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Pickup Men #3
Pulling Leather
The toughest ride of his life is all in his head.Bull rider Scott Gillard has a reputation for quick fists and harsh words. What no one knows is where that anger comes from. After a shocking incident sends him into a tailspin, he knows he needs he’s been fighting a battle he could never win. Now he’s trying to navigate a new life and embrace his true self, but some days are easier than others.Pickup man Cory Ackerson has suffered his share of harassment, but his light still burns bright. He doesn’t let anything or anyone keep him down, so when he meets the rugged cowboy with a battered chip on his shoulder and regret in his dark eyes, all he wants to do is help.As their unlikely friendship grows into something deeper, Scott must overcome his past to be the man Cory deserves, or lose his best chance at his own happily ever after.2016 EPIC Ebook Awards Finalist, Contemporary Romance2015 Lambda Literary Awards Finalist, Gay Romance2015 Rainbow Awards, Honorable Mention, Gay This title was previously published at Riptide Publishing, and has been re-edited.
172 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 2014
21 people are currently reading
707 people want to read
About the author
L.C. Chase
25 books357 followersCover artist by day, author by night, L.C. Chase is a two-time Lambda Literary Award finalist for Pickup Men and Pulling Leather, an EPIC eBook Awards winner for Pickup Men, a nine-time Ariana eBook Cover Art Awards winner, and Bronze winner in Sinfully’s 2014 Reader’s Choice Awards for Cover of the Year. She also won runner-up for Best Gay Contemporary Romance and Best Gay Book in the 2016 Rainbow Awards for A Fortunate Blizzard, honorable mention for Best Gay Contemporary Romance in the 2015 Rainbow Awards for Pulling Leather, and Best Gay Mystery/Thriller in the 2012 Rainbow Awards for Riding with Heaven.
You can find L.C. on her website, lcchase.com, and subscribe to her totally sporadic newsletter for more about her works in progress, new releases, newsletter exclusives, and more. Or join her facebook reader group: Chasing Ever After.
You can find L.C. on her website, lcchase.com, and subscribe to her totally sporadic newsletter for more about her works in progress, new releases, newsletter exclusives, and more. Or join her facebook reader group: Chasing Ever After.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews
May 29, 2023
Kind of boring,to be honest. Formulaic, predictable plagued with stereotypes and without too much depth.
Same ol’ tragic story of safe-hating gay in the closet riddled with internalized (and external too,in this particular case) homophobia who struggles the entire book to come to grips with his sexuality only for him to have a last minute epiphany and suddenly the homophobes around him disappear and he only sees happy gay couples living in the gay paradise and of course he comes out of the closet with a loud bang. As I said: BORING . Despite all that I liked Scott’s journey and his struggle was well depicted the problem was that the other MC was kind of ..bland? Flavorless? I didn’t see the chemistry, the passion or the love even though they all said the right things at the right time. I would have liked a different love interest. Also, giving the most homophobic gay guy a femme cowboy as a love interest was a bit on the nose lol. I mean, I do believe in Karma but that was pushing it 🤣. The writing is ok I guess but the book is just an ok read. I should have expected though seeing as I’ve read book two in the series a while ago and it was 3 indulgent stars.
Also, there is no sex here, like..AT ALL. It’s all very innocent and nice (and by nice I mean meh ) .
Same ol’ tragic story of safe-hating gay in the closet riddled with internalized (and external too,in this particular case) homophobia who struggles the entire book to come to grips with his sexuality only for him to have a last minute epiphany and suddenly the homophobes around him disappear and he only sees happy gay couples living in the gay paradise and of course he comes out of the closet with a loud bang. As I said: BORING . Despite all that I liked Scott’s journey and his struggle was well depicted the problem was that the other MC was kind of ..bland? Flavorless? I didn’t see the chemistry, the passion or the love even though they all said the right things at the right time. I would have liked a different love interest. Also, giving the most homophobic gay guy a femme cowboy as a love interest was a bit on the nose lol. I mean, I do believe in Karma but that was pushing it 🤣. The writing is ok I guess but the book is just an ok read. I should have expected though seeing as I’ve read book two in the series a while ago and it was 3 indulgent stars.
Also, there is no sex here, like..AT ALL. It’s all very innocent and nice (and by nice I mean meh ) .
August 30, 2014
OK, when you are reading a book as part of a series, it is quite reasonable to expect that the story line will be pretty similar to the books that preceded it. I have read and reviewed both of the first two Pickup Men books and enjoyed them both very much. Given that fact, I was very excited to read this book, knowing I'd be getting more of the same goodness that I enjoyed from the first two books. But that didn't happen here. This book wasn't anything like the first two and I ended up feeling cheated and just a bit let down. I'm going to spoiler tag the difference for those that want to read the book with fresh eyes.
Scott "am I gay or am I straight?" was so uptight during the vast majority of the book, I wasn't able to feel the chemistry between him and Cory. And there were only a few, short scenes in the rodeo ring, which was a great addition to the previous two books.
I'm not able to recommend this book based on my enjoyment of the first two Pickup Men books. And actually, not even as a stand alone. There wasn't enough heat, energy and excitement to hold my attention. I hope the next addition in the series mirrors the first two!
Scott "am I gay or am I straight?" was so uptight during the vast majority of the book, I wasn't able to feel the chemistry between him and Cory. And there were only a few, short scenes in the rodeo ring, which was a great addition to the previous two books.
I'm not able to recommend this book based on my enjoyment of the first two Pickup Men books. And actually, not even as a stand alone. There wasn't enough heat, energy and excitement to hold my attention. I hope the next addition in the series mirrors the first two!
June 11, 2017
It's been a year and a half since I finished Book 2 in L.C. Chase's Pickup Men series. I really enjoyed the writing and the characters and the smexy love scenes in Let it Ride (far more than I enjoyed the plot and characters in Book 1, quite frankly), but once I learned that Scott Gillard was going to be the main character in Pulling Leather, I was turned way, way off this series.
So much so that I honestly didn't plan on ever reading this book; I was just going to let this series sit unfinished on my TBR shelf until I finally got so sick of seeing it there that I deleted it in a fit of pique. For those of you that know me and my Type A soul, you'll understand that this would have caused me physical pain to do so, but...
Scott Gillard?
I just couldn't.
In case you've forgotten, Scott was the self-loathing leader of the homophobic asshole brigade in Pickup Men. He was the guy that hurled insults like this gem:
“Christ,” Scott bit out. “That fucking sissy and his fag stags are here. Ought to be a fucking law to keep them out.”
And this one:
“Oh, I get it.” His tone was low and menacing. “You got a thing for that yellow-bellied faggot.”
And then
This weekend, in a moment of weakness, I decided to give finishing this series one last shot. I would read a few pages and if I still found Scott irredeemable, then I'd toss the book and delete it from my TBR file guilt free.
But as I started to read Pulling Leather - a book told from Scott's perspective - his recollection of two years ago didn't jive with my angry memories of Book 1. I had to go back and read the relevant scenes to see if the author had pulled a fast one on me or if she had just realized how totally morally bankrupt and unlikable her character was and changed the narrative - established facts from the previous book be damned.
Turns out it was the first one and what I thought I knew had happened in Book 1 hadn't actually happened (kudos, Ms. Chase, you got me!). Scott was still a self-hating homophobic prick that had done and said horrendous stuff in the past, but he hadn't crossed the line of no return - at least as far as I am concerned (other readers may feel differently). Knowing this made reading this book and rooting for his redemption much easier.
In the end, Ms. Chase managed to make me feel sympathy towards a character I never expected to elicit that sort of response from me. This made me like the book. But the book had no sex, a cheesy and completely out of character grand gesture at the end, and a fairly realistic but less than satisfying 'HEA.' So, the book was good, but it wasn't great.
So much so that I honestly didn't plan on ever reading this book; I was just going to let this series sit unfinished on my TBR shelf until I finally got so sick of seeing it there that I deleted it in a fit of pique. For those of you that know me and my Type A soul, you'll understand that this would have caused me physical pain to do so, but...
Scott Gillard?
I just couldn't.
In case you've forgotten, Scott was the self-loathing leader of the homophobic asshole brigade in Pickup Men. He was the guy that hurled insults like this gem:
“Christ,” Scott bit out. “That fucking sissy and his fag stags are here. Ought to be a fucking law to keep them out.”
And this one:
“Oh, I get it.” His tone was low and menacing. “You got a thing for that yellow-bellied faggot.”
And then
This weekend, in a moment of weakness, I decided to give finishing this series one last shot. I would read a few pages and if I still found Scott irredeemable, then I'd toss the book and delete it from my TBR file guilt free.
But as I started to read Pulling Leather - a book told from Scott's perspective - his recollection of two years ago didn't jive with my angry memories of Book 1. I had to go back and read the relevant scenes to see if the author had pulled a fast one on me or if she had just realized how totally morally bankrupt and unlikable her character was and changed the narrative - established facts from the previous book be damned.
Turns out it was the first one and what I thought I knew had happened in Book 1 hadn't actually happened (kudos, Ms. Chase, you got me!). Scott was still a self-hating homophobic prick that had done and said horrendous stuff in the past, but he hadn't crossed the line of no return - at least as far as I am concerned (other readers may feel differently). Knowing this made reading this book and rooting for his redemption much easier.
In the end, Ms. Chase managed to make me feel sympathy towards a character I never expected to elicit that sort of response from me. This made me like the book. But the book had no sex, a cheesy and completely out of character grand gesture at the end, and a fairly realistic but less than satisfying 'HEA.' So, the book was good, but it wasn't great.
April 1, 2016
Scott Gilliard has spent his life denying the man he really is inside. Bull riding is his life and being a gruff, hard nosed cowboy, is the coat he wears on the rodeo circuit. In the aftermath of the indictment involving Trip, he has disappeared from the circuit. He's trying to get his life back in order, and understand the secrets he harbors.
Scott gets back into the circuit with the help of Trip. Scott is not prepared for the asteroid that comes crashing into his new world by the name of Cory Ackerson. Cory is a sun in Scott's dark world. Cory is not about to let this somber, sad cowboy get away.
This is a tale of hate, loss, faith, redemption, and most of all love. If you are interested in the world of rodeo, the good and bad of it, then I recommend this. If you just want to read a great story, then it's right here. I give it an arena full of stars.
******5 star audio, really brings this book to life, his voice is whiskey rough and oh so good*********
Scott gets back into the circuit with the help of Trip. Scott is not prepared for the asteroid that comes crashing into his new world by the name of Cory Ackerson. Cory is a sun in Scott's dark world. Cory is not about to let this somber, sad cowboy get away.
This is a tale of hate, loss, faith, redemption, and most of all love. If you are interested in the world of rodeo, the good and bad of it, then I recommend this. If you just want to read a great story, then it's right here. I give it an arena full of stars.
******5 star audio, really brings this book to life, his voice is whiskey rough and oh so good*********
February 5, 2021
Il migliore dei tre.
