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Rebound Remedy
A Love for the Holidays charity novel The last thing Cole expects to get for the holidays is dumped. But there he is, in the airport on his way to Banff for a romantic getaway, helplessly watching as his boyfriend’s ex declares undying love, proposes—and is accepted. With a few weeks to go until Christmas, Cole’s mood dives from jolly to jaded. But instead of sitting at home alone and feeling sorry for himself, he goes to his favorite bar, McGregor’s, for a pint and some company. The moment Owen McGregor sets eyes on Cole, he knows there’s something wrong. So he takes it upon himself to ensure that Cole has a happy twelve outings for the twelve days before Christmas. Even if he can’t quite think up twelve activities that don’t involve getting the forlorn hunk into his bed. With each outing they take together, Cole realizes that the love he thought he’d shared with his ex was less than perfect. And that Owen might prove to be more than just his rebound remedy. Word 40,400; page 155 * * * * * * * Twenty percent of the publisher proceeds from this title will be donated to the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender (GLBT) National Help Center. Founded in 1996, the GLBT National Help Center is a non-profit organization that provides vital peer-support, community connections and resource information to people with questions regarding sexual orientation and/or gender identity. Utilizing a diverse group of GLBT volunteers, they operate two national hotlines, the GLBT National Hotline and the GLBT National Youth Talkline, as well as private, volunteer one-to-one online chat, that help both youth and adults with coming-out issues, safer-sex information, school bullying, family concerns, relationship problems and a lot more. To learn more about this charity or to donate directly, please visit their website at glbthotline.org.
155 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 9, 2015
12 people are currently reading
309 people want to read
About the author
Christine d'Abo
65 books586 followersA romance novelist and short story writer, Christine has over forty publications to her name. She loves to exercise and stops writing just long enough to keep her body in motion too. When she’s not pretending to be a ninja in her basement, she’s most likely spending time with her family and two dogs.
My thoughts on any of my Goodreads reviews are only my opinion as a reader. I don't post anything here that I'd give less than three stars to.
My thoughts on any of my Goodreads reviews are only my opinion as a reader. I don't post anything here that I'd give less than three stars to.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 135 reviews
May 25, 2017
4 Fun Feel Good Stars
"I hate to see you unhappy." Owen spoke the words softly, but they penetrated hard. "I've watched you many nights at the bar. You smile, but you've never seemed....right. Happy."-Owen
"While you've been coming into the bar for a while now, it's not like I know you. It's wrong and messed up that I want nothing more than to strip you naked and fuck you into next week."- Owen
Rebound Remedy by Christine d'Abo was a sweet, light hearted, and feel good read, about Cole and Owen finding love when they least expected it. Cole has been dump right before Christmas in an airport by his boyfriend of 6 months, Steven. Steven and Cole were getting ready to go on a trip for Christmas when, Steven's ex comes and proposes marriage to Steven, and Steven forgetting that Cole is even standing there, says yes. Poor Cole is heart broken. He goes to his favorite local bar to drown his sorrows. Owen the owner of the bar sees that Cole is sad and when he finds out that Cole as been dumped right before Christmas, he wants to cheer him up. But what starts out as a way to make someone feel better, turns into so much more.
"I don't care. I want to feel something other than this pain in my chest that doesn't want to go away. I'm tired of closing my eyes and seeing steven at the airport, the look on his face as.....I just need something tangible. You are very tangible." -Cole
"No, you don't. Because in ten minutes I'm going to have you stripped naked and your cock down my throat so far I'll gag. Then if you're lucky, I'll fuck you senseless."- Owen
Owen was sexy as hell. He was a great guy with a good heart. He was playful, sweet, with a bit of a wicked, mischievous side. Owen was a fixer and a care taker. He quit his job to run his family bar because his dad had a stroke. I loved Owen. I loved Cole too. Cole was more serious, and straight laced. Cole is very caring. He got taken advantage of in his relationship with Steven, because he is always trying to take care of others needs. Cole was a very open man and wore his heart on his sleeve.
"You have the perfect cock. Thick the way I like it. It would take you a while to get me ready to take you. When I was ready, you'd stretch my ass so wide. I'd feel you for days later."- Cole
"Up to this point, my sex life has been pretty vanilla." "We'll have to expand your horizons." The grin
Owen gave him was positively satanic. "God, help me."-Cole and Owen
Cole and Owen had a sweet relationship, and some hot chemistry. They weren't just lovers they had a friendship too. I wish this book would have been longer. I would have liked to had more time with them as a couple and I felt like the ending was rushed. It's been a while since I read a good M/M and I really enjoy this one. Rebound Remedy was a quick, fun, light hearted, low drama read that I would recommend to anyone who likes M/M.
"That's subtle." Cole chuckled. "I take it they assume I'm not leaving tonight." "You've just declared your undying love for me and kissed the back of my hand." Owen stood and pulled Cole to his feet. "You don't understand what you've unleashed." "Hey now, I don't think I said 'undying love.'" "No, no, you totally did."-Cole and Owen
On a little side note, I just want to say to all authors not just this one Please stop using the word "puckered" when describing the asshole it makes me giggle like a child! Just sayin!
http://jessicasoverthetopbookobsessio...
"I hate to see you unhappy." Owen spoke the words softly, but they penetrated hard. "I've watched you many nights at the bar. You smile, but you've never seemed....right. Happy."-Owen
"While you've been coming into the bar for a while now, it's not like I know you. It's wrong and messed up that I want nothing more than to strip you naked and fuck you into next week."- Owen
Rebound Remedy by Christine d'Abo was a sweet, light hearted, and feel good read, about Cole and Owen finding love when they least expected it. Cole has been dump right before Christmas in an airport by his boyfriend of 6 months, Steven. Steven and Cole were getting ready to go on a trip for Christmas when, Steven's ex comes and proposes marriage to Steven, and Steven forgetting that Cole is even standing there, says yes. Poor Cole is heart broken. He goes to his favorite local bar to drown his sorrows. Owen the owner of the bar sees that Cole is sad and when he finds out that Cole as been dumped right before Christmas, he wants to cheer him up. But what starts out as a way to make someone feel better, turns into so much more.
"I don't care. I want to feel something other than this pain in my chest that doesn't want to go away. I'm tired of closing my eyes and seeing steven at the airport, the look on his face as.....I just need something tangible. You are very tangible." -Cole
"No, you don't. Because in ten minutes I'm going to have you stripped naked and your cock down my throat so far I'll gag. Then if you're lucky, I'll fuck you senseless."- Owen
Owen was sexy as hell. He was a great guy with a good heart. He was playful, sweet, with a bit of a wicked, mischievous side. Owen was a fixer and a care taker. He quit his job to run his family bar because his dad had a stroke. I loved Owen. I loved Cole too. Cole was more serious, and straight laced. Cole is very caring. He got taken advantage of in his relationship with Steven, because he is always trying to take care of others needs. Cole was a very open man and wore his heart on his sleeve.
"You have the perfect cock. Thick the way I like it. It would take you a while to get me ready to take you. When I was ready, you'd stretch my ass so wide. I'd feel you for days later."- Cole
"Up to this point, my sex life has been pretty vanilla." "We'll have to expand your horizons." The grin
Owen gave him was positively satanic. "God, help me."-Cole and Owen
Cole and Owen had a sweet relationship, and some hot chemistry. They weren't just lovers they had a friendship too. I wish this book would have been longer. I would have liked to had more time with them as a couple and I felt like the ending was rushed. It's been a while since I read a good M/M and I really enjoy this one. Rebound Remedy was a quick, fun, light hearted, low drama read that I would recommend to anyone who likes M/M.
