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Conquest #2
No Fear
After Conquest's long tour, singer Jesse Alexander is ready to head home with his partner, Evan Arden. When Conquest hits the studio again, Jesse finds competition from two new bands and tensions reach a breaking point. Facing challenges unlike any he's ever known, Jesse must somehow duplicate Conquest's success and reach his ultimate goal: showing NO FEAR and announcing his love of Evan publicly.
368 pages, Paperback
First published March 1, 2010
About the author
S.J. Frost
44 books572 followersS.J. Frost resides in Ohio with her family, pets, and horses. Her short stories have been featured in several erotic and romance anthologies, and her novels are published through MLR Press. Rock stars, vampires, fantasy heroes, and more, she enjoys dabbling in many different sub-genres in gay romance, but no matter what she writes, love and passion are the driving forces in every story.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews
April 1, 2010
Sequels are always an interesting animal. When I read Conquest last year, I liked it a lot despite its many problems. What’s interesting about No Fear is that all the problems in the first book are still here in the second book. Unfortunately I couldn’t forgive those issues a second time around as easily as I could in the first book. No Fear reads extremely close to the original Conquest with the same writing style, same horrendous head hopping, same overly wordy and extraneous details, but this time around I found myself getting annoyed with these problems. It’s almost as if I had expected these issues to change and I soon realized this is very likely the author’s style. While I’m not sure I’ll continue with any more books by this author, if you liked Conquest, you may want to continue with the series.
No Fear picks up a year or more after Conquest ended with the close of Jesse and Evan’s worldwide tour. The happy couple is now headed back to Chicago to record their individual albums but while they are ridiculously happy in love, circumstances around them are tense. First Evan and Jesse are still officially in the closet and thus pretend not to be a couple, yet they are growing more and more tired of hiding. Second two new, up and coming bands have signed to the label and will be recording at the same time which causes friction, jealousy, and professional rivalry. Third Jesse’s brother Brandon is struggling to find his own soul mate now that Jesse is so happy. If all of that wasn’t enough, Jesse is jumped by a group of thugs late one night causing even more problems.
So right away the plot is filled with conflict after conflict. While the actual completed storyline with all the various offshoots isn’t horrible, a lot of these subplots are unnecessary and distracting. Most of these are thrown in to offset how ridiculously and over the top Jesse and Evan’s relationship is. Although they fell in love immediately in the previous book, this particular offering does nothing to actually further their relationship. In fact, their repeated immature actions and wild jealousy combine with an inability to communicate to show kind of how dysfunctional this relationship really is. The story tries incredibly hard to make the point that Jesse and Evan are completely, utterly, madly, and absolutely in love, so it throws outside obstacles at the couple to test that love. Most of these come in the form of other attractive men that provoke irrational jealousy in both Evan and Jesse. They are clearly very insecure in their relationship and fly off the handle with jealousy at every perceived threat.
The wild jealousy that both men experience is due in part to poor characterization. Whereas in the previous book both men seemed to have flaws and fears, now both Jesse and Evan are utterly perfect and their only fear is losing the other. Evan is described as absolutely perfect in every way, People’s Sexiest Man Alive, able to play every instrument perfectly after only listening to it once, gorgeous, caring, and the most generous lover ever. I wish this was an exaggeration but it’s not. That is exactly how Evan is described, which could potentially be put down to a biased narrator in Jesse if Jesse, Brandon, Julian, and others weren’t described as perfect too. So instead of adding more complexity to the characters as they figure out how to live their life in the spotlight while learning each other’s quirks – these two are perfect. Their only flaws are arrogance and temperamental behavior but these are accepted since both Jessie and Evan are considered geniuses.
Here is an example of Evan’s description:
----
Labeled as a musical and vocal genius, Evan brought elegance to rock music and his concerts themselves were a work of art, with pyrotechnics, light shows, perfectly choreographed routines with professional dancers, and a mini symphony. Evan could match moves with the best dancers, change between playing guitar, piano, violin, and drums with the ease of breathing, and still hadn’t tapped out all the instruments he was skilled in. He’d sprint across the stage, then blast out his baritone not the slightest bit winded. He could lift an audience up; he could bring them back down. During his time on stage, thousands of people became Evan’s willing captives.
----
Although perfection is often boring and shows rather flat, undeveloped characters, the story then manipulates the men and other cast in ways that make no sense. Evan and Jesse go off on these wild jealousy kicks that had me wondering at their emotional age. If they are so deeply in love, why does one just looking at another person cause so much jealousy they run off in tears? Then other characters seem to scream and yell for no real reason. The men and occasional woman are seen screaming at inappropriate times that make me wonder if all the characters had Turrets Syndrome. For example there’s a scene where one of the band members is making a stupid, sexist comment about strip joints and a woman songwriter yells “SCREW YOU!” It was an idiotic, bonehead comment but what professional screams like that out of nowhere? It didn’t make any sense to the scene or characters. This type of thing is repeated over and over as the characters yell curses at perceived insults that aren’t there. This just shows a real lack of maturity and common sense, which is surprising given the majority of characters are supposed to be sophisticated men and women – albeit rock stars.
In addition to yelling at inappropriate times, the characters often seem manic. They go from being supportive to being judgmental in the blink of an eye and back again, such as Kenny and Greg. Brandon, Jessie’s brother, even does this flip-flop as well and causes a huge fight between him and Jessie that makes no sense. Then they simply get over it and move on with Brandon becoming super supportive again once he has a new boyfriend – whom he moves in with on the second date and is calling him his soul mate within a few weeks. All of this extraneous conflict and drama seems not only superfluous and silly but contrived and manipulated. All through the story I couldn’t forget that the story was trying to simultaneously show how deeply in love the two men are while attempting to test their bond with all these outside problems.
Part of the problem is that book needs a much better editing. Whether on the publisher side or author side there should be more slash and burn style that cuts out all the extraneous and totally unnecessary detail. The writing style, which I didn’t really notice in the first book since I was so absorbed in the story, now has entire chapters of unimportant detail. Every single car used –and there are A LOT of cars – is explained in detail from the model, make, color, cost to every single character repetitively described with their clothes, earrings, hair, necklaces, and rings. There are pages upon pages of descriptions of countryside and the mansion, musical instruments down to the color of the grain wood, and what kinds of wine they each had at every meal with a detail accounting of the food that they often didn’t eat. Some of this description is good and sets the tone very well, however this is a case of too much of a good thing and the lengthy descriptions go on for far too long and end up distracting from the characters and action.
The last problem that could definitely affect reading is the horrible head hoping that once again happens. Here the characters’ point of view changes paragraph to paragraph and thrown in are a large cast of characters with two new bands and several minor players. So it’s often difficult to follow which point of view you’re in from one paragraph to the next. Since this review is getting epic already, I won’t include a quote but you can see the example of head hopping from the previous review which is similar to this story.
To wrap this up before readers go into a coma or have already left due to severe boredom, the book is not absolutely horrible as it shows Jesse and Evan deeply, desperately in love and how their careers have been going and the direction they will go. There are some good scenes with a lot of romance that will please fans of the first book. Unfortunately the problems with the characters and writing style overwhelms this offering and bogs down the pace and enjoyment with too many distractions. The book feels too contrived and obvious as it moves the characters to make point after point and dramatic issue after dramatic issue instead of a natural, absorbing progression. Reader preference will always vary so if you think the issues I brought up are ones you could ignore or don’t bother you, then absolutely get the book. If you think these are kill joys for you, perhaps wait for something else.
No Fear picks up a year or more after Conquest ended with the close of Jesse and Evan’s worldwide tour. The happy couple is now headed back to Chicago to record their individual albums but while they are ridiculously happy in love, circumstances around them are tense. First Evan and Jesse are still officially in the closet and thus pretend not to be a couple, yet they are growing more and more tired of hiding. Second two new, up and coming bands have signed to the label and will be recording at the same time which causes friction, jealousy, and professional rivalry. Third Jesse’s brother Brandon is struggling to find his own soul mate now that Jesse is so happy. If all of that wasn’t enough, Jesse is jumped by a group of thugs late one night causing even more problems.
So right away the plot is filled with conflict after conflict. While the actual completed storyline with all the various offshoots isn’t horrible, a lot of these subplots are unnecessary and distracting. Most of these are thrown in to offset how ridiculously and over the top Jesse and Evan’s relationship is. Although they fell in love immediately in the previous book, this particular offering does nothing to actually further their relationship. In fact, their repeated immature actions and wild jealousy combine with an inability to communicate to show kind of how dysfunctional this relationship really is. The story tries incredibly hard to make the point that Jesse and Evan are completely, utterly, madly, and absolutely in love, so it throws outside obstacles at the couple to test that love. Most of these come in the form of other attractive men that provoke irrational jealousy in both Evan and Jesse. They are clearly very insecure in their relationship and fly off the handle with jealousy at every perceived threat.
The wild jealousy that both men experience is due in part to poor characterization. Whereas in the previous book both men seemed to have flaws and fears, now both Jesse and Evan are utterly perfect and their only fear is losing the other. Evan is described as absolutely perfect in every way, People’s Sexiest Man Alive, able to play every instrument perfectly after only listening to it once, gorgeous, caring, and the most generous lover ever. I wish this was an exaggeration but it’s not. That is exactly how Evan is described, which could potentially be put down to a biased narrator in Jesse if Jesse, Brandon, Julian, and others weren’t described as perfect too. So instead of adding more complexity to the characters as they figure out how to live their life in the spotlight while learning each other’s quirks – these two are perfect. Their only flaws are arrogance and temperamental behavior but these are accepted since both Jessie and Evan are considered geniuses.
Here is an example of Evan’s description:
----
Labeled as a musical and vocal genius, Evan brought elegance to rock music and his concerts themselves were a work of art, with pyrotechnics, light shows, perfectly choreographed routines with professional dancers, and a mini symphony. Evan could match moves with the best dancers, change between playing guitar, piano, violin, and drums with the ease of breathing, and still hadn’t tapped out all the instruments he was skilled in. He’d sprint across the stage, then blast out his baritone not the slightest bit winded. He could lift an audience up; he could bring them back down. During his time on stage, thousands of people became Evan’s willing captives.
----
Although perfection is often boring and shows rather flat, undeveloped characters, the story then manipulates the men and other cast in ways that make no sense. Evan and Jesse go off on these wild jealousy kicks that had me wondering at their emotional age. If they are so deeply in love, why does one just looking at another person cause so much jealousy they run off in tears? Then other characters seem to scream and yell for no real reason. The men and occasional woman are seen screaming at inappropriate times that make me wonder if all the characters had Turrets Syndrome. For example there’s a scene where one of the band members is making a stupid, sexist comment about strip joints and a woman songwriter yells “SCREW YOU!” It was an idiotic, bonehead comment but what professional screams like that out of nowhere? It didn’t make any sense to the scene or characters. This type of thing is repeated over and over as the characters yell curses at perceived insults that aren’t there. This just shows a real lack of maturity and common sense, which is surprising given the majority of characters are supposed to be sophisticated men and women – albeit rock stars.
In addition to yelling at inappropriate times, the characters often seem manic. They go from being supportive to being judgmental in the blink of an eye and back again, such as Kenny and Greg. Brandon, Jessie’s brother, even does this flip-flop as well and causes a huge fight between him and Jessie that makes no sense. Then they simply get over it and move on with Brandon becoming super supportive again once he has a new boyfriend – whom he moves in with on the second date and is calling him his soul mate within a few weeks. All of this extraneous conflict and drama seems not only superfluous and silly but contrived and manipulated. All through the story I couldn’t forget that the story was trying to simultaneously show how deeply in love the two men are while attempting to test their bond with all these outside problems.
Part of the problem is that book needs a much better editing. Whether on the publisher side or author side there should be more slash and burn style that cuts out all the extraneous and totally unnecessary detail. The writing style, which I didn’t really notice in the first book since I was so absorbed in the story, now has entire chapters of unimportant detail. Every single car used –and there are A LOT of cars – is explained in detail from the model, make, color, cost to every single character repetitively described with their clothes, earrings, hair, necklaces, and rings. There are pages upon pages of descriptions of countryside and the mansion, musical instruments down to the color of the grain wood, and what kinds of wine they each had at every meal with a detail accounting of the food that they often didn’t eat. Some of this description is good and sets the tone very well, however this is a case of too much of a good thing and the lengthy descriptions go on for far too long and end up distracting from the characters and action.
The last problem that could definitely affect reading is the horrible head hoping that once again happens. Here the characters’ point of view changes paragraph to paragraph and thrown in are a large cast of characters with two new bands and several minor players. So it’s often difficult to follow which point of view you’re in from one paragraph to the next. Since this review is getting epic already, I won’t include a quote but you can see the example of head hopping from the previous review which is similar to this story.
To wrap this up before readers go into a coma or have already left due to severe boredom, the book is not absolutely horrible as it shows Jesse and Evan deeply, desperately in love and how their careers have been going and the direction they will go. There are some good scenes with a lot of romance that will please fans of the first book. Unfortunately the problems with the characters and writing style overwhelms this offering and bogs down the pace and enjoyment with too many distractions. The book feels too contrived and obvious as it moves the characters to make point after point and dramatic issue after dramatic issue instead of a natural, absorbing progression. Reader preference will always vary so if you think the issues I brought up are ones you could ignore or don’t bother you, then absolutely get the book. If you think these are kill joys for you, perhaps wait for something else.
June 15, 2016
This was a continuation of Even and Jesse and I think I liked this slightly more than book 1. There seemed a bit more going on with this one and there were some good WTH moments, (you know where your reading and find yourself mumbling What The Hell) lol.
The songs were as good if not better and I wish there was a way to hear them. Over all another sweet easy read with a few tense moments and some lovely romantic scenes too.
S J Frost writes characters that you not only love but can believe in too. One of the things I love is the way Jesse and Brandon talk to each other, its so real, and it was nice to see they still have the same rapport as in book 1.
ETA Nothing new to add. Still a mostly sweet read but too heavy on the sex for my tastes.
The songs were as good if not better and I wish there was a way to hear them. Over all another sweet easy read with a few tense moments and some lovely romantic scenes too.
S J Frost writes characters that you not only love but can believe in too. One of the things I love is the way Jesse and Brandon talk to each other, its so real, and it was nice to see they still have the same rapport as in book 1.
ETA Nothing new to add. Still a mostly sweet read but too heavy on the sex for my tastes.
March 25, 2010
There's so much that went into this book and so much that went on I have not enough words that can express how good it was and I wasn't disappointed with the whole of it.
Shannon really outdone herself this time. If you thought Conquest was good or great than for you to read this one is a no brainer. Reading the trials and tribulations of creating a new album was great. Trish clearing out of the scene since I couldn't stand her in the first book made it even more to me saying: About damn time in this one amazing. The attack that took place was infuriating but what's a book without the added drama to ink up the action. The wedding was priceless. Brandon finally getting his man goes beyond better than hoped for.
We get to experience everything of this amazing group through SJ's excellent writing skills and my final thoughts on it? Fanfawkingtastic!!
Shannon really outdone herself this time. If you thought Conquest was good or great than for you to read this one is a no brainer. Reading the trials and tribulations of creating a new album was great. Trish clearing out of the scene since I couldn't stand her in the first book made it even more to me saying: About damn time in this one amazing. The attack that took place was infuriating but what's a book without the added drama to ink up the action. The wedding was priceless. Brandon finally getting his man goes beyond better than hoped for.
We get to experience everything of this amazing group through SJ's excellent writing skills and my final thoughts on it? Fanfawkingtastic!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
April 10, 2010No Fear starts more or less where Conquest ended, with Evan and Jesse in a committed relationship, but only in private. Evan still fears (and here is the main reference to the title, other than the title of Jesse’s album, that like for Conquest before, is also the title of the book) to ruin Jesse’s chances to stardom if they do coming out together: best scenario is that people, and fans, will believe that Jesse is profiting from his relationship with Evan, and worst that they will desert him not accepting a gay rock start. And then the majority of Jesse’s, and Evan’s fans, are women, and their producer doesn’t think they will remain fans if they discover about Jesse and Evan.
And so, most of the story is spent with Jesse and Evan living almost two parallel lives, public and private, and this doesn’t help neither of it. No Fear is also a pretty complex book for the presence of a lot of supporting characters, whose presence is essential in the dynamics between Jesse and Evan: from the previous book, there is Trish, Jesse’s drummer, who apparently is hostile to Evan; Brandon, Jesse’s brother, who having found success in his professional life, like Jesse did, now wants to find true love like his brother did, and maybe there is a little bit of envy for the fact that his little brother seems to be happy even without his help; plus enter two new characters, Kyler and Trent. In a way they are related to Jesse and Evan for more or less the same reason: Kyler is gay, or at least bisexual, and he had a fling with Evan in the past; he is Evan’s same age, and he relates more to Evan than Jesse, both for age than experience. Jesse is jealous of Kyler for his past experience with Evan, and Evan is jealous of Kyler since he sees him like someone that could be competition for him with Jesse. On the other hand there is Trent, so young and eager to please Jesse, but with a undertone of homophobic attitude that create an uneasy atmosphere in the recording studios they all are in at the same moment.
No Fear is a big net of relationships, of the love and professional types, and Jesse and Evan are in the middle of it, they goal will be to not end lost. But they are growing, and even if there is still a core of selfishness in both of them, something that I noticed also in the previous book, now they are maybe able to recognize what is important in life. As it’s right for an artistry character, nor Jesse or Evan are the perfect heroes, they are moody and unsteady, always ready to bolt and with a penchant for drama, easy to fire up but also to fall in bed to consume all the energy in more interesting activities than being mad to each other.
If like me, you had the impression that in Conquest Jesse and Evan needed time to grow in their relationship but also in their life, No Fear perfectly covers that gap. I would almost say that it’s almost mandatory to read Conquest and No Fear together, if not that they are very long, No Fear more than 350 pages, and so, probably you need time to plan this read.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B003F2QO2I/?...
And so, most of the story is spent with Jesse and Evan living almost two parallel lives, public and private, and this doesn’t help neither of it. No Fear is also a pretty complex book for the presence of a lot of supporting characters, whose presence is essential in the dynamics between Jesse and Evan: from the previous book, there is Trish, Jesse’s drummer, who apparently is hostile to Evan; Brandon, Jesse’s brother, who having found success in his professional life, like Jesse did, now wants to find true love like his brother did, and maybe there is a little bit of envy for the fact that his little brother seems to be happy even without his help; plus enter two new characters, Kyler and Trent. In a way they are related to Jesse and Evan for more or less the same reason: Kyler is gay, or at least bisexual, and he had a fling with Evan in the past; he is Evan’s same age, and he relates more to Evan than Jesse, both for age than experience. Jesse is jealous of Kyler for his past experience with Evan, and Evan is jealous of Kyler since he sees him like someone that could be competition for him with Jesse. On the other hand there is Trent, so young and eager to please Jesse, but with a undertone of homophobic attitude that create an uneasy atmosphere in the recording studios they all are in at the same moment.
No Fear is a big net of relationships, of the love and professional types, and Jesse and Evan are in the middle of it, they goal will be to not end lost. But they are growing, and even if there is still a core of selfishness in both of them, something that I noticed also in the previous book, now they are maybe able to recognize what is important in life. As it’s right for an artistry character, nor Jesse or Evan are the perfect heroes, they are moody and unsteady, always ready to bolt and with a penchant for drama, easy to fire up but also to fall in bed to consume all the energy in more interesting activities than being mad to each other.
If like me, you had the impression that in Conquest Jesse and Evan needed time to grow in their relationship but also in their life, No Fear perfectly covers that gap. I would almost say that it’s almost mandatory to read Conquest and No Fear together, if not that they are very long, No Fear more than 350 pages, and so, probably you need time to plan this read.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B003F2QO2I/?...
March 28, 2010
No Fear continues the story of Jesse and Evan, two extraordinary talented musicians, and takes the reader on a yet another rollecoaster ride! The sequel to Conquest doesn't disappoint. Jesse and Evan finish their joint tour and come back home, but the peace doesn't last long. As soon as they're back to the studio, new characters emerge on the scene, as bands Black Heart Down and Swiller come to record right next door. The recording process is far from smooth, but Jesse keeps on his path to ultimate success, no matter the many obstacles he's faced with, he is unstoppable! There's everything from having to deal with the two bands recording next door, to losing a band member, fighting with his brother, and with Evan, to arguing with Greg, and putting his foot down, surviving an attack, and coming out!
This book is nothing short of amazing, I love the author's style and skill in creating interesting plot twists without having it come off as cliche or over the top, as well as introducing one colourful character after another. It makes you not only go, "damn this book is amazing!" but also, "wow, wish I could write like this, too!". The book drew me in quickly and made me a rapt spectator as I turned the pages and got immersed in the story. I loved reading about the music business and getting a behind the scenes look at how things work. I like how there wasn't an avalanche of useless information that reads like a wiki article, and yet, it wasn't lacking at all in that aspect! It was like watching a movie, or even, like actually being in that studio. It was done very smoothly, and I appreciate that in writing because then the reader isn't yanked out of the story abruptly by either 1. having a ton of questions, or 2. being hit with a ton of information. The attention to detail in every aspect of the book is great, it creates a very solid and vivid picture!
There were so many new characters in this book, and yet, I had no trouble at all with following them. Each new side character was well drawn, even those that played tiny roles in the book! I was glad to see Trish go, and curious about Brad. I'm left wondering about Kyler and Robbie, and hoping Christopher is getting his face punched in somewhere. I'm happy Brandon found someone worthy to date, and can only shake my head at Swiller trying to rise to stardom. I'd love to read more about Julian, and while Greg annoyed me a lot I do have a feeling he means well, at the end of the day. And, of course, I am overjoyed to see Jesse and Evan happy in love (and married=)!
There's so much I can say about this book, and how amazing it is, but I'd just rather everyone went and read it to find out for themselves!! All in all, this is definitely a five-star read, and I absolutely loved it!
This book is nothing short of amazing, I love the author's style and skill in creating interesting plot twists without having it come off as cliche or over the top, as well as introducing one colourful character after another. It makes you not only go, "damn this book is amazing!" but also, "wow, wish I could write like this, too!". The book drew me in quickly and made me a rapt spectator as I turned the pages and got immersed in the story. I loved reading about the music business and getting a behind the scenes look at how things work. I like how there wasn't an avalanche of useless information that reads like a wiki article, and yet, it wasn't lacking at all in that aspect! It was like watching a movie, or even, like actually being in that studio. It was done very smoothly, and I appreciate that in writing because then the reader isn't yanked out of the story abruptly by either 1. having a ton of questions, or 2. being hit with a ton of information. The attention to detail in every aspect of the book is great, it creates a very solid and vivid picture!
There were so many new characters in this book, and yet, I had no trouble at all with following them. Each new side character was well drawn, even those that played tiny roles in the book! I was glad to see Trish go, and curious about Brad. I'm left wondering about Kyler and Robbie, and hoping Christopher is getting his face punched in somewhere. I'm happy Brandon found someone worthy to date, and can only shake my head at Swiller trying to rise to stardom. I'd love to read more about Julian, and while Greg annoyed me a lot I do have a feeling he means well, at the end of the day. And, of course, I am overjoyed to see Jesse and Evan happy in love (and married=)!
There's so much I can say about this book, and how amazing it is, but I'd just rather everyone went and read it to find out for themselves!! All in all, this is definitely a five-star read, and I absolutely loved it!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 18, 2011
SHOW NO FEAR
More of my reviews and thoughts on my blog PANTS OFF REVIEWS
I enjoyed this second offering in the Conquest series, though a tad bit predictable and equally mushy. It was still a wonderful book about the sexiest rockstars eva. Evan and Jesse are back in big way, and it’s never a bad thing to visit them.
The relationship is established, but they still must keep it a secret from the public. They both struggle with hiding their love for each other, and its becoming harder for them, not to shout to the world that they are in love. It has the same feel as the first book, Evan and Jesse totally in love with each other. Others hating on that love and trying to bring them down.
A certain crush finally becomes known, involving the hater Trish. I just never really liked her and am so glad she is finally gone. I still don’t understand what it was exactly that made her fall in love with Jesse. Is it because he is a good singer, and really good looking? On the other hand, could it be that, he completely ignored you from the very beginning and you were hoping that Ur vagina would turn him straight? She just really irked me.
There is a serious conflict, and I thought it was dealt with quite lightly. The severity of the crime was no joke, and I was just hoping that the aggressors got more of an ass kicking. Or hope that they would drop the soap in prison. I think if you are going to, write something of that degree; the payout had better be good. I just wanted so much more; those bitches hurt my Jesse.
Overall, another fantastic instalment in the series. Jesse and Evan are fantastic, sexy, and downright sinful. Only once a month do I wish I was a man but these two would make me want to be one all the time. They are incredible, rocking out has never sounded and looked so good. The supporting characters are also back, some a lot better than others. Always a good time in the world of Conquest.
SideNote- Easy with the unnecessary drama.
More of my reviews and thoughts on my blog PANTS OFF REVIEWS
I enjoyed this second offering in the Conquest series, though a tad bit predictable and equally mushy. It was still a wonderful book about the sexiest rockstars eva. Evan and Jesse are back in big way, and it’s never a bad thing to visit them.
The relationship is established, but they still must keep it a secret from the public. They both struggle with hiding their love for each other, and its becoming harder for them, not to shout to the world that they are in love. It has the same feel as the first book, Evan and Jesse totally in love with each other. Others hating on that love and trying to bring them down.
A certain crush finally becomes known, involving the hater Trish. I just never really liked her and am so glad she is finally gone. I still don’t understand what it was exactly that made her fall in love with Jesse. Is it because he is a good singer, and really good looking? On the other hand, could it be that, he completely ignored you from the very beginning and you were hoping that Ur vagina would turn him straight? She just really irked me.
There is a serious conflict, and I thought it was dealt with quite lightly. The severity of the crime was no joke, and I was just hoping that the aggressors got more of an ass kicking. Or hope that they would drop the soap in prison. I think if you are going to, write something of that degree; the payout had better be good. I just wanted so much more; those bitches hurt my Jesse.
Overall, another fantastic instalment in the series. Jesse and Evan are fantastic, sexy, and downright sinful. Only once a month do I wish I was a man but these two would make me want to be one all the time. They are incredible, rocking out has never sounded and looked so good. The supporting characters are also back, some a lot better than others. Always a good time in the world of Conquest.
SideNote- Easy with the unnecessary drama.
January 7, 2013
After finishing the first book in this series, and loving it so much, I broke my New Year resolution about buying new books because I had to have this. I am so glad I have no self control as I really enjoyed this.
Jesse and Evan are still happily together, and finishing up their joint world tour. Jesse hasn't been back to Evan's house since their break-up, and was feeling nervous about going back. Despite his worry, he soon realises that being with Evan is where he is home.
This story has a bunch of new characters in the form of two other bands being at the recording studio that Jesse uses. Some of these characters become friends, and some become enemies.
Brandon, Jesse's brother has his own romance story in this book, and the little we see of it was sweet and romantic.
The issue of gay bashings plus the problems of gay men trying to marry are explored in this story, giving it more depth then the first book in my opinion.
The only problem I had was the storyline that was never resolved in the first book was completely overlooked again, so I can't see me ever getting my answers where that is concerned.
Now all I have to do is show some strength and not go and buy the next book until I read some of the books I already have.
Jesse and Evan are still happily together, and finishing up their joint world tour. Jesse hasn't been back to Evan's house since their break-up, and was feeling nervous about going back. Despite his worry, he soon realises that being with Evan is where he is home.
This story has a bunch of new characters in the form of two other bands being at the recording studio that Jesse uses. Some of these characters become friends, and some become enemies.
Brandon, Jesse's brother has his own romance story in this book, and the little we see of it was sweet and romantic.
The issue of gay bashings plus the problems of gay men trying to marry are explored in this story, giving it more depth then the first book in my opinion.
The only problem I had was the storyline that was never resolved in the first book was completely overlooked again, so I can't see me ever getting my answers where that is concerned.
Now all I have to do is show some strength and not go and buy the next book until I read some of the books I already have.
August 25, 2012
2.5 stars
This book suffers from taking itself too seriously. And because if it, I started to feel like I was reading a comedy.
After book 1, I was hopeful that this might be a promising series that got better w/ each book. Unfortunately that was not the case. Yes, the relationship between Jesse and Evan remained the highlight of the book, it was really the only good part. The "rocker"-related scenes were so outrageous and the dialogue so ridiculous, over-the-top, and unrealistic.
That left me to find my entertainment value in the romance scenes between Jess & Ev. And though, like in the first book, they remained steamy and often times sweet, it started to get old. And Jess, still living in his own ego-god-complex world, starting to grate on me, as I feared he might.
The story itself had potential: struggles w/ having to hide being gay in the public eye, hate crimes, competition among talent, etc. But, I just could not get into the writing.
Leaving the series and will not be reading on...
March 31, 2010
A wonderful follow-up story to
Conquest
, S.J. Frost's
No Fear
takes us further into the lives of Jesse and Evan and of the band. We also get to know Brandon a bit more and I have to say I totally love this guy! What a super big brother he is and he seriously needs an HEA. Will he or won't he? You'll have to read the book to find out!
Jesse and Evan's relationship continues to deepen and the emotional connection that we, the reader, get to experience is phenomenal. I really love the way that S.J. Frost writes her characters and their stories. There's no lack of hot & sweaty sex... but more, there's no shortage of love. This really is a romance that I will come back to again and again, along with its predecessor, Conquest.
And Ms. Frost... please, please keep bringing us these delicious stories!
Jesse and Evan's relationship continues to deepen and the emotional connection that we, the reader, get to experience is phenomenal. I really love the way that S.J. Frost writes her characters and their stories. There's no lack of hot & sweaty sex... but more, there's no shortage of love. This really is a romance that I will come back to again and again, along with its predecessor, Conquest.
And Ms. Frost... please, please keep bringing us these delicious stories!
December 4, 2012
A really refreshing sequel. I didn't read the blurb so expected the story to focus on a different set of main characters than the original pair of Jesse and Evan. However this was an extension of their love story and provided the very happy ever after ending! Nice parallel story of Brandon's search for love and introduction of some new characters. Jesse and Evan may be rock stars but this is definitely a romance and not focused on the hard rock lifestyle.
January 31, 2013
I loved Evan and Jesse in the first book and love them in the follow-up even more. Their relationship deepens and get stronger. The love between Jesse and Evan is so strong and so well written you feel it deep as the story develops. Like in the first book, the song lyrics are wonderful, so emotional and affecting. I will definitely continue reading the following installments.
August 7, 2013
*awesome*
This book takes us back into the lives of Evan & Jesse. (it's great because I always wonder what happens to my guys after the last page of their books.) I will say that Jesse is still a brat at the start of this book but gradually we see him grow and slightly mature throughout the book. Some of his 'tantrums' are warranted and I don't blame him for stomping his feet, I woulda too...but other times he coulda held his head up took a deep breath and just been the bigger man and moved on. Evan sometimes seemed so much older than his what 28 years..not sure what it was about him that made me think that. Oh well, I still loved him tho!
**slight spoilers**
Story line was awesome..well there wasn't much of an underlying story it was basically seeing Jes & Evan come back home, get into a working groove, love one another, see how strong they are when someone they love gets hurt, and finally to be able to show their love for one another. The secondary characters were set up nicely...Brandon's character I woulda wished for most of his stuff to happen in his own book. (not because I don't like him...I always hope the best for everyone.) Kyler...I want to read his story NOW! But because I don't read out of order, he'll have to wait. Julian is up next and I'm ready to see him get his man!
This book takes us back into the lives of Evan & Jesse. (it's great because I always wonder what happens to my guys after the last page of their books.) I will say that Jesse is still a brat at the start of this book but gradually we see him grow and slightly mature throughout the book. Some of his 'tantrums' are warranted and I don't blame him for stomping his feet, I woulda too...but other times he coulda held his head up took a deep breath and just been the bigger man and moved on. Evan sometimes seemed so much older than his what 28 years..not sure what it was about him that made me think that. Oh well, I still loved him tho!
**slight spoilers**
Story line was awesome..well there wasn't much of an underlying story it was basically seeing Jes & Evan come back home, get into a working groove, love one another, see how strong they are when someone they love gets hurt, and finally to be able to show their love for one another. The secondary characters were set up nicely...Brandon's character I woulda wished for most of his stuff to happen in his own book. (not because I don't like him...I always hope the best for everyone.) Kyler...I want to read his story NOW! But because I don't read out of order, he'll have to wait. Julian is up next and I'm ready to see him get his man!
August 6, 2013
This book is a nice follow-up to Conquest, picking up where the first book left off. It's almost completely devoted to the development of the relationship between Evan and Jesse. There's some tension between Conquest and other bands and there's one brutal incident involving Jesse, but otherwise it's just a pretty mellow story with a LOT of sex scenes.
The author writes beautiful scenes between these two MCs who are so in love with each other, but I found it to be too many. I kept expecting more action, a mystery, something more than just the developing relationship. I wasn't a huge fan of the first story and I found this one to be slightly better, but I'm sure those who love this couple will completely love this follow-up.
The author writes beautiful scenes between these two MCs who are so in love with each other, but I found it to be too many. I kept expecting more action, a mystery, something more than just the developing relationship. I wasn't a huge fan of the first story and I found this one to be slightly better, but I'm sure those who love this couple will completely love this follow-up.
October 29, 2011
I think I enjoyed this book more than the first story. You get to see a continuation of the relationship with Jesse and Evan and how their lives progressed, instead of showcasing a new couple and just having them in the background. All the characters and relationships were deepened further, which endeared you more to all characters in these stories, but still left a lot to delve into in future books to find their stories. I still had no interest in Trish and was glad where the author went with character/story. Brandon and Jesse still showed such a true relationship as brothers, the hurt and love that they showed was very real to me and added a lot to the real feeling of the book. All in all I really good read and I
look forward to continuing this series.
look forward to continuing this series.
July 15, 2012
This author pulls me through the books fast, and I like the characters. You definitely want to read Conquest before this one, but it was good to see all the guys again. I particularly have a soft spot for Brandon, Jesse's brother.
The romance is pretty idyllic. I wish my husband was half as sweetly eloquent as these guys in their loving moments, but I decided I could chalk it up to the fact that they are both song-writers and that made it work. I picked up Black Heart Down next, because I want to see how S.J. Frost does with characters who are maybe a little rougher-edged and less completely compatible. But I'll have to go back to Keys to Love later, because I do like Julian and want to see him get his man.
The romance is pretty idyllic. I wish my husband was half as sweetly eloquent as these guys in their loving moments, but I decided I could chalk it up to the fact that they are both song-writers and that made it work. I picked up Black Heart Down next, because I want to see how S.J. Frost does with characters who are maybe a little rougher-edged and less completely compatible. But I'll have to go back to Keys to Love later, because I do like Julian and want to see him get his man.
June 23, 2010
The sequel to Conquest did not disappoint. I just can't get enough of the love between Evan and Jesse - they're an adorable couple and survived a lot in the first book and even more in this one. The sex was great as usual and the plot was fantastic. I like how Frost developed the other characters and I'll admit I was very glad when one of the characters was gone.
♥ Evan and Jesse
♥ Evan and Jesse
November 16, 2011
As a musician I liked a lot of the musical references. As a love story it was not as strong as the first book, but a mostly good sequel. Not as much angst as the original. I really wish that the way the characters came out and their acceptance were the norm for society today. I believe we are getting there and I have great hope and that is one of the important reasons I read this genre of literature.
June 8, 2011
What I love about the Conquest series is that the love interests actually stay together for the majority of the time instead of spending the whole book apart and only getting together in the end. I also read parts of it with a huge grin on my face. The characters are wholesome, the writing tight, and there's a bunch of humor I simply love.
Definitely a must to read (after Conquest, of course!).
Definitely a must to read (after Conquest, of course!).
November 18, 2011
I have never really been attracted to small guys in my books but for some reason I love Evan and Jesse. And i loved reading about their relationships ups and downs, their musical progress, the gay bashing fools and knowing that it's not over and I can continue my fix with Keys to Love.
November 28, 2012
No Fear the sequel to Conquest has everything the first book had and more. With the added bonus of a HEA for Jesse and Evan. Without a doubt these two books and this couple have stolen my heart and firmly placed themselves as a top ten favourite couple of mine. Its hard for me not to love such a sweet and sappy couple, but they have issues and that makes it better in a sense.
Jesse in this book has not changed. He is still possessive and still is opinionated and still wants Evan all of the time. But how he has changed is not as easy to read as some people would like. In this book some things hit him, and he struggles to deal with them. The main one involving Evan. But also one has to do with Brandon, and his relationship with his brother. That was tested a couple of times in this book and he was not used to that. Jesse has transformed over the books, and is now more mature and able to accept and work with certain things. It was nice to see.
Evan is still pretty much the same, but in a way took some of Jesse's spunk and ended up a lot like Jesse in this book. It was funny to see because he reminded me of a teacher in the first one. But now he has relaxed and become somewhat reckless. One point in the book I was so so pissed with him, but his guilt was obvious and all was forgiven (after a while). That's the thing you get to see his temper in this book and it was a shock.
Overall, I love this couple and the first two conquest books. A must read and I highly recommend it. :)
Jesse in this book has not changed. He is still possessive and still is opinionated and still wants Evan all of the time. But how he has changed is not as easy to read as some people would like. In this book some things hit him, and he struggles to deal with them. The main one involving Evan. But also one has to do with Brandon, and his relationship with his brother. That was tested a couple of times in this book and he was not used to that. Jesse has transformed over the books, and is now more mature and able to accept and work with certain things. It was nice to see.
Evan is still pretty much the same, but in a way took some of Jesse's spunk and ended up a lot like Jesse in this book. It was funny to see because he reminded me of a teacher in the first one. But now he has relaxed and become somewhat reckless. One point in the book I was so so pissed with him, but his guilt was obvious and all was forgiven (after a while). That's the thing you get to see his temper in this book and it was a shock.
Overall, I love this couple and the first two conquest books. A must read and I highly recommend it. :)
August 28, 2011
Do you want a song to define Evan and Jesse? Listen to a sonata, one of Jesse's favorites:
Beethoven´s Moonlight Sonata (if the link is not working in your country please search between youtube ton of videos, just writing Beethoven´s Moonlight Sonata)
Why I'm starting a review with a link to a song?
It's the story behind the sonata that catch my attention! When I read it in this book, about Jesse feeling about it, I remember it's story:
This book is like this sweet sonata... Jesse and Evan are now in a two years relationship, both are certain about their love... and both know true love is not something to be ashame of, but how can two famous rockstar declare it? It's a suicide to their careers, no? Both can be together, as a couple?
I think this book is much better than the first, and again I adore the romance.
5 stars, and can't give less.... it's perfect.
Beethoven´s Moonlight Sonata (if the link is not working in your country please search between youtube ton of videos, just writing Beethoven´s Moonlight Sonata)
Why I'm starting a review with a link to a song?
It's the story behind the sonata that catch my attention! When I read it in this book, about Jesse feeling about it, I remember it's story:
"Beethoven composed the famous Moonlight Sonata in 1801 and dedicated it to Countess Giulietta Guicciardi, a pupil of Beethoven. Shortly after their first few lessons, the two fell in love. After dedicating the Moonlight Sonata, it is believed that Beethoven proposed to her. Although she was willing to accept Beethoven’s proposal, forbiddance by one of her parents prevented her from marrying him.
(By Aaron Green, Classical Music Guide)"
This book is like this sweet sonata... Jesse and Evan are now in a two years relationship, both are certain about their love... and both know true love is not something to be ashame of, but how can two famous rockstar declare it? It's a suicide to their careers, no? Both can be together, as a couple?
I think this book is much better than the first, and again I adore the romance.
5 stars, and can't give less.... it's perfect.
July 22, 2011
This is book 2 of the Conquest series and does a great job of following up to the first book Conquest. This one doesn't have the angst that the first one does, but Evan and Jesse's relationship has grown and matured and they are past that point. They are a great example of soulmates. They are fantastic together. In this book we get a further look into their lives; the day-to-day problems that they face. There are a number of things that are setbacks for Conquest and keep them from doing much recording. Jesse also matures quite a bit in this book I think. We get to see quite a bit of development of the other characters as well which was really nice. I really liked how Evan and Jesse's song lyrics were worked into the story. This one's got great sex and left me warm and fuzzy. Now that super sweet, kind hearted precious Brandon finally has his perfect man, I'm going to immediately start on their book! I absolutely LOVE this series!
August 1, 2010
No Fear is the follow-up to Conquest by S.J. Frost. I know there are a lot of books where the sequels can’t live up to the expectations of the readers, but in this case, it exceeded my expectations.
In this book, the characters of Jesse and Evan are developed into a stage, so that we, readers, understand their handlings and thoughts more. Their relationship deepened and got stronger. The belief in their love is amazing and gives the reader, or at least me, the feeling that true love and finding your soul partner exists … even when it is in books.
The secondary characters got a larger role in No Fear. I really would love to see what happens to Brandon and especially to Kyler.
And like in the first book, the song lyrics are wonderful, an expression of the soul, of the deepest emotions.
In this book, the characters of Jesse and Evan are developed into a stage, so that we, readers, understand their handlings and thoughts more. Their relationship deepened and got stronger. The belief in their love is amazing and gives the reader, or at least me, the feeling that true love and finding your soul partner exists … even when it is in books.
The secondary characters got a larger role in No Fear. I really would love to see what happens to Brandon and especially to Kyler.
And like in the first book, the song lyrics are wonderful, an expression of the soul, of the deepest emotions.
December 4, 2011
Just finished this book, OMG!! I loved it as much as the first in the series and was glad it continued with Jesse and Evan, I can't get enough of these two. This one had me laughing and crying just like the first but mostly it just made me feel good except for that one really bad part which I won't talk about and give away any of the story. I have to make this short so I can go and start reading the next one, I can't wait! I think when I get to the last book of the series it will be hard to finish because that will be it, unless S.J. writes more. I know at some point series need to end but there are some that I never want to end and this is definitely one of them. Thanks S.J. for writing such beautiful stories.
July 20, 2013
After you move along from the teenage drama with Trish, the book moved along.
A lot of this book was Jesse and Evan touching each other or having sex. They are Definitely a have sex very night type of couple. But, the prepping with the middle finger and then the finger then pushing against the tight hole kind of got old. Why couldn't more of the scenes be like the anal bead one.
You see a lot of Evan's Insecurities. He said sorry an awful lot.
Why I didn't see the inevitable coming I have no idea. I really though they would have to drag out this great romance in silence FOREVER.
I love that Brandon found his one.
A lot of this book was Jesse and Evan touching each other or having sex. They are Definitely a have sex very night type of couple. But, the prepping with the middle finger and then the finger then pushing against the tight hole kind of got old. Why couldn't more of the scenes be like the anal bead one.
You see a lot of Evan's Insecurities. He said sorry an awful lot.
Why I didn't see the inevitable coming I have no idea. I really though they would have to drag out this great romance in silence FOREVER.
I love that Brandon found his one.
May 6, 2014
4 stars...not sure if its as good as the first one, but I really enjoyed seeing everyone again. Well, except Trish...Gah! I hate her.
Anyhoo...I liked the progression of Evan and Jesse, their committment, coming to terms with what they can handle and what they can't, they weren't overly perfect, they argued, got jealous, disagreed, but their relationship was strong and I adore them.
Kyler was...ugh...not really sure what to say about him yet...if he and Robbie can straighten their issues...maybe.
Hoping to see something happen with Julian and Brad. I'll keep my fingers crossed!
Enjoyed, will continue the series.
Anyhoo...I liked the progression of Evan and Jesse, their committment, coming to terms with what they can handle and what they can't, they weren't overly perfect, they argued, got jealous, disagreed, but their relationship was strong and I adore them.
Kyler was...ugh...not really sure what to say about him yet...if he and Robbie can straighten their issues...maybe.
Hoping to see something happen with Julian and Brad. I'll keep my fingers crossed!
Enjoyed, will continue the series.
May 20, 2012
I have to say i LOVED the first book but I was somewhat skeptic that the author would be able to pull off the same level of connection between Jesse and Evan. And I was pleasantly surprized to be WRONG!!! I loved the constant teasing and joking Evan was enganging in when it came to Jesse because somehow it proved further just how much these two love each other. And Jesse is so incredibly funny I was always expecting him to come up with some sarcastic remarks and he never dissapointed.
August 9, 2013
I really love this series! This story is a continuation of the love-fest that is Evan and Jesse. I just can’t seem to get enough of them! Their love is beautiful and the way they express it gets my heart beating and my temperature rising. Though I do I have to state (and I can’t believe I’m actually saying this) I think there was a little too much sex in the book. It didn’t take away from the story but I kept finding myself wanting to skim though some of the sex scenes.
November 30, 2011
Another great installment of the Jesse/Evan story. Even though their mushiness can get a bit annoying at times, it is hard not to love them both. They are so good together. This book is a continuation of their relationship with some extra band drama thrown in. I really enjoyed it and am looking forward to reading the next one!
February 4, 2012
I loved Conquest and I love No Fear. The relationship between Jesse and Evan is beautiful and No Fear develops and builds on their life together and their place in the music industry. This series is so well written and descriptive you completely get to know the characters so you end up completely immersed and feel all the emotions of love, anger, sadness and hope.
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