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About Time #1
One Time Only
A fiery, passionate MM romance novel from #1 New York Times Bestselling author Lauren Blakely…
Ever hear the story about the bodyguard who falls for the rock star?
Yeah, it never ends well.
Each day I remind myself that it's my job to protect Stone. And nowhere in the job description does it say I should lust after the charismatic, charming rock star.
But every night I spend with him the attraction grows more intense, electric, undeniable.
Until one night in a limo when we combust.
One time only will have to be enough.
Because the mistakes from the past are chasing me.
And If I give in again, I might lose everything.
Good thing I’m strong, determined, and dedicated to resisting him.
But after a close call at his concert, all bets are off.
And in his hotel room, we strike a brand new deal.
One that can’t end well for me, but I do it anyway. Because sometimes you grab hold of the desire. And other times, the desire takes hold of you.
Ever hear the story about the bodyguard who falls for the rock star?
Yeah, it never ends well.
Each day I remind myself that it's my job to protect Stone. And nowhere in the job description does it say I should lust after the charismatic, charming rock star.
But every night I spend with him the attraction grows more intense, electric, undeniable.
Until one night in a limo when we combust.
One time only will have to be enough.
Because the mistakes from the past are chasing me.
And If I give in again, I might lose everything.
Good thing I’m strong, determined, and dedicated to resisting him.
But after a close call at his concert, all bets are off.
And in his hotel room, we strike a brand new deal.
One that can’t end well for me, but I do it anyway. Because sometimes you grab hold of the desire. And other times, the desire takes hold of you.
350 pages, Paperback
First published November 18, 2020
948 people are currently reading
6073 people want to read
About the author
Lauren Blakely
246 books23.8k followersYou can find Lauren on TikTok at @laurenblakelybooks! A #1 New York Times Bestselling, #1 Wall Street Journal Bestselling, and #1 Audible Bestselling author, Lauren Blakely is known for her contemporary romance style that’s sexy, feel-good and witty. Lauren likes dogs, cake and show tunes and she is the vegetarian at your dinner party.
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November 19, 2020
One Time Only is a brand new M/M rock star/body guard/taboo romance by Lauren Blakely. You don’t need to read it but there is a prequel to this, Maybe This Time, which tells how Jackson came to work for Stone. The very beginning of their story. I also want to say that Lauren Blakely writes amazing M/M romance! This is full of passion, steam, and sweet, romantic moments as well. These two made me swoon so much! Their love felt so real to me.
Jackson Pearce has been a body guard for five years. He loves his job. His latest job with the rock star, Stone Zenith, is a perfect gig. He gets to travel, and he truly likes Stone. They hit it off in every way, they talk, they laugh, but when their eyes meet, there’s something else there. Lust, longing, attraction, all of it. But a body guard falling for his client is the world’s worst transgression.
“Everything about this is wrong. But everything about this feels right."
Stone Zenith has the world by the tail. He loves performing. But he can’t exist without a body guard. It needs to be the perfect fit since they spend so much time together. One look at Jackson and he just knew that he was the perfect man for the job. One look into his eyes and he also knew that there was something else there. An attraction that he couldn’t deny
“Once wasn’t enough. Once barely scratched the surface of my need for him.”
One kiss fueled their hunger for more. And their agreement for one night only, only whet their appetites for more. The chemistry between these two, the ease in which they got along, the connection they both felt even when they weren’t together was amazing.
“His kisses undo me. He kisses me like I’m the best thing his lips have ever touched.”
Stone is an equal opportunity player, he is attracted to either sex. But the attraction he feels with Jackson is something entirely new. Jackson has been in love before, but he is alone now with nothing but sadness and a huge financial debt to pay off. Jackson is a man of honor, a man who lives by a code. And sleeping with his boss is against every single rule there is. He needs this job. But he needs Stone even more.
“I want only him. Just him. Always him.”
This book! It pretty much blew my mind. I couldn’t help but to love these two with all my heart. I felt it every time their eyes met and held. The passion Lauren is able to convey with her words leaves me breathless. The love they both feel is nothing to take lightly. But can Jackson retain his honor but still grab on to happiness? I loved everything about this book and was so thrilled to hear that there will be another M/M romance in a few months. The next one will be Declan’s story, Scoring With Him. I can’t wait.
“You’re every song, every lyric, every word.”
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
Jackson Pearce has been a body guard for five years. He loves his job. His latest job with the rock star, Stone Zenith, is a perfect gig. He gets to travel, and he truly likes Stone. They hit it off in every way, they talk, they laugh, but when their eyes meet, there’s something else there. Lust, longing, attraction, all of it. But a body guard falling for his client is the world’s worst transgression.
“Everything about this is wrong. But everything about this feels right."
Stone Zenith has the world by the tail. He loves performing. But he can’t exist without a body guard. It needs to be the perfect fit since they spend so much time together. One look at Jackson and he just knew that he was the perfect man for the job. One look into his eyes and he also knew that there was something else there. An attraction that he couldn’t deny
“Once wasn’t enough. Once barely scratched the surface of my need for him.”
One kiss fueled their hunger for more. And their agreement for one night only, only whet their appetites for more. The chemistry between these two, the ease in which they got along, the connection they both felt even when they weren’t together was amazing.
“His kisses undo me. He kisses me like I’m the best thing his lips have ever touched.”
Stone is an equal opportunity player, he is attracted to either sex. But the attraction he feels with Jackson is something entirely new. Jackson has been in love before, but he is alone now with nothing but sadness and a huge financial debt to pay off. Jackson is a man of honor, a man who lives by a code. And sleeping with his boss is against every single rule there is. He needs this job. But he needs Stone even more.
“I want only him. Just him. Always him.”
This book! It pretty much blew my mind. I couldn’t help but to love these two with all my heart. I felt it every time their eyes met and held. The passion Lauren is able to convey with her words leaves me breathless. The love they both feel is nothing to take lightly. But can Jackson retain his honor but still grab on to happiness? I loved everything about this book and was so thrilled to hear that there will be another M/M romance in a few months. The next one will be Declan’s story, Scoring With Him. I can’t wait.
“You’re every song, every lyric, every word.”
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
November 18, 2020
One Time Only is available everywhere! And this standalone MM forbidden romance is electric, passionate and a total page turner!
✦Amazon ➜ http://blkly.pub/OneTimeOnlyKindle
✦Apple➜ http://blkly.pub/OneTimeOnlyApple
✦Nook ➜ http://blkly.pub/OneTimeOnlyNook
✦Kobo ➜ http://blkly.pub/OneTimeOnlyKobo
✦Google ➜ http://blkly.pub/OneTimeOnlyGoogle
✦Audible ➜ ONE TIME ONLY is performed by Jacob Morgan and Teddy Hamilton! ➜ https://blkly.pub/AudibleOneTimeOnly
✦Amazon ➜ http://blkly.pub/OneTimeOnlyKindle
✦Apple➜ http://blkly.pub/OneTimeOnlyApple
✦Nook ➜ http://blkly.pub/OneTimeOnlyNook
✦Kobo ➜ http://blkly.pub/OneTimeOnlyKobo
✦Google ➜ http://blkly.pub/OneTimeOnlyGoogle
✦Audible ➜ ONE TIME ONLY is performed by Jacob Morgan and Teddy Hamilton! ➜ https://blkly.pub/AudibleOneTimeOnly
April 6, 2021
Audiobook - 5 stars
Story - 1.5 stars
Nothing new, no character depth, no personalities, same old same old;
-You are hot. I want you, sex. I can't be with you. I want you again, sex, sex, sex. It is right, It is wrong............
-The audiobook was fun.
Story - 1.5 stars
Nothing new, no character depth, no personalities, same old same old;
-You are hot. I want you, sex. I can't be with you. I want you again, sex, sex, sex. It is right, It is wrong............
-The audiobook was fun.
dnf
November 17, 2020Audio 5 ++++ Stars
Story dnf @ 40%
I seriously tried because having Jacob Morgan and Teddy Hamilton narrate an M/M is a RARE treat I didn't want to pass up. Unfortunately, the story wasn't working for me...at all. 🤷🏽♀️ To me the plot was so nonsensical that it made the MCs seem like juveniles. I guess what I'm saying is that the story lacked depth.
