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Hair and Heart
My life is like a prison.
I may be one of the world’s biggest popstars, but I live no fairy tale.
Everything I do is controlled by my manager. It’s the only way I don’t hurt anyone again.
The only way to be free.
Until I meet him.
Sandy Thorne.
He comes into my life full of color, passion and snark, and despite irritating me to no end, he makes me believe in happy ever afters.
But can I trust myself? Can I trust that I won’t hurt him?
And what does it really mean to be free and happy?
Caution: Contains an oppressed popstar, a sassy color-blind stylist, a Christmas concert ball, and the color pink. So much pink!
Hair & Heart is part of the MM Fairy Tale Romance series. All books are completely standalone and are modern retellings of classic fairy tales with a gay romance twist.
294 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 5, 2020
128 people are currently reading
281 people want to read
About the author
Rhys Everly
45 books241 followersRhys Everly-Lawless is a hopeless romantic who loves happily-ever-afters.
Which would explain why he loves writing them.
When he's not passionately typing out his next book, you can find him cuddling his dog, feeding his husband, or taking long walks letting those plot bunnies breed ferociously in his head.
He writes contemporary gay romances as Rhys Everly and LGBTQ+ urban fantasy and paranormal romances as Rhys Lawless.
You can find him and all his latest projects on rhyswritesromance.com
Which would explain why he loves writing them.
When he's not passionately typing out his next book, you can find him cuddling his dog, feeding his husband, or taking long walks letting those plot bunnies breed ferociously in his head.
He writes contemporary gay romances as Rhys Everly and LGBTQ+ urban fantasy and paranormal romances as Rhys Lawless.
You can find him and all his latest projects on rhyswritesromance.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
October 13, 2025
Divertido, erótico
Sandy no puede creer que perdió pero trabajo por un pequeño error, pero menos puede creer que ahora está trabajando para el "Rey del Pop" el mismísimo Val King. Y lo peor es que poco a poco se está enamorando de el. Podrá existir una relación real entre ellos dos? De verdad Sandy podrá aceptar todas las locuras que vienen con Val?
Al comienzo sentí que el libro tenía una buena trama, el tema del joven controlado por su tío por "su propio bien", y el otro que viene a "liberarlo", es interesante y romántico. Pero en esta caso, la cantidad de escenas eróticas sin mayor sentido que describir el sexo entre ellos, me hizo la lectura monótona. Y eso de que se dijeran "te amo" después de una sola noche de sexo? Muy exagerado.
En fin, una historia sencilla, aquí te ayuda a pasar el rato, pero que es fácil de olvidar.
Sandy no puede creer que perdió pero trabajo por un pequeño error, pero menos puede creer que ahora está trabajando para el "Rey del Pop" el mismísimo Val King. Y lo peor es que poco a poco se está enamorando de el. Podrá existir una relación real entre ellos dos? De verdad Sandy podrá aceptar todas las locuras que vienen con Val?
Al comienzo sentí que el libro tenía una buena trama, el tema del joven controlado por su tío por "su propio bien", y el otro que viene a "liberarlo", es interesante y romántico. Pero en esta caso, la cantidad de escenas eróticas sin mayor sentido que describir el sexo entre ellos, me hizo la lectura monótona. Y eso de que se dijeran "te amo" después de una sola noche de sexo? Muy exagerado.
En fin, una historia sencilla, aquí te ayuda a pasar el rato, pero que es fácil de olvidar.
November 10, 2020
If you’ve been following Britney Spears story (I’m a product of the 90s/early 00’s so of course I am), this story will be familiar to you. A pop star who has been placed under a conservatorship and given up all rights to their life pretty much due to mental health issues. Everly is able to take this current pop culture tale, mix it with a well known fairytale, and create a sweet love story between a trapped pop star and his colorblind sassy assistant. Unfortunately, the snark didn’t completely work for me, and I kinda just thought these two were being juvenile jerks to each other. That being said, I was completely unable to put this story down and finished it in pretty record time so I was obviously very into it. So I didn’t love the characters, but I did love the story, and think it’s an overall good read.
November 13, 2020
This is a fun twist on the classic Rapunzel fairytale, mixing a trapped pop star together with a sassy stylist. The characters are likeable, and although their banter felt a little juvenile at times, I found myself invested in them getting their fairytale ending. Sandy and Val have a fun, flirty and romantic story, with some outside drama and villainy that makes their hard-fought ending all the more satisfying.
November 16, 2020
Hair and Heart is a modern Rapunzel. Val is a rockstar who struggles with his mental illness while his uncle controls everything, because he thinks that he killed his parents during a mental episode. His uncle hires a sassy stylist called Sandy, who captures Val's attention. The connection between Val and Sandy is instantaneous, but it doesn't feel unreal.
Great story
I received an ARC for an honest review.
Great story
I received an ARC for an honest review.
