What do you think?
Rate this book
Maelstrom
Note: This book is currently out of print.
MAELSTROM IS PERMANENTLY OUT OF PRINT.
** FOR AN ALTERNATIVE UPDATED VERSION OF THIS STORY
SEE MY BOOK ROMAN HOLIDAY **
When Kylor Knightley, a multi-millionaire nightclub owner, is out talent-spotting at an open mic event in London’s Limehouse district, the last thing the stiff-lipped Brit expects is to fall head-over-heels for a devastatingly handsome singer ten years his junior.
Born in New York, twenty-two-year-old Eden McFadden now calls London home and has ambitions of making it big in the capital’s music scene. In the meantime, the feisty free spirit is secretly rocking it as a stripper at a gay club in Soho. But when fate brings him and Kylor together in Limehouse, it starts a chain of events that tears both of their worlds apart.
It’s going to take some serious attitude adjustment for the smart-mouthed stripper and the arrogant British gent to find common ground, but the attraction is too strong to ignore. Sometimes you have to trust in fate and see where it takes you.
MAELSTROM IS PERMANENTLY OUT OF PRINT.
** FOR AN ALTERNATIVE UPDATED VERSION OF THIS STORY
SEE MY BOOK ROMAN HOLIDAY **
When Kylor Knightley, a multi-millionaire nightclub owner, is out talent-spotting at an open mic event in London’s Limehouse district, the last thing the stiff-lipped Brit expects is to fall head-over-heels for a devastatingly handsome singer ten years his junior.
Born in New York, twenty-two-year-old Eden McFadden now calls London home and has ambitions of making it big in the capital’s music scene. In the meantime, the feisty free spirit is secretly rocking it as a stripper at a gay club in Soho. But when fate brings him and Kylor together in Limehouse, it starts a chain of events that tears both of their worlds apart.
It’s going to take some serious attitude adjustment for the smart-mouthed stripper and the arrogant British gent to find common ground, but the attraction is too strong to ignore. Sometimes you have to trust in fate and see where it takes you.
238 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 13, 2017
2 people are currently reading
186 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
May 12, 2017
Oh my. I got so many things to say about this debut by Kass Barrow. Some great things, some not. But overall, I find it a very engaging read that had me reading the entire book in one sitting for 3 hours. Just for the ability to capture my attention to that extend, I giving it a 4 stars.
Kylor Knightley is a successful businessman in his 30s and found a nameless singer that capture his attention during an open mic night. Just from one song alone, Kylor knew he had to get this guy to work for his his nightclub that he co-owned with his pal. During the first chapter, I did feel like I'm shaky ground with the way the story started, but the flow got better there after.
Eden McFadden is a 22 yrs old aspiring musician, hoping to get discovered, while working as a stripper to pay the bills. When he saw Kylor for the first time, he didn't know that he finally met the man who will turn his life around. Eden might plan to have a hot night with Kylor, but the man ended up offering Eden a new job as a real singer for his club.
The reason that I ended up liking this book very much is the dialogues between the characters in here. Eden and Kylor had such great on page chemistry and their banter is witty and funny and you can't help but laugh at Eden's antics. Even Kylor's hippie mum make you want to roll on the floor. I find every interactions between the main and supporting characters in this book fun to read.
Eden had a huge unrequited crush on Kylor, but the man insist not to fraternize with him. Well, what can Eden do except trying to push his luck. Like any youngster his age, I can see Eden is naive and reckless, sometime he made some dumb decision, but I find it totally fitting of his age and adorable to an extend. But I really wonder about his state of mind especially towards the end. He seems like he could give up everything just because he fall in love with Kylor, but then all of a sudden, he want to make something of himself despite knowing Kylor will not agree. Where does the sudden change in attitude coming from? I feel that some of these minor details need to be explain for me clearly.
Kylor is a man who wanted to do some good deed, helping someone down on their luck. He is judgmental, seeing that he deemed Eden profession akin to prostitution. I know the way he expressed himself might sounds holier than thou, but his flawed only make him feel genuine to me. He seems like someone real who can be your friend and he had the biggest heart, only wanted the best for Eden despite the brat doesn't really appreciate his help.
The part that I find lacking is the heat. I don't know you, but usually when I read a m/m, I expect it to be dirty. The heat in this book is practically non existence, except for some heated kisses. I actually was not bothered by it until I came to almost the end and wonder 'Where the hell is the sex scenes?' So yes, if there is a blow job or two and an anal, it will be highly appreciated.
Okay, final quibble, I assume this is a standalone. So for a standalone book, I find the HFN slightly unsatisfying. I mean I understand the author is trying to show that Kylor finally coming to terms with Eden's passion in dancing, but I don't see being a stripper is going be a long term thing. Eden had some growing up to do, but I would appreciate an epilogue that showed their future together after Eden did all his growing up.
Overall, I actually really like this book so much that I fell in love with the characters and wish the book turns out even better for my full enjoyment. RomCom has always been my thing and I find the comedy value here highly entertaining.
