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Break Point #1
Break Point
Tennis's golden boy Travis Montgomery is at the apex of his life and his young career after winning the US Open yet, his mind and heart is somewhere else. Somewhere deep inside the closet of his past and the secrets he hides even from those who are the closest to him. He is flashing back on another time, another dream, and another love when he is reminded of the only success that eludes him.
Fresh out of medical school, Dr. Ashton Kennedy moves back to Seattle to complete his medical training and start the new beginning he has wanted since Travis walked away six years ago. The task is proving to be harder than he anticipated, especially when Travis returns waving a white flag.
What will happen when these two men meet again after six long years? Will Ashton get his questions answered or will Travis’ ambition force him even deeper into the closet?
Heartfelt and sometimes comical, Break Point is a story about friendship, love, forgiveness and living an authentic life.
Fresh out of medical school, Dr. Ashton Kennedy moves back to Seattle to complete his medical training and start the new beginning he has wanted since Travis walked away six years ago. The task is proving to be harder than he anticipated, especially when Travis returns waving a white flag.
What will happen when these two men meet again after six long years? Will Ashton get his questions answered or will Travis’ ambition force him even deeper into the closet?
Heartfelt and sometimes comical, Break Point is a story about friendship, love, forgiveness and living an authentic life.
243 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 15, 2021
21 people are currently reading
803 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 173 reviews
October 16, 2021
Sometimes you lie to protect someone, sometimes you lie for self preservation and sometimes you lie to further your life in some capacity. Obviously the list could go on and on but what what happens when you’ve lived a lie for so long you don’t know how to tell the truth? It’s like digging a hole deeper and deeper until there’s no way out but down.
It’s both funny and heartbreaking that they’ve infiltrated each other’s lives without each other’s knowledge. It’s like parallel lives that will never intervene, unless somebody takes a step out of line. In this case, it’s Ash when he sends that text congratulating Travis on his big win. Now we just have to wait and see how it all plays out.
Travis is the one that needs to prove his worth to Ash, especially the way they left things six years prior. And Ash is a hard nut to crack but who can blame him? What’s that saying? Once burned, twice shy?
Honestly, if it was me, I wouldn’t even consider touching him unless he came out. Otherwise it’a like trying to catch water with a sieve.
This could be because I’m obsessed with Kulti by Mariana Zapata but Travis’ pitiful cluelessness around his swarming fans reminded me of him. In the best possible way, it’s adorable.
Then Ash has an epiphany when the reality of mortality slaps him in the face. It puts a lot into perspective, maybe nothing else matters. I mean, in the end, isn’t that what we’re all looking for?
I love how family oriented they both are, even if Ash didn’t have the best relationship with his mom. But then, the conversation he had with her and Travis had with his dad after the cabin was so wonderfully emotional. 🥺
Overall this has been a highly enjoyable read. Along with the families, Katie and Aaliyah were awesome additions. They added some much needed relief to anxiety and strain between the guys. I love a rocky road, it makes good times that much better. You’ll never truly appreciate the sunshine without enduring the storm.
It’s both funny and heartbreaking that they’ve infiltrated each other’s lives without each other’s knowledge. It’s like parallel lives that will never intervene, unless somebody takes a step out of line. In this case, it’s Ash when he sends that text congratulating Travis on his big win. Now we just have to wait and see how it all plays out.
Travis is the one that needs to prove his worth to Ash, especially the way they left things six years prior. And Ash is a hard nut to crack but who can blame him? What’s that saying? Once burned, twice shy?
Honestly, if it was me, I wouldn’t even consider touching him unless he came out. Otherwise it’a like trying to catch water with a sieve.
This could be because I’m obsessed with Kulti by Mariana Zapata but Travis’ pitiful cluelessness around his swarming fans reminded me of him. In the best possible way, it’s adorable.
Then Ash has an epiphany when the reality of mortality slaps him in the face. It puts a lot into perspective, maybe nothing else matters. I mean, in the end, isn’t that what we’re all looking for?
I love how family oriented they both are, even if Ash didn’t have the best relationship with his mom. But then, the conversation he had with her and Travis had with his dad after the cabin was so wonderfully emotional. 🥺
Overall this has been a highly enjoyable read. Along with the families, Katie and Aaliyah were awesome additions. They added some much needed relief to anxiety and strain between the guys. I love a rocky road, it makes good times that much better. You’ll never truly appreciate the sunshine without enduring the storm.
March 27, 2021
“I kiss him with all my might, not caring that the world can see. Because for the first time in my life, I am not afraid.”
Oof. BREAK POINT was my first full-length MM romance, and it may have ruined me for any that come after.
An #ownvoices novel, BREAK POINT grabbed me with its authenticity and sincerity. It was real, raw, substantive. I felt Ash’s pain and heartbreak. And Trav... oh, Trav. My heart broke for him as I watched him hide deep inside the closet of his mind. Hell must be living your life holding your breath, tamping down who you truly are, rejecting the one who accepts you fully...just so you can fit into some preconceived notion of who you think you should be.
But love is love, right?
And so, thank god that BREAK POINT is first and foremost an incredibly well-written love story, because I couldn’t take it if these two didn’t figure it out. It was a friends-to-lovers to almost-enemies and back to lovers again. Its leading men were swoon worthy. It gave me *all* the feels. And YES for the HEA, because dammit, Trav!
Thank you, Garry Michael, for writing such a gorgeous, layered, sexy book. I cannot wait for your follow up!!
(PS: can Aayilah adopt me?)
Oof. BREAK POINT was my first full-length MM romance, and it may have ruined me for any that come after.
An #ownvoices novel, BREAK POINT grabbed me with its authenticity and sincerity. It was real, raw, substantive. I felt Ash’s pain and heartbreak. And Trav... oh, Trav. My heart broke for him as I watched him hide deep inside the closet of his mind. Hell must be living your life holding your breath, tamping down who you truly are, rejecting the one who accepts you fully...just so you can fit into some preconceived notion of who you think you should be.
