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“I wish this were real with you.”
Geeky Jason Miller has never really been with a man, and his bullying colleagues at NASA know it. But when an innocent white lie gets out of hand, Jason never would have guessed his gorgeous-but-straight childhood friend would leap to his rescue.
Firefighter Channing Forster saves people every day, so when protecting his former next-door neighbor turns into faking a relationship for a work getaway, he doesn’t hesitate. As the weekend goes on, though, Channing starts to think that he doesn’t just see cute Jason Miller as a buddy anymore.
Are Channing’s feelings for Jason real enough that he could be his first? Jason needs to accept his true self before he can love another. But when his colleagues and boss discover his many secrets, will he lose everything forever, including Channing?
Welcome to Hidden Creek, Texas, where the heart knows what it wants, and where true love lives happily ever after. Every Men of Hidden Creek novel can be read on its own, but keep an eye out for familiar faces around town! This book contains not-so-fake boyfriends, a stowaway kitty, and enough fireworks to out-shine the Fourth of July.
Geeky Jason Miller has never really been with a man, and his bullying colleagues at NASA know it. But when an innocent white lie gets out of hand, Jason never would have guessed his gorgeous-but-straight childhood friend would leap to his rescue.
Firefighter Channing Forster saves people every day, so when protecting his former next-door neighbor turns into faking a relationship for a work getaway, he doesn’t hesitate. As the weekend goes on, though, Channing starts to think that he doesn’t just see cute Jason Miller as a buddy anymore.
Are Channing’s feelings for Jason real enough that he could be his first? Jason needs to accept his true self before he can love another. But when his colleagues and boss discover his many secrets, will he lose everything forever, including Channing?
Welcome to Hidden Creek, Texas, where the heart knows what it wants, and where true love lives happily ever after. Every Men of Hidden Creek novel can be read on its own, but keep an eye out for familiar faces around town! This book contains not-so-fake boyfriends, a stowaway kitty, and enough fireworks to out-shine the Fourth of July.
322 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 1, 2019
90 people are currently reading
155 people want to read
About the author
H.J. Welch
41 books290 followersHJ Welch is a British author of contemporary American MM small town series and books in multi authored shared universes, including the international number one bestselling Homecoming Hearts. She lives just outside of London with her husband and three balls of fluff that occasionally pretend to be cats.
She began writing at an early age, later honing her craft online in the world of fanfiction on sites like Wattpad. Fifteen years and over half a million words later, she sought out original MM novels to read. By the end of 2016 she had written her first book of her own, and in 2017 she achieved her lifelong dream of becoming a full-time author.
When she’s not writing she’s usually dancing, singing, filming music videos, taking long walks, working on jigsaw puzzles, drinking prosecco, or talking about Eurovision.
She also writes contemporary British MM fairy tale adaptation as Helen Juliet, including bestsellers Thorn in His Side, A Right Royal Affair, and Three.
She began writing at an early age, later honing her craft online in the world of fanfiction on sites like Wattpad. Fifteen years and over half a million words later, she sought out original MM novels to read. By the end of 2016 she had written her first book of her own, and in 2017 she achieved her lifelong dream of becoming a full-time author.
When she’s not writing she’s usually dancing, singing, filming music videos, taking long walks, working on jigsaw puzzles, drinking prosecco, or talking about Eurovision.
She also writes contemporary British MM fairy tale adaptation as Helen Juliet, including bestsellers Thorn in His Side, A Right Royal Affair, and Three.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
September 3, 2019
* I was gifted an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review *
This is another addition to the "Men of hidden Creek" series and this time we have a story about geeky Jason and Channing, who's a total jock. This is a fake-boyfriends, friends-to-lovers type of a story. It proves that opposites attract.
This book is super extra sweet and to be honest it was too much for me. It was nauseatingly sweet and unbelievable. I liked the beginning of this story, the way it sucked me right into the story, I liked both MCs and I was quite sure it would be a good story. Somewhere around 50% I got bored and annoyed. How many times can You call someone "hon"? Don't they know other words? What is more as much as I love pretend-boyfriends stories this one had almost no "faking" since they started making out almost the first day. Plus, shouldn't they act differently once they were alone?
The story is well written, but predictable and kind of repetitive. I didn't really feel connection between MCs - it felt like Jason was incredibly insecure because of his virginity, size, body shape, sexuality etc. All this talk about "being a real man" made me FURIOUS . What was that supposed to mean?? In the same time, I almost though I could like Channing, but the moment he had to call his friend to discuss his sexuality changed my opinion about him. He was soooo "plastic" and unreal.
To sum up, I am DISAPPOINTED. I really liked other stories in this series, but this time there was too much sugar and not enough emotions. Sorry.
This is another addition to the "Men of hidden Creek" series and this time we have a story about geeky Jason and Channing, who's a total jock. This is a fake-boyfriends, friends-to-lovers type of a story. It proves that opposites attract.
This book is super extra sweet and to be honest it was too much for me. It was nauseatingly sweet and unbelievable. I liked the beginning of this story, the way it sucked me right into the story, I liked both MCs and I was quite sure it would be a good story. Somewhere around 50% I got bored and annoyed. How many times can You call someone "hon"? Don't they know other words? What is more as much as I love pretend-boyfriends stories this one had almost no "faking" since they started making out almost the first day. Plus, shouldn't they act differently once they were alone?
The story is well written, but predictable and kind of repetitive. I didn't really feel connection between MCs - it felt like Jason was incredibly insecure because of his virginity, size, body shape, sexuality etc. All this talk about "being a real man" made me FURIOUS . What was that supposed to mean?? In the same time, I almost though I could like Channing, but the moment he had to call his friend to discuss his sexuality changed my opinion about him. He was soooo "plastic" and unreal.
To sum up, I am DISAPPOINTED. I really liked other stories in this series, but this time there was too much sugar and not enough emotions. Sorry.
October 9, 2020
Faking it turns into reality !
Entertaining, fun, and sexy, with some intensity.
Jason, 28, is a NASA Aerospace Engineer with an inferiority complex within himself. He never fits in, and wants to desperately. Channing, 30s, is a Firefighter who loves to help people, so when Jason is getting harassed, he steps in.
It turns out the men grew up together as neighbors, so they had a chat.
Channing agreed to be his fake boyfriend for a work related team building retreat.
The guys get along, and as the time passes with team events, couples dinners and such, Channing is beginning to think he’s bi. Jason brings out feelings he’s never had.
Our guys fool around some, first times for new M/M enthusiast, Channing, and virgin, Jason. Both men have never felt the passion and need they do now.
Each guy has a friends and family to talk out his issues with, and the advice is solid.
