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Prime Time #2
Breaking News
Breaking News is the continuation of Xander and Sean’s story and should only be read after book one, Inside Affair.
Xander
Sean Bailey, the older brother of my lifelong best friend, has always been a surly, temperamental pain in my ass. But sometime during the last few weeks, I’ve gone and fallen head over heels for him.
Gruff and charming, charismatic in his own way, I’ve found myself looking past my preconceptions and discovered a whole new side to Detective Dick—a side I could fall in love with.
But life isn’t always easy—it can change course in the blink of an eye. Sometimes for the good and sometimes for the bad. I know this because last night I experienced both sides.
I went to Sean for help in guarding my body; what I didn’t expect was for him to steal my heart.
Xander
Sean Bailey, the older brother of my lifelong best friend, has always been a surly, temperamental pain in my ass. But sometime during the last few weeks, I’ve gone and fallen head over heels for him.
Gruff and charming, charismatic in his own way, I’ve found myself looking past my preconceptions and discovered a whole new side to Detective Dick—a side I could fall in love with.
But life isn’t always easy—it can change course in the blink of an eye. Sometimes for the good and sometimes for the bad. I know this because last night I experienced both sides.
I went to Sean for help in guarding my body; what I didn’t expect was for him to steal my heart.
207 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 27, 2020
622 people are currently reading
1227 people want to read
About the author
Ella Frank
94 books8,800 followersElla Frank is the USA Today Bestselling Author of the Temptation series, including Try, Take, and Trust and is the co-author of the fan-favorite Preslocke series. Her Prime Time series has been praised as “highly entertaining!” and “sexy as hell!”
A life-long fan of the romance genre, Ella writes contemporary and erotic fiction. Some of her favorite authors include Tiffany Reisz, Kresley Cole, Riley Hart, J.R. Ward, Erika Wilde, Gena Showalter, and Carly Philips.Ella is represented by:
Kimberly Brower
Brower Literary & Management
kimberly@browerliterary.com
A life-long fan of the romance genre, Ella writes contemporary and erotic fiction. Some of her favorite authors include Tiffany Reisz, Kresley Cole, Riley Hart, J.R. Ward, Erika Wilde, Gena Showalter, and Carly Philips.Ella is represented by:
Kimberly Brower
Brower Literary & Management
kimberly@browerliterary.com
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July 23, 2020
Breaking News is book two in the Prime Time series by Ella Frank. Do you know that feeling when a book is so good, that you love the two MC’s so much, that when you take in a breath, it sounds kind of shaky, like you are just on emotional overload?! Well, that is me right now. This book is a continuation of Sean and Xander’s story. It takes up directly where the previous book, Inside Affair, left off. You need to read this series in order.
“It was amazing that in all these years, I’d never realized that the person who would change me for the better had been right in front of me all along.”
Xander went to Sean in the previous book for help. He needed protection, a body guard, from a stalker. Xander was open about his sexual orientation. But Sean was straight. Sean is the older brother of Xander’s best friend and is a detective for the Chicago PD. They’ve known each other most of their lives. But during the long days, and nights together, they realized they really didn’t know each other at all. Sean might have never been attracted to a man before but he was with Xander. But it was so much more than just attraction, for the both of them. They fell for each other. If you read the first book, though, then you know that they almost lost everything.
“Alexander Thorne was a beautiful man, and by some miracle of fate, he wanted to be mine.”
Now, Sean and Xander are moving forward, trying to heal, both physically for Sean, and mentally, for Xander. The horrible circumstances they endured did not put distance between their fledgling relationship, though. Just the opposite, it brought them closer. Xander cared for Sean physically, and Sean tried to help Xander mentally. Each day that passed, they grew closer. Attraction grew to a bond which was quickly growing to be more. It was quickly growing into love.
“So this was what it felt like to be content. This was what it felt like to be safe. I trusted Sean with every single part of me, and that now included my heart.”
Yes, I just sighed while typing this. I don’t know how Ella Frank does it with her words. I haven’t read that many of her books yet, maybe four? But every one has left a lasting impression on me. Her characters stick with me, just as Xander and Sean do. The final book in this series will be called Headlines. I need it sooner rather than later. I need to see how these two’s story ends. I hope you’ll be right there with me with all the sighs and swoons, falling in love with Sean and Xander.
“I knew I was exactly where I was supposed to be.”
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
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July 27, 2020
This is the second book in the Prime Time series, after the previous one left us with quite a cliffy... boy do I hate cliffies!!! Which sucks for me because we get another one with this book :P
Anyhows... this one picks up right where book one ended...
Xander and Sean are falling deeper and deeper into the rabbit hole of love... but there is a bit of a dark cloud hovering above them because of Xander's stalker situation and the aftermath of what happened in the first book.
No worries though... these guys are all kinds of cute together. I loved seeing them "healing" together, while their love for one another grew. I really have a weak spot for detective "Dick" :P
Can't wait to get my hands on the next book, even though I hate cliffies... I will gladly deal when it comes to Ella Frank ;)
An ARC was provided to
in exchange for an honest review
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January 17, 2021
Audiobook - 3stars
Story - 2 stars
Eeeeh..😏 I think I have reached my limit with this series.😣 I will do myself a favour and stop here. 😬
Story - 2 stars
Eeeeh..😏 I think I have reached my limit with this series.😣 I will do myself a favour and stop here. 😬
July 28, 2020
I just can't with this series. *sigh*
Honestly, I didn't love book 1 but at least there we had the element of the build-up to them "getting together". There is absolutely no need for this series to be 3 books. This book was under 3,000 locations. And it could've been way less.
