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Riot Boy (Superpowered Love #2)

by Katey Hawthorne (Goodreads Author)

3.81 of 5 stars 3.81 · rating details · 144 ratings · 44 reviews

Etienne never thought getting his pocket picked could lead to a first date. He knows the second he catches punk boy Brady's eye that the guy is pure trouble, but Et can't resist his wicked sense of humor, pretty face, cold hands -- and the "piss off" swagger when Brady's on stage with his band doesn't hurt, either.

From Rimbaud to Buzzcocks to Malbec to handcuffs, they intr...more

ebook, 1st Edition

Published November 8th 2011 by Loose ID, LLC

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Jan 07, 2012 Nikyta rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: loose-id, alcoholics-and-drug-addicts, bdsm-kink, broken-to-bits, bubbles-safe, contemporary-fantasy, criminals-mobsters-ex-cons, deception-betrayal-lies-omissions, m-m, musicians, series-serial, supernatural-powers, wayyyyy-too-much-sex

I felt like this book had a lot of potential. The premise of the story is very interesting. A normal, 'boring' guy getting together with a thief, punk rocker with the ability to freeze things. They have similarities but they are just different enough to keep each other from getting bored and keeping the relationship exciting. The characters themselves are interesting especially Brady because he's such a carefree but broken character.

Unfortunately, I didn't much like the actual book. I felt like...more I felt like this book had a lot of potential. The premise of the story is very interesting. A normal, 'boring' guy getting together with a thief, punk rocker with the ability to freeze things. They have similarities but they are just different enough to keep each other from getting bored and keeping the relationship exciting. The characters themselves are interesting especially Brady because he's such a carefree but broken character.

Unfortunately, I didn't much like the actual book. I felt like it revolved too much around sex and not enough around the actual characters and their conflicts. While there might not be a lot of sex scenes (mostly bjs over and over), they last much longer than I would've liked and consisted of very small minute details that made them drag much longer than they probably were. When Etienne and Brady weren't having sex, they were thinking about having sex and when they weren't thinking about having sex or actually have sex they were groping each other or making out. It could have been hot but to me it fell flat and was not hot at all.

In my opinion, these characters are kind of shallow, they really don't know anything about each other besides what their sweet spots are. They hung out a lot and apparently talked a lot but it all happened 'off screen' so we never got to actually see them getting to know each other. The fact that Brady can freeze things felt more like a small detail than a big part of the story it should have been. In fact, even though you'd think this story would be based on supernatural powers, the book doesn't make it into that big of a deal. The conflict with Brady's family was a little disappointing because, like the getting to know each other, it happens off screen. We are told what happens a majority of the time instead of seeing it happen.

In the end, I didn't much like this book. It dragged a lot which made it a tad boring. I liked a few things of it like Brady's shirts, the very brief times that the powers are brought into play as well as the epilogue (because it was cute and sweet and had no sex or thoughts of sex. Oh, and Brady does something really awesome). I feel that this story might have been more interesting if it had been told from Brady's POV instead of Etienne's. Not because Etienne is boring, because he's not, but because the story revolves more around Brady than Etienne so everything major that happens happens when Etienne is essentially not there. Due to that, while the beginning and middle were slow, the ending was too fast. The 'showdown' happens while Brady is away dealing with his family and we don't get to see any of that happen because it deals with Brady not Etienne. Very sad because I honestly think this book would have been great from Brady's POV with a bit less sex. (less)

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Jan 25, 2012 Ami rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: mm-supernatural-power, mm-romance-or-erotica

Although set in the same world (supposedly) like Equilibirum, but I like this better. At first, I'm a bit annoyed with the fact that the problem with Brady and his family happens off-page. But then, after I finish and think it though, it makes this more relatable. The story is written from the perception of Etienne (love that name!) who is a sleeper (or someone without superpower). Throughout the book, I can "feel" what he is facing. He doesn't know much about the world of the awakened as am I....more

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Mar 07, 2012 Brad rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: rock-star

Intelligently written. Interesting story. Only complaint: I wanted this story to be longer, and that's a positive complaint!