I was so sure I would love this book. I reeeaaalllyyy wanted to adore this book but it is was it is. Like my dear friend Shile would say "embrace the dnf ". 😁
Story dnf @ 40%
I seriously tried because having Jacob Morgan and Teddy Hamilton narrate an M/M is a RARE treat I didn't want to pass up. Unfortunately, the story wasn't working for me...at all. 🤷🏽♀️ To me the plot was so nonsensical that it made the MCs seem like juveniles. I guess what I'm saying is that the story lacked depth.
I was so sure I would love this book. I reeeaaalllyyy wanted to adore this book but it is was it is. Like my dear friend Shile would say "embrace the dnf ". 😁
March 20, 2024
GRMPF. There are books that fuck you with a super short ending and you feel left out because somehow a page or two is missing that would have brought the whole thing to a reasonably satisfying conclusion. And then there are books like this one that just don't end. Of course there's the obligatory marriage blah blah blah story in the epilogue. But is it necessary to pack so much extra info into the epilogue and flesh out the cheesy stuff so much. And then!!! We absolutely need a second epilogue, because everything wasn't dragged out beforehand. GRRRR.
Anyway, I actually liked most of the book. It's nothing deep. Just a good rock star bodyguard story, just the way they are. Nothing special here.
If you make it through the first 100 pages (that's the version with the prequel), they drag a bit, but they are quite well written and I thought I got a good picture of Jackson and Stone, then folks, make sure you don't read the rest of the book in public.
I will say one thing, hot so so hot and for many pages. The sex scenes are a bit drawn out, not boring but quite intense and the build up always towards the ‚explosion‘ is something that made me short of breath and sent a ‚little‘ blush to my face.
I can’t stop kissing him, and soon my hands are in his hair. My thumb slides over his stubbled jaw, then roams down to his chest, and I don’t want to stop. I don’t want anything to stop. I want to drown in his kisses. In the way he makes my heart beat faster. 😳😳😳
So many sex scenes, something you have to like, I must confess I skimmed over it towards the end because it was too much at some point.
What you also have to like is some odd banter. The main characters have a sometimes funny kind of dialog.
“I’m a wizard. I am motherfucking magic,” I say, pleased as punch and proud of my work here tonight. I’m a dirty cupid, firing arrows of true love dipped in fiery sex.
“Yes, I’m sure it was your wand that did it,” Jackson retorts in that deadpan tone of his. He is a master of the deadpan. 😏😏😏
And then there are a few strange passages that could have been avoided...
“Show me. Show me that beautiful cock I know you have.” Stone writes an ode to my dick as he frees me from the confines of my briefs. My cock salutes him, reporting for duty. Loud and proud. 😵💫😵💫😵💫
I stare at his lips, so lush and full. Lips that would look fantastic wrapped around me. Take me out of the oven. I am cooked. Roasted. Charred probably. “Aren’t you just a dirty little flirt?” 😬😬😬
What does that leave us with, I'd say I've had better, but I still managed to enjoy the book for the most part. 🤷🏼♀️
Anyway, I actually liked most of the book. It's nothing deep. Just a good rock star bodyguard story, just the way they are. Nothing special here.
If you make it through the first 100 pages (that's the version with the prequel), they drag a bit, but they are quite well written and I thought I got a good picture of Jackson and Stone, then folks, make sure you don't read the rest of the book in public.
I will say one thing, hot so so hot and for many pages. The sex scenes are a bit drawn out, not boring but quite intense and the build up always towards the ‚explosion‘ is something that made me short of breath and sent a ‚little‘ blush to my face.
I can’t stop kissing him, and soon my hands are in his hair. My thumb slides over his stubbled jaw, then roams down to his chest, and I don’t want to stop. I don’t want anything to stop. I want to drown in his kisses. In the way he makes my heart beat faster. 😳😳😳
So many sex scenes, something you have to like, I must confess I skimmed over it towards the end because it was too much at some point.
What you also have to like is some odd banter. The main characters have a sometimes funny kind of dialog.
“I’m a wizard. I am motherfucking magic,” I say, pleased as punch and proud of my work here tonight. I’m a dirty cupid, firing arrows of true love dipped in fiery sex.
“Yes, I’m sure it was your wand that did it,” Jackson retorts in that deadpan tone of his. He is a master of the deadpan. 😏😏😏
And then there are a few strange passages that could have been avoided...
“Show me. Show me that beautiful cock I know you have.” Stone writes an ode to my dick as he frees me from the confines of my briefs. My cock salutes him, reporting for duty. Loud and proud. 😵💫😵💫😵💫
I stare at his lips, so lush and full. Lips that would look fantastic wrapped around me. Take me out of the oven. I am cooked. Roasted. Charred probably. “Aren’t you just a dirty little flirt?” 😬😬😬
What does that leave us with, I'd say I've had better, but I still managed to enjoy the book for the most part. 🤷🏼♀️
November 25, 2020
I just don’t think this author is for me.
This one just lacked any depth and felt very immature.
The dialogue was often cheesy and eye roll inducing.
I honestly didn’t find the sex very hot either. Probably for the point above.
This book was too long for virtually nothing to have happened.
I did finish but eventually had to start skimming.
This one just lacked any depth and felt very immature.
The dialogue was often cheesy and eye roll inducing.
I honestly didn’t find the sex very hot either. Probably for the point above.
This book was too long for virtually nothing to have happened.
I did finish but eventually had to start skimming.
November 28, 2020
One Time only is sizzling hot and touching read. With this book, I felt like my eReader was my own personal sexy toy.
Full disclosure, I tend to avoid MM romance for the same reason I tend to avoid erotic romance: too much focus on the sexy times and not enough on everything else like character and plot development. This is not the rule, just my not so stellar reading choices.
BUT there have also been books like this one where yes, without a doubt there is incendiary chemistry between the characters along with melt your eReader scenes, together with all of the elements in romance novels skillfully woven into the tapestry of a story that will hook you, transport you, change you. One Time Only hooked me, transported me, changed me because of love.
I don’t know if I’ll be filling my eReader with MM romances in the future, but I do know that there are authors like Lauren Blakely who I can trust will provide a great read.
So quick recap of the book since I’ve taken much of your time with my confession.
➵ Hero : Stone Zeniths. Sexy, magnetic rock star who first appeared in One Night Only. He’s a tree loving, life embracing man with a heart of gold who likes to play the field and has the hots for this stoic bodyguard.
➵ Hero : Jackson Pearce lives by his code of honor, respect and honesty. He’s dedicated to his job not only because he needs the money to pay off a debt but because he’s a protector by nature.
➵ Plot/Pace : Stone has stayed away because he mistakenly though Jackson was straight as an arrow. Jackson stayed away because in his line of work falling for his boss is a big no-no. But the two banter and needle each other relentlessly, and they open up until one night, it all because too much for either of them to ignore. They agree it should be a One Time Only thing because of the rules and risks, but their connection, longing and need for one another can only be limited by forever.
➵ Sexiness : It was fireworks and dynamite. It was without a doubt off the charts sexy. Even in the cold weather while I was reading their story I had to fan myself.
➵ Feels : I laughed, and swooned and fanned myself. There were SO MANY quotes I highlighted and would LOVE to share. I just loved their love. It was contagious.
➵ Facts: One Time Only is a standalone contemporary romance by Lauren Blakely. It is a MM romance, told from both points of view with a happy ending. Sub-Genres: Rocker Romance | Bodyguard Romance | Forbidden romance
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via Candi Kane. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. *
Amazon -> https://amzn.to/3krAtwX
Stalk me on FaceBook * Instagram * More reviews
“You are every song, every lyric, every damn word.”
Full disclosure, I tend to avoid MM romance for the same reason I tend to avoid erotic romance: too much focus on the sexy times and not enough on everything else like character and plot development. This is not the rule, just my not so stellar reading choices.
BUT there have also been books like this one where yes, without a doubt there is incendiary chemistry between the characters along with melt your eReader scenes, together with all of the elements in romance novels skillfully woven into the tapestry of a story that will hook you, transport you, change you. One Time Only hooked me, transported me, changed me because of love.
“Love is the most important rule of all – love, just love.”
