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Wild Child #1
Halfway to Someday
Rocker Jesse Winters just wants to be left alone. If he could melt into oblivion, he would and bid farewell to the wild child of rock n’ roll so many had dubbed him in recent months. Truth is there was never anything reckless, wild, or even deliberate about most of the things that had happened on Wild Child’s last tour, but had anyone cared to listen? No! Which was precisely why he was sitting in a cabin high up in the Colorado mountains, hoping the incoming blizzard would bury him forever.
Ryker Jorgensen left the VA hospital with a bunch of prescriptions and pamphlets on how to deal with reentering the civilian world, not that he’s in any hurry to do so. His nightmares still keep him up at night, and every new limitation he discovers gives him more reason to believe that he’s hopelessly useless now. Better to drive up to his cousin’s cabin and lick his wounds. Come spring, maybe, he’d look into being around people, if only for long enough to make the kind of money he’d need to buy his own secluded place.
The last thing Ryker ever expected to see was the man whose face had been plastered in his footlocker and his dreams for the better part of the past six years, but Jesse Winters is nothing like he imagined. When trying to leave Ryker out in the storm doesn’t work, Jesse resorts to ignoring him. But two wounded souls trapped in a snowed in cabin have little choice but to reach out for one another when emotions get frayed. His only hope is that Jesse will trust him enough to let him drag him back from the edge before he’s just another burned out star in the legacy that is rock n’ roll.
Warning: flashbacks of domestic abuse and combat situations, suicidal ideation, depictions of self-harm, cutting, and stalking
Ryker Jorgensen left the VA hospital with a bunch of prescriptions and pamphlets on how to deal with reentering the civilian world, not that he’s in any hurry to do so. His nightmares still keep him up at night, and every new limitation he discovers gives him more reason to believe that he’s hopelessly useless now. Better to drive up to his cousin’s cabin and lick his wounds. Come spring, maybe, he’d look into being around people, if only for long enough to make the kind of money he’d need to buy his own secluded place.
The last thing Ryker ever expected to see was the man whose face had been plastered in his footlocker and his dreams for the better part of the past six years, but Jesse Winters is nothing like he imagined. When trying to leave Ryker out in the storm doesn’t work, Jesse resorts to ignoring him. But two wounded souls trapped in a snowed in cabin have little choice but to reach out for one another when emotions get frayed. His only hope is that Jesse will trust him enough to let him drag him back from the edge before he’s just another burned out star in the legacy that is rock n’ roll.
Warning: flashbacks of domestic abuse and combat situations, suicidal ideation, depictions of self-harm, cutting, and stalking
ebook
First published January 27, 2020
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89 people want to read
About the author
Layla Dorine
113 books212 followersLAYLA DORINE lives among the sprawling prairies of Midwestern America, in a house with more cats than people. She loves hiking, fishing, swimming, martial arts, camping out, photography, cooking, and dabbling with several artistic mediums. In addition, she loves to travel and visit museums, historic, and haunted places.
Layla got hooked on writing as a child, starting with poetry and then branching out, and she hasn’t stopped writing since. Hard times, troubled times, the lives of her characters are never easy, but then what life is? The story is in the struggle, the journey, the triumphs and the falls. She writes about artists, musicians, loners, drifters, dreamers, hippies, bikers, truckers, hunters and all the other folks that she’s met and fallen in love with over the years. Sometimes she writes urban romance and sometimes its aliens crash landing near a roadside bar. When she isn’t writing, or wandering somewhere outdoors, she can often be found curled up with a good book and a kitty on her lap.
Layla got hooked on writing as a child, starting with poetry and then branching out, and she hasn’t stopped writing since. Hard times, troubled times, the lives of her characters are never easy, but then what life is? The story is in the struggle, the journey, the triumphs and the falls. She writes about artists, musicians, loners, drifters, dreamers, hippies, bikers, truckers, hunters and all the other folks that she’s met and fallen in love with over the years. Sometimes she writes urban romance and sometimes its aliens crash landing near a roadside bar. When she isn’t writing, or wandering somewhere outdoors, she can often be found curled up with a good book and a kitty on her lap.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
November 15, 2023
Book safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below.
All he wanted was the shame to stop and the heavy pressure in his chest to ease up enough to let him breathe.
This is another one of those that are a little bit difficult to rate. I love the book, but at the same time, something is missing got me to give it the full five stars, and I’m probably not gonna be able to say why.
“I thought he’d stop if I stopped fucking up, but I couldn’t ever do anything right.”
I really do adore the plot in this. Two broken men with trauma, with a suspense plot as well (my favorite). Not that the suspense is a massive part of it, but what is there is important. It was a reread for me, and I had forgotten quite a lot of it actually, other than the general impression and a couple of scenes.
“Maybe if I’d dated in high school, gone to the movies and prom, participated in the activities normal teenagers did, I wouldn’t have felt so desperate to cling to someone who wasn’t any good for me.”
The book is about the fallout of Jesse being abused by a boyfriend, and Jesse’s bandmates accusing him of being an addict when the abuse starts impacting his performance on tour. The book starts after the band has a big blowup, and Jesse escapes to a cabin, where he later meets Ryker. They start as enemies, and very slowly become friends. I enjoy that part of the book a lot. How they very slowly build trust. When that trust builds into something more, it’s very sweet. Jesse is very much affected by the abuse he suffered tho, which leads to the book being a very slow burn, romantically speaking. There’s very little (almost no) spice, only a small scene near the very end. It fits for these characters, even though I would have loved a lengthy epilogue so we could see them a bit further down the road when they’re more healed.