Most of the time in an Ella Frank book, I will at least have some kind of connection with the MCs. I'll enjoy their chemistry, etc. For whatever reason, that's just not the case with Xander and Sean.
I pretty much skimmed this whole book. I couldn't even be bothered to read the sex scenes. I just didn't feel any connection to these two. I found some of the dialogue cheesy. And the ending for this one....because Ella Frank always has to have a cliffy #eyeroll.....ridiculous. Completely OTT.
Calling it quits on this series for sure. And maybe Ella Frank.
Honestly, I didn't love book 1 but at least there we had the element of the build-up to them "getting together". There is absolutely no need for this series to be 3 books. This book was under 3,000 locations. And it could've been way less.
Most of the time in an Ella Frank book, I will at least have some kind of connection with the MCs. I'll enjoy their chemistry, etc. For whatever reason, that's just not the case with Xander and Sean.
I pretty much skimmed this whole book. I couldn't even be bothered to read the sex scenes. I just didn't feel any connection to these two. I found some of the dialogue cheesy. And the ending for this one....because Ella Frank always has to have a cliffy #eyeroll.....ridiculous. Completely OTT.
Calling it quits on this series for sure. And maybe Ella Frank.
July 31, 2020
“Thank you for showing me the real you. I had no idea what I was missing.”
“And what was that?”
“Someone truly magnificent.”
Overall, I liked it but I think nothing really important happened. There wasn't much of a plot in this one other than Xander and Sean's relationship development.
Don't get me wrong, I did enjoy reading them as a couple and devoured it in a single sitting but there really should've been something other than the romance. Like in the first book, we got the whole stalker mystery to go along with the romance.
It felt like this was recovering from the first book's ending and just setting up the plot for the next book.
And a cliffhanger is supposed to shock you, right ? I predicted that ending while I was half-way in.
I feel like their story could've concluded in a single book and not be dragged across three books.
But I'm still kinda excited to read the last book after that ending and see how their story wraps up because I do love the characters.
“Alexander Thorne was a beautiful man, and by some miracle of fate, he wanted to be mine.”
“And what was that?”
“Someone truly magnificent.”
Overall, I liked it but I think nothing really important happened. There wasn't much of a plot in this one other than Xander and Sean's relationship development.
Don't get me wrong, I did enjoy reading them as a couple and devoured it in a single sitting but there really should've been something other than the romance. Like in the first book, we got the whole stalker mystery to go along with the romance.
It felt like this was recovering from the first book's ending and just setting up the plot for the next book.
And a cliffhanger is supposed to shock you, right ? I predicted that ending while I was half-way in.
I feel like their story could've concluded in a single book and not be dragged across three books.
But I'm still kinda excited to read the last book after that ending and see how their story wraps up because I do love the characters.
“Alexander Thorne was a beautiful man, and by some miracle of fate, he wanted to be mine.”
August 8, 2021
Re-read: 08.08.2021
Just like the first time around reading this book I still wish more had happened. It was cute sure, but not much more. Overall, it was still enjoyable enough but it's far from good; it's more a strong okay.
First read review:
Book two in the series picks up right after book one ended. Detective Sean Bailey (38) is at the hospital after saying Alexander Thorne (a year younger than Sean), the news anchor, from his stalker in book one. After getting out, the plot is mostly about healing from the wound and the trauma they have experienced. Overall, not much happened in the book, expect at the very end, but the characters grew closer emotionally and physically. That said, it wasn't as good as book one as it has lost a bit of its spark, but it was still cute and adorable, but predictable. Like I wasn't surprised at the ending, that's for sure.
Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (Adult) Contemporary Romance (M/M).
Series: - Series, Book Two.
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Favorite character? - Sean Bailey.
Would I read more by this author/or of series? - Sure.
Would I recommend this book/series? - Yes, I do actually.
Will I read this again in the future? - Who knows.
Rating - 3 stars.
Just like the first time around reading this book I still wish more had happened. It was cute sure, but not much more. Overall, it was still enjoyable enough but it's far from good; it's more a strong okay.
⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱*Not Bad But... Wanted More*⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱
First read review:
Book two in the series picks up right after book one ended. Detective Sean Bailey (38) is at the hospital after saying Alexander Thorne (a year younger than Sean), the news anchor, from his stalker in book one. After getting out, the plot is mostly about healing from the wound and the trauma they have experienced. Overall, not much happened in the book, expect at the very end, but the characters grew closer emotionally and physically. That said, it wasn't as good as book one as it has lost a bit of its spark, but it was still cute and adorable, but predictable. Like I wasn't surprised at the ending, that's for sure.
Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (Adult) Contemporary Romance (M/M).
Series: - Series, Book Two.
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Favorite character? - Sean Bailey.
Would I read more by this author/or of series? - Sure.
Would I recommend this book/series? - Yes, I do actually.
Will I read this again in the future? - Who knows.
Rating - 3 stars.