Kylor Knightley is a successful businessman in his 30s and found a nameless singer that capture his attention during an open mic night. Just from one song alone, Kylor knew he had to get this guy to work for his his nightclub that he co-owned with his pal. During the first chapter, I did feel like I'm shaky ground with the way the story started, but the flow got better there after.
Eden McFadden is a 22 yrs old aspiring musician, hoping to get discovered, while working as a stripper to pay the bills. When he saw Kylor for the first time, he didn't know that he finally met the man who will turn his life around. Eden might plan to have a hot night with Kylor, but the man ended up offering Eden a new job as a real singer for his club.
The reason that I ended up liking this book very much is the dialogues between the characters in here. Eden and Kylor had such great on page chemistry and their banter is witty and funny and you can't help but laugh at Eden's antics. Even Kylor's hippie mum make you want to roll on the floor. I find every interactions between the main and supporting characters in this book fun to read.
Eden had a huge unrequited crush on Kylor, but the man insist not to fraternize with him. Well, what can Eden do except trying to push his luck. Like any youngster his age, I can see Eden is naive and reckless, sometime he made some dumb decision, but I find it totally fitting of his age and adorable to an extend. But I really wonder about his state of mind especially towards the end. He seems like he could give up everything just because he fall in love with Kylor, but then all of a sudden, he want to make something of himself despite knowing Kylor will not agree. Where does the sudden change in attitude coming from? I feel that some of these minor details need to be explain for me clearly.
Kylor is a man who wanted to do some good deed, helping someone down on their luck. He is judgmental, seeing that he deemed Eden profession akin to prostitution. I know the way he expressed himself might sounds holier than thou, but his flawed only make him feel genuine to me. He seems like someone real who can be your friend and he had the biggest heart, only wanted the best for Eden despite the brat doesn't really appreciate his help.
The part that I find lacking is the heat. I don't know you, but usually when I read a m/m, I expect it to be dirty. The heat in this book is practically non existence, except for some heated kisses. I actually was not bothered by it until I came to almost the end and wonder 'Where the hell is the sex scenes?' So yes, if there is a blow job or two and an anal, it will be highly appreciated.
Okay, final quibble, I assume this is a standalone. So for a standalone book, I find the HFN slightly unsatisfying. I mean I understand the author is trying to show that Kylor finally coming to terms with Eden's passion in dancing, but I don't see being a stripper is going be a long term thing. Eden had some growing up to do, but I would appreciate an epilogue that showed their future together after Eden did all his growing up.
Overall, I actually really like this book so much that I fell in love with the characters and wish the book turns out even better for my full enjoyment. RomCom has always been my thing and I find the comedy value here highly entertaining.
May 12, 2017
While the story had the Brit feel down pat including the stiff upper lip and dry humor, somehow it also strike me as rather pretentious. But let me clue in what I like first. The pairing is interesting actually, not only there's an age gap but both characters came from opposite background. The chemistry between them was instant - love at first sight sort of thing - yet they didn't jump into bed straight away; both refraining though for different reason.
That saying, I couldn't warm up to either Eden nor Kylor. Apart from the aforementioned stiff upper lip and dry humor, Kylor was so bloody condescending. The hot and cold way he treated Eden irritated me. He's also way too self-conscious, more like an upstart. As for Eden, I admired his resilient and that he always landed on his feet no matter the circumstances. The way he cut and run when he didn't get what he wanted though - and after, what, a month of pinning over Kylor? - that was just beyond immature. I wish there was a scene on page - or implied - where Eden repaired the good relationship with people he let down (not only his boss, but also co-workers). That issue really didn't sit well with me, as it felt as if the whole thing just being brushed away.
Fortunately, this book had quite a colorful side characters, such as Kylor's friends and mother. And the last quarter of the book with the whole trying-to-patch-things-up and gaining a second chance helped to ease my mood a little. As it is Maelstrom is just an okay for me. I'm all with the general idea, but the presentation was just too flashy and brought up too many eye-rolling and head-shaking from me.
Advanced copy of this book is kindly provided by the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review.
That saying, I couldn't warm up to either Eden nor Kylor. Apart from the aforementioned stiff upper lip and dry humor, Kylor was so bloody condescending. The hot and cold way he treated Eden irritated me. He's also way too self-conscious, more like an upstart. As for Eden, I admired his resilient and that he always landed on his feet no matter the circumstances. The way he cut and run when he didn't get what he wanted though - and after, what, a month of pinning over Kylor? - that was just beyond immature. I wish there was a scene on page - or implied - where Eden repaired the good relationship with people he let down (not only his boss, but also co-workers). That issue really didn't sit well with me, as it felt as if the whole thing just being brushed away.
Fortunately, this book had quite a colorful side characters, such as Kylor's friends and mother. And the last quarter of the book with the whole trying-to-patch-things-up and gaining a second chance helped to ease my mood a little. As it is Maelstrom is just an okay for me. I'm all with the general idea, but the presentation was just too flashy and brought up too many eye-rolling and head-shaking from me.
