beyond how things are at the moment. They both have a lot of growing to do. They need to reach the point that it isn't a compromise for either one of them, but a coming together on equal footing.
With each 'Balls' story, I fall totally in love with Tara's men and can't imagine her coming up with better ones, but then she introduces new guys and I fall in love all over again. Adam and Sky are wonderful, sexy, handsome, gay, and good at what they do. The character growth they undergo during the story is phenomenal and adds a lot of zing, along with the 'off the chart' hotness of their sexual encounters. It's not only a great story, but it's also a reminder to never forget who we really are, because true happiness lies in being true to oneself. I highly recommend this story to any of you romantics out there who, like me, love a good, sexy story, full of angst, which has a happy ending. Thanks, Tara, for another fabulous story.
NOTE: The first edition of this book was provided by the publisher for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Adam has trapped himself in the closet, in a life of lies which constantly keeps him from being himself. He's a handsome, charming guy and, deep down, under that tough, all-business exterior, he's sincere. People like Adam. The problem is they aren't seeing the real him. He is rich, but miserable and all the money in the world can't make up for the emptiness he feels inside. To put it from Adam's perspective: “He sat in a room he didn’t love filled with things he didn’t need that his money had bought. He had friends who weren’t really friends, and family that wasn’t really family, because they didn’t know him. He had a stake in a project he didn’t believe in that would bring him more money to buy more stuff he didn’t like.”
Adam immediately realizes that his relationship with Sky has something that goes beyond what he's ever experienced before and never knew was possible. Adam and Sky become mirrors reflecting the admirable and not so admirable traits of each of them. They're confronted with some uncomfortable facts that neither of them want to face. It shakes their worlds and causes them to question everything, to the point of wondering what they could change to be together.
Sky is his own person, he doesn't hide anything, but he has no diplomacy either. He believes in his causes which makes him admirable, but his personality borders on arrogant. His “I'm right and everyone else is wrong” attitude is obnoxious at times. He may be smart and an expert in his field, but he's not endearing. He's not comfortable with people, so he acts as if they don't matter. When Adam begins to realize that everything he has isn't worth anything without Sky, he confronts him with a desperate plea saying that he's willing to change if it will help them be together. Adam is willing to compromise, but Sky can't see beyond how things are at the moment. They both have a lot of growing to do. They need to reach the point that it isn't a compromise for either one of them, but a coming together on equal footing.
With each 'Balls' story, I fall totally in love with Tara's men and can't imagine her coming up with better ones, but then she introduces new guys and I fall in love all over again. Adam and Sky are wonderful, sexy, handsome, gay, and good at what they do. The character growth they undergo during the story is phenomenal and adds a lot of zing, along with the 'off the chart' hotness of their sexual encounters. It's not only a great story, but it's also a reminder to never forget who we really are, because true happiness lies in being true to oneself. I highly recommend this story to any of you romantics out there who, like me, love a good, sexy story, full of angst, which has a happy ending. Thanks, Tara, for another fabulous story.
NOTE: The first edition of this book was provided by the publisher for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
September 17, 2012
Beach Balls is the third book in the Balls to the Walls series and so far, it’s my favorite in the series. I loved the chemistry between the two heroes as well as their drive to do what it right. As usual, Ms. Lain did an excellent job at writing a funny, heartfelt, sexy read that lived in my heart and mind long after I finished the book.
Adam James has been going through the motions of life for a long time. As a successful lawyer, he is afraid to tell his peers and others about his homosexuality and because of this, he’s had a run of one night stands. Once a month, Adam’s friend throws a party at his beach house and invites other gay men who are also in the same dilemma as Adam is in. Thinking he’s going to attend the party and hook up with a man or two, Adam finds himself feeling lonely, restless and wanting more in his life than what he has. As he takes a walk on the beach, a handsome man swims to shore. There is something about this man that really calls to Adam, so he finds himself approaching him to get to know him better.
