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New England State of Mind #1
Born for Leaving
When they say be careful what you wish for, do you pay attention?
Neither did Oliver Tunstead.
Oliver wishes for nothing more than to get his mind off his crappy bartending job, pile of debt big enough to swallow him whole, and playboy ex-boyfriend/boss who refuses to back off. Too bad distractions, like the hot little convertible he has his eye on, cost megabucks. And Oliver is flat broke. Renting the spare bedroom in his rundown beachfront cottage is his only option to pick up the cash he needs--a risky proposition, as Oliver is the polar opposite of a people-person. When he responds to a bizarre ad in the Waterfront Gazette seeking summer housing, he gets more than he bargained for. But Oliver can cope... After all, how much harm can a single quirky tenant do to his tightly guarded life in three short months?
Where Oliver is a loner by design, urban cowboy Bodie is a loner by necessity. A family dispute long ago dropkicked him onto the path of a lifelong wanderer. This changes when Bodie moves into the tiny beachfront cottage and starts working the door at Oliver's bar.
Despite Oliver and Bodie's nearly paralyzing instinct to avoid commitment, they fall into a wary romance. And to their surprise, life as a couple is sweetly satisfying; that is, until their jealous boss devises a cruel plan to destroy the tentative bond they've built. True to form, Bodie hits the road, leaving Oliver to lick his wounds alone.
Can these wounded souls defy their urge to flee and fight for love?
**Trigger Warning: discussion of childhood sexual molestation of adult character, graphic physical violence, off-page coerced sexual relationship
Neither did Oliver Tunstead.
Oliver wishes for nothing more than to get his mind off his crappy bartending job, pile of debt big enough to swallow him whole, and playboy ex-boyfriend/boss who refuses to back off. Too bad distractions, like the hot little convertible he has his eye on, cost megabucks. And Oliver is flat broke. Renting the spare bedroom in his rundown beachfront cottage is his only option to pick up the cash he needs--a risky proposition, as Oliver is the polar opposite of a people-person. When he responds to a bizarre ad in the Waterfront Gazette seeking summer housing, he gets more than he bargained for. But Oliver can cope... After all, how much harm can a single quirky tenant do to his tightly guarded life in three short months?
Where Oliver is a loner by design, urban cowboy Bodie is a loner by necessity. A family dispute long ago dropkicked him onto the path of a lifelong wanderer. This changes when Bodie moves into the tiny beachfront cottage and starts working the door at Oliver's bar.
Despite Oliver and Bodie's nearly paralyzing instinct to avoid commitment, they fall into a wary romance. And to their surprise, life as a couple is sweetly satisfying; that is, until their jealous boss devises a cruel plan to destroy the tentative bond they've built. True to form, Bodie hits the road, leaving Oliver to lick his wounds alone.
Can these wounded souls defy their urge to flee and fight for love?
**Trigger Warning: discussion of childhood sexual molestation of adult character, graphic physical violence, off-page coerced sexual relationship
238 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 2, 2020
10 people are currently reading
169 people want to read
About the author
Jude Munro
3 books93 followersLike Jude Munro, her fictional characters in her gay romance novels are drawn to the beach. They’ve sunbathed on the sands of many alluring East Coast beaches, along with the fantastical beaches in Jude’s books. They’ll answer questions like “Who do you think you are, the sun god?” (which they often resemble) if they can hear you over "Boys of Summer" cranking on their headphones. To most of Jude’s men, no shoes and no shirt is really not a problem. But even on the sunniest of beach days, the guys in Jude’s books do have problems… as in, serious relationship issues. Many of which seem insurmountable. And each character must earn his day at the beach. (Yes, there is always a HEA).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
September 10, 2020
I went into Jude Munro’s Born for Leaving with a completely open mind. I read the précis and the trigger warnings so I thought I was prepared. But this novel still hit me hard, and that’s saying a lot. There’s so much emotion in this story, and both men’s experiences are raw and real. While this is not a warm and fuzzy romance, it makes for an unsettling, and highly rewarding, journey. Jude Munro is out to push our buttons, and for me, she succeeds.
A welcome respite from the intensity of the plot, is the charm of the setting in Born for Leaving. Gillamour is a remote island off the coast of New England, and Jude Munro paints an exquisite picture. Descriptions of warm, sandy beaches, restaurants both rustic and chic, and dazzling sunrises, help temper the emotion and drama.
Told entirely from Oliver’s point of view, the characters develop gradually. After the first tentative steps toward building a friendship, the men slowly open up to each other and reveal their stories. While their mutual attraction is obvious from the start, there's no doubt they both recognize they’ve a long way to go… and clearly have no idea if they can even get there.
Oliver is torn between his physical desire for Bodie, and his genuine interest in simply making a friend. (And complicating everything more, Bodie only plans to stay on Gillamour till the end of the summer.) Oliver is incredibly lonely, and while opening his home to a boarder is a good first step, he’s going to have to learn to open his mouth as well. Bodie is even less gregarious than Oliver, and it turns out it’s their resistance to letting folks in which makes them well matched.
As the men craft a relationship, their quest for a peaceful romance is sorely tested. After the abuses both men have suffered, it’s not surprising they have no idea how to advocate for themselves, but I was practically tearing my hair out over the choices they make.
Finding it difficult to open up and be truthful, the way these two communicate had me wanting to smack them both upside the head! It made it frustrating at times, not being able to really relate to either of them, but in the end, it resulted in me thoroughly appreciating Jude Munro’s skill as an author. To bring me so completely out of my comfort zone, to grow to care for these guys, and even begin to like them, is an incredible experience.
I’m intrigued by the folks who make up the community of Gillamour Island. For me, getting to know them through Oliver’s eyes is where Born for Leaving really shines as a novel. Each character has an interesting story, of which I’d love to know more, and it’s my hope that Ms. Munro plans to explore them all in future episodes of this New England State of Mind series.
A welcome respite from the intensity of the plot, is the charm of the setting in Born for Leaving. Gillamour is a remote island off the coast of New England, and Jude Munro paints an exquisite picture. Descriptions of warm, sandy beaches, restaurants both rustic and chic, and dazzling sunrises, help temper the emotion and drama.
Told entirely from Oliver’s point of view, the characters develop gradually. After the first tentative steps toward building a friendship, the men slowly open up to each other and reveal their stories. While their mutual attraction is obvious from the start, there's no doubt they both recognize they’ve a long way to go… and clearly have no idea if they can even get there.
Oliver is torn between his physical desire for Bodie, and his genuine interest in simply making a friend. (And complicating everything more, Bodie only plans to stay on Gillamour till the end of the summer.) Oliver is incredibly lonely, and while opening his home to a boarder is a good first step, he’s going to have to learn to open his mouth as well. Bodie is even less gregarious than Oliver, and it turns out it’s their resistance to letting folks in which makes them well matched.
As the men craft a relationship, their quest for a peaceful romance is sorely tested. After the abuses both men have suffered, it’s not surprising they have no idea how to advocate for themselves, but I was practically tearing my hair out over the choices they make.
Finding it difficult to open up and be truthful, the way these two communicate had me wanting to smack them both upside the head! It made it frustrating at times, not being able to really relate to either of them, but in the end, it resulted in me thoroughly appreciating Jude Munro’s skill as an author. To bring me so completely out of my comfort zone, to grow to care for these guys, and even begin to like them, is an incredible experience.
I’m intrigued by the folks who make up the community of Gillamour Island. For me, getting to know them through Oliver’s eyes is where Born for Leaving really shines as a novel. Each character has an interesting story, of which I’d love to know more, and it’s my hope that Ms. Munro plans to explore them all in future episodes of this New England State of Mind series.
September 7, 2020
I had a tough time with this one and actually put it aside for a day to consider whether I would finish or not. I had a difficult time with the set-up and with Oliver's decision making from the start so it's a bit my fault for continuing to read.
I liked Bodie and Oliver's relationship and could have read a whole book about them working through things. Their pasts were dramatic enough. Bodie has plenty of issues too and again, I had a big issue with the final dramatic climax revolving around him. When the characters don't seem to really care about what is happening to them , why should I?
For me, there was a lot of over the top outside dramatics - most of which was sexual or physical assaults or threats of - that took away from Oliver and Bodie's story. I don't mind dark, I don't mind outside interference, but so much about the story annoyed me that each new act perpetrated on them made it harder for me to engage. Certain storylines ended unbelievably and then the ending was a little too tidy. I like Mia Kerick's books, but this one just wasn't for me and my mindset; perhaps you may get more from it.
I liked Bodie and Oliver's relationship and could have read a whole book about them working through things. Their pasts were dramatic enough. Bodie has plenty of issues too and again, I had a big issue with the final dramatic climax revolving around him. When the characters don't seem to really care about what is happening to them , why should I?
For me, there was a lot of over the top outside dramatics - most of which was sexual or physical assaults or threats of - that took away from Oliver and Bodie's story. I don't mind dark, I don't mind outside interference, but so much about the story annoyed me that each new act perpetrated on them made it harder for me to engage. Certain storylines ended unbelievably and then the ending was a little too tidy. I like Mia Kerick's books, but this one just wasn't for me and my mindset; perhaps you may get more from it.
July 23, 2020
Where does one start when attempting to write a review for a book that changed their life? Okay, okay. Melodramatics aside, I mean it. Born for Leaving by Jude Munro hit me in a very special, emotional, and high-impact readerly spot. It was one of those books that gave me such an intense book hangover when it was over, I sought out another read as completely opposite it as possible—a psychological thriller with a lesbian lead—just to keep my mind from spiraling in circles. Because I couldn’t get this book, or its wonderful characters, off my mind.
I read this book in a single day. I started it, sadly, not expecting much. I had a slow day at the office and decided to grab a “read now” book off NetGalley so I wouldn’t have to wait for approval. And when I found a MM romance on the list, it was an easy choice. But almost from the first page, Munro drew me in. If you want a great example of just how well she accomplished this task, let me say this. I have never been—and likely will never be—a fan of first-person POV. It’s just not my personal preference, but I can still enjoy a story with it. However, I also happen to get a bit of the readerly chills when a story is present-tense. Again, purely personal preference, but it reads off to me. Finally, in my romance, I don’t like things one-sided. I want to see both parties experiencing the relationship. I want to have the emphatic, undeniable consent and confirmation of motives and feelings that comes with dual POV.