"That's subtle." Cole chuckled. "I take it they assume I'm not leaving tonight." "You've just declared your undying love for me and kissed the back of my hand." Owen stood and pulled Cole to his feet. "You don't understand what you've unleashed." "Hey now, I don't think I said 'undying love.'" "No, no, you totally did."-Cole and Owen
On a little side note, I just want to say to all authors not just this one Please stop using the word "puckered" when describing the asshole it makes me giggle like a child! Just sayin!
http://jessicasoverthetopbookobsessio...
October 9, 2015
Sweet, easy, and low angst, this was a nice holiday read.
Cole and Owen were a good couple, and for most of the story, their romance was slow-burn. There was a lot of getting to know you kind of dates/hangouts, and I enjoyed seeing these two men develop something organically. I think the heat factor was a little lacking, but I'm a pervy girl, so don't go by me.
I think the strengths of this book lie in the details. If you are into cold-weather, atmospheric holiday books, this will fit the bill. I've never been to Toronto, but I feel like I got a sense of the city thanks to this story. The author did a nice job in setting the stage.
My pet peeves about this book have a lot to do with a lack of communication. I HATE communication failures, and even though this book is pretty low in the angst department, I wish these guys just said what they were thinking more often. I also wish the romance didn't feel as rushed towards the end. However, I'm willing to overlook a lot of small issues because this book gave me a happy, squishy feeling inside and some of the profits go to a great cause.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
Twenty percent of the proceeds from this title will be donated to the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender (GLBT) National Help Center.
Founded in 1996, the GLBT National Help Center is a non-profit organization that provides vital peer-support, community connections and resource information to people with questions regarding sexual orientation and/or gender identity. Utilizing a diverse group of GLBT volunteers, they operate two national hotlines, the GLBT National Hotline and the GLBT National Youth Talkline, as well as private, volunteer one-to-one online chat, that help both youth and adults with coming-out issues, safer-sex information, school bullying, family concerns, relationship problems and a lot more.
To learn more about this charity or to donate directly, please visit their website: http://www.glbthotline.org/
Cole and Owen were a good couple, and for most of the story, their romance was slow-burn. There was a lot of getting to know you kind of dates/hangouts, and I enjoyed seeing these two men develop something organically. I think the heat factor was a little lacking, but I'm a pervy girl, so don't go by me.
I think the strengths of this book lie in the details. If you are into cold-weather, atmospheric holiday books, this will fit the bill. I've never been to Toronto, but I feel like I got a sense of the city thanks to this story. The author did a nice job in setting the stage.
My pet peeves about this book have a lot to do with a lack of communication. I HATE communication failures, and even though this book is pretty low in the angst department, I wish these guys just said what they were thinking more often. I also wish the romance didn't feel as rushed towards the end. However, I'm willing to overlook a lot of small issues because this book gave me a happy, squishy feeling inside and some of the profits go to a great cause.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
Twenty percent of the proceeds from this title will be donated to the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender (GLBT) National Help Center.
Founded in 1996, the GLBT National Help Center is a non-profit organization that provides vital peer-support, community connections and resource information to people with questions regarding sexual orientation and/or gender identity. Utilizing a diverse group of GLBT volunteers, they operate two national hotlines, the GLBT National Hotline and the GLBT National Youth Talkline, as well as private, volunteer one-to-one online chat, that help both youth and adults with coming-out issues, safer-sex information, school bullying, family concerns, relationship problems and a lot more.
To learn more about this charity or to donate directly, please visit their website: http://www.glbthotline.org/
October 13, 2015
1.5 stars
Urgh.
If I was the type of reader to DNF books, this one would’ve been in the can early on. But since I’m not, I suffered through the entire thing and was annoyed by the end. I will try to restrain myself from being too ranty in this review. I want to at least like all holiday books I read. And I want to never dislike anything for charity.
But…
This story was…rough. To get through.
Cole is dumped. And then goes through a crisis about how he’s always the rebound guy. Only to walk into a bar and fall for the bartender, Owen. Despite him being the rebound guy. Or not. Who knows.
Here’s where this story failed:
First of all, you would think Cole & Owen were both 15 years old. Their dicks got hard every single page (ok, exaggeration, but close). Cole popped a woody the DAY he got dumped and walked into the bar…solely by a LOOK from the bartender. Ummm… But that’s not it! Cole and Owen were sportin’ chub by smells, sounds, looks…and a speck of dust blowing in the wind (ok, exaggeration, but close). I started highlighting every time they got a boner…but my kindle rain out of juice (ok, exaggeration, but close).
Secondly, all the ruminating inside their heads. (you can’t see me, but I’m rolling my eyes). So much thinking and contemplating and “I never do this…”, “I’ve never tried that…”, “I don’t usually feel this…”, “I don’t usually want that…” You’d think each of them was a white-as-snow virgin and this was their first ride at the rodeo. I just wanted out of their heads…I was begging, “Please, let me out!”
And really, the most forgivable irritation, though still a bit ridiculous…Cole and Owen FALL IN LOVE in two weeks time…counter starting at exactly the same day he gets dumped. Ugh. I mean, I guess there have been books that have moved as fast or faster that I’ve read and overlooked. BUT…in combination with the rest, I just…couldn’t.
This story did NOT work for me…at all. (ok, not an exaggeration, not even close)
November 12, 2019
This was kind of bland. I wasn't all that invested in the characters and the story felt pretty generic to me. I'm not opposed to insta-everything, but it didn't work for me here at all.
I don't think I would have finished it if it hadn't been for the audiobook. Nick J. Russo's narration was very enjoyable.
I don't think I would have finished it if it hadn't been for the audiobook. Nick J. Russo's narration was very enjoyable.
December 3, 2015
3.5 stars
Rebound Remedy is the story of down-on-his-luck Cole, who has just witnessed his boyfriend being swept off his feet by an ex-boyfriend in a grand gesture of love and romance. And its almost Christmas. Cole is now in a terrible mood and feeling sorry for himself and shuts out his friends and family.
Enter beautiful restaurant owner/bartender straight Owen, who sees Cole as his Christmas project and makes it his personal mission to get Cole out of his doldrums. Cole agrees to 12 outings with Owen in an effort to lighten his spirit and allow him to enjoy his holiday.
In the process of these outings, the men get to know each other better and, of course, fall in love.
This was a lovely, low angst story of one man's goodwill to another mixed in with some great sexual tension and a warm and fuzzy conclusion. A perfect holiday read!
Recommended!
Twenty percent of the proceeds from this title will be donated to the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender (GLBT) National Help Center.
Founded in 1996, the GLBT National Help Center is a non-profit organization that provides vital peer-support, community connections and resource information to people with questions regarding sexual orientation and/or gender identity. Utilizing a diverse group of GLBT volunteers, they operate two national hotlines, the GLBT National Hotline and the GLBT National Youth Talkline, as well as private, volunteer one-to-one online chat, that help both youth and adults with coming-out issues, safer-sex information, school bullying, family concerns, relationship problems and a lot more.
