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Outback Boys #2
Bounce
Standoffish Aiden is content keeping people at a distance and ensuring his boundaries are impenetrable. There’s safety in not opening up, but there’s also a loneliness he doesn’t realise exists until he meets Riley, a new member of the LGBTQIA+ adventure group Outback Boys.
Fascinated by the new guy, Aiden is quick to discover his flirtation skills are rusty and his sweet-talking is cringeworthy. But sweet and clumsy Riley doesn’t seem to mind so much.
Even though Riley doesn’t quite know how to handle Aiden’s intensity, he’s willing to step out of his comfort zone and see how their tentative friendship unravels.
Between a surf lesson that resembles a kangaroo on acid and paddle boarding that is trickier than walking a tightrope, Aiden and Riley discover love may be a possibility after all.
Happiness relies on honesty and openness, though. And with both men holding on tightly to past struggles, their future together is at risk. Can the two Aussies bounce back and heal themselves and each other, or are some wounds too raw to recover from?
Outback Boys is a sweet and sexy M/M romance series complete with bruised butts, rope burn, and overworked muscles… all in the pursuit of adventure, of course!
Trigger Warning: Contains themes (discussions) of mental illness and suicide.
Fascinated by the new guy, Aiden is quick to discover his flirtation skills are rusty and his sweet-talking is cringeworthy. But sweet and clumsy Riley doesn’t seem to mind so much.
Even though Riley doesn’t quite know how to handle Aiden’s intensity, he’s willing to step out of his comfort zone and see how their tentative friendship unravels.
Between a surf lesson that resembles a kangaroo on acid and paddle boarding that is trickier than walking a tightrope, Aiden and Riley discover love may be a possibility after all.
Happiness relies on honesty and openness, though. And with both men holding on tightly to past struggles, their future together is at risk. Can the two Aussies bounce back and heal themselves and each other, or are some wounds too raw to recover from?
Outback Boys is a sweet and sexy M/M romance series complete with bruised butts, rope burn, and overworked muscles… all in the pursuit of adventure, of course!
Trigger Warning: Contains themes (discussions) of mental illness and suicide.
211 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 27, 2021
20 people are currently reading
166 people want to read
About the author
Becca Seymour
49 books624 followersBecca Seymour is a British/Aussie author and the #1 gay romance best seller of the True-Blue series. Known for "steamy and endearing" and "emotionally profound love stories" (InD'tale Magazine) her books have been nominated for multiple RONE Awards.
Becca has a sweet tooth for marshmallow-hearted monsters, swoon-worthy supernatural studs, and everyday guys and basketball players with hearts of gold. If you like your MM romance sweet, spicy, and occasionally action-packed, slip into stalker mode and fall hard for her True-Blue and Minnesota Eagles men—and maybe a shifter or monster two.
Monsters & Mates
Solan | Kael | Varek
Zone Defense
No Take Backs | No More Secrets | No Wrong Moves | No Backing Down
Fast Break
Rules, Schmules! | Facts, Smacts! | Regular Smegular! | Easy, Schmeasy!
True-Blue Let Me Show You | I’ve Got You | Becoming Us | Thinking It Over | Always For You | It’s Not You | Our First & Last | Next For Us
Outback Boys
Stumble | Bounce | Wobble
Fangs & Felons
Thicker Than Water | Weaker Than Instinct | Brighter Than Fear | Stronger Than Fate | Softer Than Stone
Stand-Alone Contemporary
Not Used To Cute | High Alert | Realigned | Amalgamated | Under the Blazing Stars | Best Kind of Awkward | Tastes Like Sugar | Caden & Theo | Full Tilt
REVIEWS:
"WOW! Simply, Wow! A funny, steamy and endearing story that should be put into your family of books. Something that you can read over and over again when you need a pick me up." The Book Fairy Reviews
"An intense connection that smolders" - JayReads
"This book was a slow burn and I loved it." - Steamy Book Momma
"Characters to pull for, a romance to give you feels, and enough steam to keep you turning pages..." - Romantic Reads and Such
"Emotionally profound love story with many laugh aloud moments." - InD'tale Magazine
"Becca had me cracking up laughing and smiling ear to ear." - HeidiLynns BookReviews
Newsletter: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor...
Becca has a sweet tooth for marshmallow-hearted monsters, swoon-worthy supernatural studs, and everyday guys and basketball players with hearts of gold. If you like your MM romance sweet, spicy, and occasionally action-packed, slip into stalker mode and fall hard for her True-Blue and Minnesota Eagles men—and maybe a shifter or monster two.
Monsters & Mates
Solan | Kael | Varek
Zone Defense
No Take Backs | No More Secrets | No Wrong Moves | No Backing Down
Fast Break
Rules, Schmules! | Facts, Smacts! | Regular Smegular! | Easy, Schmeasy!
True-Blue Let Me Show You | I’ve Got You | Becoming Us | Thinking It Over | Always For You | It’s Not You | Our First & Last | Next For Us
Outback Boys
Stumble | Bounce | Wobble
Fangs & Felons
Thicker Than Water | Weaker Than Instinct | Brighter Than Fear | Stronger Than Fate | Softer Than Stone
Stand-Alone Contemporary
Not Used To Cute | High Alert | Realigned | Amalgamated | Under the Blazing Stars | Best Kind of Awkward | Tastes Like Sugar | Caden & Theo | Full Tilt
REVIEWS:
"WOW! Simply, Wow! A funny, steamy and endearing story that should be put into your family of books. Something that you can read over and over again when you need a pick me up." The Book Fairy Reviews
"An intense connection that smolders" - JayReads
"This book was a slow burn and I loved it." - Steamy Book Momma
"Characters to pull for, a romance to give you feels, and enough steam to keep you turning pages..." - Romantic Reads and Such
"Emotionally profound love story with many laugh aloud moments." - InD'tale Magazine
"Becca had me cracking up laughing and smiling ear to ear." - HeidiLynns BookReviews
Newsletter: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
August 9, 2022
Wow, I’m still feeling all the emotions after finishing this book. It was just wonderful. Although this is a sweet love story it’s not free of angst. Be sure you check the trigger warnings.
