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Drawn Together
Rory might just be a simple southern boy from St. Antoine's Parish Louisiana, but he knows what he wants. He's been in love with the girl of his dreams, reclusive and mysterious artist Ran Yamane, since junior high school. And now he has the chance to meet her. He's going to chuck everything and travel 1,500 miles to Anime Expo in Long Beach to tell her, and no one and nothing is going to stand in his way.
Ran Yamane is not a girl, but he gets that a lot. People come to him with teddy bears and chocolates and disappointment by the truckload. He's trusted fans in the past and been tragically wrong. So when he meets Rory he's understandably wary, but resigned. What he's not prepared for is his magnetic attraction to the young man, Rory's apparent willingness to overlook his gender, and the fact that their lives are both thrown into chaos when his number one fan (and psycho stalker) shows up to get revenge.
Publisher's Note: This book contains explicit sexual content, graphic language, and situations that some readers may find objectionable: Anal play/intercourse, violence.
Ran Yamane is not a girl, but he gets that a lot. People come to him with teddy bears and chocolates and disappointment by the truckload. He's trusted fans in the past and been tragically wrong. So when he meets Rory he's understandably wary, but resigned. What he's not prepared for is his magnetic attraction to the young man, Rory's apparent willingness to overlook his gender, and the fact that their lives are both thrown into chaos when his number one fan (and psycho stalker) shows up to get revenge.
Publisher's Note: This book contains explicit sexual content, graphic language, and situations that some readers may find objectionable: Anal play/intercourse, violence.
212 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 10, 2009
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 543 reviews
May 26, 2018
Warning: This book is way darker than the blurb mentioned. It has past mentions of animal abuse, extreme torture and a freak psycho. If any of this are a trigger for you, skip this one. 😌
OMG! 😱 The blurb didn’t do the book any justice. What a fantastic fantastic read! 😍 I really loved it. ❤️ And it was so much more than the blurb said, way darker, way more extreme and way sexier than I thought it would be. Needless to say, just the way I like my books. 😉
Rory is in love with a girl and he’s sure this girl is the love of his life. But the thing is, he’s never met this girl in person. 😂 Ok, hear him out, he’s always loved this artist, Ran Yamane, who is the amazing creator of a blockbuster manga and tv series “Snoggs” and another hit manga “Sacred Princess Calendrianna”. When he heard that the elusive artist is going to be in Long Beach for the comics con, he knew that it was his calling to be with his soulmate. 😉 So our hero drove across America in a rundown Toyota Camry to pursue his love. 😁 And when he met Yamane in person to give flowers, to his surprise, it turned out that Yamane actually is a guy. 😜
Yamane has a problem. And that is his fans seem to have a preconceive idea that he actually is a young, beautiful woman. 😂 He has received countless flowers and chocolate boxes and love letters from his would-be and disappointed admirers over the years. So when he met this fiery-haired southern boy with a handful of flowers, he thought he’s going to have to face another awkward encounter. But this boy insisted that he received the flowers and claimed that he can’t think of anyone else who deserves them more. 😍 Yamane has trusted some of his fans over the years and he has already paid the price enough. Rory intrigues him and seems to pull something deep inside him. But can he trust him? With his love and with his life? 😌
Yamane never thought inviting Rory to stay in his room will ultimately involve him in his psychotic stalker Amelia trying to kill them both. 😭 Although Rory admired Yamane and wanted to be a lover of his before, Rory is undoubtedly straight. And Yamane is a guy and not a girl. 😁 But that all seems to be a faraway problem now. Amelia is now on the hunt for both their arses. It’s either run away and survive together or be perished by the crazy psycho stalker killer. And Rory is in a dilemma too. Does he admire Yamane the person or Yamane the artist? 🤔 He’s a simple guy who dreams of marrying the woman of his life and have 2.5 kids and white picket and fences. And Yamane is nothing simple and nothing ordinary. 😁 Will he become to love Yamane enough to become the lover of the artist for life? 😉
Ok, I thought this was going to be a sweet, fluffy, romantic and lovey dovey story and how wrong I was! 😱 The story took a 180 turn after Rory and Yamane met for the first time at comics con. But the story line definitely didn’t get lost. In fact, it got more interesting, enthralling and enrapturing. 👏 Rather than a simple and fluffy love story, I feel like I was watching a blockbuster romantic action thriller. And don’t worry, it’s still a love story and a very romantic one at that. 😍 I particularly like about how two MCs are being together all the time from the very beginning until the end of the book. 😌 The angst was quite intense in this book. There definitely was moments I was worried that Rory and Yamane won’t be able to overcome their misunderstandings and differences. 😭 Their love definitely is not insta, it was built-up, hard-fought and well-earned. 👏 The UST between Yamane and Rory was just sizzling! 🔥 Whewwwwwww .. Is it hot inhere! 😁 And the sex? It was absolutely gloriously erotic and hot! 🔥 And both MCs are such interesting and very well-portrayed characters. I absolutely loved Yamane’s quirky, temperamental, princessy, artistry character and Rory’s chivalrous, caring and loving all-round southern gentleman character. 😍 It was very very well-written. I was totally blown away! 😱👏 I still can’t believe it was written 9 years ago because it feels so refreshing and interesting. 👍 I was definitely late to the party with this one. And the epilogue??? OMG! Sooooooo freaking cute! 😍 *meow meow* 🙈 Absolutely loved the epilogue. I wish there’s a sequel or a novella of these two. 😌 Still can’t get enough. Love, love, loooove it! 💙 I’d recommend this book to anyone. This is a phenomenal and differently refreshing book and undoubtedly, it became one of my very favorite reads this year. 😍
Favorite excerpts from the novel: 💗💜💗
What kind of a person just packs up and goes on a cross-country odyssey to meet an artist whose work he admires? It was crazy. Crazier still, he knew, was inviting that person to take refuge in your hotel room.
The realization penetrated his long-frozen heart that he loved Rory. Please, Rory, please, wherever you’re going, let me come too.
“Well. Yeah. Literally. But as far as I know, he’s never let anyone have any part of him. And you own him, Yamane. Can’t you see it? He’d do anything for you. He’d die for you.” “I’d rather he didn’t.” Yamane’s hand trembled, and it made the ice rattle in his glass. “I know.” Avery put her hand on his.
“Swear to me you want this.” “Are you kidding me?” Rory clenched his teeth. “Swear it. Out loud. Say it,” Yamane ordered. “I want this. I want you. Only you, Yamane, please --”
“Yamane, I’m just a man. This could all go terribly wrong. We could both be hurt or killed. Please, don’t see me as something I’m not.” “Are you a man who loves me? Even just a little?” “Yes,” said Rory distinctly. “You know I am.” “Then I’ll take my chances with you,” Yamane replied. “Whatever happens.”
“Oh, heck yeah,” Anthony snapped. “I just hate it when guys love me so much they’re willing to take two bullets in the chest for me.”
“The Delaplaines men only fall in love once.”
“You’re not just my knight; you’re my prince. You’re my hero. When I look at you I see all the beauty the world has to offer wrapped up in you like a gift. I know it’s stupid.”
“Am I really safe with you, Yamane?” “I belong to you, Rory, and you belong to me.” Rory put his lips to Yamane’s and kissed him deeply, savoring Yamane’s words as though he could still taste them there. “I love you.”
