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Leaning Into #5
Leaning Into A Wish
Ryan Haskell loves everything about the wine business. He's fortunate to work at one of the most prestigious wineries in Napa Valley doing something he enjoys with the people who are like family to him. But he could do without the good-natured intern slash former jock with the wicked grin who always seems to be in the way. Ryan isn’t sure why the new guy is under his skin when everyone else loves him. Thankfully he'll be gone after the holidays.
Danny Meyers can’t believe his luck when he lands an internship at Conrad Winery. It’s the perfect temporary gig to wrap up his graduate studies. He's left his dreams of tennis stardom on the court to focus on a new career and a new life. However, he didn't count on the spark of attraction he feels for his prickly co-worker. When their tentative friendship blossoms into something more than either man counted on, they may have to change direction and lean into a holiday wish.
Danny Meyers can’t believe his luck when he lands an internship at Conrad Winery. It’s the perfect temporary gig to wrap up his graduate studies. He's left his dreams of tennis stardom on the court to focus on a new career and a new life. However, he didn't count on the spark of attraction he feels for his prickly co-worker. When their tentative friendship blossoms into something more than either man counted on, they may have to change direction and lean into a holiday wish.
130 pages, ebook
First published November 20, 2017
62 people are currently reading
357 people want to read
About the author
Lane Hayes
105 books1,717 followersLane Hayes loves a good romance! She’s the bestselling author of the Out in College, Starting From, Better Than, A Kind Of, Right and Wrong, and Leaning Into Series! Lane loves red wine, chocolate and travel (in no particular order). All things she can find in sunny SoCal where she lives with her amazing husband in a not quite empty nest.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews
November 30, 2017
~3.5~
I really didn't like Ryan in Wes and Nick's story, book 2: Leaning Into the Fall, which is my favorite book of this series thus far. I was looking forward to Ryan redeeming himself, and he did.
Ryan is much more insecure than he appears. He seriously questions EVERYTHING, including Danny's sexuality, his own desires, Danny's intentions, potential life choices, et cetera.
Danny was a little annoying initially. He would talk around questions and was evasive about his attraction to Ryan.
Fortunately, these two develop a relationship based on sexual compatibility (Danny turns out to be an amazing kisser and a hardcore top), common interests (like wine and jumping off a roof into the pool), and banter (which was almost too much at times).
This is a sweet, moderately steamy holiday story and a nice addition to the series. I am still dying to get Geordie's story!
P.S. I don't recommend reading Leaning Into a Wish as a standalone. This series should really be read in order, but at least read book 2 before grabbing this one.
I really didn't like Ryan in Wes and Nick's story, book 2: Leaning Into the Fall, which is my favorite book of this series thus far. I was looking forward to Ryan redeeming himself, and he did.
Ryan is much more insecure than he appears. He seriously questions EVERYTHING, including Danny's sexuality, his own desires, Danny's intentions, potential life choices, et cetera.
Danny was a little annoying initially. He would talk around questions and was evasive about his attraction to Ryan.
Fortunately, these two develop a relationship based on sexual compatibility (Danny turns out to be an amazing kisser and a hardcore top), common interests (like wine and jumping off a roof into the pool), and banter (which was almost too much at times).
This is a sweet, moderately steamy holiday story and a nice addition to the series. I am still dying to get Geordie's story!
P.S. I don't recommend reading Leaning Into a Wish as a standalone. This series should really be read in order, but at least read book 2 before grabbing this one.
November 28, 2017
3.5 Stars!
This was cute, but I kind of found Ryan and Danny a bit exhausting.
At times their banter was almost OTT and annoying. *shrugs*
Still an easy, somewhat enjoyable holiday story.
This was cute, but I kind of found Ryan and Danny a bit exhausting.
At times their banter was almost OTT and annoying. *shrugs*
Still an easy, somewhat enjoyable holiday story.
January 5, 2018
4 strong stars
I loved this sweet Christmas themed story. And look at that cover!
I was afraid at first that we'll get too many wine related details, but I am glad it wasn't the case here.
This one was light, sweet and pretty hot, with only a little angst.
I really love Lane Hayes! Her writing style works for me every time. She never disappointed me. I know when I dive into one of her books I'm going to love it. And this one was no exception.
I've buddy read this with my best friend and she chose a very good one to start our 2018 buddy readings. I was extremely excited about this one, because I haven't read a single Christmas themed story last December. And I knew Lane Hayes is going to make me adore it.
I'll start by saying I haven't read any of the previous books in this series. Crazy, I know, but I plan on reading them soon. My friend assured me this one can be read as a stand-alone and I can't say I got confused about the other characters from the previous books. Now I'm pretty curious about their own stories and can't wait to read Wes and Nick's story.
Oh and what I really hope is that Geordie will get his own book. He deserves to find happiness again after losing his man.
Back to Leaning Into A Wish, well at first Ryan was kind of rude to Danny. What felt strange to me was that Ry is 30 y.o. and Danny is 25 y.o. and still they acted like a bunch of teenagers, trying to mask their huge attraction and hide what they really wanted.
What I really loved here would be Danny's great sense of humor. I laughed many times while reading. And I really enjoyed their banter. I am glad they shared a bit of their pasts too. For a pretty short book, we get their back stories which surprised me a lot. Especially Danny's sad past.
I think I would have love this even more if we got more scenes with Ry and Danny. Somewhere in the middle of the book I had a feeling I missed some chapters and they just rushed into love a little too fast.
Overall I really loved this and can't wait to read more from this author!
I loved this sweet Christmas themed story. And look at that cover!