Which, if you’re following along, you can probably guess what comes next. This book was all three of my least favorite POV styles all rolled into one. First-person present single POV. Pretty much any other book and I would’ve spent the entire time cringing a bit, or might’ve simply DNFed to save myself and the author any unfounded issues due to personal tastes alone. But with this book… I legit didn’t realize it fell into this category until I was chapters upon chapters into the book. That’s how engrossing the story is, how relatable and personable Oliver’s POV is, and just how dang well this book is written.
Now, before I press on… I’m going to start with my biggest—and, really, only significant—complaint. This book should’ve come with some serious Content/Trigger Warnings and there were none in sight. I checked everywhere, just in case wires were crossed and NetGalley didn’t get the memo. But, nope, there’s nothing on Amazon, Goodreads, the author’s website… nowhere. Thankfully, I caught something in one of the characters’ reactions to a situation that made me think, “Hmmm. Something isn’t right.” So, I decided to go on a hunt for a review with spoilers. (I hate having to do that, but there are certain things I can’t step into blindly without causing me some serious mental and emotional damage, so I have to look out for myself. If I’m walking into a read well aware of what’s to come, I can handle almost anything. Just warn me first.) It was kind of a bummer to have to read so many reviews that basically told me what the story would be about, but I’m so grateful I did. Because, had I read these things blindly, the ultimate result of this read would’ve been a much, much different one for me.
So, that being said, if you don’t need or want Content/Trigger Warnings, then skip this paragraph. Because they do have some spoilery things to them, but they need to be out there. Clear as day. For starters, Bodie has a history of childhood molestation that dramatically affects him and is discussed in fairly great detail throughout the book. Second, Oliver is brutally raped on page. No, there isn’t any penetration, but the scene is violent, graphic, and plenty of other traumatizing and life-altering things occur. Had I not walked into that prepared… Anyway, Oliver also has a history with his mother of mental, emotional, and in some fairly disturbing ways very physical abuse. I’ll let you discover most of that on your own, but I’ll say this… she repeatedly forced him to get naked and show his body to her. Finally, Bodie is raped off page. He claims he “allowed” it to happen, but trust me, under the circumstances, it was rape. Period. Oh, and there are also quite a few violent and bloody scenes, two separate stalker-type characters, and some pretty intense themes of childhood abandonment.
Okay… I think (hope) I got ‘em all. Now, back to the positives… which is literally everything else. Since I went into this story aware of what to expect thanks to my personal digging, I was able to “appreciate” the painful experiences of the characters as part of the story, their challenges, and horrific but genuine stones on the path to their beautiful HEA.
I realize I’m rambling at this point, so I’ll try to sum up what I love in as few words as possible. Oliver—our single POV character—is a breath of fresh air. He’s struggling with a lot of repressed emotions due to some crappy parenting in his past, but he is trying to make his dreams come true and fighting tooth and nail to get them. Enter Bodie—broken, beautiful, badas* Bodie—who exudes charm, raw masculinity, and this painfully real side of childish intrigue and fear of the world. After the childhood he endured, and the solitary life he’s led since, it’s no wonder. But when these two get together, it’s like instant magic. The chemistry sparkles and pops and leaps off the page. And when that first sexy time scene happens, it broke me with its perfection, beauty, and bittersweet discovery.
I won’t keep going because I could talk for days about this book—in fact, I forced my bestie to download and read with me because I knew I wouldn’t be able to survive the read without someone to gush to. Thankfully, she did, and we finished within 20 minutes of each other. Then went into mourning together. Because we will never be able to experience Bodie and Oliver or their delectable romance for the first time ever again.
I would recommend this to everyone. Anyone. All lovers of love. It’s so well-written and takes you on such an emotional journey.
And to the author, if she were to ever read this review: I beg of you, do yourself, your readers, and these wonderful characters a huge favor by adding Content Warnings. Seeing as how this book is in Kindle Unlimited, it would be a quick fix. Having that information made this book what it was for me. Without it, I would be singing a very different tune right now. And would likely be damaged, mentally and emotionally. Oh, and don’t quit writing. Because I might be your newest and biggest fan! 💕
I read this book in a single day. I started it, sadly, not expecting much. I had a slow day at the office and decided to grab a “read now” book off NetGalley so I wouldn’t have to wait for approval. And when I found a MM romance on the list, it was an easy choice. But almost from the first page, Munro drew me in. If you want a great example of just how well she accomplished this task, let me say this. I have never been—and likely will never be—a fan of first-person POV. It’s just not my personal preference, but I can still enjoy a story with it. However, I also happen to get a bit of the readerly chills when a story is present-tense. Again, purely personal preference, but it reads off to me. Finally, in my romance, I don’t like things one-sided. I want to see both parties experiencing the relationship. I want to have the emphatic, undeniable consent and confirmation of motives and feelings that comes with dual POV.
Which, if you’re following along, you can probably guess what comes next. This book was all three of my least favorite POV styles all rolled into one. First-person present single POV. Pretty much any other book and I would’ve spent the entire time cringing a bit, or might’ve simply DNFed to save myself and the author any unfounded issues due to personal tastes alone. But with this book… I legit didn’t realize it fell into this category until I was chapters upon chapters into the book. That’s how engrossing the story is, how relatable and personable Oliver’s POV is, and just how dang well this book is written.
Now, before I press on… I’m going to start with my biggest—and, really, only significant—complaint. This book should’ve come with some serious Content/Trigger Warnings and there were none in sight. I checked everywhere, just in case wires were crossed and NetGalley didn’t get the memo. But, nope, there’s nothing on Amazon, Goodreads, the author’s website… nowhere. Thankfully, I caught something in one of the characters’ reactions to a situation that made me think, “Hmmm. Something isn’t right.” So, I decided to go on a hunt for a review with spoilers. (I hate having to do that, but there are certain things I can’t step into blindly without causing me some serious mental and emotional damage, so I have to look out for myself. If I’m walking into a read well aware of what’s to come, I can handle almost anything. Just warn me first.) It was kind of a bummer to have to read so many reviews that basically told me what the story would be about, but I’m so grateful I did. Because, had I read these things blindly, the ultimate result of this read would’ve been a much, much different one for me.
So, that being said, if you don’t need or want Content/Trigger Warnings, then skip this paragraph. Because they do have some spoilery things to them, but they need to be out there. Clear as day. For starters, Bodie has a history of childhood molestation that dramatically affects him and is discussed in fairly great detail throughout the book. Second, Oliver is brutally raped on page. No, there isn’t any penetration, but the scene is violent, graphic, and plenty of other traumatizing and life-altering things occur. Had I not walked into that prepared… Anyway, Oliver also has a history with his mother of mental, emotional, and in some fairly disturbing ways very physical abuse. I’ll let you discover most of that on your own, but I’ll say this… she repeatedly forced him to get naked and show his body to her. Finally, Bodie is raped off page. He claims he “allowed” it to happen, but trust me, under the circumstances, it was rape. Period. Oh, and there are also quite a few violent and bloody scenes, two separate stalker-type characters, and some pretty intense themes of childhood abandonment.
Okay… I think (hope) I got ‘em all. Now, back to the positives… which is literally everything else. Since I went into this story aware of what to expect thanks to my personal digging, I was able to “appreciate” the painful experiences of the characters as part of the story, their challenges, and horrific but genuine stones on the path to their beautiful HEA.
I realize I’m rambling at this point, so I’ll try to sum up what I love in as few words as possible. Oliver—our single POV character—is a breath of fresh air. He’s struggling with a lot of repressed emotions due to some crappy parenting in his past, but he is trying to make his dreams come true and fighting tooth and nail to get them. Enter Bodie—broken, beautiful, badas* Bodie—who exudes charm, raw masculinity, and this painfully real side of childish intrigue and fear of the world. After the childhood he endured, and the solitary life he’s led since, it’s no wonder. But when these two get together, it’s like instant magic. The chemistry sparkles and pops and leaps off the page. And when that first sexy time scene happens, it broke me with its perfection, beauty, and bittersweet discovery.
I won’t keep going because I could talk for days about this book—in fact, I forced my bestie to download and read with me because I knew I wouldn’t be able to survive the read without someone to gush to. Thankfully, she did, and we finished within 20 minutes of each other. Then went into mourning together. Because we will never be able to experience Bodie and Oliver or their delectable romance for the first time ever again.
I would recommend this to everyone. Anyone. All lovers of love. It’s so well-written and takes you on such an emotional journey.
And to the author, if she were to ever read this review: I beg of you, do yourself, your readers, and these wonderful characters a huge favor by adding Content Warnings. Seeing as how this book is in Kindle Unlimited, it would be a quick fix. Having that information made this book what it was for me. Without it, I would be singing a very different tune right now. And would likely be damaged, mentally and emotionally. Oh, and don’t quit writing. Because I might be your newest and biggest fan! 💕
July 21, 2020
Well, I just finished that read in one single sitting when I'd already been up for over 24 hours before starting to read. If that doesn't say it all, I'm not sure if I'll be able to do it any better justice. But I'll certainly try.
This book hit me in every one of my feels. Bodie and Oliver might be two of my favorite characters I've had the pleasure of reading in quite some time. They have such delightfully unique voices—even though this is written in first-person single POV with Oliver as the MC, the dialogue and their various actions and mannerisms were so very well crafted and unique.
They both had heartbreaking backgrounds and trials and tribulations in their present lives, but Bodie broke me. Absolutely shredded my soul. I needed his HEA like there was no tomorrow, and when the black moment hit, I crumbled. I stopped breathing. I almost straight up forgot to breathe.
Overall, this is a highly, highly recommended read, and this author is being added to the tippy top of my follow list.
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for providing an ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book hit me in every one of my feels. Bodie and Oliver might be two of my favorite characters I've had the pleasure of reading in quite some time. They have such delightfully unique voices—even though this is written in first-person single POV with Oliver as the MC, the dialogue and their various actions and mannerisms were so very well crafted and unique.
