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One Fine Day #2
Suddenly Yours
A One Fine Day Novel
What happens in Vegas doesn't always stay in Vegas.
Cody Hayes is having one epic morning-after. The hangover following a Vegas bachelor party is nothing new to him, and neither is the naked man in his bed.
His apparent marriage is a different story.
Carefully plotting every detail of his life carried Julian Canales to a Senate seat as an openly gay man. A drunken night of Truth or Dare isn’t like him… and neither is marrying a man he just met. He’d get an annulment, but the media has gotten wind of his hasty nuptials. If Julian’s political career is going to survive, he has to stay married to a man who’s his opposite in every way.
Now he must convince Cody that all they need to do is survive a conservative political rival, a heartbroken ex, their painful pasts… and an attraction neither man can fight.
What happens in Vegas doesn't always stay in Vegas.
Cody Hayes is having one epic morning-after. The hangover following a Vegas bachelor party is nothing new to him, and neither is the naked man in his bed.
His apparent marriage is a different story.
Carefully plotting every detail of his life carried Julian Canales to a Senate seat as an openly gay man. A drunken night of Truth or Dare isn’t like him… and neither is marrying a man he just met. He’d get an annulment, but the media has gotten wind of his hasty nuptials. If Julian’s political career is going to survive, he has to stay married to a man who’s his opposite in every way.
Now he must convince Cody that all they need to do is survive a conservative political rival, a heartbroken ex, their painful pasts… and an attraction neither man can fight.
244 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 15, 2016
10 people are currently reading
295 people want to read
About the author
Jacob Z. Flores
20 books320 followersJacob Z. Flores lives a double life. During the day, he is a respected college English professor and mid-level administrator. At night and during his summer vacation, he loosens the tie and tosses aside the trendy sports coat to write man on man fiction, where the hard ass assessor of freshmen level composition turns his attention to the firm posteriors and other rigid appendages of the characters in his fictional world.
Summers in Provincetown, Massachusetts, provide Jacob with inspiration for his fiction. The abundance of barely clothed man flesh and daily debauchery stimulates his personal muse. When he isn’t stroking the keyboard, Jacob spends time with his daughter. They both represent a bright blue blip in an otherwise predominantly red swath in south Texas.
You can follow Jacob’s musings on his blog at http://jacobzflores.com or become a part of his social media network by visiting http://www.facebook.com/jacob.flores2
or http://twitter.com/#!/JacobZFlores.
Summers in Provincetown, Massachusetts, provide Jacob with inspiration for his fiction. The abundance of barely clothed man flesh and daily debauchery stimulates his personal muse. When he isn’t stroking the keyboard, Jacob spends time with his daughter. They both represent a bright blue blip in an otherwise predominantly red swath in south Texas.
You can follow Jacob’s musings on his blog at http://jacobzflores.com or become a part of his social media network by visiting http://www.facebook.com/jacob.flores2
or http://twitter.com/#!/JacobZFlores.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
October 22, 2016
I'm not sure who at DSP devised this plan to turn me into a cracky fluff addict but they are crushing it! I wouldn't say I have a problem... okaaaaaaaayyyyy maybe I have a problem.
They say the first step is admitting it, so step one down. I think I'll tap out there because I've absolutely no intention of quitting this series. Save all your intervention efforts. I NEED MY CRACK!
Jacob Z. Flores knows how to deliver my cracky fluff just how I like it-warm, cozy, comforting, maybe a little cheesy with some drama thrown in to sucker punch me right in the feels. I was started on romcoms at a tender young age by my mom. She has a tendency to watch the same movies over and over again and that stuff sticks with you! I've got a million and one random dialogue lines forever imprinted in my subconscience and Suddenly Yours brought many of them to the fore.
You know how people always say the best decisions are made when you're drunk and your inhibitions are lowered? Well, except for Britney Spears, that is. I digress. Anywhat! Cody and Julian got married in Vegas on a drunken whim. Only Julian doesn't remember this the next day. Did I mention that Julian's a Senator? So... OH SHIT!!!!!!!!!! He got drunk married in Vegas to a Waiter is headline news.
Once he stops praying to the porcelain god and the night starts coming back to him, he decides this marriage might not be as catastrophic as he initially thought. Neither believes in love so they embark on a mutually beneficial "arrangement". *grabby hands*
Wanna know the best part? Julian's NEVER been in love before!
As if that weren't enough, I really liked both these dudes. Cody is outgoing, funny and could charm the pants off anyone. Howobsessed invested Cody is in Days of Our Lives cracked me up because he's such a dude; it's the last thing I'd expect of a 6'2" muscle hunk, y'know? It humanized him or something. Julian is more reserved, deliberate and cerebral, but being around Cody makes him bolder, less stuffy.
They both have baggage that creates the conflict. I could've done without Cody testing Julian. I despise that sort of nonsense and through this he seemed to close off and become less vibrant. I missed his happy-go-lucky goofballdom.
The build up of tension between them could've blocked out the sun it was getting so thick. They agreed to live together but take sex out of the equation so they could objectively evaluate their "arrangement" over a 6 month period so... one sex scene but it was pretty epic. I do love a size difference.
The end is super fluffy, somewhat cheesetastic and has the cutest HEA, ubiquitous to all the great romcoms. Cody's frat buddies providing the comic relief.
I know this is listed as a book 2 but it is in no way related to book 1 and can absolutely be read as a standalone.
If there is a cracky fluff god, there will be another one in this series.
I needz.
Recommend for fluffy crack addicts like me. You know who you are.
An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review.
They say the first step is admitting it, so step one down. I think I'll tap out there because I've absolutely no intention of quitting this series. Save all your intervention efforts. I NEED MY CRACK!
Jacob Z. Flores knows how to deliver my cracky fluff just how I like it-warm, cozy, comforting, maybe a little cheesy with some drama thrown in to sucker punch me right in the feels. I was started on romcoms at a tender young age by my mom. She has a tendency to watch the same movies over and over again and that stuff sticks with you! I've got a million and one random dialogue lines forever imprinted in my subconscience and Suddenly Yours brought many of them to the fore.
You know how people always say the best decisions are made when you're drunk and your inhibitions are lowered? Well, except for Britney Spears, that is. I digress. Anywhat! Cody and Julian got married in Vegas on a drunken whim. Only Julian doesn't remember this the next day. Did I mention that Julian's a Senator? So... OH SHIT!!!!!!!!!! He got drunk married in Vegas to a Waiter is headline news.
Once he stops praying to the porcelain god and the night starts coming back to him, he decides this marriage might not be as catastrophic as he initially thought. Neither believes in love so they embark on a mutually beneficial "arrangement". *grabby hands*
Wanna know the best part? Julian's NEVER been in love before!
As if that weren't enough, I really liked both these dudes. Cody is outgoing, funny and could charm the pants off anyone. How
They both have baggage that creates the conflict. I could've done without Cody testing Julian. I despise that sort of nonsense and through this he seemed to close off and become less vibrant. I missed his happy-go-lucky goofballdom.
The build up of tension between them could've blocked out the sun it was getting so thick. They agreed to live together but take sex out of the equation so they could objectively evaluate their "arrangement" over a 6 month period so... one sex scene but it was pretty epic. I do love a size difference.
The end is super fluffy, somewhat cheesetastic and has the cutest HEA, ubiquitous to all the great romcoms. Cody's frat buddies providing the comic relief.
I know this is listed as a book 2 but it is in no way related to book 1 and can absolutely be read as a standalone.
If there is a cracky fluff god, there will be another one in this series.
I needz.
Recommend for fluffy crack addicts like me. You know who you are.
An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review.
January 4, 2024
Cody and Julian meet cute in Vegas, consume massive quantities of booze, drunkenly pontificate about their shared credo of never falling in love ... and wake up married the next morning. Cody is a great character - you gotta love a guy addicted to "Day of Our Lives" who has a "Go, Cody" dance involving high kicks, and calls his junk "Bruce Boner" and "The Incredible Bulk." Julian, a senator in a tight race for reelection, is much more stoic but after a moment (or two or three) of sheer panic about his hasty marriage, decides he can use it to his advantage.
What follows is an attention-grabbing plot that moves along at a good clip about two men bound and determined not to fall in love with one another, but still live a good life with companionship and common interests. Remember the quote "The best-laid plans of mice and men often go awry"? And when it goes awry, Julian realizes he needs to find a way to make things right, that may involve him rethinking that whole "falling in love" thing.
This is my first Jacob Z. Flores book and wow ... what was I thinking for not reading him before? This was a quality read - funny, warm, heartfelt story with great characters, some serious sexual sizzle and a great ending.
