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Men of Olympus #1
You Again
One man looking for love in all the wrong places. Another always in the wrong place.
Brokenhearted and love-scorn, Johnny finds himself forced back into the dating pool by his overbearing mother and meddling best friend. Is it fate, interference, or a dating app glitch that keeps pairing him with his complete opposite, a handsome brick mason with a smile that makes bad decisions worthwhile?
While Aiden is seemingly perfect inside and out, Johnny is a realist. There's no way that man's peanut butter goes with Johnny's clumsy, nerdy jelly. If only he could convince his libido and the determined brick mason that he's not on the market, he could get back to his safe, solitary life.
Aiden wants more than just being a pretty face and a night of fun after years of fumbling through encounters that never went deeper than the surface. When he meets Johnny, something behind the skittish photographer's snarky facade speaks to his wanton heart. There has to be a reason they keep crashing into each other in more ways than one. Maybe attraction isn't supposed to make sense and love, even less.
An MM romcom about the ripple effect of broken trust and learning to love yourself before you can love another.
*TW - mature language, graphic consensual sexual content, discussion about assumed biphobia
Brokenhearted and love-scorn, Johnny finds himself forced back into the dating pool by his overbearing mother and meddling best friend. Is it fate, interference, or a dating app glitch that keeps pairing him with his complete opposite, a handsome brick mason with a smile that makes bad decisions worthwhile?
While Aiden is seemingly perfect inside and out, Johnny is a realist. There's no way that man's peanut butter goes with Johnny's clumsy, nerdy jelly. If only he could convince his libido and the determined brick mason that he's not on the market, he could get back to his safe, solitary life.
Aiden wants more than just being a pretty face and a night of fun after years of fumbling through encounters that never went deeper than the surface. When he meets Johnny, something behind the skittish photographer's snarky facade speaks to his wanton heart. There has to be a reason they keep crashing into each other in more ways than one. Maybe attraction isn't supposed to make sense and love, even less.
An MM romcom about the ripple effect of broken trust and learning to love yourself before you can love another.
*TW - mature language, graphic consensual sexual content, discussion about assumed biphobia
276 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 2, 2022
168 people are currently reading
531 people want to read
About the author
Dianna Roman
17 books730 followersRomcom author, Dianna Roman, believes in laughter, unsung heroes and heroines, chocolate, talking to yourself, hard work, and above all, love.
She enjoys writing stories set in small and rural towns and about characters who don't have this thing called life quite figured out yet.
Dianna lives in the woods where sunsets and gardening are the reason her house may be a bit messy.
She enjoys writing stories set in small and rural towns and about characters who don't have this thing called life quite figured out yet.
Dianna lives in the woods where sunsets and gardening are the reason her house may be a bit messy.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 263 reviews
December 17, 2022
i never rate my dnfs.
this? oh this is the exception.
THE AMOUNT OF BIPHOBIA MAKES ME RAGE
this? oh this is the exception.
THE AMOUNT OF BIPHOBIA MAKES ME RAGE
April 5, 2023
Rating: 2 stars ... both for AIDEN ❤️ ❤️
I am really, really sick of authors writing a pretty good story and then just dropping the reader off a cliff with a Great Misunderstanding and stupid immature behavior at the start of the 3rd act. My tolerance for this is falling like bird shit off the Empire State building.
I'm EXTRA sick of authors writing one amazing character and then pairing them with a partner that simply does not deserve them.
I was delighted that Aiden was someone who was genuinely looking for a connection and VERY disappointed with the lack of adult discussion about being Bi and what that meant for him. Johnny couldn't bother to communicate with Aiden about anything; to me this is not grumpy, this is immature and asinine.
I also hate with a passion the amount of anti-foreskin attitude prevalent in our society so for about 1/8 of a second I was excited that this was going to be something the author turned into a healthy conversation; instead it died on the vine.
Johnny didn't deserve Aiden. I'm just going to pretend he ended up with Sam and that his HEA was with someone who was able to get the fuck over himself and genuinely cared about him.
Author, keep your cutesy wrap-up; being mature and adult and TALKING, YOU KNOW, WITH YOUR WORDS, is where it's at. 🎤
Can't see myself reading more in this series.
I am really, really sick of authors writing a pretty good story and then just dropping the reader off a cliff with a Great Misunderstanding and stupid immature behavior at the start of the 3rd act. My tolerance for this is falling like bird shit off the Empire State building.
I'm EXTRA sick of authors writing one amazing character and then pairing them with a partner that simply does not deserve them.
I was delighted that Aiden was someone who was genuinely looking for a connection and VERY disappointed with the lack of adult discussion about being Bi and what that meant for him. Johnny couldn't bother to communicate with Aiden about anything; to me this is not grumpy, this is immature and asinine.
I also hate with a passion the amount of anti-foreskin attitude prevalent in our society so for about 1/8 of a second I was excited that this was going to be something the author turned into a healthy conversation; instead it died on the vine.
Johnny didn't deserve Aiden. I'm just going to pretend he ended up with Sam and that his HEA was with someone who was able to get the fuck over himself and genuinely cared about him.
Author, keep your cutesy wrap-up; being mature and adult and TALKING, YOU KNOW, WITH YOUR WORDS, is where it's at. 🎤
Can't see myself reading more in this series.
June 5, 2023
Audio - 3.5 Stars
Story - 4 stars
Johnny was annoying AF!! Talk about bitchy drama queen! Sheesh!! I'm actually shocked that I managed to still enjoy the story with a character like him.