To learn more about this charity or to donate directly, please visit their website: http://www.glbthotline.org/
Advanced review copy of Rebound Remedy provided by Riptide Publishing via Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
Rebound Remedy is the story of down-on-his-luck Cole, who has just witnessed his boyfriend being swept off his feet by an ex-boyfriend in a grand gesture of love and romance. And its almost Christmas. Cole is now in a terrible mood and feeling sorry for himself and shuts out his friends and family.
Enter beautiful restaurant owner/bartender straight Owen, who sees Cole as his Christmas project and makes it his personal mission to get Cole out of his doldrums. Cole agrees to 12 outings with Owen in an effort to lighten his spirit and allow him to enjoy his holiday.
In the process of these outings, the men get to know each other better and, of course, fall in love.
This was a lovely, low angst story of one man's goodwill to another mixed in with some great sexual tension and a warm and fuzzy conclusion. A perfect holiday read!
Recommended!
Twenty percent of the proceeds from this title will be donated to the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender (GLBT) National Help Center.
Founded in 1996, the GLBT National Help Center is a non-profit organization that provides vital peer-support, community connections and resource information to people with questions regarding sexual orientation and/or gender identity. Utilizing a diverse group of GLBT volunteers, they operate two national hotlines, the GLBT National Hotline and the GLBT National Youth Talkline, as well as private, volunteer one-to-one online chat, that help both youth and adults with coming-out issues, safer-sex information, school bullying, family concerns, relationship problems and a lot more.
To learn more about this charity or to donate directly, please visit their website: http://www.glbthotline.org/
Advanced review copy of Rebound Remedy provided by Riptide Publishing via Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
September 13, 2015
~ Arc provided via Netgalley in exchange for honest review ~
This review is posted on Way Too Hot Books.
3-3.5 stars
To get dumped by your boyfriend and at the same time witness his ex proposing just a couple of days before Christmas while you are there, standing like a fool surrounded by strangers and trying to give him his early Christmas present would suck the holiday spirit out of me too. That's one of the main reasons I took an instant like and feeling of protectivness of one of our main characters- Cole.
When it comes to relationships he has had many bad experiences, but this last one outshone them all. There's only that much heartbreak a person can take and this time he's determined to give himself time to heal and never ever again recklessly rush into relationships and be the rebound guy. The only problem is the sexy bartender who keeps pushing at his defenses and makes him want things he just swore off.
Owen is a "fixer." He is the type of a person who wants to make sad and troubled people happy and help them fix their problems, especially good-hearted and kind people like Cole. No, he certainly does not notice how good-looking Cole is (yeah, right.) That's why he loves his job of a bartender which enables him to meet different type of people and listen to their life stories. Both of them don't want anything beyond friendship, but with a little help of Christmas cupid anything is possible!
The MCs were likable and the type of people you can relate to. The plot of the story takes place around Christmas, which will give you that warm holiday feeling. The romance was sweet and emotional with a couple of steamy scenes, but a bit rushed for my taste. The plot was to be honest pretty simple and short along with some rushed situations which are my main reasons for this rating, but these "issues" aside, I've enjoyed the story as a whole. It definitely made me yearn for Christmas!
I recommend it when you're in a mood for an easy read focused on sweet, drama-free, but hot contemporary mm romance. All in all my first read by Christine d'Abo was a winner for the most part.
This review is posted on Way Too Hot Books.
3-3.5 stars
"It had to be the rebound effect. Because, really, who fell in love with someone else that quickly?"
To get dumped by your boyfriend and at the same time witness his ex proposing just a couple of days before Christmas while you are there, standing like a fool surrounded by strangers and trying to give him his early Christmas present would suck the holiday spirit out of me too. That's one of the main reasons I took an instant like and feeling of protectivness of one of our main characters- Cole.
When it comes to relationships he has had many bad experiences, but this last one outshone them all. There's only that much heartbreak a person can take and this time he's determined to give himself time to heal and never ever again recklessly rush into relationships and be the rebound guy. The only problem is the sexy bartender who keeps pushing at his defenses and makes him want things he just swore off.
Owen is a "fixer." He is the type of a person who wants to make sad and troubled people happy and help them fix their problems, especially good-hearted and kind people like Cole. No, he certainly does not notice how good-looking Cole is (yeah, right.) That's why he loves his job of a bartender which enables him to meet different type of people and listen to their life stories. Both of them don't want anything beyond friendship, but with a little help of Christmas cupid anything is possible!
The MCs were likable and the type of people you can relate to. The plot of the story takes place around Christmas, which will give you that warm holiday feeling. The romance was sweet and emotional with a couple of steamy scenes, but a bit rushed for my taste. The plot was to be honest pretty simple and short along with some rushed situations which are my main reasons for this rating, but these "issues" aside, I've enjoyed the story as a whole. It definitely made me yearn for Christmas!
I recommend it when you're in a mood for an easy read focused on sweet, drama-free, but hot contemporary mm romance. All in all my first read by Christine d'Abo was a winner for the most part.
November 7, 2019
3.5 holiday stars rounded up to 4 because still no 1/2 stars here on GR and Owen's voice made me melty.
This one made me happy!
It's another win for the audible holiday stories.
Holidays are probably the worst time ever to have a relationship end and it's even worse when it happens because you're watching your boyfriend accept a marriage proposal from someone else while waiting to board the plane that's suppose to take you and said boyfriend away for a romantic holiday vacation to Banff. Honestly at this point could life suck any more than it does? Well yes, of course it could if everyone else standing around is cheering for this grand romantic gesture as you watch your heart shatter into a million pieces.
So, you've been dumped and it's the holidays...what's a guy to do? Go to your favorite neighborhood bar and have a few brews of course, damn straight I'd heading there, and tell your favorite bartender all about your woes especially when said bartender is handsome, attentive and willing to listen.
Owen pays attention to what goes on in his bar and he recognizes Cole as a regular. He thinks he's a nice guy who's always looking out for everyone else. He's seen the times that Cole's paid for other patron's tabs, put them in a cab and slipped the fare into their pockets, giving generous tips to the staff and always trying to stay under the radar with his kindness. But Owen's radar pinged a long time ago where Cole's concerned and he sees what Cole does for others. What didn't ping until hearing Cole's heartbreaking story was his gaydar but it's pinging now. It's just too bad that Cole's on the rebound and doesn't realize that Owen's bi, not that it would matter because along with his own plate full of problems Owen views Cole as being vulnerable and he's determined not to take advantage of Cole...he's just not going to be 'that guy'.
However, Owen's not surprised when Saturday night comes around and he finds Cole taking care of a drunk in the men's room. By the time they get said drunk wrestled into a cab to go home, Cole's managed to pick up a shiner and Owen's decided he's going to try and brighten up Cole's holidays with a plan to spend some time together as buddies getting to know each other and maybe making the holiday season a little bit better for themselves. It's just unfortunate that neither man realizes the attraction he holds for the other.
'Rebound Remedy' was a fun, light, holiday story with very little angst and yes a bit of poor communication between our MCs but it can happen to the best of couples. Overall I really enjoyed this story and I loved the ending that Cole got one last moment with his ex to give him some real closure and that Cole and Owen got the beginning of their own happy beginning and that I basically smiled from start to finish on this story because I really liked these two MCs together.
And the icing on the cake for me, ironically, was that I enjoyed this as an audiobook narrated by Nick J. Russo. This is my second audio book with this narrator and he has delivered on both of them for me, but especially this time around. I think I might have fallen a little in love with Owen...well, Owen's voice. I'm sure the other character's in this story were also well done but Owen...mmmmm...Owen kinda' melted me a little. I could listen to that voice all day.
