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Daydream, Colorado #1
Blindspot
Standing out in a town like Daydream, Colorado should have been impossible to do, yet somehow Drew managed. All his life he had been the one everyone was looking at when he walked down the street. No matter how hard he'd tried to fit in, fingers pointed at his back and whispers followed his every step. Until it all got too much and he'd left Daydream. For good.
Among all the special people in Daydream, Mason was just a bit more special. He had the ability to see all sorts of things; private conversations, someone’s biggest mistakes, and their tiniest, most insignificant moments. But even with this ability to glance into the future, he didn’t see Drew leaving Daydream for good. He didn’t see Drew breaking his heart. And he definitely didn’t see him coming back.
**This book is the first in a series. It contains magical settings, best friends-turned lovers-turned strangers, a second-chance romance, and a lot of likable supporting characters. While it can be read as a standalone it's best enjoyed with the other titles in the series.
Among all the special people in Daydream, Mason was just a bit more special. He had the ability to see all sorts of things; private conversations, someone’s biggest mistakes, and their tiniest, most insignificant moments. But even with this ability to glance into the future, he didn’t see Drew leaving Daydream for good. He didn’t see Drew breaking his heart. And he definitely didn’t see him coming back.
**This book is the first in a series. It contains magical settings, best friends-turned lovers-turned strangers, a second-chance romance, and a lot of likable supporting characters. While it can be read as a standalone it's best enjoyed with the other titles in the series.
335 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 25, 2021
62 people are currently reading
290 people want to read
About the author
A.M. Rose
22 books191 followersA. M. Rose is a pseudonym that hides two people trying to write books one nervous breakdown at a time. How do you co-write books when you live countries apart, you ask? By sending weird texts at 3 in the morning and giving no context. The stuff dreams are made of. Opposites in every way, the chaotic energy is harnessed for the good of everyone by creating worlds no one asked for. You're welcome.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews
February 4, 2024
That was insanely awesome. I cried sooo much, it hurt so much and at the same time it was absolutely beautiful.
It's about a second chance and I'm not really a big fan of that, as the reasons are usually rather flimsy. But here it's really plausible, it caused me a lot of heartache. So the reasons for the break-up in the past and the reasons why Mason doesn't give Drew a real second chance.
So heartbreaking
“Mason…” That voice. He hadn’t heard it in so long. He had managed to convince himself he had grown out of shivering whenever it wrapped itself around the letters of his name. He was so sure he had forgotten everything it used to make him feel, but the goosebumps on the back of his neck and the staccato rhythm his heart was hammering against his ribs told him he was wrong. 🥀💔🥀
And yet they can't let go of each other. The attraction is magical.
Drew may not have been made of magic, but as he held Mason in his arms, their lips connected for the first time in a decade, he was sure he knew exactly what being magic felt like. Because there was no way anything in the world was more magic than the man standing in front of him on his tiptoes, cheeks stained with tears and body trembling as he kissed him. 🥰🫠🥰
Mason's insecurities are a bit drawn out at times, which is perhaps something that could be criticized. But all this makes the book much more realistic, even though it is fantasy.
“And if my heart breaks again?” Mason asked.
“I’m not sure it can break again, when it was never truly mended, kid.” 🥀💔🥀
But Drew won't let up.
Mason could hide all he wanted. He wasn’t going anywhere, and he wasn’t giving him up for anything in the world. 💞😍💞
So, as for the plot, very interesting and well done, wonderfully perfectly written. However, it is important to read the short book before it, the prequel, as Sage and Ben are important parts of Mason's life.
Wow and the bridging to the next book, I'm so hooked now.
It's about a second chance and I'm not really a big fan of that, as the reasons are usually rather flimsy. But here it's really plausible, it caused me a lot of heartache. So the reasons for the break-up in the past and the reasons why Mason doesn't give Drew a real second chance.
So heartbreaking
“Mason…” That voice. He hadn’t heard it in so long. He had managed to convince himself he had grown out of shivering whenever it wrapped itself around the letters of his name. He was so sure he had forgotten everything it used to make him feel, but the goosebumps on the back of his neck and the staccato rhythm his heart was hammering against his ribs told him he was wrong. 🥀💔🥀
And yet they can't let go of each other. The attraction is magical.
Drew may not have been made of magic, but as he held Mason in his arms, their lips connected for the first time in a decade, he was sure he knew exactly what being magic felt like. Because there was no way anything in the world was more magic than the man standing in front of him on his tiptoes, cheeks stained with tears and body trembling as he kissed him. 🥰🫠🥰
Mason's insecurities are a bit drawn out at times, which is perhaps something that could be criticized. But all this makes the book much more realistic, even though it is fantasy.
“And if my heart breaks again?” Mason asked.
“I’m not sure it can break again, when it was never truly mended, kid.” 🥀💔🥀
But Drew won't let up.
Mason could hide all he wanted. He wasn’t going anywhere, and he wasn’t giving him up for anything in the world. 💞😍💞
So, as for the plot, very interesting and well done, wonderfully perfectly written. However, it is important to read the short book before it, the prequel, as Sage and Ben are important parts of Mason's life.
Wow and the bridging to the next book, I'm so hooked now.
June 27, 2025
Drew was a traumatized cinnamon roll with a chronic illness with no name and pined after the boy he left behind. Mason was a sarcastic grouch with trauma of his own and fear of being left behind. Their slow rekindling of their friendship was awkward and complicated, as one would expect from 10 years apart. I wanted to shake Mason frequently, but also got where his hesitance to risk his heart again came from. It took them a long ass time to figure out how to move forward.
Spice: 3/5
Triggers: abuse and torture via involuntary magical experimentation (past), prejudice, blackouts and extreme pain, estranged family, child abandonment (past), discussion of bullying, insomnia, discussion of ableism, no answers to medical condition
Spice: 3/5
Triggers: abuse and torture via involuntary magical experimentation (past), prejudice, blackouts and extreme pain, estranged family, child abandonment (past), discussion of bullying, insomnia, discussion of ableism, no answers to medical condition
January 24, 2021
I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest review.
What a treat this book was!
In the magical town of Daydream, trust was misplaced and two boys, with broken hearts, bore the marks.
What I loved...
- Drew, the hurt abused young man, returns to his hometown after 10 years. He left his heart all those years ago, and he'd determined to take it back and keep it. #SecondChance
- Mason, with the broken heart, was cast aside 10 years ago, and is determined to protect his heart this time around, no matter what. #FoolMeOnce
- The secrets, the abuse the hurt... poor Drew had endured so much all alone, but now, with Msn and some other friends, he has a chance to get his life back. #NeverTooLate
- The world building was done so well... a magical town filled with magical people who have their own world. #InPlainSight
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- The Feels... these two men have so many hurt feelings. Their reunion wasn't easy or smooth. Mason had to trust Drew again, and Drew was all too happy to keep trying. #NeverGiveUp
- The Heat... This is a lowish heat book, and the on-page sex scenes were written in important times of the book which I appreciated. #LetMeLoveYou
- The HFN.... CUTE! And so well deserved after everything these men went through. #Finally
Slight Niggles...
I wanted more of them together, after everything was resolved. But maybe that will come in the upcoming books! #FingersCrossed
What a treat this book was!
In the magical town of Daydream, trust was misplaced and two boys, with broken hearts, bore the marks.
What I loved...
- Drew, the hurt abused young man, returns to his hometown after 10 years. He left his heart all those years ago, and he'd determined to take it back and keep it. #SecondChance
- Mason, with the broken heart, was cast aside 10 years ago, and is determined to protect his heart this time around, no matter what. #FoolMeOnce
- The secrets, the abuse the hurt... poor Drew had endured so much all alone, but now, with Msn and some other friends, he has a chance to get his life back. #NeverTooLate
- The world building was done so well... a magical town filled with magical people who have their own world. #InPlainSight
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- The Feels... these two men have so many hurt feelings. Their reunion wasn't easy or smooth. Mason had to trust Drew again, and Drew was all too happy to keep trying. #NeverGiveUp
- The Heat... This is a lowish heat book, and the on-page sex scenes were written in important times of the book which I appreciated. #LetMeLoveYou
- The HFN.... CUTE! And so well deserved after everything these men went through. #Finally
Slight Niggles...