Story - 4 stars
Johnny was annoying AF!! Talk about bitchy drama queen! Sheesh!! I'm actually shocked that I managed to still enjoy the story with a character like him.
May 31, 2022
First, let me just note that Dianna Roman is an author whose books we will all be reading for years to come. You Again, is her third published book to date, with at least one more scheduled for release later this year. As a bibliophile, describing her work in the simplest of terms.... her books rock.
You Again, is a story of two very well-adjusted men both of whom come from loving closely knit families. Both have learned to deal with life on life's terms. One longs for a love that he sees between his sister and her girlfriend/fiancée. The other is unable to let go of a horrible betrayal which resulted in a very broken heart. The two meet serendipitously....again and again (I am very slow because I just realized that is the title of the book) and the story takes off from there.
As in Ms. Roman's other books, there are SO many awesome things about how she tells this story. First, she gives us a background theme...the movie, Dirty Dancing. No, the book is not about class distinction and no one is putting baby in the corner (watch the movie). Teaser...the movie references will make sense as you read the book. Second, the book has a multimedia approach and encourages you to listen to cool 1980s hits as you read. OK, I made that up. Well, there are some references to a few really awesome songs from the mid-eighties (Solsbury Hill, Hungry Eyes, Man In Motion) which I chose to listen to as I read.
Here are some things in the book that will have you laughing so hard that, depending on your age (referring to self) you will need to be careful not to wet yourself: almost choking to death when attempting condom placement in a unique way; having your roommate find out that you may or may not have exchanged body fluids with someone on the roommate's desk; penis nicknames; miscalculating the distance in an attempted Dirty Dancing move where you are supposed to run and jump in the air and have your dance partner catch you; and one of my favorites...have your 80-year-old Greek grandmother tell you about her threeway. I have listed only a few.
I think one of my favorite things in the book is that in addition to the extremely funny moments, the characters are very real. The two protagonists are indeed well-adjusted but both carry some bits of sadness, which we all do. The story is believable. How many times in real life have we all acted towards someone based upon a misunderstanding, or think we know what the other is thinking without asking. It makes me crazy when watching it happen in a book but we all do it.
I did not want the book to end. It was so much fun that you really want to not only have coffee with the two protagonists, but you want to have Sunday dinner with the entire families. I am really hoping there is a sequel planned. There are several possible spinoffs. Regardless, read this book.
You Again, is a story of two very well-adjusted men both of whom come from loving closely knit families. Both have learned to deal with life on life's terms. One longs for a love that he sees between his sister and her girlfriend/fiancée. The other is unable to let go of a horrible betrayal which resulted in a very broken heart. The two meet serendipitously....again and again (I am very slow because I just realized that is the title of the book) and the story takes off from there.
As in Ms. Roman's other books, there are SO many awesome things about how she tells this story. First, she gives us a background theme...the movie, Dirty Dancing. No, the book is not about class distinction and no one is putting baby in the corner (watch the movie). Teaser...the movie references will make sense as you read the book. Second, the book has a multimedia approach and encourages you to listen to cool 1980s hits as you read. OK, I made that up. Well, there are some references to a few really awesome songs from the mid-eighties (Solsbury Hill, Hungry Eyes, Man In Motion) which I chose to listen to as I read.
Here are some things in the book that will have you laughing so hard that, depending on your age (referring to self) you will need to be careful not to wet yourself: almost choking to death when attempting condom placement in a unique way; having your roommate find out that you may or may not have exchanged body fluids with someone on the roommate's desk; penis nicknames; miscalculating the distance in an attempted Dirty Dancing move where you are supposed to run and jump in the air and have your dance partner catch you; and one of my favorites...have your 80-year-old Greek grandmother tell you about her threeway. I have listed only a few.
I think one of my favorite things in the book is that in addition to the extremely funny moments, the characters are very real. The two protagonists are indeed well-adjusted but both carry some bits of sadness, which we all do. The story is believable. How many times in real life have we all acted towards someone based upon a misunderstanding, or think we know what the other is thinking without asking. It makes me crazy when watching it happen in a book but we all do it.
I did not want the book to end. It was so much fun that you really want to not only have coffee with the two protagonists, but you want to have Sunday dinner with the entire families. I am really hoping there is a sequel planned. There are several possible spinoffs. Regardless, read this book.
July 9, 2022
Since I'm a minority, don't mind my review
I don't like Johnny.
He's selfish, overly dramatic, and treated Aiden like sh**.
Aiden is a good guy, but he also acted like a doormat. That's probably why Johnny treated him like that.
Johnny is never good for him.
This was supposed to be a funny rom-com. But I found it irritating. Especially Johnny, and his family.
Nothing to see here.
I don't like Johnny.
He's selfish, overly dramatic, and treated Aiden like sh**.
Aiden is a good guy, but he also acted like a doormat. That's probably why Johnny treated him like that.
Johnny is never good for him.
This was supposed to be a funny rom-com. But I found it irritating. Especially Johnny, and his family.
Nothing to see here.
December 17, 2024
As usual I’m here gushing about another Dianna Roman book! Surprise, surprise. I loved this book okay?
Johnny was one of the funniest (prickliest) characters I’ve read in a while. I was laughing out loud at his ridiculousness throughout the entire book. I think half of my highlights are just crazy shit he was doing, saying and thinking probs could’ve highlighted more but that seemed obsessive 😂 I also wanted to pummel him too. While I understand his hang ups, I didn’t like how he was doing my bby Aiden for the first half of the story. I love a prickly character but be nice to the nice man who is nice to you okay? Once he stopped being haggard though? I swooned at how locked onto Aiden after he let his guard down. Aiden may have fallen first but Johnny definitely fell harder.