I don’t know if I’ll be filling my eReader with MM romances in the future, but I do know that there are authors like Lauren Blakely who I can trust will provide a great read.
So quick recap of the book since I’ve taken much of your time with my confession.
➵ Hero : Stone Zeniths. Sexy, magnetic rock star who first appeared in One Night Only. He’s a tree loving, life embracing man with a heart of gold who likes to play the field and has the hots for this stoic bodyguard.
➵ Hero : Jackson Pearce lives by his code of honor, respect and honesty. He’s dedicated to his job not only because he needs the money to pay off a debt but because he’s a protector by nature.
➵ Plot/Pace : Stone has stayed away because he mistakenly though Jackson was straight as an arrow. Jackson stayed away because in his line of work falling for his boss is a big no-no. But the two banter and needle each other relentlessly, and they open up until one night, it all because too much for either of them to ignore. They agree it should be a One Time Only thing because of the rules and risks, but their connection, longing and need for one another can only be limited by forever.
“His grin is so damn wicked. Dripping with sex indeed. His eyes flash with filthy intent, and I’m an electrical line, crackling, sparking. About to snap.”
➵ Sexiness : It was fireworks and dynamite. It was without a doubt off the charts sexy. Even in the cold weather while I was reading their story I had to fan myself.
➵ Feels : I laughed, and swooned and fanned myself. There were SO MANY quotes I highlighted and would LOVE to share. I just loved their love. It was contagious.
➵ Facts: One Time Only is a standalone contemporary romance by Lauren Blakely. It is a MM romance, told from both points of view with a happy ending. Sub-Genres: Rocker Romance | Bodyguard Romance | Forbidden romance
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via Candi Kane. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. *
Amazon -> https://amzn.to/3krAtwX
Stalk me on FaceBook * Instagram * More reviews
May 14, 2021
Oh my god I can’t believe I quoted this review with sex scenes instead of the hard-hitting moments lol.
———————————-
Decided to give this 5 stars because... honestly I don't know. Maybe because one of the characters is referenced as the look alike of Chris Hemsworth? Partially yes. My mind went haywire. I think the biggest reason why I highly enjoyed this is because after reading two books from Lauren Blakely, I already kinda knew what I'll be getting on this one. The plot is on the okay-ish side. It's light and cheesy. Full of banter and flirtations. Sexual tension and the sex were just magnificent.
I'm so damn happy right now after reading this. I was smiling from ear to ear. My grin never really left my face. Overall, this book is just my needed break from all the crazy shit I've been reading. A bit cheesy and predictable but I'm still taking it. I don't highly recommend this to anyone. This book and its story is obviously on the hit or miss basis. I'm just glad it worked out for my favor.
———————————-
"My bodyguard is a superhero. That's the only explanation for what he's doing to my body.
And this is his superpower.
Magic fingers."
Decided to give this 5 stars because... honestly I don't know. Maybe because one of the characters is referenced as the look alike of Chris Hemsworth? Partially yes. My mind went haywire. I think the biggest reason why I highly enjoyed this is because after reading two books from Lauren Blakely, I already kinda knew what I'll be getting on this one. The plot is on the okay-ish side. It's light and cheesy. Full of banter and flirtations. Sexual tension and the sex were just magnificent.
"J," he says in a hungry whisper. "I need something."
I sink in deeper, grip tighter. "Anything," I say desperately. "Just tell me and I'll do it."
"Destroy me," he urges.
I'm so damn happy right now after reading this. I was smiling from ear to ear. My grin never really left my face. Overall, this book is just my needed break from all the crazy shit I've been reading. A bit cheesy and predictable but I'm still taking it. I don't highly recommend this to anyone. This book and its story is obviously on the hit or miss basis. I'm just glad it worked out for my favor.
"Did I ever tell you about the rock star who fell for his bodyguard?"
"Let me guess. Did the bodyguard fall hard for him too?"
"So damn hard."
September 3, 2020
Listen up people... if you've read and loved A Guy Walks Into My Bar, you're going to go ape $hit banana cakes over One Time Only! Stone and Jackson are magic on the page. Their journey is full of witty sarcasm, red-hot melt your panties sexy times, and friendship. Did I say magic on the page? Cuz yeah, MAGIC ON THE PAGE!!!
If you haven't ready A Guy yet, DO IT. Then read OTO when it comes out. You can thank me later. But I am not responsible for the melted panties, Lauren is. lol
If you haven't ready A Guy yet, DO IT. Then read OTO when it comes out. You can thank me later. But I am not responsible for the melted panties, Lauren is. lol
November 20, 2020
~ 2.5 ~
Ugh! I wanted to love this one but just... didn’t.
Don’t get me wrong. There’s nothing bad about this story. Very readable and fluffy.
But, IMO there’s nothing special about it. I’m pretty sure tomorrow I won’t remember most things from the book.
Those were the same feelings I had about the last MM book by this author, so maybe the style isn’t for me.
Ugh! I wanted to love this one but just... didn’t.
Don’t get me wrong. There’s nothing bad about this story. Very readable and fluffy.
But, IMO there’s nothing special about it. I’m pretty sure tomorrow I won’t remember most things from the book.
Those were the same feelings I had about the last MM book by this author, so maybe the style isn’t for me.
December 1, 2020
Meh.
Stone is a rock star. Jackson is his bodyguard. They're attracted to each other. But of course they can't go there because boss/employee. So what happens? You guessed it...they go there. Feelings are caught and well you can probably guess the ending.
This wasn't bad but it wasn't great either. It lacked some depth and was pretty long for there to be no plot essentially. I'm not kidding...nothing actually happened. Stone's inner dialogue was immature, shallow, and mildly annoying. Jackson was too mushy for apparently being dominant. Taking these things into account made for sex scenes that I skimmed over (I almost never do that). However, there were some cute parts that I did find myself saying 'aww.'
I love MM but I'm also really picky when it comes to MM. Is this in my top 10 I've read? Absolutely not. But correct me if I'm wrong, I believe writing MM is fairly new to this author so that being said, I think it's a great start.
Stone is a rock star. Jackson is his bodyguard. They're attracted to each other. But of course they can't go there because boss/employee. So what happens? You guessed it...they go there. Feelings are caught and well you can probably guess the ending.
This wasn't bad but it wasn't great either. It lacked some depth and was pretty long for there to be no plot essentially. I'm not kidding...nothing actually happened. Stone's inner dialogue was immature, shallow, and mildly annoying. Jackson was too mushy for apparently being dominant. Taking these things into account made for sex scenes that I skimmed over (I almost never do that). However, there were some cute parts that I did find myself saying 'aww.'
I love MM but I'm also really picky when it comes to MM. Is this in my top 10 I've read? Absolutely not. But correct me if I'm wrong, I believe writing MM is fairly new to this author so that being said, I think it's a great start.
June 3, 2021
Teddy Hamilton & Jacob Morgan slayed this audiobook as Jackson & Stone!! For the longest time no one could compete with Joe Arden & Shane East, but they have some serious competition now. One Time Only had everything from witty banter to seriously steamy moments and a lot more love than I was expecting. Add in a flawless audio and this book was just everything happy & swoony!!
Stone was everything perfect in a rock star yes, he was a playboy, but he also had a heart of gold. Not to mention huge shoutout to Lauren Blakely for writing a rock star that didn't have a huge drinking and drug problem, I get the stereotype but damn it is a bit overplayed. Stone went above and beyond for the people he loved or cared about and that included Jackson. Being attracted to your bodyguard might not seem like that big of deal but when you come from two totally different worlds there are bound to be some bumps along the road.
Jackson was everything beautiful and brooding. He had been through a rough few years and having your first real attraction since your life imploded and to your BOSS comes with its own set of problems. This was never supposed to happen, but Stone is so much more than what people see on the outside and spending 8 or more hours a day with him is leaving Jackson more confused than he has ever been.
It was only supposed to be One Time Only but as Jackson and Stone's attraction grows stronger so does their chemistry and before either man realizes there is much more involved in this relationship than either one of them expected. How can this work when Jackson is breaking every rule he believes in, and Stone is so much more than he ever expected? Stone knows logically that there is no way for this to work but logic has nothing to do with it when your heart is involved.