I wanted more of them together, after everything was resolved. But maybe that will come in the upcoming books! #FingersCrossed
February 10, 2024
3.25/5
The second chance, friends to strangers to friends to lovers kind of books have been done before. Many times. And so far I’ve yet to find one that stands out from the rest of them.
And this was book was no exception. Drew and Mason’s relationship didn’t interest me. At all. And don’t get me wrong, I really enjoyed them as characters and I didn’t mind them having a relationship. That wasn’t the problem for me. I just didn’t really care about their relationship developments. Sure, the chemistry was okay, and yes I get where Mason’s reluctance to a relationship with Drew came from. My problem was more on the “I know what comes next because I’ve seen this type of relationship too many times” side. That’s why I didn’t really care about the romance/relationship.
What I did care about was the plot. I was definitely intrigued and was actually quite happy how things turned out in the end. The magic part of the story was really rather good and the teaser for the next book will definitely keep me interested in this charming little town called Daydream.
The second chance, friends to strangers to friends to lovers kind of books have been done before. Many times. And so far I’ve yet to find one that stands out from the rest of them.
And this was book was no exception. Drew and Mason’s relationship didn’t interest me. At all. And don’t get me wrong, I really enjoyed them as characters and I didn’t mind them having a relationship. That wasn’t the problem for me. I just didn’t really care about their relationship developments. Sure, the chemistry was okay, and yes I get where Mason’s reluctance to a relationship with Drew came from. My problem was more on the “I know what comes next because I’ve seen this type of relationship too many times” side. That’s why I didn’t really care about the romance/relationship.
What I did care about was the plot. I was definitely intrigued and was actually quite happy how things turned out in the end. The magic part of the story was really rather good and the teaser for the next book will definitely keep me interested in this charming little town called Daydream.
August 10, 2022
3.5 stars rounded up which is painful to say.
First I need to give credit to the storytelling here. This world is magical and fun and you never know what you’re going to get. The story of what Drew had to go through is heartbreaking and it was a great set up for an engaging story. I pretty much read it in one sitting.
That being said, the relationship push and pull lasted. the. entire. book. Mason’s back and forth got old by 50%… the fact that I had to deal with it all the way until 95% left me with not so happy feelings by the end.
Also, it’s a sin to have fade to black first time sex and it’s a sin to have fade to black first “I love you’s” sex. Here it was fade to black after they FINALLY officially after forever came together and I wanted to throw my phone across the room. I came into this knowing this was low steam but we already had steam earlier in the book so I didn’t expect such an important scene to be fade to black. Ugh. I’m still mad.
So if you love great storytelling and long drawn out angst between MC’s and fade to black sex, this is a great book for you.
Even after all that, I’m happily moving on to book 2. So I guess that’s all ya’ll need to know. 😂
First I need to give credit to the storytelling here. This world is magical and fun and you never know what you’re going to get. The story of what Drew had to go through is heartbreaking and it was a great set up for an engaging story. I pretty much read it in one sitting.
That being said, the relationship push and pull lasted. the. entire. book. Mason’s back and forth got old by 50%… the fact that I had to deal with it all the way until 95% left me with not so happy feelings by the end.
Also, it’s a sin to have fade to black first time sex and it’s a sin to have fade to black first “I love you’s” sex. Here it was fade to black after they FINALLY officially after forever came together and I wanted to throw my phone across the room. I came into this knowing this was low steam but we already had steam earlier in the book so I didn’t expect such an important scene to be fade to black. Ugh. I’m still mad.
So if you love great storytelling and long drawn out angst between MC’s and fade to black sex, this is a great book for you.
Even after all that, I’m happily moving on to book 2. So I guess that’s all ya’ll need to know. 😂
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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February 1, 2021I went into Blindspot with really high hopes immediately after reading its predecessor, Daydream. I love the world of Daydream, CO and truly enjoyed the writing and atmosphere in Daydream. Unfortunately most of the romance in Blindspot was a huge miss for me.
While I loved the setting, the atmosphere, the concept, Drew, the side characters and magical plot, the pacing was slow and the romantic relationship development infuriating. Drew and Mason have both experienced trauma but Drew’s trauma dwarfs Mason’s exponentially as far as I’m concerned, yet Mason endlessly punishes Drew for the steps he had to take to save himself. Mason acted immature, selfish, petty, vindictive, rude, manipulative and downright mean. Drew had endured abuse after abuse before he left Daydream, though not at Mason’s hands, and is then subjected to Mason’s horrible treatment and attitude throughout the story after he returns. The authors never really convinced me of why and how Mason’s treatment and attitude didn’t drive Drew away entirely.
Interestingly, as much as I hated Mason and spent the majority of the book hate reading, I was invested. I was invested in Drew’s relationship with Ben and Sage and would have loved to see more of those friendships. I was also invested in the resolution to Drew’s trauma and in the mystery behind Mason’s dreams. I was invested in most of the side characters, especially Darian and Malachi, so much so that despite my disenchantment with the “romantic” aspect of the book, I will likely continue the series when the next book comes out.
No rating at this point. I was so relieved to finish yet excitedly look forward to the next book. On a scale of 1-5, my level of enjoyment was 1 at best for most of the story, but my overall rating would still be higher than that due to its strengths. If you KU and enjoyed Daydream, I’d say give this one a chance. Mason’s solution to protecting his heart annoyed and didn’t make sense to me, but his method of doing so is one I often see in other stories that people love, it just happens to be a peeve of mine. I definitely recommend reading Daydream first, you’ll get a lot more out of Blindspot if you do.
Note to self: Do NOT reread this in prep for the next book. It’s not worth the frustration and I’m fairly sure no matter how much time has passed between now and then and how much I’ve forgotten, I’ll follow just fine.
While I loved the setting, the atmosphere, the concept, Drew, the side characters and magical plot, the pacing was slow and the romantic relationship development infuriating. Drew and Mason have both experienced trauma but Drew’s trauma dwarfs Mason’s exponentially as far as I’m concerned, yet Mason endlessly punishes Drew for the steps he had to take to save himself. Mason acted immature, selfish, petty, vindictive, rude, manipulative and downright mean. Drew had endured abuse after abuse before he left Daydream, though not at Mason’s hands, and is then subjected to Mason’s horrible treatment and attitude throughout the story after he returns. The authors never really convinced me of why and how Mason’s treatment and attitude didn’t drive Drew away entirely.
Interestingly, as much as I hated Mason and spent the majority of the book hate reading, I was invested. I was invested in Drew’s relationship with Ben and Sage and would have loved to see more of those friendships. I was also invested in the resolution to Drew’s trauma and in the mystery behind Mason’s dreams. I was invested in most of the side characters, especially Darian and Malachi, so much so that despite my disenchantment with the “romantic” aspect of the book, I will likely continue the series when the next book comes out.
No rating at this point. I was so relieved to finish yet excitedly look forward to the next book. On a scale of 1-5, my level of enjoyment was 1 at best for most of the story, but my overall rating would still be higher than that due to its strengths. If you KU and enjoyed Daydream, I’d say give this one a chance. Mason’s solution to protecting his heart annoyed and didn’t make sense to me, but his method of doing so is one I often see in other stories that people love, it just happens to be a peeve of mine. I definitely recommend reading Daydream first, you’ll get a lot more out of Blindspot if you do.
Note to self: Do NOT reread this in prep for the next book. It’s not worth the frustration and I’m fairly sure no matter how much time has passed between now and then and how much I’ve forgotten, I’ll follow just fine.