Advanced copy of this book is kindly provided by the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review.
May 19, 2017
Oh wow, this just didn't work for me on so many levels.
I really never felt any chemistry between these guys. Kylor is supposedly this stoic businessman, but all we ever see is him running around like a love-struck teen fan-girling over Eden. And Eden pretty much appears to fall in love with Kylor at first sight, without knowing a single thing about him. At 80% Eden asks Kylor about himself... 80%!!!
And the reason it took that long? This is probably the most miscommunication I've ever seen in a book. They go back and forth constantly, but never say anything. And they bicker about pretty much everything. After the fact, it's made to seem like playful fighting, but it does not feel that way.
I thought Kylor was a pompous, condescending jerk most of the time. And Eden was an immature whiney brat. To be honest, I didn't much like either of them. By halfway through I started skimming.
In addition to their awkward "banter" fighting, we're given long and winding descriptions about ever location, every person, every outfit, every spec of dust. Most of it didn't seem at all relevant, and wasn't all that interesting, so I pretty much skipped over anything that wasn't dialogue.
Add to that some of the awkward phrasing, and nothing really worked for me. Kylor often sounded like a 17th century Earl, and a pet peeve of mine is an American character (Eden) using tons a British slang even in his inner monologue. Seems sloppy.
Sooooo yeah, this ones a pass for me.
Received a copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review, reviewed for Hearts On Fire
I really never felt any chemistry between these guys. Kylor is supposedly this stoic businessman, but all we ever see is him running around like a love-struck teen fan-girling over Eden. And Eden pretty much appears to fall in love with Kylor at first sight, without knowing a single thing about him. At 80% Eden asks Kylor about himself... 80%!!!
And the reason it took that long? This is probably the most miscommunication I've ever seen in a book. They go back and forth constantly, but never say anything. And they bicker about pretty much everything. After the fact, it's made to seem like playful fighting, but it does not feel that way.
I thought Kylor was a pompous, condescending jerk most of the time. And Eden was an immature whiney brat. To be honest, I didn't much like either of them. By halfway through I started skimming.
In addition to their awkward "banter" fighting, we're given long and winding descriptions about ever location, every person, every outfit, every spec of dust. Most of it didn't seem at all relevant, and wasn't all that interesting, so I pretty much skipped over anything that wasn't dialogue.
Add to that some of the awkward phrasing, and nothing really worked for me. Kylor often sounded like a 17th century Earl, and a pet peeve of mine is an American character (Eden) using tons a British slang even in his inner monologue. Seems sloppy.
Sooooo yeah, this ones a pass for me.
Received a copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review, reviewed for Hearts On Fire
August 4, 2017
1.5 hearts :-(
Okay that was…. that. Such a shame as well, as I was really enjoying the first 50%. We start off by meeting Kylor, an upper class English businessman. He is in the midst of being blown away by the beautiful voice of the singer at the local pub’s amautur night. But the singer, Eden, slips away before Kylor can get his number so he hunts his singer down to a gay strip club. There’s no denying their chemistry, but Kylor wants Eden to become a proper singer and headline his new nightclub and he doesn’t date employees, so that's that. And that is where the 50% mark is, from here on out things got weird and rather ridiculous.
Eden is the most juvenile character, (who adamantly denies it) I have ever read. I don’t even know if teenagers are this stupid and melodramatic. Eden had been working at the nightclub for one month, there had been no clue’s from Kylor that he was interested in anything more. However, Eden was sure they were meant for something more, so much so that after a kiss (that was dared by friends?!) which was mutual but Kylor pulled away from due to their audience, caused Eden to cry himself to sleep and then think this:
See the rest of my rant... I mean review here,
Okay that was…. that. Such a shame as well, as I was really enjoying the first 50%. We start off by meeting Kylor, an upper class English businessman. He is in the midst of being blown away by the beautiful voice of the singer at the local pub’s amautur night. But the singer, Eden, slips away before Kylor can get his number so he hunts his singer down to a gay strip club. There’s no denying their chemistry, but Kylor wants Eden to become a proper singer and headline his new nightclub and he doesn’t date employees, so that's that. And that is where the 50% mark is, from here on out things got weird and rather ridiculous.
Eden is the most juvenile character, (who adamantly denies it) I have ever read. I don’t even know if teenagers are this stupid and melodramatic. Eden had been working at the nightclub for one month, there had been no clue’s from Kylor that he was interested in anything more. However, Eden was sure they were meant for something more, so much so that after a kiss (that was dared by friends?!) which was mutual but Kylor pulled away from due to their audience, caused Eden to cry himself to sleep and then think this:
If his future didn’t lie with Kylor Knightley, the status quo simply wasn’t an option. He had no choice. He had to take drastic steps to save himself from being dragged over the edge of the black abyss he was staring into.