July 30, 2020
3.5 stars
So I liked this one, but didn't love it and I just can't put my finger on why. Yes, it was cavity inducing sugary sweet, but I just didn't feel it. It probably has more to do with my mood than the book, so read other reviews before deciding.
I will most likely continue with the series to see how this all plays out because of course this one ends with a cliffy. Not as bad as book 1 though.
So I liked this one, but didn't love it and I just can't put my finger on why. Yes, it was cavity inducing sugary sweet, but I just didn't feel it. It probably has more to do with my mood than the book, so read other reviews before deciding.
I will most likely continue with the series to see how this all plays out because of course this one ends with a cliffy. Not as bad as book 1 though.
October 17, 2020
3.5 Stars
This second installment starts where Inside Affair stops.
It’s all about hurt comfort, physical and psychological healing, and the burgeoning feelings between Sean and Xander.
Of course, it was quite lovely watching these two undergo various epiphanies, and the lust and emotions further deepen. Sean and Xander’s evolving relationship and smexy exploration is overall smooth sailing, but this ends on a light cliffie with a disappointing contrived conflict that won’t last and really, won’t test their bond.
Regardless, despite that one niggle, this was very sweet and yummy when it solely focused on their intimate development, and I’m looking forward to the conclusion!
This second installment starts where Inside Affair stops.
It’s all about hurt comfort, physical and psychological healing, and the burgeoning feelings between Sean and Xander.
Of course, it was quite lovely watching these two undergo various epiphanies, and the lust and emotions further deepen. Sean and Xander’s evolving relationship and smexy exploration is overall smooth sailing, but this ends on a light cliffie with a disappointing contrived conflict that won’t last and really, won’t test their bond.
Regardless, despite that one niggle, this was very sweet and yummy when it solely focused on their intimate development, and I’m looking forward to the conclusion!
August 4, 2020
Ella Frank is the Queen of edging and, even knowing this would end with a cliffhanger, I still couldn't wait to get my grubby mitts on it.
Without giving anything away, things pick up pretty much where they left off in book one.
Tensions are high throughout as information is revealed about Xander's stalker and he has to come to terms with what happened.
What I love best about this series is how Ella makes everything seem utterly natural.
It feels completely believable that a sophisticated news anchor could start to see his best friend's older brother in new light, and vice versa.
There are some really beautiful moments in this instalment which had me sighing wistfully and some really honest conversations that had my heart pounding.
That I'm not rushing to grab Ella and make her tell me everything will be okay is more a logistical issue as there's an ocean between us than a lack of "need to know" desire 😉
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
Without giving anything away, things pick up pretty much where they left off in book one.
Tensions are high throughout as information is revealed about Xander's stalker and he has to come to terms with what happened.
What I love best about this series is how Ella makes everything seem utterly natural.
It feels completely believable that a sophisticated news anchor could start to see his best friend's older brother in new light, and vice versa.
There are some really beautiful moments in this instalment which had me sighing wistfully and some really honest conversations that had my heart pounding.
That I'm not rushing to grab Ella and make her tell me everything will be okay is more a logistical issue as there's an ocean between us than a lack of "need to know" desire 😉
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
August 8, 2020
4 Stars
After that manipulative bitch of a cliffhanger in book one (Inside Affair), I couldn’t NOT one-click this sequel on release day. Well played, Ella Frank, well played.
For two guys who have known one another their entire lives but have never been overly friendly, the whole bodyguard/protectee situation Sean and Xander found themselves in (in book one) (un)surprisingly brought them a hell of a lot closer, both emotionally and physically.
Picking up exactly where the last book left off, Sean and Xander are now dealing in the aftermath of a life-threatening situation (caused by Xander’s crazy stalker), leading to lots of emotional trauma and plenty of hurt-comfort feelings for both men to sort through.
Their sequel continues to build on those evolving, now undeniable feelings of want and lust, with until-recently-straight Sean fully embracing his increasing attraction to Xander with ease and eagerness.
I liked that Sean accepted his bi-awakening with grace and maturity, and I appreciated that Xander was the level-headed one who forced the issue to not rush into things, instead placing due consideration on all the potential consequences, particularly those relating to Bailey’s possibly negative reaction (Sean’s brother and Xander’s best friend/ex-boyfriend).
This story, plot-wise, was quite sedate, showcasing a sort-of day-in-the-life-type narrative. This isn’t uncommon for a Frank story, and quite frankly, it’s right in my wheelhouse of romance enjoyment. I was very content to just read about these two getting to know one another on a deeper level, slowly building up to more intense physical intimacy and expressions of love, without any unnecessary action and drama being used to clog up the story.
Frank does bi-for-you very well, in my opinion, making it easy for me to emotionally connect with the characters and their passionate, sexually charged feelings connection. It helped that I really liked both Sean and Xander as individuals, enjoying their backstories and their borderline enemies-to-lovers chemistry.
Watching these two grow closer, in all ways that count, has been a highly enjoyable reading experience, and although this had another of those pesky cliffhanger endings, I still won’t be hesitating to read the final book in their trilogy the moment I can!
After that manipulative bitch of a cliffhanger in book one (Inside Affair), I couldn’t NOT one-click this sequel on release day. Well played, Ella Frank, well played.
For two guys who have known one another their entire lives but have never been overly friendly, the whole bodyguard/protectee situation Sean and Xander found themselves in (in book one) (un)surprisingly brought them a hell of a lot closer, both emotionally and physically.
