The Replacement Guitarist by Lori Toland

Jul 21, 2010 Daisiemae rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: contemporary-romance, e-book, series-romance, may-december, virgin-hero, opposites-attract, books-read-in-2010, books-reviewed-in-2010, night-owl-reviews

The Replacement Guitarist by Lori Toland was a pleasure to read. The heroes are both sexy and very easy to like. The storyline moved along quite quickly and smoothly. Once I started The Replacement Guitarist, I couldn’t put it down. This is the first book I’ve read written by her, and it won’t be the last.

When Blaze Shinozuka was asked to audition to win the honored position as the lead guitarist for the spoiled and very famous singer, Cassie, he thought he’d hit the jackpot. Blaze i The Replacement Guitarist by Lori Toland was a pleasure to read. The heroes are both sexy and very easy to like. The storyline moved along quite quickly and smoothly. Once I started The Replacement Guitarist, I couldn’t put it down. This is the first book I’ve read written by her, and it won’t be the last.

When Blaze Shinozuka was asked to audition to win the honored position as the lead guitarist for the spoiled and very famous singer, Cassie, he thought he’d hit the jackpot. Blaze is comfortable with the knowledge that he’s a talented musician. As a recent musical college graduate, music has been pretty much been the focus of his young life. In many ways, Blaze is quite naïve. Although he’s learned to stand up for some of the things he’s believed in, he’s basically lived a pretty sheltered life.

Blaze has never had a relationship before. Although Blaze has been attracted to both sexes, he’s never felt an emotional/physical pull of intense chemistry with anyone he’s ever met before. So, when he goes to the audition and meets Cassie’s manager, Jason Stockton, he immediately overwhelmed by the intense attraction between them.

Jason Stockton has been cleaning up Cassie’s messes for her entire career. She’s been notorious about sleeping with her lead guitarists. Her love ‘em and leave ‘em attitude has once again gotten Jason auditioning for a replacement guitarist. The moment that Blaze Shinozuka walks in the door Jason is not only floored by the sheer talent the younger man has, but there is an attraction between them that seems to be calling to his heart.

As the men become aquainted and fall into a tentative relationship, there are misunderstandings and people who are working against them being together. Plus, with Jason’s issues of being scorned by a lover in a past and Blaze’s fear of coming out to his family as having a man for a lover, they must learn to trust in each other and the love that develops between them.

I really liked this book. The physical chemistry between Blaze and Jason was scorching hot. Plus, I also really enjoyed how in many ways Jason and Blaze are polar opposites of each other. Jason is older and more conservative, while Blaze is young and more carefree. I definitely appreciated that although they almost fall in love at first sight, they have to truly work to make their relationship succeed.

When I finished this book, I felt like this was just the beginning of their story and possible life together. There are many unresolved issues between them. Plus, with Blaze being young and inexperienced I wonder if that will be a problem for them in the future. There are times he has fantasies about women and I admit that bothered me a little. Don’t get me wrong, the book ends happily, but I’m not sold that they truly have a future together. I have a feeling that they will still have a long road ahead of them.

To read more of this review and other reviews like it...check out Night Owl Reviews at http://www.nightowlreviews.com ...more

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Jul 22, 2010 Zach rated it liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: erotic-romance, gay-love, heroes-i-adore, older-man-younger-man, opposites-attract, heroes-i-would-take-home-to-momma, heroes-author-takes-a-risk-with, lori-toland

I liked Blaze and Jason. I'm not sure they'll stay together though. There wasn't a lot of communication between them unless they were having a quickie in Jason's office. Blaze has a long life to live and I wonder if they will really be able to weather the storm when serious issues happen or temptation comes around. I hope so.

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Dec 29, 2011 Shana rated it did not like it · review of another edition

Shelves: fiction-contemporary, fiction-musicians, fiction-glbt

Please note: As evidenced by my rating, I did not like this book. I'm not terribly nice about it. If this is going to bother you, then I suggest skipping this review.

From the moment Blaze Shinozuka walks into his interview for the position of guitarist for pop princess Cassie, he can't deny the heat between him and Jason Stockton, Cassie's manager. It doesn't take long for the heat to ignite, and Blaze and Jason are engulfed in the inferno. Will they be able to overcome all that stands in Please note: As evidenced by my rating, I did not like this book. I'm not terribly nice about it. If this is going to bother you, then I suggest skipping this review.