Aiden! Everybody deserves an Aiden! He was just so attentive, caring, considerate and completely smitten with Johnny for the first moment they met. This poor huge, hulking marshmallow man needs to be protected at all costs. Johnny put him through it for a while but Aiden just proved to be the greenest flag boyfriend ever by taking things at Johnny’s pace, even when he was being a lil meany and pushing him away. I’m glad Aiden finally got what he wanted and deserved x 1000 once Johnny finally let go of what was holding them back. 🥹
These two were so sweet and hot and funny and beautiful. I enjoyed them so much, no surprise there. Dianna Roman’s writing as always, was beautiful, funny, poetic and heartfelt. I can’t wait to read the next book and get more of this series 🥰
Johnny was one of the funniest (prickliest) characters I’ve read in a while. I was laughing out loud at his ridiculousness throughout the entire book. I think half of my highlights are just crazy shit he was doing, saying and thinking probs could’ve highlighted more but that seemed obsessive 😂 I also wanted to pummel him too. While I understand his hang ups, I didn’t like how he was doing my bby Aiden for the first half of the story. I love a prickly character but be nice to the nice man who is nice to you okay? Once he stopped being haggard though? I swooned at how locked onto Aiden after he let his guard down. Aiden may have fallen first but Johnny definitely fell harder.
Aiden! Everybody deserves an Aiden! He was just so attentive, caring, considerate and completely smitten with Johnny for the first moment they met. This poor huge, hulking marshmallow man needs to be protected at all costs. Johnny put him through it for a while but Aiden just proved to be the greenest flag boyfriend ever by taking things at Johnny’s pace, even when he was being a lil meany and pushing him away. I’m glad Aiden finally got what he wanted and deserved x 1000 once Johnny finally let go of what was holding them back. 🥹
These two were so sweet and hot and funny and beautiful. I enjoyed them so much, no surprise there. Dianna Roman’s writing as always, was beautiful, funny, poetic and heartfelt. I can’t wait to read the next book and get more of this series 🥰
May 30, 2022
im not a MM romance reader on the reg... only when dianna roman writes them because her smut.. ITS GOLD JERRY GOLD! (seinfeld reference for all of us old af peeps)
dianna writes the hottest and i mean THE HOTTEST bj scenes known to man. or MM smut. whatever. good lawd mama needs a cold shower after that.
i loved aiden. and johnny pissed me off. but i still loved him too. and it made me laugh- if witty quirky humor is involved- im all in. and then, there's this one part at the end. SWOOOONNNN.
dianna roman: queen of MM spice. it's a thing. im making it a thing. her new title.
and if you don't read MM- start with here. there will be no ragrets.
dianna writes the hottest and i mean THE HOTTEST bj scenes known to man. or MM smut. whatever. good lawd mama needs a cold shower after that.
i loved aiden. and johnny pissed me off. but i still loved him too. and it made me laugh- if witty quirky humor is involved- im all in. and then, there's this one part at the end. SWOOOONNNN.
dianna roman: queen of MM spice. it's a thing. im making it a thing. her new title.
and if you don't read MM- start with here. there will be no ragrets.
August 24, 2024
If 'hurt people hurt people' were a book, it would be this one.
Knowing Johnny's history, I understand why he had the reservations that he did about Aiden. That said, he kind of used that man.
Kept breadcrumbing him until he didn't know which way was up. You can't keep saying 'I went no part of this' then keep being on board with the sexual aspects of it, ESPECIALLY knowing what Aiden was looking for.
Aiden was sooooo open about looking for something real, and waiting years for it. So for Johnny to do him like that was deplorable. Had the man paying for the sins of his ex and then some.
As for his grandmother's advice, I-💀💀💀💀💀💀because wdym you had to choose between two guys once so you asked them to fuck you at the same time 😂😂😂😂😂😂WHO TELLS THIS STORY TO THEIR GRANDKID?!
Buuuuut.... He apologized. Took accountability. Explained the reasoning behind his fears that spurred on his actions. Did he make it up to Aiden? According to Aiden, yes.
I'd be unconvinced but Aiden was so gone for Johnny that he was just excited to still be in the running.
Meh on this one, overall.
Knowing Johnny's history, I understand why he had the reservations that he did about Aiden. That said, he kind of used that man.
Kept breadcrumbing him until he didn't know which way was up. You can't keep saying 'I went no part of this' then keep being on board with the sexual aspects of it, ESPECIALLY knowing what Aiden was looking for.
Aiden was sooooo open about looking for something real, and waiting years for it. So for Johnny to do him like that was deplorable. Had the man paying for the sins of his ex and then some.
As for his grandmother's advice, I-💀💀💀💀💀💀because wdym you had to choose between two guys once so you asked them to fuck you at the same time 😂😂😂😂😂😂WHO TELLS THIS STORY TO THEIR GRANDKID?!
Buuuuut.... He apologized. Took accountability. Explained the reasoning behind his fears that spurred on his actions. Did he make it up to Aiden? According to Aiden, yes.
I'd be unconvinced but Aiden was so gone for Johnny that he was just excited to still be in the running.
Meh on this one, overall.