But love is love, right?
And so, thank god that BREAK POINT is first and foremost an incredibly well-written love story, because I couldn’t take it if these two didn’t figure it out. It was a friends-to-lovers to almost-enemies and back to lovers again. Its leading men were swoon worthy. It gave me *all* the feels. And YES for the HEA, because dammit, Trav!
Thank you, Garry Michael, for writing such a gorgeous, layered, sexy book. I cannot wait for your follow up!!
(PS: can Aayilah adopt me?)
April 20, 2021
I don't understand the high ratings. The characters are bland, the writing isn't immersive and the scenario screams white money.
March 23, 2021
The beginning of this book put me into the crowd cheering loud and then silent and still, while Travis had a gripping flashback. It was that point I knew I was in it for it. All eyes on Trav but yet his home is gripping his heart, his home is the handsome Ash.
Gosh, I was so mad at somebody. I was mad at the way he handled a situation, it could have been such an amazing moment, an amazing RIGHT that so many need, but I was applauding and crying for the realization and breakthrough that occurred for Trav.
Trav a bit broken but determined to win who worked hard every step of the way on the tennis court. Famous but unfulfilled personally. Ash, a Doctor, vulnerable, sweet, and proud.
The author transports us easily into flashbacks without staying in the past for too long. It was just enough to make your heart flutter and hope.
Reconnecting after all this time, was tragically beautiful and passionate. I felt how Trav wanted to hold on to Ash so much and couldn’t. I felt how Ash at this pointed wanted him after all this time however he could, but they deserved their right, to love, to wrap their arms around one another, to kiss when they wanted, and to lay down side by side one another in their bed.
It tugged on every emotion, lit my world on fire with their chemistry in the bedroom, and made me so happy. To many more yea? A beautiful debut!
❤️And for the first time in a long while, I can breathe.
🥵“Whatever you pay for the view around here, you’re not paying enough,” Travis’ deep voice moans in my ear as I feel the first hint of pressure.
🥵I miss that body, that ass. It’s going to be a great return home.
March 21, 2021
Game Set and Match - Brilliant
I have been waiting to read this book for months since Garry Michael first started posting photos and snippets and as soon as it dropped I had downloaded it and it did not disappoint, I could not put it down and it was worth losing sleep. I cannot believe this is his first book as the writing is so good, very descriptive and almost poetic in parts. The tennis scenes in the big arenas make you believe you are there routing for Travis and you can almost imagine Djokovic or Federer at the other end of the net.
The love story of Travis and Ashton started when they were children and by the time they were in college they were lovers. Ash came out at 15 but Travis was so deeply embedded in the closet that he broke Ash’s heart when he walked away.
The setting for their first reunion in 6 years was tense and full of anticipation. I liked that the story was written with both POV and gave us flashbacks to their earlier relationship. There was a depth to both character and they were relatable, I didn’t take to Travis at first but his character had many complex layers and he was redeemable. The sex scenes were hot and well written and didn’t dominate the story. I also loved the other characters in the book, both had lovely supportive parents and Kate and Aaliyah were the best friends everyone needs in their lives.
I can’t wait to read the next book by Garry Michael and would highly recommend this book.
I have been waiting to read this book for months since Garry Michael first started posting photos and snippets and as soon as it dropped I had downloaded it and it did not disappoint, I could not put it down and it was worth losing sleep. I cannot believe this is his first book as the writing is so good, very descriptive and almost poetic in parts. The tennis scenes in the big arenas make you believe you are there routing for Travis and you can almost imagine Djokovic or Federer at the other end of the net.
The love story of Travis and Ashton started when they were children and by the time they were in college they were lovers. Ash came out at 15 but Travis was so deeply embedded in the closet that he broke Ash’s heart when he walked away.
The setting for their first reunion in 6 years was tense and full of anticipation. I liked that the story was written with both POV and gave us flashbacks to their earlier relationship. There was a depth to both character and they were relatable, I didn’t take to Travis at first but his character had many complex layers and he was redeemable. The sex scenes were hot and well written and didn’t dominate the story. I also loved the other characters in the book, both had lovely supportive parents and Kate and Aaliyah were the best friends everyone needs in their lives.
I can’t wait to read the next book by Garry Michael and would highly recommend this book.
March 22, 2021
A Must Read Beautiful Love Story
What an extremely beautiful, amazing and well written story! Travis & Ashton’s journey in this book had me crying, laughing and crying some more! The love they have for each other is emotional and heartfelt!
Travis was such an amazing character. He is extremely vulnerable and raw. He had so many emotional struggles he went through in this book. Travis’ struggles make you want to reach into the book and give him a hug to tell him everything will be ok. Travis is struggling with his happiness. He is successful and loved within the Tennis community however, his heart aches for the one he can’t have.
Ashton, is so sure of himself a successful doctor trying to forget his past and move on with his life. But how do you forget your best friend and first love? Ashton’s love for Travis is beautiful! When you love some one so much, you fight for them! And this is what Ashton does! Even when he repeatedly gets his heart broken over and over again!
Garry Michael, your writing is captivating, beautiful and emotional. From the very first page I couldn’t wait to see where you would take me with your amazing words! Thank you for the sad tears and more so for the happy tears! That epilogue had me on the edge of my seat. Then it had me sobbing!!! This book deserves all the stars! Five out of five is just not enough! I love, love, loved it so very much! An absolute must read!!!
What an extremely beautiful, amazing and well written story! Travis & Ashton’s journey in this book had me crying, laughing and crying some more! The love they have for each other is emotional and heartfelt!