January 23, 2021
I don't know why but at times I forgot which one was Drew & which was was Mason (meaning who left town & who stayed). Drew, OMG sweet boy what you went through broke my heart. Drew left town under mysterious circumstances and never tried to contact his bestfriend and his first love. When he left, he broke Mason's heart. It took a lot for Mason to open up & give his heart to Drew as Mason did not have an easy childhood, begin left by his parents. When Drew comes back and runs into Mason, he wants to tell him what happened, but he is physically unable to. Mason also wants nothing to do with him. When Drew gets his hands on his brother's journal, he is able to give that to Mason & Mason is able to find out what happened. I never would have thought something like that would have happened, it's evil dark magic. And then what he went through to try to get the spell removed, was even more heart-wrenching. What we have is a story of second chances. At first Mason doesn't want to open his heart up to Drew again, but eventually he does. It was not an easy road to their HEA. There are a lot of secondary characters that I loved & can't wait to see more of in future books. The book doesn't necessarily end in a cliffhanger but it does set it up for the next book in the series.
ARC provided by the Author in exchange for an honest review.
ARC provided by the Author in exchange for an honest review.
February 3, 2021
This is the first book in a new series but there is a prequel, Daydream, which you really should read first in order to fully understand the setting.
This is a best friends to lovers, second chance story. I enjoyed it but it is uneven and would have benefitted greatly from a good editor as well as much better proofreading. And given that the setting is in Colorado that proofreader really needs to be an American. There are many instances of incorrect word usage and several of those are due to unfamiliarity with American terminology.
I was very optimistic at the start. The book grabbed me and I was sobbing before I was at 15%. OK, I thought, here we go, this going to be one heck of a ride. Unfortunately things really slowed down and not only did the pace of the story suffer but I grew increasingly irritated with one of the MCs which then caused me to feel sorry for and ultimately get impatient with the other MC. Mason is annoying, self-centered and selfish. We don’t get enough of his background story to develop empathy and his trauma absolutely pales in comparison to Drew’s. Poor Drew comes off looking like a sap for constantly allowing Mason to treat him like crap.
When we finally get to the action part of the story that should bring about the resolution it’s fairly anti-climactic. I expected much more drama. A side story having to do with Mason’s gift serves as a preview of the next book and we get that direct bridge with the ending here.
There are good ideas here and I am in love with Daydream, CO. But these authors really need an experienced hand to help guide them. As non-Americans and non native speakers they do a passable job but both of those facts are obvious which detracts from the storytelling.
I enjoyed the story, I love the concept and I’d really like to see what they could turn their ideas into with a little bit more assistance.
**I voluntarily read an arc and this is my unbiased opinion.**
This is a best friends to lovers, second chance story. I enjoyed it but it is uneven and would have benefitted greatly from a good editor as well as much better proofreading. And given that the setting is in Colorado that proofreader really needs to be an American. There are many instances of incorrect word usage and several of those are due to unfamiliarity with American terminology.
I was very optimistic at the start. The book grabbed me and I was sobbing before I was at 15%. OK, I thought, here we go, this going to be one heck of a ride. Unfortunately things really slowed down and not only did the pace of the story suffer but I grew increasingly irritated with one of the MCs which then caused me to feel sorry for and ultimately get impatient with the other MC. Mason is annoying, self-centered and selfish. We don’t get enough of his background story to develop empathy and his trauma absolutely pales in comparison to Drew’s. Poor Drew comes off looking like a sap for constantly allowing Mason to treat him like crap.
When we finally get to the action part of the story that should bring about the resolution it’s fairly anti-climactic. I expected much more drama. A side story having to do with Mason’s gift serves as a preview of the next book and we get that direct bridge with the ending here.
There are good ideas here and I am in love with Daydream, CO. But these authors really need an experienced hand to help guide them. As non-Americans and non native speakers they do a passable job but both of those facts are obvious which detracts from the storytelling.
I enjoyed the story, I love the concept and I’d really like to see what they could turn their ideas into with a little bit more assistance.
**I voluntarily read an arc and this is my unbiased opinion.**
February 1, 2021
A Joyfully Jay review.
3 stars
Blindspot is the first full-length book in the Daydream, Colorado series. It does follow the prequel, Daydream, which was a free story in the Winter Wonderland giveaway and there is a link in Blindspot to download a copy of the prequel. Daydream introduces the town, as well as Sage and Ben, who are visible characters in this book as well.
I didn’t really care for the style of this book (and the prequel as well). I was really interested in reading about a magical town and the people that live there, but there is barely any world building and the magic we are shown is all basic stuff. Mason’s magic is that he has “glances” into the future, but he is shown without enough understanding of what he sees to be helpful. Mason and Drew have different stories, yet their voices sounded too similar in many places to distinguish between them. This is also the beginning of a series and other characters are introduced and set up in obvious ways to be future MCs and it didn’t flow well into the rest of the story.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
3 stars
Blindspot is the first full-length book in the Daydream, Colorado series. It does follow the prequel, Daydream, which was a free story in the Winter Wonderland giveaway and there is a link in Blindspot to download a copy of the prequel. Daydream introduces the town, as well as Sage and Ben, who are visible characters in this book as well.
I didn’t really care for the style of this book (and the prequel as well). I was really interested in reading about a magical town and the people that live there, but there is barely any world building and the magic we are shown is all basic stuff. Mason’s magic is that he has “glances” into the future, but he is shown without enough understanding of what he sees to be helpful. Mason and Drew have different stories, yet their voices sounded too similar in many places to distinguish between them. This is also the beginning of a series and other characters are introduced and set up in obvious ways to be future MCs and it didn’t flow well into the rest of the story.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
January 25, 2022
Reading the Daydream books is feels like having a terrible weather outside with a cold icy rain, but all you have to do that day is to enjoy your free afternoon wrapped in a soft warm blanket.
July 15, 2021
This book was SOOO cute! Make sure you read the prequel first with the link in the beginning of the book (it’s not actually necessary but Sage might be one of my all time favorite characters); and then you’ll be fully prepare to enter this quirky, adorable, and just absolutely fun town. There were some darker edges with this one, some truly stubborn characters, and a lot of lingering hurt and I just loved every single moment of it. I would like to move to Daydream now!
February 11, 2022
I wanted to love this book so much, because a book about a magical town completely with magical inhabitants sounded awesome. The MC's are Drew, a who left town years before, and his best friend before he left town, Mason. Drew was treated horribly before he left, but now he is back to heal both his relationships and .
I struggled with the book. I was not crazy about the writing style, and the magic left me underwhelming. Moreover, I couldn't stand Mason. Whiny and childish for most of the book, I never got why Drew was so besotted with him.
This is the first full book in the series, but I had enough. I will not continue.
I struggled with the book. I was not crazy about the writing style, and the magic left me underwhelming. Moreover, I couldn't stand Mason. Whiny and childish for most of the book, I never got why Drew was so besotted with him.
This is the first full book in the series, but I had enough. I will not continue.
January 27, 2021
I enjoyed a lot about this story. This had a backstory that delved into some dark magic and it was very interesting. I really liked Drew. Mason was a good character but he was very hot and cold with Drew throughout the book and I wasn’t crazy about that. I thought the story was drawn out but I am looking forward to reading more from this author and this series.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review
ARC received in exchange for an honest review
April 18, 2021
I'm glad I waited to read Mason and Drew's story until the authors had a release date for Heartwood (Daydream Colorado Book 2) lined up because now I'm just impatient! The prequel (Daydream) was offered as a freebie by the authors as part of the Winter Giveaway freebie and still available if you subscribe to their newsletter. Read that first because it's a lovely intro into Blindspot and sets the stage for Mason and Drew's history. Mason and Drew are mentioned briefly in Daydream; however, the prequel serves as Sage and Ben's story.
Blindspot is a darker and mildly angsty read compared to Daydream because the underlying theme is the fact that magic has a dark side and a community of homogenous people (in this case magic folks) treat different people cruelly. Case in point - non magic Drew and the town of Daydream. Drew was born into a magical family but had no magic and was reminded of that every day of his life. Instead of embracing his differences, his family chose to find something/someone to fix him and his older brother, Troy, ended up betraying him in the worse way possible. Not only did his brother hurt him, but his parents chose not to believe him and that refusal drove Drew to leave town after his brother died in a freak magical accident. Unfortunately, Drew's departure ended up hurting the one who did love him - his childhood best friend Mason.