I was afraid at first that we'll get too many wine related details, but I am glad it wasn't the case here.
This one was light, sweet and pretty hot, with only a little angst.
I really love Lane Hayes! Her writing style works for me every time. She never disappointed me. I know when I dive into one of her books I'm going to love it. And this one was no exception.
I've buddy read this with my best friend and she chose a very good one to start our 2018 buddy readings. I was extremely excited about this one, because I haven't read a single Christmas themed story last December. And I knew Lane Hayes is going to make me adore it.
I'll start by saying I haven't read any of the previous books in this series. Crazy, I know, but I plan on reading them soon. My friend assured me this one can be read as a stand-alone and I can't say I got confused about the other characters from the previous books. Now I'm pretty curious about their own stories and can't wait to read Wes and Nick's story.
Oh and what I really hope is that Geordie will get his own book. He deserves to find happiness again after losing his man.
Back to Leaning Into A Wish, well at first Ryan was kind of rude to Danny. What felt strange to me was that Ry is 30 y.o. and Danny is 25 y.o. and still they acted like a bunch of teenagers, trying to mask their huge attraction and hide what they really wanted.
What I really loved here would be Danny's great sense of humor. I laughed many times while reading. And I really enjoyed their banter. I am glad they shared a bit of their pasts too. For a pretty short book, we get their back stories which surprised me a lot. Especially Danny's sad past.
I think I would have love this even more if we got more scenes with Ry and Danny. Somewhere in the middle of the book I had a feeling I missed some chapters and they just rushed into love a little too fast.
Overall I really loved this and can't wait to read more from this author!
November 22, 2017
Leaning Into A Wish by Lane Hayes is the story of Ryan and Danny. Danny whom in the past hasn't made the best impression (we all remember how he acted towards Nick in Leaning Into the Fall...) and is a bit of a grouchy bear at first. There's a part of him that finds Danny irritating, but the other part of him can't help but be drawn to him. With the help of Geordie, these two men see themselves falling for each other.
Some highlights
-Danny, Danny, Danny! He was so adorable! He were his heart on his sleeve, and the way he went about pursuing Ryan stole my heart.
-Ryan. I got a better sense of him since the story is told entirely from his POV. I let go of his past actions and found myself rooting for his HEA.
-Relationship development. Novellas are tricky, and I think it takes skill to write a successful full story in such a short number of pages and Lane Hayes did just that. As usual, we had a smooth transition from casual to serious.
-Ryan and Danny's chemistry was off the charts.
-And the end left me with a happy smile on my face.
Can this be read as standalone? Technically, yes, but for maximum enjoyment, I think they should all be read. Well, at least Leaning Into the Fall.
If you're looking for a holiday story that will wrap you up and whisk you away to a happy place then look no further than Leaning Into A Wish. 4.5 Sweet & Sexy Stars.
November 27, 2017
A holiday story to go with the season. Ok, it's more of a Christmas story but that's only a month away so it still fits! Leaning Into A Wish is a short story taking place in a winery in Napa Valley. If you haven't read the previous books in the series and are meaning to you might want to do it in order. It can be read as a standalone but other characters make apparances and there are some mild spoilers about them.
This is Ryan and Danny's story. They are co-workers but I wouldn't call them friends, at least not in the beginning of this story. At first, Ryan was trying to keep his distance from Danny, telling himself that he didn't like him, when the truth was that he liked him a little too much. Danny was flirty and sociable with everyone. He was also very persistent in his chase of Ryan. His behavior bordered on frustrating because he was so sure about himself that he was almost cocky. He didn't take no for an answer and no matter what Ryan told him he didn't back down. He kept smiling and doing his own thing taking for granted that Ryan wanted him too. Of course, Ryan did and he eventually gave up his pretence of annoyance, but up until then it was weird seeing someone being so persistent. I think the fact that we get this story from Ryan's point of view, instead of Danny's, is what made this behavior more acceptable. We knew how Ryan felt about him so it was easy to like Danny too no matter how over-the-top confident he was.
When they finally got together it was great. They were sweet and perfect together. In my opinion they talked about them being together to their friends a little too soon but it was a short story so time was limited. I liked the beginning of their relationship where they moved slowly, getting to know each other and connecting. I liked that they became friends, once Ryan stopped trying to act like he couldn't stand Danny, as well as lovers.
Danny had a very interesting back story and whenever he talked about his relationship with tennis I held my breath. The way he explained what he felt about the sport was amazing. I gladly would have read more about his past and how he got to where he is now.
The bell wishes were a nice idea. I haven't heard about it before so I don't know if it's a common thing. The last bell-wish was a very sweet gesture by Danny and it could have been silly and corny but the author managed to make it work. I'm confident that those two are going to make it together and have a happy life.
This review has been cross-posted on The Novel Approach Reviews.
*An ARC of this book was kindly provided to me by the author via The Novel Approach Reviews in exchange for an honest review. *
This is Ryan and Danny's story. They are co-workers but I wouldn't call them friends, at least not in the beginning of this story. At first, Ryan was trying to keep his distance from Danny, telling himself that he didn't like him, when the truth was that he liked him a little too much. Danny was flirty and sociable with everyone. He was also very persistent in his chase of Ryan. His behavior bordered on frustrating because he was so sure about himself that he was almost cocky. He didn't take no for an answer and no matter what Ryan told him he didn't back down. He kept smiling and doing his own thing taking for granted that Ryan wanted him too. Of course, Ryan did and he eventually gave up his pretence of annoyance, but up until then it was weird seeing someone being so persistent. I think the fact that we get this story from Ryan's point of view, instead of Danny's, is what made this behavior more acceptable. We knew how Ryan felt about him so it was easy to like Danny too no matter how over-the-top confident he was.
