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The Guys Who Got Away #7
A Guy Walks Into My Bar
A sexy, passionate, utterly addictive standalone MM romance from #1 NYT Bestseller Lauren Blakely!
Every bartender should follow one simple rule—don't go home with the customers.
That’s been easy for me to stick to, until the night a cocky, confident, and sinfully charming hockey star walks into my bar. This sexy athlete is too hard to resist, especially when he makes it clear how much he wants the “sarcastic, witty, hot AF” guy behind the bar—also known as me.
Still, I’m not keen on breaking my own rules since I know where that can lead—no place good.
But when that man makes his case with one bone-searing kiss on the streets of London, I throw resistance out the window.
What could go wrong with a hot, dirty, no-strings-attached fling before he leaves town in five days?
Trouble is, soon our nights together lead to days, to long conversations, to getting to know each other, and to something I never expected—falling ridiculously hard for a man who’s getting on a plane to America when I live a world away.
My life is here. His is there. And no amount of falling or feeling will change that one big problem.
Warning: contains hot hotel sex, loads of dirty talk, PDA all over London, and two sexy, witty, charming alpha heroes…
Every bartender should follow one simple rule—don't go home with the customers.
That’s been easy for me to stick to, until the night a cocky, confident, and sinfully charming hockey star walks into my bar. This sexy athlete is too hard to resist, especially when he makes it clear how much he wants the “sarcastic, witty, hot AF” guy behind the bar—also known as me.
Still, I’m not keen on breaking my own rules since I know where that can lead—no place good.
But when that man makes his case with one bone-searing kiss on the streets of London, I throw resistance out the window.
What could go wrong with a hot, dirty, no-strings-attached fling before he leaves town in five days?
Trouble is, soon our nights together lead to days, to long conversations, to getting to know each other, and to something I never expected—falling ridiculously hard for a man who’s getting on a plane to America when I live a world away.
My life is here. His is there. And no amount of falling or feeling will change that one big problem.
Warning: contains hot hotel sex, loads of dirty talk, PDA all over London, and two sexy, witty, charming alpha heroes…
436 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 19, 2020
About the author
Lauren Blakely
223 books20.9k followersA #1 New York Times Bestselling, #1 Wall Street Journal Bestselling, and #1 Audible Bestselling author, Lauren Blakely is known for her contemporary romance style that's sweet, sexy and witty. Her heroines are strong and smart and her heroes have hearts of gold and fantastic funny bones. She'd love to give you a free book today! Check out her web site to grab your free read: https://laurenblakely.com/one-free-book/
Connect with Lauren here
➜ WEBSITE: laurenblakely.com
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Connect with Lauren here
➜ WEBSITE: laurenblakely.com
➜ NEWSLETTER: laurenblakely.com/newsletter
➜ FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/LaurenBlakelyBooks/
➜ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/laurenblake...
➜ TWITTER: www.twitter.com/laurenblakely3
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August 13, 2020
A Guy Walks Into My Bar is a M/M, stand alone romance by Lauren Blakely. Full disclosure here is that I have only read a couple of Lauren’s books although I thoroughly enjoyed them. But I have such a huge love for M/M romance so when I saw she was releasing one, I knew I had to read it. But I wasn’t prepared for the level of love I felt for this book, for these two men! When I wasn’t reading, I was walking around with my head in the clouds thinking about them. I hope you’ll take a minute and let me tell you about these two.
“If you don’t have rules, that’s when you run into trouble.”
Dean Collins is thirty one years old and lives in London. He is living his dream, owning a bar called The Magpie with his business partner and closest friend, Maeve. His flat is near the bar and also near his dad whom he is very close to. He has friends, family and work that keeps him busy and happy. What he doesn’t do is relationships. He and Maeve have an ongoing bet that keeps them from sleeping with the customers and Dean is very competitive. He will not lose the bet. But then a very sexy American walks into his bar, and changes everything.
James “Fitz” Fitzgerald is a professional hockey player, a defenseman for his team in New York. Spring training starts in a week so Fitz is in London with his younger sister, Emma, getting her set up to attend art school there. He views this as a little vacation before his entire focus will be on hockey. When he walked into The Magpie, he couldn’t see anything but the sexy British bartender. He knew he wanted him and was determined to change his no to a yes!
“And I want. I want Fitz so much I can feel it in my lungs. I want him ferociously, with a desperation I haven’t known in ages. Or maybe I’ve never known it could be quite like this. This intense. This devouring.”
One kiss was all it took for Fitz and Dean to realize that this thing between them wouldn’t and couldn’t be ignored. It might have started out as just sexual. And let me tell you that these two threw sparks like a wildfire that couldn’t be extinguished. But the level of intensity of their sexual connection led to more, so much more. They both knew, though, that they had an expiration date, five days until Fitz left to return to New York. No strings, that’s what this was supposed to be, a fling. Then good-bye.
“Don’t go.”
“I wasn’t leaving. You always think I’m leaving.”
“Maybe because I always want you to stay.”
I think I’ll stop there. Just typing this is giving me all the feels all over again. I loved these two so much. I’m particular about my M/M romances. I prefer it when both partners are physically equal and these two both were. They were sarcastic, fun, sexy, and both had hearts that were so big. I loved how they were afraid to voice their growing feelings but they showed each other with their bodies, with their kisses.
I am just so in love with this book, with Fitz and Dean, the Brit and the American who live an ocean apart from each other but found a connection that couldn’t be denied. This was fun, sexy, swoony, made me sigh, smile and maybe even gasp! I couldn’t put it down. I was so excited to learn that Lauren is writing another M/M romance entitled One Time Only. It’s on my tbr list and I can’t wait for her to make me fall in love all over again. But for now, I just want to say thank you for Fitz and Dean.
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
“If you don’t have rules, that’s when you run into trouble.”
Dean Collins is thirty one years old and lives in London. He is living his dream, owning a bar called The Magpie with his business partner and closest friend, Maeve. His flat is near the bar and also near his dad whom he is very close to. He has friends, family and work that keeps him busy and happy. What he doesn’t do is relationships. He and Maeve have an ongoing bet that keeps them from sleeping with the customers and Dean is very competitive. He will not lose the bet. But then a very sexy American walks into his bar, and changes everything.
James “Fitz” Fitzgerald is a professional hockey player, a defenseman for his team in New York. Spring training starts in a week so Fitz is in London with his younger sister, Emma, getting her set up to attend art school there. He views this as a little vacation before his entire focus will be on hockey. When he walked into The Magpie, he couldn’t see anything but the sexy British bartender. He knew he wanted him and was determined to change his no to a yes!
“And I want. I want Fitz so much I can feel it in my lungs. I want him ferociously, with a desperation I haven’t known in ages. Or maybe I’ve never known it could be quite like this. This intense. This devouring.”
One kiss was all it took for Fitz and Dean to realize that this thing between them wouldn’t and couldn’t be ignored. It might have started out as just sexual. And let me tell you that these two threw sparks like a wildfire that couldn’t be extinguished. But the level of intensity of their sexual connection led to more, so much more. They both knew, though, that they had an expiration date, five days until Fitz left to return to New York. No strings, that’s what this was supposed to be, a fling. Then good-bye.
“Don’t go.”
“I wasn’t leaving. You always think I’m leaving.”
“Maybe because I always want you to stay.”
