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Homecoming Hearts #1
Scorch
At twenty three, Blake is facing what most don't see until decades later: the end of his career. His record label has dropped him, and he's got no place to go but home, except his mom's about to turn his entire life into a reality TV show.
Elion isn't where he wanted to be. A barista in a town so small he knows every customer by name, his world is about to be turned on its head when Blake - and the attending media circus - walks right through his doors. And like a fool, in front of thousands of viewers, Elion feels that old spark reignite.
Blake isn't sure he's a man's man, but his producer assures him that a fling will be great for ratings. Elion's set on showing him what being with a guy can really be like, too, and as reality and fiction begin to blur, falling in love becomes tantalisingly possible. Dangerously so, as a real-life superfan decides that Blake belongs to him.
Elion will have to fight if he's to keep the man who's fallen into his arms like manna from heaven.
Scorch is a steamy, standalone gay romance novel with a guaranteed HEA and absolutely no cliffhanger.
Elion isn't where he wanted to be. A barista in a town so small he knows every customer by name, his world is about to be turned on its head when Blake - and the attending media circus - walks right through his doors. And like a fool, in front of thousands of viewers, Elion feels that old spark reignite.
Blake isn't sure he's a man's man, but his producer assures him that a fling will be great for ratings. Elion's set on showing him what being with a guy can really be like, too, and as reality and fiction begin to blur, falling in love becomes tantalisingly possible. Dangerously so, as a real-life superfan decides that Blake belongs to him.
Elion will have to fight if he's to keep the man who's fallen into his arms like manna from heaven.
Scorch is a steamy, standalone gay romance novel with a guaranteed HEA and absolutely no cliffhanger.
270 pages, Paperback
First published September 25, 2017
About the author
H.J. Welch
41 books301 followersHJ Welch is a British author of contemporary American MM small town series and books in multi authored shared universes, including the international number one bestselling Homecoming Hearts. She lives just outside of London with her husband and three balls of fluff that occasionally pretend to be cats.
She began writing at an early age, later honing her craft online in the world of fanfiction on sites like Wattpad. Fifteen years and over half a million words later, she sought out original MM novels to read. By the end of 2016 she had written her first book of her own, and in 2017 she achieved her lifelong dream of becoming a full-time author.
When she’s not writing she’s usually dancing, singing, filming music videos, taking long walks, working on jigsaw puzzles, drinking prosecco, or talking about Eurovision.
She also writes contemporary British MM fairy tale adaptation as Helen Juliet, including bestsellers Thorn in His Side, A Right Royal Affair, and Three.
She began writing at an early age, later honing her craft online in the world of fanfiction on sites like Wattpad. Fifteen years and over half a million words later, she sought out original MM novels to read. By the end of 2016 she had written her first book of her own, and in 2017 she achieved her lifelong dream of becoming a full-time author.
When she’s not writing she’s usually dancing, singing, filming music videos, taking long walks, working on jigsaw puzzles, drinking prosecco, or talking about Eurovision.
She also writes contemporary British MM fairy tale adaptation as Helen Juliet, including bestsellers Thorn in His Side, A Right Royal Affair, and Three.
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September 1, 2021
Scorch is book one in the Homecoming Hearts series by H.J. Welch. This is my very first book by this author. It is a M/M rock star romance. Well, it might not technically be rock star since one of the heroes was in more like a boy band. But I read it for a rock star romance reading challenge so I’m saying it qualifies. I did enjoy this so much. It was a great mix of sweet, sexy, and surprisingly, suspense.
Blake Jackson is twenty three years old and was a member of the boy band, Below Zero which was world famous. But the band has just been dismantled by their record studio and Blake suddenly finds himself not knowing what to do next. His love has always been more dance than singing. He is forced to move home to Perryville, Ohio and move in with his parents until he figures things out. But when he arrives, instead of getting some much needed down time to think, his parents have taken his future into their own hands and he finds himself thrust right into the spotlight in a reality show.
Elion Rodriguez was a high school classmate of Blake’s but they weren’t friends. He works at Cool Beans coffee house. He is a cheerful, positive gay man who finds joy in every day. He couldn’t believe it when his high school crush, Blake, walks into the coffee shop. He knew Blake was straight but it didn’t stop him from crushing on him. When Blake returns a few days later, he is more than pleased and the two of them strike up a friendship. But the show producers have other ideas. They decide that the show needs a gay romance and convince Blake and Elion to agree to a fake relationship. This thrusts Elion into a very public world he knows nothing about.
As these two spend time together, fake feelings begin to feel real. Blake has never been attracted to a man before but he can’t deny that Elion is all he can think about and his physical response to him is definitely attraction. At the same time, there is someone else that wants Blake for themselves and is not happy at all about the relationship between Blake and Elion.
