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Settling the Score
24th Annual Lambda Literary Awards Finalist
Closeted mechanic Joey Nichols' life is good. His boyfriend landed a major Hollywood role, and is well on the way to superstardom. Joey's bags are packed and soon he'll leave small town Georgia and join the man of his dreams in California, to live out, proud, and together. Days before his planned departure, his lover outs Joey during a televised interview and announces that they've broken up, leaving Joey to face the bigotry of the locals alone.
Bestselling author Troy Steele knows all about having life turned upside down by the media. Now a recluse, Troy shuns all the trappings that come with writing books made into blockbuster movies. He spends his time exacting revenge on a former flame via his novels and hiding out in rural South Carolina, watching celebrity gossip shows. Joey's fifteen minutes of fame bear an eerie similarity to the plot of Troy's latest work in progress. What if Joey could be transformed into everything the fickle ex wanted, as Troy is writing for his fictional hero, and secretly wishes for himself? Once polished, could a diamond-in-the-rough good ole boy confront his ex, then walk away, pride intact? These are Troy's questions, and he's counting on Joey for answers.
Closeted mechanic Joey Nichols' life is good. His boyfriend landed a major Hollywood role, and is well on the way to superstardom. Joey's bags are packed and soon he'll leave small town Georgia and join the man of his dreams in California, to live out, proud, and together. Days before his planned departure, his lover outs Joey during a televised interview and announces that they've broken up, leaving Joey to face the bigotry of the locals alone.
Bestselling author Troy Steele knows all about having life turned upside down by the media. Now a recluse, Troy shuns all the trappings that come with writing books made into blockbuster movies. He spends his time exacting revenge on a former flame via his novels and hiding out in rural South Carolina, watching celebrity gossip shows. Joey's fifteen minutes of fame bear an eerie similarity to the plot of Troy's latest work in progress. What if Joey could be transformed into everything the fickle ex wanted, as Troy is writing for his fictional hero, and secretly wishes for himself? Once polished, could a diamond-in-the-rough good ole boy confront his ex, then walk away, pride intact? These are Troy's questions, and he's counting on Joey for answers.
305 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 1, 2011
About the author
Eden Winters
83 books666 followersYou will know Eden Winters by her distinctive white plumage and exuberant cry of “Hey, y’all!” in a Southern US drawl so thick it renders even the simplest of words unrecognizable. Watch out, she hugs!
Driven by insatiable curiosity, she possibly holds the world’s record for curriculum changes to the point that she’s never quite earned a degree but is a force to be reckoned with at Trivial Pursuit.
She’s trudged down hallways with police detectives, learned to disarm knife-wielding bad guys, and witnessed the correct way to blow doors off buildings. Her e-mail contains various snippets of forensic wisdom, such as “What would a dead body left in a Mexican drug tunnel look like after six months?” In the process of her adventures, she has written over thirty gay romance novels, lost count of novellas and short stories, has won Rainbow Awards, was a Lambda Awards Finalist, and lives in terror of authorities showing up at her door to question her Internet searches.
When not putting characters in dangerous situations she’s cosplaying for children's charities or hanging out at the farm being a mother, grandmother, and vegetarian.
Her natural habitats are hardware stores and on the backs of motorcycles.
Driven by insatiable curiosity, she possibly holds the world’s record for curriculum changes to the point that she’s never quite earned a degree but is a force to be reckoned with at Trivial Pursuit.
She’s trudged down hallways with police detectives, learned to disarm knife-wielding bad guys, and witnessed the correct way to blow doors off buildings. Her e-mail contains various snippets of forensic wisdom, such as “What would a dead body left in a Mexican drug tunnel look like after six months?” In the process of her adventures, she has written over thirty gay romance novels, lost count of novellas and short stories, has won Rainbow Awards, was a Lambda Awards Finalist, and lives in terror of authorities showing up at her door to question her Internet searches.
When not putting characters in dangerous situations she’s cosplaying for children's charities or hanging out at the farm being a mother, grandmother, and vegetarian.
Her natural habitats are hardware stores and on the backs of motorcycles.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 143 reviews
March 7, 2017
Cross-posted at Shelf Inflicted and at Outlaw Reviews
After a heartbreaking and intense read (I’m talking to you, Amy Lane), I was ready for lighter fare. Settling the Score contained just the right amount of small-town charm and homey comfort with a dollop of righteous revenge and sweet, slow-burning romance.
In spite of the fact that it took some time for me to warm up to Troy, I was instantly enamored with Joey Nichols, a mechanic in rural Georgia mourning the loss of his boyfriend, Riker Sanderson, a vain (“don’t ever fuck with my hair…”), up and coming star anxious to leave his roots behind and make it big in Hollywood.
As if Riker’s rejection wasn’t enough, Joey is subjected to a cruel and very public outing on television before having a chance to break the news to his family. Though his mom, dad and two sisters are loving and supportive, not all the town’s inhabitants are, making life difficult for Joey and his family. They deal with intrusive reporters, hate mail and hostility from the townsfolk.
Enter Troy Steele, a reclusive novelist, burned by a greedy, ambitious screenwriter who is the subject of his novels, and with life experiences very similar to Joey’s, and Erica Davis, his feisty and clever assistant. Together they plan to hire Joey as a research assistant for his latest novel. Falling in love wasn’t part of the plan.
What I enjoyed most about this story was watching Joey’s gradual transformation from a sad and pathetic character who was mistreated by his ex-boyfriend to a man who is self-assured and independent, while retaining his innocence, his kindness and his respect for others. I loved Troy’s assistant, Erica, who was instrumental in helping bring Troy out of his shell, bringing the best out of Joey and Troy, and being a good friend.
I enjoyed the brief flashbacks that provided some insight into Joey and Riker’s relationship, and the time Troy and Joey spent working on the novel while learning about each other at the same time. I also loved Troy’s meeting with Joey’s protective father and Cousin Jake’s homebrew that loosens lips.
This was a warm, humorous, and very satisfying story. I can’t wait for the sequel!
*This book was provided by the author via IndiGo Marketing & Design in exchange for an honest review.
After a heartbreaking and intense read (I’m talking to you, Amy Lane), I was ready for lighter fare. Settling the Score contained just the right amount of small-town charm and homey comfort with a dollop of righteous revenge and sweet, slow-burning romance.
In spite of the fact that it took some time for me to warm up to Troy, I was instantly enamored with Joey Nichols, a mechanic in rural Georgia mourning the loss of his boyfriend, Riker Sanderson, a vain (“don’t ever fuck with my hair…”), up and coming star anxious to leave his roots behind and make it big in Hollywood.
As if Riker’s rejection wasn’t enough, Joey is subjected to a cruel and very public outing on television before having a chance to break the news to his family. Though his mom, dad and two sisters are loving and supportive, not all the town’s inhabitants are, making life difficult for Joey and his family. They deal with intrusive reporters, hate mail and hostility from the townsfolk.
Enter Troy Steele, a reclusive novelist, burned by a greedy, ambitious screenwriter who is the subject of his novels, and with life experiences very similar to Joey’s, and Erica Davis, his feisty and clever assistant. Together they plan to hire Joey as a research assistant for his latest novel. Falling in love wasn’t part of the plan.
What I enjoyed most about this story was watching Joey’s gradual transformation from a sad and pathetic character who was mistreated by his ex-boyfriend to a man who is self-assured and independent, while retaining his innocence, his kindness and his respect for others. I loved Troy’s assistant, Erica, who was instrumental in helping bring Troy out of his shell, bringing the best out of Joey and Troy, and being a good friend.