See the rest of my rant... I mean review here,
May 16, 2017
There were a few things that made me want to read this book: first, this story is about two characters who are not just separated by ten years in terms of age, but also have a very different outlook on life just because of the type of man they each are. Second, one is a British multimillionaire and the other a free-spirited American stripper, so I expected some interesting cultural clashes. Then there is the London setting, a nightclub as the place of first meeting, and a very strong attraction that promised some sparks, some heat, and hopefully enough “magnetism” to ensure a happy ending.
Kyle is an arrogant snob in the beginning, trying to protect himself against being hurt by a lover again, and the stereotypical “Brit with a stiff upper lip”. He is an extremely successful businessman but very lonely. He has definite ideas about what is right and what is not and is very controlling – to the point that it took me a while to figure out that much of his bluster was a façade. Basically Kyle is scared of the attraction he feels and finds all kinds of excuses like their age difference, the fact that Eden ends up as his employee singing in a club Kyle co-owns, and anything else he can think of. Kyle's point of view is very dry and lacks emotion in the beginning, but his style changes as his emotions come through when he begins to "unthaw" – a difficult thing to pull off, but the author did it very well.
Eden is an artist: a free spirit, flamboyant, and an excellent singer and dancer. He does not care about societal norms or restrictions, and one-night stands are not his personal choice. Eden wants to find a permanent gig as a singer, and wishes for a partner to share his life with. His first reaction when things turn out to be tougher than he expected is to run, and it becomes clear that he’ll have to change a lot if he wants to make things work with Kyle – whom he is incredibly attracted to.
In the beginning these two men can't help but not get along due to their differences. It takes quite some doing for both men to realize they need each other and are better off appreciating their differences. The plot revolves around Eden and Kyle working out their differences, and growing to the point where they can accept them. Kyle takes forever to figure out how important Eden is to him, but once he does – there is no stopping him. The humor and contrast between Eden and Kyle made this a fun read for me, and the dialogue was particularly enjoyable - lots of banter and snarky sarcasm made it very British!
If you like May/December romances with a lot of character growth, if you enjoy stories where the sparks fly from the start, and if you’re looking for an entertaining read without much drama and lots of humor, then you will probably like this novel.
NOTE: This book was provided by JMS Books for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Kyle is an arrogant snob in the beginning, trying to protect himself against being hurt by a lover again, and the stereotypical “Brit with a stiff upper lip”. He is an extremely successful businessman but very lonely. He has definite ideas about what is right and what is not and is very controlling – to the point that it took me a while to figure out that much of his bluster was a façade. Basically Kyle is scared of the attraction he feels and finds all kinds of excuses like their age difference, the fact that Eden ends up as his employee singing in a club Kyle co-owns, and anything else he can think of. Kyle's point of view is very dry and lacks emotion in the beginning, but his style changes as his emotions come through when he begins to "unthaw" – a difficult thing to pull off, but the author did it very well.
Eden is an artist: a free spirit, flamboyant, and an excellent singer and dancer. He does not care about societal norms or restrictions, and one-night stands are not his personal choice. Eden wants to find a permanent gig as a singer, and wishes for a partner to share his life with. His first reaction when things turn out to be tougher than he expected is to run, and it becomes clear that he’ll have to change a lot if he wants to make things work with Kyle – whom he is incredibly attracted to.
In the beginning these two men can't help but not get along due to their differences. It takes quite some doing for both men to realize they need each other and are better off appreciating their differences. The plot revolves around Eden and Kyle working out their differences, and growing to the point where they can accept them. Kyle takes forever to figure out how important Eden is to him, but once he does – there is no stopping him. The humor and contrast between Eden and Kyle made this a fun read for me, and the dialogue was particularly enjoyable - lots of banter and snarky sarcasm made it very British!
If you like May/December romances with a lot of character growth, if you enjoy stories where the sparks fly from the start, and if you’re looking for an entertaining read without much drama and lots of humor, then you will probably like this novel.
NOTE: This book was provided by JMS Books for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
May 12, 2017
I received a copy to read and review for Wicked Reads
I am being very generous with giving this book 3 stars. There were so many pages without dialogue that I just skimmed past them because they didn't hold my attention. If there were more scenes with the Brat Boys at Random Funck the book might have been more enjoyable. I couldn't connect with Kaylor or Eden and I didn't even feel any chemistry between them. At 82% there had only been one kiss so I didn't even have sex to liven up the book. When sex finally came at 87% it was implied not even described. Everything was so slow in this book but then in the last few percent everything was wrapped up all nice and pretty. This one missed the mark for me.
I am being very generous with giving this book 3 stars. There were so many pages without dialogue that I just skimmed past them because they didn't hold my attention. If there were more scenes with the Brat Boys at Random Funck the book might have been more enjoyable. I couldn't connect with Kaylor or Eden and I didn't even feel any chemistry between them. At 82% there had only been one kiss so I didn't even have sex to liven up the book. When sex finally came at 87% it was implied not even described. Everything was so slow in this book but then in the last few percent everything was wrapped up all nice and pretty. This one missed the mark for me.
