Starting From the Top by Lane Hayes Release Blitz

The guitarist, the dad, and a band on the rise…

Johnny

A quiet place to live and some time to recharge before my band heads out on the road again sounds amazing. I wouldn’t mind a distraction too, but my new neighbor is off-limits. There are rules about not getting involved with your bandmate’s ex, right? And Sean isn’t my type anyway. He’s too bossy, too commanding, and he has way too much baggage. I’ve learned that it’s best to let go of the heavy stuff. So why am I so drawn to him?

Sean

Coming out later in life has taught me to protect my privacy at all costs. And while juggling a handful of businesses and two kids isn’t easy, I excel at the art of multitasking and keeping everything separate. But Johnny blurs those lines. He’s easy-going, sweet-natured, and cool. In short, he’s everything I’m not. I want to know all about him… starting from the top.

Starting From the Top is a MM, bisexual romance with some rock and roll, an age gap, and a little family fun! Each book in the Starting From series can be read as a standalone.

Don’t miss our reviews of the rest of the Starting From series!
For book one, Starting From Zero, click HERE.
For book two, Starting From Scratch, click HERE.
For book three, Starting From Here, click HERE.
For book four, Starting From Somewhere, click HERE.

 

 

Book 5
Buy Links

Amazon US  ~  Amazon UK  ~  Amazon Au  ~  Amazon Ca
Audiobook (US)  ~  Paperback (US)
~  Also Available with KindleUnlimited  ~

 

 

The cheery sound of family fun drifted through the house… the dog barking, cupboards closing, and a girlish squeal of delight. And more dog barking.

I chuckled at the chaotic homey cacophony. I would never have envisioned this was Sean’s life. He’d always seemed like a badass boss to me—not a man who’d wear an apron to bake cupcakes with his daughter while his son had a guitar lesson. His chocolate mussed hair and concerned parental frown made him look goofy and yet very… endearing. In a hot dad way.

Okay. Definitely time to go. I reached for the knob just as Sean did.

“I’ll walk you out,” he insisted, holding the door open.

I stepped onto the porch and blinked against the bright afternoon sun at the hilltop view of the city. “Wow. This is nice.”

“Yeah,” he agreed absently. “How was he?”

“Amazing. The next Chuck Berry.”

Sean sighed grumpily. “Less sarcasm, please.”

“Sorry, Dad.” I snickered. “He was great. I mean, he sucked, but I think he had fun. I told him to keep the guitar and practice on his own. If you want me to come back, I will.”

“Really? That’s good.” He stared at the horizon for a moment before glancing my way. “I wanted to—why are you smiling at me?”

“You’re fuckin’ covered in chocolate. It’s in your ear.” I made a face and tugged at my own ear.

He gestured at the apron. “Baking isn’t my thing.”

I flashed a megawatt grin at him. “Sure, it is. Are you decorating those cupcakes with anything besides frosting?”

“Sprinkles. You’re welcome to join us.”

“Thanks, but I don’t want to crash your family time.”

Sean inclined his head. “So… did he talk to you?”

“It took a little coaxing. Full disclosure… we played video games before we picked up the guitars. You’re not paying me, so I don’t really feel guilty. I just don’t want you to think it was a jam session from the start.”

“I know.”

“You know?” I repeated.

“I snuck in to see how you were doing. Hulk let you down. You might want to go with Iron Man or Captain America next time.”

“I’ll keep that in mind.” I snort-laughed, then sobered. “As for Parker… he’s a good kid. He’s shy, reserved, and likes organization. He seems like the kind of person who excels at things he can control. I bet he builds killer Lego sets. He might learn a few songs, but I doubt he’s a savant. You never know, though. Kids are sponges. They pick up stuff you and I would never catch.”

“That’s true. I’m impressed. And you’re right… about everything. He keeps a lot inside. He’s always been that way. Very thoughtful and methodical. He sets a high bar for himself. He likes to get things right the first time. He does well in school, but he’s struggling with the transition to junior high. His old friends tried out for sports and he opted not to. It’s left him feeling ostracized and alone. Hormones don’t help. I thought it might be good for him to spend time with someone cool who—”

“Cooler than you?”

“Well, let’s not get crazy.” Sean flipped the corner of his apron and let out a self-deprecating laugh. “I just… thanks for doing this. I appreciate it.”

“No problem. Hey, if he really is interested, we can do this regularly. My schedule is light for the next couple of months, but it’ll get crazy again in late spring.”

“I’ll call you.”

“Text me. I hate phone calls.” I held out my right hand and snatched it away a second later, narrowing my gaze. “You have frosting on your nose.”

“My nose?” He wiped his hand over the apron, then across the tip of his nose. “Did I get it?”

“No. Come here. Let me help you.” I stepped into his space and brushed the sugary goodness away.

“Did you get it?” he asked in a huskier than normal tone.

“Yeah, but it’s on your ear and your chin and…”

“Where else?”

“Here.”

I ran the pad of my thumb under this bottom lip. “Got it.”

I didn’t move. I should have, but something held me in place. I studied his features, noting the flecks in his eyes. I wondered what color they were… gold, green, brown? I traced a line at the corner of his mouth, rubbing the scruff of his neatly-trimmed beard. I stared at his full lips for a long moment before meeting his gaze. Then I inched closer and… kissed him.

 

 

Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team

Shannan – ☆☆☆☆
Starting From the Top is the fifth installment in the Starting From series. It can be read as a standalone, but reading the series in order as the author intended is, of course, the best way to enjoy each story building upon the last.