Blindspot is told in dual POV and readers will cry and rage with Mason when when the truth comes out about Drew's past and why he left. He was hurt and betrayed in the worse way possible by people that should have protected him. I was so angry with his parents and his brother that I personally wanted to hex them all. Throughout this story, Mason's actions really frustrated me but I understood his sense of self-preservation. Mason was abandoned by his biological parents and then by Drew so he had to keep his walls up by protecting his heart from being broken all over again. They really fought for a hard-earned HEA through ups and downs, twists and turns, dark magic, past hurts and trauma and very bruised hearts. The last sentence of this book sets the stage for Heartwood Colorado Book 2 which will be Darian (Daydream's healer with the amazing garden) and Tate's story. I'm counting down until Heartwood is released! I love Daydream and I appreciate the fact that this town has a darker world of magic...it's not all rainbows, sunshine and good magic.
Blindspot is a darker and mildly angsty read compared to Daydream because the underlying theme is the fact that magic has a dark side and a community of homogenous people (in this case magic folks) treat different people cruelly. Case in point - non magic Drew and the town of Daydream. Drew was born into a magical family but had no magic and was reminded of that every day of his life. Instead of embracing his differences, his family chose to find something/someone to fix him and his older brother, Troy, ended up betraying him in the worse way possible. Not only did his brother hurt him, but his parents chose not to believe him and that refusal drove Drew to leave town after his brother died in a freak magical accident. Unfortunately, Drew's departure ended up hurting the one who did love him - his childhood best friend Mason.
Blindspot is told in dual POV and readers will cry and rage with Mason when when the truth comes out about Drew's past and why he left. He was hurt and betrayed in the worse way possible by people that should have protected him. I was so angry with his parents and his brother that I personally wanted to hex them all. Throughout this story, Mason's actions really frustrated me but I understood his sense of self-preservation. Mason was abandoned by his biological parents and then by Drew so he had to keep his walls up by protecting his heart from being broken all over again. They really fought for a hard-earned HEA through ups and downs, twists and turns, dark magic, past hurts and trauma and very bruised hearts. The last sentence of this book sets the stage for Heartwood Colorado Book 2 which will be Darian (Daydream's healer with the amazing garden) and Tate's story. I'm counting down until Heartwood is released! I love Daydream and I appreciate the fact that this town has a darker world of magic...it's not all rainbows, sunshine and good magic.
January 29, 2021
4 ¾ Stars
**Possible Spoilers**
I read Daydream (a freebie in the Winter Wonderland giveaway and the prequel to the Daydream, Colorado series) and felt then that this would be a series like no other I've read before.
Blindspot meets and exceeds my expectations.
This book broke my heart right from the beginning. I was curious about Mason in the Daydream short, and after getting to know him in Blindspot, I wanted to snatch him up and cuddle and protect him from all the bad things, all while listening to him gripe and moan. Mason's loneliness and pain from abandonment is a tangible thing that made me hurt and cry for him.
And Drew. I hurt for all he suffered at the hands of those who were supposed to love and protect him. The ache of that will stay with me for quite a while.
Their meeting again after all those years is bittersweet. The pain and dismay are still there, but I could see the underlying connection they continued to share. The different types of betrayal experienced by these guys are hard to read. It's even harder to watch them battle their way back to a more trusting mindset.
They are, individually, good, strong, if troubled characters. The authors gave them surprisingly similar emotional circumstances but from opposite viewpoints. That never is addressed, but I found it interesting that Drew and Mason did not see the similarities and ease their rigidness towards others who have done the same. I guess it was too close to see.
Mason and Drew are lovely men when it's all said and done. After the bad times they had growing up, they are surprisingly easy to like.
These characters touched my heart. I am satisfied with their HEA and confident that their connection, physical and emotional, will stand the test of time.
The secondary characters are vibrant and supportive of the storyline. They make the book more real, if that makes sense.
The concept for the series is fresh and exciting. The different aspects of Daydream and its prolific use of magic is novel and thrilling. The authors have created a place where, magically, anything goes, and everything is accepted if no one gets hurt. I like that. To be who and what you are without fear of judgment is lovely, and I wish I could live there.
Many of the magical scenes are oh so lazy; I couldn't help but laugh. And it is everywhere you look. It makes what could have been a heavy read somewhat whimsical and light.
I enjoyed this book.
I look forward to more from these authors.
**Possible Spoilers**
I read Daydream (a freebie in the Winter Wonderland giveaway and the prequel to the Daydream, Colorado series) and felt then that this would be a series like no other I've read before.
Blindspot meets and exceeds my expectations.
This book broke my heart right from the beginning. I was curious about Mason in the Daydream short, and after getting to know him in Blindspot, I wanted to snatch him up and cuddle and protect him from all the bad things, all while listening to him gripe and moan. Mason's loneliness and pain from abandonment is a tangible thing that made me hurt and cry for him.
And Drew. I hurt for all he suffered at the hands of those who were supposed to love and protect him. The ache of that will stay with me for quite a while.
Their meeting again after all those years is bittersweet. The pain and dismay are still there, but I could see the underlying connection they continued to share. The different types of betrayal experienced by these guys are hard to read. It's even harder to watch them battle their way back to a more trusting mindset.
They are, individually, good, strong, if troubled characters. The authors gave them surprisingly similar emotional circumstances but from opposite viewpoints. That never is addressed, but I found it interesting that Drew and Mason did not see the similarities and ease their rigidness towards others who have done the same. I guess it was too close to see.
Mason and Drew are lovely men when it's all said and done. After the bad times they had growing up, they are surprisingly easy to like.
These characters touched my heart. I am satisfied with their HEA and confident that their connection, physical and emotional, will stand the test of time.
The secondary characters are vibrant and supportive of the storyline. They make the book more real, if that makes sense.
The concept for the series is fresh and exciting. The different aspects of Daydream and its prolific use of magic is novel and thrilling. The authors have created a place where, magically, anything goes, and everything is accepted if no one gets hurt. I like that. To be who and what you are without fear of judgment is lovely, and I wish I could live there.
Many of the magical scenes are oh so lazy; I couldn't help but laugh. And it is everywhere you look. It makes what could have been a heavy read somewhat whimsical and light.
I enjoyed this book.
I look forward to more from these authors.
January 25, 2021
Sometimes you find a book that just plain works for you. Blindspot was most certainly one for me! I adore the whimsically magical town of Daydream, from it’s adorably unique residents, to the cute way magic is utilised in everyday life. After the light and fluffy introduction to this town in the prequel novella, this one introduces us to the darker side of magic. Mason and Drew do not have an easy ride at all. Separated for 10 years after getting a taste of what being together could be like, there is so much hurt, guilt and betrayal to work through for these former best friends. Mason guards his heart so completely that any time he seemed like he was letting down his walls, only to put them straight back up, had my heart aching for both himself and Drew. I did like how there was forgiveness fairly early on once Mason found out the full story, but the hurt doesn’t just go away. It takes work, and ultimately trust, which does not come easily for Mason. As they try and navigate re-building their friendship, as well as finding a way to help Drew, they find that they the love is still there and no matter how hard Mason may fight, Drew will always be his blindspot.
Blindspot is an engaging and emotionally compelling second chance, former best friends to lovers story. Whilst it has a fair amount of hurt/comfort and pain, there is also so much sweetness and tenderness. And not to mention the feisty protectiveness Mason has of Drew! The ending is simply heartwarming and peaceful and left me eager for Darian and Tate’s story now!
Blindspot is an engaging and emotionally compelling second chance, former best friends to lovers story. Whilst it has a fair amount of hurt/comfort and pain, there is also so much sweetness and tenderness. And not to mention the feisty protectiveness Mason has of Drew! The ending is simply heartwarming and peaceful and left me eager for Darian and Tate’s story now!
March 18, 2021
What a delightful journey this book was! Beautiful writing, I felt like I was living every moment with the characters. Felt so real. And besides, it has all the tropes I love! Best friends, second chance, magic - what's not to like?!?!! And the book cover is just wow🤩
Looking forward to the next book in the series.
Looking forward to the next book in the series.
