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On Cravenwood Block #1
Jett & Leighton: On Cravenwood Block
Jett is accustomed to people thinking he’s an intimidating, aloof loner. He doesn’t really mind, even though finding a special connection to someone would be nice. Opening his own tattoo shop on Cravenwood Block is a dream come true, but he isn’t prepared for the determined little ray of sunshine who walks through his door and turns his entire world upside down.
Leighton knows better than to let himself get involved with a straight guy again—been there, done that, got the t-shirt and some stylish baggage he’s been lugging around ever since. However, the moment he lays eyes on the new tattoo artist on the block, he can’t help the instant pull toward the man.
Meeting Leighton throws Jett for a curve. He’s forced to recognize he’s got a lot to learn about himself, and he quickly realizes he actually likes the man he’s uncovering. Leighton knows it’s dangerous to let his heart hold onto hope, but he can’t shake the feeling something good is just around the corner.
Jett & Leighton: On Cravenwood Block is a steamy, opposites-attract, bisexual-awakening, roommates-to-lovers M/M romance featuring a sexy-as-sin tattoo artist and a fresh, flashy barista with a smile that lights up the room.
Leighton knows better than to let himself get involved with a straight guy again—been there, done that, got the t-shirt and some stylish baggage he’s been lugging around ever since. However, the moment he lays eyes on the new tattoo artist on the block, he can’t help the instant pull toward the man.
Meeting Leighton throws Jett for a curve. He’s forced to recognize he’s got a lot to learn about himself, and he quickly realizes he actually likes the man he’s uncovering. Leighton knows it’s dangerous to let his heart hold onto hope, but he can’t shake the feeling something good is just around the corner.
Jett & Leighton: On Cravenwood Block is a steamy, opposites-attract, bisexual-awakening, roommates-to-lovers M/M romance featuring a sexy-as-sin tattoo artist and a fresh, flashy barista with a smile that lights up the room.
Kindle Edition
First published June 7, 2022
120 people are currently reading
211 people want to read
About the author
A.D. Ellis
92 books746 followersEscape into addictive, sexy, emotional queer M/M romance.
A.D. Ellis is an Indiana girl, born and raised. She spends much of her time in central Indiana as an instructional coach/teacher in the inner city of Indianapolis, being a mom to two amazing teens, and wondering how she and her husband of over two decades haven't driven each other insane yet. A lot of her time is also devoted to phone call avoidance and her hatred of cooking.
She loves chocolate, hot tea, sweet wine with friends, pizza, and naps along with reading and writing romance. These loves don’t leave much time for housework. Who would pick cleaning the house over a nap or a good book? She uses any extra time to increase her fluency in sarcasm.
A.D. uses she/they pronouns.
Sign up at http://www.subscribepage.com/ADEllisN... for a FREE male/male romance book.
A.D. Ellis does not use generative AI to create books or covers.
A.D. Ellis is an Indiana girl, born and raised. She spends much of her time in central Indiana as an instructional coach/teacher in the inner city of Indianapolis, being a mom to two amazing teens, and wondering how she and her husband of over two decades haven't driven each other insane yet. A lot of her time is also devoted to phone call avoidance and her hatred of cooking.
She loves chocolate, hot tea, sweet wine with friends, pizza, and naps along with reading and writing romance. These loves don’t leave much time for housework. Who would pick cleaning the house over a nap or a good book? She uses any extra time to increase her fluency in sarcasm.
A.D. uses she/they pronouns.
Sign up at http://www.subscribepage.com/ADEllisN... for a FREE male/male romance book.
A.D. Ellis does not use generative AI to create books or covers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
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July 4, 2022DNF on page 72 😅, I feel so bad because I wanted to like it but I just couldn’t, I easily get annoyed with the “kinda” type of talk and it ruins everything in my world 🤭. Leighton was just too over the top for me 🤦🏽♀️ my word can he just stop with sexualising everything?! I don’t like it when characters are portrayed as if they are forcing their sexuality on others and that’s how Leighton came across for me he is just too forward for my liking and I just couldn’t read this anymore. I tried putting it off but it not for me
November 5, 2024
I’ve read quite a few books by A. D. Ellis and enjoyed most of them. This was a really sweet story. Leighton was the type of person you either love or hate. He’s unapologetically out and proud and I loved him. This was a very sweet low angst love story. My only complaint is that there is simply too much inner monologue. It was pretty much the same thing from both Jett and Leighton. They both constantly worry that they have fallen in love with the other one and it will not be reciprocated. That cost the story a star from me, but I still enjoyed it.
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May 26, 2022So excited for readers to meet Jett & Leighton!!
May 24, 2022
Jett and Leighton's romance was so much fun! I smiled this entire read! Jett is a little bit grumpy, but mostly just a loner tattoo artist and Leighton is a free spirit so full of Sassy brightness! Jett has always thought he was straight, but he is drawn to Leighton's open and fun personality. Leighton's ridiculous flirty nicknames for Jett that Jett just rolls his eyes out are hilarious and the delivery is seamless! I adored everything about the dynamic and sizzling chemistry between these two! So much swooning and scowling! Highly recommend this light and entertaining read with wonderful characters you cannot help but love!
August 17, 2022
2 stars
DNF @ 47%
This book isn't poorly written, but it is a tad too boring for me. Also, Leighton's overuse of pet names for Jett really began to annoy me.
DNF @ 47%
This book isn't poorly written, but it is a tad too boring for me. Also, Leighton's overuse of pet names for Jett really began to annoy me.