Travis was such an amazing character. He is extremely vulnerable and raw. He had so many emotional struggles he went through in this book. Travis’ struggles make you want to reach into the book and give him a hug to tell him everything will be ok. Travis is struggling with his happiness. He is successful and loved within the Tennis community however, his heart aches for the one he can’t have.
Ashton, is so sure of himself a successful doctor trying to forget his past and move on with his life. But how do you forget your best friend and first love? Ashton’s love for Travis is beautiful! When you love some one so much, you fight for them! And this is what Ashton does! Even when he repeatedly gets his heart broken over and over again!
Garry Michael, your writing is captivating, beautiful and emotional. From the very first page I couldn’t wait to see where you would take me with your amazing words! Thank you for the sad tears and more so for the happy tears! That epilogue had me on the edge of my seat. Then it had me sobbing!!! This book deserves all the stars! Five out of five is just not enough! I love, love, loved it so very much! An absolute must read!!!
March 21, 2021
I just devoured this in one sitting. This was the best MM romance I have ever read, no word of a lie. It had more depth and more emotional content than any other book I've read for quite a while, gay or straight.
First of all, the characters are all fantastic. They grabbed me from the first page, and didn't let go, because they were so easy to sympathise with. I've ignored my husband all morning because I just couldn't stop reading!
Also, the FEELS. All of the tender moments - from very first kiss (which was INCREDIBLE) to epilogue - warmed my heart no end. I was so desperate for Travis and Ash to have their HEA, because they both truly deserved it.
ESPECIALLY in the face of the heteronormative garbage they had to deal with throughout, which was really finely portrayed. It really made me think about how much is taken for granted by the straight community, and I'd also like to add, screw heteronormativity RIGHT IN THE EAR.
Some parts had me in tears, and I cannot recommend this book highly enough to anyone looking for a read that's going to grab your heart. Five stars, zero hesitation.
First of all, the characters are all fantastic. They grabbed me from the first page, and didn't let go, because they were so easy to sympathise with. I've ignored my husband all morning because I just couldn't stop reading!
Also, the FEELS. All of the tender moments - from very first kiss (which was INCREDIBLE) to epilogue - warmed my heart no end. I was so desperate for Travis and Ash to have their HEA, because they both truly deserved it.
ESPECIALLY in the face of the heteronormative garbage they had to deal with throughout, which was really finely portrayed. It really made me think about how much is taken for granted by the straight community, and I'd also like to add, screw heteronormativity RIGHT IN THE EAR.
Some parts had me in tears, and I cannot recommend this book highly enough to anyone looking for a read that's going to grab your heart. Five stars, zero hesitation.
March 21, 2021
Emotional and Steamy
An emotional yet steamy second chance romance between Ashton and Travis will have you hooked from the beginning. These two men had such a vibrant history that it was sad to see when they split the first time and second time due to the constrictions of everyday society. Luckily everything works out in the end and Ash and Trav get the happily ever after they so deserve.
An emotional yet steamy second chance romance between Ashton and Travis will have you hooked from the beginning. These two men had such a vibrant history that it was sad to see when they split the first time and second time due to the constrictions of everyday society. Luckily everything works out in the end and Ash and Trav get the happily ever after they so deserve.
March 24, 2021
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⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Garry is a new author to me and I decided to read his book since that lately I'm attracted to M/M stories 🖤. Also, I've heard several people talk positively about this book so i went ahead and devoured it 🙈. No exaggeration there. I literally read it in two hours because the story is so gripping and the book itself is a page-turner.
Now let me tell you about Ash and Travis. The connection and love that these two share is undeniably strong. Sometimes though this is not enough to bring together two people. In the beginning it was so sad to see that these two couldn't be together because there was fear about what people would say. I was like "fuck people! Be together and don't give a fuck about what others will say" 🙈🖤. Ash and Travis are the sweetest men that had to fight for their HEA and I couldn't imagine their story being any different than that. Obstacles and failures made them even stronger.
I loved reading their ups and downs, their anger and sorrow, their passion and lust..
And since I'm a smutt slut 😈 I thoroughly enjoyed their hot moments 🙈. Maybe a tad too much since I made sure I was reading those scenes at least twice before I move on.. 😈😏🖤
"That's it baby, damn you're tight."
😉
I REALLY liked this book and the writing style of this author. He definitely has my attention and I can't wait to read more from him 🖤
"/>⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Garry is a new author to me and I decided to read his book since that lately I'm attracted to M/M stories 🖤. Also, I've heard several people talk positively about this book so i went ahead and devoured it 🙈. No exaggeration there. I literally read it in two hours because the story is so gripping and the book itself is a page-turner.
Now let me tell you about Ash and Travis. The connection and love that these two share is undeniably strong. Sometimes though this is not enough to bring together two people. In the beginning it was so sad to see that these two couldn't be together because there was fear about what people would say. I was like "fuck people! Be together and don't give a fuck about what others will say" 🙈🖤. Ash and Travis are the sweetest men that had to fight for their HEA and I couldn't imagine their story being any different than that. Obstacles and failures made them even stronger.
I loved reading their ups and downs, their anger and sorrow, their passion and lust..
And since I'm a smutt slut 😈 I thoroughly enjoyed their hot moments 🙈. Maybe a tad too much since I made sure I was reading those scenes at least twice before I move on.. 😈😏🖤
"That's it baby, damn you're tight."
😉
I REALLY liked this book and the writing style of this author. He definitely has my attention and I can't wait to read more from him 🖤
June 24, 2024
Nope that just really wasn’t it DNFed at 60%
I was actually really exited in the beginning because I was really in the mood for some coming out and get back together Trope but damn this wasn’t it.
Everything was just so off…
Travis didn’t wanted to come since he trained for the US open, okay fine whatever. But the way he tried to keep Ash with the thought in his mind that he probably will NEVER come out is such a no go. And I also don’t get why he didn’t came out after he won the US open or told anyone since this was what made him not do it.
