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Unscripted #2
Rewritten
Movie star 102: The headlines are never what they seem. Quellcrist wasn't new to fame or the effect it had on a relationship. He'd been married in the spotlight for as long as he'd been famous. But that was before Hale. He knew it was going to test him but even he hadn't known the toll that months apart would take on his fledgling relationship. Longs days of shooting, different time zones, calls every day dwindled to days without calls, and rumors were all over the rags. Through it all Quell had to battle his own worst enemy but he didn't know how to win against something inside him. Depression ate him whole and pain took over. There was so much more at stake than losing his boyfriend, he was losing his best friend. His lifeline, the love of his life. Was there any way to come back from the damage done? Can they rewrite their ending?
264 pages, Paperback
First published June 4, 2020
205 people are currently reading
456 people want to read
About the author
J.R. Gray
58 books1,288 followersWhen not staying up all night writing, J.R. Gray can be found at the gym where it's half assumed he is a permanent resident to fulfill his self-inflicted masochism. A dominant and a pilot, Gray finds it hard to be in the passenger seat of any car. He frequently interrupts real life, including normal sleep patterns and conversations, to jot down notes or plot bunnies. Commas are the bane of his existence even though it's been fully acknowledged they are necessary, they continue to baffle and bewilder. If Gray wasn't writing…well, that's not possible. The buildup of untold stories would haunt Gray into an early grave, insanity or both. The idea of haunting has always appealed to him. J.R. Gray is genderqueer and prefers he/him pronouns.
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June 6, 2020
Rewritten is book two in the Unscripted duet by J.R. Gray. This is a continuation of Quell and Hale’s love story. You really do need to read book one, Unscripted, before this.
Quellcrist King and Hale Evans have finished filming on the first two seasons of their television series. They are on a break and living in the home in Malibu they bought together and are madly in love. But hanging over their heads is that they would soon be heading to separate locations for each of their movies. Quell has two movies scheduled back to back. And Hale has landed the movie series of a lifetime, playing one of the lead characters in a super hero movie. This movie series was going to make his career. They had a plan for seeing each other. They had everything mapped out. They would be able to handle this.
“We were stuck in a cycle of doing what we thought was better for one another, assuming but not asking.”
What they didn’t factor into their plan was production delays, family crisis, time zone differences, and the toll the separation would have on Quell’s depression.
“My soul fits with yours.”
Quell’s entire life he had done his best to keep his mental illness hidden. Even though Hale knew about it, Quell still managed to keep the severity of how things could be from him. But, with things between them being so new, the separation, the tabloids, the stresses of filming, all of it, pushed Quell deeper. And the deeper he got, the more he pulled away, until he had pulled so far away that he could no longer reach out at all.
These two both made so many mistakes. They didn’t talk. There was so much miscommunication. They both spent all of their time trying to do what they thought best for the other, without really knowing how the other felt. They really did break my heart. Their love for one another was so huge, so deep. But the chasm became so wide that they just couldn’t find their way across it. But then it was time to begin filming together again for season three of their show. How would they ever be able to work together now?
This really is such a stark portrayal of what some who suffer with this debilitating disease must go through each and every day. Quell’s suffering was real. They really were perfect for each other. But could Hale really ever forgive Quell for how badly he hurt him? Is there any way they can find the way back to the love they shared? You’ll have to read the duet to find out.
“He was my once in a lifetime.”
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
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June 26, 2020
Welp. This was a lesson learned. 😑
I was SO sure the first book would knock me off my feet, I got greedy. Wanted both and well, it didn’t work out in my favor. I discovered I wasn’t a good fit
with the author and writing style.
And THEN, the guys are separated for most of the story. Darn. I really want to enjoy this one.
Could be my mood?
Reading is hard....actually.....Life is...hard lately.
Might be best to ignore me...tomorrow’s another day.
💙
I was SO sure the first book would knock me off my feet, I got greedy. Wanted both and well, it didn’t work out in my favor. I discovered I wasn’t a good fit
with the author and writing style.
And THEN, the guys are separated for most of the story. Darn. I really want to enjoy this one.
Could be my mood?
Reading is hard....actually.....Life is...hard lately.
Might be best to ignore me...tomorrow’s another day.
💙
June 1, 2020
3.5*
This book is very well done, it's an excellent examination into the black dog of mental illness and chronic depression and how it can take someone into places they don't want to go and there isn't a single thing they can do about it.
It's also intense and filled with devotion and promises of love, it's steamy and hot, with chemistry-laded sex and emotional conversations.
I am probably an outlier with my view here, as most other reviewers have loved it, and I would absolutely recommend it to lovers of angst, because nothing felt gratuitous where Quell's mental illness was concerned.
On the contrary, Quell's descent into his depression was all the more heart-breaking to read because you can see him knowing it's happening but being unable to stop it.
But, for me, I didn't want to read about Quell and Hale struggling after they'd been left in a pretty happy place at the end of Unscripted. I hadn't realised, when I said I'd review this one, that it was going to be revisiting their relationship.
While everything is executed with skill, I couldn't enjoy this book as much as perhaps if I'd been reading about a pairing dealing with the effects of mental illness who I hadn't already seen struggle through to get what I thought was a strong Happy For Now with hope of a long term future.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review
This book is very well done, it's an excellent examination into the black dog of mental illness and chronic depression and how it can take someone into places they don't want to go and there isn't a single thing they can do about it.
It's also intense and filled with devotion and promises of love, it's steamy and hot, with chemistry-laded sex and emotional conversations.
I am probably an outlier with my view here, as most other reviewers have loved it, and I would absolutely recommend it to lovers of angst, because nothing felt gratuitous where Quell's mental illness was concerned.
On the contrary, Quell's descent into his depression was all the more heart-breaking to read because you can see him knowing it's happening but being unable to stop it.
But, for me, I didn't want to read about Quell and Hale struggling after they'd been left in a pretty happy place at the end of Unscripted. I hadn't realised, when I said I'd review this one, that it was going to be revisiting their relationship.