Picking up exactly where the last book left off, Sean and Xander are now dealing in the aftermath of a life-threatening situation (caused by Xander’s crazy stalker), leading to lots of emotional trauma and plenty of hurt-comfort feelings for both men to sort through.
Their sequel continues to build on those evolving, now undeniable feelings of want and lust, with until-recently-straight Sean fully embracing his increasing attraction to Xander with ease and eagerness.
I liked that Sean accepted his bi-awakening with grace and maturity, and I appreciated that Xander was the level-headed one who forced the issue to not rush into things, instead placing due consideration on all the potential consequences, particularly those relating to Bailey’s possibly negative reaction (Sean’s brother and Xander’s best friend/ex-boyfriend).
This story, plot-wise, was quite sedate, showcasing a sort-of day-in-the-life-type narrative. This isn’t uncommon for a Frank story, and quite frankly, it’s right in my wheelhouse of romance enjoyment. I was very content to just read about these two getting to know one another on a deeper level, slowly building up to more intense physical intimacy and expressions of love, without any unnecessary action and drama being used to clog up the story.
Frank does bi-for-you very well, in my opinion, making it easy for me to emotionally connect with the characters and their passionate, sexually charged feelings connection. It helped that I really liked both Sean and Xander as individuals, enjoying their backstories and their borderline enemies-to-lovers chemistry.
Watching these two grow closer, in all ways that count, has been a highly enjoyable reading experience, and although this had another of those pesky cliffhanger endings, I still won’t be hesitating to read the final book in their trilogy the moment I can!
August 3, 2020
I know one thing: Breaking News is so much better than the first one. Well I mean based on my personal enjoyment. I started earlier this afternoon and I couldn’t stop my hands from turning the pages until I finished it.
Romance between Xander and Sean is the only thing I cared about in this story. Finally a good romance! Coming from the first novel, their romance now is well earned. It feels domestic. It feels homey. I love the sexual tension and of course, the sex. Let’s be real. However, on a critical point of view, I don’t see the point of this book. Plotwise other than the romance, nothing really happened. And the book has the audacity to end with another cliffhanger. The ending feels like more of a gateway to the next one. Even though I highly enjoyed the romance between the main characters, three books pertaining to their love story is just a drag. Like, wrap it up already!
Romance between Xander and Sean is the only thing I cared about in this story. Finally a good romance! Coming from the first novel, their romance now is well earned. It feels domestic. It feels homey. I love the sexual tension and of course, the sex. Let’s be real. However, on a critical point of view, I don’t see the point of this book. Plotwise other than the romance, nothing really happened. And the book has the audacity to end with another cliffhanger. The ending feels like more of a gateway to the next one. Even though I highly enjoyed the romance between the main characters, three books pertaining to their love story is just a drag. Like, wrap it up already!
October 31, 2020
Same review on all 3 books in Prime Time series because I don’t feel like writing separate ones. No spoilers, promise.
This is one of those series’ that’s middle of the road, but addictive nonetheless. A quick sum up of what you can expect:
• A slow burn enemies to lovers/protector romance
• Two very lovely men
• Lots of romance...
• ...and eventually sexy times
• A stalker
• Bit of family drama
• Bit of newsroom drama
• A huge penthouse overlooking Lake Michigan with a revolving floor (it exists, I googled and WOW)
• More sexy times
• Hand holding. So much hand holding...
• ...and touching cheeks. Facial and derrière.
Not sure this needed to be stretched out as a trilogy and the stalker aspect was underplayed for me, but overall seriously easy-read romance, I enjoyed Xander and Sean together and motored through all three in as many days. Not standalones.
Inside Affair ~ 3.5 stars
Breaking News ~ 3.5 stars
Headlines ~ 4 stars
This is one of those series’ that’s middle of the road, but addictive nonetheless. A quick sum up of what you can expect:
• A slow burn enemies to lovers/protector romance
• Two very lovely men
• Lots of romance...
• ...and eventually sexy times
• A stalker
• Bit of family drama
• Bit of newsroom drama
• A huge penthouse overlooking Lake Michigan with a revolving floor (it exists, I googled and WOW)
• More sexy times
• Hand holding. So much hand holding...
• ...and touching cheeks. Facial and derrière.
Not sure this needed to be stretched out as a trilogy and the stalker aspect was underplayed for me, but overall seriously easy-read romance, I enjoyed Xander and Sean together and motored through all three in as many days. Not standalones.
Inside Affair ~ 3.5 stars
Breaking News ~ 3.5 stars
Headlines ~ 4 stars
June 22, 2022
Sean bailey is a damn angel and deserves to be protected AT ALL COSTS.
July 27, 2020
Xander and Sean #2
PLEASE READ BOOK #1 BEFORE READING THIS SECOND BOOK & THIS REVIEW!!!! Book #1 ended in a cliffy!
Book #2 starts right where we left our darlings the last time. In a very exciting and cliffy situation.
But it's all good - more or less.☺
Xander moves in with Sean for a bit until he's back on his feet. #NurseXander ☺
And they can finally find out what this is between them.
And what will their friends and family say?
LET THE FUN TIMES BEGIN ... ☺
Great 2nd book!
