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Bar Tenders #1
A Bar Tender Tale
Twenty-two-year-old barman Nathan is always the odd one out. It's tough to get a date when his love of loud music, tattoos, and zombie paraphernalia usually sends potential candidates running for the hills. Trying to find anyone who wants to spend time with him, let alone stay in and watch trashy horror movies, has always been a problem.
Then, on his day off, Nathan does a friend a favor by covering a shift at a pub, and in walks a handsome stranger who shares his love of horror. It could be a match made in B-movie heaven, and Nathan is determined to pursue this new acquaintance, but—zombies aside—has Nathan got the guts to go on a real date?
Then, on his day off, Nathan does a friend a favor by covering a shift at a pub, and in walks a handsome stranger who shares his love of horror. It could be a match made in B-movie heaven, and Nathan is determined to pursue this new acquaintance, but—zombies aside—has Nathan got the guts to go on a real date?
170 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 29, 2012
4 people are currently reading
235 people want to read
About the author
Melanie Tushmore
14 books105 followersWriter of fiction including themes
Alternative subcultures: goths, punk rockers, rebels and outcasts
Contemporary
Horror
Fantasy
Erotic Fiction
Homoerotica
Male/Male
Slash
Gay
LGBTQ Fiction
and very British Humour
Alternative subcultures: goths, punk rockers, rebels and outcasts
Contemporary
Horror
Fantasy
Erotic Fiction
Homoerotica
Male/Male
Slash
Gay
LGBTQ Fiction
and very British Humour
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
December 31, 2013
4.5 stars
That was just about the most adorable thing I have read in a long time! And funny too! I read the entire book with a silly grin on my face and had to hide all my laughter as I read this while at work.
Kinda like this:
August 16, 2014
Standard MM foolishness, at length and in tedious detail.
Very nearly enjoyable.
Fortunately, anytime I was in danger of being entertained I could always depend on a diligent account of what everyone was wearing to quell any potential for lasting amusement.
Very nearly enjoyable.
Fortunately, anytime I was in danger of being entertained I could always depend on a diligent account of what everyone was wearing to quell any potential for lasting amusement.
January 30, 2012
Totally loved this tale of the very cool Nathan. The book opens with Nathan, a bar tender and lover of all things 'B grade horror', disconsolately wandering the streets of Kemptown looking for his two-timing boyfriend. When he finally realises things between them are over he feels really downhearted. But then he fills in for a friend at the corner pub and he meets a gorgeous guy who might just be his perfect match.
The book is set in Kemptown, a real place in Britain which is home to musicians, creatives and a big gay population. The vibe and casual feel of the town is captured perfectly and Nathan's conversations and interactions with his muso friends and co-workers are so natural and fun that you could be sitting next to them in the pub.
Nathan steals the show in this book. He loves B grade movies, zombie kitsch, outrageous clothing and wears his heart on his sleeve. His love interest, Auryn, is a solicitor, older and quieter and more interested in long term relationships. From the reader's perspective it's hard to have the same connection with Auryn. He's just so overshadowed by Nathan. But they suit each other very well and Nathan's determined sexual pursuit of the reluctant Auryn is really amusing. Even though there's an epilogue I feel that the book ends just as Auryn and Nathan are starting off.
Have fun picking out your favourite zombie movies! Recommended for m/m contemporary fans. P.S. LOVE the cover! I wonder who did it?
The book is set in Kemptown, a real place in Britain which is home to musicians, creatives and a big gay population. The vibe and casual feel of the town is captured perfectly and Nathan's conversations and interactions with his muso friends and co-workers are so natural and fun that you could be sitting next to them in the pub.
Nathan steals the show in this book. He loves B grade movies, zombie kitsch, outrageous clothing and wears his heart on his sleeve. His love interest, Auryn, is a solicitor, older and quieter and more interested in long term relationships. From the reader's perspective it's hard to have the same connection with Auryn. He's just so overshadowed by Nathan. But they suit each other very well and Nathan's determined sexual pursuit of the reluctant Auryn is really amusing. Even though there's an epilogue I feel that the book ends just as Auryn and Nathan are starting off.
Have fun picking out your favourite zombie movies! Recommended for m/m contemporary fans. P.S. LOVE the cover! I wonder who did it?
October 7, 2013
A Bar Tender Tale is a great book that is high on entertainment and low on drama.
Nathan met Auryn while covering a shift for fellow bar tender and friend Gaz. He is instantly attracted to the slightly older but very handsome, Auryn. Auryn seems really smitten with Nathan also but for some reason is holding back.
I really enjoyed this sweet, romantic bar tender tale and if you like light, low drama romance, you will too.
Nathan met Auryn while covering a shift for fellow bar tender and friend Gaz. He is instantly attracted to the slightly older but very handsome, Auryn. Auryn seems really smitten with Nathan also but for some reason is holding back.
I really enjoyed this sweet, romantic bar tender tale and if you like light, low drama romance, you will too.
April 20, 2012
Nathan is not your average young man. He's twenty-two, loves tattoos, loud music and...zombies? Old horror movies. Not exactly your mainstream guy. And he's gay. Not like there's a lot of guys who share his interests.
One day, he's doing a friend a favor by filling in for him as bartender in a pub, and in walks a good-looking guy. Suit, tie, the whole nine yards. And they strike up a great conversation and it turns out they have a lot in common. Can quote silly old movie lines, and there's a spark.
Turns out his name is Auryn, and he's a friend of Nathan's buddy. He's looking for something slow and serious. But all Nathan's experience is quick meet-ups, relationships that flame out all too quickly, and one-offs. It's a new experience for him to actually...date. What a concept.
Is it worth it? Can Nathan slow down and actually wait for the man of his dreams? And will Auryn give him the chance?
I love Melanie Tushmore's works. She introduces us to wonderfully off-the-wall characters, makes us see them in all their beauty and weirdness, and fall in love with them. Then she slowly seduces us into her stories with romance and care. This book is a wonder - funny, sexy, and oh-so-sweet, despite the horror movies and zombies.