While everything is executed with skill, I couldn't enjoy this book as much as perhaps if I'd been reading about a pairing dealing with the effects of mental illness who I hadn't already seen struggle through to get what I thought was a strong Happy For Now with hope of a long term future.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review
March 22, 2021
Thank you for this story.
After reading Unscripted I had to read Rewritten.
The story of Quell and Hale is written in my heart and I will not forget it ever. Their issues of insecurity and lack of open communication is woven in the story along with the love they have for one another. Bringing in the depression and it’s symptoms made for an enlightening story. Having a HEA has me smiling inside and out. I am so glad they worked things out.
After reading Unscripted I had to read Rewritten.
The story of Quell and Hale is written in my heart and I will not forget it ever. Their issues of insecurity and lack of open communication is woven in the story along with the love they have for one another. Bringing in the depression and it’s symptoms made for an enlightening story. Having a HEA has me smiling inside and out. I am so glad they worked things out.
June 7, 2020
Rant// spoilers
Throughout the book, there's a disconnect between what the characters are saying and what they're thinking. The biggest issue I've had with this book is the lack of communication and trust. "I thought talking would help, but maybe it was better left until we knew." How is your relationship surviving if theres no communication or trust?
Sigh. Thats not sexy. The back and forth gave me whiplash.
And my god, don't get me started on the dramatics of every single thing in this book. "I dropped my phone. Time slowed. I felt every blink. The phone bounced and clattered into the sand. Quell covered his mouth with his hands. I didn’t know what to do. My brain was buzzing. I felt like I couldn’t draw a full breath." He got a part in a movie, not cancer so... calm down.
AND, as if that wasn't enough... after they broke up, we had Quell thinking, "All of it had been in my head. He hadn’t been better off without me" and as a reader you're like yeah finally he gets it but follows up with, "but maybe he would be now."
Like, "Everything inside me told me not to tell him." REALLY? Everything inside you is telling you not to tell your ex boyfriend why you broke up? The ex you're supposedly still in love with? What is communication?
The use of the word "bad" to refer to a low depressive episode grated on my nerves.
I honestly have never felt more exhausted reading anything in my life.
Throughout the book, there's a disconnect between what the characters are saying and what they're thinking. The biggest issue I've had with this book is the lack of communication and trust. "I thought talking would help, but maybe it was better left until we knew." How is your relationship surviving if theres no communication or trust?
Sigh. Thats not sexy. The back and forth gave me whiplash.
And my god, don't get me started on the dramatics of every single thing in this book. "I dropped my phone. Time slowed. I felt every blink. The phone bounced and clattered into the sand. Quell covered his mouth with his hands. I didn’t know what to do. My brain was buzzing. I felt like I couldn’t draw a full breath." He got a part in a movie, not cancer so... calm down.
AND, as if that wasn't enough... after they broke up, we had Quell thinking, "All of it had been in my head. He hadn’t been better off without me" and as a reader you're like yeah finally he gets it but follows up with, "but maybe he would be now."
Like, "Everything inside me told me not to tell him." REALLY? Everything inside you is telling you not to tell your ex boyfriend why you broke up? The ex you're supposedly still in love with? What is communication?
The use of the word "bad" to refer to a low depressive episode grated on my nerves.
I honestly have never felt more exhausted reading anything in my life.
June 1, 2020
❤❤ A Powerful Book for these two.
A good start to the book as it picks up after book Unscripted. A happy couple until the media come enquiring about photos. With Quell divorce finalised with Rachel and Hale looking for his next film they had to be careful. Oh its not long before they have me laughing with them. Quells gotta choice of work and jugging his time with Hale. High angst included with separation distance of their relationship. Oh boy this book has flippn powerful storyline to read. The characters made me feel what was happening and i was cheering them on. This is written with depression of an MC dealing with his life as an actor. Written with both POVs for a HEA. A highly recommend book which is to be read in order with Unscripted being the first book.
Quell and Hale where loving the quiet moments before filming movies and shows started again next week, times runs out soon. Both are actors and headed in different directions. But can their relationship stand the test of distance.
*I received an advanced readers copy and this is my honest review
A good start to the book as it picks up after book Unscripted. A happy couple until the media come enquiring about photos. With Quell divorce finalised with Rachel and Hale looking for his next film they had to be careful. Oh its not long before they have me laughing with them. Quells gotta choice of work and jugging his time with Hale. High angst included with separation distance of their relationship. Oh boy this book has flippn powerful storyline to read. The characters made me feel what was happening and i was cheering them on. This is written with depression of an MC dealing with his life as an actor. Written with both POVs for a HEA. A highly recommend book which is to be read in order with Unscripted being the first book.
Quell and Hale where loving the quiet moments before filming movies and shows started again next week, times runs out soon. Both are actors and headed in different directions. But can their relationship stand the test of distance.
*I received an advanced readers copy and this is my honest review
June 2, 2020
I was given a copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
There is a reason that most romance novels end with a Happily Ever After. Romance readers want a fantasy. We want an escape. And the first book in this series offered a great fantasy escape. A new actor and an established Hollywood star meet and fall in love on the set of a TV show. I loved first the book. But I don’t think it needed a sequel.
This sequel follows Quell and Hale as Hale’s career takes off with a Marvel-like role and Quell’s mental health starts to fall apart. This isn’t Happily Ever After, it’s months of angst filled separation, gritty tabloid headlines and a relationship that starts to crumble.
Yes, the sequel is probably the more realistic of the two books but it doesn’t work as a romance novel and it isn’t realistic enough to fit within more serious contemporary fiction genres. There’s a touch of Hollywood fantasy here - the men live the pampered, privileged lives of movie stars - but it is a tarnished fantasy that focuses more on the costs of fame than wealthy pleasures. This is the book that explains why no one in Hollywood manages to stay married.
Again, I loved the first book, but this one was hard work. Neither Quell or Hale is likeable through much of the story and the lack of communication between the men is infuriating. It’s a slow read and I really missed the chemistry and sexual tension that drove the first book.