From the moment Blaze Shinozuka walks into his interview for the position of guitarist for pop princess Cassie, he can't deny the heat between him and Jason Stockton, Cassie's manager. It doesn't take long for the heat to ignite, and Blaze and Jason are engulfed in the inferno. Will they be able to overcome all that stands in the path toward happiness together, or will the strain of their careers tear them apart?

I wanted so badly to like this story, but it was just so clumsy. The pacing was uneven when it wasn't much too fast, and the constant POV shifts were confusing when they weren't downright annoying. Although there were sometimes breaks for major POV shifts, other times the POV would change in the same paragraph. It was more than omniscient narration, which is a pet peeve of mine anyway.

The characters were remarkably uneven also. Jason, despite being an apparently powerful manager, is a mire of doubt and self-flagellation. The inferiority complex just didn't make sense, and when he confessed it to Blaze, I rolled my eyes hard enough to get a serious case of eye strain. Blaze, on the other hand, is a woman with a penis. They're both prone to womanly mood swings and emotions, for that matter, to the point that I couldn't take either seriously. I like my men to be men, not hysterical females. I also never got the impression that Blaze and Jason actually knew each other, outside of the carnal sense. They frequently professed their love for each other, but what was really between them, aside from sex?

The supporting cast was virtually non-existent, and shallow caricatures when they actually had more than a throwaway scene. Cassie was a raging bitch for no apparent reason, and I think only one other band member was mentioned, much less named. It made it difficult to get into the story's world.

The sex didn't make the story any more appealing. It is actually possible to have too much detail, to the point of being almost clinical. I also kept wondering how none of the other staff members figured out they were sleeping together, given how noisy they were in Jason's office. Doors do not equal sound-proof bubbles! Is it so difficult for them to show a little decorum, given their professed concerns of the others finding out? I realize that these things work differently in romance stories, particularly in the male/male genre where it seems like everyone's a screamer, but pondering it was enough to throw me out of the story way too often. Add to that the fact that they could barely go three pages without getting their hands on each other, and it was just too much for me.

By the way, did you know that 'mahu' is Hawaiian slang for 'gay'? Once more: 'mahu' is Hawaiian slang for 'gay'! And now that it's been specifically pointed out twice, it will never be mentioned again. The repeated emphasis of little throwaway factoids was the equivalent of name-dropping, and just as aggravating.

Honestly, a third of the way through, I had to put it down and walk away, because I was getting so terribly frustrated with it. The scene where Jason literally runs into Blaze at the airport and proceeds to have a conversation with him while lying on top of him on the floor was the straw that broke the camel's back. Normal people don't behave like that, and such abnormal behavior just makes it that much harder to invest in the characters.

I realize that I'm being harsh here, but this story honestly just pushed so many of my crap buttons that I can't help but feel almost foolish for spending money on it. I can't think of a single thing that stuck in my mind as redeeming. I don't think I can recommend anything but giving this one a pass. ...more

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Feb 05, 2010 Betryal rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

I'm a real sucker for musicians, but so am I for vamps, shapeshifters and all that jazz. Jesus, ok I like them all as long as they leave the girlie bits out. Anyhow I'm getting sidetracked.

Jason and Blaze's story is a good one and the sparks flew from the moment they both meet and their bonding is mind blowing. Somehow I do see more and another story happening after this one. You be the judge of that.

Whatever, I enjoyed this book!

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Mar 25, 2013 Nic rated it liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: series, mm, musician-actor-celeb, dreamspinner-purchased, zz-amazon-yes

I always love a great romance with a backdrop of the rock world. There's just something about the musicians - doesn't matter if it is a guitarist, a drummer, a singer or keyboardist or anything else - and the lives they lead that is so appealing for a story. There's the lifestyle and the lure of fame and all the temptation that goes along with it.