I received an ARC of this book from Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
Visit my blog, Sinfully Good Gay Book Reviews
What follows is an attention-grabbing plot that moves along at a good clip about two men bound and determined not to fall in love with one another, but still live a good life with companionship and common interests. Remember the quote "The best-laid plans of mice and men often go awry"? And when it goes awry, Julian realizes he needs to find a way to make things right, that may involve him rethinking that whole "falling in love" thing.
This is my first Jacob Z. Flores book and wow ... what was I thinking for not reading him before? This was a quality read - funny, warm, heartfelt story with great characters, some serious sexual sizzle and a great ending.
I received an ARC of this book from Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
Visit my blog, Sinfully Good Gay Book Reviews
October 15, 2016
Review originally posted at Sinfully.
This is another mostly light, sweet story from the Dreamspun Desires line. This one highlighting the “accidentally married” trope, drunken Las Vegas nuptials and all.
Senator Julian Canales lives a strictly ordered life. As an out US Senator for the State of California, he can’t afford any mistakes, so his rules serve him well. While Julian has no intention of ever falling in love or getting married after growing up watching his parents’ disastrous relationship, he is all for family and marriage equality. He almost got married once, but things didn’t quite work out and he has never looked back.
Cody Hayes is in Vegas for the wedding of one of his college frat buddies. They’re all settling down and think he needs to do the same. Cody disagrees. Seeing his mother go through the pain of falling in love with, getting married to and then losing man after man has soured Cody on love. Love is not for him. His free spirit lifestyle is working great and there’s no shortage of willing men for a one off when he wants it. Besides, he’s been in love once before and it will never happen again.
Cody and Julian seemingly have nothing in common, but a night of alcohol-fueled truth or dare uncovers that they just might be perfect together. Neither is looking for love, but both would like some of what marriage entails: a partnership based on affection, mutual respect and support and, of course, the sex. The ultimate dare leads to a morning of panic when they wake up married. After initial thoughts of divorce and screaming from Julian’s campaign adviser, they realize that their marriage could work out perfectly for both of them, giving them each just what they want… as long as they don't fall in love.
Although this is the second One Fine Day novel from Jacob Z. Flores, the two storylines are standalones with no connections other than a marriage theme. Like Undercover Boyfriend this is another opposites making unlikely bedfellows while falling in love during a stressful situation and I enjoyed this one just as much, maybe even a bit more as I felt more of an emotional investment with Cody and what he goes through. The story isn’t just a matter of them seeing the love between them that everyone else can, but it’s what will happen once they do and realize that the cardinal rule of their marriage plan has been broken.
After the two come to an agreement that divorce won’t be necessary, Cody proposes a six month, sex-free trial period (PG-13) so they can logically decide whether to stay married without the hot monkey sex clouding their judgment. Julian reluctantly agrees and Cody moves into Julian’s home. The two spend time getting to know each other, fighting the sexual tension and Cody provides some of the more humorous moments in the story as he tries to get Julian to open up like he did in Vegas. Cody’s Days of Our Lives obsession (I had one of those once as well so I enjoyed the little throwbacks) seemed a bit of a wink to the soap opera stylings of the plot, though it never gets that over-the-top.
Julian and Cody are possibly the two most oblivious characters I’ve read when it comes to their feelings for each other. Both are so anti-love they can’t see it when it happens to them even when everyone around them is pointing it out. When things ultimately come to a head Cody goes into self-preservation mode and Julian goes back to all-business. This was actually painful to read as Julian fights his feelings tooth and nail leaving Cody hurt and shouldering the blame.
Even with the heavier feelings here, Jacob Z. Flores has a light touch with his writing, injecting humor where necessary yet not trivializing Cody’s pain. Julian verged on the edge of frustrating at times but managed to fall short of driving me mad. The story is light on the sex scenes but full of sexual tension as Julian and Cody try to keep things platonic. I enjoyed the ups and downs of this unlikely romance and hope that we get more in this completely entertaining marriage series.
This is another mostly light, sweet story from the Dreamspun Desires line. This one highlighting the “accidentally married” trope, drunken Las Vegas nuptials and all.
Senator Julian Canales lives a strictly ordered life. As an out US Senator for the State of California, he can’t afford any mistakes, so his rules serve him well. While Julian has no intention of ever falling in love or getting married after growing up watching his parents’ disastrous relationship, he is all for family and marriage equality. He almost got married once, but things didn’t quite work out and he has never looked back.
Cody Hayes is in Vegas for the wedding of one of his college frat buddies. They’re all settling down and think he needs to do the same. Cody disagrees. Seeing his mother go through the pain of falling in love with, getting married to and then losing man after man has soured Cody on love. Love is not for him. His free spirit lifestyle is working great and there’s no shortage of willing men for a one off when he wants it. Besides, he’s been in love once before and it will never happen again.
Cody and Julian seemingly have nothing in common, but a night of alcohol-fueled truth or dare uncovers that they just might be perfect together. Neither is looking for love, but both would like some of what marriage entails: a partnership based on affection, mutual respect and support and, of course, the sex. The ultimate dare leads to a morning of panic when they wake up married. After initial thoughts of divorce and screaming from Julian’s campaign adviser, they realize that their marriage could work out perfectly for both of them, giving them each just what they want… as long as they don't fall in love.
Although this is the second One Fine Day novel from Jacob Z. Flores, the two storylines are standalones with no connections other than a marriage theme. Like Undercover Boyfriend this is another opposites making unlikely bedfellows while falling in love during a stressful situation and I enjoyed this one just as much, maybe even a bit more as I felt more of an emotional investment with Cody and what he goes through. The story isn’t just a matter of them seeing the love between them that everyone else can, but it’s what will happen once they do and realize that the cardinal rule of their marriage plan has been broken.
After the two come to an agreement that divorce won’t be necessary, Cody proposes a six month, sex-free trial period (PG-13) so they can logically decide whether to stay married without the hot monkey sex clouding their judgment. Julian reluctantly agrees and Cody moves into Julian’s home. The two spend time getting to know each other, fighting the sexual tension and Cody provides some of the more humorous moments in the story as he tries to get Julian to open up like he did in Vegas. Cody’s Days of Our Lives obsession (I had one of those once as well so I enjoyed the little throwbacks) seemed a bit of a wink to the soap opera stylings of the plot, though it never gets that over-the-top.
Julian and Cody are possibly the two most oblivious characters I’ve read when it comes to their feelings for each other. Both are so anti-love they can’t see it when it happens to them even when everyone around them is pointing it out. When things ultimately come to a head Cody goes into self-preservation mode and Julian goes back to all-business. This was actually painful to read as Julian fights his feelings tooth and nail leaving Cody hurt and shouldering the blame.
Even with the heavier feelings here, Jacob Z. Flores has a light touch with his writing, injecting humor where necessary yet not trivializing Cody’s pain. Julian verged on the edge of frustrating at times but managed to fall short of driving me mad. The story is light on the sex scenes but full of sexual tension as Julian and Cody try to keep things platonic. I enjoyed the ups and downs of this unlikely romance and hope that we get more in this completely entertaining marriage series.
October 14, 2016
3.5 stars
When I still read a lot of category M/F romance from Harlequin, accidental marriage (usually involves waking up in Vegas with hangover) is one of my favorite tropes. What draws me to this trope is how the couple might be forced by a situation to stay married, but over time, realize that they are actually falling in love with one another and it’s more than just a good sex experience, of course. It’s a ‘backward’ tale of falling in love and to me, that’s interesting.
Unfortunately, I didn’t exactly find that kind of conflict in this book. Don’t get me wrong, I still enjoyed it … but I just didn’t find the ‘progress’ from not feeling anything to falling in love with these guys. Why? Because I felt that it was clear from the beginning how Julian and Cody are a perfect fit for each other; they have a great amount of chemistry… I was having difficulty believing that they weren’t on their way to falling in love right from the start.
It was easier to see that Julian might not feel the same towards his ex … but to Cody? Hell, Julian is romantic to Cody, he is protective, he wants Cody to have everything, and he tries to make sure that Cody is happy. Julian keeps saying how Cody is different than any other man for him. To me, Julian is already there … in love with his husband.
I might understand that Jacob Flores tries to separate affection and love, and that one can be married with affection but without love … but here, I felt that Julian and Cody have both already! So the conflict wasn’t there to begin with.
