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Coming Home #2
Amalgamated
Escape with Leo and Zak in outback Australia as they discover it sometimes takes time, distance, and interfering family to amalgamate.
After five years of living in the UK, it’s time for Leo to return home to his dad’s stud farm in outback Australia. He has no idea what to expect when he arrives. He didn’t exactly leave with balloons and banners.
Nope. His farewell involved destruction and his own heart split in two.
He knows seeing the man who’s always held his heart, Zak, is going to be awkward. The older farm manager made his feelings pretty damn clear when Leo hightailed it out of there.
Leo quickly figures out life is going to get complicated and a whole heap more exciting as his trip home becomes so much more.
Amalgamated is a fun and steamy M/M short story in Becca Seymour’s Coming Home series. Stand-alone romances complete with heat, wit, and happily ever afters.
A M/M Small-town Romance.
After five years of living in the UK, it’s time for Leo to return home to his dad’s stud farm in outback Australia. He has no idea what to expect when he arrives. He didn’t exactly leave with balloons and banners.
Nope. His farewell involved destruction and his own heart split in two.
He knows seeing the man who’s always held his heart, Zak, is going to be awkward. The older farm manager made his feelings pretty damn clear when Leo hightailed it out of there.
Leo quickly figures out life is going to get complicated and a whole heap more exciting as his trip home becomes so much more.
Amalgamated is a fun and steamy M/M short story in Becca Seymour’s Coming Home series. Stand-alone romances complete with heat, wit, and happily ever afters.
A M/M Small-town Romance.
67 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 28, 2019
32 people are currently reading
158 people want to read
About the author
Becca Seymour
50 books626 followersBecca Seymour is a British/Aussie author and the #1 gay romance best seller of the True-Blue series. Known for "steamy and endearing" and "emotionally profound love stories" (InD'tale Magazine) her books have been nominated for multiple RONE Awards.
Becca has a sweet tooth for marshmallow-hearted monsters, swoon-worthy supernatural studs, and everyday guys and basketball players with hearts of gold. If you like your MM romance sweet, spicy, and occasionally action-packed, slip into stalker mode and fall hard for her True-Blue and Minnesota Eagles men—and maybe a shifter or monster two.
Monsters & Mates
Solan | Kael | Varek
Zone Defense
No Take Backs | No More Secrets | No Wrong Moves | No Backing Down
Fast Break
Rules, Schmules! | Facts, Smacts! | Regular Smegular! | Easy, Schmeasy!
True-Blue Let Me Show You | I’ve Got You | Becoming Us | Thinking It Over | Always For You | It’s Not You | Our First & Last | Next For Us
Outback Boys
Stumble | Bounce | Wobble
Fangs & Felons
Thicker Than Water | Weaker Than Instinct | Brighter Than Fear | Stronger Than Fate | Softer Than Stone
Stand-Alone Contemporary
Not Used To Cute | High Alert | Realigned | Amalgamated | Under the Blazing Stars | Best Kind of Awkward | Tastes Like Sugar | Caden & Theo | Full Tilt
REVIEWS:
"WOW! Simply, Wow! A funny, steamy and endearing story that should be put into your family of books. Something that you can read over and over again when you need a pick me up." The Book Fairy Reviews
"An intense connection that smolders" - JayReads
"This book was a slow burn and I loved it." - Steamy Book Momma
"Characters to pull for, a romance to give you feels, and enough steam to keep you turning pages..." - Romantic Reads and Such
"Emotionally profound love story with many laugh aloud moments." - InD'tale Magazine
"Becca had me cracking up laughing and smiling ear to ear." - HeidiLynns BookReviews
Newsletter: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor...
Becca has a sweet tooth for marshmallow-hearted monsters, swoon-worthy supernatural studs, and everyday guys and basketball players with hearts of gold. If you like your MM romance sweet, spicy, and occasionally action-packed, slip into stalker mode and fall hard for her True-Blue and Minnesota Eagles men—and maybe a shifter or monster two.
Monsters & Mates
Solan | Kael | Varek
Zone Defense
No Take Backs | No More Secrets | No Wrong Moves | No Backing Down
Fast Break
Rules, Schmules! | Facts, Smacts! | Regular Smegular! | Easy, Schmeasy!
True-Blue Let Me Show You | I’ve Got You | Becoming Us | Thinking It Over | Always For You | It’s Not You | Our First & Last | Next For Us
Outback Boys
Stumble | Bounce | Wobble
Fangs & Felons
Thicker Than Water | Weaker Than Instinct | Brighter Than Fear | Stronger Than Fate | Softer Than Stone
Stand-Alone Contemporary
Not Used To Cute | High Alert | Realigned | Amalgamated | Under the Blazing Stars | Best Kind of Awkward | Tastes Like Sugar | Caden & Theo | Full Tilt
REVIEWS:
"WOW! Simply, Wow! A funny, steamy and endearing story that should be put into your family of books. Something that you can read over and over again when you need a pick me up." The Book Fairy Reviews
"An intense connection that smolders" - JayReads
"This book was a slow burn and I loved it." - Steamy Book Momma
"Characters to pull for, a romance to give you feels, and enough steam to keep you turning pages..." - Romantic Reads and Such
"Emotionally profound love story with many laugh aloud moments." - InD'tale Magazine
"Becca had me cracking up laughing and smiling ear to ear." - HeidiLynns BookReviews
Newsletter: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
September 26, 2019
*3.5 stars*
Amalgamated was my first read by this author. It was quick and enjoyable and exactly what I was looking for when I picked it up.