I think I’ll stop there. Just typing this is giving me all the feels all over again. I loved these two so much. I’m particular about my M/M romances. I prefer it when both partners are physically equal and these two both were. They were sarcastic, fun, sexy, and both had hearts that were so big. I loved how they were afraid to voice their growing feelings but they showed each other with their bodies, with their kisses.
I am just so in love with this book, with Fitz and Dean, the Brit and the American who live an ocean apart from each other but found a connection that couldn’t be denied. This was fun, sexy, swoony, made me sigh, smile and maybe even gasp! I couldn’t put it down. I was so excited to learn that Lauren is writing another M/M romance entitled One Time Only. It’s on my tbr list and I can’t wait for her to make me fall in love all over again. But for now, I just want to say thank you for Fitz and Dean.
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
November 27, 2020
Audiobook - 4 stars
Story 1.5 for the first 60% - DNF
They have been flirting and having sex ever since they met, which was like a second ago and now they are in love?😣 I just can't do it.
If I hear the words, "You are falling in love with him, he is feeling the same way, you just can't see it"🙄🙄🥱🥱 I am going to break my phone. But since I am broke, I'd rather dnf.
Story 1.5 for the first 60% - DNF
They have been flirting and having sex ever since they met, which was like a second ago and now they are in love?😣 I just can't do it.
If I hear the words, "You are falling in love with him, he is feeling the same way, you just can't see it"🙄🙄🥱🥱 I am going to break my phone. But since I am broke, I'd rather dnf.
August 23, 2020
dnf @ 60%
I'm not a fan of the writing style. The characters are nice, but they don't feel real to me. There's no depth to them. They talk a lot without really saying anything and I find their flirting a bit boring, to be honest.
The side characters are also nice, but they all feel the same to me and their only purpose in this story is to "point the MCs in the right direction“.
I'm not a fan of the writing style. The characters are nice, but they don't feel real to me. There's no depth to them. They talk a lot without really saying anything and I find their flirting a bit boring, to be honest.
The side characters are also nice, but they all feel the same to me and their only purpose in this story is to "point the MCs in the right direction“.
August 8, 2020
I fucking love this book. That is all.
This was my first foray into a Lauren Blakely book and dammit it was so awesome.
On top of incredibly sizzling hot scenes, I loved the actual romance. The effortlessness of Dean and Fitz's connection, how they fell for each other so instantly and somehow, despite the fear, baggage and reservations had the guts to see and acknowledge it.
I also loved the endless epilogues, giving us a real view into life after the big romantic gesture and HEA.
6 stars and a martini that goes to your head.
This was my first foray into a Lauren Blakely book and dammit it was so awesome.
On top of incredibly sizzling hot scenes, I loved the actual romance. The effortlessness of Dean and Fitz's connection, how they fell for each other so instantly and somehow, despite the fear, baggage and reservations had the guts to see and acknowledge it.
I also loved the endless epilogues, giving us a real view into life after the big romantic gesture and HEA.
6 stars and a martini that goes to your head.
August 18, 2020
Audio – 5++++ Stars!
Update: I just finished listening to the interview with Shane East and Joe Arden and....OMG! Epic! Loved it! I'm so grateful it was included in the audiobook! INFINITE FUCKING STARS!!
Story – 4 Whirl Wind Romance Stars
This is one of those stories where a lot happens between the MCs in a very short amount of time. I’m normally turned off by that kind of romance, but the author made me believe that sometimes “you just know you found the one” in a very short amount of time can happen. This was mostly a low angst, humorous, and hellah hawt romance that I really enjoyed.
Why 4 stars instead of 5? Because it did feel a bit long-winded at times (and that's before the bonus epilogues). I also would have preferred if the author had given a more detailed description of the MCs besides them having hot and fit bodies. At times it felt a bit shallow. She gives enough so that the reader knows this is a story of an interracial couple, but it’s the bare minimum.
Update: I just finished listening to the interview with Shane East and Joe Arden and....OMG! Epic! Loved it! I'm so grateful it was included in the audiobook! INFINITE FUCKING STARS!!
Story – 4 Whirl Wind Romance Stars
This is one of those stories where a lot happens between the MCs in a very short amount of time. I’m normally turned off by that kind of romance, but the author made me believe that sometimes “you just know you found the one” in a very short amount of time can happen. This was mostly a low angst, humorous, and hellah hawt romance that I really enjoyed.
Why 4 stars instead of 5? Because it did feel a bit long-winded at times (and that's before the bonus epilogues). I also would have preferred if the author had given a more detailed description of the MCs besides them having hot and fit bodies. At times it felt a bit shallow. She gives enough so that the reader knows this is a story of an interracial couple, but it’s the bare minimum.
August 8, 2020
Blakely scored with this MM romance. It was her first and it was so fucking good!! It was hot and sexy and emotional and I couldn't put it down.
First of all, the fact that Dean, the Brit, could pass for Michael B Jordan sealed the deal for me. Their instalust turned instalove was everything. Those normally aren't my thing but it just worked. The fling turned relationship clicked in place with how well they got on.
And I really adored how happy and open Fitz's character was. He was fearless with his pursuits and his words.
And I loved their support characters. Fitz's sisters. Dean's dad and his crew of friends, especially Maeve. They helped make their story what it was. Dean and Fitz had all the love and encouragement they could ever need.
10 stars, highly fucking recommended!!
I fucking loved it. That is all!!!
First of all, the fact that Dean, the Brit, could pass for Michael B Jordan sealed the deal for me. Their instalust turned instalove was everything. Those normally aren't my thing but it just worked. The fling turned relationship clicked in place with how well they got on.
And I really adored how happy and open Fitz's character was. He was fearless with his pursuits and his words.
And I loved their support characters. Fitz's sisters. Dean's dad and his crew of friends, especially Maeve. They helped make their story what it was. Dean and Fitz had all the love and encouragement they could ever need.
10 stars, highly fucking recommended!!
I fucking loved it. That is all!!!
August 12, 2020
**ARC provided courtesy of the Author**
TEN STARS!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I have been DYING to get my hands on this book from the moment Lauren Blakely hinted that she was working on it. If you ask any of my friends or family what my most anticipated book to read this year was they would tell you this title. It was everything I wanted it to be and so much more; I fucking loved it. This book is hot, sexy, passionate, romantic and just perfect. If I could rate it ten stars I would.
A Guy Walks Into My Bar gives us the story of Dean and Fitz, yes that's right, it's Lauren Blakely's first M/M story. Now I understand that may not be everyone's cup of tea...but if you haven't tried this genre before I would strongly encourage you to start with this book. This is a love story through and through, with fabulous characters, hot sexy times and tons of flirty banter.
Dean, voiced by Shane East, is a bartender in London. He serves up delicious drinks and banter with ease. He's sexy as sin and he is such a fabulous flirt!! Dean guards his heart carefully, though, and never crosses the line with his customers. He had me smiling from the start and I loved getting to know him. Dean definitely had some moments that made me teary eyed, and one that flat out made me cry. I absolutely adored him.
Fitz had me right from the start. This man is also sexy and hot with so much to offer. He's got a strong protective side, which I love. He's also direct and knows what he wants and pursues it relentlessly. Seeing him go after Dean, and get Dean to say Fitz's favorite word, was so much fun. Now, there was a moment I wanted to shake him. But I do understand where he was coming from and he redeemed himself perfectly. I loved him.