November 20, 2020
Hair and Heart is the fifth book in a series of 6 modern MM fairytale retellings by 6 different authors. Hair and Heart is written by Rhys Everly. Hair and Heart is a modern MM Rapunzel retelling. I loved the story of Val and Sandy. Their story was sweet and very well written. If you love (modern) fairytale retellings or just love sweet romances this one is for you.
November 13, 2020
4.5 Stars
Hair and Heart is a modern retelling of Rapunzel. This Rhys Everly book captured my attention immediately with a rock star with a tough past.
Ohhh...I just love this story. Making the trapped character a famous rock star works for me on multiple levels. It's great because it's unfortunately all too realistic to have a controlling manager. As well, it's over the top fun the way Val is controlled. It's seriously crazy, yet perfectly fitting of the Rapunzel theme.
Val is perfectly lovable, though he's certainly misunderstood at the beginning. I love the way Sandy enters his life and helps save him. Everything about Sandy is wonderful!
And, omg, the pink hair and the song. I couldn't have loved this more.
Their story includes a crazy ass cat who adds immensely to the story. There's also some strong secondary characters who are great and help out when necessary.
The writing is fabulous, as it's sharp, witty, and humorous. The author excels in combining the fun with the serious. It's truly impressive.
Hair and Heart is a fun new take on a classic fairytale. Rhys Everly provides a perfect escape with this one. Just read it and enjoy!
Hair and Heart is a modern retelling of Rapunzel. This Rhys Everly book captured my attention immediately with a rock star with a tough past.
Ohhh...I just love this story. Making the trapped character a famous rock star works for me on multiple levels. It's great because it's unfortunately all too realistic to have a controlling manager. As well, it's over the top fun the way Val is controlled. It's seriously crazy, yet perfectly fitting of the Rapunzel theme.
Val is perfectly lovable, though he's certainly misunderstood at the beginning. I love the way Sandy enters his life and helps save him. Everything about Sandy is wonderful!
And, omg, the pink hair and the song. I couldn't have loved this more.
Their story includes a crazy ass cat who adds immensely to the story. There's also some strong secondary characters who are great and help out when necessary.
The writing is fabulous, as it's sharp, witty, and humorous. The author excels in combining the fun with the serious. It's truly impressive.
Hair and Heart is a fun new take on a classic fairytale. Rhys Everly provides a perfect escape with this one. Just read it and enjoy!
February 12, 2021
The snark made this story and was the perfect level of love/hate. Love/hate is generally not my jam, but the author balanced is perfectly with the character's personalities.
November 10, 2020
This is an interesting take on the Rapunzel fairy tale for the multi author MM Fairy Tale romance series and I really liked the story and characters involved.
From the moment that Val and Sandy meet, there is such a great level of banter back and forth between them that verges on insults but in a friendly way, eventually, and then in a loving way. Val seems so innocent and vulnerable and my heart went out to him as he fights to stand for himself after a long history of mental health problems. Sandy instantly notices and wants to jumps in, to protect and defend Val, as well as being eager for other, more fun activities that they quickly get up to. I wasn't too sure that I felt the love that they expressed as quickly as they did but there's definitely a connection that deepens and strengthens with everything that goes on.
Fred, Val's uncle is an apt villain of the story with my spider sense tingling right from the moment you meet him at the beginning of the book.
There is a fair amount of angst and drama that plays out before we get a HEA for our MC's but it's worth the ups and downs that they go through to end up together.
This is another book that I've enjoyed reading from this series and I look forward to more, definitely a recommended read.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
From the moment that Val and Sandy meet, there is such a great level of banter back and forth between them that verges on insults but in a friendly way, eventually, and then in a loving way. Val seems so innocent and vulnerable and my heart went out to him as he fights to stand for himself after a long history of mental health problems. Sandy instantly notices and wants to jumps in, to protect and defend Val, as well as being eager for other, more fun activities that they quickly get up to. I wasn't too sure that I felt the love that they expressed as quickly as they did but there's definitely a connection that deepens and strengthens with everything that goes on.
Fred, Val's uncle is an apt villain of the story with my spider sense tingling right from the moment you meet him at the beginning of the book.
There is a fair amount of angst and drama that plays out before we get a HEA for our MC's but it's worth the ups and downs that they go through to end up together.
This is another book that I've enjoyed reading from this series and I look forward to more, definitely a recommended read.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
November 18, 2020
Oh boy, I really struggled with this one. I'm not sure what I was expecting but what I got wasn't at all what I thought it might be given it's supposed to be a retelling of Rapunzel. My first thought as I started reading was this was a retelling of Britney Spears life, not a bad thing just not what I was hoping for.
There is a lot of potential here but too much sex and the guys falling in love so soon after meeting didn't give me a chance to fall in love with them. I really felt for Val but I just couldn't connect to anything.
TAGS
-- Fairy Tale/Rapunzel retelling -- pop star -- stylist -- evil uncle -- abuse -- quite sad -- a bit depressing -- parts should have had me laughing but didn't -- way too much sex -- insta love -- couldn't connect -- didn't feel the connection between the MCs... Sandy & Val -- this had such potential -- another "maybe it's me and not the book" *sigh*
November 14, 2020
4,5☆
This book is supposed to be a Rapunzel retelling, but I couldn't find it in the story. But it wasn't a problem for me becasue I really enjoyed reading this book, Rapunzel or not.