Nathan is so young and so youthfully full of himself, but also very clueless. He's a smile-a-minute, rip-your-heart-out gem of a guy. He wants Auryn so much he can't stand it, and has to go against all his instincts to meet the man on his terms.
And Auryn. Just a walking heart of a guy, every gay romantic's dream. He's exactly what Nathan needs and wants. And it goes both ways - Nathan brings out the spontaneity and fun hiding behind the laced-up serious guy.
Great pairing. This books is so good, I had to turn around and start back at the beginning just to try to catch another smile I might have missed.
Ms. Tushmore knows her way around a love story. Thank God!
Fantastic.
Tom
One day, he's doing a friend a favor by filling in for him as bartender in a pub, and in walks a good-looking guy. Suit, tie, the whole nine yards. And they strike up a great conversation and it turns out they have a lot in common. Can quote silly old movie lines, and there's a spark.
Turns out his name is Auryn, and he's a friend of Nathan's buddy. He's looking for something slow and serious. But all Nathan's experience is quick meet-ups, relationships that flame out all too quickly, and one-offs. It's a new experience for him to actually...date. What a concept.
Is it worth it? Can Nathan slow down and actually wait for the man of his dreams? And will Auryn give him the chance?
I love Melanie Tushmore's works. She introduces us to wonderfully off-the-wall characters, makes us see them in all their beauty and weirdness, and fall in love with them. Then she slowly seduces us into her stories with romance and care. This book is a wonder - funny, sexy, and oh-so-sweet, despite the horror movies and zombies.
Nathan is so young and so youthfully full of himself, but also very clueless. He's a smile-a-minute, rip-your-heart-out gem of a guy. He wants Auryn so much he can't stand it, and has to go against all his instincts to meet the man on his terms.
And Auryn. Just a walking heart of a guy, every gay romantic's dream. He's exactly what Nathan needs and wants. And it goes both ways - Nathan brings out the spontaneity and fun hiding behind the laced-up serious guy.
Great pairing. This books is so good, I had to turn around and start back at the beginning just to try to catch another smile I might have missed.
Ms. Tushmore knows her way around a love story. Thank God!
Fantastic.
Tom
January 31, 2012
3.5 stars
"A Bar Tender Tale" is a lovely tale of 22-year-old Nathan, who lives in Kemp Town, Brighton (which is known its abudance of gay bars, lesbian bars, and everything-in-between bars), along with his friends (straight and gays), and the object of Nathan's affection, a 31-year-old solicitor Auryn. Told mainly from Nathan's perspective, he is appealing for readers, with his love toward B-movies and action figures, and his wanting to get a more serious relationship after having a disaster with the previous one (his ex is a selfish 19-year-old).
The language is very Brit -- not one that I'm usually comfortable with, since I'm used to American English -- but with such colorful characters, wit, and charm, I find myself being easily engaged with Nathan and his quest to 'seduce' Auryn. I agree with MandyM, that the older and somber Auryn feels pale in comparison to Nathan. So it is amusing to read how Nathan try to react to a more serious guy. He wonders if he is too young. He gets frustrated for the lack of progress in anything else (Auryn wants to 'take it slow'). I do wonder why though -- there isn't enough background of Auryn, except that he shares the same nerdness with Nathan, as they quoting B-movie titles, and just had a nasty break-up.
All in all ... an enjoyable contemporary British-feel read.
"A Bar Tender Tale" is a lovely tale of 22-year-old Nathan, who lives in Kemp Town, Brighton (which is known its abudance of gay bars, lesbian bars, and everything-in-between bars), along with his friends (straight and gays), and the object of Nathan's affection, a 31-year-old solicitor Auryn. Told mainly from Nathan's perspective, he is appealing for readers, with his love toward B-movies and action figures, and his wanting to get a more serious relationship after having a disaster with the previous one (his ex is a selfish 19-year-old).
The language is very Brit -- not one that I'm usually comfortable with, since I'm used to American English -- but with such colorful characters, wit, and charm, I find myself being easily engaged with Nathan and his quest to 'seduce' Auryn. I agree with MandyM, that the older and somber Auryn feels pale in comparison to Nathan. So it is amusing to read how Nathan try to react to a more serious guy. He wonders if he is too young. He gets frustrated for the lack of progress in anything else (Auryn wants to 'take it slow'). I do wonder why though -- there isn't enough background of Auryn, except that he shares the same nerdness with Nathan, as they quoting B-movie titles, and just had a nasty break-up.
All in all ... an enjoyable contemporary British-feel read.
July 26, 2014
Had I known what an absolute joy this book was I would have read it much sooner, but I am glad that I didn’t. I was looking for a book that would make me hug my Nook and fall in love with two boys, and I hugged the hell out of my Nook so much I got a cramp in my forearms! I also have about a dozen new laugh lines from this as well, and yet it was so cringe-worthy at times. In a good way, of course.
Nathan is the type of boy I love to read. He is in his early 20’s, works hard at his job(s), wears insane T-Shirts, glittery makeup along with Kohl eyeliner and his taste in music is brilliant. His taste in movies I will forgive because I don’t watch that much horror but the mention of Bruce Campbell (“This, is my boomstick!”) and Sam Raimi movies had me giving a fist punch into the air. There was just so much about this book that I loved. What am I saying? I love every word or this book. It was perfect!
It’s Nathan’s day off as a bartender at both his jobs and all the boy wants to do is hang out with his never present boyfriend, Danny. The start of Nathan’s day made my day; not only does he crank up the music and dance around Au Naturale, but he talks to his figurines on the shelves, which is so me. I do the same thing when I am alone, though it’s either to figurines I have or my dogs. Either way, Nathan and I both hold conversations virtually with ourselves, and I loved him for that.
Once on his way through town, Nathan runs into his friend Gary, who could use a nap, for reasons, and Nathan being the awesome boy that he is lends Gary a hand and keeps on eye on his bar so the giant of a man can rest. It’s a good thing Nathan is so giving as he gets a chance to meet, ogle and hold a conversation about all things zombie and more with the tall, dark and handsome Welshman Auryn who comes in for a drink.