Leo is coming home to his dad's stud farm for a few weeks, after being away for five years. However, that time wasn't enough for him to forget his teenage crush in the slightly older farm manager, Zak, that's been in his life for years. When he left he did so in fashion, leaving behind somewhat of a mess.
Now, being back he has to face Zak and ask for forgiveness while hoping to save something of the relationship they used to have. Leo knows that Zak will never see him as anything more that the son of his boss and the kid that used to follow him around everywhere and is resigned to it hoping to salvage something of the friendship they developed over the years.
This is a short story about finally getting what you always dreamed of, but the short length means that everything happened kind of fast and hurriedly. I'm glad that Zak and Leo knew each other for years, so at least the pace felt a bit more believable than if they were strangers at the beginning of the story.
Still, the way everything unfolded was too staged and easy. Too neat. It was still an enjoyable read with likeable characters - though not very deep ones - that put a smile on my face and made for a relaxing afternoon.
*An ARC of this book was kindly provided to me in exchange for an honest review. *
Amalgamated was my first read by this author. It was quick and enjoyable and exactly what I was looking for when I picked it up.
Leo is coming home to his dad's stud farm for a few weeks, after being away for five years. However, that time wasn't enough for him to forget his teenage crush in the slightly older farm manager, Zak, that's been in his life for years. When he left he did so in fashion, leaving behind somewhat of a mess.
Now, being back he has to face Zak and ask for forgiveness while hoping to save something of the relationship they used to have. Leo knows that Zak will never see him as anything more that the son of his boss and the kid that used to follow him around everywhere and is resigned to it hoping to salvage something of the friendship they developed over the years.
This is a short story about finally getting what you always dreamed of, but the short length means that everything happened kind of fast and hurriedly. I'm glad that Zak and Leo knew each other for years, so at least the pace felt a bit more believable than if they were strangers at the beginning of the story.
Still, the way everything unfolded was too staged and easy. Too neat. It was still an enjoyable read with likeable characters - though not very deep ones - that put a smile on my face and made for a relaxing afternoon.
*An ARC of this book was kindly provided to me in exchange for an honest review. *
December 27, 2021
1.75 this had a lot stacked for it. I loved the premise, and it actually had a lot in it that I would've usually lovedddddd. when done well, miscommunication, pining, angst, and self-sacrificing idiots are some of my absolute favorite tropes - but this unfortunately just didn't deliver. It also somehow managed to go around and around in endless circles in less than 100 pages. how.
I loved Leo's supportive family, but I feel like I didn't really get to know him and Zak outside of the big conflict 5 years ago to their smooth sailing HEA - and the more I talk about it the saltier I get that this didn't live up to it's potential so I'm just going to stop.
However, if you have an hour to kill and just want some fluff with a drop of spice, give this a shot.
I loved Leo's supportive family, but I feel like I didn't really get to know him and Zak outside of the big conflict 5 years ago to their smooth sailing HEA - and the more I talk about it the saltier I get that this didn't live up to it's potential so I'm just going to stop.
However, if you have an hour to kill and just want some fluff with a drop of spice, give this a shot.
September 26, 2019
What happens when you cut and run from the man who you’ve idolised and adored for most of your formative years?
Leo leaves his home to go and work in England. He builds a life and a career, has plenty of friends, but there comes a time when he has to go back to the family farm station in outback Australia. He misses his Dad, his step-mom and his sister like crazy (who are all wonderful, supportive and funny characters by the way) but he knows he’ll have to come face to face with Zak; the man who turned him upside down and inside out, and the thing is, they didn’t part on good terms and Leo has no idea what reception he’ll get after five long years.
It comes to a head when all the cards are laid on the table and there’s a shock or two in store for Leo. This was a lovely and heart-warming short story with plenty of misconceptions and second guessing between our two leading men which was packed full of heat and simmering chemistry. It kept me enthralled until the very happy and satisfying end.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMG Reads.
Leo leaves his home to go and work in England. He builds a life and a career, has plenty of friends, but there comes a time when he has to go back to the family farm station in outback Australia. He misses his Dad, his step-mom and his sister like crazy (who are all wonderful, supportive and funny characters by the way) but he knows he’ll have to come face to face with Zak; the man who turned him upside down and inside out, and the thing is, they didn’t part on good terms and Leo has no idea what reception he’ll get after five long years.
It comes to a head when all the cards are laid on the table and there’s a shock or two in store for Leo. This was a lovely and heart-warming short story with plenty of misconceptions and second guessing between our two leading men which was packed full of heat and simmering chemistry. It kept me enthralled until the very happy and satisfying end.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMG Reads.