There was so much I just loved about this book!! This is my second Lauren Blakely book that I have listened to, and both have been incredible. A Guy Walks into My Bar was the first and it gave me all the feels but this one was much more on the lighthearted side which was seriously delicious. Teddy & Jacob gave their all for Jackson & Stone and I was so sad for their story to end but I will be looking into more audios that they have done together for sure.
Stone was everything perfect in a rock star yes, he was a playboy, but he also had a heart of gold. Not to mention huge shoutout to Lauren Blakely for writing a rock star that didn't have a huge drinking and drug problem, I get the stereotype but damn it is a bit overplayed. Stone went above and beyond for the people he loved or cared about and that included Jackson. Being attracted to your bodyguard might not seem like that big of deal but when you come from two totally different worlds there are bound to be some bumps along the road.
Jackson was everything beautiful and brooding. He had been through a rough few years and having your first real attraction since your life imploded and to your BOSS comes with its own set of problems. This was never supposed to happen, but Stone is so much more than what people see on the outside and spending 8 or more hours a day with him is leaving Jackson more confused than he has ever been.
It was only supposed to be One Time Only but as Jackson and Stone's attraction grows stronger so does their chemistry and before either man realizes there is much more involved in this relationship than either one of them expected. How can this work when Jackson is breaking every rule he believes in, and Stone is so much more than he ever expected? Stone knows logically that there is no way for this to work but logic has nothing to do with it when your heart is involved.
There was so much I just loved about this book!! This is my second Lauren Blakely book that I have listened to, and both have been incredible. A Guy Walks into My Bar was the first and it gave me all the feels but this one was much more on the lighthearted side which was seriously delicious. Teddy & Jacob gave their all for Jackson & Stone and I was so sad for their story to end but I will be looking into more audios that they have done together for sure.
August 12, 2023
Divertido, dulce y romántico
Cuando Jackson toma el trabajo como guardaespaldas del cantante de rock Stone, lo que menos espera es que exista una atracción muy fuerte entre los dos. Sabe que debe mantenerse alejado, necesita el trabajo y su código moral no me permite tener sentimientos por un cliente. Pero la atracción es difícil de aguantar y cuando Stone le da la oportunidad, ambos llegan a un acuerdo, solo será una vez y listo. Pero, realmente podrán separarse después de una sola noche? Que pasa con el codigo moral de Jackson? Será que es posible algo más entre ellos?
Un libro dulce, romántico, con muchas conversaciones divertidas y mucho sexo. El libro es bastante completo, pero bien llevado. Hubo momentos que se hacía muy largo o muy monótono, pero la trama es limpia y fácil de seguir.
Me gustó bastante la química entre los Protas, y la personalidad de ellos. Seguro voy a leer algún otro libro de este autor más adelante.
Cuando Jackson toma el trabajo como guardaespaldas del cantante de rock Stone, lo que menos espera es que exista una atracción muy fuerte entre los dos. Sabe que debe mantenerse alejado, necesita el trabajo y su código moral no me permite tener sentimientos por un cliente. Pero la atracción es difícil de aguantar y cuando Stone le da la oportunidad, ambos llegan a un acuerdo, solo será una vez y listo. Pero, realmente podrán separarse después de una sola noche? Que pasa con el codigo moral de Jackson? Será que es posible algo más entre ellos?
Un libro dulce, romántico, con muchas conversaciones divertidas y mucho sexo. El libro es bastante completo, pero bien llevado. Hubo momentos que se hacía muy largo o muy monótono, pero la trama es limpia y fácil de seguir.
Me gustó bastante la química entre los Protas, y la personalidad de ellos. Seguro voy a leer algún otro libro de este autor más adelante.
December 8, 2022
Enjoyed this rock star/bodyguard romance
I've been working my way through Lauren's MM backlist and mostly enjoying the trip.
This book was shaping up to be another 5* read but then it did two things that niggle me.
Firstly, the irritating 75%/Third Act break up, which is so annoying and formulaic.
Thankfully, it didn't last long and was resolved by a grown up conversation between Jackson and his best friends and then a healthy and honest dialogue with Stone.
The second thing is a personal bugbear, the use of the word "clean" to indicate someone's sexual status.
The reason I dislike it is because its opposite is dirty and that brings all kinds of unpleasant connotations.
It's a minor point but using negative seems to be a simpler solution.
That aside, the rest of this narrative is lovely as both men slide into an easy working relationship which rapidly turns jnto friendship, lust, attraction and to love.
I've been working my way through Lauren's MM backlist and mostly enjoying the trip.
This book was shaping up to be another 5* read but then it did two things that niggle me.
Firstly, the irritating 75%/Third Act break up, which is so annoying and formulaic.
Thankfully, it didn't last long and was resolved by a grown up conversation between Jackson and his best friends and then a healthy and honest dialogue with Stone.
The second thing is a personal bugbear, the use of the word "clean" to indicate someone's sexual status.
The reason I dislike it is because its opposite is dirty and that brings all kinds of unpleasant connotations.
It's a minor point but using negative seems to be a simpler solution.
That aside, the rest of this narrative is lovely as both men slide into an easy working relationship which rapidly turns jnto friendship, lust, attraction and to love.
November 17, 2020
OH, HOLY SHIP! It's rockstar, Stone Zenith, and his big, burly, hot bodyguard, Jackson Pearce! Oh. Hell. Yes!
I have loved Stone since we met him in One Night Only. He is a vibrant, charming, cocky rockstar, but he has a good heart and really pays attention to people. He is a bit impulsive and lives for music and sex...and he is an equal opportunity lover. He has been denying he has the hots for his stoic and straight bodyguard and just living his best life.
But then one night leads to some revelations. The plot thickens...maybe Jackson is not what Stone thought at all...
Jackson is intense, focused, and thrives on control. He needs his job and he does it well. His eyes are on Stone all the time...and that means he notices his tight a** and sexy grin...and his sexual exploits. He tries to stay guarded and detached and avoids unnecessary risks. But he has a wicked sense of humor and is having a hard time hiding his attraction to his boss.
Jackson likes to needle Stone for fun. Stone loves to get a reaction out of Jackson. Even once Stone knows the truth, he tries to resist the attraction. And Jackson knows anything between them would be a bad idea. Not only due to his employment status, but he is emotionally unavailable and does not usually do casual. And Stone has been all about hookups and nothing serious.
But sometimes the lure of just one time can be an easy way to justify acting on urges that should be buried. But is one time ever really enough? Can they up the ante and still have things return back to normal?
These two are so freakin' H-O-T! The resistance. The sexual tension. The pure lust. The aching need. The sheer combustion and unavoidable collisions. The forbidden element. The connection that they cannot deny. The rules. The risks. The possible rewards.
It is a tangled mess of sheets and of their professional and personal lives. And I loved every second of it!
This is an intense, passionate, humorous, heartfelt, and swoony opposites-attract, bodyguard-rockstar M/M romance. I loved getting both Stone and Jackson's points of view. I adored both of them and thought their personalities were unique and equally likable. I enjoyed seeing them challenge and push each other, and begin to crack each other's defenses. They are not afraid to get vulnerable and really communicate, and Stone appreciates that Jackson treats him like a man and not a celebrity. They try so hard to deny what is really happening between them so they can avoid thinking about the consequences. But despite the good stuff between them, there are some big obstacles.
I laughed, I swooned, I fanned myself. I was all in with these guys! My heart hurt at times but overflowed with happiness at others. This is all I wanted for them!
This can be read as a standalone and even though we did meet Stone and Jackson in the prequel novella, One Night Only, she provides enough info to catch up without missing a beat. Fans will enjoy that some other characters make cameos, but the author has written this story so that it can be enjoyed on its own merit without having to read any other books.
I have always loved this author's heroes in her books, but when she writes TWO dynamic and lovable ones, her stories are just that much better! Both of these guys are sarcastic, fun, deep, loving, and sexy as sin. I love them both equally and refuse to pick a favorite! This book is off the charts in the categories of heat, sweetness, with, and swoon!
I did enjoy their relationships with their younger siblings as well. I wonder if we might see them pop up again in future stories. Personally, I am loving this author's M/M books so much that I hope she brings us more of them in the future.