Auryn… can we get some audio of that accent? I know Gary has the same one, but I want to hear Auryn say Nathan’s way the way Nathan describes it, so I can squirm in my chair and fall to a puddle on the floor. Did I mention the puddle this book put me in? It had many moments of goo inducing lines that I was lost in all of it, and I barely paused to highlight or update where I was. The story just sucked me right in that I was sneak reading at work and made sure I was in bed early enough so I could ignore any and all responsibilities for the night and just read.
Nathan and Auryn, they were so damn good together. I loved how they met and cringed when Gary decides to give them a push and ask a certain question. I couldn’t stop laughing and was so embarrassed for them both, but what happens after was so good. I keep saying that, I know, but it was. I loved that Nathan was trying to be this seductive guy and ended up being a total mess because that was real to me. I would have been the same way after that many drinks but along with the humor, we get the vulnerability of both men, and that is what turned me into goo and like the shelf says, goo is goo.
While goo is good, and laughing does wonders for your abs, these boys were on fire! Good lord. The moments where Auryn gives in had me face on fire, and I was so into those moments and scenes my husband had to ask me if I was okay. I just nodded and kept reading. Not exactly sure what he saw or heard as I was reading, but I am sure I let out an audible moan at the words, ”Take it, then.” ” *whistles* Yeah, that was hot.
So, did I love this book? You bet your ass I did. A Bar Tender Tale was hilarious, and it was endearing, it was swoony and it was sexy. It was the perfect book, and I am going to go hug my Nook again just to give the boys a squeeze.
Rating: 4.5 stars
Nathan is the type of boy I love to read. He is in his early 20’s, works hard at his job(s), wears insane T-Shirts, glittery makeup along with Kohl eyeliner and his taste in music is brilliant. His taste in movies I will forgive because I don’t watch that much horror but the mention of Bruce Campbell (“This, is my boomstick!”) and Sam Raimi movies had me giving a fist punch into the air. There was just so much about this book that I loved. What am I saying? I love every word or this book. It was perfect!
It’s Nathan’s day off as a bartender at both his jobs and all the boy wants to do is hang out with his never present boyfriend, Danny. The start of Nathan’s day made my day; not only does he crank up the music and dance around Au Naturale, but he talks to his figurines on the shelves, which is so me. I do the same thing when I am alone, though it’s either to figurines I have or my dogs. Either way, Nathan and I both hold conversations virtually with ourselves, and I loved him for that.
Once on his way through town, Nathan runs into his friend Gary, who could use a nap, for reasons, and Nathan being the awesome boy that he is lends Gary a hand and keeps on eye on his bar so the giant of a man can rest. It’s a good thing Nathan is so giving as he gets a chance to meet, ogle and hold a conversation about all things zombie and more with the tall, dark and handsome Welshman Auryn who comes in for a drink.
Auryn… can we get some audio of that accent? I know Gary has the same one, but I want to hear Auryn say Nathan’s way the way Nathan describes it, so I can squirm in my chair and fall to a puddle on the floor. Did I mention the puddle this book put me in? It had many moments of goo inducing lines that I was lost in all of it, and I barely paused to highlight or update where I was. The story just sucked me right in that I was sneak reading at work and made sure I was in bed early enough so I could ignore any and all responsibilities for the night and just read.
Nathan and Auryn, they were so damn good together. I loved how they met and cringed when Gary decides to give them a push and ask a certain question. I couldn’t stop laughing and was so embarrassed for them both, but what happens after was so good. I keep saying that, I know, but it was. I loved that Nathan was trying to be this seductive guy and ended up being a total mess because that was real to me. I would have been the same way after that many drinks but along with the humor, we get the vulnerability of both men, and that is what turned me into goo and like the shelf says, goo is goo.
While goo is good, and laughing does wonders for your abs, these boys were on fire! Good lord. The moments where Auryn gives in had me face on fire, and I was so into those moments and scenes my husband had to ask me if I was okay. I just nodded and kept reading. Not exactly sure what he saw or heard as I was reading, but I am sure I let out an audible moan at the words, ”Take it, then.” ” *whistles* Yeah, that was hot.
So, did I love this book? You bet your ass I did. A Bar Tender Tale was hilarious, and it was endearing, it was swoony and it was sexy. It was the perfect book, and I am going to go hug my Nook again just to give the boys a squeeze.
Rating: 4.5 stars
February 12, 2012
Reviewed for heartsonfirereviews.com
Bar Tender Tale has the most larger than life characters. They just jumped off the pages for me, and made the book so interesting. Nathan is a bartender, working at a gay pub called Rainbows, in an area filled with all kinds of pubs. He is a self proclaimed nerd who loves zombies, B movies, action figures and comics, yet has many tattoos (including the Bat symbol) and dresses at times in club gear (glitter makeup and pomade). He is 22 years old, past the time of party all night and maybe looking for a something a little bit serious. What he has in the beginning is a 19-year-old party all night boyfriend named Danny, who drinks, drugs and cheats. Nathan really has just had it. Nathan wants someone who wants to spend time with him. Cheating Danny is just not it.
On a search to find Danny, after he is a no show, Nathan sees his friend straight friend Gary (Gaz), who works at a different pub. Gaz has gotten no sleep due to a chatty bed partner and is exhausted. Nathan, in a moment of pity, offers to watch the pub for him while Gaz takes a nap. Nathan is bored, and is cleaning the place and scrubbing, getting sweaty and dirty, when Auryn, a close friend of Gaz’, walks in. Nathan is smitten when it turns out despite the suit (Auryn is a soliciter) and the seriousness, Auryn is a fellow zombie, B movie, action figure and add in gamer nerd. The two get to know each other, over drinks and dinner.
Auryn is coming off a bad breakup, and he wants to take things slow. Nathan apparently doesn’t know the word SLOW, and not only that, but keeps embarrassing himself in front of Auryn. Auryn is 31, and seems even older sometimes, while Nathan comes across as younger than his 22. Nathan is just so happy, silly, sweet. His friends, Tazz and Gaz in particular, are funny, supportive, and well, what you hope friends would be.