And as Ash came back into his life he still had absolutely no intention to change something but still wanted to keep Ash again lol. Ash of course wasn’t happy about this at all and didn’t wanted to be around him and told him they can’t be back to what they were. Well this went on and on and then suddenly Ash didn’t care anymore and they were fucking again …because Ash had a hard day in hospital and needed a outlet.
I mean okay? Kind of get it but then I do not because he was literally saying they won’t do anything like that every again and then he just threw his own boundaries over bored. But that isn’t what upset me here, it’s the thing that Travis was LETTING him do it even that he just knew that Ash wasn’t really in his right mind.
I mean bro if you really care for someone and know that they told you they don’t want to be close to you like that anymore, since you want to hide yourself behind an ever ongoing lie, and that it hurts them, then I think you should stop the other person.
This all really annoyed me and the whole thing gave me kind of manipulation vibes lol and I definitely wasn’t looking for something like that.
I was actually really exited in the beginning because I was really in the mood for some coming out and get back together Trope but damn this wasn’t it.
Everything was just so off…
Travis didn’t wanted to come since he trained for the US open, okay fine whatever. But the way he tried to keep Ash with the thought in his mind that he probably will NEVER come out is such a no go. And I also don’t get why he didn’t came out after he won the US open or told anyone since this was what made him not do it.
And as Ash came back into his life he still had absolutely no intention to change something but still wanted to keep Ash again lol. Ash of course wasn’t happy about this at all and didn’t wanted to be around him and told him they can’t be back to what they were. Well this went on and on and then suddenly Ash didn’t care anymore and they were fucking again …because Ash had a hard day in hospital and needed a outlet.
I mean okay? Kind of get it but then I do not because he was literally saying they won’t do anything like that every again and then he just threw his own boundaries over bored. But that isn’t what upset me here, it’s the thing that Travis was LETTING him do it even that he just knew that Ash wasn’t really in his right mind.
I mean bro if you really care for someone and know that they told you they don’t want to be close to you like that anymore, since you want to hide yourself behind an ever ongoing lie, and that it hurts them, then I think you should stop the other person.
This all really annoyed me and the whole thing gave me kind of manipulation vibes lol and I definitely wasn’t looking for something like that.
October 16, 2021
Just Beautiful 💗
Oh my what a lovely story. I loved Travis and Ashton’s story. This was such a sweet story but it also shows the very real and justified fears and heartache that some people have about coming out as gay. It amazes me that this still matters but sadly it does. My nephew has been exiled from his family for coming out as gay and marrying a man and it breaks my heart so reading this made their story much more real. I loved that Travis and Ashton found the peace to live the life they both deserved. And damn those sex scenes, they’re so darn hot 🔥
I enjoyed the support characters, especially Travis’ parents and lol of course they knew 😉 Well done on your debut novel, this a beautifully, well written read and your acknowledgments are one of the nicest I’ve read.
“I don’t want you to be my Prince Charming or my knight in shining armour. I just want you to be my Travis. The Travis I fell in love with when I was a teenager. Just you, nothing less.”
Oh my what a lovely story. I loved Travis and Ashton’s story. This was such a sweet story but it also shows the very real and justified fears and heartache that some people have about coming out as gay. It amazes me that this still matters but sadly it does. My nephew has been exiled from his family for coming out as gay and marrying a man and it breaks my heart so reading this made their story much more real. I loved that Travis and Ashton found the peace to live the life they both deserved. And damn those sex scenes, they’re so darn hot 🔥
I enjoyed the support characters, especially Travis’ parents and lol of course they knew 😉 Well done on your debut novel, this a beautifully, well written read and your acknowledgments are one of the nicest I’ve read.
“I don’t want you to be my Prince Charming or my knight in shining armour. I just want you to be my Travis. The Travis I fell in love with when I was a teenager. Just you, nothing less.”
April 29, 2021
Break Point’s YA version is out now! 100% of proceeds will go the the Trevor Project.
Thank you for your support!
Thank you for your support!
April 25, 2023
DNF @ 4%
I'm flabbergasted by the unusually high average ratings that all of this author's work has. I don't know if people are deliberately giving high ratings because they're taking other things into consideration but I only judge a book based on the contents in it and this story reads like a teenager's first fanfic due to the extremely amateur writing style. Some examples of things I noticed:
+ Everything is painfully over explained with zero subtlety or trust that readers can fill in minor blanks themselves. For example, setting up a very awkward section where the MC is in the middle of a tennis match but apparently, he stops mid-match to reminisce about something that happened in the past before a flashback starts. None of that was needed. Readers will know what's happening if you just stop the tennis, switch to a new paragraph and add a helpful date header to indicate it's a flashback.
+ The writing was awkward, stiff and oddly formal at times, with the author switching back and forth between using contractions and not using them. Characters also acted overly emotional (ex. yelling dramatically and waving their arms around) at random times.
+ There are way too many dialog tags, they're often unnecessary (lots of 'he said' and 'he asked') and even worse, they're sometimes inserted in the middle of a paragraph, which disrupts the flow for no reason.
All of these issues are common for beginner writers and I wouldn't complain about it if I were reading a 14 year old's first fanfic on AO3, but it's something that I consider to be unacceptable by somebody who is charging money for their creations. The author might be an amazing storyteller but their writing skills aren't at a level where I can focus on the story to properly judge it.
It's too bad because I'd been excited to discover a new MM romance author and I went into this with high hopes because the ratings are unbelievably high for an author whose name I hadn't heard of before. It seems those readers deliberately ignored the painfully amateur writing, which is fine but it's something I won't do because I feel it's disrespectful to the authors who practice hard to have their writing skills be at a certain level before they start charging money. But it's always good to get new MM romance authors coming into the community so I'd be happy to check out this author's work in a few years if they've taken the time to improve their skills.