These two together crackle with chemistry immediately. The spark is there and just grows and grows until they combust. I rank first kisses from this author...and this is my new favorite first kiss. Their sexy times? Ladies, grab a fan and make sure you have plenty of batteries; you're going to need them! Now it wasn't all sex, though the sex was amazing, and watching these two figure out their relationship was beautiful. I liked seeing them just BE together. Dean and Fitz had me captured the entire time.
The supporting characters here were fabulous as always, but there's a scene with one of them that I just loved. I won't say who, because I want you to enjoy it the moment you read it...or listen. The writing is strong and flirty and the story just flows so perfectly.
Now...I listened to an advanced copy of this book. Oh. My. God. If you only listen to one audiobook this year, PICK THIS ONE!!! Shane East and Joe Arden bring Dean and Fitz to life in a way I'm convinced that no other narrators could. I am officially team #Eaden. The performance just blew me away from start to finish. I could close my eyes and just listen to this beautiful story for days. The supporting narrators as well are amazing.
This book is incredibly special. It is hot, sexy, passionate, romantic. This is my favorite book of 2020, no questions asked. Dean and Fitz are an incredible couple and Lauren Blakely just knocked it out of the park with this one. I fucking loved it and could not recommend it more. This is a ten star book for sure!
**This and other reviews featured on our blog, Booked All Night, http://www.BookedAllNightblog.com**
TEN STARS!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I have been DYING to get my hands on this book from the moment Lauren Blakely hinted that she was working on it. If you ask any of my friends or family what my most anticipated book to read this year was they would tell you this title. It was everything I wanted it to be and so much more; I fucking loved it. This book is hot, sexy, passionate, romantic and just perfect. If I could rate it ten stars I would.
A Guy Walks Into My Bar gives us the story of Dean and Fitz, yes that's right, it's Lauren Blakely's first M/M story. Now I understand that may not be everyone's cup of tea...but if you haven't tried this genre before I would strongly encourage you to start with this book. This is a love story through and through, with fabulous characters, hot sexy times and tons of flirty banter.
Dean, voiced by Shane East, is a bartender in London. He serves up delicious drinks and banter with ease. He's sexy as sin and he is such a fabulous flirt!! Dean guards his heart carefully, though, and never crosses the line with his customers. He had me smiling from the start and I loved getting to know him. Dean definitely had some moments that made me teary eyed, and one that flat out made me cry. I absolutely adored him.
Fitz had me right from the start. This man is also sexy and hot with so much to offer. He's got a strong protective side, which I love. He's also direct and knows what he wants and pursues it relentlessly. Seeing him go after Dean, and get Dean to say Fitz's favorite word, was so much fun. Now, there was a moment I wanted to shake him. But I do understand where he was coming from and he redeemed himself perfectly. I loved him.
These two together crackle with chemistry immediately. The spark is there and just grows and grows until they combust. I rank first kisses from this author...and this is my new favorite first kiss. Their sexy times? Ladies, grab a fan and make sure you have plenty of batteries; you're going to need them! Now it wasn't all sex, though the sex was amazing, and watching these two figure out their relationship was beautiful. I liked seeing them just BE together. Dean and Fitz had me captured the entire time.
The supporting characters here were fabulous as always, but there's a scene with one of them that I just loved. I won't say who, because I want you to enjoy it the moment you read it...or listen. The writing is strong and flirty and the story just flows so perfectly.
Now...I listened to an advanced copy of this book. Oh. My. God. If you only listen to one audiobook this year, PICK THIS ONE!!! Shane East and Joe Arden bring Dean and Fitz to life in a way I'm convinced that no other narrators could. I am officially team #Eaden. The performance just blew me away from start to finish. I could close my eyes and just listen to this beautiful story for days. The supporting narrators as well are amazing.
This book is incredibly special. It is hot, sexy, passionate, romantic. This is my favorite book of 2020, no questions asked. Dean and Fitz are an incredible couple and Lauren Blakely just knocked it out of the park with this one. I fucking loved it and could not recommend it more. This is a ten star book for sure!
**This and other reviews featured on our blog, Booked All Night, http://www.BookedAllNightblog.com**
August 12, 2020
This is by far my favorite Lauren Blakely book EVER!!!!!!! Lauren you MUST write more M/M romance novels, it is your new calling!
I am absolutely in love with these characters.
Fitz is a NHL defense man. His loves, Hockey, his family, his friends. He takes a trip to England with his sister and his life changes when he walks into a bar his English friend from the States had recommended to him.
Dean has his loves, his friends, his dad and the bar he opened a year ago. Then a guy walks into his bar. And it changes everything.
Lauren tells the story so well that I can actually hear Dean's British accent as I was reading this.
I laughed as their banter was hysterical, the sexy times they had together were off the charts hot hot hot!!!!!! MUST READ!!!!!!!!!!
I am absolutely in love with these characters.
Fitz is a NHL defense man. His loves, Hockey, his family, his friends. He takes a trip to England with his sister and his life changes when he walks into a bar his English friend from the States had recommended to him.
Dean has his loves, his friends, his dad and the bar he opened a year ago. Then a guy walks into his bar. And it changes everything.
Lauren tells the story so well that I can actually hear Dean's British accent as I was reading this.
I laughed as their banter was hysterical, the sexy times they had together were off the charts hot hot hot!!!!!! MUST READ!!!!!!!!!!
August 14, 2020
I want to give this ALL the stars!
Absobloodylootly one of my favorites this summer!
I can't get over how this is her first M/M romance! WOW!
Love has landed, and it has landed hard. More ways than one!
Lauren Blakely's first ever M/M romance is one not to be missed by romance readers. Her writing style makes the scenes and storyline flow so realistically in any of her books, this one does not disappoint. Certainly a swoon worthy, hot and heavy romance to keep your attention right up until the final page!
Dean, a thirty-one-year-old, Michael Jordan-look-a-like bar owner loves his London life and wants no part in changing it, that is until Fitz, a New York hunk of a hockey player walks into Dean's bar and connection zings even before their first words are spoken. Temptations fly, no, they soar so damn high! What starts as a fling turns into more. Feelings begin to heighten and both men find it difficult to voice what they truly desire in their futures. Neither want to give up their wonderous lives nor can they give up what the other brings to their true happiness. What starts out as a five-day fling turns into a lust filled battle between mind, body, and heart. Not to mention the over three thousand miles and an ocean between them; the two men can't come to terms with any solution to make it work between them. It doesn't take long before their friends and family see the changes in both Dean and Fitz; their demeaners are harder, edgier, more distant, they wanted back the man they knew, but most of all they wanted them to be happy and fulfilled in their life.
The ending and epilogues are set perfectly, giving us a glimpse into the life of Dean and Fitz's longtime friends as well as their own journey years later.
I laughed so much, felt the emotional moments, then tension, the teasing, the bantering, and the all around vibe that the author was going for.
Give this book a chance! You will LOVE it!
Such a wonderful story that I have read at least three times and will undoubtedly listen to the amplified swooning again and again once the audiobook is released!
*I was given an ARC courtesy of the author and Candi Kane. I am voluntarily giving my review of this novel*
Absobloodylootly one of my favorites this summer!
I can't get over how this is her first M/M romance! WOW!
Love has landed, and it has landed hard. More ways than one!