Can Nathan convince Auryn that they do belong together? That they should be having sex? That they should be spending time? The one quibble I had with the story is that Nathan acts like “going slow” is killing him, when in reality the time frame is just a few days. The book is really about their beginning, and I felt it ended just where it should have. I love the cover, and I felt it captured the spirit of Nathan. Auryn is a little “less” in the book than Nathan, but I think they balance each other well.
I enjoyed the writing and felt the whole story flowed well. It was a really fast read for me, because it was funny and just so interesting.
Bar Tender Tale has the most larger than life characters. They just jumped off the pages for me, and made the book so interesting. Nathan is a bartender, working at a gay pub called Rainbows, in an area filled with all kinds of pubs. He is a self proclaimed nerd who loves zombies, B movies, action figures and comics, yet has many tattoos (including the Bat symbol) and dresses at times in club gear (glitter makeup and pomade). He is 22 years old, past the time of party all night and maybe looking for a something a little bit serious. What he has in the beginning is a 19-year-old party all night boyfriend named Danny, who drinks, drugs and cheats. Nathan really has just had it. Nathan wants someone who wants to spend time with him. Cheating Danny is just not it.
On a search to find Danny, after he is a no show, Nathan sees his friend straight friend Gary (Gaz), who works at a different pub. Gaz has gotten no sleep due to a chatty bed partner and is exhausted. Nathan, in a moment of pity, offers to watch the pub for him while Gaz takes a nap. Nathan is bored, and is cleaning the place and scrubbing, getting sweaty and dirty, when Auryn, a close friend of Gaz’, walks in. Nathan is smitten when it turns out despite the suit (Auryn is a soliciter) and the seriousness, Auryn is a fellow zombie, B movie, action figure and add in gamer nerd. The two get to know each other, over drinks and dinner.
Auryn is coming off a bad breakup, and he wants to take things slow. Nathan apparently doesn’t know the word SLOW, and not only that, but keeps embarrassing himself in front of Auryn. Auryn is 31, and seems even older sometimes, while Nathan comes across as younger than his 22. Nathan is just so happy, silly, sweet. His friends, Tazz and Gaz in particular, are funny, supportive, and well, what you hope friends would be.
Can Nathan convince Auryn that they do belong together? That they should be having sex? That they should be spending time? The one quibble I had with the story is that Nathan acts like “going slow” is killing him, when in reality the time frame is just a few days. The book is really about their beginning, and I felt it ended just where it should have. I love the cover, and I felt it captured the spirit of Nathan. Auryn is a little “less” in the book than Nathan, but I think they balance each other well.
I enjoyed the writing and felt the whole story flowed well. It was a really fast read for me, because it was funny and just so interesting.
June 10, 2013
Nathan is just so awesome. I was completely hooked and sucked into his world right away. From his inner dialog, to his punk sing alongs in the bathroom, to his love of all things B Movie, he had me.
His world is simple, he's a good friend a happy guy and deserves way better than his boyfriend who is constantly MIA. When he does a favor for a friend by working a morning shift at a neighborhood pub, he meets Auryn, who is just too good to be true.
The story is faced paced, smart and funny. I laughed out loud more than once.
I have to say, my favorite scene was when Nathan was putting the moves on Auryn, he was trying so hard to be sexy and seductive and instead he spazzed out and knocked over everything within reach. The dialog between the two following was perfectly witty and sweet. It summed them up perfectly I had to root for the two of them to be together.
His world is simple, he's a good friend a happy guy and deserves way better than his boyfriend who is constantly MIA. When he does a favor for a friend by working a morning shift at a neighborhood pub, he meets Auryn, who is just too good to be true.
The story is faced paced, smart and funny. I laughed out loud more than once.
I have to say, my favorite scene was when Nathan was putting the moves on Auryn, he was trying so hard to be sexy and seductive and instead he spazzed out and knocked over everything within reach. The dialog between the two following was perfectly witty and sweet. It summed them up perfectly I had to root for the two of them to be together.
March 18, 2012
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Nathan is coming off of a bad breakup. His ex-boyfriend has been stringing him along and cheating on him, with Nathan being none the wiser. When he finally realizes he’s better off without his ex, Nathan decides he’s going to put his ex behind him and have a good day. As a bartender who works two jobs, time off is precious to Nathan, so he decides to visit a friend of his, who is also a bartender. Nathan immediately notices that his friend is so exhausted he can hardly move, so as a favor to his friend, he offers to work on his friend’s shift for a few hours. During this time, he has very few customers and is really quite bored. But when a handsome man in a suit comes in looking for his friend, Nathan is immediately intrigued with him and starts up a conversation with him. He finds out the man’s name is Auryn and is recently coming off a very bad breakup. They soon realize, despite appearances, they have much in common, and when Auryn asks Nathan if he can meet with him after he gets off of work, it’s an offer Nathan can’t refuse. As Nathan and Auryn get to know one another that night, Nathan immediately has a strong attraction and feels a strong emotional connection for him. But, Auryn is worried that Nathan might not take a relationship seriously, and he is also concerned by the ten year age difference between them. Will Nathan be able to convince Auryn to take a chance on him and true love?
I really loved this book. I enjoyed both of the heroes and thought they had a very intense chemistry together. I liked that they are seemingly very opposite people, but as the story progresses, it was interesting to see how much they really did have in common. Nathan is pretty out there with his glitter and pomaded hair. He’s a bartender at a gay bar and isn’t afraid to let people know he’s gay. Auryn is a lot more conservative and even though he’s gay, he doesn’t advertise his sexual preference like Nathan does. Where Nathan is pushy and demanding, Auryn is laid back and wants to take things slow, but somehow they fit really well together and I enjoyed watching their relationship develop into something very special.
Although both characters are uniquely interesting and appealing, I admit that Nathan stole the book for me. I loved his zest for life and his love for b-movies and he is a huge horror movie buff. His no-nonsense-I’m-going-to-take-what-I-want personality really was a lot of fun to read. I really enjoyed reading this book and hated to see it come to an end. If you’re looking for a fast-paced read with some well written and unique characters, A Bar Tender Tale is definitely a book for you!