They both had heartbreaking backgrounds and trials and tribulations in their present lives, but Bodie broke me. Absolutely shredded my soul. I needed his HEA like there was no tomorrow, and when the black moment hit, I crumbled. I stopped breathing. I almost straight up forgot to breathe.
Overall, this is a highly, highly recommended read, and this author is being added to the tippy top of my follow list.
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for providing an ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 21, 2020
Wow, this is a truly spectacular story! It's also intense, raw , gritty , thought provoking ; it gave me goosebumps and left me a basket case of emotions.
Please, take to heart , the trigger warnings . They're plenty, they're graphic , they're heartbreaking and they're taboo.
I know , I am going to have a massive book hangover . Born for Leaving is one of those tales who stays with you for a long time.
I just reviewed Born for Leaving by Mia Kerick writing as Jude Munro. #BornforLeaving #NetGalley
Please, take to heart , the trigger warnings . They're plenty, they're graphic , they're heartbreaking and they're taboo.
I know , I am going to have a massive book hangover . Born for Leaving is one of those tales who stays with you for a long time.
I just reviewed Born for Leaving by Mia Kerick writing as Jude Munro. #BornforLeaving #NetGalley
August 5, 2020
ALL MY REVIEWS CAN BE FOUND ON MY BLOG: ABSTRACT BOOKS
'Born for Leaving' is a MM Romance written by Jude Monroe. This book was one heartbreaking tale of love and loss!!
I rarely read MM Romance. The only author that I have read before this book was K.webster. But there was something eye-catching about this book that had me grabbing this one. And what an amazing choice that was! This book is a definite read for all the contemporary MM Romance lovers out there!!
This author just shredded my soul without mercy! Both Oliver and Bodie have a special place in my heart now. Their tale was one of love and so much angst. This author forced me to feel so many emotions , that I had to take breaks while reading to digest it all! I have read a lot of books and there is nothing I love more than a good soul twisting book that makes you feel so much. This book had that.
This book had all the rides you could imagine in a book. There were the calm moments and the disastrous ones too! When the HEA hit finally at the last , I took such a huge breath of satisfaction! Because there were no characters who deserve a big goofy HEA than Bodie and Oliver! A definite recommendation to all contemporary MM readers out there!
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July 26, 2020
Okay, so before I begin this review I have to take the biggest, deepest breath. Guys, this story left me with the heaviest book hangover I have had in a long, long time. It’s taken me days of writing and rewriting this review to finally feel like I could do it justice.
I’m actually going to start with, I think, my only complaint and I am starting there because this needs to be said before going any further for those reading my review. On the listings for this story on NetGalley, Amazon, and Goodreads there aren’t any trigger warnings/content warnings. This is probably my only issue because there are heavy topics tackled in this book that warrant a pretty strong warning. Childhood emotional abuse and childhood sexual abuse are both referenced. On page there are a couple instances of violence, one of which ends in a very graphic near rape. Again, off page, there is a non consensual act that, while not actually referred to as rape, is rape and occurs in their current timeline.
I think the lack of sufficient warnings is something the author and publisher should heavily consider. I was personally tipped off by a fellow reader ahead of time, fortunately, but not all readers would have this benefit and really should know ahead of time what they are getting themselves into.
Now that I’ve said that, I need to quickly switch gears and transition into gushing over this story. I have some personal readerly tastes as all readers do and one of those is that I really, really, REALLY do not like stories written in a single POV, first person, present tense. As in I avoid those stories like the plague.
However with Born For Leaving, I was practically in the third chapter before the lightbulb finally flashed over my head and I realized that it was written in first person, present tense and we won’t even discuss how much longer it took for it to sink in that it was single POV.
How is that even possible, you might be asking. Easy. This story was so expertly written, so beautifully woven, and so utterly gripping that I was oblivious to absolutely everything but the tale itself. As a person who reads A LOT and writes A LOT it is so rare that I lose myself so completely within the actual words of the story that I don’t notice something that is normally a great big, fat nope for me.
Immediately Oliver grabbed my heart and held it tight through the entire story. I connected with his need for sanctuary and solitude deeply. He was a perfectly crafted character that didn’t need very long for me to form an attachment that was meaningful.
Let’s just give a quick run down of the premise because I practically forgot that when writing this review. So Oliver works for his sleazy ex (and OMG I looooooooathed Jack) as a mixologist at a bar. He sees an ad from a stranger requesting a room to rent for the summer and takes a leap to invite the guy to check out his place. The five hundred a month rent will help Oliver get the car of his dreams a little faster.
And that guy is Bodie. Oh heaven help me with Bodie. From the moment he arrived at Oliver’s house to see the accommodations (and this is, quite cleverly, not the first time Bodie and Oliver meet) their is an undeniable spark between the two men, although Oliver is certain Bodie is straight so his fantasies must remain locked in his lusty little brain.
Because living together isn’t tempting and confusing enough for Oliver, they are also coworkers. Yup, our adorable little Bodie is the bouncer Oliver has been waiting for to handle the overly enthusiastic drunk clientele at the bar. A position Oliver had to fill in on in between mixing drinks. While Jack played Candy Crush rather than actually managing the bar he owns. And this? Probably one of Jack’s BETTER moments. Nope. Not kidding.
There are so many twists and turns and absolute soul-crushing moments of heartbreaking devastation when long held secrets are revealed that my review would be a book in itself to recap it all and wouldn’t even come close to doing the story justice. When I tell you that these are two broken boys just looking for love and acceptance, that is a complete and total understatement.
In the interest of full disclosure, had this story not been written so exquisitely and each and every characters created and molded with such beauty and care, the lack of CW/TW would have resulted in—at the very least—a 1 or 2 star loss on my review and, quite possibly, me even scrapping the read and returning it to the publisher with a refusal to review. When I say that Born for Leaving overcame many of my own personal readerly biases as well as my deep concerns about the absence of warnings to rank as one of my favorite reads of 2020, that is a weighty statement.
Born for Leaving is an emotional roller coaster than takes you on incredible highs and gut wrenching lows that I can’t possibly summarize and, even if I could, wouldn’t come close to being crafted as poignantly and beautifully as Ms. Munro did in the story. This is a book I can’t possibly recommend highly enough, but please keep in mind the warnings I listed above.
I’m actually going to start with, I think, my only complaint and I am starting there because this needs to be said before going any further for those reading my review. On the listings for this story on NetGalley, Amazon, and Goodreads there aren’t any trigger warnings/content warnings. This is probably my only issue because there are heavy topics tackled in this book that warrant a pretty strong warning. Childhood emotional abuse and childhood sexual abuse are both referenced. On page there are a couple instances of violence, one of which ends in a very graphic near rape. Again, off page, there is a non consensual act that, while not actually referred to as rape, is rape and occurs in their current timeline.
I think the lack of sufficient warnings is something the author and publisher should heavily consider. I was personally tipped off by a fellow reader ahead of time, fortunately, but not all readers would have this benefit and really should know ahead of time what they are getting themselves into.
Now that I’ve said that, I need to quickly switch gears and transition into gushing over this story. I have some personal readerly tastes as all readers do and one of those is that I really, really, REALLY do not like stories written in a single POV, first person, present tense. As in I avoid those stories like the plague.
However with Born For Leaving, I was practically in the third chapter before the lightbulb finally flashed over my head and I realized that it was written in first person, present tense and we won’t even discuss how much longer it took for it to sink in that it was single POV.
How is that even possible, you might be asking. Easy. This story was so expertly written, so beautifully woven, and so utterly gripping that I was oblivious to absolutely everything but the tale itself. As a person who reads A LOT and writes A LOT it is so rare that I lose myself so completely within the actual words of the story that I don’t notice something that is normally a great big, fat nope for me.
Immediately Oliver grabbed my heart and held it tight through the entire story. I connected with his need for sanctuary and solitude deeply. He was a perfectly crafted character that didn’t need very long for me to form an attachment that was meaningful.
Let’s just give a quick run down of the premise because I practically forgot that when writing this review. So Oliver works for his sleazy ex (and OMG I looooooooathed Jack) as a mixologist at a bar. He sees an ad from a stranger requesting a room to rent for the summer and takes a leap to invite the guy to check out his place. The five hundred a month rent will help Oliver get the car of his dreams a little faster.
And that guy is Bodie. Oh heaven help me with Bodie. From the moment he arrived at Oliver’s house to see the accommodations (and this is, quite cleverly, not the first time Bodie and Oliver meet) their is an undeniable spark between the two men, although Oliver is certain Bodie is straight so his fantasies must remain locked in his lusty little brain.
Because living together isn’t tempting and confusing enough for Oliver, they are also coworkers. Yup, our adorable little Bodie is the bouncer Oliver has been waiting for to handle the overly enthusiastic drunk clientele at the bar. A position Oliver had to fill in on in between mixing drinks. While Jack played Candy Crush rather than actually managing the bar he owns. And this? Probably one of Jack’s BETTER moments. Nope. Not kidding.
There are so many twists and turns and absolute soul-crushing moments of heartbreaking devastation when long held secrets are revealed that my review would be a book in itself to recap it all and wouldn’t even come close to doing the story justice. When I tell you that these are two broken boys just looking for love and acceptance, that is a complete and total understatement.
In the interest of full disclosure, had this story not been written so exquisitely and each and every characters created and molded with such beauty and care, the lack of CW/TW would have resulted in—at the very least—a 1 or 2 star loss on my review and, quite possibly, me even scrapping the read and returning it to the publisher with a refusal to review. When I say that Born for Leaving overcame many of my own personal readerly biases as well as my deep concerns about the absence of warnings to rank as one of my favorite reads of 2020, that is a weighty statement.
Born for Leaving is an emotional roller coaster than takes you on incredible highs and gut wrenching lows that I can’t possibly summarize and, even if I could, wouldn’t come close to being crafted as poignantly and beautifully as Ms. Munro did in the story. This is a book I can’t possibly recommend highly enough, but please keep in mind the warnings I listed above.
August 30, 2020
Oliver is saving all the money he can to buy his convertible, for himself and Hugo, his dear dog.
Working as a bartender at Surf’s Up he makes long hours and little money.
When he reads advertising about one seeking a room, he offers his spare bedroom.
Another opportunity to gain money.