April 5, 2016
For this third installment of the Pickup Men series, I was on the edge of my seat with excitement. There are just some situations that lend themselves to be tension-packed and curious before a book is even opened or listened to such as when a writer takes a very unlikable characters and sets them up as the hero of the story. This book takes the story of angry, hating, and mean Scott Gillard from book one and sweet and gentle Cory from book two and makes a romance of it.
With that said, it shouldn't come as a surprise that I recommend reading the books in order.
The book opens with a few years past the events of book one, Pick Up Men, and the very next rodeo season after book two, Let It Ride. Scott took time away from the rodeo to get his head on straight. What happened with Trip gave him a wake up call about where his hate, anger, and self-loathing took him. Trip's career as a pro bull rider was over and he was partially responsible.
With the help of his best friend, Brandy, who is also a skilled therapist, he has come to terms with a few things and on his way to coming to terms with a few others. He is gay, even if he's not ready to admit that to others. But as a first step toward the new life he is determined to have, he must approach Trip and Marty and apologize and ask for their forgiveness.
The meeting with Trip leads to a surprising result. Trip gave his forgiveness, but also offered Scott a change to get back doing something he loved though it will test him. Trip wants him to help with the clinics at the gay rodeo and the pro tour rodeo. This will not be easy both because it will be a step closer to coming out and to confronting all those who knew him as a Class A Jerk. Brandy and Trip both encourage him so despite his own inner dragons and the hostility of others, he ventures forth. And right away there is a bright, sunny cowboy who grabs his attention, but at the same time Scott knows he can't be what Cory deserves or needs.
Cory Ackerson is taken with the big cowboy who shows up to help Trip and just can't see the man that so many others watch warily or can't stand. Scott can't be gay of course and he's the opposite of Cory's open and obvious gay, but Cory still dreams. He doesn't know Scott's story and is willing to give him a chance even in the face of his brother and friends warning him to be cautious.
Scott becomes even more attractive to Cory especially when he gives indications that he is attracted to Cory as well. But that said, Scott is struggling and in the closet. Scott won't acknowledge him and retreats quickly each time Cory advances. He wants to be patient with Scott, but how much hurt and rejection and hiding can he take before it's too much?
As I mentioned, this story tackled a truly loathsome character from earlier in the series and turned him into hero material. Yes, there was a surprise twist and facts that were hitherto unknown that make all the difference in the world, but the author made it clear that there was still a vast deal of stuff that couldn't be ignored and brushed under the rug. Change and growth had to happen. Some of it took place off scene before this book, but I was glad that much of this story was Scott in his final moments of transformation to the man he really was.
Scott had to overcome his issues with his own past, acceptance of himself and how that would change things. He is still working toward admitting to others that he is gay. And piled onto this, Scott's challenge is even greater because he faces a new dynamic in that he is attracted to a man who is not only out, but a man who no one would mistake as anything, but gay. If he goes into a relationship with Cory, he is automatically out. It was a tough bit of added tension, but I liked this opposites attract piece.
And on Cory's end, he has some stuff to work through as well. Of course he has to decide if he will give Scott a chance and just how long does he wait for Scott to get his ducks in a row. But Cory struggles with the difficulty of proving to others and sometimes himself that he may be flaming gay, but it doesn't make him less of a man or any less capable. He has been the butt of people's derision and discomfort his whole life and his brother has gotten overprotective as a result. Scott teaches Cory that it isn't always that someone thinks he's less when they come rushing to pull the bullies off, but that he is worth their love and care.
So as these two take turns trading the narrative voice and starting along a rough road toward love, it was sometimes sweet, tender, passionate, but also heartbreakings when there were false steps. The emotion was there, but it wasn't over the top just as the conflict worked and felt right for the story. I totally bought into Scott's change of heart and mind and to the relationship between him and Cory. I cheered them on.
The story is mostly focused on Scott's internal conflict of coming out and turning his life around, but I loved that the author didn't skimp on rodeo, the band of familiar cowboy faces from the series, and that added element of Scott reconnecting with his past.
The final epilogue scene left me smiling and so happy for Scott and Cory. I believe this is also the final story in the series and it was a great cap to an engaging series. Though...I would not say no to more rodeo cowboy lovin'.
As I've said throughout this series, Dorian Bane, is a fantastic match for these books. He gets the voices, the tone, the emotion, and the rhythm of the story spot on. I can't imagine not having these stories without his voice bringing them to life.
In summary, this was another fantastic segment of the series and rivals the other two for me as each in their special ways has been an equal treasure. Loved how each couple came to love in their own ways set against the world of cowboys and rodeo. I can recommend this story for those who enjoy being there for a character to grow and triumph, for a hard won passionate romance, and the camaraderie of a great bunch of cowboys in an m/m contemporary romance.
My thanks to Riptide Publishing for the opportunity to listen to the story in exchange for an honest review.
With that said, it shouldn't come as a surprise that I recommend reading the books in order.
The book opens with a few years past the events of book one, Pick Up Men, and the very next rodeo season after book two, Let It Ride. Scott took time away from the rodeo to get his head on straight. What happened with Trip gave him a wake up call about where his hate, anger, and self-loathing took him. Trip's career as a pro bull rider was over and he was partially responsible.
With the help of his best friend, Brandy, who is also a skilled therapist, he has come to terms with a few things and on his way to coming to terms with a few others. He is gay, even if he's not ready to admit that to others. But as a first step toward the new life he is determined to have, he must approach Trip and Marty and apologize and ask for their forgiveness.
The meeting with Trip leads to a surprising result. Trip gave his forgiveness, but also offered Scott a change to get back doing something he loved though it will test him. Trip wants him to help with the clinics at the gay rodeo and the pro tour rodeo. This will not be easy both because it will be a step closer to coming out and to confronting all those who knew him as a Class A Jerk. Brandy and Trip both encourage him so despite his own inner dragons and the hostility of others, he ventures forth. And right away there is a bright, sunny cowboy who grabs his attention, but at the same time Scott knows he can't be what Cory deserves or needs.
Cory Ackerson is taken with the big cowboy who shows up to help Trip and just can't see the man that so many others watch warily or can't stand. Scott can't be gay of course and he's the opposite of Cory's open and obvious gay, but Cory still dreams. He doesn't know Scott's story and is willing to give him a chance even in the face of his brother and friends warning him to be cautious.
Scott becomes even more attractive to Cory especially when he gives indications that he is attracted to Cory as well. But that said, Scott is struggling and in the closet. Scott won't acknowledge him and retreats quickly each time Cory advances. He wants to be patient with Scott, but how much hurt and rejection and hiding can he take before it's too much?
As I mentioned, this story tackled a truly loathsome character from earlier in the series and turned him into hero material. Yes, there was a surprise twist and facts that were hitherto unknown that make all the difference in the world, but the author made it clear that there was still a vast deal of stuff that couldn't be ignored and brushed under the rug. Change and growth had to happen. Some of it took place off scene before this book, but I was glad that much of this story was Scott in his final moments of transformation to the man he really was.
Scott had to overcome his issues with his own past, acceptance of himself and how that would change things. He is still working toward admitting to others that he is gay. And piled onto this, Scott's challenge is even greater because he faces a new dynamic in that he is attracted to a man who is not only out, but a man who no one would mistake as anything, but gay. If he goes into a relationship with Cory, he is automatically out. It was a tough bit of added tension, but I liked this opposites attract piece.
And on Cory's end, he has some stuff to work through as well. Of course he has to decide if he will give Scott a chance and just how long does he wait for Scott to get his ducks in a row. But Cory struggles with the difficulty of proving to others and sometimes himself that he may be flaming gay, but it doesn't make him less of a man or any less capable. He has been the butt of people's derision and discomfort his whole life and his brother has gotten overprotective as a result. Scott teaches Cory that it isn't always that someone thinks he's less when they come rushing to pull the bullies off, but that he is worth their love and care.
So as these two take turns trading the narrative voice and starting along a rough road toward love, it was sometimes sweet, tender, passionate, but also heartbreakings when there were false steps. The emotion was there, but it wasn't over the top just as the conflict worked and felt right for the story. I totally bought into Scott's change of heart and mind and to the relationship between him and Cory. I cheered them on.
The story is mostly focused on Scott's internal conflict of coming out and turning his life around, but I loved that the author didn't skimp on rodeo, the band of familiar cowboy faces from the series, and that added element of Scott reconnecting with his past.
The final epilogue scene left me smiling and so happy for Scott and Cory. I believe this is also the final story in the series and it was a great cap to an engaging series. Though...I would not say no to more rodeo cowboy lovin'.
As I've said throughout this series, Dorian Bane, is a fantastic match for these books. He gets the voices, the tone, the emotion, and the rhythm of the story spot on. I can't imagine not having these stories without his voice bringing them to life.
In summary, this was another fantastic segment of the series and rivals the other two for me as each in their special ways has been an equal treasure. Loved how each couple came to love in their own ways set against the world of cowboys and rodeo. I can recommend this story for those who enjoy being there for a character to grow and triumph, for a hard won passionate romance, and the camaraderie of a great bunch of cowboys in an m/m contemporary romance.
My thanks to Riptide Publishing for the opportunity to listen to the story in exchange for an honest review.
October 26, 2018
4.5 Stars
This was a great conclusion to this series. It really tied everything up bringing back Scott from the first book and his fear and hatred for his own gay nature, and Cory who we got to know more in book 2. Cory's sweet nature was the perfect balance to Scott's self hate. He was really struggling to come to grips with who he was and even though he's admitted it internally even if he's not sure he's ready for others to know yet.
This story is really all about Scott's internal battle and his two steps forward one step back relationship with Cory. He knows he wants Cory in his life but he's not sure he's ready for all that that entails. But being with Cory makes him happy and his boisterous nature is the balm for Scott's troubled soul. I felt for Scott as he started to ease back into the rodeo environment that can be so difficult for a gay cowboy. His past as so a violent homophobe isn't going to make it easy for him.
I really enjoyed this read. It was a wonderful tale of internal reflection and new found strength.
This was a great conclusion to this series. It really tied everything up bringing back Scott from the first book and his fear and hatred for his own gay nature, and Cory who we got to know more in book 2. Cory's sweet nature was the perfect balance to Scott's self hate. He was really struggling to come to grips with who he was and even though he's admitted it internally even if he's not sure he's ready for others to know yet.
This story is really all about Scott's internal battle and his two steps forward one step back relationship with Cory. He knows he wants Cory in his life but he's not sure he's ready for all that that entails. But being with Cory makes him happy and his boisterous nature is the balm for Scott's troubled soul. I felt for Scott as he started to ease back into the rodeo environment that can be so difficult for a gay cowboy. His past as so a violent homophobe isn't going to make it easy for him.
I really enjoyed this read. It was a wonderful tale of internal reflection and new found strength.