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I have loved Stone since we met him in One Night Only. He is a vibrant, charming, cocky rockstar, but he has a good heart and really pays attention to people. He is a bit impulsive and lives for music and sex...and he is an equal opportunity lover. He has been denying he has the hots for his stoic and straight bodyguard and just living his best life.
But then one night leads to some revelations. The plot thickens...maybe Jackson is not what Stone thought at all...
Jackson is intense, focused, and thrives on control. He needs his job and he does it well. His eyes are on Stone all the time...and that means he notices his tight a** and sexy grin...and his sexual exploits. He tries to stay guarded and detached and avoids unnecessary risks. But he has a wicked sense of humor and is having a hard time hiding his attraction to his boss.
Jackson likes to needle Stone for fun. Stone loves to get a reaction out of Jackson. Even once Stone knows the truth, he tries to resist the attraction. And Jackson knows anything between them would be a bad idea. Not only due to his employment status, but he is emotionally unavailable and does not usually do casual. And Stone has been all about hookups and nothing serious.
But sometimes the lure of just one time can be an easy way to justify acting on urges that should be buried. But is one time ever really enough? Can they up the ante and still have things return back to normal?
These two are so freakin' H-O-T! The resistance. The sexual tension. The pure lust. The aching need. The sheer combustion and unavoidable collisions. The forbidden element. The connection that they cannot deny. The rules. The risks. The possible rewards.
It is a tangled mess of sheets and of their professional and personal lives. And I loved every second of it!
This is an intense, passionate, humorous, heartfelt, and swoony opposites-attract, bodyguard-rockstar M/M romance. I loved getting both Stone and Jackson's points of view. I adored both of them and thought their personalities were unique and equally likable. I enjoyed seeing them challenge and push each other, and begin to crack each other's defenses. They are not afraid to get vulnerable and really communicate, and Stone appreciates that Jackson treats him like a man and not a celebrity. They try so hard to deny what is really happening between them so they can avoid thinking about the consequences. But despite the good stuff between them, there are some big obstacles.
I laughed, I swooned, I fanned myself. I was all in with these guys! My heart hurt at times but overflowed with happiness at others. This is all I wanted for them!
This can be read as a standalone and even though we did meet Stone and Jackson in the prequel novella, One Night Only, she provides enough info to catch up without missing a beat. Fans will enjoy that some other characters make cameos, but the author has written this story so that it can be enjoyed on its own merit without having to read any other books.
I have always loved this author's heroes in her books, but when she writes TWO dynamic and lovable ones, her stories are just that much better! Both of these guys are sarcastic, fun, deep, loving, and sexy as sin. I love them both equally and refuse to pick a favorite! This book is off the charts in the categories of heat, sweetness, with, and swoon!
I did enjoy their relationships with their younger siblings as well. I wonder if we might see them pop up again in future stories. Personally, I am loving this author's M/M books so much that I hope she brings us more of them in the future.
November 22, 2020
4.5 stars!
I think I ultimately actually enjoyed this one more than A Guy Walks In..., because while we eventually got some fluff between these two, it didn't feel over the top like that one, and the ending didn't drag out too much.
I took .5 stars off and rounded down instead of up because it took a bit for me to get into these two together. I wasn't quite feeling the chemistry and connection between these two, but I did eventually, and I came to enjoy these two quite a lot. I just think the beginnings of their relationship could have been handled better, written better. Also I wish the bodyguard aspect had been played up more. But Jackson barely did any actual bodyguard-ing in this - and by that I mean actually preventing someone from harming Stone - except for like one instance.
But overall, this was an enjoyable read and went a little better, in my opinion, than the first book I read by this author.
Stone Zenith (what a name lol) is a bonafide rockstar, with multiple grammys, and as such, he needs full detail of bodyguards, especially while he's touring.
Jackson is one such bodyguard, who has been working for him for 4 or so months before anything happens between them. Because Jackson always tries to be as professional as possible and Stone thinks he's straight, although they still build a rapport between them and build a connection that they try to deny, but can't.
When they kiss one night, Jackson says it can't happen again and they try to leave it be, but they can't for long. But they agree to just one time only, as Jackson thinks it will help get it out of their systems and they can go back to being just bodyguard and client. Jackson is very much of the opinion that he can't sleep with his boss, it's against the rules, and also he needs his job to pay off a debt from when his partner, who died, bought something before he died that still needs to be payed off.
But Jackson ultimately can't resist Stone, so he comes up with the One Time Only deal. Except, they have their one time....and it's not enough.
Then they agree to one week while Stone is in Las Vegas doing shows before his touring ends for a number of months, but they obviously can't keep their feelings in check for long.
As this went on, I felt their connection more and more. I really enjoyed them. This did have an extra epilogue, kinda like A Guy Walks In, which makes me think this is kinda the author's style, but in this there was no focus on an extra couple out of nowhere, and it wasn't like one epilogue after another after another, so it didn't drag too much, and only felt a little overstayed in it's welcome - the extra epilogue, I mean.
So overall I enjoyed this and I recommend it. I enjoy this author, and hopefully she does more MM in the future and finds her MM legs, as it were (these could be improved upon, is all I'm saying.)
So two thumbs up from me! Onto the next :)
I think I ultimately actually enjoyed this one more than A Guy Walks In..., because while we eventually got some fluff between these two, it didn't feel over the top like that one, and the ending didn't drag out too much.
I took .5 stars off and rounded down instead of up because it took a bit for me to get into these two together. I wasn't quite feeling the chemistry and connection between these two, but I did eventually, and I came to enjoy these two quite a lot. I just think the beginnings of their relationship could have been handled better, written better. Also I wish the bodyguard aspect had been played up more. But Jackson barely did any actual bodyguard-ing in this - and by that I mean actually preventing someone from harming Stone - except for like one instance.
But overall, this was an enjoyable read and went a little better, in my opinion, than the first book I read by this author.
Stone Zenith (what a name lol) is a bonafide rockstar, with multiple grammys, and as such, he needs full detail of bodyguards, especially while he's touring.
Jackson is one such bodyguard, who has been working for him for 4 or so months before anything happens between them. Because Jackson always tries to be as professional as possible and Stone thinks he's straight, although they still build a rapport between them and build a connection that they try to deny, but can't.
When they kiss one night, Jackson says it can't happen again and they try to leave it be, but they can't for long. But they agree to just one time only, as Jackson thinks it will help get it out of their systems and they can go back to being just bodyguard and client. Jackson is very much of the opinion that he can't sleep with his boss, it's against the rules, and also he needs his job to pay off a debt from when his partner, who died, bought something before he died that still needs to be payed off.
But Jackson ultimately can't resist Stone, so he comes up with the One Time Only deal. Except, they have their one time....and it's not enough.
Then they agree to one week while Stone is in Las Vegas doing shows before his touring ends for a number of months, but they obviously can't keep their feelings in check for long.
As this went on, I felt their connection more and more. I really enjoyed them. This did have an extra epilogue, kinda like A Guy Walks In, which makes me think this is kinda the author's style, but in this there was no focus on an extra couple out of nowhere, and it wasn't like one epilogue after another after another, so it didn't drag too much, and only felt a little overstayed in it's welcome - the extra epilogue, I mean.
So overall I enjoyed this and I recommend it. I enjoy this author, and hopefully she does more MM in the future and finds her MM legs, as it were (these could be improved upon, is all I'm saying.)
So two thumbs up from me! Onto the next :)
August 30, 2025
m/m • bodyguard / rock star
I just wanted an easy predictable romance on audio - with a touch of banter and a truckload of pashun 😆 the bodyguard trope is not one I’d normally go for but buddying this with my little sis 🤗
I loved the included prequel novella - great start, win!
Jackson is our newly employed bodyguard. Professional all the way, doesn’t divulge much about his personal life.
Stone is our ‘rock’ star - fun but wanted his bodyguard to be someone he can hang with since they’d be spending a lot of time together.