Nathan is coming off of a bad breakup. His ex-boyfriend has been stringing him along and cheating on him, with Nathan being none the wiser. When he finally realizes he’s better off without his ex, Nathan decides he’s going to put his ex behind him and have a good day. As a bartender who works two jobs, time off is precious to Nathan, so he decides to visit a friend of his, who is also a bartender. Nathan immediately notices that his friend is so exhausted he can hardly move, so as a favor to his friend, he offers to work on his friend’s shift for a few hours. During this time, he has very few customers and is really quite bored. But when a handsome man in a suit comes in looking for his friend, Nathan is immediately intrigued with him and starts up a conversation with him. He finds out the man’s name is Auryn and is recently coming off a very bad breakup. They soon realize, despite appearances, they have much in common, and when Auryn asks Nathan if he can meet with him after he gets off of work, it’s an offer Nathan can’t refuse. As Nathan and Auryn get to know one another that night, Nathan immediately has a strong attraction and feels a strong emotional connection for him. But, Auryn is worried that Nathan might not take a relationship seriously, and he is also concerned by the ten year age difference between them. Will Nathan be able to convince Auryn to take a chance on him and true love?
I really loved this book. I enjoyed both of the heroes and thought they had a very intense chemistry together. I liked that they are seemingly very opposite people, but as the story progresses, it was interesting to see how much they really did have in common. Nathan is pretty out there with his glitter and pomaded hair. He’s a bartender at a gay bar and isn’t afraid to let people know he’s gay. Auryn is a lot more conservative and even though he’s gay, he doesn’t advertise his sexual preference like Nathan does. Where Nathan is pushy and demanding, Auryn is laid back and wants to take things slow, but somehow they fit really well together and I enjoyed watching their relationship develop into something very special.
Although both characters are uniquely interesting and appealing, I admit that Nathan stole the book for me. I loved his zest for life and his love for b-movies and he is a huge horror movie buff. His no-nonsense-I’m-going-to-take-what-I-want personality really was a lot of fun to read. I really enjoyed reading this book and hated to see it come to an end. If you’re looking for a fast-paced read with some well written and unique characters, A Bar Tender Tale is definitely a book for you!
February 6, 2012
Barkeeper Nathan is a fun narrator of this story, he's getting over his ex Danny when he meets Auryn a shy lawyer who is 10 years his senior.
There are lots of friends introduced and I wonder if there will be more books set in the bar, since we were introduced to all the guys.
The British english took a few pages to get used to for me, but overall a good read.
There are lots of friends introduced and I wonder if there will be more books set in the bar, since we were introduced to all the guys.
The British english took a few pages to get used to for me, but overall a good read.
February 23, 2012
I gave this one five stars because I absolutely loved the characters. The author does a wonderful job of making them feel real and fun and likable. They jump off the page, as does the scenery and the bars/pubs.
Nathan is just adorable and not at all what I expected from the cover & blurb. He has a sweet side to him, and it was cute to watch how nervous and unsure he is around Auryn, and how much he really likes Auryn.
Auryn is older, a little more quieter and holds back. Or rather he tries to hold back–Nathan is eager and hard to resist. :)
My only complaint...was that it was too short! :( I would love to see more of these two as they really get to know each other more and how they navigate a relationship. Yes they have a lot in common with their love of Zombie & B-movies. But they lead very different lives: Nathan is young and just discovering that he wants more from a relationship than just sex, and he works late nights in bars. Auryn is older, established, a lawyer. I'm a big sappy sucker for "opposites attract" who make it work so I would love to see them do this. (hint hint, if the author would like to write more about them. :)
Not to mention all of the colorful and fun gay characters working with Nathan at the gay bar -- they could all have their own story easily. :)
Nathan is just adorable and not at all what I expected from the cover & blurb. He has a sweet side to him, and it was cute to watch how nervous and unsure he is around Auryn, and how much he really likes Auryn.
Auryn is older, a little more quieter and holds back. Or rather he tries to hold back–Nathan is eager and hard to resist. :)
My only complaint...was that it was too short! :( I would love to see more of these two as they really get to know each other more and how they navigate a relationship. Yes they have a lot in common with their love of Zombie & B-movies. But they lead very different lives: Nathan is young and just discovering that he wants more from a relationship than just sex, and he works late nights in bars. Auryn is older, established, a lawyer. I'm a big sappy sucker for "opposites attract" who make it work so I would love to see them do this. (hint hint, if the author would like to write more about them. :)
Not to mention all of the colorful and fun gay characters working with Nathan at the gay bar -- they could all have their own story easily. :)
June 4, 2012
Oh jeez. I've watched a lot of Hollywood films in the past, and I love them. Some I even watch over and over again. But then sometimes I'm in the mood for something different and chance on non-Hollywood films. In the past that has lead me to brilliant British movies like: Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels; Trainspotting; The Full Monty; Shaun of the Dead; and even Blow Dry (yes, love that one, largely thanks to Alan Rickman and that sexy tattoo under his foot). Those quirky, in-your-face-reality movies, a lot of them coming from the underground - a world very unknown to me - are the movies that really stay with me and instead of thinking "oh yeah, that was a lovely movie" I think "Oh hell, I LOVED that one!" (and gush into the brilliant scenes and characters).
Well this book, A Bar Tender Tale, is like those British movies. Absolutely brilliant. The writing is fantastic, the voice in the story is consistent and unique, and the characters feel so real I feel like I could just go to England and meet up with them at a bar (a book can't get a better compliment than that!). I'm very excited about this story and I will without a doubt read it again and again.
Well this book, A Bar Tender Tale, is like those British movies. Absolutely brilliant. The writing is fantastic, the voice in the story is consistent and unique, and the characters feel so real I feel like I could just go to England and meet up with them at a bar (a book can't get a better compliment than that!). I'm very excited about this story and I will without a doubt read it again and again.