Lauren Blakely's first ever M/M romance is one not to be missed by romance readers. Her writing style makes the scenes and storyline flow so realistically in any of her books, this one does not disappoint. Certainly a swoon worthy, hot and heavy romance to keep your attention right up until the final page!
Dean, a thirty-one-year-old, Michael Jordan-look-a-like bar owner loves his London life and wants no part in changing it, that is until Fitz, a New York hunk of a hockey player walks into Dean's bar and connection zings even before their first words are spoken. Temptations fly, no, they soar so damn high! What starts as a fling turns into more. Feelings begin to heighten and both men find it difficult to voice what they truly desire in their futures. Neither want to give up their wonderous lives nor can they give up what the other brings to their true happiness. What starts out as a five-day fling turns into a lust filled battle between mind, body, and heart. Not to mention the over three thousand miles and an ocean between them; the two men can't come to terms with any solution to make it work between them. It doesn't take long before their friends and family see the changes in both Dean and Fitz; their demeaners are harder, edgier, more distant, they wanted back the man they knew, but most of all they wanted them to be happy and fulfilled in their life.
The ending and epilogues are set perfectly, giving us a glimpse into the life of Dean and Fitz's longtime friends as well as their own journey years later.
I laughed so much, felt the emotional moments, then tension, the teasing, the bantering, and the all around vibe that the author was going for.
Give this book a chance! You will LOVE it!
Such a wonderful story that I have read at least three times and will undoubtedly listen to the amplified swooning again and again once the audiobook is released!
*I was given an ARC courtesy of the author and Candi Kane. I am voluntarily giving my review of this novel*
October 16, 2020
New Review!!
Decided to give this 3 stars because to me it felt like nothing really happened here other than flirtations and banter between the characters. Almost no depth at all. Cheesy, yes, but wish there was more substance into the story. Maybe just me!!
_________________________________________________
A Guy Walks Into My Bar is Lauren Blakely's first MM romance and honestly wow. Just WOW. I highly enjoyed and appreciate her take to this genre. Dean Collins and James Fitzgerald's whirlwind of a romance was definitely swoon worthy. The sex was steamy. The banter was good and funny. Everything was perfect for them. Too perfect.
The only thing I didn't liked in this was the length. There was this part of the book that could have ended it but no the story still went on. The last 100 pages or so felt unnecessary to me. It was still entertaining but I just wanted for everything to wrap up already. And 3 epilogues in the end? Kill me now.
I hope I could read more from this author!
Decided to give this 3 stars because to me it felt like nothing really happened here other than flirtations and banter between the characters. Almost no depth at all. Cheesy, yes, but wish there was more substance into the story. Maybe just me!!
_________________________________________________
A Guy Walks Into My Bar is Lauren Blakely's first MM romance and honestly wow. Just WOW. I highly enjoyed and appreciate her take to this genre. Dean Collins and James Fitzgerald's whirlwind of a romance was definitely swoon worthy. The sex was steamy. The banter was good and funny. Everything was perfect for them. Too perfect.
The only thing I didn't liked in this was the length. There was this part of the book that could have ended it but no the story still went on. The last 100 pages or so felt unnecessary to me. It was still entertaining but I just wanted for everything to wrap up already. And 3 epilogues in the end? Kill me now.
I hope I could read more from this author!
August 21, 2020
Wait, what?
That's how the book ends?
This was a solid 4 star read for the first 83% of the book. I was loving the relationship development and all the banter.
Then the climax came and......what the hell was that? That's not how you end it! That's cheezy, dumb, and totally unrealistic.
That's how the book ends?
This was a solid 4 star read for the first 83% of the book. I was loving the relationship development and all the banter.
Then the climax came and......what the hell was that? That's not how you end it! That's cheezy, dumb, and totally unrealistic.
October 28, 2020
I tend to be super late to parties for hyped books just because ... I'm a curmudgeon. There. I said it. But I've read some of Lauren Blakely's M/F contemporaries and I've been okay with them so I decided to try this despite signs that it would probably not be for me. The signs were right.
Firs off I did the AB, which thankfully is on Audible Escape. I know lately a lot of listeners are keen on multicast and duet narrations but they just make me think of radio soaps of yore. The duet is fine?, I guess, but not something I need or want. Frankly one good, appropriate for the story, narrator is all I want. For me an AB isn't a performed play or movie script. It's a novel narrated with intention but not necessarily "acted out". I'm not sure if I'm expressing myself clearly but there it is. All of this is to say that while Shane West and Joe Arden are perfectly fine as Dean and Fitz the rest seemed like tinsel, bells, and whistles. IMO they added nothing to the story.
THE STORY: my fears were realized. Not in a good way. Dean & Fitz meet at the aforementioned bar and all the MF cliches that make my skin burn were present. They're swept away by lust at first sight but of course both MC have some trite reason why he's not looking for love, absolutely cannot do relationships etc., while at the same time can't keep away from the other MC. They're 31 & 28? but to me read like they were 18. Besides the physical attraction I wasn't able to determine what else brought them together, which is fine, relationships are built on less ... I guess.
Dean is prickly like a cactus and seemed to be F in an M/F where Fitz is always apologizing for some wrong doing, bending to Dean wishes or otherwise making up to him. The sex was fine. The usual mind-blowing, never-before experienced Os etc. and maybe you could say there was too much but I'll give it a pass since his kicks off as a vacation affair and those are all about the smex. So ... sure. Why not?
My other issue is that this book/story seems to have been concocted without even a reference to OWN VOICES and more like from market research. The target audience surely isn't a gay one. The characters are gay but we only know it because the author told us so. They could be anyone.
As for the rest, the AB at least, seemed to never end. Once the I-LOVE-YOUs were exchanged (super fast) they were repeated to the point of barf, there were was a wedding epilogue, a "some years later" epilogue, story about Dean's friends Maeve & Sam and their little love story, an interview with the main narrators, bloopers, and more! It was eternal. Or maybe it just felt that way because I don't think I'll remember the name of these two by tomorrow. For me this story was just surface and it's a pity because as I generally like this author.
***As usual YMMV***
Firs off I did the AB, which thankfully is on Audible Escape. I know lately a lot of listeners are keen on multicast and duet narrations but they just make me think of radio soaps of yore. The duet is fine?, I guess, but not something I need or want. Frankly one good, appropriate for the story, narrator is all I want. For me an AB isn't a performed play or movie script. It's a novel narrated with intention but not necessarily "acted out". I'm not sure if I'm expressing myself clearly but there it is. All of this is to say that while Shane West and Joe Arden are perfectly fine as Dean and Fitz the rest seemed like tinsel, bells, and whistles. IMO they added nothing to the story.
THE STORY: my fears were realized. Not in a good way. Dean & Fitz meet at the aforementioned bar and all the MF cliches that make my skin burn were present. They're swept away by lust at first sight but of course both MC have some trite reason why he's not looking for love, absolutely cannot do relationships etc., while at the same time can't keep away from the other MC. They're 31 & 28? but to me read like they were 18. Besides the physical attraction I wasn't able to determine what else brought them together, which is fine, relationships are built on less ... I guess.
Dean is prickly like a cactus and seemed to be F in an M/F where Fitz is always apologizing for some wrong doing, bending to Dean wishes or otherwise making up to him. The sex was fine. The usual mind-blowing, never-before experienced Os etc. and maybe you could say there was too much but I'll give it a pass since his kicks off as a vacation affair and those are all about the smex. So ... sure. Why not?