May 15, 2017
I received a copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads
3.5 stars
This book was all over the map for me. I was interested and annoyed with the characters in equal measure. I found Kylor Knightly to be a pretensions snob, and I imagine that's the personality trait the author was going for, but I just found it more annoying than endearing by far. Kylor sees Eden McFadden at an open mic night in a local pub. His voice and look are exactly what Kylor needs for his new club, Maelstrom. Eden leaves no contact information and Kylor has to track him down. He finds Eden at his "other job" where he's a stripper in a full frontal male review. Kylor is quite judgmental about the stripping job and almost berates Eden over his profession upon their first meeting but then offers Kylor the gig of a lifetime. Eden accepts the job but finds out Kylor doesn't fraternize with the "help". Even though Eden makes it perfectly clear he's more interested in Kylor than the singing gig, Kylor keeps him at bay. While Eden's character was more lovable than Kylor's, I found Eden to be a bit over the top and very, very emotional. Again, probably how the author intended but found more annoying than likable. Kylor is almost nasty and says things that I would have though Eden couldn't forgive him for, but it seems the two are destined.
The main event gets completely glossed over!! When the two finally do take all that angst and tension up a notch it's all lead up, no action!!! Seriously disappointing.
While the tension kept me reading the characters were nerve grating.
3.5 stars
This book was all over the map for me. I was interested and annoyed with the characters in equal measure. I found Kylor Knightly to be a pretensions snob, and I imagine that's the personality trait the author was going for, but I just found it more annoying than endearing by far. Kylor sees Eden McFadden at an open mic night in a local pub. His voice and look are exactly what Kylor needs for his new club, Maelstrom. Eden leaves no contact information and Kylor has to track him down. He finds Eden at his "other job" where he's a stripper in a full frontal male review. Kylor is quite judgmental about the stripping job and almost berates Eden over his profession upon their first meeting but then offers Kylor the gig of a lifetime. Eden accepts the job but finds out Kylor doesn't fraternize with the "help". Even though Eden makes it perfectly clear he's more interested in Kylor than the singing gig, Kylor keeps him at bay. While Eden's character was more lovable than Kylor's, I found Eden to be a bit over the top and very, very emotional. Again, probably how the author intended but found more annoying than likable. Kylor is almost nasty and says things that I would have though Eden couldn't forgive him for, but it seems the two are destined.
The main event gets completely glossed over!! When the two finally do take all that angst and tension up a notch it's all lead up, no action!!! Seriously disappointing.
While the tension kept me reading the characters were nerve grating.
May 23, 2017
3.5 stars - This is the story of Eden, a young guy trying to make it in music by attending open-mic nights while paying his bills as a male exotic dancer/stripper. He is discovered one night by Kylor, a smart-dressed club owner out scouting talent for his own club. When Eden fails to leave contact info, Kylor must track him down which leads him to Eden’s other profession, one which Kylor pretty much sneers his nose at. He makes his offer to give Eden the chance of a lifetime, and he takes him up on it.
Unfortunately, even though these two feel some major sparks, Kylor is adament (with himself anyway) that nothing can come of it as long as Eden is an employee. Not wanting Eden to miss the opportunity, he pushes him to take the job offered. Eden, on the other hand, is oblivious to this and has high hopes of having both.
Once it becomes clear Kylor is not interested, Eden gives it all up and moves on. But, Kylor doesn’t give up trying to lure Eden back (for the sake of the club) with promises that they will work things out. This is accomplished by some manipulations on both of their parts, but they eventually come to an agreement. There is also the struggle of Eden actually enjoying his work as a stripper/dancer and wanting to continue with something that Kylor finds so distasteful. Again, they make it work, and Kylor comes around in the end, but it just added to the things I never really liked about Kylor.
I had trouble connecting with these two as a couple. I never really felt the spark they did and always sort of saw Kylor as trying to fix Eden or make things better for someone less fortunate. Which, is great in one way, but felt wrong in another. These guys never really get to know one another until towards the end of the book, and there was a major amount of miscommunication or lack thereof which became tiresome. Kylor is supposed to be the older, more mature businessman, yet he felt like a lovesick teenager, while Eden was the one who, aside from doing the runner, kept acting more like an adult.
So, while I enjoyed some aspects of this story – I really liked Eden and seeing him succeed, there wasn’t anything that blew me away. I would recommend this for fans of May/December and those with class differences where the better off character changes the life of the other, less fortunate character.
Review written for Love Bytes Reviews.
May 19, 2017
A Joyfully Jay review.
2 stars
I am going to make this one brief as to not prolong it because the style of this book did not work for me at all. The set up was fine with there being an opposites attract quality with the men ten years apart in age and completely different in personality, as Kylor is stiff and proper and Eden is artistic and free. There is an initial attraction that sets things off, but there wasn’t one area that drew me in.