The characters were sweet, and I loved their connection. The stylist/popstar theme is so good, and I loved everything about Val and his fame.
I love books with charasters who have DID, and at some point I thought this book is that too, but no... anyway, it was interesting nonetheless.
Val and Sandy were lovely together, I loved their snark and Sandy wasn't afraid of Val and his fame at all.
I couldn't wait to find out when and how will be the pink hair scene, and it was really cool.
The ending was sweet too, realy enjoyed reading this cute story.
This book is supposed to be a Rapunzel retelling, but I couldn't find it in the story. But it wasn't a problem for me becasue I really enjoyed reading this book, Rapunzel or not.
The characters were sweet, and I loved their connection. The stylist/popstar theme is so good, and I loved everything about Val and his fame.
I love books with charasters who have DID, and at some point I thought this book is that too, but no... anyway, it was interesting nonetheless.
Val and Sandy were lovely together, I loved their snark and Sandy wasn't afraid of Val and his fame at all.
I couldn't wait to find out when and how will be the pink hair scene, and it was really cool.
The ending was sweet too, realy enjoyed reading this cute story.
November 13, 2020
This is such a sassy, snarky, entertaining book that I couldn’t put down. The characters had me on an emotional rollercoaster as the layers of their personalities were revealed -especially Val. I enjoyed following along on Val and Sandy’s journey. This is an enjoyable retelling of Rapunzel filled with something for everyone from humor, mystery, and romance; definitely worth reading.
November 13, 2020
The snark is live and well
Omg I have never loved the sassy and snarky banter between 2 characters more than I did in this book. This book is different the others that came before that I've read so far but if you need some laughs THIS is the one to grab.
Omg I have never loved the sassy and snarky banter between 2 characters more than I did in this book. This book is different the others that came before that I've read so far but if you need some laughs THIS is the one to grab.
November 21, 2020
*4,5 stars*
"Hair and Heart" by Rhys Everly is the next installment in a series of novels retelling the stories known from the most popular fairy tales. The inspiration for "Hair and Heart" was "Rapunzel", and its new, contemporary version, which the author presents to us, is really interesting, similar and at the same time different from the original, and most importantly, in terms of history and the emotions, needs, desires and problems that drive the characters it is 100% a contemporary story. Thus, the value of this novel increases as it touches directly the topics that may also refer to the readers, and which the readers understand perfectly. What's more, the story that the author tells us in "Hair and Heart" is really great. And that's why when we are reading this book we just can't wait to see what will happen next. Let me add that our Val's story is quite bittersweet, light and heavy at the same time, deep, which touches us emotionally.
In a few words I must also refer to the dynamics of Sandy and Val's relationship, because in "Hair and Heart" it is one of the most characteristic features of this novel. In fact, I didn't expect Sandy and Val to be at each other's throats to such an extent, so they both surprised me. It turned out that when the two finally met, a very violent chemical reaction took place between them. The author did a great job in this case, because in fact he created his characters twice, as they have two faces – one when they are together and the other when they are not in each other's company. I am really delighted with it. The more that Val and Sandy move between their faces in a natural, smooth way. Thanks to Rhys Everly, his characters live their own lives in his book as if it was a real world, and while reading, we don't feel the author's interference in the characters' behavior, choices. They are who they are – two explosive people.
Reviewing this story, I would also like to mention the instant love that blooms between the characters. Love at first sight? Yes, I believe in it. However, I am not a supporter of this kind of feeling. But why do I mention it. Well, in "Hair and Heart" we are dealing with this kind of instant love, and thus, the characters don't really know each other that well. I really liked the fact that the author used this motif in his novel. It turns out that at some point it is very important for one of the characters whether people know each other for a long or short time. But rest assured, I do not plan to reveal the details. To find out exactly what happens in the story, you have to read "Hair and Heart". It's really worth it!
To sum up, Rhys Everly once again gave us a really good novel, which we read with unwavering interest and we are delighted to get to know his extraordinary, explosive characters. Don't waste your time, don't hesitate, just read "Hair and Heart"! You won't regret it.
__________________________________________
„Hair and Heart” autorstwa Rhysa Everly to kolejna odsłona serii powieści opowiadających na nowo historie znane z najpopularniejszych baśni. Inspiracją dla powstania „Hair and Heart” była „Roszpunka”, a jej nowa, współczesna wersja, jaką prezentuje nam autor jest naprawdę interesująca, podobna i jednocześnie różna od oryginału, a co najważniejsze, zarówno pod względem historii, jak i kierujących bohaterami emocji, popędów, pragnień, czy też problemów jest ona w 100% współczesna. Tym samym, wartość tej powieści wzrasta, gdyż dotyka ona bezpośrednio tematów, które mogą dotyczyć także czytelników, i które czytelnicy doskonale rozumieją. Ponadto, historia, którą w „Hair and Heart” opowiada nam autor jest naprawdę świetna, co sprawia, że czytając wręcz nie możemy doczekać się każdej kolejnej strony. Tym bardziej, że historia naszego Vala jest słodko-gorzka, jednocześnie lekka i ciężka, głęboka, co sprawia, że porusza nasze emocje.