There is a reason that most romance novels end with a Happily Ever After. Romance readers want a fantasy. We want an escape. And the first book in this series offered a great fantasy escape. A new actor and an established Hollywood star meet and fall in love on the set of a TV show. I loved first the book. But I don’t think it needed a sequel.
This sequel follows Quell and Hale as Hale’s career takes off with a Marvel-like role and Quell’s mental health starts to fall apart. This isn’t Happily Ever After, it’s months of angst filled separation, gritty tabloid headlines and a relationship that starts to crumble.
Yes, the sequel is probably the more realistic of the two books but it doesn’t work as a romance novel and it isn’t realistic enough to fit within more serious contemporary fiction genres. There’s a touch of Hollywood fantasy here - the men live the pampered, privileged lives of movie stars - but it is a tarnished fantasy that focuses more on the costs of fame than wealthy pleasures. This is the book that explains why no one in Hollywood manages to stay married.
Again, I loved the first book, but this one was hard work. Neither Quell or Hale is likeable through much of the story and the lack of communication between the men is infuriating. It’s a slow read and I really missed the chemistry and sexual tension that drove the first book.
June 4, 2020
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
Hale and Quell’s story started in Unscripted and continues here in Rewritten, the second in the Unscripted series. They met and fell in love and started the foundation of their relationship in the first book and this book would work better if you were familiar with that foundation as well.
The story picks up where the first one left off. Quell and Hale are committed to each other and spending some time alone together before Quell has to fly off to his next movie location. They are both in love with the other and know that they want to be together, but they both are hesitant with the other for different reasons. The book also has a current feel with references to how TMZ and social media affects the lives of the men. When a second book follows the same couple, there is often something that happens to break them apart. While the men are at different stages of their careers and have to travel extensively, a big factor here is Quell’s clinical depression.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
Hale and Quell’s story started in Unscripted and continues here in Rewritten, the second in the Unscripted series. They met and fell in love and started the foundation of their relationship in the first book and this book would work better if you were familiar with that foundation as well.
The story picks up where the first one left off. Quell and Hale are committed to each other and spending some time alone together before Quell has to fly off to his next movie location. They are both in love with the other and know that they want to be together, but they both are hesitant with the other for different reasons. The book also has a current feel with references to how TMZ and social media affects the lives of the men. When a second book follows the same couple, there is often something that happens to break them apart. While the men are at different stages of their careers and have to travel extensively, a big factor here is Quell’s clinical depression.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
May 16, 2020
**Beta Read**
Where do I begin? I absolutely feel in love with Quell and Hale in Unscripted, book #1 in the Unscripted duet. The way they love each other is deep, complex and multifacted. "Loving you has always been easy and a privilege. I'm lucky every day I get to spend with you. You feel the way you do, and we make it work. That's part of loving someone, too. Putting in the work and figuring things out when they aren't easy." - Hale, Unscripted.
Rewritten picks up where Unscripted left off. Hale and Quell are together, enjoying much needed alone time. They are navigating the waters of their relationship as any couple would. Except Hale Evans and Quellcrist King are far from the average couple. Their life is under a microscope. Every detail dissected and analyzed and reported on TMZ. Quell is the king of Hollywood. His successful acting career catapulted him into the stratosphere of Hollywood royalty and Hale Evans being the hot, up-and-comer who Quell has been rumored to be involved with. Their newly minted relationship is being put to the test in Rewritten. With conflicting and demanding work schedules, Hale and Quell are trying to juggle career demands and find balance in their relationship while trying to navigate their emotional needs as a couple and as individuals. Quell wants nothing more than to have Hale, his emotional anchor, with him all the time, but that would mean Hale would have to turn down jobs and put his burgeoning career on hold to be on the road with him. Both know that they want to be together, but what does that look like while being pulled in so many different directions?
"I think too many times in relationships people assume their partner should know how to take care of them and then are resentful when it falls short." Quell, Rewritten
If they are apart, will their relationship survive the long stretches that they are apart. As in Unscripted, Rewritten continues to handle weight issues such as depression and sexuality with care. It is a real, raw book about love, life, relationships, doubts, fears and fighting for your happily ever after. Engaging secondary characters are wonderfully fleshed out too. 5 stars!
Where do I begin? I absolutely feel in love with Quell and Hale in Unscripted, book #1 in the Unscripted duet. The way they love each other is deep, complex and multifacted. "Loving you has always been easy and a privilege. I'm lucky every day I get to spend with you. You feel the way you do, and we make it work. That's part of loving someone, too. Putting in the work and figuring things out when they aren't easy." - Hale, Unscripted.
Rewritten picks up where Unscripted left off. Hale and Quell are together, enjoying much needed alone time. They are navigating the waters of their relationship as any couple would. Except Hale Evans and Quellcrist King are far from the average couple. Their life is under a microscope. Every detail dissected and analyzed and reported on TMZ. Quell is the king of Hollywood. His successful acting career catapulted him into the stratosphere of Hollywood royalty and Hale Evans being the hot, up-and-comer who Quell has been rumored to be involved with. Their newly minted relationship is being put to the test in Rewritten. With conflicting and demanding work schedules, Hale and Quell are trying to juggle career demands and find balance in their relationship while trying to navigate their emotional needs as a couple and as individuals. Quell wants nothing more than to have Hale, his emotional anchor, with him all the time, but that would mean Hale would have to turn down jobs and put his burgeoning career on hold to be on the road with him. Both know that they want to be together, but what does that look like while being pulled in so many different directions?
"I think too many times in relationships people assume their partner should know how to take care of them and then are resentful when it falls short." Quell, Rewritten
If they are apart, will their relationship survive the long stretches that they are apart. As in Unscripted, Rewritten continues to handle weight issues such as depression and sexuality with care. It is a real, raw book about love, life, relationships, doubts, fears and fighting for your happily ever after. Engaging secondary characters are wonderfully fleshed out too. 5 stars!