Having said that … I was still fabulously entertained! Flores’ brand of humor fits me. I found myself smiling and all-in-all overjoyed. Both men are likable, although Cody is definitely the sunshine of this book. His carefree attitude, his witty one-liners, his determination to make Julian less of an ass-tight man … it is all a gorgeous package that made me fall in love with Cody. Julian might be a little clueless when it comes to his own feelings but I must admit that his love declaration is GRAND. Kudos Julian.
Verdict: cute, light angst, low steam level (Cody wants to have six months marriage trial without sex! *lol*), and delightful read. It makes me happy for sure.
A Guest Review for The Blogger Girls
The ARC is provided by the publisher for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
When I still read a lot of category M/F romance from Harlequin, accidental marriage (usually involves waking up in Vegas with hangover) is one of my favorite tropes. What draws me to this trope is how the couple might be forced by a situation to stay married, but over time, realize that they are actually falling in love with one another and it’s more than just a good sex experience, of course. It’s a ‘backward’ tale of falling in love and to me, that’s interesting.
Unfortunately, I didn’t exactly find that kind of conflict in this book. Don’t get me wrong, I still enjoyed it … but I just didn’t find the ‘progress’ from not feeling anything to falling in love with these guys. Why? Because I felt that it was clear from the beginning how Julian and Cody are a perfect fit for each other; they have a great amount of chemistry… I was having difficulty believing that they weren’t on their way to falling in love right from the start.
It was easier to see that Julian might not feel the same towards his ex … but to Cody? Hell, Julian is romantic to Cody, he is protective, he wants Cody to have everything, and he tries to make sure that Cody is happy. Julian keeps saying how Cody is different than any other man for him. To me, Julian is already there … in love with his husband.
I might understand that Jacob Flores tries to separate affection and love, and that one can be married with affection but without love … but here, I felt that Julian and Cody have both already! So the conflict wasn’t there to begin with.
Having said that … I was still fabulously entertained! Flores’ brand of humor fits me. I found myself smiling and all-in-all overjoyed. Both men are likable, although Cody is definitely the sunshine of this book. His carefree attitude, his witty one-liners, his determination to make Julian less of an ass-tight man … it is all a gorgeous package that made me fall in love with Cody. Julian might be a little clueless when it comes to his own feelings but I must admit that his love declaration is GRAND. Kudos Julian.
Verdict: cute, light angst, low steam level (Cody wants to have six months marriage trial without sex! *lol*), and delightful read. It makes me happy for sure.
A Guest Review for The Blogger Girls
The ARC is provided by the publisher for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
September 17, 2016
Take two men who have been conditioned by their parent's pasts to be distrustful, if not outright disbelieving, of love but who are, at their core, perfect for each other and you have the latest romance in the Dreamspun Desires series.
Yes, this was predictable, but I found it was still a fun page turner.
There's not a lot of sexy action, with the exception of some off page or lightly mentioned sex in the beginning and it's a looong time before we get any more action at the end, I expected that with this series, but I still found the amount of slow burn surprising considering they wake up married.
While it didn't really offer anything unexpected, and there were some frustrating moments for me, overall it was enjoyable, and we get a tentative HEA, which I really would have liked an epilogue to really set.
Frankly, Jacob Z. Flores has a way of spinning his yarn that definitely keeps me engrossed and I wouldn't mind grabbing up another if he decides to continue with the One Fine Day series.
Advanced Review Galley copy of Suddenly Yours (One Fine Day #2) provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
Yes, this was predictable, but I found it was still a fun page turner.
There's not a lot of sexy action, with the exception of some off page or lightly mentioned sex in the beginning and it's a looong time before we get any more action at the end, I expected that with this series, but I still found the amount of slow burn surprising considering they wake up married.
While it didn't really offer anything unexpected, and there were some frustrating moments for me, overall it was enjoyable, and we get a tentative HEA, which I really would have liked an epilogue to really set.
Frankly, Jacob Z. Flores has a way of spinning his yarn that definitely keeps me engrossed and I wouldn't mind grabbing up another if he decides to continue with the One Fine Day series.
Advanced Review Galley copy of Suddenly Yours (One Fine Day #2) provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
January 29, 2017
A nice gift from my great friend Jewel : Thank you !!
3.5 stars for this nice romance between Cody, a laid-back waiter aspiring to be an author and Julian, a tiny bit uptight but nice guy who runs for an election as a Senator.
Las vegas, a bet and some drinks lead to a wedding and it’s fun and sweet to see how these 2 great MCs deal with the aftermath as a friendly arrangement free of love (yeah, snort !).
It’s funny, with a lot of banter, and hot moments. A very nice read, with no angst : perfect for a relaxing Sunday afternoon.
3.5 stars for this nice romance between Cody, a laid-back waiter aspiring to be an author and Julian, a tiny bit uptight but nice guy who runs for an election as a Senator.
Las vegas, a bet and some drinks lead to a wedding and it’s fun and sweet to see how these 2 great MCs deal with the aftermath as a friendly arrangement free of love (yeah, snort !).
It’s funny, with a lot of banter, and hot moments. A very nice read, with no angst : perfect for a relaxing Sunday afternoon.
July 28, 2017
F.U.N.
Yes, this was a good time indeed. I haven’t read One Fine Day (yet) but didn’t feel lost or confused in the slightest so, I would conclude this is fine as a standalone. There’s much fun to be had in the Sin City and Cody and his buddies are expert partygoers. To add fuel to the party fire, they are celebrating the end of singlehood and the upcoming nuptials of one of the guys. Cody is catching a good buzz when his buds challenge him with a dare, as they often do. A sourpuss stranger happens to be the target this time and the objective is to share a cocktail with the man. Shouldn’t be too hard, Cody is a master smooth talker and he never backs down from a challenge. Julian turns out to be a tough nut to crack and Cody is shocked when the grumpy man relents and even more surprised when they spend a memorable (or not) night out together. But when he awakens the next morning in a tangle of limbs, the light of day brings trouble. Turns out chapels and Senators attract a lot of attention. And their spontaneous drunken decisions bear heavy consequences. Cody is still trying to make it in the literary world and doesn’t have much to lose over rash choices but Julian has achieved his success and his position in the political arena could be destroyed over personal mistakes. How will they ever get out of this disaster? Or can Julian push up his sleeves and find the joy in getting a little messy.
What's to like: It’s been awhile since I’ve read a Flores book and I’d nearly forgotten how much I enjoy his smooth entertaining voice. This is a mistake I won’t make again and I’ve got some backlist reading to do! I enjoyed the enticing opening scene and found myself captivated by their whirlwind non-romance. I didn’t want to set it down and read it cover to cover, which I recall having the same “problem” with other stories from Jacob. He always has impeccable plot flow and any turbulence I feel is strictly with the characters jolting on their rough ride. This is a skill not every author possesses and I appreciate it when I see it.
What's to love: I quickly connected with the guys. Cody is charismatic and lights up the pages. Julian is stoic and serious and so very different from Cody, and yet I was still drawn to him. Cody falls to comic relief in stressful situations. Julian guards his sense of humor and only shares it with those closest to him. Which makes it that much more special when he dishes it out. When Julian discovers he publicly married a stranger, it is anything but funny. Then he remembers why his intoxicated-self thought it was wise to marry this bubbly man, they have the same views of marriage. Marriage becomes complicated when emotions are involved. Why can’t it simply be an arrangement between two people who enjoy having the practical benefits of having a spouse? He isn’t looking for love and neither is Cody and even better, their expectations of marriage match. *curveball* Of course, love ends up rearing its head and their arrangement is ruined. They were supposed to have a love free marriage…and now everything is spoiled….or is it?
Beware of: A night of overindulgence results in speedy courtship. But who needs dating when they are not interested in love? This is insta-not-love that turns into something deeper, something special, and something precious. It’s cute. It’s fun. And it’s fast!
This book is for: If you need a smile or are looking for a load of laughs, I think Suddenly Yours is just the pick me up you need.
Book UNfunk
Yes, this was a good time indeed. I haven’t read One Fine Day (yet) but didn’t feel lost or confused in the slightest so, I would conclude this is fine as a standalone. There’s much fun to be had in the Sin City and Cody and his buddies are expert partygoers. To add fuel to the party fire, they are celebrating the end of singlehood and the upcoming nuptials of one of the guys. Cody is catching a good buzz when his buds challenge him with a dare, as they often do. A sourpuss stranger happens to be the target this time and the objective is to share a cocktail with the man. Shouldn’t be too hard, Cody is a master smooth talker and he never backs down from a challenge. Julian turns out to be a tough nut to crack and Cody is shocked when the grumpy man relents and even more surprised when they spend a memorable (or not) night out together. But when he awakens the next morning in a tangle of limbs, the light of day brings trouble. Turns out chapels and Senators attract a lot of attention. And their spontaneous drunken decisions bear heavy consequences. Cody is still trying to make it in the literary world and doesn’t have much to lose over rash choices but Julian has achieved his success and his position in the political arena could be destroyed over personal mistakes. How will they ever get out of this disaster? Or can Julian push up his sleeves and find the joy in getting a little messy.