This book required a lot of suspension of belief as they say. So many things were like, but why? Huh? Okayyyy? And from about 20%-60% I was wondering why I was continuing. Like why did Stone even need around the clock personal bodyguards in the first place???? 🤣🤣 The weird (off page) MFM ménage action Stone engaged in as a favour to his friend? Couldn’t his friend just find the plus one from an app? Marketplace even? 🤨🤣 but I guess this is what fuelled some jealous interaction that sparked something between our two MMCs… I just feel it could’ve been done a different, BETTER, way. Even the spice was like, not hitting, I think because of my annoyance with some of the plot 😬
But I absolutely know why I kept on with it… my mega crush on the narrators 🤭
It did get better and I’m glad I saw it through. Some feel good heart squeezing moments were to be had. Until the very public grand gesture that I knew was coming. I had severe second hand embarrassment, I don’t cope well with massive declarations of feels in front of people who don’t need to witness 😬 ew.
There was an extended epilogue, kinda cute if you like that glimpse into the future, but not really needed. I’m not a huge epilogue fan generally unless the characters have become like family and I can’t let go 😅
For a while I was thinking this is going to be a 2⭐️ for sure, but it improved somewhat, I didn’t not like it, but it’s definitely a one and done for me. Thankyou, next! 😉
I’d rec only really for maybe an easy palate cleanser 🤔
3⭐️
2.5…? 🌶️
I feel like I give all books either a 0, a 2 or a 5 🌶️ so make of that what you will …? 😆
I just wanted an easy predictable romance on audio - with a touch of banter and a truckload of pashun 😆 the bodyguard trope is not one I’d normally go for but buddying this with my little sis 🤗
I loved the included prequel novella - great start, win!
Jackson is our newly employed bodyguard. Professional all the way, doesn’t divulge much about his personal life.
Stone is our ‘rock’ star - fun but wanted his bodyguard to be someone he can hang with since they’d be spending a lot of time together.
This book required a lot of suspension of belief as they say. So many things were like, but why? Huh? Okayyyy? And from about 20%-60% I was wondering why I was continuing. Like why did Stone even need around the clock personal bodyguards in the first place???? 🤣🤣 The weird (off page) MFM ménage action Stone engaged in as a favour to his friend? Couldn’t his friend just find the plus one from an app? Marketplace even? 🤨🤣 but I guess this is what fuelled some jealous interaction that sparked something between our two MMCs… I just feel it could’ve been done a different, BETTER, way. Even the spice was like, not hitting, I think because of my annoyance with some of the plot 😬
But I absolutely know why I kept on with it… my mega crush on the narrators 🤭
It did get better and I’m glad I saw it through. Some feel good heart squeezing moments were to be had. Until the very public grand gesture that I knew was coming. I had severe second hand embarrassment, I don’t cope well with massive declarations of feels in front of people who don’t need to witness 😬 ew.
There was an extended epilogue, kinda cute if you like that glimpse into the future, but not really needed. I’m not a huge epilogue fan generally unless the characters have become like family and I can’t let go 😅
For a while I was thinking this is going to be a 2⭐️ for sure, but it improved somewhat, I didn’t not like it, but it’s definitely a one and done for me. Thankyou, next! 😉
I’d rec only really for maybe an easy palate cleanser 🤔
3⭐️
2.5…? 🌶️
I feel like I give all books either a 0, a 2 or a 5 🌶️ so make of that what you will …? 😆
dnf-for-good
November 16, 202010% DNF. Shallow shallow shallow
November 26, 2020
Cheesy and annoying! This took forever to read and the epilogues just kept going and going!
tried-sample-but-no
December 4, 2021Meh 🤷🏻♀️
July 3, 2024
Audiobook 5 ⭐️ excellent narration by Teddy and Jacob.
This was entertaining, nothing special, but the epilogue is what made it special for me, it really has a happy ending.
This was entertaining, nothing special, but the epilogue is what made it special for me, it really has a happy ending.
March 26, 2024
I've given this an A for narration, and a C- for the story (which was DIRE) at AudioGals. I'm leaving it at 3 stars.
Teddy Hamilton and Jacob Morgan have only recorded a handful of books together, but thanks to their performances in the much-loved  Him/Us/Epic from Sarina Bowen and Elle Kennedy, they’ve become something of m/m narrating royalty. I listen to Mr. Hamilton fairly frequently, and he’s a firm favourite here at AG – although I have to confess that I’ve hardly listened to Mr. Morgan at all; not because I don’t like his voice or his work, but because he doesn’t record often – if at all – in the genres I tend to enjoy.
So I was really excited to learn the pair was teaming up again for Lauren Blakely’s latest m/m story One Time Only, a romance between hot, openly bisexual rock star Stone Zenith (yes, really) and his equally hot, ex-marine bodyguard, Jackson Pearce – and they are both, of course wonderful.
The story? Not so much.
In fact, the most notable thing about the story in One Time Only is its absence.
Jackson has been working for Stone for about five months. They get on well; they shoot the shit together, snark at each other and generally enjoy one another’s company – but lately, it’s getting more and more difficult to ignore the fact that he’s strongly attracted to his boss. It’s a line Jackson can’t afford to cross; not only would it be unprofessional, he needs the steady income to pay off the debts incurred by his former – deceased – boyfriend, a daredevil stunt rider who died when a motorcycle stunt went wrong two years earlier.
Stone is bi and out and proud; he loves music, he loves his life, he loves sex, he loves having a good time and is completely larger-than-life. He’s also wildly attracted to his hot but straight (he assumes) bodyguard, but knows he shouldn’t go there.
Well, obviously they DO go there, deciding that it’ll be One Time Only for them to get it out of their systems. And then of course, One Time Only isn’t enough, and so, even though they’ve really tried to keep their hands off each other and failed miserably, they decide that they’ll spend the final week of Stone’s tour hooking up and screwing each other’s brains out.
And that’s just about it for the plot. Of a nearly ten hour audiobook. The conflict which comes near the end is predictable and SO minimal, that blink, and you’ll miss it, and while I like a well-written steamy sex scene as much as the next person, there were so many of them, I just zoned out after a while.
I liked the characters (two-dimensional though they are). Jackson’s relationship with his younger sister is especially good, and the chemistry between Stone and Jackson sizzles nicely, but call me old-fashioned – I like a bit of a story to go along with All The Sex, and there just isn’t one here. And dear GOD, the mental lusting (“lust” seems to be the buzz-word in this book, btw). Right from the first chapter, the mental lusting is so strong it’s a wonder either man can walk – or see – straight.
Unsurprisingly, it was the narration that kept me listening, although even the dulcet tones of this talented duo couldn’t keep my mind from wandering at times. Coincidentally I re-listened to Him quite recently, and one of the things that stood out most strongly as I was listening to One Time Only was the way that Jacob Morgan has developed as a narrator. Don’t get me wrong, he was good in Him, but here – wow, he knocked my socks off! He embodies the character of Stone flawlessly, expertly conveying his outgoing, generous nature, his humour and his confidence; his vocal acting is superb and he also does a terrific job with Jackson’s dialogue, doing a more than more-than-passable imitation of the low, gravelly tone Teddy Hamilton employs for Jackson, so there’s a real consistency in the portrayals of the two leads. Mr. Hamilton’s portion of the narration is excellent, too, strongly characterised and well-differentiated, his sexy growl well suited to Jackson’s particular brand of dirty talk and general alpha-ness.
But even so, I really can’t recommend One Time Only. Goodreads and Amazon are full of 5 star fangirl squee for it, so I’m clearly in a very small minority in thinking it lacks depth, plot and well-rounded characters. Jacob Morgan and Teddy Hamilton are easily the very best thing about this audiobook, but even they can’t make up for the lack of a decent story or disguise the fact that the text is practically three-quarters sex scenes and little else. Two such talented performers deserve better material than this.
Note: This audiobook includes TWO epilogues, performed duet-style, a short preview of Ms. Blakely’s next m/m story, and an interview with the narrators – which I probably enjoyed more than the book!
This review originally appeared at AudioGals .
Teddy Hamilton and Jacob Morgan have only recorded a handful of books together, but thanks to their performances in the much-loved  Him/Us/Epic from Sarina Bowen and Elle Kennedy, they’ve become something of m/m narrating royalty. I listen to Mr. Hamilton fairly frequently, and he’s a firm favourite here at AG – although I have to confess that I’ve hardly listened to Mr. Morgan at all; not because I don’t like his voice or his work, but because he doesn’t record often – if at all – in the genres I tend to enjoy.