July 8, 2023
A great representation of, " what not to do." Cause depression is a beast. Never tamed always on the hunt for isolation. It hard to say no. With a public career! Those stressor will break any well drafted plan.
June 13, 2020
I absolutely loved UNSCRIPTED where I first met famous actor Quellcrist King and his costar, Hale, and I am so glad that I finished that first book just a few days before REWRITTEN released, because I wasn’t ready to turn these two wonderful characters loose. Where the first book dealt mostly with Quell discovering he’s not nearly as straight as he thought he was—filming intimate scenes where this straight actor is playing a gay character should have hinted at what he’d be called on to do—but the budding romance between the openly gay Hale and the “not so sure what he is” Quell was hot and bittersweet at the same time. Clinical depression is never a welcome condition, but Hale’s tender understanding of Quell’s mental illness worked beautifully.
However, in REWRITTEN, the two men are facing a long separation as they each have contracted jobs in major films that will keep them on opposite sides of the world for many months. Separation from Hale is Quell’s enemy, and as their schedules keep them apart even longer than they originally planned, Quell sinks deeper into depression, and Hale begins to wonder if Quell no longer loves him. The issues between the two are realistic and powerful, and I felt personally involved as work drove them farther apart even as both of them recognized the love they felt for each other was too important to lose.
JR Gray is one hell of a storyteller—I got just as caught up in this second book in the series as I did with the first, and I definitely recommend REWRITTEN. Two really good men struggling to make love work when so much is against them is a story that has really stayed with me. The writing is emotional and the characters fresh and powerful. Definitely a story that stays with the reader.
However, in REWRITTEN, the two men are facing a long separation as they each have contracted jobs in major films that will keep them on opposite sides of the world for many months. Separation from Hale is Quell’s enemy, and as their schedules keep them apart even longer than they originally planned, Quell sinks deeper into depression, and Hale begins to wonder if Quell no longer loves him. The issues between the two are realistic and powerful, and I felt personally involved as work drove them farther apart even as both of them recognized the love they felt for each other was too important to lose.
JR Gray is one hell of a storyteller—I got just as caught up in this second book in the series as I did with the first, and I definitely recommend REWRITTEN. Two really good men struggling to make love work when so much is against them is a story that has really stayed with me. The writing is emotional and the characters fresh and powerful. Definitely a story that stays with the reader.
May 31, 2020
Unscripted
4 stars
I fell in love with Quell and Hale in Unscripted and was so excited to learn they were getting a second book!
This books starts off straight after Unscripted and should not be read as a standalone. Quell and Hale are navigating the waters of their new life and relationship whilst also trying to juggle their upcoming work commitments and their inevitable separation. They have their own perfect beach side house and feel they are making positive steps together but they also both have fears and reservations going in to spending potentially months apart filming.
Things slowly start to unravel the more time they spend apart. Quell's mental health takes a drastic downward turn and there's lots of miscommunication and misunderstandings between them.
There's a fair bit of of relationship and life angst throughout this book and a lot of internal struggles from both of them which are written and explored well. At times their miscommunications were frustrating to me but they were not over dramatised or made unrealistic.
Secondary characters were well developed again in this book. I love Mel and Ella and the friendship all 4 of them have developed.
Really enjoyed this book and hoping there's more to come from Quell and Hale in the future!
4 stars
I fell in love with Quell and Hale in Unscripted and was so excited to learn they were getting a second book!
This books starts off straight after Unscripted and should not be read as a standalone. Quell and Hale are navigating the waters of their new life and relationship whilst also trying to juggle their upcoming work commitments and their inevitable separation. They have their own perfect beach side house and feel they are making positive steps together but they also both have fears and reservations going in to spending potentially months apart filming.
Things slowly start to unravel the more time they spend apart. Quell's mental health takes a drastic downward turn and there's lots of miscommunication and misunderstandings between them.
There's a fair bit of of relationship and life angst throughout this book and a lot of internal struggles from both of them which are written and explored well. At times their miscommunications were frustrating to me but they were not over dramatised or made unrealistic.
Secondary characters were well developed again in this book. I love Mel and Ella and the friendship all 4 of them have developed.
Really enjoyed this book and hoping there's more to come from Quell and Hale in the future!
May 30, 2020
Grab your tissues before you crack this open because whoa. I cried like a baby for about half the book. In book one, which totally needs to be read before this, we fall for Quell and Hale. We rooted for them. Well, now they're a couple and have to figure out HOW to be together.
Seriously, the angst level, the heart break in these pages, made me at some point want to shake sense into these boys. One more so than the other. I was so worried they wouldn't find a way through. This wasn't light, it wasn't easy, it was emotional and showed the ups and downs of loving someone with depression. Very well done.
Seriously, the angst level, the heart break in these pages, made me at some point want to shake sense into these boys. One more so than the other. I was so worried they wouldn't find a way through. This wasn't light, it wasn't easy, it was emotional and showed the ups and downs of loving someone with depression. Very well done.
June 3, 2020
“Rewritten” is the second book in the “Unscripted” series by J.R. Gray. In the first book actors, Quellcrist King and Hale begin shooting a TV series with a gay relationship between a pirate and a prince. The roles they play in the show ultimately bring them together. The second book in the series picks up as the two actors move on to other film sets.. and sadly, this takes them away from one another at a time when their relationship is very fragile.
We learned in the first book that Quell deals with severe, chronic depression. Unfortunately, as the two men try to move on with their careers and a long-distance relationship the begin to fall apart for Quell. For Quell, depression becomes something that almost paralyzed him. He cant’ talk to the people he needs most, he can’t even pick up the phone. If you’ve never been thought something like that, it’s almost impossible to understand – I get that. Gray has written Quell’s depression in a way that is so authentic in its stark reality. Even as this character is spiraling down, “drowning” as he puts it, he is unable to reach out to anyone.
Across the world filming his own movie, Hale is heart-broken, alone, and lost. He’s being ghosted by the man he loves. Even when the two men are forced together they can’t seem to find a way to speak to each other.