Bodie is a broad muscled guy and the new bouncer at Surf’s Up, the bar has a lot of nasty costumers and Jack, the owner, is the biggest loser ever. Wait until he gets totally nuts.
Bodie is as closed off as can be, finding out Oliver is just the same, both for different reasons. Slowly they understand they can trust each other and a cautious romance is blooming.
“It’s a good reminder not to get used to feeling as if I’m cared for.”
Both have deeply embedded issues.
The mothers in this story aren’t doing a good job, ‘shudder’
One is absent and the other got on my nerves so badly I wanted to slap some sense in her.
The story felt real and plausible, the violence and harassment were horrible. The doubts about the steps to take felt realistic.
Oliver is very mature, how’s he been treated in the past, he knows exactly how to treat others, and give them space.
Bodie has it hard, with Oliver he can be himself.
Quite an emotional story, I loved reading it. All enough developed and at a steady pace. The story felt at moments very easygoing and at moments stressful.
All well balanced.
Overall an emotional, entertainingly written story, it has a good plot, with nasty moments but mostly it was and felt kind of sweet.
Working as a bartender at Surf’s Up he makes long hours and little money.
When he reads advertising about one seeking a room, he offers his spare bedroom.
Another opportunity to gain money.
Bodie is a broad muscled guy and the new bouncer at Surf’s Up, the bar has a lot of nasty costumers and Jack, the owner, is the biggest loser ever. Wait until he gets totally nuts.
Bodie is as closed off as can be, finding out Oliver is just the same, both for different reasons. Slowly they understand they can trust each other and a cautious romance is blooming.
“It’s a good reminder not to get used to feeling as if I’m cared for.”
Both have deeply embedded issues.
The mothers in this story aren’t doing a good job, ‘shudder’
One is absent and the other got on my nerves so badly I wanted to slap some sense in her.
The story felt real and plausible, the violence and harassment were horrible. The doubts about the steps to take felt realistic.
Oliver is very mature, how’s he been treated in the past, he knows exactly how to treat others, and give them space.
Bodie has it hard, with Oliver he can be himself.
Quite an emotional story, I loved reading it. All enough developed and at a steady pace. The story felt at moments very easygoing and at moments stressful.
All well balanced.
Overall an emotional, entertainingly written story, it has a good plot, with nasty moments but mostly it was and felt kind of sweet.
August 13, 2020
Born for Leaving by Jude Munro
A newspaper request for a place to rent
A man with a room available to rent
A bartender and a bouncer will share a house
Two men with potential to become more than roommates
This was a sweet story with the promise of love, safety, a sense of belonging and “home” for Oliver and Bodie. Both men have trust issues and are a bit silent and rather distant from others but do make a connection with one another. The question is whether or not the one “born for leaving” will decide to stay or leave once again.
What I liked:
* Oliver: a mixologist-bartender with debts and dreams. He has a home, a dog and has been burned in love. He knows what he wants but it might take time for him to get everything he wants.
* Bodie: a strong rather silent man but still waters run deep. He had a difficult childhood and has reasons for keeping himself apart. He is a jack of all trades that feels safe rooming with Oliver
* The relationship that builds between Oliver and Brodie – sweet and charming and filled with hope
* Hugo – a special yellow lab that is special to both Oliver and Bodie, too.
* Sam and his daughter LeeLee, Mika and Nico – great friends and colleagues of Oliver and later of Bodie, too.
* The way the friends looked out for one another
* The information about mixology that was shared
* That the story did not veer away from tough subjects
* The way the story made me think and care and feel while hoping for a HEA for the two men
* Knowing that there was a good future for the people I learned to care about in the story
What I did not like:
* Knowing that the tougher issues faced by both Oliver and Bodie are confronted daily by people in the real world. People should not have to put up with harassment at work, child abuse, attempted rape/rape, etc
* Having to say goodbye to the characters when the story ended
Did I enjoy this book? Yes
Would I read more by this author? Yes
Thank you to the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
A newspaper request for a place to rent
A man with a room available to rent
A bartender and a bouncer will share a house
Two men with potential to become more than roommates
This was a sweet story with the promise of love, safety, a sense of belonging and “home” for Oliver and Bodie. Both men have trust issues and are a bit silent and rather distant from others but do make a connection with one another. The question is whether or not the one “born for leaving” will decide to stay or leave once again.
What I liked:
* Oliver: a mixologist-bartender with debts and dreams. He has a home, a dog and has been burned in love. He knows what he wants but it might take time for him to get everything he wants.
* Bodie: a strong rather silent man but still waters run deep. He had a difficult childhood and has reasons for keeping himself apart. He is a jack of all trades that feels safe rooming with Oliver
* The relationship that builds between Oliver and Brodie – sweet and charming and filled with hope
* Hugo – a special yellow lab that is special to both Oliver and Bodie, too.
* Sam and his daughter LeeLee, Mika and Nico – great friends and colleagues of Oliver and later of Bodie, too.
* The way the friends looked out for one another
* The information about mixology that was shared
* That the story did not veer away from tough subjects
* The way the story made me think and care and feel while hoping for a HEA for the two men
* Knowing that there was a good future for the people I learned to care about in the story
What I did not like:
* Knowing that the tougher issues faced by both Oliver and Bodie are confronted daily by people in the real world. People should not have to put up with harassment at work, child abuse, attempted rape/rape, etc
* Having to say goodbye to the characters when the story ended
Did I enjoy this book? Yes
Would I read more by this author? Yes
Thank you to the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
July 25, 2020
“Born for Leaving (New England State of Mind Book 1),” by Jude Munro, is the perfect romance for the beach. The story centers around two male characters--Oliver and Bodie--who are loners, but seemingly destined to meet when Oliver, who is strapped for cash, places an ad in the paper seeking a roommate to share expenses. This is how he and Bodie meet. But since they are both loners, and so different from each another, how will this work out? A better question is, now that their mutual attraction has been established, do they even have a chance at a relationship, as both have a problem with commitment? This is where the plot builds and the plot thickens. Throw a jealous ex/boss into the mix, and you have a classic will they/won't they saga in your hands. The language and scenes are explicit at times, but this is, after all, a romance.
Jude Munro is obviously a terrific, talented writer, and her gift for plotting, characterization, dialogue, and suspense-building shines through, making the first in this particular series a real heartbreaker. This author has built truly believable, empathetic characters, intriguing scenarios, and situations that demand to be resolved. But will they be? You have to read the book to find out.
The thing I like best about “Born for Leaving,” and Munro's writing (and there are many things to choose from) is that she chose to make this a romance story about two realistic, human men--not just another gratuitous sex story (not that there's anything wrong with that). But this writer, and this novel, is a cut above the rest because of her choices, which makes the steamier scenes ring truer. It's nice to know you're in capable hands with gay romance, because sometimes it can come off as exploitative or pretentious. You don't have to worry about that with Munro. She knows how to tell a good story, and I suspect it wouldn't matter the genre.
All of the elements you love in a romance novel are here: Diametrically opposed characters, sexual tension, romance/love, and...I should stop before I spoil the ending. Summer reads are a dime a dozen. Some you forget about the next day. “Born for Leaving,” by Jude Munro, is one you will remember for a long time. Fans of "Brokeback Mountain" would love this book.
Jude Munro is obviously a terrific, talented writer, and her gift for plotting, characterization, dialogue, and suspense-building shines through, making the first in this particular series a real heartbreaker. This author has built truly believable, empathetic characters, intriguing scenarios, and situations that demand to be resolved. But will they be? You have to read the book to find out.
The thing I like best about “Born for Leaving,” and Munro's writing (and there are many things to choose from) is that she chose to make this a romance story about two realistic, human men--not just another gratuitous sex story (not that there's anything wrong with that). But this writer, and this novel, is a cut above the rest because of her choices, which makes the steamier scenes ring truer. It's nice to know you're in capable hands with gay romance, because sometimes it can come off as exploitative or pretentious. You don't have to worry about that with Munro. She knows how to tell a good story, and I suspect it wouldn't matter the genre.
All of the elements you love in a romance novel are here: Diametrically opposed characters, sexual tension, romance/love, and...I should stop before I spoil the ending. Summer reads are a dime a dozen. Some you forget about the next day. “Born for Leaving,” by Jude Munro, is one you will remember for a long time. Fans of "Brokeback Mountain" would love this book.
July 18, 2020
Born for Leaving is built on an interesting concept. Bodie is searching for a place to stay for the summer and Oliver has a spare room and a strong desire to purchase a car that he's fallen in love with. Upon stumbling onto Bodie's ad, he answers and the two men make arrangements for Bodie to move in on Friday. Of course, nothing is ever that simple. It appears that Bodie is also the new bouncer at the bar where Oliver works. The bar owned by Oliver's terrible ex-boyfriend, Jack. As is predicted by this type of novel, Bodie and Oliver begin to grow closer and eventually begin a relationship.
Despite being formulaic in that regard, this book manages to grab your attention and hold it thanks to the characters. Oliver is a self-proclaimed introvert. He doesn't like people and tends to keep them at arm's reach due to his past. Bodie wears his Stetson like armor and proclaims that he is simply born for leaving, always on the move, and has an incredibly troubled history as well. Watching the growth of these two characters, watching them gain one another's hard earned trust as they fall in love, is the true magic of this book.
The book is also interwoven with some incredibly interesting side characters. Oliver and Bodie's co-workers at the bar - Mika, Sam, and Nico - each have unique voices and I found myself loving scenes between Oliver and his co-workers. The scenes between them particularly display his character growth. Oliver's parents are rarely seen, but they leave an impression behind and the interactions inform a lot about why Oliver is the way that he is. Even Jack, Oliver and Bodie's vile boss, is an interesting character though I wish he had more complex motivations rather than simply being a moustache twirling terrible boss.
The flaws in this book are easily overlooked thanks to the amazing characters that drive the plot forward. I could barely put it down, wanting to see what happened next. I managed to finish the book within a day and will be rereading it.
Content warnings do apply for this book however. This book deals very bluntly with child molestation, sexual harassment on the job, and attempted rape. Sexual assault is a very big plot point in this book on multiple occasions, including one scene where it is written out. As this book is in first person narrative, it focuses more on the feelings during the attack and a lot on the aftermath, but if you are particularly sensitive to these types of things, I would not recommend this book.