Starting From the Top is Johnny and Sean's story. Johnny is the guitarist from the band Zero. He hasn't had the best childhood but meeting his band members had him finding the family he was searching for. Zero was on the cusp of becoming internationally known and insanely popular. But Johnny didn't see it that way. He was just a guy doing what he loved. The fans asking for pictures and autographs still just weirded him out. Doing a favor for his interior decorator, he was picking up a color wheel from a neighbor, well not just a neighbor, Teagan's ex, Sean.

Sean is a complicated man. He strictly keeps his personal and professional lives separate. He was married for twelve years before divorcing and announcing he was bisexual. With two kids and an ex-wife he was adamant about keeping apart from any of his lovers or partner, having a relationship was hard to do. Sean didn't like failure and always portrayed a man that had his shit together. That was true in a sense, until he found Johnny standing on his porch. Johnny didn't fit into Sean's world. Johnny was the all-black-wearing emo rock star. So completely different than the designer suit wearing Sean, but oh so intriguing.

I loved seeing these two come together. They exploded in hotness when together but took the time to learn each other on a friendship level. The complemented each other in ways they never expected. When everything looked to be against them as a couple, they fought for what they wanted. Johnny's patience with Parker showed such a softer side to the man. I loved seeing that.

The last few chapters of this one brought me to tears but in such a good way. I was rooting hard for them to make it!


Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆
This is the fifth book in the series and whilst I would recommend that you read them in order, I also think you could read and enjoy this as a standalone... you can always go back and catch up!

A series which revolves around emerging and upcoming rock bands and the dynamics developing between the men who live for their music careers. Now that the relationships have settled down a bit, the record label is thriving, and the guys are in the studio laying down tracks, singleton Johnny has finally bought himself a house. As someone who lived in the system, this is the first home he's ever had, and it is a truly significant moment for him to recognise that he has made it.

When he finds himself affected by Sean, an older man who had a brief relationship with one of his band members, he is confused and not inclined to do anything about it. Add in Sean's rules designed to protect his children and the level of complexity is also dissuading from action. But we can tell from both their thoughts, that there is something there which is going to scratch away at them until they act.

Following a couple of bands whilst they are all pretty settled down and are at home is quite a change for a rock romance, but I rather enjoyed the slower pace. It dealt with some more family-based issues and reminded us that their life is not all about being on tour.

An enjoyable addition to the series, and I am always glad to catch up with old friends and see how their lives have improved and moved forward.


Erica – ☆☆☆
Starting From the Top is the fifth installment of the Starting From series. While there are cameos of past narrators, I do believe it would be free of confusion to read out of order or as a standalone.

Johnny is thrilled to have a place to call his own, finally having purchased a home, where it's just him, not dependent on roommates to help foot the bill. He's carving out a life for himself. His interior designer inadvertently puts him in the path of her ex, who just so happens to be an outlier in Johnny's life, his fellow bandmate's ex turned friend.

Sean has rules, many, many rules when it comes to dating, all these rules are to protect his children but more so protect himself. Only problem is how Johnny has gotten beneath his skin to where the rules no longer apply, blurting out to ask Johnny to teach his son how to play the guitar.

Starting From the Top made all the right moves, but for some reason I just wasn't feeling it. The journey is there, but I wasn't invested. I was eager to read from Johnny's point of view, but it just fell flat for me. I didn't connect to Johnny or Sean, the warm and fuzzy or the hot and smoldering or the angsty miscommunications, I just didn't feel anything as I was reading the novel.

I'd love to say it was only me, but I've had this reaction on and off while reading most of the author's novels. Either the book resonates with me to where I devour it in a single sitting or it leaves me feeling meh, there is no in between. Hit or miss. Same as with the entire series. Some of the books in the Starting From series were massive hits with me... and this one wasn't.

The fact that my reading tastes didn't suit this novel doesn't mean I don't highly recommend it or the series or every other novel by the author. I do believe MM Romance fans will devour it, hopefully feeling all the emotions, the warm and fuzzies that I didn't. This also doesn't mean that I won't read everything Lane Hayes publishes, because the next might just be a major hit for me.

 

 

LANE HAYES loves a good romance! An avid reader from an early age, she has always been drawn to well-told love story with beautifully written characters. Her debut novel was a 2013 Rainbow Award finalist and subsequent books have received Honorable Mentions, and were winners in the 2016, 2017, and 2018-2019 Rainbow Awards.

She loves red wine, chocolate, and travel (in no particular order). Lane lives in Southern California with her amazing husband in a not quite empty nest.

Connect with Lane

Facebook  ~  Twitter  ~  Instagram  ~  Website  ~  Goodreads
Facebook Group: Lane's Lovers

 

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

 

Hosted by

Reviewers on the Wicked Reads Review Team were provided a free copy of Starting From the Top (Starting From #5) by Lane Hayes to read and review for this tour.

Starting From Somewhere by Lane Hayes Release Blitz

The guitarist and the geek…

Bobby J

What can I say? I’m a man of many tastes. I know what I like, and I’m not afraid to go for it. And I like the adorable geek from the bar. A lot. He’s smart and sassy… and he doesn’t seem to know or care that I’m in a hot up-and-coming band. However, I just found out he’s the new intern at Scratch Records. Uh-oh, this could get tricky.

Cody

Confession… I’ve flubbed my mission. My quest is to research cool things and interesting people before I start my job as aerospace analyst—not fall for a rock star. My internship won’t last long if I can’t control this infatuation. Bobby J might look like a bear, but he’s fun and sweet and…oh boy, I think I’m in over my head. But maybe that’s not such a bad thing. After all, you’ve got to start somewhere.

