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Starting From #1
Starting from Zero
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.
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.
215 pages, ebook
First published April 16, 2019
327 people are currently reading
1188 people want to read
About the author
Lane Hayes
110 books1,703 followersLane Hayes loves a good romance! She’s the bestselling author of the Out in College, Starting From, Better Than, A Kind Of, Right and Wrong, and Leaning Into Series! Lane loves red wine, chocolate and travel (in no particular order). All things she can find in sunny SoCal where she lives with her amazing husband in a not quite empty nest.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 257 reviews
April 30, 2019
~4.5~
I highlighted so many passages in this book. Lane Hayes' writing is DIVINE, and the dual first-person POV (not her usual style) added another dimension to an already complex story. I loved the unique voices of the MCs.
An aspiring song writer, Justin wants to get his band off the ground. Justin is a little rough around the edges. His brain goes a hundred miles a minutes; he's always thinking, always worrying.
Gray is a successful song writer. Eighteen years Justin's senior, Gray lives alone in a mansion with stunning views but without even a dog to keep him company. He's got a patchwork family and lives the good life, but something's missing.
Following a passionate night together (sex in a public restroom has never been so hot), Justin and Gray can't stop thinking about one another, and when Justin just happens to show up at Gray's house for a job interview (a surprise one at that), the two men connect like magnets.
The relationship angst is kept to a minimum, but the sex is on FIRE. Justin and Gray are positively smokin' when they're together.
The drama comes from Justin's band, eventually named Zero, trying to make it big. Justin is asked to collaborate on a song for a movie soundtrack with Gray and tries to get his band in on the deal. Meanwhile, Justin's bitchy ex-girlfriend is pressuring him to sign the contract, so she can have a moment in the spotlight, and Gray's ex, who's a big-time producer and just happens to be the band's manger's dad (stay with me), is a little jealous of Gray's relationship with Justin.
There's more to it than what I summarized, and at times the plot veered into melodrama territory, but it never crossed that fine line. Justin has to make some tough decisions, and both men need to own their bisexuality (Gray steps up in this regard with that beautiful scene in the last chapter!).
The epilogue gives us a sweet HEA, complete with kisses, cooking disasters, and a puppy!
This is a gorgeous story. I am so hooked on this series already (especially with all the great secondary characters serving as potential future MCs!).
It might make this too real. And it was already a little scary. Like finding yourself at the edge of a cliff where the view was incredible...and so was the fall.
I highlighted so many passages in this book. Lane Hayes' writing is DIVINE, and the dual first-person POV (not her usual style) added another dimension to an already complex story. I loved the unique voices of the MCs.
An aspiring song writer, Justin wants to get his band off the ground. Justin is a little rough around the edges. His brain goes a hundred miles a minutes; he's always thinking, always worrying.
Gray is a successful song writer. Eighteen years Justin's senior, Gray lives alone in a mansion with stunning views but without even a dog to keep him company. He's got a patchwork family and lives the good life, but something's missing.
Now I knew what it felt like to skateboard with my best friend, play guitar on the roof, and make love with my eyes wide open and my heart fully exposed. Scary as fuck...but exhilarating.
Following a passionate night together (sex in a public restroom has never been so hot), Justin and Gray can't stop thinking about one another, and when Justin just happens to show up at Gray's house for a job interview (a surprise one at that), the two men connect like magnets.
The relationship angst is kept to a minimum, but the sex is on FIRE. Justin and Gray are positively smokin' when they're together.
"I love you. I want to be your story. I want to be your love song. And I want you to be mine."
The drama comes from Justin's band, eventually named Zero, trying to make it big. Justin is asked to collaborate on a song for a movie soundtrack with Gray and tries to get his band in on the deal. Meanwhile, Justin's bitchy ex-girlfriend is pressuring him to sign the contract, so she can have a moment in the spotlight, and Gray's ex, who's a big-time producer and just happens to be the band's manger's dad (stay with me), is a little jealous of Gray's relationship with Justin.
There's more to it than what I summarized, and at times the plot veered into melodrama territory, but it never crossed that fine line. Justin has to make some tough decisions, and both men need to own their bisexuality (Gray steps up in this regard with that beautiful scene in the last chapter!).
The epilogue gives us a sweet HEA, complete with kisses, cooking disasters, and a puppy!
This is a gorgeous story. I am so hooked on this series already (especially with all the great secondary characters serving as potential future MCs!).
April 18, 2019
3.75
I don't know how this has happened but this is the first book I've read by this Author.I wasn't really sure what to expect and I've got to admit I did struggle initially.I couldn't connect to the story at first and it wasn't until I got to about 30% that I started to enjoy it.But I'm so glad I stuck with it and I fell hopelessly in love with Gray.
I'm not a huge fan of stories centred around Hollywood but I'm guessing it was a good portrayal of the cut throat world in the music industry.Ambition and manipulation seem to be the order of the day and I loved that Justin refused to comply just to make easy money.His music was his passion and that was always his main focus.
What starts out as a one time thing between Justin( a struggling musician) and Gray a older successful song writer was always destined to become much more-these guys had a super hot chemistry going on and this Author definitely knows how to write sex scenes.Their relationship developed at just the right pace.
Great supporting characters,even the questionable ones.I especially loved Tegan and Charlie and really hope we get their stories at some point.
Overall I enjoyed this and would recommend it.
Review copy provided by IndiGo Marketing & Design.Thank you!
I don't know how this has happened but this is the first book I've read by this Author.I wasn't really sure what to expect and I've got to admit I did struggle initially.I couldn't connect to the story at first and it wasn't until I got to about 30% that I started to enjoy it.But I'm so glad I stuck with it and I fell hopelessly in love with Gray.
I'm not a huge fan of stories centred around Hollywood but I'm guessing it was a good portrayal of the cut throat world in the music industry.Ambition and manipulation seem to be the order of the day and I loved that Justin refused to comply just to make easy money.His music was his passion and that was always his main focus.
What starts out as a one time thing between Justin( a struggling musician) and Gray a older successful song writer was always destined to become much more-these guys had a super hot chemistry going on and this Author definitely knows how to write sex scenes.Their relationship developed at just the right pace.
Great supporting characters,even the questionable ones.I especially loved Tegan and Charlie and really hope we get their stories at some point.
Overall I enjoyed this and would recommend it.
Review copy provided by IndiGo Marketing & Design.Thank you!
December 3, 2019
Audiobook - 4 stars
Story - 4 stars
Lane is back on my reading list.
This was cute and enjoyable.
Story - 4 stars
Lane is back on my reading list.
This was cute and enjoyable.
April 28, 2019
**** 4.5 Stars ****
I haven't read many books by this author, but I can safely say that Starting From Zero is hands down my favourite! It got me hooked from the first page.
I've found extremely refreshing to read a story where there are no hidden cards, mind games and miscommunication. Justin and Gray talked a lot, about everything and nothing and it felt natural and crucial to set the right pace in their relationship development.