June 12, 2022
What a beautiful book
OMG what a brilliant read I need to find a Leighton in my life because that boy is just free happy and a joy to be around. Who is this ball of energy that just keeps giving. And Jett had no idea what he was in for.
Jett had never felt wanted never felt a connection with a woman. But then he never had a connection with a man before so when he met Leighton And it was obvious that this man had an attraction for him Jett didn’t know what to think. Jett thought that Leighton would give up because he wasn’t easy to get to know but that boy just come in to his tattoo shop every day with coffee from the CAFE where he worked and kind of wearing him down. When an apartment came available in the block where Leighton lived, he made sure that Jett got to have a look first. Within days yet had moved in with Leighton and their friendship grew. But also did the attraction between them. would Jett give into his feelings for Leighton? Of course he did but stupidly they both agreed to make it a casual thing when really they both had feelings for each other but they couldn’t talk to each other through fear of losing them. So they started this casual hook up thing and then the magic happened. The connection the chemistry the passion was out of this world. These two are amazing together. I have thoroughly thoroughly enjoyed this read and I really wish that I could start over again right now that’s how much I enjoyed this book. And I know I’m going to read this again. Jett is a hard guy to get to know you know he puts on his front and you’ll find out why but when Leighton brings out the best in him he really does. Fantastic just a fantastic read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
OMG what a brilliant read I need to find a Leighton in my life because that boy is just free happy and a joy to be around. Who is this ball of energy that just keeps giving. And Jett had no idea what he was in for.
Jett had never felt wanted never felt a connection with a woman. But then he never had a connection with a man before so when he met Leighton And it was obvious that this man had an attraction for him Jett didn’t know what to think. Jett thought that Leighton would give up because he wasn’t easy to get to know but that boy just come in to his tattoo shop every day with coffee from the CAFE where he worked and kind of wearing him down. When an apartment came available in the block where Leighton lived, he made sure that Jett got to have a look first. Within days yet had moved in with Leighton and their friendship grew. But also did the attraction between them. would Jett give into his feelings for Leighton? Of course he did but stupidly they both agreed to make it a casual thing when really they both had feelings for each other but they couldn’t talk to each other through fear of losing them. So they started this casual hook up thing and then the magic happened. The connection the chemistry the passion was out of this world. These two are amazing together. I have thoroughly thoroughly enjoyed this read and I really wish that I could start over again right now that’s how much I enjoyed this book. And I know I’m going to read this again. Jett is a hard guy to get to know you know he puts on his front and you’ll find out why but when Leighton brings out the best in him he really does. Fantastic just a fantastic read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 31, 2022
I’m such a sucker for grumpy sunshine, and this was a fantastic example of that trope done right. Grumpy tattoo artist Jett gets dragged into friendship and eventually romance with sunshiny barista Leighton while finding the place he feels at home for the first time in his life is such a feel good, happy thing to read. Jett’s grandpa has his own sub plot that is adorable and the only change I’d make is seeing more of grandpa and Milton. I’m not usually super hot on gay awakening but when it’s done well, and especially when it’s paired with aspec (Jett is demisexual! It’s awesome and as an asexual person I am always thrilled by more ase representation), it makes for a really good experience. Oh, and the sex is playful and hot, which is always important. It starts off with kissing, handjobs, blow jobs and frotting and eventually moves on to penetration and we get to see Jett bottom for the first time in an epilogue, which is awesome.
This book is somewhat small town, low angst, Demi/gay awakening, and grumpy sunshine so if that’s your jam, it’s definitely worth a read.
This book is somewhat small town, low angst, Demi/gay awakening, and grumpy sunshine so if that’s your jam, it’s definitely worth a read.
February 4, 2025
I was sad I didn’t like this more. It started off well but then sort of dragged. I felt like this would’ve been a good story had it been 100 pages shorter. There were a lot of filler words and scenes I could’ve done without. It got repetitive, and the miscommunication trope grew thin and irritating after a while. There wasn’t any actual conflict keeping them apart or from sharing their feelings. Overall, a bummer because I didn’t mind the characters and the writing wasn’t bad, just poorly executed.
May 23, 2022
When Jett opened his tattoo shop and Leighton started bringing him coffee from the shop he worked at because he had a crush on Jett. When Jett said something about trying to find an apartment for rent, Leighton asked the guys he was friends with and rented with if Jett could rent his extra bedroom in his section to Jett and also his shop was in a certain area for that room. They went from friends to lovers for keep. Good book!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 5, 2022
A good start to the little town of Cravenwood with a tattooist and a coffee shop employee.
Jett was a Bi curious tattooist which was getting used to having Leighton walking into his shop daily. Other reviewers have classed him as grumpy but I think Leighton just out shines him with his personality and then some. I'd reckon Leighton is a little cyclone that Jett doesn't know what to do. Jett is straight but not totally 100% especially when he feels something for Leighton.
Jett goes from sharing with his grandpa to living with his cyclone aka Leighton in a full apartment with 7 others. Leighton has a slight crush on Jett that he's tries to hide, oh did I meantion a total chatterbox too that has wayy to many nicknames..
Told with both povs for a HEA ending for a friend's to lovers and more romance. I couldn't feel their connection in this but I loved Jett with his emotions he goes through.