September 23, 2019
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
The key to getting a novella right is to not try to fit too much in and that is exactly what the author has done here. The focus is narrow, dealing with Leo’s return to his family farm in Australia after living in Britain for five years. Leo has to face Zak, the object of his teenage affection and apologise for his actions the night before he left. But when Leo faces Zak he doesn’t get the response he is expecting.
This is such a good story. It mixes in angst, friendship, humour, love and hotness all in one entertaining, easy to read package. I thoroughly enjoyed Amalgamated.
The key to getting a novella right is to not try to fit too much in and that is exactly what the author has done here. The focus is narrow, dealing with Leo’s return to his family farm in Australia after living in Britain for five years. Leo has to face Zak, the object of his teenage affection and apologise for his actions the night before he left. But when Leo faces Zak he doesn’t get the response he is expecting.
This is such a good story. It mixes in angst, friendship, humour, love and hotness all in one entertaining, easy to read package. I thoroughly enjoyed Amalgamated.
September 22, 2019
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is a short story which works well, as it is an almost second chance romance -I say almost as it was somewhat of a crush more than anything else!
Leo ran off to London five years ago to try and get over his crush on his father's farm manager, Zak. He has however now come home on holiday, and wants to believe that he is older and wiser and can deal with his feelings. Lucky for him, Zak has other ideas entirely!
Sweet, fun and I enjoyed the setting - thank you, Becca Seymour.
This is a short story which works well, as it is an almost second chance romance -I say almost as it was somewhat of a crush more than anything else!
Leo ran off to London five years ago to try and get over his crush on his father's farm manager, Zak. He has however now come home on holiday, and wants to believe that he is older and wiser and can deal with his feelings. Lucky for him, Zak has other ideas entirely!
Sweet, fun and I enjoyed the setting - thank you, Becca Seymour.
September 28, 2019
Oh my god book one was really enjoyable but book 2 I loved. You don’t need to read on before the other but I would recommend it as they are both short and sweet.
Leo fled 5 years ago after an encounter with Zak who he had a massive crush on for years. But Zak was 7 years older than him so Leo thought he never stood a chance. After five years in London he finally decided that it was time to return home for a visit. What he wasn’t expecting was the warm welcome he actually receives.
This is short and sweet but it doesn’t feel rush or that something is missing. It’s a beautiful story of friendship forgiveness and love.
Highly recommend this author she just has a way with words and can tell a beautiful story.
Leo fled 5 years ago after an encounter with Zak who he had a massive crush on for years. But Zak was 7 years older than him so Leo thought he never stood a chance. After five years in London he finally decided that it was time to return home for a visit. What he wasn’t expecting was the warm welcome he actually receives.
This is short and sweet but it doesn’t feel rush or that something is missing. It’s a beautiful story of friendship forgiveness and love.
Highly recommend this author she just has a way with words and can tell a beautiful story.
September 23, 2019
Amalgamated is the perfect read when your in the mood for an ultra sweet short story. This Becca Seymour book is a no angst, quick read.
This story is a beautiful second chance romance for Leo and Zak. Leo's back home after 5 years away. Leo has always crushed on the older Zak, but Leo was only a teenager. When he left home, things ended badly between the two men.
Now Leo's back. And he has a chance to ask forgiveness, and more.
The story is short, and takes place over a short period of time. But it's well developed, easy to follow, and a whole lot of fun.
Amalgamated is pure sweet, sweet fluff. I love it all.
This story is a beautiful second chance romance for Leo and Zak. Leo's back home after 5 years away. Leo has always crushed on the older Zak, but Leo was only a teenager. When he left home, things ended badly between the two men.
Now Leo's back. And he has a chance to ask forgiveness, and more.
The story is short, and takes place over a short period of time. But it's well developed, easy to follow, and a whole lot of fun.
Amalgamated is pure sweet, sweet fluff. I love it all.
September 23, 2019
This was a short, sweet read. Leo left his home and moved to England, running away from his feelings for Zak, who worked on his family's farm. When he comes home for the holidays, Leo thinks he can keep his feelings in check for Zac for the short time he's home. But Zac, who was ready to admit his feelings for Leo before he fled years before, won't let Leo go this time. A lovely read!
September 28, 2019
Unrequited love is the absolute worst. I can remember being fourteen and the new boy came to school and being the first person to see him, because I’d gotten sent out into the hallway for disrupting class. I was a talker that talked back when I called on it. It was sixth grade, what do you want from me?
Anyway… everyone had a crush on him, but he became my twin brothers best friend, which sparked the crush to end all crushes, I still act like a fan girl when he comes around and I’m pushin 35…. I’m not proud of it, but come on!
Much like Leo, I acted out my jealousy and if running away had been an option, I would’ve probably done that too. So, I can relate. When Leo told the man he’d grown up with that he had feelings for him, being rebuffed had him acting out in a big way before leaving home for the next five years and licking his wounds. Now, going back for a two week holiday, he plans to apologize for how he left things and hopefully make amends.
Zak has other plans though, not letting Leo take all the blame, sure he kind of overreacted just before he left by throwing a major hissy fit, but, Zak understood. He knew how Leo felt and for how long he’d felt it. But, being near on a decade older than Leo, I can understand his hesitation, not to mention how close Zak is to the family. It wasn’t something he could’ve just jumped into with a then 17 year old Leo.