When they finally got together it was great. They were sweet and perfect together. In my opinion they talked about them being together to their friends a little too soon but it was a short story so time was limited. I liked the beginning of their relationship where they moved slowly, getting to know each other and connecting. I liked that they became friends, once Ryan stopped trying to act like he couldn't stand Danny, as well as lovers.
Danny had a very interesting back story and whenever he talked about his relationship with tennis I held my breath. The way he explained what he felt about the sport was amazing. I gladly would have read more about his past and how he got to where he is now.
The bell wishes were a nice idea. I haven't heard about it before so I don't know if it's a common thing. The last bell-wish was a very sweet gesture by Danny and it could have been silly and corny but the author managed to make it work. I'm confident that those two are going to make it together and have a happy life.
"You give me roots and wings, baby."
This review has been cross-posted on The Novel Approach Reviews.
*An ARC of this book was kindly provided to me by the author via The Novel Approach Reviews in exchange for an honest review. *
November 21, 2017
Ryan was a side character in Wes and Nick’s story, “Leaning Into Touch” and he wasn’t particularly likable then. As the story opens, he’s still kind of a snot, since his inner third-grader is kinda mean to Danny, the hot intern, just to disguise his attraction. Luckily Danny is smarter than Ryan, works his way past his defenses by wearing him down at a tennis match and into a friends with benefits relationship. Friends, because he his internship will end in a couple months. Naturally, the attraction doesn’t stop there, and makes for a romantic tale culminating at Christmas.
For a novella, this reads more like a full novel. Lots of characterization, obstacles to a future together, and scenes revisiting Geordie, Wes and Nick. I had some niggles with the initial presentation of Danny and how he was being so coy about his sexuality. Some remarks by Danny’s father were rather objectionable and not directly addressed in the dialogue, as I would have preferred. Ryan did become someone I really liked and enjoyed how he and Danny were written to show exchanging mature conversations and decisions. I’m quite happy there was minimal drama. The “Leaning Into” series has been very enjoyable and this was a nice addition to the series. I’m hoping this is leading to Geordie’s story next, or Grant’s, or both together maybe?! Can’t wait.
*An ARC was provided by the author or publisher and I have chosen to publish a fair and honest review for Hearts On Fire Reviews blog*
For a novella, this reads more like a full novel. Lots of characterization, obstacles to a future together, and scenes revisiting Geordie, Wes and Nick. I had some niggles with the initial presentation of Danny and how he was being so coy about his sexuality. Some remarks by Danny’s father were rather objectionable and not directly addressed in the dialogue, as I would have preferred. Ryan did become someone I really liked and enjoyed how he and Danny were written to show exchanging mature conversations and decisions. I’m quite happy there was minimal drama. The “Leaning Into” series has been very enjoyable and this was a nice addition to the series. I’m hoping this is leading to Geordie’s story next, or Grant’s, or both together maybe?! Can’t wait.
*An ARC was provided by the author or publisher and I have chosen to publish a fair and honest review for Hearts On Fire Reviews blog*
September 27, 2019
***3.75***
A little Christmas short in the Leaning Into series.
Ryan is one of Wes's permanent employees at the winery. He's that annoying guy who tried, halfheartedly, to get between Nick & Wes. He's a bit of a pill and a prickly pear, but I guess we all deserve a chance. Danny is the current intern who may or may not stay as a permanent employee. Danny likes to get a rise out of Ryan and shamelessly flirt at the same time.
Danny made the story for me. He was honest, open, daring, and optimistic. He doesn't sweat the small stuff, and though he's younger than Ryan, I'd say he's more mature. To me Ryan "doth protest too much", but we all get to a point where we feel hopelessly burned out by disappointments. And that's what Christmas wishes are for. This story is the non-gooey variety.
A little Christmas short in the Leaning Into series.
Ryan is one of Wes's permanent employees at the winery. He's that annoying guy who tried, halfheartedly, to get between Nick & Wes. He's a bit of a pill and a prickly pear, but I guess we all deserve a chance. Danny is the current intern who may or may not stay as a permanent employee. Danny likes to get a rise out of Ryan and shamelessly flirt at the same time.
Danny made the story for me. He was honest, open, daring, and optimistic. He doesn't sweat the small stuff, and though he's younger than Ryan, I'd say he's more mature. To me Ryan "doth protest too much", but we all get to a point where we feel hopelessly burned out by disappointments. And that's what Christmas wishes are for. This story is the non-gooey variety.
January 13, 2019
I am so in love with this series. I don’t particularly like stories where the romance has a time limit because one of the MCs is only planning to be around temporarily. But it didn’t bother me so much here.
January 6, 2018
What a great start to the new year. Two 5 star books by Lane Hayes!
There isn't anything I didn't love about this book. The story is well written and the MC's are excellent together. They're fun, sassy, sweet and super HOT! The banter they share is hilarious and when they get together you won't be able to not chuckle. Danny is a complete riot and impossible not to fall in love with. Everything about him screams lovable. And he knows just how to push every button Ryan has; whether it be to irritate him, make him laugh or turn him on...Danny knows just how to get him going. They're a blast!
Not only is Danny fun to be around but he's so completely in love with Ryan. No doubts, no misgivings...he knows what he wants and never looks back. It's completely endearing. And their Christmas wish game adds an element of enchanting holiday magic. From beginning to end, this novella is a charming and enjoyable read. I would definitely recommend it to one and all!