January 8, 2025
This is a fun story. Aiden works with his family in a small town. He identifies as being bi, but most of his relationships have been with women, keep in mind again it IS a small town. Then, Johnny comes to town. With his flamboyant style and snarky personality, he attacks Aiden from the moment he lays eyes on him. Johnny can't believe that Aiden would be interested in anyone like him. Through a series of dating mishaps, they keep getting thrown together in several really funny scenarios.
The story is well written and absolutely charming. You won't be able to help falling in love with Aiden and Johnny and they fall in love with each other.
The story is well written and absolutely charming. You won't be able to help falling in love with Aiden and Johnny and they fall in love with each other.
October 15, 2022
I knew from the beginning I’m in for a roller coaster ride.
This was so well written, it had the perfect laugh-out-loud moments with the balance of seriousness too. Johnny was such a unique character, I loved being in his head. He was the opposite of Aiden’s calm and quiet one.
The story moved at the perfect pace and at the same time lingered in all the right places.
You can’t help but smile and melt with each description of Johnny and Aiden’s UST. Swoon! Love, love, love this book!
This was so well written, it had the perfect laugh-out-loud moments with the balance of seriousness too. Johnny was such a unique character, I loved being in his head. He was the opposite of Aiden’s calm and quiet one.
The story moved at the perfect pace and at the same time lingered in all the right places.
You can’t help but smile and melt with each description of Johnny and Aiden’s UST. Swoon! Love, love, love this book!
August 17, 2022
Funny and sexy, with a dash of angst.
Aiden and Johnny constantly get matched on dating apps, but they want different things. Despite the ups and downs they go through, their chemistry is undeniable throughout the book.
The story is full of situational humour and everyday scenes that make this book a page-turner. The relatable, realistic characters pop off the pages, as if they could pass you by on your way to work or you could go out for a coffee with them. 🥰
Bonus things: Greek culture, movie references, dancing on the table, interfering and fun (craycray) family members. Personal bonus for me are any characters (MCs especially) who are immigrants or second/third gen immigrants. 👌
This is the second book I read by the author and I’m planning to read every other one that follows.
Aiden and Johnny constantly get matched on dating apps, but they want different things. Despite the ups and downs they go through, their chemistry is undeniable throughout the book.
The story is full of situational humour and everyday scenes that make this book a page-turner. The relatable, realistic characters pop off the pages, as if they could pass you by on your way to work or you could go out for a coffee with them. 🥰
Bonus things: Greek culture, movie references, dancing on the table, interfering and fun (craycray) family members. Personal bonus for me are any characters (MCs especially) who are immigrants or second/third gen immigrants. 👌
This is the second book I read by the author and I’m planning to read every other one that follows.
May 29, 2022
Full review coming, but the short of it is this: laugh-out-loud MM rom-com gold!
June 8, 2022
This is 2 for 2 Dianna Roman MM books that I have inhaled and loved!
This was such a sweet and salty story. I just wanted to sit down and read the entire thing in one sitting (almost did too!). I violently laughed out loud at some parts, I relate so much to Johnny and it felt amazing to see him get his HEA. Aiden has that boy-next-door, stong-man vibe I love to see. I only wish I could have seen what the last conversation between Sam and Aiden was and that there were more interactions with Dalton!! Love the golden retriever energy of this book. The mishaps, coincidences, allergies, and progressions. Ugh so sweet so cute.
Part way through this book I was already anxiously hopefully to see if Dami has a book planned!! I can't wait to see what else comes from this potential series!
I received an ARC for my honest review 💜
This was such a sweet and salty story. I just wanted to sit down and read the entire thing in one sitting (almost did too!). I violently laughed out loud at some parts, I relate so much to Johnny and it felt amazing to see him get his HEA. Aiden has that boy-next-door, stong-man vibe I love to see. I only wish I could have seen what the last conversation between Sam and Aiden was and that there were more interactions with Dalton!! Love the golden retriever energy of this book. The mishaps, coincidences, allergies, and progressions. Ugh so sweet so cute.
Part way through this book I was already anxiously hopefully to see if Dami has a book planned!! I can't wait to see what else comes from this potential series!
I received an ARC for my honest review 💜
June 6, 2022
This was my first jump into an MM romance. I wasn't sure how I would feel about this genre but I was pleasantly surprised by this one.
The characters in this book are interesting. You have Aiden, the good guy, heartwarming, thoughtful and tender man that is not sure how love fits into his life, but he wants to discover it. Then you have Johnny, a loud drama queen that is seriously damaged goods. I'll be honest, Aiden is way too good for Johnny! The supporting character that I enjoyed most was Bitsy, Aiden's BFF. She would do anything for Aiden and truly supported him. Gotta love that friendship!
This book was fun to read. It was quick, funny, steamy and enjoyable. Both characters were searching for something/someone and had trouble finding out what to do about it. But their multiple meet cutes were hilarious! I would read another MM romance or another book by Dianna Roman for sure!
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
The characters in this book are interesting. You have Aiden, the good guy, heartwarming, thoughtful and tender man that is not sure how love fits into his life, but he wants to discover it. Then you have Johnny, a loud drama queen that is seriously damaged goods. I'll be honest, Aiden is way too good for Johnny! The supporting character that I enjoyed most was Bitsy, Aiden's BFF. She would do anything for Aiden and truly supported him. Gotta love that friendship!
This book was fun to read. It was quick, funny, steamy and enjoyable. Both characters were searching for something/someone and had trouble finding out what to do about it. But their multiple meet cutes were hilarious! I would read another MM romance or another book by Dianna Roman for sure!