I'm flabbergasted by the unusually high average ratings that all of this author's work has. I don't know if people are deliberately giving high ratings because they're taking other things into consideration but I only judge a book based on the contents in it and this story reads like a teenager's first fanfic due to the extremely amateur writing style. Some examples of things I noticed:
+ Everything is painfully over explained with zero subtlety or trust that readers can fill in minor blanks themselves. For example, setting up a very awkward section where the MC is in the middle of a tennis match but apparently, he stops mid-match to reminisce about something that happened in the past before a flashback starts. None of that was needed. Readers will know what's happening if you just stop the tennis, switch to a new paragraph and add a helpful date header to indicate it's a flashback.
+ The writing was awkward, stiff and oddly formal at times, with the author switching back and forth between using contractions and not using them. Characters also acted overly emotional (ex. yelling dramatically and waving their arms around) at random times.
+ There are way too many dialog tags, they're often unnecessary (lots of 'he said' and 'he asked') and even worse, they're sometimes inserted in the middle of a paragraph, which disrupts the flow for no reason.
All of these issues are common for beginner writers and I wouldn't complain about it if I were reading a 14 year old's first fanfic on AO3, but it's something that I consider to be unacceptable by somebody who is charging money for their creations. The author might be an amazing storyteller but their writing skills aren't at a level where I can focus on the story to properly judge it.
It's too bad because I'd been excited to discover a new MM romance author and I went into this with high hopes because the ratings are unbelievably high for an author whose name I hadn't heard of before. It seems those readers deliberately ignored the painfully amateur writing, which is fine but it's something I won't do because I feel it's disrespectful to the authors who practice hard to have their writing skills be at a certain level before they start charging money. But it's always good to get new MM romance authors coming into the community so I'd be happy to check out this author's work in a few years if they've taken the time to improve their skills.
April 13, 2021
I cannot describe how happy I'm feeling after reading this book. I'm grinning like an idiot. I could connect with the characters. Ashton is my favorite! I felt bad for him most of the time. Travis redeemed himself towards the end and I could understand his inner turmoil.
My first M*M romance but it won't be the last one! A simple yet capturing story of love and struggle. A great read!
Favorite Quotes :
"The solace I feel should have frightened me. It should have triggered the guilt that’s plagued me the past few years. But it never comes. And for the first time in a long while, I can breathe."
"Coming out is a very personal journey, and only you can decide when that moment is. No one should tell you when you’re ready. You are the driver of your own life and when you decide it’s time, be prepared to be disappointed, because not everyone around you will support your decisions or respect your choices. Surround yourself with those who will support you and give you the courage you need to keep going."
Book Title: Break Point
Author: @author_garry_michael
Trope: Second Chance/Childhood Friends to lovers/ M*M
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5 (Just for bringing a smile to my face... It's such a sweet read...)
Chemistry: ❤❤❤❤❤/5 (I loved how good they understood each other...)
Angst: 🥵🥵🥵/5 (The sex scenes were so sweet)
Anticipation: 😰😰😰😰/5 (I just skimmed through the book with ease. I had a nice weekend just because of this book ❤)
Plot Twist: 🤯🤯🤯/5 (This book is a simple and easy read. I loved how they got back without much drama. I loved how supportive their parents were.)
Would I read more books from this author? Of course without any trace of doubt! I love Garry's writing style which was simple but powerful and enchanting.
My first M*M romance but it won't be the last one! A simple yet capturing story of love and struggle. A great read!
Favorite Quotes :
"The solace I feel should have frightened me. It should have triggered the guilt that’s plagued me the past few years. But it never comes. And for the first time in a long while, I can breathe."
"Coming out is a very personal journey, and only you can decide when that moment is. No one should tell you when you’re ready. You are the driver of your own life and when you decide it’s time, be prepared to be disappointed, because not everyone around you will support your decisions or respect your choices. Surround yourself with those who will support you and give you the courage you need to keep going."
Book Title: Break Point
Author: @author_garry_michael
Trope: Second Chance/Childhood Friends to lovers/ M*M
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5 (Just for bringing a smile to my face... It's such a sweet read...)
Chemistry: ❤❤❤❤❤/5 (I loved how good they understood each other...)
Angst: 🥵🥵🥵/5 (The sex scenes were so sweet)
Anticipation: 😰😰😰😰/5 (I just skimmed through the book with ease. I had a nice weekend just because of this book ❤)
Plot Twist: 🤯🤯🤯/5 (This book is a simple and easy read. I loved how they got back without much drama. I loved how supportive their parents were.)
Would I read more books from this author? Of course without any trace of doubt! I love Garry's writing style which was simple but powerful and enchanting.
March 22, 2021
Wonderful story and debut novel!
Wow such a wonderful story! I fell in love with Travis and Ash (the two heroes of the story) right away. The writing style was easy to follow and flowed so smoothly going back in time at various points so you could understand how the relationship of the main characters evolved over time as they were childhood bestfriends. The author had a way of pulling you into the story so that you felt all the happiness and heartbreaking pain that Travis and Ash were going through at pivotal points in their lives. Thankfully they both had awesome support systems through their parents and both their best friends Katie and Aailyah.
From the beginning I was on the edge of my seat (feet bouncing on the floor) anticipating when the two would be reunited after not seeing each other for so many years and then rooting and cheering for them to finally get the HEA that they deserved. In which they get tenfold with such a sweet and happy ending!!
Highly recommend! With Break Point you get intense emotions, great characters, hot steamy scenes, and a wonderful story of how love can withstand, endure, and grow over time.
Wow such a wonderful story! I fell in love with Travis and Ash (the two heroes of the story) right away. The writing style was easy to follow and flowed so smoothly going back in time at various points so you could understand how the relationship of the main characters evolved over time as they were childhood bestfriends. The author had a way of pulling you into the story so that you felt all the happiness and heartbreaking pain that Travis and Ash were going through at pivotal points in their lives. Thankfully they both had awesome support systems through their parents and both their best friends Katie and Aailyah.