Sky is an environmentalist who lives to study oceanography and to protect animal rights. As soon as he meets Adam offshore, Sky is immediately drawn to him and this confuses him. Sky is not used to feeling so strongly so quickly about other men, but there is something about Adam that intrigues him. When Adam asks Sky to attend a beach party that night, Sky surprises himself by saying yes, and that night as the two men get to know each other, Sky is startled by what he feels for Adam.
But, there is trouble on the horizon for the new lovers. When Sky and Adam find out they are working on opposites sides of a land development plan, this pulls them apart. Neither man is prepared for how much they miss one another and how important they’ve become to each other. Will they be able to work through their issues and find a way to be together?
Wow! The intense emotional connection between Adam and Sky kept me on edge throughout most of the book. I loved them together because they seemed to really bring out things in each other than no other person has ever done. Also, I couldn’t keep from hoping that they would somehow work through their differences and find a way to have a fulfilling and happy life with each other. I also appreciated how at first they seemed to be total opposites, but as the story continued they had a lot more in common than meets the eye. They really seemed to bring out each other’s strength and worked well together, once they both got on the same page about things. Each man’s determination to do what’s right and to be together really spoke to my heart and I truly hated to see the story come to an end.
One of the things I really appreciated about Beach Balls was the way the author really seems to understand and get to the heart of her characters. They really lived and breathed off of the written page and even though there were funny moments in the book, there were also sad and even bittersweet moments in the story as well. I’m looking forward to reading more books in the series and highly recommend this book and series for any person looking for an interesting, romantic and freshly written series.
Although Beach Balls is the third book in the Balls to the Wall series, it definitely could be read as a stand-alone title.
Here are the Balls to the Wall books in series order:
Volley Balls
Fire Balls
Beach Balls
Adam James has been going through the motions of life for a long time. As a successful lawyer, he is afraid to tell his peers and others about his homosexuality and because of this, he’s had a run of one night stands. Once a month, Adam’s friend throws a party at his beach house and invites other gay men who are also in the same dilemma as Adam is in. Thinking he’s going to attend the party and hook up with a man or two, Adam finds himself feeling lonely, restless and wanting more in his life than what he has. As he takes a walk on the beach, a handsome man swims to shore. There is something about this man that really calls to Adam, so he finds himself approaching him to get to know him better.
Sky is an environmentalist who lives to study oceanography and to protect animal rights. As soon as he meets Adam offshore, Sky is immediately drawn to him and this confuses him. Sky is not used to feeling so strongly so quickly about other men, but there is something about Adam that intrigues him. When Adam asks Sky to attend a beach party that night, Sky surprises himself by saying yes, and that night as the two men get to know each other, Sky is startled by what he feels for Adam.
But, there is trouble on the horizon for the new lovers. When Sky and Adam find out they are working on opposites sides of a land development plan, this pulls them apart. Neither man is prepared for how much they miss one another and how important they’ve become to each other. Will they be able to work through their issues and find a way to be together?
Wow! The intense emotional connection between Adam and Sky kept me on edge throughout most of the book. I loved them together because they seemed to really bring out things in each other than no other person has ever done. Also, I couldn’t keep from hoping that they would somehow work through their differences and find a way to have a fulfilling and happy life with each other. I also appreciated how at first they seemed to be total opposites, but as the story continued they had a lot more in common than meets the eye. They really seemed to bring out each other’s strength and worked well together, once they both got on the same page about things. Each man’s determination to do what’s right and to be together really spoke to my heart and I truly hated to see the story come to an end.
One of the things I really appreciated about Beach Balls was the way the author really seems to understand and get to the heart of her characters. They really lived and breathed off of the written page and even though there were funny moments in the book, there were also sad and even bittersweet moments in the story as well. I’m looking forward to reading more books in the series and highly recommend this book and series for any person looking for an interesting, romantic and freshly written series.
Although Beach Balls is the third book in the Balls to the Wall series, it definitely could be read as a stand-alone title.
Here are the Balls to the Wall books in series order:
Volley Balls
Fire Balls
Beach Balls
August 26, 2013
I really enjoy this series. The plot to this had me hesitating because it could have been cheesy and annoying, but just like with Fire Balls, I thoroughly enjoyed every moment. It was paced very well and they didn't rush into the drama so that we got bored. The first third was us meeting Adam, then his and Sky's meeting and realizing they had chemistry and starting a thing. Their altercation/climax/realization-that-they're-nemesis came at just the right time and developed naturally without feeling forced.