Starting From Somewhere is a MM, bisexual romance with some rock and roll and a little nerdiness! Each book in the Starting From series can be read as a stand-alone.

Don’t miss our reviews of the rest of the Starting From series!
For book one, Starting From Zero, click HERE.
For book two, Starting From Scratch, click HERE.
For book three, Starting From Here, click HERE.

 

 

Book 4
Buy Links

Amazon US  ~  Amazon UK  ~  Amazon Au  ~  Amazon Ca
~  Also Available with KindleUnlimited  ~

 

 

Cody nodded as he pulled out his cell and typed a few notes. “Got it. Thank you.”

“You’re welcome. Give me one shot before I go.” I motioned for him to start talking.

“A flirting shot. Okay.” He licked his lips nervously, then shook his head. “I can’t. Everything I’m thinking is… rude.”

I barked a quick laugh. “You have my complete and undivided attention. Bring it on.”

“Um… your jeans look tight. I can’t wait for you to stand up so I can see your ass. But I’d love to see your ass out of them too.”

I bit back a grin. “Okay. That was direct and kinda hot, but do not under any circumstances try that with anyone else on planet Earth.”

“Too much?”

“A tad.” I squeezed his shoulder as I stood. “Keep practicing. It was nice to meet you, Cody.”

“You too. I’ll walk out with you. I’ve done enough research tonight.”

I nodded, then led the way to the exit, holding the door open for him. I stepped outside and gazed up at the fast-moving clouds drifting over the half-moon before turning toward my new acquaintance. Cody pulled his keys from his pocket and smiled.

“Where’d you park?” I asked.

“Over there.” He gestured at the black Mini Cooper at the far end of the lot mostly hidden in shadows.

My chivalrous side kicked in out of the blue. “I’ll walk you to your car. I’m heading that way.”

Cody beamed at me. “Thank you. Are you working early tomorrow?”

“No, why you do ask?”

“I’m making polite conversation. No flirtation whatsoever. Although I was mulling over our earlier discussion and realized you’re guilty of double standards.”

“How so?”

“Earlier you said… and I quote, ‘I’d do you.’ You added something about doing ‘it’ over a bar, a table, etcetera. Ring any bells?” He pointed his key fob at his car and gave a satisfied nod when it beeped on cue.

I squinted warily. “Yeah, but—”

“When I told you I wanted to see your posterior in your Levi’s, I was somehow out of line. The logic confuses me. Why should you be able to say what you’re thinking, and I can’t?” He came to a stop at the driver’s side of his car and crossed his arms, silently issuing a challenge of some kind.

“Now that you mention it, I suppose that does seem unfair.” I scratched my beard thoughtfully, then turned around to show off my denim-clad ass. “Ta-da! I present my posterior.”

Cody snickered. “Very nice.”

“Glad you approve.” I pivoted to face him and fumbled with my belt. “I guess I could show you the whole kit and caboodle… or caboose.”

“No, no. Let’s not ask for trouble.”

I raised my hands in surrender. “If you say so.”

“I do. Kiss me instead.”

“Excuse me?”

He pursed his lips, looking uncomfortable as hell. To his credit, he didn’t back down. “You heard me.”

The husky note in his voice zipped through my veins like a secret elixir. The sudden onslaught of need and desire was a powerful combo. I stepped closer, wedging myself between him and the Prius parked next to his car. I was at least four inches taller than Cody and much bigger. I could squish him like a bug. I wouldn’t. I wasn’t that kind of guy, but he didn’t know that. He should be careful around men like me.

“Why?”

“Because I might never meet anyone like you again. If I do, I might not be confident, brave, or sincere enough to tell him what I want. I feel like this might be a chance I should take. I understand if you say no. I’m not your type. I get it. I’m not sure why you talked to me at all tonight. Or why—”

I curled my fingers around the back of his neck and sealed my lips to his.

So what happened to my gentlemanly resolve to not corrupt a nerdy, adorable dude barking up the wrong tree for some sexy action? I had no fucking clue.

 

 

Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team

Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆
This is the fourth book in the series – and it is such a good series that I definitely recommend that you read them in order! That said, you could read this one first and go back and get the rest of the goodness later, if you so wished. It was fun to catch up with the gang and see how Scratch records is developing. I love how every story has been utterly unique – this one is inspired.

These two men are really fun, and we know immediately that Cody is a little out of his depth in the environment. He is a mega-geek about to work in space research, but first he wants to tick some more normal things off his life between college and work bucket list. He meets Bobby J in the bar next to the Scratch office, just before starting an internship there. The attraction is obvious, although it seems incredibly unwise to get involved.

Bobby J may be an incredibly talented guitar player, but he was also a massive overachiever academically too – and he recognised a fellow geek in Cody and realises how he has been playing down that part of his life. I loved this moment of awareness which led to the men being gloriously good friends, as well as Bobby J realising how much he feels for Cody. I loved the unconventional romantic route which they took – in fact, I read this book from cover to cover nonstop... good thing I had a day off work!

Thank you, Lane Hayes, for a really good addition to the series, and a really lovely romance.


Shannan – ☆☆☆☆
Starting From Somewhere is the fourth installment in the Starting From series. I read this as a standalone without issue. I have not read any other books in this series. After reading this one, I intend to go back and start from the beginning.

Starting From Somewhere is Cody and Bobby J's story.

Cody is a self-described geek or nerd. He just graduated and has an internship for the summer until his job at NASA starts. He is a very analytical guy. He likes numbers and research. Not wanting to waste what's left of his twenties, he makes a list and wants to complete it before he starts his job. While preforming "research" at a dive bar, his plan is to get a drink, sit in the shadows, and just watch, what he doesn't expect is the hot guitarist for the band Jealousy, Bobby J. Cody doesn't know what to think when Bobby J flirts with him and definitely doesn't know what to do when the two end up making out.

Bobby J wasn't expecting to have such an attraction to Cody but something about Cody pulls Bobby J in. What surprises him most is walking into the record label and finding Cody there. Just when Bobby J thought he wasn't going to see him again, there he is working at the label. Can he make this work with the sexy nerd? Is it even something Cody wants?

I was instantly invested in this one. Without reading any of the other books, I was going in blind but didn't have any issues even with mention of past characters. I loved that Cody and Bobby J are geeks at heart and connect in ways they wouldn't and haven't with other people. Fun read.


Erica – ☆☆☆☆
Starting From Somewhere is the fourth installment in the Starting From series, easily read as a standalone with little to no confusion.

Bobby J has finally gotten his time in the romance spotlight, discovering a nerdy, awkward fella at their favorite seedy hangout, just when he was about to call it a night. An instant flare of connection sparks Bobby J to seek out and discover Cody's secrets.

As an intellectual, Cody could easily fallback on his educational pursuits while life goes on by, but he and his friends are pushing themselves on the wild side. Not only is Cody meeting hotties at seedy dive bars, he's going to be interning at a up and coming record label, knowing full well the guy he met at the bar was none other than Bobby J.

An instant connection, the quirky, awkward geek and the seasoned flirt hit it right off the bat, their interactions as easy as breathing. Light and flirty, Starting From Somewhere is a quick novella, read in a single sitting. Filled with the warm and fuzzies, not much angst to speak of, and a much lighter vibe than previous instalments.


Sarah – ☆☆☆
This is the story of a rock star who falls for a young scientist he meets in a bar. It’s a sweet, simple, and fairly predictable story.

Cody is the perfect science geek. Even after finishing grad school, he is young and inexperienced. Sexy geeks are a current romance trend and Cody is pretty much a paint by number sexy geek. He’s insecure, socially awkward, and desperate for new sexual experiences. Bobby J is a fairly cliché romance rock star. He looks like a bad boy bear, but Cody brings out his inner science geek. With enough background detail to add a little angst but not quite enough story to make him come alive, Bobby J manages to blur into so many other rock stars I’ve read in this genre. Both Bobby J and Cody feel like easily recognisable stock characters. They’re both hot and likeable but neither feels like a fully developed leading man.

The structure and pacing of this book don’t quite work. The book covers a couple of months over a single summer but much of the summer is skimmed over and important moments between Cody and Bobby J are recounted rather than shown. The result is a romance that I feel like I observed from a distance. I don’t feel like I ever got close enough to Bobby J and Cody’s experience to fully invest in their relationship.

And seriously, the whole Bobby J thing annoyed me. How arrogant does a guy have to be to introduce himself in a bar using his ridiculous stage name? And who happily calls their serious boyfriend by his stage name? Bobby J is supposed to be a 33-year-old rocker, not a 16-year-old K Pop star. It just doesn’t work for me.

 

 

LANE HAYES loves a good romance! An avid reader from an early age, she has always been drawn to well-told love story with beautifully written characters. Her debut novel was a 2013 Rainbow Award finalist and subsequent books have received Honorable Mentions, and were winners in the 2016, 2017, and 2018-2019 Rainbow Awards. She loves red wine, chocolate, and travel (in no particular order). Lane lives in Southern California with her amazing husband in a not quite empty nest.

Connect with Lane

Facebook  ~  Twitter  ~  Instagram  ~  Website  ~  Goodreads
Facebook Group: Lane's Lovers

 

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

 

Hosted by

Reviewers on the Wicked Reads Review Team were provided a free copy of Starting from Somewhere (Starting from #4) by Lane Hayes to read and review for this tour.

Starting From Here by Lane Hayes Release Blitz

Two bands, one goal, and a second chance…

Declan

Everything is finally going well. I have a new band, a new label, and a debut album coming out. And then my drummer breaks his wrists. Just my luck. I need a quick replacement to record one more song, but my options are limited, and of course, the obvious candidate hates my guts. Okay, so I may have given him a few reasons over the years, but isn’t there an expiration date on holding a grudge?

Tegan

I don’t trust Declan McNamara. Sure, he’s talented, smart, and has more sex appeal than any one person should be allowed. And yeah, he may be a rock star in the making, but beware—he’s trouble. However, our new record label’s survival may depend on a truce and extreme measures… of the fake boyfriend variety. If it’s our best shot at the big time, I’m willing to set the past aside and start over… here and now.

Starting From Here is a MM, bisexual romance rock and roll style… rival bands, fake boyfriends, and a second chance at a new love story. Each book in the Starting From series can be read as a standalone.

Don’t miss our reviews of the rest of the Starting From series!
For book one, Starting from Zero, click HERE.
For book two, Starting from Scratch, click HERE.

 

 

Book 3
Buy Links

Amazon US  ~  Amazon UK  ~  Amazon Au  ~  Amazon Ca
~  Also Available with KindleUnlimited  ~

 

 

The sound of cheerful squealing rang in the background before she hung up. I stared into space for a minute or two, feeling very… alone. I didn’t want to slip into teenage levels of self-pity. There was really nothing lamer than a privileged grown-ass adult whining about mommy issues. I flipped through television channels, pausing on a special about great white sharks. Then I tossed the controller aside and picked up my cell again.

Would you ever swim with sharks?

My phone buzzed immediately. I smiled when Tegan’s name lit the screen. Are you high?

I wish. Swimming with sharks is a thing. People get in cages and film themselves being surrounded by predators… for fun.