Otherwise, read it. The characters are worth it.
**I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.**
Despite being formulaic in that regard, this book manages to grab your attention and hold it thanks to the characters. Oliver is a self-proclaimed introvert. He doesn't like people and tends to keep them at arm's reach due to his past. Bodie wears his Stetson like armor and proclaims that he is simply born for leaving, always on the move, and has an incredibly troubled history as well. Watching the growth of these two characters, watching them gain one another's hard earned trust as they fall in love, is the true magic of this book.
The book is also interwoven with some incredibly interesting side characters. Oliver and Bodie's co-workers at the bar - Mika, Sam, and Nico - each have unique voices and I found myself loving scenes between Oliver and his co-workers. The scenes between them particularly display his character growth. Oliver's parents are rarely seen, but they leave an impression behind and the interactions inform a lot about why Oliver is the way that he is. Even Jack, Oliver and Bodie's vile boss, is an interesting character though I wish he had more complex motivations rather than simply being a moustache twirling terrible boss.
The flaws in this book are easily overlooked thanks to the amazing characters that drive the plot forward. I could barely put it down, wanting to see what happened next. I managed to finish the book within a day and will be rereading it.
Content warnings do apply for this book however. This book deals very bluntly with child molestation, sexual harassment on the job, and attempted rape. Sexual assault is a very big plot point in this book on multiple occasions, including one scene where it is written out. As this book is in first person narrative, it focuses more on the feelings during the attack and a lot on the aftermath, but if you are particularly sensitive to these types of things, I would not recommend this book.
Otherwise, read it. The characters are worth it.
**I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.**
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 16, 2020
This is a well written book with strong characters in Bodie and Oliver. The author does a great job bringing the two together and building their relationship. She gives them a strong connection and weaves an entertaining story that had me glued to the pages from start to finish. I loved and would recommend reading.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
July 17, 2020
~ENGLISH/ESPAÑOL~
~ENGLISH~
The ARC for this novel was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you very much!
If you are looking for an extremely sad book, with lonely characters and a tender and deep romance with a lot of drama around, this is your book!
Trust me you are going to finish it real quick, this book is addicting and the characters just win your heart, starting with Oliver.
Oliver who is not going through the best moments of his life. He has a semi-stable job as a bartender, but the truth is, the boy is multi-tasking and constantly subjected to double work to keep the bar where he works decent. His boss, a horrible and selfish boy, doesn't make it easy for him, he's constantly harassing him and doing nothing to help keep the bar up, not to mention that he is the worst ex-boyfriend in the world.
Yes, Oliver does not have an easy life, and it is about to be even more complicated, because he has gotten into the head buying a dream convertible and for this he needs to earn more money as soon as possible or he will lose the car. Along with the debts of the house and his school, buying a car is not the best decision, but Oliver is willing to share his room with a stranger in order to earn more money and get the convertible.
So he will meet Bodie, a boy tormented by his past that makes Oliver's legs tremble with excitement. He is lonely, mysterious, quiet, someone who seems to understand Oliver and his way of being. The more time they spend together, the more they will fall in love for each other, but their insecurities are not the only thing they will have to struggle with, because Oliver's ex-boyfriend and boss is determined to ruin their relationship.
I really enjoyed reading! Oliver is a very special and very complex character that made me love him completely. Normally the characters in the books I have read are very happy and lively, very outgoing, but Oliver is not the same, he likes to be alone, to live his life in his own way, he is reserved, but not necessarily cold. Meeting him was a real pleasure, I really identified a lot with him!
And Bodie... God, that tormented soul made me cry more than once. I loved Bodie and adored the way he gradually opens up to Oliver, the way they both learn to know each other and to accept what they are like, to trust their partner's good intentions.
Their romance was one of the most beautiful things in the book. They did not push themselves too hard, they knew where their limits were, they learned to trust each other and speak with a naturalness and clarity that relaxes you, because although there is some misunderstanding, they always do what is best for the other, they take care of themselves, they love each other, they have learned to be friends as well as a couple, and truth be told, that is not seen much in romance books.
What I loved the most was that they learned so much from each other and respected each other so much that the mere thought of harming themselves was impossible, that they were not offended when any of them wanted to stop or take time out. It is something that seems very beautiful to me and I think that there should be more romances with that level of affection and devotion.
As for the story and the narration, the truth is that I could not stop reading at any time, I was too excited to know what would happen to Oliver and Bodie~. Ollie's voice was really amazing to read, and while I would have liked see some of the topics in depth, the truth is that I really enjoyed reading.
Some topics that were touched on here are very delicate, very sensitive topics that made me cry too much, and although I would have liked them to delve into them and give them a more definitive resolution (in the case of the aggressors), the truth is that I really liked that these specific topics were touched on.
As I said before, I really liked the story, it only took a bit to make it perfect for me but it was a pleasant surprise, in short~.
~ESPAÑOL~
El ARC de esta novela fue proporcionado por la editorial a través de NetGalley a cambio de una reseña honesta. ¡Muchas gracias!
Si buscas un libro sumamente triste, con personajes solitarios y un romance tierno y profundo con un montón de drama alrededor, ¡este es tu libro!
Créanme que van a terminarlo muy rápido, este libro es adictivo y los personajes simplemente se ganan tu corazón, empezando por Oliver.
Oliver quien no está pasando por los mejores momentos de su vida. Tiene un trabajo semi-estable siendo bartender, pero la verdad sea dicha, el chico es multi tareas y constantemente se ve sometido a trabajar el doble para mantener decente el bar donde trabaja. Su jefe, un horrible y egoísta chico, no se la pone fácil, lo acosa constantemente y no hace nada para ayudar a mantener en pie el bar, eso sin mencionar que es el peor exnovio del mundo.
Sí, Oliver no tiene una vida fácil, y está a punto de ser aún más complicada, porque se ha metido en la cabeza comprar un convertible de ensueño y para ello necesita ganar más dinero lo más pronto posible o perderá el auto. Junto con las deudas de la casa y su escuela, comprar un auto no es la mejor decisión, pero Oliver está dispuesto a compartir su habitación con un desconocido con tal de ganar más dinero y obtener el convertible.
Así conocerá a Bodie, un chico atormentado por su pasado que hace que las piernas de Oliver tiemblen de excitación. Él es solitario, misterioso, callado, alguien que parece comprender a Oliver y su forma de ser. Conforme más tiempo pasen juntos, más caerán en amor por el otro, pero sus inseguridades no son lo único con lo que tendrán que luchar, porque el exnovio y jefe de Oliver está decidido a arruinar su relación.
Disfruté muchísimo de la lectura! Oliver es un personaje muy especial y muy complejo que me hizo amarlo por completo. Normalmente los personajes de los libros que he leído son muy alegres y vivaces, muy extrovertidos, pero Oliver no es igual, le gusta estar solo, vivir su vida a su manera, es reservado, pero no necesariamente frío. Conocerlo fue un verdadero placer, realmente me identifiqué muchísimo con él!
Y Bodie... Dios, esa alma atormentada hizo que llorara más de una vez a lo largo de la historia. Amé a Bodie y adoré la forma en que poco a poco se va abriendo con Oliver, la forma en que ambos aprenden a conocer al otro y a aceptar cómo son, a confiar en las buenas intenciones de su compañero.
Su romance fue una de las cosas más bonitas del libro. Ellos no se presionaban demasiado, sabían dónde estaban sus límites, aprendieron a confiar en el otro y a hablar con una naturalidad y claridad que te relaja, porque aunque sí hay uno que otro malentendido, ellos siempre hacen lo mejor para el otro, se cuidan, se aman, han aprendido a ser amigos a la vez que pareja, y la verdad sea dicha, eso no se ve mucho en libros de romance.
Lo que más me encantó fue que ellos aprendieran tanto del otro y se respetaran tanto que el mero pensamiento de dañarse fuera imposible, que no se ofendieron cuando alguno de ellos quisiera detenerse o parar o tomar un tiempo fuera. Es algo que me parece muy hermoso y pienso que debería haber más romances con ese nivel de afecto y devoción.
En cuanto a la historia y la narración, lo cierto es que no pude parar de leer en ningún momento, estaba demasiado emocionada por saber qué le pasaría a Oliver y Bodie~. La voz de Ollie fue realmente increíble de ver, y aunque me hubiera gustado que profundizaran en algunos temas, la verdad es que disfruté muchísimo de lectura.
Algunos temas que se tocaron aquí son muy delicados, temas muy sensibles que me hicieron llorar demasiado, y aunque me hubiera gustado que profundizaran en ellos y que se les diera una resolución más definitiva (en el caso de los agresores), lo cierto es que me gustó mucho que se tocaran estos temas en específico.
Como dije antes, me gustó muchísimo la historia, sólo faltó un poco para que fuera perfecta para mí pero fue una grata sorpresa, en definitiva~.
~ENGLISH~
The ARC for this novel was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you very much!
If you are looking for an extremely sad book, with lonely characters and a tender and deep romance with a lot of drama around, this is your book!
Trust me you are going to finish it real quick, this book is addicting and the characters just win your heart, starting with Oliver.
Oliver who is not going through the best moments of his life. He has a semi-stable job as a bartender, but the truth is, the boy is multi-tasking and constantly subjected to double work to keep the bar where he works decent. His boss, a horrible and selfish boy, doesn't make it easy for him, he's constantly harassing him and doing nothing to help keep the bar up, not to mention that he is the worst ex-boyfriend in the world.
Yes, Oliver does not have an easy life, and it is about to be even more complicated, because he has gotten into the head buying a dream convertible and for this he needs to earn more money as soon as possible or he will lose the car. Along with the debts of the house and his school, buying a car is not the best decision, but Oliver is willing to share his room with a stranger in order to earn more money and get the convertible.
So he will meet Bodie, a boy tormented by his past that makes Oliver's legs tremble with excitement. He is lonely, mysterious, quiet, someone who seems to understand Oliver and his way of being. The more time they spend together, the more they will fall in love for each other, but their insecurities are not the only thing they will have to struggle with, because Oliver's ex-boyfriend and boss is determined to ruin their relationship.
