Brave & Beautiful

Sassy Boyz #3

by Elizabeth Varlet

Sexy, seductive and hiding dark secrets, the Sassy Boyz return to the stage in Brave & Beautiful There’s only one relationship that matters to Tameron “Tam” Kis—his love affair with dance. Life’s been pretty shitty, but dance got him through it and now he’s ready to focus on what he loves. He doesn’t have the bandwidth for any distractions—especially not his sexy, not-quite-straight new neighbor.Driver Ellis doesn’t need anything but his bike and the open road. He wouldn’t trade his drifter lifestyle for anything…until his friend calls in a favor and Driver suddenly finds himself pet-sitting. Driver isn’t thrilled being stuck in one place, though things start to look up when he sets eyes on the gorgeous girl next door. There’s just one problem… She isn’t a girl at all.All it takes is one spontaneous dance to turn both Driver’s and Tam’s worlds upside down. They might not have been looking for love, but as things heat up between them, it’s clear life has very different plans.This book is approximately 75,000 wordsOne-click with confidence. This title is part of the Carina Press Romance all the romance you’re looking for with an HEA/HFN. It’s a promise!

Genres: M M Romance, Romance, Contemporary, Ebooks, Bisexual, LGBT, M M Contemporary

249 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 9, 2017

About the author

Elizabeth Varlet is a nerd at heart and spends way too many hours binging on episodes of her favorite television shows. If you love Doctor Who, Supernatural, Stargate, Star Trek, Sherlock, or Firefly you are already her best friend.

She started writing stories in high school and hasn’t stopped. Now, her characters like to get frisky under the covers – or the stars, they’re not picky. She’s a thirty-something, newly married, world traveler who devours books like they were candy.

To contact Elizabeth, send her an email to elizabethvarlet@gmail.com. Or follow her on any of her social media sites.

Reviews

[Judith · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars.






It's no secret I absolutely adore femme men so this series is totally my thing and I think Tam has just become my new favourite Sassy Boy.







Tam is the groups choreographer and has a quite determination about him-he desperately wants the Sassy Boys to get back on track with regular work.He's sweet and a little bit shy and doesn't seem to realize how stunning he is.Due to a traumatic past he feels no sexual desire but things are about to change when he meets Driver.


Driver comes with his own baggage,never wanting to stay in one place for too long and face up to his past.He's house sitting for a friend in the same apartment block Tam lives in when they meet.When he first sees Tam he's blown away by what he thinks is a beautiful woman and isn't the least bit put off when he discovers Tam is a man.

Their relationship definitely isn't an easy one.Driver doesn't want commitment and starts off just wanting a bit of fun but he gradually begins to learn how vulnerable Tam is.Tam has his own insecurities to deal with due to his past.

I just adored Tam and although Driver annoyed me at times both men brought out the best in each other.
This one probably could be read as a standalone but I strongly advise reading the previous books,especially Fierce & Fabulous,to fully understand the connection the Sassy Boys have.


Highly Recommended!


I received an Arc of Brave and Beautiful from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[~✡~Dαni(ela) ♥ ♂♂ love & semi-colons~✡~ · Rating 5 out of 5]

~4.5~

Despite the heartbreaking themes of loss and sexual abuse, Brave & Beautiful felt hopeful and redemptive.



Unlike Ansel and Z, the Sassy Boyz from the first two books, Tam, the group's talented choreographer, doesn't have a mean streak. Tam is quiet and withdrawn. Having survived a horrific childhood, Tam feels no sexual desire; he's not even sure if he's attracted to men or women. He's far stronger than he thinks, but he doesn't trust easily.

All the darkness in his life had made it possible for him to know the stars.

Tam meets Driver in the basement laundry room of his apartment building. Tam walks in on Driver wearing nothing but briefs, and his automatic response is to flee. But he just wants to do his laundry, damn it.

Driver is a shameless flirt. He likes all flavors of sex, although he typically dates women. He initially mistakes Tam for a woman, a very sexy woman, but he's not remotely fazed when he realizes that Tam is all man. Tam wears frilly manties, high heels, and glitter. Every move he makes is sensual and graceful.



Driver is a wild card. Following an accident that took the lives of his family, Drivers runs. And runs. Never satisfied, always moving, Driver can't promise Tam a future.

I'm not going to lie and say Driver is an easy MC to like because he's not. He hurts people, and he's selfish. Tam, on the other hand, is a beautiful soul, and I adored him to pieces.



Yet despite Driver's inability to be still with his pain, he's so good to Tam. He doesn't push Tam into anything sexual, and Tam's issues aren't magically solved with magic dick.

Tam has a sexual awakening when he's with Driver. He feels real desire for the first time. He discovers the joy of touching and kissing.

He'd give his whole heart to keep Tam safe. He'd lie down and sacrifice everything to know that Tam was in the world, shining like the star he was.

This book is very much relationship focused, but there is a side plot involving all the Sassy Boyz, who are looking for a new venue where they can perform. After nearly a dozen auditions, they're losing hope.

We do see all the Boyz again, and I was pleased to get more of Ansel & Fitch's as well as Z and Connelly's HEA, but Brave & Beautiful can be read as a standalone.

This would have been a perfect 5 star read had it not been for the somewhat abrupt ending. The MCs are together, but the book ends immediately after Driver comes to his senses. A short epilogue would have made all the difference.

Driver buried his nose in Tam's hair. "I swear to God, you are my new favorite feeling."

[* A Reader Obsessed * · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Stars

Consistently good writing with a sexy set up and topical angst that didn’t veer off into too much protracted melodrama.

Now it’s been a while since I read book 2 (Dark & Dazzling) which I equally enjoyed but I will say, that these types of tropes I’m not as gaga for as I used to be. However, this did not disappoint.

Granted, Driver does not discriminate whatsoever in who he’s attracted to and though he mistakes Tam for a girl initially, Tam being a man doesn’t deter Driver from pursuing him hard.

Tam on the other hand doesn’t have any inclination to be chased due to a terrible brutal history but you know, when a charismatic guy such as Driver pulls out all the stops, how long can Tam reasonably resist? Not very.