“It’s okay to improve yourself, but don’t let me or anyone else take away who you are.”
I enjoyed the brief flashbacks that provided some insight into Joey and Riker’s relationship, and the time Troy and Joey spent working on the novel while learning about each other at the same time. I also loved Troy’s meeting with Joey’s protective father and Cousin Jake’s homebrew that loosens lips.
This was a warm, humorous, and very satisfying story. I can’t wait for the sequel!
*This book was provided by the author via IndiGo Marketing & Design in exchange for an honest review.
August 16, 2019
Audio - 3.5 Stars
Story - 2.75 Stars
Story - 2.75 Stars
October 10, 2016
This was a nice cozy read, told in dual-POV, it didn't grip me, but I didn't feel like throwing it anywhere either.
So Joey is outed on TV, by his DOUCHE of an ex, Riker. The outing is not all though, Riker is a real piece of work, and I had a hard time accepting that somebody could be SO douchey, and that NOTHING was done for the theft for example.
Joey is a mechanic for his dad's garage in rural-town-america. To say that his gay-nees is not well received, would be an understatement. But Joey has a great family, who's there for him.
The outing of Joey brings the media to his doorstep, and Joey captures Troy's attention.
Troy is a writer of a popular series, that has been made into a movie, where Riker has landed the leading role.
Troy is writing a 'revenge'-book, and when he sees Joey, he sees an opportunity to do some research for his book.
Joey is hired as an 'assistant', put on a diet and exercise-regime, put through a 'make-over' and Troy follows his progress and interviews him.
They have both been burned, and the simple research-thing becomes sort-of complicated, when Troy sees a chance for more than revenge for Joey.
This is a nice slow-burn, the development of their relationship felt 'real', and I liked that they took their time.
The typical crisis around 70-80% is there, and that was annoying, but I chuckled more than a few times, and I liked that they grew as individuals.
I really don't have a lot to say about this book, all-in-all; not a gut-gripping, heart-wrenching book, but a nice slow-burn romance with some laughs and some angst.
So Joey is outed on TV, by his DOUCHE of an ex, Riker. The outing is not all though, Riker is a real piece of work, and I had a hard time accepting that somebody could be SO douchey, and that NOTHING was done for the theft for example.
Joey is a mechanic for his dad's garage in rural-town-america. To say that his gay-nees is not well received, would be an understatement. But Joey has a great family, who's there for him.
The outing of Joey brings the media to his doorstep, and Joey captures Troy's attention.
Troy is a writer of a popular series, that has been made into a movie, where Riker has landed the leading role.
Troy is writing a 'revenge'-book, and when he sees Joey, he sees an opportunity to do some research for his book.
Joey is hired as an 'assistant', put on a diet and exercise-regime, put through a 'make-over' and Troy follows his progress and interviews him.
They have both been burned, and the simple research-thing becomes sort-of complicated, when Troy sees a chance for more than revenge for Joey.
This is a nice slow-burn, the development of their relationship felt 'real', and I liked that they took their time.
The typical crisis around 70-80% is there, and that was annoying, but I chuckled more than a few times, and I liked that they grew as individuals.
I really don't have a lot to say about this book, all-in-all; not a gut-gripping, heart-wrenching book, but a nice slow-burn romance with some laughs and some angst.
April 26, 2017
I love when I can't put a book down once I have started and, with "Settling the Score", it happened. I have been awake till 4 AM last night because I needed to finish it.
This is a beautiful love story between a man who has written 28 books and a guy who never has finished one. The contrast between them seems huge but, as you go along with the story, you realize both are very similar and they complete each other perfectly and, above everything, both are good men who just want to be happy and to be loved.
This is a slow burn MM romance with a southern naïve guy and an educated man who knows betrayal and disappointment first hand. Both main characters are very likable and not perfect at all but, at the same time, I can not say anything bad about them or their behavior, because I loved each one separately and I loved them together.
Is impossible not to feel sorry for Joey since the very beginning. Dumped and outed on national television in front of all his family in a small (and homophobic) southern town. But this is the perfect presentation for him because even in this moment, with all his dreams shattered, he managed to be kind, sweet and honest. Adjectives that characterize him till the end of the book.
I think the thing I loved the most is the inner evolution in Joey. How the shy guy becomes the confident man who wins the cynical writer's heart.
This is a great book. You are gonna smile (a lot). You're gonna feel sympathetic with both characters. Probably you're gonna cry (Oh yeah, I did it a couple of times) and you are gonna enjoy the journey these two started the day they met.
But I have to warn you: If you are expecting a lot of rough sex scenes and dirty talk (things that I absolutely love in a book, don't misunderstand me) this one is not for you. This is a sweet, beautiful story, that leaves you smiling and thinking good people deserves happiness in their lives.
Congratulations Eden Winters! You have a new fan in me!
**This book was provided by the author via IndiGo Marketing & Design in exchange for an honest review.**
Posted on:
This is a beautiful love story between a man who has written 28 books and a guy who never has finished one. The contrast between them seems huge but, as you go along with the story, you realize both are very similar and they complete each other perfectly and, above everything, both are good men who just want to be happy and to be loved.
This is a slow burn MM romance with a southern naïve guy and an educated man who knows betrayal and disappointment first hand. Both main characters are very likable and not perfect at all but, at the same time, I can not say anything bad about them or their behavior, because I loved each one separately and I loved them together.
Is impossible not to feel sorry for Joey since the very beginning. Dumped and outed on national television in front of all his family in a small (and homophobic) southern town. But this is the perfect presentation for him because even in this moment, with all his dreams shattered, he managed to be kind, sweet and honest. Adjectives that characterize him till the end of the book.
I think the thing I loved the most is the inner evolution in Joey. How the shy guy becomes the confident man who wins the cynical writer's heart.
This is a great book. You are gonna smile (a lot). You're gonna feel sympathetic with both characters. Probably you're gonna cry (Oh yeah, I did it a couple of times) and you are gonna enjoy the journey these two started the day they met.
But I have to warn you: If you are expecting a lot of rough sex scenes and dirty talk (things that I absolutely love in a book, don't misunderstand me) this one is not for you. This is a sweet, beautiful story, that leaves you smiling and thinking good people deserves happiness in their lives.
Congratulations Eden Winters! You have a new fan in me!
**This book was provided by the author via IndiGo Marketing & Design in exchange for an honest review.**
Posted on:
June 9, 2012
This is one of my all time favorites. It has everything I could wish for in a story. The sleazy ex, the hurt of betrayal, the wonderful fullfillment of revenge plus the emotional romance.
I laughed, I cried, I ranted at the sleaze bag, I cheered and most of all I fell in love with Joey and Troy.
Eden winters knows just how to spin a story with all the right touches.
A must read for all who love a happy ending.
This story loses nothing in the second time reading.
I laughed, I cried, I ranted at the sleaze bag, I cheered and most of all I fell in love with Joey and Troy.
Eden winters knows just how to spin a story with all the right touches.
A must read for all who love a happy ending.
This story loses nothing in the second time reading.
Read
March 24, 2015DNF at 67%
This book just proves that I shouldn't pick up contemporary romance any longer.
Generally, I try to avoid them, but Settling the Score WAS a finalist of the 24th Annual Lambda Literary Awards in the category Gay Romance and the majority of readers seemed to enjoy it. I decided to give it a try.