I loved Aiden and Riley from the first time they met. Aiden is a handsome rugged outdoorsman that most of the Outback Boys would love to get in bed. He’s still morning his first boyfriend’s death and has never shown any interest in any of them. That is until Riley. He’s tall, fifteen pounds overweight, shy, awkward, and totally adorable. Aiden is smitten and so was I.
This only my second book by Becca Seymour and I can’t wait to check out everything else she’s written.
I loved Aiden and Riley from the first time they met. Aiden is a handsome rugged outdoorsman that most of the Outback Boys would love to get in bed. He’s still morning his first boyfriend’s death and has never shown any interest in any of them. That is until Riley. He’s tall, fifteen pounds overweight, shy, awkward, and totally adorable. Aiden is smitten and so was I.
This only my second book by Becca Seymour and I can’t wait to check out everything else she’s written.
April 16, 2021
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
Bounce is the second book in Becca Seymour’s Outback Boys series. The books both feature the adventure group, and Mark and Trey show up briefly here, but the stories stand alone just fine and you can easily jump into this one without having read Stumble.
Riley and Aiden are likable guys and they have an easy development to their relationship. They are both kind and sweet and there is some cute interaction between them, especially as they hang out with the Outback Boys. Seymour does a nice job highlighting their adventures and showcasing some of the natural beauty of Australia, so I enjoyed the scenes where they are participating in the outdoor activities. I also liked the sweet relationship Aiden has with his somewhat crusty grandfather, particularly when he gives Aiden a bit of a kick in the pants.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
Bounce is the second book in Becca Seymour’s Outback Boys series. The books both feature the adventure group, and Mark and Trey show up briefly here, but the stories stand alone just fine and you can easily jump into this one without having read Stumble.
Riley and Aiden are likable guys and they have an easy development to their relationship. They are both kind and sweet and there is some cute interaction between them, especially as they hang out with the Outback Boys. Seymour does a nice job highlighting their adventures and showcasing some of the natural beauty of Australia, so I enjoyed the scenes where they are participating in the outdoor activities. I also liked the sweet relationship Aiden has with his somewhat crusty grandfather, particularly when he gives Aiden a bit of a kick in the pants.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
March 29, 2021
Independent reviewer for Gay Romance Reviews, I was gifted my copy of this book.
This is book 2 in the Outback Boys series, and I have not yet read book one, but I don't think I missed anything by not doing so. It's on my list, though!
This series is billed as a "sweet and sexy romance series" but I am here to stomp on that!
Because this book STARTS out sweet, yes, I will give you that but it soon disolves into a puddle of pain and there were SO MANY TEARS!
The clues are all there, both for Aiden and Riley's pain, they really are but my brain didn't put them together fast enough, nor in the right order or way. So when the full truth for both is revealed?? I lost it, totally. I rarely react out loud when reading, but for both men's pain, I bawled my eyes out, I really did. I read this book in one sitting, but I did have to keep stopping for a few minutes to gather myself.
I'm working hard here to NOT give anything away!
It's dark, so dark in places, but there is so much joy too. The love Aiden and Riley have builds over time, til *that* happens, but the love doesn't die then, they both need some time to get their heads round it all.
It has some sweet moments, and some sexy ones. Both men have a say, so we get all their pain, and their love and there were so many tears! Did I say? Tears! So make sure you have tissues, OK?? Oh, and I LOVED the epilogue!
I want to say so much more, but doing that will lead me to spoilers, and I don't want to spoil this, not for anyone.
SO, get your box of tissues ready, shut the tele/phone/doorbell off, and fall into this, you won't regret it.
Off the blurb, so not giving anything away:
Trigger Warning: Contains themes (discussions) of mental illness and suicide.
5 full and shiny stars
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
This is book 2 in the Outback Boys series, and I have not yet read book one, but I don't think I missed anything by not doing so. It's on my list, though!
This series is billed as a "sweet and sexy romance series" but I am here to stomp on that!
Because this book STARTS out sweet, yes, I will give you that but it soon disolves into a puddle of pain and there were SO MANY TEARS!
The clues are all there, both for Aiden and Riley's pain, they really are but my brain didn't put them together fast enough, nor in the right order or way. So when the full truth for both is revealed?? I lost it, totally. I rarely react out loud when reading, but for both men's pain, I bawled my eyes out, I really did. I read this book in one sitting, but I did have to keep stopping for a few minutes to gather myself.
I'm working hard here to NOT give anything away!
It's dark, so dark in places, but there is so much joy too. The love Aiden and Riley have builds over time, til *that* happens, but the love doesn't die then, they both need some time to get their heads round it all.
It has some sweet moments, and some sexy ones. Both men have a say, so we get all their pain, and their love and there were so many tears! Did I say? Tears! So make sure you have tissues, OK?? Oh, and I LOVED the epilogue!
I want to say so much more, but doing that will lead me to spoilers, and I don't want to spoil this, not for anyone.
SO, get your box of tissues ready, shut the tele/phone/doorbell off, and fall into this, you won't regret it.
Off the blurb, so not giving anything away:
Trigger Warning: Contains themes (discussions) of mental illness and suicide.