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
July 10, 2022
Talk about opposites attract! Johnny and Aiden couldn’t have been more different! But that made for such fun, and sometimes very heartbreaking, interactions.
Johnny was a handful to say the least. He was super dramatic and wildly vocal about all of his dislikes. He used sarcasm as a defense mechanism- which was quite funny at time but also showed how deeply he’d been hurt in the past. He absolutely had his shields up. This made him so defensive even when he didn’t need to be. The thing was, he felt things so deeply and wasn’t able to vocalize them eloquently. This made him come across as rude and illusive. Johnny did have a kind heart but he didn’t want to be hurt again. I think he also felt like he didn’t deserve Aiden, even tho he acted like it was simply trust issues.
Aiden was one of the most genuine and open characters. He was so good about not only tolerating Johnny but he was so patient and forgiving. He had a big loving heart. Johnny put him thru the ringer but Aiden took it all in stride. He never took things too personally. He wanted to find his forever person and there was just something about Johnny that kept him intrigued. He wanted to show Johnny how worthy he was of love and tenderness.
These two were so hot together but also hysterical!! Even their sexual interactions were laced with humor. I loved that they could laugh together!! Once Johnny let Aiden in, he was able to finally breathe and allow himself that joy.
The inclusion of each of their families was wonderful. They were both surrounded by so much love and support, even when their families didn’t necessarily understand them.
Johnny was a handful to say the least. He was super dramatic and wildly vocal about all of his dislikes. He used sarcasm as a defense mechanism- which was quite funny at time but also showed how deeply he’d been hurt in the past. He absolutely had his shields up. This made him so defensive even when he didn’t need to be. The thing was, he felt things so deeply and wasn’t able to vocalize them eloquently. This made him come across as rude and illusive. Johnny did have a kind heart but he didn’t want to be hurt again. I think he also felt like he didn’t deserve Aiden, even tho he acted like it was simply trust issues.
Aiden was one of the most genuine and open characters. He was so good about not only tolerating Johnny but he was so patient and forgiving. He had a big loving heart. Johnny put him thru the ringer but Aiden took it all in stride. He never took things too personally. He wanted to find his forever person and there was just something about Johnny that kept him intrigued. He wanted to show Johnny how worthy he was of love and tenderness.
These two were so hot together but also hysterical!! Even their sexual interactions were laced with humor. I loved that they could laugh together!! Once Johnny let Aiden in, he was able to finally breathe and allow himself that joy.
The inclusion of each of their families was wonderful. They were both surrounded by so much love and support, even when their families didn’t necessarily understand them.
June 1, 2022
I received an ARC and leave this review voluntarily.
Aiden is seriously the ONLY reason I liked this one, and half the time I kept cheering him on to find someone better than Johnny. Aiden was awesome. He's hard working, comfortable in his sexuality, and yeah, he's a little clueless, but he tries.
I was expecting Johnny to be the Grump out of the promised grumpy/sunshine trope. What we get is a selfish, OTT dramatic, judgmental d**k who has a rediculously large chip on his shoulder. The way he treated Aiden was nothing short of horrible for little else than the perceived similarities between Aiden and Johnny's ex. I get it, being cheated on sucks, I've been there, done that, didn't want the t-shirt. The hot pull then frigid push that he put Aiden through broke my heart for the poor guy.
I hated that up until like 70% of the way through the book, Johnny wouldn't use Aiden's name. He kept calling him Swiper, even to his face. And don't get me started on how he referred to his own penis **SHUDDERS** That word has joined the word "moist" in uncomfortable words for me now.
I wasn't a fan of how Johnny's family were portrayed either. I understand the super loud, boisterous, my big fat Greek wedding style family. But, willfully ignoring allergies, and the not believing someone's gay because he hasn't brough a man home to meet everyone, rubbed me really wrong.
I still want to read the next one in the series though!
Aiden is seriously the ONLY reason I liked this one, and half the time I kept cheering him on to find someone better than Johnny. Aiden was awesome. He's hard working, comfortable in his sexuality, and yeah, he's a little clueless, but he tries.
I was expecting Johnny to be the Grump out of the promised grumpy/sunshine trope. What we get is a selfish, OTT dramatic, judgmental d**k who has a rediculously large chip on his shoulder. The way he treated Aiden was nothing short of horrible for little else than the perceived similarities between Aiden and Johnny's ex. I get it, being cheated on sucks, I've been there, done that, didn't want the t-shirt. The hot pull then frigid push that he put Aiden through broke my heart for the poor guy.
I hated that up until like 70% of the way through the book, Johnny wouldn't use Aiden's name. He kept calling him Swiper, even to his face. And don't get me started on how he referred to his own penis **SHUDDERS** That word has joined the word "moist" in uncomfortable words for me now.
I wasn't a fan of how Johnny's family were portrayed either. I understand the super loud, boisterous, my big fat Greek wedding style family. But, willfully ignoring allergies, and the not believing someone's gay because he hasn't brough a man home to meet everyone, rubbed me really wrong.
I still want to read the next one in the series though!
September 18, 2022
Time of death: 65%. This was one long-ass book in audio, and that’s ~11 hours I’ll never get back. I do not accept one of the MCs cheating on the other. I don’t care if they were never “technically” together or that the other run away with no contact. Aiden getting into a relationship with another dude in the meanwhile killed any hope of me giving this book more than 1 star. They were emotionally involved and he cheated. Kept being with the other dude even though Johnny returned.