My other issue is that this book/story seems to have been concocted without even a reference to OWN VOICES and more like from market research. The target audience surely isn't a gay one. The characters are gay but we only know it because the author told us so. They could be anyone.
As for the rest, the AB at least, seemed to never end. Once the I-LOVE-YOUs were exchanged (super fast) they were repeated to the point of barf, there were was a wedding epilogue, a "some years later" epilogue, story about Dean's friends Maeve & Sam and their little love story, an interview with the main narrators, bloopers, and more! It was eternal. Or maybe it just felt that way because I don't think I'll remember the name of these two by tomorrow. For me this story was just surface and it's a pity because as I generally like this author.
***As usual YMMV***
August 24, 2020
4-4,5 STARS
I need more M/M from Lauren Blakely, sigh!I freaking loved it!I can't believe this is her first, it was so good.The romance make me swoon!
Dean and Fitz's connection was so good.I loved their banter, they were flirty and omg super hot!I can't get over them!They were so good together!Fitz is sexy,cocky and persistent.Dean is sweet and fun!
This is a fun,super hot and sweet romance!
I need more M/M from Lauren Blakely, sigh!I freaking loved it!I can't believe this is her first, it was so good.The romance make me swoon!
Dean and Fitz's connection was so good.I loved their banter, they were flirty and omg super hot!I can't get over them!They were so good together!Fitz is sexy,cocky and persistent.Dean is sweet and fun!
This is a fun,super hot and sweet romance!
July 1, 2020
COVER REVEAL!!
A sexy, passionate, utterly addictive standalone MM romance!! Check out this gorgeous cover and preorder A Guy Walks Into My Bar everywhere today!!
✦ Kindle ➜ https://amzn.to/31uPg4g
✦ Apple ➜ https://blkly.pub/AppleAGuyWalksIn
✦ Nook ➜ https://blkly.pub/NookAGuyWalksIn
✦ Kobo ➜ https://blkly.pub/KoboAGuyWalksIn
✦ Google ➜ https://blkly.pub/AGuyGoogle
✦Amazon PB ➜ https://blkly.pub/PaperbackAGuyWalksIn
✦Audible ➜ Duet narration from Joe Arden & Shane East, with a full supporting cast: http://blkly.pub/AudibleGuyWalksInto
[image error]
A sexy, passionate, utterly addictive standalone MM romance!! Check out this gorgeous cover and preorder A Guy Walks Into My Bar everywhere today!!
✦ Kindle ➜ https://amzn.to/31uPg4g
✦ Apple ➜ https://blkly.pub/AppleAGuyWalksIn
✦ Nook ➜ https://blkly.pub/NookAGuyWalksIn
✦ Kobo ➜ https://blkly.pub/KoboAGuyWalksIn
✦ Google ➜ https://blkly.pub/AGuyGoogle
✦Amazon PB ➜ https://blkly.pub/PaperbackAGuyWalksIn
✦Audible ➜ Duet narration from Joe Arden & Shane East, with a full supporting cast: http://blkly.pub/AudibleGuyWalksInto
[image error]
January 15, 2021
So, KILL ME over another 2 star review of a book people are RAVING about. Wait, you don’t know where I live, so, I’m safe. 😉
Against my friends’ better (and decidedly more intelligent) advice, I succumbed to the hot cover of this book and the fact that one MC was a hockey player. Stick handlers are my kryptonite.
I was also intrigued by the ensemble cast since that’s something we don’t see in our corner of MM romanceland. My votes are in: male MCs - GREAT! Female characters — high voices with little ease in their language. Every time I heard one, I dropped out of the story.
I’ll admit, I didn’t make it far—just 15%. But I looked at that 15%, thought about my enjoyment, thought about HOW FUCKING RIGHT MY FRIENDS WERE, and I decided to call it. 😵
You may think it unfair for me to rate a book I’m DNF’ing. You are entitled to think so. My two stars are based on the fact that I started the book with a 3.5 in mind (surprise!), but the slow and steady hemorrhaging of star points reminded me that it likely wasn’t going to get much better (I KNOW THIS BECAUSE: FRIENDS WHO ARE SMARTER THAN ME TOLD ME SO).
There it is. Do what you will with this first foray into MM by an MF novelist. Many loved the shit out of this. The audiobook won an award here this year. 🤷🏻♀️
Grouchy I may be after reading the second 2 star book in a row. But hey, it’s my opinion & take it with a grain of salt.
My rec? If you dig superficial & OTT dialogue, then this is your jam!
Against my friends’ better (and decidedly more intelligent) advice, I succumbed to the hot cover of this book and the fact that one MC was a hockey player. Stick handlers are my kryptonite.
I was also intrigued by the ensemble cast since that’s something we don’t see in our corner of MM romanceland. My votes are in: male MCs - GREAT! Female characters — high voices with little ease in their language. Every time I heard one, I dropped out of the story.
I’ll admit, I didn’t make it far—just 15%. But I looked at that 15%, thought about my enjoyment, thought about HOW FUCKING RIGHT MY FRIENDS WERE, and I decided to call it. 😵
You may think it unfair for me to rate a book I’m DNF’ing. You are entitled to think so. My two stars are based on the fact that I started the book with a 3.5 in mind (surprise!), but the slow and steady hemorrhaging of star points reminded me that it likely wasn’t going to get much better (I KNOW THIS BECAUSE: FRIENDS WHO ARE SMARTER THAN ME TOLD ME SO).
There it is. Do what you will with this first foray into MM by an MF novelist. Many loved the shit out of this. The audiobook won an award here this year. 🤷🏻♀️
Grouchy I may be after reading the second 2 star book in a row. But hey, it’s my opinion & take it with a grain of salt.
My rec? If you dig superficial & OTT dialogue, then this is your jam!
August 20, 2020
RTC
August 24, 2020
3.5 Stars!
I'm always a bit skeptical to read MM from a (until now) MF author. But what can I say, the cover and blurb drew me in. And I didn't want to unfairly judge before reading the book.
Not bad. Not great. This is definitely a case where GRs need half stars. But I'll round up because I didn't skim and nothing made me super ragey.
While I can't say I LOVED this one, I did like it. I have not read any MF from this author, but I did like the writing style. Plenty of dialogue and good banter amongst the MCs. Good chemistry. Lots of sexy times. No manufactured drama. It was maybe a tad too long.
I read spoilers and was prepared for what happens towards the end. And because I was expecting it maybe it didn't bother me as much? Was it kind of a huh? moment, sure. But it didn't feel toooo out of left field for me.
I didn't care for the multiple epilogues. One nice epilogue would have been fine. Especially when one looks to be setting up other books and happened to be MF.
As a whole I liked this one enough to consider reading other MM books from this author. It was an easy, weekend read.
I'm always a bit skeptical to read MM from a (until now) MF author. But what can I say, the cover and blurb drew me in. And I didn't want to unfairly judge before reading the book.
Not bad. Not great. This is definitely a case where GRs need half stars. But I'll round up because I didn't skim and nothing made me super ragey.
While I can't say I LOVED this one, I did like it. I have not read any MF from this author, but I did like the writing style. Plenty of dialogue and good banter amongst the MCs. Good chemistry. Lots of sexy times. No manufactured drama. It was maybe a tad too long.
I read spoilers and was prepared for what happens towards the end. And because I was expecting it maybe it didn't bother me as much? Was it kind of a huh? moment, sure. But it didn't feel toooo out of left field for me.