5 full and shiny stars
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
March 12, 2021
Riley is a tall lanky klutz. But that's what appeals to the standoffish Aiden. Aiden lost his partner James to cancer a while back and he's withdrawn himself from people in general and loneliness is the high price he is paying. But Riley is a temptation he can't ignore. A trek through The Outback by the Outback Boys, a LGBTQIA adventure group, is the setting for the second book in this series. Previous characters from the first book "Stumble", Trey and Mark, make worthwhile appearances in setting the stage for this story. The author uses the staid tried and true plot of overbooked hotel rooms to enable these two to reach out to one another and the possibilities of having a meaningful relationship once hurdles are jumped over. Riley has his private burdens to bear and his concerns for his sister Tanya's health and wellbeing are a reality few can relate to, but Riley's love of his sister is a wonder to behold. Each man has emotions that hold the other back from relationships, but each offers the other the moral support and love to overcome those emotions and move on to a future together. As an aside, one character that appears in each book is Frank, co-leader of each Outback trek. I liked him and would like to know his story. This is my story review given to me via BookFunnel and this review is my honest opinion.
March 31, 2021
Story of hope.
I really enjoyed Stumble, the first book in this series, so I was happy when I discovered that there was a second, and then received an ARC. Bounce did not disappoint, even though it was quite different from the first one. Riley and Adrian are a good fit, they have fun together, are obviously meant for one another. However, unlike the first book in the series, there's an air of melancholy that surrounds both guys. You just know that something has happened in their pasts, that was still affecting them. Slowly, the truth comes out, that they're both still in mourning, for love lost. Eventually, secrets kept, are revealed and towards the end there's the most heart-wrenching moment, when the guys part ways.
You need to be aware that there are trigger warnings of depression and suicide. But also, what this book reminded me, was the hope that can come in the aftermath.
I really enjoyed Stumble, the first book in this series, so I was happy when I discovered that there was a second, and then received an ARC. Bounce did not disappoint, even though it was quite different from the first one. Riley and Adrian are a good fit, they have fun together, are obviously meant for one another. However, unlike the first book in the series, there's an air of melancholy that surrounds both guys. You just know that something has happened in their pasts, that was still affecting them. Slowly, the truth comes out, that they're both still in mourning, for love lost. Eventually, secrets kept, are revealed and towards the end there's the most heart-wrenching moment, when the guys part ways.
You need to be aware that there are trigger warnings of depression and suicide. But also, what this book reminded me, was the hope that can come in the aftermath.
March 6, 2021
4.5 stars.
I enjoyed every moment of this book.
Aiden and Riley are just so wonderfully likeable and real. Riley can be clumsy and laugh at himself about it and so thoughtful towards others. Aiden is very intense and also awkwardly sweet.
They meet via an Outback Boys adventure weekend away and an initial spark of interest is lit. A delightful romance begins as they spend time together, the initial spark burns brighter each time they get together and soon ignites into steamy times. The journey to an HEA is not all smooth surfing and paddle boarding. All is made right with open communication and an acknowledgement and acceptance of past struggles.
The side characters keep things interesting especially Aiden’s Pop who always made me giggle.
A truly enjoyable, engaging, well written book with minimal angst, scenes that left me giggling and others that gave me all the feels.
I enjoyed every moment of this book.
Aiden and Riley are just so wonderfully likeable and real. Riley can be clumsy and laugh at himself about it and so thoughtful towards others. Aiden is very intense and also awkwardly sweet.
They meet via an Outback Boys adventure weekend away and an initial spark of interest is lit. A delightful romance begins as they spend time together, the initial spark burns brighter each time they get together and soon ignites into steamy times. The journey to an HEA is not all smooth surfing and paddle boarding. All is made right with open communication and an acknowledgement and acceptance of past struggles.
The side characters keep things interesting especially Aiden’s Pop who always made me giggle.
A truly enjoyable, engaging, well written book with minimal angst, scenes that left me giggling and others that gave me all the feels.
March 12, 2021
Thank you for the ARC read, I voluntarily give this book an honest review. Aiden has a with an emotional after an ex, getting out of his comfort zone meeting new people in his cummituny was helping ease the way but Riley was becoming more, could he trust him enough to let go? Riley wasn't as stable as Aiden believed him to be as a friends present bring back a past that haunts him also. Can they see a future together or will blame and misery keep them apart. Reading this you are going to be on laughing and wanting to throttle someone the next, just lovely characters in this book both MC and sides.
March 11, 2021
Aiden and Riley meet during an Outback Boy Weekend and right from the beginning there is a connection between them. But Aiden and Riley both have suffered in the past. Will this become between them?
While this book deals with heavy topics like depression and suicide, I would still characterize it as low angst as it has fun scenes and adorable side characters.
The book is well written and you feel with the characters. A quick, fun read with some heartwrenching scenes.
While this book deals with heavy topics like depression and suicide, I would still characterize it as low angst as it has fun scenes and adorable side characters.
The book is well written and you feel with the characters. A quick, fun read with some heartwrenching scenes.
March 17, 2021
Becca has written a romance that will make you laugh, cry and remain with you long after you've red the last page. Her characters are relatable and flawed, as well as oh so easy to fall in love with. As they bond over recreational activities their characters will open themselves to new experiences and chances at love.
I love how they make changes to their individual lives as they adjust to the needs of their relationship. You'll fall in love along with them!
I love how they make changes to their individual lives as they adjust to the needs of their relationship. You'll fall in love along with them!
March 29, 2021
I adored this book. Despite being forewarned, I wasn't quite emotionally prepared for some of depths of human emotion that were delved into here. A lot of authors tend not to want to touch tougher subjects. They were handled beautifully and brilliantly in Bounce.
It's a wonderful romance between two loveable characters who've suffered through traumatic events of one variety or the other.