From the beginning I was on the edge of my seat (feet bouncing on the floor) anticipating when the two would be reunited after not seeing each other for so many years and then rooting and cheering for them to finally get the HEA that they deserved. In which they get tenfold with such a sweet and happy ending!!
Highly recommend! With Break Point you get intense emotions, great characters, hot steamy scenes, and a wonderful story of how love can withstand, endure, and grow over time.
March 10, 2021
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I’ve been patiently waiting to read this book since Garry Michael dropped his first teaser back in December and it DID NOT disappoint. After reading the prologue, I knew I was in for a great ride. Travis and Ashton’s story started when they were ten years old and developed into something deeper. College was when they parted ways. It was a short scene via flash back back but so heart breaking.
The set up for their first meeting after six years created such anticipation I found myself excited beyond belief. Every chapter after that was just pages after pages of excitement and heart felt scenes.
There were so many things to love about this book (subplots) and it’s hard to list all them without giving some of the plots away.
This was a solid five start debut. I can’t wait to read more of his work.
I’ve been patiently waiting to read this book since Garry Michael dropped his first teaser back in December and it DID NOT disappoint. After reading the prologue, I knew I was in for a great ride. Travis and Ashton’s story started when they were ten years old and developed into something deeper. College was when they parted ways. It was a short scene via flash back back but so heart breaking.
The set up for their first meeting after six years created such anticipation I found myself excited beyond belief. Every chapter after that was just pages after pages of excitement and heart felt scenes.
There were so many things to love about this book (subplots) and it’s hard to list all them without giving some of the plots away.
This was a solid five start debut. I can’t wait to read more of his work.
March 28, 2021
4.5 stars rounded up to 5
This book has ticked so many boxes for me. Second chance? Tick. Sports? Tick. A bit of angst because of a closeted gay? Tick. All tidied into a well written and well paced story that had me hooked from the beginning.
I just love love love second chance romances, particularly like in this story, when it's with childhood friends turned lovers who actually are soulmates that never stop loving each other despite the time and distance. Their relationship is so beautiful and hot! And I felt the pain from Travis all throughout the book - you could feel the angst, his internal battle with what he really wanted and what he felt was the right thing to do in order to maintain his career. In fact, the only reason I am not giving this book a full 5 stars is because we don't learn until towards the end of the book the real reasons why Travis will not come out publicly. There's nothing hinting at the real reason all through his POV narration or the conversations he has with Ash, and although I had an idea of why he was behaving the way he did, there's no hinting at all. And that annoyed me a little bit - but that's just me :)
This book has ticked so many boxes for me. Second chance? Tick. Sports? Tick. A bit of angst because of a closeted gay? Tick. All tidied into a well written and well paced story that had me hooked from the beginning.
I just love love love second chance romances, particularly like in this story, when it's with childhood friends turned lovers who actually are soulmates that never stop loving each other despite the time and distance. Their relationship is so beautiful and hot! And I felt the pain from Travis all throughout the book - you could feel the angst, his internal battle with what he really wanted and what he felt was the right thing to do in order to maintain his career. In fact, the only reason I am not giving this book a full 5 stars is because we don't learn until towards the end of the book the real reasons why Travis will not come out publicly. There's nothing hinting at the real reason all through his POV narration or the conversations he has with Ash, and although I had an idea of why he was behaving the way he did, there's no hinting at all. And that annoyed me a little bit - but that's just me :)
March 27, 2021
Some books stay with you long after the last page, and Break Point is certainly one that will remain etched on my heart for some time to come.
Author Garry Michael masterfully tells Travis and Ashton’s love story in flashbacks and heartfelt recollections that guide the reader to their reconnection in the present. Although Travis is now a world-renowned tennis star and Ash a successful doctor, their hearts undoubtedly still belong to one another. With every page, I was reminded that even if life pulls you in two different directions, true love will ensure you intersect at some point.
This well-crafted story was thoroughly enjoyable and ticked all of my boxes for a sweet, steamy, serendipitous romance with believable characters and an engaging plot that kept me hanging on to the very end. Bravo Garry Michael!
Author Garry Michael masterfully tells Travis and Ashton’s love story in flashbacks and heartfelt recollections that guide the reader to their reconnection in the present. Although Travis is now a world-renowned tennis star and Ash a successful doctor, their hearts undoubtedly still belong to one another. With every page, I was reminded that even if life pulls you in two different directions, true love will ensure you intersect at some point.
This well-crafted story was thoroughly enjoyable and ticked all of my boxes for a sweet, steamy, serendipitous romance with believable characters and an engaging plot that kept me hanging on to the very end. Bravo Garry Michael!
March 25, 2021
What a breathtaking, heart tugging story!
I especially loved the way the author did the progressing flashbacks. It gave us a look back on how long they truly cared for one another.
Each character struggled with their own battle and it was for sure an emotional rollercoaster. There’s a scene which Travis and his dad share. It literally brought happy tears to my eyes.
The author did such a fantastic job letting us feel the connection between them and I don’t think my heart will ever be the same.
I’m not Clark Kent, but If I were Superman, Travis’ smile would be my kryptonite.
I felt at home there, lying with Travis. A place where there was no fear, pain, or chaos. Just him and I.
I especially loved the way the author did the progressing flashbacks. It gave us a look back on how long they truly cared for one another.
Each character struggled with their own battle and it was for sure an emotional rollercoaster. There’s a scene which Travis and his dad share. It literally brought happy tears to my eyes.
The author did such a fantastic job letting us feel the connection between them and I don’t think my heart will ever be the same.
I’m not Clark Kent, but If I were Superman, Travis’ smile would be my kryptonite.