These two together were so cute. I loved Elion, especially after he shared some of his truths with Blake. I so disliked the producer of the reality show. He was ruthless with the way he treated people. I also strongly disliked Blake’s parents. They completely tried to run Blake’s life and used guilt or manipulation to make him do what they wanted. I wanted Blake to stand up to them more. He had been living away from home for five years. But, he loved his family and I know he was torn.
This was very enjoyable and I was surprised at the events at the end. I didn’t expect the suspense at all. The epilogue was adorable. I definitely won’t hesitate to read this author again in the future.
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
Blake Jackson is twenty three years old and was a member of the boy band, Below Zero which was world famous. But the band has just been dismantled by their record studio and Blake suddenly finds himself not knowing what to do next. His love has always been more dance than singing. He is forced to move home to Perryville, Ohio and move in with his parents until he figures things out. But when he arrives, instead of getting some much needed down time to think, his parents have taken his future into their own hands and he finds himself thrust right into the spotlight in a reality show.
Elion Rodriguez was a high school classmate of Blake’s but they weren’t friends. He works at Cool Beans coffee house. He is a cheerful, positive gay man who finds joy in every day. He couldn’t believe it when his high school crush, Blake, walks into the coffee shop. He knew Blake was straight but it didn’t stop him from crushing on him. When Blake returns a few days later, he is more than pleased and the two of them strike up a friendship. But the show producers have other ideas. They decide that the show needs a gay romance and convince Blake and Elion to agree to a fake relationship. This thrusts Elion into a very public world he knows nothing about.
As these two spend time together, fake feelings begin to feel real. Blake has never been attracted to a man before but he can’t deny that Elion is all he can think about and his physical response to him is definitely attraction. At the same time, there is someone else that wants Blake for themselves and is not happy at all about the relationship between Blake and Elion.
These two together were so cute. I loved Elion, especially after he shared some of his truths with Blake. I so disliked the producer of the reality show. He was ruthless with the way he treated people. I also strongly disliked Blake’s parents. They completely tried to run Blake’s life and used guilt or manipulation to make him do what they wanted. I wanted Blake to stand up to them more. He had been living away from home for five years. But, he loved his family and I know he was torn.
This was very enjoyable and I was surprised at the events at the end. I didn’t expect the suspense at all. The epilogue was adorable. I definitely won’t hesitate to read this author again in the future.
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
May 15, 2018
4.5 round down because Blake should have developed a back bone sooner.
Blake Jackson goes back to his hometown after the boy band he was part of gets dropped by their label. Unbeknownst to him, his mother has set him up to be part of a reality show.
Elion Rodriguez is a barista and a former classmate of Blake’s. They weren’t friends in school but Elion crushed on Blake.
During a visit at the coffee shop where Elion is employed, Blake is spotted talking with Elion by one of the producers. Through editing, their visit is made to look like a romantic encounter. Without Blake or Elion’s knowledge, the episode of the two of them is aired. The positive ratings have these two agreeing to pretend to be in a relationship.
In the mist of all the fakeness, there is a very real threat and that threat is a stalker. A stalker who wants Elion gone.
Yes, this is another gay for you, fake boyfriend story but damn did I like it A LOT!! Blake and Elion are adorable together. I even got teary eyed a few times. This book was an unexpected, pleasant surprise. I hope the rest of the series follows suit.
P.S.I already knew that “reality” TV was not “real” but this book turned me off to reality TV even more.
Blake Jackson goes back to his hometown after the boy band he was part of gets dropped by their label. Unbeknownst to him, his mother has set him up to be part of a reality show.
Elion Rodriguez is a barista and a former classmate of Blake’s. They weren’t friends in school but Elion crushed on Blake.
During a visit at the coffee shop where Elion is employed, Blake is spotted talking with Elion by one of the producers. Through editing, their visit is made to look like a romantic encounter. Without Blake or Elion’s knowledge, the episode of the two of them is aired. The positive ratings have these two agreeing to pretend to be in a relationship.
In the mist of all the fakeness, there is a very real threat and that threat is a stalker. A stalker who wants Elion gone.
Yes, this is another gay for you, fake boyfriend story but damn did I like it A LOT!! Blake and Elion are adorable together. I even got teary eyed a few times. This book was an unexpected, pleasant surprise. I hope the rest of the series follows suit.
P.S.I already knew that “reality” TV was not “real” but this book turned me off to reality TV even more.
Did Not Finish
November 5, 202219% and I give up. Weak characters with no backbone don't do it for me, at all. Throw in the caricature histrionic/manipulative mother and I'm done.
October 5, 2020
So, let me start with saying that I'm usually a HUGE fan of H.J. Welch. I love her work and her as a person. I mean she's almost as much of a Eurovision Song Contest super fan as I am. With that said...
This book was utterly ridiculous. It's drama, drama, drama... a little romance... drama, drama, drama.. a little romance. And then the same thing. Over and over and over and over again. And over and over and over again once more. If I hadn't read this for multiply reading challenges I would've DNFed this book at 20 percent the latest.