The trigger warnings at the start of the book should definitely be paid attention to.
It's a wonderful romance between two loveable characters who've suffered through traumatic events of one variety or the other.
The trigger warnings at the start of the book should definitely be paid attention to.
March 20, 2021
*4.5*
Bounce is such a wonderful second book in this series. I think it's definitely a bit harder hitting in the emotional aspect as there is discussion of depression and suicide attempt (please read the trigger warnings) but it's lovingly balanced with funny, endearing moments and two men getting the HEA that they greatly deserve.
We met Aiden in book one and he seemed a bit stand offish but when Riley turns up to try out at with the Outback boys on an activities weekend, he can't help but be drawn in and the connection goes both ways. Both men are quite isolated with few friends and heartbreak in their pasts and this is a good chance for them to have something amazing but, as with all relationships, need to communicate.
My heart totally went out to both men as what has happened in their pasts is slowly revealed through the story. They have done amazingly well to have come as far as they have, sharing in the good times and carrying in with day to day life. It's the occasional dark moment or when a date, thing or person is a trigger that they are in need of that compassion and love. It's funny to read as they first get to know each other, both seemingly useless at flirting but once things get going, they are so sweet together, each eager to be in contact with the other.
I loved all of the characters involved and how Aiden and Riley's relationship developed. There's a good balance between the highs and lows with love and understanding saving the day for them. Looking forward to the next in the series.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
Bounce is such a wonderful second book in this series. I think it's definitely a bit harder hitting in the emotional aspect as there is discussion of depression and suicide attempt (please read the trigger warnings) but it's lovingly balanced with funny, endearing moments and two men getting the HEA that they greatly deserve.
We met Aiden in book one and he seemed a bit stand offish but when Riley turns up to try out at with the Outback boys on an activities weekend, he can't help but be drawn in and the connection goes both ways. Both men are quite isolated with few friends and heartbreak in their pasts and this is a good chance for them to have something amazing but, as with all relationships, need to communicate.
My heart totally went out to both men as what has happened in their pasts is slowly revealed through the story. They have done amazingly well to have come as far as they have, sharing in the good times and carrying in with day to day life. It's the occasional dark moment or when a date, thing or person is a trigger that they are in need of that compassion and love. It's funny to read as they first get to know each other, both seemingly useless at flirting but once things get going, they are so sweet together, each eager to be in contact with the other.
I loved all of the characters involved and how Aiden and Riley's relationship developed. There's a good balance between the highs and lows with love and understanding saving the day for them. Looking forward to the next in the series.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
March 18, 2021
I am a huge fan of Becca Seymour’s books. She can always be counted on to provide a great story with well written characters. Aiden got my attention from the end of Stumble so I was excited to get his story for book 2. He has closed himself off from everything and everyone, but Riley catches his eye on an excursion with the Outback Boys. Riley is not very confident in himself, but Aiden brings out all of the best in him. I loved their interactions and I think Aiden’s Pops is one of my new favorite characters. With a little help from Aiden, Riley is able to finally move past his own guilt and fears from his past. Depression and suicide are serious issues and no one should have to face them alone. Riley has to learn how to love himself, which opens him up to the full potential of his and Aiden’s relationship. These two are so perfect for each other! Pete also broke my heart a little bit. I would love for him to get a story too.
March 31, 2021
Aiden and Riley have been through so much - I’m so glad they found each other.
I loved how this book dealt with really difficult issues (grief, depression, suicide) but still managed to be low angst and heartwarming. At its core this was a book about two people who had dealt/were dealing with things that affected them on a deeply personal level and that changed how they interacted with the world- despite this they were able to recognise in each other someone they could find true happiness with. I love how Becca Seymour writes characters who are real, with real issues and real insecurities. They aren’t perfect but they try, which is what counts. Aiden and Riley brought out the best in each other and it was a delight to watch them find their way to a HEA. Plus we got to see some old faces (I love Frank and we got to see Trey and Mark yay!) and get to know the Outback Boys a bit better. I am loving this series so far and can’t wait for the next instalment!
I loved how this book dealt with really difficult issues (grief, depression, suicide) but still managed to be low angst and heartwarming. At its core this was a book about two people who had dealt/were dealing with things that affected them on a deeply personal level and that changed how they interacted with the world- despite this they were able to recognise in each other someone they could find true happiness with. I love how Becca Seymour writes characters who are real, with real issues and real insecurities. They aren’t perfect but they try, which is what counts. Aiden and Riley brought out the best in each other and it was a delight to watch them find their way to a HEA. Plus we got to see some old faces (I love Frank and we got to see Trey and Mark yay!) and get to know the Outback Boys a bit better. I am loving this series so far and can’t wait for the next instalment!
April 20, 2021
Emotional and gripping, this story will pull you in and keep you turning page after page. This isn't a simple romance that will have you swooning and seeing hearts everywhere. It will play with your heart strings and lead you on a roller coaster, but what a ride. Well-written with a great cast of characters, you cannot go wrong with this book. 5 stars and I suggest you one-click today!
March 22, 2021
Bounce is the second outing in the Outback Boys series, but works perfectly well as a standalone. The MCs from the first do make cameo appearances but you don't miss out on anything by not knowing their story. I would pay attention to the trigger warnings, however.
At the outset, Riley has been persuaded to give an outdoors weekend a go by his friend from work. One of the group leads is Riley, a bit of an enigma who keeps himself to himself according to other group members. That is until he meets the big teddy bear that is Riley. I think these two characters are very well written. They're both guilty of holding themselves back from really engaging with other people so getting to know each other is stepping out of their comfort zones, especially as we start to learn more about the things from the past that they're still dealing with.