So ensue a playful, weighted back and forth with several obstacles that are eventually conquered. Tam’s trauma was never minimized but he’s slowly charmed (and so was I) by the persistent Driver, who was so very very hard to resist. Driver too, has his own demons and sad past and he can’t seem to not run away when any responsibility or obligation or feelings come into play, so just know he’s going to do some stupid and hurtful things until he gets his head straight. When he does, it was a lovely thing.

Overall, Varlet brings the feels, the romance, and the smex, and though this type of storyline has been done many times over, I still enjoyed myself quite nicely if I do say so myself!

[Susan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Re-read July 2021

I gave this book 5 stars when I read it 4 years ago. And now I'm only giving it 3 stars.. ☹️

Driver really annoyed me this time around. He was such a commitment phobe. I disliked him immensely with this re-read.

Also asking, 'do you trust me?' when Tam was freaking out during sex felt so wrong. Trauma doesn't have anything to do with trust. Tam could trust Driver and still freak out when he got touched. 😡

I'm going to leave my original review below, just know that I totally changed my mind this time. 😤

---------------------------

This was amazing! Best one in the series so far. I was in hurt/comfort heaven with this.

We know Tam as the choreographer of the Sassy Boyz and as somewhat of a quiet guy. The reason he is quiet and not all that approachable is because of his past. His mother and stepfather sold him to tricks from an early age and even when Tam ran away from home, he prostituted himself to stay alive. And despite the fact that he has made a good life with some precious friends now, he is still not able to enjoy anything remotely sexual. That is until he meets his neighbor one day while doing laundry in the basement..

Driver is housesitting for his friend, but can’t wait to be back on the road again once his friend comes back. He is not one to stay put somewhere and build a life. But he does want to have a bit of fun with his cute neighbor. He is even more determined to win Tam over once he finds out Tam is not a woman but a man. And since Driver is bisexual, he doesn’t freak out once he finds out Tam is a guy. He just knows he wants to get to know the beautiful man better...

Tam is definitely my favorite Sassy Boy. He was sweet, a bit shy, and so scarred inside. And oh boy, did he need someone to love him. That’s why I loved Driver for him. I didn’t like how he always ran away from everything his entire life, but I did love that he stayed this time, for Tam.

Of course there is some relationship angst, but it didn’t felt fake or fabricated for drama’s sake. I think everyone can see what the conflict will be about, since it is clear from the beginning of the book. But it fit the story and I didn’t have a problem with it at all.

Despite the abuse Tam suffered in his childhood and despite Driver’s trauma, this didn’t feel like a heavy book like Dark & Dazzling. This one felt more cozy and comforting instead of dark and draining like the previous book. We get lots of (past) hurt, but we also get lots and lots of comfort. Just how I like my books.

I absolutely loved this and will re-read again, since it has boys in high heels, lots of dancing, authentic conversations, and lots of comfort for all the hurt.

[~Mindy Lynn~ · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Stars!


I have to say I am a bit disappointed that I didn't fall head over ass in love with this book as so many of my fellow goodreads peeps did. I thought Tam's story was going to be a possible favorite, but it didn't succeed in grabbing me and keeping me. I struggled with keeping my focus on the story and not letting myself get distracted with other things.

Tam's backstory is pretty horrific and me explaining much of it will give too much away. So I will just say his past has kept him from wanting any kind of sexual relationship with anyone. He is comfortable in his loneliness. He is settled in knowing that he doesn't want what his other two Sassy Boyz have recently come to have; Love. He lives for his routines, his job, his dancing, and his friendships. So why then is he all of a sudden having weird feelings towards a random mostly naked guy he finds in his laundry room of his apartment building? The weird feeling's left him a bit scared, confused, and definitely intrigued.
Driver has been on the road and on the run since the age of 18. His past isn't as tragic as Tam's but still just as sad. He lost his family at the young age of 14. He was taken in by his grandparents and they showered him with love and all the attention he was in need of. He repays them by running and barely coming back home to visit. But now he's back and turtle sitting for a friend who just happens to have an apartment across from Tam. He first mistakes Tam for a girl. Tam doesn't take offense to this but does get a bit irked by it. When Driver realizes his mistake it doesn't dim the attraction he's feeling. It only intensifies it. But even his attraction and connection he feels towards Tam doesn't keep him from wanting to run.

I adore Tam. He is the soft to his friends hard. He didn't have a mean sassy bone in him. He's kind and always ready with encouraging words or a shoulder squeeze of support for his friends. So it was definitely hard to hear about his past and sad to see his struggle to be sexual. Driver.. Well it was hard to fully like him. I loved how he was with Tam and they had great chemistry. But still there was something about his character that left me not fully committing me to him.

Happy reading dolls! xx

[*J* Too Many Books Too Little Time · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars!

I really, really love this series.

Rounding down because it kind of just ended, felt a bit abrupt.

Otherwise, loved it! Makes me want to go back and read the other books.

[Tanu Gill · Rating 4 out of 5]

*I have voluntarily reviewed an ARC generously and lovingly provided by the author.*

This book was a sweet yet heart-wrenching addition to the series. I read the first part with a small, involuntary smile on my face, loving the charm pouring off Driver (wow, it’s really a name!) and the sweet wooing Tam went through.

Then came the tense part, and I spent that with an almost frown on my face and my hand on my stomach to help it digest the pain that was being shoved down its channel with Tam’s brutal past. I just kept reading so that I could escape this pain. Then Driver went and did that to himself. I almost died with heart attack!

Finally, the good part arrived again and I went back to smiling while reading. The part with Sassy Boyz was the best, as it is always amazing to meet them all together.

The only thing left to say is, I liked this one a teeny tiny bit lesser than the first two book of the series. The only reason I can state for it is that the development in the story was of the plot as well as both the characters’s emotional growth. So I was left wanting more light-hearted moments not affected by their baggage after they finally got together. Having said that, I can’t wait for the next book. I do need my regular fixes of my Sassy Boyz! ❤️

[Meags · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars

I really enjoyed this third instalment of the fabulously fierce and femme Sassy Boyz series.

This go-around we focus on the story of sweet and shy choreographer, Tameron Kis. Tam’s life is dance. After surviving a youth full of trauma and abuse, dancing is the one true thing that makes him feel blissful and free, helping him keep his personal demons at bay. But when his dance troupe, the Sassy Boyz, find themselves without a regular gig (after the nightclub they worked at went bust in book two), Tam and his friends scrabble to find a new, LGBT friendly venue to perform at, so they can stay together and keep working as a group, doing what they love best.