I really enjoyed reading! Oliver is a very special and very complex character that made me love him completely. Normally the characters in the books I have read are very happy and lively, very outgoing, but Oliver is not the same, he likes to be alone, to live his life in his own way, he is reserved, but not necessarily cold. Meeting him was a real pleasure, I really identified a lot with him!
And Bodie... God, that tormented soul made me cry more than once. I loved Bodie and adored the way he gradually opens up to Oliver, the way they both learn to know each other and to accept what they are like, to trust their partner's good intentions.
Their romance was one of the most beautiful things in the book. They did not push themselves too hard, they knew where their limits were, they learned to trust each other and speak with a naturalness and clarity that relaxes you, because although there is some misunderstanding, they always do what is best for the other, they take care of themselves, they love each other, they have learned to be friends as well as a couple, and truth be told, that is not seen much in romance books.
What I loved the most was that they learned so much from each other and respected each other so much that the mere thought of harming themselves was impossible, that they were not offended when any of them wanted to stop or take time out. It is something that seems very beautiful to me and I think that there should be more romances with that level of affection and devotion.
As for the story and the narration, the truth is that I could not stop reading at any time, I was too excited to know what would happen to Oliver and Bodie~. Ollie's voice was really amazing to read, and while I would have liked see some of the topics in depth, the truth is that I really enjoyed reading.
Some topics that were touched on here are very delicate, very sensitive topics that made me cry too much, and although I would have liked them to delve into them and give them a more definitive resolution (in the case of the aggressors), the truth is that I really liked that these specific topics were touched on.
As I said before, I really liked the story, it only took a bit to make it perfect for me but it was a pleasant surprise, in short~.
~ESPAÑOL~
El ARC de esta novela fue proporcionado por la editorial a través de NetGalley a cambio de una reseña honesta. ¡Muchas gracias!
Si buscas un libro sumamente triste, con personajes solitarios y un romance tierno y profundo con un montón de drama alrededor, ¡este es tu libro!
Créanme que van a terminarlo muy rápido, este libro es adictivo y los personajes simplemente se ganan tu corazón, empezando por Oliver.
Oliver quien no está pasando por los mejores momentos de su vida. Tiene un trabajo semi-estable siendo bartender, pero la verdad sea dicha, el chico es multi tareas y constantemente se ve sometido a trabajar el doble para mantener decente el bar donde trabaja. Su jefe, un horrible y egoísta chico, no se la pone fácil, lo acosa constantemente y no hace nada para ayudar a mantener en pie el bar, eso sin mencionar que es el peor exnovio del mundo.
Sí, Oliver no tiene una vida fácil, y está a punto de ser aún más complicada, porque se ha metido en la cabeza comprar un convertible de ensueño y para ello necesita ganar más dinero lo más pronto posible o perderá el auto. Junto con las deudas de la casa y su escuela, comprar un auto no es la mejor decisión, pero Oliver está dispuesto a compartir su habitación con un desconocido con tal de ganar más dinero y obtener el convertible.
Así conocerá a Bodie, un chico atormentado por su pasado que hace que las piernas de Oliver tiemblen de excitación. Él es solitario, misterioso, callado, alguien que parece comprender a Oliver y su forma de ser. Conforme más tiempo pasen juntos, más caerán en amor por el otro, pero sus inseguridades no son lo único con lo que tendrán que luchar, porque el exnovio y jefe de Oliver está decidido a arruinar su relación.
Disfruté muchísimo de la lectura! Oliver es un personaje muy especial y muy complejo que me hizo amarlo por completo. Normalmente los personajes de los libros que he leído son muy alegres y vivaces, muy extrovertidos, pero Oliver no es igual, le gusta estar solo, vivir su vida a su manera, es reservado, pero no necesariamente frío. Conocerlo fue un verdadero placer, realmente me identifiqué muchísimo con él!
Y Bodie... Dios, esa alma atormentada hizo que llorara más de una vez a lo largo de la historia. Amé a Bodie y adoré la forma en que poco a poco se va abriendo con Oliver, la forma en que ambos aprenden a conocer al otro y a aceptar cómo son, a confiar en las buenas intenciones de su compañero.
Su romance fue una de las cosas más bonitas del libro. Ellos no se presionaban demasiado, sabían dónde estaban sus límites, aprendieron a confiar en el otro y a hablar con una naturalidad y claridad que te relaja, porque aunque sí hay uno que otro malentendido, ellos siempre hacen lo mejor para el otro, se cuidan, se aman, han aprendido a ser amigos a la vez que pareja, y la verdad sea dicha, eso no se ve mucho en libros de romance.
Lo que más me encantó fue que ellos aprendieran tanto del otro y se respetaran tanto que el mero pensamiento de dañarse fuera imposible, que no se ofendieron cuando alguno de ellos quisiera detenerse o parar o tomar un tiempo fuera. Es algo que me parece muy hermoso y pienso que debería haber más romances con ese nivel de afecto y devoción.
En cuanto a la historia y la narración, lo cierto es que no pude parar de leer en ningún momento, estaba demasiado emocionada por saber qué le pasaría a Oliver y Bodie~. La voz de Ollie fue realmente increíble de ver, y aunque me hubiera gustado que profundizaran en algunos temas, la verdad es que disfruté muchísimo de lectura.
Algunos temas que se tocaron aquí son muy delicados, temas muy sensibles que me hicieron llorar demasiado, y aunque me hubiera gustado que profundizaran en ellos y que se les diera una resolución más definitiva (en el caso de los agresores), lo cierto es que me gustó mucho que se tocaran estos temas en específico.
Como dije antes, me gustó muchísimo la historia, sólo faltó un poco para que fuera perfecta para mí pero fue una grata sorpresa, en definitiva~.
Read
September 3, 2020A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
This story has a lot of trauma, both current and historical, for these characters. The trigger warning is real. Expect frank discussion of child rape, and some brutal moments for both Oliver and Bodie that end in more sexual trauma—both on and off the page. They struggle to find peace because of their wariness that anyone they let close might/will hurt them. For Oliver, he knows that Bodie’s time on Gillamour is finite, so he doesn’t want to be shattered when then most compassionate and passionate man he’s ever known disappears. For Bodie, no one’s ever wanted him to stick around, not his mom or his aunt, and he’s never had a lover or even a true friend in his adolescent or adult life. He’s twenty-eight, and he’s hardly lived in the same place for more than 6 months since he graduated high school and walked away from his hideous family. Even if Ollie wants him to stay, Jack’s machinations are making that a difficult prospect. It seems that Ollie is repairing the damage of years of his mom’s prying surveillance, yet it’s Jack’s malice that temporarily derails Ollie’s dreams of a healthy relationship with a good man.
Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
This story has a lot of trauma, both current and historical, for these characters. The trigger warning is real. Expect frank discussion of child rape, and some brutal moments for both Oliver and Bodie that end in more sexual trauma—both on and off the page. They struggle to find peace because of their wariness that anyone they let close might/will hurt them. For Oliver, he knows that Bodie’s time on Gillamour is finite, so he doesn’t want to be shattered when then most compassionate and passionate man he’s ever known disappears. For Bodie, no one’s ever wanted him to stick around, not his mom or his aunt, and he’s never had a lover or even a true friend in his adolescent or adult life. He’s twenty-eight, and he’s hardly lived in the same place for more than 6 months since he graduated high school and walked away from his hideous family. Even if Ollie wants him to stay, Jack’s machinations are making that a difficult prospect. It seems that Ollie is repairing the damage of years of his mom’s prying surveillance, yet it’s Jack’s malice that temporarily derails Ollie’s dreams of a healthy relationship with a good man.
Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.
August 6, 2020
4 Stars
This book deals with (mentions) of past child-abuse and there's an attempted rape that might be triggering to some readers. Proceed with caution.
I liked Oliver a lot, even if he was a bit of a pushover. I get that he loved his work at Jack's bar and he was great at it, but the environment was less than ideal and he could've found something that was less detrimental for his well-being, both physical and mental. At least once Bodie started living with him and working at the bar it wasn't quite as awful, although that could be debatable. I liked Bodie, but maybe because the book is told from Oliver's perspective and Bodie is not all that open to begin with, I found it difficult to connect with him. Yes, I felt bad for what happened to him, but for me, it's not the same being told something happened to a character than actually experiencing it like we did with Oliver. *shrugs*
Despite this, I can't deny Oliver and Bodie were great together, once Bodie started to let Ollie in. I loved that Oliver respected and acknowledged Bodie's boundaries from the get-go and didn't push him, letting things develop at Bodie's pace. They were sweet and hot together and even if I wanted to shake them a bit whenever they put themselves in harm's way or were stubborn about doing things on their own, I was invested in them getting their HEA.
I didn't like Ollie's mother, but she got better in the end. And I absolutely despised Jack and Dale, although I guess Jack was the worst of them both. I was glad that he sort of, kind of got his comeuppance, even if he deserved to suffer a whole lot more.
Overall, this was an angsty, well-written and emotional kind of read. Again, mind the warnings, some scenes are graphic and others are just mentioned, but there's also some violence and fighting. Still, I have no problem recommending it.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
This book deals with (mentions) of past child-abuse and there's an attempted rape that might be triggering to some readers. Proceed with caution.
I liked Oliver a lot, even if he was a bit of a pushover. I get that he loved his work at Jack's bar and he was great at it, but the environment was less than ideal and he could've found something that was less detrimental for his well-being, both physical and mental. At least once Bodie started living with him and working at the bar it wasn't quite as awful, although that could be debatable. I liked Bodie, but maybe because the book is told from Oliver's perspective and Bodie is not all that open to begin with, I found it difficult to connect with him. Yes, I felt bad for what happened to him, but for me, it's not the same being told something happened to a character than actually experiencing it like we did with Oliver. *shrugs*
Despite this, I can't deny Oliver and Bodie were great together, once Bodie started to let Ollie in. I loved that Oliver respected and acknowledged Bodie's boundaries from the get-go and didn't push him, letting things develop at Bodie's pace. They were sweet and hot together and even if I wanted to shake them a bit whenever they put themselves in harm's way or were stubborn about doing things on their own, I was invested in them getting their HEA.