The book spent a little too much time hating on Kyle (Jesse’s best friend and bandmate), instead of showing us how they rebuild trust. Overall though, I’m glad no one was let off the hook when it came to how they treated Jesse when he needed help.
A good story that deals heavily with mental health and life after abuse. Low on spice for those who want that. Unfortunately lacked some editing at the time of reading. A sweet and tentative HFN, imo.
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Forced proximity
Former soldier
Rock star
Past trauma
Size difference
Slow burn
Suspense
Low spice
⚠️⚠️ Content warning ⚠️⚠️
Self harm
Suicidal ideation
Domestic abuse (detailed flashbacks)
PTSD
Panic attacks
Mentions of war/combat
Violence
⚠️⚠️⚠️ Book safety ⚠️⚠️⚠️
Cheating: No
OM drama: No
Third-act breakup: No
POV: 3rd person, dual POV
Strict roles or versatile: N/A
MCs age: 27 and 32
All he wanted was the shame to stop and the heavy pressure in his chest to ease up enough to let him breathe.
This is another one of those that are a little bit difficult to rate. I love the book, but at the same time, something is missing got me to give it the full five stars, and I’m probably not gonna be able to say why.
“I thought he’d stop if I stopped fucking up, but I couldn’t ever do anything right.”
I really do adore the plot in this. Two broken men with trauma, with a suspense plot as well (my favorite). Not that the suspense is a massive part of it, but what is there is important. It was a reread for me, and I had forgotten quite a lot of it actually, other than the general impression and a couple of scenes.
“Maybe if I’d dated in high school, gone to the movies and prom, participated in the activities normal teenagers did, I wouldn’t have felt so desperate to cling to someone who wasn’t any good for me.”
The book is about the fallout of Jesse being abused by a boyfriend, and Jesse’s bandmates accusing him of being an addict when the abuse starts impacting his performance on tour. The book starts after the band has a big blowup, and Jesse escapes to a cabin, where he later meets Ryker. They start as enemies, and very slowly become friends. I enjoy that part of the book a lot. How they very slowly build trust. When that trust builds into something more, it’s very sweet. Jesse is very much affected by the abuse he suffered tho, which leads to the book being a very slow burn, romantically speaking. There’s very little (almost no) spice, only a small scene near the very end. It fits for these characters, even though I would have loved a lengthy epilogue so we could see them a bit further down the road when they’re more healed.
The book spent a little too much time hating on Kyle (Jesse’s best friend and bandmate), instead of showing us how they rebuild trust. Overall though, I’m glad no one was let off the hook when it came to how they treated Jesse when he needed help.
A good story that deals heavily with mental health and life after abuse. Low on spice for those who want that. Unfortunately lacked some editing at the time of reading. A sweet and tentative HFN, imo.
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Forced proximity
Former soldier
Rock star
Past trauma
Size difference
Slow burn
Suspense
Low spice
⚠️⚠️ Content warning ⚠️⚠️
Self harm
Suicidal ideation
Domestic abuse (detailed flashbacks)
PTSD
Panic attacks
Mentions of war/combat
Violence
⚠️⚠️⚠️ Book safety ⚠️⚠️⚠️
Cheating: No
OM drama: No
Third-act breakup: No
POV: 3rd person, dual POV
Strict roles or versatile: N/A
MCs age: 27 and 32
January 25, 2020
Do you like damaged heroes? If you do, you're in luck because here we have two of them.
Jesse is a rock star. He is also a victim. When we meet him he is at rock bottom. At the point where he is losing everything important in his life. A point where he's wondering if there is a point to this life.
Secluded at a friend's mountain cabin during a viscous snowstorm, the last thing Jesse expects is company.
Ryker made a harrowing drive up the mountain in a snow storm to get some personal space at his cousin's remote cabin. He's back from his last tour in the military. The last one that took the lives of several comrades and almost took his own as well. He doesn't understand Jesse's total freak out when he arrives at the cabin. But with the storm blocking road access, they have to sit tight in forced proximity.
The story slowly reveals each man's personal demons. We watch as they tentatively manage to help each other.
If you like dramatic romance stories this will work well for you. I'm more of an action fan myself so it tended to drag a little for me with all the emotional turmoil without accompanying action.
I also have a pet peeve about reading MM Romance. This one is wholly on me, however, it did impact my enjoyment of the story. To be blunt, I don't like MM Romance when I can just as easily (or more easily) picture one of the main characters as a female. This has nothing at all to do with femme male characters which are perfectly fine for me in a romance. It's hard to explain, but it has more to do with the character's actions and reactions. In this story, I had a hard time empathising with Jesse as a male character. As a MF Romance this would have rated higher for me than it did as a MM Romance.
I enjoyed it and believe that with a little editing to cut back on some of the repetitive scenes and toning down Jesse's propensity for drama this could easily be a five star read for me.
Your mileage may vary. ;-) It's difficult not to get personal with a review since we all react uniquely to each story we read. I do recommend this one when you're wanting a character driven story with depth and feeling.