5 princessy sassy artist and chivalrous southern gentleman lovers stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
OMG! 😱 The blurb didn’t do the book any justice. What a fantastic fantastic read! 😍 I really loved it. ❤️ And it was so much more than the blurb said, way darker, way more extreme and way sexier than I thought it would be. Needless to say, just the way I like my books. 😉
Rory is in love with a girl and he’s sure this girl is the love of his life. But the thing is, he’s never met this girl in person. 😂 Ok, hear him out, he’s always loved this artist, Ran Yamane, who is the amazing creator of a blockbuster manga and tv series “Snoggs” and another hit manga “Sacred Princess Calendrianna”. When he heard that the elusive artist is going to be in Long Beach for the comics con, he knew that it was his calling to be with his soulmate. 😉 So our hero drove across America in a rundown Toyota Camry to pursue his love. 😁 And when he met Yamane in person to give flowers, to his surprise, it turned out that Yamane actually is a guy. 😜
Yamane has a problem. And that is his fans seem to have a preconceive idea that he actually is a young, beautiful woman. 😂 He has received countless flowers and chocolate boxes and love letters from his would-be and disappointed admirers over the years. So when he met this fiery-haired southern boy with a handful of flowers, he thought he’s going to have to face another awkward encounter. But this boy insisted that he received the flowers and claimed that he can’t think of anyone else who deserves them more. 😍 Yamane has trusted some of his fans over the years and he has already paid the price enough. Rory intrigues him and seems to pull something deep inside him. But can he trust him? With his love and with his life? 😌
Yamane never thought inviting Rory to stay in his room will ultimately involve him in his psychotic stalker Amelia trying to kill them both. 😭 Although Rory admired Yamane and wanted to be a lover of his before, Rory is undoubtedly straight. And Yamane is a guy and not a girl. 😁 But that all seems to be a faraway problem now. Amelia is now on the hunt for both their arses. It’s either run away and survive together or be perished by the crazy psycho stalker killer. And Rory is in a dilemma too. Does he admire Yamane the person or Yamane the artist? 🤔 He’s a simple guy who dreams of marrying the woman of his life and have 2.5 kids and white picket and fences. And Yamane is nothing simple and nothing ordinary. 😁 Will he become to love Yamane enough to become the lover of the artist for life? 😉
Ok, I thought this was going to be a sweet, fluffy, romantic and lovey dovey story and how wrong I was! 😱 The story took a 180 turn after Rory and Yamane met for the first time at comics con. But the story line definitely didn’t get lost. In fact, it got more interesting, enthralling and enrapturing. 👏 Rather than a simple and fluffy love story, I feel like I was watching a blockbuster romantic action thriller. And don’t worry, it’s still a love story and a very romantic one at that. 😍 I particularly like about how two MCs are being together all the time from the very beginning until the end of the book. 😌 The angst was quite intense in this book. There definitely was moments I was worried that Rory and Yamane won’t be able to overcome their misunderstandings and differences. 😭 Their love definitely is not insta, it was built-up, hard-fought and well-earned. 👏 The UST between Yamane and Rory was just sizzling! 🔥 Whewwwwwww .. Is it hot inhere! 😁 And the sex? It was absolutely gloriously erotic and hot! 🔥 And both MCs are such interesting and very well-portrayed characters. I absolutely loved Yamane’s quirky, temperamental, princessy, artistry character and Rory’s chivalrous, caring and loving all-round southern gentleman character. 😍 It was very very well-written. I was totally blown away! 😱👏 I still can’t believe it was written 9 years ago because it feels so refreshing and interesting. 👍 I was definitely late to the party with this one. And the epilogue??? OMG! Sooooooo freaking cute! 😍 *meow meow* 🙈 Absolutely loved the epilogue. I wish there’s a sequel or a novella of these two. 😌 Still can’t get enough. Love, love, loooove it! 💙 I’d recommend this book to anyone. This is a phenomenal and differently refreshing book and undoubtedly, it became one of my very favorite reads this year. 😍
Favorite excerpts from the novel: 💗💜💗
What kind of a person just packs up and goes on a cross-country odyssey to meet an artist whose work he admires? It was crazy. Crazier still, he knew, was inviting that person to take refuge in your hotel room.
The realization penetrated his long-frozen heart that he loved Rory. Please, Rory, please, wherever you’re going, let me come too.
“Well. Yeah. Literally. But as far as I know, he’s never let anyone have any part of him. And you own him, Yamane. Can’t you see it? He’d do anything for you. He’d die for you.” “I’d rather he didn’t.” Yamane’s hand trembled, and it made the ice rattle in his glass. “I know.” Avery put her hand on his.
“Swear to me you want this.” “Are you kidding me?” Rory clenched his teeth. “Swear it. Out loud. Say it,” Yamane ordered. “I want this. I want you. Only you, Yamane, please --”
“Yamane, I’m just a man. This could all go terribly wrong. We could both be hurt or killed. Please, don’t see me as something I’m not.” “Are you a man who loves me? Even just a little?” “Yes,” said Rory distinctly. “You know I am.” “Then I’ll take my chances with you,” Yamane replied. “Whatever happens.”
“Oh, heck yeah,” Anthony snapped. “I just hate it when guys love me so much they’re willing to take two bullets in the chest for me.”
“The Delaplaines men only fall in love once.”
“You’re not just my knight; you’re my prince. You’re my hero. When I look at you I see all the beauty the world has to offer wrapped up in you like a gift. I know it’s stupid.”
“Am I really safe with you, Yamane?” “I belong to you, Rory, and you belong to me.” Rory put his lips to Yamane’s and kissed him deeply, savoring Yamane’s words as though he could still taste them there. “I love you.”
5 princessy sassy artist and chivalrous southern gentleman lovers stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
August 4, 2022
July 2018
The book is amazing and the audio is just as amazing!! I’ll never stop loving this book ♥️ ♥️
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
March 26/2018
5 ⭐️ s forever.....
After all these many years I still love this book. Drawn Together was my very first M/M romance and I happened to find it by chance. I was reading Yaoi for years and fanfic but it never dawned on me that there might actually be actual novels featuring two men together, as an avid reader it never even crossed my mind.
I believe I was on
website reading her Weib Kreuz fanfic (if you haven’t read her works I suggest you go check them out on her website) and I was about to purchase her books and came across Drawn Together as a suggestion. I decided to read it first and fell in love instantly.
It was my introduction to M/M (well two dudes together in actual book form) and I haven’t looked back since. I love this book because it’s amazing and also sentimental value.
Also some of my old skool M/M readers will remember FictionWise, that’s where I purchased this with some of my earlier boy on boy reads.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I love this book, so sweet. We meet Yamane a manga artist and the boy who fell in love with her art work. unsuspecting Rory has no idea that the artist he fell in love with and thinks is the woman of his dreams is actually the man of his heart.
Check out this book about two guys who never suspected they would fall in love, and throw in a psycho B, and you got a great story.Z.A Maxfield is a gem.
The book is amazing and the audio is just as amazing!! I’ll never stop loving this book ♥️ ♥️
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
March 26/2018
5 ⭐️ s forever.....
After all these many years I still love this book. Drawn Together was my very first M/M romance and I happened to find it by chance. I was reading Yaoi for years and fanfic but it never dawned on me that there might actually be actual novels featuring two men together, as an avid reader it never even crossed my mind.
I believe I was on
website reading her Weib Kreuz fanfic (if you haven’t read her works I suggest you go check them out on her website) and I was about to purchase her books and came across Drawn Together as a suggestion. I decided to read it first and fell in love instantly. It was my introduction to M/M (well two dudes together in actual book form) and I haven’t looked back since. I love this book because it’s amazing and also sentimental value.