Blake and Elion were somehow a great couple. Both had flaws I didn't really care for much though and it was hard to like them. The whole tv-show and the way Blake's parents and the side characters associated to the tv-show was way over the top and ridiculous.
Anyway, I finished it so cheers for that.
This book was utterly ridiculous. It's drama, drama, drama... a little romance... drama, drama, drama.. a little romance. And then the same thing. Over and over and over and over again. And over and over and over again once more. If I hadn't read this for multiply reading challenges I would've DNFed this book at 20 percent the latest.
Blake and Elion were somehow a great couple. Both had flaws I didn't really care for much though and it was hard to like them. The whole tv-show and the way Blake's parents and the side characters associated to the tv-show was way over the top and ridiculous.
Anyway, I finished it so cheers for that.
Read
May 7, 2018DNF 20% no rating
This book starts with a detailed sex scene between a main character and another random guy... pffff I hate that. BUT I continue reading... the other guy, this famous musician come to his hometown because his group is disbanded and his parents are manipulating him¿?¿ I really can't understand why he don't send them to hell... Also the little I read about the relationship of the MCs... boring.
This book starts with a detailed sex scene between a main character and another random guy... pffff I hate that. BUT I continue reading... the other guy, this famous musician come to his hometown because his group is disbanded and his parents are manipulating him¿?¿ I really can't understand why he don't send them to hell... Also the little I read about the relationship of the MCs... boring.
October 6, 2017
3.5
I didn't hate this book but I struggled with how Blake went along to get along and let things he knew were really wrong just happen to avoid confrontation with his family. He should be a very wealthy man. Open your own damn dance studio. What the hell? Which leads me to what else really, really bugged me about this book. I felt like the implication that he didn't have any money, after 5 years in a boy band that garnered Grammy's and world wide fame seemed ridiculous. He roomed with Joey before they were suddenly and unexpectedly dumped by their label (has that ever happened to a Grammy winning boy band?) and wondered how Joey would make the rent? Really seemed unrealistic and threw me out of the story.
On the brightside, I thought his speech at the Kids Choice awards was inspired. I hope someone actually makes a speech like that someday.
Let's see how the next book turns out and then we'll see if she's going to make the entire band gay one book at a time which would be cliche for this genre and extremely unlikely overall.
I didn't hate this book but I struggled with how Blake went along to get along and let things he knew were really wrong just happen to avoid confrontation with his family. He should be a very wealthy man. Open your own damn dance studio. What the hell? Which leads me to what else really, really bugged me about this book. I felt like the implication that he didn't have any money, after 5 years in a boy band that garnered Grammy's and world wide fame seemed ridiculous. He roomed with Joey before they were suddenly and unexpectedly dumped by their label (has that ever happened to a Grammy winning boy band?) and wondered how Joey would make the rent? Really seemed unrealistic and threw me out of the story.
On the brightside, I thought his speech at the Kids Choice awards was inspired. I hope someone actually makes a speech like that someday.
Let's see how the next book turns out and then we'll see if she's going to make the entire band gay one book at a time which would be cliche for this genre and extremely unlikely overall.
September 29, 2017
I loved this book. It grabbed me right from the start with its flowing writing style. It has great characters and a good plot and I was totally engrossed in the book.
Blake and Elion have so much chemistry together. I felt the sparks flying from my Kindle. I fell in love with the guys. Elion is my absolute favorite. He is a funny, sassy, heart-on-his-sleeve kind of guy who stands up for what he believes in. He is a genuinely good guy who helps Blake out by being his fake boyfriend. He just clicks with Blake with a surprisingly capacity of reading his moods and feelings. He is so gentle guiding Blake into his new-found sexuality.
Blake is not the blasé ex-pop star but just a guy who loves to dance. So much so that he agrees to his parents’ idea for a reality show. I loved how the author lets him discover his identity, steadily and slowly but with growing confidence. For Elion, he has the guts to go against his parents and be his true self.
I really don’t care for reality shows and this book confirms it. The author did a wonderful job describing all the horror scenarios that come with reality shows. Filming for filming sake, no matter the consequences. And to top it off his parents encourage all this. But Blake and Elion don’t let that faze them in finding each other. They go with it and find a way to switch it to their own benefits.
Throw in some suspense in the shape of a stalker, a cute little beagle, and a spunky younger sister and you have a great book in your hands. Highly recommended.
Blake and Elion have so much chemistry together. I felt the sparks flying from my Kindle. I fell in love with the guys. Elion is my absolute favorite. He is a funny, sassy, heart-on-his-sleeve kind of guy who stands up for what he believes in. He is a genuinely good guy who helps Blake out by being his fake boyfriend. He just clicks with Blake with a surprisingly capacity of reading his moods and feelings. He is so gentle guiding Blake into his new-found sexuality.