I will say Sky pushed my buttons a little when he immediately wrote Adam off just because of who he thought he was, "bah, I hate developers!" but I liked that in the end although there was compromise, Adam didn't just cave and turn into a total tree-hugger.
My one critique is that while I loved the setting of the last chapter the dialogue was a smidge forced and partly unbelievable . OH and another small critique was that Adam's high school experience with the football quarterback clearly molded who he became as an adult so it would have been nice if he had been given an actual name instead of just "quarterback." Maybe they wanted to distance us from him so we didn't think about Adam's previous love but I think it would have been nice to learn more and maybe find out how he's doing.
Won as part of the 2012 Holiday Party in the Erotic Enchants Group!
I will say Sky pushed my buttons a little when he immediately wrote Adam off just because of who he thought he was, "bah, I hate developers!" but I liked that in the end although there was compromise, Adam didn't just cave and turn into a total tree-hugger.
My one critique is that while I loved the setting of the last chapter the dialogue was a smidge forced and partly unbelievable . OH and another small critique was that Adam's high school experience with the football quarterback clearly molded who he became as an adult so it would have been nice if he had been given an actual name instead of just "quarterback." Maybe they wanted to distance us from him so we didn't think about Adam's previous love but I think it would have been nice to learn more and maybe find out how he's doing.
Won as part of the 2012 Holiday Party in the Erotic Enchants Group!
June 28, 2012
This review was posted at Under the Covers
I can't say I loved this more than the second book in this series, but I really liked it. We have two guys that are pretty equally matched, both physically and mentally. But they are pretty far apart in everything in between.
Adam is a developer, lots of money, cares about appearances, drives a nice fancy car, ohh and pretends to be straight. Sky is a nature loving, rebreather diver, vegetarian, and openly gay.
They meet accidentally while Sky is diving and Adam is visiting a friend's house for a regular gay-men sex party, which is the only time Adam gets any. sparks fly right away but they don't tell each other their full (or real, in Adams case) names.
Turns out Sky is the researcher they've pulled to try and shut down the approval for a project Adam is working on, based on environmental issues. This puts a huge dent in their relationship.
Although a bit issue was presented and somehow resolved fairly easy as they overcame the obstacles, I couldn't help but love both of these guys. I especially loved how Adam was the one doing the taking care of Sky part instead of being a big selfish big shot like he was in every other part of his life.
I also loved the small cameo appearances by Rodney, Hunter and Jerry. I do hope that there is more of this series!! We still have to find out if Jerry, sweet lovable Jerry, will get his HEA.
I can't say I loved this more than the second book in this series, but I really liked it. We have two guys that are pretty equally matched, both physically and mentally. But they are pretty far apart in everything in between.
Adam is a developer, lots of money, cares about appearances, drives a nice fancy car, ohh and pretends to be straight. Sky is a nature loving, rebreather diver, vegetarian, and openly gay.
They meet accidentally while Sky is diving and Adam is visiting a friend's house for a regular gay-men sex party, which is the only time Adam gets any. sparks fly right away but they don't tell each other their full (or real, in Adams case) names.
Turns out Sky is the researcher they've pulled to try and shut down the approval for a project Adam is working on, based on environmental issues. This puts a huge dent in their relationship.
Although a bit issue was presented and somehow resolved fairly easy as they overcame the obstacles, I couldn't help but love both of these guys. I especially loved how Adam was the one doing the taking care of Sky part instead of being a big selfish big shot like he was in every other part of his life.
I also loved the small cameo appearances by Rodney, Hunter and Jerry. I do hope that there is more of this series!! We still have to find out if Jerry, sweet lovable Jerry, will get his HEA.