Review ARC kindly provided by the publisher via NetGalley
Jesse is a rock star. He is also a victim. When we meet him he is at rock bottom. At the point where he is losing everything important in his life. A point where he's wondering if there is a point to this life.
Secluded at a friend's mountain cabin during a viscous snowstorm, the last thing Jesse expects is company.
Ryker made a harrowing drive up the mountain in a snow storm to get some personal space at his cousin's remote cabin. He's back from his last tour in the military. The last one that took the lives of several comrades and almost took his own as well. He doesn't understand Jesse's total freak out when he arrives at the cabin. But with the storm blocking road access, they have to sit tight in forced proximity.
The story slowly reveals each man's personal demons. We watch as they tentatively manage to help each other.
If you like dramatic romance stories this will work well for you. I'm more of an action fan myself so it tended to drag a little for me with all the emotional turmoil without accompanying action.
I also have a pet peeve about reading MM Romance. This one is wholly on me, however, it did impact my enjoyment of the story. To be blunt, I don't like MM Romance when I can just as easily (or more easily) picture one of the main characters as a female. This has nothing at all to do with femme male characters which are perfectly fine for me in a romance. It's hard to explain, but it has more to do with the character's actions and reactions. In this story, I had a hard time empathising with Jesse as a male character. As a MF Romance this would have rated higher for me than it did as a MM Romance.
I enjoyed it and believe that with a little editing to cut back on some of the repetitive scenes and toning down Jesse's propensity for drama this could easily be a five star read for me.
Your mileage may vary. ;-) It's difficult not to get personal with a review since we all react uniquely to each story we read. I do recommend this one when you're wanting a character driven story with depth and feeling.
Review ARC kindly provided by the publisher via NetGalley
February 10, 2020
Rating: 2.5
I wasn't invested in this story at all. It felt too slow in the beginning and too rushed at the end. I felt like the characters didn't really have personalities.
I wasn't invested in this story at all. It felt too slow in the beginning and too rushed at the end. I felt like the characters didn't really have personalities.
January 27, 2020
A Joyfully Jay review.
5 stars
I loved this book, and I’m going to tell you why, but first I do feel the need to make you aware of some trigger warnings. There are detailed images of cutting, thoughts of suicide, PTSD, terrible nightmares, and descriptions of horrific abuse by an ex who has also become a violent stalker. Admittedly, the first half of Halfway to Someday was difficult to read, so readers should be prepared.
With all that being said, I’m going to give you my feelings on this amazing story. When I chose this book, I thought it was going to be just another cute snowbound story. Two men, who are opposites, stuck together and angry about it…until they realize they’re attraction and act upon it. Instead, I got a deeply emotional book about two very broken men who seem hopeless in the face of all they’ve been through. I was pleasantly surprised at how much I loved Halfway to Someday.
Read Kenna’s review in its entirety here.
5 stars
I loved this book, and I’m going to tell you why, but first I do feel the need to make you aware of some trigger warnings. There are detailed images of cutting, thoughts of suicide, PTSD, terrible nightmares, and descriptions of horrific abuse by an ex who has also become a violent stalker. Admittedly, the first half of Halfway to Someday was difficult to read, so readers should be prepared.
With all that being said, I’m going to give you my feelings on this amazing story. When I chose this book, I thought it was going to be just another cute snowbound story. Two men, who are opposites, stuck together and angry about it…until they realize they’re attraction and act upon it. Instead, I got a deeply emotional book about two very broken men who seem hopeless in the face of all they’ve been through. I was pleasantly surprised at how much I loved Halfway to Someday.
Read Kenna’s review in its entirety here.
January 29, 2020
I really enjoyed this book even though there were a few slow parts, it didn’t inhibit my enjoyment of the story itself. Learning about Jesse and Ryker’s backgrounds and their stories was so sad it broke my Heart. I couldn’t put it down and when I did have to I would race back because I needed to know everything.
***An ARC was provided in exchange for review by Author***
***An ARC was provided in exchange for review by Author***
February 7, 2020
2.5 stars
***waves buh-bye at 82%***
I just couldn't take the melodrama any longer. I knew how it would end and I couldn't make myself care. About any of the characters. This author just isn't my cuppa.
***waves buh-bye at 82%***
I just couldn't take the melodrama any longer. I knew how it would end and I couldn't make myself care. About any of the characters. This author just isn't my cuppa.
March 31, 2020
I’ve read Layla Dorine before and have really enjoyed her books but I really had to push myself to finish Halfway to Someday and even then I found myself skimming pages. It starts off promisingly with two heroes a rock star and a former Army Ranger - both of them damaged and hurting; stuck together in a cabin during a snowstorm and the threat of a stalking ex. Sounds pretty awesome but it just felt very, very meh and repetitive.
January 27, 2020
Wow, Layla Dorine's Halfway to Someday is a riveting and heavy book.
Jesse and Ryker are two men who are both broken; two men who find themselves escaping and hiding out in a cabin they have to share. They're well developed, blowing me away with their complexity.
Jesse, with his history of self harm, is struggling with something secret.
His issues are emotional to the point of tears, as he's full of fear and pain, lacking in self esteem. This quote sums him up well. "I just wanted someone to love me!"
Ryker, meanwhile, is drowning in pain and suffering. He's blocked by his past, unable to move forward. His PTSD is written in a powerful manner, complete with the pain of nightmares and flashbacks.