Their secret is exposed, and events take a turn. We get a rescue, opinions change, and the bad seed gets his due.
I liked each man here, because Channing is a wonderful, steady and strong man, and sweet Jason reexamines his own worth and wants. Together they are terrific.
Awesome epilogue !
ENJOY !
=======
Entertaining, fun, and sexy, with some intensity.
Jason, 28, is a NASA Aerospace Engineer with an inferiority complex within himself. He never fits in, and wants to desperately. Channing, 30s, is a Firefighter who loves to help people, so when Jason is getting harassed, he steps in.
It turns out the men grew up together as neighbors, so they had a chat.
Channing agreed to be his fake boyfriend for a work related team building retreat.
The guys get along, and as the time passes with team events, couples dinners and such, Channing is beginning to think he’s bi. Jason brings out feelings he’s never had.
Our guys fool around some, first times for new M/M enthusiast, Channing, and virgin, Jason. Both men have never felt the passion and need they do now.
Each guy has a friends and family to talk out his issues with, and the advice is solid.
Their secret is exposed, and events take a turn. We get a rescue, opinions change, and the bad seed gets his due.
I liked each man here, because Channing is a wonderful, steady and strong man, and sweet Jason reexamines his own worth and wants. Together they are terrific.
Awesome epilogue !
ENJOY !
=======
April 1, 2020
Jason is a sweet, slightly withdrawn man who doesn't love himself the way he should, the way he deserves. All because of people like his awful coworkers who bully him and make him feel less than simply because he's not like them. So when Jason's old friend, Channing, hears them harassing Jason, he can't help but step up and pretend to be the boyfriend they obviously don't think really exist. Sound great, but now Jason's boss is demanding Jason have Channing join them all weekend at their corporate retreat, so his boss can get a feel for Jason's happy home life. Um yeah.
So now what do to? Well, Channing's all for being Jason's fake boyfriend. And it stays fake until feelings are caught and both of them are suddenly wondering when the fake turned real. Now, will Jason learn to love himself so Channing can love him too? How will Channing take this new facet to his identity?
Reveal is a wonderful, sweet old friends to lovers story. Channing is remarkably even keel, and far more accepting than most men who are experiencing a shift in their identity, in their feelings, for the first time. But I loved that about him - how sweet and kind, and all in he was and how much he cared for and about Jason. And it was nice seeing Jason come into his own, start loving himself and gaining some confidence. All in all, a great story.
ARC via LesCourt ARC Team for an honest review.
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September 7, 2019
It's kind of funny, because before reading this one, I was actually talking to someone about the fake boyfriend trope and how we feel about it. My whole thing about it is, it becomes difficult when feelings change from being 'fake' to being real and one of the boyfriends realizes that he's gay or bi when he always thought he was straight. So when the feelings change, how is it supposed to be believed? And is the other supposed to trust that it isn't just a phase or a curiosity thing. Sure, it makes for a good story. But I feel sorry for both parties, to be honest. Because they both begin to question everything about each other and themselves and everything around them. They usually end up miscommunicating and it ends bad or don't communicate at all because they're scared of rejection or something of the sort. And the one who actually is gay or bi, it's even more terrifying because you feel like you're just an experiment or something. So it's a complicated trope.
And this was pretty much what happened here. Jason was being bullied by a homophobic prick he worked with at NASA all the time. He was constantly picked on, teased or made to feel like he didn't measure up because he was gay or single. Nevermind that he usually did more work in less time and was smarter than the other idiots. When he runs into his old friend Channing, it's awkward. Channing is gorgeous but straight. And it's been a long time since they've spent time together. But as Channing walked away, he couldn't help but overhear Jason being bullied and he decided to step in and announce he was Jason's boyfriend. Well of course, the prick had to go running to the boss and tattle, all while sneering at him, watching him and sneaking and spying on him to catch them in a lie or something. He was a douche and a creep. And worse, we find out later. But Jason now needed his boyfriend for real to meet his boss, but he's scared Channing won't approve. Channing does and they seem to be having a great time. Channing is helping Jason feel more confident and Jason is showing Channing a side of himself he always his. Not on purpose. He just didn't realize it about himself. But the prick outed them when he overheard something he was spying to hear and set a course of bad all around. Everyone turned their backs on Jason, following the pricks lead and Jason wanted to save Channing the heartache and let him go. And Jason was left to cry and drown in himself. But Channing doesn't want to let Jason go and he's trying to get him back. But it's up to Jason to learn to love himself first so he can love Channing. And that's the hard part.
This is another one of those books I get violent with. I wish to be able to reach through the book and throat punch that douchecanoe. Gah, I hate bullied and homophobic pricks. Poor Jason. He couldn't win with that asshole and his boss made him feel like he wasn't good enough because he wasn't married. He loved his job as a whole but the people…..not so much. But one thing that surprised him were the wives on the retreat. At first they didn't stand up for him at the end. They did on and off throughout the retreat, but in the end, they didn't and they were so sorry. But they more than made up for it. And I loved those women. I loved all the guys gathering around Jason too, to help him feel better about himself. (And gals). Makeover heaven lol.
What I love about Channing, though, is that even when he realizes he's bi, he just rolls with it. Sure, he has thoughts that kind of scare him. He doesn't know why because he's always been accepting of LGBT people but it really doesn't faze him. And when Jason gets scared and beaten down emotionally, he gives Jason the space he needs but he's miserable and he does all he can to keep talking to Jason. He's patient but persistent, even when he feels like giving up.
They're good for each other. They bring out things in each other that they both need. And it turns out it worked out for the best.
http://lovebytesreviews.com/
And this was pretty much what happened here. Jason was being bullied by a homophobic prick he worked with at NASA all the time. He was constantly picked on, teased or made to feel like he didn't measure up because he was gay or single. Nevermind that he usually did more work in less time and was smarter than the other idiots. When he runs into his old friend Channing, it's awkward. Channing is gorgeous but straight. And it's been a long time since they've spent time together. But as Channing walked away, he couldn't help but overhear Jason being bullied and he decided to step in and announce he was Jason's boyfriend. Well of course, the prick had to go running to the boss and tattle, all while sneering at him, watching him and sneaking and spying on him to catch them in a lie or something. He was a douche and a creep. And worse, we find out later. But Jason now needed his boyfriend for real to meet his boss, but he's scared Channing won't approve. Channing does and they seem to be having a great time. Channing is helping Jason feel more confident and Jason is showing Channing a side of himself he always his. Not on purpose. He just didn't realize it about himself. But the prick outed them when he overheard something he was spying to hear and set a course of bad all around. Everyone turned their backs on Jason, following the pricks lead and Jason wanted to save Channing the heartache and let him go. And Jason was left to cry and drown in himself. But Channing doesn't want to let Jason go and he's trying to get him back. But it's up to Jason to learn to love himself first so he can love Channing. And that's the hard part.