ARC provided by booksprout
Jett was a Bi curious tattooist which was getting used to having Leighton walking into his shop daily. Other reviewers have classed him as grumpy but I think Leighton just out shines him with his personality and then some. I'd reckon Leighton is a little cyclone that Jett doesn't know what to do. Jett is straight but not totally 100% especially when he feels something for Leighton.
Jett goes from sharing with his grandpa to living with his cyclone aka Leighton in a full apartment with 7 others. Leighton has a slight crush on Jett that he's tries to hide, oh did I meantion a total chatterbox too that has wayy to many nicknames..
Told with both povs for a HEA ending for a friend's to lovers and more romance. I couldn't feel their connection in this but I loved Jett with his emotions he goes through.
ARC provided by booksprout
June 2, 2022
Jett and Leighton was a wonderful read. It was sweet, funny, and adorable. The MCs made a great couple. I was glad to see them get their HEA.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 7, 2023
Cute book 1 , few word mix ups but glad Jett found his person
Grandpa is awesome and their family sucks LOL
Leighton makes me qanna just go Yes!!
Grandpa is awesome and their family sucks LOL
Leighton makes me qanna just go Yes!!
January 20, 2023
2.5 stars
Nice story, but not for me. A lot of repetitive sex and noncommunication between the MCs.
Leighton is very amazing, though; I liked the banter between him and Jett.
Nice story, but not for me. A lot of repetitive sex and noncommunication between the MCs.
Leighton is very amazing, though; I liked the banter between him and Jett.
January 18, 2025
OHMYGAWD!!! This was an absolutely beautiful story!!! I won’t lie and say I wasn’t mostly interested in the sexy stuff initially, but this book delivered sooooo much more than that!!!
This was a true romance between 2 souls who truly needed each other.
Jett is a 25 year old, he’s big, bulky, inked and gruff. And a bit of a loner. His somewhat gruff demeanor generally keeps people away. Growing up he felt he was never enough for his parents, or anyone else. When he graduated high school he moved in with his gramps, who accepted him for who he was. He’s now opening a tattoo shop on Cravenwood Block, a super cool little neighborhood that’s pretty self contained. He’s never really had any close friends, he had some brief casual sexual encounters with girls but always just because it was expected more so than he really enjoyed it or wanted the connection.
Leighton is the openly, fabulously gay barista from the coffee shop on Cravenwood Block and he is enamored with Jett instantly despite knowing he is heterosexual. Every day he comes to see Jett at the tattoo shop, bringing his special coffee brews, his sunshiny and outrageous personality and trying out new nicknames for Jett. Surprisingly Jett doesn’t mind (although he shuts down every single one of those nicknames🤣😍)… and in fact comes to enjoy the outgoing young man, despite his near constant joking innuendo and flirty behavior. Leighton can’t seem to help himself, there’s just something about Jett. He’s determined to be friends with him if nothing else. He was hurt in the past by a lover who was just using him for sex, then returning to his girlfriend (unbeknownst to Leighton) and is determined not to get involved with another hetero man.
There’s something about Leighton…Jett has never been interested in men before…and even now…doesn’t think he is…but there’s something about Leighton and his cute ass (wait…did Jett just think about Leighton’s ass???!!!😳😍) that is getting under his skin. He comes to really look forward to Leighton’s visits and even goes to see him at the coffee shop. When Jett mentions that he was interested in moving to the neighborhood but the waiting list at Cravenwood Towers is crazy long, Leighton gets an idea. He’s friends with Julian, the manager of Tower A, where he lives and there’s an opening. Would he want Jett as a roommate? Would Jett want to live so close? The Towers have a unique set up with 4 pairs of 2 bedroom occupancies each with a shared bathroom and foyer, then all 8 bedrooms share the common areas, kitchen, living and dining rooms. And the bedroom next to Leighton's is open.
They embark on a new friendship when Jett moves in and Jett pretty quickly realizes that he really likes Leighton…like, really really likes him. He’s fun to be around. Jett is more comfortable with Leighton than he ever has been with anyone else besides his own Gramps. And he’s noticing that he really is attracted to him too. He starts questioning his sexually and what is most concerning is how could he have not known all this time??? Is this why he never managed to make close friends before?
He gets close with the whole group of guys renting Tower A but especially Leighton…
What follows is nothing short of beautiful. Leighton eventually helps Jett explore his sexuality…But because of his own trauma he’s convinced himself (and Jett) that he’s not ready for a long term, or real, relationship. Jett (reluctantly) agrees to a friends with benefits exploration despite having already realized that Leighton is “his person”😍).
Everybody around them sees that they are falling in love…Will they realize it before things fall apart? Neither can imagine going in living without the other…
This really is a beautifully crafted and executed romance where interestingly (I think unusually, it’s the opposite in most romances ) it’s the big, manly, hunky guy who turns out to need a lot of TLC and understanding…And in turn learns who he truly is for the first time. It’s a story of acceptance.
Ok, I’ve been blabbing about it forever now… You HAVE to read it!!! Just go!!!!
😍😍😍
This was a true romance between 2 souls who truly needed each other.
Jett is a 25 year old, he’s big, bulky, inked and gruff. And a bit of a loner. His somewhat gruff demeanor generally keeps people away. Growing up he felt he was never enough for his parents, or anyone else. When he graduated high school he moved in with his gramps, who accepted him for who he was. He’s now opening a tattoo shop on Cravenwood Block, a super cool little neighborhood that’s pretty self contained. He’s never really had any close friends, he had some brief casual sexual encounters with girls but always just because it was expected more so than he really enjoyed it or wanted the connection.