There isn't anything I didn't love about this book. The story is well written and the MC's are excellent together. They're fun, sassy, sweet and super HOT! The banter they share is hilarious and when they get together you won't be able to not chuckle. Danny is a complete riot and impossible not to fall in love with. Everything about him screams lovable. And he knows just how to push every button Ryan has; whether it be to irritate him, make him laugh or turn him on...Danny knows just how to get him going. They're a blast!
Not only is Danny fun to be around but he's so completely in love with Ryan. No doubts, no misgivings...he knows what he wants and never looks back. It's completely endearing. And their Christmas wish game adds an element of enchanting holiday magic. From beginning to end, this novella is a charming and enjoyable read. I would definitely recommend it to one and all!
November 22, 2017
3.5 stars
December 3, 2017
I just love the way Lane Hayes writes and how she's able to make me feel quite radically different about a character who has previously been a bit of an arse.
In this instance it's Ryan, who acted like a real jerk for a while as Wes and Nick were slowly falling in love and who then developed an inappropriate crush for Finn.
He's bewildered by the beautiful intern Danny, a former pro tennis player who is determined to keep what he feels about Ryan out in the open.
Ryan is such a daft apeth, he can't quite let himself believe that Danny really does have feelings for him, and it takes a bit of conniving by Geordie to finally get him to admit it.
There's lots of gorgeous detailing squeezed into the novella and it flows at a wonderful pace from start to finish and into a truly sweet epilogue.
I can't wait for Grant's book now which I believe is coming early next year.
#ARC received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
In this instance it's Ryan, who acted like a real jerk for a while as Wes and Nick were slowly falling in love and who then developed an inappropriate crush for Finn.
He's bewildered by the beautiful intern Danny, a former pro tennis player who is determined to keep what he feels about Ryan out in the open.
Ryan is such a daft apeth, he can't quite let himself believe that Danny really does have feelings for him, and it takes a bit of conniving by Geordie to finally get him to admit it.
There's lots of gorgeous detailing squeezed into the novella and it flows at a wonderful pace from start to finish and into a truly sweet epilogue.
I can't wait for Grant's book now which I believe is coming early next year.
#ARC received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
January 2, 2018
Another Notch
Lane Hayes has succeeded in adding another strong notch to her Leaning Into [...] bedpost. This was a shorter 'halfsie' story between main installments, but we got to catch up with Ryan from the winery after his failed efforts of establishing something with Wes in Leaning Into the Fall.
I absolutely loved Ryan in this after he got out of his own way and Danny couldn't have been any more perfect. I mean, come on! He was hot as shit, nice as hell, and sweeter than ... powdered sugah. Mmm. Mmm. Mmm.
Was this the strongest book of the series? No, not particularly. But it was very, very good. I like it when characters who have maligned themselves at some point in a series get a chance at their own happiness even if I wanted to bitchslap 'em the first time around.
Ryan was that character for this series. I felt sad and embarrassed for him before when he was lost in rampant and misplaced desperation. Clearly, the quick turnaround of my last impression of him shows my heart knew he wasn't irredeemable and I'm glad we got to see a better side of him.
I liked both MCs, I liked them together. I liked that Ryan took the time and apologized to Nick for his interference. I liked the beginning, the middle and the end. The pacing was great for a shorter story and Ryan's self-deprecating humor was true to his prickly character and the perfect foil for Danny's sunny disposition. Danny boy was absolutely a breath of fresh air. Love. Love. Love.
I am , as usual, smiling with fondness over these MCs and simultaneously ready to meet the next ones. I'm truly looking forward to the next book. What more can you ask for?
3.75 hearts rounded to 4 (stars) for Goodreads
Review cross-posted at:
More reviews by NeRdyWYRM can be found on Goodreads here.
Images (when present) may be subject to copyright.
An ARC copy of this title was provided for an honest review.
Lane Hayes has succeeded in adding another strong notch to her Leaning Into [...] bedpost. This was a shorter 'halfsie' story between main installments, but we got to catch up with Ryan from the winery after his failed efforts of establishing something with Wes in Leaning Into the Fall.
I absolutely loved Ryan in this after he got out of his own way and Danny couldn't have been any more perfect. I mean, come on! He was hot as shit, nice as hell, and sweeter than ... powdered sugah. Mmm. Mmm. Mmm.
Was this the strongest book of the series? No, not particularly. But it was very, very good. I like it when characters who have maligned themselves at some point in a series get a chance at their own happiness even if I wanted to bitchslap 'em the first time around.
Ryan was that character for this series. I felt sad and embarrassed for him before when he was lost in rampant and misplaced desperation. Clearly, the quick turnaround of my last impression of him shows my heart knew he wasn't irredeemable and I'm glad we got to see a better side of him.
I liked both MCs, I liked them together. I liked that Ryan took the time and apologized to Nick for his interference. I liked the beginning, the middle and the end. The pacing was great for a shorter story and Ryan's self-deprecating humor was true to his prickly character and the perfect foil for Danny's sunny disposition. Danny boy was absolutely a breath of fresh air. Love. Love. Love.
I am , as usual, smiling with fondness over these MCs and simultaneously ready to meet the next ones. I'm truly looking forward to the next book. What more can you ask for?
3.75 hearts rounded to 4 (stars) for Goodreads
Review cross-posted at:
More reviews by NeRdyWYRM can be found on Goodreads here.
Images (when present) may be subject to copyright.
An ARC copy of this title was provided for an honest review.