I seriously love these two and their amazing character growth, as these two men help to free one another from their pain and fear. They are full of longing and misery, both of which clearly jump off the pages.
The author entwines the aftermath of abuse with the aftermath of losing one's friends in a military tragedy. It's impressive and effective as she excels with important issues such as PTSD and self harm.
This is a story that mixes forced proximity, a stalker, and danger. It's a combination of serious mental issues, danger, and attraction. It's multi-layered and complex, deep and accomplished. And if you enjoy stories about trust issues, this one has it in spades.
Halfway to Someday is so much more than I could have ever anticipated. Layla Dorine impresses in this tale of moving on from one's demons and embracing a better future. It's raw, real, and emotional, leaving me unable to put down this emotionally driven story.
Take note, if self harm, PTSD, or panic attacks are a trigger to you, avoid this one.
Jesse and Ryker are two men who are both broken; two men who find themselves escaping and hiding out in a cabin they have to share. They're well developed, blowing me away with their complexity.
Jesse, with his history of self harm, is struggling with something secret.
His issues are emotional to the point of tears, as he's full of fear and pain, lacking in self esteem. This quote sums him up well. "I just wanted someone to love me!"
Ryker, meanwhile, is drowning in pain and suffering. He's blocked by his past, unable to move forward. His PTSD is written in a powerful manner, complete with the pain of nightmares and flashbacks.
I seriously love these two and their amazing character growth, as these two men help to free one another from their pain and fear. They are full of longing and misery, both of which clearly jump off the pages.
The author entwines the aftermath of abuse with the aftermath of losing one's friends in a military tragedy. It's impressive and effective as she excels with important issues such as PTSD and self harm.
This is a story that mixes forced proximity, a stalker, and danger. It's a combination of serious mental issues, danger, and attraction. It's multi-layered and complex, deep and accomplished. And if you enjoy stories about trust issues, this one has it in spades.
Halfway to Someday is so much more than I could have ever anticipated. Layla Dorine impresses in this tale of moving on from one's demons and embracing a better future. It's raw, real, and emotional, leaving me unable to put down this emotionally driven story.
Take note, if self harm, PTSD, or panic attacks are a trigger to you, avoid this one.
February 18, 2020
I recieved a free copy to read and review for Wicked Reads.
This book was hard for me to get through. It wasn't because of the subject matter though. I thought the author did a great job describing what Jesse and Ryker both went through. I just think the author could have cut the book down a little bit because things were said multiple times and I was getting bored. At first I thought this was going to be your typical story about two guys stuck in a snow storm who eventually fall in love. It was not what I expected. I loved Ryker instantly, Jesse on the other hand was a bit much for me. The story was good but the ending was rushed and I want to know more about how Jessr and Ryker are now, maybe we'll see them in the next book?
This book was hard for me to get through. It wasn't because of the subject matter though. I thought the author did a great job describing what Jesse and Ryker both went through. I just think the author could have cut the book down a little bit because things were said multiple times and I was getting bored. At first I thought this was going to be your typical story about two guys stuck in a snow storm who eventually fall in love. It was not what I expected. I loved Ryker instantly, Jesse on the other hand was a bit much for me. The story was good but the ending was rushed and I want to know more about how Jessr and Ryker are now, maybe we'll see them in the next book?
August 18, 2025
I loved this!!!
Two broken men being there for each other and fighting their demons together.
Close to no spice, but that's totally fine by me...
I liked that Jesse was not just the weak victim that needed saving, but equally there for Ryker and helping him heal.
❤️🧡💛💚💙💜
Two broken men being there for each other and fighting their demons together.
Close to no spice, but that's totally fine by me...
I liked that Jesse was not just the weak victim that needed saving, but equally there for Ryker and helping him heal.
❤️🧡💛💚💙💜
January 30, 2020
Jesse wasn’t sure he’d ever climb up on stage again. His fingers itched to touch his guitar but what was the point in creating anything the way his bandmates had turned their backs on him. Tish said to him” Way to go.” Jess replied “You think I ruined the concert on purpose?” “What are we supposed to think ? “ she spat. They knew him, how deeply he loved the music, how it was all he had aside from them, and yet…. Jess was in his best friend and bandmate’s -Kyle-cabin using his blade to cut himself. There was no one left to believe him. Why keep fighting. Ryker was driving to the cabin. Heavy white snow belted his windshield. He finally saw the cabin and pulled over and set his head on the wheel but had a horrible flashback but the wind was so bad it rocked the truck throwing Ryker out of the past. Perhaps giving in would make life easier give himself over to the cold. Jesse opened the door scowling at Ryker and said, ``I think you have the wrong cabin.” Ryker let him know he was coming in. Ryker said he was suppose to be at his cousins cabin and the GPS said it was right here. Then he said his cousins name was Kyle.