What's to like: It’s been awhile since I’ve read a Flores book and I’d nearly forgotten how much I enjoy his smooth entertaining voice. This is a mistake I won’t make again and I’ve got some backlist reading to do! I enjoyed the enticing opening scene and found myself captivated by their whirlwind non-romance. I didn’t want to set it down and read it cover to cover, which I recall having the same “problem” with other stories from Jacob. He always has impeccable plot flow and any turbulence I feel is strictly with the characters jolting on their rough ride. This is a skill not every author possesses and I appreciate it when I see it.
What's to love: I quickly connected with the guys. Cody is charismatic and lights up the pages. Julian is stoic and serious and so very different from Cody, and yet I was still drawn to him. Cody falls to comic relief in stressful situations. Julian guards his sense of humor and only shares it with those closest to him. Which makes it that much more special when he dishes it out. When Julian discovers he publicly married a stranger, it is anything but funny. Then he remembers why his intoxicated-self thought it was wise to marry this bubbly man, they have the same views of marriage. Marriage becomes complicated when emotions are involved. Why can’t it simply be an arrangement between two people who enjoy having the practical benefits of having a spouse? He isn’t looking for love and neither is Cody and even better, their expectations of marriage match. *curveball* Of course, love ends up rearing its head and their arrangement is ruined. They were supposed to have a love free marriage…and now everything is spoiled….or is it?
Beware of: A night of overindulgence results in speedy courtship. But who needs dating when they are not interested in love? This is insta-not-love that turns into something deeper, something special, and something precious. It’s cute. It’s fun. And it’s fast!
This book is for: If you need a smile or are looking for a load of laughs, I think Suddenly Yours is just the pick me up you need.
Book UNfunk
October 16, 2016
‘Suddenly Yours’ is a story with many facets. On one level, it is funny to see the two main characters struggle so hard to make the marriage neither expected a perfect success – just as long as they keep to their deal and don’t fall in love. Seriously, I have never seen two men try so hard not to fall for each other. Then there are a few surprises, some twists and turns, and revelations on both sides that made me wonder whether either one of them knew what they were doing in a relationship. This novel is a beautiful “stealth” romance, i.e., one where love sort of sneaks up on both partners, but it is also a deeply emotional journey with some painful growth as both men begin to change each other.
Cody is impulsive, enjoys one-night stands with hot men, and is determined to become a published author one of these days while working as a waiter so he can pay the bills. Truth or Dare is his favorite game, and when his three college friends dare him to chat up a stranger in the bar they visit as part of a bachelor party, Cody doesn’t see a problem.
Julian is a meticulous planner, an out gay senator, and not in the habit of doing anything that might get in the way of his reelection. He can’t explain why he felt so attracted to Cody that he ended up married to him - on a dare Julian initiated, no less – but now that he is, he is determined to make the marriage a success. Not having to worry about love getting in the way is just the icing on the cake for Julian.
Cody and Julian have both been hurt by family members and former lovers to the point that they do not believe in love. A committed relationship, on the other hand, is something they both want. So when they first strike their deal, born out of the need to “spin” Julian’s impulsive decision so it won’t hurt his political career, they both actually believe it is the best possible solution. I have never seen more convincing arguments for an arranged, perfectly logical marriage. Except… there is an underlying attraction that neither of them can deny, and over time it becomes very obvious that their “affection” is growing into more. Obvious to everyone other than Cody and Julian, that is.
Their journey is not easy. Both men are their own worst enemy, and it takes the prodding and poking of good friends, family members, and one stubborn campaign manager to alert these guys to what is really going on. And even then... but you’ve got to read this for yourself. The story is full of great details, lots of funny moments, and a ton of character quirks. It makes for very entertaining reading with a healthy dose of emotions thrown in for good measure.
If you’re looking for a comedy with some solemn undertones and real character growth, if you’re in the market for an oops-I-fell-in-love – no-idea-how-that-happened kind of romance, and if you’re looking for a read that might make you laugh, probably want to shake some awareness into both men, and leave you with a tear or two in your eyes, then you will probably like this novel as much as I do. Reading this book did all of those things to me and more. ‘Suddenly Yours’ is just too entertaining to miss.
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Cody is impulsive, enjoys one-night stands with hot men, and is determined to become a published author one of these days while working as a waiter so he can pay the bills. Truth or Dare is his favorite game, and when his three college friends dare him to chat up a stranger in the bar they visit as part of a bachelor party, Cody doesn’t see a problem.
Julian is a meticulous planner, an out gay senator, and not in the habit of doing anything that might get in the way of his reelection. He can’t explain why he felt so attracted to Cody that he ended up married to him - on a dare Julian initiated, no less – but now that he is, he is determined to make the marriage a success. Not having to worry about love getting in the way is just the icing on the cake for Julian.
Cody and Julian have both been hurt by family members and former lovers to the point that they do not believe in love. A committed relationship, on the other hand, is something they both want. So when they first strike their deal, born out of the need to “spin” Julian’s impulsive decision so it won’t hurt his political career, they both actually believe it is the best possible solution. I have never seen more convincing arguments for an arranged, perfectly logical marriage. Except… there is an underlying attraction that neither of them can deny, and over time it becomes very obvious that their “affection” is growing into more. Obvious to everyone other than Cody and Julian, that is.
Their journey is not easy. Both men are their own worst enemy, and it takes the prodding and poking of good friends, family members, and one stubborn campaign manager to alert these guys to what is really going on. And even then... but you’ve got to read this for yourself. The story is full of great details, lots of funny moments, and a ton of character quirks. It makes for very entertaining reading with a healthy dose of emotions thrown in for good measure.
If you’re looking for a comedy with some solemn undertones and real character growth, if you’re in the market for an oops-I-fell-in-love – no-idea-how-that-happened kind of romance, and if you’re looking for a read that might make you laugh, probably want to shake some awareness into both men, and leave you with a tear or two in your eyes, then you will probably like this novel as much as I do. Reading this book did all of those things to me and more. ‘Suddenly Yours’ is just too entertaining to miss.
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
November 5, 2017
I thought Flores' writing was far better in his first kick at the Dreamspun Desires can.
May 16, 2020
I absolutely loved this book.
It’s sweet, fluffy and absolutely what I wanted and needed right now.
Cody and Julian were absolutely perfect for each other even though it took them a very long time (i was Seriously yelling at them to just get it at one point).
Sure, there was a lot of drama for the sake of drama at some points and sure I could’ve lived with Cody not ”testing” Julian. But what do you expect from a big buff of a guy loving soap operas way too much?
This was my first book by this author but I’m sure as hell going to read all the work of this one.
It’s sweet, fluffy and absolutely what I wanted and needed right now.
Cody and Julian were absolutely perfect for each other even though it took them a very long time (i was Seriously yelling at them to just get it at one point).
Sure, there was a lot of drama for the sake of drama at some points and sure I could’ve lived with Cody not ”testing” Julian. But what do you expect from a big buff of a guy loving soap operas way too much?
This was my first book by this author but I’m sure as hell going to read all the work of this one.
October 16, 2016
3.5 stars. Not enough for 4, so rounding down.
I had high expectations for this book, because of its author, and while he didn't let me down, I did end up disliking Julian to the point of it costing this book that extra half star.
This book is at its core about two men whose expectations of love and relationships have been set by the examples they had in their parents. They don't believe in love. Overrated. Love is a useless emotion. Right.
Fundamentally, Cody and Julian are rather well-suited to each other, their personalities meshing nicely, but because of their belief systems, their oopsie-on-a-dare marriage appears to be doomed from the start.
Julian is adamant that he's not going to fall in love. While he's openly gay and won his senate seat while openly gay, and while he supports same-sex marriage and equality, he has no intention of ever getting married or being in love. His parents' marriage is Exhibit A, and no, sirree, it's not for him. Besides, he almost got married once, but that didn't work out, so here's Exhibit B. No love for Julian, thanks.