November 26, 2017
Really like this series, and thank goodness Ryan got his own HEA. Grant and Miles story up next I assume but I must have a HEA for lonely, sad and loveless Geordie...he desperately needs someone of his own to love. 💘 4 stars.
May 2, 2018
Darum geht's:
Ryan liebt seine Arbeit beim Weingut Conrad im Nappa Valley. Die Besitzer sind inzwischen fast wie eine Familie für ihn geworden und er liebt den Umgang mit den Kunden. Nur auf den immer lächelnden und charmesprühenden Praktikanten Danny könnte er verzichten, denn der geht ihm unter die Haut. Wie gut, dass Danny nach Saisonende verschwunden ist und Ryan wieder seine Ruhe hat.
So fand ich's:
Danny ist ein Sonnenschein, er flirtet mit allen, ist immer gut gelaunt und die Besucher des Weingutes lieben ihn. Ein Unfall hat seine hoffnungsvolle Tenniskarriere beendet, doch seine Familie sieht ihn immer noch im Sport, notfalls als Trainer, und empfindet Dannys Interesse an der Winzerei als vorübergehende Phase.
Auch Ryan himmelt ihn an, versteckt das aber gut hinter grummeligen Reaktionen. Denn Ryan hat nicht besonders viel Selbstbewusstsein. Er stellt alles in Frage, was ihm Danny an Charme und Interesse entgegen wirft. Schließlich hat Danny klargestellt, dass seine Zukunft noch völlig offen ist und er nach den Weihnachtstagen vom Weingut verschwinden wird.
"Leaning Into a Wish" hat mit 130 Seiten keine Romanlänge, sondern ist eher eine ausführlichere Kurzgeschichte. Die Story ist süß und nicht besonders dramatisch, liest sich angenehm für zwischendurch, denn Ryan und Danny sind zwei nette Jungs, deren Annäherung man gerne miterlebt. Die Geschichte spielt in Herbst und Winter und man kann ein kleines Wiedersehen mit Wes und Nick und vor allem mit Geordie (alle aus "Leaning Into the Fall") feiern, der nun wirklich sein eigenes Buch verdient hat.
Ryan liebt seine Arbeit beim Weingut Conrad im Nappa Valley. Die Besitzer sind inzwischen fast wie eine Familie für ihn geworden und er liebt den Umgang mit den Kunden. Nur auf den immer lächelnden und charmesprühenden Praktikanten Danny könnte er verzichten, denn der geht ihm unter die Haut. Wie gut, dass Danny nach Saisonende verschwunden ist und Ryan wieder seine Ruhe hat.
So fand ich's:
Danny ist ein Sonnenschein, er flirtet mit allen, ist immer gut gelaunt und die Besucher des Weingutes lieben ihn. Ein Unfall hat seine hoffnungsvolle Tenniskarriere beendet, doch seine Familie sieht ihn immer noch im Sport, notfalls als Trainer, und empfindet Dannys Interesse an der Winzerei als vorübergehende Phase.
Auch Ryan himmelt ihn an, versteckt das aber gut hinter grummeligen Reaktionen. Denn Ryan hat nicht besonders viel Selbstbewusstsein. Er stellt alles in Frage, was ihm Danny an Charme und Interesse entgegen wirft. Schließlich hat Danny klargestellt, dass seine Zukunft noch völlig offen ist und er nach den Weihnachtstagen vom Weingut verschwinden wird.
"Leaning Into a Wish" hat mit 130 Seiten keine Romanlänge, sondern ist eher eine ausführlichere Kurzgeschichte. Die Story ist süß und nicht besonders dramatisch, liest sich angenehm für zwischendurch, denn Ryan und Danny sind zwei nette Jungs, deren Annäherung man gerne miterlebt. Die Geschichte spielt in Herbst und Winter und man kann ein kleines Wiedersehen mit Wes und Nick und vor allem mit Geordie (alle aus "Leaning Into the Fall") feiern, der nun wirklich sein eigenes Buch verdient hat.
April 8, 2018
3.5 Stars
This is a sweet opposites attract romance between Ryan and Danny. Ryan is grumpy and stand offish and Danny is sunny.
Ryan is also pretty clueless to Danny's affections. We get some of the cast from the series and just dab of angst mixed in with a fun Christmas romance.
I was a little confused as I thought Ryan's backstory was very different from reading earlier books in the series and the dulled my enjoyment a bit but the dynamic between the heroes was fun.
This is a sweet opposites attract romance between Ryan and Danny. Ryan is grumpy and stand offish and Danny is sunny.
Ryan is also pretty clueless to Danny's affections. We get some of the cast from the series and just dab of angst mixed in with a fun Christmas romance.
I was a little confused as I thought Ryan's backstory was very different from reading earlier books in the series and the dulled my enjoyment a bit but the dynamic between the heroes was fun.
December 7, 2017
I seem to get really excited when Lane Hayes writes a new book so I was super happy to see there was a Christmas story set in the Leaning Into Stories Series.
Maybe not so much when I saw it was about Ryan. My memory of him from my favorite book of this series, Leaning Into the Fall, Nick is hands down my favorite, was not a good one. BUT! I almost hated Nick prior to his book so I figured there was hope plus Christmas!
Cute, cute, cute.
The beginning was a little shaky, I wasn't sure what was happening with Danny but once it got moving it got moving and I found it sweet and honest and a lot of fun.
Maybe not so much when I saw it was about Ryan. My memory of him from my favorite book of this series, Leaning Into the Fall, Nick is hands down my favorite, was not a good one. BUT! I almost hated Nick prior to his book so I figured there was hope plus Christmas!