I felt at home there, lying with Travis. A place where there was no fear, pain, or chaos. Just him and I.
March 23, 2021
4.5 Emotional 😭 ⭐️
oMg what an emotional ride! But, I LOVED it. This book is so good. I stared reading it last night, fell asleep and it was the first thing I picked up this morning. If i wasn’t so exhausted I would have stayed up allll night reading this gem. Oh my god can we say ALL THE FEELS? This book had me so emotional. Travis and Ash is just everything. I loved how devoted and loyal there were to each other. It is so obvious that they loved each other. Travis knew that he loved Ash but he received some horrible advice from his mentor and broke the man of his dreams heart. This is a fast paced book but it didn’t lack in anything. We were still able to get depth and character development. Also, can I mention the feels again? Omg I felt for both Ash and Travis. Ash because it couldn’t have been easy seeing the love of your life choose tennis over loving you. He was so heartbroken that he kept it all in until he cousins take it anymore. And Travis because it was obvious that his leaving Ash was weighing HEAVY on his mind and his life. To not be able to share your success with the man you love just has to be hard. I liked how this book transitioned from past to present. It was good getting the backstory of the couple in a way that didn’t confuse you. The author did a fabulous job in that area. I love the support that Travis and Ash got when they finally let their guard down. That touched me so much. I am in awe of how sweet this story is. I usually cringe at stories where we have a closeted gay man but this story rigged at my heart and had me rooting for Travis and Ash to get their happily ever after. I must admit that I was so afraid because I thought Travis was going to be outed but that plot twist did surprise me. I loved how persistent Travis was when we made his mind up to come out as a gay man. I was proud!! My only issues with this book is that I wanted more descriptive sex scenes. Also, I would’ve loved to see the couple more on the pages as an our couple. Other than that, the ending was super Sweet and Kuddos to the author for writing this important and heartwarming story. Everyone deserves to be loved no matter who it is.
oMg what an emotional ride! But, I LOVED it. This book is so good. I stared reading it last night, fell asleep and it was the first thing I picked up this morning. If i wasn’t so exhausted I would have stayed up allll night reading this gem. Oh my god can we say ALL THE FEELS? This book had me so emotional. Travis and Ash is just everything. I loved how devoted and loyal there were to each other. It is so obvious that they loved each other. Travis knew that he loved Ash but he received some horrible advice from his mentor and broke the man of his dreams heart. This is a fast paced book but it didn’t lack in anything. We were still able to get depth and character development. Also, can I mention the feels again? Omg I felt for both Ash and Travis. Ash because it couldn’t have been easy seeing the love of your life choose tennis over loving you. He was so heartbroken that he kept it all in until he cousins take it anymore. And Travis because it was obvious that his leaving Ash was weighing HEAVY on his mind and his life. To not be able to share your success with the man you love just has to be hard. I liked how this book transitioned from past to present. It was good getting the backstory of the couple in a way that didn’t confuse you. The author did a fabulous job in that area. I love the support that Travis and Ash got when they finally let their guard down. That touched me so much. I am in awe of how sweet this story is. I usually cringe at stories where we have a closeted gay man but this story rigged at my heart and had me rooting for Travis and Ash to get their happily ever after. I must admit that I was so afraid because I thought Travis was going to be outed but that plot twist did surprise me. I loved how persistent Travis was when we made his mind up to come out as a gay man. I was proud!! My only issues with this book is that I wanted more descriptive sex scenes. Also, I would’ve loved to see the couple more on the pages as an our couple. Other than that, the ending was super Sweet and Kuddos to the author for writing this important and heartwarming story. Everyone deserves to be loved no matter who it is.
March 24, 2021
This is a beautiful MM debut romance story. I absolutely loved Ash and Travis💙
They were best friends from young age and at sixteen they both discovered that they were in love with each other. However Travis had a big career ahead of him and to reach his goal to become the best of the tennis world and championship he was advised to stay in the closed or his career will be ruined. Struggling and admitting to everyone is the biggest fear that he can not face and with that he’s only hurting himself and his loved ones. But that all changes when his mentor also comes out and that’s when Travis decides that it’s time to face the world.
Break the point is full of chemistry, hot steamy scenes with great characters and would highly recommend it ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
They were best friends from young age and at sixteen they both discovered that they were in love with each other. However Travis had a big career ahead of him and to reach his goal to become the best of the tennis world and championship he was advised to stay in the closed or his career will be ruined. Struggling and admitting to everyone is the biggest fear that he can not face and with that he’s only hurting himself and his loved ones. But that all changes when his mentor also comes out and that’s when Travis decides that it’s time to face the world.
Break the point is full of chemistry, hot steamy scenes with great characters and would highly recommend it ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
August 23, 2022
Wow, that was not good. It wasn't terrible, but I found the characters so incredibly boring. It's a stock-standard second-chances, closeted athlete story. Travis is the world's best men's tennis player and Ashton is the boy he left behind to pursue his dreams. Ashton is a surgical resident, which you would think would make someone cooler, but no, he's kind of pathetic. Anyway, these two reunite after a long time apart, and then there's the requisite back-and-forthing leading to a HEA (and just like so much crying for some reason). I found the writing kind of simple, there was no nuance or poetry in it. Also, the sex scene dialogue was unbearably cheesy and terrible. Unfortunately, his book just really missed the mark for me.
March 23, 2021
Love! Sex! Tennis!
Garry Michael tells a beautiful story about Travis and Ashton, two friends from boyhood who grow into amazing men, and have loved each other since their teens.
But fears, conflict, and life pulls them apart. A top tennis star, Travis's painful journey to being true to who he is despite his fears about societal constraints and prejudice, went right to my heart. Ashton, a doctor, has to decide whether to take the risk, fight for his true love or to somehow move on. His emotional pain had me teary-eyed.