Cody too has a lot of reservations about love and marriage. He's in Vegas for a bachelor party weekend, seeing one of his frat brothers tying the knot. He feels the pressure of taking the next step in adulthood, meaning finding The One and getting hitched, but his mother's bad luck in love has warned him off that path. He's perfectly happy not being in love and finding his meat-du-jour.
Except, they are both looking for the same thing - companionship, friendship, having someone to come home to. Sex. Someone who supports you. More sex. Everything a relationship offers, except the love part. Because, you know, love is overrated. And love can hurt you.
So their agreement after their hasty Vegas marriage is a six-month trial period of living together and seeing whether this works for them both. Sex is off the table, because neither wants the holy hot boysecks they had the night before to distract them from making the right decision. And they agree that they will not fall in love.
Famous last words.
Jacob easy writing style always draws me right in, and this book is no exception. What carried it for me, and what kept me glued to the pages, is Cody. He was adorable and sweet and kind, even if he's a bit of a rake early on, but he seemed committed to making things work and help Julian retain his senate seat. He works within Julian's rigid rules (borne out of a need to control all things), but also tries to pull him out of his head and enjoy life.
Love always finds a way, though, no matter how oblivious or dead-set against it the characters may be. When things come to a head, because love does happen as it's wont to do, and Julian does a stupid thing that hurts Cody, I was so upset that I nearly didn't finish the book. He really ticked me off, and I think because I so adored Cody, it made me even more angry how Julian treated him.
The book has plenty of humorous moments though, and I did enjoy reading it. I especially liked Cody's Days Of Our Lives soap opera obsession, and thought that the author cleverly used that theme with tongue-in-cheek. And while we get a tentative HEA, as expected because this is a romance after all, I would have liked to see an epilogue to really cement it. I wasn't quite as ready to forgive Julian as Cody was, and would have preferred a bit more begging.
By design, this book is low on steam on-page, but high on UST, which was highly entertaining.
While is is a Dreamspun Desires title and certainly has a Harlequin-type feeling to it, it's also the 2nd book in the One Fine Day series. In that it too fits well within the overall theme.
Nicely done, Jacob, even if Julian made me mad.
** I received a free copy of this book from its publisher. A positive review was not promised in return. **
I had high expectations for this book, because of its author, and while he didn't let me down, I did end up disliking Julian to the point of it costing this book that extra half star.
This book is at its core about two men whose expectations of love and relationships have been set by the examples they had in their parents. They don't believe in love. Overrated. Love is a useless emotion. Right.
Fundamentally, Cody and Julian are rather well-suited to each other, their personalities meshing nicely, but because of their belief systems, their oopsie-on-a-dare marriage appears to be doomed from the start.
Julian is adamant that he's not going to fall in love. While he's openly gay and won his senate seat while openly gay, and while he supports same-sex marriage and equality, he has no intention of ever getting married or being in love. His parents' marriage is Exhibit A, and no, sirree, it's not for him. Besides, he almost got married once, but that didn't work out, so here's Exhibit B. No love for Julian, thanks.
Cody too has a lot of reservations about love and marriage. He's in Vegas for a bachelor party weekend, seeing one of his frat brothers tying the knot. He feels the pressure of taking the next step in adulthood, meaning finding The One and getting hitched, but his mother's bad luck in love has warned him off that path. He's perfectly happy not being in love and finding his meat-du-jour.
Except, they are both looking for the same thing - companionship, friendship, having someone to come home to. Sex. Someone who supports you. More sex. Everything a relationship offers, except the love part. Because, you know, love is overrated. And love can hurt you.
So their agreement after their hasty Vegas marriage is a six-month trial period of living together and seeing whether this works for them both. Sex is off the table, because neither wants the holy hot boysecks they had the night before to distract them from making the right decision. And they agree that they will not fall in love.
Famous last words.
Jacob easy writing style always draws me right in, and this book is no exception. What carried it for me, and what kept me glued to the pages, is Cody. He was adorable and sweet and kind, even if he's a bit of a rake early on, but he seemed committed to making things work and help Julian retain his senate seat. He works within Julian's rigid rules (borne out of a need to control all things), but also tries to pull him out of his head and enjoy life.
Love always finds a way, though, no matter how oblivious or dead-set against it the characters may be. When things come to a head, because love does happen as it's wont to do, and Julian does a stupid thing that hurts Cody, I was so upset that I nearly didn't finish the book. He really ticked me off, and I think because I so adored Cody, it made me even more angry how Julian treated him.
The book has plenty of humorous moments though, and I did enjoy reading it. I especially liked Cody's Days Of Our Lives soap opera obsession, and thought that the author cleverly used that theme with tongue-in-cheek. And while we get a tentative HEA, as expected because this is a romance after all, I would have liked to see an epilogue to really cement it. I wasn't quite as ready to forgive Julian as Cody was, and would have preferred a bit more begging.
By design, this book is low on steam on-page, but high on UST, which was highly entertaining.
While is is a Dreamspun Desires title and certainly has a Harlequin-type feeling to it, it's also the 2nd book in the One Fine Day series. In that it too fits well within the overall theme.
Nicely done, Jacob, even if Julian made me mad.
** I received a free copy of this book from its publisher. A positive review was not promised in return. **
October 16, 2016
What fun this was! Jacob Flores knows how to give us fun characters and even in this situation, a believable and compelling romance.
What I loved about this story was the explanation behind the two staying married felt really “real” to me. Sure, the marriage started as a Very Bad Idea, but when examined in the light of day, it was actually plausible. It made swallowing the whole thing more palatable.
The Dreamspun Desires line is a “light steam” when it comes to smexy times, so I think that influenced how the sex was handled between the two MCs. If I could change anything, I’d have changed that. It was the only thing that felt a little forced. To me, I couldn’t see these two denying themselves for any fake time table when their chemistry was so clearly OTT.
I loved Julian’s optimism and Cody’s realism. The two really balanced the other out, and kept them working on their relationship when others would have bailed.
The dialog/banter between the two was fun, and the relative angst felt appropriate and not too much.
I really enjoyed this and think it’s one of the best in this series so far!
Highly recommended!
4.75 of 5 stars
What I loved about this story was the explanation behind the two staying married felt really “real” to me. Sure, the marriage started as a Very Bad Idea, but when examined in the light of day, it was actually plausible. It made swallowing the whole thing more palatable.
The Dreamspun Desires line is a “light steam” when it comes to smexy times, so I think that influenced how the sex was handled between the two MCs. If I could change anything, I’d have changed that. It was the only thing that felt a little forced. To me, I couldn’t see these two denying themselves for any fake time table when their chemistry was so clearly OTT.
I loved Julian’s optimism and Cody’s realism. The two really balanced the other out, and kept them working on their relationship when others would have bailed.
The dialog/banter between the two was fun, and the relative angst felt appropriate and not too much.
I really enjoyed this and think it’s one of the best in this series so far!
Highly recommended!
4.75 of 5 stars
July 25, 2024
Great romantic comedy, maybe OTT but I had fun listening to it.
Especially the first half was awesome. In the second half they created an in my opinion unnecessary drama and it took way too long till Julian figured that out.
Also an epilogue would have been nice. ;)
Perfectly narrated by John Solo!
Especially the first half was awesome. In the second half they created an in my opinion unnecessary drama and it took way too long till Julian figured that out.
Also an epilogue would have been nice. ;)
Perfectly narrated by John Solo!
October 11, 2016
ღ´¨)4.5 Incredible Bulk Stars.
¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)
(¸.•´ (¸.•` ღWhat would you do if you woke up married in Vegas?
OMG. Theirs read like a plot from Days of Our Lives or Ms. Congeniality . I have not had such a laugh-worthy good book in a while and by gawd I enjoyed this one. It was so feel good and so outrageous and so naughty all wrapped up in fluff and entertainment.
Their fairy tale marriage was no fairy tale. Theirs was one built off of a game of truth or dare.
Cody was in Vegas celebrating the upcoming nuptials of one of his best friends when a fraternity prank has him approaching a man who checked all of his boxes. There was no way Cody could let the handsome man slip through his fingers. Besides, he had been tagged and he had to follow through or be teased for a lifetime.
A political candidate, Julian was not one to venture off the straight and narrow. He had gone on to become a senator and topped it off by being openly gay with it. He'd made his bed and now he would lie in it. Walking away from a relationship that changed the rules, he knew life's game had to be followed to the tee. Besides, going against the grain only brought on more hurt and pain. Being approached with childhood antics should have been a turnoff, but Julian found himself drawn into Cody's games with ease once the alcohol began to flowed freely.
