Category: MM Romance Book Review

The Aurora Conspiracy by Lexi Ander

Lexi Ander - The Aurora Conspiracy Cover 388jmTitle: The Aurora Conspiracy

Author: Lexi Ander

Genre: Science Fiction

Length: Novella (95pgs)

Publisher: Less Than Three Press LLC. (April 10, 2019)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Blurb: Regin just wants to heal. After a terrible accident that maimed him, and nearly took his life and that of someone he loved, he’s spent the last several years licking his wounds on a mining station. With only six months left on his contract, he hopes to start a new life.

Then he’s accused of a crime he didn’t commit, and a ghost from the past arrives, reopening old wounds and leaving him convinced that no second chances could ever really come his way. But sorting out himself and his personal life won’t matter much if he can’t prevent a second catastrophe and save a whole lot more than two lives.

ISBN: 9781684314751

Product Link: Less Than Three Press | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: A story about a company in trouble with the law but hiding the truth. They set up a worker to take the fall. Regin is the worker that is set up. What he does not expect is for the man he loves to be one of his interrogators.

Makari knows Regin is innocent. He has spent a long time searching for Regin since the accident that affected them both. Deceptions and lies separated them until now. But now they have to find the person threatening the station they are on and saving all from certain death.

I loved everything about this story. A good plot with amazing characters made the story come alive. Along with suspenseful moments and tense scenes that had me captivated from beginning to end.

Fantastic read.

Hunting Danger by Lynn Hagen

Lynn Hagen - Hunting Danger Cover 73b3l2pTitle: Hunting Danger

Series: Brac Village 27

Author: Lynn Hagen

Genre: Paranormal, Fantasy

Length: Novella (95 Pages)

Publisher: Siren-Bookstrand, Inc. (February 11, 2018)

Heat level: Low

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 4 Hearts

Blurb: Maximus Brisco has been in hiding for over twenty years, terrified Taren Haynes will find him. Two years ago the sheriff of Brac Village found Max and gave what he thought was a normal German shepherd a home. But Max’s secret is out, and now he must convince his mate that he wasn’t purposely deceiving anyone. Too bad Dillon took off the night of his discovery and hasn’t returned.

Deputy Dillon Sloan is stunned to discover his boss’s dog is really his mate. When he finds out Max has trouble on his heels, he sets aside his anger at being duped and decides to help Max. But the masking potion Max has been using for years to hide his scent is having an adverse effect on him. Worse, Taren has discovered where Max is and the demon is coming for him. Dillon must find a cure for Max while trying to save him from a demon out for revenge.

ISBN: 978-1-64243-6099

Product Link: Siren-BookStrand | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: Each Book in the Brac Village collection features a new romantic couple. To enjoy the overall story arc and crossover characters I would recommend reading them in sequential order. This particular story is connected to the Brac Pack, Zeus Pack, Christian’s Coven, Brac Pack Next Generation, and Demon Warriors. To enjoy this to get the full impact I would suggest starting with the Brac Pack series first.

Hiding out at the Sheriff’s house as the cute and loveable German Shepard was going so good for him. However the fact that he was a shifter and hiding from a demon might stand in the way. Max accidentally shifts in front of his mate and has a lot of back tracking to do with not only his mate but the sheriff.

Dillion was past annoyed. He always pet and scratched the sheriff’s dog not knowing that he was a shifter nor his mate. Hell he always threatened to steal him but now the mutt was his permanently. To bad his mate was more into deception then anything. That is until he finds out why.

I actually liked this quite a bit and enjoyed the characters. The story moved at an even pace and was full of action and excitement, not to mention some hot sexy times. I was glad to see Panahasi once more as well as his warriors. I also spent time laughing my ass off with most of it. I always liked a good story with humor in it, and this author gives that in spades.

His Whole Heart by Victoria Sue

Victoria Sue - His Whole Heart Cover 239uh4Title: His Whole Heart

Author: Victoria Sue

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Short (63pgs)

Publisher: Victoria Sue (May 28, 2019)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Blurb: Mischa had loved Ben with every ounce of adoration his teenage heart could hold. But Ben couldn’t wait for him to grow up and went away to be a soldier. Nine years later Ben is back and Mischa is pregnant with Ben’s dead brother’s child.