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Jan 07, 2012 MsMiz (Tina) rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: glbt-all, pdf

How can you go wrong with Punk rock, great T-shirts, Docs and Chucks, eyeliner and tats? It would be hard to, let me tell you and if you like that, you will like Katey Hawthorne's Riot Boy. This was a great story with all of the above wrapped up in one character, Brady. On the other hand you had Etienne, who worked in a book store, wore khakis and his best friend and sister was a cop. Once the story kicks off, you will find that Brady has been Awakened and has major family issues. I think at one...more

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Jan 27, 2012 Valentina Heart rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: glbt, glbt-sf-futur-fantasy-paran, the-romance-reviews

This review was originally written for The Romance Reviews and can also be found there.

Here we are again in a paranormal romance between a musician and a book guy. Honestly, it never gets old.

Etienne is a very sweet man who is sort of finding himself throughout this story but also becoming more confident with each passing day. Everything looks different when there is someone else in the picture, someone needing attention, help and a boost to his self-esteem.

Brady is the perfect bad boy, covered...more This review was originally written for The Romance Reviews and can also be found there.

Here we are again in a paranormal romance between a musician and a book guy. Honestly, it never gets old.

Etienne is a very sweet man who is sort of finding himself throughout this story but also becoming more confident with each passing day. Everything looks different when there is someone else in the picture, someone needing attention, help and a boost to his self-esteem.

Brady is the perfect bad boy, covered in tattoos, good looking, bratty and with an air of confidence at first glance where witty lines just keep on popping out and charm all the hearts in reach. Loved his T-shirts!

The two first meet at a birthday party where Etienne is swept off his feet and seduced in a matter of a glance, but it doesn't take long for him to realize something is fishy when it comes to Brady. With an air of mystery, he is probably one of the rare few who don't own a phone, he disappears in the middle of the night and stays away for days. Still Etienne decides to trust him despite knowing Brady is a thief and not knowing anything else. He trusts that which is developing between them and after all, the only thing he is risking, is his heart.

I absolutely loved Brady; he was funny, adorable and had the perfect amount of that mutinous attitude going on. But then once Etienne dug a bit deeper, there was a whole different side to Brady where he was vulnerable, hungry for affection and so damn insecure he all but broke my heart.

I have to admit the paranormal part took me by surprise. I did read the blurb but that was before the book even came out and I completely forgot about it. I also had no idea there was a book before this one and I'm actually considering reading it. That said, the paranormal side didn't go into the extreme I had been expecting and even after it was fully immersed into the story, the romance took the center stage and stayed strong until the very end. I liked that.

Another thing that was really well written was the sexual tension and the sex scenes. I like to feel the hotness as I'm reading, I like to cheer for the characters and devour each word, and good sex scenes do that to me. This author can do it in each one without breaking a sweat, well it felt that way to me although I'm sure she slaved over this book for months and loves her baby as much as I love every one of my own books. To me it felt as if writing good and charming characters as well as hot sex scenes came natural to this author and I know I would love to read about another of her bad boys.(less)

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Nov 10, 2011 Meggie rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: sci-fi, romance

Wow, this story did definitely surprised me. I had the impression it was one of many stories about a simple guy meeting a rock musician, but this plot was all but simple. I really liked Etienne as a character. He was really kind, warm person and how he wanted to watch over Brady, really made him an genuine character. On the other hand we got to met Brady, who was mysterious, crazy punk kid. And those two, even being so different, developed attractive relationship and great story. I really liked...more

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Nov 28, 2011 Kassa rated it 3 of 5 stars

I wasn’t sure what to expect from Riot Boy and I’m glad I took the chance on it. It’s a fun, super sexy erotic ride with well done punk and a dash of supernatural to top it all off. The story is mostly erotica, made up of numerous back-to-back sex scenes with a few breaks in between. Most of the plot takes place off page and the relationship develops exclusively through sex. Although this may require some suspension of disbelief I really enjoyed the writing and the sex is incredibly hot so I wen...more I wasn’t sure what to expect from Riot Boy and I’m glad I took the chance on it. It’s a fun, super sexy erotic ride with well done punk and a dash of supernatural to top it all off. The story is mostly erotica, made up of numerous back-to-back sex scenes with a few breaks in between. Most of the plot takes place off page and the relationship develops exclusively through sex. Although this may require some suspension of disbelief I really enjoyed the writing and the sex is incredibly hot so I went along for the ride. The plot isn’t very well fleshed out nor is the supernatural element but it’s still a fun, hot read that I’d recommend for those looking for something easy and entertaining.