"Being with you broke all the rules I ever made for my life." --Julian
Waking up married was not in the plan. But politically there was nothing not even a spin doctor could fix without leaving either men hurt. Armed with knowledge that a marriage without love, but one with respect and affection was what both wanted, they forged ahead against the advice of everyone. Still, live has a way of throwing curved balls and when Julian's ex shows up he has some important news. "You may not have wanted a marriage that involves love, but guess what? You've got one now." And so began the struggles of Julian and Cody to either fix or dissolve the life they had began to build.
I voluntarily reviewed this book without bias or persuasion from Dreamspinner Press.
Reviewed by Cee from Alpha Book Club
¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)
(¸.•´ (¸.•` ღWhat would you do if you woke up married in Vegas?
OMG. Theirs read like a plot from Days of Our Lives or Ms. Congeniality . I have not had such a laugh-worthy good book in a while and by gawd I enjoyed this one. It was so feel good and so outrageous and so naughty all wrapped up in fluff and entertainment.
Their fairy tale marriage was no fairy tale. Theirs was one built off of a game of truth or dare.
Cody was in Vegas celebrating the upcoming nuptials of one of his best friends when a fraternity prank has him approaching a man who checked all of his boxes. There was no way Cody could let the handsome man slip through his fingers. Besides, he had been tagged and he had to follow through or be teased for a lifetime.
A political candidate, Julian was not one to venture off the straight and narrow. He had gone on to become a senator and topped it off by being openly gay with it. He'd made his bed and now he would lie in it. Walking away from a relationship that changed the rules, he knew life's game had to be followed to the tee. Besides, going against the grain only brought on more hurt and pain. Being approached with childhood antics should have been a turnoff, but Julian found himself drawn into Cody's games with ease once the alcohol began to flowed freely.
"Being with you broke all the rules I ever made for my life." --Julian
Waking up married was not in the plan. But politically there was nothing not even a spin doctor could fix without leaving either men hurt. Armed with knowledge that a marriage without love, but one with respect and affection was what both wanted, they forged ahead against the advice of everyone. Still, live has a way of throwing curved balls and when Julian's ex shows up he has some important news. "You may not have wanted a marriage that involves love, but guess what? You've got one now." And so began the struggles of Julian and Cody to either fix or dissolve the life they had began to build.
I voluntarily reviewed this book without bias or persuasion from Dreamspinner Press.
Reviewed by Cee from Alpha Book Club
October 26, 2016
Aww, this was like ooey gooey sugary sweetness!! I gobbled up every stinking minute of it!
I think I'm slowly but surely getting sucked into these Dreamspun Desires series. A few have been creamy crack fluff for me. But that's the way they should be, and others have been meh. This was really good from beginning to end. I enjoyed Jacob Z. Flores writing. I loved Cody & Julian a lot. I think they meshed well together and I found myself snickering and laughing out loud a couple of times. I needed these feelings, I am coming off some morose reads lately and this sweetness dump is just what the doctor ordered.
"I think Bruce has suffered enough torment for today."
"No, not that. I was talking about -- wait. Bruce Boner? That's really what you call it?"
"Only when he's sleeping," he whispered. "But when he's awake, he grows four times his size and becomes the Incredible Bulk."
I love the notion behind drunk people getting married in Vegas. It's an American past time folks. This is the second good story I've read about it, the first being Leta Blake's Will & Patrick: Wake up Married, if you haven't read it get on it folks. I like how Flores started on the initial aftermath of said notion and started from the beginning. Cody is a joyous character. I like that he seemed so free, open, and kind. I like that he had a sense of humor, and really was a bit of sunshine in this situation. I bet Julian didn't think of this happening while on the job. Throw in the added bonus of him being a Senator and we got problems Houston. I loved that Cody got Julian to open up. Julian was like two different people in this book. He was always on, and being with Cody made him this special person again and not the robot that the world sees.
I laughed a lot, and that's something I enjoy when reading. Flores did a good job with this book, and it makes me want to go back and read One Fine Day #1!! I loved that movie, so incorporating that into a series title was such a good idea. I could totally see something like this happening any day. If you are looking for a steamy, fluffy book with humorous intents, and smexy times then I recommend this. Looking forward to more from this series and author!
March 2, 2017
3.5
While I didn't like this quite as much as the first, it's still a light, enjoyable read. As other reviewers have noted this is fluff--like kitten-in-a-teacup level fluff.
But as with the first, it is also charming, likable and at moments laugh-out-loud funny. (Seriously, Bruce Boner and the Incredible Bulk!) Flores again deftly balances the more ludicrous genre elements with real-world concerns, here the difference between the soap opera/rom-com picture of love and what it actually takes to create a sustainable marriage. My one complaint is that the final conflict borrowed one of my least favorite romance novel plot devices. .
But for those of you in need of some light reading to take your mind off crap, you can't do better than the Dreamspun Desire series.
Bottom line: fluffalicious.
While I didn't like this quite as much as the first, it's still a light, enjoyable read. As other reviewers have noted this is fluff--like kitten-in-a-teacup level fluff.
But as with the first, it is also charming, likable and at moments laugh-out-loud funny. (Seriously, Bruce Boner and the Incredible Bulk!) Flores again deftly balances the more ludicrous genre elements with real-world concerns, here the difference between the soap opera/rom-com picture of love and what it actually takes to create a sustainable marriage. My one complaint is that the final conflict borrowed one of my least favorite romance novel plot devices. .
But for those of you in need of some light reading to take your mind off crap, you can't do better than the Dreamspun Desire series.
Bottom line: fluffalicious.
October 17, 2016
I loved this! They were so sweet together. Hot too! Loved the personality of Cody and I even liked Julian even though he was acting dense. You saw the writing on the wall when they got together. You knew the love bug was going to bite. I wouldn't mind reading more about these two.
February 15, 2017
4.2 Stars
OMG so much of this book was ridiculously OTT, but you know what? Today was evidently the day for me to appreciate that! because it was also romantic and sweet and sexy, too.
OMG so much of this book was ridiculously OTT, but you know what? Today was evidently the day for me to appreciate that! because it was also romantic and sweet and sexy, too.
December 28, 2017
Jacob did a great job with Being True, one of the best YA MM I have ever read.
So when I saw this popped up in Dreamspinner press website, this one I must have.
I really loved the cover, it's cute and pictured my guy Cody Hayes so right. He's funny, adorable nd easy to like.
That's what caught Julian Canales in a first place.
Stiff, arrogant and filthy rich, and he wanted Cody. Not at first, but you know what they called about Vegas huh? Hypnotic.
And waking up married to the guy he proposed last night, was kinda freaked him out at first.
The story is cute, light with a little drama near the end. But Julian needed it, because he's a stubborn when it comes to love.
But Cody got him to think that there's nothing's wrong with love in marriage.
I have a love hate love relationship with Julian (never Cody, he's awesome like that). Sometime I want to hug hm, but most of the time I wanted to slap him to wake him up, to tel, him, oh come on Julian! It's Cody that you need!
I don't really like both of their families, so many times, like a real life, family kills our dreams...so many times. Along the way, Cody and Julian have to thank Julian's ex, I think, because he's the one who made Julian open his heart for Cody. The guy need a man who can love him in the future (hints).
As for Cody's friends, I can't really like them, but they're okay when it comes to protect Cody. So, I have no problem with them.
Oh one more, I need an epilogue!
Overall, this book is entertaining. Cody is funny, and I liked his sense of humor, I giggle and laugh every time Cody called Julian 'sweet names' that Julian's hate. He got you there, Julian!
I can't believe I haven't read the first book, so, I think I'll dig in today.
Recommended!
*ARC is given by publisher for a fair and unbiased review.*
So when I saw this popped up in Dreamspinner press website, this one I must have.
I really loved the cover, it's cute and pictured my guy Cody Hayes so right. He's funny, adorable nd easy to like.
That's what caught Julian Canales in a first place.
Stiff, arrogant and filthy rich, and he wanted Cody. Not at first, but you know what they called about Vegas huh? Hypnotic.
And waking up married to the guy he proposed last night, was kinda freaked him out at first.
The story is cute, light with a little drama near the end. But Julian needed it, because he's a stubborn when it comes to love.
But Cody got him to think that there's nothing's wrong with love in marriage.
I have a love hate love relationship with Julian (never Cody, he's awesome like that). Sometime I want to hug hm, but most of the time I wanted to slap him to wake him up, to tel, him, oh come on Julian! It's Cody that you need!
I don't really like both of their families, so many times, like a real life, family kills our dreams...so many times. Along the way, Cody and Julian have to thank Julian's ex, I think, because he's the one who made Julian open his heart for Cody. The guy need a man who can love him in the future (hints).