Blake is not the blasé ex-pop star but just a guy who loves to dance. So much so that he agrees to his parents’ idea for a reality show. I loved how the author lets him discover his identity, steadily and slowly but with growing confidence. For Elion, he has the guts to go against his parents and be his true self.
I really don’t care for reality shows and this book confirms it. The author did a wonderful job describing all the horror scenarios that come with reality shows. Filming for filming sake, no matter the consequences. And to top it off his parents encourage all this. But Blake and Elion don’t let that faze them in finding each other. They go with it and find a way to switch it to their own benefits.
Throw in some suspense in the shape of a stalker, a cute little beagle, and a spunky younger sister and you have a great book in your hands. Highly recommended.
October 4, 2017
4.5 stars - This was delightful, sweet and super entertaining. I really enjoyed these characters, especially Elion! He was such a fun character, so genuine and witty and his banter had me grinning like a fool.
The story flowed really well and kept my interest throughout, whereas with some stories I sort of tune in and out or skim parts. That didn’t happen at all here. I’ll admit that there was a lot of drama and over the top stuff in this one, which often puts me off, but it was to be expected for the whole “reality show” aspect of the story. I found the online reality show stuff to be interesting and frustrating in equal measure. I say frustrating purely because the crew being around all the time bugged me to no end; poor Blake and Elion barely got any real alone time! But the story was definitely an entertaining one, with lots of chemistry and cuteness... the connection between Blake and Elion was pretty hot!
There were lots of characters, some good and some bad. Blake’s parents were basically awful people. His sister was nice, though. I love Joey, and Elion’s Mum was a total sweetheart.
I adored the epilogue too, as always! I love a good happy ending and Scorch definitely delivered that! I’m already looking forward to book two in this series, because Joey was a fabulous character and I’m so rooting for him to get a happily ever after too! <3
The story flowed really well and kept my interest throughout, whereas with some stories I sort of tune in and out or skim parts. That didn’t happen at all here. I’ll admit that there was a lot of drama and over the top stuff in this one, which often puts me off, but it was to be expected for the whole “reality show” aspect of the story. I found the online reality show stuff to be interesting and frustrating in equal measure. I say frustrating purely because the crew being around all the time bugged me to no end; poor Blake and Elion barely got any real alone time! But the story was definitely an entertaining one, with lots of chemistry and cuteness... the connection between Blake and Elion was pretty hot!
There were lots of characters, some good and some bad. Blake’s parents were basically awful people. His sister was nice, though. I love Joey, and Elion’s Mum was a total sweetheart.
I adored the epilogue too, as always! I love a good happy ending and Scorch definitely delivered that! I’m already looking forward to book two in this series, because Joey was a fabulous character and I’m so rooting for him to get a happily ever after too! <3
January 30, 2018
Five awesome stars!!
I think I’ve found another favourite author! I expected this to be cheesy and filled with the usual trope. But this was surprisingly full of heart and sweetness.
I like that Blake who’s supposed to be this suave pop star is actually really kind and sweet and bashful and somewhat insecure. Just a little bit. And Elion is ugh...seriously adorable and really confident.
I love everything about this book and this couple. Wish Blake didn’t have such shitty parents but otherwise it was an utterly delightful read
I think I’ve found another favourite author! I expected this to be cheesy and filled with the usual trope. But this was surprisingly full of heart and sweetness.
I like that Blake who’s supposed to be this suave pop star is actually really kind and sweet and bashful and somewhat insecure. Just a little bit. And Elion is ugh...seriously adorable and really confident.
I love everything about this book and this couple. Wish Blake didn’t have such shitty parents but otherwise it was an utterly delightful read
September 17, 2025
4 dancing stars
Blake returns to his hometown after the rock band he was a part of dissolved. "Below Zero" had five members, but after 5 years together decided to call it quits.
One day Blake enters into a coffee shop called "Cool Beans." It is there he meets Elion, who has followed Blake's career. Their attraction is immediate.
What Blake wants to do after being famous is teach dancing. Through a series of twists and turns, mainly coordinated by Blake's mother, he becomes a dance instructor at his own studio entitled "Feet of Flames."
But Blake doesn't think he's gay, or even bi. Elion starts to change Blake's mind. With a cast of supporting characters, including Watson, Blake's family Beagle, the plot runs fairly smoothly until the author inserts a near-death experience for Elion that didn't really need to be in the story. Turns out that Seth, who was in charge of the crew filming Blake's new career, set up the whole incident.
The world building is fairly lacking, with the plot focusing mainly on Blake and Elion. Eilon's mother's a hoot, as is Blake's sister, Jodi. But the star of the book, in my opinion, is Watson. With a nose for trouble (and attention!), he manages to save Elion from a possible death.
The dialogue has just the perfect amount of humor and warmth. A few minor editing errors derailed the flow of the book, but not to a great degree. And even though there were a lot of characters in the book, they were not thrown in to add filler to the book. They each had a vital part to play in Blake and Elion's growing relationship as well as Blake's discovering his true sexuality.