Despite walking on eggshells regarding the way feelings were growing, both characters were open and let out easily what was going on inside their hearts. And I loved that, so much honesty.
The age-gap was to die for.
I can't wait to see who will be the next in this series!
Oh, shite! I almost forgot to mention how hawt this was!!!! Hot people, very. And chemistry in spades!
Available on KU at the moment!!!
I haven't read many books by this author, but I can safely say that Starting From Zero is hands down my favourite! It got me hooked from the first page.
I've found extremely refreshing to read a story where there are no hidden cards, mind games and miscommunication. Justin and Gray talked a lot, about everything and nothing and it felt natural and crucial to set the right pace in their relationship development.
Despite walking on eggshells regarding the way feelings were growing, both characters were open and let out easily what was going on inside their hearts. And I loved that, so much honesty.
The age-gap was to die for.
I can't wait to see who will be the next in this series!
Oh, shite! I almost forgot to mention how hawt this was!!!! Hot people, very. And chemistry in spades!
Available on KU at the moment!!!
April 20, 2019
This might just be my favourite Lane Hayes romance yet. It's absolutely perfect, from the age gap between Justin and Gray, to the way they fall in love, to the drama which surrounds them and to the beautiful love story which anchors them.
For most of the book, the only voices we hear are Justin (*I'm an idiot and put Julian!) and Gray, the world continues around them and there're brief intermissions with other people, but the intensity and the focus stays with two men who meet almost by accident with a healthy dose of fate driving their journey along.
I adored Justin, Rory's older brother from Lane's Out in the Offense but Gray is pretty much my ideal kind of a man 😉 They're hot as a volcano together, but they also spend time communicating and connecting, they're friends, a partnership even if neither of them is quite willing to admit where the feelings are going.
There's outside interference and I wanted to kick Gray's best friend Seb in the arse even as I understood his behaviour but I loved Seb's son Charlie, young, irrepressible and every inch a product of the social media age, he had me laughing a lot.
It's a relatively low drama book, not very angsty and most of the tensions come from Justin's own self-awareness of how his ADHD affects his decision-making processes and Gray's fears that the differences between them may be too much of an obstacle.
I loved the way the narrative evolved, it felt like I'd only been reading a short while and yet I was almost at the end, the book just flows naturally through their friendship and into love. It was a big hit for me, just like the love song they write ❤
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review
For most of the book, the only voices we hear are Justin (*I'm an idiot and put Julian!) and Gray, the world continues around them and there're brief intermissions with other people, but the intensity and the focus stays with two men who meet almost by accident with a healthy dose of fate driving their journey along.
I adored Justin, Rory's older brother from Lane's Out in the Offense but Gray is pretty much my ideal kind of a man 😉 They're hot as a volcano together, but they also spend time communicating and connecting, they're friends, a partnership even if neither of them is quite willing to admit where the feelings are going.
There's outside interference and I wanted to kick Gray's best friend Seb in the arse even as I understood his behaviour but I loved Seb's son Charlie, young, irrepressible and every inch a product of the social media age, he had me laughing a lot.
It's a relatively low drama book, not very angsty and most of the tensions come from Justin's own self-awareness of how his ADHD affects his decision-making processes and Gray's fears that the differences between them may be too much of an obstacle.
I loved the way the narrative evolved, it felt like I'd only been reading a short while and yet I was almost at the end, the book just flows naturally through their friendship and into love. It was a big hit for me, just like the love song they write ❤
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review
April 24, 2019
3,5 stars rounded up
Lane Hayes is one of my favorite authors, so when I've heard she did her first dual POV story I was all in.
This story was engaging, it had sweet characters. I enjoyed the secondary characters too, except Xena and Seb. But I really enjoyed the main characters.
The love song making was endearing, but I think the best thing about this book was the hotness.
I can't say what bugged me the most here, but maybe it was too sugary sweet for me... I might have overdosed a little on the sweetness.
I guess it's a great low angst story, with hot scenes and a very happy ending. It just wasn't my favorite kind of story. I prefer A LOT of angst.
Lane Hayes is one of my favorite authors, so when I've heard she did her first dual POV story I was all in.
This story was engaging, it had sweet characters. I enjoyed the secondary characters too, except Xena and Seb. But I really enjoyed the main characters.
The love song making was endearing, but I think the best thing about this book was the hotness.
I can't say what bugged me the most here, but maybe it was too sugary sweet for me... I might have overdosed a little on the sweetness.
I guess it's a great low angst story, with hot scenes and a very happy ending. It just wasn't my favorite kind of story. I prefer A LOT of angst.
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July 7, 2024
RATING 4.5 STARS
Starting From Zero is book one in the Starting From series by Lane Hayes. I love Lane’s writing and picked up this box set on Kindle Unlimited awhile ago and finally started it. This first book is an age gap romance (eighteen years) so I wasn’t sure how it would go for me since that’s not my favorite trope. But I ended up falling in love with these two. There were some super swoony quotes as well that made my heart do that little flip flop thing!
Justin Cuevas is twenty six years old. He’s bi-sexual and off page, he had a very bad break up with a female singer who he used to be in a band with. The band fell apart as well. Justin has not given up though. He may be camping on his best friend’s couch and working two jobs to try to pay his bills but he’s moving forward. They decided to name their new band Zero because that’s where they were starting from. He new they could be great. They just had to convince others of that fact.
Gray Robertson (I love that name, Gray) is forty four years old and is a very successful song writer. His closest friend has convinced him to go out and listen to a couple bands when he first saw him and he was mesmerized. He didn’t know who he was or anything about him but couldn’t take his eyes off him.
A one night stand later, with no names exchanged, both Justin and Gray can’t let go of that night. A very sneaky God son, Charlie brings them back together again and it doesn’t take long for their connection to deepen. But Justin has some pretty serious trust issues which are well deserved. He doesn’t believe in love. When a possible job to co-write a love song with Gray comes along, he doesn’t think he can do it with no experience to draw from. But Gray convinces him that with a little research, they’ll find the right words.
“He was a puzzle I wanted to put together, a song I wanted to write and listen to over and over. I wanted to collect those puzzle pieces and figure him out.”
These two seemed like they were from two different worlds. And that their level of life experiences would be too much of a difference. But in reality, they really did have a lot in common. And when they were together, they both felt a calm they didn’t feel any other time. Especially Justin. He was so smart, so talented, and he wanted to make a success of this band so badly. He was constantly worried he would do something to mess it all up.
“He wasn’t inspiration for a song, he was the silence in between the words.”
I loved these two together and the effect they had on each other. Gray had been alone for so long. And Justin didn’t believe in love. It was beautiful that he slowly just accepted that Gray was something special. I loved hearing him voice his feelings. He had the biggest heart. This was a perfect start to this series. I loved meeting Charlie, Gray’s God son. He is crazy and quirky and is the focus of the next book, Starting From Scratch, and I plan to start it immediately!