Cute, cute, cute.
The beginning was a little shaky, I wasn't sure what was happening with Danny but once it got moving it got moving and I found it sweet and honest and a lot of fun.
February 23, 2024
Pour cet opus, plus court que les quatre premiers (une centaine de pages sur ma liseuse), les héros ne sont plus l'un des membres de la bande de potes, mais l'un des satellites qui gravite autour : Ryan, l'employé du vignoble de Wes, et accessoirement ex coup du patron.
Ryan est très énervé par l'un des stagiaires : il est trop souriant, trop charmeur, trop sexy, trop exubérant, trop doué, trop bruyant, trop sexy, trop bavard, trop énergique, trop sexy, trop frimeur, et... ah oui, trop sexy. Mais bon, il est aussi trop hétéro donc, Ryan se contente de tenter de se persuader qu'il déteste Danny et attend la fin de son stage pour qu'il disparaisse... mais bon, en attendant, il le surveille attentivement, c'est juste pour s'assurer qu'il ne commet pas de boulettes avec la clientèle...
Mais Geordie, son autre patron, est un homme observateur et joueur... et il se pourrait bien qu'il décide de faire jouer sa magie entre ses deux employés, sur la base d'un pari, partant du principe qu'à son avis, le beau Danny n'est pas si hétéro que ça...
Une mignonne petite romance assez rapide (l'action se déroulant durant le dernier trimestre de l'année), la plume de l'auteur empêchant l'histoire de sombrer trop dans la mièvrerie, les deux hommes sont charmants et à croquer, on sait de toutes façons dès le départ comment ça va finir, le but du jeu étant de les voir se tourner un peu autour avant de les voir craquer et ça fait du bien parfois, que ça se déroule sans drames.
Bref, ce tome m'a fait l'effet un peu d'un tome doudou, intermédiaire, une sorte de romance de fin d'année, autour d'un sapin et d'une histoire de vœux et de cloches, assez douce.
A déguster avec un petit verre de Pinot, pour être raccord.
Ryan est très énervé par l'un des stagiaires : il est trop souriant, trop charmeur, trop sexy, trop exubérant, trop doué, trop bruyant, trop sexy, trop bavard, trop énergique, trop sexy, trop frimeur, et... ah oui, trop sexy. Mais bon, il est aussi trop hétéro donc, Ryan se contente de tenter de se persuader qu'il déteste Danny et attend la fin de son stage pour qu'il disparaisse... mais bon, en attendant, il le surveille attentivement, c'est juste pour s'assurer qu'il ne commet pas de boulettes avec la clientèle...
Mais Geordie, son autre patron, est un homme observateur et joueur... et il se pourrait bien qu'il décide de faire jouer sa magie entre ses deux employés, sur la base d'un pari, partant du principe qu'à son avis, le beau Danny n'est pas si hétéro que ça...
Une mignonne petite romance assez rapide (l'action se déroulant durant le dernier trimestre de l'année), la plume de l'auteur empêchant l'histoire de sombrer trop dans la mièvrerie, les deux hommes sont charmants et à croquer, on sait de toutes façons dès le départ comment ça va finir, le but du jeu étant de les voir se tourner un peu autour avant de les voir craquer et ça fait du bien parfois, que ça se déroule sans drames.
Bref, ce tome m'a fait l'effet un peu d'un tome doudou, intermédiaire, une sorte de romance de fin d'année, autour d'un sapin et d'une histoire de vœux et de cloches, assez douce.
A déguster avec un petit verre de Pinot, pour être raccord.
Read
December 13, 2017Not a good sign when I'm 8% in and one of the MC's is annoying me already. And 8% isn't much because this is a short book.
12% - Nope. I’m just not into this one which is disappointing because I liked others in the series.
12% - Nope. I’m just not into this one which is disappointing because I liked others in the series.
December 1, 2018
Dual POV with plenty of sexy heat, a happy ending, and terrific narration!
There is a bit too much time jumping for my personal taste, but overall I enjoyed this - especially the narration by Russo.
I don't know how I've missed this series, but even though I haven't read the rest of the series, this worked as a standalone even though it has a large cast of characters. Mostly because Hayes makes sure to give just enough backstory on everyone and Nick J. Russo provides clear, distinctive character voices for everyone.
Definitely a fun listen, and I'm going to make sure the rest of the series moves up on my TBR list!
Audio copy of Leaning Into A Wish provided by the author in exchange of an honest review.
This review to be cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
January 8, 2018
Book & Author: Leaning Into Wish by Lane Hayes
Rating: 4.5 stars
Oh, what a fun story!!
I loved these two main characters and their brief but super fun friction. Ryan is do-gooder of the two. He follows the rules, works hard and never goofs off at work. And he wants love, that special someone just for him. Danny is that fun loving guy we all wished we could be. He has the jokes, the smile, and of course, Ryan finds him annoying and hot.
Ryan was the character that drew me in. His prickly nature was fun to see especially when Danny would try to get him to relax and enjoy life. And I loved that he wanted love, that a relationship with a man that would show him casual affection and someone he could go home to at the end of the day endeared me to him.
Their falling in love was sweet and a slow burn kind of thing. Even though this is a novella and I really wanted more of them, it was told perfectly, and I never felt like I was left unsatisfied when it was over. Definitely a recommended read!
*I received a copy of this book through http://diversereader.blogspot.com/*
Rating: 4.5 stars
Oh, what a fun story!!