February 12, 2021
I absolutely loved this marvelous, grab-you-by-the-feels, poignant, intense, tug-at-your-heartstrings, heartbreaking yet hopeful, unexpected, slow burning, and totally awesome start to an intriguing new series. I must admit to wanting to rattle the teeth of a certain character, but in the end, it all worked out. I can't wait to see what happens next.
January 28, 2021
this was amazingly magical.. like i felt as if i was a part of the world... like i could see the area in my head.. it was wonderful and interesting and well written. i really enjoyed it
August 19, 2021
Blindspot was one of those books that brings you into a world of magic and you wish you could live there forever. I absolutely adored this book. From the world building centered around the magical town of Daydream to the interesting characters who call Daydream, Colorado home. I enjoyed all of it.
Daydream is a home to the magical community of mages/witches. Magical kind tend to stick together and when they have children they too are magical...except for Drew. Born and raised in this small town Drew is the only one without magic, much to his families disappointment. In fact it is his parents disappointment and belief that something was wrong with him that led Drew down the path he took leaving Daydream and his beloved Mason behind. It was the hardest thing he ever had to do.
1o years later has Drew back in town after his parents hired a PI to track him down. When he reluctantly returns, it seems his parents after all these years have finally discovered what he was trying to tell them all along, the real reason for him leaving. 10 years is just a little bit too late in my opinion. Drew tried his hardest to get his parents to understand all those years ago, but they refused to see past their own issues and lost him in the end. Safe to say it isn't a happy family reunion like they seemed to wish. Drew had to leave everything he ever knew behind and live with his suffering. That also left him with a lot of resentment and anger towards the two people who were supposed to love him unconditionally.
" He was an adult. And Mason had missed all the years that turned him into one."
Then there is Mason. Mason who finally told his best friend Drew that he was hopelessly in love with him, just to wake up to Drew having disappeared without a trace. I don't blame him for being leery of Drew's return. I do, however, think he held onto his anger with Drew for longer than necessary. When the truth finally comes out and Mason realizes what happened all those years ago he should have understood more than he did. Yes Drew broke his heart, but Mason wasn't the only one left brokenhearted all those years. Drew suffered too and I think if Mason could have forgiven him sooner they could have been there for each other more when they most needed it.
"Leaving first was better than being left behind."
The plot of the book centered around Drew's reason for leaving and the subsequent steps taken to rectify what was done to him. I'm trying hard to steer around spoilers here because I think it packs more of a punch going into this one blind about that aspect. I finished this with only two little niggles. One, I wanted more page time with Drew and Mason actually together. It seemed like once they FINALLY were firmly in a relationship and all feelings were on the table the book just ended with only a small bit of them as a couple. The second niggle was how often Mason's size was brought up. Yes he's short and slender, but I think it was mentioned in every single chapter in some way. Either Drew was thinking it, or someone else was teasing Mason about it.
Other than that this was a solid 4.5 star read for me and I cannot wait to be back in Daydream Colorado for Darian and Tate's story. Darian is a healer who was pretty prominent in this book, but Tate we have yet to meet. The only thing we know about him is he is in trouble. Their story is told in Heartwood and unfortunately we have to wait until April 25th for it. Three months can seem like an eternity when waiting for an exciting release, but based on the two books I've read by this duo (Blindspot and Returning Home )it will be worth the wait!
**I received a copy of this book from GRR in exchange for an honest and unbiased review**
Daydream is a home to the magical community of mages/witches. Magical kind tend to stick together and when they have children they too are magical...except for Drew. Born and raised in this small town Drew is the only one without magic, much to his families disappointment. In fact it is his parents disappointment and belief that something was wrong with him that led Drew down the path he took leaving Daydream and his beloved Mason behind. It was the hardest thing he ever had to do.
1o years later has Drew back in town after his parents hired a PI to track him down. When he reluctantly returns, it seems his parents after all these years have finally discovered what he was trying to tell them all along, the real reason for him leaving. 10 years is just a little bit too late in my opinion. Drew tried his hardest to get his parents to understand all those years ago, but they refused to see past their own issues and lost him in the end. Safe to say it isn't a happy family reunion like they seemed to wish. Drew had to leave everything he ever knew behind and live with his suffering. That also left him with a lot of resentment and anger towards the two people who were supposed to love him unconditionally.
" He was an adult. And Mason had missed all the years that turned him into one."
Then there is Mason. Mason who finally told his best friend Drew that he was hopelessly in love with him, just to wake up to Drew having disappeared without a trace. I don't blame him for being leery of Drew's return. I do, however, think he held onto his anger with Drew for longer than necessary. When the truth finally comes out and Mason realizes what happened all those years ago he should have understood more than he did. Yes Drew broke his heart, but Mason wasn't the only one left brokenhearted all those years. Drew suffered too and I think if Mason could have forgiven him sooner they could have been there for each other more when they most needed it.
"Leaving first was better than being left behind."
The plot of the book centered around Drew's reason for leaving and the subsequent steps taken to rectify what was done to him. I'm trying hard to steer around spoilers here because I think it packs more of a punch going into this one blind about that aspect. I finished this with only two little niggles. One, I wanted more page time with Drew and Mason actually together. It seemed like once they FINALLY were firmly in a relationship and all feelings were on the table the book just ended with only a small bit of them as a couple. The second niggle was how often Mason's size was brought up. Yes he's short and slender, but I think it was mentioned in every single chapter in some way. Either Drew was thinking it, or someone else was teasing Mason about it.
Other than that this was a solid 4.5 star read for me and I cannot wait to be back in Daydream Colorado for Darian and Tate's story. Darian is a healer who was pretty prominent in this book, but Tate we have yet to meet. The only thing we know about him is he is in trouble. Their story is told in Heartwood and unfortunately we have to wait until April 25th for it. Three months can seem like an eternity when waiting for an exciting release, but based on the two books I've read by this duo (Blindspot and Returning Home )it will be worth the wait!
**I received a copy of this book from GRR in exchange for an honest and unbiased review**
November 3, 2022
I have to agree here with some other reviewers. Mason got on my nerves a bit. So yeah, it is sad that his parents left him, and okay, I can understand that everybody is triggered by different things and those don't necessarily have to be major happenings ... but come on. This story would have works quite well with them trying to figure out if they suited one another after 10 long years. Going on sweet dates, revisiting old haunts, magicing romantic settings with fairylights and soft falling snow, you get my drift. It was wholy unnecessary in my book, especially after Mason knew what had made Drew leave Daydream to hurt, and yes his behavior was hurtful, Drew with not even trying and giving them a chance. Drew had to actually fight his way into Mason's apartment and life to get a chance and his attention. If it were me I would have said "suit yourself" and gone my way, because, if I repeatedly try and there is no response then I have to assume that the person is not interested enough... I always have to think about the movie He's not that into you in such circumstances. If someone is interested, you will know, they will reach out from their side too. No matter if you are introverted or extraverted, there are glances, texts, small gestures, and WORDS. If someone tells you repeatedly thank you for the fun now you can go, no I don't want to go on dates with you, no I don't want ANY PDA in public, even handholding, no we are not together, no you are not my boyfriend, AND no I don't want to TRY a relationship with you... well... those are not hints anymore but rather pillars 10 feet tall.
I can only conclude that there have been moments, hints, touches, looks that we, the reader were not aware of but the two MC's must have intimately knowledge of.
Other than the relationship drama which was pretty low angst even with the constant "no don't tell me how you feel or you will make it real", the story was interesting enough and entertaining enough. I also liked the side characters, which makes me want to read about them finding their HEA.
I can only conclude that there have been moments, hints, touches, looks that we, the reader were not aware of but the two MC's must have intimately knowledge of.
Other than the relationship drama which was pretty low angst even with the constant "no don't tell me how you feel or you will make it real", the story was interesting enough and entertaining enough. I also liked the side characters, which makes me want to read about them finding their HEA.