People are fucking crazy.

True.

What are you watching?

National Geographic. I was hoping for a sex in the wild segment, but I got sharks instead.

Shark sex?

I grinned. Nope. I don’t think I’m ready for that.

It’s not exciting. Fish sex is seriously unhot.

True.

My chuckled morphed into a belly laugh as I sank deeper into the cushion. I shared a quick story about the saucy squirrels who were getting it on outside my window last spring. Tegan teased me for being a rodent voyeur, then recommended a few human porn sites I might appreciate instead.

Btw, it’s officially midnight. Congrats.

I stared at the screen for a moment. I typed and erased two or three thank-yous that seemed a little too effusive. I didn’t want to come across as too excited or too grateful and somehow clingy, so I gave up and pressed Call.

“Hey.”

“Are you really fucking calling me?”

I chuckled. “Yeah. I am. Thank you.”

“You’re welcome. But it’s midnight, and I hate talking on the phone, so good ni—”

“Don’t hang up.”

“What’s wrong?”

I stared at the TV unseeing. “Nothing. I just… I’m keyed up and I need someone to talk to. What was your first release like? I know Zero’s record is still doing well. But… what was like in the beginning? How’d you feel?”

Silence.

“You want the truth?”

“Yeah.”

“It was anticlimactic.”

“Oh. That’s kind of depressing.”

“No, it’s just life. Nothing ever happens as fast as you want it to. You’ve got to be patient and keep doing your thing,” he advised. “We came home from our summer tour thinking we made it. What didn’t turn into superstars, but we made progress. And every day it gets better. But who knows what will happen? Maybe you’ll wake up at number one. Just stay positive and… stop torturing yourself.”

I smiled when Tegan’s uplifting advice gave way to exasperation. It was cute.

“It’s what I do. I excel at the art of self-sabotage. Ask my mom. If I bomb, you can be sure she’ll be the first one to say ‘I told you so.’ She’ll choose her words carefully, though. She’ll be kind-ish before she gently suggests that it’s time to throw in the towel and join the family firm. Fuck my life.”

“But it’s your life. The honor of making mistakes or kicking ass is all yours. You wrote those songs to be heard. Not everyone will love what you do, but plenty of people will. You just gotta be right in your own head. Ask yourself if you gave your best. Did you?”

“Of course.”

“You’ll do just fine, then. If you sell a million copies, great. If not, you’ll still learn something.”

Silence.

“Thanks. I needed that,” I said softly.

“You’re welcome. Now go to sleep.”

“I’m an almost rock star, and it’s midnight. My night is just beginning,” I lied, stifling a yawn. “Have fun, rock god,” he snorted.

“I’m kidding. I’m channel surfing.”

“You mean porn surfing?”

I barked a quick laugh. “No, I get my porn on the internet like everyone else. I was watching that show about hoarders. It made me feel better somehow.”

“You’re a freak. Get your computer and jack off. You’ll feel better, and you’ll sleep better,” he advised sagely.

“Thanks, Dr. Monroe. I’ll report back in the morning.”

“Not necessary. Especially if there’re boobs involved.”

“I watch more dick porn than chick porn. I watched a great locker room scene last night. The coach and the quarterback. Sexy as fuck.”

“Are you really sharing a spank-bank story?”

“Yeah, you want the link?”

 

 

Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team

Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆
This is the third book in the series, and I would most definitely recommend that you read them in order. I have to admit that the second was by far my favourite of the three, possibly because it circumvents the whole Justin/Tegan/Xena/Declan drama – which I am still not entirely sure I can understand... how did Declan get the blame? In the interest of him getting a well-deserved happily ever after, I was happy to park it, although we did get some more snippets of Xena which gave an impression might blow up, but overall I felt that part of the story was thankfully done.

Tegan and Declan had been very close friends from early childhood, and even each other's first kiss. Declan's ambitious single mum then married well, and he moved away – and in early teens, at a time when keeping contact was too difficult. I did feel that the timing between these two guys had always been just slightly off... until now. And we are left in no doubt at all, really none at all, as to the explosive chemistry between them. It is truly incendiary, and as the story progresses, ever more so!

I liked that Declan could finally be honest about who he is, how he feels, and the intensity of his passion for music, and especially for Tegan. The scenes between him and Tegan's mum are really precious. In fact, I really loved the whole story, maybe with the small exception of Justin's attitude... but I did promise I would set that aside.

I am a huge fan of the rock star genre, and this series has been well crafted and does not follow a well-worn path, giving interesting insight and side issues to widen the plot and engage the reader. Enjoy!


Erica – ☆☆☆☆
Starting From Here is the third installment in the Starting From series. I recommend reading in series order, not as a standalone, as not only are all the characters connected via Scratch, there is a conflict plot woven through.

In the previous two novels, the readers are taken on an angsty ride, featuring Tegan and Declan, all the way to a band that no longer exists, when both are in separate bands now yet contracted with the same record label.

In a mix of love-hate, second-chance romance, and friends-to-lovers, Tegan and Declan take readers on an angsty journey, especially when you toss in a fake boyfriend for publicity trope.

Tegan is holding a grudge over Declan leaving their previous band and going off to attempt with another member, along with the bad press that sprung up from it. To be honest, I wish I had reread the first two again, because I was still struggling to figure out why Tegan was holding a grudge when it was his actions that put it all into place. Yes, the villainess, Xena, pitted them against one another, but no one forced him to mess around with Justin. So Justin and Tegan need to get off their high horses and admit their part in all of this. You can't set someone up if they aren't willing to participate in a behavior that would upset the other party. Just saying. That annoyed me to no end, in previous novels and in this one. The grudge was unfounded, the hate was unnecessary. Admit culpability, cut the true toxicity out of your life, and move on.

Declan is frustrated and hurt. He's not quite sure why Tegan hates him. Walking in on Tegan and Justin, then walking away, while keeping his mouth shut, he feels like the injured party here but is treated like a social pariah. Not only did he lose his bandmate, he lost his best friend.

I was at a loss myself. Wasn't Justin dating Xena? So even if he was set up, he was still a cheater, right? So the sanctimonious bs Justin kept laying on Declan seemed ridiculous. Who would want to be in a band with a bunch of shiftless members who would betray you at any turn, just saying. Leave that band and all the toxicity in the past and admit responsibility for its failure.

In my review of Starting From Zero, I commented on how the breakup and scandal was talked around yet such a huge focal point. Yet again, the same thing happened. Talked around yet a huge focal point of contention. So I guess rereading the first two wouldn't resolve this issue for me.

Am I correct about these events? Xena and Justin were dating, Justin and Tegan were caught fooling around by Xena and Declan. Xena and Declan broke from the group to start on something else. Xena used this to her advantage in the media. Even set up, why wouldn't they leave? Why wouldn't Xena be angry enough to smear them? Why assume Declan set it up? He wasn't dating either one of them. No one forced them to fool around. So I'm STILL confused on how Justin and Tegan blame Declan for ANY of this, and I thought that when reading the first novel.

This ongoing conflict seems to have some major flaws, while not fully explained. Tegan and Declan talked around it, sharing two or three broken sentences, and the inner monologue never explained events either, only how they each felt they were the victim. This conflict doesn't seem major enough, unless you were the one cheated on, which was Xena, who we are to see as an evil character.

As you can see Justin's nonstop warnings and animosity, maybe he ought to look back in the mirror and examine the situation. This made me feel as if all the growth Justin experienced during his novel was for nothing.

Declan was a sweet character, supportive and sensitive. He was diplomatic, even to Xena and his mother, both were overbearing and manipulative. Declan spent an entire novel trying to get his best friend back, trying to get his life on track, while being dragged back by not only his mother's unsupportive advice, Xena's coercion, but also Justin's gaslighting. Declan rolled with anything Charlie suggested, willing to take any crumbs Tegan would give him.

Deep down, I think Tegan was a strong character. I felt Justin behaved similar to Xena and Declan's mother, whispering toxicity in Tegan's ear. That's why I said Justin backslid. It was jealousy, not the worry and fear of a friend, at least that's how I perceived it.

Both men were being held back by the most important people in their lives. The sweetness of first love, the bitterness of first heartbreak, the love-hate of two hurt hearts attempting to rebuild what was previously broken. The romance was the slow-burn of friends shifting into lovers but the lust was intense.

When no one else was involved, when the guys forgot about the recent past and only lived in the present, with hope for the future, and with fondness of their childhoods, it was amazingly heartwarming and realistic.

A major con for me, women are either the worst of the worst or ready for sainthood, with no in between. Yes, I realize women like that exist in the world, and that a person can attract them due to their personality. But Declan's mom and Xena are one-dimensional.

Highly recommend to fans of the author, series, and MM Romance, particularly the rock star subgenre. I am looking forward to more in the series, whatever else the author writes next. I have a strong desire to reread the first two novels to see if my impression changes or not.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lane Hayes loves a good romance! An avid reader from an early age, she has always been drawn to well-told love story with beautifully written characters. Her debut novel was a 2013 Rainbow Award finalist and subsequent books have received Honorable Mentions, and were winners in the 2016, 2017, and 2018-2019 Rainbow Awards. She loves red wine, chocolate, and travel (in no particular order). Lane lives in Southern California with her amazing husband in a not quite empty nest.

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Starting from Scratch by Lane Hayes Release Blitz

Charlie Rourke is an ultra fabulous human whirlwind on a mission to launch the next biggest band in the world. However, he might have taken on more than he could handle when he signed on to manage Zero. Promoting a rock band and finding gigs shouldn’t be hard. They’re a talented group with a ton of star power. If Charlie can find the right record label, he’s sure he can help them get to the next level. The only problem is the skater boy slash bassist with a quirky sense of humor. He’s annoying and silly, and he’s exactly Charlie’s type. Except he’s straight.

Ky Baldwin isn’t afraid to switch things up. He loves a challenge as much as anyone, but Charlie doesn’t make things easy. Zero’s manager is a force of nature with a razor sharp tongue, a quick wit, and a no-nonsense attitude. Ky can’t stop thinking about him. Winning over Charlie becomes Ky’s pet project. But when the ice between them thaws, neither is prepared for the intensity of going from enemies to lovers. They’ll have to decide if they’re willing to start from scratch and take a chance on the unexpected.

Book 2
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“I know that was random, but it’s not a bad idea if you think about it. Want something to drink?” Charlie asked as he moved toward the kitchen.

I grabbed his wrist before he got anywhere. “Hang on. What are you doing?”

He cocked his head curiously but didn’t pull away. “I’m being practical. If you read any further about Virgos you probably found out we’re known for being sensible. And polite. So, I’m politely asking if you’d like a beverage while sensibly suggesting that I help out with your skating lessons.”

“Okay. First up… I don’t want a fuckin’ snack and second, it’s not a skating lesson. We’re skateboarding,” I said, glowering at him.

“I’ve heard it said both ways. Skating, skateboarding. I looked it up in Urban Dictionary too, so I’m pretty sure I’m right.”