I really enjoyed reading this! It was funny, sparky, sweet, adorable, sexy.
I still would've preferred to only get one book - I don't like trilogies all that much - and I hate waiting. And other than a few sexy and adorable moments, there wasn't much happening in this 2nd book. And there's not even a real cliffy. One book instead of three would've been so much better.
BUT - I still really loved reading this 2nd book - can't wait to see how their story will end in book #3!
💜
💜
September 8, 2021
This continues Sean and Xander's relationship after that cliffhanger.
After what happened to them both physically and mentally, Sean takes Xander away to his little shack while there Sean finally gets his man.
This story will be conclude as always in book 3 in this series.
After what happened to them both physically and mentally, Sean takes Xander away to his little shack while there Sean finally gets his man.
This story will be conclude as always in book 3 in this series.
July 28, 2020
I loved this second installment in this wonderful series.
Of course, as what usually happens with Ella Frank series books, this one picks up right where the last one left off.
Of course Sean turns out to be okay, but Xander...is a bit of a wreck. As we see throughout this second installment, Xander has understandably been greatly affected by not only having a stalker and having him attack him, but Sean being stabbed and close to dying as well.
And later on, after Xander learns just how far his stalker went, and might have gone in the past, Xander's mental health gets even worse.
After two weeks, he tries to go back to work and it seems to go okay, but one loud noise of furniture falling is enough to give him a panic attack.
So, Sean, who has been recovering, asks Xander's boss to make him take the rest of the month off. Xander has already been staying with Sean once he got out of the hospital, not only to take care of him and because he cares about Sean, but also because he's afraid to go back to his own him. It's pretty heartbreaking.
But Sean is there for Xander. Sean gives something to Xander that Xander didn't even know he needed. And as they both are recovering, slowly but surely, physically and mentally in this, they grow even closer in this.
There's only one problem...they haven't told Bailey yet. Bailey, Sean's brother, and Xander's best friend and ex-boyfriend.
And of course, just as they plan to sit down and talk to Bailey about them, things...don't go quite according to plan, and we're left with a cliffhanger. Of *course* we gotta know what happens next and how things will be fixed and how these two will get to their HEA.
I'm excited for the third installment and can't wait for it. As for this one, I definitely recommend it and give it two big thumbs up. I'm loving this series so far!
Of course, as what usually happens with Ella Frank series books, this one picks up right where the last one left off.
Of course Sean turns out to be okay, but Xander...is a bit of a wreck. As we see throughout this second installment, Xander has understandably been greatly affected by not only having a stalker and having him attack him, but Sean being stabbed and close to dying as well.
And later on, after Xander learns just how far his stalker went, and might have gone in the past, Xander's mental health gets even worse.
After two weeks, he tries to go back to work and it seems to go okay, but one loud noise of furniture falling is enough to give him a panic attack.
So, Sean, who has been recovering, asks Xander's boss to make him take the rest of the month off. Xander has already been staying with Sean once he got out of the hospital, not only to take care of him and because he cares about Sean, but also because he's afraid to go back to his own him. It's pretty heartbreaking.
But Sean is there for Xander. Sean gives something to Xander that Xander didn't even know he needed. And as they both are recovering, slowly but surely, physically and mentally in this, they grow even closer in this.
There's only one problem...they haven't told Bailey yet. Bailey, Sean's brother, and Xander's best friend and ex-boyfriend.
And of course, just as they plan to sit down and talk to Bailey about them, things...don't go quite according to plan, and we're left with a cliffhanger. Of *course* we gotta know what happens next and how things will be fixed and how these two will get to their HEA.
I'm excited for the third installment and can't wait for it. As for this one, I definitely recommend it and give it two big thumbs up. I'm loving this series so far!
October 31, 2024
ETA: Yeah I really love this trilogy in audio. And, surprisingly, it just might also be my favorite thing I've listened to from Charlie David.
This book picks up where book 1 left off, and THANK GOODNESS I didn't have to wait the two months for this one! (the cliffhanger in book 1 was quite the doozy!)
Now that the stalker situation has been dealt with, Xander and Sean are able to really explore their feelings for each other. However, they also have to deal with Sean healing from an attack, and trying to figure out where to go from here.
I loved the hurt/comfort element to this one. Sean has to physically recover and Xander needs to mentally heal after the events that happened at the end of book two. And they really learn to depend on the other in the healing process, and I just loved them. These two have great chemistry together, and I just loved reading about them falling for each other.
Cannot wait for the third book to see how things are wrapped up! I'm so glad it will be out later this month.
This book picks up where book 1 left off, and THANK GOODNESS I didn't have to wait the two months for this one! (the cliffhanger in book 1 was quite the doozy!)
Now that the stalker situation has been dealt with, Xander and Sean are able to really explore their feelings for each other. However, they also have to deal with Sean healing from an attack, and trying to figure out where to go from here.
I loved the hurt/comfort element to this one. Sean has to physically recover and Xander needs to mentally heal after the events that happened at the end of book two. And they really learn to depend on the other in the healing process, and I just loved them. These two have great chemistry together, and I just loved reading about them falling for each other.
Cannot wait for the third book to see how things are wrapped up! I'm so glad it will be out later this month.
December 19, 2023
2.5/5
It was cute but sadly boring.
It was cute but sadly boring.