Fortunately, enough time has passed and Leo is home, so Zak goes about setting things right too. Because even though it wasn’t the right time way back when, Zak cared a lot about Leo and his feelings have only grown since he’s been away.
Ah, if only every unrequited story could end like that…not so unrequited afterall.
I enjoyed reading about these two and it was sweet seeing them work everything out, especially because Leo’s family, namely his dad wanted him back home so bad. If you like second chancers, cute accents and quiet cowboys, you’ll adore this one.
4 stars from me
Anyway… everyone had a crush on him, but he became my twin brothers best friend, which sparked the crush to end all crushes, I still act like a fan girl when he comes around and I’m pushin 35…. I’m not proud of it, but come on!
Much like Leo, I acted out my jealousy and if running away had been an option, I would’ve probably done that too. So, I can relate. When Leo told the man he’d grown up with that he had feelings for him, being rebuffed had him acting out in a big way before leaving home for the next five years and licking his wounds. Now, going back for a two week holiday, he plans to apologize for how he left things and hopefully make amends.
Zak has other plans though, not letting Leo take all the blame, sure he kind of overreacted just before he left by throwing a major hissy fit, but, Zak understood. He knew how Leo felt and for how long he’d felt it. But, being near on a decade older than Leo, I can understand his hesitation, not to mention how close Zak is to the family. It wasn’t something he could’ve just jumped into with a then 17 year old Leo.
Fortunately, enough time has passed and Leo is home, so Zak goes about setting things right too. Because even though it wasn’t the right time way back when, Zak cared a lot about Leo and his feelings have only grown since he’s been away.
Ah, if only every unrequited story could end like that…not so unrequited afterall.
I enjoyed reading about these two and it was sweet seeing them work everything out, especially because Leo’s family, namely his dad wanted him back home so bad. If you like second chancers, cute accents and quiet cowboys, you’ll adore this one.
4 stars from me
September 28, 2019
A quick read with a good romance.
Amalgamated is the first book I've read by Becca Seymour and I really enjoyed it. I'm a huge fan of shorter books. At approximately 18,000 words, Amalgamated falls somewhere between a short story and a novella. This length of story is perfect for reading when I only have an hour or two and don't want a book to carry over to another day.
Leo left his home in Australia 5 years ago, at least partly because he could no longer bear being around his father's farm manager, Zak, and not have his feelings reciprocated. Before he left, a fit of anger and destructive behavior left him reluctant to return home, too embarrassed to face Zak and apologize for the damage he caused. When he returns and has Zak telling him that he was also partly at fault, Leo's not sure what to think – and then Zak kisses him.
This was a touching story that focused on Leo's return home and how Zak behaves in a way that Leo never expected. Due to the short length there was not a lot of character development but it wasn't needed. The author tells us enough of the history for Leo and Zak so that we understand what they were to each other when Leo left home and what Zak wants now that Leo has returned.
The story includes a couple of nice steamy scenes between Leo and Zak, after they got things sorted out between them. Amalgamated was a very quick read for me and I look forward to reading more work by Becca Seymour.
While Amalgamated is book two in the Coming Home series, it is a standalone story as the books in this series do not have connected characters but are connected by the theme of "coming home."
A copy of this book was provided to me but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com***
Amalgamated is the first book I've read by Becca Seymour and I really enjoyed it. I'm a huge fan of shorter books. At approximately 18,000 words, Amalgamated falls somewhere between a short story and a novella. This length of story is perfect for reading when I only have an hour or two and don't want a book to carry over to another day.
Leo left his home in Australia 5 years ago, at least partly because he could no longer bear being around his father's farm manager, Zak, and not have his feelings reciprocated. Before he left, a fit of anger and destructive behavior left him reluctant to return home, too embarrassed to face Zak and apologize for the damage he caused. When he returns and has Zak telling him that he was also partly at fault, Leo's not sure what to think – and then Zak kisses him.
This was a touching story that focused on Leo's return home and how Zak behaves in a way that Leo never expected. Due to the short length there was not a lot of character development but it wasn't needed. The author tells us enough of the history for Leo and Zak so that we understand what they were to each other when Leo left home and what Zak wants now that Leo has returned.
The story includes a couple of nice steamy scenes between Leo and Zak, after they got things sorted out between them. Amalgamated was a very quick read for me and I look forward to reading more work by Becca Seymour.
While Amalgamated is book two in the Coming Home series, it is a standalone story as the books in this series do not have connected characters but are connected by the theme of "coming home."
A copy of this book was provided to me but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com***
Read
September 29, 2019This is book two in the Coming Home series, but other than the long absence from home, there is no direct link between the two. I did read that, but I did not write a review, I would have given it 4 stars.
Leo left his home in Australia to work in the UK five years ago. Now on a trip home, he comes face to face with part of the reason he left: Zak. Leo has loved Zak all this time, but will Zak even speak to Leo, after what he did?
My first thought when finishing this was: cute! Really cute! I liked it, a lot, but I can’t quite love it.