I didn't care for the multiple epilogues. One nice epilogue would have been fine. Especially when one looks to be setting up other books and happened to be MF.
As a whole I liked this one enough to consider reading other MM books from this author. It was an easy, weekend read.
May 21, 2020
Lauren Blakely has written her first MM book and it is just everything!!!!!!
I mean EVERYTHING!!!!!!! 🙌
There is something about MM books that I just adore. I love love love them!! They make me so swoony and I find them so romantic. They make me smile big time. Oh. And they are HOT. Like sizzling. 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Let me tell you. Lauren NAILED it. Dean and Fitz are beyond words. Their banter. Their romance. Their flirting. Sigh. I couldn’t get enough of them. And one of them is British!! Gah!! Double swoon!!!!!! The story is set in London and New York and it’s just delicious. 😍🙌
This book had me grinning from ear to ear the whole time I was reading it. It made my heart and soul so happy. It’s so romantic. So sexy. So got me in the feels.
I can’t wait for you all to read it and fall in love with these two guys. I promise their story will be one you won’t forget!!
Both ebook and audio are releasing in August. The ebook has a large cast of characters with Joe Arden and Shane East as the stars!!
I mean EVERYTHING!!!!!!! 🙌
There is something about MM books that I just adore. I love love love them!! They make me so swoony and I find them so romantic. They make me smile big time. Oh. And they are HOT. Like sizzling. 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Let me tell you. Lauren NAILED it. Dean and Fitz are beyond words. Their banter. Their romance. Their flirting. Sigh. I couldn’t get enough of them. And one of them is British!! Gah!! Double swoon!!!!!! The story is set in London and New York and it’s just delicious. 😍🙌
This book had me grinning from ear to ear the whole time I was reading it. It made my heart and soul so happy. It’s so romantic. So sexy. So got me in the feels.
I can’t wait for you all to read it and fall in love with these two guys. I promise their story will be one you won’t forget!!
Both ebook and audio are releasing in August. The ebook has a large cast of characters with Joe Arden and Shane East as the stars!!
December 6, 2020
3.5 stars
Pro hockey player, Dean Fitzgerald is in England helping his sister get settled for school. One night, he goes out and meets a sexy bartender, Dean Collins. Fitz has to return to the US in a week, so what is going to happen to their instant attraction.
Well the story, yea it’s a little insta love and unbelievable and more than once, my eyes were rolling. For me, it’s all about the narration. Joe Arden and Shane East did a fantastic job bringing the characters to life. This was also my first experience listening to a full cast, which I also thoroughly enjoyed. The Q & A at the end with the narrators had me cracking up and was a nice touch.
I am going to go with 3.5 stars and I am wondering how I would have rated it if I read it. Something tells me it might have been a DNF.
Pro hockey player, Dean Fitzgerald is in England helping his sister get settled for school. One night, he goes out and meets a sexy bartender, Dean Collins. Fitz has to return to the US in a week, so what is going to happen to their instant attraction.
Well the story, yea it’s a little insta love and unbelievable and more than once, my eyes were rolling. For me, it’s all about the narration. Joe Arden and Shane East did a fantastic job bringing the characters to life. This was also my first experience listening to a full cast, which I also thoroughly enjoyed. The Q & A at the end with the narrators had me cracking up and was a nice touch.
I am going to go with 3.5 stars and I am wondering how I would have rated it if I read it. Something tells me it might have been a DNF.
August 19, 2020
***6 stars!!!***
I have been harassing... or strongly encouraging Lauren Blakely to write a male/male romance for years. I knew she could do it, but even I am shocked at how much I just absolutely loved it! It is more than I expected.
The main reason is these men. They are both unique and charismatic on their own, but together they are just magic! The verbal foreplay, sexual tension, and chemistry just flow between them. And it sizzles and sparks until it has no choice but to just combust. And oh my, when there is smoke there is fire and in this one is a 4 alarm fire!
Dean is a British bar owner. He’s focused, analytical, and sarcastic. He doesn’t want distractions or relationships. In fact he and his friend/business partner have a running bet to avoid going home with customers. But then in walks Fitz. A big, burly, tatted, American hockey player with a winning personality. And before they know it they're in the middle of heavy flirting that Dean is determined to resist. But Fitz might just be his match. He is determined, likes to get what he wants, and he’s not afraid to play dirty to get it.
This book is so freaking hot! These guys are everything! I loved their banter and fun dynamics. They play off each other so well with their wit and intelligence. And despite their differences, they fit together really well. Their bedroom scenes are so intense and passionate, but also help forge trust and intimacy in a natural way. I like the balance of power between them and that they are not afraid to sometimes be vulnerable and let the other lead. And there are also unexpected, messy, and complicated feelings too.
But their issues aren’t just going to go away because they found someone they actually like. Not only do they have personal issues affecting how they look on relationships, but there are some built-in complications that are not easy fixes.
Bolstered by a set time limit and assurances of their own willpower, they are two men determined not to fall but start to get caught up in their own web of lies of self-protection anyway. And what happens when it is time to say goodbye?
It’s a starcrossed lovers M/M story of a Brit and an American in a relationship they never expected or wanted. I loved the side characters of Fitz's sister, Emma, and his teammate, Ransom, and Dean's best friend, Maeve, and his sweet dad. I enjoyed exploring a bit of London and New York. And I just freakin' loved these guys so much! I cannot possibly pick a favorite between them since they are both so charming and lovable in their own way. I adored everything about them and how their story played out! This is definitely my new fave Lauren Blakely couple and book!
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I have been harassing... or strongly encouraging Lauren Blakely to write a male/male romance for years. I knew she could do it, but even I am shocked at how much I just absolutely loved it! It is more than I expected.
The main reason is these men. They are both unique and charismatic on their own, but together they are just magic! The verbal foreplay, sexual tension, and chemistry just flow between them. And it sizzles and sparks until it has no choice but to just combust. And oh my, when there is smoke there is fire and in this one is a 4 alarm fire!
Dean is a British bar owner. He’s focused, analytical, and sarcastic. He doesn’t want distractions or relationships. In fact he and his friend/business partner have a running bet to avoid going home with customers. But then in walks Fitz. A big, burly, tatted, American hockey player with a winning personality. And before they know it they're in the middle of heavy flirting that Dean is determined to resist. But Fitz might just be his match. He is determined, likes to get what he wants, and he’s not afraid to play dirty to get it.
This book is so freaking hot! These guys are everything! I loved their banter and fun dynamics. They play off each other so well with their wit and intelligence. And despite their differences, they fit together really well. Their bedroom scenes are so intense and passionate, but also help forge trust and intimacy in a natural way. I like the balance of power between them and that they are not afraid to sometimes be vulnerable and let the other lead. And there are also unexpected, messy, and complicated feelings too.
But their issues aren’t just going to go away because they found someone they actually like. Not only do they have personal issues affecting how they look on relationships, but there are some built-in complications that are not easy fixes.
Bolstered by a set time limit and assurances of their own willpower, they are two men determined not to fall but start to get caught up in their own web of lies of self-protection anyway. And what happens when it is time to say goodbye?