The plot revolves around staid bookseller Etienne falling for punk rocker Brady. The two men meet at a club and the attraction is instantaneous and fierce. Although Brady is a man of mystery and reveals nothing about himself Et is intrigued despite himself. He can’t stop thinking about Brady and their chemistry is off the charts. While the sex is amazing, Et slowly comes to see Brady’s many layers and tries to unravel the mystery surrounding Brady and his family.

First of all the plot it pretty weak because most of it happens off page. Brady supposedly has a lengthy background with his family, involving thievery but most of this information is recited to the reader late in the book and all resolutions happen off page. So really this is all a weak justification for Brady to remain mysterious and unattainable for the entirety of the book. In that vein it works but I wish the story had tried to flesh out these concepts into a fully developed and nuanced plot instead of a thinly veiled device to create tension.

The reason I don’t really mind is the story is fun to read anyway. The characters are pretty adorable opposites that attract like magnets. Their chemistry is obvious and smoking hot, as both men are incredibly sexy. Brady oozes sensuality and a fabulous punker attitude from the beginning with some really great references liberally sprinkled throughout. It’s easy to see why more conservative Et would actually fall for Brady and how they could have a real relationship based on more than just hot sex despite the fact they have nothing else in common.

It’s a little heavy on the sex for a novella, something like 5 or 6 scenes maybe more, especially considering there is almost no explanation and depth to the supernatural element. Here Brady can manipulate elements, especially cold, but other than a few dramatic scenes here and there, this is a non-issue and also unimportant. It adds to Brady’s bad boy appeal but really has very little other relevance. Again I wish the story had developed a real plot and background around the two and their hot sex, which is why I didn’t rate this story higher despite the fact it’s a lot of fun to read.

In the end I’d recommend this for romance fans that are looking for an opposites attract story - bad boy and conservative bookish reader - that mostly consists of hot sex and a few additional details. It’s definitely an easy and entertaining way to pass the time and I’ll be looking up this author’s backlist.
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Jun 02, 2012 J.A. Rock rated it 4 of 5 stars

4.5

What makes Riot Boy so much fun to read is the opportunity to be in Etienne’s head as he navigates a relationship with the troubled, unreliable Brady. Brady’s so incredibly bad-boy sexy (LOVE his handcuff kink) that I initially got caught up in his pick-pocketing sexiness and almost missed what Etienne almost misses—that Brady’s got some serious issues.

It’s exciting to watch Brady work through those issues, and to see Etienne—hardly a hulking alpha hero—come through and be a source of streng...more

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Apr 02, 2012 Tracy rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: m-m

Like Sam and Hansen from Equilibrium, Brady (the Riot Boy of the title) has special powers -- he freezes things. Etienne, who narrates, is a sleeper, just a normal guy (he manages a bookstore; I wanna be his friend!!). They meet at a club, there is Insta-Lust but they do nothing about it. They meet back up the next morning when Etienne stops for coffee on his way to work & realizes his credit card is missing; Brady pops up with it (*dingdingding* warning bells go off; no way he just found it...more Like Sam and Hansen from Equilibrium, Brady (the Riot Boy of the title) has special powers -- he freezes things. Etienne, who narrates, is a sleeper, just a normal guy (he manages a bookstore; I wanna be his friend!!). They meet at a club, there is Insta-Lust but they do nothing about it. They meet back up the next morning when Etienne stops for coffee on his way to work & realizes his credit card is missing; Brady pops up with it (*dingdingding* warning bells go off; no way he just found it...). Anyway, Brady's the original Mysterious Stranger -- no phone number, no address, lies like a dog. They eventually hook up and it is HAWT. Brady invites Etienne to watch his band play; Etienne's sister Susanne, the cop, is suspicious of Brady. Brady's family is trying to get him to come back to the family fold for some reason he's unwilling to divulge and they expose him to Etienne, hoping that will force him back. Eventually the shit hits the fan and Brady disappears (again) to hopefully once and for all disentangle himself from his seriously screwed up family so he can maybe start to hope for a Happy Ever After with Etienne.

Some stuff I really liked:

1. Etienne's love of a good book -- his idea of the perfect evening is sitting at home with a glass of wine and a good book in a comfy chair. Change the wine for tea and I'm right there!

2. Rimbaud -- this is sort of a recurring theme throughout the story. Etienne is reading Rimbaud when Brady first invites him to see the band perform; he quotes some of it to Brady. Brady borrows it when he disappears the next morning, then later takes yet another copy of the same book (multiple editions of the same book? Seriously, except for the gay thing, Etienne's my ideal man! And I can work with the gay thing...) and then Brady quotes a bit of Rimbaud to Etienne. It kind of ties it all together.