Break Point is a captivating, smoking hot read. Highly recommended.
Garry Michael tells a beautiful story about Travis and Ashton, two friends from boyhood who grow into amazing men, and have loved each other since their teens.
But fears, conflict, and life pulls them apart. A top tennis star, Travis's painful journey to being true to who he is despite his fears about societal constraints and prejudice, went right to my heart. Ashton, a doctor, has to decide whether to take the risk, fight for his true love or to somehow move on. His emotional pain had me teary-eyed.
Break Point is a captivating, smoking hot read. Highly recommended.
April 12, 2021
You will get wrapped up in the world of Ash and Travis, and have to cozy in until the end of the book so bring coffee and warm blankets.
A sexy doctor in love with the best friend he grew up with, who is now a pro tennis player. Trouble is one of them hasn’t come out yet. I was taken away on a roller coaster of emotions. Clearly Ash and Trav are soulmates and the universe conspired to bring them (and keep them) together. Which is good because it’s painful when they’re not together.
"... a man knows his lover's body when he returns to it." This line got me. It felt like returning home. The way Ashton and Travis reunite and sunk into each other with comfort, like putting on your favorite t-shirt at the end of a long work day. Ignited all the coziness feels. A heart-warming book of home, love and self-actualization.
I enjoyed this book so much and I will be looking out for what Garry writes next!
A sexy doctor in love with the best friend he grew up with, who is now a pro tennis player. Trouble is one of them hasn’t come out yet. I was taken away on a roller coaster of emotions. Clearly Ash and Trav are soulmates and the universe conspired to bring them (and keep them) together. Which is good because it’s painful when they’re not together.
"... a man knows his lover's body when he returns to it." This line got me. It felt like returning home. The way Ashton and Travis reunite and sunk into each other with comfort, like putting on your favorite t-shirt at the end of a long work day. Ignited all the coziness feels. A heart-warming book of home, love and self-actualization.
I enjoyed this book so much and I will be looking out for what Garry writes next!
March 14, 2021
This is more than your typical MM romance. The story has depth and characters have layers. Layers that make them more real and relatable. The steamy scenes are HOT and placed very thoughtfully (without overwhelming the whole story). Travis and Ashton’s personal journey and how it changed their relationship as a couple and with everyone they love is beautifully written.
Speaking of beauty, there are some breath taking prose (almost like poetry) that gave me goosebumps.
It’s hard to believe that this is Garry Michael’s first book. It’s well executed and techniques are all there!
I received and ARC and this this my unbiased review.
Speaking of beauty, there are some breath taking prose (almost like poetry) that gave me goosebumps.
It’s hard to believe that this is Garry Michael’s first book. It’s well executed and techniques are all there!
I received and ARC and this this my unbiased review.
April 5, 2021
Wow.
This was not my first MM romance, but it was by far and away the best. It deals with believable real life issues, and while the reality of living life as a closeted homosexual was an important and worthy plot point, it didn't drown out the rest of the story.
Young love. Professional upsets. Family issues. It's all here, and it's all beautifully executed.
I hope Garry Michael has more in the pipeline because he is a deft writer and I want to hear more from him.
This was not my first MM romance, but it was by far and away the best. It deals with believable real life issues, and while the reality of living life as a closeted homosexual was an important and worthy plot point, it didn't drown out the rest of the story.
Young love. Professional upsets. Family issues. It's all here, and it's all beautifully executed.
I hope Garry Michael has more in the pipeline because he is a deft writer and I want to hear more from him.
March 31, 2021
Mind-blowing and stimulating read
This is my first time reading a gay romance novel like this and I will tell you, I have no regrets. This story is so hotttt!!! And steamy!!! My goodness! Just the way I like it. However, along with the passion, there is also so much depth as the author visits dark places of assumptions made about people’s sexual orientation and the journey to living out loud and living the true and best version of yourself. Loved it, loved it, loved it. Ashton and Travis have now joined my list of favorite fictional couples ❤️❤️❤️. Did I say this story is hot!!! Brace yourselves!
This is my first time reading a gay romance novel like this and I will tell you, I have no regrets. This story is so hotttt!!! And steamy!!! My goodness! Just the way I like it. However, along with the passion, there is also so much depth as the author visits dark places of assumptions made about people’s sexual orientation and the journey to living out loud and living the true and best version of yourself. Loved it, loved it, loved it. Ashton and Travis have now joined my list of favorite fictional couples ❤️❤️❤️. Did I say this story is hot!!! Brace yourselves!
March 30, 2021
I had been looking forward to this book for weeks since I first read a teaser that took my breath away and it did not disappoint!
The story itself is great - I wouldn't have minded a little more tennis! Both of these men are so easy to root for and my heart ached so much for them at times, it is way more than geography that created the huge gulf between these two. Garry has created a beautiful story made even more so by his easy flowing writing style.
Wonderful debut and I will look forward to many more books from him!
The story itself is great - I wouldn't have minded a little more tennis! Both of these men are so easy to root for and my heart ached so much for them at times, it is way more than geography that created the huge gulf between these two. Garry has created a beautiful story made even more so by his easy flowing writing style.
Wonderful debut and I will look forward to many more books from him!
April 1, 2021
With Break Point, Garry Michael broke my heart to pieces and then put it back together again. It was such a great story, and beautifully written. I never wanted to put it down. Travis and Ash's relationship was sweet, frustrating and heartbreaking all at the same time. There was a beautiful message within, that it's ok to be who you are, no matter what. I highly recommend this book. 5 stars for sure.
March 31, 2021
Well, this was my first time reading MM romance and I am pretty sure it has ruined me for all others. Garry Michael did a phenomenal portrayal of Travis and Ash and the struggles they had to overcome. The writing was beautiful and the story flowed easily so much so that I wished there was more. A stunning debut!
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