So I was excited to start this story, particularly as it was about an inexperienced guitarist (Blaze) and the band manager (Jason). I liked ...more

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Jan 20, 2011 Cole Riann marked it as dnf · review of another edition

Shelves: m-m, m-m-contemporary, m-m-musicians-rockers, m-m-famous, m-m-closeted-coming-out

DNF Reason -- I had high hopes for this story, and I started reading this a few days ago because I was in the mood for a little music love. I was disappointed in this story, which people seem to really love, and though I will admit that I haven't given it much of a chance, only having read the first third, I just couldn't read any more of it at this point (it remains to be seen, though, whether I'll pick it back up in the future). I felt like the author hadn't decided who the characters were yet ...more

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Apr 07, 2010 M'rella rated it it was ok · review of another edition

Shelves: time-contemporary, p-celebrity, sexcontent-too-much-sex, p-art-music

One of the turn-offs for me was that there was nothing between the main characters (Blaze, the guitarist and Jason, a pop-star's manager) but sex. When and how did they manage to fall in love is really beyond me. I wish the author touched up a little more on their common interests at least, not to mention the time they spent together dressed and out of Jason's office, however little that might be.

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Jun 06, 2010 Ter rated it really liked it · review of another edition

I really liked Blaze and Jason's story. They are both very vulnerable at times and only find strength within each other.
I will be interested in reading the next one "Replacement Guitarist 2" when it comes out. You can tell that these two still have many things to deal with ahead of them. From a spoiled bitchy Cassie to parents and grandparents to the whole music industry. This roller coaster has just started.
One thing I did really like was, (without giving too much away) at one time ...more

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Feb 28, 2010 Elisa Rolle added it · review of another edition

The Replacement Guitarist was a nice story, on the “cute boys” stream: if you like your men rough and ready, they are not for sure like Blaze and Jason, one pretty boy and one pretty man of this novel. I often say that this type of story is more aimed to a female target, since I think that is mainly a female characteristic to like fragile and delicate men, more blushing virgins that hot and bothered guys. But for sure is not a “stigmata” that has to mark these books only for women… it’s only an The Replacement Guitarist was a nice story, on the “cute boys” stream: if you like your men rough and ready, they are not for sure like Blaze and Jason, one pretty boy and one pretty man of this novel. I often say that this type of story is more aimed to a female target, since I think that is mainly a female characteristic to like fragile and delicate men, more blushing virgins that hot and bothered guys. But for sure is not a “stigmata” that has to mark these books only for women… it’s only an advice from my side to not tear them apart only since they don’t reflect what you are expecting from a gay novel, remember, being gay doesn’t mean that you are one way and only that way, there are different shades, like for everyone, straights, gays, bisexuals, and more.

At the beginning I didn’t frame in the right way nor Blaze or Jason; I had the feeling that both of them were more experienced and “strong”: for me Blaze was a man sure of his sexuality that was pondering Jason as a possible sexual partner, if the man was gay and willing; on the other side Jason was a big shot on the music entertainment that was not against the idea to have a no strings attached relationship with the new guy. I was wrong for both of them.

Blaze is a 100% virgin, both for males than females, but he has his fantasies, and sometime they involve men; when he meets Jason, he is like setting a firm point on his fantasies, he is for sure gay and he wants Jason. Now the problem is, first, to understand if Jason wants him back, and second overcome the “little” problem of his virginity and lack of experience. This is something for which Jason is more than willing to lend an hand: the only important lasting relationship Jason had in the past was with a man, but since it wasn’t an happily ever after, Jason is scared of real involvement, and I think that having relationship with women saves him from delusions; basically he can’t really fall in love for a woman, and so he is save with them. Jason has also some self-esteem issue, something that makes him more real, less big shot name, and more ordinary boyfriend; he is not that far from Blaze, only started earlier and with less trouble.

This is something both Blaze than Jason share: they are not gay, they are not straight, they are not even bisexual, at least if you consider bisexual being with both gender at the same time; they are basically monogamous, but they don’t consider important the gender of their partner. It’s the one they fall in love that define the relationship, if it’s a man, they are gay, if it’s a woman, they are straight. And as in any relationship, they maybe have fantasies for someone else, and so, it’s not strange that, while having a relationship with Jason, Blaze fantasizes to have sex with a beautiful woman, the important thing is that it remains a fantasy.