It’s written only from Leo’s point of view in the first person. And of course I’m gonna say I needed to here from Zak, you know I am. I fell here though, I am more than justified in saying it!
Leo wrecked Zak’s bike, after he saw Zak kissing someone else, and I wanted, no NEEDED to know what went through Zak’s mind at that point, but more so, when he finally admits to Leo why he did what he did all those years ago. Zak NEEDED his voice, and he doesn’t get it.
I also found I wanted to know what Leo was doing in the UK! I mean, I read the book, but I don’t think I saw what his work was!
Still, those points aside, I really did enjoy it.
It is one of those bath-tub/lunch break reads, that don’t take any concentrating on, and you can just fall into, and read, you know? It’s not a negative thing, not at all! Sometimes, you need a nice, sweet read, that allows you to decompress from a much longer, difficult read. Or in my case, a nice, easy read that allows you to sit out in the sun, on your lunch break in a 14 hour shift and ignore the world.
Thank you, Ms Seymour, for the very warm and fuzzies, too stinking cute read that was ABSOLUTELY needed today!
4 stars
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
Leo left his home in Australia to work in the UK five years ago. Now on a trip home, he comes face to face with part of the reason he left: Zak. Leo has loved Zak all this time, but will Zak even speak to Leo, after what he did?
My first thought when finishing this was: cute! Really cute! I liked it, a lot, but I can’t quite love it.
It’s written only from Leo’s point of view in the first person. And of course I’m gonna say I needed to here from Zak, you know I am. I fell here though, I am more than justified in saying it!
Leo wrecked Zak’s bike, after he saw Zak kissing someone else, and I wanted, no NEEDED to know what went through Zak’s mind at that point, but more so, when he finally admits to Leo why he did what he did all those years ago. Zak NEEDED his voice, and he doesn’t get it.
I also found I wanted to know what Leo was doing in the UK! I mean, I read the book, but I don’t think I saw what his work was!
Still, those points aside, I really did enjoy it.
It is one of those bath-tub/lunch break reads, that don’t take any concentrating on, and you can just fall into, and read, you know? It’s not a negative thing, not at all! Sometimes, you need a nice, sweet read, that allows you to decompress from a much longer, difficult read. Or in my case, a nice, easy read that allows you to sit out in the sun, on your lunch break in a 14 hour shift and ignore the world.
Thank you, Ms Seymour, for the very warm and fuzzies, too stinking cute read that was ABSOLUTELY needed today!
4 stars
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
September 30, 2022
I've not read the other book in the series but I don't think it is necessary as it appears they are connected by theme and not characters or settings, so I don't believe there is any crossover. I certainly didn't feel like anything was lacking from this story.
This was a simple tale of second chances, there is very little in the way of angst or conflict. Leo is returning home for a holiday knowing he has to face the man who has always owned his heart but never returned those feels. A man who he wronged badly before he left. Without giving too much away, things are explained in an adult way and with only a little confusion, and everyone is happy. There's little else to it. I have liked a bit more to get my teeth into, some courting maybe--Zak's gruff cowboy persona would have been perfect for a little old-fashioned courting--but for it's length it had the right structure and focus.
If you've an hour to kill and you're looking for a sweet short novella with a second chance theme and no angst then I'd happily recommend this.
#agegap #7years #outbackcowboy #Aussiecomeshome #secondchances #foreverlove
This was a simple tale of second chances, there is very little in the way of angst or conflict. Leo is returning home for a holiday knowing he has to face the man who has always owned his heart but never returned those feels. A man who he wronged badly before he left. Without giving too much away, things are explained in an adult way and with only a little confusion, and everyone is happy. There's little else to it. I have liked a bit more to get my teeth into, some courting maybe--Zak's gruff cowboy persona would have been perfect for a little old-fashioned courting--but for it's length it had the right structure and focus.
If you've an hour to kill and you're looking for a sweet short novella with a second chance theme and no angst then I'd happily recommend this.
#agegap #7years #outbackcowboy #Aussiecomeshome #secondchances #foreverlove
August 30, 2019
Let's start with the fact that I am partial to nice five-syllable words. So the title was spot-on for hooking me into the book. Plus, the fact that I appreciate clever and thoughtful titles that link directly to the story. Thumbs up right out of the gate.
This is the second book in the series and can very easily be read as a stand alone. Like the first book, I found this story to be well put together with an understandable arc that takes place in a short amount of time in the main characters' lives, but with enough back story sprinkled in to feel like you know what is needed to follow their connection. The story is told from Leo's POV which sometimes makes me feel like I am missing something. But in shorter stories, like this one, that isn't necessarily the case. Some people don't like short stories, but I think they have a place in a busy life. You can read Amalgamated without a big time investment and get a sweet story about two guys with an age gap that had to wait to get to their HEA. But get it they finally do. That's why we're here, right? Yes. Yes it is.
This is the second book in the series and can very easily be read as a stand alone. Like the first book, I found this story to be well put together with an understandable arc that takes place in a short amount of time in the main characters' lives, but with enough back story sprinkled in to feel like you know what is needed to follow their connection. The story is told from Leo's POV which sometimes makes me feel like I am missing something. But in shorter stories, like this one, that isn't necessarily the case. Some people don't like short stories, but I think they have a place in a busy life. You can read Amalgamated without a big time investment and get a sweet story about two guys with an age gap that had to wait to get to their HEA. But get it they finally do. That's why we're here, right? Yes. Yes it is.