For more about this book and so many other, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
Starting From Zero is book one in the Starting From series by Lane Hayes. I love Lane’s writing and picked up this box set on Kindle Unlimited awhile ago and finally started it. This first book is an age gap romance (eighteen years) so I wasn’t sure how it would go for me since that’s not my favorite trope. But I ended up falling in love with these two. There were some super swoony quotes as well that made my heart do that little flip flop thing!
Justin Cuevas is twenty six years old. He’s bi-sexual and off page, he had a very bad break up with a female singer who he used to be in a band with. The band fell apart as well. Justin has not given up though. He may be camping on his best friend’s couch and working two jobs to try to pay his bills but he’s moving forward. They decided to name their new band Zero because that’s where they were starting from. He new they could be great. They just had to convince others of that fact.
Gray Robertson (I love that name, Gray) is forty four years old and is a very successful song writer. His closest friend has convinced him to go out and listen to a couple bands when he first saw him and he was mesmerized. He didn’t know who he was or anything about him but couldn’t take his eyes off him.
A one night stand later, with no names exchanged, both Justin and Gray can’t let go of that night. A very sneaky God son, Charlie brings them back together again and it doesn’t take long for their connection to deepen. But Justin has some pretty serious trust issues which are well deserved. He doesn’t believe in love. When a possible job to co-write a love song with Gray comes along, he doesn’t think he can do it with no experience to draw from. But Gray convinces him that with a little research, they’ll find the right words.
“He was a puzzle I wanted to put together, a song I wanted to write and listen to over and over. I wanted to collect those puzzle pieces and figure him out.”
These two seemed like they were from two different worlds. And that their level of life experiences would be too much of a difference. But in reality, they really did have a lot in common. And when they were together, they both felt a calm they didn’t feel any other time. Especially Justin. He was so smart, so talented, and he wanted to make a success of this band so badly. He was constantly worried he would do something to mess it all up.
“He wasn’t inspiration for a song, he was the silence in between the words.”
I loved these two together and the effect they had on each other. Gray had been alone for so long. And Justin didn’t believe in love. It was beautiful that he slowly just accepted that Gray was something special. I loved hearing him voice his feelings. He had the biggest heart. This was a perfect start to this series. I loved meeting Charlie, Gray’s God son. He is crazy and quirky and is the focus of the next book, Starting From Scratch, and I plan to start it immediately!
For more about this book and so many other, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
May 7, 2019
4.5 Stars!
This one kind of had some mixed reviews so I was a bit hesitant going in. But I loved it.
I loved getting the dual POVs. I really liked both MCs. The Hollywood drama wasn't too over the top.
All in all a great start to a new series I am super excited about.
This one kind of had some mixed reviews so I was a bit hesitant going in. But I loved it.
I loved getting the dual POVs. I really liked both MCs. The Hollywood drama wasn't too over the top.
All in all a great start to a new series I am super excited about.
April 17, 2019
3.5★'s Rounded Up.
This is my 20th Lane Hayes book and she is one of my stop what you are doing and read authors without a doubt. But this book, well, this read so different to me. I think I have come to expect a certain formula and this seemed to follow its own path. This is not a bad thing, really, new and refreshing is a good thing; it just took me a minute or two to embrace it.
Truth. I started this on Monday night after Jeopardy and I could not get into it. I wasn’t sure if I was just tired or what so I just put it down. Tuesday morning I started over from the very beginning and I liked it better but something was still just off but I had to keep going.
It might be me?
Personally I am just not into secrets and this story had a whole secret lovers (without the love, haha) and secret business dealings sort of vibe going on and I just felt dread. Dread for when all this was just going to blow up because we all know secrets never stay that way. It was just this terrible feeling hanging there for the entire read. There was the evil ex girlfriend and the semi-evil Hollywood type (and still pining ex-boyfriend) wanting to exploit it all and secrets, secrets, secrets so yeah, dread.
I’ve also come to realize Hollywood just isn’t my thing. I think it is cool when an author tries to write normal into a not so normal (often slimy) place but again, I get so stuck on the setting and those around them that I wonder how they really can be normal and not be like all the other Hollywood types. Everyone has an ulterior motive and everyone is just all about themselves. Ick. I hate it.
Gah, this is a difficult review to write! I mean, I didn’t hate it. There were so many parts of it that I actually loved. I smiled and I probably even swooned (ugh, swooning) a bit. Justin was cool. I liked him and his energy. I don’t know if I get the whole adult not adulting thing he had going on but I guess that is an artist thing. And Gray. Well, Gray was so comfortable in his skin and I loved that. I loved him. So far I feel like I want to get to know the band and I definitely want to know all the things about Charlie. I might even want to know about his Dad, but…
I just don’t know!
There was just something wrong about this to me. I feel like 80% of this book was what I love about Lane’s books but 20% of it just had this wrong feeling and it weaved its way through the story and kept me on edge.
It wrapped up exactly how I expected it to and that was a relief and knowing there was no way it would end differently helped with the dread, a little.
So I guess I'll leave it as good but different with some personal stuff that just isn’t my thing, but overall, good.
**This book was provided by the author via IndiGo Marketing & Design in exchange for an honest review.**
This is my 20th Lane Hayes book and she is one of my stop what you are doing and read authors without a doubt. But this book, well, this read so different to me. I think I have come to expect a certain formula and this seemed to follow its own path. This is not a bad thing, really, new and refreshing is a good thing; it just took me a minute or two to embrace it.
Truth. I started this on Monday night after Jeopardy and I could not get into it. I wasn’t sure if I was just tired or what so I just put it down. Tuesday morning I started over from the very beginning and I liked it better but something was still just off but I had to keep going.
It might be me?
Personally I am just not into secrets and this story had a whole secret lovers (without the love, haha) and secret business dealings sort of vibe going on and I just felt dread. Dread for when all this was just going to blow up because we all know secrets never stay that way. It was just this terrible feeling hanging there for the entire read. There was the evil ex girlfriend and the semi-evil Hollywood type (and still pining ex-boyfriend) wanting to exploit it all and secrets, secrets, secrets so yeah, dread.
I’ve also come to realize Hollywood just isn’t my thing. I think it is cool when an author tries to write normal into a not so normal (often slimy) place but again, I get so stuck on the setting and those around them that I wonder how they really can be normal and not be like all the other Hollywood types. Everyone has an ulterior motive and everyone is just all about themselves. Ick. I hate it.
Gah, this is a difficult review to write! I mean, I didn’t hate it. There were so many parts of it that I actually loved. I smiled and I probably even swooned (ugh, swooning) a bit. Justin was cool. I liked him and his energy. I don’t know if I get the whole adult not adulting thing he had going on but I guess that is an artist thing. And Gray. Well, Gray was so comfortable in his skin and I loved that. I loved him. So far I feel like I want to get to know the band and I definitely want to know all the things about Charlie. I might even want to know about his Dad, but…
I just don’t know!