This book brought me to tears more than once! I am not ashamed to admit that. I really felt for Quell and his inability to simply hold out his hand for help. It’s something that I know people with depression struggle with and Gray has written this character in a way that makes me sincerely thankful. I see a bit of myself in Quell and that’s unusual. There are many characters in books who are “depressed” but this is one of the first times I have read a character that really expresses the utter inability to act that many people experience.
This book is a romance, sure, but at its core, there is a lot of communication that needs to happen. When it does, it’s very revealing. Both characters are struggling to move forwards. Both of them know that they love one another but they are also struggling to understand if being together is the best choice for them. The emotions these characters feel are vibrant, painful, and well-written and the conversations are realistic and heartfelt.
If I have any concerns at all, it’s that every so often I found it difficult to remember whose POV I was reading. That’s in part because it’s Gray’s style as an author to not use the names of the main characters very often during dialogue. I still felt this book like a gut punch… so it clearly didn’t bother me too much!
This series is great. If you’re a fan of the romance genre I’m sure you will enjoy it. The second book is a bit heavier… but the same fun banter and supporting characters are still present. If you or someone you know lives with the challenges of mental illness… I think that you will appreciate this book even more.
We learned in the first book that Quell deals with severe, chronic depression. Unfortunately, as the two men try to move on with their careers and a long-distance relationship the begin to fall apart for Quell. For Quell, depression becomes something that almost paralyzed him. He cant’ talk to the people he needs most, he can’t even pick up the phone. If you’ve never been thought something like that, it’s almost impossible to understand – I get that. Gray has written Quell’s depression in a way that is so authentic in its stark reality. Even as this character is spiraling down, “drowning” as he puts it, he is unable to reach out to anyone.
Across the world filming his own movie, Hale is heart-broken, alone, and lost. He’s being ghosted by the man he loves. Even when the two men are forced together they can’t seem to find a way to speak to each other.
This book brought me to tears more than once! I am not ashamed to admit that. I really felt for Quell and his inability to simply hold out his hand for help. It’s something that I know people with depression struggle with and Gray has written this character in a way that makes me sincerely thankful. I see a bit of myself in Quell and that’s unusual. There are many characters in books who are “depressed” but this is one of the first times I have read a character that really expresses the utter inability to act that many people experience.
This book is a romance, sure, but at its core, there is a lot of communication that needs to happen. When it does, it’s very revealing. Both characters are struggling to move forwards. Both of them know that they love one another but they are also struggling to understand if being together is the best choice for them. The emotions these characters feel are vibrant, painful, and well-written and the conversations are realistic and heartfelt.
If I have any concerns at all, it’s that every so often I found it difficult to remember whose POV I was reading. That’s in part because it’s Gray’s style as an author to not use the names of the main characters very often during dialogue. I still felt this book like a gut punch… so it clearly didn’t bother me too much!
This series is great. If you’re a fan of the romance genre I’m sure you will enjoy it. The second book is a bit heavier… but the same fun banter and supporting characters are still present. If you or someone you know lives with the challenges of mental illness… I think that you will appreciate this book even more.
June 4, 2020
Rewritten, the second book in JR Gray's Unscripted series, is one hell of a riveting story.
Hot damn, I am elated to get more of Hale and Quell. Love these two in Unscripted, and and delighted to get to spend more time with them.
This book picks up where the previous one left off. Quell's divorce is now public, but Hale and Quell are still keeping their relationship a secret. There are plenty of rumors going around, but they aren't confirming anything.
Their story involves paparazzi, gossip news, rumors, and a nine month separation as they film separately. Their future is undecided, and then things go downhill.
Their tale is part happy go lucky, part fear and doubts. It will make you smile, laugh, cry, and want to scream. Quell and Hale are two Hollywood actors, trying to make their relationship work all while balancing their careers and busy schedules. As for the angst when it hits, holy shit, the author drags the reader through the wringer with this one. So frustrating, so maddening, but so damn good.
Quell, himself, is a man who's depression is still front and center in his life. "...I don't know how to be happy because I never have been. But this is close and I want to keep feeling this." His fears are are undoing, and his lack of mental stability is always front and center.
The author's writing style is superb. The tone itself shows the level of excellence. At the start, the tone is perfectly gentle and sweet, with plenty of love and flirting. Later on, the author perfectly changes tone as the storyline takes a downturn. It is amazingly well done.
As well, the author is impressive in writing Quell's depression. The struggles, the effects, the mindset, everything is written with knowledge and care.
Rewritten and the first book, Unscripted, are currently my favorite series of the year. The characters are perfectly lovable and their journey is mesmerizing.
Hot damn, I am elated to get more of Hale and Quell. Love these two in Unscripted, and and delighted to get to spend more time with them.
This book picks up where the previous one left off. Quell's divorce is now public, but Hale and Quell are still keeping their relationship a secret. There are plenty of rumors going around, but they aren't confirming anything.
Their story involves paparazzi, gossip news, rumors, and a nine month separation as they film separately. Their future is undecided, and then things go downhill.
Their tale is part happy go lucky, part fear and doubts. It will make you smile, laugh, cry, and want to scream. Quell and Hale are two Hollywood actors, trying to make their relationship work all while balancing their careers and busy schedules. As for the angst when it hits, holy shit, the author drags the reader through the wringer with this one. So frustrating, so maddening, but so damn good.
Quell, himself, is a man who's depression is still front and center in his life. "...I don't know how to be happy because I never have been. But this is close and I want to keep feeling this." His fears are are undoing, and his lack of mental stability is always front and center.
The author's writing style is superb. The tone itself shows the level of excellence. At the start, the tone is perfectly gentle and sweet, with plenty of love and flirting. Later on, the author perfectly changes tone as the storyline takes a downturn. It is amazingly well done.
As well, the author is impressive in writing Quell's depression. The struggles, the effects, the mindset, everything is written with knowledge and care.