W kilku słowach muszę odnieść się jeszcze do dynamiki relacji Sandy’ego i Vala, gdyż w „Hair and Heart” jest ona jedną z najbardziej charakterystycznych cech tej powieści. Prawdę mówiąc, nie spodziewałam się tego, że Sandy i Val będą do tego stopnia skakać sobie do oczu, toteż obaj mnie zaskoczyli. Okazało się bowiem, że kiedy tych dwoje się w końcu spotkało, zaszła między nimi bardzo gwałtowna reakcja chemiczna. Autor spisał się w tym wypadku na medal, ponieważ tak naprawdę stworzył swoich bohaterów podwójnie, gdyż mają oni poniekąd dwa oblicza – jedno gdy są razem oraz drugie, kiedy nie przebywają w swoim towarzystwie. Jestem tym naprawdę zachwycona. Tym bardziej, że Val i Sandy przechodzą między jednym, a drugim swoim obliczem w sposób naturalny, płynny. Rhys Everly sprawił, że jego bohaterowie żyją na papierze własnym życiem i w czasie lektury zupełnie nie wyczuwamy jakiejkolwiek ingerencji autora w zachowanie bohaterów. Oni po prostu są jacy są – wybuchowi.
Krótko chciałabym jeszcze wspomnieć o szybkiej miłości rozkwitającej między bohaterami. Miłość od pierwszego wejrzenia? Tak, wierzę. Nie jestem jednak zwolenniczką tego rodzaju uczuć. Dlaczego jednak o tym wspominam. Otóż w „Hair and Heart” mamy do czynienia z taką właśnie szybką miłością, a co za tym idzie, bohaterowie znają się stosunkowo słabo. Bardzo spodobało mi się to, że autor poniekąd wykorzystał ten fakt, w swojej powieści. Okazuje się bowiem, że staż znajomości ma w pewnym momencie ogromne znaczenie dla jednego z bohaterów, jednakże szczegółów nie zdradzam. Aby dowiedzieć się dokładnie o co chodzi, musicie sięgnąć po „Hair and Heart”. Naprawdę warto!
Podsumowując, Rhys Everly kolejny raz przekazał w nasze dłonie naprawdę dobrą powieść, którą czytamy z niegasnącym zainteresowaniem, zachwycając się nietuzinkowymi bohaterami. Nie zwlekajcie, nie wahajcie się, po prostu sięgnijcie po „Hair and Heart”! Nie będziecie tego żałować.
"Hair and Heart" by Rhys Everly is the next installment in a series of novels retelling the stories known from the most popular fairy tales. The inspiration for "Hair and Heart" was "Rapunzel", and its new, contemporary version, which the author presents to us, is really interesting, similar and at the same time different from the original, and most importantly, in terms of history and the emotions, needs, desires and problems that drive the characters it is 100% a contemporary story. Thus, the value of this novel increases as it touches directly the topics that may also refer to the readers, and which the readers understand perfectly. What's more, the story that the author tells us in "Hair and Heart" is really great. And that's why when we are reading this book we just can't wait to see what will happen next. Let me add that our Val's story is quite bittersweet, light and heavy at the same time, deep, which touches us emotionally.
In a few words I must also refer to the dynamics of Sandy and Val's relationship, because in "Hair and Heart" it is one of the most characteristic features of this novel. In fact, I didn't expect Sandy and Val to be at each other's throats to such an extent, so they both surprised me. It turned out that when the two finally met, a very violent chemical reaction took place between them. The author did a great job in this case, because in fact he created his characters twice, as they have two faces – one when they are together and the other when they are not in each other's company. I am really delighted with it. The more that Val and Sandy move between their faces in a natural, smooth way. Thanks to Rhys Everly, his characters live their own lives in his book as if it was a real world, and while reading, we don't feel the author's interference in the characters' behavior, choices. They are who they are – two explosive people.
Reviewing this story, I would also like to mention the instant love that blooms between the characters. Love at first sight? Yes, I believe in it. However, I am not a supporter of this kind of feeling. But why do I mention it. Well, in "Hair and Heart" we are dealing with this kind of instant love, and thus, the characters don't really know each other that well. I really liked the fact that the author used this motif in his novel. It turns out that at some point it is very important for one of the characters whether people know each other for a long or short time. But rest assured, I do not plan to reveal the details. To find out exactly what happens in the story, you have to read "Hair and Heart". It's really worth it!
To sum up, Rhys Everly once again gave us a really good novel, which we read with unwavering interest and we are delighted to get to know his extraordinary, explosive characters. Don't waste your time, don't hesitate, just read "Hair and Heart"! You won't regret it.