There was just something wrong about this to me. I feel like 80% of this book was what I love about Lane’s books but 20% of it just had this wrong feeling and it weaved its way through the story and kept me on edge.
It wrapped up exactly how I expected it to and that was a relief and knowing there was no way it would end differently helped with the dread, a little.
So I guess I'll leave it as good but different with some personal stuff that just isn’t my thing, but overall, good.
**This book was provided by the author via IndiGo Marketing & Design in exchange for an honest review.**
April 25, 2019
4 Stars!
I have been so stressed out about this move and reading a low angst book with a sweet romance that had only some drama was such a needed read for me. I really enjoyed it.
I really liked Justin and Gray together. The age gap didn't feel like a gap at all. I thought their puzzle pieces fit the other perfectly. Justin was high energy where Gray was more laid back. They complimented each other in that way. Gray calmed the chaos in Justin's head. They just got each other on a level that no one had before.
Justin had a lot going on in his family life and his band life. The reason this is a 4 star and not a 5 was because all the secrecy Justin kept hanging on to. It put a bit of a heavy veil on the story. You just kept waiting for it to blow up in his face. So as much as I loved how the relationship developed and enjoyed how easy these men fell for each other, I didn't care for the secrets. But even when it did come to a head it still wasn't as big of a explosion as I was expecting it to be.
I am extremely interested in Charlie. I want his story and I am hoping Tegan is a part of that.
I can't wait for the next in the series.
Happy reading dolls!
**I received an ARC from IndiGo Marketing & Design in exchange for an honest review.**
I have been so stressed out about this move and reading a low angst book with a sweet romance that had only some drama was such a needed read for me. I really enjoyed it.
I really liked Justin and Gray together. The age gap didn't feel like a gap at all. I thought their puzzle pieces fit the other perfectly. Justin was high energy where Gray was more laid back. They complimented each other in that way. Gray calmed the chaos in Justin's head. They just got each other on a level that no one had before.
Justin had a lot going on in his family life and his band life. The reason this is a 4 star and not a 5 was because all the secrecy Justin kept hanging on to. It put a bit of a heavy veil on the story. You just kept waiting for it to blow up in his face. So as much as I loved how the relationship developed and enjoyed how easy these men fell for each other, I didn't care for the secrets. But even when it did come to a head it still wasn't as big of a explosion as I was expecting it to be.
I am extremely interested in Charlie. I want his story and I am hoping Tegan is a part of that.
I can't wait for the next in the series.
Happy reading dolls!
**I received an ARC from IndiGo Marketing & Design in exchange for an honest review.**
April 18, 2019
3.5 stars
I haven't read all of Lane Hayes' books, but I've read several. I've loved every one I've read. She writesflawed human characters. Characters that are not perfect unless you view them as "perfect imperfections". Like I said, "human".
I picked up this book because I'm a huge fan of any musical theme in a romance. Give me a character who writes, performs or even dances and I'm all over that trope.
Meet perfectly imperfect Justin. He captures hearts when he sings, but he's not necessarily a good guitarist. He's a guy who doesn't go to the gym. One who doesn't like to work out, so he doesn't. What a change from a regular romance character. A guy in his mid-twenties, battling ADHD with full understanding of himself. A guy who is finally able to admit that he doesn't have to be bisexual for everyone else's benefit. He can love who he wants without regard to anything but his own feelings.
Meet "seemingly" perfect Gray. Gray is a good guy. I couldn't help but respect him. Mid-forties, successful, also bisexual. Gray has a past. A painful one. A past he has somewhat moved on from but that is still a very big part of his life. He isn't looking for anyone or anything, but when a chance meeting puts him in Justin's path the connection is immediate and undeniable. It simply flows so that a conversation turns into a one-night stand turns into a friendship turns into more. The slow-burn romance was beautiful to watch. The developing friendship growing into something more was gorgeous.
Of course, real life is never so simple and Hayes not only knows this but also portrays it in her novels. Gray and Justin not only have to find their way to each other, they have to figure out if they can overcome the past and the future in order to make their relationship work. Because love isn't only sappy poems and red roses, love takes effort, patience and understanding. But love and all it's work is worth it when you find your "missing piece" in another person.
That's what Lane Hayes writes about in this story. She writes about real people being true to themselves. Being truthful with themselves. Being brave and courageous enough to work hard for that "missing piece".
It's a poignant love story.
A huge thank you to Indigo Marketing and Design for this review ARC.
I haven't read all of Lane Hayes' books, but I've read several. I've loved every one I've read. She writes
I picked up this book because I'm a huge fan of any musical theme in a romance. Give me a character who writes, performs or even dances and I'm all over that trope.
Meet perfectly imperfect Justin. He captures hearts when he sings, but he's not necessarily a good guitarist. He's a guy who doesn't go to the gym. One who doesn't like to work out, so he doesn't. What a change from a regular romance character. A guy in his mid-twenties, battling ADHD with full understanding of himself. A guy who is finally able to admit that he doesn't have to be bisexual for everyone else's benefit. He can love who he wants without regard to anything but his own feelings.
"I have no idea what love is, but you're the person I want to be with all the fucking time." ~ Jus
Meet "seemingly" perfect Gray. Gray is a good guy. I couldn't help but respect him. Mid-forties, successful, also bisexual. Gray has a past. A painful one. A past he has somewhat moved on from but that is still a very big part of his life. He isn't looking for anyone or anything, but when a chance meeting puts him in Justin's path the connection is immediate and undeniable. It simply flows so that a conversation turns into a one-night stand turns into a friendship turns into more. The slow-burn romance was beautiful to watch. The developing friendship growing into something more was gorgeous.
"I feel the same way Jus." ~ Gray
Of course, real life is never so simple and Hayes not only knows this but also portrays it in her novels. Gray and Justin not only have to find their way to each other, they have to figure out if they can overcome the past and the future in order to make their relationship work. Because love isn't only sappy poems and red roses, love takes effort, patience and understanding. But love and all it's work is worth it when you find your "missing piece" in another person.
That's what Lane Hayes writes about in this story. She writes about real people being true to themselves. Being truthful with themselves. Being brave and courageous enough to work hard for that "missing piece".
"...I could never be whole without him. ... Now I knew what it felt like to skateboard with my best friend, play guitar on the roof, and make love with my eyes wide open and my heart fully exposed. Scary as fuck...but exhilirating. ~Gray
It's a poignant love story.
A huge thank you to Indigo Marketing and Design for this review ARC.
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October 11, 2019Price drop to $0.99 at Amazon US, 10/11/19!
December 4, 2019
When is an age gap story not an age gap story, not really? When it's by Lane Hayes, and that's a good thing.
Justin Cuevas is 26 y.o., starting yet another band, and trying to make it in the L.A music scene. One night he meets Grey Robertson, and what's meant to be a one-night stand slowly and organically develops into a low-angst, supportive, and believable relationship between people who speak the same language: music.