Leighton is the openly, fabulously gay barista from the coffee shop on Cravenwood Block and he is enamored with Jett instantly despite knowing he is heterosexual. Every day he comes to see Jett at the tattoo shop, bringing his special coffee brews, his sunshiny and outrageous personality and trying out new nicknames for Jett. Surprisingly Jett doesn’t mind (although he shuts down every single one of those nicknames🤣😍)… and in fact comes to enjoy the outgoing young man, despite his near constant joking innuendo and flirty behavior. Leighton can’t seem to help himself, there’s just something about Jett. He’s determined to be friends with him if nothing else. He was hurt in the past by a lover who was just using him for sex, then returning to his girlfriend (unbeknownst to Leighton) and is determined not to get involved with another hetero man.
There’s something about Leighton…Jett has never been interested in men before…and even now…doesn’t think he is…but there’s something about Leighton and his cute ass (wait…did Jett just think about Leighton’s ass???!!!😳😍) that is getting under his skin. He comes to really look forward to Leighton’s visits and even goes to see him at the coffee shop. When Jett mentions that he was interested in moving to the neighborhood but the waiting list at Cravenwood Towers is crazy long, Leighton gets an idea. He’s friends with Julian, the manager of Tower A, where he lives and there’s an opening. Would he want Jett as a roommate? Would Jett want to live so close? The Towers have a unique set up with 4 pairs of 2 bedroom occupancies each with a shared bathroom and foyer, then all 8 bedrooms share the common areas, kitchen, living and dining rooms. And the bedroom next to Leighton's is open.
They embark on a new friendship when Jett moves in and Jett pretty quickly realizes that he really likes Leighton…like, really really likes him. He’s fun to be around. Jett is more comfortable with Leighton than he ever has been with anyone else besides his own Gramps. And he’s noticing that he really is attracted to him too. He starts questioning his sexually and what is most concerning is how could he have not known all this time??? Is this why he never managed to make close friends before?
He gets close with the whole group of guys renting Tower A but especially Leighton…
What follows is nothing short of beautiful. Leighton eventually helps Jett explore his sexuality…But because of his own trauma he’s convinced himself (and Jett) that he’s not ready for a long term, or real, relationship. Jett (reluctantly) agrees to a friends with benefits exploration despite having already realized that Leighton is “his person”😍).
Everybody around them sees that they are falling in love…Will they realize it before things fall apart? Neither can imagine going in living without the other…
This really is a beautifully crafted and executed romance where interestingly (I think unusually, it’s the opposite in most romances ) it’s the big, manly, hunky guy who turns out to need a lot of TLC and understanding…And in turn learns who he truly is for the first time. It’s a story of acceptance.
Ok, I’ve been blabbing about it forever now… You HAVE to read it!!! Just go!!!!
😍😍😍
May 18, 2023
This was my first book by this author; I received a copy of this book in a giveaway and voluntarily wrote a review.
Jett is the gruff tattooed new owner of Cravin' Ink Designs, the tattoo shop on Cravenwood Block. He's assumed that he's straight, but doesn't understand the fuss of relationships and sex. Leighton is his polar opposite, a ridiculously friendly, gay barista at the local coffee shop, Cravin'-a-Cup. Leighton has taken it upon himself to befriend the bewildered Jett, who has always been something of a loner. I would have loved reading their meet-cute, the reader is dropped into the story after Leighton has spent the previous two weeks popping into the tattoo shop but I think the inclusion of their first impressions of each other would have been fun.
I'm a sucker for opposites attract in this way, where one character is a bundle of energy and the other just has to hold on for the ride. After Leighton helps Jett find an apartment closer to his new workplace - conveniently as roommates - the transition from acquaintances to friends to more was very natural. I loved the revolving list of endearments Leighton tried on Jett and their easy friendship.
It was a low-angst read sooooo, not a lot of excitement/tension occurs and what does is resolved quickly. I'm grateful that there was no third-act break-up - that gets annoying quickly, especially when combined with a miscommunication trope, which is not one of my favourites. I didn't hate it as much here because it, to a certain degree made sense, and the characters had a degree of self-awareness about it.
There were a few missed opportunities in the story that would have made this a five-star read for me, like the author dropped the breadcrumb but didn't circle back to follow it. I went with four because I did genuinely enjoy the story and rocked through it rather quickly. Jett and Leighton were adorable together and I liked the bonus relationship of Jett's grandfather - I wish his character had been more fleshed out when he visited the apartment.
I would have liked to see Jett building his clientele as well and make his new business venture profitable. Seeing Leighton and the other roommates talking him up, trying to drum up business for him, would have been a cute addition and cemented the fact that Jett had finally found his tribe.
Now, I'm looking forward to reading about the other couples in the series.
Jett is the gruff tattooed new owner of Cravin' Ink Designs, the tattoo shop on Cravenwood Block. He's assumed that he's straight, but doesn't understand the fuss of relationships and sex. Leighton is his polar opposite, a ridiculously friendly, gay barista at the local coffee shop, Cravin'-a-Cup. Leighton has taken it upon himself to befriend the bewildered Jett, who has always been something of a loner. I would have loved reading their meet-cute, the reader is dropped into the story after Leighton has spent the previous two weeks popping into the tattoo shop but I think the inclusion of their first impressions of each other would have been fun.
I'm a sucker for opposites attract in this way, where one character is a bundle of energy and the other just has to hold on for the ride. After Leighton helps Jett find an apartment closer to his new workplace - conveniently as roommates - the transition from acquaintances to friends to more was very natural. I loved the revolving list of endearments Leighton tried on Jett and their easy friendship.
It was a low-angst read sooooo, not a lot of excitement/tension occurs and what does is resolved quickly. I'm grateful that there was no third-act break-up - that gets annoying quickly, especially when combined with a miscommunication trope, which is not one of my favourites. I didn't hate it as much here because it, to a certain degree made sense, and the characters had a degree of self-awareness about it.
There were a few missed opportunities in the story that would have made this a five-star read for me, like the author dropped the breadcrumb but didn't circle back to follow it. I went with four because I did genuinely enjoy the story and rocked through it rather quickly. Jett and Leighton were adorable together and I liked the bonus relationship of Jett's grandfather - I wish his character had been more fleshed out when he visited the apartment.
I would have liked to see Jett building his clientele as well and make his new business venture profitable. Seeing Leighton and the other roommates talking him up, trying to drum up business for him, would have been a cute addition and cemented the fact that Jett had finally found his tribe.
Now, I'm looking forward to reading about the other couples in the series.
June 7, 2022
Jett and Leighton is the start of a great new series with what's turning out to be an interesting and friendly community.
They're such a fun match up - grumpy/sunshine, full on flirt/shy intorvert. Leighton has literally no filter, especially when it comes to how he feels towards Jett, even with Jett stating he's straight. He's attracted from the first moment and basically forces his friendship upon him, which is actually a good thing as the only person Jett has is his Grampa. Leighton shows him the social side of the world and getting out into his own place, one shared with seven other guys.
These two ignite from the moment they get together. They take it slow and sweet but you can still feel the emotion that they share. Jett may be new to be attracted to a man but he has no reticence when it comes to being with Leighton and with Leighton's lack of any filters, it makes for a lot of fun both in and out of the bedroom. What holds them back is not sharing what they feel with each other, which goes on for quite a lot of the book but it doesn't detract from their enjoyment of each other, just gives a fair amount of fretting and will he/won't he thoughts.
I enjoyed reading these two. I like a couple who are quite different in their personalities, bringing a variety of traits to the relationship. I have to say, probably my favourite scenes actually comes right at the end, Bonus Scene #3. Worth all the slight angst-ing and possible family drama. We have a gentle introduction to the others in the house share and I'm looking forward to getting to know them all better in the series.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
They're such a fun match up - grumpy/sunshine, full on flirt/shy intorvert. Leighton has literally no filter, especially when it comes to how he feels towards Jett, even with Jett stating he's straight. He's attracted from the first moment and basically forces his friendship upon him, which is actually a good thing as the only person Jett has is his Grampa. Leighton shows him the social side of the world and getting out into his own place, one shared with seven other guys.
These two ignite from the moment they get together. They take it slow and sweet but you can still feel the emotion that they share. Jett may be new to be attracted to a man but he has no reticence when it comes to being with Leighton and with Leighton's lack of any filters, it makes for a lot of fun both in and out of the bedroom. What holds them back is not sharing what they feel with each other, which goes on for quite a lot of the book but it doesn't detract from their enjoyment of each other, just gives a fair amount of fretting and will he/won't he thoughts.
I enjoyed reading these two. I like a couple who are quite different in their personalities, bringing a variety of traits to the relationship. I have to say, probably my favourite scenes actually comes right at the end, Bonus Scene #3. Worth all the slight angst-ing and possible family drama. We have a gentle introduction to the others in the house share and I'm looking forward to getting to know them all better in the series.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
June 28, 2022
4.5 Stars
This was such a great read, I love grumpy/sunshine and Jett and Leighton fit that so very perfectly. It was fun to follow these two and despite their differences I was rooting for them right from the start! This is definitely a great start to a new series.
Jett is a tattoo artist who has taken over a shop in Cravenwood. He's always been known as a bit of a grumpy outcast. He's never been one to really make friends or maintain relationships. That is until a hurricane of sunshine, Leighton shows up delivering coffee. Leighton works at the coffee shop in Cravenwood and is crushing hard on the straight Jett and even though he's made the mistake of falling for a straight guy before, he's determined to be friends with Jett.
There is an intense connection between these two right from the start, both of them feeling it but not always understanding it. That is especially the case for Jett who starts to feel things for Leighton that he hasn't felt before, for a man or a woman. They start to explore the attraction they feel for each other, both agreeing to just a friends with benefits situation, despite the fact that they are both falling head over heels for each other.
These two are really just adorably clueless for a while, both of them afraid of saying how they really feel. It's not an angsty read though, more one of discovery. Both Jett and Leighton are so easy to love and both so deserving of love and happiness. I loved what they brought out in each other, they really are amazing together. There is also a great supporting cast as well, Jett's grandpa is fantastic! I'm really looking forward to more from this group!
This was such a great read, I love grumpy/sunshine and Jett and Leighton fit that so very perfectly. It was fun to follow these two and despite their differences I was rooting for them right from the start! This is definitely a great start to a new series.
Jett is a tattoo artist who has taken over a shop in Cravenwood. He's always been known as a bit of a grumpy outcast. He's never been one to really make friends or maintain relationships. That is until a hurricane of sunshine, Leighton shows up delivering coffee. Leighton works at the coffee shop in Cravenwood and is crushing hard on the straight Jett and even though he's made the mistake of falling for a straight guy before, he's determined to be friends with Jett.
There is an intense connection between these two right from the start, both of them feeling it but not always understanding it. That is especially the case for Jett who starts to feel things for Leighton that he hasn't felt before, for a man or a woman. They start to explore the attraction they feel for each other, both agreeing to just a friends with benefits situation, despite the fact that they are both falling head over heels for each other.
These two are really just adorably clueless for a while, both of them afraid of saying how they really feel. It's not an angsty read though, more one of discovery. Both Jett and Leighton are so easy to love and both so deserving of love and happiness. I loved what they brought out in each other, they really are amazing together. There is also a great supporting cast as well, Jett's grandpa is fantastic! I'm really looking forward to more from this group!
September 14, 2024
I love hilariously persistent MCs. Leighton is so into Jett that Jett never really stood a chance against him (not that he wanted to). Their developing friendship before their romance was sweet though, and provided the best basis for their relationship.
Jett's awakening--no matter the label he eventually settles on--was really delightful to experience. Both MCs had special moments of clarity in their relationship, and I loved watching each of them fumble over the feelings that matched one another before they even knew or understood they were on the same page.
Leighton is Jett's little hurricane, and is amusingly mentioned as so several times throughout the book. Jett's rejection of pretty much all of Leighton's attempted endearments was hysterical. You can't NOT smile when that's happening.
All of the Cravenwood Block characters are incredible, and I'm looking forward to experiencing all that A.D. Ellis can bring to the table.
Audiobook:
Audiobook narrator spoke so fast, I had to slow down the reading speed in order to understand what they were saying. Beyond that, Oliver Young-Apstein was a very pleasant voice to follow for Jett & Leighton's story. There were a few moments where I had to discern whose voice he was trying to betray at that time, but most of the time the characters were subtly different enough to follow.
I received an authorized copy of this story/audiobook and am volunteering my honest review.
Jett's awakening--no matter the label he eventually settles on--was really delightful to experience. Both MCs had special moments of clarity in their relationship, and I loved watching each of them fumble over the feelings that matched one another before they even knew or understood they were on the same page.
Leighton is Jett's little hurricane, and is amusingly mentioned as so several times throughout the book. Jett's rejection of pretty much all of Leighton's attempted endearments was hysterical. You can't NOT smile when that's happening.
All of the Cravenwood Block characters are incredible, and I'm looking forward to experiencing all that A.D. Ellis can bring to the table.
Audiobook:
Audiobook narrator spoke so fast, I had to slow down the reading speed in order to understand what they were saying. Beyond that, Oliver Young-Apstein was a very pleasant voice to follow for Jett & Leighton's story. There were a few moments where I had to discern whose voice he was trying to betray at that time, but most of the time the characters were subtly different enough to follow.
I received an authorized copy of this story/audiobook and am volunteering my honest review.
June 12, 2022
STEAMY DEMISEXUAL AWAKENING!
The first book of the On Cravenwood Block series about a group of guys that share an apartment was such a blast to the beginning of the series!
A stoic and aloof tattoo artist Jett Nelson, twenty five moves onto the block with his tattoo parlour Cravin' Ink Designs wanting to start his life over thinking it will be a quiet start until a sunshiny hurricane blows into his shop by the name of Leighton Cruise a twenty five year old blond, sassy twink that brings him coffee everyday with different pet names for the grumpy straight Adonis...
"Oh, baby cakes, you most definitely need to worry about me. I'm going to end up being your best friend, your juiciest dream, and your worst nightmare all rolled into one."
Their journey to self discovery, friendship, trust and love is riddled with self doubt and confusion but with all the characters from Cravenwood Block to support and guide them I am sure they will find their happiness one way or the other!
I look forward to Sebastian and Oliver's story next!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The first book of the On Cravenwood Block series about a group of guys that share an apartment was such a blast to the beginning of the series!
A stoic and aloof tattoo artist Jett Nelson, twenty five moves onto the block with his tattoo parlour Cravin' Ink Designs wanting to start his life over thinking it will be a quiet start until a sunshiny hurricane blows into his shop by the name of Leighton Cruise a twenty five year old blond, sassy twink that brings him coffee everyday with different pet names for the grumpy straight Adonis...
"Oh, baby cakes, you most definitely need to worry about me. I'm going to end up being your best friend, your juiciest dream, and your worst nightmare all rolled into one."
Their journey to self discovery, friendship, trust and love is riddled with self doubt and confusion but with all the characters from Cravenwood Block to support and guide them I am sure they will find their happiness one way or the other!
I look forward to Sebastian and Oliver's story next!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 19, 2022
I adored Jett and Leighton in this new series by A.D. Ellis. Leighton was as Jett described him a 'tiny sunshiny hurricane' who could be over-the-top but in such a happy and light-hearted way you couldn't help but fall for him; Jett certainly couldn't. Jett was a lonely character, never having had an easy run with making and keeping friends or girlfriends, he knows he's missing things in his life, but until he meets Leighton and then the guys from Cravenwood Tower, he didn't know where he would ever fit in.
You could feel the attraction between Jett and Leighton and I loved witnessing their connection as it grew and they came to terms with their feelings and desires for the future.
The whole story had me smiling my way through, even the confrontation with Jett's parents was kept light because of Leighton's ability to tell them how it was, no holds barred. I'm really glad A.D. Ellis included 3 bonus scenes at the end of the book because for me the ending felt rushed, but with the inclusion of these scenes it finished the book off perfectly.
I loved meeting the Cravenwood Tower guys and am really looking forward to all their stories.
You could feel the attraction between Jett and Leighton and I loved witnessing their connection as it grew and they came to terms with their feelings and desires for the future.
The whole story had me smiling my way through, even the confrontation with Jett's parents was kept light because of Leighton's ability to tell them how it was, no holds barred. I'm really glad A.D. Ellis included 3 bonus scenes at the end of the book because for me the ending felt rushed, but with the inclusion of these scenes it finished the book off perfectly.
I loved meeting the Cravenwood Tower guys and am really looking forward to all their stories.
June 6, 2022
This was such a fun read. Not only is there humor between characters but Leighton is hilarious when musing to himself! Leighton is the sunshiny hurricane while Jett is the serious, dark loner. Leigh is not shy by any means and sets his sight on Jett, the new tattoo shop owner. Jett has no idea how he is supposed to take this guy! He comes into his shop with coffee and rambling, flirty talk and Jett is just really confused by this ball of energy.
Leighton and his banter definitely keep the pace of this book moving but Grandpa is a mess all on his own.
This book takes you on a road of self-discovery, finally having a place to fit in, found family/friends and peace with who they really are.
I really enjoyed this book and I believe you will too. Especially if you like flirty little sunshiny hurricanes finding happiness (maybe, they have to talk first!) with dark, loner guys and all of their wonderful friends!
I cannot wait to see what happens with Ollie & Bash in the next book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Leighton and his banter definitely keep the pace of this book moving but Grandpa is a mess all on his own.
This book takes you on a road of self-discovery, finally having a place to fit in, found family/friends and peace with who they really are.
I really enjoyed this book and I believe you will too. Especially if you like flirty little sunshiny hurricanes finding happiness (maybe, they have to talk first!) with dark, loner guys and all of their wonderful friends!
I cannot wait to see what happens with Ollie & Bash in the next book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 12, 2022
What a sweet story this is
I loved everything about this story, from loner Jett finding love with his sunshiney hurricane, all the roommates who will get their own books, Jett's loving Grandpa, Leighton's word vomit and all the pet names that he winds Jett up with.
Jett and Leighton were perfect for each other and their relationship kept me thoroughly entertained while Leighton pined and Jett came to realise that maybe 'straight' didn't quite fit him, if it ever did. Their dynamic changed in every chapter as they became closer, and everything about them made me smile. True, they could have just talked to each other a lot earlier about how they felt but I completely understand why they didn't in this instance. Usually I want to bang characters' heads together when they keep quiet but their reasons for hiding their feelings rang true and it didn't bother me at all.
I loved Grandpa and I absolutely adored the third bonus scene that finished the book. It was the ending I needed and it was perfect.
I can't wait for Ollie and Bash's story now.
I loved everything about this story, from loner Jett finding love with his sunshiney hurricane, all the roommates who will get their own books, Jett's loving Grandpa, Leighton's word vomit and all the pet names that he winds Jett up with.
Jett and Leighton were perfect for each other and their relationship kept me thoroughly entertained while Leighton pined and Jett came to realise that maybe 'straight' didn't quite fit him, if it ever did. Their dynamic changed in every chapter as they became closer, and everything about them made me smile. True, they could have just talked to each other a lot earlier about how they felt but I completely understand why they didn't in this instance. Usually I want to bang characters' heads together when they keep quiet but their reasons for hiding their feelings rang true and it didn't bother me at all.
I loved Grandpa and I absolutely adored the third bonus scene that finished the book. It was the ending I needed and it was perfect.
I can't wait for Ollie and Bash's story now.
June 14, 2022
Jett & Leighton is a wonderfully written sweet story about a tattoo artist new to town, Jett, and a coffee barista, Leighton. I loved this book from the very beginning. Everyone should have a little Leighton in their lives. I love how straight forward he is. His 'this is how it's going to be' attitude. We're going to be friends. He really is a ray of sunshine and at first Jett isn't sure about him, but he wants to know more. I really liked the idea of their living space. Living with others that work in the same area and having everything so close you can walk. I love Jett and Leighton together. Their back and forth and Leighton with his cute pet names. Jett finds himself exactly where he's supposed to be. And Leighton, with his determination, finds a friend and roommate. And you gotta love Jett's grandpa. What a wonderful man. This is the wonderful kind of book I have come to expect from this amazing author and I definitely recommend it and can't wait for more from this world.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 14, 2022
This is book #1 of On Cravenwood Block series. I really enjoyed this book. It is well written and the story just flows. I read it cover to cover in one sitting. This is the story of Jett and Leighton. Jett is a large, tattooed man whose intimidating presence scares off most people. He doesn't have friends but he has his grandpa. He is also the new owner of a tattoo shop and is worried about his businesses success. Into his life bursts Leighton. Leighton is obviously gay and a powerful force of sunshine and happiness. He is a barista and has made himself a challenge. He will get Jett to like him no matter what. I loved his character and personality. He makes me smile when I read about his antics. Jett and Leighton bring out the best of each other. The other characters that live in the building are interesting and I am looking forward to the next books in this series. This is a great read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 28, 2022
Full transparency, A.D. Ellis is one of my go-to authors. I have yet to read a story I did not enjoy.
This is a sweet, steamy, slow-burn bi-awakening story about Leighton, the flirty in-your-face character, and Jett needs some time to figure out what this attraction is.
The story takes place in Cravenwood where Jett, a tattoo artist has taken over a shop and Leighton works at the local coffee shop. The two men hit it off immediately and form a friendship. Leighton falls fast and hard for the grumpy Jett, before realizing that Jett identifies as straight. As always the author provides just the right balance of angst and soul-searching in the characters, especially in Jett as he discovers his sexuality.
What I liked:
1) First-person narrative
2) Grumpy/sunshine trope
3) Great character development
4) Interesting plot twist
Great start to a new series by introducing the readers to other community members.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is a sweet, steamy, slow-burn bi-awakening story about Leighton, the flirty in-your-face character, and Jett needs some time to figure out what this attraction is.
The story takes place in Cravenwood where Jett, a tattoo artist has taken over a shop and Leighton works at the local coffee shop. The two men hit it off immediately and form a friendship. Leighton falls fast and hard for the grumpy Jett, before realizing that Jett identifies as straight. As always the author provides just the right balance of angst and soul-searching in the characters, especially in Jett as he discovers his sexuality.
What I liked:
1) First-person narrative
2) Grumpy/sunshine trope
3) Great character development
4) Interesting plot twist
Great start to a new series by introducing the readers to other community members.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 14, 2022
This was a wonderful start to the “On Cravenwood Block” series by AD Ellis. It’s like “Tales of the City” but with focus on individuals who lives in that apartment “tower”. This is the first book in the series which focuses on Leighton and his “straight” crush, Jett. From what I can gather, there are 4 books in this series so far. This would make for an awesome Tales of the Cityesque TV/Movie series!!!
The book focuses on Leighton, a barista at the local coffee shop who has a huge crush on Jett, a tattoo artist who happens to be straight. Leighton would frequent the tattoo parlor just to be near Jett. Jett didn’t mind that one bit. Leighton happened to find out Jett was looking for a place to live so he suggested Jett contact the apartment where he lives. Jett contacted the apartment manager and was able to get a room. The room happens to be in the same unit as Leighton. See the hidden agenda there? That’s where I’m going to stop and encourage you to pick up the book to find out what happens. 5 stars reading from me!
The book focuses on Leighton, a barista at the local coffee shop who has a huge crush on Jett, a tattoo artist who happens to be straight. Leighton would frequent the tattoo parlor just to be near Jett. Jett didn’t mind that one bit. Leighton happened to find out Jett was looking for a place to live so he suggested Jett contact the apartment where he lives. Jett contacted the apartment manager and was able to get a room. The room happens to be in the same unit as Leighton. See the hidden agenda there? That’s where I’m going to stop and encourage you to pick up the book to find out what happens. 5 stars reading from me!
February 8, 2023
Jett is considered intimidating, aloof and a loner and has just opened his own tattoo shop on Cravenwood Block which is a dream come true for him. Then a determined ray of sunshine with a smile to light up the room walks into his shop and turns his world upside down. Barista Leighton knows better than to get involved with a straight guy again however the moment he lays eyes on the new tattoo artist on the block he can't help the instant pull to him. Jett realises that he has a lot to learn about himself and realises he likes a lot about the man he uncovers
I really enjoyed this book with the story about Jett meeting whirlwind Leighton and how over time he managed to fall for him and how their relationship developed in stages. There were times when I really wanted to hug them both and there were times when I just wanted to shake them too! Easy to read, feel and understand I was lost in the world with them. There is mature MM content in this bisexual awakening, roommates to lovers story.
I really enjoyed this book with the story about Jett meeting whirlwind Leighton and how over time he managed to fall for him and how their relationship developed in stages. There were times when I really wanted to hug them both and there were times when I just wanted to shake them too! Easy to read, feel and understand I was lost in the world with them. There is mature MM content in this bisexual awakening, roommates to lovers story.
June 7, 2022
Love that we are getting a new series from A. D. Ellis. Jett and Leighton are the cutest couple together. Jett is a man that always thought of himself one way but was never overly comfortable with himself. Leighton is a man that is comfortable in his own skin but has some insecurities from his past. One of my favorite things about this book is how Jett took his time but was willing to go on a journey that he never realized he would go on and find out his true self. Watching Jett grow and realize what he thought was himself change was a great thing to read. I truly believe Jett's journey also helped and started Leighton on one of his own. The two of them grew with one another into a relationship that is stronger then most. The plot twist at the end was a very big surprise but great addition. The interaction with the other characters made me very excited for their stories and how relationships will change and grow.
June 11, 2022
A sweet, fluffy roommates to lovers/friends to lovers romance. I liked Jett and Leighton and all their roommates. This was very low angst except for some soul searching Jett did. I always appreciate ace/demi representations in my books. A big part of the plot was miscommunication and I hate that particular trope. Though I do understand why they weren't good at communicating.
Thanks to this book "Metaphorical friendship ring" which is "a perpetual boner and a sad, empty ass" (Leighton's word, not mine 😂) is going to be in my vocabulary. In the beginning I was a bit uncomfortable with Leighton because he kept coming on to (lol) Jett and making innuendos which were making Jett uncomfortable. Yes, we readers know Jett secretly liked them but Leighton didn't know that so I wish he dialed it down a bit.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Thanks to this book "Metaphorical friendship ring" which is "a perpetual boner and a sad, empty ass" (Leighton's word, not mine 😂) is going to be in my vocabulary. In the beginning I was a bit uncomfortable with Leighton because he kept coming on to (lol) Jett and making innuendos which were making Jett uncomfortable. Yes, we readers know Jett secretly liked them but Leighton didn't know that so I wish he dialed it down a bit.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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