His Whole Heart is a novella about healing broken promises and mending fractured hearts, and maybe learning that sometimes taking a second chance is better than the first one.

ISBN: B07S39D245

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: Such a bittersweet story with love, heartbreak and a HEA. I loved Ben and Mischa. Mischa has been through so much. Ben for his part believes what his father says and thinks the worst of Mischa after so many years apart.

Such a beautifully written story. I felt for both Ben and Mischa and the wasted time they could have had. Mischa was strong in his resolve to not let Ben’s father bully him into anything. He was my hero in the story.

Fantastic read.

Theron by Fel Fern

Fel Fern - Theron Cover 438h3lTitle: Theron

Series: Abel’s Bloodline 03

Author: Fel Fern

Genre: Fantasy, Paranormal

Length: Short Story (74 Pages)

Publisher: Siren-Bookstrand, Inc. (August 15, 2018)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 4 Hearts

Blurb: Vampire lieutenant Theron is not known for his mercy. When an enemy coven sends a blood slave to kill him, Theron shows forgiveness. He feels unexpected possessiveness and attraction to his would-be assassin. Realizing Seth is his mate, Theron offers Seth his protection, but will the human ever learn to trust another vampire again?

Seth’s entire life changed when a vampire took him from the streets and turned him into a blood slave. He never thought he could stomach being around vampires after his ordeal, but Theron’s different. When Theron secures his freedom, Seth doesn’t know what to do next. The last thing he expects is to fall for his surprising savior, but loving the vampire warrior might mean his doom.

When someone from Theron’s own coven betrays him and threatens his happiness with Seth, can Theron weed out the traitor in time?

ISBN: 978-1-64243-317-3

Product Link: Siren-BookStrand | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: Each book in the Abel’s Bloodline collection features a new romantic couple. To enjoy the overall story arc and crossover characters, I would recommend reading the series in sequential order.

Seth had been living on the streets trying to survive. That is until he was taken by vampires and turned into a blood slave. Then to be offered a chance at freedom, but it comes with a price. He was to kill another.

Theron figured it out and decided to help his mate out. There was the problem of someone trying to kill him and that there was a big threat inside their coven. They had a traitor to find.

I actually liked this one a bit more than the first two. It still has a dark tone to it and a lot of pain inside, but it also has a second chance and forgiveness. I found that my attention was actually kept with this story till the end. I will admit that for such a short story it does come off like a full size novel. This author sure does know how to give details in such a short read. I actually enjoyed it more than I thought and can’t wait to see what the next story has going on. I will also admit that this is not one of those types that will be read more than once.

The Tomb of Heaven by Geoffrey Knight

Geoffrey Knight - The Tomb of Heaven Cover 26ft3Title: The Tomb of Heaven

Series: Fathom’s Five 04

Author: Geoffrey Knight

Genre: Action & Adventure, Mystery

Length: Novella (135pgs)

Publisher: Geoffrey Knight (February 14, 2017)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 4 1/2 Hearts

Blurb: There is a man who changed the course of Russian history in his quest for the ultimate power. There is a hidden tomb that holds the secret to eternal life. There are five keys that can unlock the riddle to something every man desires—immortality.

From the islands of Mauritius to the streets of Karachi, from the rooftop terraces of Park Avenue to the ice-capped rooftop of the world, can New York adventurer Jake Stone and Texas cowboy Shane Houston find the mythical Tomb of Heaven before the legendary Elixir of Life falls into the wrong hands? Or is the destiny of humankind about to change forever?

Collect all the Fathom’s Five adventures—
The Cross of Sins: Fathom’s Five Book One
The Riddle of the Sands: Fathom’s Five Book Two
The Curse of the Dragon God: Fathom’s Five Book Three
The Tomb of Heaven: Fathom’s Five Book Four
The Temple of Time: Fathom’s Five Book Five
The Dame of Notre Dame: A Fathom’s Five Short Adventure

**Please note: This is the fourth book in the Fathom’s Five adventure series. It is recommended to read the series in order to fully appreciate the sequence of events.