3. Pittsburgh! While I'm not a native, it's where my DH's heart is -- he's a Steelers and Penguins fan, and so, by default, am I (or at least, I borrow his tees and jerseys and whatnot). Also I have a very dear friend who lives there and loves the city and we've visited and it was gorgeous. So, yeah. Love the setting.

4. Paul, Etienne's ex -- it was obviously not a pleasant breakup, and midway through the story, Paul comes back to try to restart things. And yet, and I really appreciate this, he was not turned into a crazy villain type, or demonized in any way. He and Etienne were together for a long time, and they stayed together for the wrong reasons long past the time they should have split. Paul made some bad choices, but so did Etienne, and Paul maybe said some ugly things out of anger and frustration, but that does not make him a bad guy. And I really like that Etienne was able to say "No" to him without things turning ugly, and that ultimately we're left with this feeling that maybe he's not such a bad guy after all. Maybe he just needs time and the right person to make him into someone worthy of Etienne's friendship -- it's not totally ruled out, anyway!

My only real complaint is that it wasn't long enough -- but then, good books where you really like the characters almost never are! If you're ready for it to end, the author's doing something wrong!(less)

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Jan 19, 2012 Judy & Marianne from Long and Short Reviews rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: erotic, contemporary, anal-play-sex, m-m, paranormal, science-fiction-fantasy

Originally posted at: http://whippedcream2.blogspot.com/201...

Etienne may be shy and quiet but he’s got just the right amount of heat to thaw bad boy Brady. Punk Rocker Brady has a secret - he can control elements to chill the air into ice. He also has a shady family that keeps trying to get him to do illegal jobs. Bookseller Et doesn’t know any of this but he does know his chemistry with Brady is off the charts. Despite the hard-core exterior Et sees something vulnerable and worthwhile in Brady...more Originally posted at: http://whippedcream2.blogspot.com/201...

Etienne may be shy and quiet but he’s got just the right amount of heat to thaw bad boy Brady. Punk Rocker Brady has a secret - he can control elements to chill the air into ice. He also has a shady family that keeps trying to get him to do illegal jobs. Bookseller Et doesn’t know any of this but he does know his chemistry with Brady is off the charts. Despite the hard-core exterior Et sees something vulnerable and worthwhile in Brady if only their pasts don’t screw it up.

Riot Boy is a fast paced, fun filled ride filled with sex and a bit of the paranormal. Brady is a perfect goth punk boy with his attitude, shady past, and great punk references. Et is a perfect foil as a more staid and down to earth bookseller with a broken heart. Together they play off each other well and create some dynamic tension. Their chemistry is what really drives the story and there is a lot of sex in this novella. Almost too much as most of the action and character development happens during sex. This isn’t bad as the writing and sex scenes are entertaining and smoking hot, but it does leave any significant plot development to happen off page. The reader is simply told about it later.

This is perhaps where the story has a few weaknesses. Although it’s great fun to read and the characters are delightful, the actual plot and world building is pretty sparse. The paranormal element, in which Brady can control and manipulate the air to turn it colder, is almost non-existent. The story doesn’t try to explain or really delve into this aspect at all and if anything, it comes across as distracting and unnecessary. Likewise all important plot developments happen off page. Most of the story builds up to Brady’s showdown with his family but all the story does is recap what happened while Et (and presumably the reader) were asleep. It’s unfortunate since the writing has a real knack to it that such important plot detail is omitted.

Despite this issue I’d still recommend Riot Boy. It’s very enjoyable to read and filled with sex so anyone wanting something very erotic will be satisfied. It has a fun flair that lets you sink into the story and enjoy regardless of any other problems. While it’s not perfect, this is still an entertaining and worthwhile read.

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Jan 06, 2012 Lauraadriana rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: loved-it, m-m, made-me-wish-i-was-a-gay-man, lmao, super-cute, super-super-hot, rocker-boys

3.5 Stars

Isn't the best when you happen to pick up something to read that is EXACTLY what you are in the mood for?
This sweet story about Etienne and his mysterious punk rocker boy Brady, just totally hit the spot today.

Etienne is on the rebound, he's recently broken up with a guy that he too late realized was a manipulative bastard he didn't even really like. So, he's out looking to have some fun. Across the dancefloor he notices a beautiful tattooed riot boy that look like total and absolute TR...more

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Jan 07, 2012 Bubbles Hunty rated it 1 of 5 stars

Shelves: m-m

Review at somewhere around 55% I am so bored I put this down the other day and not sure when I’ll pick it back up.