Grey is a veteran songwriter of jingles, movie soundtracks, and songs for big name stars. He's also about doubles Justin in age, making his life experience different, but it's inconsequential in how they relate to one another.
If you're looking for a low angst, low key story, set in the music world, that rings true this will definitely satisfy. Also Justin & Grey are the perfect blend of sexy, likable, and relatable. It's a promising start to a new series and I enjoyed it.
Justin Cuevas is 26 y.o., starting yet another band, and trying to make it in the L.A music scene. One night he meets Grey Robertson, and what's meant to be a one-night stand slowly and organically develops into a low-angst, supportive, and believable relationship between people who speak the same language: music.
Grey is a veteran songwriter of jingles, movie soundtracks, and songs for big name stars. He's also about doubles Justin in age, making his life experience different, but it's inconsequential in how they relate to one another.
If you're looking for a low angst, low key story, set in the music world, that rings true this will definitely satisfy. Also Justin & Grey are the perfect blend of sexy, likable, and relatable. It's a promising start to a new series and I enjoyed it.
June 17, 2019
Audio - 4.5 stars
Story - 4 Stars
Story - 4 Stars
April 20, 2019
Justin is twenty-six and a beautiful wild flower, his head full of anxiety and great lyrics. A passionate man taking breath therapy instead of medication. After his band Gypsy Coma falls apart, he is broke and looking for a new gear.
Gray is forty-four, an established composer and songwriter. A warm, emotional and sexy man with a humble personality.
When they meet for the first time at a bar, they have a hot, steamy night and separate without further plans. But destiny has other plans.
In short, this story is about two men who are supposed to compose a song together for a movie.
But ha! there is so much story to tell and there are so many emotions involved. They have several ideas to get good inspiration for writing the best love song ever.
Working together is going great and they are more and more attracted to each other.
The only hiccup in the relationship could be if work, business, contracts, friends, and exes aren’t compatible or just big in the way, and yes, they got in the way, big!!
This was a beautiful story in many ways, the way of the writing, the plot, the environments, all the emotions, the romance, the immensely engaging and heartwarming characters, I can go on and on.
The description of the scenery was awesome, I could easily picture the view from the big windows of the exclusive estate.
Imagine their chemistry: when two musicians are in a room full of exclusive instruments and thousands of albums and they only have eyes for the other. Gosh I was swept away by this!!
Their unbiased honesty was utterly romantic.
Beautifully layered personalities are unwrapped before our eyes. Complicated minds and insecurities are covered by witty comments and a big mouth. There are a lot of humorous comments, between captivating conversations, putting just the right air at moments.
Gray and Justin were intense and sensual together they both were equally likable.
Their lovemaking was as beautiful as their songs! And gosh were they beautiful!!
Read and reviewed for Diverse Reader
Gray is forty-four, an established composer and songwriter. A warm, emotional and sexy man with a humble personality.
When they meet for the first time at a bar, they have a hot, steamy night and separate without further plans. But destiny has other plans.
In short, this story is about two men who are supposed to compose a song together for a movie.
But ha! there is so much story to tell and there are so many emotions involved. They have several ideas to get good inspiration for writing the best love song ever.
Working together is going great and they are more and more attracted to each other.
The only hiccup in the relationship could be if work, business, contracts, friends, and exes aren’t compatible or just big in the way, and yes, they got in the way, big!!
This was a beautiful story in many ways, the way of the writing, the plot, the environments, all the emotions, the romance, the immensely engaging and heartwarming characters, I can go on and on.
The description of the scenery was awesome, I could easily picture the view from the big windows of the exclusive estate.
Imagine their chemistry: when two musicians are in a room full of exclusive instruments and thousands of albums and they only have eyes for the other. Gosh I was swept away by this!!
Their unbiased honesty was utterly romantic.
Beautifully layered personalities are unwrapped before our eyes. Complicated minds and insecurities are covered by witty comments and a big mouth. There are a lot of humorous comments, between captivating conversations, putting just the right air at moments.
Gray and Justin were intense and sensual together they both were equally likable.
Their lovemaking was as beautiful as their songs! And gosh were they beautiful!!
Read and reviewed for Diverse Reader
April 23, 2019
New series from Lane Hayes! "Starting from Zero" is the first book and sets the stage for the rest. With a host of interesting characters, complicated relationships and a band just starting out we are sure to get more books set in this social circle!
Justin is fresh out of a relationship - well it's been six months but the animosity between him and his ex will make you think it's barely been 24 hours. He's crashing on his best friend's couch and on top of all that his band doesn't show any signs of hitting fame any time soon. When the band gets a call to perfom at a local dive bar he thinks they're finally going to catch a break. Until it becomes apparent that their invitation was just for show. An effort to create drama between him and his ex to bring publicity to the venue and to further his ex's career.
After a spectacular fight with a previous bandmate Justin meets a handsome older stranger and they hit it off. They spend some time talking, creating some mystery by not sharing anything personal about who they are and they end up hooking up in the bathroom of a hotel bar. Though they can both feel the connection they part ways without making plans to keep in touch.
Gray is a very successful songwriter who prefers the company of his quitar and his vinyl discs to going out. He has formed a family with his best friend, Seb, and his godson, Charlie, and even though his relationship with Seb is complicated he is happy to have them both. After meeting Justin he can't get their night out of his head but he also doesn't do anything about it. Thanks to some meddling people around him they cross paths again and this time there are no secters about who they are. The connection they felt is still there and this time they have all the time in the world to explore it.
When an offer to write a song lands in Justin's lap he cautiously agree to work on it with Gray and that brings them even closer together. As they spend weeks doing research, brainstorming and composing they begin to fall for each other.
Justin is an interesting character, charming and very self aware. He knows his strengths, his limits and his weaknesses. He is loyal, down to earth and very passionate. Gray is a cool guy that hides a music nerd inside. He is logical, supportive and family-oriented. He adores Charlie and no matter how many times he becomes exasperated with his antics, he always looks at him fondly.
Gray is eigthteen years older than Justin but that was never a problem for them. The only problem was their financial and societal differences that made people suspicious and judgy of them being together.
The secondary characters were a mixed batch. Some of them were very present, had distinct personalities and strong backstories and some of them were barely there, like an afterthough. Maybe that was deliberate because now I want to know the stories for some of them but I'm not overwhelmed by all the possible future stories. We get to pace ourselves and get to know the rest of the band later on.
I hope Tegan's story is next but I'll read the next book(s) no matter who it's about!
*A copy of this book was kindly provided to me in exchange for an honest review. *
Justin is fresh out of a relationship - well it's been six months but the animosity between him and his ex will make you think it's barely been 24 hours. He's crashing on his best friend's couch and on top of all that his band doesn't show any signs of hitting fame any time soon. When the band gets a call to perfom at a local dive bar he thinks they're finally going to catch a break. Until it becomes apparent that their invitation was just for show. An effort to create drama between him and his ex to bring publicity to the venue and to further his ex's career.