I'm actually going to be in Toronto for the holidays and I have to admit if there was a McGregor's bar with an Owen tending bar I'd be going there for a cold one just to get Owen to talk to me. Cheers everyone and Happy Holidays!
********************
An audio ARC of 'Rebound Remedy' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This one made me happy!
It's another win for the audible holiday stories.
Holidays are probably the worst time ever to have a relationship end and it's even worse when it happens because you're watching your boyfriend accept a marriage proposal from someone else while waiting to board the plane that's suppose to take you and said boyfriend away for a romantic holiday vacation to Banff. Honestly at this point could life suck any more than it does? Well yes, of course it could if everyone else standing around is cheering for this grand romantic gesture as you watch your heart shatter into a million pieces.
So, you've been dumped and it's the holidays...what's a guy to do? Go to your favorite neighborhood bar and have a few brews of course, damn straight I'd heading there, and tell your favorite bartender all about your woes especially when said bartender is handsome, attentive and willing to listen.
Owen pays attention to what goes on in his bar and he recognizes Cole as a regular. He thinks he's a nice guy who's always looking out for everyone else. He's seen the times that Cole's paid for other patron's tabs, put them in a cab and slipped the fare into their pockets, giving generous tips to the staff and always trying to stay under the radar with his kindness. But Owen's radar pinged a long time ago where Cole's concerned and he sees what Cole does for others. What didn't ping until hearing Cole's heartbreaking story was his gaydar but it's pinging now. It's just too bad that Cole's on the rebound and doesn't realize that Owen's bi, not that it would matter because along with his own plate full of problems Owen views Cole as being vulnerable and he's determined not to take advantage of Cole...he's just not going to be 'that guy'.
However, Owen's not surprised when Saturday night comes around and he finds Cole taking care of a drunk in the men's room. By the time they get said drunk wrestled into a cab to go home, Cole's managed to pick up a shiner and Owen's decided he's going to try and brighten up Cole's holidays with a plan to spend some time together as buddies getting to know each other and maybe making the holiday season a little bit better for themselves. It's just unfortunate that neither man realizes the attraction he holds for the other.
'Rebound Remedy' was a fun, light, holiday story with very little angst and yes a bit of poor communication between our MCs but it can happen to the best of couples. Overall I really enjoyed this story and I loved the ending that Cole got one last moment with his ex to give him some real closure and that Cole and Owen got the beginning of their own happy beginning and that I basically smiled from start to finish on this story because I really liked these two MCs together.
And the icing on the cake for me, ironically, was that I enjoyed this as an audiobook narrated by Nick J. Russo. This is my second audio book with this narrator and he has delivered on both of them for me, but especially this time around. I think I might have fallen a little in love with Owen...well, Owen's voice. I'm sure the other character's in this story were also well done but Owen...mmmmm...Owen kinda' melted me a little. I could listen to that voice all day.
I'm actually going to be in Toronto for the holidays and I have to admit if there was a McGregor's bar with an Owen tending bar I'd be going there for a cold one just to get Owen to talk to me. Cheers everyone and Happy Holidays!
********************
An audio ARC of 'Rebound Remedy' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
September 4, 2015
Absolutely adorable! The good guy has finally had it! Cole is standing in an airport watching his boyfriend of six months being proposed to. The worst part of all is It’s nothing new. Oh and did I mention its almost Christmas?
Bartender Owen sees people drowning their miseries in booze all the time, but when he sees one of his regulars looking so unhappy, he takes it upon himself to try and remedy it.
What happens next is that two people really connect. Become friends and, albeit it unsure, combustible lovers. With the holiday’s fast approaching, Rebound Remedy is a sweet, adventurous and uplifting story of the good guy not finishing last for once.
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Bartender Owen sees people drowning their miseries in booze all the time, but when he sees one of his regulars looking so unhappy, he takes it upon himself to try and remedy it.
What happens next is that two people really connect. Become friends and, albeit it unsure, combustible lovers. With the holiday’s fast approaching, Rebound Remedy is a sweet, adventurous and uplifting story of the good guy not finishing last for once.
Follow us on
KT Book Reviews
September 23, 2021
Re-read September 2021
I first read this 5 years ago and I guess my tastes have changed. I got to 33% this time before I was bored out of my mind. ☹️
-------------------
Original review:
When Cole is dumped by his boyfriend of six months, right before Christmas, he feels sad and alone. He goes out to his regular bar to get a drink and strikes up a conversation with the bar owner, Owen.
When Owen sees one of his regulars feeling sad, he wants to cheer Cole up. He tells Cole they will do something fun together every day before Christmas.
Of course these fun events lead to something more, but both Cole and Owen don’t think it’s a good idea for Owen to be Cole’s rebound remedy.
This was a sweet, sexy and light read. The guys were great and it left me with all these warm fuzzy feelings.
I first read this 5 years ago and I guess my tastes have changed. I got to 33% this time before I was bored out of my mind. ☹️
-------------------
Original review:
When Cole is dumped by his boyfriend of six months, right before Christmas, he feels sad and alone. He goes out to his regular bar to get a drink and strikes up a conversation with the bar owner, Owen.
When Owen sees one of his regulars feeling sad, he wants to cheer Cole up. He tells Cole they will do something fun together every day before Christmas.
Of course these fun events lead to something more, but both Cole and Owen don’t think it’s a good idea for Owen to be Cole’s rebound remedy.
This was a sweet, sexy and light read. The guys were great and it left me with all these warm fuzzy feelings.
September 29, 2024
3.5 Stars
What happens when near strangers make a gentlemen’s agreement to have some fun with no strings attached? Plenty of goodness, that is.
It all starts with a terrible break up. Cole has certainly been unlucky in love, and when he goes to his local watering hole to drown his sorrows, he catches the eye of bar owner Owen, who notices immediately that something is amiss. Being the personable guy Owen is, he seizes the opportunity to cheer Cole up, but also to provide his own self some much needed distraction from his very busy, stressful life. It’s a win-win situation with no pressure and possibly, just maybe, some really great sex. Eyes wide open right?? Right.
These guys are of course pleasantly surprised to find that the other is really great company and that they get along in the best of ways. It doesn’t hurt that the attraction between them is off the charts. Surely it’s way too soon and the most inopportune time to fall for someone when one is on the rebound. No doubt that’s a recipe for disaster and heartache.
So yes, Cole and Owen grow closer, and the inevitable feelings develop despite a lot of personal worries. Thankfully very low on the angst, this had it all - a bit of fun, funny, and dirty, all wrapped up with a holiday vibe. Christmas is the perfect excuse to jump in and take a chance on love as miracles do happen. These two end up with their well deserved happy ending - just the way we like it.
What happens when near strangers make a gentlemen’s agreement to have some fun with no strings attached? Plenty of goodness, that is.
It all starts with a terrible break up. Cole has certainly been unlucky in love, and when he goes to his local watering hole to drown his sorrows, he catches the eye of bar owner Owen, who notices immediately that something is amiss. Being the personable guy Owen is, he seizes the opportunity to cheer Cole up, but also to provide his own self some much needed distraction from his very busy, stressful life. It’s a win-win situation with no pressure and possibly, just maybe, some really great sex. Eyes wide open right?? Right.