Rewritten and the first book, Unscripted, are currently my favorite series of the year. The characters are perfectly lovable and their journey is mesmerizing.
June 4, 2020
.•*¨)
(¸.★¨*.¸¸.•`★¤One book wasn't enough to tell their story.¤★¨*.¸¸.*ˑ˞★
"My soul fits with yours." ~Hale
Following book one, Unscripted, Quell and Hale are now in a committed relationship and slowly navigating what it means to be together. Their [movie] series kept them in a bubble, but now that they have entered society, they are opened to scrutiny and a barrage of emotions.
Life is not just about one or the other, it is finding a balance and making decisions that can hinder or solidify their bond.
With Quell's anxieties and depression, comes his need for validation. When both he and Hale becomes victims of separation, they both struggle to voice their thoughts, leaving the chasm even wider. " But I have to find my balance because of my illness. And if that means stepping back from things that become less important, then it means that," he told eventually Hale.
When old fears are brought into play, can these two men overcome it all? Or lose the best thing that has ever happened to them?
I was greedy, so I was able to voluntarily and honestly reviewed this book without bias or persuasion from the author through A Novel Take PR and also:
Reviewed by Cee from Alpha Book Club
(¸.★¨*.¸¸.•`★¤One book wasn't enough to tell their story.¤★¨*.¸¸.*ˑ˞★
"My soul fits with yours." ~Hale
Following book one, Unscripted, Quell and Hale are now in a committed relationship and slowly navigating what it means to be together. Their [movie] series kept them in a bubble, but now that they have entered society, they are opened to scrutiny and a barrage of emotions.
Life is not just about one or the other, it is finding a balance and making decisions that can hinder or solidify their bond.
With Quell's anxieties and depression, comes his need for validation. When both he and Hale becomes victims of separation, they both struggle to voice their thoughts, leaving the chasm even wider. " But I have to find my balance because of my illness. And if that means stepping back from things that become less important, then it means that," he told eventually Hale.
When old fears are brought into play, can these two men overcome it all? Or lose the best thing that has ever happened to them?
I was greedy, so I was able to voluntarily and honestly reviewed this book without bias or persuasion from the author through A Novel Take PR and also:
Reviewed by Cee from Alpha Book Club
June 4, 2020
Rewritten is the second book of the Unscripted Duo by J.R. Grey. You need to read Unscripted before to understand Rewritten.
The book starts immediately after Book 1 with Quell and Hale enjoying their time together. But conflicting schedules will take them apart for shooting their respective movies.
During their separation everything falls apart und they soon loose their connection to each other.
This book contains a lot of drama and angst. We see Quell struggle with his mental illness. This part is very well written and I really felt like I was part of his struggle.
While Quell is trying to deal with his paralyzing depression, Hale is on set filming a new movie and is struggling with the separation and the ghosting of Quell.
I have to say I didn't quite connect with Hale in his parts. I didn't understand that he just let himself push away. He knows of the depression and should have been able to put the pieces together or at least demand an explanation. Yes, he doubted the relationship, felt insecure and has his movie to shoot and restricted time. But there were other ways to contact him (e.g. Mel). I didn't feel the emotions and thought process as deep as the one of Quell.
Furthermore, the friends of Quell and Hale should have pushed more, as they also know he is dealing with depression. That was not completely realistic from my point of view and something that bothered and frustrated me while reading.
Nevertheless a really amazing story and beautiful sequel to Unscripted. The book takes you on an emotional journey with some tears and a satisfying end.
Free on kindle unlimited
Trigger Warning: Depression
The book starts immediately after Book 1 with Quell and Hale enjoying their time together. But conflicting schedules will take them apart for shooting their respective movies.
During their separation everything falls apart und they soon loose their connection to each other.
This book contains a lot of drama and angst. We see Quell struggle with his mental illness. This part is very well written and I really felt like I was part of his struggle.
While Quell is trying to deal with his paralyzing depression, Hale is on set filming a new movie and is struggling with the separation and the ghosting of Quell.
I have to say I didn't quite connect with Hale in his parts. I didn't understand that he just let himself push away. He knows of the depression and should have been able to put the pieces together or at least demand an explanation. Yes, he doubted the relationship, felt insecure and has his movie to shoot and restricted time. But there were other ways to contact him (e.g. Mel). I didn't feel the emotions and thought process as deep as the one of Quell.
Furthermore, the friends of Quell and Hale should have pushed more, as they also know he is dealing with depression. That was not completely realistic from my point of view and something that bothered and frustrated me while reading.
Nevertheless a really amazing story and beautiful sequel to Unscripted. The book takes you on an emotional journey with some tears and a satisfying end.
Free on kindle unlimited
Trigger Warning: Depression
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 3, 2020
4.25 Stars!
Rewritten is book 2 in the Unscripted series and it needs to be read in order since it starts right where the first book ends.
Quell and Hale have been living in bliss after wrapping the second season for Pirate Night, unfortunately, work engagements and having to live apart for months are looming on the horizon. Can they make their relationship work even if they're so far away from each other?
Long-distance relationships are hard enough without taking Quell's depression into account. Add to that that Hale is still feeling unsure about the depth of Quell's feelings for him and you have a recipe for disaster. Even so, they're both obviously as in love with each other as they were at the end of Unscripted, and their chemistry is definitely there, which was more than proven when they meet again in the Pirate Night set.
I loved Mel and Ella, they proved to be great friends for Quell and Hale and I loved that it was Mel's machinations that got them back on track.
I'm not going to lie, this was angsty and I kept putting the book down because my anxiety levels were at an all-time high while reading it. I felt so bad for both of them and at the same time, I wanted to shake some sense into them. I won't spoil this any more than I did, other than saying that thankfully it all works out for the best in the end with both men working hard to make their relationship work, but just know this was not an easy read. I have no trouble recommending it, though, just make sure to read Unscripted first.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
Rewritten is book 2 in the Unscripted series and it needs to be read in order since it starts right where the first book ends.