August 4, 2012
Two guys meet and fight over an octopus, that isn't the start of a joke but how Sky and Adam meet in this great story by Tara Lain. Adam is an attorney for a development company and the men he works for are anti-gay. So Adam hides his sexuality during his everyday life but treats himself to parties with other gay men where they don't use their real names. Adam meets Sky while diving and fight over an octopus. During a town council meeting over a project Adam is working on an expert witness is called and none other than Sky walks in. They are on opposite sides of this development deal. Will they be able to get over this obstacle? You will have to read it to find out! Thanks Tara for another great story in the "Balls to the Wall" series. Looking forward to many more!
July 4, 2012
Sweet easy story, I read it at the beach, but alas no balls, none in the story or at the beach! *sigh*
It was cute, nothing deep or really exciting, like Candice I was missing a little something 'special'.
But I enjoyed it and sort of wished Sky had grovled a bit, I didn't see Adam as all at fault in this one, and thought Sky was a bit 'holier-than -thou', but he understood better at the end!
It was cute, nothing deep or really exciting, like Candice I was missing a little something 'special'.
But I enjoyed it and sort of wished Sky had grovled a bit, I didn't see Adam as all at fault in this one, and thought Sky was a bit 'holier-than -thou', but he understood better at the end!
October 27, 2015
Better than I was expecting with Sky and Adam on opposing sides of environmental issues. Of course, they didn't realize this when the first met and got all dirty with each other. Adam was just a sad guy. Everything about him was kind of pathetic in a rich guy-in the closet way. Sky was fabulous, of course. Mr. Vegetarian, environmental crusader, hippyish was just kind of perfect. I did find it odd that they both had giant dicks. Like the smaller of the two was 9 inches. What? Holy crap! Cute story though.
December 29, 2012
4.5
http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com/
Oh my, what a book, definitely my favorite of the Ball’s series.
Adam is an excellent character, very well written and I loved him. He is a lawyer working for a developer company and while he loves his job he is somehow an honest lawyer. Heh, I laughed at that in the beginning, but I soon saw how brilliant a character he was. His current case has him somehow in the blind. Not everything is revealed to him and that unnerves Adam. While his work has nearly drained him he finds time to go at a once-a-month weekend at a friend’s villa. You see Adam is gay, deeply in the closet and he has chosen it so in order to have the career that he dreamed. And these weekends are the only way he can get in touch with other men. Men like him that want to fill their need in absolute discretion.
While the party goes very well for Adam he’s shocked and surprised to get hooked with a stranger he met under the sea. And boy, Sky is extremely sexy and addictive. They instantly fell in an unexpected intimacy, the intensity they feel for each other leaving Adam breathless and in need to see Sky more and more and more… Just when everything feels to be heading toward a mind-blowing relationship with Adam more happy and excited he’s ever felt in his life, everything turns upside-down, his big money case flying of the window but the most painful thing of all, Sky is slipping right of his fingers.
Sky is none other than Dr. Sky Sea Mickeljohn, openly gay, lover of world peace and most of all, the environment. When he hears Adam on the developer’s side in the city-council, Sky loses it. He’s mad, mad at Adam for being a hated developer, mad at himself for falling for him, but there is no way he’s going to succumb and allow that amazing thing between them continue. No, Sky can’t love someone that stands against his biggest love of all, Earth. He will crush that developer’s case, delete him out of his mind, and continue his life just like before. It’s no big deal right?
This is such a great story. Both characters are amazing, gorgeous, sexy and lovable as hell. And oddly this is the one story in the series that is so realistically written. I loved it, Adam’s progress with his life was fantastic to read and Sky’s coming down to earth, finding it in his to actually socialize and attach himself with another human being was both beautiful and intense. And of course being written by Ms. Lane the characters did not fail being gorgeous and sexy, and their encounters scorching hot.
As I said above, this is my favorite book of them all; definitely recommended.
http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com/
Oh my, what a book, definitely my favorite of the Ball’s series.