October 1, 2019
This was a sweet feel good read about a second chance romance. I read it in one sitting.
I liked the two main characters, and felt for Leo as his guilt holds him back from going for the person he wants. I thought they came across well as very different personalities. The 1st person narration from Leo’s POV works well, as the reader doesn’t find out how Zak feels about the situation until Leo does. I enjoyed their interactions, and the awkwardness between them, especially as those scenes were flavoured by Leo’s perception of their friendship/relationship.
I love small town romances, especially in the way the town feels like family, and this hit the spot nicely in that regard. I liked that Leo’s family all supported him, and gave him the extra shove in the right direction he needed. The supporting cast is great, and I especially liked Michelle, Leo’s step mother.
The setting felt very real. I love stories set on this side of the world.
I’d recommend this story to readers who enjoy short low angst small town romances with likeable characters and a great supporting cast.
I liked the two main characters, and felt for Leo as his guilt holds him back from going for the person he wants. I thought they came across well as very different personalities. The 1st person narration from Leo’s POV works well, as the reader doesn’t find out how Zak feels about the situation until Leo does. I enjoyed their interactions, and the awkwardness between them, especially as those scenes were flavoured by Leo’s perception of their friendship/relationship.
I love small town romances, especially in the way the town feels like family, and this hit the spot nicely in that regard. I liked that Leo’s family all supported him, and gave him the extra shove in the right direction he needed. The supporting cast is great, and I especially liked Michelle, Leo’s step mother.
The setting felt very real. I love stories set on this side of the world.
I’d recommend this story to readers who enjoy short low angst small town romances with likeable characters and a great supporting cast.
August 29, 2019
Thank you for the ARC read, I voluntarily give this book an honest review. Leo had made a new life in England away from his Aussie homeland after a decision that was made in a rash of emotions. Feeling betrayed he left the one man that could crush him with only a look.
Zak had worked for Leo's family on the farm along time, knowing the boy had feeling for him but unwilling to share his true thoughts until it was to late the boy had ran five years ago only this will he make the same mistake by letting him slip away or stand up for what he wants.
This was a wonderful and funny sweet romance. A HEA. from a new to me author, I truly enjoyed this read and can't wait for more. Highly recommend for short great read.
Zak had worked for Leo's family on the farm along time, knowing the boy had feeling for him but unwilling to share his true thoughts until it was to late the boy had ran five years ago only this will he make the same mistake by letting him slip away or stand up for what he wants.
This was a wonderful and funny sweet romance. A HEA. from a new to me author, I truly enjoyed this read and can't wait for more. Highly recommend for short great read.
October 3, 2019
Leo left home in the Australian outback and stayed away for a long time. He left a little under a cloud and a major understanding with the guy he has been in love with for a long time. Now he is home and has some bridges to rebuild. He has never gotten over Zak but will he get a second chance?
This was a really cute read and a huge demonstration that patience is a virtue. Second chances are rare and opportunities should be seized when they are presented. This was a short read but one very sweet one. I wanted this book to continue as I fell in love with Leo and Zak as they work to resolve the past and move forward. These so belong together as their chemistry is so strong. Now is their time.
***Reviewed for LBM Book Blog***
This was a really cute read and a huge demonstration that patience is a virtue. Second chances are rare and opportunities should be seized when they are presented. This was a short read but one very sweet one. I wanted this book to continue as I fell in love with Leo and Zak as they work to resolve the past and move forward. These so belong together as their chemistry is so strong. Now is their time.
***Reviewed for LBM Book Blog***
September 29, 2019
This is a sweet, cute, sexy and fun story with great characters and I really enjoyed it. Leo and Zak have an interesting history and when Leo returns home after being away for five years he is not sure how Zak will react. They have a strong connection and their chemistry is smoking hot as they both rediscover their feelings for each other. I love Leo's family, the ending is great and I look forward to reading more books by this author.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
September 28, 2019
Amalgamated was a good short read, I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was a sweet romance where Leo is given a second chance at love with his teenage crush, Zac.
Becca Seymour captures the feeling both these men have for each other and entwines it into a well written story, which shows emotion and desire.
Becca Seymour captures the feeling both these men have for each other and entwines it into a well written story, which shows emotion and desire.
December 31, 2019
A sweet short about a love that may not be as unrequited as it seems. After 5 years of working abroad Leo returns home to visit, and to own up to the mess he left behind. He expects angry words and the cold shoulder from his long time crush, but what he finds is so far from that. This book was warm and sweet and lovely.
October 2, 2019
Leo and Zak are seriously cute. I really enjoyed this story. My only complaint is that I would have liked more depth, more meat in the story. Don’t get me wrong though, I really enjoyed reading it and it’s perfect for a light quick read. I just wanted to get more into the characters heads, it felt like it was ending and it’d only just started.
October 8, 2019
Sweet second chance story.