February 8, 2021
Blindspot is a pleasurable first novel in A.M. Rose's new series, Daydream, Colorado, focused on the magical town and its residents. The love story of Drew and Mason is intertwined with mostly whimsical magic and only a reference to dark magic used in the past, off page. If you haven’t read Daydream, the free, short prequel to the series, I highly recommend it, although it’s not necessary to do so before reading this story. It will certainly enrich Blindspot considerably because it provides a more thorough overview of the town and its people, plus it stars the incomparable Sage, as Mason's bestie, and Sage’s love interest, Ben, who are significant figures in Blindspot. It’s a light and fanciful read.
Here we have Drew who was born without magic – a very rare occurrence – and grew up as the only non-magical resident in the town of Daydream. It was nearly unbearable for him, feeling alone and ridiculed. But worse were the torturous experiments his “perfect” brother evilly forced him to endure for thirteen years, which could’ve killed him if he hadn’t escaped town. But by fleeing, he abandoned his best friend, Mason, with whom he had just started a romantic relationship. After their first night of lovemaking, Mason awoke to an empty bed; Drew had disappeared without a word, leaving Mason brokenhearted and without any idea why he abruptly left.
After being away from his home town for ten years, Drew has returned for a brief at the behest of his parents after they tracked him down through a private investigator. Now that he’s back, his relationships with his parents and Mason are contentious. With his parents he’s overflowing with rage; around Mason he’s guilt-ridden and filled with sorrow and longing.
Mason works at the village bakery with Sage. As part of his magic repertoire, he experiences “glances” into the future that sometimes manifest as harrowing nightmares that leave him terrified. He loves Drew but can’t allow them to be more than friends because of the potential for another broken heart. He has no reason to believe Drew won’t return to his life far away again. In addition to the love story, the book contains the mystery of why Drew disappeared and how it can be remedied.
The prose flows smoothly and is highly descriptive, creating vivid scenery of both the characters and their surroundings. The visit to healer Darian’s home and farm, for example, is a feast for the senses, from the gentle giant of a man covered in tattoos to his flower covered grounds:
Darian’s house was just as contradictory as the man himself was. An odd mixture of beautiful flower arrangements and motorcycle parts, soft plush floral recliners and masculine, dark wood tables and shelves. And enough plants to make you question if you had just stepped through a portal into the jungle.
I enjoyed all the components of the novel but I felt it dragged a bit. At 335 pages, it's on the longer side for a novel in this genre but I usually find books of this length more rewarding than shorter ones. Blindspot would benefit from a more up-tempo pace, though. I loved the magic portions, but the everyday life parts were slow. I can’t believe I’m going to say this – I thought there was too much dialogue – and too much time spent on whether Mason could forgive Drew and get past his fears. However, I think my comments should be taken with a large grain of salt. I have read so many short stories and short novellas over the past few weeks, thanks to the Winter Wonderland Giveaway, that I think I’ve temporarily drained my patience when it comes to reading full-length books. It’s possible a re-read six months from now would have me thinking the pacing is just fine.
Otherwise, I relished Blindspot. The secondary characters are endearing, particularly the adorable Sage his boyfriend Ben, and Orson, Mason's caring father. Head Witch Malachi and Darian, while not what I’d call endearing, are certainly likable and add a layer of interest to the story. Malachi is a bit amusing in his stoic crankiness and weirdness. I mostly read contemporary MM romance and found this to be a refreshing and thoroughly enjoyable departure from my usual. It seems Darian is next on deck in this series and I can’t wait.
Reviewed for Love Bytes Reviews
Here we have Drew who was born without magic – a very rare occurrence – and grew up as the only non-magical resident in the town of Daydream. It was nearly unbearable for him, feeling alone and ridiculed. But worse were the torturous experiments his “perfect” brother evilly forced him to endure for thirteen years, which could’ve killed him if he hadn’t escaped town. But by fleeing, he abandoned his best friend, Mason, with whom he had just started a romantic relationship. After their first night of lovemaking, Mason awoke to an empty bed; Drew had disappeared without a word, leaving Mason brokenhearted and without any idea why he abruptly left.
After being away from his home town for ten years, Drew has returned for a brief at the behest of his parents after they tracked him down through a private investigator. Now that he’s back, his relationships with his parents and Mason are contentious. With his parents he’s overflowing with rage; around Mason he’s guilt-ridden and filled with sorrow and longing.
Mason works at the village bakery with Sage. As part of his magic repertoire, he experiences “glances” into the future that sometimes manifest as harrowing nightmares that leave him terrified. He loves Drew but can’t allow them to be more than friends because of the potential for another broken heart. He has no reason to believe Drew won’t return to his life far away again. In addition to the love story, the book contains the mystery of why Drew disappeared and how it can be remedied.
The prose flows smoothly and is highly descriptive, creating vivid scenery of both the characters and their surroundings. The visit to healer Darian’s home and farm, for example, is a feast for the senses, from the gentle giant of a man covered in tattoos to his flower covered grounds:
Darian’s house was just as contradictory as the man himself was. An odd mixture of beautiful flower arrangements and motorcycle parts, soft plush floral recliners and masculine, dark wood tables and shelves. And enough plants to make you question if you had just stepped through a portal into the jungle.
I enjoyed all the components of the novel but I felt it dragged a bit. At 335 pages, it's on the longer side for a novel in this genre but I usually find books of this length more rewarding than shorter ones. Blindspot would benefit from a more up-tempo pace, though. I loved the magic portions, but the everyday life parts were slow. I can’t believe I’m going to say this – I thought there was too much dialogue – and too much time spent on whether Mason could forgive Drew and get past his fears. However, I think my comments should be taken with a large grain of salt. I have read so many short stories and short novellas over the past few weeks, thanks to the Winter Wonderland Giveaway, that I think I’ve temporarily drained my patience when it comes to reading full-length books. It’s possible a re-read six months from now would have me thinking the pacing is just fine.
Otherwise, I relished Blindspot. The secondary characters are endearing, particularly the adorable Sage his boyfriend Ben, and Orson, Mason's caring father. Head Witch Malachi and Darian, while not what I’d call endearing, are certainly likable and add a layer of interest to the story. Malachi is a bit amusing in his stoic crankiness and weirdness. I mostly read contemporary MM romance and found this to be a refreshing and thoroughly enjoyable departure from my usual. It seems Darian is next on deck in this series and I can’t wait.
Reviewed for Love Bytes Reviews
January 28, 2021
*4.5*
I was drawn into the Daydream world from the prequel and Blindspot is even better with a second chance romance, painful secrets and drama along the way to a HEA for Mason and Drew.
My heart broke for Drew and everything that he was put through and continues to experience. It's only when Mason finally finds out what kept him away that he jumps into action to help but whilst trying to keep his heart at a safe distance. You can really feel the pain from both characters coming through whilst also sensing the deep connection they share as they've been best friends since since childhood, not including the ten years when Drew left Daydream. Even with Mason's heart hurting and hiding, he can't deny the attraction still there and Drew is more than happy to act on it with him, taking comfort in that contact, but there's always the fact that Drew will be leaving again to go back to wherever he's been that keeps Mason at arms length. There is a bit of lightness dotted throughout, my favourite being Ben and Drew turning up properly drunk at Mason's.
There are great characters from the town that really bring a lot to the story. Sage is Mason's best friend and offers him all of his support and love whilst he's trying to get to grips with Drew being back in town but also some troubling dreams he's having. Darian and Malachai are the two that Mason and Drew to go for help and it gets really serious and tense there a couple of times for them all. Then Drew's parents, that's a bit of heartbreak right there but I think Drew is justified in how he feels about them, considering everything that went on in the family before he left.
This actually wasn't as light and fluffy as I thought it would be but I love that as it really grabs you and tugs on your heart for both men. The story is well written and I highly recommend it. I love the final sentence we're left with that leaves you eagerly anticipating the next in the series.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
I was drawn into the Daydream world from the prequel and Blindspot is even better with a second chance romance, painful secrets and drama along the way to a HEA for Mason and Drew.