This is another one of those books I get violent with. I wish to be able to reach through the book and throat punch that douchecanoe. Gah, I hate bullied and homophobic pricks. Poor Jason. He couldn't win with that asshole and his boss made him feel like he wasn't good enough because he wasn't married. He loved his job as a whole but the people…..not so much. But one thing that surprised him were the wives on the retreat. At first they didn't stand up for him at the end. They did on and off throughout the retreat, but in the end, they didn't and they were so sorry. But they more than made up for it. And I loved those women. I loved all the guys gathering around Jason too, to help him feel better about himself. (And gals). Makeover heaven lol.
What I love about Channing, though, is that even when he realizes he's bi, he just rolls with it. Sure, he has thoughts that kind of scare him. He doesn't know why because he's always been accepting of LGBT people but it really doesn't faze him. And when Jason gets scared and beaten down emotionally, he gives Jason the space he needs but he's miserable and he does all he can to keep talking to Jason. He's patient but persistent, even when he feels like giving up.
They're good for each other. They bring out things in each other that they both need. And it turns out it worked out for the best.
http://lovebytesreviews.com/
September 19, 2019
Note: The audiobook was provided by the author via LesCourt Audio Review Team.
H.J. Welch is a new-to-me author and her contribution to the multi-authored fourth season of Men of Hidden Creek is my first book from her. On the other hand, Nick J. Russo is a familiar narrator to my ears, having listened to numerous audiobooks where he brought stories to life. He's been the narrator throughout this audiobook series, but while this is already the fourth season, this is my first go-around with the series as a whole and it's been a rather fun-filled listening experience four audiobooks in. So far, I've enjoyed how each story is a standalone but is tied with all the others because of the Texas town.
Reveal is the story of Jason Miller and Channing Forster, with the former being a NASA engineer and the latter a firefighter. Jason and Channing were childhood friends and neighbors, and Channing comes to Jason's rescue after he overhears Jason's homophobic co-worker bullying him. The two guys engage in a fake relationship during a NASA work getaway. Channing's always been straight, but spending time with the openly gay Jason has him wondering if he's actually bisexual and if their fake relationship can turn into the real thing. The question is: will Jason allow himself to see that Channing truly loves him?
I quite adored Channing! The guy was the poster child for good guys everywhere. He had a heart of gold and there was no doubting how sincere his feelings were for Jason. Interestingly enough, it wasn't his realization that he was bi that became the stumbling block for what he and Jason were building together--it was Jason's own insecurities. As sweet as the guy was, there were moments where I wanted to pull him aside and shake him so he'd realize that he was worth more than how others saw him. H.J. Welch wrote an endearing story, one that Nick J. Russo brought admirably to life. 4.5 stars for Reveal. ♥
H.J. Welch is a new-to-me author and her contribution to the multi-authored fourth season of Men of Hidden Creek is my first book from her. On the other hand, Nick J. Russo is a familiar narrator to my ears, having listened to numerous audiobooks where he brought stories to life. He's been the narrator throughout this audiobook series, but while this is already the fourth season, this is my first go-around with the series as a whole and it's been a rather fun-filled listening experience four audiobooks in. So far, I've enjoyed how each story is a standalone but is tied with all the others because of the Texas town.
Reveal is the story of Jason Miller and Channing Forster, with the former being a NASA engineer and the latter a firefighter. Jason and Channing were childhood friends and neighbors, and Channing comes to Jason's rescue after he overhears Jason's homophobic co-worker bullying him. The two guys engage in a fake relationship during a NASA work getaway. Channing's always been straight, but spending time with the openly gay Jason has him wondering if he's actually bisexual and if their fake relationship can turn into the real thing. The question is: will Jason allow himself to see that Channing truly loves him?
I quite adored Channing! The guy was the poster child for good guys everywhere. He had a heart of gold and there was no doubting how sincere his feelings were for Jason. Interestingly enough, it wasn't his realization that he was bi that became the stumbling block for what he and Jason were building together--it was Jason's own insecurities. As sweet as the guy was, there were moments where I wanted to pull him aside and shake him so he'd realize that he was worth more than how others saw him. H.J. Welch wrote an endearing story, one that Nick J. Russo brought admirably to life. 4.5 stars for Reveal. ♥
September 2, 2019
I was expecting a cute, fluffy rom com and that's about what was delivered! What makes it slightly different is that the story absolutely recognizes what it is, makes a few jokes, and then runs with it. All of the characters are great, and there are quite a few side characters. The plot is predictable, but it's fun and the book is written well.
*spoilers*
I'm not a crazy fan of GFY or bi-discovery as it's not often done well (in my opinion), but this book handles all of its tropes well. Both characters have to discover themselves in different ways before they can truly have a relationship. What a relief that they're not trying to fix each other. There are no crazy revelations, but more recognition as things click into place, and that was also a breath of fresh air.
Now for the cons - these are my personal pet peeves / preferences and probably don't bother plenty of other people. I hate miscommunication that's drawn out, and this book has plenty of it. It doesn't drag on for too long, but enough that I just wanted to yell at the main characters to speak to each other like adults and stop making assumptions for the other. This is such a popular point of conflict in romance and I wish it would just go away. I think this book could do with a bit more editing in the sense that there are rambling paragraphs and unnecessary repetition. And I am not a fan of the epilogue, at all. It's basically a summary of everything you already know from reading the book and, in my opinion, adds nothing to the story.
With all that said - I absolutely recommend giving this a read! It was fun, light-hearted, and sweet. I've never read a book by HJ Welch before and I plan to read more from this author. Like the blurb says - this is completely a standalone and doesn't need to be read in a particular order or with the rest of the series. Happy reading!
*spoilers*
I'm not a crazy fan of GFY or bi-discovery as it's not often done well (in my opinion), but this book handles all of its tropes well. Both characters have to discover themselves in different ways before they can truly have a relationship. What a relief that they're not trying to fix each other. There are no crazy revelations, but more recognition as things click into place, and that was also a breath of fresh air.
Now for the cons - these are my personal pet peeves / preferences and probably don't bother plenty of other people. I hate miscommunication that's drawn out, and this book has plenty of it. It doesn't drag on for too long, but enough that I just wanted to yell at the main characters to speak to each other like adults and stop making assumptions for the other. This is such a popular point of conflict in romance and I wish it would just go away. I think this book could do with a bit more editing in the sense that there are rambling paragraphs and unnecessary repetition. And I am not a fan of the epilogue, at all. It's basically a summary of everything you already know from reading the book and, in my opinion, adds nothing to the story.