Adam is an excellent character, very well written and I loved him. He is a lawyer working for a developer company and while he loves his job he is somehow an honest lawyer. Heh, I laughed at that in the beginning, but I soon saw how brilliant a character he was. His current case has him somehow in the blind. Not everything is revealed to him and that unnerves Adam. While his work has nearly drained him he finds time to go at a once-a-month weekend at a friend’s villa. You see Adam is gay, deeply in the closet and he has chosen it so in order to have the career that he dreamed. And these weekends are the only way he can get in touch with other men. Men like him that want to fill their need in absolute discretion.
While the party goes very well for Adam he’s shocked and surprised to get hooked with a stranger he met under the sea. And boy, Sky is extremely sexy and addictive. They instantly fell in an unexpected intimacy, the intensity they feel for each other leaving Adam breathless and in need to see Sky more and more and more… Just when everything feels to be heading toward a mind-blowing relationship with Adam more happy and excited he’s ever felt in his life, everything turns upside-down, his big money case flying of the window but the most painful thing of all, Sky is slipping right of his fingers.
Sky is none other than Dr. Sky Sea Mickeljohn, openly gay, lover of world peace and most of all, the environment. When he hears Adam on the developer’s side in the city-council, Sky loses it. He’s mad, mad at Adam for being a hated developer, mad at himself for falling for him, but there is no way he’s going to succumb and allow that amazing thing between them continue. No, Sky can’t love someone that stands against his biggest love of all, Earth. He will crush that developer’s case, delete him out of his mind, and continue his life just like before. It’s no big deal right?
This is such a great story. Both characters are amazing, gorgeous, sexy and lovable as hell. And oddly this is the one story in the series that is so realistically written. I loved it, Adam’s progress with his life was fantastic to read and Sky’s coming down to earth, finding it in his to actually socialize and attach himself with another human being was both beautiful and intense. And of course being written by Ms. Lane the characters did not fail being gorgeous and sexy, and their encounters scorching hot.
As I said above, this is my favorite book of them all; definitely recommended.
August 22, 2012
This was the third book in a loosely tied series set in and around Laguna Beach, CA. It was an enjoyable read that was a bit different from the first two in the series though it continues with an opposite attract/one lover in the closet theme. The fun in the sun feel was enjoyable for a summer read (though it would work in the winter to remind one of the warmth of summer on the beach).
Adam is in the closet and a lawyer representing a big development group. Sky is an environmental expert who is comfortable with who he is. The two men meet and experience a connection- a hot, steamy connection. They both decide to cautiously continue seeing each other with Adam having trouble trusting in 'more' and Sky hesitant to be with someone who isn't willing to have an open relationship. Well that is until they discover that they are on opposing sides of a new development project. Will their connection and the beginnings of a relationship be enough or are they just too different?
The characters were engaging and I loved how the author made a good case for both their perspectives. For instance, Adam was not the bad guy just because he worked for developers. Though the discovery that they were in opposition hurt both of them and abruptly ended the relationship they started, I liked how they both wanted to reach across the chasm that separated them and try to be together since I'm not big on high angst or indecisive characters.
The plot was simple, but written well so it was not boring. There was mention of Roman from the previous story, but this can be read as a stand-alone just fine.
Enjoyable m/m romance novella!
Adam is in the closet and a lawyer representing a big development group. Sky is an environmental expert who is comfortable with who he is. The two men meet and experience a connection- a hot, steamy connection. They both decide to cautiously continue seeing each other with Adam having trouble trusting in 'more' and Sky hesitant to be with someone who isn't willing to have an open relationship. Well that is until they discover that they are on opposing sides of a new development project. Will their connection and the beginnings of a relationship be enough or are they just too different?
The characters were engaging and I loved how the author made a good case for both their perspectives. For instance, Adam was not the bad guy just because he worked for developers. Though the discovery that they were in opposition hurt both of them and abruptly ended the relationship they started, I liked how they both wanted to reach across the chasm that separated them and try to be together since I'm not big on high angst or indecisive characters.
The plot was simple, but written well so it was not boring. There was mention of Roman from the previous story, but this can be read as a stand-alone just fine.
Enjoyable m/m romance novella!
December 22, 2013
3.5
A sweet, short story, not too much angst, easy to read, and problems that can all be solved beautifully by the end. In other words, a typical Balls to the Wall story.