Also some of my old skool M/M readers will remember FictionWise, that’s where I purchased this with some of my earlier boy on boy reads.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I love this book, so sweet. We meet Yamane a manga artist and the boy who fell in love with her art work. unsuspecting Rory has no idea that the artist he fell in love with and thinks is the woman of his dreams is actually the man of his heart.
Check out this book about two guys who never suspected they would fall in love, and throw in a psycho B, and you got a great story.Z.A Maxfield is a gem.
June 9, 2020
I kinda relate to this book because it's all fun and games on the outside but there's some dark shit inside that pops up here and there that could really freak you out. Maybe like a surprising little spiciness that you find inside of a delicious treat. No, not bi-polar or bat-shit crazy. Spicy. Yeah.
Okay, so the fun and games part is this Cajun guy, Rory, takes a cross-country road trip to meet his dream girl: a Japanese artist of his favorite manga. Her artwork calls to Rory on a deep level and he knows they are destined to be together forever (no, not at all delusional stalkerish like. Romantic-like). He finally gets there and finds out his dream-girl is a dream-boy. Uh oh. Sexuality confused.
This begins Rory's great journey of discovery of skin care products. No, just kidding, he starts to think that maybe he isn't as hetero as he thought he was. It is cute, funny, and sweet. Rory is a great guy, and Yamane, the artist, has that fatal affliction that so many gay men have at least once in their lives: loving the straight boy. Sounds like it's going to be a cute, funny gay-for-you romance.
But then:
Um, it turns out there is a psycho stalker that is chasing Yamane. Rory isn't the only one who was obsessed with him. Thank goodness Rory is one of those nice stalkers because our bad stalker is very very bad. Like, there-could-be-triggers bad. So they spend most of the book running for their lives.
Trigger warnings: kidnap, torture, animal abuse, mutilation, multiple murders.
Not so cute and sweet now, huh?
Yeah, so.... I don't know what else to say after all of that. I mean, it's hard to categorize the book and its cover definitely isn't giving a glimpse as to what is inside. Overall, I ended up really loving the MC Rory and liked the book, but there were many questionable moments there. Like
Okay, so the fun and games part is this Cajun guy, Rory, takes a cross-country road trip to meet his dream girl: a Japanese artist of his favorite manga. Her artwork calls to Rory on a deep level and he knows they are destined to be together forever (no, not at all delusional stalkerish like. Romantic-like). He finally gets there and finds out his dream-girl is a dream-boy. Uh oh. Sexuality confused.
This begins Rory's great journey of discovery of skin care products. No, just kidding, he starts to think that maybe he isn't as hetero as he thought he was. It is cute, funny, and sweet. Rory is a great guy, and Yamane, the artist, has that fatal affliction that so many gay men have at least once in their lives: loving the straight boy. Sounds like it's going to be a cute, funny gay-for-you romance.
But then:
Um, it turns out there is a psycho stalker that is chasing Yamane. Rory isn't the only one who was obsessed with him. Thank goodness Rory is one of those nice stalkers because our bad stalker is very very bad. Like, there-could-be-triggers bad. So they spend most of the book running for their lives.
Trigger warnings: kidnap, torture, animal abuse, mutilation, multiple murders.
Not so cute and sweet now, huh?
Yeah, so.... I don't know what else to say after all of that. I mean, it's hard to categorize the book and its cover definitely isn't giving a glimpse as to what is inside. Overall, I ended up really loving the MC Rory and liked the book, but there were many questionable moments there. Like
June 9, 2009
I loved Rory and Yamane's characters. Loved them together. Yamane takes place as one of my all time favorite heroes. He was such an interesting and sexy character.
Plus, I absolutely love this cover!
I would rate it higher than 5 stars if I could.
Plus, I absolutely love this cover!
I would rate it higher than 5 stars if I could.
December 2, 2025
Love the title! Clever!
I was cheering for this couple at the begging, I was falling for them, but as the book progressed, I was getting annoying and angry!
I believe there was too much stalling in this book and maybe that damaged the characters...
Despite of that, I loved the sex scenes, the development of the main characters (until a certain point), the other characters were interesting, specially Rene and Ethan, it would be nice to have some story about them :-P
I enjoyed the first half of the story and part of the finale, a little part... sadly
I really, really wanted to like this book more, there were some very special moments, that I absolutely loved, the drawing moments, since the beginning up to the very last moment, the sex, with all the discovering, I would make a different version aft he big outcome.
I also have this book on Audible, this time I preferred listening than reading, Greg Boudreaux gave an amazing performance, on point, very believable, beautiful voice, I think he made the book much better!!! Congratulations!!!
I was cheering for this couple at the begging, I was falling for them, but as the book progressed, I was getting annoying and angry!
I believe there was too much stalling in this book and maybe that damaged the characters...
Despite of that, I loved the sex scenes, the development of the main characters (until a certain point), the other characters were interesting, specially Rene and Ethan, it would be nice to have some story about them :-P
I enjoyed the first half of the story and part of the finale, a little part... sadly
I really, really wanted to like this book more, there were some very special moments, that I absolutely loved, the drawing moments, since the beginning up to the very last moment, the sex, with all the discovering, I would make a different version aft he big outcome.
I also have this book on Audible, this time I preferred listening than reading, Greg Boudreaux gave an amazing performance, on point, very believable, beautiful voice, I think he made the book much better!!! Congratulations!!!
November 9, 2009
After my first impressions of the beginning of this book, this is a surprise hit. I have really enjoyed all of ZA Maxfield's books so far, especially Crossing Borders and was hoping for the same humor that was missing from St. Nacho's and The Long Way Home...I had high expectations for this one.
Why a surprise? The first several chapters outline the trip out west for Rory to see his idol Yamane and frankly, he comes off as a an obsessed psycho stalker. Worse, the author shoves him into a beat up little car that just makes him very unappealing for the roadtrip...
I almost gave up and I am so glad I didn't!!! Once Rory and Yamane meet and (implausibly really) hang out together for dinner the book really takes off. At that point I began to love Rory and wanted to have my usual readers voyeuristic seat to watch as they fell in love.
Apparently ZA Maxfield and I have the same sense of humor because I laughed so hard at parts of this book that my husband told me to be quiet so he could sleep. Just certain things about the authors humor really strikes me as funny.
I would give this 5 stars if the beginning wasn't so off putting and if the sex scenes (which don't really start to happen until about half way through the book) were a bit more vibrantly described.
Why a surprise? The first several chapters outline the trip out west for Rory to see his idol Yamane and frankly, he comes off as a an obsessed psycho stalker. Worse, the author shoves him into a beat up little car that just makes him very unappealing for the roadtrip...
I almost gave up and I am so glad I didn't!!! Once Rory and Yamane meet and (implausibly really) hang out together for dinner the book really takes off. At that point I began to love Rory and wanted to have my usual readers voyeuristic seat to watch as they fell in love.
Apparently ZA Maxfield and I have the same sense of humor because I laughed so hard at parts of this book that my husband told me to be quiet so he could sleep. Just certain things about the authors humor really strikes me as funny.
I would give this 5 stars if the beginning wasn't so off putting and if the sex scenes (which don't really start to happen until about half way through the book) were a bit more vibrantly described.
July 29, 2011
Finally! I finished this book!
I hate to admit this, but I really didn't enjoy it at all. I liked Rory the most. He was always the Hero and trying to protect and save everyone. I did not like Ran Yamane! Not even a little bit! I hate his needy, whoring ways and do not think he deserved Rory in the end. He did not redeem himself in my eyes. All the characters seemed unrealistic with their actions and dialogue. When I want unrealistic I typically go for the paranormal/fantasy type books. Not this.
I found many of the Louisiana references slightly offensive, even though they were also pretty funny. Seriously, we're not all gator-eating coon asses down here. So what if we are?! Its all stereotype! And just because we "sound" different, doesn't mean we are uneducated. And if the bad guys came after me, they would definitely see the other end of my hand gun. I would be within my rights. But I wouldn't be feeding then to no gators. I love reading stories that take place in my home state, but this was over the top.
I hate to admit this, but I really didn't enjoy it at all. I liked Rory the most. He was always the Hero and trying to protect and save everyone. I did not like Ran Yamane! Not even a little bit! I hate his needy, whoring ways and do not think he deserved Rory in the end. He did not redeem himself in my eyes. All the characters seemed unrealistic with their actions and dialogue. When I want unrealistic I typically go for the paranormal/fantasy type books. Not this.
I found many of the Louisiana references slightly offensive, even though they were also pretty funny. Seriously, we're not all gator-eating coon asses down here. So what if we are?! Its all stereotype! And just because we "sound" different, doesn't mean we are uneducated. And if the bad guys came after me, they would definitely see the other end of my hand gun. I would be within my rights. But I wouldn't be feeding then to no gators. I love reading stories that take place in my home state, but this was over the top.
February 13, 2017
Gonna be honest with you: the only reason I bought this book is because Ran Yamane's design reminded me of Duo Maxwell , who I had the BIGGEST crush on back when Gundam Wing was kinda new and reading gay fanfiction still made me blush.
So I saw the cover, saw something being mentioned about gay and erotic and adult, and there is NO WAY that could disappoint me, right?
WRONG :((
I HATE RORY! Goddamn I was ready to throw my phone across the room when I read this:
(Yamane is trying to light his cigarette and Rory grabs the lighter from him)
"Please allow me." Rory reached out and removed the cigarette from Yamane's lips, threw it on the ground, and crushed it under his foot. "Those things will kill you dead."
You motherfucker, Yamane is a goddamn grown man, not your teenage niece who is sneaking a smoke behind the shed. Let people slowly kill themselves in peace if they chose to do so uugghhhhhh *crushes mouse*
I hate his "southern, gentleman" ways, he sounds and acts like a MF white-knighting neckbeard and it drives me absolutely crazy!
Yamane gets a mention as well because he drops the cheesiest line I have EVER read:
Yamane reached out a hand . "You've got something on your lip," he murmured, rubbing it gently with his thumb.
"What?" Rory froze.
"Me," said Yamane
WHO DOES THIS?! I can only imagine Yamane latching onto Rory's bottom lip, kinda like a male angler fish when it finds a mate. Horrible.
Also, a big fuck you to the author for using Borderline Personality Disorder to explain the main antagonist' psychotic behavior. Apparently people that suffer from BPD kidnap, rape, torture puppies (NOT KIDDING!) and stab people with forks. Also, they are criminal masterminds and can always find you.
I gave it 120 pages and quit.
So I saw the cover, saw something being mentioned about gay and erotic and adult, and there is NO WAY that could disappoint me, right?
WRONG :((
I HATE RORY! Goddamn I was ready to throw my phone across the room when I read this:
(Yamane is trying to light his cigarette and Rory grabs the lighter from him)
"Please allow me." Rory reached out and removed the cigarette from Yamane's lips, threw it on the ground, and crushed it under his foot. "Those things will kill you dead."
You motherfucker, Yamane is a goddamn grown man, not your teenage niece who is sneaking a smoke behind the shed. Let people slowly kill themselves in peace if they chose to do so uugghhhhhh *crushes mouse*
I hate his "southern, gentleman" ways, he sounds and acts like a MF white-knighting neckbeard and it drives me absolutely crazy!
Yamane gets a mention as well because he drops the cheesiest line I have EVER read:
Yamane reached out a hand . "You've got something on your lip," he murmured, rubbing it gently with his thumb.
"What?" Rory froze.
"Me," said Yamane
WHO DOES THIS?! I can only imagine Yamane latching onto Rory's bottom lip, kinda like a male angler fish when it finds a mate. Horrible.
Also, a big fuck you to the author for using Borderline Personality Disorder to explain the main antagonist' psychotic behavior. Apparently people that suffer from BPD kidnap, rape, torture puppies (NOT KIDDING!) and stab people with forks. Also, they are criminal masterminds and can always find you.
I gave it 120 pages and quit.
dnf
August 30, 201844% dnf with a weak maybe to continue at another time.
April 6, 2018
Wanted: Complete Suspension of Disbelief
...if you fit this profile, then by all means pick up this incredible tale. Incredible because it holds little credit in reality.
I can take the insta-GFY, insta-friendship, insta-love in this story. What I can't take is an incredulous plot centering around a crazed stalker who is attacking and trying to murder the MCs. Most would think, wow, restraining order, police, FBI. But that's reality talking. Here, the MCs just run away. The police they encounter at the beginning do nothing. I just don't get it.
Anyway, aside from the stupid plot, the characters were interesting. It wasn't bad, just silly really.
...if you fit this profile, then by all means pick up this incredible tale. Incredible because it holds little credit in reality.
I can take the insta-GFY, insta-friendship, insta-love in this story. What I can't take is an incredulous plot centering around a crazed stalker who is attacking and trying to murder the MCs. Most would think, wow, restraining order, police, FBI. But that's reality talking. Here, the MCs just run away. The police they encounter at the beginning do nothing. I just don't get it.
Anyway, aside from the stupid plot, the characters were interesting. It wasn't bad, just silly really.
October 6, 2010
I appreciated the suspense and adore Rory and Yamane love story... Is more than good... This book is perfect...
Just finish it, and I'm not ashamed to say I have tears in my eyes.
And at the same time read this book give so much happiness I just want to share it with you, the reader of my review...
If you have this book in your to-read shelf do it... I regret the time I take deciding if I should or no read it.
My advice is: grab this book reading only 10 pages and tell me if you will not already be in love with the main characters... They are funny, sexy, courageous, fantastic lovers... They are... Perfect!
My applause to ZA Maxfiled, she did a marvelous job writing this book.
5 stars are not enough!
Just finish it, and I'm not ashamed to say I have tears in my eyes.
And at the same time read this book give so much happiness I just want to share it with you, the reader of my review...
If you have this book in your to-read shelf do it... I regret the time I take deciding if I should or no read it.
My advice is: grab this book reading only 10 pages and tell me if you will not already be in love with the main characters... They are funny, sexy, courageous, fantastic lovers... They are... Perfect!
My applause to ZA Maxfiled, she did a marvelous job writing this book.
5 stars are not enough!
April 30, 2013
This book made me grin like a maniac. I enjoyed it so much. It's funny and sweet and sexy and romantic and too much fun not to give five gushing stars. The characters won me over quickly and I adored every minute of their crazy love story.
November 30, 2016
This is a total OFY, which isn't a trope I would go out of my way to read, but I tend to be drawn to books with artist again and again, and this was a pleasant surprise.
Ran Yamane is a splendid character, and Rory, who admittedly I took a little while to warm up to was interesting. I liked that he surpassed my expectations as a character, just as he surpassed Ran Yamane's expectations as well.
Oh, and I love psycho stalkers!
Ran Yamane is a splendid character, and Rory, who admittedly I took a little while to warm up to was interesting. I liked that he surpassed my expectations as a character, just as he surpassed Ran Yamane's expectations as well.
Oh, and I love psycho stalkers!
November 24, 2016
Drawn Together was one of the first M/M books I read. I have really fond memories of this story and when I found out it was being re-released as an audiobook...well, I was happier than a pig in mud. Then I found out Greg Tremblay, performing under his steamier "Greg Boudreaux" moniker, was going to narrate and my excitement knew no bounds.
I absolutely loved the narration! Greg does not disappoint with his wonderful southern drawl for Rory, Yamane's lighter tones, the pure creepiness of Amelia, and the perfectly pitched side characters.
I'll admit I did some eye rolling and teeth gritting at the story this time around. This is one of those times I had a hard time re-reading a book I loved years ago.
I completely credit my ability to suspend disbelief and just enjoy the story and flow directly to the awesome narration by Greg. He totally rocked this!
This was a fun, wonderful listen!
Audio copy of Drawn Together provided by the author in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
May 27, 2016
1.5 stars rounded up to 2!
Well ... I hate rating books badly, but I really had a hard time with this one. I thought about DNF it several times, but due to the many good rating from Goodread friends I was still hoping to get into it.
I didn't, but I can understand all these positive ratings. This is a textbook case of it isn't you; it's me! I couldn't connect to the characters and I somewhat didn't care about what happened to them. I tried to, but it just didn't work out.
The plot could have worked, but I just felt bored at too many times. The pace was odd - considering the relationship everything was happening way too fast, while the mystery/crime aspect of the story was oddly balanced with the romance.
I'm normally a bit fan of Z.A. Maxfield and I will definitly continue reading her books while trying to forget about this one!
Well ... I hate rating books badly, but I really had a hard time with this one. I thought about DNF it several times, but due to the many good rating from Goodread friends I was still hoping to get into it.
I didn't, but I can understand all these positive ratings. This is a textbook case of it isn't you; it's me! I couldn't connect to the characters and I somewhat didn't care about what happened to them. I tried to, but it just didn't work out.
The plot could have worked, but I just felt bored at too many times. The pace was odd - considering the relationship everything was happening way too fast, while the mystery/crime aspect of the story was oddly balanced with the romance.
I'm normally a bit fan of Z.A. Maxfield and I will definitly continue reading her books while trying to forget about this one!
Read
October 3, 2022DNF ~ No rating
Not a fan of MCs sleeping with other people.
ETA: also... the story wasn't that great to begin with.
Not a fan of MCs sleeping with other people.
ETA: also... the story wasn't that great to begin with.
March 8, 2022
This book wins the prize for most problematic book I've read. I blame Audible Plus; I was browsing the options, noticed the cover and then the blurb sounded interesting.
What I expected: a thoughtful observation on how love transcends gender norms and sexuality.
What I got: insta-love; almost no hesitation in a straight guy being attracted to another man; straight guy then going 'oh wait, I've just remembered that I felt attracted to guys before but I just ignored it because it was a complication'; alpha male x damsel in distress dynamic, with the formerly straight guy deciding what's best for the other person, "providing" for him, opening doors for him & buying him jewellery.
So I was suitably disappointed even before it got really problematic.
Rory started off as a rather shy, slightly naïve young man, who spent his last $ on a wild goose chase. From there, he went on to become a domineering, cocky guy, who crossed boundaries without regret. Oh, and he was a poker master-mind, but for some reason he had no money at all until then, despite easily winning thousands of $.
(Not going to mark this as a spoiler, because I think people should know)
About half-way through, Yamane is passed out drunk. Rory decides to undress him completely, to "make him more comfortable", then proceeds to touch him. He knows it's wrong too:
"Rory tried to shove the sure and certain knowledge that he was feeling up a drunken man aside. The pleasure of running his fingers over Yamane's skin made almost all the guilt recede, leaving only a modicum of shame in its wake."
He doesn't stop there, though. He then proceeds to fondle Yamane's genitals and rub his own against his ass and thighs. The way the whole scene is described just screams rape. How Rory freezes as soon as Yamane moves a little, or how the author uses words like 'unresisting flesh'. And he gets away with it too!
I wanted to DNF it, but a sort of sick fascination made me carry on. While nothing topped the non-consensual scene, there were more parts that made me wonder how this was picked up by a publisher and Audible.
It's sprinkled with homophobic remarks, and while it's certainly realistic that some people would make those remarks, Rory seems to be in agreement, or indifferent at best (then again, he does repeatedly call Yamane "princess" despite Yamane hating it).
"Dang," said Brian. "You're the last one I ever figured to go over to the dark side"
"You and me both, brother."
One other jem - this is a Louisiana sheriff saying:
"Life is so much easier when you can just kill people who need killing."
I mean, WTF?! Yes, he's talking about a psychotic murderer, but that's not acceptable! Then again, this 'sheriff' pretty much does whatever he wants, turning a blind eye on someone growing weed (because it was for cancer survivors) and releasing a murderer's (unwilling) accomplice because he helped them out later (and was an ex-cop).
Not much to say about Yamane. Nothing about him really stood out, except his inexplicable attachment to a man who dictates his every move and treats him like a helpless child. I guess some people are into that.
Not much plot to speak of. Rory and Yamane meet, insta-love happens, then Yamane is attacked by his psycho stalker who also tries to have Rory killed. The rest is them travelling around the country, hiding from the stalker, with a bit of forced relationship drama in between and a final confrontation with the unrealistic villain.
I really wish I could turn back time and skip this one. I honestly don't understand how some readers enjoyed it...
What I expected: a thoughtful observation on how love transcends gender norms and sexuality.
What I got: insta-love; almost no hesitation in a straight guy being attracted to another man; straight guy then going 'oh wait, I've just remembered that I felt attracted to guys before but I just ignored it because it was a complication'; alpha male x damsel in distress dynamic, with the formerly straight guy deciding what's best for the other person, "providing" for him, opening doors for him & buying him jewellery.
So I was suitably disappointed even before it got really problematic.
Rory started off as a rather shy, slightly naïve young man, who spent his last $ on a wild goose chase. From there, he went on to become a domineering, cocky guy, who crossed boundaries without regret. Oh, and he was a poker master-mind, but for some reason he had no money at all until then, despite easily winning thousands of $.
(Not going to mark this as a spoiler, because I think people should know)
About half-way through, Yamane is passed out drunk. Rory decides to undress him completely, to "make him more comfortable", then proceeds to touch him. He knows it's wrong too:
"Rory tried to shove the sure and certain knowledge that he was feeling up a drunken man aside. The pleasure of running his fingers over Yamane's skin made almost all the guilt recede, leaving only a modicum of shame in its wake."
He doesn't stop there, though. He then proceeds to fondle Yamane's genitals and rub his own against his ass and thighs. The way the whole scene is described just screams rape. How Rory freezes as soon as Yamane moves a little, or how the author uses words like 'unresisting flesh'. And he gets away with it too!
I wanted to DNF it, but a sort of sick fascination made me carry on. While nothing topped the non-consensual scene, there were more parts that made me wonder how this was picked up by a publisher and Audible.
It's sprinkled with homophobic remarks, and while it's certainly realistic that some people would make those remarks, Rory seems to be in agreement, or indifferent at best (then again, he does repeatedly call Yamane "princess" despite Yamane hating it).
"Dang," said Brian. "You're the last one I ever figured to go over to the dark side"
"You and me both, brother."
One other jem - this is a Louisiana sheriff saying:
"Life is so much easier when you can just kill people who need killing."
I mean, WTF?! Yes, he's talking about a psychotic murderer, but that's not acceptable! Then again, this 'sheriff' pretty much does whatever he wants, turning a blind eye on someone growing weed (because it was for cancer survivors) and releasing a murderer's (unwilling) accomplice because he helped them out later (and was an ex-cop).
Not much to say about Yamane. Nothing about him really stood out, except his inexplicable attachment to a man who dictates his every move and treats him like a helpless child. I guess some people are into that.
Not much plot to speak of. Rory and Yamane meet, insta-love happens, then Yamane is attacked by his psycho stalker who also tries to have Rory killed. The rest is them travelling around the country, hiding from the stalker, with a bit of forced relationship drama in between and a final confrontation with the unrealistic villain.
I really wish I could turn back time and skip this one. I honestly don't understand how some readers enjoyed it...
September 27, 2022
There is a reason romance gurus say once the hero links up with his love interest, whether they seal the deal right away or not, they shouldn't stray. It a huge risk to let your hero sleep with someone other than his hero. You risk alienating your reader and making your hero, well, less heroic and therefore, less likeable. So imagine my shock when Yamane does this dirty deed. Granted this character is a rather self absorbed, high maintenance kind of guy, and Rory, with his down to earth southern charm was a little out of his depth. But ouch!
I'll tell you what, though. If an author can paint her characters so strongly that I'll not throw the book across the room after that, but keep reading, she's doing something right and maybe the gurus need to rethink their rules a bit.
Maxfield's story is populated with men you can't help but feel something for. Even the bad guys have enough of a personality that you can understand and believe everything they do. Well, almost all of them, anyway, but saying more would be a spoiler, so.
I'd say Maxfield's writing is rooted firmly in a yaoi tradition. She plays heavily on the gay-for-you trope, though she adds a little bit of a twist to it that makes it work for audiences who might not have that Yaoi background. Yamane is most definitely a bishonen, and much as i tried, I couldn't dislike him. Not even a little bit.
What works in this book, what makes it so wonderful, is that by the time she gets to the point where Yamane is desperate enough to contemplate his transgression, you're already so in love with her characters, you're willing to take the ride with him and place your trust in Maxfield that she'll keep the deal and make sure her heroes have a happy ending.
I don't mind telling you, if she broke that deal, I'd never pick up another Maxfield book, but far from it. She sealed it and then some. She stayed true to the promise of HEA and delivered in a spectacular fashion, worthy even of Ran Yamane.
I'll tell you what, though. If an author can paint her characters so strongly that I'll not throw the book across the room after that, but keep reading, she's doing something right and maybe the gurus need to rethink their rules a bit.
Maxfield's story is populated with men you can't help but feel something for. Even the bad guys have enough of a personality that you can understand and believe everything they do. Well, almost all of them, anyway, but saying more would be a spoiler, so.
I'd say Maxfield's writing is rooted firmly in a yaoi tradition. She plays heavily on the gay-for-you trope, though she adds a little bit of a twist to it that makes it work for audiences who might not have that Yaoi background. Yamane is most definitely a bishonen, and much as i tried, I couldn't dislike him. Not even a little bit.
What works in this book, what makes it so wonderful, is that by the time she gets to the point where Yamane is desperate enough to contemplate his transgression, you're already so in love with her characters, you're willing to take the ride with him and place your trust in Maxfield that she'll keep the deal and make sure her heroes have a happy ending.
I don't mind telling you, if she broke that deal, I'd never pick up another Maxfield book, but far from it. She sealed it and then some. She stayed true to the promise of HEA and delivered in a spectacular fashion, worthy even of Ran Yamane.
April 16, 2021
1 star
DNF @50%..
okay so i just finished another one of ZA Maxfields books because the Audiobooks are on Audible Plus so I thought why not give this one a chance since it is narrated by my favorite narrator Greg Bourdreaux.
Well not even Greg could help me. There were so many WTF moments that I am surprised that i kept going. Rory.... hmm he is just like the stalker in the book but without the Borderline Personality Disorder. He literally drove across the country to see this manga artist who he thought was a girl, and going to make the love of his life. Unfortunately Ren wasn't a girl and instead a guy, and even with that new found knowledge Rory decided to keep pursuing.
I also found some of his actions really shocking: besides the stalker tendency to drive across the country to pretty much kidnap Ren to make his lover, there was the fact that after just about 2 or 3 days of knowing each other they were already in love. Then Rory kept getting jewelry for him and the last one was a choker with a lock and key.... hmm... not like that is a problem but just didn't feel right...and the last one that made me stop to put the book down because i just couldn't deal was when Rory decided to get off on an unconscious Ren like full on take his pants off and rub all up on him... like umm bro you knew that was icky why did you go through with that, there was no consent on Ren's side soo that is a no!
i can honestly say that i don't think ZA Maxfield and I are compatible but i am glad other people can enjoy their work.
DNF @50%..
okay so i just finished another one of ZA Maxfields books because the Audiobooks are on Audible Plus so I thought why not give this one a chance since it is narrated by my favorite narrator Greg Bourdreaux.
Well not even Greg could help me. There were so many WTF moments that I am surprised that i kept going. Rory.... hmm he is just like the stalker in the book but without the Borderline Personality Disorder. He literally drove across the country to see this manga artist who he thought was a girl, and going to make the love of his life. Unfortunately Ren wasn't a girl and instead a guy, and even with that new found knowledge Rory decided to keep pursuing.
I also found some of his actions really shocking: besides the stalker tendency to drive across the country to pretty much kidnap Ren to make his lover, there was the fact that after just about 2 or 3 days of knowing each other they were already in love. Then Rory kept getting jewelry for him and the last one was a choker with a lock and key.... hmm... not like that is a problem but just didn't feel right...and the last one that made me stop to put the book down because i just couldn't deal was when Rory decided to get off on an unconscious Ren like full on take his pants off and rub all up on him... like umm bro you knew that was icky why did you go through with that, there was no consent on Ren's side soo that is a no!
i can honestly say that i don't think ZA Maxfield and I are compatible but i am glad other people can enjoy their work.
October 21, 2012
2.5
This was...different. I found myself liking Ran more than I did Rory because I didn't really understand where Rory's head was at in this book.
It was definitely a readable story. I did want to see how things worked out but the gay for you storyline I found didn't work for me for most of it.
Cute, interesting moments but the stalker storyline was a bit too heavy handed for me to really be drawn into the hijinks.
This was...different. I found myself liking Ran more than I did Rory because I didn't really understand where Rory's head was at in this book.
It was definitely a readable story. I did want to see how things worked out but the gay for you storyline I found didn't work for me for most of it.
Cute, interesting moments but the stalker storyline was a bit too heavy handed for me to really be drawn into the hijinks.
July 24, 2013
I really seem to be one of the minority with this book. It was not my thing, at all. The dialogue fell flat and the feel of the story was not for me. Ran. Eh. He was alright I guess... Could very easily live without him and the whole Rory mistaking him for a girl thing. Rory was just Meh, it my eyes too.
Not going to write anything else, it's been a while, but I remember really disliking the book. Just didn't hate it.
Not going to write anything else, it's been a while, but I remember really disliking the book. Just didn't hate it.
February 9, 2017
Can we not have a character announce her newly diagnosed mental illness a paragraph before stabbing someone??
I should have quit after they stated Asian people don’t truly smile with emotions.
I should have quit when they used a food analogy to describe a POC’s skin colour. Or say that an accent implies a person is uneducated.
And it actually has a line (I’m not making this up) where our MC calls him by his full name –Ran Yamane– and makes him feel all Asian and “fragile”.
Let that sink in.
Fragile.
Are Asian people made of tissue? And why isn’t he used to hearing his own damn name??
???
Seriously. It’s him NAME.
But I’m trying to not DNF books so often. …Which clearly was a mistake here.
Don’t piss me off. I have borderline personality disorder and we can get stabby, you know.
I should have quit after they stated Asian people don’t truly smile with emotions.
I should have quit when they used a food analogy to describe a POC’s skin colour. Or say that an accent implies a person is uneducated.
And it actually has a line (I’m not making this up) where our MC calls him by his full name –Ran Yamane– and makes him feel all Asian and “fragile”.
Let that sink in.
Fragile.
Are Asian people made of tissue? And why isn’t he used to hearing his own damn name??
???
Seriously. It’s him NAME.
But I’m trying to not DNF books so often. …Which clearly was a mistake here.
Don’t piss me off. I have borderline personality disorder and we can get stabby, you know.
August 7, 2010
Drawn Together
by Z.A. Maxfield
Overall:
I was really looking forward to this story, being the huge geek that I am. I actually saved to read this when I was at an anime convention (just to get in the mood of things)...it was kind of a let down. The writing was good and there were some great one liners, but overall the story didn't compell me. I felt as if this story should have studied the characters more and had the plot as secondary (and with a different plot).
What I liked
Overall I enjoy Maxfield's writing style and there are some moments that literally had me laughing aloud. I mostly enjoyed the characters and their interactions (see below for more), and I liked the story enough to continue reading.
What didn't work
Dialogue/Interactions: These felt forced and clumsy many times, as if the author wasn't sure how a person would really react. It wasn't a problem all the time, so perhaps it was more a matter of the author wanted the story to go one way, the characters wanted it to go another way, and the author forced the story to go the way she wanted it to go...leaving awkward interactions among the characters.
The plot. While I could swallow the ridiculousness of the opening as a necessary element to get the story started, there were so many other parts that didn't piece together well. The entire stalker danger felt...fake/ridiculous/off. I just didn't buy it, and when you're leading your story that way (and most of the story involves it), you need the reader to agree that it makes sense. Too much was off from reality.
Our dear Rory, who comes across as an obtuse idiot in the beginning, ends up being a high-rolling poker player. Not just mediocre, but REALLY good. I didn't buy it. I was given no reason to buy it, except that it "runs in the blood."
Yamane was a little more consistent, and it was pointed out he would act cool/tough sometimes, and then like a prissy princess others, but it was a consistent behavior pattern, so it was buyable. His actions that seem irrational are, via his thoughts, admitted that he doesn't know why he did them, he just had to. While this may seem like an excuse, it's one I'm willing to buy.
As for Yamane's issues with men...I'm not sure I really ever got it. I didn't get a good feel of why he went with men like he did or what his previous relationships were like to lead to this behavior.
Overall:
I was really looking forward to this story, being the huge geek that I am. I actually saved to read this when I was at an anime convention (just to get in the mood of things)...it was kind of a let down. The writing was good and there were some great one liners, but overall the story didn't compell me. I felt as if this story should have studied the characters more and had the plot as secondary (and with a different plot).
What I liked
Overall I enjoy Maxfield's writing style and there are some moments that literally had me laughing aloud. I mostly enjoyed the characters and their interactions (see below for more), and I liked the story enough to continue reading.
What didn't work
Dialogue/Interactions: These felt forced and clumsy many times, as if the author wasn't sure how a person would really react. It wasn't a problem all the time, so perhaps it was more a matter of the author wanted the story to go one way, the characters wanted it to go another way, and the author forced the story to go the way she wanted it to go...leaving awkward interactions among the characters.
The plot. While I could swallow the ridiculousness of the opening as a necessary element to get the story started, there were so many other parts that didn't piece together well. The entire stalker danger felt...fake/ridiculous/off. I just didn't buy it, and when you're leading your story that way (and most of the story involves it), you need the reader to agree that it makes sense. Too much was off from reality.
Our dear Rory, who comes across as an obtuse idiot in the beginning, ends up being a high-rolling poker player. Not just mediocre, but REALLY good. I didn't buy it. I was given no reason to buy it, except that it "runs in the blood."
Yamane was a little more consistent, and it was pointed out he would act cool/tough sometimes, and then like a prissy princess others, but it was a consistent behavior pattern, so it was buyable. His actions that seem irrational are, via his thoughts, admitted that he doesn't know why he did them, he just had to. While this may seem like an excuse, it's one I'm willing to buy.
As for Yamane's issues with men...I'm not sure I really ever got it. I didn't get a good feel of why he went with men like he did or what his previous relationships were like to lead to this behavior.
March 22, 2009
ory meets Yamane, the girl of his dreams, but it turns out she’s a man! Before he has a chance to figure out what that means, someone’s trying to kill him. Yamane needs a knight, and Rory is the only guy around.
This book is seriously cute. But, is one of those reads that you need to pull on you big suspension of disbelief pants for. Not that the book pretends to be anything other than this, it was quick, sweet, with over the top drama and much campy fun. It’s kinda yaoi in a way and reminded me of something Jen said, … it didn’t attempt to do anything other than entertain you.
Some of the story felt like it stalled occasionally, and part way through I just wanted the boys to cut line, drop pants and swap man juice (in a very safe, tied condom way of course). It was admittedly a little frustrating as a reader. There was much moving around of characters that seemed a little unnecessary at times and did not really drive the story. Bit LOTR minus the talking about the scenery.
The characters were sweet and I liked Yamane immensely, it was the hair that did it and I kept thinking of Ayano Yamane when I read his name (I just adore her). Yamane was so honest and at ease with himself and physically he was terribly appealing. Rory was a very solid character and a good foil for Yamane. A total hero in a plaid shirt.
I was sucked in by the PL Nunn cover, completely. I love her work, especially her Clex and Silver stuff. She rocks.
All in all, a nice enough read. Review and links here
http://sharrow.wordpress.com/2009/03/...
This book is seriously cute. But, is one of those reads that you need to pull on you big suspension of disbelief pants for. Not that the book pretends to be anything other than this, it was quick, sweet, with over the top drama and much campy fun. It’s kinda yaoi in a way and reminded me of something Jen said, … it didn’t attempt to do anything other than entertain you.
Some of the story felt like it stalled occasionally, and part way through I just wanted the boys to cut line, drop pants and swap man juice (in a very safe, tied condom way of course). It was admittedly a little frustrating as a reader. There was much moving around of characters that seemed a little unnecessary at times and did not really drive the story. Bit LOTR minus the talking about the scenery.
The characters were sweet and I liked Yamane immensely, it was the hair that did it and I kept thinking of Ayano Yamane when I read his name (I just adore her). Yamane was so honest and at ease with himself and physically he was terribly appealing. Rory was a very solid character and a good foil for Yamane. A total hero in a plaid shirt.
I was sucked in by the PL Nunn cover, completely. I love her work, especially her Clex and Silver stuff. She rocks.
All in all, a nice enough read. Review and links here
http://sharrow.wordpress.com/2009/03/...
June 2, 2010
So I didn't even mean to start reading this book, no less read the first 190 pages in one sitting instead of sleeping, but there you have it. That being said I'm glad I did.
Rory Delaplaines, from Louisiana is in love with the woman of his dreams. Ran Yamane, the creator of his favorite graphic novels. She is going to be at a convention in California signing autographs so he decides to drive the 1500 miles to meet her, woo her and hopefully marry her. The only problem? Ran Yamane, is not a woman, but he's used to the confusion. The attraction starts from the first meeting and the trick for Rory, is trying to figure out what he thinks about all of this. Add to this the fact that Ran Yamane has a stalker and their lives are thrown in to totally upheaval.
I like this book, but then I'm a sucker for an against all odds kind of romance. I have only one real complaint and that is I'm not sure why every thinks that Ran Yamane is female. I mean in this day and age of the internet, I'm confused why people think he's a woman, since he obviously isn't pretending to be one. This bothered me enough that it cost the book a star. The other thing? There is a lot of talk about trust, and about Rory's first name. (Ok, not a lot, but you know me) but we never find out what his first name really is. These things aren't deal breakers, they just nagged me a bit.
Overall a very sweet story.
Rory Delaplaines, from Louisiana is in love with the woman of his dreams. Ran Yamane, the creator of his favorite graphic novels. She is going to be at a convention in California signing autographs so he decides to drive the 1500 miles to meet her, woo her and hopefully marry her. The only problem? Ran Yamane, is not a woman, but he's used to the confusion. The attraction starts from the first meeting and the trick for Rory, is trying to figure out what he thinks about all of this. Add to this the fact that Ran Yamane has a stalker and their lives are thrown in to totally upheaval.
I like this book, but then I'm a sucker for an against all odds kind of romance. I have only one real complaint and that is I'm not sure why every thinks that Ran Yamane is female. I mean in this day and age of the internet, I'm confused why people think he's a woman, since he obviously isn't pretending to be one. This bothered me enough that it cost the book a star. The other thing? There is a lot of talk about trust, and about Rory's first name. (Ok, not a lot, but you know me) but we never find out what his first name really is. These things aren't deal breakers, they just nagged me a bit.
Overall a very sweet story.
October 18, 2013
I finally tackled this one. I enjoyed it a lot. As always, Z.A. Maxfield is a very strong writer and I highlighted a number of passes that were just damned clever. A few samples:
"It's no lie, Amelia. Yamane's been done more times than the Macarena."
"I could not, would not, let her kill you."
"Who are you, Dr. Seuss?"
"I'm sorry I ever met you. I'm sorry I ever loved you." His strong fingers caressed Yamane's face. "And I'm damned sorry my grandparents are home right now."
"... that was as far as he got before Rory's hands started sliding down the inside of the silk coat he was wearing, and the next thing he new, he was holding Rory's head in his lap and whispering, 'Go, baby, go' to the ceiling of the limousine."
Besides the writing itself, the gfy romance was very solid, the MCs were both super appealing and well-fleshed out, and the secondary plotline of the stalker was very well done and chilling.
A strong 5 stars from me.
"It's no lie, Amelia. Yamane's been done more times than the Macarena."
"I could not, would not, let her kill you."
"Who are you, Dr. Seuss?"
"I'm sorry I ever met you. I'm sorry I ever loved you." His strong fingers caressed Yamane's face. "And I'm damned sorry my grandparents are home right now."
"... that was as far as he got before Rory's hands started sliding down the inside of the silk coat he was wearing, and the next thing he new, he was holding Rory's head in his lap and whispering, 'Go, baby, go' to the ceiling of the limousine."
Besides the writing itself, the gfy romance was very solid, the MCs were both super appealing and well-fleshed out, and the secondary plotline of the stalker was very well done and chilling.
A strong 5 stars from me.
April 13, 2022
I was rolling my eyes all over the place. It was one cliche after another and made no sense in soo many different ways, like the way Rory and Yamane act throughout the entire book to start: quick to fall in love, quick to judge, quick to assume, quick to act... Just I could go on and on about it. They frustrated me to no end.
I don't know how it would have gone if I had read this. Greg Boudreaux did a fantastic job as always. The main reason I picked this up and he did not let me down. He has such unique voices for everyone that, as soon as he speaks, you can tell who it is.
The whole thing was just so farfetched but it has its moments. Camping, hotels, puppy...
lauraღ summed it up perfectly for me: Her Review. Especially about Rory's assault.
Just finished this and am thinkin' it over. Rating may change; if so it'll go down.
I don't know how it would have gone if I had read this. Greg Boudreaux did a fantastic job as always. The main reason I picked this up and he did not let me down. He has such unique voices for everyone that, as soon as he speaks, you can tell who it is.
The whole thing was just so farfetched but it has its moments. Camping, hotels, puppy...
lauraღ summed it up perfectly for me: Her Review. Especially about Rory's assault.
Just finished this and am thinkin' it over. Rating may change; if so it'll go down.
February 4, 2017
Not what I thought it would be - quite unbelievable but fun.. Looking back on it, it reads like a parody of a detective/James Bond type thing. But I still enjoyed it.
November 25, 2021
I loved this story! Rory and Yamane were both amazing characters and the story was engaging, well-written and beautiful.
Rory finds out Yamane, the artist he loves and thinks is a girl, is in fact a man. When Rory doesn’t act like a jerk and despite his shock, he still manages to tell his favourite artist how much he loves his work and admires him, I had no choice to fall in love with him right there! I believe the same thing happened to Yamane too!!!
Rory is smart, romantic, considerate and amazing.
Yamane is pretty, too pretty for his own sake and kind but scared and broken.
They’re both great characters and it’s so refreshing and fun to listen to this book narrated by Greg Boudreaux with his southern accent for Rory.
I loved their time together on the road and camping or in motels, they fit perfectly.
The way Rory discovers his new side of sexuality felt natural to me and not fake in any way.
I think this was one of the most romantic books I’ve recently read. With lots of hot and amazing sex scenes!!
Rory finds out Yamane, the artist he loves and thinks is a girl, is in fact a man. When Rory doesn’t act like a jerk and despite his shock, he still manages to tell his favourite artist how much he loves his work and admires him, I had no choice to fall in love with him right there! I believe the same thing happened to Yamane too!!!
Rory is smart, romantic, considerate and amazing.
Yamane is pretty, too pretty for his own sake and kind but scared and broken.
They’re both great characters and it’s so refreshing and fun to listen to this book narrated by Greg Boudreaux with his southern accent for Rory.
I loved their time together on the road and camping or in motels, they fit perfectly.
The way Rory discovers his new side of sexuality felt natural to me and not fake in any way.
I think this was one of the most romantic books I’ve recently read. With lots of hot and amazing sex scenes!!
July 11, 2020
I honestly hate giving less than 4 stars but there's some big cons about this book that I just couldn't give it more than 3.
Firstly, I was lost so many times with the dialogue. I wasn't always sure of who was speaking, what was trying to be said and why it was said. It was just incoherent in places.
The story itself was odd but not necessarily bad. It just felt all over the place. Rory being straight and then falling in love with Yamane within a week was unrealistic and the same goes the other way around.
One of the main reasons that I couldn't give it a higher rating was because there was a non-consensual sex scene that was COMPLETELY out of character and I was appalled with it. I read books with darker themes and expect dub-con or non-con but it was out of place here.
This was my first book by this author and I will try again and hope that it's more cohesive than this one.
Firstly, I was lost so many times with the dialogue. I wasn't always sure of who was speaking, what was trying to be said and why it was said. It was just incoherent in places.
The story itself was odd but not necessarily bad. It just felt all over the place. Rory being straight and then falling in love with Yamane within a week was unrealistic and the same goes the other way around.
One of the main reasons that I couldn't give it a higher rating was because there was a non-consensual sex scene that was COMPLETELY out of character and I was appalled with it. I read books with darker themes and expect dub-con or non-con but it was out of place here.
This was my first book by this author and I will try again and hope that it's more cohesive than this one.
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