These guys are of course pleasantly surprised to find that the other is really great company and that they get along in the best of ways. It doesn’t hurt that the attraction between them is off the charts. Surely it’s way too soon and the most inopportune time to fall for someone when one is on the rebound. No doubt that’s a recipe for disaster and heartache.
So yes, Cole and Owen grow closer, and the inevitable feelings develop despite a lot of personal worries. Thankfully very low on the angst, this had it all - a bit of fun, funny, and dirty, all wrapped up with a holiday vibe. Christmas is the perfect excuse to jump in and take a chance on love as miracles do happen. These two end up with their well deserved happy ending - just the way we like it.
October 17, 2015
If there’s anyone out there more unlucky in romance than Cole Todd, I challenge you to find them.
When the story begins, Cole is standing in the middle of a crowded Toronto airport, watching a man he’s never met before declare his undying love and propose to his boyfriend. No, not the man’s boyfriend, Cole’s boyfriend. As in the man he’s currently in the process of whisking away to Banff for the most romantic Christmas vacation ever.
Ouch.
People are undoubtedly filming this real life movie moment on their iPhones and Cole’s heartbreak is about 3.5 seconds from going viral all over the internet.
Double ouch.
But instead of pitching a fit (or at least throwing a punch), Cole meekly gathers up his luggage and goes in search of a drink. He ends up at his friendly neighbourhood bar, commiserating with his friendly neighbourhood bartender, Owen – Owen, who just so happens to be sexy as fuck and the star of more than one or two of Cole’s recent jerk off fantasies. He’s also the nicest guy on the planet, though, so he offers to help keep Cole busy for the next few weeks so that he doesn’t have time to wallow in his breakup.
The setup for this novella is so cute its worthy of a Hallmark Channel holiday movie. Well, it would be if Hallmark ever decided to make Christmas movies about anything other than straight white couples.
...but I’m getting off track.
My point was that I really enjoyed the concept of Rebound Remedy. I found both Cole and Owen to be sweet, thoughtful, likeable guys. And I love that a Canadian author actually set her book in Canada! D’Abo peppered her story with descriptions and details that left me in no doubt that this was Toronto in winter – right down to me questioning Cole’s sanity for deciding to tackle the Eaton Centre three days before Christmas (that’s just crazy town!). I also appreciated that the story was just as much a bromance as it was an M/M romance; the guys actually wanted to become friends and get to know each other while they fooled around and that made me feel all squishy inside.
Without a doubt Rebound Remedy was on the lighter, fluffier side of things - no angst, no tears, and only a minor conflict (in the form of a failure to communicate) to overcome. All of this is perfect for a sweet holiday romance novel. Still, I couldn’t help but feel as if the story lacked something that would have given it a little more emotional oomph! I don’t know what that something would be, mind you, I just know it wasn’t there. A little more steam wouldn't have been bad either, but that's just a personal preference.
Overall, though, I enjoyed the story and was happy with Cole and Owen’s HEA. This was a solid first read from new-to-me author Christine d’Abo.
Please note that an ARC of this book was provided by publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
When the story begins, Cole is standing in the middle of a crowded Toronto airport, watching a man he’s never met before declare his undying love and propose to his boyfriend. No, not the man’s boyfriend, Cole’s boyfriend. As in the man he’s currently in the process of whisking away to Banff for the most romantic Christmas vacation ever.
Ouch.
People are undoubtedly filming this real life movie moment on their iPhones and Cole’s heartbreak is about 3.5 seconds from going viral all over the internet.
Double ouch.
But instead of pitching a fit (or at least throwing a punch), Cole meekly gathers up his luggage and goes in search of a drink. He ends up at his friendly neighbourhood bar, commiserating with his friendly neighbourhood bartender, Owen – Owen, who just so happens to be sexy as fuck and the star of more than one or two of Cole’s recent jerk off fantasies. He’s also the nicest guy on the planet, though, so he offers to help keep Cole busy for the next few weeks so that he doesn’t have time to wallow in his breakup.
The setup for this novella is so cute its worthy of a Hallmark Channel holiday movie. Well, it would be if Hallmark ever decided to make Christmas movies about anything other than straight white couples.
...but I’m getting off track.
My point was that I really enjoyed the concept of Rebound Remedy. I found both Cole and Owen to be sweet, thoughtful, likeable guys. And I love that a Canadian author actually set her book in Canada! D’Abo peppered her story with descriptions and details that left me in no doubt that this was Toronto in winter – right down to me questioning Cole’s sanity for deciding to tackle the Eaton Centre three days before Christmas (that’s just crazy town!). I also appreciated that the story was just as much a bromance as it was an M/M romance; the guys actually wanted to become friends and get to know each other while they fooled around and that made me feel all squishy inside.
Without a doubt Rebound Remedy was on the lighter, fluffier side of things - no angst, no tears, and only a minor conflict (in the form of a failure to communicate) to overcome. All of this is perfect for a sweet holiday romance novel. Still, I couldn’t help but feel as if the story lacked something that would have given it a little more emotional oomph! I don’t know what that something would be, mind you, I just know it wasn’t there. A little more steam wouldn't have been bad either, but that's just a personal preference.
Overall, though, I enjoyed the story and was happy with Cole and Owen’s HEA. This was a solid first read from new-to-me author Christine d’Abo.
Please note that an ARC of this book was provided by publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 21, 2024
4 Stars
I liked this a lot.
This story used a favourite trope of mine - the whole 'let's have fun together and get naked; it won't mean anything' set-up... and you just know it's going to mean something! It was explored well here and I didn't feel like it was rushed or unbelievable, which is impressive considering the story only spanned two weeks.
The characters were likeable, too. Owen is the bartender with family troubles and Cole is the unlucky in love guy on the rebound after an extremely recent and public breakup. The two get on together like a house on fire, and their interactions and sexual chemistry was fun and heated.
I'll definitely have to keep my eye on this new-to-me author in the future.
I liked this a lot.
This story used a favourite trope of mine - the whole 'let's have fun together and get naked; it won't mean anything' set-up... and you just know it's going to mean something! It was explored well here and I didn't feel like it was rushed or unbelievable, which is impressive considering the story only spanned two weeks.
The characters were likeable, too. Owen is the bartender with family troubles and Cole is the unlucky in love guy on the rebound after an extremely recent and public breakup. The two get on together like a house on fire, and their interactions and sexual chemistry was fun and heated.
I'll definitely have to keep my eye on this new-to-me author in the future.
October 24, 2015
Cole has had bad luck with romance. He's always the rebound guy, and gets ditched after a few months. His latest failed romance came at the worst time, right before Christmas. Owen has taken over his father's bar after his father suffered a stroke. He spends most of his time working, and doesn't date much. When he sees Cole, a regular at his bar, looking sad and defeated, Owen suggests hanging out as friends. So the two have a series of not-dates that eventually turn in to something more.
I really enjoyed that 'Rebound Remedy' was set in Toronto, my hometown. The author doesn't name many places in and around the city, but she certainly captured the feel of it. The book made me look forward to when the city transforms during the holidays!
I liked the evolving dynamic between Cole and Owen. The two start off with Cole needing to let go of his tight control on everything, and Owen wanting to help Cole lose some of that control. But as they get to know each other, their roles switch, with Owen realizing that he needs to let go of his worries a bit too, and Cole becoming Owen's safety net. They also had some great sexual chemistry.
