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Changing Lanes #2
Medley
Olympic gold is within their grasp, if they can stay afloat in the sea of feels.
Jacob is drowning.
Nineteen and a first-time Olympian, he’s in over his head.
And the water’s only rising as he crushes harder on his tattooed teammate.
Sebastian cost his team the medley relay gold four years ago.
He won’t make the same mistakes at this summer’s Olympics.
Mistakes like falling for another swimmer at the Games.
Jacob needs all the help he can get.
His mentor Sebastian can provide it.
But when the irresistible rookie asks for his heart, Sebastian is the one left treading water.
He wants the gold. He wants Jacob.
If he can’t find a way to win both, he’ll sink.
And take Jacob and the rest of the team with him.
Take a tattooed bad boy and an adorkable rookie, put them on the same Olympic medley relay team, and watch the heart-eyes fly in this friends to lovers MM sports romance.
Jacob is drowning.
Nineteen and a first-time Olympian, he’s in over his head.
And the water’s only rising as he crushes harder on his tattooed teammate.
Sebastian cost his team the medley relay gold four years ago.
He won’t make the same mistakes at this summer’s Olympics.
Mistakes like falling for another swimmer at the Games.
Jacob needs all the help he can get.
His mentor Sebastian can provide it.
But when the irresistible rookie asks for his heart, Sebastian is the one left treading water.
He wants the gold. He wants Jacob.
If he can’t find a way to win both, he’ll sink.
And take Jacob and the rest of the team with him.
Take a tattooed bad boy and an adorkable rookie, put them on the same Olympic medley relay team, and watch the heart-eyes fly in this friends to lovers MM sports romance.
207 pages, ebook
First published April 23, 2018
18 people are currently reading
451 people want to read
About the author
Layla Reyne
54 books1,030 followersLayla Reyne is the author of What We May Be and the Agents Irish and Whiskey, Fog City, and Perfect Play series. She writes sexy, intense LGBTQIA+ romance featuring competent adults in kitchens, sports arenas, car chases, and other high-stakes situations. Whether it’s adrenaline-fueled suspense, rival athletes, vampires and shifters in alt-realms, or love mixed with mouth-watering foodie goodness, queer folks finding happily-ever-afters is guaranteed.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 137 reviews
April 22, 2018
***2.5 Stars***
It seriously pains me to give such a low rating to a Layla Reyne book, but I really struggled with this book.
At the end of Relay, Alex, Dane, Bas, Jacob and the team were on their way to Europe for the Olympics and the chase for their elusive relay gold.
Jacob aka Pup and his mentor, Bas, developed a close relationship in the previous book and I couldn't wait to read their story! Unfortunately, I lost that connection in this book. And the reason is simple.....Bas.
Bas's push and pull throughout most of the book was beyond frustrating. I just never warmed up to him...even by the end, he didn't completely win me over. And then add in that there's an ex boyfriend thrown in....and this ended up being nothing but the drama llama stomping her way throughout this whole book.
Also, what added to my annoyance and frustration was the fact all of this drama was happening during the Olympics, the pinnacle of an athlete's career.
The spotlight is on Jacob as the standout rookie, and Bas is dicking him around (and not in the good way) the entire time. Available and supportive one minute, and running away the next. All of these mind games playing with Jacob's emotions when he should be focusing on his swimming.
And all of this culminates in Jacob making a dumbass, selfish and unprofessional move. At that point, there was no saving the story for me. If I was on this team, I'd be seriously pissed.
Overall, this was a book I was really looking forward to, but unfortunately didn't live up to the expectations I had after reading the first book. Super bummed, party of one.
***ARC received in exchange for an honest review***
March 12, 2018
3.5 Stars!
Sports related books are some of my favorite. And while I liked this one, I didn't love it.
Mainly because Bas and Jacob spent most of the book not together. Which I blame Bas, he was hot and cold with Jacob and pushed him away the majority of the time.
But I liked being at the Olympics and seeing Dane and Alex....reading about them trying for the gold.
So while I didn't love this one, I did like it and I continue to enjoy the series as a whole.
ARC kindly provided by the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review
Sports related books are some of my favorite. And while I liked this one, I didn't love it.
Mainly because Bas and Jacob spent most of the book not together. Which I blame Bas, he was hot and cold with Jacob and pushed him away the majority of the time.
But I liked being at the Olympics and seeing Dane and Alex....reading about them trying for the gold.
So while I didn't love this one, I did like it and I continue to enjoy the series as a whole.
ARC kindly provided by the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review
March 4, 2018
This was drama lama drama.
This one starts during the events at the end of book one but covers things we didn't see on page there. Specifically Bas giving Jacob his tattoo. It quickly catches up to where book one ended and the team heads to Spain for the Olympics.
Bas has it in his mind he's not good enough for Jacob because of things he did to his last boyfriend. The entire romance aspect was this up and down, back and forth drama that made me nuts. They hook up, Bas pushes Jacob away cuz he's not good enough for him. They hook up, Bas pushes Jacob away cuz he's not good enough for him. They hook up.......(you get the gist). The whole "I'm not good enough for you" plot never works for me. I hate it. Also, the majority of this drama could have been avoided if they'd have just sat down and talked to each other. Bas was too old for this nonsense and while Jacob was much younger, he was supposed to be very mature for his age due to his family situation.
Also, Dane's parents had to make an appearance to add some extra, over the top, evil villain stuff.
On the plus side their chemistry was smoking hot. They burned up the pages. Unfortunately those scenes were not enough to save this for me.
So...not necessarily a bad book but just really not my jam.
**ARC provided by publisher through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review**
This one starts during the events at the end of book one but covers things we didn't see on page there. Specifically Bas giving Jacob his tattoo. It quickly catches up to where book one ended and the team heads to Spain for the Olympics.
Bas has it in his mind he's not good enough for Jacob because of things he did to his last boyfriend. The entire romance aspect was this up and down, back and forth drama that made me nuts. They hook up, Bas pushes Jacob away cuz he's not good enough for him. They hook up, Bas pushes Jacob away cuz he's not good enough for him. They hook up.......(you get the gist). The whole "I'm not good enough for you" plot never works for me. I hate it. Also, the majority of this drama could have been avoided if they'd have just sat down and talked to each other. Bas was too old for this nonsense and while Jacob was much younger, he was supposed to be very mature for his age due to his family situation.
Also, Dane's parents had to make an appearance to add some extra, over the top, evil villain stuff.
On the plus side their chemistry was smoking hot. They burned up the pages. Unfortunately those scenes were not enough to save this for me.
So...not necessarily a bad book but just really not my jam.
**ARC provided by publisher through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review**
lgbtq-to-read
December 17, 2017
Can a girl get the first one son, please & thank ya.
Already teasing me with the tatted guy/shy guy second one before I can even sink my teeth into the first. *wails*
February 24, 2018
3.5 stars rounded up!
I enjoyed Bas and Jacob together, they were sweet together, and it was fun reading what happens when they finally get to the olympics and get to that medley relay they've all been stressing over for so long.
There is some drama here and there, but it wasn't near as heavy as in the first book, and in some ways I enjoyed that and in some ways I didn't that much. It was nice that this wasn't as drama filled as the first one, but I also felt that what drama there was, didn't quite feel right, like it wasn't genuine.
Like the relationship that Bas screwed up 4 years before in the last olympics, .
There is also some drama with one of the female swimmers, but that felt a tad lackluster in that it only took about two conversations for her to get over shit and be a good friend to Jacob. Not that I want her to be a biphobic asshole, but I feel like in real life people who act like she act rarely get it after one actual conversation pointing out to her her stupidity. I mean I guess it wasn't that unrealistic, but it also, again, imo, left for very little drama and made what drama there was easily fixed.
It just left me with a bit of "what is the point of introducing these characters if they barely even did anything?" kind of feeling. And that reminds me, Dane's parents stop by in the story for like 5 seconds and then get bowled over pretty easily, so I also wonder what the point was of them showing up again. These characters meant to insight drama just didn't feel necessary in the story to me.
But I did enjoy Bas and Jacob's story, I loved their chemistry - although the sex scenes could have been steamier, imo - and I enjoyed their romance. I also enjoyed the secondary characters introduced - Jacob's father and cousin, and Bas's mother (although I wish we had gotten more of her) - and I loved seeing Alex and Dane again, happy and in love.
And Alex and Dane make me wish that we totally could get an open kiss at the olympics or any sporting event between two LGBT+ people because we never actually get that. Of course only in fiction does that actually happen - unfortunately ;)
So overall...I feel like I might be flipped as I saw not many enjoyed the first but a few have enjoyed this one more...but I didn't quite enjoy this one as much as the first one. The only true plot point in this book was getting Bas and Jacob together and it totally could have happened sooner, but was drawn out for the melodrama of it all, in my opinion. (Like Bas not just talking to Jacob about his reasons for pulling back until he almost loses Jacob, of course. That's almost always how it is, isn't it? It's frustrating, imo, the lack of communication. Which is understandable to a point...but when it takes basically a whole book to communicate - and nothing like misunderstandings or bad feelings and whatnot get in the way - then it just feels ridiculous).
So...still a good read for me, still enjoyable with enjoyable MC's with good chemistry and an adorable romance. Just not as good as other works I've read by this author.
***ARC provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review***
I enjoyed Bas and Jacob together, they were sweet together, and it was fun reading what happens when they finally get to the olympics and get to that medley relay they've all been stressing over for so long.
There is some drama here and there, but it wasn't near as heavy as in the first book, and in some ways I enjoyed that and in some ways I didn't that much. It was nice that this wasn't as drama filled as the first one, but I also felt that what drama there was, didn't quite feel right, like it wasn't genuine.
Like the relationship that Bas screwed up 4 years before in the last olympics, .
There is also some drama with one of the female swimmers, but that felt a tad lackluster in that it only took about two conversations for her to get over shit and be a good friend to Jacob. Not that I want her to be a biphobic asshole, but I feel like in real life people who act like she act rarely get it after one actual conversation pointing out to her her stupidity. I mean I guess it wasn't that unrealistic, but it also, again, imo, left for very little drama and made what drama there was easily fixed.
It just left me with a bit of "what is the point of introducing these characters if they barely even did anything?" kind of feeling. And that reminds me, Dane's parents stop by in the story for like 5 seconds and then get bowled over pretty easily, so I also wonder what the point was of them showing up again. These characters meant to insight drama just didn't feel necessary in the story to me.
But I did enjoy Bas and Jacob's story, I loved their chemistry - although the sex scenes could have been steamier, imo - and I enjoyed their romance. I also enjoyed the secondary characters introduced - Jacob's father and cousin, and Bas's mother (although I wish we had gotten more of her) - and I loved seeing Alex and Dane again, happy and in love.
And Alex and Dane make me wish that we totally could get an open kiss at the olympics or any sporting event between two LGBT+ people because we never actually get that. Of course only in fiction does that actually happen - unfortunately ;)
So overall...I feel like I might be flipped as I saw not many enjoyed the first but a few have enjoyed this one more...but I didn't quite enjoy this one as much as the first one. The only true plot point in this book was getting Bas and Jacob together and it totally could have happened sooner, but was drawn out for the melodrama of it all, in my opinion. (Like Bas not just talking to Jacob about his reasons for pulling back until he almost loses Jacob, of course. That's almost always how it is, isn't it? It's frustrating, imo, the lack of communication. Which is understandable to a point...but when it takes basically a whole book to communicate - and nothing like misunderstandings or bad feelings and whatnot get in the way - then it just feels ridiculous).
So...still a good read for me, still enjoyable with enjoyable MC's with good chemistry and an adorable romance. Just not as good as other works I've read by this author.
***ARC provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review***
October 21, 2022
Caretakers in love.
Poorly researched swimming scenes,
but compelling guys.
Poorly researched swimming scenes,
but compelling guys.
February 23, 2018
3.5 stars
Medley is the second book in the Changing Lanes series. It could probably be read as a stand alone but I personally thing you would get a lot more out of the story if you read the first book in the series before picking this one up. The couple in the first book is also in this story but this one focuses on a new couple. I was curious about these two after reading Relay and knew I had to get my hands on their story.
Jacob is just about the textbook definition of people-pleaser. He is always worried about taking care of others and making sure everyone else is okay. He puts on his "brave face" and has problems opening up about his own problems, however. He feels responsible for his father's well being, but forgets to give time to himself. Jacob is also bisexual, and a virgin. He's not necessarily in the closet, he just hasn't felt the need to correct people when they assume he's straight. He's got a lot of emotional baggage that comes along with his bisexuality because in past relationships it has been an issue.
Sebastian is very focused and determined to keep himself focused on the Olympics and nothing else. After the drama at the last Olympic games, he's decided to swear off any kind of relationship, especially with fellow team mates. He feels a strong attraction to Jacob but because of his past, he repeatedly pushes him away.
This was definitely what I would call a slow burn kind of romance. There was SO much push and pull between these two that at times it felt really repetitive. I loved the chemistry between them, but Bas' hot and cold behavior was a little too much for me at times. If I were in Jacob's shoes I would have been really confused too! That all being said, I still really enjoyed them together when they decided to stop being so stupid! lol! Can't wait to read more from Layla Reyne
*I received an ARC of this title via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. *
Medley is the second book in the Changing Lanes series. It could probably be read as a stand alone but I personally thing you would get a lot more out of the story if you read the first book in the series before picking this one up. The couple in the first book is also in this story but this one focuses on a new couple. I was curious about these two after reading Relay and knew I had to get my hands on their story.
Jacob is just about the textbook definition of people-pleaser. He is always worried about taking care of others and making sure everyone else is okay. He puts on his "brave face" and has problems opening up about his own problems, however. He feels responsible for his father's well being, but forgets to give time to himself. Jacob is also bisexual, and a virgin. He's not necessarily in the closet, he just hasn't felt the need to correct people when they assume he's straight. He's got a lot of emotional baggage that comes along with his bisexuality because in past relationships it has been an issue.
Sebastian is very focused and determined to keep himself focused on the Olympics and nothing else. After the drama at the last Olympic games, he's decided to swear off any kind of relationship, especially with fellow team mates. He feels a strong attraction to Jacob but because of his past, he repeatedly pushes him away.
This was definitely what I would call a slow burn kind of romance. There was SO much push and pull between these two that at times it felt really repetitive. I loved the chemistry between them, but Bas' hot and cold behavior was a little too much for me at times. If I were in Jacob's shoes I would have been really confused too! That all being said, I still really enjoyed them together when they decided to stop being so stupid! lol! Can't wait to read more from Layla Reyne
*I received an ARC of this title via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. *
July 22, 2018
Review also on my blog • Twitter • Bookstagram
Rep: bi mcs, m/m romance
Trigger warnings: biphobia
Content warnings: explicit sexual content
I received an arc from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I picked up this book because I really enjoyed the first book, Relay. I was pretty excited for this book but this book fell flat for me.
The book follows olympian swimmers, Jacob who is 19 years old and new to the team, and Seb who is a tattoo artist. And… well, honestly nothing really happens. It was really boring and dull. I didn’t find the characters engaging, there weren’t any stakes to make the book at least a little interesting, and it felt like nothing happened.
What felt weird about the book was the the romance took almost a backseat. The characters knew each other before the book began and I feel like that was an excuse on the authors part to not really build up chemistry. And it didn’t really feel like there was any chemistry between them.
There was some biphobia in it. Jacob dates a girl named Leah but she breaks up with him when she finds out he’s bi. And that’s kind of when the connection between him and Seb begin, relating to biphobic partners they’d had. Although, one thing in discussing that that didn’t sit well with me was when it talked about it being ‘men and women’ for him, he also mentioned non-binary and trans people, but mentioned binary trans people as if they were divorced from men and women. It was odd to me that it was included.
I also wasn’t at all invested into the relationship. I don’t understand why they were together at all.
Overall, this book was just really dull.
March 16, 2018
~3.5 stars~
Nothing gets a rise out of me more than a character who's spending the better part of the book having a big ol' pity party, and that's exactly what Sebastian did. Why I never really saw this coming I'm still not sure, but the Bas we got in the first book was nothing like the Bas we got in Medley.
Medley picks up pretty much exactly where Relay stopped, and we see Jacob the newbie get his tattoo from Bas. I liked the chemistry between these two, their story was definitely a promising one; unfortunately Bas spent more time pushing Jacob away rather than setting the sheets on fire. Doesn't the whole "trust me to know what's good for you, and that's not ME!" thing drive you completely CRAZY? Because towards the end there I wanted to rage like a lunatic!
I liked this book but I didn't love it, for reasons stated above. That being said, I still loved the writing and I still believe Layla Reyne is a very talented new author. Can't wait to read more from this author.
Nothing gets a rise out of me more than a character who's spending the better part of the book having a big ol' pity party, and that's exactly what Sebastian did. Why I never really saw this coming I'm still not sure, but the Bas we got in the first book was nothing like the Bas we got in Medley.
Medley picks up pretty much exactly where Relay stopped, and we see Jacob the newbie get his tattoo from Bas. I liked the chemistry between these two, their story was definitely a promising one; unfortunately Bas spent more time pushing Jacob away rather than setting the sheets on fire. Doesn't the whole "trust me to know what's good for you, and that's not ME!" thing drive you completely CRAZY? Because towards the end there I wanted to rage like a lunatic!
I liked this book but I didn't love it, for reasons stated above. That being said, I still loved the writing and I still believe Layla Reyne is a very talented new author. Can't wait to read more from this author.
April 20, 2018
*ARC provided by A Novel Take PR
Bas and Jacob are teammates on the USA swim team, they are both also swimming the medley relay event. As older member, with one Olympic experience under his belt, Bas is tasked with looking out for the noobs, including Jacob. The two are roommates in pre Olympic training, and become close.
Overall, I enjoyed this, but Bas drove me crazy. He was a bit of a commitment-phobe not because he didn’t want a relationship, but because he was afraid of hurting the other person, or having them hurt him. So he was a bit hot and cold towards Jacob throughout the book. It took a few different people, including an ex, who was also at the games, to make him see reason and give Jacob a chance.
Bas and Jacob are teammates on the USA swim team, they are both also swimming the medley relay event. As older member, with one Olympic experience under his belt, Bas is tasked with looking out for the noobs, including Jacob. The two are roommates in pre Olympic training, and become close.
Overall, I enjoyed this, but Bas drove me crazy. He was a bit of a commitment-phobe not because he didn’t want a relationship, but because he was afraid of hurting the other person, or having them hurt him. So he was a bit hot and cold towards Jacob throughout the book. It took a few different people, including an ex, who was also at the games, to make him see reason and give Jacob a chance.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 15, 2021
I had to know Bas and Jacobs story, so I decided to read the second book right after. I don’t advice reading it if you did not read the first one because there is information that will only make sense if you read the first.
Unlike the first book, this one grabbed me right from the start. I read it in a few hours and enjoyed it immensely. The author did a good job with the characters' emotions, and I liked Jacob a lot - even more than I had in the previous book. I love that everyone calls him 'Pup' and that it becomes a sweet and accurate name for the character.
I also liked Bas, although I was slightly confused by the story with Julio, but I think the main thing I understood, and I agree. If the person doesn't trust us, we can't have a relationship that lasts. Right?
The relationship between Bas and Jacob is lovely from the start and the way they understand each other but can't talk about everything is adorably frustrating. Jacob cares about everyone but himself, and Bas cares about Jacob and his altruism towards everyone.
I loved that the team has become a good family and that everyone helps and unites when someone needs it - even in the funniest and least cool way.
I liked this one more than the first one, but I think it was an interesting little series and fun to read.
Unlike the first book, this one grabbed me right from the start. I read it in a few hours and enjoyed it immensely. The author did a good job with the characters' emotions, and I liked Jacob a lot - even more than I had in the previous book. I love that everyone calls him 'Pup' and that it becomes a sweet and accurate name for the character.
I also liked Bas, although I was slightly confused by the story with Julio, but I think the main thing I understood, and I agree. If the person doesn't trust us, we can't have a relationship that lasts. Right?
The relationship between Bas and Jacob is lovely from the start and the way they understand each other but can't talk about everything is adorably frustrating. Jacob cares about everyone but himself, and Bas cares about Jacob and his altruism towards everyone.
I loved that the team has become a good family and that everyone helps and unites when someone needs it - even in the funniest and least cool way.
I liked this one more than the first one, but I think it was an interesting little series and fun to read.
April 30, 2018
Gold. <--- see what I did there?! ;)
April 23, 2018
I thought I’m gonna like it more than the first book, given I liked Jacob on Relay and Sebastian seemed levelheaded enough. That jolted right on the first chapter and later practically wilted. To me it read like an over the top drama that could be evaded if the characters - selected professional athletes at that - didn’t suddenly adopt a personality change that started the hot and cold pull and push between Jacob and Sebastian.
Instead of sympathizing with Jacob over his guilt and feeling not good enough, I rolled my eyes and muttering the whole time he went through his inner struggle. And don’t get me started on Jacob’s considering to be more than friends with female teammate if he couldn’t get to Sebastian. What the what??? He gave bisexuality a bad name and confirmed others’ prejudice!! To me it sounded like Jacob got to escape from doing exactly that just because the plot making the female character the bad guy. Also don’t forget the other bad guy that would try to ruin everything for them - got to make that character as evil as possible.
Perhaps it’s me who didn’t get it. But the whole thing just scream high drama to me. It’s really hard for me to like these guys as they made one foolish move after another because suddenly they felt unworthy. That last stint Jacob pulled after easily provoked by the the evil character was the last straw. SIGH. Such a let down as I’ve been so looking forward to Jacob’s and Sebastian’s stories.
Advanced copy of this book is kindly given by the author via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Instead of sympathizing with Jacob over his guilt and feeling not good enough, I rolled my eyes and muttering the whole time he went through his inner struggle. And don’t get me started on Jacob’s considering to be more than friends with female teammate if he couldn’t get to Sebastian. What the what??? He gave bisexuality a bad name and confirmed others’ prejudice!! To me it sounded like Jacob got to escape from doing exactly that just because the plot making the female character the bad guy. Also don’t forget the other bad guy that would try to ruin everything for them - got to make that character as evil as possible.
Perhaps it’s me who didn’t get it. But the whole thing just scream high drama to me. It’s really hard for me to like these guys as they made one foolish move after another because suddenly they felt unworthy. That last stint Jacob pulled after easily provoked by the the evil character was the last straw. SIGH. Such a let down as I’ve been so looking forward to Jacob’s and Sebastian’s stories.
Advanced copy of this book is kindly given by the author via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 30, 2018
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
Medley is the follow up to the excellent Relay by Layla Reyne and serves as part two of the duology. Each book focuses on two of the four swimmers on the medley relay team and while the romances are separated into the two books, overall the pair of stories completes the Olympic journey for these men. So you could read this one as a stand alone, but it will be much richer in combination with Relay.
I really enjoyed the glimpses we got of Bas and Jacob in the first book, so I was very excited to see them here. There is clearly an attraction between the two men, but also a mentor connection as Bas looks out for Jacob and guides him on his Olympic journey. Bas acted badly at the last Olympics and blew things for himself, as well as for his medley teammates. With three of the four men likely facing their last Olympics, Bas is determined not to ruin things again, even if that keeps him from what he and Jacob both so clearly want. Bas just doesn’t think he can be what Jacob needs, so he feels like it is better not to start things at all. And Jacob has a lot of doubts about his own self worth and his appeal, and not understanding Bas’ concerns, he is certain that Bas just isn’t interested in a gawky young virgin like him. So the guys both struggle with wanting what they think they can’t have, and it Bas’ case, kind of standing in the way of his own happiness.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4 stars
Medley is the follow up to the excellent Relay by Layla Reyne and serves as part two of the duology. Each book focuses on two of the four swimmers on the medley relay team and while the romances are separated into the two books, overall the pair of stories completes the Olympic journey for these men. So you could read this one as a stand alone, but it will be much richer in combination with Relay.
I really enjoyed the glimpses we got of Bas and Jacob in the first book, so I was very excited to see them here. There is clearly an attraction between the two men, but also a mentor connection as Bas looks out for Jacob and guides him on his Olympic journey. Bas acted badly at the last Olympics and blew things for himself, as well as for his medley teammates. With three of the four men likely facing their last Olympics, Bas is determined not to ruin things again, even if that keeps him from what he and Jacob both so clearly want. Bas just doesn’t think he can be what Jacob needs, so he feels like it is better not to start things at all. And Jacob has a lot of doubts about his own self worth and his appeal, and not understanding Bas’ concerns, he is certain that Bas just isn’t interested in a gawky young virgin like him. So the guys both struggle with wanting what they think they can’t have, and it Bas’ case, kind of standing in the way of his own happiness.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
April 30, 2018
This is the second book in the Changing Lanes series. This one centers on Sebastian and Jacob. Seb is a California boy, loves to party, bisexual, inks his own tattoos and is on the Olympic swim team. Attracted to Jacob, knowing he can't or won't give in to the feelings he has.
Jacob, referred to as “pup”, is the rookie, the newest and youngest of the Olympic swim team. Fake ID, unsure of himself, bisexual, very shy, but definitely attracted to Seb.
Seb made a mistake at the last Olympics, one that cost his team a gold medal. Determined not to make the same mistake again, he continually pushes Jacob away. He justifies his actions by telling himself that the pup is to young, to inexperienced, really any excuse he can come up with to put distance between them. He needs to protect himself and Jacob.
Jacob doesn't want to disappoint his team either but his insecurities are getting the best of him. He wants Seb badly, not understanding why he's being pulled close one minute then abandoned the next.
This was a lovely, hot book, all of the swim team played an important roll in bringing it to a satisfying conclusion. I liked the the extra glimpses of Alex and Dane from the first book. Seb and Jacob are special characters I enjoyed getting to know.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of Netgalley.
Jacob, referred to as “pup”, is the rookie, the newest and youngest of the Olympic swim team. Fake ID, unsure of himself, bisexual, very shy, but definitely attracted to Seb.
Seb made a mistake at the last Olympics, one that cost his team a gold medal. Determined not to make the same mistake again, he continually pushes Jacob away. He justifies his actions by telling himself that the pup is to young, to inexperienced, really any excuse he can come up with to put distance between them. He needs to protect himself and Jacob.
Jacob doesn't want to disappoint his team either but his insecurities are getting the best of him. He wants Seb badly, not understanding why he's being pulled close one minute then abandoned the next.
This was a lovely, hot book, all of the swim team played an important roll in bringing it to a satisfying conclusion. I liked the the extra glimpses of Alex and Dane from the first book. Seb and Jacob are special characters I enjoyed getting to know.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of Netgalley.
March 3, 2018
4.5 Stars
I absolutely loved this book but it also pissed me off a little bit, because it had a lot of unnecessary drama, and that's why I'm not giving it a full five stars rating.
If only Bas and Jacob hadn't taken so much fucking time talking to each other, being honest and had stopped making assumptions, things would have been even better. Drama caused by lack of communication and avoidance really sets me off but I still adored this book because it had so much good to it. Just like Relay I loved the characters (I adore Sebastian), the story and all the swimming involved.
I'm really sad that this is the end of it (as far as I know), I'd love to have at least one more book. A story with no drama in it, just... just mundane, heartwarming moments with the four boys, their families and their team; just swimming, chilling, getting more tattoos (Bas is so freaking hot), hacking or cooking for fun, and having lots of lovely and sexy times.
I really wish this would happen, I feel so attached to this world and characters.
*** ARC kindly provided by Riptide Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. ***
---
Fuck, I need this right now!
I absolutely loved this book but it also pissed me off a little bit, because it had a lot of unnecessary drama, and that's why I'm not giving it a full five stars rating.
If only Bas and Jacob hadn't taken so much fucking time talking to each other, being honest and had stopped making assumptions, things would have been even better. Drama caused by lack of communication and avoidance really sets me off but I still adored this book because it had so much good to it. Just like Relay I loved the characters (I adore Sebastian), the story and all the swimming involved.
I'm really sad that this is the end of it (as far as I know), I'd love to have at least one more book. A story with no drama in it, just... just mundane, heartwarming moments with the four boys, their families and their team; just swimming, chilling, getting more tattoos (Bas is so freaking hot), hacking or cooking for fun, and having lots of lovely and sexy times.
I really wish this would happen, I feel so attached to this world and characters.
*** ARC kindly provided by Riptide Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. ***
---
Fuck, I need this right now!
June 8, 2018
Yo soy de Madrid, lo mejor de este libro es... Madrid.
Pareja adorable, pero trama con puntos que rozan el ridículo, mucho drama y situaciones imposibles.
Le pongo 3 por el factor Madrid...
Pareja adorable, pero trama con puntos que rozan el ridículo, mucho drama y situaciones imposibles.
Le pongo 3 por el factor Madrid...
February 24, 2018
I was impatient for ’Medley’—Sebastian’s and Jacob’s story—after the excitement I had for Layla Reyne’s ‘Relay’. The play for the ultimate olympics glory, the seething emotions and the drama that lay behind it, the tears and sweat and the extremes of emotions? I loved it all.
But for better or worse, ‘Medley’ ravaged me and not in a good way. The presence of bisexual protagonists in the books I read don’t bother me and even though the acceptance or the rejection of it is a major theme in the book, I typically hold my romantic protagonists to a more basic standard: a bloody arse of a character (regardless of sexuality) isn’t likeable; worse yet, if the bastard in question is a protagonist in romance whom I’m supposed to cheer on.
That said, I struggled hard with liking Sebastian Stewart and by the end, still steadfastly believed that Jacob Burrows deserved anyone else but him.
In the blurb, Reyne hinted at a catastrophic meet 4 years ago involving Bas going off the rails and a backstory that no one would like. What I seemed to have witnessed first hand however, was one man’s strong denial, insecurity and debilitating fear of being left behind that cut a large swath of destruction through people. I felt as much for Bas’s ex as I did for Jacob, 2 individuals who’d only wanted to be happy with Bas, yet were only taken for the run around and annihilated and humiliated emotionally by him instead. As victims or collateral damage, so to speak, of Bas’s commitment-phobic stance, I hated that they’d both paid the emotional price for his stupidity and his stubbornness for using his own past to lash out against those who cared about him. That it had to take Jacob to hit rock bottom for Bas to finally conduct some form of self-examination brought him even lower in my esteem when I thought it couldn’t get any lower.
In fact, I didn’t feel as though Bas had redeemed himself in anyway—an apology, sudden promises, staying the night after sex counted very little in my opinion—when this supposed atonement simply didn’t match the trail of destruction and the heartache he’d left in his wake. For that reason, I also didn’t like Julio painted as the scorned, jilted lover (even though he was) and his resentment did seem justified when he’d been the one whom Bas kicked out of his life in the worse way possible because the latter simply couldn’t handle commitment.
Apart from the rambling rant about characters, I actually did find Layla Reyne’s writing thrilling. Her swimming scenes were brilliantly fashioned and I loved her portrayal of Jacob and how easy it was to find him a sympathetic character whom I identified with immediately. Catching up with Alex and Dane proved also to be a brief respite from the ongoing drama and waves that Bas caused and in the end, I couldn’t help but latch onto the team’s grounding presence when the hooky drama surrounding Bas became too much.
*ARC by the publisher via Netgalley
But for better or worse, ‘Medley’ ravaged me and not in a good way. The presence of bisexual protagonists in the books I read don’t bother me and even though the acceptance or the rejection of it is a major theme in the book, I typically hold my romantic protagonists to a more basic standard: a bloody arse of a character (regardless of sexuality) isn’t likeable; worse yet, if the bastard in question is a protagonist in romance whom I’m supposed to cheer on.
That said, I struggled hard with liking Sebastian Stewart and by the end, still steadfastly believed that Jacob Burrows deserved anyone else but him.
In the blurb, Reyne hinted at a catastrophic meet 4 years ago involving Bas going off the rails and a backstory that no one would like. What I seemed to have witnessed first hand however, was one man’s strong denial, insecurity and debilitating fear of being left behind that cut a large swath of destruction through people. I felt as much for Bas’s ex as I did for Jacob, 2 individuals who’d only wanted to be happy with Bas, yet were only taken for the run around and annihilated and humiliated emotionally by him instead. As victims or collateral damage, so to speak, of Bas’s commitment-phobic stance, I hated that they’d both paid the emotional price for his stupidity and his stubbornness for using his own past to lash out against those who cared about him. That it had to take Jacob to hit rock bottom for Bas to finally conduct some form of self-examination brought him even lower in my esteem when I thought it couldn’t get any lower.
In fact, I didn’t feel as though Bas had redeemed himself in anyway—an apology, sudden promises, staying the night after sex counted very little in my opinion—when this supposed atonement simply didn’t match the trail of destruction and the heartache he’d left in his wake. For that reason, I also didn’t like Julio painted as the scorned, jilted lover (even though he was) and his resentment did seem justified when he’d been the one whom Bas kicked out of his life in the worse way possible because the latter simply couldn’t handle commitment.
Apart from the rambling rant about characters, I actually did find Layla Reyne’s writing thrilling. Her swimming scenes were brilliantly fashioned and I loved her portrayal of Jacob and how easy it was to find him a sympathetic character whom I identified with immediately. Catching up with Alex and Dane proved also to be a brief respite from the ongoing drama and waves that Bas caused and in the end, I couldn’t help but latch onto the team’s grounding presence when the hooky drama surrounding Bas became too much.
*ARC by the publisher via Netgalley
May 28, 2018
There is no doubt that I liked this book better than the first book in the duo-logy. We catch up with American Olympic swimming team shortly before Olympics when they are about to fly to Germany to do last international practice and then fly to Madrid. There were obvious pointers in the previous book that something was going on between Sebastian a/k/a Bass and the youngest member of the team Jacob, however since the drama between Alex and Dane was front and center, we did not get anything more than hints. In this book Alex and Dane are together and thankfully not feuding anymore, the romance between Bass and Jacob is starting to develop.
I really liked that in this book the guys were acting as (in my mind) Olympic team should act. Of course even I do not expect the athletes on any Olympic ( or other high level team) all to be best buddies in real life, but I think they should be supportive of each other. And in this book for the most part they acted as such. Alex actually being a team captain and thinking about making sure that younger teammates participate in the specific competitions, watching over the team when they were having fun, him and all the veterans being supportive of Jacob, mentoring him, helping when the stress of the Olympics could have become too much. And even when Bass and Jacob were on the outs I liked that they tried to make sure it would not affect the team ( successfully or not).
This to me was a nice contrast to the first book where their fights got old for me and fast.
I also liked that we actually got to see Alex and Dane being happy and as much as the atmosphere of the Olympics allowed even a little bit playful with each other. I felt as if their romance received a satisfactory conclusion in this book. I was also satisfied with the smack-down Dane's parents received, I thought it was a well deserved one and hoped to never see them again.
I liked that the author actually showed us the swimming competition itself, not just practices. As far as calling the book "sports romance" I think this is the one which does deserve the name very well.
Having said all this , developing romance between Bass and Jacob was the main storyline and I do not know how I feel about it. I mean once again I liked the guys, as much as they all seem to be prone to the dramatic outbursts, I feel as if the author still kept them sympathetic for me, but I did wish Bass figured out what he wanted faster. I cut a lot of slack to Jacob, because the boy was nineteen and have the responsibility to take care of the parent's well being since he was a fourteen year old kid, Jesus it is hard. And stress of the first time Olympics and he still tried so hard.
I was much less patient with Bass, but I still liked it well enough so I suppose this is the grade .
I really liked that in this book the guys were acting as (in my mind) Olympic team should act. Of course even I do not expect the athletes on any Olympic ( or other high level team) all to be best buddies in real life, but I think they should be supportive of each other. And in this book for the most part they acted as such. Alex actually being a team captain and thinking about making sure that younger teammates participate in the specific competitions, watching over the team when they were having fun, him and all the veterans being supportive of Jacob, mentoring him, helping when the stress of the Olympics could have become too much. And even when Bass and Jacob were on the outs I liked that they tried to make sure it would not affect the team ( successfully or not).
This to me was a nice contrast to the first book where their fights got old for me and fast.
I also liked that we actually got to see Alex and Dane being happy and as much as the atmosphere of the Olympics allowed even a little bit playful with each other. I felt as if their romance received a satisfactory conclusion in this book. I was also satisfied with the smack-down Dane's parents received, I thought it was a well deserved one and hoped to never see them again.
I liked that the author actually showed us the swimming competition itself, not just practices. As far as calling the book "sports romance" I think this is the one which does deserve the name very well.
Having said all this , developing romance between Bass and Jacob was the main storyline and I do not know how I feel about it. I mean once again I liked the guys, as much as they all seem to be prone to the dramatic outbursts, I feel as if the author still kept them sympathetic for me, but I did wish Bass figured out what he wanted faster. I cut a lot of slack to Jacob, because the boy was nineteen and have the responsibility to take care of the parent's well being since he was a fourteen year old kid, Jesus it is hard. And stress of the first time Olympics and he still tried so hard.
I was much less patient with Bass, but I still liked it well enough so I suppose this is the grade .
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 1, 2018
*~~*ARC kindly provided by the author to me in exchange for an honest review *~~*
I don't exaggerate when I say I held my breath (pun intended; points to exclusive excerpt ;)) when I read that the burly, dreadlock wearing, tattoed butterfly swimmer Bas - short for Sebastian - and the team's pup, nineteen year old first Olympic swimmer Jacob got their book. <3
Right from the start did I loved these two guys and their extraordenary chemistry. I can't say when but somewhere in the first book, Relay, I fell in love with them. That both got their HEA, even if it took a while, is balm for my romantic craving.
Jacob stole my heart right from the start, with his funny pirate talk, his innocence but - when he wants - steadfast behaviour and tough manner, and of course his cute looks. I cracked so hard when I read about his hair. XD I bet I can never look at Chia pets like this again. xD
Jacob surprised me with his maturity in taking care of a dear family member, the way how he reacts in stress situations and how he sometimes appeared calm & collected but then shows his vulnerable sides and what he really wishes.
Bas is a pretty interesting character, sometimes I wanted to grab him & shake him because of his overprotective mode towards Jacob and which caused a lot of problems and misunderstandings. He means well but his own insecurities prevent that he is able to see what's directly in front of him - until he nearly loses it.
The book had a great pacing, well balanced between the sports aspect, the competitive swimming in the Olympics. The book continues the major events from book one, Relay, but it's possible to read it as a standalone but I would advise to read both together. :)
One of the major topics next to the sports topic is the sexuality of the guys. The bisexuality representation was satisfying and the way it was talked about catched up a few problems some of the (side) characters had in the book and focussed for a short time of the prejudices and wrong assumptions some have about bisexual people in general.
5 out of 5 stars for it. I am a bit sad the duology is now complete, I really wish we can see the boys again. <3
Review originally posted on my blog with added content Mikku-chan / A world full of words
I don't exaggerate when I say I held my breath (pun intended; points to exclusive excerpt ;)) when I read that the burly, dreadlock wearing, tattoed butterfly swimmer Bas - short for Sebastian - and the team's pup, nineteen year old first Olympic swimmer Jacob got their book. <3
Right from the start did I loved these two guys and their extraordenary chemistry. I can't say when but somewhere in the first book, Relay, I fell in love with them. That both got their HEA, even if it took a while, is balm for my romantic craving.
Jacob stole my heart right from the start, with his funny pirate talk, his innocence but - when he wants - steadfast behaviour and tough manner, and of course his cute looks. I cracked so hard when I read about his hair. XD I bet I can never look at Chia pets like this again. xD
Jacob surprised me with his maturity in taking care of a dear family member, the way how he reacts in stress situations and how he sometimes appeared calm & collected but then shows his vulnerable sides and what he really wishes.
Bas is a pretty interesting character, sometimes I wanted to grab him & shake him because of his overprotective mode towards Jacob and which caused a lot of problems and misunderstandings. He means well but his own insecurities prevent that he is able to see what's directly in front of him - until he nearly loses it.
The book had a great pacing, well balanced between the sports aspect, the competitive swimming in the Olympics. The book continues the major events from book one, Relay, but it's possible to read it as a standalone but I would advise to read both together. :)
One of the major topics next to the sports topic is the sexuality of the guys. The bisexuality representation was satisfying and the way it was talked about catched up a few problems some of the (side) characters had in the book and focussed for a short time of the prejudices and wrong assumptions some have about bisexual people in general.
5 out of 5 stars for it. I am a bit sad the duology is now complete, I really wish we can see the boys again. <3
Review originally posted on my blog with added content Mikku-chan / A world full of words
August 5, 2021
With the summer Olympics going on right now I was really excited to dive into this story. I've always loved reading books like this so when the opportunity to listen to this one came up, I jumped on it.
I liked Bas and Jacob for the most part. I think I liked Bas a bit more because he was more interesting and he had a very intriguing backstory. I could understand why he felt like he needed to push Jacob away and also why he had the stance he did on not having a relationship, particularly during the Olympics and with a teammate no less. My issues with him came from him flip flopping with Jacob and just basically leading him on. He was very hot and cold with him and I could see why Jacob was a mess because of it.
My problem with Jacob's story line is that his stress and pressure didn't really seem to stem from the Olympics itself, but from Bas. When he thought things were good with them, he swam really well, but as soon as he had doubt from Bas, he swam like garbage. We're told he had issues swimming during practices, but we're never actually shown those moments so it's hard to believe his swimming was affected by anything pressure or media related. I also felt like all of the characters handled him with kid gloves so it made him seem much younger than 19. In turn, it made his and Bas' relationship a little hard to believe.
One of the scenarios that I cannot get out of my head is the whole situation with Leah. She is such a bigot and I feel like that whole situation was just calmly accepted by everyone and then promptly forgiven and forgotten. Her reaction was unjustified and cruel and no one on her team especially seemed to look down on her for it. Bas "handled" it, but I don't know. It just rubbed me the wrong way. I don't know why I can't get over it...
Nick J Russo did a really great job, as usual. His voices weren't as unique for each character as they usually are, which actually surprised me. He's one of my favorite narrators because you can always tell who is talking because everyone gets their own voice, but in this one that wasn't always the case. It could also be because it was narrated in the 3rd person POV and sometimes that's more difficult to translate, especially with LGBTQ+ books.
Overall, this was a good book. I think it would have benefited from being a bit longer so some of the story lines could be more developed, but it was interesting and entertaining.
I liked Bas and Jacob for the most part. I think I liked Bas a bit more because he was more interesting and he had a very intriguing backstory. I could understand why he felt like he needed to push Jacob away and also why he had the stance he did on not having a relationship, particularly during the Olympics and with a teammate no less. My issues with him came from him flip flopping with Jacob and just basically leading him on. He was very hot and cold with him and I could see why Jacob was a mess because of it.
My problem with Jacob's story line is that his stress and pressure didn't really seem to stem from the Olympics itself, but from Bas. When he thought things were good with them, he swam really well, but as soon as he had doubt from Bas, he swam like garbage. We're told he had issues swimming during practices, but we're never actually shown those moments so it's hard to believe his swimming was affected by anything pressure or media related. I also felt like all of the characters handled him with kid gloves so it made him seem much younger than 19. In turn, it made his and Bas' relationship a little hard to believe.
One of the scenarios that I cannot get out of my head is the whole situation with Leah. She is such a bigot and I feel like that whole situation was just calmly accepted by everyone and then promptly forgiven and forgotten. Her reaction was unjustified and cruel and no one on her team especially seemed to look down on her for it. Bas "handled" it, but I don't know. It just rubbed me the wrong way. I don't know why I can't get over it...
Nick J Russo did a really great job, as usual. His voices weren't as unique for each character as they usually are, which actually surprised me. He's one of my favorite narrators because you can always tell who is talking because everyone gets their own voice, but in this one that wasn't always the case. It could also be because it was narrated in the 3rd person POV and sometimes that's more difficult to translate, especially with LGBTQ+ books.
Overall, this was a good book. I think it would have benefited from being a bit longer so some of the story lines could be more developed, but it was interesting and entertaining.
August 6, 2021
Entertaining story, Jacob is an interesting character, Bas well, he survived my wrath at times, their chemistry is there, I loved the secondary characters, the pacing was good the storyline was interesting enough, wished it was longer. The Olympic theme when we are actually watching the Olympics was what dragged me in, and I would've wanted to read more about the sport part of the story, the audiobook was well narrated, it's a 3rd person POV by Nick j Russo and was good enough for me to have a good time.
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May 1, 2018
5 Stars
When I finished Changing Lanes, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on this story and I wasn't disappointed, but I will say, although this is a different couple, I wouldn’t skip book one. There is an ongoing storyline, plus, book one was excellent, so you don’t want to miss out on Alex and Dane!
I absolutely loved Jacob. He was so sweet and almost innocent. I liked Bas, but I kinda wanted to strangle him throughout the story. Maybe shake him just a bit? But together they were amazing.
This is a slow-burn, and it takes time for Jacob, well, mostly for Bas to get them where they need to be, not for Jacob’s lack of trying, but once they did get together, they was explosive. The chemistry between them was electric and the sexual tension was palpable and thick enough to cut with a knife.
I loved that Alex and Dane were such a huge part of this story, as well. I enjoyed getting to watch their relationship grow and strengthen throughout the story. I also enjoyed getting to know their teammates, Kevin and Sean a bit better, as well as some of the other swimmers. Swimming is definitely my favorite Summer sport, so I absolutely loved the setting and I hope it won’t be the last we’ve seen of these guys!
The story was well-written and paced well. It drew me in and didn’t let go until the very end. I absolutely love this author's writing style, it’s easy to read and flows well, and I can’t wait to see what she has in store for us next. Very enjoyable and highly recommended!
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
When I finished Changing Lanes, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on this story and I wasn't disappointed, but I will say, although this is a different couple, I wouldn’t skip book one. There is an ongoing storyline, plus, book one was excellent, so you don’t want to miss out on Alex and Dane!
I absolutely loved Jacob. He was so sweet and almost innocent. I liked Bas, but I kinda wanted to strangle him throughout the story. Maybe shake him just a bit? But together they were amazing.
This is a slow-burn, and it takes time for Jacob, well, mostly for Bas to get them where they need to be, not for Jacob’s lack of trying, but once they did get together, they was explosive. The chemistry between them was electric and the sexual tension was palpable and thick enough to cut with a knife.
I loved that Alex and Dane were such a huge part of this story, as well. I enjoyed getting to watch their relationship grow and strengthen throughout the story. I also enjoyed getting to know their teammates, Kevin and Sean a bit better, as well as some of the other swimmers. Swimming is definitely my favorite Summer sport, so I absolutely loved the setting and I hope it won’t be the last we’ve seen of these guys!
The story was well-written and paced well. It drew me in and didn’t let go until the very end. I absolutely love this author's writing style, it’s easy to read and flows well, and I can’t wait to see what she has in store for us next. Very enjoyable and highly recommended!
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
April 27, 2018
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Re
Bas is a veteran of the US Olympic swim team and has taken Jacob, affectionately known as Pup, under his wing. Jacob if self less, always helping others and while he is young he is wise beyond is years. Bas just wants to take care of him but after messing up at the last Olympics, he won't let himself get involved in a relationship with Jacob.
I found this to be an emotionally charged story and with plenty of drama, something I don't always want in an m/m story but it works well here given the characters ages and the high pressure world they inhabit. I loved Jacob's vulnerable side and is willingness to give to others. On the other side I loved Bas' protective nature and there was never any question that he and Jacob are a perfect fit.
The only thing I would have liked more of in this story is the actual swimming but that is just the sports fan in me. I loved the emotional whirl wind of Medley and I hope the author plans to write more in this series because I want to spend more time with these characters.
Bas is a veteran of the US Olympic swim team and has taken Jacob, affectionately known as Pup, under his wing. Jacob if self less, always helping others and while he is young he is wise beyond is years. Bas just wants to take care of him but after messing up at the last Olympics, he won't let himself get involved in a relationship with Jacob.
I found this to be an emotionally charged story and with plenty of drama, something I don't always want in an m/m story but it works well here given the characters ages and the high pressure world they inhabit. I loved Jacob's vulnerable side and is willingness to give to others. On the other side I loved Bas' protective nature and there was never any question that he and Jacob are a perfect fit.
The only thing I would have liked more of in this story is the actual swimming but that is just the sports fan in me. I loved the emotional whirl wind of Medley and I hope the author plans to write more in this series because I want to spend more time with these characters.
November 20, 2020
Provided ARC by GRR for an honest review.
This book started off kinda slow, but it makes sense as one MC was 19 and the other was still recovering from a bad breakup and the fallout from his father leaving his mother. Bas, an Olympic swimmer thinks he can never be in a full time relationship with anything other than swimming. He believes he will always leave his partner behind. In reality he is afraid of his partner leaving him behind. Jacob is a 19 year old trying to find his way in his first Olympics. His mentor, and love interest lies with Bas, but Jacob does not want to ask for too much. So, he tries to settle and ends up hurt. Then finally Bas realizes with the help of Alex what his fears really are and goes to get Jacob back. So, they get their HFN, that appears to be the HEA that they both have been waiting for. Narrated by Nick Russo who did an amazing job.
This is a book about finding yourself and overcoming your fears. It is full of angst, family, friends and a lot of loving parents and parental figures and has some steamy scenes to top it off.
This book started off kinda slow, but it makes sense as one MC was 19 and the other was still recovering from a bad breakup and the fallout from his father leaving his mother. Bas, an Olympic swimmer thinks he can never be in a full time relationship with anything other than swimming. He believes he will always leave his partner behind. In reality he is afraid of his partner leaving him behind. Jacob is a 19 year old trying to find his way in his first Olympics. His mentor, and love interest lies with Bas, but Jacob does not want to ask for too much. So, he tries to settle and ends up hurt. Then finally Bas realizes with the help of Alex what his fears really are and goes to get Jacob back. So, they get their HFN, that appears to be the HEA that they both have been waiting for. Narrated by Nick Russo who did an amazing job.
This is a book about finding yourself and overcoming your fears. It is full of angst, family, friends and a lot of loving parents and parental figures and has some steamy scenes to top it off.
November 29, 2020
Audio Review:
Performance – 5
Story – 4
Overall – 5
A great sequel to Relay.
Medley is the sequel to Relay and it might be OK as a standalone, but I think you'd enjoy it more if you read Relay first. I loved Relay when I listened to it back in August and I really enjoyed Medley.
Nick J. Russo did a great job with his performance of Medley, nothing unusual about that. 😊 The various voices he uses makes it easy to distinguish the different characters.
Medley didn't seem to grab me emotionally as much as Relay did but I still thought it was a great story. Seb wasn't too nice to Jacob at times but he eventually got his head out of his a$$. Jacob is such a sweet character. He worries so much about his father, a veteran with PTSD.
It took some time and a bit of drama for these two to find their HEA but when they finally did it was worth the wait.
A complimentary copy of this audiobook was provided to me by Gay Romance Reviews but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author and/or narrator.
Performance – 5
Story – 4
Overall – 5
A great sequel to Relay.
Medley is the sequel to Relay and it might be OK as a standalone, but I think you'd enjoy it more if you read Relay first. I loved Relay when I listened to it back in August and I really enjoyed Medley.
Nick J. Russo did a great job with his performance of Medley, nothing unusual about that. 😊 The various voices he uses makes it easy to distinguish the different characters.
Medley didn't seem to grab me emotionally as much as Relay did but I still thought it was a great story. Seb wasn't too nice to Jacob at times but he eventually got his head out of his a$$. Jacob is such a sweet character. He worries so much about his father, a veteran with PTSD.
It took some time and a bit of drama for these two to find their HEA but when they finally did it was worth the wait.
A complimentary copy of this audiobook was provided to me by Gay Romance Reviews but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author and/or narrator.
July 6, 2022
…………. 4.5 stars ………….
This book was so freaking good! It was filled with so much good will-they-won’t-they drama. Not to mention all the pageantry of the Olympics. It was so much fun!
Jacob is honestly the sweetest, dorkiest person. I loved his dorky sense of humor, his love of Black Sails, and his anxiety over being not enough. I loved that he was so relatable. Especially his anxiety over leaving his dad alone, being good enough to be on the team, being enough for Bas. It all felt so real and I felt so much for him. And I can’t leave Bas out! I loved him with my whole heart, but he was such an ass to Jacob for a big part of the book. Even if all of his asshole-ishness was just a shield to try to protect his heart and Jacob’s, I just wanted him to let himself be happy and in love instead of pushing everything away.
Overall this was just a fantastic read and I would love to see more books in this series. Medley is getting a solid four and a half stars. It was just so much fun!
This book was so freaking good! It was filled with so much good will-they-won’t-they drama. Not to mention all the pageantry of the Olympics. It was so much fun!
Jacob is honestly the sweetest, dorkiest person. I loved his dorky sense of humor, his love of Black Sails, and his anxiety over being not enough. I loved that he was so relatable. Especially his anxiety over leaving his dad alone, being good enough to be on the team, being enough for Bas. It all felt so real and I felt so much for him. And I can’t leave Bas out! I loved him with my whole heart, but he was such an ass to Jacob for a big part of the book. Even if all of his asshole-ishness was just a shield to try to protect his heart and Jacob’s, I just wanted him to let himself be happy and in love instead of pushing everything away.
Overall this was just a fantastic read and I would love to see more books in this series. Medley is getting a solid four and a half stars. It was just so much fun!
June 9, 2018
With the exception of Tequila Sunrise, I’ve loved all of Layla Reyne's books so far.
Her writing style is still great, but this book was a disappointment. Too much drama that just didn’t make any sense for me, the whole Bas character didn’t make any sense, and the way these athletes behaved during the Olympics didn’t either.
I guess my issue is that in all her other books, there was a central plot element that was a solid one whether in a thriller way or in a more personal way like in book 1 of this series between Dane and his parents. In this book however, there is no such thing. The drama base is so weak that when we finally get the all story it just deflates into pure lama drama.
On a more positive note, I loved to get more of Alex and Dane.
Her writing style is still great, but this book was a disappointment. Too much drama that just didn’t make any sense for me, the whole Bas character didn’t make any sense, and the way these athletes behaved during the Olympics didn’t either.
I guess my issue is that in all her other books, there was a central plot element that was a solid one whether in a thriller way or in a more personal way like in book 1 of this series between Dane and his parents. In this book however, there is no such thing. The drama base is so weak that when we finally get the all story it just deflates into pure lama drama.
On a more positive note, I loved to get more of Alex and Dane.
September 17, 2023
In this story it seems like the more Sebastian tries to do the right thing the more messed up things become. I love all the layers we get to see to Jacob’s personality. There is so much that is about them but also how all the parts around them also come together. I really enjoyed this next installment in the series. I listened to the audio version and it was very well done. #CMCon24
October 22, 2018
I was not so sure about this one when I started it but (except of some very idiotic behavior on Bas part) I loved it nearly as much as the first one
I loved that Dane and Alex are very present in this story as well - which makes sense according to the setting but often authors are not so consistent. but Layla REyne does a perfect job with that
would enjoy another book in this series or some stories about both couples
I loved that Dane and Alex are very present in this story as well - which makes sense according to the setting but often authors are not so consistent. but Layla REyne does a perfect job with that
would enjoy another book in this series or some stories about both couples
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