Quell and Hale have been living in bliss after wrapping the second season for Pirate Night, unfortunately, work engagements and having to live apart for months are looming on the horizon. Can they make their relationship work even if they're so far away from each other?
Long-distance relationships are hard enough without taking Quell's depression into account. Add to that that Hale is still feeling unsure about the depth of Quell's feelings for him and you have a recipe for disaster. Even so, they're both obviously as in love with each other as they were at the end of Unscripted, and their chemistry is definitely there, which was more than proven when they meet again in the Pirate Night set.
I loved Mel and Ella, they proved to be great friends for Quell and Hale and I loved that it was Mel's machinations that got them back on track.
I'm not going to lie, this was angsty and I kept putting the book down because my anxiety levels were at an all-time high while reading it. I felt so bad for both of them and at the same time, I wanted to shake some sense into them. I won't spoil this any more than I did, other than saying that thankfully it all works out for the best in the end with both men working hard to make their relationship work, but just know this was not an easy read. I have no trouble recommending it, though, just make sure to read Unscripted first.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
June 3, 2020
Excellent follow up to Unscripted.
I fell in love with Quell and Hale as I was reading Unscripted, the first book of this series. At the end of the book, I convinced myself that, despite everything that had happened, that these two would make it work.
Then, as I was reading Rewritten, I decided that I was gonna shake the author if I got my hands on him! Let's just say that 'stuff' happens, and suddenly Quell's depression kicks in big time! I was like, nooooo...please...
As Quell begins to decline, he follows the hidden traits of his mental illness. He feels sadness, hopeless and helpless. His self-esteem takes a beating and he constantly blames himself for what is happening. Not being a stranger to the symptoms of depression, I could've cried for him. I really, at one point, was unsure that I wanted to finish the book. It was so sad.
Then I actually considered skipping to the end to see what would happen! They'd appeared such a strong and devoted couple, I couldn't believe that it was going to go wrong! However, I took a deep breath, and carried on.
It's such an emotional story, I just wanted to reach into the book and hug both MCs, especially Quell. It was so hard to witness the personal and difficult journey that these two had to make to resolve their issues. It also made me realise and accept that no matter what you do, no matter how much love you give or receive, anxiety and depression can just bombard its way past all of that. Quell summed it up perfectly when he said,
Excellent follow up by the author, as usual I was struck by his sincere and honest writing style. I wouldn't recommend it as a standalone. Unscripted really does need to be read first.
I fell in love with Quell and Hale as I was reading Unscripted, the first book of this series. At the end of the book, I convinced myself that, despite everything that had happened, that these two would make it work.
Then, as I was reading Rewritten, I decided that I was gonna shake the author if I got my hands on him! Let's just say that 'stuff' happens, and suddenly Quell's depression kicks in big time! I was like, nooooo...please...
As Quell begins to decline, he follows the hidden traits of his mental illness. He feels sadness, hopeless and helpless. His self-esteem takes a beating and he constantly blames himself for what is happening. Not being a stranger to the symptoms of depression, I could've cried for him. I really, at one point, was unsure that I wanted to finish the book. It was so sad.
Then I actually considered skipping to the end to see what would happen! They'd appeared such a strong and devoted couple, I couldn't believe that it was going to go wrong! However, I took a deep breath, and carried on.
It's such an emotional story, I just wanted to reach into the book and hug both MCs, especially Quell. It was so hard to witness the personal and difficult journey that these two had to make to resolve their issues. It also made me realise and accept that no matter what you do, no matter how much love you give or receive, anxiety and depression can just bombard its way past all of that. Quell summed it up perfectly when he said,
Excellent follow up by the author, as usual I was struck by his sincere and honest writing style. I wouldn't recommend it as a standalone. Unscripted really does need to be read first.
June 4, 2020
I was so scared for these guys after reading the blurb and oh boy, did they put my heart through the wringer again. I liked how the topic of mental illness and Quell's depression was portrayed; it wasn't put in the background but rather, it plays a central part in the struggles that both Quell and Hale face in this book. It was hard to read about at times and made even more so by the fact that Quell and Hale were in such a strong place at the end of book 1, Unscripted. I will admit that I wished I didn't have to see them struggle at all, but although it does hurt your heart, it is definitely worth it. It goes to show that relationships are not always hearts and roses, and sometimes you need to really want to work for them. But don't worry, there is also all the sweetness and humour that was present in the first book. Quell and Hale had me laughing, crying and swooning all the way to their very well-deserved HEA!
June 4, 2020
**I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.**
Rewritten is the second book and starts off right where Unscripted left us. You cannot read this one as a stand alone you have to read book one first to understand the past and current relationship.
In Unscripted Quell and Hale finally get together now we get to see how they navigate their relationship and the media. I love a good angst filled read and this did not disappoint. The emotion is raw and so real. Quell's depression takes hold its heartbreaking, it's so authentic.
This book can take the reader down a path they weren't expecting so be warned it is an emotional read but so worth it in the end.
Rewritten is the second book and starts off right where Unscripted left us. You cannot read this one as a stand alone you have to read book one first to understand the past and current relationship.
In Unscripted Quell and Hale finally get together now we get to see how they navigate their relationship and the media. I love a good angst filled read and this did not disappoint. The emotion is raw and so real. Quell's depression takes hold its heartbreaking, it's so authentic.
This book can take the reader down a path they weren't expecting so be warned it is an emotional read but so worth it in the end.
June 8, 2020
Good follow on story!
Wow this book really packed an emotional punch. Quell and Hale ended Unscripted in a happy place and they start here happy as well and enjoying life together. Then they need to spend time apart for work and it's too much for Quell and his mental state to handle. I felt Quells disease take hold and cause him to spiral out of control, it was heartbreaking. The work they both had to put in to find their way back to each other was hard to watch at times as my heart broke for them. The journey felt so real and was really just so well written. They did spend more time apart than I would have liked and I would have loved to have seen a little further into the future to see Quell truly in the healing process, but the book made me feel so much. It was filled with love, a love so deep that it helped both of them find their way forward again.