My heart broke for Drew and everything that he was put through and continues to experience. It's only when Mason finally finds out what kept him away that he jumps into action to help but whilst trying to keep his heart at a safe distance. You can really feel the pain from both characters coming through whilst also sensing the deep connection they share as they've been best friends since since childhood, not including the ten years when Drew left Daydream. Even with Mason's heart hurting and hiding, he can't deny the attraction still there and Drew is more than happy to act on it with him, taking comfort in that contact, but there's always the fact that Drew will be leaving again to go back to wherever he's been that keeps Mason at arms length. There is a bit of lightness dotted throughout, my favourite being Ben and Drew turning up properly drunk at Mason's.
There are great characters from the town that really bring a lot to the story. Sage is Mason's best friend and offers him all of his support and love whilst he's trying to get to grips with Drew being back in town but also some troubling dreams he's having. Darian and Malachai are the two that Mason and Drew to go for help and it gets really serious and tense there a couple of times for them all. Then Drew's parents, that's a bit of heartbreak right there but I think Drew is justified in how he feels about them, considering everything that went on in the family before he left.
This actually wasn't as light and fluffy as I thought it would be but I love that as it really grabs you and tugs on your heart for both men. The story is well written and I highly recommend it. I love the final sentence we're left with that leaves you eagerly anticipating the next in the series.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
February 6, 2023
Magic big and small
This is a really great first book, bringing in a magical town, a great cast of characters, and some truly emotional moments.
This is definitely a case where I find that reading the prequel helps. There is a novella that introduces Daydream that is excellent and tells the story of one of the couples in this book. However, this story is great even without that. Following an ex-resident of Daydream that begrudgingly returns and the man he left behind, it was a rough journey but well worth it.
Drew left Daydream after some events that the town isn't particularly aware of, hoping to finally find someplace he'd fit in. His life is more normal outside of Daydream but not exactly full. When his parents use a PI to find him he comes back but the reasoning scares him more than anything, bringing up the very thing that made him leave. Seeing the one person he loved doesn't make it any better when he still can't explain why he left.
Mason always had Drew growing up, and when the man left without a word he was broken. A decade from that he keeps trying to move on, but finding out Drew is in town just breaks him open again. But something is off about both the visit and the leaving and Mason soon finds that he can't just leave things as they are.
There is a lot of history in this for both men. They have each been damaged by the actions of others, and by how that caused them to act to each other. Though there was a good reason for Drew to leave it has left a gaping wound in any relationship that the two can have together. Trying to both figure out the past and move beyond it is not easy, especially when it keeps coming back up. It was a really great story as they try to figure it out between each other and with the help of close friends and family to try to have a future that could move beyond all that has happened. It was a great story that puts everything on the table and promises more great reads in this series!
This is a really great first book, bringing in a magical town, a great cast of characters, and some truly emotional moments.
This is definitely a case where I find that reading the prequel helps. There is a novella that introduces Daydream that is excellent and tells the story of one of the couples in this book. However, this story is great even without that. Following an ex-resident of Daydream that begrudgingly returns and the man he left behind, it was a rough journey but well worth it.
Drew left Daydream after some events that the town isn't particularly aware of, hoping to finally find someplace he'd fit in. His life is more normal outside of Daydream but not exactly full. When his parents use a PI to find him he comes back but the reasoning scares him more than anything, bringing up the very thing that made him leave. Seeing the one person he loved doesn't make it any better when he still can't explain why he left.
Mason always had Drew growing up, and when the man left without a word he was broken. A decade from that he keeps trying to move on, but finding out Drew is in town just breaks him open again. But something is off about both the visit and the leaving and Mason soon finds that he can't just leave things as they are.
There is a lot of history in this for both men. They have each been damaged by the actions of others, and by how that caused them to act to each other. Though there was a good reason for Drew to leave it has left a gaping wound in any relationship that the two can have together. Trying to both figure out the past and move beyond it is not easy, especially when it keeps coming back up. It was a really great story as they try to figure it out between each other and with the help of close friends and family to try to have a future that could move beyond all that has happened. It was a great story that puts everything on the table and promises more great reads in this series!
February 6, 2021
Magic Made Angsty Goodness
Before jumping into this book, I strongly suggest that you read the prequel, Daydream first, but it’s not what you think. This book stands on its own, BUT the town will be better understood having read Daydream first. Sage, Mason’s best friend, meets the love of his life in it as well.
Mason is a little spitfire, and I love him so much. He’s not used to people sticking around for long, and has developed trust issues and deep insecurities. First it was his parents who left, then it was his best friend/first love. At least his parents gave him warning. Drew just...left. Ten years later, Drew comes home, and everything changes.
This book had more angst than I was expecting, but I couldn’t stop reading. This town, and it’s inhabitants, are just so charming and lovable. There were lighter moments in the book, and I couldn’t stop grinning during them. I want to bottle this book up and make it real.
My heart ached for both Mason and Drew. It was devastating to discover how the selfishness of others still had a tight grip on our main characters. This was a gripping story and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
The writing in this book was incredible. The authors paid very close attention to every single detail. It was easy to picture the town of Daydream, Colorado, and its magical townsfolk. When they walked around town, I was right there with them. I don’t even know if I can find the right words to describe the characters. They were very well developed, but even saying that feels like an understatement.
This book made me believe in the magic that exists entirely on page. I cannot recommend this book enough. I’m looking forward to book two, and am going to struggle with the wait.
***I voluntarily accepted a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews. My review reflects my own thoughts and opinions***
Before jumping into this book, I strongly suggest that you read the prequel, Daydream first, but it’s not what you think. This book stands on its own, BUT the town will be better understood having read Daydream first. Sage, Mason’s best friend, meets the love of his life in it as well.
Mason is a little spitfire, and I love him so much. He’s not used to people sticking around for long, and has developed trust issues and deep insecurities. First it was his parents who left, then it was his best friend/first love. At least his parents gave him warning. Drew just...left. Ten years later, Drew comes home, and everything changes.
This book had more angst than I was expecting, but I couldn’t stop reading. This town, and it’s inhabitants, are just so charming and lovable. There were lighter moments in the book, and I couldn’t stop grinning during them. I want to bottle this book up and make it real.
My heart ached for both Mason and Drew. It was devastating to discover how the selfishness of others still had a tight grip on our main characters. This was a gripping story and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
The writing in this book was incredible. The authors paid very close attention to every single detail. It was easy to picture the town of Daydream, Colorado, and its magical townsfolk. When they walked around town, I was right there with them. I don’t even know if I can find the right words to describe the characters. They were very well developed, but even saying that feels like an understatement.
This book made me believe in the magic that exists entirely on page. I cannot recommend this book enough. I’m looking forward to book two, and am going to struggle with the wait.
***I voluntarily accepted a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews. My review reflects my own thoughts and opinions***
January 25, 2021
I liked this book, but there were a few sour notes that kept it from being a 5 star read. I liked the magical premise of the town but I felt that I was very glad to have read the free prequel (Daydream, introducing Sage and Ben) before I started this story since the world-building for the town was mostly contained in that prequel. For me that's a problem since the prequel is not officially listed in the series order so people may feel a little lost while reading this book if they don't read the prequel first. Do yourself a favor and download the prequel from the link at the beginning of the book and read it before reading this book.
I also liked the characters of Mason and Drew, though the very slow pace of the book allowed me to become slightly annoyed by Mason's hot and cold attitude towards Drew as well as the very repetitive mentions of how small and tiny Mason is. We get it, he's small. Let's move forward. I also didn't particularly believe the second chance element of the story insofar as Drew's reasons for being so cruel as to leave his best friend of 15 years without a word were never fully explained. The authors explain why Drew wanted to leave town but they never really justify his cruelty toward Mason, who never did anything to deserve it. That unresolved dilemma dropped this story from the vicinity of 4.5 down to around 3.5. If I hadn't read the prequel it probably would have dropped to about a 2.5, so that should serve to show that you really need to read that prequel.
Bottom line: I liked it, maybe not a lot, and there were definitely some weaknesses in the plot, but overall I liked the world building enough to read the next in the series and would recommend others read both the prequel and the first book in the series.