As for Cody's friends, I can't really like them, but they're okay when it comes to protect Cody. So, I have no problem with them.
Oh one more, I need an epilogue!
Overall, this book is entertaining. Cody is funny, and I liked his sense of humor, I giggle and laugh every time Cody called Julian 'sweet names' that Julian's hate. He got you there, Julian!
I can't believe I haven't read the first book, so, I think I'll dig in today.
Recommended!
*ARC is given by publisher for a fair and unbiased review.*
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 10, 2016
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
This is a sweet, odd couple romance that has a swoony slow burn. The more time Cody and Julian spend together, the more their attraction grows. It’s torture for Cody, because he knows he’s falling for Julian, and he knows that Julian doesn’t want a partner who loves him that way. He’d rather one with whom he can share a mutual esteem, and a pragmatic approach to couplehood. It’s inconvenient when Julian recognizes how much he depends on Cody being with him at home, or on his trips to DC or around California. I kinda wish we’d seen more of that, because there’s a big jump from their rocky first week to this mutual dependence a few months down the road. I wanted to revel in their courtship more. Naturally, there’s a bit of angst on Cody’s part, especially when he meets Julian’s ex-fiancé. It’s starkly clear, at that moment, that Julian wants to keep Cody at arm’s length so they don’t develop an affection that could become too strong and complicate his carefully ordered life.
Thing is, Julian’s been falling just as hard for Cody, and hiding his feelings—pulling back to protect himself. His family history has trained him to keep his feelings well-hidden, and that makes being with heart-on-his-sleeve Cody all the more difficult.
Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
This is a sweet, odd couple romance that has a swoony slow burn. The more time Cody and Julian spend together, the more their attraction grows. It’s torture for Cody, because he knows he’s falling for Julian, and he knows that Julian doesn’t want a partner who loves him that way. He’d rather one with whom he can share a mutual esteem, and a pragmatic approach to couplehood. It’s inconvenient when Julian recognizes how much he depends on Cody being with him at home, or on his trips to DC or around California. I kinda wish we’d seen more of that, because there’s a big jump from their rocky first week to this mutual dependence a few months down the road. I wanted to revel in their courtship more. Naturally, there’s a bit of angst on Cody’s part, especially when he meets Julian’s ex-fiancé. It’s starkly clear, at that moment, that Julian wants to keep Cody at arm’s length so they don’t develop an affection that could become too strong and complicate his carefully ordered life.
Thing is, Julian’s been falling just as hard for Cody, and hiding his feelings—pulling back to protect himself. His family history has trained him to keep his feelings well-hidden, and that makes being with heart-on-his-sleeve Cody all the more difficult.
Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.
October 8, 2016
I was given a copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
This is such a fun story. A Vegas game of truth or dare ends with Julian, a respected, conservative Senator waking up married to Cody, a struggling writer. The story isn’t exactly new but Julian and Cody are absolutely brilliant characters and their story is more complicated than the premise suggests.
The chemistry between Julian and Cody is fantastic and while most of the actual sex is off page, sexual tension is high from the start and the playful flirtation between these two is wonderfully written. At times, the witty, clever banter between these two is absolutely magical.
This is a Dreamspinners Desires book and with constant references to daytime soaps and romantic comedies, there is a cheeky self-awareness to this story. Part tribute and part piss-take, this manages to be playfully melodramatic without ever taking itself too seriously.
For me, this is almost the perfect romance and I am enjoying this author more with each new book.
This is such a fun story. A Vegas game of truth or dare ends with Julian, a respected, conservative Senator waking up married to Cody, a struggling writer. The story isn’t exactly new but Julian and Cody are absolutely brilliant characters and their story is more complicated than the premise suggests.
The chemistry between Julian and Cody is fantastic and while most of the actual sex is off page, sexual tension is high from the start and the playful flirtation between these two is wonderfully written. At times, the witty, clever banter between these two is absolutely magical.
This is a Dreamspinners Desires book and with constant references to daytime soaps and romantic comedies, there is a cheeky self-awareness to this story. Part tribute and part piss-take, this manages to be playfully melodramatic without ever taking itself too seriously.
For me, this is almost the perfect romance and I am enjoying this author more with each new book.
September 27, 2016
**copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie via Dreamspinner in exchange for an honest review**
When Cody and Julian meet and spend the evening together in Vegas, they wake-up not only hungover, but married, Julian's first instinct is to call his lawyer to get the divorce proceedings started, but he sees an opportunity to help his senatorial re-election campaign. Will Cody agree to stay in a loveless marriage?
This was a cute story. The beginning especially had me cracking-up laughing. Cody was so funny, but once they move in together, Cody closed himself off and unfortunately he wasn't the funny lovable character from the beginning of the story.
This was a sweet and entertaining story. It's well-written and paced well. The characters are likable and you want to root for their marriage to not only work, but be filled with lots of laughter, happiness and love!! Very recommendable!!
When Cody and Julian meet and spend the evening together in Vegas, they wake-up not only hungover, but married, Julian's first instinct is to call his lawyer to get the divorce proceedings started, but he sees an opportunity to help his senatorial re-election campaign. Will Cody agree to stay in a loveless marriage?
This was a cute story. The beginning especially had me cracking-up laughing. Cody was so funny, but once they move in together, Cody closed himself off and unfortunately he wasn't the funny lovable character from the beginning of the story.
This was a sweet and entertaining story. It's well-written and paced well. The characters are likable and you want to root for their marriage to not only work, but be filled with lots of laughter, happiness and love!! Very recommendable!!
November 13, 2016
I really enjoyed the beginning of this book, and it was headed towards a solid 4 stars. Cody was an adorable character, and Julian was pretty great, as well. I loved Cody's sass, and his adoration for Days of Our Lives (although I have do disagree, that awful "Aremid" story was one of the worst Days stories I can remember! They killed off Grandma Horton with freaking DONUTS! Possessed Marlena for the win!).
Alas, the story kind of fell apart for me in the last 1/4. Julian's steadfast denial about his feelings, and his treatment of Cody, after trying so hard to convince Cody how perfect they were for each other just killed things for me. It could have all been saved, if there had only been a bit more grovel at the end by Julian, and a nice epilogue, to show the guys ACTUALLY happy and in love, but I felt that it ended just a bit too abruptly, all things considered.
Alas, the story kind of fell apart for me in the last 1/4. Julian's steadfast denial about his feelings, and his treatment of Cody, after trying so hard to convince Cody how perfect they were for each other just killed things for me. It could have all been saved, if there had only been a bit more grovel at the end by Julian, and a nice epilogue, to show the guys ACTUALLY happy and in love, but I felt that it ended just a bit too abruptly, all things considered.
October 23, 2016
It's a tad too dramatic near the end, but, overall, I was entertained.
October 24, 2016
2,75*
It was started out funny but turn to boring drama in the middle, the conflict so not convincing.
It was started out funny but turn to boring drama in the middle, the conflict so not convincing.
November 23, 2016
3.5 stars
December 12, 2016
Review can be read at It's About The Book
This book was so much fun! I love a book that leaves me satisfied and happy. Suddenly Yours was adorable, witty and sexy. I loved all the humor. I laughed out loud so many times while reading this book. I went back and reread one of the chapters once I finished because it was just that good. This book is one of my favorites so far in the Dreamspun Desires line. I don’t like my books too sweet. This one had a nice balance of sweet and serious. The MCs were totally lovable and had amazing chemistry. They also had a some issues to work out to find their happily ever after.
Cody the aspiring writer and part time waiter wakes up married to Julian the Senator seeking reelection. Their drunken courtship was short but one of the most amazing nights of their lives. The two men bonded over their rejection of love as something they need to be happy. The morning after they have to face reality. Julian is out proud. His platform champions equality and family but a quickie marriage in Vegas to a stranger doesn’t exactly fit the image he’s put out there. The guys have a choice. Get a divorce and beg for the public’s mercy or try to give it a 6 month trial period. That’s long enough to get Julian through the election and see if they really want to spend their lives together.
I absolutely adored the MCs. Yes they’re frustrating and oblivious at times but it works for them and the story. They have to get past their hang ups with love to realize what they’re feeling for each other. They’ve essentially made a deal to not fall in love with each other. Which of course happens. I also think the no hanky panky rule they make builds some delicious sexual tension between the two. Their banter back and forth in the beginning was amazing. It continues on in the book in smaller doses but as Cody struggles with keeping emotions at bay he loses some of his playfulness. Which just makes Julian try that much harder to make him happy. Julian does his best to make their marriage his version of ideal but reality throws curve balls at them. They get it all together in the end though. I love Cody and Julian together. They’re funny, sweet and crazy sexy. I would easily recommend this book to anybody who loves a humorous steamy read with some depth and great characters. This book made me happy!