The blurb was very promising, the beginning very nice, and I was delighted to read a new version of Pygmalion. Well, my excitement has perceptibly decreased shortly. I was bored to death.
Let me say so: I like the idea itself, but the performance just didn't work for me.
I can live without humour in contemporary romance(though I prefer them with humour), I can accept the alarming naivete of some characters(though I prefer protagonists with IQ higher than 50), I can even enjoy a comfort-plot-a là Disney - if I'm in a proper mood.
But I can't tolerate an absolute absence of any chemistry, any sexual tension between the MCs. Not in romance. Romance draws its lifeblood from it.
It's an easy read, I think that the most of my GR friends most likely will enjoy this book.
It is definitely this it's-me-not-a-book-case.
March 19, 2011
This book kept me up until 3am two nights in a row. It's been almost 20 hours since I finished it and I still can't stop thinking about Joey and Troy. I've been really lucky in my reading lately, because each of the last three books I've read have been amazing, with totally human, totally 3-dimensional characters that have all left me with something to think about. Suffice it to say I loved the book and look forward to reading it again soon.
May 19, 2011
When I saw what this story was about, I was immediately drawn to the idea of a good lover scorned & revenge story. This one starts off really well with insecure, closeted auto mechanic Joey planning to leave his small town & move to California to be with boyfriend Riker, an emerging star in Hollywood. His plan is after settling in, they would both come out as gay to his family & friends. He's afraid of acceptance in the town he currently lives in. But while watching a TV program with his family, Riker not only casually outs Joey as gay, he also says they weren't together anymore as he would be a drag on his career.
Dumped & outed on a national TV, Joey suffers all kinds of repercussions at his home. Some of it seemed extreme to me, even for a small town, especially as this is a town that knows everyone and he's been living there all his life. Everyone other than his family, turns their backs on him & do all kinds of bigoted hateful things. I didn't quite buy this.
Another video also surfaces showing Riker saying more damaging mean things about Joey. We're supposed to believe that Riker's career & reputation skyrockets after this. I definitely didn't believe this would happen. In reality, the video would have made Riker come across as quite the nasty person & would have damaged his reputation & not emboldened it. A public apology would have been in his future (this didn't happen)
Plot points & believability aside, the portrayal of Joey & his family is well done here & I was set up for this sizzling revenge story. You'll notice that I didn't say love story. And this is because the revenge storyline turns out to be less sizzle & more a slow burn. Joey & the other half of the story, Troy, a man seeking revenge for his own reasons, come together and the story just slows down. Joey & Troy really don't have a lot of chemistry in this story & we're 50 to 60 percent into the story before you start seeing an indication they're going to get together. That's not acceptable for a romance book & makes you feel it was mislabeled as one.
In the end, this is a nice, well written story with a very slow build up to revenge & romance. I just wanted more heat for both the love story & revenge plot line.
Dumped & outed on a national TV, Joey suffers all kinds of repercussions at his home. Some of it seemed extreme to me, even for a small town, especially as this is a town that knows everyone and he's been living there all his life. Everyone other than his family, turns their backs on him & do all kinds of bigoted hateful things. I didn't quite buy this.
Another video also surfaces showing Riker saying more damaging mean things about Joey. We're supposed to believe that Riker's career & reputation skyrockets after this. I definitely didn't believe this would happen. In reality, the video would have made Riker come across as quite the nasty person & would have damaged his reputation & not emboldened it. A public apology would have been in his future (this didn't happen)
Plot points & believability aside, the portrayal of Joey & his family is well done here & I was set up for this sizzling revenge story. You'll notice that I didn't say love story. And this is because the revenge storyline turns out to be less sizzle & more a slow burn. Joey & the other half of the story, Troy, a man seeking revenge for his own reasons, come together and the story just slows down. Joey & Troy really don't have a lot of chemistry in this story & we're 50 to 60 percent into the story before you start seeing an indication they're going to get together. That's not acceptable for a romance book & makes you feel it was mislabeled as one.
In the end, this is a nice, well written story with a very slow build up to revenge & romance. I just wanted more heat for both the love story & revenge plot line.
April 11, 2011
I loved this story! Joey was just perfect and the dialect really made it work for me. I kinda wish there was more of it;) Too tired to write a review now, maybe tomorrow. Anyway, I do recommend this one, just like I do other Winters' books.
Okay, today's another day. When you read the blurb you'll probably be intrigued, but it might not pull you to read the story. Honestly, I get bored after first two sentences, but that's just me. What I'm trying to say is, read the book;) Joey can't be described in just a few sentences. He's polite, good, kind and has that damned flaw of believing in one true love. Unfortunately he got stuck with Riker who not only isn't boyfriend material he's someone you'll hate with a passion in just a few chapters.
But even after all the pain and misery Joey still stays the same good guy only with a lot less confidence. In comes Troy who is older, wiser and I would also say bitter. He sees himself in Joey, when he was young and just as naive and decides to help out, with some hidden agendas of course.
Both of them come from very different worlds, and although essentially good, Troy had the taste of Hollywood and it left him a changed man.
What I liked the most about this story was Joey's character. I think he held the whole thing afloat and just for him it's worth reading. The romance part comes in a little late in my opinion and by the end you will want to know more. But the path toward that ending is interesting and fun, so I don't consider that to be a great loss.
It's not the best Winters book but it is pretty great. Go read ;D
Okay, today's another day. When you read the blurb you'll probably be intrigued, but it might not pull you to read the story. Honestly, I get bored after first two sentences, but that's just me. What I'm trying to say is, read the book;) Joey can't be described in just a few sentences. He's polite, good, kind and has that damned flaw of believing in one true love. Unfortunately he got stuck with Riker who not only isn't boyfriend material he's someone you'll hate with a passion in just a few chapters.
But even after all the pain and misery Joey still stays the same good guy only with a lot less confidence. In comes Troy who is older, wiser and I would also say bitter. He sees himself in Joey, when he was young and just as naive and decides to help out, with some hidden agendas of course.
Both of them come from very different worlds, and although essentially good, Troy had the taste of Hollywood and it left him a changed man.
What I liked the most about this story was Joey's character. I think he held the whole thing afloat and just for him it's worth reading. The romance part comes in a little late in my opinion and by the end you will want to know more. But the path toward that ending is interesting and fun, so I don't consider that to be a great loss.
It's not the best Winters book but it is pretty great. Go read ;D
November 8, 2016
Joey, a small-town mechanic, is counting down the days until he can follow his almost-famous actor boyfriend to Hollywood. He's got his plane ticket booked and can't wait to get out of his hometown, where nobody knows he's gay.
Except, the boyfriend not only dumps him, but also outs him during an interview on national TV, a program watched by nearly everyone in the town. Including Joey's family. While he's with them. Luckily, they are supportive and kind, and sort of build a wall around him to protect him from the town's nosiness and backlash. Small town homophobia is alive and well in their neighbors, but Joey's family is steadfast, and not afraid to stand up for him.
Immediately, reporters flock to the small town, wanting to get a scoop, and basically ambush the poor young man, who's heartbroken over this betrayal.
And only realizes that the now ex-boyfriend has also cleaned out his bank accounts, when the town's sheriff pays him a visit.
Somewhere on the South Carolina coast, Troy Steele, aka Oren Keller, knows only too well what Joey is going through. He had his own heartbreak years ago. He's also an author, and just happens to be writing a story that seems to imitate Joey's life, to some extent.