__________________________________________
„Hair and Heart” autorstwa Rhysa Everly to kolejna odsłona serii powieści opowiadających na nowo historie znane z najpopularniejszych baśni. Inspiracją dla powstania „Hair and Heart” była „Roszpunka”, a jej nowa, współczesna wersja, jaką prezentuje nam autor jest naprawdę interesująca, podobna i jednocześnie różna od oryginału, a co najważniejsze, zarówno pod względem historii, jak i kierujących bohaterami emocji, popędów, pragnień, czy też problemów jest ona w 100% współczesna. Tym samym, wartość tej powieści wzrasta, gdyż dotyka ona bezpośrednio tematów, które mogą dotyczyć także czytelników, i które czytelnicy doskonale rozumieją. Ponadto, historia, którą w „Hair and Heart” opowiada nam autor jest naprawdę świetna, co sprawia, że czytając wręcz nie możemy doczekać się każdej kolejnej strony. Tym bardziej, że historia naszego Vala jest słodko-gorzka, jednocześnie lekka i ciężka, głęboka, co sprawia, że porusza nasze emocje.
W kilku słowach muszę odnieść się jeszcze do dynamiki relacji Sandy’ego i Vala, gdyż w „Hair and Heart” jest ona jedną z najbardziej charakterystycznych cech tej powieści. Prawdę mówiąc, nie spodziewałam się tego, że Sandy i Val będą do tego stopnia skakać sobie do oczu, toteż obaj mnie zaskoczyli. Okazało się bowiem, że kiedy tych dwoje się w końcu spotkało, zaszła między nimi bardzo gwałtowna reakcja chemiczna. Autor spisał się w tym wypadku na medal, ponieważ tak naprawdę stworzył swoich bohaterów podwójnie, gdyż mają oni poniekąd dwa oblicza – jedno gdy są razem oraz drugie, kiedy nie przebywają w swoim towarzystwie. Jestem tym naprawdę zachwycona. Tym bardziej, że Val i Sandy przechodzą między jednym, a drugim swoim obliczem w sposób naturalny, płynny. Rhys Everly sprawił, że jego bohaterowie żyją na papierze własnym życiem i w czasie lektury zupełnie nie wyczuwamy jakiejkolwiek ingerencji autora w zachowanie bohaterów. Oni po prostu są jacy są – wybuchowi.
Krótko chciałabym jeszcze wspomnieć o szybkiej miłości rozkwitającej między bohaterami. Miłość od pierwszego wejrzenia? Tak, wierzę. Nie jestem jednak zwolenniczką tego rodzaju uczuć. Dlaczego jednak o tym wspominam. Otóż w „Hair and Heart” mamy do czynienia z taką właśnie szybką miłością, a co za tym idzie, bohaterowie znają się stosunkowo słabo. Bardzo spodobało mi się to, że autor poniekąd wykorzystał ten fakt, w swojej powieści. Okazuje się bowiem, że staż znajomości ma w pewnym momencie ogromne znaczenie dla jednego z bohaterów, jednakże szczegółów nie zdradzam. Aby dowiedzieć się dokładnie o co chodzi, musicie sięgnąć po „Hair and Heart”. Naprawdę warto!
Podsumowując, Rhys Everly kolejny raz przekazał w nasze dłonie naprawdę dobrą powieść, którą czytamy z niegasnącym zainteresowaniem, zachwycając się nietuzinkowymi bohaterami. Nie zwlekajcie, nie wahajcie się, po prostu sięgnijcie po „Hair and Heart”! Nie będziecie tego żałować.
November 18, 2020
Val and Sandy's fascinating story somehow managed to be both a quirky, goofy romance and a chilling fairy tale recreation. I've never read a story with such expertly hidden secrets, and I loved pulling back the layers one piece at a time to reveal the truth. Val and Sandy's snarky banter, insta-love style hookups, and general pop-star diva moments distracted me for a while, but once I started to get a glimpse of the shockingly dark reality Val's life had become, it was hard to go back. For a story that at a quick glance seems like it shouldn't be taken too seriously, it ended up being surprisingly emotional and heartfelt. My initial impression of these characters was honestly not great--Val and Sandy were way too over-the-top and jumped into love much too quickly for me to believe. I'm so glad I kept reading, because every little truth I learned about Val showed me a totally different side of him, one that I did find relatable. Similarly, as Sandy began to put the pieces of the mystery together, I saw a much softer, more caring side of him emerge. By the time this story reached its climax, I was significantly more invested in getting Val and Sandy their happily ever after. Their journey was undoubtedly a crazy rollercoaster of emotions, but I'm thoroughly satisfied with the outcome.