The search for a new home for the Sassy Boyz becomes Tam’s mission. He just wants to dance and be surrounded by the love and support, and endless sass, only his closest friends and fellow dancers can provide. In this comfort bubble he’s created around himself, Tam is safe from being too overwhelmed by his past, but when he meets Driver, an attractive man who is apartment sitting across the hall, Tam soon realises he can only keep his walls up for so long before this new, powerful connection with Driver changes things forever.

Driver is practically the perfect man for Tam. He’s sexy and confident, but also sympathetic and understanding to every emotion and need Tam expresses. Driver simply adores Tam, which is a wholly new experience in and of itself, for both men. But as Tam slowly opens up to Driver about his troubled past, he realises that Driver has his own deeply ingrained emotional scars, too — the kind that keep him running from his past and make him kind of unpredictable in the whole relationship department.

Tam and Driver both have personal demons to slay — boy, do they ever — but in each other’s arms they discover that they might just be stronger together, slowly learning how to open up about their pasts and helping one another to work through the issues they’ve each been buried under for years.

This was an emotionally heavy story, with themes of loss and abuse running rampant throughout. But Varlet is such a skilled author that she was able to mix the angst with the fun, flashy, sexy, and, most importantly, the romantic with apparent ease — which was made all the more compelling with a full cast of deeply complex and wonderfully rich characters to draw from.

I absolutely adored Tam, and although Driver annoyed me at times with his “need to run” mentality, I still loved the way he worshipped and treated Tam, and therefore, I fell for him in turn. I truly enjoyed following Tam and Driver as they learned to love themselves and one another — their story really captured the brave and beautiful.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! <3

[Dia · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 bleeding stars

This is Tam's story and the third book in the Sassy Boyz series.
I still can't believe Fierce & Fabulous was Elizabeth Varlet's debut book. I loved Ansel so much and it pained me to wait *not so patiently* for the next books.
I was lucky to receive an ARC for Dark & Dazzling and I adored Azariah's story!
I can't explain in words how much I wanted an ARC for this third book and what a huge joy it brought to me when I received it. I started peeking even if I had to study hard for a big exam. It just didn't seem right to let it rest on my Kindle, untouched.

So I should start by saying: this book was as amazing as ALL the others in this series. I really love this author's writing style!!! I was hooked by the start and I just couldn't turn the pages fast enough to discover the characters' background. Oh and what a background!

Tameron is a choreographer and he is pretty happy with his new life, even if he still must work hard to get what he wants - dance on stage surrounded by his friends. He's very close to his Sassy Boyz partners and he tries to forget his painful past, full of abuse. Tam isn't ready to make new friends, let alone have a new lover. But when Driver - the hot, bearded and full of tattoos biker comes into his life, it's hard to pretend he isn't attracted to him.

But Driver comes with a baggage too. He's not ready to make peace with his past. Tam might be the one he wants and needs, but inevitable he still feels the need to keep running from anything stable. One thing he's good at: running. But this time is different as he seems he found exactly what he never cared for - LOVE.

I really loved this story, even if it broke my heart many times. I wanted to hug Tam and tell him everything will get better. I wanted to kick Driver for his actions, even if I somehow understood his pain.
Oh and I must add: these two were super HOT together. Tam had such a sweet and kind soul, but also a sassy attitude. I really loved their banter. Driver was really good at teasing him.

Can't wait to read more from this author!!!

ARC kindly provided to me by Carina Press, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

[.Lili. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Man, did I love this one! It just clicked for me.



-From how Tam & Ellis met.
-Their banter.
-Complex characters.
-Hurt/comfort/healing. There was some f*cked up sh*t.
-Despite the heartbreak in their backgrounds, this story is full of hope.
-The pace was smooth.
-Steam factor is high.
-The best part of this book though is the relationship development. So. Freaking. Well. Written.



I can't recommend Brave & Beautiful (Sassy Boyz #3) by Elizabeth Varlet enough. 4.5 Stars.

[Elsa Bravante · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sin ser un libro notable, es muy entretenido y el que más me ha gustado de la serie. Tiene sus momentos tristes, tiernos, sexys y con amor. De la misma manera que pasa con los anteriores el Sassy Boyz brilla, en este caso Tam, probablemente el que puede despertar más ternura de todos ellos, mientras que la pareja, Driver, se ve un poco oscurecida. El estilo de la autora es muy sencillo, y la verdad es que el libro se lee solo.
Le voy a poner cuatro porque la pareja me ha gustado, he pasado un rato muy agradable y me ha dejado con ganas de saber qué pasa con los otros miembros del grupo.

[Mirjana **DTR - Down to Read** · Rating 4 out of 5]

***4.5 Stars***

"And if there is one thing I've learned from my life it's that scars make us stronger, but only if we let the wounds heal first."

Oh I loved this! I could have read it all in one sitting if time allowed.

Tam, Tam, Tam...my darling Tam. He broke my heart and healed it too. He's been through so much ugliness in his life and yet even with heaps of self-doubt, he's still such a strong man. A survivor of sexual abuse, Tam struggles with sex, desire, and intimacy. Uncomfortable with any form.

...the thing he'd lost before he ever owned it, the thing that had been so cruelly stolen from him.

Passion and the freedom that went with it.

Driver is a drifter. A man that goes from one place to another, and from one adventure to the next. Not because he's searching for something...but because he's running. Running from grief. Running from guilt. He blames himself for the death of his parents and his little brother, and the moment things start to feel too real...he bolts. But with Tam he doesn't feel that itch to flee, to run. He looks forward to their nights together eating dinner and watching TV.

In his entire life, there wasn't a single time he could remember sitting in the dark with another person and being completely content like he was now.

He didn't remember ever feeling so satisfied to just BE.

In this moment, in this place, in this life, he was totally at ease and peaceful.

The pacing of Tam and Driver's relationship was perfect. No magic dick here!

Driver was so patient and caring with Tam. Moving at a pace that Tam felt comfortable with, and focusing solely on him...no pushing. He allowed Tam to slowly reclaim parts of himself he thought lost forever.

"Feel good?"

"Like I'm flying."