It’s a starcrossed lovers M/M story of a Brit and an American in a relationship they never expected or wanted. I loved the side characters of Fitz's sister, Emma, and his teammate, Ransom, and Dean's best friend, Maeve, and his sweet dad. I enjoyed exploring a bit of London and New York. And I just freakin' loved these guys so much! I cannot possibly pick a favorite between them since they are both so charming and lovable in their own way. I adored everything about them and how their story played out! This is definitely my new fave Lauren Blakely couple and book!
August 23, 2020
When the book started, for the first few pages, I thought the writing was annoying and almost DNF. But then the two characters got together, and they had incredible chemistry and fun banter, and I loved it. The few days in London where they fall in love, which is where most of the book happens, were everything. I loved these two. Fitz is the out and proud American NHL player who doesn’t do relationships, and Dean is the hot gay bar owner who also doesn’t do relationships. So it’s just a fling. Until it’s not, and they need to figure out if they can make it work.
But then we jump from “let’s try this long distance thing” to HEA. And you know what? If the book ended there, I’d have been fine with it. Sure it was a little quick, but they live on different continents so OTT was kinda necessary.
What really killed me was the multiple chapters detailing how happy their HEA really was. Like epilogue after epilogue after epilogue. Where absolutely nothing happens. Except a random M/F love story thrown in as an epilogue. When I saw the bit about clicking to get a bonus Fitz and Dean story at the end, my reaction was “No! Please! No more! I can’t take it!”. So yeah.
It went from 3 stars beginning, to 5 stars story, to 2 stars ending.
It was my first book by this author (and her first MM book) so I don’t know if it’s her style or just this book. Or maybe it’s me.
But then we jump from “let’s try this long distance thing” to HEA. And you know what? If the book ended there, I’d have been fine with it. Sure it was a little quick, but they live on different continents so OTT was kinda necessary.
What really killed me was the multiple chapters detailing how happy their HEA really was. Like epilogue after epilogue after epilogue. Where absolutely nothing happens. Except a random M/F love story thrown in as an epilogue. When I saw the bit about clicking to get a bonus Fitz and Dean story at the end, my reaction was “No! Please! No more! I can’t take it!”. So yeah.
It went from 3 stars beginning, to 5 stars story, to 2 stars ending.
It was my first book by this author (and her first MM book) so I don’t know if it’s her style or just this book. Or maybe it’s me.
Read
August 22, 2020DNF. Time of death: 10%. Only read the sample. Not for me. 🤷🏻♀️
August 24, 2020
THE NARRATION: 5+++++++++ PANTS OFF
I loved this! Just a fun read with a feel good vibe throughout the entire book.
September 12, 2020
Lauren Blakely is always a goddess. With A Guy Walks Into My Bar, she's released her first M/M, and OMGITSSOGOOD. Shane East and Joe Arden talking all the dirty talk. Need I say more?
August 24, 2020
I was hearing good things about this, and it seemed to be this author's first MM story, as far as I know, so I was interested but cautious going into this.
For the most part, I found this to be a win. Fitz and Dean had pretty amazing chemistry, imo, from the beginning. They meet how the title suggests, by Fitz walking into the bar Dean owns, and they hit it off right away - and the dialogue between them, the connection worked well for me, and I was pulled into this right away.
At times this felt like it happened too fast - they only really know each other for around 5, 6 days and they already fall in love by the time, Fitz, an American NHL player, has to leave London to go back for training and pre-season and all that.
But for the most part, I think it worked, because the majority of this book is focused on those 5 days, and it's over 400 pages, so a lot of time is spent on these two and their falling in love. It doesn't just happen with a few interactions, it happens with a lot of interactions and spending time together over these few days.
I guess where my one star gets taken off is actually after those initial five days, where them going to fast didn't feel like it quite worked anymore and actually was like *woah* too fast.
Because after 16 days of not talking - to let Fitz focus before the season starts and his pact with his teammates and such - they give in and talk/call each other and their whole...waiting a month to let Fitz concentrate on his career falls out the window and neither seem broken up about it at all, even though they made this painful decision and followed through on it for 16 days - couldn't wait another two weeks? Really? As much as that lends to the "i love him so much I can't stand to be away from him" them being so close to the end and not doing it just didn't feel right to me.
And before Fitz left, they talked about visiting each other and such to keep up their relationship, but right away before Dean even visits Fitz in New York for the first time, and it was just a LOT for me. As sweet and HEA-like as it is, a little more struggle with it before ultimately going through with it and making these decisions would have been better.
I mean, Dean states how much London means to him, how much it's his home, how important, how he doesn't want to be like his mother who left for love, apparently, to Australia and it didn't even last with the guy. All these hang ups and such and Dean has one conversation with his Dad and he's ready? At least more internal thought about it would have felt more realistic to me.
And sure .
But that aside, I am glad they waited to actually and it was very sweet and everything and when I ignore how rushed it was, I enjoyed it for what it was. Although after they got together for good, there seemed to be absolutely no conflict - before this ends and in the several epilogues we got - and that felt a tad unrealistic. Also one little thing - I did enjoy the epilogues, but I don't know why we had to have several, and I also didn't care for the random epilogue shoved in there with Maeve and Sam - although I like Maeve, this isn't her book so I was like?? What is the point of this? And also I had no inkling of Maeve and Sam as a thing at ALL in this book leading up to that as well. I skipped basically that whole Maeve epilogue because I didn't care for it and didn't need it shoe-horned into a book about a different couple for no reason.
So all that to say this wasn't perfect, but I did enjoy it immensely, especially the main part of the story that takes up most of this, which is them falling in love while Fitz is in London. Their connection and chemistry jumped off the page for me. I enjoyed reading them together.
It just got a tad unrealistic near the end for me there, as much as their happiness made me happy and they were cute and so in love. It just got a little too rushed there at the end. But overall, a very good book and first MM book - as far as I know - by this author. I saw she's writing another one and I might pick it up when it comes out in the near future.
So all in all, a good first outing in MM by this author and I do recommend. It just gets a tad too rushed - and a little too sappy at times, even for me - near the end. But for the main part of the story, which is the majority of this book? It's worth a read.
For the most part, I found this to be a win. Fitz and Dean had pretty amazing chemistry, imo, from the beginning. They meet how the title suggests, by Fitz walking into the bar Dean owns, and they hit it off right away - and the dialogue between them, the connection worked well for me, and I was pulled into this right away.
At times this felt like it happened too fast - they only really know each other for around 5, 6 days and they already fall in love by the time, Fitz, an American NHL player, has to leave London to go back for training and pre-season and all that.
But for the most part, I think it worked, because the majority of this book is focused on those 5 days, and it's over 400 pages, so a lot of time is spent on these two and their falling in love. It doesn't just happen with a few interactions, it happens with a lot of interactions and spending time together over these few days.
I guess where my one star gets taken off is actually after those initial five days, where them going to fast didn't feel like it quite worked anymore and actually was like *woah* too fast.
Because after 16 days of not talking - to let Fitz focus before the season starts and his pact with his teammates and such - they give in and talk/call each other and their whole...waiting a month to let Fitz concentrate on his career falls out the window and neither seem broken up about it at all, even though they made this painful decision and followed through on it for 16 days - couldn't wait another two weeks? Really? As much as that lends to the "i love him so much I can't stand to be away from him" them being so close to the end and not doing it just didn't feel right to me.
And before Fitz left, they talked about visiting each other and such to keep up their relationship, but right away before Dean even visits Fitz in New York for the first time, and it was just a LOT for me. As sweet and HEA-like as it is, a little more struggle with it before ultimately going through with it and making these decisions would have been better.