ISBN: B06W5681DH

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: Jake and Shane go on an adventure to find the elixir of life and immortality before it falls into the wrong hands. Though I’m used to whole gang being in each book it was a nice change to focus on a few characters at a time.

I liked that romance seems to blossom but in each book it also appears elusive. There are still plenty of sexy times to be had as the two continue on with their mission. I enjoyed the story and it’s many elements as well as the characters themselves.

Great read.

Night’s Fall by M.A. Church

M.A. Church - Night's Fall Cover 3473ghTitle: Night’s Fall

Series: The Mystic Bay 01

Author: M.A. Church

Genre: Paranormal

Length: Novel (204pgs)

Publisher: M.A. Church (January 17, 2019)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Blurb: Things do go bump in the night.

Running from a tragic loss, worrying over a missing brother, and flustered about dreams he can’t explain, Michael James searches for a peaceful place to call home. A quaint little town on the Florida coast promises to be just what he needs to start a new life.

Then myth clashes with reality, and Michael’s life is upended. Vampires, werewolves, and other magical paranormals prowl the city of Mystic Bay, his new home.

And not all of them are friendly.

Clayton Night, a seductive, powerful vampire, desires more than Michael’s blood—he wants Michael for eternity. The mighty Clay Night has fallen, but can his love keep Michael safe from an enemy seeking revenge?

As darkness closes in, Michael has a choice to make—a short mortal life or an eternity of love and danger?

*Previously published as Darkness Awaits. This book has been revised and expanded considerably from its original version to alter both characters and plot events to enhance the reader’s enjoyment

ISBN: B07MXNPXSR

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: Michael is having dreams of the erotic variety of a sexy man he’s never met. When tragedy strikes with his parents murders and his brother missing Michael decides a new scenery is in order. He moves to Mystic Bay where things go bump in the night.

I loved everything about this story. Dark at times yet sexy and passionate at others this story packs a punch. I was on the edge of my seat as Michael is introduced to the paranormal world. There are great characters introduced such as Paul a guardian and Andy a fire elemental that help Michael try and deal with what is happening.

Several things are on going throughout and Clay, Paul and Andy try and help the best they can. I do not want to give anything away regarding details.

This book had me riveted from start to finish. I was on the edge of my seat the entire reading of it. I loved all the characters and how the pieces of the plot intertwined to make for a fantastic and highly recommended read. I am eagerly waiting for the next book to come out to see what happens next in the series.

Learning Patience by Flynn Eire

Flynn Eire - Learning Patience Cover 8394hyTitle: Learning Patience

Series: Hounds of Hell 19

Author: Flynn Eire

Genre: Paranormal

Length: Novella (110 Pages)

Publisher: Supernatural Script Inc. (November 28, 2017)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 4 Hearts

Blurb: Shane Dunn has double the worries of the other saved souls… Like his son is Nephilim too. Of course a demon so evil would target any child of those he’d already made deals for. And the problems he’s had since coming to the school of people assuming he sold his son’s soul has caused him and Norberto to shy away from others and drama.

And mating would bring drama, but still, Shane has always hoped that his mate was a Hellhound once he learned about them. Dreaming of the love some of the others have.

Colton Sethos is an impatient, loud guy every day of the week, but he likes munchkins. They’re cute, and teaching them martial arts soothes some of the hurt he endured taking souls to Hell. Never would he have thought his mate was one of the parents of his new karate class.

Things start off great, but when Norberto starts acting out and Shane picks his son over Colton, is there really a chance for them to be together forever?

ISBN: B077TJ3342

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: Each book in the Hounds of Hell collection features a new romantic couple. To enjoy the overall story arc and crossover characters, I would recommend reading the series in sequential order.

There is something about the way that Flynn tells a story that will not only draw you in and keep your attention the whole time, but it will more than likely have you laughing your ass off at parts of it. The characters are beautifully written with big hearts, however if you cross them, they have no problem putting you down. They will protect their love ones with their entire lives.