The sex scenes are so long and so uninteresting, they just go on and on. I think there were only two so far but they were never ending so seems like more.

Then it is not really a rocker story. He goes to see him play once only stuff that’s mentioned is already popular songs they are covering. They haven’t really talked much except finally had one brief conversation about the powers...more

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Apr 16, 2012 Erica Pike rated it 5 of 5 stars Recommends it for: Everyone!

Shelves: favorites, genre-magic

I don't think I can praise this book enough. It's definitely in my top five of favorite m/m books. The writing was tight and onward-prompting, the characters were amazing (I'd like a real-life copy of Etienne, please!), and the voice was a guy's voice throughout. There wasn't that much magic in this one. It could as well have been written as a "plain" contemporary with slightly modified circumstances for Brady. Or not really circumstances, just minus the magic. I'm not saying the magic should be...more

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Jan 15, 2012 Sammy2006 rated it 5 of 5 stars

Riot Boy. Willoughby Spit. F**k me, Etienne. Rimbaud. Murmured dialogue in french. 3 page intoxicatingly, achingly visceral, seduction scenes. Lost souls found. Love unwrapped, discovered, enjoyed. Katey Hawthorne, author, budding genius.

Brady has a secret. He can frost his own drink glass. He can cause a cold shiver to cascade down your spine simply by touching you. He is on the run...an ex thief...a haunted and hunted young man...he is searching for a home. Etienne, has been used by a former l...more Riot Boy. Willoughby Spit. F**k me, Etienne. Rimbaud. Murmured dialogue in french. 3 page intoxicatingly, achingly visceral, seduction scenes. Lost souls found. Love unwrapped, discovered, enjoyed. Katey Hawthorne, author, budding genius.

Brady has a secret. He can frost his own drink glass. He can cause a cold shiver to cascade down your spine simply by touching you. He is on the run...an ex thief...a haunted and hunted young man...he is searching for a home. Etienne, has been used by a former lover. He never quite measured up. He is quickly becoming used to being alone...it is safer that way. The two meet...on a dance floor. And sparks ignite!

In her novel, Riot Boy, Katey Hawthorne unlocks the door to a world crafted by her own deviously brilliant imagination and gives us a love story that is not only remarkably sweet but also heats up the page unlike so many others in this genre. She does it with a precise hand, detailing for us every move these men make, slowing down the action of the scene until we are there, in the corner of their lives, watching, aching, needing...totally in lust, want, and yes, love as we read page after page.

I wanted more...so much more. I wanted to know more about Etienne's ex, Paul. I wanted to know more about Brady and his life before Etienne. I wanted to see the next chapter unfold in their lives. I want a sequel...do you hear me Katey???

Katey's "voice" is decidedly different. Refreshingly young but yet so "old"--beyond her years. The things that come out of her characters mouths were meant to be there--you feel like you can hear them speaking--right there in the same room with you. Her characters become your friends, you want to comfort them, slap them when they are frustrating and care for them when they are wounded.

And the sex...the buildup to the sex...the description of the foreplay and then the sex--oh my...oh my...it leaves me breathless. It is never gratuitous..rather it is seamlessly woven into the storyline...right, and true, and oh so very hot.

Seriously, it is simply a damn good story.

While this is book 2 in a series, the books can stand alone independently of one another. Needless to say, I am heading out now to buy book one.

Go, check out this author...you will not regret it--truly!(less)

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Jan 28, 2012 L-D rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: paranormal-abilities-superpowers, m-m, musician-rock-stars-bands, tats-piercings-scars-yum, thieves-heists, romance, pnr, series

3.5 stars.

Although I thought this was a fun and interesting book, I think I am going against the grain when I say I didn't enjoy it quite as much as the first book. I think the main reason is that Etienne just seems so accepting and trusting of a mysterious man that he just met who incidentally stole his credit card, doesn't have a phone, doesn't have a history, and may not even have told him his real name. I think I was with Etienne's sister, Susanne, when I felt Etienne was just being spectac...more

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Feb 07, 2012 clear skies rated it 3 of 5 stars

Ms. Hawthorne wrote such an exciting story in Equilibrium; but I didn't realise she was going to continue with the same theme. I also didn't know this would become a series. Each book (I assume) won't be connected other than the fact the character(s) have a superpower.