"Soar, precious. You look good up there."

As much as Driver begins to look forward to and love his time with Tam, he keeps a part of himself closed off. He's selfish when it comes to his feelings, his vulnerabilities, and his fears. He expects all those around him to accept the fact that he can't make any promises and may leave with no notice.

But now he's at war with himself....part of him can't imagine leaving, but the other part knows there'll come a time when he feels he has to. When the feelings for Tam will grow too strong, and the fear of losing another person overwhelms him.

It was so hard to hold on.

Hard to keep his grip on something so slippery and intangible.

There was no name for what they were.

But Driver knew he'd be lost without it.

Thing was, he was just as lost with it. The undertow kept pulling him under and the more time he spent with Tam, the more breathless he felt.

Watching Tam grow stronger throughout this book was fantastic. Driver didn't solve Tam's problems or cure him, he gave Tam the support to continue healing himself.

He was no longer content with surviving.

He wanted to thrive.

This would have easily been a 5 star book, but Driver's turnaround was too easy and too rushed compared to the pacing of the rest of the book. It felt like someone was holding a warning card that said "wrap it up." The emotion was definitely there, but I could have definitely used an epilogue or an extra chapter to transition the story's HEA more smoothly.

"I've finally found what I didn't even know I needed. I found you."

I'm not sure who the next book is about....some hints were dropped about Hop and the new club manager maybe? Doesn't even matter because no matter who it's about, I'll be reading it!

[MaDoReader · Rating 3 out of 5]

3,5
El que más me ha gustado de la serie por el momento.

[Cadiva · Rating 4 out of 5]

Definitely my favourite so far in this series and the one which ties in the closest to the dance related theme on which the books hang.

Surprisingly, for a character who has suffered so much in his relatively short life, Tam was a beautiful soul, and I never found this story to be particularly depressing or overly angsty.

I also didn't really find Driver to be an ass, as others have pinned him, I understood his need to run, to try and escape from feeling anything real. Yes, he was a dick, but it wasn't done from malice or even with any deliberate intention.

I will say one thing though, why the ridiculous names?! I swear there's not one character in these books, including secondary ones, that has what I'd consider a 'normal' name and it does knock me out of the story a bit each time I read it.

There's some truly sweet character development in this one and the steam level, while on the lesser side for quite valid reasons, still manages to be wonderfully expressive and emotional.

Loved the cover too, again my fave of the series so far.

#ARC received from NetGalley in return for an honest and unbiased review.

[River · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Brave and Beautiful stars.
This was my first book of the series and I'm happy to say it was really good.

Tam is such a sweet character. I wanted to protect him from the world.
Driver was a hardhead and dammit I wanted to punch him in the junk a few times but even if I didn't liked it, I understood the reasons behind his decisions.

Tam had a very hard past, it's discussed and we see him trying to move on with his life.
I appreciate the fact that there weren't graphic flashbacks, it wasn't necessary to make us understand the hard life that he had.
I also like the fact that he didn't just jumped to sex (penetration) he wasn't magically cured because he met a hot man.

The romance happens very fast, I'm not sure if that's a theme of the books or what but the timeline of the book is maybe a month. I was engrossed in the characters enough that this didn't bothered me.


I was left curious about the past books and Lirim, I think I'm going to read those now and I'm definitely going to read the next books in the series because a few things about Jae and Hopp were mentioned that have me curious.

All in all this was a solid 4 stars. The only reason I'm not giving a higher rating is Driver, don't get me wrong he is not a bad guy but his "I'm leaving" thing really bothered me and I felt like Tam left him off the hook too fast in the end, I needed more groveling.

[Elsbeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best one of this series. Definitely will be rereading this book!!







Love men on heels....

[Melissa · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was provided an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

First let me say I missed the boat and haven't read Fierce & Fabulous or Dark & Dazzling. Grr!!!! But, never fear! For those of you haven't read them either, you don't have too. :) I was fully able to enjoy Brave & Beautiful and not feel lost or as I was missing the inside joke. In my opinion, this can be read as a complete stand-alone. Do I wish I had read the previous books? Of course, but only because I am sure they are just as cute as this one!

And when I say cute, I mean cute, not sunshine and rainbows cute, but sweet and dramatically cute. Tam is a shy and sensitive man who is still trying to overcome the abuse rape he suffered as a kid he also sold himself when he was older because he didn't know how else to earn money. He has his friends around him who support him and are his family. He still talks with the therapist he had when he was at a sort of youth shelter (I am not clear on if it was a detention center), even though he is no longer really eligible to receive those benefits. I felt sorry for Tam, and that's possibly (probably) not the reaction the author was going for, but I mostly felt pity and then hope for Tam.

When Driver arrives in Tam's life, neither are prepared for the changes that will happen to each of them. Driver has been running from commitment (of any kind) since his parents and brother were killed in a car accident. Driver feels responsible since they were coming to pick him up from a party, and regardless of his grandparents for friends telling him it's not, he can't help but feel it. So he doesn't stay in one place for long since he is really trying to outrun those memories and the guilt.

I liked Tam and Driver together as a couple - Driver was completely understanding of Tam's limits in the bedroom. And Tam was able to use Driver to help boost his confidence in all matters, not just sex. What I didn't like was the fact that at times they could be overly sweet and understanding.

There was a lot of this:

"You’re just so bright and stunning. Like the sun, you pulled me into your gravity and I couldn’t let go until we were both destroyed.”

And this:

Would he ever be able to fly again?

And this:

All the darkness in his life had made it possible for him to know the stars. He wasn’t going to let them fade without a fight, especially not when he was holding one of the brightest spots in the palm of his hand.

And this:

He was about to crash. In a split second everything became crystal clear. He was going to die. He was going to die without ever really living. Tam would never know. God, that hurt the most. How could he die without telling Tam that he was loved? In the dark, bruised and probably bleeding, Driver smiled through the tears.

And this:

“You are you because the light inside is brighter than all the darkness you’ve had to live through. You never lost your light, your sweetness, no matter what terrible shit life threw at you. You’ve no idea how amazing you are, and that just makes you more appealing.”