Together with his PA Erica , Troy hatches a plan to offer Joey a way out of the scrutiny - become Troy's personal real-life research project for the book he's writing.
At this point, I was reminded a bit of My Fair Lady, with Joey getting a makeover, being forced to join a gym and work out, and wearing fancier clothes than he's used to. And being offered a chance at pay-back.
However, what may have started out as a revenge plot, for both Troy and Joey, slowly turns into a romance, as the men spend time together, with Joey answering questions about his feelings, and Troy using the answers to work on his book.
The author gave them lots of time to fall in love, and this is a rather slow burn story. There are very few steamy scenes, which worked really well here. Joey isn't someone who'd fall in bed with another man immediately, and Troy is still, after many years, wary of letting anyone into his heart.
I loved Erica. She pressures Troy into joining Joey at the gym, something that wasn't in their original agreement, and is overall a really great character. She doesn't take crap from Troy either, and was basically a force to be reckoned with. So fun!
Eden Winters always delivers. Her characters are complex and fully fleshed out. Her books have to be read slowly, because there are so many subtle undertones that are easily missed.
There are humorous elements too, one scene specifically late in the book where Big Joe plies Troy/Oren with his special brand of moonshine, that had me howling with laughter, though I giggled quite a bit throughout the book.
I loved Joey and Troy/Oren both. Joey is kind, trusting, and just so sweet - I wanted to wrap him in a hug most of the time. Troy/Oren is a bit prickly early on, primarily because he's been hurt so bad, and betrayed by his former lover, and doesn't trust easily anymore, but he softens over the course of the book, and comes to find that revenge is no longer all that he's after.
Troy's plan offers Joey a chance to get even with the ex, something that Joey is partially looking forward to, and partially questioning. There's anger simmering underneath the nice demeanor, and he eventually gets to say what's he's been wanting to say.
And even Troy gets his revenge, too.
A truly delightful story, and one that I enjoyed quite a bit. Eden Winters has a very distinct writing style, one well suited to this kind of story. The plot flows nicely, without any lulls or big time jumps, and there was something interesting happening on each page, whether it was a humorous moment, such as Troy in the gym, complaining, or a more somber moment, such as Joey dealing with the fallout from his ex's betrayal, and his worry how being outed was impacting his family.
Recommended.
** I received a free copy of this book as part of a blogtour from Indigo Marketing and Design. A review was not promised in return. **
Except, the boyfriend not only dumps him, but also outs him during an interview on national TV, a program watched by nearly everyone in the town. Including Joey's family. While he's with them. Luckily, they are supportive and kind, and sort of build a wall around him to protect him from the town's nosiness and backlash. Small town homophobia is alive and well in their neighbors, but Joey's family is steadfast, and not afraid to stand up for him.
Immediately, reporters flock to the small town, wanting to get a scoop, and basically ambush the poor young man, who's heartbroken over this betrayal.
And only realizes that the now ex-boyfriend has also cleaned out his bank accounts, when the town's sheriff pays him a visit.
Somewhere on the South Carolina coast, Troy Steele, aka Oren Keller, knows only too well what Joey is going through. He had his own heartbreak years ago. He's also an author, and just happens to be writing a story that seems to imitate Joey's life, to some extent.
Together with his PA Erica , Troy hatches a plan to offer Joey a way out of the scrutiny - become Troy's personal real-life research project for the book he's writing.
At this point, I was reminded a bit of My Fair Lady, with Joey getting a makeover, being forced to join a gym and work out, and wearing fancier clothes than he's used to. And being offered a chance at pay-back.
However, what may have started out as a revenge plot, for both Troy and Joey, slowly turns into a romance, as the men spend time together, with Joey answering questions about his feelings, and Troy using the answers to work on his book.
The author gave them lots of time to fall in love, and this is a rather slow burn story. There are very few steamy scenes, which worked really well here. Joey isn't someone who'd fall in bed with another man immediately, and Troy is still, after many years, wary of letting anyone into his heart.
I loved Erica. She pressures Troy into joining Joey at the gym, something that wasn't in their original agreement, and is overall a really great character. She doesn't take crap from Troy either, and was basically a force to be reckoned with. So fun!
Eden Winters always delivers. Her characters are complex and fully fleshed out. Her books have to be read slowly, because there are so many subtle undertones that are easily missed.
There are humorous elements too, one scene specifically late in the book where Big Joe plies Troy/Oren with his special brand of moonshine, that had me howling with laughter, though I giggled quite a bit throughout the book.
I loved Joey and Troy/Oren both. Joey is kind, trusting, and just so sweet - I wanted to wrap him in a hug most of the time. Troy/Oren is a bit prickly early on, primarily because he's been hurt so bad, and betrayed by his former lover, and doesn't trust easily anymore, but he softens over the course of the book, and comes to find that revenge is no longer all that he's after.
Troy's plan offers Joey a chance to get even with the ex, something that Joey is partially looking forward to, and partially questioning. There's anger simmering underneath the nice demeanor, and he eventually gets to say what's he's been wanting to say.
And even Troy gets his revenge, too.
A truly delightful story, and one that I enjoyed quite a bit. Eden Winters has a very distinct writing style, one well suited to this kind of story. The plot flows nicely, without any lulls or big time jumps, and there was something interesting happening on each page, whether it was a humorous moment, such as Troy in the gym, complaining, or a more somber moment, such as Joey dealing with the fallout from his ex's betrayal, and his worry how being outed was impacting his family.
Recommended.
** I received a free copy of this book as part of a blogtour from Indigo Marketing and Design. A review was not promised in return. **
March 6, 2017
This is a story reminiscent of Pygmalion, an all time favorite of mine.
Joey is a young gay man living in a tiny town. It's no big surprise that he is targeted by a smooth and slick user the first time he ventures into a gay bar in a nearby city. It is, however, surprising that after his life is destroyed by that user, he is also targeted by a rich and famous author to use as fodder for his current book and a bit of revenge on an arch nemesis.
While Joey is an upfront character with all of his true nature laid bare upfront, author Troy is revealed slowly throughout the story, thin layer after thin layer pulled away until eventually we see who he really is.
There were many important characters in this story. Each vivid in his/her own way. But there is one which could be considered a third MC. Erica is Troy's assistant. Their relationship is a sight to see. They fit together so perfectly. I'd go as far as to say they love each other. It's a platonic love since Troy is gay but still a strong and memorable relationship.
I enjoyed reading this super slow-burn romance that reminded me of the awesome My Fair Lady.
ARC for review kindly provided by IndiGo Marketing & Design
Joey is a young gay man living in a tiny town. It's no big surprise that he is targeted by a smooth and slick user the first time he ventures into a gay bar in a nearby city. It is, however, surprising that after his life is destroyed by that user, he is also targeted by a rich and famous author to use as fodder for his current book and a bit of revenge on an arch nemesis.
While Joey is an upfront character with all of his true nature laid bare upfront, author Troy is revealed slowly throughout the story, thin layer after thin layer pulled away until eventually we see who he really is.
There were many important characters in this story. Each vivid in his/her own way. But there is one which could be considered a third MC. Erica is Troy's assistant. Their relationship is a sight to see. They fit together so perfectly. I'd go as far as to say they love each other. It's a platonic love since Troy is gay but still a strong and memorable relationship.
I enjoyed reading this super slow-burn romance that reminded me of the awesome My Fair Lady.
