Changing Hayden

Uptown Heat #1

by Zack Wish

He can’t move in with me, I’ve got way too much going on. The fact we used to fool around in college has *sigh* nothing to do with it, honest…

Between trying to land the role of vice president at work and keeping up my volunteering at Ruff Stuff dog adoption center, my life is way too busy to deal with him.

We had some fun in college, but he could never commit to anything – and to be honest I think we’re simply better off as friends. Sure it was a long time ago, but people don’t change. Hayden might claim to have turned over a new leaf but his partying, messiness, and general wild living really isn’t a fit for my grown up, career focused lifestyle.

Hayden and I are friends. Even if we did get together, how could a green energy executive and general homebody like me ever make it work long term with a fast living, gas guzzling muscle car owner like Hayden?

I'll never be able to change Hayden. We may fool around from time to time, but that’s where it will always end...

Hayden is a best friends to lovers, steam filled MM romance with a guaranteed HEA and plenty of laughs, wholesomeness and serious heat along the way. It is a standalone book in the Uptown Heat series and the books can be read in any order.

Genres: M M Romance

Kindle Edition

Published February 20, 2023

About the author

For a steamy free story sign up to my Newsletter here-

bit.ly/3KME5ra

I love to write sweet, sexy M/M Age Play Romance. Amazing characters, great settings, and exciting plots make my heart race! When I'm not crafting kinky tales in my rustic shack, I love to hit the gym, cuddle up with my cats, Mustache and Dojo, and cook deliciously large portions of yummy food!

Make me happy by chatting to me about coffee, cats, and Happy Ever Afters...

Follow me on Facebook here - https://www.facebook.com/ZackWishAuthor

Follow me on BookBub here -
https://www.bookbub.com/profile/zack-...

Follow me on Amazon here -
https://amazon.com/author/zackwish

Reviews

[Shelia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alex and Hayden are definitely an odd pairing, but they work perfectly together. Alex is hard working and has everything in order while Hayden is all over the place. Hayden likes partying and living life to the fullest. When Hayden winds up in a wreck and no memory of how he got there, he calls the only person he trusts and hopes he will let him in the door. The two were lovers in college but with Hayden being the life of the party, he had no interest in settling down, so he cut and ran leaving Alex brokenhearted. Hayden also seems to have a "monkey" on his back in the form of Dax that threatens not only himself but the "boy" he has decided he may want forever with, Alex. He must decide if he can change and be the man Alex needs and that he wants to be for Alex. Alex has a bully at work that he is dealing with as well as trying to keep his feelings for Hayden in control. They must work through their own pain from the past and present while trying to decide if they can have a forever. This book is fantastic and shows how, even in your 40's you can change and make yourself better. I love that these two are equals not only in life but in their relationship with each giving as good as they get in the bedroom, spankings all around. There is even a wonderful big-hearted rescue dog, Diesel.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Cael · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alex and Hayden, wow what a couple! Oh yeah and they've got Diesel the dog too... kind of. This was a great read that had me turning the pages from beginning to end. Their steam was just right and it was great to see how this relationship allowed for both men to explore their kinks, some of them shared and some of them individual. There was a lot of really good dialogue between them, and the plot kept me reading late into the night. I so hope there are more books in this series!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Reepo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Holy heck! Changing Hayden was so good, honestly it took me by surprize. I've read other books by Zack before and enjoyed them a lot. But this was on a whole new level for me. So much banter, steam, and the connection between the two MCs was unreal. I want more of this series. Please!

I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Ret · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a book that hit the target for me. Age Gap, Kink, Friends to lovers... yes please! Hayden is an older guy with a wild streak. Alex is younger and focused on his career and being sensible. But despite their differences, they have lots in common too. Will they make it, despite some bumps in the road? The HEA was so warm I nearly melted! 5 Stars.

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Rock · Rating 5 out of 5]

*HELLO!* This one took me by surprise and I am NOT complaining. Phew, this was hot. It was sweet too, just like you'd expect. I love the tropes here, but even as someone who's read so many of these kinds of books I still found myself totally engrossed. This is hopefully (pretty please) the start of a new series??? 5 Stars.