Overall, this was a "feel good" read with plenty of warmth, love and a drop of suspense.
Blake returns to his hometown after the rock band he was a part of dissolved. "Below Zero" had five members, but after 5 years together decided to call it quits.
One day Blake enters into a coffee shop called "Cool Beans." It is there he meets Elion, who has followed Blake's career. Their attraction is immediate.
What Blake wants to do after being famous is teach dancing. Through a series of twists and turns, mainly coordinated by Blake's mother, he becomes a dance instructor at his own studio entitled "Feet of Flames."
But Blake doesn't think he's gay, or even bi. Elion starts to change Blake's mind. With a cast of supporting characters, including Watson, Blake's family Beagle, the plot runs fairly smoothly until the author inserts a near-death experience for Elion that didn't really need to be in the story. Turns out that Seth, who was in charge of the crew filming Blake's new career, set up the whole incident.
The world building is fairly lacking, with the plot focusing mainly on Blake and Elion. Eilon's mother's a hoot, as is Blake's sister, Jodi. But the star of the book, in my opinion, is Watson. With a nose for trouble (and attention!), he manages to save Elion from a possible death.
The dialogue has just the perfect amount of humor and warmth. A few minor editing errors derailed the flow of the book, but not to a great degree. And even though there were a lot of characters in the book, they were not thrown in to add filler to the book. They each had a vital part to play in Blake and Elion's growing relationship as well as Blake's discovering his true sexuality.
Overall, this was a "feel good" read with plenty of warmth, love and a drop of suspense.
September 28, 2017
Scorch is the kind of book you can't put down. From it's thoughtful characters and intimate interactions to it well paced storytelling, it will have you wrapped around its fingers.
I fell in love with Blake and Elion faster than they fell for each other!
I look forward to reading more from the Homecoming Hearts series, as far as I can tell they are bound to be just as hot.
I fell in love with Blake and Elion faster than they fell for each other!
I look forward to reading more from the Homecoming Hearts series, as far as I can tell they are bound to be just as hot.
October 9, 2017
Long story short, I loved the representation of demisexuality in this story! I also loved the compassion and the humor H.J. Welch manages to infuse into her characters.
October 1, 2017
This is one of the best books that I've read this year. When you meet Elion, you realize that he's like everyone else. He wants to find a connection with someone who understands him, who doesn't lie or have an ulterior motive, but he has yet to find someone even close to that. And Blake, who has the rug pulled out from under him when the band he's part of breaks up and he moves back home. Half-relieved and half-sad, he gets an opportunity to do what he wants to do. Dance and teach dance.
Blake happens to run into Elion, who he used to go to school with, and there is a connection between the two as they speak, really for the first time. Elion is insightful and understanding, and he cares about Blake for more than what other's see him, a famous singer from a boy band.
I don't want to give too much away, but this is a must-read book. The relationship that develops between Blake and Elion is wonderful and I loved the ending. This hasn't happened to me in a while, but tomorrow I'm going to re-read the book again. A truly great read!!
Blake happens to run into Elion, who he used to go to school with, and there is a connection between the two as they speak, really for the first time. Elion is insightful and understanding, and he cares about Blake for more than what other's see him, a famous singer from a boy band.
I don't want to give too much away, but this is a must-read book. The relationship that develops between Blake and Elion is wonderful and I loved the ending. This hasn't happened to me in a while, but tomorrow I'm going to re-read the book again. A truly great read!!
October 2, 2017
This book drew me in from chapter 1 and had me hooked throughout. The two main characters, Blake and Eloin, proved to be interesting, complex and witty individuals on their own. Bringing them together made for a compelling, sexy, heart-warming story which made me both laugh and cry. I couldn't get enough of it. Being a reality television fan I was also fascinated by the darker side of filming that was painted - the stuff that audiences don't get to see. I've never considered what it must be like much before but I'm positive a lot that happened in this book hits the mark. An eye opener for sure.
Having connected with the characters I'm pumped this is the start of a series as opposed to a standalone book... we get more! I look forward to getting to know Joey better in the next book. Hopefully they'll be some cameos from my new favourite fictional MM couple too.
All in all a scorcher of a read!
Having connected with the characters I'm pumped this is the start of a series as opposed to a standalone book... we get more! I look forward to getting to know Joey better in the next book. Hopefully they'll be some cameos from my new favourite fictional MM couple too.
All in all a scorcher of a read!
February 16, 2022
3.5
Shout out to the diversity of this book!!!! It might have been the most diverse book I’ve read in a while. Thank you for not making everyone one color. This WOC really appreciates it.
Story was really good. I wanted to yell at a few folks while protecting others. My mama bear might have came out. A few times. I love watching their journey to love. I love that we are in a time where it’s not such a freak out when you find out more about one’s sexuality. I love their protectiveness of each other. The writing was good, the smexy was nice and besides E’s mom the characters were questionable.