There is something about the way that Flynn tells a story that will not only draw you in and keep your attention the whole time, but it will more than likely have you laughing your ass off at parts of it. The characters are beautifully written with big hearts, however if you cross them, they have no problem putting you down. They will protect their love ones with their entire lives.

Shane was a save soul just like his son. They were both Nephilim and evil wanted them both. When they were first saved and brought to the school everyone wanted to throw blame on Shane, saying he sold his son but that wasn’t the truth. So he kept his son and himself away from the others. That is until one of the hellhounds figures out he is his mate.

Colton is a loud mouth hell hound who wants what he wants right then and now. But he loved teaching the kids. Finding out that one of his student’s father is his mate sends him into a sight to see. But the kid is just a bit jealous of his father and Colton. Going to need to be calm, cool and collected now.

I love the paranormal tone and the little bit of twists that come with it. I had never really thought about a story that not only has angels in it but hellhounds also. When one thinks hellhound, they think evil and death. Now granted they were originally from hell and they can kill who they think need to die, these guys are different. Now even though there is a bit of angst with each character, which at times can drive a reader nuts, there is very little danger. This one is a bit different as is Garnet being in trouble but no outside danger.

Other than that I had a blast reading this story. It caught my attention from the moment I started reading and kept it all the way to the end. It also gave me everything I could want in a book.

The Bringer of Wrath by A.E. Via

A.E. Via - Prophesy Book #2 The Bringer of Wrath Cover 3093y4hgTitle: Prophesy Book II: The Bringer of Wrath

Series: The King and Alpha 02

Author: A.E. Via

Genre: Paranormal

Length: Novel (267pgs)

Publisher: Via Star Wings Books (May 22, 2019)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 4 1/2 Hearts

Blurb: Alek’s older brother, Justice—the Alpha Zenith—was the first shifter to mate with a vampire in many generations, and it was believed the rare, fated pairing would stop at him. But, it hadn’t. Aleksei ‘Alek’ Volkov was second beta, next in succession to the most powerful shifter in the world. He was proud of his title and he took his duties seriously. It was all he had. Until his true mate literally showed up on his doorstep.

While his brother—the overachiever—excelled at having a vampire as a mate, Alek wasn’t that optimistic he would. He wasn’t averse to love, and he’d often thought of how different his life could’ve turned out if he’d ever experienced the emotion. His life was a mess and he’d worn a mask of stability for a majority of that time, only showing his siblings and pack what they needed to see—a strong Volkov alpha. Not the damaged man he was, with a tortured soul and a rogue wolf.

Alek dropped his heavy head in his hands. Now, for some reason, I’ve been granted a true vampire mate. And not just any vampire. The intimidating Belleron Liatos. Lord High to the King and the leader of his army.

Belleron ‘Bell’ Liatos had come to the states for one reason—his best friend and Vampire King, Chadwick Bentley. He certainly didn’t come to be pounced on by a wolf that could act independently of its master. Not only was his destined cherished a complicated and confused man; but he was also unaware of the powerful presence that lurked in the shadows of his soul. Bell didn’t know he’d be the key to unlocking an exceptional triad that would play a critical role in fulfilling the prophesy.

This story DOES NOT contain or even mention MPREG.
No multiple pairings. No cliffhangers. Ends with a very HFN.

Warning: This book is M/M paranormal: If you DO NOT like alpha men shifting into large wolves, or vampires feeding from their destined beloveds, than this may not be the novel for you.

ISBN: B07QQ2XH1Q

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: This story picks up where the last one leaves off. I loved this story about Bell and Alex. The struggles they go through are tense at times. I was intrigued by Alek’s other halves that reside inside him especially Wrath. Though at times this story seems to slow way down and repeat itself I still loved the way it moved forward eventually.

Bell was perfect for Alek though at times his attitude irritated me. Given that these two are mates it was to be expected that everything would not be sunshine and roses between them. Alek’s three entities are at odds with each other which causes a problem. Eventually they learn to work together instead of against each other.

All in all it was an enjoyable read with drama, action and some tense moments. Add that all together and you get an amazing addition to the series at a whole.

Great read.