“No. There’s something in your tone that makes it all wrong. Like you’re purposely trying to sabotage this.”

Charlie opened his mouth in a perfect O. “Gasp! I wouldn’t do that!”

“Cut the crap. You’re doing it now. You don’t want to learn, and you don’t want Oliver to either. It’s a control thing. But you can’t control what you don’t fuckin’ get. So take a seat and let me teach him without you freaking out or—why are you looking at me like that?”

“Like what?”

“I don’t know. You’re doing something weird with your eyes, though. You look spaced out.”

“Mmm. I’m trying not to swoon. You look so fierce and you’re holding my hand, Ky. You should feel my heart. It’s beating out of my chest. Seriously.” He fluttered his lashes a few times and bit his bottom lip.

I chuckled softly and stepped closer. “Are you flirting with me, Char?”

“No, it’s the other way around. You’re flirting with me. Big macho displays really get my motor running. Medium-sized ones do too. I love it when…”

Okay, so I lost myself. I tuned out the sound of his voice and concentrated on him. The mischievous glint in his eyes, the proud set of his shoulders, and the way his mouth curled at the corner. He was doing it again. Owning the moment. Taking it over. Charlie looked for weakness in any form, then slyly made adjustments before moving in for the kill. No doubt he thought I’d back down fast and run away. I wasn’t going anywhere.

I fixated on his bottom lip and inched closer. He kept talking… something about dick size or muscles… I wasn’t sure, but I liked the cadence of his voice. The teasing lilt and easy humor. I let go of his wrist, brushing his fingers before setting my hand on his hip. He went perfectly still.

Before he could ask me what the fuck I was doing, I kissed him.

It was more of a press of lips than a grand gesture. And though it might not rank as the kind of kiss that would change the world, I immediately knew it would change mine.

Everything in me went on high alert. I’d never been so in tune with a moment. The flutter of his eyelashes, the brush of his nose, and the soft sweetness of his lips against mine. Fuck, it was amazing. Like mind-blowing amazing. He tasted like cherries and smelled like sunshine mixed with something exotic.

I couldn’t be sure over the roar of my heart attempting to beat its way out of my chest, but I thought he hummed in approval, so I angled my head slightly to deepen the connection and pulled him closer. If he was anyone else, I probably would have stuck my tongue between his lips and let my hands roam all over his body. I wanted to, but I didn’t want to scare either of us. So I stayed where I was until the need for oxygen became an issue.

Then I jumped back two feet and stared at him with my eyes bugged out. “Holy fuck.”

Charlie set his fingers on his bottom lip and blinked like he was coming out of a daze. “You kissed me,” he said softly.

Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team

Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆☆
This is the second book in the series, and much as I loved the first one, I enjoyed this even more! I would definitely suggest that you read them in order, as the underlying story of the band is ongoing – and anyway, why on earth would you miss all the goodness and the world building?

We met Charlie as the hyperactive, loveable son of Gray, Justin's boyfriend. He is a massive chatterbox and his brain just travels a million miles a minute. As he tries to process his feelings for Ky, he also tries out all the negatives he can to stop what he patently considers to be a bad idea – if for no other reason than Ky has only ever had girlfriends. I enjoyed his hopeless attempts at distancing himself from Ky, even when he is so strongly physically attracted to him. Ky has the benefit of knowing that he is bi, so is certainly not repulsed by Charlie, but his past tells him to not get too involved.

Add in the underlying story about the band, the conflict with Declan, and the desire to hit it big by signing with a label, and this is a book full of action. I loved the clear evidence that families are complicated, not only formed from blood, and that openness and honesty, but also respect and space are essential in creating strong bonds.

I will not say more about the contents – otherwise I may spoil something – but I can assure you that this is a fun, intense, and sexy read, based in the world of LaLa land and the music business. I am very much looking forward to the next installment.

Also Available in the Starting From Series

Book 1
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For reviews & more info, check out our stop on the Starting from Zero Release Blitz.

Lane Hayes is finally doing what she loves best. Writing! An avid reader from an early age, Lane has always been drawn to romance novels. She truly believes there is nothing more inspiring than a well-told love story with beautifully written characters. Lane discovered the M/M genre a few years ago and was instantly hooked. She is the bestselling author of the Better Than, Right and Wrong, A Kind of Stories and Leaning Into Series and the Out in College series. Lane’s novels placed first in the 2016 and 2017 Rainbow Awards. She loves travel, chocolate, and wine (in no particular order). Lane lives in Southern California with her amazing husband in an empty nest.

Connect with Lane

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Reviewers on the Wicked Reads Review Team were provided a free copy of Starting from Scratch (Starting from #2) by Lane Hayes to read and review for this tour.

Starting from Zero by Lane Hayes Release Blitz

Justin Cuevas is going through a rough patch. A broken relationship, a scandal, and the demise of his band have shaken the aspiring rock star’s confidence. Working two jobs and sleeping on his friend’s sofa isn’t ideal, but Justin isn’t ready to give up yet. With a little luck, he’s hoping to re-launch his music career in LA with his new band, Zero. The key is to stay focused, and not get distracted by his past...or the sexy songwriter he can’t get out of his head.

Gray Robertson has written dozens of hits and worked with some of the biggest names in the industry. But he’s never met anyone like Justin. The younger man is fiery, passionate, and smart. A powerful voice for a new generation. Other than an unforgettable one-night stand and a passion for music, the two men have nothing in common. Or do they? Justin knows the out-of-the-blue challenge to write a quintessential love song is a huge opportunity. And it’s the ultimate test for someone who’s doesn’t believe in happily ever after. When sparks fly, Justin and Gray realize they have a shot something special if they start from zero together. Maybe even love.