We didn’t even get to see Aiden break up with the other dude. Couldn’t I have gotten that satisfaction at least, to see the other dude realize Aiden had been in love with someone else the whole time? That’s the least I deserved after my suffering. One downside of audio is definitely that I couldn’t scroll past shit I didn’t want to read. Speeding up the audio isn’t exactly the same.
This was not a romcom. There was nothing funny about it and the romance left a whole lot to be desired. It didn’t give fluffy feelings the way a romcom is supposed to, it only pissed me off. Bye, author.
We didn’t even get to see Aiden break up with the other dude. Couldn’t I have gotten that satisfaction at least, to see the other dude realize Aiden had been in love with someone else the whole time? That’s the least I deserved after my suffering. One downside of audio is definitely that I couldn’t scroll past shit I didn’t want to read. Speeding up the audio isn’t exactly the same.
This was not a romcom. There was nothing funny about it and the romance left a whole lot to be desired. It didn’t give fluffy feelings the way a romcom is supposed to, it only pissed me off. Bye, author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 11, 2022
What a hilarious book! I mean like laugh out loud funny! I was reading some at the doctors office and I was trying to only snicker, but I couldn’t hold it in! 🤣 There are moments that hurt your heart a little, but there were no tears, except tears of laughter!
There are so many great parts of this story, but I don’t think I’ll ever forget Swiper and Flapper! 😆
Dianna Roman’s writing is really detailed and memorable! I cannot wait to see what side characters she is going to write about next! I am here for it!
I received an electronic advanced copy of this book, this is my voluntary review!
There are so many great parts of this story, but I don’t think I’ll ever forget Swiper and Flapper! 😆
Dianna Roman’s writing is really detailed and memorable! I cannot wait to see what side characters she is going to write about next! I am here for it!
I received an electronic advanced copy of this book, this is my voluntary review!
July 7, 2022
Johnny Andro has moved home and is now living among his nosy, big, Greek-American family who is determined to marry him off. He is sassy and outspoken, but he is still hurting from his last relationship and is bitter, prickly, negative, and insecure. He is afraid to trust in a relationship so is guarded and pushes people away.
Aiden Brandt also has a big, prying family who work together as brick masons. He is built, handsome, and used to men or women throwing themselves at him. But he is looking for that spark and something meaningful. He is not used to having to chase anyone.
These guys kind of meet, then meet again, then again in a series of potential dating scenarios. Some might think it is fate and some maybe just bad timing. Their chemistry is on point and hard to resist. But Johnny is a negative thinker and great runner, and Aiden is afraid trying too hard to catch him will only lead to heartbreak.
Two men NOT on the same page at the same time.
Families and friends that want their guy to settle down.
Dating setups, mishaps, and shenanigans all around town.
Realist vs. Romantic.
This is a funny, sexy, angsty, opposites-attract, sweet and sour, multiple-chance romance. I will admit that Johnny frustrated me so much sometimes even though I could understand his issues and that healing and learning to love himself again is a process. But he was also entertaining since he was so quirky, clumsy, and a hot mess. I just adored everything about sweet and swoony Aiden.
I am interested to read more about a couple of side characters that seem to be sparking a bit themselves.
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Aiden Brandt also has a big, prying family who work together as brick masons. He is built, handsome, and used to men or women throwing themselves at him. But he is looking for that spark and something meaningful. He is not used to having to chase anyone.
These guys kind of meet, then meet again, then again in a series of potential dating scenarios. Some might think it is fate and some maybe just bad timing. Their chemistry is on point and hard to resist. But Johnny is a negative thinker and great runner, and Aiden is afraid trying too hard to catch him will only lead to heartbreak.
Two men NOT on the same page at the same time.
Families and friends that want their guy to settle down.
Dating setups, mishaps, and shenanigans all around town.
Realist vs. Romantic.
This is a funny, sexy, angsty, opposites-attract, sweet and sour, multiple-chance romance. I will admit that Johnny frustrated me so much sometimes even though I could understand his issues and that healing and learning to love himself again is a process. But he was also entertaining since he was so quirky, clumsy, and a hot mess. I just adored everything about sweet and swoony Aiden.
I am interested to read more about a couple of side characters that seem to be sparking a bit themselves.
Read
May 8, 2023Dnf 56%. I tried, people, I really did, but too many things didn't work here:
*Johnny is a surly, prickly, caustic asshole. What did Aiden see in him??
*Both MCs have oblivious, thoughtless, hurtfully careless family members. Johnny's mom seemed kind but was in complete denial about or ignored his homosexuality, even though he spelled it out to her numerous times. Yet she continually attempted to set him up with women. Aiden’s family ignored his garlic allergy, instead making comments about how he "didn't like" garlic. Both of these situations show a degree of obliviousness or thoughtlessness or cruelty or just WTF-ness on the part of the family members that simply didn't read as believable.
*One of my biggest pet peeves in Romancelandia was on display here: the young MC who has one bad relationship and as a result, swears off any and all future relationships. This was the case w 27yo Johnny.
*What was with Johnny's weird hang-up about not being circumcised? He acted like he was the only male in America w an uncut dick and was embarrassed and ashamed. What the heck?
*Johnny's nicknames--for Aiden it was Swiper, for his own dick, it was Flapper. Yuck.
There were some humorous moments, snatches of dialogue, or internal rumblings that made me laugh out loud a few times. But it was not nearly enough to counterbalance the frustrations.
*Johnny is a surly, prickly, caustic asshole. What did Aiden see in him??