With all that said - I absolutely recommend giving this a read! It was fun, light-hearted, and sweet. I've never read a book by HJ Welch before and I plan to read more from this author. Like the blurb says - this is completely a standalone and doesn't need to be read in a particular order or with the rest of the series. Happy reading!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 12, 2019
Hot firefighter Channing is unexpectedly reunited with childhood geeky next door neighbor Jason years after high school and going their separate ways in life. A chance encounter in a grocery store and a spontaneous impulse of Channing’s to defend Jason to a coworker bully results in the two of them reconnecting for real as friends and deciding to pose as boyfriends at Jason’s NASA workgroup teambuilding retreat weekend. What could go possibly go wrong?
Channing is straight, but almost immediately has feelings for Jason that he doesn’t completely understand. Jason is gay, and feels an instant attraction to Channing that he tries to suppress; in addition to his status as a virgin and insecure sense of self, he doesn’t think someone as hot as Channing could ever be interested in him, anyway. But this is Hidden Creek, perhaps the most LGBTQ+ positive locus on the planet… all of the elements are woven together here to tell a story that is sweet with a touch of angst and hot as a four alarm fire! Lots of smiles and all of the ‘feels’ that you would expect from HJ Welch, delivered with a fantastic narration/vocal performance by the extremely talented Nick J Russo. Highly recommended!
Channing is straight, but almost immediately has feelings for Jason that he doesn’t completely understand. Jason is gay, and feels an instant attraction to Channing that he tries to suppress; in addition to his status as a virgin and insecure sense of self, he doesn’t think someone as hot as Channing could ever be interested in him, anyway. But this is Hidden Creek, perhaps the most LGBTQ+ positive locus on the planet… all of the elements are woven together here to tell a story that is sweet with a touch of angst and hot as a four alarm fire! Lots of smiles and all of the ‘feels’ that you would expect from HJ Welch, delivered with a fantastic narration/vocal performance by the extremely talented Nick J Russo. Highly recommended!
September 13, 2019
* AUDIOBOOK REVIEW *
I loved this book, it’s about a big strong firefighter recognising his true feelings and a geeky man finally finding himself.
No unnecessary descriptions of surroundings
Great dialogues
I felt like I knew the characters at the ending, they developed in to realistic personalities that even with their differences fitted together so well.
The storyline progresses nicely to a happy ending
I’m in love with Hidden Creek 💗and I look forward to listening to the next book
Narrator:
Clear pronunciation and read with feelings
5 stars overall
I loved this book, it’s about a big strong firefighter recognising his true feelings and a geeky man finally finding himself.
No unnecessary descriptions of surroundings
Great dialogues
I felt like I knew the characters at the ending, they developed in to realistic personalities that even with their differences fitted together so well.
The storyline progresses nicely to a happy ending
I’m in love with Hidden Creek 💗and I look forward to listening to the next book
Narrator:
Clear pronunciation and read with feelings
5 stars overall
September 19, 2019
I truly dislike bullies but I love how the characters deal with it. I love how they learn to grow, trust and believe in what the other is saying. I love how they both come into themselves, be in how they see themselves or present themselves.
I have to admit that I wish we had seen more of Carmen because the glimpses we get make me think she is friends with the Grannies. Maybe we will see her more in the future.
I have to admit that I wish we had seen more of Carmen because the glimpses we get make me think she is friends with the Grannies. Maybe we will see her more in the future.
September 7, 2019
Great read
I quite enjoyed this book.
I love the fake boyfriend trope, and this one was great.
It was funny, lots of awakening moments on both sides.
The friendship, love and trust was sweet to read.
I loved it and I really loved the end
I quite enjoyed this book.
I love the fake boyfriend trope, and this one was great.
It was funny, lots of awakening moments on both sides.
The friendship, love and trust was sweet to read.
I loved it and I really loved the end
September 10, 2019
NASA engineer Jason and his straight childhood friend become fake boyfriends for a work retreat of Jasons.
This was a fun, sweet easy read about the power of being yourself.
I love these Hidden Creek gems. This was another great addition to a fantastic series.
This was a fun, sweet easy read about the power of being yourself.
I love these Hidden Creek gems. This was another great addition to a fantastic series.
September 8, 2019
sweet edition to this series... cute characters.. adorable plot.. and it was just an all around feel good story to read and i enjoyed it.
September 27, 2025
1.5 stars only cuz i liked Jason & Channing. Otherwise -10 stars. DNF at 83% on 28th Sept, 2025 but i needed to rate it bcuz of this:
New to me author. The book was cute and i loved the boys, but the writing was off. It felt preachy and too on the nose. We have to be told that this is bad, that is bad and this is good, etc. Like it’s been written by a texan, ykwim?
Also, if the message is accept yourself as who you are, then why do the whole ‘gay’ makeover thing?? They turned him into a guy who is not at all the real Jason! Into some scene guy who just discovered steampunk and called it dapper! He protested the shoes, the shirt everything BUT suddenly he “loves” his new self! And now he’s loved and seen by all but he’s not his true self AT ALL. WTF?? What kind of messaging is this???
After that, i just could not continue on. i wasted so much of my time on this and i hate that. Also:
♦Characters feel very one dimensional. It was even mentioned in the book. They’re caricatures.
♦God Jason’s coworkers are such dickbags. i felt so bad for the poor guy cuz those bozos never grew up from their bullying school days.
♦That lowlife bully was a fuckpuppet. Well these are all just a bunch of homophobes and sexist fucks (some less than others). But he particularly, is such a bitch cuz he even outed the secret. And that bitch boss who just heard Jason was being bullied but took the bully’s side. i was reading for his comeuppance but i don't care anymore.
But it had some good parts:
🔹Loved Jason, an adorkable softie. His reasons for breaking up were valid since his life got torched.
🔹And our “straight” guy Channing already had some funny feelings brewing. :)) i love a good oblivious bi awakening. He didn’t give up on Jason.
🔹The relationship was very cliche romcom style.
🔹Aww the way Channing let Jason know he’s into him. 🥺
“Whatever you want, you got it, hun.”
♦It’s not a spicy book at all. It feels like a book for teens. It’s just 2-3 sex acts which i had to skip. No babe, you did not hit “third base” when you made the call. i never got to the sex part. Maybe this book didn’t have any and i don’t care. 💀
♦i thought for a baby bi who’s never done anything w/ a guy before, Channing giving a bj was unrealistic.
Childhood friends, MC being bullied on page (by homophobe coworkers), fake boyfriends to lovers, bi awakening, breakup at 70%.
New to me author. The book was cute and i loved the boys, but the writing was off. It felt preachy and too on the nose. We have to be told that this is bad, that is bad and this is good, etc. Like it’s been written by a texan, ykwim?