I didn't like Ollie's mother, but she got better in the end. And I absolutely despised Jack and Dale, although I guess Jack was the worst of them both. I was glad that he sort of, kind of got his comeuppance, even if he deserved to suffer a whole lot more.
Overall, this was an angsty, well-written and emotional kind of read. Again, mind the warnings, some scenes are graphic and others are just mentioned, but there's also some violence and fighting. Still, I have no problem recommending it.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
July 30, 2020
Olliver wants a roommate to save money for a car and he finds one in a newspaper ad. The mysterious Bodie, turns out to be a handsome cowboy in need to stay for the summer so the arrangment is perfect.
They become easy friends with both of their quiet, solitary nature and then slip into a relationship just as simply.
Nothing is that simple, though, as both men have a painful past that they struggle to overcome and Bodie's instinct to leave before he can build a life in one place is destructive for their relationship.
Also, an ex and boss is living out his jealousy and does everything to break them apart. Every wicked, disgusting thing.
So I was rather pleased with this book! The story, the characters and the backstories were built in a great way and I enjoyed it a lot. Though my MM romance obsession might have had something to do with this fact!
Ollie's shy nature is a strange pairing with him being a bartender but his passion lays with the drinks he creates not the people he has to interact with. It is rather interesting how slowly it is revealed why is he the way he is and how a man who only stays for three months can get him out of this lonely existence.
Bodie's issues are with intimacy and trust due to his horrible past which is introduced a bit suddenly and without tact but maybe that was the point?!
One of the things I found lacking in this book was he quality of the conversations. A huge emphasis was on the importance of sharing snippets of their past with each other so it was a bit disappointing that their convesations were written a bit weird. Like the author's strength was writing the other parts, the inner conversations and acts but not the actual talking part. It wasn't really bad it just kind of stopped the flow of the story every time.
My other issue was with the intimate parts. I wouldn't say 'sexy' or 'hot' scenes because I truly believe that the focus was on the intimacy of the act. But it didn't feel that much special for me and I missed some technical aspect that are often left out but are still part of love making.
These little problems were mostly writing style related and I had a great time reading because the story after all was nice and enjoyable.
Character building and consistency was great and the evil of the story was introduced and depicted in a way that I just knew from he first moment I'm going to hate him.
There were a lot of sweet moments showing how one can learn to be intimate and loving after going through some terrible things.
And I also shed some tears at the end on the cruelty of the situation.
All in all, a really nice read for the lovers of bittersweet MM love stories!
They become easy friends with both of their quiet, solitary nature and then slip into a relationship just as simply.
Nothing is that simple, though, as both men have a painful past that they struggle to overcome and Bodie's instinct to leave before he can build a life in one place is destructive for their relationship.
Also, an ex and boss is living out his jealousy and does everything to break them apart. Every wicked, disgusting thing.
So I was rather pleased with this book! The story, the characters and the backstories were built in a great way and I enjoyed it a lot. Though my MM romance obsession might have had something to do with this fact!
Ollie's shy nature is a strange pairing with him being a bartender but his passion lays with the drinks he creates not the people he has to interact with. It is rather interesting how slowly it is revealed why is he the way he is and how a man who only stays for three months can get him out of this lonely existence.
Bodie's issues are with intimacy and trust due to his horrible past which is introduced a bit suddenly and without tact but maybe that was the point?!
One of the things I found lacking in this book was he quality of the conversations. A huge emphasis was on the importance of sharing snippets of their past with each other so it was a bit disappointing that their convesations were written a bit weird. Like the author's strength was writing the other parts, the inner conversations and acts but not the actual talking part. It wasn't really bad it just kind of stopped the flow of the story every time.
My other issue was with the intimate parts. I wouldn't say 'sexy' or 'hot' scenes because I truly believe that the focus was on the intimacy of the act. But it didn't feel that much special for me and I missed some technical aspect that are often left out but are still part of love making.
These little problems were mostly writing style related and I had a great time reading because the story after all was nice and enjoyable.
Character building and consistency was great and the evil of the story was introduced and depicted in a way that I just knew from he first moment I'm going to hate him.
There were a lot of sweet moments showing how one can learn to be intimate and loving after going through some terrible things.
And I also shed some tears at the end on the cruelty of the situation.
All in all, a really nice read for the lovers of bittersweet MM love stories!
August 1, 2020
3.5 (rounded up to 4) stars
I liked the love story between Bodie and Ollie. Unfortunately, I didn’t like a couple of things about this book, so it only got 3.5 (rounded up to 4) stars from me. As several reviewers mentioned, there are several possible triggers which I’m assuming have now been added to the synopsis as trigger warnings.
Bodie and Ollie are similar in that trust doesn’t come easy to either of them and they don’t open up to others. However, their backgrounds are very different. Bodie’s childhood was horrible and it doesn’t sound like he’s ever dealt with it, just pushed it down and moved on. Ollie was emotionally manipulated, and he hasn’t ever really dealt with it either, so he just isolates himself. I love how they learn to open up to each other and start to heal together.
I don’t understand the customer Dale, his actions, and his sudden disappearance. Jack, the bar owner, was horrifying and I honestly can’t believe all his employees just accepted the way he treated them. I also can’t believe ALL the customers accepted it. If I had witnessed it, I would have said something and never gone back.
The miscommunication/lack of communication between Bodie and Oliver came out of nowhere and was surprising. The resolution also seemed rushed. I know Bodie’s view of forced sex is skewed but it feels like the conflict between them surrounding Jack is glossed over. The entire situation was confusing.
I didn’t realize this is the start of a series. I’m not sure if the series will continue with Bodie and Ollie or a new couple as we don’t really meet anyone who could be characters of a new book. I’m interested in seeing where this goes…I would not read a book with Jack as a main character, but I would read a follow-up story with this couple.
I liked the love story between Bodie and Ollie. Unfortunately, I didn’t like a couple of things about this book, so it only got 3.5 (rounded up to 4) stars from me. As several reviewers mentioned, there are several possible triggers which I’m assuming have now been added to the synopsis as trigger warnings.
Bodie and Ollie are similar in that trust doesn’t come easy to either of them and they don’t open up to others. However, their backgrounds are very different. Bodie’s childhood was horrible and it doesn’t sound like he’s ever dealt with it, just pushed it down and moved on. Ollie was emotionally manipulated, and he hasn’t ever really dealt with it either, so he just isolates himself. I love how they learn to open up to each other and start to heal together.
I don’t understand the customer Dale, his actions, and his sudden disappearance. Jack, the bar owner, was horrifying and I honestly can’t believe all his employees just accepted the way he treated them. I also can’t believe ALL the customers accepted it. If I had witnessed it, I would have said something and never gone back.
The miscommunication/lack of communication between Bodie and Oliver came out of nowhere and was surprising. The resolution also seemed rushed. I know Bodie’s view of forced sex is skewed but it feels like the conflict between them surrounding Jack is glossed over. The entire situation was confusing.
I didn’t realize this is the start of a series. I’m not sure if the series will continue with Bodie and Ollie or a new couple as we don’t really meet anyone who could be characters of a new book. I’m interested in seeing where this goes…I would not read a book with Jack as a main character, but I would read a follow-up story with this couple.
August 7, 2020
This was my first book from this author and it was so much more than I expected. I couldn’t put it down, it had my attention from the first page.
This is Ollie and Bodie’s story. It was well written, realistic, emotional and had a great storyline. The chemistry between them is off the charts immediately.
Both guys are struggling but in different ways. Together they make the other realise that it’s worth fighting for what you want. And that everything is better when you have a dog to talk to.
This is Ollie and Bodie’s story. It was well written, realistic, emotional and had a great storyline. The chemistry between them is off the charts immediately.
Both guys are struggling but in different ways. Together they make the other realise that it’s worth fighting for what you want. And that everything is better when you have a dog to talk to.
July 28, 2020
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC to review in exchange for an honest review.
Firstly, there are trigger warnings listed by the publisher and I was thankful that they were. PLease pay attention to them, however they are well written. The only thing I would add, would be harassment.
<3 I adore the two main men in this book, although LeeLee have stollen my heart. Sorry! LeeLee is the cutest person to grace the planet. I love the build of this book over a singlle summer though occasionally I wanted to bump their heads together. Hah, but what good plot happens where you are completely satisfied with everything that happens?
Officially love Hugo too, everyone needs a good boy like him in their lives.
I like to see family arcs and I liked what happened with Ollie's family - but I also wish I could slap Bodie's mum. Multiple times... then I'd like to slap Jack. I was worried that he wasn't going to get his comeupance but I'm glad that rectified itself by the end too. 100% glad that Bodie and Ollie both don't work for him any more.
I read this book in under 24 hours, and I really liked it. I would have liked if they had stood up to Jack sooner, but I'm glad they got there in the end.
Firstly, there are trigger warnings listed by the publisher and I was thankful that they were. PLease pay attention to them, however they are well written. The only thing I would add, would be harassment.
<3 I adore the two main men in this book, although LeeLee have stollen my heart. Sorry! LeeLee is the cutest person to grace the planet. I love the build of this book over a singlle summer though occasionally I wanted to bump their heads together. Hah, but what good plot happens where you are completely satisfied with everything that happens?
Officially love Hugo too, everyone needs a good boy like him in their lives.
I like to see family arcs and I liked what happened with Ollie's family - but I also wish I could slap Bodie's mum. Multiple times... then I'd like to slap Jack. I was worried that he wasn't going to get his comeupance but I'm glad that rectified itself by the end too. 100% glad that Bodie and Ollie both don't work for him any more.
I read this book in under 24 hours, and I really liked it. I would have liked if they had stood up to Jack sooner, but I'm glad they got there in the end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 7, 2020
I love the way these characters meet. I always like these kind of stories, they're my favorite.
What's even better? I love the way their relationship unfolds. It is believable and filled with angst and passion.
Wonderfully written. Perfectly crafter characters. Engaging and Enchanting Storyline.
What's even better? I love the way their relationship unfolds. It is believable and filled with angst and passion.
Wonderfully written. Perfectly crafter characters. Engaging and Enchanting Storyline.