The men are constantly fighting all the way throughout the book. At first, I think it was supposed to come off as sexual tension, but it just felt like Kylor being rude and dismissive. He criticizes Eden about everything, from his job to his clothes and everything in between, from their very first interaction. This went on all the way through the book and it was difficult to see these two as a romantic pair because all they did was fight with Kylor belittling Eden like he was a child.
The writing also did not work for me. The dialogue is heavily clichéd and for Eden being twenty-two and for the personality we are told he has, it did not fit his character and the dialogue came off sounding tired. There is everything said from “don’t rain on my parade” to “brooked no argument” to “let sleeping dogs lie” to name a few and there were so many clichés it made the narrative feel forced. The dialogue was also juvenile at times with Eden calling Kylor “Mr. Fancy Pants”and Kylor saying they “didn’t go all the way to Rome to play patty-cake.” There was also a scene with Kylor’s mother that came off as oddly placed and when Kylor notices she is acting strangely, he discovers she has been taking an “herbal remedy,” and she then tells Kylor she is his “yummy mummy.”
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
2 stars
I am going to make this one brief as to not prolong it because the style of this book did not work for me at all. The set up was fine with there being an opposites attract quality with the men ten years apart in age and completely different in personality, as Kylor is stiff and proper and Eden is artistic and free. There is an initial attraction that sets things off, but there wasn’t one area that drew me in.
The men are constantly fighting all the way throughout the book. At first, I think it was supposed to come off as sexual tension, but it just felt like Kylor being rude and dismissive. He criticizes Eden about everything, from his job to his clothes and everything in between, from their very first interaction. This went on all the way through the book and it was difficult to see these two as a romantic pair because all they did was fight with Kylor belittling Eden like he was a child.
The writing also did not work for me. The dialogue is heavily clichéd and for Eden being twenty-two and for the personality we are told he has, it did not fit his character and the dialogue came off sounding tired. There is everything said from “don’t rain on my parade” to “brooked no argument” to “let sleeping dogs lie” to name a few and there were so many clichés it made the narrative feel forced. The dialogue was also juvenile at times with Eden calling Kylor “Mr. Fancy Pants”and Kylor saying they “didn’t go all the way to Rome to play patty-cake.” There was also a scene with Kylor’s mother that came off as oddly placed and when Kylor notices she is acting strangely, he discovers she has been taking an “herbal remedy,” and she then tells Kylor she is his “yummy mummy.”
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
August 19, 2017
Eden and Kylor are the poster children for the saying “opposites attract.” Eden is a young, free American spirit with the voice of an angel. Kylor is a straight laced British investor and on a mission. When Kylor hears Eden’s rendition of “Wicked Game,” the perfect storm quickly brews and almost brings Kylor to his knees and to tears. As the story progresses, Kylor finds parts he thought long non existent awakening because of Eden. However, Kylor can not reconcile the differences between him and Eden. Or will he? Has Eden broken through Kylor’s walls? This was my first read from this author and my first read of a M/M and it was a great read. When I decided to read this story, I was stepping out of my usual choices and I was glad I did. The author shows in Kylor and Eden’s love story that love comes when we least expect it and nothing near what we envision for ourselves. I found the conflicts Kylor found himself in to have a deep depth in reality and my heart kind of went out to him. He was almost too set in his ways. That’s why I think the author did a fabulous job crafting Eden’s character. Even though he had some campy lines, Eden just made me smile throughout the pages. I admired his sense of self and he definitely surprised me in more than one instance. And, I was thoroughly happy they got their HEA! The only thing that I didn’t like with this story was the tangents the author went on. In some places, yeah it laid the foundation for the plot. However, in other places, it just got long winded and slowed down the momentum of the story. Nevertheless, the story flowed and was an easier read than I first thought it would be. All in all, this was my first experience and it was a good one. This was a 4 star read for me.
#B2B Mila
May 14, 2017
3.5 Stars
Kylor finds the perfect addition to his club Maelstrom during an open mic night in another club, but when he runs out to let his partner know about the singing angel, he misses out on both the rest of the performance and the guy. Intent on finding him, he puts out some feelers and he manages to track the young man that mesmerized him with his voice working as a stripper at a gay club in Soho.
Eden is fascinated by Kylor's eyes from the moment he sees him at the club he works at and wouldn't have minded having a go at the older man, if only the man weren't so arrogant and intent on showing Eden everything that according to Kylor is wrong with Eden's life.
Will Kylor and Eden manage to find some common ground?
I loved Eden, he was such a sweet guy, even if a tad immature. My heart broke for him when he tried to make a pass at Kylor only to be rejected. Truly, other than his looks, I'm not sure what he saw in Kylor. He was arrogant and pushy and thought he knew best what Eden needed than Eden himself. Thankfully, Eden wasn't one to let Kylor dictate what his life should be. They might have had chemistry, but every time Kylor opened his mouth to spout his conceited nonsense I just wanted to throw my kindle away (or preferably at him).