What I like about these books is that appearances are often not related to the roles these guys play in their relationship - you get smaller tops or pretty boys taking charge, at least in the bedroom. That's something I always enjoy because it disrupts the predictable flow of expectation and actual behaviour.
This book was a bit more detached from the general theme, though. I've read all the other books in the series and they were rather interconnected, with the main characters of other books becoming side characters in the one you were reading. While there are a few instances where previously introduced characters show up in this story, it feels more of a stand-alone than the other ones (of course, technically they're all stand-alones since you don't need the previous stories to understand the later ones, but as I said the other three books feel more interconnected).
None of the stories in this series are particularly deep or evoking big emotions, but they're nice and easy entertainment with the perfect length to stop them from becoming boring. If you're looking for that, I definitely recommend them!
A sweet, short story, not too much angst, easy to read, and problems that can all be solved beautifully by the end. In other words, a typical Balls to the Wall story.
What I like about these books is that appearances are often not related to the roles these guys play in their relationship - you get smaller tops or pretty boys taking charge, at least in the bedroom. That's something I always enjoy because it disrupts the predictable flow of expectation and actual behaviour.
This book was a bit more detached from the general theme, though. I've read all the other books in the series and they were rather interconnected, with the main characters of other books becoming side characters in the one you were reading. While there are a few instances where previously introduced characters show up in this story, it feels more of a stand-alone than the other ones (of course, technically they're all stand-alones since you don't need the previous stories to understand the later ones, but as I said the other three books feel more interconnected).
None of the stories in this series are particularly deep or evoking big emotions, but they're nice and easy entertainment with the perfect length to stop them from becoming boring. If you're looking for that, I definitely recommend them!
August 25, 2013
This story is very different to the first two in the series and is really not about sport at all - unless you count the bit of scuba diving that occurs - so I had to reclassify on my bookshelves! It also has a very different feel to the others in the series without really crossing over with any of the characters we have met so far (apart from a brief mention of Roman's paintings).
Not that this is a bad thing because I totally enjoyed the story.
This story brings together a very much in the closet attorney/developer and an out and proud environmentalist. Adam just happens to be going incognito when he first meets Sky (cute name!) so they don't realise they are involved in very opposing careers.
I liked the characters, I liked the story, I liked the resolution. Yes, I missed the original characters, but actually couldn't imagine how they would have fit into this story and think this one works more as a standalone.
I now publish all my m/m reviews on my blog so if you want to see all my m/m reviews in one place come visit at Because Two Men Are Better Than One!
Not that this is a bad thing because I totally enjoyed the story.
This story brings together a very much in the closet attorney/developer and an out and proud environmentalist. Adam just happens to be going incognito when he first meets Sky (cute name!) so they don't realise they are involved in very opposing careers.
I liked the characters, I liked the story, I liked the resolution. Yes, I missed the original characters, but actually couldn't imagine how they would have fit into this story and think this one works more as a standalone.
I now publish all my m/m reviews on my blog so if you want to see all my m/m reviews in one place come visit at Because Two Men Are Better Than One!
December 29, 2013
Beach Balls was certainly my favorite of the Balls to the Wall books. There was just something about Sky that made him so easily likable. It’s also not every day where you get to read a couple that meets while fighting over an octopus. That right there makes for a reason to grab this book.
Adam and Sky have an instant attraction that neither put up a fight about. If anything they both run blindly into a hot fling. They’re compatible and both want the same things sexually. That is enough for them to continue seeing each other after their hook up. The problems arise when their lives collide in a place where they least expect it. That collision is something that they can’t move past unless one of them budges on his place within the issue.
While some of the events were slightly predictable I still found myself enjoying the story. Adam and Sky were enjoyable characters. The sex scenes are really hot. The pacing was great. This is a novella and often they feel rushed to me. This one turned out to be a well-paced erotic romance.
Adam and Sky have an instant attraction that neither put up a fight about. If anything they both run blindly into a hot fling. They’re compatible and both want the same things sexually. That is enough for them to continue seeing each other after their hook up. The problems arise when their lives collide in a place where they least expect it. That collision is something that they can’t move past unless one of them budges on his place within the issue.