Also, if the message is accept yourself as who you are, then why do the whole ‘gay’ makeover thing?? They turned him into a guy who is not at all the real Jason! Into some scene guy who just discovered steampunk and called it dapper! He protested the shoes, the shirt everything BUT suddenly he “loves” his new self! And now he’s loved and seen by all but he’s not his true self AT ALL. WTF?? What kind of messaging is this???
After that, i just could not continue on. i wasted so much of my time on this and i hate that. Also:
♦Characters feel very one dimensional. It was even mentioned in the book. They’re caricatures.
♦God Jason’s coworkers are such dickbags. i felt so bad for the poor guy cuz those bozos never grew up from their bullying school days.
♦That lowlife bully was a fuckpuppet. Well these are all just a bunch of homophobes and sexist fucks (some less than others). But he particularly, is such a bitch cuz he even outed the secret. And that bitch boss who just heard Jason was being bullied but took the bully’s side. i was reading for his comeuppance but i don't care anymore.
But it had some good parts:
🔹Loved Jason, an adorkable softie. His reasons for breaking up were valid since his life got torched.
🔹And our “straight” guy Channing already had some funny feelings brewing. :)) i love a good oblivious bi awakening. He didn’t give up on Jason.
🔹The relationship was very cliche romcom style.
🔹Aww the way Channing let Jason know he’s into him. 🥺
“Whatever you want, you got it, hun.”
♦It’s not a spicy book at all. It feels like a book for teens. It’s just 2-3 sex acts which i had to skip. No babe, you did not hit “third base” when you made the call. i never got to the sex part. Maybe this book didn’t have any and i don’t care. 💀
♦i thought for a baby bi who’s never done anything w/ a guy before, Channing giving a bj was unrealistic.
Childhood friends, MC being bullied on page (by homophobe coworkers), fake boyfriends to lovers, bi awakening, breakup at 70%.
February 25, 2020
I loved this! I found Channing to be AWESOME and I truly wish he was a person I could know and love because I totally would!
I found his “coversion” to bi-sexuality to be totally believable and totally sweet and wonderful.
If I have a complaint it’s that the Nasa “boss” was supposedly trying to be more open and keeping with modern times but time and again Jason’s nemesis – I forget his name – says homophobic and bullying comments in front of their boss and it’s brushed off til the end when he damn near kills people!
Jason was a doll and though I grew a little weary of his “but how can he be attracted to little ol’ me?” a bit trying – he mostly charmed me. I SUPER loved all the wives! They seemed like a hoot as well, and another great group of folks to get to know.
I bought this for Nick Russo and he did another tremendous job – including the southern accents!
Highly recommended!
5 of 5 stars
I found his “coversion” to bi-sexuality to be totally believable and totally sweet and wonderful.
If I have a complaint it’s that the Nasa “boss” was supposedly trying to be more open and keeping with modern times but time and again Jason’s nemesis – I forget his name – says homophobic and bullying comments in front of their boss and it’s brushed off til the end when he damn near kills people!
Jason was a doll and though I grew a little weary of his “but how can he be attracted to little ol’ me?” a bit trying – he mostly charmed me. I SUPER loved all the wives! They seemed like a hoot as well, and another great group of folks to get to know.
I bought this for Nick Russo and he did another tremendous job – including the southern accents!
Highly recommended!
5 of 5 stars
August 13, 2020
Review for the audio book version: DNF at 75%. There are mention(s) of polyamory, which is a major turn-off for my personal preference. Convoluted build-up leads to a dissatisfactory and anti-climactic main conflict; and it was here that I lost my energy to push through the rest. Also, gratuitous but not well-executed use of stereotypes.
The only thing that is commendable is the lack of apparent misogyny, which is somewhat a prevalent spice many m/m romance books seem to boast.
The only thing that is commendable is the lack of apparent misogyny, which is somewhat a prevalent spice many m/m romance books seem to boast.
May 1, 2020
Characters too sweet. I felt like I was reading a caricature of adults trying to play at a "fake" connection.and then a relationship. Another point of contention is language used. Sometimes it feels like authors have no idea how individuals in their 20s or 30s speak lacking current slang. I never want to hear the word hon as an endearment again. I was bored.
May 22, 2020
Pretend boyfriends, sexual awakening?
Love this series of books and all the men of Hidden Creek. Poor Jason lacked confidence and his work atmosphere was toxic. His old neighbour helps him out by pretending to be his boyfriend for a work retreat. Channing so did not realise he was bi until he was with Jason. Enjoyed this story.
Love this series of books and all the men of Hidden Creek. Poor Jason lacked confidence and his work atmosphere was toxic. His old neighbour helps him out by pretending to be his boyfriend for a work retreat. Channing so did not realise he was bi until he was with Jason. Enjoyed this story.
August 2, 2020
A cute romance with good drama whilst breaking down toxic masculinity barriers. The classic geeky mc falls for the athlete next door, who turns out to be a sweetheart and geeky too. There was a lot of mental anguish as one character had been bullied into viewing himself in a certain light - but there were a community of people to help him through those tough moments.
June 12, 2021
Simple book. Cute read. Good amount of steam. Tried tackling some sensitive issues like homophobia, body image, ect. Not a deep book but a pleasant enough read. Of course a nice HEA for our little couple. Recommend for a light read. Both MC were likeable.
May 17, 2020
3.5 rounding up. Quite enjoyed this fake relationship at a team building weekend.
June 19, 2020
I so-> loved these 2!❤
June 20, 2020
4.5 Channing is a total sweetheart. And one of the best executions of the childhood friend trope.
March 19, 2021
3 stars
Didn’t love it, there was just so much insecurity I couldn’t deal with it.
Didn’t love it, there was just so much insecurity I couldn’t deal with it.
October 16, 2022
I loved this story of 2 boys who grew up next door to each other. They then went separate directions as they got older. To find each other again.
June 30, 2024
Regardless of what season you read, this is a great series. Just enough spice balanced with a great story line.
October 3, 2019
This book was a huge disappointment. I love the series and I really like the author, but I had a really difficult time finishing this one. The entire thing was so over-the-top sugar-sweet that I literally spent most of the story cringing into my hands. It was like pouring an entire bowl of sugar into one cup of coffee—just guaranteed to give you all kinds of painful cavities. I feel like the author and most of the characters were just trying way too hard, and it showed all too clearly. She tried way too hard to make Channing some sort of overly-generous-knight-in-shining-armor-perfect-cookie-cutter type of man, while at the same time making Jason almost unbearably apprehensive, offensively doubtful, and painfully insecure, the root of which stemmed from reasons so frustrating and absurd that I couldn't help but roll my eyes at, repeatedly and with extreme annoyance. The roles were far too obvious and unoriginal to be easily swallowed—Channing was the knight in shining armor, and Jason was the damsel in distress in almost constant need of rescuing, and I mean that physically, mentally, emotionally, and socially. The "villain" in the story was so over-the-top ridiculous and unrealistic that I kept expecting him to start twirling a Snidley Whiplash mustache out of nowhere and threatening to tie someone to the train tracks. Every single character in this story was easily sorted into two categories: Obviously Good and Obviously Bad. There was absolutely nothing complex about any of the characters or the plot, which was so predictable it was nearly laughable.