So I was really excited to learn the pair was teaming up again for Lauren Blakely’s latest m/m story One Time Only, a romance between hot, openly bisexual rock star Stone Zenith (yes, really) and his equally hot, ex-marine bodyguard, Jackson Pearce – and they are both, of course wonderful.
The story? Not so much.
In fact, the most notable thing about the story in One Time Only is its absence.
Jackson has been working for Stone for about five months. They get on well; they shoot the shit together, snark at each other and generally enjoy one another’s company – but lately, it’s getting more and more difficult to ignore the fact that he’s strongly attracted to his boss. It’s a line Jackson can’t afford to cross; not only would it be unprofessional, he needs the steady income to pay off the debts incurred by his former – deceased – boyfriend, a daredevil stunt rider who died when a motorcycle stunt went wrong two years earlier.
Stone is bi and out and proud; he loves music, he loves his life, he loves sex, he loves having a good time and is completely larger-than-life. He’s also wildly attracted to his hot but straight (he assumes) bodyguard, but knows he shouldn’t go there.
Well, obviously they DO go there, deciding that it’ll be One Time Only for them to get it out of their systems. And then of course, One Time Only isn’t enough, and so, even though they’ve really tried to keep their hands off each other and failed miserably, they decide that they’ll spend the final week of Stone’s tour hooking up and screwing each other’s brains out.
And that’s just about it for the plot. Of a nearly ten hour audiobook. The conflict which comes near the end is predictable and SO minimal, that blink, and you’ll miss it, and while I like a well-written steamy sex scene as much as the next person, there were so many of them, I just zoned out after a while.
I liked the characters (two-dimensional though they are). Jackson’s relationship with his younger sister is especially good, and the chemistry between Stone and Jackson sizzles nicely, but call me old-fashioned – I like a bit of a story to go along with All The Sex, and there just isn’t one here. And dear GOD, the mental lusting (“lust” seems to be the buzz-word in this book, btw). Right from the first chapter, the mental lusting is so strong it’s a wonder either man can walk – or see – straight.
Unsurprisingly, it was the narration that kept me listening, although even the dulcet tones of this talented duo couldn’t keep my mind from wandering at times. Coincidentally I re-listened to Him quite recently, and one of the things that stood out most strongly as I was listening to One Time Only was the way that Jacob Morgan has developed as a narrator. Don’t get me wrong, he was good in Him, but here – wow, he knocked my socks off! He embodies the character of Stone flawlessly, expertly conveying his outgoing, generous nature, his humour and his confidence; his vocal acting is superb and he also does a terrific job with Jackson’s dialogue, doing a more than more-than-passable imitation of the low, gravelly tone Teddy Hamilton employs for Jackson, so there’s a real consistency in the portrayals of the two leads. Mr. Hamilton’s portion of the narration is excellent, too, strongly characterised and well-differentiated, his sexy growl well suited to Jackson’s particular brand of dirty talk and general alpha-ness.
But even so, I really can’t recommend One Time Only. Goodreads and Amazon are full of 5 star fangirl squee for it, so I’m clearly in a very small minority in thinking it lacks depth, plot and well-rounded characters. Jacob Morgan and Teddy Hamilton are easily the very best thing about this audiobook, but even they can’t make up for the lack of a decent story or disguise the fact that the text is practically three-quarters sex scenes and little else. Two such talented performers deserve better material than this.
Note: This audiobook includes TWO epilogues, performed duet-style, a short preview of Ms. Blakely’s next m/m story, and an interview with the narrators – which I probably enjoyed more than the book!
This review originally appeared at AudioGals .
December 6, 2020
4.5 stars
November 17, 2020
Holy Hot!
I love a relationship SHIP, this book really gives us all we want in a romance and so much more. We get these awesome wonderful characters who try to stay away but attraction is named that for a reason. Two people who are attracted can’t stay away. Their One Night Only rule went bye bye after they got their hands on each other.
Not only is this book hot but it has those awe moments that I can’t get enough of but also some of the funny times you can’t help but become endeared to.
The fact that Stone’s fans were rooting for him and Stone before they were an us was fantastic.
I love the way Lauren writes her MM romances she never makes it a big deal that it is two men it’s never even a second thought. I wish this on all MM book and writes if we write it then maybe it will become true. Let love be love.
I loved the ending and the ENDING. Not only do we get a bit more but we also get a great interview I for one can’t wait to see more MM romance from Lauren.
These narrators blew me away. I already loved both of them and I was surprised who was doing who for characters. I always say Teddy and more a Stone but no he was totally Jacks throw and threw. Fantastic both of them.
I love a relationship SHIP, this book really gives us all we want in a romance and so much more. We get these awesome wonderful characters who try to stay away but attraction is named that for a reason. Two people who are attracted can’t stay away. Their One Night Only rule went bye bye after they got their hands on each other.
Not only is this book hot but it has those awe moments that I can’t get enough of but also some of the funny times you can’t help but become endeared to.
The fact that Stone’s fans were rooting for him and Stone before they were an us was fantastic.
I love the way Lauren writes her MM romances she never makes it a big deal that it is two men it’s never even a second thought. I wish this on all MM book and writes if we write it then maybe it will become true. Let love be love.
I loved the ending and the ENDING. Not only do we get a bit more but we also get a great interview I for one can’t wait to see more MM romance from Lauren.
These narrators blew me away. I already loved both of them and I was surprised who was doing who for characters. I always say Teddy and more a Stone but no he was totally Jacks throw and threw. Fantastic both of them.
August 29, 2024
“Did you ever hear the story about the rock star who fell for his bodyguard?” I smile. “I hear it has a very happy ending.”
Ahh, when you have an incredible duo like Jacob Morgan and Teddy Hamilton reading a book together, nothing but a bone melting experience is about to happen. Just like with the book HIM these two sound so great together, tingles every single time. I'm pretty sure this is my first Lauren Blakely book and I am not disappointed. Stone and Jackson are great. I've never seen The Bodyguard or read a book with a Rockstar and a bodyguard so I have no starting point for this. But I enjoyed this a lot. They had hot fiery sexy chemistry together from the jump, but it also helped that they had a more friendly connection as well. I enjoyed that they could bounce off each other, though I wished I could of seen more of their friendlier aspect of their relationship. Most of this book is them struggling with the overbearing lust they have for one another. How they know they shouldn't but how they really really want to. But we did get some pretty great intimate nonsexual moments so I will give it a pass. I'm gonna give it 5 Stars because I found myself squealing out loud and kicking my feet and I cant ask much more from a romance book. I wanna feel all the butterflies and squeal over the sexy shit people say to each other. I had an amazing time. But literally Teddy Hamilton could read me the bible and Id be rolling across the bed with my kindle in hand. Also Jacob Morgan got some lungs on him. He was singing in this book and that was pretty neat. Usually people just read the lyrics, but my dude went for it. Good on him. It was a fast pace insta-lust to love romance novel and I don't mind those. Two awesome bros being bros and falling in love, that's all I could ask for. Also it gave me plenty of epilogue with lost and lots of information on what happens to them after the book which I fucking love.
Ahh, when you have an incredible duo like Jacob Morgan and Teddy Hamilton reading a book together, nothing but a bone melting experience is about to happen. Just like with the book HIM these two sound so great together, tingles every single time. I'm pretty sure this is my first Lauren Blakely book and I am not disappointed. Stone and Jackson are great. I've never seen The Bodyguard or read a book with a Rockstar and a bodyguard so I have no starting point for this. But I enjoyed this a lot. They had hot fiery sexy chemistry together from the jump, but it also helped that they had a more friendly connection as well. I enjoyed that they could bounce off each other, though I wished I could of seen more of their friendlier aspect of their relationship. Most of this book is them struggling with the overbearing lust they have for one another. How they know they shouldn't but how they really really want to. But we did get some pretty great intimate nonsexual moments so I will give it a pass. I'm gonna give it 5 Stars because I found myself squealing out loud and kicking my feet and I cant ask much more from a romance book. I wanna feel all the butterflies and squeal over the sexy shit people say to each other. I had an amazing time. But literally Teddy Hamilton could read me the bible and Id be rolling across the bed with my kindle in hand. Also Jacob Morgan got some lungs on him. He was singing in this book and that was pretty neat. Usually people just read the lyrics, but my dude went for it. Good on him. It was a fast pace insta-lust to love romance novel and I don't mind those. Two awesome bros being bros and falling in love, that's all I could ask for. Also it gave me plenty of epilogue with lost and lots of information on what happens to them after the book which I fucking love.