September 8, 2014
I loved this! This is the best in the Pickup Men Series by far! The first two were ok, but this one grabbed me and kept my interest. Now this was a cowboy story I won't forget! Yeehaw!!
June 29, 2022
Talk about redemption story. Okay, this is by far my favorite book in the series.
I wasn't a big fan of Scott going in. I don't think anyone who's been reading this series was. However, slowly he grew on me. And at the end, he's probably my favorite character in the whole series. A little bit broken, easy to anger but with a heart of gold hidden deep down. I couldn't not love him. And Cory, well Cory was perfect for Scott.
Somewhere along the way of reading this series I got used to all the things I didn't like about the first book or maybe they didn't take up as much space in the others. By not having to focus on that though, I was able to finally fall in love with both the writing and the characters.
I wasn't a big fan of Scott going in. I don't think anyone who's been reading this series was. However, slowly he grew on me. And at the end, he's probably my favorite character in the whole series. A little bit broken, easy to anger but with a heart of gold hidden deep down. I couldn't not love him. And Cory, well Cory was perfect for Scott.
Somewhere along the way of reading this series I got used to all the things I didn't like about the first book or maybe they didn't take up as much space in the others. By not having to focus on that though, I was able to finally fall in love with both the writing and the characters.
September 1, 2014
"It had taken a long time, a lot of dark days, but he got there..." -- Pulling Leather
That pretty much sums up this fabulous read. I must say, I've been dying for Scott's story since book one. I couldn't wait to see how LC handled his characterization and how she'd redeem someone so unlikable. I LOVE redemption stories. Poor Scott broke my heart, and his reason for being closeted was a nice change from what I've seen done in the past in M/M. And his self hatred and one step forward, two back, made me hurt for him . That's why Cory, bright shining open Cory, was effing PERFECT for him.
Friends first, then patient (er and occasionally not so patient) attempts to make it more... So sweet and touchingly romantic in how much Cory adored big, rough around the edges Scott. And watching Scott flourish under Cory's light. I loved this book and def wouldn't mind seeing more of this series. I adore LC Chase's writing.
Oh and can I just say how much I adored the end and Scott getting some real family and love finally.
5 stars. Def recommend this, and the whole series for that matter :)
That pretty much sums up this fabulous read. I must say, I've been dying for Scott's story since book one. I couldn't wait to see how LC handled his characterization and how she'd redeem someone so unlikable. I LOVE redemption stories. Poor Scott broke my heart, and his reason for being closeted was a nice change from what I've seen done in the past in M/M. And his self hatred and one step forward, two back, made me hurt for him . That's why Cory, bright shining open Cory, was effing PERFECT for him.
Friends first, then patient (er and occasionally not so patient) attempts to make it more... So sweet and touchingly romantic in how much Cory adored big, rough around the edges Scott. And watching Scott flourish under Cory's light. I loved this book and def wouldn't mind seeing more of this series. I adore LC Chase's writing.
Oh and can I just say how much I adored the end and Scott getting some real family and love finally.
5 stars. Def recommend this, and the whole series for that matter :)
June 3, 2017
Definitely a great series and I thoroughly enjoyed all the books, but the first one was definitely the best. Excellent narration by Dorian Bane.
February 7, 2020
Scott Gilliard has spent his life denying the man he really is inside a gay man. Bull riding is his life and being a gruff, hard nosed cowboy, is the coat he wears on the rodeo circuit. In the aftermath of the indictment involving Trip, he has disappeared from the circuit. He's trying to get his life back in order, and understand the secrets he harbors.
Scott gets back into the circuit with the help of Trip. Scott is not prepared for the out and open Cory Ackerson. Cory is a sun in Scott's dark world. Cory is not about to let this somber, sad cowboy get away.
This is a tale of hate, loss, faith, redemption, and most of all love. I will not spoil the ending but I can imagine how tough it could be to be perceived as a tough guy riding bulls and at the same time being gay.
Scott gets back into the circuit with the help of Trip. Scott is not prepared for the out and open Cory Ackerson. Cory is a sun in Scott's dark world. Cory is not about to let this somber, sad cowboy get away.
This is a tale of hate, loss, faith, redemption, and most of all love. I will not spoil the ending but I can imagine how tough it could be to be perceived as a tough guy riding bulls and at the same time being gay.
January 18, 2021
Our award winning author, I think, has a goal, which is to make us AWARE of issues concerning gay people's efforts to live a "normal" life. She uses her cowboy's struggles to get to the point.
Here we have a new, fresh story in this series.
We met Scott, 30, in a previous story,
about Tripp and Marty, where he wasn't a good person.
Two years later, we see him on the road to being his true self, turning the tide. We met Cody briefly, when he asked about teaching Pick Up riders.
Cody is small, young 20s, strong, skilled, flamboyant
and an excellent rider, always smiling, gabby and happy.
We follow along as Scott is confronted by haters, and we learn the whole story of Tripp's gay bashing, that nearly killed him. As it was, Champion Tripp can't ride bulls anymore, and must use a cane.
Cory likes Scott, because he can see beyond the rumors and find Scott's true self.
Tripp offers Scott a job helping out at the Gay Rodeo circuit, and much is happening. Pulling Leather is the term used when a bull rider is tightening his grip before the gate opens. Scott's BFF, Brandi is a terrific therapist and friend.
Cody wants to know all about Scott, and gets the story. I am glad we did not get the details about Scott's time with the Conversion Camp; it would have been too sad.
So, very slowly, our guys, Cody and Scott flirt, hang out, and we watch all of Scott's struggles. He saves Cody from tragedy, and they get even closer.
It's a lively, yet sad, deep story, but the outcome and hope for the future are bright. HFN.
Each book in the series helps us understand the issues and how life is lived.
ENJOY !
=====
Here we have a new, fresh story in this series.
We met Scott, 30, in a previous story,
about Tripp and Marty, where he wasn't a good person.
Two years later, we see him on the road to being his true self, turning the tide. We met Cody briefly, when he asked about teaching Pick Up riders.
Cody is small, young 20s, strong, skilled, flamboyant
and an excellent rider, always smiling, gabby and happy.
We follow along as Scott is confronted by haters, and we learn the whole story of Tripp's gay bashing, that nearly killed him. As it was, Champion Tripp can't ride bulls anymore, and must use a cane.
Cory likes Scott, because he can see beyond the rumors and find Scott's true self.
Tripp offers Scott a job helping out at the Gay Rodeo circuit, and much is happening. Pulling Leather is the term used when a bull rider is tightening his grip before the gate opens. Scott's BFF, Brandi is a terrific therapist and friend.
Cody wants to know all about Scott, and gets the story. I am glad we did not get the details about Scott's time with the Conversion Camp; it would have been too sad.
So, very slowly, our guys, Cody and Scott flirt, hang out, and we watch all of Scott's struggles. He saves Cody from tragedy, and they get even closer.
It's a lively, yet sad, deep story, but the outcome and hope for the future are bright. HFN.
Each book in the series helps us understand the issues and how life is lived.
ENJOY !
=====
May 24, 2016
Our very own Jackie did an awesome review of the e-book for Pulling Leather, so this audiobook review is going to be an add-on to it.
I love the Pickup Men series! And I can’t decide whether it’s Pickup Men or Pulling Leather that is the winning favorite. I mean, you can’t read one without the other, but Pulling Leather exceeded my expectations in how Scott Gillard was going to redeem himself after being such an ass in book one.
Dorian Bane’s narration immediately pulled me into the world of rodeo cowboys, especially when Scott and Tripp were talking with each other and Tripp let it be known that he knew what Scott had done the night he was so badly beaten. I loved how Cory turned out to be the type of person who looks at both sides of a story, and was able to make his decision on how to judge a person instead of listening to all the gossip or hearsay. He made himself the type of person I would love to hang out with.
L.C. Chase and Dorian Bane have both pulled off telling a story that I really was engrossed in, and I was kind of sad yet happy when it ended. What can I say? I don’t like to let go of a book that’s captured my imagination with an unforgettable voice like Dorian Bane’s. I now hear his country drawl and voice characterizations in my head when I think back on this series.
All in all, Pulling Leather is a wonderful finish to the Pickup Men series. Now, if L.C. Chase decides to add to it…I would be all ears and eyes towards another story.
For me, this is a 5 Stars worthy performance!
Reviewed by Kim for The Novel Approach Reviews
http://www.thenovelapproachreviews.co...
I love the Pickup Men series! And I can’t decide whether it’s Pickup Men or Pulling Leather that is the winning favorite. I mean, you can’t read one without the other, but Pulling Leather exceeded my expectations in how Scott Gillard was going to redeem himself after being such an ass in book one.
Dorian Bane’s narration immediately pulled me into the world of rodeo cowboys, especially when Scott and Tripp were talking with each other and Tripp let it be known that he knew what Scott had done the night he was so badly beaten. I loved how Cory turned out to be the type of person who looks at both sides of a story, and was able to make his decision on how to judge a person instead of listening to all the gossip or hearsay. He made himself the type of person I would love to hang out with.
L.C. Chase and Dorian Bane have both pulled off telling a story that I really was engrossed in, and I was kind of sad yet happy when it ended. What can I say? I don’t like to let go of a book that’s captured my imagination with an unforgettable voice like Dorian Bane’s. I now hear his country drawl and voice characterizations in my head when I think back on this series.
All in all, Pulling Leather is a wonderful finish to the Pickup Men series. Now, if L.C. Chase decides to add to it…I would be all ears and eyes towards another story.
For me, this is a 5 Stars worthy performance!
Reviewed by Kim for The Novel Approach Reviews
http://www.thenovelapproachreviews.co...
August 31, 2014
This one was a bit slow on the draw for me. Scott isn't the easiest guy to like because of his past. He's got a metric ton of baggage to sort through. So, even though he was trying to make amends, I was slow warming to him. We do learn an awful lot about what happened to shape his homophobic attitudes and his struggle with accepting that he is gay. And Cory sure seemed to see beyond that.
There was a lot of build up in this story, so the first half moved rather slow. Scott wants to be able to admit he's gay, but he runs when confronted with the prospect. He does this a lot. And then some more.
I didn't hate this book, but I didn't love it either. I normally LOVE LC Chase's writing, so while this book missed the mark a bit, I do hope there will be more books in this series and I look forward to reading whatever she puts out next.
There was a lot of build up in this story, so the first half moved rather slow. Scott wants to be able to admit he's gay, but he runs when confronted with the prospect. He does this a lot. And then some more.
I didn't hate this book, but I didn't love it either. I normally LOVE LC Chase's writing, so while this book missed the mark a bit, I do hope there will be more books in this series and I look forward to reading whatever she puts out next.
November 5, 2014
4.5 stars.
As much as I enjoyed the angst-fest of the 1st book on the series, or was charmed by Bridge in the 2nd one, this book was my most favorite, hands down.