At times it was just too much. It actually felt as if this were an MF romance not an MM and Tam didn't come across as a very stronge person. Brave, yes at times Tam was brave. And bravery shouldn't have a time table. He took the steps he felt he was ready for as they came. Just as when Driver came into his life, he took the biggest leap of his life and let Driver IN! Lots of courage - heaps! But, Tam isn't a strong person. Brave, sassy - yes. But when Driver leaves at the end, Tam's spirit was very broken and he was a mess. Granted, this happens to a lot of people after a bad break up, but still...

Driver stood in the hall. He held his motorcycle helmet in one hand. At his feet was the green army bag.
“So that’s it then.” His voice shook, he couldn’t help it.

“I need to get out of here.”

Tam grabbed Driver’s wrist. “Can’t you just try?”

“Please,” Tam begged.

“Don’t go.” His lips trembled and he bit them to make it stop.

“We could be so great together. If only you’d wake up.” He shoved at Driver’s shoulders.

“I love you.”

“But I won’t wait for you.”

When he was well out of sight, Tam closed the door and fell to the floor. If Driver had asked…if he had given any sign at all, Tam would have waited. He would have waited a lifetime for just one more kiss.

These things weren't enough to make me stop reading this story, but I did wish often Tam would stand tall and proud and scream Fuck You! to Driver. :)

Overall an enjoyable read and I do recommend this one, especially if you've read the other books in this series. I plan to read them myself, it's just a matter of when. 3.25 stars.

[⚣Michaelle⚣ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.3 Stars

Tam's story is so well-handled; I think he's my favorite of all the Sassy Boyz considering what he's been through. I can definitely see why Driver would look up to him, see him as strong and heroic. Driver's angst was harder to relate to - mainly because, while the grief felt real, how he handled it (running away from emotional attachment) was a little OTT. *shrug*

I don't know why but I kept worrying about people from Tam's past cropping up to cause him problems...like maybe the mysterious and unrevealed owner of the new club would turn out to be "Mister," making his drama the climax of the story rather than Driver's running & getting hurt. Part of me is glad that wasn't the case (because it means the Boyz have a new job) but I think confronting him/them would have provided a great opportunity to show he'd moved past his trauma, being strong enough to deal with it and seek justice. *shrug*

Definitely looking forward to Lirim's story. (I hope he's next!)

[Bookreader87(Amanda) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Driver and Tam have past that still haunt them.
Driver is used to running away from his past.
Tam is used to putting up walls.
The two meet and struggle through their demons.
Lots of hurt/comfort.
Overall a good read.

[Lily · Rating 4 out of 5]

- 4.5 dazzling stars! -

I have to admit that I haven't read the previous books in this series, but when I saw the blurb for this book, I was immediately intrigued. After reading some reviews that said that this book can be read as a standalone, I was on it, and I'm glad to say that it didn't disappoint, I seriously loved this story!



Tam is a beautiful dancer with a difficult past. Terrible things happened to him when he was younger, things that affect him to this day. You see, he doesn't feel any sexual desire, and is timid and somewhat insecure as a result of his harsh life. Dancing is his passion, and he desperately searches for a new place where he can dance regularly with his partners, the Sassy Boyz. Everything changes for him though, when he meets Driver (that's his name, I kid you not).

Driver is a charming and free spirited man who lives his life on the road. He works odd jobs and move from place to place constantly. He says he enjoys it, but he really is just running alway from his tragic past. In the beginning of the story, he's staying at his friend's house to watch over his turtle (yes, that's a thing). One day he goes to do laundry at the building's basement, and since he's a lazy ass, he decides to wash the clothes he's wearing as well, because you know, that's totally normal.



Tam disagrees, and is quite shocked when he sees Driver standing almost completely naked in the laundry room. However, he can't help but noticing how hot the inappropriate stranger is. Driver is also at shock after witnessing Tam's beauty, but at that time he thinks that Tam is a girl, and Tam thinks that Driver is straight. They are both quite suprised to discover that their assumptions were wrong. Driver doesn't mind at all that Tam is all man, actually it makes him want him even more. Tam is more reluctant, his past making it hard for him to trust others.

Driver doesn't give up easily though, and Tam slowly lower his defenses. But not everything is magically solved (thank god), Tam still has issues with certain sex positions because of his past, and I loved how Driver's hot bod didn't make him forget about all that without any explantion. Driver also has his issues, and they make him unable to truly commit himself to Tam. Hence a lot of FEELS and hurt-comfort moments.



These two helped each other heal and become stronger. They were just lovely together and I enjoyed every moment of them just being together, which is very important because this story is focused mostly on the MCs relationship. I have to admit that Driver had his asshole-ish moments, and sometimes I seriously wanted to bitch-slap him, but at the same time I knew he was hurting so I couldn't help but feel sorry for him.

The reason I dropped the rating a bit is the ending - it was too abrupt. I would have loved to have another chapter/epilogue, I would have been a lot more satisfied in that case. Also, I was not a fan of how only a near death experience made Driver understand how wrong he was.

Other than that - no complaints! This is an almost perfect story.

Highly recommended! And not only to those who read the previous books, even if you didn't read them you can still read this as a standalone and love it to pieces.

An ARC was kindly provided by Carina Press, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.

[Jordan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Out of all of the Sassy Boyz books, this one is my favorite because of Tam. In each of the books of this series, Varlet has done an amazing job telling a story about each of these boys. She brings in elements of their past that are holding them back or maybe hindering their progress and she (previously) presented almost flawless love interestes to help them realize their full potential, but I didn't get that same feeling from this book.

Sure, Tam was letting his past hold him back, but not in a completely traditional sense. Tam had some really major issues brought on by past trauma and he no longer desired a sexual relationship with anyone, whether it be casual or not. In addition to this very serious trauma he had to deal with everyday, he also dealt with poor self-esteem and self image, as well as the stresses of supporting himself while trying to do something that he loves. Choreographing.

Tam had his issues and, even better, his love interest, Driver, wasn't any better off. In comparison to the other love interests of this series, Driver had a lot of baggage to carry around and he coped with his past by staying on his feet so that it never caught up to him. He was always moving or finding new work and commitment was a no-go, both professionally and personally. In that way, this book felt a lot less "damsel in distress" and a lot more "damsel steals the spotlight."

And Tam did steal the spotlight. As his reluctant relationship with Driver started getting more and more serious, Tam was busting through his own barriers and overcoming his own fears. These two things happened at the same time, and Driver perhaps gave Tam more confidence, but Tam was the master of his own show. He wasn't relying on Driver for anything. And I loved that.