Shout out to the diversity of this book!!!! It might have been the most diverse book I’ve read in a while. Thank you for not making everyone one color. This WOC really appreciates it.
Story was really good. I wanted to yell at a few folks while protecting others. My mama bear might have came out. A few times. I love watching their journey to love. I love that we are in a time where it’s not such a freak out when you find out more about one’s sexuality. I love their protectiveness of each other. The writing was good, the smexy was nice and besides E’s mom the characters were questionable.
Did Not Finish
June 26, 2024DNF @ 22% There were already too many moments where I needed Blake to walk away from all the shit his family was putting him through that I realized I would be too stressed and annoyed to enjoy any part of this book.
October 4, 2017
Loved!
I absolutely loved the story and characters. Couldn't put it down. I can't wait for the next book in this series!
I absolutely loved the story and characters. Couldn't put it down. I can't wait for the next book in this series!
Want to Read
July 5, 2021🎁 FREE on Amazon & on Apple iBooks today (7/5/2021)!🎁
April 4, 2022
Darum geht’s:
Nachdem Blakes Boyband aufgelöst wurde, kehrt er in seinen Heimatort zurück. Seine energische Mutter hat schon einen neuen Job für ihn organisiert, der Blake grundsätzlich gefällt, wenn da nicht die Reality-Show wäre, für die seine neue Karriere und sein Privatleben ständig gefilmt würde. Selbst das Gespräch mit seinem ehemaligen Mitschüler Elion, der Blake Kaffee serviert, wird mitgeschnitten. Und das bringt die Produzenten auf die Idee, dass eine schwule Liebesgeschichte zwischen den beiden die Sendung interessanter machen würde.
Meine Meinung dazu gibt’s hier
Nachdem Blakes Boyband aufgelöst wurde, kehrt er in seinen Heimatort zurück. Seine energische Mutter hat schon einen neuen Job für ihn organisiert, der Blake grundsätzlich gefällt, wenn da nicht die Reality-Show wäre, für die seine neue Karriere und sein Privatleben ständig gefilmt würde. Selbst das Gespräch mit seinem ehemaligen Mitschüler Elion, der Blake Kaffee serviert, wird mitgeschnitten. Und das bringt die Produzenten auf die Idee, dass eine schwule Liebesgeschichte zwischen den beiden die Sendung interessanter machen würde.
Meine Meinung dazu gibt’s hier
September 30, 2017
You know you're on to a good thing when as a lover and aficionado of 90s/00s boy bands you open a book and discover it's been dedicated to the Back Street Boys. LOL!
What do you do when your teenage crush comes back into your life but this time he's an ex boy band member? If you had dreams of that like me with Boyzone or Sean Maguire then this book's for you. Even if you've never been into boy bands you'll still love this book.
MC Elion (great name!) is working as a barista after sacrificing his hopes of college to care for his mum and pay for her medical treatment. Blake is a former pop star. He's turned home after the band was dumped by their record label. Elion and Blake used to be in high school together and Elion can't believe it when his former crush walks into the coffee shop where he works.
I really felt for Blake. His career has just imploded. His pushy showbiz parents are forcing him into starring in a reality show and he starts to develop feelings for his pretend boyfriend. If coming to terms with his sexuality wasn't tough enough, he's also got a stalker on his hands.
It was adorable watching their feelings develop and their love blossom. There was a great cast of side characters to love and hate. The writing flowed and had you wanted to keep turning the page.
It was a pleasure to read and if book 1 is a sign of things to come I look forward to seeing what the rest of the series brings.
What do you do when your teenage crush comes back into your life but this time he's an ex boy band member? If you had dreams of that like me with Boyzone or Sean Maguire then this book's for you. Even if you've never been into boy bands you'll still love this book.
MC Elion (great name!) is working as a barista after sacrificing his hopes of college to care for his mum and pay for her medical treatment. Blake is a former pop star. He's turned home after the band was dumped by their record label. Elion and Blake used to be in high school together and Elion can't believe it when his former crush walks into the coffee shop where he works.
I really felt for Blake. His career has just imploded. His pushy showbiz parents are forcing him into starring in a reality show and he starts to develop feelings for his pretend boyfriend. If coming to terms with his sexuality wasn't tough enough, he's also got a stalker on his hands.
It was adorable watching their feelings develop and their love blossom. There was a great cast of side characters to love and hate. The writing flowed and had you wanted to keep turning the page.
It was a pleasure to read and if book 1 is a sign of things to come I look forward to seeing what the rest of the series brings.
February 28, 2018
Not everything can be taken
At face value. And not everyone fits the mold of their parents either. I love a story of two, unsuspecting hearts finding what they long for is the most surprising of places.
At face value. And not everyone fits the mold of their parents either. I love a story of two, unsuspecting hearts finding what they long for is the most surprising of places.