"God, how was it possible to miss something so bad when I’d only ever had it a couple of times in my life?"
"I just realized something. It’s not the place that makes somewhere special or comforting, but the people—or person—in it."
December 5, 2023
Nothing but filler. 😮💨
What was even the point of this book? I mean, as much as I loved Sean and Xander in book one, they completely bored me to tears in this one. Everything that happened in these 200 page book could have easily been condensed and added to book one. As usual, the story ends with an annoying cliffhanger involving Bailey acting completely unhinged when he discovers Sean and Xander kissing. It was so stupid that I just stared at my phone when the story ended, completely at a loss. Like, wtf was that?! 🙄 Anyway, on to book 3, I guess. 2 stars
Inside Affair 4 stars
Breaking News 2 stars
Headlines tbr
What was even the point of this book? I mean, as much as I loved Sean and Xander in book one, they completely bored me to tears in this one. Everything that happened in these 200 page book could have easily been condensed and added to book one. As usual, the story ends with an annoying cliffhanger involving Bailey acting completely unhinged when he discovers Sean and Xander kissing. It was so stupid that I just stared at my phone when the story ended, completely at a loss. Like, wtf was that?! 🙄 Anyway, on to book 3, I guess. 2 stars
Inside Affair 4 stars
Breaking News 2 stars
Headlines tbr
February 19, 2025
✰ 2.75 stars ✰
I know it's not Breaking News that I've expressed my extreme befuddlement at how Ella Frank's works cover merely a fraction of time; but it amazes me even more, that somehow or another, it still makes my heart go doki doki. 💓💓 It may be just a smidgen, but her works evoke -- love. It's quick, it's short-lived, fast-paced - maybe just a snippet into Sean and Xander's lives after the horrific and traumatic ordeal they faced at the television awards, but it's so easy to sink into. 'Classy, elegant, and sophisticated—he was everything I wasn’t, and yet somehow he was still here…with me.' 🥺 The progression of their romance carried the narrative enough for me to reach the end and confront an even more unsettling and disturbing confrontation that sets the final act for their messy and complicated romance.
And yeah, you may have the reader fooled, but not this one. I refuse to believe the stalker game is over and done with. Nope. Not gonna fall for it...
Or maybe I'm just grasping at straws! 😅
“God, how was it possible to miss something so bad when I’d only ever had it a couple of times in my life?”
As Sean recuperates, we get to see the many hints of how their love is evolving into something deeper, neither of them is ready to admit or embrace. It's subtle, but sincere - with their usual flair of banter, but also with this quiet hunger that needs to be fulfilled, for more of the sweetest, most soul-fulfilling kiss that drives them both wild. ❤️🔥💋 Reminiscing of even when their only shared connection was via Bailey, there is that lingering truth that they always had something special between them - something that is now threatening to overwhelm them if they don't have the chance to seize it. 🥺
“Death leaves a heartache no one can heal; love leaves a memory that no one can steal.”
Sean's wounds may be physical, but it is Xander's heart that needs to be soothed, to regain control over his life and not be fearful at every twist and turn. Sean is so attuned to his pain, so protective of his heartache, that he can tell how reluctant Xander is to show his weaker side, too determined to keep the stoic and poised face of the anchorman that charms the evening news with his grace and wit. 😥 It's only when Sean pulls Xander into his embrace and whispers that it's safe to let his walls down with him - 'everything feels so much better when you’re with me.' - does their love take a whole other direction they've yearned for too long. ❤️🩹❤️🩹
Xander was still hurting, still raw with guilt and shock and feeling responsible for Sean's pain - fearful of ever being able to be with Sean, when yet, there still was the fierce desire to share everything with him - 'my mind, my body, my spirit were all his. 🫠 It was Sean's willful determination in giving Xander the space to work out those fears, to shower him with affection and make him feel safe and whole in his arms, reminding him that it's okay to share his wounds with him, that he's here for him.
“My eyes fluttered shut and I gave myself over to the power of the moment—to the power of us.”
I did appreciate that this time around there was the sense of uncertainty and nervousness from Sean of knowing that he's now venturing into waters he is unaware of - 'the moment we both knew would change our relationship and future forever.' The slight vulnerability of uncertainty and the way Xander gently guided him for their first time was beautifully sentimental. 🥹💕 The soft power exchange between them, the reassurance of trust that was just shy of being too sappy - to heal and let go. It was lovely and did stir a little something in my heart. It's enough for me to forgive how nothing really happens in her writing, but just enough for me to care how their love story will conclude. ✨
“I’ll never forgive myself for not seeing you until now.”
“Just keep seeing me from now on, and I’ll forgive you.”
I know it's not Breaking News that I've expressed my extreme befuddlement at how Ella Frank's works cover merely a fraction of time; but it amazes me even more, that somehow or another, it still makes my heart go doki doki. 💓💓 It may be just a smidgen, but her works evoke -- love. It's quick, it's short-lived, fast-paced - maybe just a snippet into Sean and Xander's lives after the horrific and traumatic ordeal they faced at the television awards, but it's so easy to sink into. 'Classy, elegant, and sophisticated—he was everything I wasn’t, and yet somehow he was still here…with me.' 🥺 The progression of their romance carried the narrative enough for me to reach the end and confront an even more unsettling and disturbing confrontation that sets the final act for their messy and complicated romance.