As for these two, relationship wise, I think they were a good match. They weren't necessarily perfect for each other, but they'd both been through a lot and I think that helped them understand each other enough to put aside their differences and make it work anyway. Despite Driver not being one for commitment, he knew that Tam was something special and that he'd be stupid to let him walk out the door. Even just telling Tam what he meant to him was a huge struggle for Driver, and I think that's why he almost felt flat or emotionally distant at times. No doubt, he struggled between telling Tam how he feels about him and just retreating into his shell and walking away. It wasn't an easy choice for him, and that made the payoff so much better!

Varlet painted this book very realistically and it's my favorite of the series so far. I'm really looking forward to reading the rest of the books that are to come in this series. If they're anything like this one, I know I'm going to love them.

[Snjez · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a beautiful story.

It wasn't easy for me to like Driver because he was so selfish and annoying at times, but Tam is absolutely amazing. He is so sweet and strong and talented and genuinely a nice person. All my stars go to him.

I only wish there was some kind of epilogue. I need more of Tam.

[BR11 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it! Tam is my fav Sassy Boy! and Driver is dreamy... when he gets his shit together. He is the typical bad boy with a good heart who ends up being a sweetheart.
Recommend 100%

[♡ cal ♡]

DNF

It’s not vibing with me so I decided to put it down.

[Jay · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 stars – Even without reading the blurb for Brave & Beautiful, the third novel in Elizabeth Varlet’s Sassy Boyz series, I knew it would be a story with a good bit of angst and drama because the previous books were. I also knew it would be a story pairing another of the dancers who are all about being fierce performers while wearing heels and make-up with, most likely, a big, masculine guy. Both of these things were true, but even though I liked the story enough to continue through to the end, I had some significant issues with it that kept me from being able to enjoy it as much as I had hoped.

Driver Ellis refuses to stay in one spot for long. It’s a defense mechanism against his tragic past. When memories threaten to overwhelm him, his motorcycle and the open road to destination unknown are all he needs. It’s been a while since the last time he was “home” in New York City, but when a friend needs someone to watch his place, Driver doesn’t pass up the chance to make a little money rent-free. Dance is Tam Kis’s real love, and together with the other guys in the Sassy Boyz, it’s the reason he’s been able to keep himself out of trouble after surviving a truly awful childhood, one that among other things has left him with no desire to be in any sort of intimate relationship. Besides, the Sassy Boyz being without a place to perform is a big enough worry to keep his attention focused, or at least it should be. But when he meets Driver in the laundry room in the middle of the night, neither can get the other out of mind.

Knowing their pasts is the key to understanding each of the main characters in Brave & Beautiful, so I’m going to refrain from spilling too many details on what’s behind each of their hang-ups. Despite seeing love strike twice for fellow Sassy Boyz recently, Tam isn’t interested in love. Tam’s also not interested in sex. In fact, even thinking about it brings back terrifying memories for him. As his past is revealed through the story, all of Tam’s behaviors and reactions fit perfectly for what he’s been through. His passion for choreographing the group’s dances, something that is highly sexualized and intimate for all of them, is completely at odds with his fear of real personal intimacy. Also, in spite of all he has already overcome, he’s the first main character from the Sassy Boyz who doesn’t come across as a bitchy asshole when push comes to shove, a fact that surprised me in a good way. All that put together made Tam my favorite of the main characters in the series so far.

Driver, on the other hand, was almost completely unsatisfying to me as a character, and it really boiled down to a single big problem I had with the structure of the novel as it pertained to Driver’s story. At the beginning, I was on board, enjoying the interactions between him and Tam, particularly the scene where they end up dancing together, during which the intensity of their initial connection came through in a beautiful and breathtaking manner. It’s clear from the outset that both these men have issues caused by their pasts, and it isn’t terribly long before we get details about Tam’s, and when Driver learns these things, his responses are ideal for handling Tam’s fears. To be honest, they’re almost too perfect, to the point where they don’t quite mesh with Driver’s character. I struggle to believe that someone who has spent nearly half his life running from facing his memories would miraculously have the emotional ability to comfort someone else in such a perfect way as Driver does Tam.

Unfortunately, that wasn’t the biggest issue I had with Driver and the book as a whole. I’ve mentioned this in other reviews, but there are few things more dissatisfying to me as a romance reader than a past trauma being used as the big reveal toward the end of a story when (a) it doesn’t relate at all to the other character and/or (b) it’s something that has essentially no chance of causing the other character to push away. This dissatisfaction is even worse when the story is told either from a first-person perspective or in the close third-person. Driver’s revelation falls into both of these categories. I simply find it disingenuous—using Driver as an example—that he obsesses so much about the inevitability of his memories forcing him to run away again while he never consciously names the nature of the memory until it becomes useful for a dramatic reveal. Delaying the revelation for 70% of the book served no purpose that I could tell other than drama for drama’s sake, so when the black moment comes shortly thereafter, I was too busy being irritated by how the big reveal fell flat to appreciate what should have been an emotional ending portion of the book.

To put things in perspective, my rating of 3 stars is not a bad thing: it means I liked Brave & Beautiful, but I didn’t love it. I suspect a large number of readers will love the book just as it is. My belief, though, is that if this story had it been constructed differently, it could have been the ideal blend of heartrending and heartwarming in a tale of comfort and love overcoming the fears caused by traumatic past events, one that would have fit the title perfectly. As it is, it just didn’t make it there for me.

The author and/or publisher generously provided me a complimentary copy of Brave & Beautiful in exchange for this fair and honest review.

Follow Me: Reviews by Tammy & Kim | Facebook | Twitter

[Aerin · Rating 3 out of 5]

~3.5 Stars ~ (I apologize for the long review/rant)

After struggling with this book for the most part, I'm heartbroken that I didn't like it more. I found this to be the weakest book in the series so far, mostly because of Driver's immaturity and overall annoyance his character invoked in me. There were many little details that just didn't work, and all put together they interfered with my enjoyment of this book. All this considered, Brave and Beautiful was still a good book.