But I will say that the end felt somewhat unfinished. Cole had only just gotten over his feelings for Steven, and Owen was still dealing with his father's health problems. Frankly, I'm not sure whether Cole was completely over his past relationship. His epiphany moment seemed too forced to be entirely believable. It put a slight question mark over the HEA.
Even so, 'Rebound Remedy' is a very sweet holiday novella. I'd recommend this for folks looking for a low-angst holiday read with some heat.
Review copy provided through NetGalley.
I really enjoyed that 'Rebound Remedy' was set in Toronto, my hometown. The author doesn't name many places in and around the city, but she certainly captured the feel of it. The book made me look forward to when the city transforms during the holidays!
I liked the evolving dynamic between Cole and Owen. The two start off with Cole needing to let go of his tight control on everything, and Owen wanting to help Cole lose some of that control. But as they get to know each other, their roles switch, with Owen realizing that he needs to let go of his worries a bit too, and Cole becoming Owen's safety net. They also had some great sexual chemistry.
But I will say that the end felt somewhat unfinished. Cole had only just gotten over his feelings for Steven, and Owen was still dealing with his father's health problems. Frankly, I'm not sure whether Cole was completely over his past relationship. His epiphany moment seemed too forced to be entirely believable. It put a slight question mark over the HEA.
Even so, 'Rebound Remedy' is a very sweet holiday novella. I'd recommend this for folks looking for a low-angst holiday read with some heat.
Review copy provided through NetGalley.
December 30, 2021
I did not like this book as much the second time around as I did the first.
November 27, 2015
Easy read and low on the angst, Rebound Remedy was a fair festive romance. Cole hasn't had much luck on the romance stakes and when his boyfriend publicly declares his love for another man in front of him at a busy airport, he's understandably a bit low and goes off to drown his sorrows in a bar. Where he meets Owen, the sexy, thoughtful owner of the bar.
"This wasn't something that could last long-term."
To be completely honest, whilst there were some nice moments between the pair, I thought the storyline lacked and what we generally got was a story of friends-with-benefits and two guys wandering around with stiffies pretty much constantly (which yes, they did put to good use). M/M tends to fall into two categories for me: those with a real story and men who have depth of character and bring emotion, and those that are written by predominantly women for women, with at least one of the guys buff, built and, in my opinion, aimed at being physically appealing. And to me, this falls into that category.
"There was something captivating about his body, the way his muscles bulged and the way his chest hair covered his chest."
Christine d'Abo is a new author to me and whilst I liked it and her writing voice, it was fairly predictable; it's what I would class as an average read. But if you're looking for a light, festive, no-drama romance with two likeable guys, then this ticks the boxes.
Copy received courtesy of Riptide Publishing for an honest and unbiased opinion.
"This wasn't something that could last long-term."
To be completely honest, whilst there were some nice moments between the pair, I thought the storyline lacked and what we generally got was a story of friends-with-benefits and two guys wandering around with stiffies pretty much constantly (which yes, they did put to good use). M/M tends to fall into two categories for me: those with a real story and men who have depth of character and bring emotion, and those that are written by predominantly women for women, with at least one of the guys buff, built and, in my opinion, aimed at being physically appealing. And to me, this falls into that category.
"There was something captivating about his body, the way his muscles bulged and the way his chest hair covered his chest."
Christine d'Abo is a new author to me and whilst I liked it and her writing voice, it was fairly predictable; it's what I would class as an average read. But if you're looking for a light, festive, no-drama romance with two likeable guys, then this ticks the boxes.
Copy received courtesy of Riptide Publishing for an honest and unbiased opinion.
January 6, 2016
Great little short read. I liked both the MC’s and I think it was done really well. I really liked it, It was a great little feel good present.
December 25, 2015
Such a delicious story. I would like to read a sequel. Loved it
November 9, 2017
It started good and heart breaking when Cole saw his boyfriend at the airport, accepting his ex's proposal.
Should be one hell of a rebound and full of sadness, right?
But I didn't feel it. For me, Cole is too acceptance for what Steven did to him. And it's included self embarrassment to him.
This should be one romantic holiday rebound getaway from heartbreak, and finding a new love.
But there's lack of chemistry between Cole and Owen except sexual interest.
I should compare it to A Fortunate Blizzard , with the same plot, it has a better vibe and a very strong chemistry between two strangers in a holiday season.
Not a disappointment, but not my favorite either.
We need a stronger chemistry between two MCs, that's what will make holiday a miracle , right?
Overall, this is a fine decent read. You should try this, this is probably is going to be your favorite!
ARC provided by Publisher through Netgalley
Should be one hell of a rebound and full of sadness, right?
But I didn't feel it. For me, Cole is too acceptance for what Steven did to him. And it's included self embarrassment to him.
This should be one romantic holiday rebound getaway from heartbreak, and finding a new love.
But there's lack of chemistry between Cole and Owen except sexual interest.
I should compare it to A Fortunate Blizzard , with the same plot, it has a better vibe and a very strong chemistry between two strangers in a holiday season.
Not a disappointment, but not my favorite either.
We need a stronger chemistry between two MCs, that's what will make holiday a miracle , right?
Overall, this is a fine decent read. You should try this, this is probably is going to be your favorite!
ARC provided by Publisher through Netgalley
September 25, 2015
Cocoa and duvet needed for this one.
This is a lovely curl-up-and-read story for Winter and Christmas. It is one of those feel good stories that lift your spirits and make you feel nice and happy on the inside despite the howling gale, freezing rain and snow on the outside.
Poor Cole is unceremoniously and quite callously dumped by his naf boyfriend in the airport (of all places). Once again he is on the 'dumped' end of a relationship. Once again he has done something wrong. Once again his heart is broken. (Everyone say ahhh)
But there is always hope and life and new beginnings!!
And of course that is what happens when Cole starts chatting to Owen who is the bartender at his local. Determined not to love or trust again Cole has quickly erected some snowy white ice walls around his fragile heart but Owen has the slow burning warmth of a gentle new love and friendship, and wonderful things can happen.
A lovely story just right for winter and Christmas.
Copy provided by Riptide Publishing via NetGalley
This is a lovely curl-up-and-read story for Winter and Christmas. It is one of those feel good stories that lift your spirits and make you feel nice and happy on the inside despite the howling gale, freezing rain and snow on the outside.
Poor Cole is unceremoniously and quite callously dumped by his naf boyfriend in the airport (of all places). Once again he is on the 'dumped' end of a relationship. Once again he has done something wrong. Once again his heart is broken. (Everyone say ahhh)
But there is always hope and life and new beginnings!!
And of course that is what happens when Cole starts chatting to Owen who is the bartender at his local. Determined not to love or trust again Cole has quickly erected some snowy white ice walls around his fragile heart but Owen has the slow burning warmth of a gentle new love and friendship, and wonderful things can happen.
A lovely story just right for winter and Christmas.
Copy provided by Riptide Publishing via NetGalley
January 4, 2017
Kurz vor Weihnachten wird Cole von seinem Freund abserviert. Und das auch noch in der Öffentlichkeit und wenig sensibel. Da ist die Stimmung aber im Keller und das ist ja wohl verständlich. Also tritt Cole den romantisch geplanten Vorweihnachtsurlaub eben nicht an und kehrt lieber in seiner Stammkneipe ein. Diese wird von dem charismatischen und gutaussehenden Owen geführt. Man kenn sich schon länger – aber eben nur oberflächlich. Owen hat ein Gespür für die Menschen und seine Gäste. Cole ist am Boden zerstört und Owen beschließt ihn wieder aufzurichten.