*Both MCs have oblivious, thoughtless, hurtfully careless family members. Johnny's mom seemed kind but was in complete denial about or ignored his homosexuality, even though he spelled it out to her numerous times. Yet she continually attempted to set him up with women. Aiden’s family ignored his garlic allergy, instead making comments about how he "didn't like" garlic. Both of these situations show a degree of obliviousness or thoughtlessness or cruelty or just WTF-ness on the part of the family members that simply didn't read as believable.
*One of my biggest pet peeves in Romancelandia was on display here: the young MC who has one bad relationship and as a result, swears off any and all future relationships. This was the case w 27yo Johnny.
*What was with Johnny's weird hang-up about not being circumcised? He acted like he was the only male in America w an uncut dick and was embarrassed and ashamed. What the heck?
*Johnny's nicknames--for Aiden it was Swiper, for his own dick, it was Flapper. Yuck.
There were some humorous moments, snatches of dialogue, or internal rumblings that made me laugh out loud a few times. But it was not nearly enough to counterbalance the frustrations.
June 11, 2022
I had the time of my life reading You Again by Dianna Roman. It was a complicated, messy, raw, authentic, genuine and beautiful love story. I feel the moral of the story is to not let past relationships ruin your future happiness, scars remind us of where we've been, not where we're going.
Johnny is a handsome, nerdy and renowned photographer who has been jaded by his ex Lance. I really enjoyed seeing Johnny grow throughout the novel and getting past defining all of his relationships of the failed one with Lance. I also found Johnny the character personally relatable since we are both the same age 27, wear glasses and to a certain degree have a cynical point of view on love.
Aidan is a sexy, brawny brick Mason who is looking for long term love and long lasting relationship. Aidan was a fine leading man and was a great character from beginning to the end. He was so charming and really put in an effort with Johnny even when it was reciprocated.
Overall, I loved all the Dirty Dancing and Roadhouse references, the steamy love scenes, romantic airplane scenes and even how Johnny and Aidan both did the work of self discovery to find romance. I also love how many different mediums brought them together.
Johnny is a handsome, nerdy and renowned photographer who has been jaded by his ex Lance. I really enjoyed seeing Johnny grow throughout the novel and getting past defining all of his relationships of the failed one with Lance. I also found Johnny the character personally relatable since we are both the same age 27, wear glasses and to a certain degree have a cynical point of view on love.
Aidan is a sexy, brawny brick Mason who is looking for long term love and long lasting relationship. Aidan was a fine leading man and was a great character from beginning to the end. He was so charming and really put in an effort with Johnny even when it was reciprocated.
Overall, I loved all the Dirty Dancing and Roadhouse references, the steamy love scenes, romantic airplane scenes and even how Johnny and Aidan both did the work of self discovery to find romance. I also love how many different mediums brought them together.
June 13, 2022
I knew this would be funny. How could it not be? You have this grump (Johnny) who is essentially strong armed into wading back into the dating cesspool, and Aiden, who sees the positive in the world and genuinely wants to find someone to build a life with. It’s obvious from the start that they’re exactly what the other needs. Fate seems to agree, because no matter how much Johnny wants to deny his attraction to Aiden, they keep being thrown together.
I know what you’re thinking. It’s a fun, quirky romcom…and you would be right…but it’s more than that. You Again deals with the fallout of a shattered heart and how there is a ripple effect that can potentially destroy the next person who tries to get close.
This book was deeper than expected but in the best way possible. If you haven’t read Dianna Roman before, I highly recommend her…and I’m not just saying that because she’s my friend ❤️
I know what you’re thinking. It’s a fun, quirky romcom…and you would be right…but it’s more than that. You Again deals with the fallout of a shattered heart and how there is a ripple effect that can potentially destroy the next person who tries to get close.
This book was deeper than expected but in the best way possible. If you haven’t read Dianna Roman before, I highly recommend her…and I’m not just saying that because she’s my friend ❤️
July 26, 2022
Dianna Roman has the knack for being able to make you feel all the emotions. Even in a RomCom, which did provide many laughs (including some actual laughing out loud), but also had me crying, and for about 60% of the book had me wanting to throttle Johnny.
Aiden was tenacious, knowing what he was looking for in love, but in the most wonderful sweet way. And though he put up with a lot from the prickly Johnny (seriously I’m still mad at how he treated Aiden, lol), he wasn’t a doormat, which I loved. The rest of my thoughts are hard to spell out for fear of spoiling things. Just know Johnny realizes what he could have and what he could lose if he doesn’t get his act together!
I truly enjoy Dianna’s writing style, and can’t wait for more. Her first MM, The Shutout, still haunts my thoughts on a regular basis.
Aiden was tenacious, knowing what he was looking for in love, but in the most wonderful sweet way. And though he put up with a lot from the prickly Johnny (seriously I’m still mad at how he treated Aiden, lol), he wasn’t a doormat, which I loved. The rest of my thoughts are hard to spell out for fear of spoiling things. Just know Johnny realizes what he could have and what he could lose if he doesn’t get his act together!
I truly enjoy Dianna’s writing style, and can’t wait for more. Her first MM, The Shutout, still haunts my thoughts on a regular basis.
October 15, 2023
Johny & Aiden
3.5 Stars ⭐⭐⭐.5🎧
Johny has come back home with his assistant to nurse another breakup. But he has a Greek family, and his mom is ready to set him up again.