Tameron Kis, the talented choreographer of Sassy Boyz, knows life is a bitch and he's not interested in any relationships of any kind. Due to a horrific childhood with a history of sexual abuse, Tam doesn't have the same feelings about sex as the rest of his friends from Sassy Boyz do. For Tam sex is a tool people use to hurt him and he's not interested in the least. I found Tam to be intriguing because of his perceived sexual self for the most part; Tam is a lover of sexy lace underwear, provocative clothing and he can rock a pair of heels like nobody's business. I feel like I got Tam, I really understood where he was coming from, and I loved him!

Driver Ellis is the resident pain in the butt, a coward, less immature than a 17 year old, and the reason I didn't like this book as much as the previous ones. Driver has spent the past 10 years of his life running away from the past, hoping that if he doesn't stop in one spot for too long, it will never catch up to him. Running from life means that driver doesn't have to acknowledge the death of his parents and brother and doesn't have to let go of the guilt that's been his only companion for more than a decade.

Driver's story is pretty sad, but Driver is an immature dick. Considering he's in his late 20's, I had to consistently remind myself that Driver isn't the teenager he behaves like. His grandparents are the only family he has and the way he treats them is pretty crappy, because how big of a douchbag can a person be to leave his elderly heartbroken grandfather alone to deal with his wife's stroke? His own loving grandmother, the woman who Driver admits did everything she could to help him cope with the death of his parents, suffered a stroke and Driver the coward ran away because....regardless of any ridiculous immature reasons Driver offers, none were good enough for me.

“They raised me, they loved me. They gave me everything I ever needed. They support everything I do, accept me for who I am, and I can’t tell them how much I love them.”

His pulse raced so fast he felt dizzy.
The walls were closing in around him. Blindly, he trailed his grandfather to a door but he couldn’t cross the threshold.
On the bed, Gram slept. She was hooked up to machines with an oxygen tube in her nose.
So still.
Like a corpse.
His stomach lurched and he turned away. Before he knew it, he was running.
Running so fast his sight blurred.”


Driver, you're an asshole!


Aside from my intense dislike of Driver, there were some instances where I felt the dialogue was staged and didn't necessarily reflect the emotions/private thoughts the characters had. For example the morning after Tam topped Driver (which was pretty hot!) I never got the feeling that things between them were awkward based on dialogue alone, but suddenly we were told so:

He pressed a kiss to Driver’s shoulder. Driver mumbled and turned to pull Tam to his chest. His scent enveloped Tam in musk and faint echoes of body wash from the shower they’d shared before falling asleep. It soothed whatever bits of apprehension still clung to him, so he inhaled again deeply, letting it wash his worry clean. Sounds pretty good, right???
“Morning.” Driver’s voice was rough with the remnants of slumber.
“It’s early,” Driver complained.
“Go back to sleep.”
“Gotta piss.” He flicked off the duvet, sat up and swung his feet over the edge of the bed. Cupping his balls, he cursed the cold all the way to the bathroom.
As soon as the door closed, Tam took a deep breath. For the first time since they’d gotten together, it was awkward. Like a chasm had opened up between them overnight and Tam had no idea how to put things back to normal.

So two minutes ago Driver's scent soothed whatever bits of apprehension still clung to Tam, but now things are awkward? Why? Because Driver had to piss? It's confusing....

And this particular paragraph I had to read like 4 times to make sense of it, because what I thought was metaphorical speaking was actually not? Or maybe it was? I'm still confused...

So much goddamn regret, it was all he could see. Like the shining eyes of a great beast coming toward him with jaws wide, ready to bite, ready to devour. Driver’s heart pounded. He hit the accelerator and put his head down.
Faster and faster until he didn’t know if he was fleeing the memories chasing him or running toward the emptiness ahead of him. Either way, the result was the same. He was so lost in his own mind he didn’t realize until the last second that those weren’t eyes.
They were headlights.
He was headed straight for a car.”

Soooo....the regret was like the shining eyes of a great beast coming toward him with jaws wide, ready to bite, ready to devour, right??? That's metaphorically speaking, he didn't really see any eyes, did he? Except he did, but they turned out to be headlights? Ugh!

And last one (I promise!)...

Driver took Tam’s hand. “I’m not leaving, but even if I were that stupid again, you are much too strong to be destroyed because of me. You are my hero.”
Tam’s hands curled around Driver’s wrists. “You make me want to jump.”
“Don’t give me credit for something that’s been inside you the whole time. You have courage pouring out of your pores. It hypnotized me from the beginning.”

Aside from that cheesy dialogue, Tam's response to Driver's gushing praise makes no sense. 'You make me want to jump' where exactly? Head first into love, out the closest window to escape the cheesy words of praise, bounce on the spot in excitement? Can anyone clarify that?

Despite not holding back on my dislikes, this is still a good book, just not one of my favorites. I'm still looking forward to reading the next one in this series.

[Vanessa theJeepDiva · Rating 3 out of 5]

Brave and Beautiful is the third installment of Elizabeth Varlet’s Sassy Boyz series. It is Tam’s book. You can easily step (dance) your way into this series with any book. They each work as a stand-alone. I loved the first two so of course I just had to read this one as well. I can honestly say I enjoyed it but it is my least favorite of the series. I can also blame that solely on Driver.

Tam and Driver both bring so much baggage to the table. Tam’s past is horrible. It is something that no one should ever have to suffer especially a child. Tam has come out of it and is doing a great deal to live a normal life. He has a job he enjoys. The Sassy Boyz is looking for another venue to perform at regularly. He’s recently acquired his own apartment. He has amazing friends that offer amazing support to each other. They are a family, his family.

Driver has been living the life of a carefree drifter for far too long for him to give up that lifestyle. He goes from town to town looking for the next adventure until the money runs out. He picks up odd jobs to fill his pockets enough to move on to the next town. In reality he’s running. He doesn’t do commitment for anyone, ever. His friends and family can’t even get him to commit to sit down for a meal with them. In need of a place to crash while he fills his coffers lands Driver in a friend’s apartment to pet sit.

A chance meeting in the laundry room puts Driver and Tam together for this really sweet romance. Tam is shy and new to dating and discovering he may actually want to experience all that there is with relationships. Driver is charming and charismatic. I absolutely loved his reaction to finding out that Tam is a man. Best response to that ever can be found in this book. Driver has all the perfect words to help draw Tam out of this shell that he has shielded himself with. There’s a but though. Driver is an ass, a childish ass. And it has everything to do with that baggage that I mentioned earlier.