And yeah, you may have the reader fooled, but not this one. I refuse to believe the stalker game is over and done with. Nope. Not gonna fall for it...
Or maybe I'm just grasping at straws! 😅
“God, how was it possible to miss something so bad when I’d only ever had it a couple of times in my life?”
As Sean recuperates, we get to see the many hints of how their love is evolving into something deeper, neither of them is ready to admit or embrace. It's subtle, but sincere - with their usual flair of banter, but also with this quiet hunger that needs to be fulfilled, for more of the sweetest, most soul-fulfilling kiss that drives them both wild. ❤️🔥💋 Reminiscing of even when their only shared connection was via Bailey, there is that lingering truth that they always had something special between them - something that is now threatening to overwhelm them if they don't have the chance to seize it. 🥺
“Death leaves a heartache no one can heal; love leaves a memory that no one can steal.”
Sean's wounds may be physical, but it is Xander's heart that needs to be soothed, to regain control over his life and not be fearful at every twist and turn. Sean is so attuned to his pain, so protective of his heartache, that he can tell how reluctant Xander is to show his weaker side, too determined to keep the stoic and poised face of the anchorman that charms the evening news with his grace and wit. 😥 It's only when Sean pulls Xander into his embrace and whispers that it's safe to let his walls down with him - 'everything feels so much better when you’re with me.' - does their love take a whole other direction they've yearned for too long. ❤️🩹❤️🩹
Xander was still hurting, still raw with guilt and shock and feeling responsible for Sean's pain - fearful of ever being able to be with Sean, when yet, there still was the fierce desire to share everything with him - 'my mind, my body, my spirit were all his. 🫠 It was Sean's willful determination in giving Xander the space to work out those fears, to shower him with affection and make him feel safe and whole in his arms, reminding him that it's okay to share his wounds with him, that he's here for him.
“My eyes fluttered shut and I gave myself over to the power of the moment—to the power of us.”
I did appreciate that this time around there was the sense of uncertainty and nervousness from Sean of knowing that he's now venturing into waters he is unaware of - 'the moment we both knew would change our relationship and future forever.' The slight vulnerability of uncertainty and the way Xander gently guided him for their first time was beautifully sentimental. 🥹💕 The soft power exchange between them, the reassurance of trust that was just shy of being too sappy - to heal and let go. It was lovely and did stir a little something in my heart. It's enough for me to forgive how nothing really happens in her writing, but just enough for me to care how their love story will conclude. ✨
September 19, 2020
*2.5 stars*
I just don't believe their relationship!! But even so, I'll read the final. And those f*** cliffhangers. I hate them.
#disappointed
September 10, 2021
Ugh, just not necessary. I wish their story had wrapped up in Inside Affair.
February 20, 2021
2.5 Stars!
There were barely any plots in this book it was just romance. I don't know why I couldn't connect with the characters or find myself to really care about them. Also that ending really didn't surprise me. It was way too obvious. And I'm guessing "cliffhanger endings" are Ella Frank's style? Really don't like them. Such a not good way to make the readers keep reading the series. I think that she could tell their story in one book. Three books weren't necessary at all!
There were barely any plots in this book it was just romance. I don't know why I couldn't connect with the characters or find myself to really care about them. Also that ending really didn't surprise me. It was way too obvious. And I'm guessing "cliffhanger endings" are Ella Frank's style? Really don't like them. Such a not good way to make the readers keep reading the series. I think that she could tell their story in one book. Three books weren't necessary at all!
July 28, 2020
ARC received for an honest review
We start up right where book 1, Inside Affair, end. And I hadn't realised how much I was looking forward to Breaking News until I opened up my Kindle and there it was.
I forgot how much my heart hurt at the end of book 1, and Ms Frank had me on the edge of my seat, reading as fast as I could to find out what was happening with Xander and Sean,
What adored about this story is, after the beginning when everything was happening, this was mostly an angst free. There were issues both of our lovelies were dealing with, which was to be expected with how book one ended, but for the most part, we were watching on as Xander and Sean's relationship blossom and grow Oh how I adore them, so, so much.
Just when the reader thinks things are going to go beautifully, Ms Frank throws a spanner in the work and leaves us hanging. Gah! Is it September yet? I need Headlines - STAT!
We start up right where book 1, Inside Affair, end. And I hadn't realised how much I was looking forward to Breaking News until I opened up my Kindle and there it was.
I forgot how much my heart hurt at the end of book 1, and Ms Frank had me on the edge of my seat, reading as fast as I could to find out what was happening with Xander and Sean,
What adored about this story is, after the beginning when everything was happening, this was mostly an angst free. There were issues both of our lovelies were dealing with, which was to be expected with how book one ended, but for the most part, we were watching on as Xander and Sean's relationship blossom and grow Oh how I adore them, so, so much.
Just when the reader thinks things are going to go beautifully, Ms Frank throws a spanner in the work and leaves us hanging. Gah! Is it September yet? I need Headlines - STAT!
September 15, 2020
Book Reaction: https://neverhollowed.com/2020/09/15/...
Ratings: 3 Stars – not exactly setting my world on fire but I liked it
Ratings: 3 Stars – not exactly setting my world on fire but I liked it
March 24, 2022
I have to admit: I read the first 60% and skimmed the rest. The whole book is one prolonged foreplay, nothing more. Very, very disappointed.