I was quite apprehensive starting it. Scott was such an awful person in the previous books - I just couldn't see how the author would redeem him. But redeem him she does, and it's all convincing and believable, and I jist couldn't help but totally root for Scott from the beginning. He just was so genuinely apologetic, so confused and tried so hard. I just couldn't be mad at him, even when he hurt Cory.
Cory was adorable. I loved how he went after Scott and didn't give up. He refused to believe all the rumors, and gave Scott a chance to show him his true self. Cory was perfect for Scott.
This series is quickly turning into one of my favorites.
As much as I enjoyed the angst-fest of the 1st book on the series, or was charmed by Bridge in the 2nd one, this book was my most favorite, hands down.
I was quite apprehensive starting it. Scott was such an awful person in the previous books - I just couldn't see how the author would redeem him. But redeem him she does, and it's all convincing and believable, and I jist couldn't help but totally root for Scott from the beginning. He just was so genuinely apologetic, so confused and tried so hard. I just couldn't be mad at him, even when he hurt Cory.
Cory was adorable. I loved how he went after Scott and didn't give up. He refused to believe all the rumors, and gave Scott a chance to show him his true self. Cory was perfect for Scott.
This series is quickly turning into one of my favorites.
May 13, 2015
I really enjoyed this. It took me forever to get around to reading it because I was just sure that I could never like Scott. I didn't want to like Scott. Hats off to this author though because she had me buying in to his story from the first few pages. Not only did I like him but I ended up loving him. He and Cory were absolutely wonderful together. Scott's "grand gesture" made my eyes water. I have to admit, this was my favorite of the series so far.
January 7, 2016
A nice end to the series. Scott, a previous homophobe has now realized he is gay.
Cory, an out and proud pick up man. This story had a little angst as Scott came to deal with his sexual orientation. I loved Cory and Scott's 2 dads.
Cory, an out and proud pick up man. This story had a little angst as Scott came to deal with his sexual orientation. I loved Cory and Scott's 2 dads.
December 15, 2015
Pulling Leather by L.C. Chase: http://reviews-and-ramblings.dreamwid... 2015 Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention (5* from at least 1 judge)
June 17, 2021
Awww ♥️
Alzi la mano chi come me ha desiderato prendere a calci in culo Scott nel primo libro della serie. Ammettiamolo, tutto lo faceva sembrare come il bad boy della situazione. Un personaggio crudele, omofobo, un bullo che alla prima occasione decide di pugnalare alle spalle quell'uomo che gli è sempre stato amico e confidente. Appena ho iniziato a leggere questa serie sapevo che avrei voluto capire i motivi della sua rabbia, di quell'atteggiamento così distruttivo. Questo viaggio è stato doloroso, mi ha fatto piangere, mi ha spezzato il cuore in mille pezzi ma allo stesso tempo mi ha regalato gioia e serenità. Scott Gillard non è un personaggio scontato, non è una caricatura e un cliché ambulante, è un uomo che ha lottato tutta la vita contro i demoni nella sua testa, un uomo che sta ancora lottando per riuscire a fare pace con la sua vera natura, accettando la sua identità. Dopo gli eventi che hanno colpito Tripp, dopo la feroce aggressione che non è riuscito a fermare da parte dei suoi "amichetti" si è reso conto di dover fare qualcosa, di non poter più rimanere in disparte a guardare, si è reso conto che la sua omosessualità non è come un vestito, non si può cambiare ma è lì, sarà sempre lì ad aspettarlo al varco. In due anni si è allontanato dal lavoro che ha sempre amato e insieme alla sua migliore amica e confidente ha iniziato un lento percorso di crescita personale e cambiamento. Scott desidera accettare quell'omosessualità che ha sempre vissuto come una malattia, quell'omosessualità che la madre ha sempre etichettato come sbagliata perché colpevole di avergli strappato via il padre, desidera fare pace con i suoi fantasmi e chiedere perdono per quel suo atteggiamento così crudele e meschino, desidera scusarsi con Tripp e Marty e con tutte le persone che negli anni ha ferito ingiustamente. Quando arriva davanti alla case della coppietta si aspetta di essere cacciato e insultato in malo modo, di essere ripagato con la sua stessa moneta, si aspetta di tutto ma non di essere capito e aiutato da quegli uomini che aveva sempre visto ed etichettato come diversi e malati. A Tripp basta uno sguardo per capire, si prende a cuore il caso di Scott perché sa di essere stato come lui in passato, lui stesso ha commesso errori e ha dovuto lottare per accettare la sua omosessualità, ha rischiato di mandare all'aria la sua storia d'amore con il dolce Marty per il timore di fare pubblicamente coming out e per questo motivo decide di coinvolgere il cowboy nel suo lavoro, di dargli fiducia. Ed è proprio grazie a questo gesto umano e pieno di amore che Scott ha modo di ritornare nel mondo dei rodei e conoscere Cody Ackerson. Quest'ultimo è molto diverso dal cowboy, è un pickup men dichiaratamente gay e che affronta la vita a muso duro, nonostante la sua statura e aspetto delicato e femminile è un vero macho che non si fa mettere i piedi in testa da nessuno. Un ragazzo solare, gentile e chiacchierone che si interessa subito al nuovo arrivato, si avvicina a Scott per ascoltare la sua storia, per andare oltre i pregiudizi e le maldicenze che si sprecano sul suo conto. Un giovane che con il suo modo buffo e spontaneo di comportarsi è destinato a cambiare per sempre la tormentata esistenza di Scott. L'autrice è stata eccezionale nel caratterizzare a pieno entrambi i protagonisti. Nonostante l'alternanza di Pov la voce narrante è in prevalenza quella di Scott. Una voce piena di amarezza e timore per ogni aspetto positivo della vita, una voce che ti spinge per tutto il tempo a soffrire, sentire quello stesso senso di inadeguatezza del rider e che nonostante la sofferenza e le lacrime ti spinge a lottare per realizzare quel pazzo desiderio di essere felice e finalmente libero dall'oscurità. Scott è un personaggio incredibilmente umano e la sua redenzione ed evoluzione colpisce come un pugno nello stomaco. Dopo averlo visto arrabbiato, crudele e talmente cattivo da ridere di fronte un uomo ferito e sanguinante vederlo ora... Fragile, spezzato e solo... È un dolore e un tormento. Con la sua storia, con la sua lotta...è diventato senza alcun dubbio il mio nuovo personaggio preferito della serie. Un personaggio che sono sicura vi conquisterà senza lasciarvi scampo. Lui e Cody sono semplicemente perfetti insieme.
Cody è giovane, è un pickup men che ha tutta la vita davanti, un ragazzo che vive con il fratello maggiore Toby e che spesso è abituato ad essere trattato come un bambino da quest'ultimo. Tutti sembrano vederlo come un ragazzino iperattivo senza rendersi conto delle sue infinite qualità. Non è solo un talento nel suo lavoro, non è solo un ragazzo innocente ma è anche e soprattutto un UOMO. Un uomo che sa essere fedele e supportivo, una perfetta roccia a cui ancorarsi nei momenti bui. Nonostante la giovane età vede oltre i pregiudizi della gente e quando questa si mette ad additare Scott, ad etichettarlo soltanto come uno stronzo omofobo, a evitarlo come la peste decide di andare contro il branco, di andare contro l'odio, decide trattare quell'uomo come un semplice essere umano, decide di avvicinarsi piano piano e tendergli la mano, decide di rivolgergli la parola rendendosi conto di trovarsi di fronte una persona triste e sola, una persona che ha bisogno di affetto e supporto per fare ammenda per gli errori del passato. Ho adorato un sacco le interazione della coppia. Ho amato il modo in cui Cody riesce a riempire i mille silenzi di Scott e il modo in cui quest'ultimo riesce a zittire le voci crudeli nella sua testa, riesce a mettere per la prima volta una persona al primo posto, riesce per la prima volta a rendersi conto di cosa significhi vivere e amare se stessi e cosa significhi allo stesso tempo soffrire per la scelta di doversi nascondere al mondo e vergognare per la propria identità. I due sono semplice straordinari e...vogliamo parlare della meraviglia della loro prima volta insieme? Pura poesia. Pura magia. In questo libro troviamo infatti meno erotismo, non siamo di fronte la frenesia di Bridge ed Eric o il rapporto consolidato di Tripp e Marty, siamo di fronte due uomini che si devono conoscere e scoprire a livello emotivo prima che fisico, le scene erotiche sono pochissime e collocate nella narrazione alla perfezione per farci capire la difficoltà di aprirci all'amore, la difficoltà di farci vedere vulnerabili e fragili di fronte la persona che sentiamo appartenerci. Ammetto che mi sono messa a piangere quando finalmente ho visto Scott in pace, quando l'ho visto accettare quel bacio, quel calore, quando ha deciso di abbandonarsi, di chiudere gli occhi e semplicemente...fidarsi. Quale miglior magia di questa? Quale miglior momento?
Non mancano ovviamente i momenti più dolci, Tripp, Marty e la loro banda di amici sono una famiglia perfetta e riescono ad accogliere non solo Cody ma anche Scott dandogli fiducia e permettendogli di fare un ulteriore passo. Cody aiuta Scott a riunirsi con quel padre che per anni ha tenuto lontano e... Wow.... Cosa c'è di più bello di ritrovare una famiglia, di aprirsi all'amore, di trovare nuovi amici? Semplicemente...nulla
Ho amato ogni personaggio e come non citare in tal proposito il piccolo ed energico Tanner e i suoi papà Harlan e Ben. Sono tre new entry strepitose e che mi hanno strappato non pochi sorrisi, degli amici sinceri che avremo modo di conoscere meglio nella novella "A song for Harlan" ma che con la loro presenza donano luce e arcobaleni <3 Per tutto il tempo durante la lettura mi sono sentita agitata ma allo stesso tempo in pace perché consapevole di trovarmi di fronte una storia piena di positività e speranza per un futuro più luminoso. Una narrazione che rende tutto una magica scoperta. È una storia incantevole e che non lascia nulla al caso. Scritta divinamente e in grado di ammaliare anche il cuore più duro. Ho amato il suo messaggio profondo e delicato e il modo in cui vuole prendere per mano il lettore accompagnandolo fino alla fine in un viaggio mozzafiato. È realistico, struggente, semplicemente imperdibile. Se avete amato i primi due libri questo vi strazierà l'anima, un volume che vi ferirà e curerà allo stesso tempo. Ci sono mille altre cose che vorrei spiegare e analizzare, potrei parlarne per ore intere ma in questo momento mi sento solo di dirvi "Leggetelo!" perché vi assicuro che ne varrà la pena! Rincontrerete vecchi amici, ne conoscerete di nuovi e vi innamorerete di Scott e del suo dolce pickup men. Un volume che chiude una trilogia e lo fa nel migliore dei modi!
Alzi la mano chi come me ha desiderato prendere a calci in culo Scott nel primo libro della serie. Ammettiamolo, tutto lo faceva sembrare come il bad boy della situazione. Un personaggio crudele, omofobo, un bullo che alla prima occasione decide di pugnalare alle spalle quell'uomo che gli è sempre stato amico e confidente. Appena ho iniziato a leggere questa serie sapevo che avrei voluto capire i motivi della sua rabbia, di quell'atteggiamento così distruttivo. Questo viaggio è stato doloroso, mi ha fatto piangere, mi ha spezzato il cuore in mille pezzi ma allo stesso tempo mi ha regalato gioia e serenità. Scott Gillard non è un personaggio scontato, non è una caricatura e un cliché ambulante, è un uomo che ha lottato tutta la vita contro i demoni nella sua testa, un uomo che sta ancora lottando per riuscire a fare pace con la sua vera natura, accettando la sua identità. Dopo gli eventi che hanno colpito Tripp, dopo la feroce aggressione che non è riuscito a fermare da parte dei suoi "amichetti" si è reso conto di dover fare qualcosa, di non poter più rimanere in disparte a guardare, si è reso conto che la sua omosessualità non è come un vestito, non si può cambiare ma è lì, sarà sempre lì ad aspettarlo al varco. In due anni si è allontanato dal lavoro che ha sempre amato e insieme alla sua migliore amica e confidente ha iniziato un lento percorso di crescita personale e cambiamento. Scott desidera accettare quell'omosessualità che ha sempre vissuto come una malattia, quell'omosessualità che la madre ha sempre etichettato come sbagliata perché colpevole di avergli strappato via il padre, desidera fare pace con i suoi fantasmi e chiedere perdono per quel suo atteggiamento così crudele e meschino, desidera scusarsi con Tripp e Marty e con tutte le persone che negli anni ha ferito ingiustamente. Quando arriva davanti alla case della coppietta si aspetta di essere cacciato e insultato in malo modo, di essere ripagato con la sua stessa moneta, si aspetta di tutto ma non di essere capito e aiutato da quegli uomini che aveva sempre visto ed etichettato come diversi e malati. A Tripp basta uno sguardo per capire, si prende a cuore il caso di Scott perché sa di essere stato come lui in passato, lui stesso ha commesso errori e ha dovuto lottare per accettare la sua omosessualità, ha rischiato di mandare all'aria la sua storia d'amore con il dolce Marty per il timore di fare pubblicamente coming out e per questo motivo decide di coinvolgere il cowboy nel suo lavoro, di dargli fiducia. Ed è proprio grazie a questo gesto umano e pieno di amore che Scott ha modo di ritornare nel mondo dei rodei e conoscere Cody Ackerson. Quest'ultimo è molto diverso dal cowboy, è un pickup men dichiaratamente gay e che affronta la vita a muso duro, nonostante la sua statura e aspetto delicato e femminile è un vero macho che non si fa mettere i piedi in testa da nessuno. Un ragazzo solare, gentile e chiacchierone che si interessa subito al nuovo arrivato, si avvicina a Scott per ascoltare la sua storia, per andare oltre i pregiudizi e le maldicenze che si sprecano sul suo conto. Un giovane che con il suo modo buffo e spontaneo di comportarsi è destinato a cambiare per sempre la tormentata esistenza di Scott. L'autrice è stata eccezionale nel caratterizzare a pieno entrambi i protagonisti. Nonostante l'alternanza di Pov la voce narrante è in prevalenza quella di Scott. Una voce piena di amarezza e timore per ogni aspetto positivo della vita, una voce che ti spinge per tutto il tempo a soffrire, sentire quello stesso senso di inadeguatezza del rider e che nonostante la sofferenza e le lacrime ti spinge a lottare per realizzare quel pazzo desiderio di essere felice e finalmente libero dall'oscurità. Scott è un personaggio incredibilmente umano e la sua redenzione ed evoluzione colpisce come un pugno nello stomaco. Dopo averlo visto arrabbiato, crudele e talmente cattivo da ridere di fronte un uomo ferito e sanguinante vederlo ora... Fragile, spezzato e solo... È un dolore e un tormento. Con la sua storia, con la sua lotta...è diventato senza alcun dubbio il mio nuovo personaggio preferito della serie. Un personaggio che sono sicura vi conquisterà senza lasciarvi scampo. Lui e Cody sono semplicemente perfetti insieme.
Cody è giovane, è un pickup men che ha tutta la vita davanti, un ragazzo che vive con il fratello maggiore Toby e che spesso è abituato ad essere trattato come un bambino da quest'ultimo. Tutti sembrano vederlo come un ragazzino iperattivo senza rendersi conto delle sue infinite qualità. Non è solo un talento nel suo lavoro, non è solo un ragazzo innocente ma è anche e soprattutto un UOMO. Un uomo che sa essere fedele e supportivo, una perfetta roccia a cui ancorarsi nei momenti bui. Nonostante la giovane età vede oltre i pregiudizi della gente e quando questa si mette ad additare Scott, ad etichettarlo soltanto come uno stronzo omofobo, a evitarlo come la peste decide di andare contro il branco, di andare contro l'odio, decide trattare quell'uomo come un semplice essere umano, decide di avvicinarsi piano piano e tendergli la mano, decide di rivolgergli la parola rendendosi conto di trovarsi di fronte una persona triste e sola, una persona che ha bisogno di affetto e supporto per fare ammenda per gli errori del passato. Ho adorato un sacco le interazione della coppia. Ho amato il modo in cui Cody riesce a riempire i mille silenzi di Scott e il modo in cui quest'ultimo riesce a zittire le voci crudeli nella sua testa, riesce a mettere per la prima volta una persona al primo posto, riesce per la prima volta a rendersi conto di cosa significhi vivere e amare se stessi e cosa significhi allo stesso tempo soffrire per la scelta di doversi nascondere al mondo e vergognare per la propria identità. I due sono semplice straordinari e...vogliamo parlare della meraviglia della loro prima volta insieme? Pura poesia. Pura magia. In questo libro troviamo infatti meno erotismo, non siamo di fronte la frenesia di Bridge ed Eric o il rapporto consolidato di Tripp e Marty, siamo di fronte due uomini che si devono conoscere e scoprire a livello emotivo prima che fisico, le scene erotiche sono pochissime e collocate nella narrazione alla perfezione per farci capire la difficoltà di aprirci all'amore, la difficoltà di farci vedere vulnerabili e fragili di fronte la persona che sentiamo appartenerci. Ammetto che mi sono messa a piangere quando finalmente ho visto Scott in pace, quando l'ho visto accettare quel bacio, quel calore, quando ha deciso di abbandonarsi, di chiudere gli occhi e semplicemente...fidarsi. Quale miglior magia di questa? Quale miglior momento?
Non mancano ovviamente i momenti più dolci, Tripp, Marty e la loro banda di amici sono una famiglia perfetta e riescono ad accogliere non solo Cody ma anche Scott dandogli fiducia e permettendogli di fare un ulteriore passo. Cody aiuta Scott a riunirsi con quel padre che per anni ha tenuto lontano e... Wow.... Cosa c'è di più bello di ritrovare una famiglia, di aprirsi all'amore, di trovare nuovi amici? Semplicemente...nulla
Ho amato ogni personaggio e come non citare in tal proposito il piccolo ed energico Tanner e i suoi papà Harlan e Ben. Sono tre new entry strepitose e che mi hanno strappato non pochi sorrisi, degli amici sinceri che avremo modo di conoscere meglio nella novella "A song for Harlan" ma che con la loro presenza donano luce e arcobaleni <3 Per tutto il tempo durante la lettura mi sono sentita agitata ma allo stesso tempo in pace perché consapevole di trovarmi di fronte una storia piena di positività e speranza per un futuro più luminoso. Una narrazione che rende tutto una magica scoperta. È una storia incantevole e che non lascia nulla al caso. Scritta divinamente e in grado di ammaliare anche il cuore più duro. Ho amato il suo messaggio profondo e delicato e il modo in cui vuole prendere per mano il lettore accompagnandolo fino alla fine in un viaggio mozzafiato. È realistico, struggente, semplicemente imperdibile. Se avete amato i primi due libri questo vi strazierà l'anima, un volume che vi ferirà e curerà allo stesso tempo. Ci sono mille altre cose che vorrei spiegare e analizzare, potrei parlarne per ore intere ma in questo momento mi sento solo di dirvi "Leggetelo!" perché vi assicuro che ne varrà la pena! Rincontrerete vecchi amici, ne conoscerete di nuovi e vi innamorerete di Scott e del suo dolce pickup men. Un volume che chiude una trilogia e lo fa nel migliore dei modi!
February 28, 2024
Interesting that in reading the blurbs for Books 1 and 2, the romance plot lines are similar to this one.
This book has a homophobic rodeo rider who unleashes scorn on a newly out bull rider. Later, he finds the rider savagely beaten and Scott takes him to the hospital but has to leave the rodeo after the fallout for incriminating the fellow riders who did the attack and that the hospitalized rider is too injured to continue his career.
I don’t think the other books contain the violence of this one. The story here has hate filled Scott joining the gay rodeo circuit after two years away from bull riding. He is secretly gay and is pushing it down so deep within himself that every scene with others is tension filled and has a lot of animosity aimed at Scott for his peripheral part in the gay bashing.
He meets rodeo cowboy Cory, a delightful twinkly young man who is a perpetual ray of sunshine. Will Scott allow himself to act on the attraction that Cory has for him?
This was a pretty well written book with a lot of characters in the gay rodeo world, but Cory and Scott had their alone scenes.
This book has a homophobic rodeo rider who unleashes scorn on a newly out bull rider. Later, he finds the rider savagely beaten and Scott takes him to the hospital but has to leave the rodeo after the fallout for incriminating the fellow riders who did the attack and that the hospitalized rider is too injured to continue his career.
I don’t think the other books contain the violence of this one. The story here has hate filled Scott joining the gay rodeo circuit after two years away from bull riding. He is secretly gay and is pushing it down so deep within himself that every scene with others is tension filled and has a lot of animosity aimed at Scott for his peripheral part in the gay bashing.
He meets rodeo cowboy Cory, a delightful twinkly young man who is a perpetual ray of sunshine. Will Scott allow himself to act on the attraction that Cory has for him?
This was a pretty well written book with a lot of characters in the gay rodeo world, but Cory and Scott had their alone scenes.
October 11, 2022
This is another enjoyable jaunt into the Pickup Men series. We've met the two MCs before. Scott is a bull-rider who is also a huge homophobe who never passes up an opportunity to make crude slurs about other gay men on the rodeo circuit. Cory is a young and talented pick-up rider who is positive, talkative, optimistic, and a very out gay man. Scott has a major secret that he's actually a very closeted gay man who can't admit it even to himself, after his upbringing and time spent in conversion therapy. Both men are drawn to each other, but Cory won't ever live in a closet and Scott has never even been with a man before. Can these two make it work with so many emotions between them? This book has a lot of mistrust, patience, a growing camaraderie between friends, and a strong love.