Book 1
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~  Also Available with KindleUnlimited  ~

Justin turned to me with a fiery expression and gestured toward the glittering lights below. “Everyone here wants more than what they have. And I guess I’m the same. I don’t need recognition and I sure as fuck don’t want love, but I wouldn’t say no to a few bucks,” he commented with a laugh. “What about you?”

I did a double take. I was two steps behind, struggling to keep up, and if possible, memorize every word he’d said. I hadn’t been around anyone so raw or so honest in a long time. He made rules and broke them with a whim, letting me in and then shutting me out. He had a way of revealing himself that made me feel as though he was holding a mirror to me, daring me to acknowledge my broken pieces too. He was either slightly insane or incredibly gifted. I suspected it was the latter. The cadence of his speech lured me in... and made me want more. I’d tell him anything he wanted to know, just to be near him and this intense spark of... newness, creativity, and wonder.

“What about me?” I asked in a low raspy voice.

“What do you want to accomplish before you leave the planet?”

“I want to write the perfect song,” I replied unthinking.

“There’s no such thing.”

“Maybe, maybe not. But it would be nice to leave something that felt special.”

Justin held my gaze then inclined his head in agreement. “Yeah. I want that too.”

We stared at each other. Whispers of conversation floated from the far corners of the rooftop deck. We weren’t alone, but we might as well be. I couldn’t remember ever feeling so intimately connected to someone I’d never really touched. It was puzzling and enchanting at the same time.

He shivered when the breeze kicked up. I took it as a sign from above and pulled him against me. I had to feel him. I studied the sexy indentation in his bottom lip before giving into impulse and resting my hands on his hip. Justin gave me a funny look but he didn’t push me away.

“You shouldn’t be anonymous. You have too much to share. Too much to say,” I said.

“What are you doing?”

“I... I’m not sure. Is this okay?”

“Yeah. It’s good.” Justin nodded and snaked his arms around my waist.

We were still for a while. He was so close I could feel his breath on my lips. The lingering quiet was deceptive. A casual observer might have mistaken us for old lovers engaged in a tender moment. Or maybe they’d guess we were tentative strangers anxious to make the right moves. Not too fast, not too slow. Neither was correct. There was no quiet here. An electric current sizzled and hissed between us. Intense sexual awareness and something more. Something fiery and passionate. He was wild and rough with jagged edges and a sharp mind. Instinctively, I knew I should proceed with caution because walking away wasn’t an option.

“I want to kiss you,” I whispered, inching closer so our noses brushed.

Justin gave me a crooked smile and tugged at my belt loop. “Then do it.”

I tilted my chin slightly and pressed my lips to his. He was deceptively tender at first. He closed his eyes and hummed into the connection. When I licked at the corner of his mouth, he let me in without hesitation. I couldn’t get enough. He tasted like gin and nicotine with a hint of peppermint. All the things I apparently couldn’t do without.

I pulled him closer, cupping the back of his neck to kiss him harder and deeper. Our tongues twisted in a growing frenzy until everything and everyone around us dissolved into white noise. Justin lulled me into complacency and let me think I was in control. I pushed him back slightly and wrapped my fingers around his neck to keep him in place when he leaned forward to nip my bottom lip. He grinned like a madman and then lowered his eyelashes in a show of faux subservience. I didn’t trust him to stay still or obey for a second. Justin was wild and headstrong. He wasn’t going to do anything that wasn’t either his idea or a bad idea.

I should have known then that I’d met my match.

Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team

Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆
4.5 stars of hot sexy musicians

This is the first in a new series, and is definitely a promising opener, which will have me looking out for the next book.

What do you do when the hottest one-night stand of your life turns out to also be the biggest opportunity of your life? What can you trust as real and what is manufactured? After all, this is all happening in LaLa land... well Justin has to work this out – and so does Gray. Both men have their issues, but only one has the wealth, the power, and the contacts.

I really enjoyed getting to know Justin and his bandmates, and background, and seeing how he dealt with the chemistry between him and Gray – wow, they were seriously hot together! He was managing so many disparate issues, yet the story smoothly introduced us to them all, and whilst not resolving them, gave us a clear indication of how he moved them forward. His energy carried us all along, and I could see him as he created the song in the mall.

Gray was both an open book and a mystery – much more life lived, but in a different time... a salutary reminder of how many gains have been just in the last few years. I loved how he struggled with how to reveal his story without frightening off the man he was developing such strong feelings for, and how he tried to avoid manipulating the situation... any situation.

It was really easy to read, with the chapters flying by as I wanted to make sure that the barriers would break down, and the issues resolve. There was no doubt that they deserved each other, and Zero a chance at making it due to their talent. I was very satisfied with the ending – and have placed this on my reread list.

Lane Hayes is finally doing what she loves best. Writing! An avid reader from an early age, Lane has always been drawn to romance novels. She truly believes there is nothing more inspiring than a well-told love story with beautifully written characters. Lane discovered the M/M genre a few years ago and was instantly hooked. She is the bestselling author of the Better Than, Right and Wrong, A Kind of Stories and Leaning Into Series and the Out in College series. Lane’s novels placed first in the 2016 and 2017 Rainbow Awards. She loves travel, chocolate, and wine (in no particular order). Lane lives in Southern California with her amazing husband in an empty nest.

Connect with Lane

Facebook  ~  Twitter  ~  Instagram  ~  Website  ~  Goodreads

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Hosted by

Reviewers on the Wicked Reads Review Team were provided a free copy of Starting from Zero (Starting from #1) by Lane Hayes to read and review for this tour.