July 29, 2020
4 stars!
Dear Authors,
It would be really nice if y'all would avoid cliffhangers, hmm? If your story is good enough, I will buy the sequels because I want to spend more time with the characters you've created. When you end on a cliffhanger, spread a story out for months, and make me wait to find out what happened? It just makes me very irritated. I was almost petty enough to take a star away from you.
Kindly,
Me
That said, I enjoyed this installment of Xander & Sean. This one picks up right where we left off in Inside Affair. Sean & Xander spend time together healing from the events in the first book. Watching them fall further in love was sweet, and Xander's time out in the wilderness was quite humorous at times.
I can't wait until the end of September
to see the conclusion of this series in Headlines. But I will, because there were some moments in this one that made me swoon and melted my heart. I hate that I'm that easy, but I do love the worlds she sucks me into...
More reviews | Romancing Riley
Dear Authors,
It would be really nice if y'all would avoid cliffhangers, hmm? If your story is good enough, I will buy the sequels because I want to spend more time with the characters you've created. When you end on a cliffhanger, spread a story out for months, and make me wait to find out what happened? It just makes me very irritated. I was almost petty enough to take a star away from you.
Kindly,
Me
That said, I enjoyed this installment of Xander & Sean. This one picks up right where we left off in Inside Affair. Sean & Xander spend time together healing from the events in the first book. Watching them fall further in love was sweet, and Xander's time out in the wilderness was quite humorous at times.
I can't wait until the end of September
to see the conclusion of this series in Headlines. But I will, because there were some moments in this one that made me swoon and melted my heart. I hate that I'm that easy, but I do love the worlds she sucks me into...
More reviews | Romancing Riley
October 5, 2020
*****5 Messy and Complicated Stars*****
Did I say how much hate cliffhangers?? Yes, we have another one!
But it's okay. I have third book at my fingertips :)
I loved watching their relationship progress and witnessing every step they take on this amazing journey.
I loved their sizzling chemistry.
I loved their passion, their romance and their love.
I loved Xander’s vulnerability and Sean’s protectiveness.
I loved Sean's willingness to be vulnerable and open himself to Xander.
I loved the magical moments they spent at the cabin and the lake.
Yes, I know. I loved everything about it.
But I hate the ending!!!
What will happen next??
Time to find out!
Did I say how much hate cliffhangers?? Yes, we have another one!
But it's okay. I have third book at my fingertips :)
I loved watching their relationship progress and witnessing every step they take on this amazing journey.
I loved their sizzling chemistry.
I loved their passion, their romance and their love.
I loved Xander’s vulnerability and Sean’s protectiveness.
I loved Sean's willingness to be vulnerable and open himself to Xander.
I loved the magical moments they spent at the cabin and the lake.
Yes, I know. I loved everything about it.
But I hate the ending!!!
What will happen next??
Time to find out!
August 6, 2020
Thank god the next book is going to come out soon, because I had forgotten all about this story when I first got my hands on this one.
It starts right where the last one ended, Sean getting rushed to the hospital after he gets stabbed by the psyco. And I must say, I enjoyed this one better than the last one, it was sweet, swoon worthy and very real (with the traumas and stuff), I really enjoyed it!
Sean was, as always, very understanding and accommodating of Xander, and Xander was traumatized but in love and fighting to be in control again while taking care of Sean. They supported each other and they cared about each other. Lovely! Can't wait for the next one! 🥰
It starts right where the last one ended, Sean getting rushed to the hospital after he gets stabbed by the psyco. And I must say, I enjoyed this one better than the last one, it was sweet, swoon worthy and very real (with the traumas and stuff), I really enjoyed it!
Sean was, as always, very understanding and accommodating of Xander, and Xander was traumatized but in love and fighting to be in control again while taking care of Sean. They supported each other and they cared about each other. Lovely! Can't wait for the next one! 🥰
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 27, 2020
This is the second book in the series and cannot be read as a standalone. It picks up right where we left off and ends with another cliffhanger, albeit one that's not as frustrating as the previous book.
I loved seeing Xander and Sean resting and comforting each other after the ordeal they went through in Inside Affair. I really do love love Sean. If we saw Sean doing the fish-out-of-water expression in Xander's home last time, it's the other way around in this book.
Fuck he was beautiful. In the morning, here in the afternoon, and in the darkness of night. Alexander Thorne was a beautiful man, and by some miracle of fate, he wanted to be mine.
I cannot wait for the next book to find out how people react to their relationship. I did seee that ending coming but damn I really don't like cliffies!!
*ARC provided by the author via Social Butterfly PR in exchange for an honest and unbiased review
I loved seeing Xander and Sean resting and comforting each other after the ordeal they went through in Inside Affair. I really do love love Sean. If we saw Sean doing the fish-out-of-water expression in Xander's home last time, it's the other way around in this book.
Fuck he was beautiful. In the morning, here in the afternoon, and in the darkness of night. Alexander Thorne was a beautiful man, and by some miracle of fate, he wanted to be mine.
I cannot wait for the next book to find out how people react to their relationship. I did seee that ending coming but damn I really don't like cliffies!!
*ARC provided by the author via Social Butterfly PR in exchange for an honest and unbiased review
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