I also really like the tone of the storytelling. There are some heavy themes in Bounce, but they're dealt with sensitively and in such a way that, although we clearly get the characters' emotional ups and downs whilst they struggle with their pasts and their future together is in question, I feel the ending is just uplifting and very sweet.
I'm thoroughly impressed with Bounce. Becca Seymour is a new to me author but, having absolutely enjoyed this in turns sweet/silly (the paddle boarding totally had me laughing out loud)/sad/steamy book, I'll definitely read more of her work. I need to give an honourable mention, too, to Pops...if I had an Australian granddad, I'd love him to be just like Pops! 4.5*
An ARC was provided by GRR. This is my honest review.
At the outset, Riley has been persuaded to give an outdoors weekend a go by his friend from work. One of the group leads is Riley, a bit of an enigma who keeps himself to himself according to other group members. That is until he meets the big teddy bear that is Riley. I think these two characters are very well written. They're both guilty of holding themselves back from really engaging with other people so getting to know each other is stepping out of their comfort zones, especially as we start to learn more about the things from the past that they're still dealing with.
I also really like the tone of the storytelling. There are some heavy themes in Bounce, but they're dealt with sensitively and in such a way that, although we clearly get the characters' emotional ups and downs whilst they struggle with their pasts and their future together is in question, I feel the ending is just uplifting and very sweet.
I'm thoroughly impressed with Bounce. Becca Seymour is a new to me author but, having absolutely enjoyed this in turns sweet/silly (the paddle boarding totally had me laughing out loud)/sad/steamy book, I'll definitely read more of her work. I need to give an honourable mention, too, to Pops...if I had an Australian granddad, I'd love him to be just like Pops! 4.5*
An ARC was provided by GRR. This is my honest review.
April 5, 2021
Riley meets Aiden at the LGBTQIA adventure group aptly named “Outback Boys “.
They try different activities each time , some they find easy, others difficult but to be accompanied with LGBTQIA guys it makes their time together extremely comfortable.
Aiden has a sad past , has not met with anyone for a while , he has the farm which keeps him extremely busy with hardly any time for himself.
Riley has burdens , they are always extremely close to his heart.
How they manage their burdens is written with much love .
As they get closer to each other their closeness is becoming more, but there is something holding them both back , a something that needs to change.
They have to be brave , to open up and communicate with each other , when they do it’s such a wonderful moment that I had goosebumps.
Aiden ‘s father is perfect, says what he thinks with a chuckle.
A beautiful read a great storyline with lovely characters.
With Becca’s writing it makes me feel completely connected always waiting for her next book.
They try different activities each time , some they find easy, others difficult but to be accompanied with LGBTQIA guys it makes their time together extremely comfortable.
Aiden has a sad past , has not met with anyone for a while , he has the farm which keeps him extremely busy with hardly any time for himself.
Riley has burdens , they are always extremely close to his heart.
How they manage their burdens is written with much love .
As they get closer to each other their closeness is becoming more, but there is something holding them both back , a something that needs to change.
They have to be brave , to open up and communicate with each other , when they do it’s such a wonderful moment that I had goosebumps.
Aiden ‘s father is perfect, says what he thinks with a chuckle.
A beautiful read a great storyline with lovely characters.
With Becca’s writing it makes me feel completely connected always waiting for her next book.
March 29, 2021
In brief: Aiden is a member and leader of the Outback Boys, an LGBTQ group that organises weekend group activities for men, and has been alone since his partner passed a couple of years ago. Riley has been persuaded to join the Outback Boys by his friend Pete and is only looking to improve his fitness and enjoy some new outdoor activities. When they meet, there's an instant connection but it's not all plain sailing as they both have issues in their past they need to deal with to be together.
This is the second of the Outback Boys series, but it can be read as a stand-alone, the first book focuses on a different couple but Aiden is introduced there, I believe. I loved Riley, he was so sweet, and just this giant of a man who was also a complete klutz. Aiden I took a little longer to warm up to but when I did I found the two of them were so sweet together, Aiden was good for Riley and vice versa. I loved that even though Aiden was the outdoor specialist he took the time to look after Riley all while coming to terms with being attracted to someone else for the first time since the passing of his partner.
I liked the slow burn of the two of them coming together, I'm not a fan of insta-love but instant attraction is most definitely a thing, and them getting to know each other was so lovely. I knew they both had trauma in their past but a good love story is nothing without some angst and mental health is an important issue that should be talked about more. Without spoilers I was happy they got their HEA in the end because they both deserve happiness.
It's probably just over 4 stars for me.
This is the second of the Outback Boys series, but it can be read as a stand-alone, the first book focuses on a different couple but Aiden is introduced there, I believe. I loved Riley, he was so sweet, and just this giant of a man who was also a complete klutz. Aiden I took a little longer to warm up to but when I did I found the two of them were so sweet together, Aiden was good for Riley and vice versa. I loved that even though Aiden was the outdoor specialist he took the time to look after Riley all while coming to terms with being attracted to someone else for the first time since the passing of his partner.
I liked the slow burn of the two of them coming together, I'm not a fan of insta-love but instant attraction is most definitely a thing, and them getting to know each other was so lovely. I knew they both had trauma in their past but a good love story is nothing without some angst and mental health is an important issue that should be talked about more. Without spoilers I was happy they got their HEA in the end because they both deserve happiness.
It's probably just over 4 stars for me.