The Replacement Guitarist is young and fresh, I’m sure it will be a favourite among the young crowd, but even I, that has a right eye from pretty men, appreciated it.

http://www.amazon.com/dp/1615812199/?... ...more

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Dec 08, 2013 Sandra rated it it was ok

Shelves: m-m, contemporary-romance, giveaway, sexy-rockers

1.5 stars This just didn't work for me, and unfortunately it was the writing. From the beginning it was that sappy, unexplained kind of insta-love. Then two completely stupid miscommunications where literally all Blaze had to do was say, "no" but he "froze" so a shitstorm ensues. (view spoiler) ...more

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Mar 22, 2010 R.J. rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Recommends it for: Readers of MM romance

Blaze Shinozuka, a hot talent who auditions as a replacement guitarist for world famous pop star Cassie, is thrilled when he draws the attention of celebrity manager Jason Stockton—and not only because it could make his career. His instant attraction to Jason sends his world careening off its axis and drives him to make a move. But Jason reacts by trying to put distance between them, and Blaze finds himself thrust into the gritty world of rock 'n' roll while falling for a man he shouldn’t touch, Blaze Shinozuka, a hot talent who auditions as a replacement guitarist for world famous pop star Cassie, is thrilled when he draws the attention of celebrity manager Jason Stockton—and not only because it could make his career. His instant attraction to Jason sends his world careening off its axis and drives him to make a move. But Jason reacts by trying to put distance between them, and Blaze finds himself thrust into the gritty world of rock 'n' roll while falling for a man he shouldn’t touch, let alone love.

Straight-laced Jason Stockton is always professional and never dips his pen in the company ink. But there's something about Blaze that leaves him wanting what he shouldn't, and the guitarist’s exotic beauty and compelling innocence turn out to be the temptation Jason can’t resist. But just one lie in the national media sets off a chain of events that pushes Jason and Blaze apart. Can they find a way to be together in the cutthroat, jealous world of rock 'n' roll even after the music stops?

