stephreviewsbooks's reviews
760 reviews

This is book 2 in the Indigo Bay series and another triumph. Definitely a different tone to book 1, with the intense Luca. Enzo is a lot more sunshiny. Enzo has a well meaning interfering mother, who has a sixth sense about Will. All the meddling in the world wasn't going to get Will to call a stranger and arrange a date. However, another form of meddling has a better result. Will is a friendly person and Enzo is charming so of course they would like each other.  The problem is logistical and they both feel it would be best not to start something they couldn't continue. This starts off as a fake dating story but as a reader we knew how strong their chemistry was. The pretend make out session was seriously hot, despite no contact being made and they were so intent at sticking to the plan, neither realised there was real attraction between each other. Luca and Oliver are heavily involved in this story, which is nice to give us a window into their lives. I wasn't a fan of Will's parents, a very strange pair, they were merely saboteurs, wanting Will to drop everything for them. I was pleased when they redeemed themselves. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
 

My goodness, I was not expecting this story to have so many layers. This whole story brings so many levels of love, devotion and destruction to life. This story includes Bruno, and despite being a main character, the focus is on Bradford and how he navigates his life. He is registered blind, with limited vision, and has his absolute trusted companion, Brendan, his assistance dog. If you don't fall for Bradford, then Brendan will capture you. Bradford has a huge amount of angst in his kind gentle life and it is absolutely heartbreaking to watch and wait. The final spring released a monster and it is tough reading.  Bradford doesn't want pity, but it is undeniable that you will feel sorry for him. Bruno is going through his own grief, but is still there for his love. Family plays a big role in this book, and the love and support is wonderful. Besides the angst and hurt there is also a fun story. Bradford, Bruno and Brendan go on so many days out and get to know more about each other each time. These little nuggets of information are then used to create further memories and mean so much to both of them. Their embraces were strong enough to embrace the reader too, I felt their love and admiration for one another. There is a level of spirituality involved and this gives high emotion even up to the end. This is an amazing example of 'own voice' writing. It highlights that you don't need to label the story as kinky just because it involves open relationships and has several other participants joining them. I did enjoy that particular shower scene and of course the shorty shorts that they would often wear; we are also treated to a Prince Albert and armpit licking. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Joey and Nick are uni students, but both so much mature than their age. They have had to be tough and strong and supportive of so many people. Instant attraction bought them together and then it was a push and pull of emotions. Joey was like a scared rabbit when he felt he was getting too deep. Nick was so patient and seemed to know what Joey needed. He needed someone else to be in control, he needed his mind cleared and he needed Nick. There is a mild Daddy/boy narrative, but only with use of names and control during intimacy. There are lots of fun scenes, several involving cinnamon rolls and donuts. It really helped lighten the heavier moments. 
 I am so disappointed in Joey's mum, she acted in such an appalling way but I am glad it bought the siblings closer. The dad hugs after graduation were my undoing and broke me. Joey and Char needed a big hug so much. Nick and Joey don't know where their future will be, except that they will be together and have a family to love. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.