May 24, 2018
It's as if this book was written by a different author from the first one.
with all the potential, it delivered very little. I expected some tension, sexual or emotional. I got none. As much as the two protagonists were complete opposites they just fell into each other with minimal resistance.
The worst part was how Scott's mother was portrayed in the end.
I skipped good part of this book.
with all the potential, it delivered very little. I expected some tension, sexual or emotional. I got none. As much as the two protagonists were complete opposites they just fell into each other with minimal resistance.
The worst part was how Scott's mother was portrayed in the end.
I skipped good part of this book.
November 12, 2018
3 and 1/2 feel good Stars. The story of Scott and Cory was my favorite in he series. The big tough homophobe who finally comes to terms with his sexuality by falling for a very openly gay man.
September 16, 2014
My Review:
Bravo to L.C. Chase! If you would have told me that I would fall in love with Scott Gillard as a hero before this book, I would not have believed you. But L.C. Chase did the impossible...she made this horrible, awful, bigot of a guy into a character that my heart ached over because of his internal struggles and his background.
In this rodeo world, Scott has always been one of the cruelest and most outspoken of the homophobic cowboys. But when his best friend, Tripp, comes out of the closet, it completely changes his world. Why? Because Scott has been hiding a deep, dark secret that he won't even admit to himself. He's gay too. But there's such a good and heartbreaking reason he's kept that hidden. As a child, his world was torn apart when his father came out of the closet and left him in the care of his bitter, alcoholic mother. They lost their home and stability and everything in his life could be traced back to the fact that his father was gay...something to be hated and mistrusted. So when he hit puberty and began to have sexual feelings for other guys, he checked himself into a conversion clinic. He could not be gay. He refused and absolutely hated that part of himself.
So yeah, when his best friend came out, it threw him and was further complicated when Tripp almost died after a couple of homophobic friends almost beat him to death...something they thought Scott should celebrate with them. That was his wakeup call...and was two years ago when he walked away from the rodeo. Since then, he's been doing therapy and is finally coming to grips to who he really is...even though it still makes him uncomfortable.
It's been 2 years and Scott has been working to change himself...first up, to apologize to Tripp who then proceeds to drag him back to the rodeo world, where he meets Cody. Cody is young and flaming and completely accepting of himself as a gay man. In other words, he's everything that Scott is not. But he's one of the few who didn't know Scott from before so he can really see how hard Scott is trying and how much all the digs at Scott and who he used to be hurt him.
For me, what worked so well in this book is how completely different Cody and Scott are. Scott's a big, muscular, intimidating, alpha male...no one guesses he's gay...except Cody. Cody is the polar opposite of Scott and that intrigues Scott simply because Cody is like a breath of fresh air...that he wants to breathe in, just because of his pureness. Cody is one of those guys you can't help but fall in love with. He's so over-the-top and completely aware of that and apologizes for the fact that it's just who he is. But he's so soft and careful with Scott. He can see that all of this is so new and so terrifying to Scott. I fell in love with him just because of the incredibly empathetic way he handled Scott. It's something that Scott isn't use to and he literally soaks it up.
This is a book that is a pure romantic love story. But it's also a love story in the fact that Scott is learning to love himself. It's stated very clearly that he could have very easily have been suicidal two years ago if it hadn't been for his therapist. It's such a struggle for him to accept that he's gay. I couldn't help but feel for him. It's heartbreaking to watch, but so hopeful to see how he comes alive with Cody.
It was a good book and has been my favorite in the pick-up men series!
Bravo to L.C. Chase! If you would have told me that I would fall in love with Scott Gillard as a hero before this book, I would not have believed you. But L.C. Chase did the impossible...she made this horrible, awful, bigot of a guy into a character that my heart ached over because of his internal struggles and his background.
In this rodeo world, Scott has always been one of the cruelest and most outspoken of the homophobic cowboys. But when his best friend, Tripp, comes out of the closet, it completely changes his world. Why? Because Scott has been hiding a deep, dark secret that he won't even admit to himself. He's gay too. But there's such a good and heartbreaking reason he's kept that hidden. As a child, his world was torn apart when his father came out of the closet and left him in the care of his bitter, alcoholic mother. They lost their home and stability and everything in his life could be traced back to the fact that his father was gay...something to be hated and mistrusted. So when he hit puberty and began to have sexual feelings for other guys, he checked himself into a conversion clinic. He could not be gay. He refused and absolutely hated that part of himself.
So yeah, when his best friend came out, it threw him and was further complicated when Tripp almost died after a couple of homophobic friends almost beat him to death...something they thought Scott should celebrate with them. That was his wakeup call...and was two years ago when he walked away from the rodeo. Since then, he's been doing therapy and is finally coming to grips to who he really is...even though it still makes him uncomfortable.
It's been 2 years and Scott has been working to change himself...first up, to apologize to Tripp who then proceeds to drag him back to the rodeo world, where he meets Cody. Cody is young and flaming and completely accepting of himself as a gay man. In other words, he's everything that Scott is not. But he's one of the few who didn't know Scott from before so he can really see how hard Scott is trying and how much all the digs at Scott and who he used to be hurt him.
For me, what worked so well in this book is how completely different Cody and Scott are. Scott's a big, muscular, intimidating, alpha male...no one guesses he's gay...except Cody. Cody is the polar opposite of Scott and that intrigues Scott simply because Cody is like a breath of fresh air...that he wants to breathe in, just because of his pureness. Cody is one of those guys you can't help but fall in love with. He's so over-the-top and completely aware of that and apologizes for the fact that it's just who he is. But he's so soft and careful with Scott. He can see that all of this is so new and so terrifying to Scott. I fell in love with him just because of the incredibly empathetic way he handled Scott. It's something that Scott isn't use to and he literally soaks it up.
This is a book that is a pure romantic love story. But it's also a love story in the fact that Scott is learning to love himself. It's stated very clearly that he could have very easily have been suicidal two years ago if it hadn't been for his therapist. It's such a struggle for him to accept that he's gay. I couldn't help but feel for him. It's heartbreaking to watch, but so hopeful to see how he comes alive with Cody.
It was a good book and has been my favorite in the pick-up men series!
May 27, 2021
Awww ♥️
Alzi la mano chi come me ha desiderato prendere a calci in culo Scott nel primo libro della serie. Ammettiamolo, tutto lo faceva sembrare come il bad boy della situazione. Un personaggio crudele, omofobo, un bullo che alla prima occasione decide di pugnalare alle spalle quell'uomo che gli è sempre stato amico e confidente. Appena ho iniziato a leggere questa serie sapevo che avrei voluto capire i motivi della sua rabbia, di quell'atteggiamento così distruttivo. Questo viaggio è stato doloroso, mi ha fatto piangere, mi ha spezzato il cuore in mille pezzi ma allo stesso tempo mi ha regalato gioia e serenità. Scott Gillard non è un personaggio scontato, non è una caricatura e un cliché ambulante, è un uomo che ha lottato tutta la vita contro i demoni nella sua testa, un uomo che sta ancora lottando per riuscire a fare pace con la sua vera natura, accettando la sua identità. Dopo gli eventi che hanno colpito Tripp, dopo la feroce aggressione che non è riuscito a fermare da parte dei suoi "amichetti" si è reso conto di dover fare qualcosa, di non poter più rimanere in disparte a guardare, si è reso conto che la sua omosessualità non è come un vestito, non si può cambiare ma è lì, sarà sempre lì ad aspettarlo al varco. In due anni si è allontanato dal lavoro che ha sempre amato e insieme alla sua migliore amica e confidente ha iniziato un lento percorso di crescita personale e cambiamento. Scott desidera accettare quell'omosessualità che ha sempre vissuto come una malattia, quell'omosessualità che la madre ha sempre etichettato come sbagliata perché colpevole di avergli strappato via il padre, desidera fare pace con i suoi fantasmi e chiedere perdono per quel suo atteggiamento così crudele e meschino, desidera scusarsi con Tripp e Marty e con tutte le persone che negli anni ha ferito ingiustamente. Quando arriva davanti alla case della coppietta si aspetta di essere cacciato e insultato in malo modo, di essere ripagato con la sua stessa moneta, si aspetta di tutto ma non di essere capito e aiutato da quegli uomini che aveva sempre visto ed etichettato come diversi e malati. A Tripp basta uno sguardo per capire, si prende a cuore il caso di Scott perché sa di essere stato come lui in passato, lui stesso ha commesso errori e ha dovuto lottare per accettare la sua omosessualità, ha rischiato di mandare all'aria la sua storia d'amore con il dolce Marty per il timore di fare pubblicamente coming out e per questo motivo decide di coinvolgere il cowboy nel suo lavoro, di dargli fiducia. Ed è proprio grazie a questo gesto umano e pieno di amore che Scott ha modo di ritornare nel mondo dei rodei e conoscere Cody Ackerson. Quest'ultimo è molto diverso dal cowboy, è un pickup men dichiaratamente gay e che affronta la vita a muso duro, nonostante la sua statura e aspetto delicato e femminile è un vero macho che non si fa mettere i piedi in testa da nessuno. Un ragazzo solare, gentile e chiacchierone che si interessa subito al nuovo arrivato, si avvicina a Scott per ascoltare la sua storia, per andare oltre i pregiudizi e le maldicenze che si sprecano sul suo conto. Un giovane che con il suo modo buffo e spontaneo di comportarsi è destinato a cambiare per sempre la tormentata esistenza di Scott. L'autrice è stata eccezionale nel caratterizzare a pieno entrambi i protagonisti. Nonostante l'alternanza di Pov la voce narrante è in prevalenza quella di Scott. Una voce piena di amarezza e timore per ogni aspetto positivo della vita, una voce che ti spinge per tutto il tempo a soffrire, sentire quello stesso senso di inadeguatezza del rider e che nonostante la sofferenza e le lacrime ti spinge a lottare per realizzare quel pazzo desiderio di essere felice e finalmente libero dall'oscurità. Scott è un personaggio incredibilmente umano e la sua redenzione ed evoluzione colpisce come un pugno nello stomaco. Dopo averlo visto arrabbiato, crudele e talmente cattivo da ridere di fronte un uomo ferito e sanguinante vederlo ora... Fragile, spezzato e solo... È un dolore e un tormento. Con la sua storia, con la sua lotta...è diventato senza alcun dubbio il mio nuovo personaggio preferito della serie. Un personaggio che sono sicura vi conquisterà senza lasciarvi scampo. Lui e Cody sono semplicemente perfetti insieme.