I mean, Dean states how much London means to him, how much it's his home, how important, how he doesn't want to be like his mother who left for love, apparently, to Australia and it didn't even last with the guy. All these hang ups and such and Dean has one conversation with his Dad and he's ready? At least more internal thought about it would have felt more realistic to me.
And sure .
But that aside, I am glad they waited to actually and it was very sweet and everything and when I ignore how rushed it was, I enjoyed it for what it was. Although after they got together for good, there seemed to be absolutely no conflict - before this ends and in the several epilogues we got - and that felt a tad unrealistic. Also one little thing - I did enjoy the epilogues, but I don't know why we had to have several, and I also didn't care for the random epilogue shoved in there with Maeve and Sam - although I like Maeve, this isn't her book so I was like?? What is the point of this? And also I had no inkling of Maeve and Sam as a thing at ALL in this book leading up to that as well. I skipped basically that whole Maeve epilogue because I didn't care for it and didn't need it shoe-horned into a book about a different couple for no reason.
So all that to say this wasn't perfect, but I did enjoy it immensely, especially the main part of the story that takes up most of this, which is them falling in love while Fitz is in London. Their connection and chemistry jumped off the page for me. I enjoyed reading them together.
It just got a tad unrealistic near the end for me there, as much as their happiness made me happy and they were cute and so in love. It just got a little too rushed there at the end. But overall, a very good book and first MM book - as far as I know - by this author. I saw she's writing another one and I might pick it up when it comes out in the near future.
So all in all, a good first outing in MM by this author and I do recommend. It just gets a tad too rushed - and a little too sappy at times, even for me - near the end. But for the main part of the story, which is the majority of this book? It's worth a read.
Shelved as 'dnf'
August 18, 2020DNF 30%
It’s just not for me. The story already feels too long and the dialogue leans a little bit on the cheesy side.
It’s just not for me. The story already feels too long and the dialogue leans a little bit on the cheesy side.
August 10, 2020
FTCL
***ARC provided by Candi Kane PR.
***ARC provided by Candi Kane PR.
August 18, 2020
Narration: 5 epic stars
Story: 3 stars
This was the first time I listened to a mm romance performed by a full cast and I have to say it was an experience. When I first started listening to audios and found a book with dual narrations, I expected the narrators to narrate all parts and dialogues for one of the main characters, not alternating chapters and doing everything. I expected something like we got here, where Jo Arden narrated everything told from Fitz POV and Shane East did Dean’s POV, except for the dialogue. The dialogues were all done by different people and specific for that character. And wow did that make it easy to follow, and it really helped with consistency as well. I don’t know that I say that I want all my audios to be full cast, but I definitely want to listen to more of them – just to mix things up.
As far as the story goes it was okay. I really enjoyed it in the beginning but by the middle it kind of fizzled out a bit and I wouldn’t have minded if the book had been a few hours shorter. But that’s me. I think it’s a book that will appeal to a lot of listeners. It’s sweet, with low angst and not a lot of conflict. I guess I was looking for something more, it was just a little too perfect for my taste.
Story: 3 stars
This was the first time I listened to a mm romance performed by a full cast and I have to say it was an experience. When I first started listening to audios and found a book with dual narrations, I expected the narrators to narrate all parts and dialogues for one of the main characters, not alternating chapters and doing everything. I expected something like we got here, where Jo Arden narrated everything told from Fitz POV and Shane East did Dean’s POV, except for the dialogue. The dialogues were all done by different people and specific for that character. And wow did that make it easy to follow, and it really helped with consistency as well. I don’t know that I say that I want all my audios to be full cast, but I definitely want to listen to more of them – just to mix things up.
As far as the story goes it was okay. I really enjoyed it in the beginning but by the middle it kind of fizzled out a bit and I wouldn’t have minded if the book had been a few hours shorter. But that’s me. I think it’s a book that will appeal to a lot of listeners. It’s sweet, with low angst and not a lot of conflict. I guess I was looking for something more, it was just a little too perfect for my taste.
June 14, 2020
Fun, flirty and RED. HOT. FIRE.
With chemistry and charisma that leaps off the pages, A Guy Walks Into My Bar is Lauren Blakely's first (and hopefully not last) venture into MM Romance, and a flawlessly executed addition to her ever growing repertoire.
Told against the backdrop of two great cities, Dean and Fitz's love story is a delectable exploration of heat, heart and what it means to really fight for your happily ever after.
PREORDER EBOOK NOW:
✦ Kindle ➜ https://blkly.pub/KindleAGuyWalksIn
✦ Apple ➜ https://blkly.pub/AppleAGuyWalksIn
✦ Nook ➜ https://blkly.pub/NookAGuyWalksIn
✦ Kobo ➜ https://blkly.pub/KoboAGuyWalksIn
✦ Google ➜ https://blkly.pub/AGuyGoogle
With chemistry and charisma that leaps off the pages, A Guy Walks Into My Bar is Lauren Blakely's first (and hopefully not last) venture into MM Romance, and a flawlessly executed addition to her ever growing repertoire.
Told against the backdrop of two great cities, Dean and Fitz's love story is a delectable exploration of heat, heart and what it means to really fight for your happily ever after.
PREORDER EBOOK NOW:
✦ Kindle ➜ https://blkly.pub/KindleAGuyWalksIn
✦ Apple ➜ https://blkly.pub/AppleAGuyWalksIn
✦ Nook ➜ https://blkly.pub/NookAGuyWalksIn
✦ Kobo ➜ https://blkly.pub/KoboAGuyWalksIn
✦ Google ➜ https://blkly.pub/AGuyGoogle
August 22, 2020
HOLY. MOTHER. FUCKING (A LOT). SHIT.
A perfect british 🍸 and american 🏒 lovebird.
this shit is scorching hot and on wildfire from the start to finish. I honestly did not expect it to be this wonderfully enjoyable and enticingly addictive. I was drawn from page to page. The story flew smoothly and intoxicatingly. At first, I thought it was going to be shallow and superficial with no meaningful depth.
However, I could not be further from the truth.
The rhythm. The chemistry. The CLICK. The conversation. The banter. The push and pull. The addiction. The obsession. The attraction.
And help me god, THE SEX AND SEX AND SEX.
🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
THIS IS THE STORY
WHEN SEX IS TURNING INTO SOMETHING MORE. WHEN NO-STRINGS-ATTACHED CONVICTION SHATTERS. WHEN CASUAL TURNS SERIOUS. WHEN LOVE PREVAILS.
A perfect british 🍸 and american 🏒 lovebird.
this shit is scorching hot and on wildfire from the start to finish. I honestly did not expect it to be this wonderfully enjoyable and enticingly addictive. I was drawn from page to page. The story flew smoothly and intoxicatingly. At first, I thought it was going to be shallow and superficial with no meaningful depth.
However, I could not be further from the truth.
The rhythm. The chemistry. The CLICK. The conversation. The banter. The push and pull. The addiction. The obsession. The attraction.
And help me god, THE SEX AND SEX AND SEX.
🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
THIS IS THE STORY
WHEN SEX IS TURNING INTO SOMETHING MORE. WHEN NO-STRINGS-ATTACHED CONVICTION SHATTERS. WHEN CASUAL TURNS SERIOUS. WHEN LOVE PREVAILS.
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