May 12, 2022
This is a very simple story. I read it as a beach read and as such the story was perfect. But I am not convinced that it would work as well in other circumstances.
Jackson and Stone are drawn to each other from the beginning. We know it and we are waiting for them to do something about it. Considering what the author decided to put in the prologue, I am surprised that it takes them so long. I would have expected the story to move forward much faster.
But as I said, this is a simple romance story between the rock star and his bodyguard. I'm not entirely sure the reason why they can't be together really works. I am not sure if it is fully convincing for me. But the author did a really good job to convince us that it all matters. So it's not bad overall.
I was surely surprised by the amount of sex scenes. And the passion of Jackson and Stone's relationship in general. Sometimes it was more like erotic romance. But I'm not going to complain, as beach read it worked quite well. And these scenes were varied enough not to be boring.
My guess is that in this story there are quite a few characters from other books by this author. I'm not sure if I read her other books, so I didn't expect to recognize anyone. But I liked many of these characters and maybe I will read some of the other books just for one of the characters I met here.
Overall it was pretty fun. We will see if I will remember these characters for longer or it will be another story about a bodyguard and the star he protects. But I also admit that I've been craving a rock star story for a while now. And this book has served its purpose.
Jackson and Stone are drawn to each other from the beginning. We know it and we are waiting for them to do something about it. Considering what the author decided to put in the prologue, I am surprised that it takes them so long. I would have expected the story to move forward much faster.
But as I said, this is a simple romance story between the rock star and his bodyguard. I'm not entirely sure the reason why they can't be together really works. I am not sure if it is fully convincing for me. But the author did a really good job to convince us that it all matters. So it's not bad overall.
I was surely surprised by the amount of sex scenes. And the passion of Jackson and Stone's relationship in general. Sometimes it was more like erotic romance. But I'm not going to complain, as beach read it worked quite well. And these scenes were varied enough not to be boring.
My guess is that in this story there are quite a few characters from other books by this author. I'm not sure if I read her other books, so I didn't expect to recognize anyone. But I liked many of these characters and maybe I will read some of the other books just for one of the characters I met here.
Overall it was pretty fun. We will see if I will remember these characters for longer or it will be another story about a bodyguard and the star he protects. But I also admit that I've been craving a rock star story for a while now. And this book has served its purpose.
November 15, 2020
I'm loving Blakely’s M/M content! It's a new venture for her and is absolutely fantastic.
Stone and Jackson are a hot rocker/bodyguard duet. In the world of romance novels, everyone knows that "getting someone out of your system" turns from fling to forever. One time turns into all the time.
And the supporting characters were fantastic. From Stone's brother to Jackson's family and fellow bodyguards. The people on the sidelines can help make or break a story. With Blakely, they make it every time.
5 stars, highly recommended
Stone and Jackson are a hot rocker/bodyguard duet. In the world of romance novels, everyone knows that "getting someone out of your system" turns from fling to forever. One time turns into all the time.
And the supporting characters were fantastic. From Stone's brother to Jackson's family and fellow bodyguards. The people on the sidelines can help make or break a story. With Blakely, they make it every time.
5 stars, highly recommended
November 2, 2023
I wish there was an actual reading order for all of these interlinking books, because I should have read this one before Grant and Declan's series!
I really enjoyed the relationship between Jackson and Stone, and it was a fun and engaging story. I would have preferred a bit more angst but that's just my preference in any story I read.
The things that bothered me slightly were just small details that are different in the books that follow this one, but as I didn't realise this one came first it was confusing for a while.
Nadia owning the Las Vegas Hawks threw me, because in Jason and Beck's book the Hawk's are a San Francisco team that Nadia owns. Also Stone's brother is called Zane, but then there's another Zane as an MC in a later book which confused me until it was stated Stone's brother is a lighting designer not a baseball player 😂
Knowing that this book came first though, I'm kinda confused how I don't recall seeing anything at all mentioned about Jackson in any of the other MM books set in this story universe, but there are a lot of mentions of Stone. I think this is also why I didn't realise this book came before - I assumed Stone met Jackson after the events of Jude and TJ's book because I didn't remember his boyfriend / husband ever being mentioned, but clearly not.
There were also no real cameos from characters in the other books besides Nadia, and then Declan appears briefly in one of the many epilogues. That also threw me because I'm so used to the other characters popping up 😂
Just little things obviously, but they all distracted me! If there was a reading order available rather than just a list of books that are in each series, but no information on how they connect, that would have been so helpful!
I really enjoyed the relationship between Jackson and Stone, and it was a fun and engaging story. I would have preferred a bit more angst but that's just my preference in any story I read.
The things that bothered me slightly were just small details that are different in the books that follow this one, but as I didn't realise this one came first it was confusing for a while.
Nadia owning the Las Vegas Hawks threw me, because in Jason and Beck's book the Hawk's are a San Francisco team that Nadia owns. Also Stone's brother is called Zane, but then there's another Zane as an MC in a later book which confused me until it was stated Stone's brother is a lighting designer not a baseball player 😂
Knowing that this book came first though, I'm kinda confused how I don't recall seeing anything at all mentioned about Jackson in any of the other MM books set in this story universe, but there are a lot of mentions of Stone. I think this is also why I didn't realise this book came before - I assumed Stone met Jackson after the events of Jude and TJ's book because I didn't remember his boyfriend / husband ever being mentioned, but clearly not.
There were also no real cameos from characters in the other books besides Nadia, and then Declan appears briefly in one of the many epilogues. That also threw me because I'm so used to the other characters popping up 😂
Just little things obviously, but they all distracted me! If there was a reading order available rather than just a list of books that are in each series, but no information on how they connect, that would have been so helpful!
November 11, 2020
This MM romance is sizzling hottt! The rockstar is about to get swept off his feet by the gorgeous man who was hired to protect him.
Stone is a rockstar and his bodyguard is becoming a problem. The attraction between them continues to grow and soon it will consume them both if they let it. Jackson needs this job. So crossing that line is an internal struggle for him. He'll need to decide whether it's worth breaking his own rules to have Stone just one time only.
Stone is fun and carefree. He lives the rocker lifestyle. He embraces life and loves both men and women. He's a really great guy with a big, soft heart.
Jackson is serious about life, his job, and everything else that matters to him. He is Stone's complete opposite. His baggage from a past relationship weighs him down and has left him struggling to free himself of that weight. His job is something he loves, but he has rules. He never gets involved with his clients. However, Stone has been testing his resolve since they met. This stoic man has met his match.
The mutual attraction becomes clear and pushing each other's boundaries is going to bring them both immense pleasure. Once they cross the line between boss and employee, they decide it can only happen one time. One time only will never be enough for either of them.
This is a sexy MM romance with lots of heat. Stone and Jackson share some sweet moments as their relationship transitions from one night to a lifetime. I enjoyed these characters and their path. Their love and attraction was beautiful and their connection was intense. And the epilogue brought it all full circle. Enjoy!
Stone is a rockstar and his bodyguard is becoming a problem. The attraction between them continues to grow and soon it will consume them both if they let it. Jackson needs this job. So crossing that line is an internal struggle for him. He'll need to decide whether it's worth breaking his own rules to have Stone just one time only.
Stone is fun and carefree. He lives the rocker lifestyle. He embraces life and loves both men and women. He's a really great guy with a big, soft heart.
Jackson is serious about life, his job, and everything else that matters to him. He is Stone's complete opposite. His baggage from a past relationship weighs him down and has left him struggling to free himself of that weight. His job is something he loves, but he has rules. He never gets involved with his clients. However, Stone has been testing his resolve since they met. This stoic man has met his match.
The mutual attraction becomes clear and pushing each other's boundaries is going to bring them both immense pleasure. Once they cross the line between boss and employee, they decide it can only happen one time. One time only will never be enough for either of them.
This is a sexy MM romance with lots of heat. Stone and Jackson share some sweet moments as their relationship transitions from one night to a lifetime. I enjoyed these characters and their path. Their love and attraction was beautiful and their connection was intense. And the epilogue brought it all full circle. Enjoy!
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