After a spectacular fight with a previous bandmate Justin meets a handsome older stranger and they hit it off. They spend some time talking, creating some mystery by not sharing anything personal about who they are and they end up hooking up in the bathroom of a hotel bar. Though they can both feel the connection they part ways without making plans to keep in touch.
Gray is a very successful songwriter who prefers the company of his quitar and his vinyl discs to going out. He has formed a family with his best friend, Seb, and his godson, Charlie, and even though his relationship with Seb is complicated he is happy to have them both. After meeting Justin he can't get their night out of his head but he also doesn't do anything about it. Thanks to some meddling people around him they cross paths again and this time there are no secters about who they are. The connection they felt is still there and this time they have all the time in the world to explore it.
When an offer to write a song lands in Justin's lap he cautiously agree to work on it with Gray and that brings them even closer together. As they spend weeks doing research, brainstorming and composing they begin to fall for each other.
Justin is an interesting character, charming and very self aware. He knows his strengths, his limits and his weaknesses. He is loyal, down to earth and very passionate. Gray is a cool guy that hides a music nerd inside. He is logical, supportive and family-oriented. He adores Charlie and no matter how many times he becomes exasperated with his antics, he always looks at him fondly.
Gray is eigthteen years older than Justin but that was never a problem for them. The only problem was their financial and societal differences that made people suspicious and judgy of them being together.
The secondary characters were a mixed batch. Some of them were very present, had distinct personalities and strong backstories and some of them were barely there, like an afterthough. Maybe that was deliberate because now I want to know the stories for some of them but I'm not overwhelmed by all the possible future stories. We get to pace ourselves and get to know the rest of the band later on.
I hope Tegan's story is next but I'll read the next book(s) no matter who it's about!
*A copy of this book was kindly provided to me in exchange for an honest review. *
May 9, 2019
*4,5 stars*
There is a lot to like here:
.) age gap (18 years is quite a good one!)
.) musicians
.) vulnerability on both sides, but particularly Justin who not only fights for his dream to have a band, but who has also ADHD.
.) Gray. Gray. Gray. I seriously fell in love. That man turned my knees into jelly, not only because he is a hot, more ‘mature’ character, but the calm and kindness permeating through everything he does and says, the understanding and consideration he shows Justin, really turned my crank big time!… not even talking about this:
However, what I really appreciated about this story is the way it is told.
Lane Hayes takes time with her characters, and we really get to know them, parts of their back story, what they love and hate. And (respectively) so do the MCs. It all starts with a connection, a sexual attraction which they are happy enough to explore. But this soon turns into curiosity about the other man, and in the course of the book into something way more serious.
Apart from the in-depth characterization and the undeniably hot and sensual sex, we become part of how two men gel, first sexually and then emotionally on every level. It is a beautiful thing to read and incredibly well done!
What made me knock off half a star:
I am not so sure I understand where Seb’s actions at the end are coming from. Despite his workaholic ways and all it entails, he always strikes me as a good guy. While I get why he might be a bit jealous, I could not quite get why he would
But that is quite a minor niggle. If you love m/m romance set in the world of music and bands, this is one you shouldn't miss!
There is a lot to like here:
.) age gap (18 years is quite a good one!)
.) musicians
.) vulnerability on both sides, but particularly Justin who not only fights for his dream to have a band, but who has also ADHD.
.) Gray. Gray. Gray. I seriously fell in love. That man turned my knees into jelly, not only because he is a hot, more ‘mature’ character, but the calm and kindness permeating through everything he does and says, the understanding and consideration he shows Justin, really turned my crank big time!… not even talking about this:
However, what I really appreciated about this story is the way it is told.
Lane Hayes takes time with her characters, and we really get to know them, parts of their back story, what they love and hate. And (respectively) so do the MCs. It all starts with a connection, a sexual attraction which they are happy enough to explore. But this soon turns into curiosity about the other man, and in the course of the book into something way more serious.
Apart from the in-depth characterization and the undeniably hot and sensual sex, we become part of how two men gel, first sexually and then emotionally on every level. It is a beautiful thing to read and incredibly well done!
What made me knock off half a star:
I am not so sure I understand where Seb’s actions at the end are coming from. Despite his workaholic ways and all it entails, he always strikes me as a good guy. While I get why he might be a bit jealous, I could not quite get why he would
But that is quite a minor niggle. If you love m/m romance set in the world of music and bands, this is one you shouldn't miss!
September 26, 2020
2.5 stars.
I think. It's hard to rate this one because at points it was a 3 star read. At points it was a 1 star read.
The writing is beautiful. I mean it's no surprise, Lane Hayes has a way with words. I did end up highlighting a lot of beautiful sentences. I really liked Justin and Gray as a couple. I was rooting for them to be happy together.
However, this book stressed me out. I was constantly waiting for something bad to happen. And it did. Again and again. Justin ran. God he ran a lot without listening to what people had to tell him. And god, he was stubborn too. What I'm trying to say is that there was a lot of drama that didn't add more to the story than just that, drama.
The ending was beautiful though and that alone was worth the half star.
I think. It's hard to rate this one because at points it was a 3 star read. At points it was a 1 star read.
The writing is beautiful. I mean it's no surprise, Lane Hayes has a way with words. I did end up highlighting a lot of beautiful sentences. I really liked Justin and Gray as a couple. I was rooting for them to be happy together.
However, this book stressed me out. I was constantly waiting for something bad to happen. And it did. Again and again. Justin ran. God he ran a lot without listening to what people had to tell him. And god, he was stubborn too. What I'm trying to say is that there was a lot of drama that didn't add more to the story than just that, drama.
The ending was beautiful though and that alone was worth the half star.
April 29, 2019
This was a weird one for me. I liked the characters and their chemistry together, but I didn't actually like the story.
February 27, 2024
This series follows on from the Out In College series, but it isn't actually made very clear that it does! There's no real reading order that I can find, so hopefully I'm going in the right direction - I do always prefer there to be a reading order provided somewhere if an author decides to interlink multiple book series because I don't like reading out of order if I can help it!
This is Justin's story, the older brother of Rory the maths tutor who is in a relationship with Christian the QB, and they were featured in book three of the Out in College series - Out in the Offense. It was nice to see Rory and Christian supporting Justin.
Justin's character was interesting and had an ADHD diagnosis. His POV definitely got across that he struggled to keep focussed and would hyperfixate on certain things. You could also feel him getting overwhelmed with everything that was happening and how he should best deal with everything, before kind of imploding. But he was a bit wishy washy and never really explained anything to anyone which did get a bit frustrating.
Gray is eighteen years older and has his life together but is super lonely. I really liked the way they met and the little gifts Gray gave to Justin were so cute. He did come across a little clueless at times though but it made him pretty endearing.
My only real complaint is the amount of side characters and the time they had devoted to them. There was way too much about Justin's ex-girlfriend and whoever Declan was, and his employer Sean at the bar he worked at who seemed to be mentioned frequently for no real reason. I found it really slowed the story down and I wanted to start skipping to the actual story.