Scent of His Prey by E.A. Reynolds

E.A. Reynolds - Scent of His Prey Cover 637hvtTitle: Scent of His Prey

Series: Wildcat County 05

Author: E.A. Reynolds

Genre: Paranormal

Length: Novella (146 Pages)

Publisher: Siren Publishing (November 14, 2017)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 3.5 Hearts

Blurb: Austen is content with his life even though he has no man to speak of and his sister is the most company he’s been keeping lately. Then, a sexy stranger stops him on the street to ask him out. Hesitant, Austen turns Kieron down, deciding to err on the side of caution. The first time Kieron saw Austen, he was curious as to why a hired killer would be following him. One look and Kieron is smitten. His cat becomes determined to do two things. One, claim Austen for its own and two, protect him from the other dangers stalking him at all costs. And as that danger gets closer, Austen loses his heart to Kieron against his better judgement. However, falling in love has never been more romantic or risky, but it’s too late to stop, not that he can hide from Kieron anyway. Once a hunter has the scent of his prey, nothing can alter his course.

ISBN: 978-1-64010-743-4

Product Link: Siren-BookStrand | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: Each book in the Wildcat County collection features a different romantic couple. To enjoy the overall story arc and crossover characters, I would recommend reading the series in sequential order.

Things are out of control for Austen. He loves his little sister something fierce, but the rest of the family could drop dead. His boss wants him to take over the shop but he has some conditions that Austen doesn’t like. Then a sexy cat ask him out, and he just wasn’t sure he wanted to try. His last mate left him and hooked up with a female. He just wasn’t to sure about love.

Kieron was working for the good guys while undercover with the bad guys. He has been given instructions on what to do, but a sexy feline has him tied into knots. Then he finds out that Austen’s family just might be involved. He was a hired killer for Logan, but he knows he will protect his mate. That is if he can get his mate to behave.

With this story you definitely have to read the previous books. The characters are so hard to follow and even though they are fighting for good, you just can’t tell. This story was actually a bit easier to follow but still ended up giving me a damn headache. I was glad for the ending and happy to see them together. The writing is well done and the story top rated, but like I said it is a bit confusing. It jumps from one spot to the next.

I can honestly say that I am on the line with this book. I don’t know if I like it or not. It has a darkness to it that I don’t really care for and very little humor to make up for it. I hate to admit that I might just give up on this series, since I have difficulties following it. Oh well we will see what the next one looks like.

The Wing Commander’s Curse by Gillian St. Kevern *Free Read*

Gillian St. Kevern - The Wing Commanders Curse Cover 3987y4gTitle: The Wing Commander’s Curse *Free*

Author: Gillian St. Kevern

Genre: Historical Fantasy

Length: Novella (120pgs)

Publisher: Gillian St. Kevern (31st July 2017)

Heat Level: Low – Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 3 1/2 Hearts

Blurb: An unbreakable curse.

England overrun by monsters.

Two men locked in a losing battle.

England, 1915.

Jonah Valliant longs for active service, but is stuck making coffee for the local officers. A year ago, the world erupted into magical chaos. No one knows why Britain is overrun by fearsome worms, magical creatures whose gaze turns men to stone, or how to stop them. When Jonah loses his temper with Wing Commander Mallory, he has no idea that picking a quarrel with the wizard may lead to Britain’s salvation–or its destruction.

Augustus Mallory carries more than the weight of the war effort on his shoulders. He’s the last of the Mallory wizards, feared for their power, arrogance and the dark family curse. He knows losing his heart to Jonah endangers everything Mallory cares about—but Jonah may possess the key to defeating the worms once and for all. His only hope: staving off his doom long enough to learn the secret behind the Quickening.

To read The Wing Commander’s Curse,​ sign up for Gillian’s newsletter!

ISBN: N/A

Product Link: Gillian St. Kevern | Newsletter

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: I found both Jonah and Mallory adorable in the way they handled their feelings for one another. Jonah for his part was a great asset in determining when worms were near due to his injury. Mallory was unapproachable at times due to the way he acted around others. But when explained the why of it I understood.