February 24, 2012
I expected to like this book, but I didn't expect to absolutely love it. Nathan - has there ever been a cuter MC? I don't think so. A curious blend of sweet and sass, vulnerability and spitfire. Really, Nathan is a pretty romantic, old school guy wrapped in a very unexpected package. I adored him.
This story definitely has a British flair, but it didn't pull me out of the story too much. Nathan and his friends very much act their younger age, and they are fun. Everything about the story felt authentic. Justin was a particular favorite ;).
I love the concept of finding love in unexpected places, and Auryn...yeah, let's just say that Nathan's luck in the boyfriend is about to change. For the better.
This story definitely has a British flair, but it didn't pull me out of the story too much. Nathan and his friends very much act their younger age, and they are fun. Everything about the story felt authentic. Justin was a particular favorite ;).
I love the concept of finding love in unexpected places, and Auryn...yeah, let's just say that Nathan's luck in the boyfriend is about to change. For the better.
March 4, 2012
I'm still smiling.
A Bar Tender Tale is a great love story, fun to read with adorable MCs.
Nathan in all his nerdy glory,sweet attitude and what a pushy bottom that boy is! LOL
Auryn is the older guy, everything that Nathan needs - perfect boyfriend material.
What I loved about these two is that they can be awkward together. They both feel like they don't fit in their friends circle or that they are always the weird ones, but together they totally make sense.
First time reading Melanie Tushmore and if all her MS have Nathan sense of humour it wont be the last time.
A Bar Tender Tale is a great love story, fun to read with adorable MCs.
Nathan in all his nerdy glory,sweet attitude and what a pushy bottom that boy is! LOL
Auryn is the older guy, everything that Nathan needs - perfect boyfriend material.
What I loved about these two is that they can be awkward together. They both feel like they don't fit in their friends circle or that they are always the weird ones, but together they totally make sense.
First time reading Melanie Tushmore and if all her MS have Nathan sense of humour it wont be the last time.
February 7, 2012
As soon as I started to read this story I lost myself in it. And the pages simply vanished. Gosh it was to short. Why so short.... I loved this story. I really hope we will read some more about Nathan and Auryn. They were so good together. Let us get more!!!! The writing style was clean and truthful, it was easygoing and pulling till the end. I will say to everyone, be smart and read this book.
Recommended!
Recommended!
February 6, 2012
Liked the setting, liked the style, liked the secondary characters and the cheeky chatter. Not crazy about the main relationship - there was too much unexplained hand-wringing and pearl-clutching for me.
November 23, 2012
Sometimes boy meets boy, like each other and take it from there. No crazy angst, big misunderstanding, roving zombies etc. just 2 guys figuring out the let's date thing. This was a fun read.
I've always had a thing for cool punk-rock boys who like crazy B movies.
I've always had a thing for cool punk-rock boys who like crazy B movies.
April 4, 2016
I only picked this up for a challenge. I'm glad I did.
Not only was this perfect for the mood I was in, but it introduced me to a new author.
Nathan met Auryn are both adorably geeky.
Nathan I picture as a fashion train wreck. Auryn is so sweet.
I loved it.
Not only was this perfect for the mood I was in, but it introduced me to a new author.
Nathan met Auryn are both adorably geeky.
Nathan I picture as a fashion train wreck. Auryn is so sweet.
I loved it.
June 26, 2012
Good m/m romance about a couple days in the life of a punk bartender as he progresses from a jerk boyfriend to a better boyfriend, even if said better boyfriend moves at a glacial pace.
July 8, 2019
funny mishaps, likable characters, misunderstanding, and happiness. so cute.
April 30, 2012
Three Crow Press Review by Cecilia Ryan
Where to start with this one? Perhaps with the admission that I put it down a few times in the beginning, slightly annoyed by the litany of Things That Show Nathan Is Very Gothic. But I got over my annoyance with that later, realising that in fact, I own a loofah with a bat on it, so maybe it wasn’t all that bad. I decided I could just go along with him not having grown up yet.
Like I say, I got past that, and enjoyed the fact that the prose was good, despite a few early awkward attempts at exposition that made me abandon it again in a fit of pique a few times for a short while.
I’m telling you this because once I got over these admittedly minor annoyances (it’s worth bearing in mind that I am particularly highly strung when it comes to good storycraft), the book was good enough for me to get genuinely excited over. I came to enjoy Nathan as a character, especially, and he went from being irritatingly Very Gothic You Guys to genuinely interesting and endearing. Auryn, his love interest, whilst less well-developed, is an interesting enough character who Nathan is clearly interested in, which is the important bit.
What really rescued this book from okay to brilliant was something I don’t see very often: a story that ended in the place it ought to have, without being overwrought. It finishes up without an ‘and then they lived happily ever after andadoptedsixcatsanddiedineachother’sarmsbecauseit’strueloveyouguys’ ending, but with a simple fade-to-black on what is obviously a happy relationship, but doesn’t have to be forever. It’s such a refreshing change that despite a bit of a rocky start, I’m giving it a solid (wait for it)…
4 stars. For excellent concept, good execution, and a solid ending that wasn’t overwrought or too sappy.
Where to start with this one? Perhaps with the admission that I put it down a few times in the beginning, slightly annoyed by the litany of Things That Show Nathan Is Very Gothic. But I got over my annoyance with that later, realising that in fact, I own a loofah with a bat on it, so maybe it wasn’t all that bad. I decided I could just go along with him not having grown up yet.
Like I say, I got past that, and enjoyed the fact that the prose was good, despite a few early awkward attempts at exposition that made me abandon it again in a fit of pique a few times for a short while.
I’m telling you this because once I got over these admittedly minor annoyances (it’s worth bearing in mind that I am particularly highly strung when it comes to good storycraft), the book was good enough for me to get genuinely excited over. I came to enjoy Nathan as a character, especially, and he went from being irritatingly Very Gothic You Guys to genuinely interesting and endearing. Auryn, his love interest, whilst less well-developed, is an interesting enough character who Nathan is clearly interested in, which is the important bit.