It's nothing but frustrating when absolutely every single thing about a book falls into such sharply defined and clear-cut categories, but everything from the plotline to the MCs to the side characters, even the animals, could all be squeezed neatly into the cleanest and tiniest of preconceived boxes. Everything was wrapped up in bows so shiny and plastic they just weren't even realistic. Channing came across as a Ken doll who had only just moved out of a frat house, while Jason came across as almost cripplingly helpless. Thank god he was gifted that pair of magical boots to heal him in five seconds flat and pull him out of the bottomless mire of his own pointless insecurity. If only we all had boots with such magical powers.
AND OHMYGOD, do not even get me started on her overuse of the word "hon". I really wish I had thought to keep track of how often she used that word in the book because it really did seem to pop up at least once every other sentence. Especially at the end when she decided that word needed even more attention and made an even bigger deal out of Channing using that word twenty-seven times more often than he used Jason's actual name. Did Channing have difficulty remembering the name Jason? Because that's what it felt like. He switched almost instantly from calling Jason "man" and "bro" to "hon", even whilst continuing to clutch desperately at the heterosexual card he had so consciously awarded himself. I can't stand when book characters just cannot figure out their own attractions without someone else sitting them down and explaining their own feelings to them.
I honestly wanted so much to like this book and even saved it for last, but everything from the predictable premise to the unrealistic characters to the pink-sugar-candy-hearts sweetness of it all was just too much to enjoy. Here's hoping that she'll be able to throw a little more unpredictability and an entire ocean's worth more complexity into her next book.
It's nothing but frustrating when absolutely every single thing about a book falls into such sharply defined and clear-cut categories, but everything from the plotline to the MCs to the side characters, even the animals, could all be squeezed neatly into the cleanest and tiniest of preconceived boxes. Everything was wrapped up in bows so shiny and plastic they just weren't even realistic. Channing came across as a Ken doll who had only just moved out of a frat house, while Jason came across as almost cripplingly helpless. Thank god he was gifted that pair of magical boots to heal him in five seconds flat and pull him out of the bottomless mire of his own pointless insecurity. If only we all had boots with such magical powers.
AND OHMYGOD, do not even get me started on her overuse of the word "hon". I really wish I had thought to keep track of how often she used that word in the book because it really did seem to pop up at least once every other sentence. Especially at the end when she decided that word needed even more attention and made an even bigger deal out of Channing using that word twenty-seven times more often than he used Jason's actual name. Did Channing have difficulty remembering the name Jason? Because that's what it felt like. He switched almost instantly from calling Jason "man" and "bro" to "hon", even whilst continuing to clutch desperately at the heterosexual card he had so consciously awarded himself. I can't stand when book characters just cannot figure out their own attractions without someone else sitting them down and explaining their own feelings to them.
I honestly wanted so much to like this book and even saved it for last, but everything from the predictable premise to the unrealistic characters to the pink-sugar-candy-hearts sweetness of it all was just too much to enjoy. Here's hoping that she'll be able to throw a little more unpredictability and an entire ocean's worth more complexity into her next book.
January 4, 2020
CROoKSHanKs!
There were some things very well done in this book. Unfortunately, there was MORE than enough annoying bullshit to wipe away the good feelings of a genderqueer character finding themselves and the romance and mushy bits.
1. For how quick the author was at pointing out ableist and sexist tropes/tasks it REALLY grinded my gears that there wasn't a SINGLE female engineer in the group. The fact that women were relegated to being wives and girlfriends was completely over looking women in STEM. There are plenty of amazing ladies in these fields and while it can be a boys club, it isn't realistic to have a group without a single woman.
2. NASA is a government agency. This means you can't just be fired willy nilly. The government does not operate like private sector, at all. Even a work retreat would be unlikely to take shape like presented here. It was written more like a private company, cause Nile, the "kind hearted short sighted boss" wouldn't have had such unilateral pull with their careers. And talk of "family" at work? pfffff.
3. I get the whole revelations and having Jason accept himself. It completed a growth arc, blah blah. But it took so Loooooong to get there and Jason was such a whiny and insecure shit so often and unrelentingly through 60% of the book. The whole blow up emotional napalm scene was overblown and unbelievable and that much more annoying.
I struggled to finish this book. Maybe you wont be set off by the sexist assumptions paired up with SJW lectures (there are so many lectures and general asides, including one on why we still need Pride parades_ not arguing the point, but the horse had already started rotting in the grave by that point). So. Much. Repetition.
There were some things very well done in this book. Unfortunately, there was MORE than enough annoying bullshit to wipe away the good feelings of a genderqueer character finding themselves and the romance and mushy bits.
1. For how quick the author was at pointing out ableist and sexist tropes/tasks it REALLY grinded my gears that there wasn't a SINGLE female engineer in the group. The fact that women were relegated to being wives and girlfriends was completely over looking women in STEM. There are plenty of amazing ladies in these fields and while it can be a boys club, it isn't realistic to have a group without a single woman.
2. NASA is a government agency. This means you can't just be fired willy nilly. The government does not operate like private sector, at all. Even a work retreat would be unlikely to take shape like presented here. It was written more like a private company, cause Nile, the "kind hearted short sighted boss" wouldn't have had such unilateral pull with their careers. And talk of "family" at work? pfffff.
3. I get the whole revelations and having Jason accept himself. It completed a growth arc, blah blah. But it took so Loooooong to get there and Jason was such a whiny and insecure shit so often and unrelentingly through 60% of the book. The whole blow up emotional napalm scene was overblown and unbelievable and that much more annoying.
I struggled to finish this book. Maybe you wont be set off by the sexist assumptions paired up with SJW lectures (there are so many lectures and general asides, including one on why we still need Pride parades_ not arguing the point, but the horse had already started rotting in the grave by that point). So. Much. Repetition.
September 29, 2019
I was gifted the audio file of this book, that I write a review was not required, but I gotta, oh yeah, I GOTTA!!
I have not READ this book, just listened, so if my review lines blur, I’m sorry, but I’m not sure I can split the narration from the story itself, and I ususally at least TRY to.