While some of the events were slightly predictable I still found myself enjoying the story. Adam and Sky were enjoyable characters. The sex scenes are really hot. The pacing was great. This is a novella and often they feel rushed to me. This one turned out to be a well-paced erotic romance.
July 7, 2012
I like this story just as much as the previous story in this series, Fire Balls. I didn't think I'd like a character as much as I liked Rodney, but I really liked Sky and Adam in this one. First, I absolutely loved the blurb about Adam being so far in the closet that he could find Narnia. Right away I knew I would like this tale about a closeted lawyer and the environmental expert who meet under mysterious circumstances and really like each other only to find out they are on the opposite sides of a nasty dispute over a development.
Both men are a bit stubborn, but they are totally smitten with each other and miserable when they think they can't be together. Adam had even more to deal with because of his homophobic clients and his years of hiding. I really loved the ending as well!
Will the next story be Jerry's? Pretty please???
Both men are a bit stubborn, but they are totally smitten with each other and miserable when they think they can't be together. Adam had even more to deal with because of his homophobic clients and his years of hiding. I really loved the ending as well!
Will the next story be Jerry's? Pretty please???
March 31, 2016
I'm not keen on this style of trope - legal/environmental adversaries. However this wasn't too much. I held reservations throughout most the story, waiting for the annoying blow up,
I'm slowly making my way through this series, but realistically I think I prefer TL's later work and I may just concentrate on those books ;) Guess it will really depend on the book precis now rather than me following this series in order.
I'm slowly making my way through this series, but realistically I think I prefer TL's later work and I may just concentrate on those books ;) Guess it will really depend on the book precis now rather than me following this series in order.
July 31, 2017
I received a copy to read and review for Wicked Reads
I really enjoy this series. Each book can be read as a stand alone. These books are low angst with lots of sex and happy endings. Adam and Sky are so good together and as a reader I could feel their connection. We did here from a few characters from previous books but if you never read those books you wouldn't have known it or missed anything. I just want to know if friends like Carly really exist and if so I want one! This was a fast sweet read and I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
I really enjoy this series. Each book can be read as a stand alone. These books are low angst with lots of sex and happy endings. Adam and Sky are so good together and as a reader I could feel their connection. We did here from a few characters from previous books but if you never read those books you wouldn't have known it or missed anything. I just want to know if friends like Carly really exist and if so I want one! This was a fast sweet read and I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
November 27, 2017
The 3rd book in Tara Lain's amazing Balls to the Wall series, Beach Balls has more than lived up to the first two books in terms of fabulous story-telling.
Adam James is a CA developer. Sky Sea Mickeljohn is an environmentalist. Hmmm - need I say more?
The sparks and love that fly between the two makes for a romantic and VERY sexy story. I thoroughly enjoyed this installment and am anxious for the next.
Adam James is a CA developer. Sky Sea Mickeljohn is an environmentalist. Hmmm - need I say more?
The sparks and love that fly between the two makes for a romantic and VERY sexy story. I thoroughly enjoyed this installment and am anxious for the next.
June 3, 2012
Another winner in the "Balls to the Wall" line from Tara Lain. Ms. Lain writes believable gay characters with real-world problems, but doesn't skimp on the heat factor either. And I love how we see characters from other books in the series popping up again. If you like m/m romance that pulls at the heartstrings but still manages to be hot, give Ms. Lain a try!
July 5, 2012
This book was as entertaining as the first 2. Great, sweet and fun characters. Love Adam with all his conflicts, but still a good person at heart. Sky falling for his arch enemy, but seeing pass that to the person his is. Would have like to see more of the ones from the first 2 books, but it still was a great read!
June 23, 2019
3.25 stars. OK story, but I just wasn't really crazy about Adam. Yes, the sex was hot, and Sky is a pretty great guy, but...I was more annoyed by Adam giving himself "plausible deniability" than excited about him coming out of the closet. I have much higher hopes for the next story in the series, since Jerry is one of my favorite people in general!
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