I also liked the characters of Mason and Drew, though the very slow pace of the book allowed me to become slightly annoyed by Mason's hot and cold attitude towards Drew as well as the very repetitive mentions of how small and tiny Mason is. We get it, he's small. Let's move forward. I also didn't particularly believe the second chance element of the story insofar as Drew's reasons for being so cruel as to leave his best friend of 15 years without a word were never fully explained. The authors explain why Drew wanted to leave town but they never really justify his cruelty toward Mason, who never did anything to deserve it. That unresolved dilemma dropped this story from the vicinity of 4.5 down to around 3.5. If I hadn't read the prequel it probably would have dropped to about a 2.5, so that should serve to show that you really need to read that prequel.
Bottom line: I liked it, maybe not a lot, and there were definitely some weaknesses in the plot, but overall I liked the world building enough to read the next in the series and would recommend others read both the prequel and the first book in the series.
February 4, 2021
I love the idea of the magical town of Daydream, and the authors’ writing style really does it justice: there’s a great balance between description and plot, and the dialog flows easily. The plot is also super compelling, and I got caught up in it right away.
I loved Drew as a character— he’d been through so much, and been let down by everyone, and I do mean everyone, in his life. On the other hand, Mason was too self-absorbed for me to find him sympathetic. His best friend, the love of his life, disappears, and instead of being worried for him, or willing to hear him out when he comes back, or trusting that maybe something bad happened (and no spoilers, but it did) he spends a decade in a funk. And when he finds out about the horrible thing that happened to Drew, he decides to help, in every way but the one that would actually be most useful. I understand his abandonment issues, but his willingness to manipulate and lie to Drew and himself rather than face his own emotions, even when Drew was so vulnerable— did not sit well with me.I didn’t understand how he could be so protective in some ways and so hurtful in others, and only, and I do mean only, the fact that Drew loved him so deeply made me root for their HEA.
I’m never going to be Mason’s biggest fan, but I did absolutely love all of his friends: Sage and Ben are adorable. Darian is a sweetheart. I really really want to know more about Mal. I could read a dozen books set in this world, and I am delighted that there will be another book in the series soon.
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review
I loved Drew as a character— he’d been through so much, and been let down by everyone, and I do mean everyone, in his life. On the other hand, Mason was too self-absorbed for me to find him sympathetic. His best friend, the love of his life, disappears, and instead of being worried for him, or willing to hear him out when he comes back, or trusting that maybe something bad happened (and no spoilers, but it did) he spends a decade in a funk. And when he finds out about the horrible thing that happened to Drew, he decides to help, in every way but the one that would actually be most useful. I understand his abandonment issues, but his willingness to manipulate and lie to Drew and himself rather than face his own emotions, even when Drew was so vulnerable— did not sit well with me.I didn’t understand how he could be so protective in some ways and so hurtful in others, and only, and I do mean only, the fact that Drew loved him so deeply made me root for their HEA.
I’m never going to be Mason’s biggest fan, but I did absolutely love all of his friends: Sage and Ben are adorable. Darian is a sweetheart. I really really want to know more about Mal. I could read a dozen books set in this world, and I am delighted that there will be another book in the series soon.
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review
February 1, 2021
Phew! This book was divine! AM Rose poured the love and soul bleeding hurt through the words on each page.
As childhood best friends, Drew and Mason were inseparable while growing up in Daydream. As the years passed their feelings expanded to love, a love that both men thought would last forever or until it ended abruptly before they could even truly get started.
Now 10 years later, Drew is found by his parents and asked to return to Daydream to discuss the events that lead to his running away. Mason thought that he was finally at a place where he could say he was over Drew. He know that no one would ever replace him, but he could accept his life as it is and say he was content.
Unfortunately, even though they lived in a town called Daydream, Drew was suffering in a living nightmare that he couldn't talk about. Will he finally be able to tell Mason? To speak the words he never could before? Can Mason finally face his fear of his love ones leaving him? Can he trust Drew?
This book was filled with angst, heartache, love, super cheesy best friends and Mason's total devotion to food. I was introduced to Mason and thought of Drew in the prequel, Daydream. It was a great first step before settling into the ride of Mason and Drew. I absolutely loved this book and being able to visit Daydream for a heart aching happily ever after. Super excited to read the next book in this series!
As childhood best friends, Drew and Mason were inseparable while growing up in Daydream. As the years passed their feelings expanded to love, a love that both men thought would last forever or until it ended abruptly before they could even truly get started.
Now 10 years later, Drew is found by his parents and asked to return to Daydream to discuss the events that lead to his running away. Mason thought that he was finally at a place where he could say he was over Drew. He know that no one would ever replace him, but he could accept his life as it is and say he was content.
Unfortunately, even though they lived in a town called Daydream, Drew was suffering in a living nightmare that he couldn't talk about. Will he finally be able to tell Mason? To speak the words he never could before? Can Mason finally face his fear of his love ones leaving him? Can he trust Drew?
This book was filled with angst, heartache, love, super cheesy best friends and Mason's total devotion to food. I was introduced to Mason and thought of Drew in the prequel, Daydream. It was a great first step before settling into the ride of Mason and Drew. I absolutely loved this book and being able to visit Daydream for a heart aching happily ever after. Super excited to read the next book in this series!
January 25, 2021
I LOVE this world!! I was introduced to it in their short story Daydream, and couldn't wait to get back to it in this book. The characters are so HUMAN (even with the magic) that you can't help but love them and want to give them all the hugs (and cupcakes for Mason).
Drew needs so much comfort and love that it's easy to overlook just how much he hurt Mason, and it's easy to overlook Mason's pain when his walls are up even while he's being protective of Drew and fighting for him. But it's still there through the story, that festering, old wound that needs healing even though there are bigger things that need their immediate attention (I'm trying to avoid spoilers, so it sounds a little cagey), and I love that it takes WORK to get through it all. It isn't just an immediate kiss-and-make up. It's realistic. There are lasting effects to trauma and the authors didn't just ignore that in favour of a sweet love story. And these two ARE so sweet. Drew is a cuddly, broken teddy bear who really needs someone on his side for once, and Mason is a feisty chihuahua who loves hard and fiercely protects the people he cares about. It's just SUCH a great book!!
The set up to the next book is wonderful, too, and I am SO EXCITED to see where that goes. There's a certain Plant Daddy who needs someone to care for, and I hope we get to see a little bit more of Mal, too.
Drew needs so much comfort and love that it's easy to overlook just how much he hurt Mason, and it's easy to overlook Mason's pain when his walls are up even while he's being protective of Drew and fighting for him. But it's still there through the story, that festering, old wound that needs healing even though there are bigger things that need their immediate attention (I'm trying to avoid spoilers, so it sounds a little cagey), and I love that it takes WORK to get through it all. It isn't just an immediate kiss-and-make up. It's realistic. There are lasting effects to trauma and the authors didn't just ignore that in favour of a sweet love story. And these two ARE so sweet. Drew is a cuddly, broken teddy bear who really needs someone on his side for once, and Mason is a feisty chihuahua who loves hard and fiercely protects the people he cares about. It's just SUCH a great book!!
The set up to the next book is wonderful, too, and I am SO EXCITED to see where that goes. There's a certain Plant Daddy who needs someone to care for, and I hope we get to see a little bit more of Mal, too.
January 26, 2021
Realistic is probably a strange word to describe a story that is set in a small town full of magic put in everyday use. This beautifully written book confirms once again that loving someone is relatively easy, forgiving someone is possible, but earning trust again is the hard part. And without trust there can be no future. When Masons' fiercely loyal heart was shattered 10 years ago he built a wall around it so high that it will take Drew everything he has to put it back together again, while fighting his own issues. He's not alone this time. The family of friends are there to support both on their journey to recovery and sometimes gently push them in the right direction. The feels run deep and ups and downs will break your heart and put it together again over and over again. The touch of humor will definitely help you along the way. I loved that there's no sugary sweetness here just the depth of emotion that feels so real and will touch your heart on a very realistic level. I'm sure every one can find a piece of themselves in this book. To get a better grasp on the magical world you should probably read a free novella (I think - not sure - you can still get it by signing up for authors newsletter) that introduced me to this magical town and some friends that are playing an important role in this one, but it's not absolutely necessary.
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