Nice short romance. I loved it, and the MCs, Leo and Zac.
A well written, feel good story, giving Leo a second chance with Zac. For such a short tale, there was a lot happening. My only complaint is that it finished too soon. I would've liked to have read more about how their relationship progressed. An epilogue would've been lovely.
Nice short romance. I loved it, and the MCs, Leo and Zac.
A well written, feel good story, giving Leo a second chance with Zac. For such a short tale, there was a lot happening. My only complaint is that it finished too soon. I would've liked to have read more about how their relationship progressed. An epilogue would've been lovely.
September 23, 2019
Amalgamated = Fantabulous
This was a sweet and fluffy read, and I just adored it.
Zak and Leo were both perfection in their own ways.
I'm looking forward to seeing more from this author as I'm fast becoming a huge fan. <3
This was a sweet and fluffy read, and I just adored it.
Zak and Leo were both perfection in their own ways.
I'm looking forward to seeing more from this author as I'm fast becoming a huge fan. <3
September 29, 2019
This was a sweet and fluffy read that I absolutely adored. Zak and Leo were both perfect in their own right. There is nothing that Becca Seymour could have done to make this story better, it was exactly what I needed.
September 18, 2023
It had been a long-arse time since I’d been home—five years pretty much to the day. I shouldn’t care what anyone might think of me. I frowned at myself, calling bullshit. There was no “anyone.” There was a “he.”
Wasn’t there always? — Leo
Warnings: Nothing triggering. But my review does explain two potential issues for some readers.
I like Leo and Zak's story it has some similarities to the other book in the Coming Home series (duology?) in that there is self-sacrifice and miscommunication in play. It has a simple, easy-to-read and low angst plot. It is about Leo understanding the words of others, the actions of Zak and their coming to terms with their mutual long-held attraction. I love that Leo was a dumb twenty-something who did a stupid thing. Zak is a complicated man. Some people will like him some will not it is dependent on how you view his actions. He broke Leo in a way but knew he was watching and played up to it. He did not groom or act on his attraction to underage Leo.
Leo and Zak's age gap is something to get over when you realise the ages in play. It is an eight-year age gap, with the book set when Leo is 27. This is his first time home in five years. Leo admitted his own feelings for Zak when he was fifteen and tried to make a play for him at maybe twenty-two (if not earlier). I don't hate it but I don't love it either it just feels like it's tiptoeing an uncomfortably fine line. I like that Leo's family is supportive of the relationship and wants it to happen, has always known and wanted it to happen. It may go some way to making their relationship more acceptable by on-the-fence readers.
Some quotes and comments.
• I struck hard and fast as I dug my fingers in and made her squeal like a girl, which I promptly told her.
“Get off. And girls are kick-arse, so I can squeal all I damn well want.” — I really with we saw more of Jenny. She's a total badass, she is Leo's older sister and the Mayor's wife. (Leo and Jenny)
• There is such a pure Australianness to the description of the town.
No one said excitement couldn’t be trumped by fear. And between the two emotions, I was still struggling to figure out exactly how to approach the man who’d stolen my heart so many years ago. — Their first time seeing each other after so long is perfect. But life this line there is a simple anxiety to it. (Leo)
• Awkwardness had charged into the room and ran around laughing its arse off at me. — This is a total mood and I can't not include it. (Leo)
• Michelle is lovely. She is Leo's stepmother but more or less the only mother he's only ever known.
• Breathing hard out of my nose, I took control of my emotions. I didn’t even have to ask why he’d done it.
He was Zak.
It’s what Zak always did. He always took care of me. Always. The knowledge had my heart punching against my ribcage. — This says as much about Zak as anything else we see. Leo and Zak are both caregivers with actions meaning more than words to both of them. (Leo)
I'm not mad about this book's ending but I'm disappointed in it. Let me say the difference between the two Coming Home books Realigned and Amalgamated is in the ending. Realigned's protagonists Shaun and Mitch never get to full sexy times Leo and Zak do. Shaun and Mitch we leave them right before they begin, Leo and Zak in their afterglow. That is where it falls over if I'm honest. I don't think either of them needed it, I like the focus on the emotional and the choice that Shaun and Leo respectively need to make. It's implied heavily that both couples were going there and showing it means the story loses something for me.
As an explanation for the low rating, 2⭐ part of it is tied to the ending. I'm hiding that part of it under a spoiler but it's not all that major really. The other problem is the lack of character development. I know this is a novella so necessarily short. But it needed to be longer or skip the sex for the sake of just a little more character development. Leo's British life is ignored more or less. We don't know what he does it is a problem. I can see where the potential was in this but it just feels poorly executed.
Truth be told, I didn’t give a shit about the lost time, the hurt. To amalgamate and have the time to figure out us as a couple was worth the growing up I’d needed to do — Leo
A representative gif:
I want to add a picture for those like me who like beautiful machinery. Leo destroyed Zak's pride and joy on his way out of the country... "Once my eyes adjusted, they jumped wide open as they landed on the machine off to the right. Still sleek, black, and sexy as hell stood his 1965 Royal Enfield. The biggest relief that sent shame thrumming through me was that it was intact. “How did you…?”" This is my best guess at the bike that Zak owns. She really is a beautiful thing. Leo as much as I adore you, your 22-year-old ass was a freaking moron.