http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/stor...

~~~**~~~

From the first moment that Jason sets eyes on Blaze it is really lust at first sight, the reader is instantly given vivid images of what they look like, of the spark of attraction and what it is they feel they want from each other. Blaze's innocence was really well captured, especially in his own internal musings. Jason is a cleverly drawn character, agent to a famous singer, and is shot through with a stubborn determination for Blaze to see himself as a beautiful and sexy man. The family details for Blaze serves to show him as a strong character and in particular his gran and his brother who form his stability.

The sex scene are incredibly hot, very detailed and passionate... and the scene with the shirt... GUH... and the shower.... GUH... and the...

There are implications throughout of back history that can be explored and more details to be written out in Jason and Blaze's story and I am excited to get to read it. This book was complete in itself, but to see these characters again, to read more of their lives... well i can't wait for the sequel... ...more

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Jun 29, 2013 Crystal Marie rated it really liked it · review of another edition

4.5 Stars!
Oh where to start on this book, I completely enjoyed the story on many levels. The main characters, Blaze and Jason, were just completely perfect in my opinion. The plot line of the story was really thought out in my opinion. There was the right balance between drama, suspense and romance in the book that keeps you turning the pages.
I am a complete sucker for books that the characters actually face “real life” problems, no matter who they are. And in this book, Blaze and ...more

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Aug 09, 2010 Kele Moon rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: rock-and-roll, m-m

This is a book I read a while ago, but it’s stayed with me. I love books that capture the essences of rock and roll. I like seeing the behind the scenes, the real people when the lights go off and this book captured that for me in spades.

Neither Jason, no Blaze are the rock star of this book. They are part of the finely oiled big rock star machine, Jason being Cassie’s (the diva of the story) manager and Blaze being her guitarist. And there is something to be said for reading a story that isn’t ...more

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Apr 15, 2010 Lily rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: ebook, m-m, what-i-read-in-2010

I enjoyed this story about a young man just starting out in a rock and roll band and the unexpected but undeniable feelings he has for the band's manager. Both characters are interesting and the chemistry between them is nicely done. I liked the contrast of the businessman in his stylish suits and the laid back rocker. Nicely written, likable characters, loads of sexual tension all add up to an entertaining read.

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Aug 22, 2010 R.J. rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

I adore Jason and Blaze... their story is so cleverly paced and so very hot. I can't wait for the sequel

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Jan 15, 2010 Saritza rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: romance-contemporary, my-clients

First-time-author, Lori Toland's breakout novel, Replacement Guitarist, scheduled for release on February 1 from Dreamspinner Press. I didn't think it would be easy to review a book I'd seen grow from the very first manuscript through it's approval process. But it was so wonderful fall into the Jason-and-Blaze world that I kept forgetting to make notes to myself for this review. I just basked in their afterglow and well... see for yourself.

Summary: Blaze Shinozuka, a hot talent who auditions as a replacement g/>

First-time-author, Lori Toland's breakout novel, Replacement Guitarist, scheduled for release on February 1 from Dreamspinner Press. I didn't think it would be easy to review a book I'd seen grow from the very first manuscript through it's approval process. But it was so wonderful fall into the Jason-and-Blaze world that I kept forgetting to make notes to myself for this review. I just basked in their afterglow and well... see for yourself.

Summary: Blaze Shinozuka, a hot talent who auditions as a replacement guitarist for world famous pop star Cassie, is thrilled when he draws the attention of celebrity manager Jason Stockton—and not only because it could make his career. His instant attraction to Jason sends his world careening off its axis and drives him to make a move. But Jason reacts by trying to put distance between them, and Blaze finds himself thrust into the gritty world of rock 'n' roll while falling for a man he shouldn’t touch, let alone love.

Straight-laced Jason Stockton is always professional and never dips his pen in the company ink. But there's something about Blaze that leaves him wanting what he shouldn't, and the guitarist’s exotic beauty and compelling innocence turn out to be the temptation Jason can’t resist. But just one lie in the national media sets off a chain of events that pushes Jason and Blaze apart. Can they find a way to be together in the cutthroat, jealous world of rock 'n' roll even after the music stops?

What I liked about this book: It's a rock-n-roller's life and yet... it's not out of reach! I like that even though much of the celebrity aspects of being on tour with a famous singer are in the periphery of the story, the main focus is on Blaze and Jason.

The instant Blaze sets foot in Jason's office, it's instant attraction and a whirlwind courtship begins. While this is not uncommon in romance, what I love about these characters are the quirky things that make them real to the reader. I love Blaze! I really do! He's young and headstrong with a good head on his shoulders and a penchant for life that's invigorating while still being rather naive about a few things. It doesn't hurt that he's a hot, Hawaiian-born Japanese rockstar! The manga lover in me had hearts in her eyes the minute he set foot in my head. :D

Excerpt:JASON tried not to smile. Blaze looked adorable as he hemmed and hawed over his words, developing a posture to hide his desire for someone, something Jason hadn't used since he was a teenager. Jason licked his lips, his mouth going dry.