The so called curse left me confused. The explanation is that previous family members reacted negatively with rejection. Well that means they can not handle rejection and took matters into their own hands so I did not understand why it was labeled a curse. This is why Mallory stayed away from Jonah at the beginning. I think he let what happened to others influence him into thinking he should be alone forever instead of taking a chance at love.

It was a good read with plenty of action and creatures attacking as well as magic and finding ones self in the process.

The Bringer of Wrath by A.E. Via Blog Tour, Guest Post, Excerpt, Review & Giveaway!

A.E. Via - Prophesy Book #2 The Bringer of Wrath RT&BT BANNER-33

Hi guys, we have A.E. Via visiting today with the tour for her new release The Bringer of Wrath, we have a guest post from A.E., we have a great excerpt, Shorty’s review and we also have a brilliant giveaway where there’s some awesome prizes up for grabs including a $100 Amazon GC and 3x signed paperbacks (or ebook) copies of the Nothing Special series, so check out the post and then enter the giveaway!  ❤ ~Pixie~

A.E. Via - Prophesy Book #2 The Bringer of Wrath Cover 746g3

The Bringer of Wrath

(The King & Alpha 02 / Prophesy 02)
by

A.E. Via

Shifter and Vampire True Mates story.

Alek’s older brother, Justice—the Alpha Zenith—was the first shifter to mate with a vampire in many generations, and it was believed the rare, fated pairing would stop at him. But, it hadn’t. Aleksei ‘Alek’ Volkov was second beta, next in succession to the most powerful shifter in the world. He was proud of his title and he took his duties seriously. It was all he had. Until his true mate literally showed up on his doorstep.

While his brother—the overachiever—excelled at having a vampire as a mate, Alek wasn’t that optimistic he would. He wasn’t averse to love, and he’d often thought of how different his life could’ve turned out if he’d ever experienced the emotion. His life was a mess and he’d worn a mask of stability for a majority of that time, only showing his siblings and pack what they needed to see—a strong Volkov alpha. Not the damaged man he was, with a tortured soul and a rogue wolf.

Alek dropped his heavy head in his hands. Now, for some reason, I’ve been granted a true vampire mate. And not just any vampire. The intimidating Belleron Liatos. Lord High to the King and the leader of his army.

Belleron ‘Bell’ Liatos had come to the states for one reason—his best friend and Vampire King, Chadwick Bentley. He certainly didn’t come to be pounced on by a wolf that could act independently of its master. Not only was his destined cherished a complicated and confused man; but he was also unaware of the powerful presence that lurked in the shadows of his soul. Bell didn’t know he’d be the key to unlocking an exceptional triad that would play a critical role in fulfilling the prophesy.

This story DOES NOT contain or even mention MPREG.
No multiple pairings. No cliffhangers. Ends with a very HFN.

Warning: This book is M/M paranormal: If you DO NOT like alpha men shifting into large wolves, or vampires feeding from their destined beloveds, than this may not be the novel for you.

.•.•.**❣️ Amazon US | Amazon UK ❣️**.•.•.

Continue reading “The Bringer of Wrath by A.E. Via Blog Tour, Guest Post, Excerpt, Review & Giveaway!” →

Starting at Zero by Lane Hayes ~ Audio Review

Lane Hayes - Starting From Zero Audio Cover 5474h4jnTitle: Starting from Zero

Series: Starting From, 01

Author: Lane Hayes

Narrator: Michael Pauley

Genre: Contemporary

Length: 7 hrs, 8 mins

Publisher: Lane Hayes (15th May 2019)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: Justin Cuevas is going through a rough patch. A broken relationship, a scandal, and the demise of his band have shaken the aspiring rock star’s confidence. Working two jobs and sleeping on his friend’s sofa isn’t ideal, but Justin isn’t ready to give up yet. With a little luck, he’s hoping to re-launch his music career in LA with his new band, Zero. The key is to stay focused, and not get distracted by his past…or the sexy songwriter he can’t get out of his head.