Riot Boy was a bit darker than the first book. The sad thing is it didn't drag me in and make me smile like 'Equilibrium.' I enjoyed it enough, but I felt disconnected from the characters. I thought Brady's character was too comple...more

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Nov 14, 2011 Lexi Ander rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: mm-fantasy, mm-rocknroll

I read Katey's Equilibrium not too long ago and I enjoyed it. I expected Riot Boy to be in the same vein and it is...sort of. It is set in the same world but I have to say that where the Equilibium was super sweet, Riot Boy has more grit and such raw observation from Etienne as he is trying to get to know Brady, trying to keep Brady from bolting, trying to be more intriguing so that Brady would be seduced into seeing Etienne again. I loved Etienne's POV. He made me laugh, made my gut twist, and...more

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Nov 09, 2011 MandyM rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: m-m-romance

3.75 Etienne falls for bad boy Brady but there's more to this punk rocker than meets the eye.

Katey Hawthorne writes about young guys in their twenties and she totally rocks that age group. Her MC's are cool and credible and the dialogue is spot on. I loved the punk references AND the Tshirts! Brady just oozes sexuality from the moment he appears on the page. With his tight jeans, Doc Martens, bad attitude and loads of guyliner it's easy to see why he makes Etienne weak at the knees. Etienne is q...more

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Feb 15, 2012 Melanie rated it 5 of 5 stars

Recommended to Melanie by: Jayhjay

What do you do when your lover cheats on you? Why you head out and go clubbing and get your drink on, that's what Etienne Fletcher is doing. Accompanied by his sister, Et is listening to a local cover band, downing Martini's, all the while wondering if he wouldn't be better off just going home. He's feeling old and out of place, a Abercrombie and Fitch in a hipster world. Until he spies sex on two legs and it's headed straight for him.

Eyes rimmed with black eyeliner, all lean lines and tats, Bra...more

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Jan 10, 2012 Lauren rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: mm-paranormal, mm-romance, favourites, kindle-reads, best-of-m-m, mm-best-couples, musicians-rockers

4.5 stars - Wow! This book turned out to be pretty amazing! I hadn't expected to love it quite this much, but I was hooked from the very first page. While the first book set in this world was good, this was much better and held my attention throughout. Whilst I liked the relationship between Sam and Hansen in Equilibrium, I simply ADORED the relationship between Etienne and Brady. I couldn't get enough of Brady - he was just so beautifully broken and gorgeous, and I completely fell in love with...more

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Nov 14, 2011 Beatrice rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: gay-romance, kindle-lendable, paranormal

Another delightful superpowered romance by Katey Hawthorne. This time, the story is about Etienne - a sleeper - and Brady - an awakened. Despite being set in the same world as Equilibrium , it isn't necessary to read one before you read this. In fact, I might even recommend reading this one first before you read Equilibrium.

Why? It's because our narrator, Etienne, is a sleeper, like I've said above. The problems I had with Equilibrium - namely, my confusion with some of the terms Hansen used an...more Another delightful superpowered romance by Katey Hawthorne. This time, the story is about Etienne - a sleeper - and Brady - an awakened. Despite being set in the same world as Equilibrium , it isn't necessary to read one before you read this. In fact, I might even recommend reading this one first before you read Equilibrium.

Why? It's because our narrator, Etienne, is a sleeper, like I've said above. The problems I had with Equilibrium - namely, my confusion with some of the terms Hansen used and just grasping the whole idea of the awakened in general - aren't present in here because we learn about it as Et does. So Et doesn't really talk of things of which the reader isn't aware. The world-building was sufficient here, in my opinion, because as a sleeper Et doesn't really know much. It gives the book a mysterious feel of sorts.

The characterizations were fantastic, of course. Brady is larger than life and fantastic and his personality and voice shine through even without him as the narrator. Etienne is more of the quiet and supportive kind of guy, and so sometimes he comes across as really flat but whenever he becomes protective with and concerned for Brady, you really see what type of guy he is and what his defining traits are. These two main characters really represent the "opposites attract" trope well and pairing them together seems almost random, but it really works. The trope is also used a lot stronger with Et and Brady versus Sam and Hansen in Equilibrium.