March 29, 2021
I've really been enjoying Becca Seymour's newest series, Outback Boys, and this story is told from Aiden and Riley's POV. Aiden is briefly introducted in Stumble (Trey and Mark's story) when he is the newbie that joined Outback boys. He comes across as stand-offish and distant but that's only because he's trying to heal after burying his partner James. Riley is the newest guy that signed up for Outback Boys with his coworker, Pete, to try to get fit. He's sweet, clumsy, and awkward but attractively endearing to Aiden. I wasn't certain how I felt about Pete because there was a period in the book when I thought he was going to completely muck everything up with Aiden and Riley only for the truth come out. Love the Easter egg that the author planted to entice us :) (Hugs to Pete too)
Both men have scars from the past and they slowly find themselves falling into a friendship before easing into a relationship. Happiness and a future together requires both men to be honest and communicate. I really wanted to give Aiden and Riley the biggest hug ever because they've overcome so much hurt, trauma, and pain. Angstier read than the first book and it pulled all the emotional strings for me but so worth it! Aiden and Riley are perfectly scarred and yet they fit together. It was wonderful seeing Mark, Trey, and the other Outback Boys again. I'm excited for Pete's story :)
**Please pay attention to the trigger warnings that the author mentions because this book contains discussions of mental illness and suicide.**
Both men have scars from the past and they slowly find themselves falling into a friendship before easing into a relationship. Happiness and a future together requires both men to be honest and communicate. I really wanted to give Aiden and Riley the biggest hug ever because they've overcome so much hurt, trauma, and pain. Angstier read than the first book and it pulled all the emotional strings for me but so worth it! Aiden and Riley are perfectly scarred and yet they fit together. It was wonderful seeing Mark, Trey, and the other Outback Boys again. I'm excited for Pete's story :)
**Please pay attention to the trigger warnings that the author mentions because this book contains discussions of mental illness and suicide.**
March 24, 2021
Aiden and Riley were so sweet together. This book was a bit more intense than the first one. It was filled with many emotions on both sides. These guys had both been through hell and back and let me tell you, you could feel in the each page that you read. Riley was such a sweet guy that had a super rough childhood and Aiden was dealt a crappy hand when it came to his former love. That being said, Aiden was the one who really had to deal with his internal demons more so than Riley. Both guys met on a hiking trek they bonded fast and easy. There was an immediate connection between then that just grew when they talked and got to know each other. Again, it all fell to crap when Aiden's past demons surfaced and ran amuck. Though it took some pushing from Aiden's dad, the was able to man up and get his man. Though it was going to take time, they were both willing to work on it, which finally brought their HEA.
I received an ARC and voluntarily read it for an honest review.
I received an ARC and voluntarily read it for an honest review.
April 15, 2021
I loved reading this book, it was really sweet.
Two awkward and adorable men falling in love, what's sweeter then that? Nothing.
I liked how simple everything was between them and how they interacted with each other. My favorite part of romance stories are the falling in love part, and this book has it so sweetly. Aiden and Riley were both lovely characters with their own shitty past. Both had suffered from different 'traumas', but at the end they found each other and everything was perfect.
It's a sweet romance, but somehow the sex scenes wasn't as hot for me as I wanted it too, and toward the end the story got a bit boring too, but aside those I really enjoyed reading the book. I recommend it, it's a quick and adorable read with little, very little angst.
Two awkward and adorable men falling in love, what's sweeter then that? Nothing.
I liked how simple everything was between them and how they interacted with each other. My favorite part of romance stories are the falling in love part, and this book has it so sweetly. Aiden and Riley were both lovely characters with their own shitty past. Both had suffered from different 'traumas', but at the end they found each other and everything was perfect.
It's a sweet romance, but somehow the sex scenes wasn't as hot for me as I wanted it too, and toward the end the story got a bit boring too, but aside those I really enjoyed reading the book. I recommend it, it's a quick and adorable read with little, very little angst.
March 26, 2021
Great story about 2 men that work to overcome their traumatic pasts to learn to love themselves and each other.
Low on page angst, but plenty of historical angst for the couple to work through. Great portrayal of working through their past hurts.
LOVED Pops! He was hilarious!
Only issue I had with this book was that for some reason I didn’t realize this was set in Australia (duh Outback Boys, set in the outback, how I missed it is beyond me.....) so there were quite a few words/phrases that I had to figure out.....once I did though it was a lovely book!
Low on page angst, but plenty of historical angst for the couple to work through. Great portrayal of working through their past hurts.
LOVED Pops! He was hilarious!
Only issue I had with this book was that for some reason I didn’t realize this was set in Australia (duh Outback Boys, set in the outback, how I missed it is beyond me.....) so there were quite a few words/phrases that I had to figure out.....once I did though it was a lovely book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 27, 2021
I enjoyed every moment of this book! I loved Stumble and was so excited to read Bounce! Aiden and Riley and adorable and even though the book deals with some heavier topics I still thought their story was sweet and heart warming! Such a great series! I am so looking forward to more!! 🤩🤩
March 28, 2021
I totally cried.
This is not a light angst-free read. Take the trigger warning seriously. But Becca is so respectful of the subject.
The first half of the book is all sunshine and hearts. Seriously, just really sweet. And the characters deal with everything with a grace and maturity that is rare in a book character, or even in real life, unless the person has had a lot of years in therapy. It was refreshing to see people behaving like healthy adults.
The later parts of the book there is the same maturity, but they also have to deal with being triggered, and things get a little harder.
I loved Bounce. Great book, but one I should maybe only reread on days where I'm not overly sensitive.
This is not a light angst-free read. Take the trigger warning seriously. But Becca is so respectful of the subject.
The first half of the book is all sunshine and hearts. Seriously, just really sweet. And the characters deal with everything with a grace and maturity that is rare in a book character, or even in real life, unless the person has had a lot of years in therapy. It was refreshing to see people behaving like healthy adults.
The later parts of the book there is the same maturity, but they also have to deal with being triggered, and things get a little harder.
I loved Bounce. Great book, but one I should maybe only reread on days where I'm not overly sensitive.
March 27, 2021
I loved this book and I have absolutely no hesitation in recommending it.
The story had my attention straight from the beginning and I loved both Aiden and Riley in this beautiful romance.
I don't want to give spoilers for this, I want to urge readers to dive in and enjoy.
The story had my attention straight from the beginning and I loved both Aiden and Riley in this beautiful romance.
I don't want to give spoilers for this, I want to urge readers to dive in and enjoy.
March 30, 2021
Bounce is the second book in the Outback Boys series by Becca Seymour. While Stumble, book one in the series was a light and happy story, Bounce tackles some serious topics, drug addiction and suicide. Outback Boys is a gay men’s group for men who enjoy outdoor pursuits such as rock climbing, surfing and paddle boarding to name a few.
The love interest is between a new member, Riley, computer programmer, and Aiden, a cattle farmer. In the blurb for the book, Aiden is described as standoffish! But, once you learn more about him, that is not a fair label. A fairer descriptive would be retiring. Riley, has his problems too from a younger age but the two are drawn to each other.
I thought Becca handled the difficult topics of addiction and suicide with empathy. Because of this, I think Bounce is a meatier book than Stumble.
The love interest is between a new member, Riley, computer programmer, and Aiden, a cattle farmer. In the blurb for the book, Aiden is described as standoffish! But, once you learn more about him, that is not a fair label. A fairer descriptive would be retiring. Riley, has his problems too from a younger age but the two are drawn to each other.
I thought Becca handled the difficult topics of addiction and suicide with empathy. Because of this, I think Bounce is a meatier book than Stumble.
March 30, 2021
Aiden and Riley meet on an outdoor adventure-- Aiden is a longtime member of the group, Riley is new. They have instant chemistry, and bond over Riley’s adorable awkwardness, among other things (Aiden’s turn to be adorably awkward comes later in the novel). I liked these two a lot, and particularly enjoyed the getting to know each other / falling for each other parts of the book, which showcase their developing emotional bonds. I also really loved Aiden’s grandfather, who is irreverent, rough around the edges, deeply insightful, and unflaggingly supportive. Although this romance definitely has its lighthearted edges, there are also some darker corners, as both Aiden and Riley have traumas in their pasts that shape the people they are and the ways they move through the world. I value the author’s decision to take on subjects like mental illness, loss, and the suicide of a loved one with gentleness and respect. Overall, I found this to be an immersive, sometimes fun, sometimes moving read. To be honest, the only thing about this book I didn’t really enjoy was the mystery surrounding Pete, whose strange behavior brought some dimensions of the psychological thriller to this romance-- even when the reasons for some of his odd behavior were revealed, there was still something so off about him that I bristled every time he showed up on the page. That said, however, I’d still absolutely recommend this book.
*I received an ARC Of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review
*I received an ARC Of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review
May 2, 2021
I’m enjoying this series, and although Riley and Aiden’s romance was sweet, I liked the more serious tone of this story, and how the author didn’t shy away from what these guys had been through. I loved catching up with Mark and Trey from Book 1 too.
I loved Riley and Aiden’s story, from their little attraction, to friendship and more. Poor Riley’s been through a lot, and I think it says a lot for his strength of character that he’s come so far. Aiden’s past isn’t great either and I could understand why he reacted the way he did when he found out about Riley. I liked how Riley’s past wasn’t revealed all at once, so I kept guessing and trying to work out what had happened. I liked how Riley calls Aiden out, doesn’t just accept his apology, and that they work for their happy ending. I thought that theme of the story was sensitively written, and realistic.
The supporting cast is fabulous, and I thought this was very much a story about family and friends. I loved Aiden’s grandfather, and I felt for Pete and everything he was going through. I also liked Frank and how he’s supportive yet doesn’t hesitate to call Aiden out when he needs to be told to get his act together. I like the vibe of the Outback Boys group, and how supportive they are, and the friendships made.
The epilogue rounded out the story beautifully and made me sniffle. I’m looking forward to catching up with these guys again in future books in this series.
I loved Riley and Aiden’s story, from their little attraction, to friendship and more. Poor Riley’s been through a lot, and I think it says a lot for his strength of character that he’s come so far. Aiden’s past isn’t great either and I could understand why he reacted the way he did when he found out about Riley. I liked how Riley’s past wasn’t revealed all at once, so I kept guessing and trying to work out what had happened. I liked how Riley calls Aiden out, doesn’t just accept his apology, and that they work for their happy ending. I thought that theme of the story was sensitively written, and realistic.
The supporting cast is fabulous, and I thought this was very much a story about family and friends. I loved Aiden’s grandfather, and I felt for Pete and everything he was going through. I also liked Frank and how he’s supportive yet doesn’t hesitate to call Aiden out when he needs to be told to get his act together. I like the vibe of the Outback Boys group, and how supportive they are, and the friendships made.
The epilogue rounded out the story beautifully and made me sniffle. I’m looking forward to catching up with these guys again in future books in this series.
April 14, 2021
Good story with difficult subject matter.
Bounce is the second book in the Outback Boys series but it can easily be read as a standalone story. I haven’t read book one yet but now I really want to.
The story deals with subject matter that will be difficult for some to read and the author has included a trigger warning in the blurb. While there were several hints about what happened to Aiden’s boyfriend, and hints about Riley’s past, I was still surprised when all was revealed.
Keeping secrets when you are in a serious relationship usually ends up coming back to bite you in very painful ways and this was certainly true for Aiden and Riley. Their story captivated me from beginning to end and the epilogue was perfect.
A copy of this book was provided to me but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com***
Bounce is the second book in the Outback Boys series but it can easily be read as a standalone story. I haven’t read book one yet but now I really want to.
The story deals with subject matter that will be difficult for some to read and the author has included a trigger warning in the blurb. While there were several hints about what happened to Aiden’s boyfriend, and hints about Riley’s past, I was still surprised when all was revealed.
Keeping secrets when you are in a serious relationship usually ends up coming back to bite you in very painful ways and this was certainly true for Aiden and Riley. Their story captivated me from beginning to end and the epilogue was perfect.
A copy of this book was provided to me but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com***
April 4, 2021
3.5 stars
Riley and Aiden are definitely a match, though an odd one at first glance. There's so much to love about them individually and while they're a bit tumultuous on their own due to their pasts, there's an undercurrent of progress that they find as they navigate their feelings for one another. The themes in this story are heavy and even with a really harsh separation, it doesn't last long and the angst level overall is lower than I expected once we started delving into their damage. It's the reconciliation, the honesty, the determination, and the tenderness that win me over in the end and really make me believe in their HEA.
Riley and Aiden are definitely a match, though an odd one at first glance. There's so much to love about them individually and while they're a bit tumultuous on their own due to their pasts, there's an undercurrent of progress that they find as they navigate their feelings for one another. The themes in this story are heavy and even with a really harsh separation, it doesn't last long and the angst level overall is lower than I expected once we started delving into their damage. It's the reconciliation, the honesty, the determination, and the tenderness that win me over in the end and really make me believe in their HEA.
April 19, 2021
Becca Seymour’s ‘Bounce’ is a gentle, low angst romance, where readers are treated to the quality of courtship we all wish for.
But it’s deceptive. As you read on, it tackles weighty issues with finesse.
When Aiden, who runs a ranch, meets IT tech, Riley, on an Outback weekend retreat, both men seem quite old-fashioned – if old-fashioned is non-drinkers who dislike hook-ups. As Riley thinks to himself, “Not that I was a prude, but sex talk with strangers, or even friends, truth be told, wasn’t exactly my thing.” Fairly quickly, however, we realize their approach isn’t conservative. It’s built upon the pain of their pasts. Are they willing to put this aside to discover what they have together? And is Riley’s best friend, Pete, actually jealous, or has the chaos in his own life spilled into reactions over the new relationship?
Like the king/kayaking/climbing expedition Riley attends at the start of Bounce, this story has some depth. “It’ll be fun, they said. You’ll feel good, they said. By the end of the day, you’ll be lucky to be alive, said no bloody one,” Riley thinks to himself. He has allowed Pete to talk him into it as a way to get into shape. One look at standoffish Aiden, however, and the tough becomes fun. The men quickly intuit their similarities.
I really enjoyed how Ms. Seymour casually tucked hints about the men’s backgrounds into their current thoughts, as might naturally occur. It hooked me and I was hungry to learn more about kind, but elusive, Aiden and Riley. Here are two mature men who have avoided intimacy, and yet find instant comradery together. Why? There must be strains from the past which link them, issues of which they are unaware.
Ms. Seymour also sprinkles wisdom throughout, Like this quote by American author, Mary Anne Radmacher. “Courage doesn’t always roar. Sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying, ‘I will try again tomorrow.’”
For those from other countries, Bounce is also an Aussie treat. Ms. Seymour sketches the varied scenery with a fine tipped pen. I could see every wave, smell the red soil, and feel the river’s rapids. Meanwhile, I kept looking up her lingo to see Australia through her eyes. For example, how a rancher dressed, in an Acubra, which Americans would know as a western-style hat. It was great fun.
Ms. Seymour’s words glide across the page, highlighting her men’s grace, the beauty of her country and the strength of the human spirit. Bounce is an easy-reading, standalone delight in the Outback Boys series.
When Aiden, who runs a ranch, meets IT tech, Riley, on an Outback weekend retreat, both men seem quite old-fashioned – if old-fashioned is non-drinkers who dislike hook-ups. As Riley thinks to himself, “Not that I was a prude, but sex talk with strangers, or even friends, truth be told, wasn’t exactly my thing.” Fairly quickly, however, we realize their approach isn’t conservative. It’s built upon the pain of their pasts. Are they willing to put this aside to discover what they have together? And is Riley’s best friend, Pete, actually jealous, or has the chaos in his own life spilled into reactions over the new relationship?
Like the king/kayaking/climbing expedition Riley attends at the start of Bounce, this story has some depth. “It’ll be fun, they said. You’ll feel good, they said. By the end of the day, you’ll be lucky to be alive, said no bloody one,” Riley thinks to himself. He has allowed Pete to talk him into it as a way to get into shape. One look at standoffish Aiden, however, and the tough becomes fun. The men quickly intuit their similarities.
I really enjoyed how Ms. Seymour casually tucked hints about the men’s backgrounds into their current thoughts, as might naturally occur. It hooked me and I was hungry to learn more about kind, but elusive, Aiden and Riley. Here are two mature men who have avoided intimacy, and yet find instant comradery together. Why? There must be strains from the past which link them, issues of which they are unaware.
Ms. Seymour also sprinkles wisdom throughout, Like this quote by American author, Mary Anne Radmacher. “Courage doesn’t always roar. Sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying, ‘I will try again tomorrow.’”
For those from other countries, Bounce is also an Aussie treat. Ms. Seymour sketches the varied scenery with a fine tipped pen. I could see every wave, smell the red soil, and feel the river’s rapids. Meanwhile, I kept looking up her lingo to see Australia through her eyes. For example, how a rancher dressed, in an Acubra, which Americans would know as a western-style hat. It was great fun.
Ms. Seymour’s words glide across the page, highlighting her men’s grace, the beauty of her country and the strength of the human spirit. Bounce is an easy-reading, standalone delight in the Outback Boys series.
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