[TinaReader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hot and Wholesome, what's not to love? Alex and Hayden are one of those couples who you just know have to make it together. And they do get their HEA here, but they have to work for it too. There is so much I love about Changing Hayden. The connection between the MCs, the banter, oh and an adorable rescue dog thrown in there too. Honestly this book took me by surprise it was so good.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Megha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Long time reader, first time reviewer. Changing Hayden was full of *everything* I need. The heat was turned up, but so was the wholesome sweetness too. I enjoyed the speed bumps that the two MCs had to get around but it was worth it for their HEA!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Alex and Hayden had some history in college even though Hayden is twenty years older than Alex. At that time, Alex wanted a more committed relationship and Hayden was all into footloose and fancy free fun. Five years later Hayden is back and the two tentatively are back together. Hayden seems more settled in some ways, but Alex is still leery of investing too much, not sure if Hayden is really ready to settle down to a bigger commitment. Only time will tell.
There is successful, eco-green younger guy vs older less settled, more traditional guy, trying to find out if the pull between them after all these years is worth fighting for. A longer read than many of Zack’s books, but likable characters you want to root for and problems to overcome to get to their HEA. Hope to see if we get books pairing up two of Alex’s friends with two of Haydon’s.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Cindy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Alex is up for a promotion at work when an old college friend and part time lover, Hayden shows up needing somewhere to stay and though Hayden's life is in a downturn, the old flame between them heats up. Even though Hayden was older, he was so immature. Supported by good friends, the two guys work at making their lives work together. I received a copy of this book through Booksprout and this is my voluntary opinion.

[Marion · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book 1 of the Uptown Heat series and I can't wait to read book 2. This is the story of Alex and Hayden. Alex is a successful eco green manager who is trying to win the VP position so that he can help further change the world to a nature friendly place. He wants to settle down and likes his life in an orderly fashion. He has great friends to help him have fun and keep grounded. His fiercest competition is a man who is rude, manipulative and a suck up to the bosses. He has enough on his plate without unexpected surprises. Hayden is all about squeezing each drop of excitement that he can out of life. If you are not living on the edge, you are taking up too much room is his life motto. Both had a relationship in college but Hayden ran off and left Alex without an explanation. When Hayden is hurt and needs someone he can trust, he heads to Alex's place. By all rights Alex should have slammed the door in his face but he is not that kind of guy. Alex is a naturally nice guy. Alex is under stress and doesn't need his world shaken up by Hayden. Hayden needs to figure out what is happening to him and if he should start to make changes. This is their story. I enjoyed their story. This book is well written and easy to read. I look forward to the next book in the series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Shifty Bugger · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

Wow, I absolutely loved reading this book, the story was definitely captivating and the characters were really sensational. This story was about Hayden and Alex, they were in college together playing around, then when Hayden's grades wasn't doing well he left without saying goodbye. Alex devastated that Hayden didn't come back it hurt him terribly when his best friends Sam and Lars heard they were always there to make him laugh, but as time went on Alex was doing well with his job and loved helping at the dog shelter. Hayden living his life on the edge never serious had his bests friends Tatum and Landon to talk too, until he had an accident and that made him wake up and think about his past. When Hayden knocked on Alex's door it was breathtaking will Alex let Hayden in or slam the door closed. Feelings between them was still hot and kinky, when they kissed it was like the first time they were together if not better, but will Alex take the chance after being hurt badly. I loved this book now I would like to know what happened to Sam, Lars, Tatum and Landon.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Anne Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Opposites attract
Well it’s safe to say I couldn’t put this book down. Alex and Hayden are opposites of one another. Alex is so career orientated and thrives at what he does where as Hayden is just one of the lads been around partying with no real responsibilities. when Hayden ends up in a car wreck with no memory how he got there he knows there’s only one person he can trust and that was Alex’s. it was quite a touchy subject because Hayden broke his heart when they were in college but he really really hope that Alex will take him in. As soon as they saw each other the energy and the attraction sizzled these two had something really strong but could Alec take a risk on him again? Would Hayden just disappear one day never to be seen again Alex didn’t know but he wanted to take a chance.
The passion these two share is just magical nothing is hidden every kink is explored always with full consent it is just magical this connection they have but when the trouble follows Hayden what will Alex think then ? I did like the friends of Alex and the friends of Hayden and following Book should be interesting because there’s a whole new series there. A great read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Patti Nelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a good book to read! This book keeps your attention. Hayden is always looking for a good time and drag racing. One day Hayden wakes up and does not know what happened or how he crashed. He starts walking and goes to Alex's apartment. Alex and Hayden dated in college. Hayden left and has had no contact with Alex for two years. Hayden is older then Alex. Alex and Hayden hit it off again and spend time together. When someone threatens Alex, Hayden agrees to another race. Will Hayden throw the race ????? Will Alex find out what happened to Hayden????.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Steph · Rating 3 out of 5]