The only problem I had with this one was that the end seemed a bit to anti-climactic. I'm not really that fond of suspense but somehow the final chapter (not the epilogue) fell a bit flat for me and seemed like it was missing something. Nevertheless, it does answer the questions that arose from Brady's situation with his family. The ultimate fate of those involved was also put into consideration and wasn't passed over and swept under the rug. So yes, the loose ends were tied and I have no questions left hanging.

I really enjoyed this book and I can't wait for whatever the author releases next.(less)

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Mar 18, 2012 Jayhjay rated it 5 of 5 stars

This review was originally published on my blog Joyfully Jay.

Etienne Fletcher is at a club with his sister who is encouraging him to "get back out there" after a breakup a few years before. In the mass of people his eye is drawn to a gorgeous guy in skinny jeans, tight punk rock t-shirt, eye liner, and gelled hair. When the guy approaches, Etienne can't believe his luck, especially when the guy (dubbed "riot boy" for his t-shirt), gets all hot up against him as they dance. However, riot boy is s...more This review was originally published on my blog Joyfully Jay.

Etienne Fletcher is at a club with his sister who is encouraging him to "get back out there" after a breakup a few years before. In the mass of people his eye is drawn to a gorgeous guy in skinny jeans, tight punk rock t-shirt, eye liner, and gelled hair. When the guy approaches, Etienne can't believe his luck, especially when the guy (dubbed "riot boy" for his t-shirt), gets all hot up against him as they dance. However, riot boy is suddenly called away and Etienne figures that will be the last of things. Much to his surprise, riot boy (Brady Sinclair) shows up the next day at Etienne's regular coffee shop looking for him. Brady claims to have found his credit card and wanted to return it (although Etienne has his suspicions, remembering the hand in his pocket while they danced).

Etienne and Brady begin to get to know each other, both with hot (HOT!) hookups and by spending time together. Brady is wild, fun, smart, and challenging, and Etienne is totally drawn to him. But he has a lot of vulnerability that Etienne recognizes as well. Brady has a strong need to be loved and wanted, not to mention something is clearly going on with the guys following him around. Oh, and did I mention Brady also has super powers to cool things with his hands? Despite all of this, Etienne can't resist Brady (nor could I), and as the men fall in love they must find a way to handle Brady's past so that they can have a future together.

Ok, so many things to love about this book. First, Brady is the total bad boy that you can't resist. Yes, he is a petty thief, panics when things get intense, doesn't own a phone, and can be totally outrageous. But he is also confident, smart, loving, and cares deeply for Etienne. I love these guys together because they are a couple that should never work on the outside, but are actually a perfect for one another. Etienne is a bit of an intellectual, manages a bookstore, and lives a pretty normal, if lonely, life. Yet Brady is exactly what he needs, giving him love, companionship, intellectual stimulation, and a renewed confidence to push for what he wants and stand up for himself.

Brady is a bass player in a local punk rock band that plays at a small club. Hawthorne does a great job of incorporating the music and the rocker vibe into the book. Despite his seemingly vanilla style, Etienne grew up listening to a lot of punk rock with his sister, and he surprises Brady with his knowledge of punk music. From Brady's homemade rock shirts to the guys discussing their favorite Buzzcocks song, music is a big part of the story and interwoven very well. (In fact, Hawthorne includes a great song list at the end of the book with the music included in and inspiring the story.)

I also really liked the way Brady's superpowered status is woven into the story. As Etienne slowly begins to notice something unusual about Etienne, the backstory about Brady's abilities is revealed. We learn about what Brady's powers are and more about these people who call themselves the "awakened." And we discover how Brady's power is at the root of his problems with his family and his past. I liked the way this is developed within the book without overpowering the basic love story between Brady and Etienne. I think Hawthorne gives us enough detail and world building to make it all make sense without having the super powers steal the show.

My favorite part was Etienne's voice. We hear the story from Etienne's POV, which for me totally works. By seeing events through Etienne's eyes, we get to better understand what is really behind Brady's public image to the more vulnerable person underneath. I loved hearing Etienne's inner voice as he recognizes that Brady is a person he probably shouldn't want and who isn't the safest bet in the boyfriend department. Yet Etienne just can't resist Brady, and he is totally content with that. Plus Etienne totally cracks me up with his observations and his reactions to both Brady and his own feelings.

So yes, I totally loved this book and couldn't put it down. It was a great mix of fun, outrageous, and a little crazy, combined with a really sweet and moving romance. I loved Brady and Etienne, both apart and together, and really enjoyed watching their relationship develop and grow. I am looking forward more Superpowered Love stories and from Hawthorne.
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Nov 24, 2011 Cayce rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: m-m

4 stars.