I loved these two main characters and their brief but super fun friction. Ryan is do-gooder of the two. He follows the rules, works hard and never goofs off at work. And he wants love, that special someone just for him. Danny is that fun loving guy we all wished we could be. He has the jokes, the smile, and of course, Ryan finds him annoying and hot.
Ryan was the character that drew me in. His prickly nature was fun to see especially when Danny would try to get him to relax and enjoy life. And I loved that he wanted love, that a relationship with a man that would show him casual affection and someone he could go home to at the end of the day endeared me to him.
Their falling in love was sweet and a slow burn kind of thing. Even though this is a novella and I really wanted more of them, it was told perfectly, and I never felt like I was left unsatisfied when it was over. Definitely a recommended read!
*I received a copy of this book through http://diversereader.blogspot.com/*
November 20, 2021
3.5 ⭐
Une petite nouvelle bien sympa, que j'ai lu en début de semaine mais que j'ai déjà en partie oubliée ... Ceci dit, même si cette histoire n'a rien de foufou, j'y ai trouvé ce que je cherchais : une petite parenthèse doudou avec la plume de Lane Hayes, une lecture sans prise de tête, à la fois douce et sexy. J'ai surtout aimé le début, quand Ryan et Danny se tournent autour, on sent bien l'électricité qui crépite entre eux. Ensuite, le développement est plus classique et du coup, peu marquant.
Je suis maintenant curieuse de découvrir l'histoire de Geordie (et ce sera pour le tome 7 !).
Une petite nouvelle bien sympa, que j'ai lu en début de semaine mais que j'ai déjà en partie oubliée ... Ceci dit, même si cette histoire n'a rien de foufou, j'y ai trouvé ce que je cherchais : une petite parenthèse doudou avec la plume de Lane Hayes, une lecture sans prise de tête, à la fois douce et sexy. J'ai surtout aimé le début, quand Ryan et Danny se tournent autour, on sent bien l'électricité qui crépite entre eux. Ensuite, le développement est plus classique et du coup, peu marquant.
Je suis maintenant curieuse de découvrir l'histoire de Geordie (et ce sera pour le tome 7 !).
February 16, 2018
I was completely shallow and picked up this book because the cover. Which I was enamored with. Even though I didn't particularly want to see Ryan redeemed after the Nick and Wes story...but abs.
Ryan is not quite what I expected. He comes off a bit insecure and just wants to fit in somewhere. He has found his place here at the winery, but there is still a void now that everyone seems to be happily coupled up.
Danny is charming, charismatic and slightly aggravating. He never just says what he wants. He talks in circles so much that even I was having a hard time figuring out what his intentions were and where he was coming from. Then all of a sudden he decides he is going to be his own man and make his own decisions. I liked him more after that.
Anyway, this was a nice little story about two guys who eventually figure things out. A lot of their interactions had me scratching my head, but I eventually got on board with it all. It is not disappointing on the steam side.
We do catch up a bit with Nick, Wes and Geordie. In fact, there is a LOT of Geordie in this book as well as his background. Almost like a set up for his book (if he is getting a book). I am not sure I am emotionally prepared for Geordie. Though I want him to get his happy back, he just breaks my heart.
Ryan is not quite what I expected. He comes off a bit insecure and just wants to fit in somewhere. He has found his place here at the winery, but there is still a void now that everyone seems to be happily coupled up.
Danny is charming, charismatic and slightly aggravating. He never just says what he wants. He talks in circles so much that even I was having a hard time figuring out what his intentions were and where he was coming from. Then all of a sudden he decides he is going to be his own man and make his own decisions. I liked him more after that.
Anyway, this was a nice little story about two guys who eventually figure things out. A lot of their interactions had me scratching my head, but I eventually got on board with it all. It is not disappointing on the steam side.
We do catch up a bit with Nick, Wes and Geordie. In fact, there is a LOT of Geordie in this book as well as his background. Almost like a set up for his book (if he is getting a book). I am not sure I am emotionally prepared for Geordie. Though I want him to get his happy back, he just breaks my heart.
November 25, 2017
3.5 stars
August 28, 2018
3.5 Stars
Something was missing with this one I couldn't connect to the MCs like I did with the other stories in this series. Still a sweet read.
November 23, 2017
This is a sweet holiday story, but not my favorite of the series. Ryan, who we met in Wes and Nicks book is settled into the hum drum of his lack of Love life. He loves his job and his “family” at Conway wineries but is irritated by Danny, an intern working at the winery while finishing his masters degree. On a bet from Geordie, the two are thrown together.
I enjoyed the story but kept wishing that Lane would stop torturing us and give Geordie a HEA!
I enjoyed the story but kept wishing that Lane would stop torturing us and give Geordie a HEA!
November 27, 2017
4.5 STARS!
I’m just obsessed with these boys!
Ryan and Danny were adorable and perfect for one another, I just loved this one! Can’t wait for the next one!
I’m just obsessed with these boys!
Ryan and Danny were adorable and perfect for one another, I just loved this one! Can’t wait for the next one!
December 22, 2017
**4.5 stars**
This is a sweet romance, one that can be read as a holiday story or simply a continuation of the Leaning Into series. It features Ryan Haskell, a secondary character who in the past had a relationship with Wes before Nick came along and who was actively trying to break up Josh and Finn in their story. Ryan works in the Conrad Winery and is best at his favorite task: conducting tours and selling the wine that is now a part of his life’s work with a group of people he has adopted as his family.
Each year the winery hires interns and this year, Danny Meyers, a straight jock with a wonderful outgoing personality is driving Ryan crazy. Why? Well on the surface it appears he just rubs Ryan the wrong way when he jokes around or even just brings his bright personality into a room. Why should one guy be gorgeous, built, athletic, and personable all in one package? And to top it off, he keeps flirting with Ryan, even though he’s straight. Way to make a guy crazy!