Jason is a geek, a rocket scientist for God’s sake. Channing, a firefighter. They really don’t have much in common, other than a childhood of living next door to each other. So when Channing rescues Jason from the taunting that is a constant in his life from the guys at work, Jason does the only thing he thinks of, and asks Channing to be his *fake* boyfriend for a weekend work retreat. And Channing, the darling that he is, of course, says yes!
Oh! I LOVED these guys! I really did!
Jason is out and mostly proud. The guys at work make it hard for him though. Channing has only ever been with girls. But he thinks nothing of touching Jason, kissing him! Channing is, quite possibly, my favourite Ms Welch character! I loved how, while things creep up on Channing, when he questions them, to his best friend, Remi is, like *duh* well of course you are bisexual, you silly man!
When it all hits the fan, and their *fake* relationship is discovered, I loved how both men, separately and independently of each other, decided that they would wait for the other to make their own minds up, whether they wanted *this* to be real. Even if it meant they broke their hearts and had to walk away from the other. They did, of course they did, but it was painful but beautiful listening, as Jason dug deep into himself and found his TRUE self, not the one he THOUGHT he should be.
Nick J Russo narrates this book. And he does a cracking job!
His voices for Jason and Channing are different and distinctive, showing the marked differences in the lives so far. His reading voice is clear and even, and its part of why I love this narrator so much: his deep clear reading voice. You know the one, the one is telling the story. It makes for such easy listening, to a deaf head like me.
The voices for ALL the characters are clear, and I had no trouble keeping up with multi person conversations. I am intrigued by several of the supporting cast now, simply because of the voices that Russo gives them here! Remi and Kris especially! Harrison too.
Russo gets over all of Jason wish that they can work this out, that it be real. He gets over all of Channing’s dawning realisation of his true feelings for Jason, and we get all that love pouring out.
A narrator can only read the words they have been given, though and Ms Welch smashes this one out the park! Well, that was what I *THOUGHT* when I finished listening to this, I thought this was my favourite of this author so far. But before writing THIS review, I read Homeward Bound (Pine Cove #3) and now?? I can’t split them!
So, thank you, Ms Welch, for making the start of my work day a little more pleasant and thank you to Mr Russo for bringing these men to my ear (singular, like, cos one don’t work!)
5 full and oh so very cute stars for the book and the narration.
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
I have not READ this book, just listened, so if my review lines blur, I’m sorry, but I’m not sure I can split the narration from the story itself, and I ususally at least TRY to.
Jason is a geek, a rocket scientist for God’s sake. Channing, a firefighter. They really don’t have much in common, other than a childhood of living next door to each other. So when Channing rescues Jason from the taunting that is a constant in his life from the guys at work, Jason does the only thing he thinks of, and asks Channing to be his *fake* boyfriend for a weekend work retreat. And Channing, the darling that he is, of course, says yes!
Oh! I LOVED these guys! I really did!
Jason is out and mostly proud. The guys at work make it hard for him though. Channing has only ever been with girls. But he thinks nothing of touching Jason, kissing him! Channing is, quite possibly, my favourite Ms Welch character! I loved how, while things creep up on Channing, when he questions them, to his best friend, Remi is, like *duh* well of course you are bisexual, you silly man!
When it all hits the fan, and their *fake* relationship is discovered, I loved how both men, separately and independently of each other, decided that they would wait for the other to make their own minds up, whether they wanted *this* to be real. Even if it meant they broke their hearts and had to walk away from the other. They did, of course they did, but it was painful but beautiful listening, as Jason dug deep into himself and found his TRUE self, not the one he THOUGHT he should be.
Nick J Russo narrates this book. And he does a cracking job!
His voices for Jason and Channing are different and distinctive, showing the marked differences in the lives so far. His reading voice is clear and even, and its part of why I love this narrator so much: his deep clear reading voice. You know the one, the one is telling the story. It makes for such easy listening, to a deaf head like me.
The voices for ALL the characters are clear, and I had no trouble keeping up with multi person conversations. I am intrigued by several of the supporting cast now, simply because of the voices that Russo gives them here! Remi and Kris especially! Harrison too.
Russo gets over all of Jason wish that they can work this out, that it be real. He gets over all of Channing’s dawning realisation of his true feelings for Jason, and we get all that love pouring out.
A narrator can only read the words they have been given, though and Ms Welch smashes this one out the park! Well, that was what I *THOUGHT* when I finished listening to this, I thought this was my favourite of this author so far. But before writing THIS review, I read Homeward Bound (Pine Cove #3) and now?? I can’t split them!
So, thank you, Ms Welch, for making the start of my work day a little more pleasant and thank you to Mr Russo for bringing these men to my ear (singular, like, cos one don’t work!)
5 full and oh so very cute stars for the book and the narration.
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
September 10, 2019
Whenever a geek scores a jock, or in this case a fireman, I just about melt. There's a lot to unpack in Jason Miller's view of self-worth, but because Channing is patient, sweet, and kinda oblivious, they create a lot of magic together. Reveal gives us a ton of my favorite tropes (ugly duckling, opposites attract, fake relationships...), an antagonist that actually sees his karmic return gift, a bit of danger, and a whole lot of tenderness and first time steam.
What I really appreciated about this story was the "love yourself first" concept. Jason has spent his entire life trying to fit in with his peers or to just blend into the background. His one bit of self-acceptance was when he got to live out his geeky imagination back in the day with a couple childhood friends. There's a whole lot of "real man" talk that's pretty deplorable as well as over-the-top and because Jason is incredibly vulnerable he gets sucked into those ridiculous ideas of societal norms. He has a big "A-ha!" moment in the salon where he gets completely schooled by his friends. It brought to the forefront that his ideas about the LGBTQ+ community around him are just as hurtful as his ideas about himself. It was a toxic mix of projecting his insecurities on the community at large as well as internalizing all the hate that can come from the ignorant masses.
I won't say that a few outfits, a haircut, some makeup, and a killer pair of boots will fix all the years of internalizing all the damaging rhetoric, but it can definitely give you the boost to see yourself beyond the box you've shoved yourself into. For Jason, it gives him a glimpse through other people's eyes that they're suddenly seeing a glimmer of confidence and personal expression that was completely missing before. It's a stepping stone to seeing himself as more. When he was in charge of his own look, he was still too deep into the workplace abuse he'd endured to embrace any real change. He needed the help of friends who saw the real him.
As for the relationship, it was mainly sweetness, exploration, and subtle revelations with a small period of them figuring their individual stuff out enough to realize they wanted to be together. There was no real conflict there and certainly no real angst regarding sexual inclinations on Channing's part. I'm not a fan of one character making decisions for the other, especially in regards to their own wants, needs, and desires, and Jason really fell prey to that. And with the karmic justice, it was well-earned by the slightly cliched bully and I especially loved the reckoning coming from the spouse. She, along with quite a few other side characters, gave a good base for Jason and Channing to find their way both alone and together. I kept thinking about how I want friends like these ones...Hidden Creek gets all the good ones.