ARC for review kindly provided by IndiGo Marketing & Design
September 28, 2015
This was ok. The story was pretty predictable, what with the poor country boy getting screwed over by the ambitious and fame-hungry cad of a boyfriend. Then throw in the revenge plot, and it just got to be over the top. But I do have to say that Joey, our poor country boy who cleaned up and got his act together, was charming and sweet. And I do enjoy a sweet country boy every now and then.
September 29, 2021
I was surprised at how off the writing felt, considering the other two book I've read by this author were 4 star reads... It was just kind of clunky and clumsy and not at all what I expected. Then again, the last time I read this author was 8 years ago and tastes (and standards!) change, and that's a good thing. The plot also felt *a bit* over the top. But I didn't hate it. 2.5 stars
June 7, 2012
Ahhhh - there's something about a book where the slutty, despicable ex gets his comeuppance at the end. I just can never get enough of that theme and I don't even have any exes that I personally feel that way about.
Joey Nichols is thrilled to be starting his life. His boyfriend is making a movie in Hollywood and Joey is all set to fly out to be with him and live their lives as an out and happy couple. When he sees a televised interview days before his flight (that he used his savings for), his craptastic boyfriend dumps him and outs him on nationwide TV. Then he reads in the tabloids that his boyfriend has moved on. Saddened, Joey must now deal with the bigotry of living in a small town where his sexual preferences are now known to everyone he has grown up with.
Troy Steele is an author that has lived a very private life after he was burned by an ex-lover who stole some of his earlier book rights. When he sees Joey on TV and realizes that Joey's ex is now involved with the man who burned Troy years ago, Troy hatches a plan to get some revenge.
I thought this was a wonderful book. More so because neither Joey or Troy were gorgeous, hunky protagonists. Joey is a somewhat chubby, blue-collar, small town boy whose naivete and trust opens him up easily to heartbreak. Troy is a man with a past he can't forget or outrun - betrayed by a man he loved years ago. Troy is not handsome, but Joey is attracted to the man and even as Joey works out and has a make-over as part of their joint revenge scheme, he never feels that Troy isn't good looking enough for him. This is the biggest reason why I loved Joey's sweet, loyal character.
I thought this was a great book with a really fun storyline. The revenge scheme was interesting, but in the end, revenge isn't as important as opening yourself up again for love.
Joey Nichols is thrilled to be starting his life. His boyfriend is making a movie in Hollywood and Joey is all set to fly out to be with him and live their lives as an out and happy couple. When he sees a televised interview days before his flight (that he used his savings for), his craptastic boyfriend dumps him and outs him on nationwide TV. Then he reads in the tabloids that his boyfriend has moved on. Saddened, Joey must now deal with the bigotry of living in a small town where his sexual preferences are now known to everyone he has grown up with.
Troy Steele is an author that has lived a very private life after he was burned by an ex-lover who stole some of his earlier book rights. When he sees Joey on TV and realizes that Joey's ex is now involved with the man who burned Troy years ago, Troy hatches a plan to get some revenge.
I thought this was a wonderful book. More so because neither Joey or Troy were gorgeous, hunky protagonists. Joey is a somewhat chubby, blue-collar, small town boy whose naivete and trust opens him up easily to heartbreak. Troy is a man with a past he can't forget or outrun - betrayed by a man he loved years ago. Troy is not handsome, but Joey is attracted to the man and even as Joey works out and has a make-over as part of their joint revenge scheme, he never feels that Troy isn't good looking enough for him. This is the biggest reason why I loved Joey's sweet, loyal character.
I thought this was a great book with a really fun storyline. The revenge scheme was interesting, but in the end, revenge isn't as important as opening yourself up again for love.
April 27, 2013
Pygmalion type story.
We have Joey, a small town mechanic, who is going to move to Hollywood to be with his up-and-coming movie star boyfriend. Unfortunately, Joey has the rug pulled out from under him when the actor dumps him on national television. He's also outed to his family and everyone else watching the program. This puts Joey in the spotlight and under pretty intense and uncomfortable scrutiny as reporters flock to get his side of the story and his hometown reacts to the big reveal.
In walks Professor Higgins or Troy Steele, writer extraordinaire. Troy, the former Oren Keller, had his own makeover years ago. He's writing a story that's similar enough to Joey's that he makes the offer for Joey to be sort of a living research project.
There's a great cast of characters here. Troy's assistant Erica was a particular highlight for me.
While there is a makeover angle here it's amusing that Troy is pressured by his assistant to join Joey in the gym.
There's a really great build up to the Joey/Troy relationship. The sex is minimal and that really works with this story. Fun build up of the story as Joey and Troy each grow up and move past things that have been holding them back.
If you're looking for a sweet story that has a strong friends to lovers element with strong secondary characters give this one a try. There's a definite Cinderfella angle here as Joey and Troy both confront their past.
We have Joey, a small town mechanic, who is going to move to Hollywood to be with his up-and-coming movie star boyfriend. Unfortunately, Joey has the rug pulled out from under him when the actor dumps him on national television. He's also outed to his family and everyone else watching the program. This puts Joey in the spotlight and under pretty intense and uncomfortable scrutiny as reporters flock to get his side of the story and his hometown reacts to the big reveal.
In walks Professor Higgins or Troy Steele, writer extraordinaire. Troy, the former Oren Keller, had his own makeover years ago. He's writing a story that's similar enough to Joey's that he makes the offer for Joey to be sort of a living research project.
There's a great cast of characters here. Troy's assistant Erica was a particular highlight for me.
While there is a makeover angle here it's amusing that Troy is pressured by his assistant to join Joey in the gym.
There's a really great build up to the Joey/Troy relationship. The sex is minimal and that really works with this story. Fun build up of the story as Joey and Troy each grow up and move past things that have been holding them back.
If you're looking for a sweet story that has a strong friends to lovers element with strong secondary characters give this one a try. There's a definite Cinderfella angle here as Joey and Troy both confront their past.
September 19, 2019
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
This story is a fun homage to My Fair Lady with a little more romance, a lot more smut, and a dash of revenge. It’s as light as whipped cream and twice as sweet. Like Eliza, Joey has a distinctive accent and could use a little tidying up, but other than the gym and a haircut, he doesn’t need any help turning from farmboy to hero. Joey may be from a small town, but he’s not willing to sacrifice any part of himself or his self respect, even if it costs him his revenge. While Joey wants closure, he doesn’t want to hurt Riker, he doesn’t want to ruin him or destroy him. He just wants … well, an apology would be nice.
Troy let the world change him. He let them change his name, let a publicist tell the world what music he liked, what food, what books and entertainment, and said nothing about it. He’s let himself become a character in a book, but only now is he deciding to do a little re-writing, especially when he sits with Joey and realizes he liked who he was before. He can’t get Oren back, but being with Joey helps him find his center, helps him find his heart again.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
This story is a fun homage to My Fair Lady with a little more romance, a lot more smut, and a dash of revenge. It’s as light as whipped cream and twice as sweet. Like Eliza, Joey has a distinctive accent and could use a little tidying up, but other than the gym and a haircut, he doesn’t need any help turning from farmboy to hero. Joey may be from a small town, but he’s not willing to sacrifice any part of himself or his self respect, even if it costs him his revenge. While Joey wants closure, he doesn’t want to hurt Riker, he doesn’t want to ruin him or destroy him. He just wants … well, an apology would be nice.