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
November 13, 2020
What a unique take on the classic Rapunzel story. Val’s tower is more symbolic than reality but that makes him no less a prisoner of his controlling Uncle Fred. When flamboyant (and very color blind) Sandy is hired as his stylist, he immediately notices something is off in their relationship. Val may be a rumored diva and complete nut job, but he can tell that there is definitely something wrong. There were times reading this that I admit that I kinda wanted to throttle Val for being quite so obnoxious, but Sandy gives as good as he gets. This made for some very interesting (and explosive) interactions between these two characters. Val is such a deep character and is so under the spell of uncle that it is painful to see as Sandy starts trying to unravel the puzzle of their situation. He is broken and has to try and reinvent himself his own way and under his own control instead of that of his uncle. I enjoyed this retelling immensely! And whew does it have some scorching bits. These two are very hot together, both literally and figuratively. Sparks fly between Val and Sandy from the first time they meet. I have ready several stories by this author and I have yet to find main characters that I don’t like. I would highly recommend you read this book. But beware the snark! It is strong with this one, in a very good way of course! I did read an ARC of this book.
November 18, 2020
I will admit I struggled to read this one - one of my favourite genres is retold fairytales, so this is my fourth in the series of modern gay retellings. It meant I wanted to love this version of Rapunzel, and instead... I almost didn't finish it.
I think the issue was the dialogue between the characters - other people have admitted it feels immature, but were able to look past it. I couldn't - how quickly they fell in love, and the love conquers all vibe felt cheap and poorly composed to me, and the "banter" was, for me, difficult. I didn't find it funny or sassy, I just found it a bit boring. It improved, but unfortunately I couldn't get into it...
I did enjoy the dynamics with Val's uncle - I love a good baddie, and Everly has constructed a really cleaver take on the Rapunzel's mum/witch dynamic that was present but more quickly overcome in Tangled, where the poor main character is forced to realise their relative isn't who they think they are.
I read this around other books, and it might do better on a second reading, but for now I found it solidly ok and feel very old at how exhausted I was by the dynamic between Sandy and Val...
I think the issue was the dialogue between the characters - other people have admitted it feels immature, but were able to look past it. I couldn't - how quickly they fell in love, and the love conquers all vibe felt cheap and poorly composed to me, and the "banter" was, for me, difficult. I didn't find it funny or sassy, I just found it a bit boring. It improved, but unfortunately I couldn't get into it...
I did enjoy the dynamics with Val's uncle - I love a good baddie, and Everly has constructed a really cleaver take on the Rapunzel's mum/witch dynamic that was present but more quickly overcome in Tangled, where the poor main character is forced to realise their relative isn't who they think they are.
I read this around other books, and it might do better on a second reading, but for now I found it solidly ok and feel very old at how exhausted I was by the dynamic between Sandy and Val...
November 12, 2020
This is a quagmire of an emotional roller coaster that Val has lived since forever and it takes a color-blind stylist outsider, Sunny Thorne by name, to enter this twisted realm and charge into the saving of Val King, pop star extraordinaire. Sunny suspects and later in the story confirms that good old Uncle Fred has been the greedy and murderous villain throughout all of Val's life; the man Val trusted, the man who never abandoned him. Or so Val thought. Oh, what a web the spider-like man has woven.
There is, of course, a light-hearted side to this story. It's not all doom and gloom. The back and forth between Sunny and Val are to be treasured. And, then there's Knight with the typical cat attitude and standoffishness to boot.
Never one for pop culture so the Brittany Spears analogy was lost on me but the Rapunzel tale; in that I could see the similarities.
I was given an ARC of this story (Book #5 of this MM fairy tale romance series) for my voluntary review.
There is, of course, a light-hearted side to this story. It's not all doom and gloom. The back and forth between Sunny and Val are to be treasured. And, then there's Knight with the typical cat attitude and standoffishness to boot.
Never one for pop culture so the Brittany Spears analogy was lost on me but the Rapunzel tale; in that I could see the similarities.
I was given an ARC of this story (Book #5 of this MM fairy tale romance series) for my voluntary review.
November 20, 2020
I am a big fan of Rhys Everly, so I was looking forward to his contribution to this series. Each book is written by a different author, and captures the essence of a fairy tale, and gives it their own unique spin on it. This is Everly’s version of Rapunzel.
I found this story to be engaging, and easy to get lost in. The banter between Val and Sandy was fun. Wit, sarcasm, and humor is such a personal thing. What some find funny, others might not. For me, it was delightful. What wasn’t delightful was Val’s uncle/manager. What’s a fairytale without a villain, though? He was perfect, though, because he was very dislikable. This story had some grit to it, instead of being just a sweet Holiday fairytale. I appreciated that. I felt Val’s mental illness was handled well.
I definitely recommend this book.
***I voluntarily accepted a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews. My review reflects my own thoughts and opinions***
I found this story to be engaging, and easy to get lost in. The banter between Val and Sandy was fun. Wit, sarcasm, and humor is such a personal thing. What some find funny, others might not. For me, it was delightful. What wasn’t delightful was Val’s uncle/manager. What’s a fairytale without a villain, though? He was perfect, though, because he was very dislikable. This story had some grit to it, instead of being just a sweet Holiday fairytale. I appreciated that. I felt Val’s mental illness was handled well.
I definitely recommend this book.
***I voluntarily accepted a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews. My review reflects my own thoughts and opinions***
December 11, 2020
I'm a sucker for a fairy tale retelling and even more so for pink hair!!! I'm not really a fan of Rapunzel though and don't really know what the story is but I do know that this retelling will not be made by Disney any time soon!
Rhys Everly has written a fabulous book, which to me takes in a few things from the real world including the life and times of Britney Spears. He has weaved a tale of suspicion, angst and mental health issues for our Rapunzel before introducing his knight in shining glasses who shows him a new world of being treated like an adult with banter and challenge. But where will this lead and what will this mean for his uncle and manager... you'll have to read the book to find out!!!
This book has everything that a reading of an MM book expects; sass, sex, hot men, banter, it's all there in spades and you'll love it! There's nothing wrong with this book at all.
I loved this book and totally recommend it to you for your Kindle library today xx
Rhys Everly has written a fabulous book, which to me takes in a few things from the real world including the life and times of Britney Spears. He has weaved a tale of suspicion, angst and mental health issues for our Rapunzel before introducing his knight in shining glasses who shows him a new world of being treated like an adult with banter and challenge. But where will this lead and what will this mean for his uncle and manager... you'll have to read the book to find out!!!
This book has everything that a reading of an MM book expects; sass, sex, hot men, banter, it's all there in spades and you'll love it! There's nothing wrong with this book at all.
I loved this book and totally recommend it to you for your Kindle library today xx
November 21, 2020
Provided ARC by GRR in exchange for an honest review.
This was a bit disappointing for me. Still a good book, but just not my favorite of the MM fairy tale retellings. My main niggle with it is that nothing felt real for a long time. And maybe that was purely amazing writing as to what was going on, but like I just felt like everything was glazed over in a way. Maybe I felt like I was colorblind reading it. So, you have Val this repressed and sheltered pop star then you have Sandy who is loud and unapologetic toward even his boss. Then together I enjoyed a lot, but it didn’t feel really more until the inevitable breakup and makeup. I still do not fully grasp what was happening but hey, I still enjoyed the book. I would recommend this to anyone looking for MM retelling of Rapunzel for sure!
This was a bit disappointing for me. Still a good book, but just not my favorite of the MM fairy tale retellings. My main niggle with it is that nothing felt real for a long time. And maybe that was purely amazing writing as to what was going on, but like I just felt like everything was glazed over in a way. Maybe I felt like I was colorblind reading it. So, you have Val this repressed and sheltered pop star then you have Sandy who is loud and unapologetic toward even his boss. Then together I enjoyed a lot, but it didn’t feel really more until the inevitable breakup and makeup. I still do not fully grasp what was happening but hey, I still enjoyed the book. I would recommend this to anyone looking for MM retelling of Rapunzel for sure!
November 21, 2020
Storyline was really good
I enjoyed the storyline of the pop star, Val, kept away from the public and his every move controlled. His mental illness appeared to need to be kept under control.
Recently fired stylist, Sandy, gets a shot at being Vals stylist which would be amazing for him.
Val and Sandy at first seemed to give each other a hard time and it was funny, then it got old. Its difficult to read conversations of people who don't ever seem to turn off the snarky persona. It wasn't funny as much trading insults. For me I didn't really like the characters. I thought it'd be better if the insults and banter were toned down. Hard to feel a romance between characters when they don't seem to really like each other.
Anyhow, my personal opinion. Storyline great, characters not so much.
I enjoyed the storyline of the pop star, Val, kept away from the public and his every move controlled. His mental illness appeared to need to be kept under control.
Recently fired stylist, Sandy, gets a shot at being Vals stylist which would be amazing for him.
Val and Sandy at first seemed to give each other a hard time and it was funny, then it got old. Its difficult to read conversations of people who don't ever seem to turn off the snarky persona. It wasn't funny as much trading insults. For me I didn't really like the characters. I thought it'd be better if the insults and banter were toned down. Hard to feel a romance between characters when they don't seem to really like each other.
Anyhow, my personal opinion. Storyline great, characters not so much.
November 11, 2020
What a deliciously snarky and sassy gem this is! To say I devoured this delightful book is an understatement - like Val and Sandy, I just couldn't get enough. "Hair & Heart" is a truly unique and fresh take on the Rapunzel fairy tale, with unconventional heroes, a devious villain, tons of steam (!!) and humor, and a cat even I could love (hey, I'm allergic too, lol). Credit to author Rhys Everly for addressing some complex real-life issues in such a light-hearted, fun, tender and hopeful story that left me believing in fairy tales (and wanting to hear Val perform that song!). And Sandy's BFF Isha deserves her own story after this, she's a force! I received an advance reading copy of this book and have left this honest review voluntarily.