Dass dabei aber sein eigenes Herz in Gefahr gerät und plötzlich die Situation zwischen ihnen zu eskalieren droht, war jedoch nicht geplant. Dabei ist Owens eigenes Leben auch nicht so einfach. Die Kneipe hat er von seinem Vater übernommen und seinen eigenen guten Job dafür aufgegeben. Eigentlich wäre alles gut – doch sein Vater versucht sich ständig in Owens Geschäftsgebaren einzumischen und eine Krankheit des Vaters wird zur Belastungsprobe für die Familie.
Owen merkt schnell, dass Cole einen wirklichen Freund und nicht nur einen Teilzeitlover benötigt. Es ist zwar nicht Coles erste Beziehung, die zerbricht, doch Cole ist dieses Mal wirklich am Boden zerstört. Cole beginnt mit der Zeit zu hinterfragen und begreift, dass er eigentlich mehr verdient. Und dass seine Beziehung mit Steven vielleicht doch nicht so perfekt war. Owen hingegen hatte immer schon eine kleine Schwäche für den leider vergebenen Cole und versucht ihn mit verschiedenen, gemeinsamen Aktivitäten abzulenken. Zeit genug hat Cole ja.
Ein Happy End für Cole ist eine wirklich nette, vorweihnachtliche Geschichte. Sie hat ihre Tiefen, aber auch ihre Höhen. Die Protagonisten sind trotz der Kürze der Geschichte sehr gut ausgearbeitet und ihre Handlungen nachvollziehbar. Owen ist ein wirklich toller Kerl, der es wirklich nicht so einfach hat. Schließlich muss er ja an mehreren Fronten seinen Mann stehen und droht dabei unterzugehen. Cole hingegen findet nach dem hässlichen Bruch mit Steven eine neue Liebe und findet sich vielleicht auch ein Stück selbst, in dem er sich seiner wirklichen Bedürfnisse und Wünsche bewusst wird. Sehr nett und cozy zu lesen.
Bei dieser Rezension handelt es sich um ein Edit, da ich das Original bereits gelesen und rezensiert habe. Zu dieser Ausgabe sei noch erwähnt, dass die Übersetzung wirklich gut gelungen ist. Und vor allem das Cover gefällt mir wahnsinnig gut, auch wenn da schon das Originalcover ein wirklicher Hingucker war. So macht lesen Spass.
Dass dabei aber sein eigenes Herz in Gefahr gerät und plötzlich die Situation zwischen ihnen zu eskalieren droht, war jedoch nicht geplant. Dabei ist Owens eigenes Leben auch nicht so einfach. Die Kneipe hat er von seinem Vater übernommen und seinen eigenen guten Job dafür aufgegeben. Eigentlich wäre alles gut – doch sein Vater versucht sich ständig in Owens Geschäftsgebaren einzumischen und eine Krankheit des Vaters wird zur Belastungsprobe für die Familie.
Owen merkt schnell, dass Cole einen wirklichen Freund und nicht nur einen Teilzeitlover benötigt. Es ist zwar nicht Coles erste Beziehung, die zerbricht, doch Cole ist dieses Mal wirklich am Boden zerstört. Cole beginnt mit der Zeit zu hinterfragen und begreift, dass er eigentlich mehr verdient. Und dass seine Beziehung mit Steven vielleicht doch nicht so perfekt war. Owen hingegen hatte immer schon eine kleine Schwäche für den leider vergebenen Cole und versucht ihn mit verschiedenen, gemeinsamen Aktivitäten abzulenken. Zeit genug hat Cole ja.
Ein Happy End für Cole ist eine wirklich nette, vorweihnachtliche Geschichte. Sie hat ihre Tiefen, aber auch ihre Höhen. Die Protagonisten sind trotz der Kürze der Geschichte sehr gut ausgearbeitet und ihre Handlungen nachvollziehbar. Owen ist ein wirklich toller Kerl, der es wirklich nicht so einfach hat. Schließlich muss er ja an mehreren Fronten seinen Mann stehen und droht dabei unterzugehen. Cole hingegen findet nach dem hässlichen Bruch mit Steven eine neue Liebe und findet sich vielleicht auch ein Stück selbst, in dem er sich seiner wirklichen Bedürfnisse und Wünsche bewusst wird. Sehr nett und cozy zu lesen.
Bei dieser Rezension handelt es sich um ein Edit, da ich das Original bereits gelesen und rezensiert habe. Zu dieser Ausgabe sei noch erwähnt, dass die Übersetzung wirklich gut gelungen ist. Und vor allem das Cover gefällt mir wahnsinnig gut, auch wenn da schon das Originalcover ein wirklicher Hingucker war. So macht lesen Spass.
November 10, 2015
Slick's review posted at Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
3.5 stars
No one likes being dumped and having it happen right at the holidays is tough, but sometimes things work out for the best and that’s exactly what happens in Rebound Remedy by Christine D’Ado. Sexy and funny I enjoyed the strange and complicated story between two men who find each other when they least expect it.
On his way with his current partner for a romantic two week holiday Cole is stunned to watch his boyfriend’s ex propose to him as he watches on.
Determined to not wallow in his breakup Cole winds up at his favorite bar where he can’t help but notice Owen, the bartender and bar’s owner, who not only listens but makes him feel a bit better and whose smile lights him up like no other.
I really enjoyed Cole and Owen together and found that their adventures and even their mishaps made the time they spent together feel very real. I think had they started up a month or two after Cole’s breakup or even if there hadn’t been the breakup I would have enjoyed this story much more. Cole’s insistence to not get too invested with Owen bugged me and while Owen didn’t think he had time to date, he made time which made me love him all the more.
Thus for a good part of this book, I felt like the relationship was kind of one sided. These two jump very quickly into a physical relationship and while they both knew the score, that too even seemed strange and Cole thinking about his ex so much while with Owen just seemed disrespectful to him.
If I remove Cole’s ex from this story in my mind, it is really a good story. I enjoyed their banter, their odd ball dates (especially the one that ended with them in the emergency room) and their sexy times were off the charts hot. I do feel there was too much of a rush to the declaration of love stage especially given Cole’s situation, but overall I still enjoyed their story.
Sometimes a rebound is just a rebound and sometimes it can prove to be the best thing that ever happened to you.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
3.5 stars
No one likes being dumped and having it happen right at the holidays is tough, but sometimes things work out for the best and that’s exactly what happens in Rebound Remedy by Christine D’Ado. Sexy and funny I enjoyed the strange and complicated story between two men who find each other when they least expect it.
On his way with his current partner for a romantic two week holiday Cole is stunned to watch his boyfriend’s ex propose to him as he watches on.
Determined to not wallow in his breakup Cole winds up at his favorite bar where he can’t help but notice Owen, the bartender and bar’s owner, who not only listens but makes him feel a bit better and whose smile lights him up like no other.
I really enjoyed Cole and Owen together and found that their adventures and even their mishaps made the time they spent together feel very real. I think had they started up a month or two after Cole’s breakup or even if there hadn’t been the breakup I would have enjoyed this story much more. Cole’s insistence to not get too invested with Owen bugged me and while Owen didn’t think he had time to date, he made time which made me love him all the more.