Charlie was like an unstoppable force of nature and I'm not usually a fan of overbearing characters, but I am intrigued enough to see his story next.
This is Justin's story, the older brother of Rory the maths tutor who is in a relationship with Christian the QB, and they were featured in book three of the Out in College series - Out in the Offense. It was nice to see Rory and Christian supporting Justin.
Justin's character was interesting and had an ADHD diagnosis. His POV definitely got across that he struggled to keep focussed and would hyperfixate on certain things. You could also feel him getting overwhelmed with everything that was happening and how he should best deal with everything, before kind of imploding. But he was a bit wishy washy and never really explained anything to anyone which did get a bit frustrating.
Gray is eighteen years older and has his life together but is super lonely. I really liked the way they met and the little gifts Gray gave to Justin were so cute. He did come across a little clueless at times though but it made him pretty endearing.
My only real complaint is the amount of side characters and the time they had devoted to them. There was way too much about Justin's ex-girlfriend and whoever Declan was, and his employer Sean at the bar he worked at who seemed to be mentioned frequently for no real reason. I found it really slowed the story down and I wanted to start skipping to the actual story.
Charlie was like an unstoppable force of nature and I'm not usually a fan of overbearing characters, but I am intrigued enough to see his story next.
April 24, 2019
A Joyfully Jay review.
5 stars
I want to find some sort of flaw to bring up about Lane Haye’s latest release, Starting from Zero. I want to be careful and not just gush about how incredibly lovely this story is and how much I loved both of these characters. I want to tell you that this slow burning romance, which features an age gap that never seemed to be obvious or detract from these two men learning about each other and gradually falling in love, isn’t the most lyrical and poetic novel I have read in quite some time. But then, the author wrote things like this:
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
5 stars
I want to find some sort of flaw to bring up about Lane Haye’s latest release, Starting from Zero. I want to be careful and not just gush about how incredibly lovely this story is and how much I loved both of these characters. I want to tell you that this slow burning romance, which features an age gap that never seemed to be obvious or detract from these two men learning about each other and gradually falling in love, isn’t the most lyrical and poetic novel I have read in quite some time. But then, the author wrote things like this:
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
May 4, 2019
4.5 stars! Just what my romantic heart needed. *sigh* Loved it!
April 21, 2019
3.5 Stars Interesting and sweet
This was very low angst and minimal drama. I felt a little lost at first as I didn’t read the Out in College series and I guess some of the characters are from there. The age gap wasn’t really any issue but Justin sounded smarter and more mature than Gray. Unfortunately won’t be my favorite from the author.
This was very low angst and minimal drama. I felt a little lost at first as I didn’t read the Out in College series and I guess some of the characters are from there. The age gap wasn’t really any issue but Justin sounded smarter and more mature than Gray. Unfortunately won’t be my favorite from the author.
April 23, 2019
Starting From Zero by Lane Hayes
Let's not rehash the blurb and get down to the nitty-gritty.
Lots to love about a down on his luck aspiring musician and an older established songwriter.
-DUAL POVs! Getting both perspectives is always my preference, but Lane Hayes has only ever written in first person narrative- color me surprised when I turned the page and realized we were getting both POVs. I was little thrown off at first but quickly got used to it. I'm glad she wrote it this way as I don't think it would've been as successful otherwise.
-I love casual hook-ups that grow into more. This anonymous hook-up was hot af, and the relationship that evolved from it was all kinds of romantic.
-May/December romance
-Bi rep
-OFY
-Songwriting dates. I'll leave it at that, as this portion of the story is one you should experience first hand.
-I enjoyed the supporting cast of characters.
-And the end, LH always writes exceptional epilogues.
All in all, a great start to the Starting From series, and I can't wait for the upcoming books!
4.5 Stars
April 20, 2019
Overall I really enjoyed this book, it was really great. This is a spin off of the "Out in College" series, with the one of the MC's being Justin, Rory from book three's brother. I vaguely remember meeting him briefly in Rory and Christian's book, but not well.
And also, a new thing of Hayes in this book is that it has Dual POV!! Woo hoo! I've been kinda, in the back of my mind, hoping she would do Dual POV for a while. Most of the time I don't mind the single POV, if it's written well, but sometimes it can really hinder the story of a romance without the other MC's perspective.
Case in point, it would feel weird having read this having not gotten Gray's perspective, if it had all just been from Justin's POV. I personally didn't connect with these two as much as I wanted to, so that would have made it worse, most likely.
Not to say I didn't like these two together, because I did. They had really good chemistry and I loved their connection and where they ended up. I think what ultimately made me give this 4 stars is because I just didn't quite feel that extra something that made me love these two together. As great as the chemistry and interactions were, I think because both kinda held back so much, that in some ways it didn't work for me.
Justin was so against love and maintained that he and Gray were just fooling around and he didn't love Gray for months, so when he finally did admit love for Gray it almost felt like it came out of nowhere - as in, there wasn't a lead up to it. I mean yeah them spending time together and getting to know each other was a good potion of it and it did indeed help, but Justin not having thoughts of "do I love him? Omg I do!" before he said it made it miss the landing a little bit, so to speak. Same with Gray, although he was less resistant to love so I felt it a little more on his side.
All that to say that doesn't mean I didn't very much enjoy these two together and that their HEA didn't make me super happy, but I just could have used more with them, a little more chemistry, I think.
To get to the plot, Justin is an aspiring musician who was in band, "Gypsy Coma" (which, that's such a weird name lol) for two years before shit went sideways. Now he has a new band with two other guys and when they play at a bar called Carmines - or, Justin plays - he gets noticed by Gray who was dragged along by his Hollywood Producer bff, Seb (who, I wouldn't mind getting a book of his own).
When they meet out on the street, Justin just wants anonymity, to forget about the real world for a night, basically, and Gray agrees because he's intrigued by Justin. They end up having a one-night-stand, but because Seb is interesting in Justing to help with a song for his upcoming action flick, the stars align to bring these two back together - or more accurately, Seb's kid and Gray's godson Charlie does.
When they meet up again, they can't stay away from long, too drawn to each other to resist, and they give in fairly quickly.
So I enjoyed the story and I enjoyed these characters and their romance, I just wish we had gotten a little more from them, a little less rolling his eyes at others asking if he's in love with the other and more of a pause and an internal freak out realizing that yeah, he totally does love him.
Definitely recommend because it was a great story and most might not have the problem I felt while reading this and might just plain love it all around.
***ARC generously provided by the Alpha Book Club in exchange for an honest review.
And also, a new thing of Hayes in this book is that it has Dual POV!! Woo hoo! I've been kinda, in the back of my mind, hoping she would do Dual POV for a while. Most of the time I don't mind the single POV, if it's written well, but sometimes it can really hinder the story of a romance without the other MC's perspective.