April 25, 2018
I enjoyed Blake and Elion's story. Blake finds himself back home after the band he was in breaks-up and in a reality YouTube show. Elion finds himself as Blakes "boyfriend" Things go from fake to real in no time. There is just enough angst, drame and a stalker to keep the pages turning.
April 5, 2018
I was gifted my copy of this book, that I write a review was not required, however, I found this review written up on my desk when I cleared it off, so here it is!
Faced with the end of his boy band career, 23yr old Blake runs home to his family, only to find his parents have signed him up to an internet reality show. Elion happens to have had a crush on Blake since school. When the film crew following Blake blow an innocent encounter into something massive, Blake finds himself with Elion as a boyfriend. What starts off as a fictitious relationship rapidly turns into a real one for both young men. But someone doesn't want Blake to have Elion and both men could be in grave danger.
How I can file a book on the "crime/thriller" shelf AND the "too stinking cute" shelf is beyond my current comprehensive, but when a book tells me that's where it needs to be, who am I to argue!
The crime bit comes from the stalker/superfan who has targeted Blake as the object of their affections. I did see that one coming at me a mile off, though, and it's great to watch my ideas unfolding correctly. Ms Welch knows how to keep you on your toes, and even if I did see who it was, I did NOT see it going down like that!
And the too stinking cute bit is the way Elion and Blake develop their relationship. Because, yes, in the beginning, it was all for show, it very quickly became something else for both of them. Something very REAL. And I loved watching that happen!
A very delicious, steamy, sexy read.
5 stars
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
Faced with the end of his boy band career, 23yr old Blake runs home to his family, only to find his parents have signed him up to an internet reality show. Elion happens to have had a crush on Blake since school. When the film crew following Blake blow an innocent encounter into something massive, Blake finds himself with Elion as a boyfriend. What starts off as a fictitious relationship rapidly turns into a real one for both young men. But someone doesn't want Blake to have Elion and both men could be in grave danger.
How I can file a book on the "crime/thriller" shelf AND the "too stinking cute" shelf is beyond my current comprehensive, but when a book tells me that's where it needs to be, who am I to argue!
The crime bit comes from the stalker/superfan who has targeted Blake as the object of their affections. I did see that one coming at me a mile off, though, and it's great to watch my ideas unfolding correctly. Ms Welch knows how to keep you on your toes, and even if I did see who it was, I did NOT see it going down like that!
And the too stinking cute bit is the way Elion and Blake develop their relationship. Because, yes, in the beginning, it was all for show, it very quickly became something else for both of them. Something very REAL. And I loved watching that happen!
A very delicious, steamy, sexy read.
5 stars
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
January 29, 2021
I loved this one! Such a sweet, crazy story.
I have to confess I felt annoyed a lot in while reading because that reality show was a crazytown and I wanted to punch every crew member i the face several times for not knowing the meaning of privacy. But I guess it was the goal to feel that way.
I loved Blake. He grew so much emotionally and grew a backbone too. Kind of felt like in the beginning he was lost and had zero will to fight for himself. But when Elion came into the picture he kinda bloomed and did everything to protect the other man.
Elion was the crazy, funny, open guys who lived life to the fullest despite his limited options. And he took in stride when he was swept in the reality show.
The whole arc of the story was greaty constructed showing the growth of the main characters as well as the excitement of fame and all the drawbacks of it too.
What I found annoying was the lot of grammar mistakes. I am a grammar nazi, I am a virgo after all, so poorly edited books can drive me crazy.
But the ending was a sweet enough HEA to put me at ease. You can buy with a good HEA any time.
Read if you love MM romance!
I have to confess I felt annoyed a lot in while reading because that reality show was a crazytown and I wanted to punch every crew member i the face several times for not knowing the meaning of privacy. But I guess it was the goal to feel that way.
I loved Blake. He grew so much emotionally and grew a backbone too. Kind of felt like in the beginning he was lost and had zero will to fight for himself. But when Elion came into the picture he kinda bloomed and did everything to protect the other man.
Elion was the crazy, funny, open guys who lived life to the fullest despite his limited options. And he took in stride when he was swept in the reality show.
The whole arc of the story was greaty constructed showing the growth of the main characters as well as the excitement of fame and all the drawbacks of it too.
What I found annoying was the lot of grammar mistakes. I am a grammar nazi, I am a virgo after all, so poorly edited books can drive me crazy.
But the ending was a sweet enough HEA to put me at ease. You can buy with a good HEA any time.
Read if you love MM romance!
May 10, 2021
This had my attention from start to finish. The drama and sugary sweet love were a bit much at times, but it worked for the story being told and I didn't hate it like I often do when such tropes are presented. It's almost a 5 star read for me, but some plot points and grammar issues keep it from being a perfect score.
The author or editor really should have caught more of the typos and confusing sentences in this. There are a few places where you can tell that the author started a sentence going on way the changed it halfway through to go another direction, but they forgot to delete the unwanted words. The most glaring and hilarious example is during Blake and Elion's sexy times where Elion was feeling "entirely wonton." That’s not my typo. It should have read wanton, but wonton is what made it into the final version of the book. I'm still giggling about it.