Off and on throughout the story, the subject of wishes comes up. We learn Ryan’s greatest wish is to love and be loved in return. And we learn the value of believing your wishes can come true. When Danny realizes his own wishes and dreams are all centered in the Napa Valley and a career as a tennis pro is no longer really an option, he gets the help of Geordie, the co-owner of the winery, to help Ryan weave through the path of his own doubts so that Danny can help Ryan find that wishes can come true.
Though the story is short, the characters are well-developed and the situations are infused with humor and good intentions. There’s plenty of opportunity for the relationship to develop and there’s a really sweet ending.
This could technically be read as a standalone, since there are multiple recurring characters from previous books, but it will be a much better reading experience for those who have read one or more of the earlier stories.
I highly recommend this one to all lovers of contemporary MM romance and if you’ve already read the others in the series, this one is a win-win. Be sure to ask Santa for this sweet stocking stuffer.
ARC provided by the publisher through Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words in exchange for an impartial review.
This is a sweet romance, one that can be read as a holiday story or simply a continuation of the Leaning Into series. It features Ryan Haskell, a secondary character who in the past had a relationship with Wes before Nick came along and who was actively trying to break up Josh and Finn in their story. Ryan works in the Conrad Winery and is best at his favorite task: conducting tours and selling the wine that is now a part of his life’s work with a group of people he has adopted as his family.
Each year the winery hires interns and this year, Danny Meyers, a straight jock with a wonderful outgoing personality is driving Ryan crazy. Why? Well on the surface it appears he just rubs Ryan the wrong way when he jokes around or even just brings his bright personality into a room. Why should one guy be gorgeous, built, athletic, and personable all in one package? And to top it off, he keeps flirting with Ryan, even though he’s straight. Way to make a guy crazy!
Off and on throughout the story, the subject of wishes comes up. We learn Ryan’s greatest wish is to love and be loved in return. And we learn the value of believing your wishes can come true. When Danny realizes his own wishes and dreams are all centered in the Napa Valley and a career as a tennis pro is no longer really an option, he gets the help of Geordie, the co-owner of the winery, to help Ryan weave through the path of his own doubts so that Danny can help Ryan find that wishes can come true.
Though the story is short, the characters are well-developed and the situations are infused with humor and good intentions. There’s plenty of opportunity for the relationship to develop and there’s a really sweet ending.
This could technically be read as a standalone, since there are multiple recurring characters from previous books, but it will be a much better reading experience for those who have read one or more of the earlier stories.
I highly recommend this one to all lovers of contemporary MM romance and if you’ve already read the others in the series, this one is a win-win. Be sure to ask Santa for this sweet stocking stuffer.
ARC provided by the publisher through Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words in exchange for an impartial review.
December 1, 2017
WOW... this story checks off all the boxes (wrapped in Christmas paper) that anyone could possibly wish for! Ryan and Danny are incredibly sweet and adorable together. And their story leaves me wishing for a Christmas romance of my own. I skipped ahead a bit with this book in the series since I have only read book one previous to this one. However it in no way mattered to the enjoyment of this book, so if you wanna read this for Christmas, no need to read books 1-3 first. Though based on book one and this one you'll want to read them all as I intend to do! Wiping away tears of joy as I type this... yeah it was that good!
November 23, 2017
Considering this author’s books generally give me the warm fuzzies, I had fairly high expectations for the holiday novella. Add in the fact that this is probably my favorite of her series, and I couldn’t wait to get my hands on Ryan’s story. While Ryan was introduced in Leaning Into the Fall, readers certainly don’t need to have read that or any other book from the Leaning Into Stories series to thoroughly enjoy this holiday romance.
Ryan has a bad habit of looking for love in the wrong places. So when he finds himself crushing on an intern at Conrad’s Winery, he’s certain his attraction to Danny is one-sided. Though their personalities and life experiences are opposite in a number of ways, their chemistry was unmistakable from the start. I really enjoyed both Ryan and Danny and found their stories interesting. I especially loved how they each brought out a spark in one another and helped inspire more self confidence in their own decisions. Though it was short in length, this holiday novella followed a complete story arc and didn’t leave me wanting for more development or conflict resolution. As a fan of the series, I loved the cameos of some of my favorite characters and will certainly look forward to glimpses of Ryan and Danny in future Leaning Into Stories. Whenever I pick up a holiday novella, I hope for a love story that will make my heart happy and capture a bit of that holiday magic, and that’s precisely what I got in Leaning Into a Wish.
Reviewed by Annie from Alpha Book Club
Ryan has a bad habit of looking for love in the wrong places. So when he finds himself crushing on an intern at Conrad’s Winery, he’s certain his attraction to Danny is one-sided. Though their personalities and life experiences are opposite in a number of ways, their chemistry was unmistakable from the start. I really enjoyed both Ryan and Danny and found their stories interesting. I especially loved how they each brought out a spark in one another and helped inspire more self confidence in their own decisions. Though it was short in length, this holiday novella followed a complete story arc and didn’t leave me wanting for more development or conflict resolution. As a fan of the series, I loved the cameos of some of my favorite characters and will certainly look forward to glimpses of Ryan and Danny in future Leaning Into Stories. Whenever I pick up a holiday novella, I hope for a love story that will make my heart happy and capture a bit of that holiday magic, and that’s precisely what I got in Leaning Into a Wish.
Reviewed by Annie from Alpha Book Club
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