Cody è giovane, è un pickup men che ha tutta la vita davanti, un ragazzo che vive con il fratello maggiore Toby e che spesso è abituato ad essere trattato come un bambino da quest'ultimo. Tutti sembrano vederlo come un ragazzino iperattivo senza rendersi conto delle sue infinite qualità. Non è solo un talento nel suo lavoro, non è solo un ragazzo innocente ma è anche e soprattutto un UOMO. Un uomo che sa essere fedele e supportivo, una perfetta roccia a cui ancorarsi nei momenti bui. Nonostante la giovane età vede oltre i pregiudizi della gente e quando questa si mette ad additare Scott, ad etichettarlo soltanto come uno stronzo omofobo, a evitarlo come la peste decide di andare contro il branco, di andare contro l'odio, decide trattare quell'uomo come un semplice essere umano, decide di avvicinarsi piano piano e tendergli la mano, decide di rivolgergli la parola rendendosi conto di trovarsi di fronte una persona triste e sola, una persona che ha bisogno di affetto e supporto per fare ammenda per gli errori del passato. Ho adorato un sacco le interazione della coppia. Ho amato il modo in cui Cody riesce a riempire i mille silenzi di Scott e il modo in cui quest'ultimo riesce a zittire le voci crudeli nella sua testa, riesce a mettere per la prima volta una persona al primo posto, riesce per la prima volta a rendersi conto di cosa significhi vivere e amare se stessi e cosa significhi allo stesso tempo soffrire per la scelta di doversi nascondere al mondo e vergognare per la propria identità. I due sono semplice straordinari e...vogliamo parlare della meraviglia della loro prima volta insieme? Pura poesia. Pura magia. In questo libro troviamo infatti meno erotismo, non siamo di fronte la frenesia di Bridge ed Eric o il rapporto consolidato di Tripp e Marty, siamo di fronte due uomini che si devono conoscere e scoprire a livello emotivo prima che fisico, le scene erotiche sono pochissime e collocate nella narrazione alla perfezione per farci capire la difficoltà di aprirci all'amore, la difficoltà di farci vedere vulnerabili e fragili di fronte la persona che sentiamo appartenerci. Ammetto che mi sono messa a piangere quando finalmente ho visto Scott in pace, quando l'ho visto accettare quel bacio, quel calore, quando ha deciso di abbandonarsi, di chiudere gli occhi e semplicemente...fidarsi. Quale miglior magia di questa? Quale miglior momento?
Non mancano ovviamente i momenti più dolci, Tripp, Marty e la loro banda di amici sono una famiglia perfetta e riescono ad accogliere non solo Cody ma anche Scott dandogli fiducia e permettendogli di fare un ulteriore passo. Cody aiuta Scott a riunirsi con quel padre che per anni ha tenuto lontano e... Wow.... Cosa c'è di più bello di ritrovare una famiglia, di aprirsi all'amore, di trovare nuovi amici? Semplicemente...nulla
Ho amato ogni personaggio e come non citare in tal proposito il piccolo ed energico Tanner e i suoi papà Harlan e Ben. Sono tre new entry strepitose e che mi hanno strappato non pochi sorrisi, degli amici sinceri che avremo modo di conoscere meglio nella novella "A song for Harlan" ma che con la loro presenza donano luce e arcobaleni <3 Per tutto il tempo durante la lettura mi sono sentita agitata ma allo stesso tempo in pace perché consapevole di trovarmi di fronte una storia piena di positività e speranza per un futuro più luminoso. Una narrazione che rende tutto una magica scoperta. È una storia incantevole e che non lascia nulla al caso. Scritta divinamente e in grado di ammaliare anche il cuore più duro. Ho amato il suo messaggio profondo e delicato e il modo in cui vuole prendere per mano il lettore accompagnandolo fino alla fine in un viaggio mozzafiato. È realistico, struggente, semplicemente imperdibile. Se avete amato i primi due libri questo vi strazierà l'anima, un volume che vi ferirà e curerà allo stesso tempo. Ci sono mille altre cose che vorrei spiegare e analizzare, potrei parlarne per ore intere ma in questo momento mi sento solo di dirvi "Leggetelo!" perché vi assicuro che ne varrà la pena! Rincontrerete vecchi amici, ne conoscerete di nuovi e vi innamorerete di Scott e del suo dolce pickup men. Un volume che chiude una trilogia e lo fa nel migliore dei modi!
Alzi la mano chi come me ha desiderato prendere a calci in culo Scott nel primo libro della serie. Ammettiamolo, tutto lo faceva sembrare come il bad boy della situazione. Un personaggio crudele, omofobo, un bullo che alla prima occasione decide di pugnalare alle spalle quell'uomo che gli è sempre stato amico e confidente. Appena ho iniziato a leggere questa serie sapevo che avrei voluto capire i motivi della sua rabbia, di quell'atteggiamento così distruttivo. Questo viaggio è stato doloroso, mi ha fatto piangere, mi ha spezzato il cuore in mille pezzi ma allo stesso tempo mi ha regalato gioia e serenità. Scott Gillard non è un personaggio scontato, non è una caricatura e un cliché ambulante, è un uomo che ha lottato tutta la vita contro i demoni nella sua testa, un uomo che sta ancora lottando per riuscire a fare pace con la sua vera natura, accettando la sua identità. Dopo gli eventi che hanno colpito Tripp, dopo la feroce aggressione che non è riuscito a fermare da parte dei suoi "amichetti" si è reso conto di dover fare qualcosa, di non poter più rimanere in disparte a guardare, si è reso conto che la sua omosessualità non è come un vestito, non si può cambiare ma è lì, sarà sempre lì ad aspettarlo al varco. In due anni si è allontanato dal lavoro che ha sempre amato e insieme alla sua migliore amica e confidente ha iniziato un lento percorso di crescita personale e cambiamento. Scott desidera accettare quell'omosessualità che ha sempre vissuto come una malattia, quell'omosessualità che la madre ha sempre etichettato come sbagliata perché colpevole di avergli strappato via il padre, desidera fare pace con i suoi fantasmi e chiedere perdono per quel suo atteggiamento così crudele e meschino, desidera scusarsi con Tripp e Marty e con tutte le persone che negli anni ha ferito ingiustamente. Quando arriva davanti alla case della coppietta si aspetta di essere cacciato e insultato in malo modo, di essere ripagato con la sua stessa moneta, si aspetta di tutto ma non di essere capito e aiutato da quegli uomini che aveva sempre visto ed etichettato come diversi e malati. A Tripp basta uno sguardo per capire, si prende a cuore il caso di Scott perché sa di essere stato come lui in passato, lui stesso ha commesso errori e ha dovuto lottare per accettare la sua omosessualità, ha rischiato di mandare all'aria la sua storia d'amore con il dolce Marty per il timore di fare pubblicamente coming out e per questo motivo decide di coinvolgere il cowboy nel suo lavoro, di dargli fiducia. Ed è proprio grazie a questo gesto umano e pieno di amore che Scott ha modo di ritornare nel mondo dei rodei e conoscere Cody Ackerson. Quest'ultimo è molto diverso dal cowboy, è un pickup men dichiaratamente gay e che affronta la vita a muso duro, nonostante la sua statura e aspetto delicato e femminile è un vero macho che non si fa mettere i piedi in testa da nessuno. Un ragazzo solare, gentile e chiacchierone che si interessa subito al nuovo arrivato, si avvicina a Scott per ascoltare la sua storia, per andare oltre i pregiudizi e le maldicenze che si sprecano sul suo conto. Un giovane che con il suo modo buffo e spontaneo di comportarsi è destinato a cambiare per sempre la tormentata esistenza di Scott. L'autrice è stata eccezionale nel caratterizzare a pieno entrambi i protagonisti. Nonostante l'alternanza di Pov la voce narrante è in prevalenza quella di Scott. Una voce piena di amarezza e timore per ogni aspetto positivo della vita, una voce che ti spinge per tutto il tempo a soffrire, sentire quello stesso senso di inadeguatezza del rider e che nonostante la sofferenza e le lacrime ti spinge a lottare per realizzare quel pazzo desiderio di essere felice e finalmente libero dall'oscurità. Scott è un personaggio incredibilmente umano e la sua redenzione ed evoluzione colpisce come un pugno nello stomaco. Dopo averlo visto arrabbiato, crudele e talmente cattivo da ridere di fronte un uomo ferito e sanguinante vederlo ora... Fragile, spezzato e solo... È un dolore e un tormento. Con la sua storia, con la sua lotta...è diventato senza alcun dubbio il mio nuovo personaggio preferito della serie. Un personaggio che sono sicura vi conquisterà senza lasciarvi scampo. Lui e Cody sono semplicemente perfetti insieme.
Cody è giovane, è un pickup men che ha tutta la vita davanti, un ragazzo che vive con il fratello maggiore Toby e che spesso è abituato ad essere trattato come un bambino da quest'ultimo. Tutti sembrano vederlo come un ragazzino iperattivo senza rendersi conto delle sue infinite qualità. Non è solo un talento nel suo lavoro, non è solo un ragazzo innocente ma è anche e soprattutto un UOMO. Un uomo che sa essere fedele e supportivo, una perfetta roccia a cui ancorarsi nei momenti bui. Nonostante la giovane età vede oltre i pregiudizi della gente e quando questa si mette ad additare Scott, ad etichettarlo soltanto come uno stronzo omofobo, a evitarlo come la peste decide di andare contro il branco, di andare contro l'odio, decide trattare quell'uomo come un semplice essere umano, decide di avvicinarsi piano piano e tendergli la mano, decide di rivolgergli la parola rendendosi conto di trovarsi di fronte una persona triste e sola, una persona che ha bisogno di affetto e supporto per fare ammenda per gli errori del passato. Ho adorato un sacco le interazione della coppia. Ho amato il modo in cui Cody riesce a riempire i mille silenzi di Scott e il modo in cui quest'ultimo riesce a zittire le voci crudeli nella sua testa, riesce a mettere per la prima volta una persona al primo posto, riesce per la prima volta a rendersi conto di cosa significhi vivere e amare se stessi e cosa significhi allo stesso tempo soffrire per la scelta di doversi nascondere al mondo e vergognare per la propria identità. I due sono semplice straordinari e...vogliamo parlare della meraviglia della loro prima volta insieme? Pura poesia. Pura magia. In questo libro troviamo infatti meno erotismo, non siamo di fronte la frenesia di Bridge ed Eric o il rapporto consolidato di Tripp e Marty, siamo di fronte due uomini che si devono conoscere e scoprire a livello emotivo prima che fisico, le scene erotiche sono pochissime e collocate nella narrazione alla perfezione per farci capire la difficoltà di aprirci all'amore, la difficoltà di farci vedere vulnerabili e fragili di fronte la persona che sentiamo appartenerci. Ammetto che mi sono messa a piangere quando finalmente ho visto Scott in pace, quando l'ho visto accettare quel bacio, quel calore, quando ha deciso di abbandonarsi, di chiudere gli occhi e semplicemente...fidarsi. Quale miglior magia di questa? Quale miglior momento?