November 14, 2020
Val is Rockstar Rapunzel in this classic fairytale MM re-telling and there are some dark overtones. He struggles with his mental illness while his uncle controls everything. The media and some fans believe that he killed his parents several years ago so he has to deal with his troubled past. His uncle hires Sandy, a snarky and sassy stylist, to help Val with his image. What starts out as hate sex turns into something more as they begin to fall in love. Sandy starts to suspect something malevolent and evil about the control Val's Uncle has over his life. This was a wonderfully snarky and sassy fairytale re-telling with a cat that frightens Val (in the beginning), an evil villain, and a brave stylist willing to fight for his lover and their HEA.
December 1, 2023
Hair and Heart is part of a multi-author MM fairy tale romance series. In this book, Val King is a pop star who is in a conservatorship because of diagnosed mental disorders. His uncle controls everything about his life. Although he does not like having every aspect of his life dictated for him, he accepts it as necessary. Then colorblind celebrity stylist Sandy comes into his life. I absolutely loved Sandy and Val’s snarky banter. It is obvious they care for each other. Sandy questions Val’s uncle’s intentions from the beginning. Just when it looks like Val might be ready to fight back, a big misunderstanding occurs. Luckily Sandy does not give up and the two men get the HEA they deserve. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys MM romance.
November 10, 2020
Oh my sweet Lord, I've never laughed so hard at a Rapunzel retelling. It was ingenious the way the snarky and funny moments balanced the sad and filled with emotion moments.
It was an interesting approach and I totally loved the pink hair, the plot was unexpected with a little mystery and the characters were so artfully made that you had the impression you live their story.
The cat was a nice touch and I really loved it's personality. Val and Sandy are so adorable together and I loved how Sandy protected Val and which the help of his best friend he succeeds in rescuing his boyfriend from the enemy clutches.
The story was exciting and I’m really hopping for a sequel.
It was an interesting approach and I totally loved the pink hair, the plot was unexpected with a little mystery and the characters were so artfully made that you had the impression you live their story.
The cat was a nice touch and I really loved it's personality. Val and Sandy are so adorable together and I loved how Sandy protected Val and which the help of his best friend he succeeds in rescuing his boyfriend from the enemy clutches.
The story was exciting and I’m really hopping for a sequel.
November 13, 2020
I had the very best time reading this book, I couldn't put it down and I finished it in one sitting. It was extremely entertaining and the plot was brilliant, the perfect Rapunzel retelling. The playful bickering between Sandy and Val was so much fun. I really like snarky characters. Sandy and Val had amazing chemistry and they were really interesting people. I wanted to get to know them better and see how their story ended. I read a lot of fairy tale retellings this year and this one definitely goes to the top of my favorites list. I really really loved it and highly recommend it.
I received an ARC of this book for an honest review.
5/5 stars and now I'm book hangover!
I received an ARC of this book for an honest review.
5/5 stars and now I'm book hangover!
December 3, 2020
First off... I guess I need to go read the Rapunzel fairy tale as I have no clue what that story is about...
Secondly... I will say that if nothing else, I am much better educated in the area of color blindness thanks to this author!
And, thirdly... well, I can't tell you my "thirdly" or it would give the whole story plot away... grr
But, I will say that it broke my heart to see how horrible Val's life had been up until Sandy stepped in to save the day, and, of course, show him how love REALLY works!
This was a NEW author for me and I am intrigued just enough to go in search of another one of their books!
Secondly... I will say that if nothing else, I am much better educated in the area of color blindness thanks to this author!
And, thirdly... well, I can't tell you my "thirdly" or it would give the whole story plot away... grr
But, I will say that it broke my heart to see how horrible Val's life had been up until Sandy stepped in to save the day, and, of course, show him how love REALLY works!
This was a NEW author for me and I am intrigued just enough to go in search of another one of their books!
November 13, 2020
I thoroughly enjoyed this modern-day retelling of Rapunzel with a MM twist. Take one sassy, color-blind, just fired stylist to the stars (Sandy Thorne) plus one snarky, mentally unstable (or is he?) prince of pop (Val King) and throw in a controlling uncle for good measure and you get this easily readable, enjoyable tale. Add in a driver, a chef and a BFF that are more like guardians and a kitty that knows that he is the real owner in the relationship and Rhys Everly has delivered another low angst story with a well-deserved HEA.
November 13, 2020
I seriously loved all the snark and banter between Val and Sandy in this story!! Val was a pop star and Sandy was hired to be his stylist. I loved how Sandy was color blind, too funny. I loved how Val fought for himself, he was placed under his uncle’s conservatorship. His uncle is very manipulative and controlling. Val and Sandy had a ton of chemistry, so much steam rolling off the pages. The story was well written with strong character development. I received an advanced copy. My reviews are solely based on my thoughts and opinions.
November 13, 2020
This is a sweet retelling of the Rapunzel story with a bit of tragedy and a lot of reflection and growth. When you meet Val, you feel for him and what's he's been through during his short life. There's something off about the conservatorship, and you find out later the truth, but you want to protect Val from the very beginning. The connection between Val and Sandy is instantaneous, but it doesn't feel forced and there is a character arc. Their banter is hilarious and the relationship is sweet. A good read!
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