Wow this book really packed an emotional punch. Quell and Hale ended Unscripted in a happy place and they start here happy as well and enjoying life together. Then they need to spend time apart for work and it's too much for Quell and his mental state to handle. I felt Quells disease take hold and cause him to spiral out of control, it was heartbreaking. The work they both had to put in to find their way back to each other was hard to watch at times as my heart broke for them. The journey felt so real and was really just so well written. They did spend more time apart than I would have liked and I would have loved to have seen a little further into the future to see Quell truly in the healing process, but the book made me feel so much. It was filled with love, a love so deep that it helped both of them find their way forward again.
May 26, 2020
This book picks up where book 1 left off. You can read this as a stand alone, but for the relationship backstory, way better to have read the previous book. Here Quell and Hale are living in their new house and enjoying some downtime. They know it is limited because Quell is booked to start soon, and Hale is looking for his next work. Here is where the relationship breaks down a bit, because they are both keeping feelings and thoughts from each other.
This is the book about depression and how it can ruin everything around a person even if they appear to be totally fine to everyone else. Quell starts his jaunt around the world shooting his latest action movie, while Hale stays in the states to start a superhero blockbuster. It's the situation of being apart that starts Quell's spiral, and then something that isn't even true pushes him into the deep end. I like that you get the perspective of the situation from both Quell's and Hale's POV, and the feelings and self-arguments there are. I do not have depression, nor do I know anyone dealing with the often time crippling disease, so I cannot comment on the authenticity. But I can say that it made me feel like I understood what some types of depression can feel and look like. And gain an appreciation of being the partner and what they can go through. I was lucky enough to get an advanced copy, but I would still be recommending this book to people. I felt that towards the end, we had beaten the depression aspect of it enough, and it was like the same things were being repeated over and over. But it wasn't so bad I put the book down.
This is the book about depression and how it can ruin everything around a person even if they appear to be totally fine to everyone else. Quell starts his jaunt around the world shooting his latest action movie, while Hale stays in the states to start a superhero blockbuster. It's the situation of being apart that starts Quell's spiral, and then something that isn't even true pushes him into the deep end. I like that you get the perspective of the situation from both Quell's and Hale's POV, and the feelings and self-arguments there are. I do not have depression, nor do I know anyone dealing with the often time crippling disease, so I cannot comment on the authenticity. But I can say that it made me feel like I understood what some types of depression can feel and look like. And gain an appreciation of being the partner and what they can go through. I was lucky enough to get an advanced copy, but I would still be recommending this book to people. I felt that towards the end, we had beaten the depression aspect of it enough, and it was like the same things were being repeated over and over. But it wasn't so bad I put the book down.
June 3, 2020
A sequel to Unscripted with a pretty unfiltered look at Quell's depression and its impact on his life and his relationship with Hale. The story was well written and I loved the frank discussion of depression and its impact on relationships and friendships as well as Quell's personal life. It did get rough every now and then while you're reading but at the same time, I'd definitely say it ended with a happily ever after where you know that Hale and Quell are going to keep fighting for each other and their own health and loving each other for a long time.
As a side note, I know that Quell's form of depression and how he and his friends handle it may not reflect everyone's experiences but I appreciate the extension of Quell and Hale's romance showing the multiple forms of how of depression expresses itself and how love alone won't solve things.
As a side note, I know that Quell's form of depression and how he and his friends handle it may not reflect everyone's experiences but I appreciate the extension of Quell and Hale's romance showing the multiple forms of how of depression expresses itself and how love alone won't solve things.
May 31, 2020
I couldn't wait for Hale and Quell's next book and I absolutely enjoyed "Rewitten". I love these two so much ♡♡♡♡♡
Light barely crested over the water as Quell and I stood in each other’s arms. Forehead to forehead, our grip on each other a little too tight and a little too desperate. Neither one of us making a move to let go.
Their love for each other is so beautiful and real, they struggle and drown, work and fight for it and because I already fell for them so hard in book#1, I rooted for their happy ending with ALL my heart.
Yes, life and relationships are difficult, mental health and self care is important, choices aren't always easy. Their story shows the importance to accept, forgive and love and LOVE they do.
Heartfluttery feels AGAIN.
ARC in exchange for an honest review
Light barely crested over the water as Quell and I stood in each other’s arms. Forehead to forehead, our grip on each other a little too tight and a little too desperate. Neither one of us making a move to let go.
Their love for each other is so beautiful and real, they struggle and drown, work and fight for it and because I already fell for them so hard in book#1, I rooted for their happy ending with ALL my heart.
Yes, life and relationships are difficult, mental health and self care is important, choices aren't always easy. Their story shows the importance to accept, forgive and love and LOVE they do.
Heartfluttery feels AGAIN.
ARC in exchange for an honest review
June 5, 2020
I was desperate for this book. I just had to know what would happen with Quell and Hale. These two men are hot, hot, hot! The writing was amazing, giving a great insight into the many facets of depression and how people cope. The storyline was incredible, keeping me thoroughly hooked. The drama and angst was on point. The kiss and make up was out of this world. I am deeply in love with these characters and will bring them out often to get reacquainted!
June 5, 2020
Beautiful continuation of Unscripted. Trigger warning: depression and loneliness. Heartbreaking and emotional but ultimately HAE. Things work out if they communicate. I love these two. Such gorgeously written sensitive all to real humans. Sexy and tender. Loving. Great sex. Great supporting characters. Now off to read more J.R as I’m hooked.
November 8, 2021
Although I nudged book 1 one star up, this book stays 3 stars. I disliked the anxiety of both MC's, this time. Plus, the narration made little to none distinction between the voices.
With this novel the love story between Quel and his boyfriend ends.
With this novel the love story between Quel and his boyfriend ends.
June 8, 2020
LOVE. LOVE. LOVE. Review to Come
March 22, 2021
Still in love with the story line yet absolutely frustrated with the way the MCs developed and the flow of certain more important scenes in the story..
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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