Thus for a good part of this book, I felt like the relationship was kind of one sided. These two jump very quickly into a physical relationship and while they both knew the score, that too even seemed strange and Cole thinking about his ex so much while with Owen just seemed disrespectful to him.
If I remove Cole’s ex from this story in my mind, it is really a good story. I enjoyed their banter, their odd ball dates (especially the one that ended with them in the emergency room) and their sexy times were off the charts hot. I do feel there was too much of a rush to the declaration of love stage especially given Cole’s situation, but overall I still enjoyed their story.
Sometimes a rebound is just a rebound and sometimes it can prove to be the best thing that ever happened to you.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
February 1, 2016
Review to come
May 4, 2016
It’s Christmas Story Season!!!
*breaks out into a drunken rendition of Frosty the Snowman*
Yes, yes, I know. It is barely even the beginning of November–-but unlike decorations and annoying sales ads, I don’t think it is ever too soon for a bit of holiday romance. I’ll read them anytime to be honest, but they are always the best fun around this time of year. So grab a cup of tea, position your cat for optimal cuddling, and let us begin!
Do you ever wonder about The Other Guy, in all those romantic comedies? You know, the one you are not supposed to be cheering for? The ones that are perfectly nice and all, but somehow not quite good enough to have someone track them down in a busy airport and declare their undying love for, but instead get to watch as the person they were dating suddenly decides that you were just the stand in and not the lead? Well, wonder no more, because here is his story.
After having watched his boyfriend go riding off into the snowing sunset with his One True Love (who is most decidedly not Cole) Cole doesn’t know what to do. With his holiday plans off cavorting with someone else’s holiday plans, he is stuck with no place to go, and no one to help fill all his now empty time. Which is how he ends up in a bar across from his apartment, and in the sights of bar-owner Owen McGregor. Having just experienced a Rebound Relationship, Cole knows he should avoid the sexy barman, but Owen has a way of sinking under the skin that Cole cannot fight.
When I first read the blurb for this book I was a little worried it was going to be another cookie-cutter 12 Days of Christmas themed story. And while there is nothing wrong with those types of stories, they do seem a bit overdone. I was pleasantly surprised by how naturally this story flowed, though. If there were 12 dates they didn’t seem like they were hammered into the story, more like they came out of the progression of how the story needed to be told. They never once distracted from the story being told, and I appreciated that.
Owen and Cole both have issues in this book, and I thought that both of them were handled well. Cole has to deal with his last relationship, and wondering if it is really a good idea to be getting into a new rebound relationship with Owen. Owen has his own problems, though. I loved the family stuff that Owen had to deal with. I think his father, and his health issues were very well written. It took this story from average to something I want to recommend.
This was, at its bones, just a very good Christmas story. Family, romance, a bit of cuddling in front of really bad Christmas movies. I had a nice time reading this, and it was a perfect start to my holiday reading.
3.5 stars
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
*breaks out into a drunken rendition of Frosty the Snowman*
Yes, yes, I know. It is barely even the beginning of November–-but unlike decorations and annoying sales ads, I don’t think it is ever too soon for a bit of holiday romance. I’ll read them anytime to be honest, but they are always the best fun around this time of year. So grab a cup of tea, position your cat for optimal cuddling, and let us begin!
Do you ever wonder about The Other Guy, in all those romantic comedies? You know, the one you are not supposed to be cheering for? The ones that are perfectly nice and all, but somehow not quite good enough to have someone track them down in a busy airport and declare their undying love for, but instead get to watch as the person they were dating suddenly decides that you were just the stand in and not the lead? Well, wonder no more, because here is his story.
After having watched his boyfriend go riding off into the snowing sunset with his One True Love (who is most decidedly not Cole) Cole doesn’t know what to do. With his holiday plans off cavorting with someone else’s holiday plans, he is stuck with no place to go, and no one to help fill all his now empty time. Which is how he ends up in a bar across from his apartment, and in the sights of bar-owner Owen McGregor. Having just experienced a Rebound Relationship, Cole knows he should avoid the sexy barman, but Owen has a way of sinking under the skin that Cole cannot fight.
When I first read the blurb for this book I was a little worried it was going to be another cookie-cutter 12 Days of Christmas themed story. And while there is nothing wrong with those types of stories, they do seem a bit overdone. I was pleasantly surprised by how naturally this story flowed, though. If there were 12 dates they didn’t seem like they were hammered into the story, more like they came out of the progression of how the story needed to be told. They never once distracted from the story being told, and I appreciated that.
Owen and Cole both have issues in this book, and I thought that both of them were handled well. Cole has to deal with his last relationship, and wondering if it is really a good idea to be getting into a new rebound relationship with Owen. Owen has his own problems, though. I loved the family stuff that Owen had to deal with. I think his father, and his health issues were very well written. It took this story from average to something I want to recommend.
This was, at its bones, just a very good Christmas story. Family, romance, a bit of cuddling in front of really bad Christmas movies. I had a nice time reading this, and it was a perfect start to my holiday reading.
3.5 stars
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November 12, 2015
Cole finds himself being dumped by his boyfriend at the airport. Not only is this a break up, but also his boyfriend accepts a marriage proposal from another man. He decides to just stay home instead of the holiday travel. Although the opening sounds quite dramatic, most of the story is pretty low-key.
Owen owns a bar near where Cole lives. He notices Cole seems to be struggling a bit this holiday so he sets about to cheer Cole over whatever bump he's having in his life. He also has some issues of his own that pop up.
The gist of the story is two guys getting to know each other and themselves. Mostly it's a pretty chill, low angst plot. Rebound Remedy is a cute, sweet slice-of-life holiday romance.
***Copy given in exchange for an honest review***
Fangirl Moments and My Two Cents
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November 23, 2015
Sweetie Cole gets dumped, publically at Christmas time, sad, sad, sad... His savior turns out to be good looking Bar owner, Owen, who sees him and wants him for himself. In the beginning it's just friends helping each other get through the holidays, but grows to more. Owen didn't tell Cole right away the troubles he's having with his ill father, and Cole slowly unloads his feelings about ex Steven. They have never felt this deep emotion for anyone else before, and the guys need to be open, honest, and accepting to make this work. Are they going to last through the holidays, and beyond ?
Deeply thought-filled characters that are lovable, and an interesting tale, with amazing M/M sex, well written, insightful, captivating and heartwarming.
Highly recommend, ENJOY !!!
Deeply thought-filled characters that are lovable, and an interesting tale, with amazing M/M sex, well written, insightful, captivating and heartwarming.
Highly recommend, ENJOY !!!
December 6, 2016
3.5★s rounded up because I'm feeling generous. :) This was a sweet low angst story with likeable characters. I think it's my first Christine d'Abo book and I'll definitely check out more of her books. The reason it didn't get a higher score was because the end felt really rushed and the "I love yous" came way too soon. I think it could have used an epilogue too, but it was still enjoyable. I listened to the audio version and Nick J. Russo was great as usual!
December 27, 2016
A sweet, low-angst holiday story, with a bit of character growing and some cute moments. Didn’t really feel the characters’ chemistry though.
January 15, 2019
Sweet, and easy to listen to when read by Nick J. Russo.
A cute story (kinda insta-lovey but hey, it's for the holidays, right?).
A cute story (kinda insta-lovey but hey, it's for the holidays, right?).
April 24, 2019
2.5 stars
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