When jesse saw Kyle he was going to choke him with his own bass strings. Jesse than said this was supposed to be his cabin for the next four months. Ryker said maybe everything isn’t about you I just ended my eighth tour overseas and called Kyle and told him the V A clinic said ryker needed a quiet place to reacclimate before he started mixing with people again. There was no way Jesse could run right now. Kyle told Jesse Ryker almost died and watched three of his buddies die. “Whatever bull poop you got going on is nothing compared to what he’s been through. As my friend I’m asking you to stick around. I don’t think Ryker should be alone. I can’t stop you if you go but I hope you’ll be the man I know you are.” Ryker than knew why he felt like he had seen this man before. Kyle had sent him a bunch of articles and ryker was very attracted to Jesse that he saw from the articles. Jesse remembered how he’d forgave troy the first time he’d hit Jesse. Jesse hid the bruises with makeup. Jesse never thought love could hurt so bad or leave you so broken.
I love this book. Usually I don’t care for M/M or F/F romances. But this was well done so tastefully and the way it was written was absolutely beautiful. I loved Jesse and Ryker together and how they interacted. I loved Jesse helped Ryker and Ryker helped Jesse. There was so much emotion in this book. This book had PTSD, suicidal thoughts, love, learning to trust again, a rock star, a veteran with issues, an abused person, cutting, nightmares, a violent stalker, snowed in a cabin, and so much more. This was so much more than I thought it would be. I couldn’t put this book down I loved the characters and the ins and outs of this book and I highly recommend this.
When jesse saw Kyle he was going to choke him with his own bass strings. Jesse than said this was supposed to be his cabin for the next four months. Ryker said maybe everything isn’t about you I just ended my eighth tour overseas and called Kyle and told him the V A clinic said ryker needed a quiet place to reacclimate before he started mixing with people again. There was no way Jesse could run right now. Kyle told Jesse Ryker almost died and watched three of his buddies die. “Whatever bull poop you got going on is nothing compared to what he’s been through. As my friend I’m asking you to stick around. I don’t think Ryker should be alone. I can’t stop you if you go but I hope you’ll be the man I know you are.” Ryker than knew why he felt like he had seen this man before. Kyle had sent him a bunch of articles and ryker was very attracted to Jesse that he saw from the articles. Jesse remembered how he’d forgave troy the first time he’d hit Jesse. Jesse hid the bruises with makeup. Jesse never thought love could hurt so bad or leave you so broken.
I love this book. Usually I don’t care for M/M or F/F romances. But this was well done so tastefully and the way it was written was absolutely beautiful. I loved Jesse and Ryker together and how they interacted. I loved Jesse helped Ryker and Ryker helped Jesse. There was so much emotion in this book. This book had PTSD, suicidal thoughts, love, learning to trust again, a rock star, a veteran with issues, an abused person, cutting, nightmares, a violent stalker, snowed in a cabin, and so much more. This was so much more than I thought it would be. I couldn’t put this book down I loved the characters and the ins and outs of this book and I highly recommend this.
February 8, 2020
Jesse Winters is at the end of his rope: the result from every relationship the famous rocker has had. Whether it be between his parents, his band mates, or the stalker/boyfriend-from-hell, he has become the perfect example of what the lasting effects of physical, sexual, and emotional abuse can do to one’s psyche. Jesse is a kaleidoscope within himself. His lyrics are breathtaking, intelligent, and dark. Yet, at times, he seems almost child-like.
Ryker Jorgensen wants to decompress after numerous tours in the military—the last one being the worst of them all. The result is that he suffers from PTSD. When he opens the door of his cousin’s cabin in Colorado, his whole world will be turned upside down because Jesse Winters has already made himself at home there. Ryker is kind, compassionate, a voice of reason, and the calm to Jesse’s turmoil as well as his biggest, most influential advocate. I fell in love with Ryker because he put his own needs and demons on the back burner to care for someone he just met.
Two things crossed my mind at that point: either this is going to be the equivalent of watching a train wreck unfold; or second, maybe ... just maybe, these two anguished souls might be able to help each other. What I found was a mixture of the two.
At times the story felt long and somewhat repetitive, yet I understand the depth of why the author was trying to explicate what these two were going through. Both situations were bad. Really bad. But empathy and kindness and love have a strange and magical way to help heal the heart and strengthen the soul.
This story shows us how two beautiful but very damaged people help one another find the will to crawl their way out of hell and, in the process, find love where they’d never expect it.
The storyline is well-written, although it could have used another once-over from a proofreader. The characters are endearing, vulnerable, and so deserving of love and happiness. The supporting characters (towards the end of the book) made me wish we could have met them sooner. My only gripe is that the ending felt rushed. Maybe in the next book of this series, we can get a glimpse of what Jesse and Ryker’s future looks like. In any case, Halfway to Someday gets five stars from me. I’ve no doubt that author Layla Dorine put her heart and soul into this book.
February 11, 2020
I thought this was a touching and emotional story that is really about healing and finding self worth. It’s not an easy read, it deals with a lot of very serious issues and could be very triggering for some. For me, this book really made me feel! My heart hurt for both Ryker and Jesse and the things that they have gone through. I also felt hope though, especially for Jesse and he learns to trust Ryker and believe in himself.
Jesse is a famous rockstar who is struggling with a painful secret and has reached the end of his rope. His band thinks he’s using drugs and won’t actually listen to him, so he does what he has to and runs. He heads to his band mate Kyle’s cabin, hoping to be alone and safe, escaping the band and his horribly abusive ‘boyfriend.’ He certainly doesn’t expect to meet Ryker, Kyle’s cousin who is also seeking some time alone to recover from injuries he sustained in the military.