Gray Robertson has written dozens of hits and worked with some of the biggest names in the industry. But he’s never met anyone like Justin. The younger man is fiery, passionate, and smart. A powerful voice for a new generation. Other than an unforgettable one-night stand and a passion for music, the two men have nothing in common. Or do they? Justin knows the out-of-the-blue challenge to write a quintessential love song is a huge opportunity. And it’s the ultimate test for someone who’s doesn’t believe in happily ever after. When sparks fly, Justin and Gray realize they have a shot something special if they start from zero together. Maybe even love.

Purchase Link: Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: Even though I find that I like Lane Hayes’ writing, I don’t particularly seek out or thoroughly investigate what comes out until something kind of just pops onto my radar. However, reading the blurb for Starting at Zero left me in two minds but I figured this would be a book that I would enjoy but not love. If only because for me Hayes’ writing style makes it so easy for me to connect to the characters. Being an audio, narration almost always lifts a book and how much I enjoy it.

Well, I was totally wrong.

Not on the narration – the narration was wonderful and did exactly as I said it would. Michael Pauley is a wonderful narrator and his voice suited this book, and the tone used for the two MC’s was absolutely spot on. Cannot say a bad word about his performance at all.

The part that I was totally wrong about was how much I would enjoy the story. I was completely pulled away and completely pulled in by the drama of the whole book. The whole struggling singer getting together with someone experienced in the industry is not entirely uncommon, but I really liked the direction that Hayes took on it. I also really liked the fact that the story was told from the POV of both MCs, which left me very satisfied in knowing what both the guys were thinking.

The singer is Justin Cuevas. He has dreams of being a rock star (he makes a comparison to Dave Grohl which, as a Foo Fighters fan, I really appreciated). However, a scandal caused by his ex, which in turn led to the band breaking up has ruined their chances. For now. At the age of twenty-six, Justin knows that he is facing his last chance to make it big. A new gig with what was left of the band and a trap laid by his ex and a slimy club owner leads Justin and his band to an opportunity, albeit with a plenty of drama.

Justin meets Gray Robertson, not realising just how successful Gray is until Justin gets an offer he can’t refuse. First, he is offered a job to sort and curate Gray’s insanely large record collection. Then later, it becomes clear that Gray’s friend (an aggressive producer named Seb) has plans to exploit the drama in Justin’s life, leading to the opportunity of a lifetime for Justin. But Justin isn’t just looking after himself, he has his band members of the newly formed band Zero to take care of. Gray sees Justin’s intelligence, appreciates and respects it. Gray is just one of those awesome guys that you just want to get a HEA for.

This story is Justin’s fight to get his band what they all deserve, but like anyone, there are so many facets of a life, and for Justin that also means finding love, trying to reconcile his mother and brother, generally trying not to have some sort of break down as his mind races and the stress gets to him.

The story is also Gray’s second chance at finding a love that would stand the many tests life throws his way. He has had his heart broken in the past, he has lived in the closet, at first by the necessity and then because he was asked to. He loves his home, his record collection and his music. And despite the age difference and the clear talent he wants to nurture in Justin, he wants more from Justin than he feels has the right to have.

The two men compliment each other, where Gray acts as a grounding force for Justin’s passionate mind. Justin is all emotion, often acting first, while Gray is all about thinking. I really enjoyed their relationship. It was passionate but it was deep, I really liked that they took the time to know each other, not just fall in love. Their love story is so entwined with the drama of the book, you can’t have one without the other, and you cannot have these two guys without having all the people that surrounded them.

The secondary characters are widely varied and very deep. This adds so much complexity to the whole story because although they are not Justin and Gray, these characters had a massive influence on the plot. I’ve already mentioned, Seb, and while he was a good enough character, he wasn’t the most important secondary character. Gray’s godson, Charlie, quickly becomes a character that I was intrigued by. Charlie had a lot of good intentions and is a strong character that cares deeply for the ones he loves. The passion that he shows has him pegged as one of my favourite secondary characters, in addition to member of Zero and Justin’s best friend, Tegan whose passion was just as intense as Charlie’s. I hope that both these characters have their own stories to tell.

I recommend this one to people that like their couples with an age gap and those that love the idea of a plot of men looking to capture their chance at stardom.