What really rescued this book from okay to brilliant was something I don’t see very often: a story that ended in the place it ought to have, without being overwrought. It finishes up without an ‘and then they lived happily ever after andadoptedsixcatsanddiedineachother’sarmsbecauseit’strueloveyouguys’ ending, but with a simple fade-to-black on what is obviously a happy relationship, but doesn’t have to be forever. It’s such a refreshing change that despite a bit of a rocky start, I’m giving it a solid (wait for it)…
4 stars. For excellent concept, good execution, and a solid ending that wasn’t overwrought or too sappy.
April 15, 2012
I would like to give it more stars but 4 but i just cant. I didnt like Nathan. *blushes* Maybe im hypersensitive. But i really couldnt connect with him. He is totally immature in my opinion. He met some guy. He want him in his bed. The guy told him he wants to take things slowly and his response? Drunk himself to stupor and repeatedly throwing himself at Auryn. I dont understand what Auryn sees in Nathan. It's a mystery for me.
They know each other three days. Auryn is trying to know him better and because of Nathan's issues with Danny, he almost lost his job. Yes. Because how hard it is to find your "ex-boyfriend" and tell him it's over? Apparently very hard. What did you expect? He will never come back? Scum like him? *deep sigh*
And the third freaking thing that repulse me? He invites Auryn for some TV and cant control himself and he must seduce him. And his inner monoloque? "i wanted him in my bed from the moment i first saw him. so i want him now". grrrrr.
For freaks sake, come on, Nathan. Sex isnt the most important thing on this planet. If you want to screw someone so badly find some easy lay.
Maybe this review isnt fair. Im not trying to insult anyone. Especially not the author. Because the book is great and very well written. Maybe im in a bad state of mind. Maybe im still suffering from the "Number Four Syndrom". But i cant give it more. I really wanted Auryn to spend the rest of his life with someone else. Someone mature. Someone who will not spend ten minutes in the shower to think repeatedly how to introduce his "hot, buff new boyfriend" to all his friends. Life is not a competition in dating. *sad sigh*
They know each other three days. Auryn is trying to know him better and because of Nathan's issues with Danny, he almost lost his job. Yes. Because how hard it is to find your "ex-boyfriend" and tell him it's over? Apparently very hard. What did you expect? He will never come back? Scum like him? *deep sigh*
And the third freaking thing that repulse me? He invites Auryn for some TV and cant control himself and he must seduce him. And his inner monoloque? "i wanted him in my bed from the moment i first saw him. so i want him now". grrrrr.
For freaks sake, come on, Nathan. Sex isnt the most important thing on this planet. If you want to screw someone so badly find some easy lay.
Maybe this review isnt fair. Im not trying to insult anyone. Especially not the author. Because the book is great and very well written. Maybe im in a bad state of mind. Maybe im still suffering from the "Number Four Syndrom". But i cant give it more. I really wanted Auryn to spend the rest of his life with someone else. Someone mature. Someone who will not spend ten minutes in the shower to think repeatedly how to introduce his "hot, buff new boyfriend" to all his friends. Life is not a competition in dating. *sad sigh*
March 12, 2012
A Bar Tender Tale follows newly single gay twenty-something Nathan. Nathan’s elusive ex-boyfriend Danny has just left him high and dry, again, and Nathan’s fed up. The exact same day he swears off Danny, he meets Auryn. Auryn is thirty one years old, and a zombie nerd just like Nathan. Auryn is a romantic, while Nathan is more concerned with the sexual nature of their relationship. Problems arise when the two begin to intertwine their very different lives.
Most male/male stories I’ve read are all about hard and fast sex. A Bar Tender Tale surprised me very much, as there was an actual storyline behind it, and a sweet one at that. Nathan is as naïve as Auryn is professional, yet they are both so endearing. Auryn is shy, while Nathan is outgoing. They are so unlike each other, except for their interests in B grade horror and zombie films. The film and comic information peppered throughout the story was an entertaining touch and only further enhance the story.
Nathan is our main character, and he is incredibly realistic. Nothing bothers me more than characters that don’t worry about putting on enough deodorant, or what time they have to work. For being so short, the story only barely reaches 160 pages, the storyline makes a surprisingly fulfilling arc, and it was a satisfyingly sweet story.
As reviewed for Night Owl Reviews.
Most male/male stories I’ve read are all about hard and fast sex. A Bar Tender Tale surprised me very much, as there was an actual storyline behind it, and a sweet one at that. Nathan is as naïve as Auryn is professional, yet they are both so endearing. Auryn is shy, while Nathan is outgoing. They are so unlike each other, except for their interests in B grade horror and zombie films. The film and comic information peppered throughout the story was an entertaining touch and only further enhance the story.
Nathan is our main character, and he is incredibly realistic. Nothing bothers me more than characters that don’t worry about putting on enough deodorant, or what time they have to work. For being so short, the story only barely reaches 160 pages, the storyline makes a surprisingly fulfilling arc, and it was a satisfyingly sweet story.
As reviewed for Night Owl Reviews.
February 19, 2012
This story is pretty charming and even more so since it is based in Britain (England) and done so well. I have read a few British authors and they tend to make their settings really generic. However, the author here has done no such thing -- and for that alone I love this book. The characters were great and the dialogue was fun.
I rated this book three stars because at the end of the day, the story is simple not very diverse in plot and didn't make me go wow. It did however make me smile, and made me appreciate how the author made me enjoy such a simple story. A young guy (Nathan) meets a slightly older man (Auryn) and they become closer due to their love of cheesy horror films.
The whole book is told through Nathan's POV who is a lovely voice. Auryn is a nice guy but we never get to know who he is. The secondary characters were a lot of fun and the serious bromance going on was epic.
It's a sweet funny little tale. I loved the authors voice and it seems like she has a unique style going for her. I'm looking forward for more stories in this world. Maybe more Nathan and Auryn or maybe some of those supposedly straight guys? Who knows. I know I had a lot of fun reading this book. Hopefully Ms. Tushmore has more books on offer this 2012.
I rated this book three stars because at the end of the day, the story is simple not very diverse in plot and didn't make me go wow. It did however make me smile, and made me appreciate how the author made me enjoy such a simple story. A young guy (Nathan) meets a slightly older man (Auryn) and they become closer due to their love of cheesy horror films.
The whole book is told through Nathan's POV who is a lovely voice. Auryn is a nice guy but we never get to know who he is. The secondary characters were a lot of fun and the serious bromance going on was epic.
It's a sweet funny little tale. I loved the authors voice and it seems like she has a unique style going for her. I'm looking forward for more stories in this world. Maybe more Nathan and Auryn or maybe some of those supposedly straight guys? Who knows. I know I had a lot of fun reading this book. Hopefully Ms. Tushmore has more books on offer this 2012.
August 19, 2012
Great story, great characters - both lead and supporting!
Nathan has a bad news boyfriend, who has left him in the lurch again, in a bout of self pity, he takes a wander through town and winds up at the pub of a friend, who is "suffering" from a night out, so Nathan offers to tend the pub while his friend gets some sleep. As Nathan is feeling a bit depressed about the one he thinks is his boyfriend, he has not made himself up for the day, so of course in walks the most attractive man he's ever met...who sees something in Nathan despite his understated look.
They get to spend some time together, but each time seems to be a showcase for Nathan's worst moments! One of which is the resurfacing of the loser boyfriend.
How the storyline of the loser boyfriend played out surprised me, but I like how it was dealt with for the two leads, for Nathan to learn not to jump to conclusions and for Auryn to show he saw more than most people did and did not judge because of that.
I look forward to reading more by this author and could easily revisit these two any time!
Nathan has a bad news boyfriend, who has left him in the lurch again, in a bout of self pity, he takes a wander through town and winds up at the pub of a friend, who is "suffering" from a night out, so Nathan offers to tend the pub while his friend gets some sleep. As Nathan is feeling a bit depressed about the one he thinks is his boyfriend, he has not made himself up for the day, so of course in walks the most attractive man he's ever met...who sees something in Nathan despite his understated look.
They get to spend some time together, but each time seems to be a showcase for Nathan's worst moments! One of which is the resurfacing of the loser boyfriend.
How the storyline of the loser boyfriend played out surprised me, but I like how it was dealt with for the two leads, for Nathan to learn not to jump to conclusions and for Auryn to show he saw more than most people did and did not judge because of that.
I look forward to reading more by this author and could easily revisit these two any time!
July 17, 2012
Charnel's review posted on Guilty Pleasures
A very cute romantic comedy.
Nathan is in a one sided relationship, his ‘boyfriend’ is MIA, again, so he spends his morning wandering around town looking for him but trying to not appear stalkerish. It’s Nathan’s day off but instead of spending in bed with is missing boyfriend, as he planned; he ends up spending it doing a favor for his friend, working the morning shift in his pub. Suddenly his day is looking up when Nathan meets the man of his dreams, Auryn, he can’t believe his luck meeting a good looking guy who’s not only gorgeous but shares his love of B movies, zombies and comics.
I laughed numerous times throughout this book; A Bar Tender Tale is a fast paced story full of humor and witty conversations between Nathan and his many quirky friends, both straight and gay. The story is set in Britain and while there are a few slang terms that were lost in translation they didn’t take away from me enjoying the story.
A very cute romantic comedy.
Nathan is in a one sided relationship, his ‘boyfriend’ is MIA, again, so he spends his morning wandering around town looking for him but trying to not appear stalkerish. It’s Nathan’s day off but instead of spending in bed with is missing boyfriend, as he planned; he ends up spending it doing a favor for his friend, working the morning shift in his pub. Suddenly his day is looking up when Nathan meets the man of his dreams, Auryn, he can’t believe his luck meeting a good looking guy who’s not only gorgeous but shares his love of B movies, zombies and comics.
I laughed numerous times throughout this book; A Bar Tender Tale is a fast paced story full of humor and witty conversations between Nathan and his many quirky friends, both straight and gay. The story is set in Britain and while there are a few slang terms that were lost in translation they didn’t take away from me enjoying the story.
February 24, 2012
Nathan is twenty two works two jobs, has tattoos, reads comics, loves zombie movies and punk rock. He has the worst luck with men. His supposed boyfriend is never around.
Auryn is thirty one, a solicitor, reads comics, plays video games and loves zombie movies. He recently moved to town. He just got through a bad breakup with his now ex-boyfriend.
Auryn is a friend of Gary and Gary is a friend of Nathan. When Nathan met Auryn at the bar where Gary works it was a perfect match.
I would of liked to had more background on both of them. A few times something was said and it made me wonder what the story was behind it. But overall it is a great book.
Auryn is thirty one, a solicitor, reads comics, plays video games and loves zombie movies. He recently moved to town. He just got through a bad breakup with his now ex-boyfriend.
Auryn is a friend of Gary and Gary is a friend of Nathan. When Nathan met Auryn at the bar where Gary works it was a perfect match.
I would of liked to had more background on both of them. A few times something was said and it made me wonder what the story was behind it. But overall it is a great book.
February 7, 2012
ebook.
I loved the beginning and middle of this. But the ending seemed rushed and clipped off. After such a great buildup, the ending was just flat. I will probably re-read it anyways though because I really like the descriptions of the area the characters live in, what they are wearing and thinking and how they interact with each other. And because I am a sucker for cute geeky nerdy gay boys apparently. 8)
I loved the beginning and middle of this. But the ending seemed rushed and clipped off. After such a great buildup, the ending was just flat. I will probably re-read it anyways though because I really like the descriptions of the area the characters live in, what they are wearing and thinking and how they interact with each other. And because I am a sucker for cute geeky nerdy gay boys apparently. 8)
February 8, 2012
Plot was good. Main character Nathan is very interesting as individual. At the same time Auryn with whom Nathan come together is a bit strange. You just know that he broke up with someone and left. I did not like not understanding him. And I want to say to AUTHOR - your ENDING SUCKS; If you write a story do it property or don't do it.
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