Ryker and Jesse don’t immediately hit it off, but the two men eventually find a tentative friendship. Ryker is very protective of Jesse and quickly discovers Jesse’s self harm issues and wants to help him. He listens to Jesse and slowly Jesse begins to open up to him. Together these two broken men start to share and understand that maybe solitude isn’t what they really need.
A lot of this book is dealing with their issues, working through things together and trying to rebuild. It’s clear that there is love between these two, but that’s not really the major focus. I really loved Ryker and his commitment to Jesse, not just in a romantic way, but just in him. He shows him that he has value and worth. I absolutely adored the way this book came together, through all the darkness and the struggle it really did make my heart happy. This was a powerful and sometimes painful read but I’m definitely glad I read this book!
Jesse is a famous rockstar who is struggling with a painful secret and has reached the end of his rope. His band thinks he’s using drugs and won’t actually listen to him, so he does what he has to and runs. He heads to his band mate Kyle’s cabin, hoping to be alone and safe, escaping the band and his horribly abusive ‘boyfriend.’ He certainly doesn’t expect to meet Ryker, Kyle’s cousin who is also seeking some time alone to recover from injuries he sustained in the military.
Ryker and Jesse don’t immediately hit it off, but the two men eventually find a tentative friendship. Ryker is very protective of Jesse and quickly discovers Jesse’s self harm issues and wants to help him. He listens to Jesse and slowly Jesse begins to open up to him. Together these two broken men start to share and understand that maybe solitude isn’t what they really need.
A lot of this book is dealing with their issues, working through things together and trying to rebuild. It’s clear that there is love between these two, but that’s not really the major focus. I really loved Ryker and his commitment to Jesse, not just in a romantic way, but just in him. He shows him that he has value and worth. I absolutely adored the way this book came together, through all the darkness and the struggle it really did make my heart happy. This was a powerful and sometimes painful read but I’m definitely glad I read this book!
January 27, 2020
Wow, wow, wow! Holy hell, did this book pack an emotional punch.
Jesse is on the run from his past and reality so he's holed up at his best friend and bandmate's Kyle's cabin.
He certainly wasn't expecting Kyle's cousin Ryker to show up out of the blue.
The dangerous snowstorm means they're stuck with one another.
Jesse is trying to make some semblance of his life because it's falling apart and he's on the precipice of a very dangerous cliff.
He's had a very sheltered upbringing and it lead to him being very vulnerable to exploitation.
His bandmates absolutely made the situation worse by not allowing him to tell them what was going on.
When he tried to seek help from them, they had already formed their own opinions and wouldn't let him get a word in edgewise.
I especially wanted to wring Kyle's neck for his behavior and attitude towards Jesse.
Ryker is back stateside after a stint in the military and dealing with injuries that have left him fighting his own demons.
These men were portrayed as such wounded souls and there was such a raw, gritty quality to them.
It was absolutely breathtaking to see the care and patience that Ryker had towards Jesse.
I loved how he was able to help him gain his independence and self confidence.
Jesse in turn was able to help Ryker see past his injuries and not see them as limitations.
There is an element of danger which escalates but is ultimately resolved.
They had very good chemistry and there was plenty of humor and well nature banter between them but this book wasn't about sexual exploits, it was about redeeming power of love.
Jesse is on the run from his past and reality so he's holed up at his best friend and bandmate's Kyle's cabin.
He certainly wasn't expecting Kyle's cousin Ryker to show up out of the blue.
The dangerous snowstorm means they're stuck with one another.
Jesse is trying to make some semblance of his life because it's falling apart and he's on the precipice of a very dangerous cliff.
He's had a very sheltered upbringing and it lead to him being very vulnerable to exploitation.
His bandmates absolutely made the situation worse by not allowing him to tell them what was going on.
When he tried to seek help from them, they had already formed their own opinions and wouldn't let him get a word in edgewise.
I especially wanted to wring Kyle's neck for his behavior and attitude towards Jesse.
Ryker is back stateside after a stint in the military and dealing with injuries that have left him fighting his own demons.
These men were portrayed as such wounded souls and there was such a raw, gritty quality to them.
It was absolutely breathtaking to see the care and patience that Ryker had towards Jesse.
I loved how he was able to help him gain his independence and self confidence.
Jesse in turn was able to help Ryker see past his injuries and not see them as limitations.
There is an element of danger which escalates but is ultimately resolved.
They had very good chemistry and there was plenty of humor and well nature banter between them but this book wasn't about sexual exploits, it was about redeeming power of love.
April 16, 2023
Had all the feels!
Jesse is a musician in a band who was also in an abusive relationship with his controlling boyfriend Troy. It got to a point where he couldn’t take it anymore and after spiralling out of control managed to has escape after a concert and goes to his best friends cabin in the mountains to hideaway and find himself or perhaps lose himself. Trigger warnings for suicidal thoughts and abusive partner.
Reiker had been in the military for 8 years and was injured after an explosion, he has ptsd and goes to his cousin’s cabin in the mountains to lose himself.
At first the two different men clash but then after a series of events they find themselves supporting each other and Jesse opens up to Reiker who is the first person who believes in him.
Nothing is ever easy but they are there to talk to through and be there for each other. It’s a beautiful story of friendships lost and found, abuse and love, hopes and fears and learning how to fight for what you want.
I laughed, I cried and cheered for both of them the whole time. I look forward to more in this series.