A quick book to read. It took me a while to like Hayden's character; the introduction to him isn't explained until later so to me he came across as wreckless.  He is older than Alex, but acts like the younger of the two. Once things have been explained and his life seems more stable I was able to accept his character better and enjoy the story. It ends with a HFN and possible secondary characters in the book getting a story. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Laora · Rating 5 out of 5]

After several novellas I was so happy to get my hands on this novel by Zack in the new 'Uptown Heat' series. I liked Hayden and Alex their second chance. Ofcourse there is a bit of kink, otherwise it wouldn't be a Zack book. I liked the storyline and how Alex got his courage to go for what he deserved and wanted and ofcourse Hayden changing up his old habits for ones that work better. Before they find rheir hea.And ofcourse the friends of both play their part and we probably see them in future books.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Cherie Alvaro · Rating 4 out of 5]

College friends, Hayden and Alex had hit it off the start. The fact that they were complete opposites never really bothered them. Neither did the age gap, but Alex wanted a serious commitment and Hayden was enjoying his freedom. After waking up in bis car, with no idea what happened the night before Hayden turns to Alex for help. This book has two strong characters who on paper shouldn't work. But the chemistry can't be denied.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Syd Springer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an awesome book. I loved Hayden and Alex together. These two have crazy chemistry and connection but also banter and love. Alex and Hayden may be opposites but they are perfect for each other. There is a lot of steamy and love but also drama and tension but these two get a really good HEA. I can't wait for more in this series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[C.B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

The right time is now! Alex and Hayden are reunited at a crucial time for them both. They have choices and decisions that require an intent attention to detail. Alex take a little time but they just fit. They don't look to be a match at first, but upon reflection, you can see them just fitting together. They are the right person at the right time and their souls recognize each other. Good story, good flow, nicely done. I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Mami Bear · Rating 1 out of 5]

Disliked:

-writing style
- Alex forgiving Hayden without any real effort to be / do better on Hayden's part
- Hayden
- Hayden repeatedly referring to Hayden as kid and boy
- The storylines of Alex's co worker and Haydens ex both of those plot points were weakly dealt with and did not add to story.
- The message of the story: Alex can't cope and gets stressed if he falls out with Hayden. So another MC diagnosed with magic dick syndrome.

[Lauren · Rating 5 out of 5]

New to me author, but I enjoyed this book so much. It had all of the tropes that I enjoy and to be honest I actually didn't think the steamy bits would get me as hoots they did! ;) I thoroughly recommend Changing Hayden and I'll be reading more of the author's books that's for sure.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Akasha721 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think this is the start of a great series. Alex holds out for his true love and he returns needing help. Hayden realizes that Alex is his forever love and makes the choice to stay after some heated trouble. Both men learn to stand up to bullies! I love it!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[casvec · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a good second chance romance. Hayden shows up in Alex's life a low point. Past lovers and friend, Alex and Hayden work well together as old feeling surfaces.

Great story and that left me wanting more.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Haydn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Changing Hayden. Well, he definitely did need to change LOL. But he did, and the world was a better place for it. This story had all of the feels I lust after, and was hot as the sun too. I loved it.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Argh this was so freaking hawt! I loved their chemistry and I loved it when they beat their respective situations to come out on top. I need more books in this series!

I received a free ARC in exchange for an honest review

[Alaia · Rating 1 out of 5]

dnf

[Katie Jo · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVED this book. As a couple, I don't think I've rooted so hard for two individuals before. Some funny moments that made me LOL too, and also some seriously hot heat. Great book.

[Mary]

DNF