This book was so much fun! I love a book that leaves me satisfied and happy. Suddenly Yours was adorable, witty and sexy. I loved all the humor. I laughed out loud so many times while reading this book. I went back and reread one of the chapters once I finished because it was just that good. This book is one of my favorites so far in the Dreamspun Desires line. I don’t like my books too sweet. This one had a nice balance of sweet and serious. The MCs were totally lovable and had amazing chemistry. They also had a some issues to work out to find their happily ever after.
Cody the aspiring writer and part time waiter wakes up married to Julian the Senator seeking reelection. Their drunken courtship was short but one of the most amazing nights of their lives. The two men bonded over their rejection of love as something they need to be happy. The morning after they have to face reality. Julian is out proud. His platform champions equality and family but a quickie marriage in Vegas to a stranger doesn’t exactly fit the image he’s put out there. The guys have a choice. Get a divorce and beg for the public’s mercy or try to give it a 6 month trial period. That’s long enough to get Julian through the election and see if they really want to spend their lives together.
I absolutely adored the MCs. Yes they’re frustrating and oblivious at times but it works for them and the story. They have to get past their hang ups with love to realize what they’re feeling for each other. They’ve essentially made a deal to not fall in love with each other. Which of course happens. I also think the no hanky panky rule they make builds some delicious sexual tension between the two. Their banter back and forth in the beginning was amazing. It continues on in the book in smaller doses but as Cody struggles with keeping emotions at bay he loses some of his playfulness. Which just makes Julian try that much harder to make him happy. Julian does his best to make their marriage his version of ideal but reality throws curve balls at them. They get it all together in the end though. I love Cody and Julian together. They’re funny, sweet and crazy sexy. I would easily recommend this book to anybody who loves a humorous steamy read with some depth and great characters. This book made me happy!
October 31, 2016
5***** Stars
Book: Suddenly Yours Book 2
Series: Dreamspun Desires
Author: Jacob Flores
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Genre: Romance
Rated: Mature M/M
This Halloween Season, I have read some really heavy stories, some made to scare me to death. I needed this book Jacob Flores, more than you could ever know. Dreamspinner Press is slowly modeling itself to a Harlequin Publishing. It is giving names to their book groups, a name separating their book genres in essence. I love the idea and keeping with that, this is the second book for Jacob Flores for his One Fine Day Collection. The first one was Undercover Boyfriend which was over the top adorable.
Suddenly Yours Book #2, is sweet, funny, low angsty, well written and a totally hot sexy love story. Just what my doctor ordered! I have been following this young man Jacob Flores for a while now starting with his Provincetown Series. I have watched his growth as a story teller and author and am a happy camper when he has a book release.
The premise for Suddenly Yours again is an ‘over the top’ idea that works. The line ‘whatever happens in Vegas stays in Vegas’ is tested when two young men from different walks of life, meet in a bar in Vegas. Julian Canales is a California State Senator. Cody Hayes is a part time waiter and part time writer. They are thrown together by Cody’s college buddies on a Truth-or-Dare bet for him to pick up the pretty boy.
Cody gets to first base with Julian finally accepting one drink…..then two….then three.
Waking up together the next morning begins a great story and I double dare you to say differently. Just what I needed Jacob! Over the top….
Review by Gloria Lakritz
Sr reviewer and Review Chair for the Paranormal Romance Guild
Book: Suddenly Yours Book 2
Series: Dreamspun Desires
Author: Jacob Flores
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Genre: Romance
Rated: Mature M/M
This Halloween Season, I have read some really heavy stories, some made to scare me to death. I needed this book Jacob Flores, more than you could ever know. Dreamspinner Press is slowly modeling itself to a Harlequin Publishing. It is giving names to their book groups, a name separating their book genres in essence. I love the idea and keeping with that, this is the second book for Jacob Flores for his One Fine Day Collection. The first one was Undercover Boyfriend which was over the top adorable.
Suddenly Yours Book #2, is sweet, funny, low angsty, well written and a totally hot sexy love story. Just what my doctor ordered! I have been following this young man Jacob Flores for a while now starting with his Provincetown Series. I have watched his growth as a story teller and author and am a happy camper when he has a book release.
The premise for Suddenly Yours again is an ‘over the top’ idea that works. The line ‘whatever happens in Vegas stays in Vegas’ is tested when two young men from different walks of life, meet in a bar in Vegas. Julian Canales is a California State Senator. Cody Hayes is a part time waiter and part time writer. They are thrown together by Cody’s college buddies on a Truth-or-Dare bet for him to pick up the pretty boy.
Cody gets to first base with Julian finally accepting one drink…..then two….then three.
Waking up together the next morning begins a great story and I double dare you to say differently. Just what I needed Jacob! Over the top….
Review by Gloria Lakritz
Sr reviewer and Review Chair for the Paranormal Romance Guild
October 9, 2016
“Suddenly Yours” has a very cliché plot in which our MCs gets married after one night of wild-drinking in none other than the Sin City, Las Vegas. This trope has been used and abused a million times but it’s always fun. This book is cute and a fun read. The plot starts off with the married trope and then there is some predictable plot twists along the way, but all over it was very enjoyable with a little angst and heaps of sweet and cuddly moments.
Julian and Cody shares the same views on Love. Cody has abandonment issues and in addition his ex betrayed him very badly, so he has a very skewed outlook towards Love. Whereas, Julian has always suffered along with his mother when his womanizing father breaks her heart time and again throughout their marriage. So both Julian and Cody want a partner to rely on but none wants the complication of love. Love ruins everything and that’s the brilliant logic which Julian comes up with when he decides to make their impromptu marriage work but not in the traditional sense. They will be best friends who have amazing chemistry, very similar interests and respect for one another but “NOT FALL IN LOVE”. It’s easier said than done. Read this book and find out what happens when Love makes a grand and sneaky appearance in their marriage and how it makes everything a little crazy and inconvenient but beautiful and amazing nonetheless.
I really enjoyed this book. Julian and Cody had a very sizzling chemistry. Their ground rule of “NO SEX” was a huge disappointment but they make it up with the slow-burn romance which keeps the anticipation at an all high. We have to wait quite a bit for them to break the rules but it was worth it.
I love Mr. Flores’s work. The character development and the other “no Love” marriage relationship development was done very nicely. Julian was really as Clueless as Alicia Silverstone in the movie*wink* That guy needed a wake-up call pronto and after he gets a hold of his emotions, he surpasses Cody’s expectations (read “my”). That “getting him back” speech at the end was killer.
Overall, it is very fun, sweet and heartfelt. The characters were very real and lovable and I had a great time reading about their growing confidence and belief in love. Great addition to the “Dreamspun Desire” series!!!
* This review has been cross posted at GayBookReviews*
Julian and Cody shares the same views on Love. Cody has abandonment issues and in addition his ex betrayed him very badly, so he has a very skewed outlook towards Love. Whereas, Julian has always suffered along with his mother when his womanizing father breaks her heart time and again throughout their marriage. So both Julian and Cody want a partner to rely on but none wants the complication of love. Love ruins everything and that’s the brilliant logic which Julian comes up with when he decides to make their impromptu marriage work but not in the traditional sense. They will be best friends who have amazing chemistry, very similar interests and respect for one another but “NOT FALL IN LOVE”. It’s easier said than done. Read this book and find out what happens when Love makes a grand and sneaky appearance in their marriage and how it makes everything a little crazy and inconvenient but beautiful and amazing nonetheless.
I really enjoyed this book. Julian and Cody had a very sizzling chemistry. Their ground rule of “NO SEX” was a huge disappointment but they make it up with the slow-burn romance which keeps the anticipation at an all high. We have to wait quite a bit for them to break the rules but it was worth it.
I love Mr. Flores’s work. The character development and the other “no Love” marriage relationship development was done very nicely. Julian was really as Clueless as Alicia Silverstone in the movie*wink* That guy needed a wake-up call pronto and after he gets a hold of his emotions, he surpasses Cody’s expectations (read “my”). That “getting him back” speech at the end was killer.
Overall, it is very fun, sweet and heartfelt. The characters were very real and lovable and I had a great time reading about their growing confidence and belief in love. Great addition to the “Dreamspun Desire” series!!!
* This review has been cross posted at GayBookReviews*
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