Jesse is a musician in a band who was also in an abusive relationship with his controlling boyfriend Troy. It got to a point where he couldn’t take it anymore and after spiralling out of control managed to has escape after a concert and goes to his best friends cabin in the mountains to hideaway and find himself or perhaps lose himself. Trigger warnings for suicidal thoughts and abusive partner.
Reiker had been in the military for 8 years and was injured after an explosion, he has ptsd and goes to his cousin’s cabin in the mountains to lose himself.
At first the two different men clash but then after a series of events they find themselves supporting each other and Jesse opens up to Reiker who is the first person who believes in him.
Nothing is ever easy but they are there to talk to through and be there for each other. It’s a beautiful story of friendships lost and found, abuse and love, hopes and fears and learning how to fight for what you want.
I laughed, I cried and cheered for both of them the whole time. I look forward to more in this series.
February 4, 2020
Great read
This is the first time I have read this author but it definitely won't be the last. This story was so gripping and a real page turner. The characters are so well written that you can almost feel their feeling.
Jesse can't decide where it all went wrong but he's here in a cabin watching the snow fall and having time to himself. When his peace is shattered by Kyle's cousin he wants to run. However he stays and finds out that being alone is not always what you need.
Ryker needs time and when Kyle offers him the use of his cabin Ryker jumps at the chance. When he gets there he finds Jesse who maybe needs him as much as he needs to be alone.
They discover that they are good for each other and leaning on each other is what they both need.
There are twists and turns in this book that make it a great read. I can't wait to see what come next.
This is the first time I have read this author but it definitely won't be the last. This story was so gripping and a real page turner. The characters are so well written that you can almost feel their feeling.
Jesse can't decide where it all went wrong but he's here in a cabin watching the snow fall and having time to himself. When his peace is shattered by Kyle's cousin he wants to run. However he stays and finds out that being alone is not always what you need.
Ryker needs time and when Kyle offers him the use of his cabin Ryker jumps at the chance. When he gets there he finds Jesse who maybe needs him as much as he needs to be alone.
They discover that they are good for each other and leaning on each other is what they both need.
There are twists and turns in this book that make it a great read. I can't wait to see what come next.
February 24, 2020
My first ever read of Layla and Oh WOW! Jesse is a Rock Star, but not the typical lead singer. He doesn't drink or do drugs, maybe a blunt in legal States. So when his band mates accused him of being high or drunk and ruining their last show, Jesse was destroyed. He couldn't tell them the real reason, so he ran! Hi best friend Kyle lent him his cabin so he could get away. Oh yeah but Kyle forgot to tell him, his cousin Ryker was coming up as well, so when Ryker showed up he wasn't happy and he was terrified! And he couldn't leave, because of the blizzard. These two had issues Kyker's due to the war mental and physical. Jesse's were due to a damaging relationship. As these two work on both of their issues, alone and together, they work towards a someday I loved the give and take between the two. Definitely recommend it!
September 6, 2024
THIS IS BEAUTIFUL
What a BEAUTIFUL complicated story. So many contrasts on how quickly so many relationships can get out of hand. LAYLA DORINE took how not being able to express yourself to how misconception can destroy reality. Jesse is a talented songwriter and musician. Being taught from an early age to go along with the wishes of others. Meeting Ryker was a shock that definitely saved his life. Ryker fresh from the Military, discharged for battle injuries was adrift. Being snowbound in a cabin together saved his sanity. These men had a missing piece of the other. Ryker with being able to recognize the signs Jesse kept hidden. Jesse with the compassion Ryker needed through song. This Book was MAGNIFICENTLY written and Beautifully put together. I HIGHLY, HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK!!!!!!!!!!
What a BEAUTIFUL complicated story. So many contrasts on how quickly so many relationships can get out of hand. LAYLA DORINE took how not being able to express yourself to how misconception can destroy reality. Jesse is a talented songwriter and musician. Being taught from an early age to go along with the wishes of others. Meeting Ryker was a shock that definitely saved his life. Ryker fresh from the Military, discharged for battle injuries was adrift. Being snowbound in a cabin together saved his sanity. These men had a missing piece of the other. Ryker with being able to recognize the signs Jesse kept hidden. Jesse with the compassion Ryker needed through song. This Book was MAGNIFICENTLY written and Beautifully put together. I HIGHLY, HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK!!!!!!!!!!
January 28, 2020
This is the first book I've read from this author and it certainly won't be the last. I love her writing style and the trope is my favorite. Two strangers with PTSD (though each from different reasons) stranded together in a snowed up cabin, shadow of a stalker hanging over their heads... What could possibly go right? This is an angsty and extremely slow burn MM romance. Although the pace is slow it kept my attention from the beginning to the end. What shawed one star off was the fact that Ryker feels to good to be true and Jesse way to naive for a rock star. Just didn't come across as believable. All my reservations aside I'm looking forward to the next book in this series. I'm hoping for Keegan's story.
October 8, 2021
3.5 stars. This story had all the ingredients to be really good but I just didn't think it was put together to my liking. Both MC's were disabled: Jesse was the singer for a famous rock band (Wild Child). However, he was having serious problems in his personal life and it was affecting his performances and his life. Ryker was a returning vet, plagued by PTSD and survivor's guilt. Together they were quite an unhealthful pair. They each, in their own way, helped each other deal with their demons. They talked each other down numerous times and while it was heartwarming, it went on quite a while.