August 8, 2020
Emotional adventure
This was a great read. I enjoyed this book. Oliver was a great character and Bodie is a lost cowboy who needed a home. Tragedy comes and there love is almost lost but love heals everything. Loved there HEA. Great Read from start to finish.
This was a great read. I enjoyed this book. Oliver was a great character and Bodie is a lost cowboy who needed a home. Tragedy comes and there love is almost lost but love heals everything. Loved there HEA. Great Read from start to finish.
July 31, 2020
Oliver, aka “Ollie”, and Bodie both struggle with a past that have left them slow to trust and closed off. Munro does a great job of detailing their budding romance, showing how they gradually open up and begin to trust each other. I enjoyed watching them evolve, especially Bodie as he moved on from his past, discovering the positive side of intimacy. There is a great cast of supporting characters, some you will love and others you will really love to hate. I really enjoyed this well written, engaging, raw, and emotional love story. Advanced copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
August 5, 2020
Brilliant Story....
by and1515
Wow this is the first book I've read by Jude Munro and it's absolutely fantastic Ollie and Bodie's story is a brilliant kaleidoscope of colors and multiple emotions.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
by and1515
Wow this is the first book I've read by Jude Munro and it's absolutely fantastic Ollie and Bodie's story is a brilliant kaleidoscope of colors and multiple emotions.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 22, 2020
I was bored somewhere, in the beginning, It was a great start to this story, different than other books in this genre. I really loved the way Ollie was introduced then, the Bodie introduction kinda ruined it for me, it's so overused. Thank god I kept reading.
The cover is simply a picture of an attractive man, you'd expect some fun and sexy story but what we get is something entirely different that made me feel like this Is a great story but hidden behind a mediocre cover. This is about learning to trust and love after a painful betrayal in the past, after being cheated on. After a traumatic experience that changed your whole childhood and made you feel unworthy of love.
What I really loved about this book is the story didn't use the usual gays and their daddy issues thing, instead we get mommy issues. It was interesting. I like Bodie, he's a big softie with words that makes me want to melt like ice cream under the sun. I love how the main enemy of this story isn't homophobia as we see in other stories. We get to see the bad seeds in our community instead. That's another interesting thing. AND the sex scenes were so intimate, that made me feel like I'm spying on someone's life. It was so awkward reading that because the author pulled it off really well.
Overall, this is a good book. I finished it in three hours and was satisfied despite the cover and the intro of Bodie that was 'meh' to me.
*I wanna thank the publisher for providing me with an ARC copy of this book via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
The cover is simply a picture of an attractive man, you'd expect some fun and sexy story but what we get is something entirely different that made me feel like this Is a great story but hidden behind a mediocre cover. This is about learning to trust and love after a painful betrayal in the past, after being cheated on. After a traumatic experience that changed your whole childhood and made you feel unworthy of love.
What I really loved about this book is the story didn't use the usual gays and their daddy issues thing, instead we get mommy issues. It was interesting. I like Bodie, he's a big softie with words that makes me want to melt like ice cream under the sun. I love how the main enemy of this story isn't homophobia as we see in other stories. We get to see the bad seeds in our community instead. That's another interesting thing. AND the sex scenes were so intimate, that made me feel like I'm spying on someone's life. It was so awkward reading that because the author pulled it off really well.
Overall, this is a good book. I finished it in three hours and was satisfied despite the cover and the intro of Bodie that was 'meh' to me.
*I wanna thank the publisher for providing me with an ARC copy of this book via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
July 27, 2020
Where to begin? This book, well, it is just excellent. It is written perfectly, with a certain depth and attention to detail that this type of story particularly needs. It starts with two brilliant characters, think ver opposites attract, whom are from not only different walks of life, but also whom have very different perspectives.
They are both wary of commitment, due to past heartache. They know that they should avoid one another, but the pull is beyond their control, and then they have to deal with what follows. The author gives us depth and emotion that really makes you part of this story. You love them and cry for them, when things take a turn.
Then the twist is thrown at you, and you struggle to see them apart. It is written so well, that it truly pulls at your heartstrings. Just like every page of this book, the author truly created a believe moment, and story,
.
They are both wary of commitment, due to past heartache. They know that they should avoid one another, but the pull is beyond their control, and then they have to deal with what follows. The author gives us depth and emotion that really makes you part of this story. You love them and cry for them, when things take a turn.
Then the twist is thrown at you, and you struggle to see them apart. It is written so well, that it truly pulls at your heartstrings. Just like every page of this book, the author truly created a believe moment, and story,
.
August 1, 2020
My heart.
I loved this book so much! I can't really decide who I loved more: Oliver or Bodie. I fell in love with both of them for very different reasons. My heart ached for them both and I was completely vested in their love.
Definitely looking forward to reading more of this author.
I loved this book so much! I can't really decide who I loved more: Oliver or Bodie. I fell in love with both of them for very different reasons. My heart ached for them both and I was completely vested in their love.
Definitely looking forward to reading more of this author.
August 17, 2023
Born For Leaving is the story of two men, both loners by choice and circumstance, getting together as roommates by sheer coincidence. What follows is an angsty, heartbreaking story that will tear your heart out!
Oliver is the one with the house he is desperate to keep. So desperate, in fact, he keeps on working at a place where, although he gets on well enough with his co-workers, is dangerous for his physical, mental, and emotional well-being. His boss is his ex which is always fun, but Oliver also has to deal with volatile drunkards too. Along comes Bodie. He is the one constantly on the move, sleeping on the ground next to his bike is not uncommon for him. Oliver and Bodie spark from the beginning, but both of them have pasts that need to be worked past before they can move forward.
I thought this was exceedingly well-written, with characters I didn't like to start with who grew on me (Oliver's mum), those I disliked from the get-go (Jack), and those I loved (Bodie and Oliver). Now, let me just say this. Although I loved Oliver, he also really annoyed me. I just can't get my head around WHY he would stay in such a toxic workplace for so long, even if his dream job hadn't happened. Anyway, it all happened as was meant to be, so they say, so I guess I just have to deal!
This book does deal with hard subjects like attempted rape and child abuse. If these are triggers for you, be warned.
I found this book to be highly emotional and a brilliant read. I can't wait to see what comes next in the New England State of Mind series. Absolutely recommended by me.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Aug 31, 2020
Oliver is the one with the house he is desperate to keep. So desperate, in fact, he keeps on working at a place where, although he gets on well enough with his co-workers, is dangerous for his physical, mental, and emotional well-being. His boss is his ex which is always fun, but Oliver also has to deal with volatile drunkards too. Along comes Bodie. He is the one constantly on the move, sleeping on the ground next to his bike is not uncommon for him. Oliver and Bodie spark from the beginning, but both of them have pasts that need to be worked past before they can move forward.
I thought this was exceedingly well-written, with characters I didn't like to start with who grew on me (Oliver's mum), those I disliked from the get-go (Jack), and those I loved (Bodie and Oliver). Now, let me just say this. Although I loved Oliver, he also really annoyed me. I just can't get my head around WHY he would stay in such a toxic workplace for so long, even if his dream job hadn't happened. Anyway, it all happened as was meant to be, so they say, so I guess I just have to deal!
This book does deal with hard subjects like attempted rape and child abuse. If these are triggers for you, be warned.
I found this book to be highly emotional and a brilliant read. I can't wait to see what comes next in the New England State of Mind series. Absolutely recommended by me.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Aug 31, 2020
July 19, 2020
What started out as a newspaper ad for a place to live became so much more.
Oliver "Ollie" Tunstead- a bartender who is in debt and needs as much cash as possible. He does the unthinkable and rents out a room in his cottage. Desperate times call for desperate measures. Especially when you are still under the thumb of your ex.
Bodie is in a mess with his life right now. Needing a reasonably priced roof over his head, he answers the advertisement. Low maintenance kind of guy, he agrees to share his snacks and only needs parking for his bike.
Oliver accepts his terms and Bodie agrees to move in. The roommate gambit became more than either man bargained for. Leave it to the creepy ex to try and interfere.
Grab your tissues for those painful moments of the past.
Great story from beginning to end. What began as a new-to-me author is now on my list of must reads.
**I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.**
Oliver "Ollie" Tunstead- a bartender who is in debt and needs as much cash as possible. He does the unthinkable and rents out a room in his cottage. Desperate times call for desperate measures. Especially when you are still under the thumb of your ex.
Bodie is in a mess with his life right now. Needing a reasonably priced roof over his head, he answers the advertisement. Low maintenance kind of guy, he agrees to share his snacks and only needs parking for his bike.
Oliver accepts his terms and Bodie agrees to move in. The roommate gambit became more than either man bargained for. Leave it to the creepy ex to try and interfere.
Grab your tissues for those painful moments of the past.
Great story from beginning to end. What began as a new-to-me author is now on my list of must reads.
**I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.**
August 20, 2020
This is the 2nd book I've read written by Jude Munro; she has done a great job at writing a good book; I can’t wait to read more of her books.
The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.
I loved the characters.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.
I loved the characters.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
July 2, 2020
I gotta tell you I am a huge fan of Mia Kerick. Her writing is so wonderful. I am thrilled that she has branched out into adult romance as JUDE MUNRO and kept the new adult for teen readers under the Mia Kerick banner. Now let me tell you older readers BUY THIS BOOK!!!
BORN FOR LEAVING is spectacularly good... I read it in one day because I couldn’t put it down... go! Now! Jude Munro... same great writing just new name...
Oliver needs a roommate for the summer to help ends meet and Bodie needs a place to live... a match made in a want ad... but will the connection last?... will Bodie stay or continue his life of wandering and move on from what could be the best thing to ever happen to him?...
don’t wait go buy this book today... can’t wait to see what lies in store in this New England State of Mind series by Jude Munro...
BORN FOR LEAVING is spectacularly good... I read it in one day because I couldn’t put it down... go! Now! Jude Munro... same great writing just new name...
Oliver needs a roommate for the summer to help ends meet and Bodie needs a place to live... a match made in a want ad... but will the connection last?... will Bodie stay or continue his life of wandering and move on from what could be the best thing to ever happen to him?...
don’t wait go buy this book today... can’t wait to see what lies in store in this New England State of Mind series by Jude Munro...
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