Basically, there are issues, but I really just enjoyed it too much to nitpick more than this.
The author or editor really should have caught more of the typos and confusing sentences in this. There are a few places where you can tell that the author started a sentence going on way the changed it halfway through to go another direction, but they forgot to delete the unwanted words. The most glaring and hilarious example is during Blake and Elion's sexy times where Elion was feeling "entirely wonton." That’s not my typo. It should have read wanton, but wonton is what made it into the final version of the book. I'm still giggling about it.
Basically, there are issues, but I really just enjoyed it too much to nitpick more than this.
February 11, 2020
I have to start by saying this book reinforced how much I despise “reality” TV shows!
Blake comes home after his boy band is dumped by the label only to find his mother has arranged a reality tv show which starts as soon has he walks in the door. Elion is a barista at a local coffee house who had a crush from a distance on straight Blake. When Blake comes into the coffee shop Elion gets caught up in the toxic madness that is the reality show, posing as Blake’s boyfriend in order to juice ratings, a ploy instigated by the show runner unbeknownst to Blake or his family or Elion.
The story is sweet and both MCs are such likeable characters that you can’t help but root for them . You can’t help but want to throat punch Blake’s parents!
This is the first in the Homecoming Hearts series.
Blake comes home after his boy band is dumped by the label only to find his mother has arranged a reality tv show which starts as soon has he walks in the door. Elion is a barista at a local coffee house who had a crush from a distance on straight Blake. When Blake comes into the coffee shop Elion gets caught up in the toxic madness that is the reality show, posing as Blake’s boyfriend in order to juice ratings, a ploy instigated by the show runner unbeknownst to Blake or his family or Elion.
The story is sweet and both MCs are such likeable characters that you can’t help but root for them . You can’t help but want to throat punch Blake’s parents!
This is the first in the Homecoming Hearts series.
September 29, 2017
What does happen to the members of a boy band when it's all over? I've never thought about it unless I see them of celebrity reality shows. I liked this story because it's not about regretting a life that has gone but positive about what can be. Blake heads home to decide what to do next and gets quite a surprise when it's already been decided for him. Initially he goes with the flow. At this point I'm wondering when is Blake going to stand up for himself. He is such a sweet guy that taken he is advantage of by family and people around him.
I loved Elion, he is a fun character. So outgoing and the life and soul but hiding that he has had a difficult life. I loved his sassy attitude, no one was going to push him around. I enjoyed Blake and Elion's first meeting and I thought the way they ended up in their fake relationship was inspired. The gradual realisation that they actually had something real is lovely. Not to mention they are hot together. Elion is such a gentle teacher and lover.
The filmmakers and the outlandish situations they force on Blake and Elion are described so well. There doesn't seem to be anything they wouldn't do to create drama and this makes a great read.
Overall this is such a satisfying start to the series and I'm looking forward to the next book Spark.
I loved Elion, he is a fun character. So outgoing and the life and soul but hiding that he has had a difficult life. I loved his sassy attitude, no one was going to push him around. I enjoyed Blake and Elion's first meeting and I thought the way they ended up in their fake relationship was inspired. The gradual realisation that they actually had something real is lovely. Not to mention they are hot together. Elion is such a gentle teacher and lover.
The filmmakers and the outlandish situations they force on Blake and Elion are described so well. There doesn't seem to be anything they wouldn't do to create drama and this makes a great read.
Overall this is such a satisfying start to the series and I'm looking forward to the next book Spark.
February 8, 2020
Coming home and out makes waves, some good, some bad!😉
4.5 🌟stars
I really liked this couple and felt badly for them every time Blake's mom Jenna manufactured more mayhem to disrupt their strengthening relationship. Plenty of obstacles (most suffered with a mic in close proximity), a creepy stalker, some crazed dance moms and a lovely, brave beagle added vibes to their love story. The guys are both down-to-earth and caring of other's feelings, and for Blake that's a bit of a miracle considering how his parents act! And Elion's close relationship with his mom was heartwarming 😌.
This was a nice, easy read with 🔥🔥, touching connection and some suspense. I am looking forward to reading more in the series about the other members of Blake's disbanded group.
4.5 🌟stars
I really liked this couple and felt badly for them every time Blake's mom Jenna manufactured more mayhem to disrupt their strengthening relationship. Plenty of obstacles (most suffered with a mic in close proximity), a creepy stalker, some crazed dance moms and a lovely, brave beagle added vibes to their love story. The guys are both down-to-earth and caring of other's feelings, and for Blake that's a bit of a miracle considering how his parents act! And Elion's close relationship with his mom was heartwarming 😌.
This was a nice, easy read with 🔥🔥, touching connection and some suspense. I am looking forward to reading more in the series about the other members of Blake's disbanded group.
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