Then, when the story started to get really interesting with Jesse finally confronting his problem head on (and the M/M romance finally hitting the sheets), the story was all over in just a few pages. Quite a let down. I don't know if there is a Wild Child #2) but I'll check it out.
Then, when the story started to get really interesting with Jesse finally confronting his problem head on (and the M/M romance finally hitting the sheets), the story was all over in just a few pages. Quite a let down. I don't know if there is a Wild Child #2) but I'll check it out.
January 30, 2020
Jesse and Ryker, rocker and soldier. Different as night and day. Ryker has his nightmares and memories of war. Jesse has his memories and the nightmares of abuse. Jesse and Ryker, so very similar in their pain.
This was an extremely slow burn. Both men trapped in their past and looking for a way out was nicely written. I liked the book but it was slow in places. Jesse’s bandmate Kyle was not at all likable. He was forgiven way to easy. Overall I enjoyed the story.
This book was provided by the author via IndiGo Marketing & Design in exchange for an honest review. Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
This was an extremely slow burn. Both men trapped in their past and looking for a way out was nicely written. I liked the book but it was slow in places. Jesse’s bandmate Kyle was not at all likable. He was forgiven way to easy. Overall I enjoyed the story.
This book was provided by the author via IndiGo Marketing & Design in exchange for an honest review. Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
April 19, 2025
Dreamy and steamy!!!😍😍😍
Jesse and Ryker burn up the pages in this sexy and suspenseful tale!😘 I thoroughly enjoyed getting snowed in! Trying to survive a dangerous situation, Jesse, runs to a secluded cabin in Colorado. Feeling lost, afraid and completely alone he feels like he's drowning. Fresh from hell, Ryker, needs peace and quiet...or so he thinks. Winding up trapped together in the same space proves to be difficult for both of these complicated men. This is a deliciously suspenseful tale will keep you turning the pages late into the night! 😏 Vivid MC's and a slow burn work together to blow your mind. So good!!!😚
Jesse and Ryker burn up the pages in this sexy and suspenseful tale!😘 I thoroughly enjoyed getting snowed in! Trying to survive a dangerous situation, Jesse, runs to a secluded cabin in Colorado. Feeling lost, afraid and completely alone he feels like he's drowning. Fresh from hell, Ryker, needs peace and quiet...or so he thinks. Winding up trapped together in the same space proves to be difficult for both of these complicated men. This is a deliciously suspenseful tale will keep you turning the pages late into the night! 😏 Vivid MC's and a slow burn work together to blow your mind. So good!!!😚
February 18, 2020
A slow-burn romance between two wounded souls with plenty of trigger warnings and an author who isn’t afraid to delve into them. Stuck together in a cabin, the two men have to learn how to deal with each other, their issues, and their attraction. Ryker was my favorite—loved his patience with Jesse. There is a character who was abused, suicidal thoughts, PTSD, so if those trigger you, I would stay away, but if you enjoy emotional stories about wounded men helping each other heal, then I’d highly recommend.
Copy provided by Netgalley—the thoughts are my own.
Copy provided by Netgalley—the thoughts are my own.
April 11, 2024
A completely different story that what I thought.
When I started to read this story, I wasn't prepared for it. It felt as though, I was reading a case ton a psychology book. As I got into the book, it started to really draw me into it. I didn't want to put it down. What happened to Jesse, happens everyday to someone and all it takes, is for that person to talk and the friend or whoever, to listen to what is being said and not judged. And what happened to Ryker happened to our vets. PTSD is real.
When I started to read this story, I wasn't prepared for it. It felt as though, I was reading a case ton a psychology book. As I got into the book, it started to really draw me into it. I didn't want to put it down. What happened to Jesse, happens everyday to someone and all it takes, is for that person to talk and the friend or whoever, to listen to what is being said and not judged. And what happened to Ryker happened to our vets. PTSD is real.
January 18, 2020
I can always count on this author for a deeply satisfying story and Halfway to Someday was no exception. Jesse and Ryker were very well-written characters, both hurting and feeling lost, and their story was an emotional one that I found hard to put down. Everyone who has those dark days thinks 'someday I'll be happy' or 'someday I'll be whole again' and together Jesse and Ryker find that their someday is closer than they think.
*I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book*
*I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book*
November 17, 2025
Good book, the emotions were there, great character development. I loved how they were there for each other (once they finally got out of their own way). I’m not a fan of the other characters in this book but I’m glad they had each other. If you are looking for story this is the book. If you are looking for spice you won’t find that here.
Need to knows
Dual pov
Relationship before
Om drama
No ow
No cheating or sharing
Need to knows
Dual pov
Relationship before
Om drama
No ow
No cheating or sharing
June 12, 2022
I think this is one of the best M/M romances I’ve ever read. Slow burn, hurt/comfort and a so so much love between Jesse and Ryker. You could feel it rolling off the pages in waves. Well done, and it’s definitely going to be a re-read.
January 20, 2020
Layla Dorine hit this book out of the park. I've read a lot of her books and by far this is her best one yet!
January 31, 2020
4.25 stars
February 9, 2020
This is a great story about overcoming one's demons and finding happiness. It did lag in some parts, but it was a great roller coaster ride and one I hated to see end.
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