This has many, many things I ♡ : crazy-sexy punk rocker bad guy (Brady), Etienne (double ❤ his name since Anna and the French Kiss), Rimbaud, cons/thieves, speaking in French and pnr. And the story itself was really great. Wish it was longer.

And loved the cover, my only problem was the lack of the writing on Brady's shirt. I freaking loved his T-shirts.

Definitely going to read more of Katey Hawthorne's books. Recommended.

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Nov 14, 2011 K.V. Taylor added it

Shelves: lgbtq, romance, written

Huh I forgot to add this apparently, which is weird since I wrote it. Anyhow, this one may amuse those who enjoy punk, Rimbaud, guyliner, bookshops, supervillans, street fights, and/or love. Also those who will not be traumatized by a little handcuff action in their erotic romance.

It's sweet though, I promise!

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Nov 26, 2011 Reenie rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: romance, superheroes, female-author

Oh man...

Equilibrium was good, but this is something special. Meeting a mystery punk-ass little thieving stranger at a bar, who just happens to turn out to be the love of your life? And also a super-powered semi-reformed villain princess who can get out of his own messes, thank you very much. Perfect romance, with just the right mix of two personalities that fit and action driving plot driving action to keep things moving. Also, hotness. And the Clash. And... guh.

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Nov 23, 2011 Snowtulip rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: m-m, muscian

3.5
Who doesn't want to read about a sexy punk rocker! Brady is full of rock star attitude with that little touch of vulnerability that I eat up so easily. Pair him with a sweet, insightful, nurturing soul...completely hooked! Loved Etienne and Brady together and enjoyed the unfolding paranormal element to the story.

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Nov 26, 2011 Pia Veleno rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: queer-mm

Okay, first off, musician. Then add punk music, French verse, wine and absinthe, and a bassist who is both charmingly cocky and heartbreakingly unsure.

Yep, right up my alley.

Broken doesn't even begin to describe the Riot Boy, Brady, and yet as we see his fractures through Etienne's eyes, instead of cringing and telling Et to run, I fell for Brady myself.

I found this interesting, too, in that this story was written in 1st person from Et's POV but I felt like I knew Brady better than Et by far....more

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Nov 20, 2011 Manuela rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: mm, musicians

4.5

I really enjoyed this nice love story between two very likable characters. The paranormal factor is there and it's interesting but it doesn't obscure the love story, as it often happens. In this case, it just adds to it.

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Mar 08, 2012 Angel rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I absolutely loved this book!! I have to agree, wish it had been longer, but it was an amazing read! I don't think I have read any other book quite like this since usual when things are more than human in the books I read it's usually vampires or shifters. This was a refreshing change of pace and I want more of these two!!

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Jul 05, 2012 Chris rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012, gay, ebook, paranormal-romance, done

2.5 stars. Ok paranormal m/m romance about a bookstore clerk who becomes fascinated by a mysterious and flighty punk rock bass player. This one just never really pulled me in.

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About Katey Hawthorne

Hi! I'm Katey. I write superpowered and fantasy romance of an LGBTQ bent. I live at Superpowered Love -- kateyhawthorne.com.

I know, I know, it looks like I don't read anything here at GoodReads. But I do, I swear. My reviews and stuff are all over at my other GoodReads thingie, KV Taylor. Relevant shelves to Katey Hawthorne stuff:

Romance
LGBTQ
and
Comics, Graphic Novels, and Trade Paperbacks

More about Katey Hawthorne...

Books by Katey Hawthorne

The Dangers of Fairy Compacts (Love is Always Write)

Jealousy: A Love Story (Superpowered Love, #1.1)

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Quotes from Riot Boy

“A kiss, then Brady said, “Hey, sweetheart.”

As he pulled away, I turned, grinning ear to ear. “Hey, Brady—”

I halted when I saw his shirt, mostly because I was laughing too hard to continue. My face went hot, from 98.6 to 200 degrees in a second flat. It wasn’t the only part of my anatomy to react, either.

The shirt was white and clinging, hot as hell on him, of course. But stenciled in spray paint across the chest in the usual blocky lettering were the words FUCK ME, ETIENNE.

“Tried to convince the band to change our name, but they didn’t go for it. I settled for the shirt.” — 1 person liked it

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Riot Boy (Superpowered Love #2)

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