What I really appreciated about this story was the "love yourself first" concept. Jason has spent his entire life trying to fit in with his peers or to just blend into the background. His one bit of self-acceptance was when he got to live out his geeky imagination back in the day with a couple childhood friends. There's a whole lot of "real man" talk that's pretty deplorable as well as over-the-top and because Jason is incredibly vulnerable he gets sucked into those ridiculous ideas of societal norms. He has a big "A-ha!" moment in the salon where he gets completely schooled by his friends. It brought to the forefront that his ideas about the LGBTQ+ community around him are just as hurtful as his ideas about himself. It was a toxic mix of projecting his insecurities on the community at large as well as internalizing all the hate that can come from the ignorant masses.
I won't say that a few outfits, a haircut, some makeup, and a killer pair of boots will fix all the years of internalizing all the damaging rhetoric, but it can definitely give you the boost to see yourself beyond the box you've shoved yourself into. For Jason, it gives him a glimpse through other people's eyes that they're suddenly seeing a glimmer of confidence and personal expression that was completely missing before. It's a stepping stone to seeing himself as more. When he was in charge of his own look, he was still too deep into the workplace abuse he'd endured to embrace any real change. He needed the help of friends who saw the real him.
As for the relationship, it was mainly sweetness, exploration, and subtle revelations with a small period of them figuring their individual stuff out enough to realize they wanted to be together. There was no real conflict there and certainly no real angst regarding sexual inclinations on Channing's part. I'm not a fan of one character making decisions for the other, especially in regards to their own wants, needs, and desires, and Jason really fell prey to that. And with the karmic justice, it was well-earned by the slightly cliched bully and I especially loved the reckoning coming from the spouse. She, along with quite a few other side characters, gave a good base for Jason and Channing to find their way both alone and together. I kept thinking about how I want friends like these ones...Hidden Creek gets all the good ones.
September 17, 2019
Touching romance (an audio review)
This book hit me in all the feel-good places. Fake boyfriend and gay (or in this case bi) for you are two of my favorite tropes. Add in a geek, a sexy firefighter, a sweet kitten, and a dog and it’s the perfect Hidden Creek book. I’ve listened to several books from this season and am enjoying them. I love to catch the little ways the books are interconnected. Tiberius the ‘Beast’ from Rescue makes an appearance in this book, as do the rescued dogs. Makes me want another one but one is all I can handle. Still…
The Summer Fair is going on and along with the Ferris Wheel and baking contests there are fireworks and wine slushies.
Before the main characters get to the summer fair, though, they have some other shenanigans to get up to. Jason is part of a team of engineers at NASA. He’s smart and innovative but also shy and gay. Two of those stand him in good stead at work while, unfortunately, the other two do not. He belongs to a varied group of men but they are dominated by Leroy, a true bully. In fact Channing compares him to a high school bully and that felt really apt. We’ve all had to deal with a Leroy (mine was a teenage girl, but the bullying is the same). Jason makes up a boyfriend to try to get Leroy to leave him alone. Of course feeding the bully never calms him and only Channing showing up brings Leroy down a notch. Channing and Jason were friends when they were kids and even though they grew apart, there is a fondness there.
What starts out as a fake boyfriend scenario becomes more real. Jason has to decide, though, if his feelings for Channing are mere hero worship and Channing has to decide if what he feels for Jason is real. Is he, in fact, a bisexual? There are many people in Channing’s life to help him sort through his feelings including a cousin and bisexual best friend. There are also townspeople who live their lives in the LGBTQ spectrum, mostly from previous books, I assume. Channing has watched Hidden Creek become an open and welcoming place to live and he’s thrilled for that. Perhaps that’s why he’s able to embrace this side of himself that he’d never noticed before.
There are some sexy times in this book, but it’s also a very sweet and heart-felt romance. I fell in love with Jason and Channing and was thrilled to see them finally put aside their ‘rules’ and admit how they really felt about each other.
Nick J. Russo narrates the series and I think he was a great choice. He differentiates each character nicely and I enjoy his, uh, sexy noises. Just sayin’.
There are more books in the series and I can’t wait to listen to those as well. I am definitely enjoying my time in Hidden Creek.
This book hit me in all the feel-good places. Fake boyfriend and gay (or in this case bi) for you are two of my favorite tropes. Add in a geek, a sexy firefighter, a sweet kitten, and a dog and it’s the perfect Hidden Creek book. I’ve listened to several books from this season and am enjoying them. I love to catch the little ways the books are interconnected. Tiberius the ‘Beast’ from Rescue makes an appearance in this book, as do the rescued dogs. Makes me want another one but one is all I can handle. Still…
The Summer Fair is going on and along with the Ferris Wheel and baking contests there are fireworks and wine slushies.
Before the main characters get to the summer fair, though, they have some other shenanigans to get up to. Jason is part of a team of engineers at NASA. He’s smart and innovative but also shy and gay. Two of those stand him in good stead at work while, unfortunately, the other two do not. He belongs to a varied group of men but they are dominated by Leroy, a true bully. In fact Channing compares him to a high school bully and that felt really apt. We’ve all had to deal with a Leroy (mine was a teenage girl, but the bullying is the same). Jason makes up a boyfriend to try to get Leroy to leave him alone. Of course feeding the bully never calms him and only Channing showing up brings Leroy down a notch. Channing and Jason were friends when they were kids and even though they grew apart, there is a fondness there.
What starts out as a fake boyfriend scenario becomes more real. Jason has to decide, though, if his feelings for Channing are mere hero worship and Channing has to decide if what he feels for Jason is real. Is he, in fact, a bisexual? There are many people in Channing’s life to help him sort through his feelings including a cousin and bisexual best friend. There are also townspeople who live their lives in the LGBTQ spectrum, mostly from previous books, I assume. Channing has watched Hidden Creek become an open and welcoming place to live and he’s thrilled for that. Perhaps that’s why he’s able to embrace this side of himself that he’d never noticed before.
There are some sexy times in this book, but it’s also a very sweet and heart-felt romance. I fell in love with Jason and Channing and was thrilled to see them finally put aside their ‘rules’ and admit how they really felt about each other.
Nick J. Russo narrates the series and I think he was a great choice. He differentiates each character nicely and I enjoy his, uh, sexy noises. Just sayin’.
There are more books in the series and I can’t wait to listen to those as well. I am definitely enjoying my time in Hidden Creek.
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