Aiden is the "handy" man; he is a bricklayer. He is at a time in his life when he would like to settle down.
These two end up on a few dates because of a meddling family, and they kind of hit it off. Johnny is putting up bricks left and right, and Aiden is taking them down just as fast, but it's a bit of a mess, really.
It was drama, and so I enjoyed it, but I also wanted Johnny to either get on with it or leave poor Aiden alone.
The narration was good. Michael Dean is always a good listen.
3.5 Stars ⭐⭐⭐.5🎧
Johny has come back home with his assistant to nurse another breakup. But he has a Greek family, and his mom is ready to set him up again.
Aiden is the "handy" man; he is a bricklayer. He is at a time in his life when he would like to settle down.
These two end up on a few dates because of a meddling family, and they kind of hit it off. Johnny is putting up bricks left and right, and Aiden is taking them down just as fast, but it's a bit of a mess, really.
It was drama, and so I enjoyed it, but I also wanted Johnny to either get on with it or leave poor Aiden alone.
The narration was good. Michael Dean is always a good listen.
July 15, 2022
I am so thrilled to find Dianna’s books. She’s a new writer for me and I am so excited for more. This was a lovely story about finding yourself after being mishandled by a significant other. Johnny is hilarious and afraid. Aiden wants someone to see him. Their travels are a roller coaster but they end up making their own way to each other.
I did receive an Arc for a review.
I did receive an Arc for a review.
July 21, 2022
I felt like shaking Johnny repeatedly on a few occasions. He knew what he had with Aiden was amazing and he was letting it slip away.
I understand the whole Lance thing and appreicated him giving Lances letters to Aiden to understand him, I do feel Aiden deserved to he treated better.
When Johnny finally worked out what he wanted, Aiden showed him time and again, how the right person never asks you to change.
As for Aiden, I adored him. He knew he wanted special and he honestly fought for it. He knew plain sailing wasnt enough and Johnny was worth every piece of baggage he brought to the table.
I understand the whole Lance thing and appreicated him giving Lances letters to Aiden to understand him, I do feel Aiden deserved to he treated better.
When Johnny finally worked out what he wanted, Aiden showed him time and again, how the right person never asks you to change.
As for Aiden, I adored him. He knew he wanted special and he honestly fought for it. He knew plain sailing wasnt enough and Johnny was worth every piece of baggage he brought to the table.
August 7, 2022
Johnny was reeling for a bad break up and Aiden was exploring being bisexual. These 2 cross paths in a series of blind date meet cutes. Dianna Roman put our heros through the paces to create the sweetest HEA you could wish for.
August 5, 2022
Wow!!!
Yeah I’m going to be following this author. First book of theirs that I have read and I’m loving it. I have to find out how the other single guys are doing. I was a bit concerned there with the whole Sam thing. Glad it all straightened out. This is an author you are definitely going to want more from.
Yeah I’m going to be following this author. First book of theirs that I have read and I’m loving it. I have to find out how the other single guys are doing. I was a bit concerned there with the whole Sam thing. Glad it all straightened out. This is an author you are definitely going to want more from.
August 1, 2022
Thank you for the ARC read, I voluntarily give this book an honest review. You can't go wrong as you dive into this journey that takes Johnny and Aiden a merry filled roll-a-coster of ride.
Nope, he isnt OCD, right, just everything has its place, like the mustard Bitsy splashed over his nice clean polo. Johnny -vs-spawn but his response over the walking siren was just hilarious.
Johnny's world is just a mess with a geek mama about to arrange that boy..(gasp) a girlfriend, because Mama only wonts him to find happiness with his soulmate. Bitsy is that wonderful mix of sister/bestfriend that he couldn't have lived without. I just love how lost Johnny becomes in own little world and poof there's Swiper to he him in all his awkward glory.
Just how desperate doe Bitsy make him sound to text the guy that wants his feet, Bitsy doesn't help the matter one bit except egg him on..which I find is hilariously and awful to him at the same time. What are the odds that his coffee date is the same cutie that has been running a marathon in Aiden's head? How are you going to find your perfect match if fear holds you back? What was turning out to be the best of thing, was turning bleak fast. Running back and forth and emotional slip, because someone is so going to be hurt in this new devastating development. Weeks of heartbreak Aiden meets Sam, is it bad that I really like Sam?
Who would have thought Yiayia would turn into the perfect sounding board for Johnny, (you go Yiayia)
Nope, he isnt OCD, right, just everything has its place, like the mustard Bitsy splashed over his nice clean polo. Johnny -vs-spawn but his response over the walking siren was just hilarious.
Johnny's world is just a mess with a geek mama about to arrange that boy..(gasp) a girlfriend, because Mama only wonts him to find happiness with his soulmate. Bitsy is that wonderful mix of sister/bestfriend that he couldn't have lived without. I just love how lost Johnny becomes in own little world and poof there's Swiper to he him in all his awkward glory.
Just how desperate doe Bitsy make him sound to text the guy that wants his feet, Bitsy doesn't help the matter one bit except egg him on..which I find is hilariously and awful to him at the same time. What are the odds that his coffee date is the same cutie that has been running a marathon in Aiden's head? How are you going to find your perfect match if fear holds you back? What was turning out to be the best of thing, was turning bleak fast. Running back and forth and emotional slip, because someone is so going to be hurt in this new devastating development. Weeks of heartbreak Aiden meets Sam, is it bad that I really like Sam?
Who would have thought Yiayia would turn into the perfect sounding board for Johnny, (you go Yiayia)
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