Troy let the world change him. He let them change his name, let a publicist tell the world what music he liked, what food, what books and entertainment, and said nothing about it. He’s let himself become a character in a book, but only now is he deciding to do a little re-writing, especially when he sits with Joey and realizes he liked who he was before. He can’t get Oren back, but being with Joey helps him find his center, helps him find his heart again.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
February 24, 2014
This is why I dig through my favorite authors' backlists from time to time. So happy I found this one. Eden is such a force. I just love everything she does and how subtle some of her characters are. Great read. Recommended, especially if you like a slow burner.
February 4, 2024
Eden Winters' Settling the Score is actually pretty amusing. It's a real slow-burn, opposites attract romance with all kinds of interesting characters and wild situations.
The audiobook is narrated by Joseph Morgan whose dry delivery and slightly gruff voice really adds to the humorous moments. I enjoyed this one.
an audiobook copy of Settling the Score was provided to me for the purpose of my honest review, all opinions are my own
The audiobook is narrated by Joseph Morgan whose dry delivery and slightly gruff voice really adds to the humorous moments. I enjoyed this one.
an audiobook copy of Settling the Score was provided to me for the purpose of my honest review, all opinions are my own
March 12, 2011
Very good m/m romance about a small-town mechanic whose formerly small-town, now Hollywood actor boyfriend dumps and outs him on national television. A Pygmalionesque story unfolds after that, as the mechanic goes to work for a bestselling author with his own axe to grind.
My only real problem with the book was a personal one - I always get frustrated by books that use dialect; instead of immersing me, the dialect kept jolting me out of the book.
My only real problem with the book was a personal one - I always get frustrated by books that use dialect; instead of immersing me, the dialect kept jolting me out of the book.
November 21, 2016
Maybe it's the mood I've been in recently, not sure... But 4.5 sweet stars rounded up. Hopefully, I'll have a review up soon.
May 29, 2018
Took me long enough but I finally got to read this. Eden Winters became a favorite of mine with the Diversion series and even made me enjoy her erotic shifter story. I really liked this, although I can’t say I every fully “got” Troy. So much of his motivation wasn’t completely revealed until late in the book. Nevertheless, I liked the way everything worked between Troy and Joey. Loved Joey’s wholesome, country boy done wrong personality. The way he was shown handling and reacting to everything he was subjected to was spot-on. The revenge against Riker and Ian were given appropriate retribution.
I’d love to read a sequel for this because poor Kez was left hanging, after all the page time he had with Joey. Joey wouldn’t have forgotten him or Roxanne. A solid HEA would be great too. Quite fun.
I’d love to read a sequel for this because poor Kez was left hanging, after all the page time he had with Joey. Joey wouldn’t have forgotten him or Roxanne. A solid HEA would be great too. Quite fun.
March 27, 2011
Joey Nichols is hoping for a new life, away from his small Georgia town at the side of his love, former smalltown boy and now up-and-coming Hollywood star Riker. How bitterly disillusioned is he when his boyfriend casually annonces the end of their relationship over prime time TV. What's worse, Joey has to learn about Riker's two-timing from the tabloid press; Riker's snide remarks about Joey are all over the internet for everyone to see. In the middle of being shunned by half his hometown and having insults and eggs hurled at him for being gay, Joey finds remarkable support from his family. A stubborn lot, the Nichols's prepare to ride out the wave of rejection, enduring hardships out of their love for Joey, which only adds to Joey's shame and embarrassment.
Troy Steele is a successful writer who had his books made into even more successful movies. But his success came at a high price: in order to fit in with the persona his publicists created for him, Troy allowed himself changed out of recognition. Estranged even from himself and still smarting from his former lover Ian's betrayal, which once broke up a wonderful relationship for him, Troy leads the life of a recluse, turning into a bitter old man at only thirty - eight.
This changes when Troy and his PA Erica watch Joey's day of humiliation on TV. Quick - witted, calculating, firecely loyal Erica immediately recognizes Joey's potential as a means of retaliation. What's more, his fate happens to match the new book Troy is currently writing, and Joey promises first - class research material. They end up offering Joey a chance to "reveal his inner swan" as Erica puts it, and with a little coaxing, Joey accepts.
As the weeks go by, Troy finds himself more and more taken by his new assistant and reseach object. There is so much more to Joey than meets the eye. Alongside Joey, Troy changes, not only on his outward appearance, but also in his view of life and in the order of his priorities. But then Troy's conscience kicks in: in using Joey for his personal revenge, is he any better than Riker or Ian? Before he can tell Joey the truth, though, Joey finds out on his own and leaves. Now Troy has to come up with an equivalent of diamonds and flowers good enough to reconcile him with his down-to-earth auto mechanic.
This book was a real treat to read, a brilliant and originate take on the old Pygmalion theme. The story gripped me from the start and took me on a wonderful ride into the ideal world. Who wouldn't wish for a world where both the bad and the good harvest what they sow in spades? The beauty of this particular tale lay in the fact that it turned its fairytale-ish concept into something that could have actually happened for real. Both Troy and Joey were no fairy-tale princes who had their happiness fall into their laps, they had to figure out what they wanted first and then to work hard for it. They were real human beings, with flaws, weaknesses and quirks, they made consequential mistakes, hurt others out of thoughtlessness and selfishness and still had enough inner goodness and conscience to realize where they had erred and go about righting their wrongs. They were two of the most human, most likeable characters I've met lately in fiction, perfect examples of Eden Winter's incredible skill with characterization. The secondary cast was just as perfect, down to minor characters like bully Chuck and hypocritically friendly neighbor Andrew. I particularly loved Joey's family - not the picture-perfect American family at all, but unwavering in their love and loyalty for Joey and perfect where it counted. The only less than real character was Erica, although also one of the most likeable - she was a bit over the top in her fairy-godmotherhood, but I could easily forgive her since she was exactly what Troy and Joey needed, and boy, did that tiny pixie pack a punch!
The wonderful characterizations, the sparkling dialogue and the great, easily flowing writing easily made up for the occasionally quite far-fetched plot. The entire tale breathed heartfelt honesty, down to the last little piece of dialect worked in, down to the stark reality of our media-ridden world where everyone's deepest secrets can be dragged to light over the internet or TV, laid bare for anyone to trample on.
A book that went immediately to my keeper shelf, to be pulled out and read again and again. Heartily, thoroughly recommended.
Troy Steele is a successful writer who had his books made into even more successful movies. But his success came at a high price: in order to fit in with the persona his publicists created for him, Troy allowed himself changed out of recognition. Estranged even from himself and still smarting from his former lover Ian's betrayal, which once broke up a wonderful relationship for him, Troy leads the life of a recluse, turning into a bitter old man at only thirty - eight.
This changes when Troy and his PA Erica watch Joey's day of humiliation on TV. Quick - witted, calculating, firecely loyal Erica immediately recognizes Joey's potential as a means of retaliation. What's more, his fate happens to match the new book Troy is currently writing, and Joey promises first - class research material. They end up offering Joey a chance to "reveal his inner swan" as Erica puts it, and with a little coaxing, Joey accepts.
As the weeks go by, Troy finds himself more and more taken by his new assistant and reseach object. There is so much more to Joey than meets the eye. Alongside Joey, Troy changes, not only on his outward appearance, but also in his view of life and in the order of his priorities. But then Troy's conscience kicks in: in using Joey for his personal revenge, is he any better than Riker or Ian? Before he can tell Joey the truth, though, Joey finds out on his own and leaves. Now Troy has to come up with an equivalent of diamonds and flowers good enough to reconcile him with his down-to-earth auto mechanic.