Source: Vintage Auto World on flickr
April 5, 2022
(2,5 stars) I liked this book a little bit better than Realigned.
Five years ago, Leo left home after confessing his crush to Zak, their ranch manager, Now Leo is home for the holiday and one of the first things on his to do list is apologizing to Zak for his actions. Zak accepts his apology but also surprises Leo by kissing him.
Unlike the first story I thought the connection between Leo and Zak was more believable, but at the same time I also found their relationship and Zak's actions in the past quite frustrating. While I could have guessed Zak's reasons for rejecting Leo five years ago I would have liked to have them spelled out a bit more clearly. Still, as Leo's job in the UK was never defined as something particularly special (it was not NASA), I did not understand the reason why Zak would have wanted him to leave in the first place
Ultimately, this lack of reasoning behind Zak's actions was my major issue with the story. The minor one, again, being half assed sex scene as the culmination of the story. If you're not gonna bother with writing a decent sex scene why bother at all? I could have certainly done without it. It felt jarring and forced and it did not make for a good ending.
Themes: single POV, second chance, age difference, pinning, Australia
Five years ago, Leo left home after confessing his crush to Zak, their ranch manager, Now Leo is home for the holiday and one of the first things on his to do list is apologizing to Zak for his actions. Zak accepts his apology but also surprises Leo by kissing him.
Unlike the first story I thought the connection between Leo and Zak was more believable, but at the same time I also found their relationship and Zak's actions in the past quite frustrating. While I could have guessed Zak's reasons for rejecting Leo five years ago I would have liked to have them spelled out a bit more clearly. Still, as Leo's job in the UK was never defined as something particularly special (it was not NASA), I did not understand the reason why Zak would have wanted him to leave in the first place
Ultimately, this lack of reasoning behind Zak's actions was my major issue with the story. The minor one, again, being half assed sex scene as the culmination of the story. If you're not gonna bother with writing a decent sex scene why bother at all? I could have certainly done without it. It felt jarring and forced and it did not make for a good ending.
Themes: single POV, second chance, age difference, pinning, Australia
May 31, 2023
Sweet but lacking
I would have given this five stars except they never actually talked out the big drama of the past that set the whole story up! It's so frustrating! They started and stopped so many times and the most we get is bits and pieces and never a clear understanding of why Zak did what he did when apparently he was just as in love back then. It was honestly infuriating not to get the whole story when it was the catalyst and main plot point. Such a shame because this seriously would have been a perfect short story if only they'd talked it all out.
I would have given this five stars except they never actually talked out the big drama of the past that set the whole story up! It's so frustrating! They started and stopped so many times and the most we get is bits and pieces and never a clear understanding of why Zak did what he did when apparently he was just as in love back then. It was honestly infuriating not to get the whole story when it was the catalyst and main plot point. Such a shame because this seriously would have been a perfect short story if only they'd talked it all out.
November 30, 2021
A lovely read!
Escape with them in outback Australia as they discover it sometimes takes time, distance, and interfering family to amalgamate...
This is my favourite short that I have read so far. Enjoyed it so much - brought much needed joy in my life.
Boy, I needed a more longer book with these guys. I'm so glad they reconnected and everything went according to plan without a hitch.
Full of home, time, distance, family, heat and love.
Perfect for readers of contemporary romances.
Escape with them in outback Australia as they discover it sometimes takes time, distance, and interfering family to amalgamate...
This is my favourite short that I have read so far. Enjoyed it so much - brought much needed joy in my life.
Boy, I needed a more longer book with these guys. I'm so glad they reconnected and everything went according to plan without a hitch.
Full of home, time, distance, family, heat and love.
Perfect for readers of contemporary romances.
August 5, 2022
This book had an interesting premise and a strong set of characters. I think it really could’ve been flushed out to be a more full length novel. Since it was just 100 pages, I felt like major chapters of character bonding and opportunities for growth were missing, and I really wasn’t invested in the story. Sometimes a short story is OK, but I felt like this premise needed a longer book to really flesh it out completely
April 14, 2023
Cute short read
I feel like there may have been a little too much detail or complexity in some ways when it came to the backstory given how short the story was. Like, it was good & well thought out, but it ended up feeling rushed & unfinished. It probably would’ve benefited from another 50-100 pages or so.
It was cute though & was a short, sweet read.
I feel like there may have been a little too much detail or complexity in some ways when it came to the backstory given how short the story was. Like, it was good & well thought out, but it ended up feeling rushed & unfinished. It probably would’ve benefited from another 50-100 pages or so.
It was cute though & was a short, sweet read.
October 12, 2021
great short story
I love Becca Seymour’s writing and this short story doesn’t disappoint. I love how Australian it is and how accepting the family are. A lot is felt in so few words. I’d highly recommend this as a light read between longer books.
I love Becca Seymour’s writing and this short story doesn’t disappoint. I love how Australian it is and how accepting the family are. A lot is felt in so few words. I’d highly recommend this as a light read between longer books.
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