The book is well-written and entertaining, actually, my only problem with it was Kylor, but that could've been me, so others might enjoy it better.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
Kylor finds the perfect addition to his club Maelstrom during an open mic night in another club, but when he runs out to let his partner know about the singing angel, he misses out on both the rest of the performance and the guy. Intent on finding him, he puts out some feelers and he manages to track the young man that mesmerized him with his voice working as a stripper at a gay club in Soho.
Eden is fascinated by Kylor's eyes from the moment he sees him at the club he works at and wouldn't have minded having a go at the older man, if only the man weren't so arrogant and intent on showing Eden everything that according to Kylor is wrong with Eden's life.
Will Kylor and Eden manage to find some common ground?
I loved Eden, he was such a sweet guy, even if a tad immature. My heart broke for him when he tried to make a pass at Kylor only to be rejected. Truly, other than his looks, I'm not sure what he saw in Kylor. He was arrogant and pushy and thought he knew best what Eden needed than Eden himself. Thankfully, Eden wasn't one to let Kylor dictate what his life should be. They might have had chemistry, but every time Kylor opened his mouth to spout his conceited nonsense I just wanted to throw my kindle away (or preferably at him).
The book is well-written and entertaining, actually, my only problem with it was Kylor, but that could've been me, so others might enjoy it better.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
May 13, 2017
Maelstrom is author Kass Barrow's debut novel; given that, I thought that the writing was solid and the story flowed well. It's a bit of opposites attract, along with an age gap (ten years here), with the slightly older businessman and the younger musician/stripper being our couple of the story.
Kylor comes across as stuck-up and pretentious, sticking to his guns on keeping business and pleasure separate and being a bit oblivious to what is really going on between him and Eden--though he may have been doing so deliberately. Eden is young, free-spirited, incredibly talented...but sometimes does exhibit a distinct lack of maturity. Both men are attracted to each other, but Kylor's stubborn attitude pushes Eden away at every turn.
To be honest, I didn't really feel a lot of chemistry between the two when they were together, even late in the story when they were moving past Kylor's reservations about the two of them being together. While they may have been physically attracted to each other, that emotional connection just wasn't there for me. As much as I liked Eden's character, I think a lot of the lack of connection between him and Kylor was due to Eden's maturity level through most of the story.
Maelstrom turned out to be a 3-star read for me, primarily due to my fondness for Eden and the strength of the writing. While the intimate parts are fade to black, there is enough adult language and innuendo to place this in the 18+ reader zone.
Kylor comes across as stuck-up and pretentious, sticking to his guns on keeping business and pleasure separate and being a bit oblivious to what is really going on between him and Eden--though he may have been doing so deliberately. Eden is young, free-spirited, incredibly talented...but sometimes does exhibit a distinct lack of maturity. Both men are attracted to each other, but Kylor's stubborn attitude pushes Eden away at every turn.
To be honest, I didn't really feel a lot of chemistry between the two when they were together, even late in the story when they were moving past Kylor's reservations about the two of them being together. While they may have been physically attracted to each other, that emotional connection just wasn't there for me. As much as I liked Eden's character, I think a lot of the lack of connection between him and Kylor was due to Eden's maturity level through most of the story.
Maelstrom turned out to be a 3-star read for me, primarily due to my fondness for Eden and the strength of the writing. While the intimate parts are fade to black, there is enough adult language and innuendo to place this in the 18+ reader zone.
May 9, 2017
I was given a copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
This unlikely romance between an affluent London businessman and a talented young singer/songwriter/stripper is an entertaining read.
Eden is pursuing his dreams and unapologetic about his life choices and desires. He’s a believable 22 year old who loves being in the spotlight and doesn’t spend much time worrying about the future. In contrast, Kylor’s ambitions have made him wealthy and a little snobby. He has a tendency to judge harshly and run his mouth before he thinks. I felt protective of Eden for much of this story - always a little worried that Kylor destroy his innate joy. But Eden is stronger than he first appears and Kylor slowly learns to compromise.
The Magic Mike fan that lives inside me loved the elaborate initial stripper scene in this story. Eden’s experiences at Maelstrom felt rushed and I would have enjoyed watching him develop his act and his following rather than being told about it in a quick summary.
Plot pacing was a slight issue for me here. There were a few too many quick summaries and choppy scene changes in this story. The first few scenes were vividly described while later ones left me wanting more detail and more emotion.
I enjoyed the way Eden and Kylor’s contrasting lives collide. I found some of Kylor’s more ostentatious displays of wealth and his snobbier moments were quite grating. I loved their shared love of the Tango and the chemistry between these two is very hot.
This unlikely romance between an affluent London businessman and a talented young singer/songwriter/stripper is an entertaining read.