This book was a real treat to read, a brilliant and originate take on the old Pygmalion theme. The story gripped me from the start and took me on a wonderful ride into the ideal world. Who wouldn't wish for a world where both the bad and the good harvest what they sow in spades? The beauty of this particular tale lay in the fact that it turned its fairytale-ish concept into something that could have actually happened for real. Both Troy and Joey were no fairy-tale princes who had their happiness fall into their laps, they had to figure out what they wanted first and then to work hard for it. They were real human beings, with flaws, weaknesses and quirks, they made consequential mistakes, hurt others out of thoughtlessness and selfishness and still had enough inner goodness and conscience to realize where they had erred and go about righting their wrongs. They were two of the most human, most likeable characters I've met lately in fiction, perfect examples of Eden Winter's incredible skill with characterization. The secondary cast was just as perfect, down to minor characters like bully Chuck and hypocritically friendly neighbor Andrew. I particularly loved Joey's family - not the picture-perfect American family at all, but unwavering in their love and loyalty for Joey and perfect where it counted. The only less than real character was Erica, although also one of the most likeable - she was a bit over the top in her fairy-godmotherhood, but I could easily forgive her since she was exactly what Troy and Joey needed, and boy, did that tiny pixie pack a punch!
The wonderful characterizations, the sparkling dialogue and the great, easily flowing writing easily made up for the occasionally quite far-fetched plot. The entire tale breathed heartfelt honesty, down to the last little piece of dialect worked in, down to the stark reality of our media-ridden world where everyone's deepest secrets can be dragged to light over the internet or TV, laid bare for anyone to trample on.
A book that went immediately to my keeper shelf, to be pulled out and read again and again. Heartily, thoroughly recommended.
January 18, 2013
I was not sure about this book at first. It was kind of I'll read it and see what I think, to be honest I was not expecting much at all. But this book really did impress me. I loved it. From the beginning of the book which had me wanting to punch Ryker in the face, to the ending where I was happily cheering.
I loved Joey. I just had to say that. He was such a sweet loving and somewhat foolish character. His naivety was endearing to me and I just wanted to give him a big hug through about 70% of this book. He just really needed a good cuddle a lot of the time. He was such a refreshing character to read about. There was nothing fancy about him. And Troy described him correctly as the most down to earth person. That was one thing he really did get right.
Troy, well he was a character I learned to fall in love with. By the end I had gotten there. But there were some parts I was not really that in love with him. He had his own issues and I did feel sorry for him after his reveal. It was kind of sad to see what the man had become. And although I was angry with him it did not last long. I couldn't stop laughing at that.
Overall I would recommend this book highly. It will not be for everybody. But it definitely was for me. :)
I loved Joey. I just had to say that. He was such a sweet loving and somewhat foolish character. His naivety was endearing to me and I just wanted to give him a big hug through about 70% of this book. He just really needed a good cuddle a lot of the time. He was such a refreshing character to read about. There was nothing fancy about him. And Troy described him correctly as the most down to earth person. That was one thing he really did get right.
Troy, well he was a character I learned to fall in love with. By the end I had gotten there. But there were some parts I was not really that in love with him. He had his own issues and I did feel sorry for him after his reveal. It was kind of sad to see what the man had become. And although I was angry with him it did not last long. I couldn't stop laughing at that.
Overall I would recommend this book highly. It will not be for everybody. But it definitely was for me. :)
October 11, 2016
-4 stars-
*Arc provided via IndiGo Publishing and Design*
This was a surprise, one that I rather enjoyed.
As the blurb suggests, joey, a mechanic from a small southern town, gets outed and then dumped by his actor boyfriend on national TV. As expected, this doesn't go to well in his small town, and he gets a horrible time, thank god for his extremely supportive family. Enter Troy, a famous writer and his assistant Erica. Troy recognises his own story, especially considering Joeys now ex is dating the person who did wrong to him. He and Erica decide to take Joey on, 'bettering' him so he can get back at his ex. I like that even though Joey made a lot of physical changes, he still remained a true southern boy. He never lost who he was inside. Erica encourages Troy to make the same physical changes, and the two men become close in their venture for revenge. What they didn't expect though was to find love with each other. It's not all smooth sailing, their are some lies, some confusion, and anger, but overall a lovely slow burn story, with a focus on the fact that real beauty comes from within. Great book, recommend.
*Arc provided via IndiGo Publishing and Design*
This was a surprise, one that I rather enjoyed.
As the blurb suggests, joey, a mechanic from a small southern town, gets outed and then dumped by his actor boyfriend on national TV. As expected, this doesn't go to well in his small town, and he gets a horrible time, thank god for his extremely supportive family. Enter Troy, a famous writer and his assistant Erica. Troy recognises his own story, especially considering Joeys now ex is dating the person who did wrong to him. He and Erica decide to take Joey on, 'bettering' him so he can get back at his ex. I like that even though Joey made a lot of physical changes, he still remained a true southern boy. He never lost who he was inside. Erica encourages Troy to make the same physical changes, and the two men become close in their venture for revenge. What they didn't expect though was to find love with each other. It's not all smooth sailing, their are some lies, some confusion, and anger, but overall a lovely slow burn story, with a focus on the fact that real beauty comes from within. Great book, recommend.
July 10, 2013
I do love a story where the characters are not perfect, but in the end come out on top and this story delivered that. I felt so bad for Joey in the beginning, but even though he was insecure in the beginning he was such a strong person and he just needed to find that within himself. Troy was perfect for him because he understood him since he had gone through the same thing, but had let his experience effect him so much more. These two belonged together. This story is makes you laugh in parts and angry in parts where you just want very bad things to happen to Riker. A very enjoyable read.
April 30, 2011
another good read by Eden Winters, I really enjoyed this book. Nothing like a lover scorned and getting a bit of pay back. I realy like Joey and Troy hope there is more of them.
July 5, 2021
If the "straight man pretends to be a gay stereotype to earn money as a hairdresser" wasn't bad enough, the character saying "I have no issues with so and so being gay because I have gay friends" sent my soul tearing out of my body to go yeet itself into the sun.
March 5, 2012
My thoughts about this book?
I like it... a lot!!!!!
... but can't give more than 3 stars.
The plot attract me right away when I read the blurb. And it didn't disappointed me. Joey is a mechanic in a very "old fashion" city... that means, a city where no one can come out of the closet thinking nothing will happen. His love for his family and his fear for the consequences of his sexual orientation made me love him right away
I love tormented heroes, so of course Joey didn't disappointed me.
Yeah, as you can imagine, Joey is not a flamboyant gay... absolutely no... He is deeeeeep in the closet and his plans are to keep everything like that. Secret dating his best friend, going out to dance and hang out faaaar from his city... keep his true self hided. BUT (there is always a but to ruin everything
,no?) Joey will not see his plans concrete. He want to move out of his city, live with his boyfriend and literally get the hell out there, to be free, to be himself... and well... things are certainly not like that. Destiny will make Joey be outed... in TV... for the whole city astonishment.
So yes, that's how this story begin.. and it's not a spoiler, it's what will happen immediately after some pages.
The main couple is everything but an instant love. Someone will be interested in Joey... his name is Troy.
Troy is a writer and his interest in Joey is not only to have a man as model to his next novel/screenplay. Troy want also to see Joey happy again, and to transform him in someone different... and that was my first problem in the story.
Some parts, Joey trying to lose his south accent, and his behave are such a pity. I will not spoil saying how things will go (if Joey will see he can be himself, also about his behave and way of talk)... I just was sad, reading Joey almost ashamed of his origin.
So, if I like so much why 3 not 5 stars?
Well, I kid you not... I really like this story. The humor, the secondary character (Erica, Troy's assistant) is WONDERFUL, and well, it's a very romantic story... but...even if I think the "evil plan" (not so evil... More like a payback) is kind of too tiring... Almost boring.
Up to half book this story had my full attention, but after a while I start to be tired of all the ways to get the main characters vendetta.
If the story were more "dynamic" without so much plotting probably I would like it more.
But let me repeated, I think it's a personal opinion, maybe it's just me. I really would like more action, more facts.
Anyway, funny and great writing, so certainly it get my 3 stars!
Edit
I'm editing this review to add two links.
The free prologue (very interesting... Erica POV... I like it!
and
The sweet epilogue
Don't miss the epilogue after you read the book... soooo... romantic *sigh*
I like it... a lot!!!!!
The plot attract me right away when I read the blurb. And it didn't disappointed me. Joey is a mechanic in a very "old fashion" city... that means, a city where no one can come out of the closet thinking nothing will happen. His love for his family and his fear for the consequences of his sexual orientation made me love him right away
Yeah, as you can imagine, Joey is not a flamboyant gay... absolutely no... He is deeeeeep in the closet and his plans are to keep everything like that. Secret dating his best friend, going out to dance and hang out faaaar from his city... keep his true self hided. BUT (there is always a but to ruin everything
So yes, that's how this story begin.. and it's not a spoiler, it's what will happen immediately after some pages.
The main couple is everything but an instant love. Someone will be interested in Joey... his name is Troy.
Troy is a writer and his interest in Joey is not only to have a man as model to his next novel/screenplay. Troy want also to see Joey happy again, and to transform him in someone different... and that was my first problem in the story.
Some parts, Joey trying to lose his south accent, and his behave are such a pity. I will not spoil saying how things will go (if Joey will see he can be himself, also about his behave and way of talk)... I just was sad, reading Joey almost ashamed of his origin.
So, if I like so much why 3 not 5 stars?
Well, I kid you not... I really like this story. The humor, the secondary character (Erica, Troy's assistant) is WONDERFUL, and well, it's a very romantic story... but...even if I think the "evil plan" (not so evil... More like a payback) is kind of too tiring... Almost boring.
Up to half book this story had my full attention, but after a while I start to be tired of all the ways to get the main characters vendetta.
If the story were more "dynamic" without so much plotting probably I would like it more.
But let me repeated, I think it's a personal opinion, maybe it's just me. I really would like more action, more facts.
Anyway, funny and great writing, so certainly it get my 3 stars!
Edit
I'm editing this review to add two links.
The free prologue (very interesting... Erica POV... I like it!
and
The sweet epilogue
Don't miss the epilogue after you read the book... soooo... romantic *sigh*
June 6, 2012
4.5 stars
This a tale of revenge, yet it also shows that sometimes, the price of revenge may be more than you're willing to pay.
Joey, a small-town mechanic, is in love with Riker, a young actor just breaking into Hollywood. For 2 years, they had lived together in Joey's apartment (under the guise of roommates for Joey's family and town), with Joey staying behind to work in his family's business while Riker was in Hollywood shooting a movie. About a week before he's due to re-join with Riker in Hollywood, leaving his homophobic town behind him, he is watching a TV interview with his boyfriend. He is filled with shock and heartbreak as Riker proceeds to publicly dump him on TV, while simultaneously outing him to his family and town. His pain is compounded when, just after the TV show ends, there is a knock at the door. Opening the door, he is devastated and bewildered to find a flock of reporters waiting for him.
His reaction - his pain and anguish - is promptly reported by these vultures, and the footage captures the interest of Troy Steele. Troy, a writer who has his own grudge to bear against the Ian, the producer of Riker's new film (and seems to be Riker's new boyfriend.), hatches a plan. The plan involves hiring Joey and if all goes to plan, will allow both Joey and himself the revenge they desire against there former partners.
This is a convoluted story that is well executed by Winters. It covers Joey's pain at Riker's betrayal, and his confusion at Troy's scheme. It also shows how revenge can spiral out of control, making one lose sight of the important things in life. This is definitely a keeper...
This a tale of revenge, yet it also shows that sometimes, the price of revenge may be more than you're willing to pay.
Joey, a small-town mechanic, is in love with Riker, a young actor just breaking into Hollywood. For 2 years, they had lived together in Joey's apartment (under the guise of roommates for Joey's family and town), with Joey staying behind to work in his family's business while Riker was in Hollywood shooting a movie. About a week before he's due to re-join with Riker in Hollywood, leaving his homophobic town behind him, he is watching a TV interview with his boyfriend. He is filled with shock and heartbreak as Riker proceeds to publicly dump him on TV, while simultaneously outing him to his family and town. His pain is compounded when, just after the TV show ends, there is a knock at the door. Opening the door, he is devastated and bewildered to find a flock of reporters waiting for him.
His reaction - his pain and anguish - is promptly reported by these vultures, and the footage captures the interest of Troy Steele. Troy, a writer who has his own grudge to bear against the Ian, the producer of Riker's new film (and seems to be Riker's new boyfriend.), hatches a plan. The plan involves hiring Joey and if all goes to plan, will allow both Joey and himself the revenge they desire against there former partners.
This is a convoluted story that is well executed by Winters. It covers Joey's pain at Riker's betrayal, and his confusion at Troy's scheme. It also shows how revenge can spiral out of control, making one lose sight of the important things in life. This is definitely a keeper...
April 7, 2011
After reading the blurb for Settling the Score, it seemed like it would be the ultimate revenge story crossed with an Ugly Duckling tale. You had the perfect set-up for an intense plot as Joey emerges from his shell all the while seeking retribution on his vain ex-boyfriend, Riker. And while I enjoyed Joey’s transformation into a beautiful swan, the payback portion of the book did not reach its full potential as promised by the blurb and the plot.
The main issue with the book was that the two main characters, Joey and Troy, did not have any chemistry. I wanted them to sizzle, but their scenes together felt forced. However, the bright shinning light in the book was the secondary character of Erica, Troy’s assistant and Joey’s make-over guru; she was so utterly delightful that she stole the show from the two protagonists. I don’t read many m/f romances these days, but I would buy Erica’s story if Ms. Winters ever wrote it. Yes, Erica was that memorable!
In the past, I have read Eden Winters’ books and have enjoyed them immensely as she is a very gifted writer, but regrettably this novel did not grab me the way The Angel of 13th Street did. Because the writing is solid, I can recommend it if you are interested in reading a May-December romance with a HEA. 3 stars.
Dark Divas Reviews
The main issue with the book was that the two main characters, Joey and Troy, did not have any chemistry. I wanted them to sizzle, but their scenes together felt forced. However, the bright shinning light in the book was the secondary character of Erica, Troy’s assistant and Joey’s make-over guru; she was so utterly delightful that she stole the show from the two protagonists. I don’t read many m/f romances these days, but I would buy Erica’s story if Ms. Winters ever wrote it. Yes, Erica was that memorable!
In the past, I have read Eden Winters’ books and have enjoyed them immensely as she is a very gifted writer, but regrettably this novel did not grab me the way The Angel of 13th Street did. Because the writing is solid, I can recommend it if you are interested in reading a May-December romance with a HEA. 3 stars.
Dark Divas Reviews
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