He was sure Blaze would say something as he stood there looking at the floor, but instead, he looked up, his pupils dilated, the need so clearly written on his face as words seemed to escape him. Jason felt himself moving. Blaze was as well, and they collided in the middle.

Their lips met, and the guitarist tasted sweet like apples, his lips moist as Jason sucked on Blaze's full bottom lip. Jason dragged his teeth across it enticingly, and Blaze moaned, opening his mouth. Jason pounced on the opportunity to slide his tongue inside the other man's mouth.

It was his turn to moan as their tongues met, sliding against each other. Jason couldn't believe how good this felt, how passionately the other man was kissing him. His arms left Blaze's shoulders and went to his hips, pulling their bodies flush against each other.

Jason groaned loudly as their cocks touched through their pants and slid against each other. Passion flooded him, and it took a while for the waves of desire crashing within him to ebb. It slowly dawned on him that Blaze's body had stiffened. He pulled away briefly and realized as he looked into those gorgeous eyes that Blaze was shocked and looking uncomfortable.

BLAZE looked up at the manager to see need plainly written on his face. He'd thought about seeing it as he was in his hotel bed last night, his cock hard as a rock as it begged for relief. He had jerked off once when he got to the room and again this morning in the shower, both times while he thought of the other man sucking him off and Blaze returning the favor.

He was so hard now that it was painful. The ache in his groin was slowly eating away at his good sense. Blaze knew he had to walk away from this. They worked together, and he tried to tell himself again that if it went sour, things could get really bad, really fast. And it wouldn't be Jason leaving, it would be the new guitarist, and that reputation would no doubt follow him everywhere.

Blaze wanted Jason so much he could nearly taste the desire. Even though Jason's lips weren't on him, he could still feel the pressure of the manager's mouth against his. He must have hesitated too long, because he felt Jason step away, and he made a split-second decision. He closed his eyes and tilted his face up. He was offering himself, hoping beyond hope he would be accepted, pushing aside his fear of rejection.

The other man lips were tentative on his own, slightly gentler than before. Blaze felt a surge of excitement mixed with surprise. He was sure Jason would take him hard and fast, bending him over the desk and fucking him senseless. He seemed like a person who took what he wanted without regard, but instead, his touch was gentle. His fingers were warm and soft as they touched his cheek. They were so different from his own, which were thick and callused from the strings of his guitar.

Those fingers were trailing along his jaw, stroking gently as they moved to the back of his neck. Blaze sighed against his lips, opening his mouth when he felt Jason's tongue probing again. He heard a groan, and he realized it wasn't his own, but Jason's.

A hand on Blaze's hip, making its way to his zipper, shocked him into facing what Jason was doing. The older man was trailing his knuckles along his bulge, and Blaze felt his cheeks begin to burn. He was scared of Jason seeing his desire for him. There would be no turning back from this moment.

When Blaze didn't protest, Jason pulled down his zipper and deftly unsnapped his jeans. Blaze thrust his hips against the older man's hand, a moan flowing from him into Jason's mouth. The kiss was broken, and the older man looked down, fumbling with the waistband on Blaze's briefs. Then Jason's hand engulfed him, and Blaze let out a strangled cry.

...more

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Sep 21, 2013 Sophia rated it really liked it

Shelves: review-requests, contemporary-romance

Between my enjoyment of this author's stories and a fascination for the backdrop of this one, I was eager to read this story. As can sometimes happen, the book produced even better and more than I was even anticipating. It offered a good story for sure, but the two main characters quickly became favorites. I closed the last page and marched off to discover to my relief that this is the first book in a series and there is more.

Beginning at the point where Blaze joins a famous rock sta Between my enjoyment of this author's stories and a fascination for the backdrop of this one, I was eager to read this story. As can sometimes happen, the book produced even better and more than I was even anticipating. It offered a good story for sure, but the two main characters quickly became favorites. I closed the last page and marched off to discover to my relief that this is the first book in a series and there is more.

Beginning at the point where Blaze joins a famous rock star's tour group to audition for the part of guitarist in the band, Blaze meets Jason Stockton and the near instant heat between the two of them is incredible. Blaze gets the job and he also starts something with the new manager, Jason. It's tentative because Blaze is a virgin and just beginning his first real love affair and Jason is protective of his heart after growing up in the business.

As they venture into a relationship, things are not simple nor easy. They both have moments when something happens to challenge their trust and hurt them deeply. Blaze is determined to come out to his family because he is certain that what he as found is real. Then there is just the grueling schedule of being much apart and trying to have something together. Finally, they need to discover if their relationship can survive very public exposure and maybe censure.

The story ended up having a different feel to me than what I anticipated when I read the blurb. In many ways it felt like a coming of age journey story when it came to Blaze. Both men narrated the story, but Blaze was the focal point. He is a very talented and sweet young man who has a dream when he comes to Jason for an audition. Jason is the jaded son from a famous acting family who struggles to put himself out there and trust. The book follows the beginnings of their relationship. Even as I neared the end of the story and saw them resolve so many things as they went along, I could tell that the journey for them together is just beginning. It's neat being along for this interesting story that still has more to it.

The pace of the story is gentle with occasional spikes when there were attacks on their relationship. My only niggle about the story was that I couldn't really figure out what Cassie's (the rockstar who tried to break them up a few times) thing was. Jason kept saying she wasn't really a cruel person, but her track record in this book proved him wrong. I couldn't figure out if it was jealousy, wanting someone else to be miserable because she was or if she was just the type who pulls wings off butterflies for the heck of it. This didn't really ruin the story; it just had me extremely curious. Speaking of curiosity, I really want to get Jason's backstory. There are huge clues that he didn't have it so good before and his stuff from the past is still getting to him even in the present- maybe enough to interfere with what he's got with Blaze.

As I said before, I found Jason and Blaze just mucho caliente together. These two got it on early and often, but things do deepen into the relationship stage which didn't slow them down one bit. Each time something would happen to upset things, I was hurting for them because I was so vested. It was so adorable to see Blaze turn the cynical Jason into a softy who just couldn't get enough of Blaze's goodness.

All in all, it was a fabulous read that those who enjoy passion-filled M/M Contemporary Romance set against the rock entertainment world should give a try. ...more

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Jul 30, 2013 Pixie Mmgoodbookreviews rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: contemporary, music

3 1/2 - 4 Hearts

Review written for MM Good Book Reviews

Blaze is a great guitarist who is being given his shot to audition as the replacement guitarist for a pop singers band, but his first meeting with her manager, Jason, sets him ablaze with lust. His attraction to Jason throws him off balance, but he doesn’t let that stop him from pursuing the only man he has ever been attracted to. Jason has a very strong rule of not mixing business with pleasure, but the sexy new guitarist Blaz 3 1/2 - 4 Hearts

Review written for MM Good Book Reviews

Blaze is a great guitarist who is being given his shot to audition as the replacement guitarist for a pop singers band, but his first meeting with her manager, Jason, sets him ablaze with lust. His attraction to Jason throws him off balance, but he doesn’t let that stop him from pursuing the only man he has ever been attracted to. Jason has a very strong rule of not mixing business with pleasure, but the sexy new guitarist Blaze has him breaking his own rules, Blaze’s innocence and naivety has Jason panting for more. But, Jason’s pop starlet client is making waves for the two men trying to force them apart. Can the two men survive the cutthroat music business and family disapproval to love each other?

This is a pretty sweet story of two men discovering love in the jealous world of the music industry. This story starts off with the instant attraction between Blaze and Jason, an attraction that surprises Blaze and has Jason on his toes. Blaze has become slightly estranged from his family because of his college and career choices but he hopes that his success will have his parents changing their minds, but when Blaze falls for another man he knows his parents would never accept it. Jason has always known that he is bisexual but he never mixes business with pleasure, but Blaze is a temptation that he can’t resist.

I did enjoy this story, but I must admit that there wasn’t as much on page interaction between Blaze and Jason just being them without sex or drama as I would have liked. A lot of what we see is when they are both working or between rehearsals, there isn’t much of them together in their downtime just relaxing and getting to know each other. Their relationship moves very quickly and there are doubts and angst being thrown their way because of a jealous pop star, who just seems to love causing trouble. The connection between Blaze and Jason is blazing with lust and boy are they hot together.

Blaze’s relationship with his parents is a strained one and it is interesting to see how Blaze tries to handle them and their constant disapproval, I did expect Blaze to be more affected by their disapproval at the end though it had to have been really hard to have them react that badly to his coming out. The situation where Jason offers Blaze a threesome was a little out of the left field, they had both declared their love and he was offering up a woman for their enjoyment when Blaze had never been with anyone but Jason, it was just a bit hard to believe. Jason and Blaze are a great couple when they get over the jealous mechanics of Cassie, they are really hot together and set fire to the pages.

I recommend this to those who love: love in the music industry, family angst, petty dealings, hot sex, an interesting start to a relationship and a great start to a life together.
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Dec 16, 2014 Deepestsea rated it did not like it

This book is beyond bad. There is absolutely no plot whatsoever and absolutely no character development. Mainly based on the fact that the book is so terribly written. You know nothing about the characters. This author not even know how to put a conversation together between the MCs. There is only narrating what they do, what they think, etc. the dialogue between the two men is reduced to one line dialogues " I want to suck you or I want to have you" thus their love story simply feels ridiculous This book is beyond bad. There is absolutely no plot whatsoever and absolutely no character development. Mainly based on the fact that the book is so terribly written. You know nothing about the characters. This author not even know how to put a conversation together between the MCs. There is only narrating what they do, what they think, etc. the dialogue between the two men is reduced to one line dialogues " I want to suck you or I want to have you" thus their love story simply feels ridiculous as there is no basis for feelings to grow. The only thing this author offers is badly told sex scenes. They felt forced, repetitive and even boring. Since there is no real story behind she just decided to fill the spaces with sex. I like to read about sex but has to be enbebbed in a story.
Ths book being about a rock star? OH PLEASE GIVE ME A BREAK! There is no mention whatsoever of the music world in this book, apart the one of the MC has a guitar. I enjoy romance involving rock star and that's the reason why I bought this book. Well, what a major disappointment! This book captures nothing of the rock and roll essence. There is no mention of what happens in the gigs, how he plays, what he and others feel while he is plays. Nothing, nothing at all. Not even in his audition which was the key scene of the book. It's actually almost insulting that the author tries to misslead the readers with her attempt of giving this book a musical background.
Another absolute turn off is calling the characters throughtbthe WHOLE book as "the older man" and the "younger man". Jesus woman! If you decide to go for cheap porn can you at least call your characters in a more enticing way?

The book does not have a conclusive ending. Not even for a series. WHICH IS BEYOND ME WHY A STORY WITHOUT A PLOT SHOULD BE SPLIT INTO SEVERAL BOOKS! I mean, except for the obvious reasons. To cash out!. The epilogue is just beyond stupid. It's like the author got bored and simply stopped writing.
I am giving this book one star but it's just because is impossible to give none. This book is so badly written. It's almost insulting to expect people to pay for it. I love the Indie scene but that's the dark side of it. Anyone think they can become an author and put a book out.
It is absolutely impossible for me to believe that behind the 5* reviews are real people. I can take this is the author itself and her relatives.
I wouldn't recommend this book to anyone. Maybe if you are this kind of people who get off on plot-less books full of badly written sex. But hey, I think even then you would be better off with watching porn ...more

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Jan 07, 2012 Alex rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Does anyone else feel the need to edit reviews after rereading?? I figure if you can reread it a few times and still like it that's a good sign. I really enjoy rereading this book. Its a really good intro into the relationship between the two characters. The book is essentially about the formation of a relationship between Blaze and Jason. They meet, hit it off, have a couple of misunderstandings, resolve the misunderstandings, and settle to really start the relationship and all that entails- wo ...more

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Oct 08, 2013 Cynthia rated it really liked it

Shelves: reviewed

To read my full review, please visit http://onsilverwingz.blogspot.com/201...

I love the unique setting of the book that shows more of the back stage scenes of the music world. Blaze, the up-and-coming guitarist, lands a job with a tour band of a platinum recording artist and also, the celebrity manager, Jason. Midst his success, he combats media lies, disappointed parents, and family troubles while trying to keep his relationship with Jason afloat.

Blaze, the new guitarist with an amazing talent and passion for the guitar, is ...more

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Sep 05, 2013 Lisa The Novel Approach rated it really liked it

Shelves: contemporary

3.5 Stars

This is one book that has left me torn. I absolutely love the premise of this book. I am totally in love with Blaze, but I wish I knew Jason better. I don’t know if this was intentional on the author’s part, but Jason kept pretty quiet about his past. I hope that Jason shares more about himself and his past in the next book because I am completely rooting for these two men.

The author did leave plenty of room for more stories. I am very interested to see if Cassie ...more

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Nov 19, 2013 Marinieves rated it it was amazing

This is my first book by this author. I really enjoyed the story and most of all Blaze and Jason's relationship. Blaze is mesmerized by Jason the first time they see each other. Jason is the manager for the recording artist Blaze auditioned for. The way the beginning of the relationship starts is confusing to them and more to Blaze because He has never been in one. Jason is good for him ... They fall in love ... Blaze's family is not that open and it is difficult. I will like to see in the next ...more

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Feb 24, 2010 Neka Marie rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

I loved this book. The relationship between Jason and Blaze is electric and the tension jumps off the page whenever the two of them are together. Plus, the contrast of straight laced Jason, polished and perfect in his expensive business suits compared to rock and roll Blaze a casual, laid back (and totally sexy) Hawaiian guy made the book so much fun. Dialogue is great, characters are great and the intimate look at rock and roll behind the scenes made this book a page turner from start to finish ...more

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Jun 14, 2015 Eve rated it liked it

Shelves: mm-music-band

This story was good. The writing is what turned me off. It bothered me a little to keep reading, "older man", "younger man". I liked the heat between Blaze and Jason but the writing made some of the situations seem a bit too unreal for my liking.

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Oct 15, 2010 Pia Veleno rated it liked it · review of another edition

A cute but shy guitarist, a cautious but sexy businessman, and a prissy, brat of a superstar singer make for some interesting ups and downs in this story as Blaze learns the ropes of being on tour with the band for superstar Cassie while falling in love with her manager.

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Jun 16, 2012 Jess Candela rated it did not like it · review of another edition

Shelves: m-m, dnf, read-in-2011

I really wanted to like this book, but it basically seemed to be one sex scene after another, barely strung together with something that might almost have resembled plot.

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