Non mancano ovviamente i momenti più dolci, Tripp, Marty e la loro banda di amici sono una famiglia perfetta e riescono ad accogliere non solo Cody ma anche Scott dandogli fiducia e permettendogli di fare un ulteriore passo. Cody aiuta Scott a riunirsi con quel padre che per anni ha tenuto lontano e... Wow.... Cosa c'è di più bello di ritrovare una famiglia, di aprirsi all'amore, di trovare nuovi amici? Semplicemente...nulla
Ho amato ogni personaggio e come non citare in tal proposito il piccolo ed energico Tanner e i suoi papà Harlan e Ben. Sono tre new entry strepitose e che mi hanno strappato non pochi sorrisi, degli amici sinceri che avremo modo di conoscere meglio nella novella "A song for Harlan" ma che con la loro presenza donano luce e arcobaleni <3 Per tutto il tempo durante la lettura mi sono sentita agitata ma allo stesso tempo in pace perché consapevole di trovarmi di fronte una storia piena di positività e speranza per un futuro più luminoso. Una narrazione che rende tutto una magica scoperta. È una storia incantevole e che non lascia nulla al caso. Scritta divinamente e in grado di ammaliare anche il cuore più duro. Ho amato il suo messaggio profondo e delicato e il modo in cui vuole prendere per mano il lettore accompagnandolo fino alla fine in un viaggio mozzafiato. È realistico, struggente, semplicemente imperdibile. Se avete amato i primi due libri questo vi strazierà l'anima, un volume che vi ferirà e curerà allo stesso tempo. Ci sono mille altre cose che vorrei spiegare e analizzare, potrei parlarne per ore intere ma in questo momento mi sento solo di dirvi "Leggetelo!" perché vi assicuro che ne varrà la pena! Rincontrerete vecchi amici, ne conoscerete di nuovi e vi innamorerete di Scott e del suo dolce pickup men. Un volume che chiude una trilogia e lo fa nel migliore dei modi!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 30, 2015
Cowboy hats, pickup trucks, horses, and bull riders... sounds like a hot mix doesn't it? Well if you are looking for hot sexy times partner, then you best saddle up and mosey down to next book in your to-be-read pile. This book has the cowboy hats, pickup trucks, horses and bull riders but it isn't about hot sexy times in hale bales. Pulling Leather is about finding oneself and find HOME along the way.
Scott is a bull rider so deep in the closet that it will take major excavating equipment to dig him out. He has always known he was gay and even checked himself into an aversion program. His self denial and fear that someone would find out has led to major anger issues and, he was very vocal on the rodeo circuit about his hatred for gays. While he never physically hurt anyone, he wasn't above verbally abusing them. All this changed when his friend and fellow bull rider Tripp comes out and is bashed. Scott had nothing to do with the attack, turns in the men responsible but two years later still feels guilty. He wants to make amends. He agrees to help Tripp hold some bull riding clinics at a gay rodeo.
Acceptance from others comes slowly but, self acceptance moves at glacial speed . Fate steps in and blesses Scott with an eyeliner wearing cowboy. Cory storms into his life with more force than any of the largest bulls he has ever encountered. Cory is a small of stature, big of heart and has the patience, courage and determination to help Scott face up to himself, embrace who he truly is and to be open and honest about it.
Cory has his work cut out for him. Scott has more excessive baggage than major airline to deal with including parents who played a role in his self loathing. Cory isn't afraid to call him on his BS and helps him reconcile with his father. It takes almost losing Cory for Scott to find the door to that closet, step out into the light and, claim his man. He is finally ready to allow some else to love him, to love himself and to have a HOME.
Scott is a bull rider so deep in the closet that it will take major excavating equipment to dig him out. He has always known he was gay and even checked himself into an aversion program. His self denial and fear that someone would find out has led to major anger issues and, he was very vocal on the rodeo circuit about his hatred for gays. While he never physically hurt anyone, he wasn't above verbally abusing them. All this changed when his friend and fellow bull rider Tripp comes out and is bashed. Scott had nothing to do with the attack, turns in the men responsible but two years later still feels guilty. He wants to make amends. He agrees to help Tripp hold some bull riding clinics at a gay rodeo.
Acceptance from others comes slowly but, self acceptance moves at glacial speed . Fate steps in and blesses Scott with an eyeliner wearing cowboy. Cory storms into his life with more force than any of the largest bulls he has ever encountered. Cory is a small of stature, big of heart and has the patience, courage and determination to help Scott face up to himself, embrace who he truly is and to be open and honest about it.
Cory has his work cut out for him. Scott has more excessive baggage than major airline to deal with including parents who played a role in his self loathing. Cory isn't afraid to call him on his BS and helps him reconcile with his father. It takes almost losing Cory for Scott to find the door to that closet, step out into the light and, claim his man. He is finally ready to allow some else to love him, to love himself and to have a HOME.
May 4, 2016
A Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words Review An Alisa Audiobook Review:
Rating: 4.5 stars out of 5
The toughest ride of his life is all in his head.
Bull rider Scott Gillard has a reputation for quick fists and harsh words. What no one knows is where that anger comes from. After a shocking incident sends him into a tailspin, he knows he needs help: he’s been fighting a battle he could never win. Now he’s trying to navigate a new life and embrace his true self, but some days are easier than others.
Pickup man Cory Ackerson has suffered his share of harassment, but his light still burns bright. He doesn’t let anything or anyone keep him down, so when he meets the rugged cowboy with a battered chip on his shoulder and regret in his dark eyes, all he wants to do is help.
As their unlikely friendship grows into something deeper, Scott must overcome his past to be the man Cory deserves, or lose his best chance at his own happily ever after.
This was a great story. Scott has been so conflicted throughout his life by what happened when he was a kid with his parents and then how it followed him into adulthood. Cory has never been ashamed of who he is and is more than willing to give Scott the chance to prove that he isn’t what he used to be.
Their relationship starts slowly and Cory really gives Scott the opportunity to get comfortable in his own skin for the most part. I could just feel how Scott was struggling during the book and the acceptance he was looking for from those around him.
This is the first audiobook I have ever listened to. I had read the other books in the series and had this one sitting around awhile and figured this would be a great chance to actually get to the book. I loved being able to listen to the story while at work and around the house. The narrator did a great job of showing the characters personalities during his reading and just added to the story with the different voices he used.
Cover art by LC Chase is great and I wouldn’t do anything different.
Rating: 4.5 stars out of 5
The toughest ride of his life is all in his head.
Bull rider Scott Gillard has a reputation for quick fists and harsh words. What no one knows is where that anger comes from. After a shocking incident sends him into a tailspin, he knows he needs help: he’s been fighting a battle he could never win. Now he’s trying to navigate a new life and embrace his true self, but some days are easier than others.
Pickup man Cory Ackerson has suffered his share of harassment, but his light still burns bright. He doesn’t let anything or anyone keep him down, so when he meets the rugged cowboy with a battered chip on his shoulder and regret in his dark eyes, all he wants to do is help.
As their unlikely friendship grows into something deeper, Scott must overcome his past to be the man Cory deserves, or lose his best chance at his own happily ever after.
This was a great story. Scott has been so conflicted throughout his life by what happened when he was a kid with his parents and then how it followed him into adulthood. Cory has never been ashamed of who he is and is more than willing to give Scott the chance to prove that he isn’t what he used to be.
Their relationship starts slowly and Cory really gives Scott the opportunity to get comfortable in his own skin for the most part. I could just feel how Scott was struggling during the book and the acceptance he was looking for from those around him.
This is the first audiobook I have ever listened to. I had read the other books in the series and had this one sitting around awhile and figured this would be a great chance to actually get to the book. I loved being able to listen to the story while at work and around the house. The narrator did a great job of showing the characters personalities during his reading and just added to the story with the different voices he used.
Cover art by LC Chase is great and I wouldn’t do anything different.
September 3, 2014
I received Pulling Leather in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I really love this series. Pickup Men got me hooked and since that book I’ve waited patiently for each new installment. Pulling Leather turned out to be one of my favorites, and that was totally unexpected.
Why? Never did I expect to come close to sympathizing with Scott. He was one of the ‘bad guys’ in Pickup Men, so I totally understood why the other guys were so hesitant to accept his total turnaround. L.C. Chase did a great job of making readers understand where this character was coming from and his back story was all it took. Cory on the other hand was easy to love. I admired his honesty and his strength. Their story wasn’t an easy one, but it was definitely worth it.
There was a lot to love about this book. Even though it was a romance, there was a lot more than that. It was more a book about coming to terms with who you really are through self-discovery and accepting it. The supporting characters did as much to bring that point home as Cory and Scott. And yes, I fell in love with Tripp all over again for a lot of reasons. There were also a few new characters that I’d really like to get to know better. I have no idea if there are any more books left in this series, but if they are I guarantee that they will make it to my TBR list.
I really love this series. Pickup Men got me hooked and since that book I’ve waited patiently for each new installment. Pulling Leather turned out to be one of my favorites, and that was totally unexpected.
Why? Never did I expect to come close to sympathizing with Scott. He was one of the ‘bad guys’ in Pickup Men, so I totally understood why the other guys were so hesitant to accept his total turnaround. L.C. Chase did a great job of making readers understand where this character was coming from and his back story was all it took. Cory on the other hand was easy to love. I admired his honesty and his strength. Their story wasn’t an easy one, but it was definitely worth it.
There was a lot to love about this book. Even though it was a romance, there was a lot more than that. It was more a book about coming to terms with who you really are through self-discovery and accepting it. The supporting characters did as much to bring that point home as Cory and Scott. And yes, I fell in love with Tripp all over again for a lot of reasons. There were also a few new characters that I’d really like to get to know better. I have no idea if there are any more books left in this series, but if they are I guarantee that they will make it to my TBR list.
September 4, 2016
3.5 Stars
We're introduced to bull rider, Scott Gillard, in Pickup Men. What a bastard he was! Here, though, Scott has come full circle, sorta. He has definitely reevaluated his homophobia and takes admirable steps to atone for his past wrongs. That said, he is one super closeted, super conflicted, super troubled soul. If anyone can bring him out of hisshell closet, it's the effervescent Cory Ackerson. But holy be-jeezus is it a tough ride.
This tale was a two-steps-forward-one-step-back slow dance that had me pulling my hair on more than one occasion. Obviously, I was rooting for Scott and Cory but, honestly, there were times I felt like giving up. It was just so hard! And not in a good way. Happily, it all worked out but man L.C. Chase made me work for it!
Bottom line: One tough ride but worth it.
We're introduced to bull rider, Scott Gillard, in Pickup Men. What a bastard he was! Here, though, Scott has come full circle, sorta. He has definitely reevaluated his homophobia and takes admirable steps to atone for his past wrongs. That said, he is one super closeted, super conflicted, super troubled soul. If anyone can bring him out of his
This tale was a two-steps-forward-one-step-back slow dance that had me pulling my hair on more than one occasion. Obviously, I was rooting for Scott and Cory but, honestly, there were times I felt like giving up. It was just so hard! And not in a good way. Happily, it all worked out but man L.C. Chase made me work for it!
Bottom line: One tough ride but worth it.
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