There’s a lot of baggage between these two. Once it is spilt all over their sweet happy little romance you can see that some hurts are worse than others. I think that was the thing that really got me with Driver. When he has that moment where he pours it all out to Tam I sat back and had this huh moment. I don’t think for their relationship to work that Driver’s damage needed to be as big, hurtful, or damaging as Tam’s but I was left wondering what Driver’s issue was. How could he rationalize the running for all those years over that? Perhaps it was his age when it happened and his mind stayed stuck on how the fourteen year old Driver handled it.

I didn’t reflect this is my rating but it annoyed the crap out of me. Motorcycles do not have an accelerator. I have never driven my Harley anywhere. Driver not only “drives” his Harley he also “hits the accelerator.” I’ve twisted the throttle, I’ve rolled the hand grip, a riding buddy claims to have cranked the throttle, but none of us have ever hit the accelerator.

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Brave & Beautiful is the third book in the Sassy Boyz series, but all three books can be read as stand alones focusing on a new couple in each book. This is Tam and Driver's story, but the couples from the previous stories pop in fairly often. This one has been my favorite of the series so far. I really loved these two, and I was happy to finally get Tam's story.

I really loved Tam. I just wanted to wrap him up in my arms and protect him. He has had a very traumatic past that he still struggles with every day. The memories of his past have left him with no sexual desire at all, so he's confused when that changes the day he meets Driver. Even after all of the horrors of his past, he is still a bit naive with some things and incredibly sweet. Tam is the the Sassy Boyz' choreographer and dancing is his passion, so he desperately wants the Sassy Boys to get back on track with regular work.

I had a love/hate relationship with Driver. Maybe hate is too strong of a word. He really frustrated me at times with his immature and selfish behavior, while other times he had me swooning with how patient and sweet he was with Tam. Driver has some baggage of his own. He suffered a huge loss and has spent his whole life running from his emotions by always being on the move. He's unable to stay in one place for too long. When he and Tam first meet he is house sitting for a friend. I LOVED that even though Driver originally thought Tam was a woman, it wasn't an issue because Driver was bisexual. There was no bisexual bashing or huge discussion, he just stated it and that was it. I'm glad it wasn't a long drawn out issue.

The chemistry between them was really sizzling and they were super hot together. I really appreciated that Tam wasn't just "cured by the magical penis". lol! He's been through a lot and it is not easy for them. They even have a few failed/stalled attempts. They have to take things slow and Driver was really sweet about making sure Tam was comfortable and he was very attentive to Tam's needs. Tam got to discover the joy of touching and kissing for the first time in his life. It was so sweet. I loved them together

I felt like this book was much more relationship focused than the previous books in this series. The only real plot is that the Sassy Boys are struggling to find a dance space, and have been doing a ton of auditions. I didn't actually mind the thinner plot because there was so much in between the two of them that needed to be worked through. Driver had his guilt and running issues, and Tam had the demons of his past and was discovering his own sort of sexual awakening with Driver. I felt as if that was enough to carry the story. I DID think the story ended pretty abruptly for my liking though. I liked where things were headed but I would have liked a little more. An epilogue would have been perfect. This one would have been a five star for me without the abrupt ending and Drivers selfish/immature behavior. I still really enjoyed this one a lot and can't wait for more from Elizabeth Varlet.

**One warning that I would give to someone going into this one is that there are themes of loss and sexual abuse. Tam discusses his past and briefly talks about the sexual abuse that has happened to him. So if those could be triggering scenes for you then maybe this isn't the book for you. I normally avoid books that have rape/sexual abuse in them but I thought this was handled well and there are no present day or on page scenes.**

* I received an ARC of this title via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. *

[Tamika♥RBF MOOD♥ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tam and Driver had all my feels people. I really loved this book, and my rating was on the way to a full 5 stars but I needed more of an ending, epilogue or something else. Basically, I didn't want their story to end. Tam, the introverted was so stellar in this book, his story really showed him in a different light. He's a fighter, he's a survivor, he's a dreamer, and a believer. I really felt for Tam, but not pity at all. I felt pride for him. He took his life and fought for everything he's wanted. Then poor Driver enters Tam life and its over. Driver who isn't able to stay put for long. He's running from a past and doesn't want to face any of his fears.


Both guys were equally amazing on their own. Both had similar thoughts and feelings but different experiences. I really enjoyed their gradual buildup to a semblance of any kind of relationship. I loved how they were getting to know one another with a friendship and their feelings escalated to a physical relationship. With both guys being so emotionally stunted, it was a wonder to see them grow to care, to learn and fall in love with each other.


This book made me have all the feels. I really enjoyed the character building. I don't do angst at all, and it was alot of it to go around but it didn't feel overshadowed by the other events in the story. I hope we'll get to see the newer sassy boys with books. I look forward to Lirium's story next. I think fans of this series will enjoy this installment alot.

 

[xxoabbey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have literally just read the last page and have happy tears and a goofy smile on my face.

I said it with Fierce & Fabulous and for Dark & Dazzling but I really do think Brave & Beautiful is the best book of the series.

Both characters were broken, and bruised and a little busted up but I loved that they found something to focus on in each other. That little spark of light which help make their dark days and nights a little lighter.

An adrenaline fuelled drifter and a fierce dancer coming together to create what in my eyes was one of the most heartwarming as well as heart wrenching m/m books I have read this year.

The Sassy Boyz channel this fierceness that I think most readers would love to achieve. Make up on point, hair flipped over their shoulder, a perfect pair of heels and they are ready to take on the world, showcasing an air of confidence that if you actually looked beneath the shiny surface you would see the cracks there but have started to mend with the love of a good man.

I highlighted way too much of standout passages whilst reading so I will just leave you with these two.


“When I look at you I see a heart that’s so big it can’t help but be scarred. And if there is one thing I’ve learned from my life it’s that scars make us stronger, but only if we let the wounds heal first.”

&

“You are you because the light inside is brighter than all the darkness you’ve had to live through. You never lost your light, your sweetness, no matter what terrible shit life threw at you. You’ve no idea how amazing you are, and that just makes you more appealing.”



Love ❤️