Case in point, it would feel weird having read this having not gotten Gray's perspective, if it had all just been from Justin's POV. I personally didn't connect with these two as much as I wanted to, so that would have made it worse, most likely.
Not to say I didn't like these two together, because I did. They had really good chemistry and I loved their connection and where they ended up. I think what ultimately made me give this 4 stars is because I just didn't quite feel that extra something that made me love these two together. As great as the chemistry and interactions were, I think because both kinda held back so much, that in some ways it didn't work for me.
Justin was so against love and maintained that he and Gray were just fooling around and he didn't love Gray for months, so when he finally did admit love for Gray it almost felt like it came out of nowhere - as in, there wasn't a lead up to it. I mean yeah them spending time together and getting to know each other was a good potion of it and it did indeed help, but Justin not having thoughts of "do I love him? Omg I do!" before he said it made it miss the landing a little bit, so to speak. Same with Gray, although he was less resistant to love so I felt it a little more on his side.
All that to say that doesn't mean I didn't very much enjoy these two together and that their HEA didn't make me super happy, but I just could have used more with them, a little more chemistry, I think.
To get to the plot, Justin is an aspiring musician who was in band, "Gypsy Coma" (which, that's such a weird name lol) for two years before shit went sideways. Now he has a new band with two other guys and when they play at a bar called Carmines - or, Justin plays - he gets noticed by Gray who was dragged along by his Hollywood Producer bff, Seb (who, I wouldn't mind getting a book of his own).
When they meet out on the street, Justin just wants anonymity, to forget about the real world for a night, basically, and Gray agrees because he's intrigued by Justin. They end up having a one-night-stand, but because Seb is interesting in Justing to help with a song for his upcoming action flick, the stars align to bring these two back together - or more accurately, Seb's kid and Gray's godson Charlie does.
When they meet up again, they can't stay away from long, too drawn to each other to resist, and they give in fairly quickly.
So I enjoyed the story and I enjoyed these characters and their romance, I just wish we had gotten a little more from them, a little less rolling his eyes at others asking if he's in love with the other and more of a pause and an internal freak out realizing that yeah, he totally does love him.
Definitely recommend because it was a great story and most might not have the problem I felt while reading this and might just plain love it all around.
***ARC generously provided by the Alpha Book Club in exchange for an honest review.
May 2, 2019
This was one of the best books I've read in awhile. I always enjoy this author's work but this one really stood out to me. The writing here was gorgeous. In addition to being a very good book, it was also very romantic. One of those that makes you do a happy sigh when you're done reading it.
The story revolves around two men who on the surface seem very different. They meet at a club after Justin performs and they are immediately attracted to each other. They agree to go somewhere to talk but they neither thinks it will go anywhere and neither is looking for a relationship anyways. Their chemistry jumps off the pages and they find they are so attracted to each other they can't stop at just talking. After a scorching scene public bathroom sex, they go their separate ways. Fate has different ideas and brings them back together a short time later when they end up working together.
I liked both of the MC's very much and I especially liked them together. I'm not generally a big fan of age gaps but I thought it was really well done here. I found their relationship believable despite the differences in their life experiences. I rarely comment on sex scenes in my reviews because I can take or leave them depending on the overall plot. Here though they really stood out. These two were smoking hot together. I think this author did a great job of not only showing their chemistry but also used the scenes to show their overall relationship development.
If you've read this author's Out In College series you will recognize Justin. He is the older brother of Rory from book three. Both Rory and Christian makes some appearances in this. If you have not read that book though it will not matter. This book is totally a standalone.
There was nothing about this book that I disliked. I thought it was really well done and I highly recommend this. I can't wait for the next book in the series.
The story revolves around two men who on the surface seem very different. They meet at a club after Justin performs and they are immediately attracted to each other. They agree to go somewhere to talk but they neither thinks it will go anywhere and neither is looking for a relationship anyways. Their chemistry jumps off the pages and they find they are so attracted to each other they can't stop at just talking. After a scorching scene public bathroom sex, they go their separate ways. Fate has different ideas and brings them back together a short time later when they end up working together.
I liked both of the MC's very much and I especially liked them together. I'm not generally a big fan of age gaps but I thought it was really well done here. I found their relationship believable despite the differences in their life experiences. I rarely comment on sex scenes in my reviews because I can take or leave them depending on the overall plot. Here though they really stood out. These two were smoking hot together. I think this author did a great job of not only showing their chemistry but also used the scenes to show their overall relationship development.
If you've read this author's Out In College series you will recognize Justin. He is the older brother of Rory from book three. Both Rory and Christian makes some appearances in this. If you have not read that book though it will not matter. This book is totally a standalone.
There was nothing about this book that I disliked. I thought it was really well done and I highly recommend this. I can't wait for the next book in the series.
October 30, 2020
Swoon! Gah, I just loved Justin and Gray’s story. You know when you read a book, and it’s just so good and you have a smile plastered to your face? And you don’t want to finish because it will be over? This! This is one of those books! Justin and Gray made me feel all warm and fuzzy. I loved their witty banter and their comfortable conversations they had with each other. Their chemistry together was explosive and off the charts hot. They truly completed each other so well, and their story really gave me all the feels. I know this will be a book I re-read when I need a pick me up. I really can’t recommend their story more!
May 5, 2019
2.5 stars
Starting from Zero is my first book from Lane Hayes and definitely a hard one to rate. First I loved the age gap, second I loved the connection between Justin and Gray. Their chemistry was super hot but overall I thought the story was not very interesting and really boring. Unfortunately the writing and story failed to keep my attention.
Starting from Zero is my first book from Lane Hayes and definitely a hard one to rate. First I loved the age gap, second I loved the connection between Justin and Gray. Their chemistry was super hot but overall I thought the story was not very interesting and really boring. Unfortunately the writing and story failed to keep my attention.
April 21, 2019
Amazing!!!
Gosh, you know when you just want a book to never end? That’s exactly how I’m feeling about Gray and Jus, I’m absolutely in love with them! I could’ve seriously read about their story for hours and hours. Simply amazing! Not only that but the secondary characters were perfect! Can’t wait for Charlie’s and also Seb’s stories!
Gosh, you know when you just want a book to never end? That’s exactly how I’m feeling about Gray and Jus, I’m absolutely in love with them! I could’ve seriously read about their story for hours and hours. Simply amazing! Not only that but the secondary characters were perfect! Can’t wait for Charlie’s and also Seb’s stories!
May 8, 2022
4 stars
Okay okay okay I see how it is, these books are starting to become my new obsession. It was kinda nice to read “The Real Baxter” first about Seb and then this book… kinda made me not feel the drama that he would have caused if I started with this book.
Justin and Grey were great together and I am excited to read about the rest of the band!!
Okay okay okay I see how it is, these books are starting to become my new obsession. It was kinda nice to read “The Real Baxter” first about Seb and then this book… kinda made me not feel the drama that he would have caused if I started with this book.
Justin and Grey were great together and I am excited to read about the rest of the band!!
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