Eden is pursuing his dreams and unapologetic about his life choices and desires. He’s a believable 22 year old who loves being in the spotlight and doesn’t spend much time worrying about the future. In contrast, Kylor’s ambitions have made him wealthy and a little snobby. He has a tendency to judge harshly and run his mouth before he thinks. I felt protective of Eden for much of this story - always a little worried that Kylor destroy his innate joy. But Eden is stronger than he first appears and Kylor slowly learns to compromise.
The Magic Mike fan that lives inside me loved the elaborate initial stripper scene in this story. Eden’s experiences at Maelstrom felt rushed and I would have enjoyed watching him develop his act and his following rather than being told about it in a quick summary.
Plot pacing was a slight issue for me here. There were a few too many quick summaries and choppy scene changes in this story. The first few scenes were vividly described while later ones left me wanting more detail and more emotion.
I enjoyed the way Eden and Kylor’s contrasting lives collide. I found some of Kylor’s more ostentatious displays of wealth and his snobbier moments were quite grating. I loved their shared love of the Tango and the chemistry between these two is very hot.
November 25, 2018
From start I was in the book with the characters, Kylor and Eden I'd felt something with them. Ooh the priceless sayings of "communication is the key" is true for this story too. I loved the scene where Eden accuses Kylor being a History Professor, I had to laugh. Beautifully written with scenes in other countries they happen to be in. A slow romance between them, I was disappointed the sexy scene in this brushed over but imagine it would've been hot. Times I could've kicked Kylor for being butt to Eden. The ending was a great one.
Kylor was watching a singer on stage sing his heart out. He was looking for a singer for his and his friend's club the Maelstrom.
Eden 22 yrs sung with his guitar on open mic night. His job was working at Random Funk club as an erotic dancer until he was noticed.
Kylor was watching a singer on stage sing his heart out. He was looking for a singer for his and his friend's club the Maelstrom.
Eden 22 yrs sung with his guitar on open mic night. His job was working at Random Funk club as an erotic dancer until he was noticed.
May 11, 2017
This was a nice read, though I have to be honest and admit that it wasn't at all what I was suspecting.
Kylor is a posh, kinda stuck up, bussinessman, looking for talent, for the club he partially owns. He is always dressed in expensive suits and even the language he uses is all prim and proper. I'm gonna have to be honest here and say that it took me some time to get used to his character.
When going to an open mic-night, he hears Eden sing and is convinced that Eden is the perfect guy for the job. Problem is, Eden is gone before he has a chance to talk to him, so he tracks Eden down....to his place of employment.
Eden works as an exotic dancer at a stripclub, where he and his fellow dancers go "full monty" on the crowd. Eden is the total opposite of Kylor. He is passionate, a bit wild and lives his life to the fullest. He is also immediately drawn to the handsome red-head in the expensive suit.
Kylor convinces Eden to audition for his club and soon Eden finds himself with a new job.
Even though Kylor is also very attracted to Eden, he won't go there. Bussiness after all, should not be mixed with pleasure. Of course Eden doesn't share this oppinion.
The banter between these two really made me laugh out. Kylor often ran his mouth without thinking and at times, he was quite rude and disrespectful towards Eden. Thankfully Eden was snarky enough to have a great come-back.
The problem I however had with the story, was that for me, it took way too long for them to get their act together. I was on pins and needles when we got to the 80 % mark and things finally started moving in the right direction. After all that build-up and all that talk about Eden having such a huge "member", I couldn't wait for the two of them to give in and finally get it on.
And they did....off page...
Now if there is one thing that really annoys me, it's fade to black sexscenes. In this case I really needed more. The sexual tension between these two just keeps building throughout the book and I was really expecting a big bang !! I don't mind reading books that don't have any sexscenes in them, but I don't like getting all wound up, only to be left hanging....
Other than the the steam serously lacking, I did enjoy this story and it did make me laugh. I especiallly liked the first half of the book, the second dragged a bit and I just wanted them to get together already.
May 13, 2017
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
Overall I enjoyed this book, and found the humour of these two unlikely people meeting each other. And having met, how many times can they misjudge things before succumbing to the chemistry they both recognised from the first time they caught each other's attention.
There were a number of things which pulled me out of the plot, which I found frustrating. I got a little bored by the descriptive text about London, but I appreciate that may have been because it is familiar to me. I generally prefer the story to be front and centre. That said, more detail about the clubs would have worked for me, especially Eden's first night with the band - it seemed like a big hole in the story that the way that went was ignored, given that it was quite key to what happened next.
Overall I enjoyed this book, and found the humour of these two unlikely people meeting each other. And having met, how many times can they misjudge things before succumbing to the chemistry they both recognised from the first time they caught each other's attention.
There were a number of things which pulled me out of the plot, which I found frustrating. I got a little bored by the descriptive text about London, but I appreciate that may have been because it is familiar to me. I generally prefer the story to be front and centre. That said, more detail about the clubs would have worked for me, especially Eden's first night with the band - it seemed like a big hole in the story that the way that went was ignored, given that it was quite key to what happened next.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews