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Johnnies #2
Dex in Blue
Ten years ago David Worral had plans to go to college and the potential for a beautiful future in front of him. One tragic accident later, he fled to California and reinvented himself as Dex, top porn model of Johnnies.
Dex’s life is a tangled mess now, but the guys he works with only see the man who makes them believe even porn stars can lead normal lives. When Kane, one of Dex’s coworkers, gets kicked out of his house, the least Dex can do is give him a place to stay. Kane may be a hyperactive muscle-bound psycho, but he’s also a really nice guy. What could be the harm?
Except nothing is simple—not sex, not love, and not the goofy kid with the big dick and bigger heart who moves his life into Dex’s guest room. When they start negotiating fractured pasts and broken friends, Dex wonders if Kane’s honest nature can untangle the sadness that stalled his once-promising future. With Kane by his side, Dex just might be able to reclaim the boy he once was—and if he can do that, he can give Kane the home and the family he deserves.
Dex’s life is a tangled mess now, but the guys he works with only see the man who makes them believe even porn stars can lead normal lives. When Kane, one of Dex’s coworkers, gets kicked out of his house, the least Dex can do is give him a place to stay. Kane may be a hyperactive muscle-bound psycho, but he’s also a really nice guy. What could be the harm?
Except nothing is simple—not sex, not love, and not the goofy kid with the big dick and bigger heart who moves his life into Dex’s guest room. When they start negotiating fractured pasts and broken friends, Dex wonders if Kane’s honest nature can untangle the sadness that stalled his once-promising future. With Kane by his side, Dex just might be able to reclaim the boy he once was—and if he can do that, he can give Kane the home and the family he deserves.
350 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 30, 2012
About the author
Amy Lane
212 books3,450 followersAmy Lane dodges an EDJ, mothers four children, and writes the occasional book. She, her brood, and her beloved mate, Mack, live in a crumbling mortgage in Citrus Heights, California, which is riddled with spiders, cats, and more than its share of fancy and weirdness. Feel free to visit her at www.greenshill.com orwww.writerslane.blogspot.com, where she will ride the buzz of receiving your e-mail until her head swells and she can no longer leave the house.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 390 reviews
October 25, 2018
Definitely my favorite book of the Johnnies series.
Dex and Kain (aka David & Carlos) were just perfect together. The give and take in their relationship (yes, in *that* way, too) was extremely refreshing and felt like a real relationship to me right from the start.
I really liked how both MC's were there for one another, almost instinctively, before the other even knew they were about to fall apart. Suring up the dam before the cracks got too bad.
I also enjoyed how once David and Carlos had decided that they were each others 'one' person, never even for a moment did either of them falter from that path. This is it. Period. No questioning.
There was plenty of humor in the book, too. I mean, the snake and Dex's boxers? God, that was freaking priceless. The book really let you know how much fun that they had when they were together.
As for the drama, you have your standard homophobic bullshit from both men's families. But I must say that Carlos' sister, Fabiola, would have had her uptight, Jesus'y ass out on the street -- or at least on a VERY short leash -- before she was allowed to pull any of that bullshit if it were up to me.
Awesome story and great HEA, with the only thing that I would have changed would have been the whole
5 Stars.
May 15, 2021
This is a book I normally wouldn't read, but I'm in a challenge right now and it had a lot of points. I'm glad I went out of my comfort zone because the romance and story was really sweet.
Keep in mind that this is porn, about porn, with all of the porniest porn there is.
BUT, there was also a romance with a cute story. It was a strange contrast.
Some things just don't go together. Arrest everyone involved with this meme.
So, two porn guys that are screwed up in their own ways end up living together and start a relationship. The main guy, Dex, is our narrator and very likable. He's the one who holds everything together for everyone. He is that person who always keeps his head, no matter what's going on around him.
A calm leader is invaluable to any operation.
Our other hero, Kane, is kind of slow. He doesn't understand sarcasm or a lot of other things around him, but he's got a heart of gold. He is that sweetie-pie kind of person that has a kind of innocence and honesty about him. You know, like most porn stars.
Aside from all the porn, I really liked them as a couple. They were an awesome team who fought to be together on their own terms. They deserved an HEA.
Keep in mind that this is porn, about porn, with all of the porniest porn there is.
BUT, there was also a romance with a cute story. It was a strange contrast.
Some things just don't go together. Arrest everyone involved with this meme.
So, two porn guys that are screwed up in their own ways end up living together and start a relationship. The main guy, Dex, is our narrator and very likable. He's the one who holds everything together for everyone. He is that person who always keeps his head, no matter what's going on around him.
A calm leader is invaluable to any operation.
Our other hero, Kane, is kind of slow. He doesn't understand sarcasm or a lot of other things around him, but he's got a heart of gold. He is that sweetie-pie kind of person that has a kind of innocence and honesty about him. You know, like most porn stars.
Aside from all the porn, I really liked them as a couple. They were an awesome team who fought to be together on their own terms. They deserved an HEA.
December 27, 2014
♥♥♥ 4.5 STARS ♥♥♥
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"I'm not smart. But I know special. It's special. Anything I gotta do to sleep next to you. That's what I'm gonna do."
"Anything?"
"Yeah."
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What a wonderful story! I really loved the first book in this series, and this one was just as freaking good and beautiful as the first.
The book starts off in the past. I will admit, the beginning confused me because the character we know as Dex, isn't his real name, nope, it's David. But he did know a Dex once, so when the book began, it began with David and Dex's story. It was brief but we get the gist of their relationship. They were young and best friends living in Montana, who were also in love with each other. After a tragic even causes Dex's death, David is devastated. He later on becomes a porn star and ends up using Dex's name. I've got to say, Amy Lane has some mad skills. I can't believe she had be crying over a character I barely knew, but I did. It was just heartbreaking.
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'When he held onto Dex, it was all perfect--best part of his day perfect, best part of his life perfect. Perfect'
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Almost a decade has passed since David (who I will be calling Dex from now on) lost his first love. Now, Dex is still working at Johnnies, a gay for pay porn site, but he is now doing more off camera. He helps edit the videos and helps his boss John run the business. Suddenly there is this young straight man named Carlos, who is interested in being a porn star named Kane at Johnnies. Dex welcomes him into the fold and from there on they form a friendship. When Kane is forced out of his home so his sister and niece have a place to stay, Dex helps him out and lets him stay at his place. This is when things start to heat up between them. And I am talking super über freaking hot. I had to fan myself more than one occasion.
I absolutely loved the connection between Dex and Kane. It was so stinking adorable how sweet these to were together. Despite their age difference, they fit so perfectly well. Kane may have not been the brightest bulb, but when he knew what he wanted, he went for it. He was protective and loved wholeheartedly. Dex has been trying to portray a happy version of himself. He has never really gotten over the death of his first love and has never been able to find himself. Kane changes that for him, all of sudden he has his own identity and can freely be himself without holding back. They both have their issues but together, they help each other overcome them. They help one another reveal how worthy they are of love, and that was so damn beautiful to see.
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"Can we go home? I want to be home with you."
"You are my home," Dex whispered, and Kane kissed the tears away.
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Overall, this book may have not been as intense as the first book in this series, but I still loved every bit of this story. I loved Dex and Kane so very much. I loved how much they loved each other. I loved that they had some great supportive friends. There was a bit of drama added that was very enjoyable as well. This book made me cry, made my heart break and melt, and put a goofy smile on my face. I totally loved it. The ending was so sweet and romantic. If you loved the first book, you should definitely check this one out. And if you haven't read this series, than you should go do so now.
October 14, 2015
In this review it shall be revealed that MLE is in fact not a particularly nice person.
I have to say that I really did enjoy this story. For me, Dex makes the story. He is one of my favorite characters from this series hands down. I really love the way that he cares for the people he works with, and about the company. I like how hard he tries to make it a good, and a safe place for the people who work there. It warms my heart, especially since I’ve worked in the cooperate world, and been treated like a number, or a disposable product, rather than a person. No matter how flawed he is, how hurt by his family, he works hard to be strong for the people who need him, and he genuinely cares. I like how smart, and capable he is. I like how he refuses to let John’s mistakes ruin the company, but how he never stops caring about John at the same time.
I came to really like Kelsey as well. It was nice to have a stronger, caring female in this series after all the weaker females in this, and the other books. She makes a bad decision, but she isn’t defined by, or broken by this choice, and in the end makes the decision that works best for her. I like how much she cares about the men she works with, and she tries to take care of them as well instead if simply being taken care of by them. I liked how everyone came together when she needed them. It made the company feel all that much more like family, and that’s the heart of what I love about this series.
Now for the less positive part of the review.
I know I should like Kane. He is truly a good guy, and a deeply loving person. I like how much he cared about his sister and his niece no matter how poorly his sister treated him. His love of reptiles, and insects is cute, and the parts with the snake made me laugh a lot. Poor Dex, and poor Dex’s dangly bits. I like how Kane treats Dex, and I respect the slow progression of their connection. I should be able to say that I really liked Kane, but I just can’t. It’s not that I dislike him, but I just can’t relate to him. He reminds me of someone in my family. Someone who is a perfectly nice, and decent human being, but who I have I really hard time relating to. Both Kane, and this person in my family, lack the sharp, sarcastic sense of humor that I have, and not only do they not share it, but it they also don’t get it. It flies completely over their heads, and I find that frustrating especially when I have to explain things that I feel like maybe if he was a bit brighter I wouldn’t have to. Not that I think either one of them are dumb, but they aren’t really quick either. I like quick. I like witty. I like it when people can keep up with me. I’m not saying I’m incredibly intelligent, but I’m well read, and have good retention for things I read, and things I hear. It’s not that I’m mean to that person, or I would be mean to Kane, but chances are I wouldn’t seek out his company either. I understand on some level why he and Dex work together, but I don’t at the same time. I’d think his sweet, and bumbling nature might get a bit wearing after a time, but that’s probably just me.
Overall it was a good addition to the series, and despite my reservations about Kane, I really enjoyed it.
I have to say that I really did enjoy this story. For me, Dex makes the story. He is one of my favorite characters from this series hands down. I really love the way that he cares for the people he works with, and about the company. I like how hard he tries to make it a good, and a safe place for the people who work there. It warms my heart, especially since I’ve worked in the cooperate world, and been treated like a number, or a disposable product, rather than a person. No matter how flawed he is, how hurt by his family, he works hard to be strong for the people who need him, and he genuinely cares. I like how smart, and capable he is. I like how he refuses to let John’s mistakes ruin the company, but how he never stops caring about John at the same time.
I came to really like Kelsey as well. It was nice to have a stronger, caring female in this series after all the weaker females in this, and the other books. She makes a bad decision, but she isn’t defined by, or broken by this choice, and in the end makes the decision that works best for her. I like how much she cares about the men she works with, and she tries to take care of them as well instead if simply being taken care of by them. I liked how everyone came together when she needed them. It made the company feel all that much more like family, and that’s the heart of what I love about this series.
Now for the less positive part of the review.
I know I should like Kane. He is truly a good guy, and a deeply loving person. I like how much he cared about his sister and his niece no matter how poorly his sister treated him. His love of reptiles, and insects is cute, and the parts with the snake made me laugh a lot. Poor Dex, and poor Dex’s dangly bits. I like how Kane treats Dex, and I respect the slow progression of their connection. I should be able to say that I really liked Kane, but I just can’t. It’s not that I dislike him, but I just can’t relate to him. He reminds me of someone in my family. Someone who is a perfectly nice, and decent human being, but who I have I really hard time relating to. Both Kane, and this person in my family, lack the sharp, sarcastic sense of humor that I have, and not only do they not share it, but it they also don’t get it. It flies completely over their heads, and I find that frustrating especially when I have to explain things that I feel like maybe if he was a bit brighter I wouldn’t have to. Not that I think either one of them are dumb, but they aren’t really quick either. I like quick. I like witty. I like it when people can keep up with me. I’m not saying I’m incredibly intelligent, but I’m well read, and have good retention for things I read, and things I hear. It’s not that I’m mean to that person, or I would be mean to Kane, but chances are I wouldn’t seek out his company either. I understand on some level why he and Dex work together, but I don’t at the same time. I’d think his sweet, and bumbling nature might get a bit wearing after a time, but that’s probably just me.
Overall it was a good addition to the series, and despite my reservations about Kane, I really enjoyed it.
October 2, 2012
I wasn't sure I was ready to have my heart ripped out again the way Chase in Shadow did, but this is not that book. Intense with moments that caught at my throat- yes. But Dex and Kane are neither as isolated nor as devoid of hope as Chase was, and they cushion each other through the worst of the blows. This is a strong, sweet story about finding someone who makes you okay, someone who doesn't love you despite who you are but because of who you are. It's about what it takes to recognize that love and make it last.
Dex is just amazing, and Kane in his direct simplicity has an inner strength that sustains both of them. There are painful times, and some of them overlap the worst moments with Chase whose pain was shared more widely than perhaps he ever knew. The familiar secondary characters add interest, as they are seen with new eyes, and I don't know if I want Ethan's or John's story next. Family by blood is often more of a source of hurt than comfort here, but the core relationship between Dex and Kane only falters in small ways and that gives this book warmth despite the pain. A wonderful book that I reread as soon as I was finished.
Dex is just amazing, and Kane in his direct simplicity has an inner strength that sustains both of them. There are painful times, and some of them overlap the worst moments with Chase whose pain was shared more widely than perhaps he ever knew. The familiar secondary characters add interest, as they are seen with new eyes, and I don't know if I want Ethan's or John's story next. Family by blood is often more of a source of hurt than comfort here, but the core relationship between Dex and Kane only falters in small ways and that gives this book warmth despite the pain. A wonderful book that I reread as soon as I was finished.
August 27, 2013
"I was asleep for almost ten years.
And then this big goober with all these
fucking weird animals moved into my house,
and I was suddenly awake.”
I can't even begin to tell you how beautiful this book was. God, I thought Amy Lane did amazing with Chase in Shadow but this... I couldn't pick one I like more than the other.
This review is spoiler free (unless it's in a spoiler tag) because I want you to read it.
The first chapter confused me a little because of the whole Dex/David name thing, but that got cleared up pretty quickly. This book made me want to cry, and laugh, and get off, and smack some bitches, hug everyone I know, and learn how to start making chocolate chip cookies.
The relationship between Dex and Kane was remarkable. I didn't think that Kane would make half of the decisions that he did, but he was so strong and so protective, I couldn't help but melt a little (okay a lot). Dex has been a favorite of mine since the first time I read Chase in Shadows. He seems so smart and put together (and he is) but this book really tears both Dex and Kane down in so many ways, and really sheds light on them holding each other together.
Dex is so broken for so long (9-9 1/2 years) and so beautiful and he constantly does the best he can for everyone around him, trying to live up to his name.
A few scenes that broke my heart/I loved:
Those were, IMO, the best scenes.. at least the ones that really made me cry. All the sex was hot. All of it. Even the stuff I didn't want to be hot. I actually had to read some of it through my fingers because I'm embarrassed and awkward.
Have you read this series? If not, please go read it. There's a lot that will make you mad and a lot that will make you happy. This is honestly.. maybe my new favorite series (even though there are only two books for some sick, sad reason).
ETHAN IN GOLD WILL BE OUT IN OCTOBER! *runs through streets naked flailing arms* OH MAAAANNNN!!
I'm worried though. Unpleasant back story for this one? Can't wait.
September 6, 2018
I am a huge fan of this series!! I have read this book and the first book, Chase in the Shadows, multiple times, but I've just never taken the time to write a proper review. Because this is one of my favorite MM books, and it being on my "deserves 6 stars" list, I figured I should fix this.
Now, these books can be read as stand alone's. The reason I know this is because I have read this one, before I found the balls to read book 1...which was way more angsty :P I however would advice to start with the first book, because I think they would be more enjoyable, wehn read in order ;)
This book starts off in the past, showing us a much younger Dex, who is in love with his best friend. The same best friend he has grown up with all his life. Things are looking up for the two of them....they are in love and they are happy. Until they are not.....
Fast forward almost 10 years and Dex (28) is working at a "gay for pay" pornstudio. He has been working there for years. First in front of the camera, but lately he spends more time behind the scenes. He started working at "Johnnies" because of the money, but slowly these men he spends a lot of time with...became his family.
Kane has joined Johnnies 2 years ago, when he was 18 years old. He needed the money, because, he has been supporting his sister and paying the medical bills of his very sick niece. Kane has always been straight and he does really consider himself "gay for pay".
When Kane is forced out of his own home, because his sister is a grade A bitch, Kane seeks his refuge with Dex. Dex, being the good guy that he is, welcomes Kane into his home....Kane and all his reptile buddies :P
They start fucking around outside of work, because why the hell not....but what started as just some fun and comfort, soon turns into much more.
These two were extremely HOT together !!
Kane wasn't the sharpest tool in the shed, but he sure was the sweetest. I myself loved his simple way of thinking.
"I'm not smart..... But I know special. It's special. Anything I gotta do to sleep next to you. That's what I'm gonna do."
This book wasn't as angsty as the first one, but it was still a very emotional read. I laughed, I cried, I swooned and I had to fan myself :P
"I was asleep for almost ten years. And then this big goober with all these fucking weird animals moved into my house, and I was suddenly awake."
I highly recommend this series !!
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This review is posted on Wendy's Wycked Words
Shelved as 'i-m-a-quitter'
July 5, 2017DNF @33%
Couldn't get in to this one. Couldn't connect to the characters or the storyline.
Couldn't get in to this one. Couldn't connect to the characters or the storyline.
May 9, 2017
**4.5 stars**
"Dex in Blue" was an awesome and totally engrossing read. When I began the book I actually wasn't sure I was going to like it. I wasn't too keen on the idea of two jaded porn actors getting together. It seemed... not very romantic. However, as the story progressed, I completely changed my tune.
I'm not sure when I began to love the book but at some point I became enamored with the characters. I think the emotional content really tipped it over the edge for me. Sure the book was a very hot read, but the turmoil and the hurt that these men overcame to be together was truly touching. I was rooting for them and frantically turning each page to see what would happen next.
I also liked the length of the book. It was long enough that we really go to see Dex and Kane through a whole spectrum of experiences and emotions. I felt like i truly went on a journey with them.
The fact that I got this book for free was icing on the cake!
"Dex in Blue" was an awesome and totally engrossing read. When I began the book I actually wasn't sure I was going to like it. I wasn't too keen on the idea of two jaded porn actors getting together. It seemed... not very romantic. However, as the story progressed, I completely changed my tune.
I'm not sure when I began to love the book but at some point I became enamored with the characters. I think the emotional content really tipped it over the edge for me. Sure the book was a very hot read, but the turmoil and the hurt that these men overcame to be together was truly touching. I was rooting for them and frantically turning each page to see what would happen next.
I also liked the length of the book. It was long enough that we really go to see Dex and Kane through a whole spectrum of experiences and emotions. I felt like i truly went on a journey with them.
The fact that I got this book for free was icing on the cake!
October 9, 2012
And we went back to Johnnie's and it was good. I feel my praise of Amy Lane is probably ad nauseum but I feel she so greatly deserves all the praise I and others shower her with...and this story is further proof of that. I've NEVER been disappointed by one of her books. This one is one that I feel is going to stick with me. The original Dex is only in the first few pages of the book but damn if I didn't cry for him (really Amy? Making me cry before the close of the first chapter?! My poor heart). I believe she's the only author who has accomplished such a feat. But she creates such LOVABLE amazing, well rounded characters that your heart bleeds and cheers for. I was so surprised by this one. I didn't expect Dex's story to be like this and I didn't expect to fucking ADORE Kane/Carlos as much as I did. They were such great guys and they greatly deserved that happy ending and that big family with the snakes and the baby and the gay porn stars with heart. You could read this one on it's own, but it'd make sooo much more sense if you read Chase in Shadow.
I love you, Amy Lane. But damn you for making my standards ridiculous in looking for a man after all of your awesome character. haha.
I love you, Amy Lane. But damn you for making my standards ridiculous in looking for a man after all of your awesome character. haha.
October 9, 2012
David had plans. He was going to love Dexter for the rest of his life. They had always been together and out of that closeness grew love. It was real and innocent and could have been all that either of them ever knew except for the accident. So when David wakes up and the love of his life is gone, he transitions away from that innocence into something else. He’s hides himself in plain sight and remains there, protected, his charm a shield that no one even notices. There’s no point in pushing aside the mask, what could possibly be there? Everyone thinks they know him; everyone sees him, his public face, open, charming, take charge/take care, newly minted Dex. But it’s not him, not really.
Dex could have gone on being Dex, never being David again, never opening up, revealing the pain, but Carlos––Kane––won’t let him. Kane is just the man to return him to that place of innocence, that love that was pure because no one gets to the heart of a matter quicker than Kane. He doesn’t get why things have to be complicated, he wants Dex, and lets him know, makes sure he knows that the reason for muscles and strength is to hold the one you love in your arms through the night. He’s there to protect and support and just stay. He’s not going anywhere and that includes out the door or up to heaven. Dex, or David, or whatever the hell his name is, can count on that. By the end of the book, David is back where he started, on the road to love.
I love Dex and Kane, (David and Carlos), ridiculously, stupidly. If Amy Lane wants to write a book where they go to the movies and argue about what to see and what should go on and in the popcorn, I’ll read it. This one is not to be missed.
Dex could have gone on being Dex, never being David again, never opening up, revealing the pain, but Carlos––Kane––won’t let him. Kane is just the man to return him to that place of innocence, that love that was pure because no one gets to the heart of a matter quicker than Kane. He doesn’t get why things have to be complicated, he wants Dex, and lets him know, makes sure he knows that the reason for muscles and strength is to hold the one you love in your arms through the night. He’s there to protect and support and just stay. He’s not going anywhere and that includes out the door or up to heaven. Dex, or David, or whatever the hell his name is, can count on that. By the end of the book, David is back where he started, on the road to love.
I love Dex and Kane, (David and Carlos), ridiculously, stupidly. If Amy Lane wants to write a book where they go to the movies and argue about what to see and what should go on and in the popcorn, I’ll read it. This one is not to be missed.
October 25, 2012
Most of this book I enjoyed.
The porn industry is idealised into a big caring family. Although I do wonder at how a ‘gay-for-pay’ business can be so non-exploitive, because to me that concept is questionable even before you look at the characters.
The main characters are cute, I love them getting to know each other and all the pets. Kane is a simplistic naïve character and Dex protective, though I did feel Dex lost this, as the book progresses he seems less capable and more reliant on Kane. Most of the sex scenes seem to fit in with the story and I didn’t find myself skipping.
My main niggle is the women in the book. The women are all horrible.
These guys work in the porn industry and always use condoms but then hook-up with a woman and forget that? Nearly all the women are pregnant and I think there’s only one who isn’t a complete bitch! There’s an attempt to make cheating excusable by vilifying the woman.
Even Kane’s sister, who has a child with Leukaemia and an abusive husband. This is the first time I’ve seen a woman whose getting beaten up portrayed as a complete bitch, I don’t like it, allow her some empathy please!
Good-bad is very black and white in this book and homophobia is rampant away from the close-knit porn stars.
The last third of the book is all sudden drama and it sours what could have been a cute read.
The drug abuse and manipulation leave a nasty taste. If the book had been kept simple I’d have rated it a lot higher because I was really enjoying it up to there, but the drama took away a lot of the charm. It’s still a good entertaining read though and I’ll be looking to buy Ethan’s book when it comes out, he seems sweet and cuddly, though I’m expecting another negative family.
The porn industry is idealised into a big caring family. Although I do wonder at how a ‘gay-for-pay’ business can be so non-exploitive, because to me that concept is questionable even before you look at the characters.
The main characters are cute, I love them getting to know each other and all the pets. Kane is a simplistic naïve character and Dex protective, though I did feel Dex lost this, as the book progresses he seems less capable and more reliant on Kane. Most of the sex scenes seem to fit in with the story and I didn’t find myself skipping.
My main niggle is the women in the book. The women are all horrible.
These guys work in the porn industry and always use condoms but then hook-up with a woman and forget that? Nearly all the women are pregnant and I think there’s only one who isn’t a complete bitch! There’s an attempt to make cheating excusable by vilifying the woman.
Even Kane’s sister, who has a child with Leukaemia and an abusive husband. This is the first time I’ve seen a woman whose getting beaten up portrayed as a complete bitch, I don’t like it, allow her some empathy please!
Good-bad is very black and white in this book and homophobia is rampant away from the close-knit porn stars.
The last third of the book is all sudden drama and it sours what could have been a cute read.
The drug abuse and manipulation leave a nasty taste. If the book had been kept simple I’d have rated it a lot higher because I was really enjoying it up to there, but the drama took away a lot of the charm. It’s still a good entertaining read though and I’ll be looking to buy Ethan’s book when it comes out, he seems sweet and cuddly, though I’m expecting another negative family.
Shelved as 'dnf'
January 23, 2020DNF at 51%
What I found out while reading this book is that I’m a big wuss. I know I don’t always like a lot of angst in my books, but I can love angsty books.
I mostly love it when one or both of my MCs have severe issues they need to overcome, but with some stable secondary characters to balance that out. Like parents, or a good best friend, or anyone really. Just people who they can fall back on. And if one MC doesn’t have that, then at least let the other MC have that so they can both lean on those people.
And that’s what felt so ‘wrong’ here. These guys have issues, and that’s just fine. But every single character in this book (or all the books in the series) has severe issues. I felt like no one could really draw strength from someone around them because everyone was drowning.
I get that (gay) porn isn’t all that glamorous, but these guys were all so messed up it wasn’t funny anymore.
Even Dex who needed someone to support him when he just arrived in the city, eventually just learnt to take care of himself. Because even the owner of Johnnies, John, was not someone to lean on.
And that whole world, where everyone is a mess, was what made me DNF this book halfway. I was actually quite enjoying the relationship between Dex and Kane, but the overall gloom and doom just really got to me. I mean, even the receptionist at Johnnies was in trouble. Not one stable happy character to be found anywhere.
When I read a hurt/comfort book about traumatized characters I often feel for them, but I secretly love what I’m reading. So the book makes me happy, despite all the trauma and drama. But this book just made me super sad. I’m not a reader who can just happily go on with my day while I’m reading a book that makes me genuinely sad.
So no more Johnnies for me.
What I found out while reading this book is that I’m a big wuss. I know I don’t always like a lot of angst in my books, but I can love angsty books.
I mostly love it when one or both of my MCs have severe issues they need to overcome, but with some stable secondary characters to balance that out. Like parents, or a good best friend, or anyone really. Just people who they can fall back on. And if one MC doesn’t have that, then at least let the other MC have that so they can both lean on those people.
And that’s what felt so ‘wrong’ here. These guys have issues, and that’s just fine. But every single character in this book (or all the books in the series) has severe issues. I felt like no one could really draw strength from someone around them because everyone was drowning.
I get that (gay) porn isn’t all that glamorous, but these guys were all so messed up it wasn’t funny anymore.
Even Dex who needed someone to support him when he just arrived in the city, eventually just learnt to take care of himself. Because even the owner of Johnnies, John, was not someone to lean on.
And that whole world, where everyone is a mess, was what made me DNF this book halfway. I was actually quite enjoying the relationship between Dex and Kane, but the overall gloom and doom just really got to me. I mean, even the receptionist at Johnnies was in trouble. Not one stable happy character to be found anywhere.
When I read a hurt/comfort book about traumatized characters I often feel for them, but I secretly love what I’m reading. So the book makes me happy, despite all the trauma and drama. But this book just made me super sad. I’m not a reader who can just happily go on with my day while I’m reading a book that makes me genuinely sad.
So no more Johnnies for me.
May 26, 2019
I love this series. It's my go-to for red hot gay romance. It's funny and sexy as hell and full of heart. Amy Lane's great at passion and deep emotion, but the guys who work at Johnnies are particularly endearing and adorable.
July 7, 2014
THANK GOD MS. LANE CAN WRITE LIGHT!
This made me a very happy boy!
I'm going to do this quick because I wanna read Ethan in Gold, like right now!
So I've read 2 Amy Lane books already. And I noticed that these two were character oriented. She will build up these characters, make you like them, then she unleash a lot of shit on their lives and it will make you root and love them. On Chase in Shadow, she'd done a phenomenal job. And this one was a great effort as well.
I liked Dex in CIS. Even though he made mistakes there, but in the end he was a very good friend for Chase and Tommy. So I was really interested about his story.
And beginning of it was hot, and just like I say about what Amy Lane does, she And it was heartbreaking.
And then he went to Sacramento for college and he struggled with finances and ended up doing porn to make up for it. He was a pioneer in Johnnies and I loved reading about how he joined it and how he helped John starting it.
I liked Dex's attitude. He's a helpful guy. Helps everyone with their problems and hang-ups but unfortunately, forgetting to help his own self. And that's where Kane steps in.
Kane Kane Kane...on CIS, he was a decent supporting character. I just didn't expect the author will turn him into a MC and the love interest for the next book. Actually, I didn't expect Dex & Kane becoming a couple on Book 2, and I still can't get over that ended up together! But don't worry, I was happy that it did.
He's a horny doofus. Joined porn because he thinks that's the way sex will be more valuable to him.
But despite of that, I loved that he is uncomplicated, genuine, and a supportive person. He was a force on Dex's life that he couldn't resist, and their love journey was so fun to read.
I loved how light this was. CIS was so heavy, I felt this was a reprieve. Dex & Kane's journey was delightful and honest.
There's not much I didn't like in this. But if there is one, I think the last 20% was a little far from true to life? I loved the ending, but I have to suspend some belief to enjoy it.
Another is the first 25-30% was all about Dex & Kane in between Chase's crisis. I liked reading about Chase & Tommy again (I was a little disappointed that they showed little interaction with them here.) but the beginning of the book was almost about Chase & Tommy instead of Dex & Kane. That's why their time in Montana was my favorite.
Btw, I wanna give a special mention to Dex's brother Travis, you're the most awesome brother in the world.
Why only 4 stars, maybe because this one didn't leave much impact than book 1. But that doesn't mean I didn't love this, I loved this. And 4 stars is a great rating coming from me. ;)
Some asked me if this can be read as a standalone. I wanna say that I'm not the best person to ask this because I like to read my stories on the right sequence, so I will always be biased to answer that you should read Book 1 before this. Also because a lot of stuff on the beginning was related to CIS. But, I think this can be read as a standalone. A tiny-weeny can.
Another successful effort from Ms. Lane!
A RECOMMENDED READ!
Off to read Book 3...
my Chase in Shadow review
This made me a very happy boy!
I'm going to do this quick because I wanna read Ethan in Gold, like right now!
So I've read 2 Amy Lane books already. And I noticed that these two were character oriented. She will build up these characters, make you like them, then she unleash a lot of shit on their lives and it will make you root and love them. On Chase in Shadow, she'd done a phenomenal job. And this one was a great effort as well.
I liked Dex in CIS. Even though he made mistakes there, but in the end he was a very good friend for Chase and Tommy. So I was really interested about his story.
And beginning of it was hot, and just like I say about what Amy Lane does, she And it was heartbreaking.
And then he went to Sacramento for college and he struggled with finances and ended up doing porn to make up for it. He was a pioneer in Johnnies and I loved reading about how he joined it and how he helped John starting it.
I liked Dex's attitude. He's a helpful guy. Helps everyone with their problems and hang-ups but unfortunately, forgetting to help his own self. And that's where Kane steps in.
Kane Kane Kane...on CIS, he was a decent supporting character. I just didn't expect the author will turn him into a MC and the love interest for the next book. Actually, I didn't expect Dex & Kane becoming a couple on Book 2, and I still can't get over that ended up together! But don't worry, I was happy that it did.
He's a horny doofus. Joined porn because he thinks that's the way sex will be more valuable to him.
But despite of that, I loved that he is uncomplicated, genuine, and a supportive person. He was a force on Dex's life that he couldn't resist, and their love journey was so fun to read.
I loved how light this was. CIS was so heavy, I felt this was a reprieve. Dex & Kane's journey was delightful and honest.
There's not much I didn't like in this. But if there is one, I think the last 20% was a little far from true to life? I loved the ending, but I have to suspend some belief to enjoy it.
Another is the first 25-30% was all about Dex & Kane in between Chase's crisis. I liked reading about Chase & Tommy again (I was a little disappointed that they showed little interaction with them here.) but the beginning of the book was almost about Chase & Tommy instead of Dex & Kane. That's why their time in Montana was my favorite.
Btw, I wanna give a special mention to Dex's brother Travis, you're the most awesome brother in the world.
Why only 4 stars, maybe because this one didn't leave much impact than book 1. But that doesn't mean I didn't love this, I loved this. And 4 stars is a great rating coming from me. ;)
Some asked me if this can be read as a standalone. I wanna say that I'm not the best person to ask this because I like to read my stories on the right sequence, so I will always be biased to answer that you should read Book 1 before this. Also because a lot of stuff on the beginning was related to CIS. But, I think this can be read as a standalone. A tiny-weeny can.
Another successful effort from Ms. Lane!
A RECOMMENDED READ!
Off to read Book 3...
my Chase in Shadow review
January 28, 2018
*4,5 stars*
Absolutely loved it.
Amy Lane describes Dex and Kane's journey from liking each other, to friends, to friends with benefits, to lovers and committed partners perfectly.
I loved how these two guys support each other when the going gets tough (and it does, mainly due to some goddamn-awful family on both sides) and how neither ever doubts that 'this is it' once they've figured out their feelings.
Thomas, the snuggling snake, made me chuckle and the appearance of Chase and Tommy from book 1 is very rewarding. I also applaud the secondary characters, particularly Kelsey and 'hug-craving' Ethan. However, I was left worrying about John. Hope we get a book about the last two!
Highly recommended.
Absolutely loved it.
Amy Lane describes Dex and Kane's journey from liking each other, to friends, to friends with benefits, to lovers and committed partners perfectly.
I loved how these two guys support each other when the going gets tough (and it does, mainly due to some goddamn-awful family on both sides) and how neither ever doubts that 'this is it' once they've figured out their feelings.
Thomas, the snuggling snake, made me chuckle and the appearance of Chase and Tommy from book 1 is very rewarding. I also applaud the secondary characters, particularly Kelsey and 'hug-craving' Ethan. However, I was left worrying about John. Hope we get a book about the last two!
Highly recommended.
June 22, 2019
This book was just okay for me. I think I didn't like the writing style. I've only read one other book by this author and this will probably be my last. At least I got it on sale.
I liked the MC's a lot but I purposely didn't read the first book of this series. So to find out that story line carried into this book didn't help my feeling of "meh" towards this book. And besides the MC's, I didn't really care that much for anyone else. Too much drama and miscellaneous stuff going on in the story.
I liked the MC's a lot but I purposely didn't read the first book of this series. So to find out that story line carried into this book didn't help my feeling of "meh" towards this book. And besides the MC's, I didn't really care that much for anyone else. Too much drama and miscellaneous stuff going on in the story.
July 20, 2014
Dex's story
Is there hope?
Well.. it was another amazing book.
I just loved Kane and Dex together. And how Kane protected Dex and how Dex protected Kane. They fit together so well. Kane is just the man to return him to the place of innocence, that love that was pure because no one gets to the heart of a matter quicker than Kane.
Who knew that line could mean so damn much?!
Have you read this series?
If not, please go read it. There's a lot that will make you sad and a lot that will make you happy. Recommended read.
My review of Chase in Shadow
My review of Ethan in Gold
"What could be the harm?
Except nothing is simple..."
Is there hope?
"I was asleep for almost ten years.
And then this big goober with all these
fucking weird animals moved into my house,
and I was suddenly awake."
Well.. it was another amazing book.
"Maybe before you got someone who would fight to have you, you had to be ready to kill or die for them first."
I just loved Kane and Dex together. And how Kane protected Dex and how Dex protected Kane. They fit together so well. Kane is just the man to return him to the place of innocence, that love that was pure because no one gets to the heart of a matter quicker than Kane.
"Whatever I gotta do to make sure we sleep in the same bed"
Who knew that line could mean so damn much?!
Have you read this series?
If not, please go read it. There's a lot that will make you sad and a lot that will make you happy. Recommended read.
My review of Chase in Shadow
My review of Ethan in Gold
May 30, 2016
Thanks to this book I created my Bad Spanish shelf. And there weren't that many Spanish words, believe me.
I have to write the review soon *sighs* .
In a nutshell, it was ok, but not as good as Chase in Shadow.
I have to write the review soon *sighs* .
In a nutshell, it was ok, but not as good as Chase in Shadow.
October 6, 2012
As with Chase In Shadow, this book just sucked me in and made me love the boys of Johnnies all over again. I really liked that Amy Lane gave us another glimpse of Chase but did not have him overpower the story, even though Chase always make my heart hurt for him. I started a new shelf called "party of five vibe". Remember that show with the 5 kids that lost there parents? The show was so sad that even when they were happy, it had sad undertones. I felt like that in this book because these boys have so many issues and you wanted them to be happy but there was always a cloud hanging over.
I just loved Kane and how he protected Dex. I loved how Dex protected Kane. They fit together well. I think I loved everything about this book. Good ending, as well. Definitely 5 stars.
I just loved Kane and how he protected Dex. I loved how Dex protected Kane. They fit together well. I think I loved everything about this book. Good ending, as well. Definitely 5 stars.
December 16, 2021
I dunno how this book got in my path, but I thank my lucky stars for it.
I loved it and I even wasn't expecting the raw feelings that expressed, or the deep problems that tackled. I went in thinking that I was gonna get a level like Tank's book, but this shit is deep!
We have two very different characters, with so many real issues, that find solace and strength in each other, I loved Dex and I loved Kain, I enjoyed watching them get together (it happened fast but it didn't fuck the story, I promise), how they helped each other, supported each other and how they thrived!! 😍😍😍
And the side characters were really well used and made me curious about them. I loved the story and everything to do it with it.
And also, I appreciated Kain's character so much, he has a childish personality, but that let's him see the world in a simpler way, that's why he needed practical and level-headed Dex at his side. Match made in heaven I tell yah.
Loved it, I'll just leave this with a little quote from Kain:
"Anything that made them sleep in the same bed was a good thing. Anything that separated them was bad"
Gold!! 💋
I loved it and I even wasn't expecting the raw feelings that expressed, or the deep problems that tackled. I went in thinking that I was gonna get a level like Tank's book, but this shit is deep!
We have two very different characters, with so many real issues, that find solace and strength in each other, I loved Dex and I loved Kain, I enjoyed watching them get together (it happened fast but it didn't fuck the story, I promise), how they helped each other, supported each other and how they thrived!! 😍😍😍
And the side characters were really well used and made me curious about them. I loved the story and everything to do it with it.
And also, I appreciated Kain's character so much, he has a childish personality, but that let's him see the world in a simpler way, that's why he needed practical and level-headed Dex at his side. Match made in heaven I tell yah.
Loved it, I'll just leave this with a little quote from Kain:
"Anything that made them sleep in the same bed was a good thing. Anything that separated them was bad"
Gold!! 💋
November 27, 2021
Two porn stars get together, and they make it work. I really wanted an epilogue.
February 10, 2018
The family drama is strong in this one!
While I preferred the angst and tension more in Chase in Shadow, I enjoyed Dex in Blue quite a lot. Dex is one of my favorite types of characters - a nurturer. Dex cares and it really shows in everything he does, from making sure the Johnnies models and employees have what they need and stay mentally and physically healthy to making schedules and generally organizing everything at Johnnies. But who takes care of Dex?
Kane was a perfectly nice guy who would do anything for those he cares about. He takes care of his ungrateful sister and her daughter. He pays for his niece's medical treatment, he takes in reptiles as pets because he can relate to them and he's a protector. He doesn't see himself as a smart guy, but Kane was damn perceptive. It was Kane who could "hear" Chase's silent screams in book 1 and it's Kane who really gets people - except himself, really. It took him ages to figure his own shit out.
I loved Dex and Kane, together, a lot. I thought their chemistry was great and they were just so happy once Kane figured out that maybe he wasn't as straight as he insisted. It did take him a bit longer than maybe it should have to figure out he was in a relationship, but I think that's mostly because he spent so much time observing others, that he didn't self-reflect.
What I love about this series, so far, is the real "family" connection the Johnnies guys have with each other (and with Kelsey). They take care of each other and are there for each other and that kind of camaraderie was tangible.
The only thing that really took away from my enjoyment of the story was it was saturated with family drama (from the bio-families) from all angles. The homophobia, I expect - though I hate it and it infuriates me that so many have to actually deal with it - but we also have domestic abuse issues with family members to deal with, and I think if it had been one or the other, I would have been ok, but both - on top of Dex's ex's stalking issues - got to be a bit much for me, especially at the end of the book.
Still, Dex in Blue is a fine addition to the Johnnies series and I'm looking forward to the rest!
While I preferred the angst and tension more in Chase in Shadow, I enjoyed Dex in Blue quite a lot. Dex is one of my favorite types of characters - a nurturer. Dex cares and it really shows in everything he does, from making sure the Johnnies models and employees have what they need and stay mentally and physically healthy to making schedules and generally organizing everything at Johnnies. But who takes care of Dex?
Kane was a perfectly nice guy who would do anything for those he cares about. He takes care of his ungrateful sister and her daughter. He pays for his niece's medical treatment, he takes in reptiles as pets because he can relate to them and he's a protector. He doesn't see himself as a smart guy, but Kane was damn perceptive. It was Kane who could "hear" Chase's silent screams in book 1 and it's Kane who really gets people - except himself, really. It took him ages to figure his own shit out.
I loved Dex and Kane, together, a lot. I thought their chemistry was great and they were just so happy once Kane figured out that maybe he wasn't as straight as he insisted. It did take him a bit longer than maybe it should have to figure out he was in a relationship, but I think that's mostly because he spent so much time observing others, that he didn't self-reflect.
What I love about this series, so far, is the real "family" connection the Johnnies guys have with each other (and with Kelsey). They take care of each other and are there for each other and that kind of camaraderie was tangible.
The only thing that really took away from my enjoyment of the story was it was saturated with family drama (from the bio-families) from all angles. The homophobia, I expect - though I hate it and it infuriates me that so many have to actually deal with it - but we also have domestic abuse issues with family members to deal with, and I think if it had been one or the other, I would have been ok, but both - on top of Dex's ex's stalking issues - got to be a bit much for me, especially at the end of the book.
Still, Dex in Blue is a fine addition to the Johnnies series and I'm looking forward to the rest!
February 17, 2023
4.5 Stars!
This was another great installment in the Johnnies series.Once again, Sean Crisden narrated the hell out of the story!
For the majority of the first half of the book(and from book 1), I had the impression of Kane as an airhead hunk and Dex as someone who somehow always found himself with people who were not good enough for him(male/female). But as the story progressed, I realized that neither of these impressions were true. Kane might not have been the sharpest person , but he had a heart of Gold and always did right by those he cared for. This quality was abused by his hypocritical sister [who infuriated me to no end by her selfishness], but I'm glad Dex was on hand to give him a reality check.
As per usual, this was an angsty read and the first couple of minutes (audiobook) had me unbearably sad. It was so so sad. Dex had a rough life emotionally before Kane. Real rough. Also, the family drama that he had to go through was tough. I wonder though...
With that said, the writing, pace, content were all of the same quality as the first book which I appreciated and I really enjoyed the story.Oh, the fact that it was also a Dual POV also added to my appreciation. Sometimes I just like getting into the heads of interesting characters.
I am more than ready to read about Ethan, the big Teddy bear in the next book and I do hope the guy he is set up with is worth it! :D
*** Audiobook Graciously Provided By Publisher In Exchange For An Honest Unbiased Review ***
This was another great installment in the Johnnies series.Once again, Sean Crisden narrated the hell out of the story!
For the majority of the first half of the book(and from book 1), I had the impression of Kane as an airhead hunk and Dex as someone who somehow always found himself with people who were not good enough for him(male/female). But as the story progressed, I realized that neither of these impressions were true. Kane might not have been the sharpest person , but he had a heart of Gold and always did right by those he cared for. This quality was abused by his hypocritical sister [who infuriated me to no end by her selfishness], but I'm glad Dex was on hand to give him a reality check.
As per usual, this was an angsty read and the first couple of minutes (audiobook) had me unbearably sad. It was so so sad. Dex had a rough life emotionally before Kane. Real rough. Also, the family drama that he had to go through was tough. I wonder though...
With that said, the writing, pace, content were all of the same quality as the first book which I appreciated and I really enjoyed the story.Oh, the fact that it was also a Dual POV also added to my appreciation. Sometimes I just like getting into the heads of interesting characters.
I am more than ready to read about Ethan, the big Teddy bear in the next book and I do hope the guy he is set up with is worth it! :D
*** Audiobook Graciously Provided By Publisher In Exchange For An Honest Unbiased Review ***
October 8, 2012
If Chase in Shadow is an all out, rip your heart out and stitch it back in with fishing line and a darning needle in the kitchen type of story...this is more subtle. It's a razor of pain sliding under your skin and peeling it off layer by layer until just that one last sensitive layer protects your raw nerve endings from the world at large.
Then, Amy Lane cleans your wounds with alcohol, sprays on neosporin and slaps a HEA band aid on it. Like you fell and skinned your knee or something instead of being the victim of some epic disaster.
I'm going to go lick my wounds.
Oh, and I want a book for John.
Then, Amy Lane cleans your wounds with alcohol, sprays on neosporin and slaps a HEA band aid on it. Like you fell and skinned your knee or something instead of being the victim of some epic disaster.
I'm going to go lick my wounds.
Oh, and I want a book for John.
October 10, 2012
Bought it at 1pm and parked up at daughter's school at 2pm. She got into the car at 3.10 to find me in floods of tears and unwilling to put down my iPad to drive to pick up daughter no.2. I reluctantly put the book down and finished school run then right back to it. I even absentmindedly gave up dinner so I could keep reading. Finished it at 5 and instantly wanted to read it again. Kane is my absolute fav. Don't get me wrong, I love me some Chase and Tommy, but Kane and Dex were just - I can't express it.
'Whatever I gotta do to make sure we sleep in the same bed' - who knew that line could mean so damn much?! I just loved this book so much. More than Sidecar which is saying something cos I've read that about a dozen times.
Perfect.
P.s.the sex scenes were so hot they should come with a warning - not sure which I preferred: Kane topping Dex was hot, but when Dex topped it was freakin'' nuclear!!
March 13, 2021
I almost walked away from this book about midway. I kept reading because so many of my friends loved it. It still was not one of my favorite Amy Lane books. I liked it in the end ok. I don’t know I just never felt emotionally connected to the these guys.
December 22, 2012
Opening Line: “It was okay right?”
I absolutely adored Chase in Shadow, so how happy was I that Amy Lanes latest book brought us back into that same world. Yup, we re-enter “Johnnies” gay-for-pay porn with David ”Dex” Worral, who makes this book a true companion piece by going through parts of Chase’s heartbreaking story all over again from his own POV. Thankfully Dex’s story isn’t as emotionally exhausting or angst filled as Chase’s, I mean it has its moments (this is Amy Lane after all) but I didn’t feel like I’d been hit by a truck and needed therapy after this one -and I mean that in the most fan-girly way:) I also knew the large cast of characters going in so I didn’t have to struggle sorting out their dual names again. And Dex, well I kinda loved him plus there’s his boyfriend Kane and he’s such a laid-back, unassuming sweetie that you can’t help but smile at his view of the world. There are also some really funny bits…
“Could you come and help me edit this last frickin’ video. You’ve fucked girl’s right? You know what a pussy is supposed to look like? Dex winced “Yeah sort of.” “Excellent. I need someone who can tell me if this shit looks hot or just weird.”
David Worral’s life has just been shattered; his best friend, love of his life and first and only male lover has just been taken from him in a tragic accident, destroying his once limitless future and compelling David to flee Montana and its memories. Reinventing himself in California starts out innocently enough, when his parents can no longer afford his college education, and on the suggestion of a girlfriend he arrives at Johnnies, a gay-for-pay porn company. David wasn’t gay but his alter ego “Dex” sure as hell was and Dex was going to make him very wealthy.
8 years later and David/Dex is essentially running Johnnies, spending as much time behind the camera now as in front of it. He’s the go-to guy, the fix it guy, the guy with the plan especially when the owner has a nose full of blow. Dex has finally admitted to himself that he’s gay after having his heart broken by another Johnnies model and is lonely. He needs a friend, someone else in his beautiful empty house and that’s how he finds Kane.
Carlos “Kane” is young, hung, gorgeous, living in the moment and needing a place to crash. He also likes sex, I mean that’s how he ended up doing porn (might as well get paid for it right) who cares if it’s with a man if it feels good. Kane is also a nice guy to a fault, paying for his nieces hospital bills with what his sister dubs his “dirty” porn money and even giving her his apartment so she can avoid an abusive boyfriend. (I really wanted to slap the sister)
“Dex laughed a little. “Aren’t you supposed to be straight? He asked, but his body relaxed into Kane’s, and that made Kane happy. “I am straight”, Kane mumbled. “Except when I’m fucking guys, “I’m plenty straight. Now shut up and sleep. And don’t feel bad. That was amazing.”
So Kane and Dex are playing house, sleeping in the same bed while Kane’s pets take the spare bedroom. I mean they’ve done it at work so they might as well take comfort in each other here too. What starts out as friends with benefits quickly changes into something else though and it’s interesting how Lane manages to make the sex scenes in front of the camera so different from the ones behind closed doors. She also creates a real sense of family within the Johnnies staff and all the obstacles that life throws at them. The HEA here is awesome although if I’m honest a little far-fetched. I mean as nice as it was and as much as I wanted “that” to happen there’s just no way the powers that be would let it. 333jb4
“God made me gay. Dex made me realize it wasn’t a bad thing” *sigh*
You can find this and many other awesome reviews over on PANTS OFF REVIEWS http://pantsoffreviews.blogspot.ca/20...
I absolutely adored Chase in Shadow, so how happy was I that Amy Lanes latest book brought us back into that same world. Yup, we re-enter “Johnnies” gay-for-pay porn with David ”Dex” Worral, who makes this book a true companion piece by going through parts of Chase’s heartbreaking story all over again from his own POV. Thankfully Dex’s story isn’t as emotionally exhausting or angst filled as Chase’s, I mean it has its moments (this is Amy Lane after all) but I didn’t feel like I’d been hit by a truck and needed therapy after this one -and I mean that in the most fan-girly way:) I also knew the large cast of characters going in so I didn’t have to struggle sorting out their dual names again. And Dex, well I kinda loved him plus there’s his boyfriend Kane and he’s such a laid-back, unassuming sweetie that you can’t help but smile at his view of the world. There are also some really funny bits…
“Could you come and help me edit this last frickin’ video. You’ve fucked girl’s right? You know what a pussy is supposed to look like? Dex winced “Yeah sort of.” “Excellent. I need someone who can tell me if this shit looks hot or just weird.”
David Worral’s life has just been shattered; his best friend, love of his life and first and only male lover has just been taken from him in a tragic accident, destroying his once limitless future and compelling David to flee Montana and its memories. Reinventing himself in California starts out innocently enough, when his parents can no longer afford his college education, and on the suggestion of a girlfriend he arrives at Johnnies, a gay-for-pay porn company. David wasn’t gay but his alter ego “Dex” sure as hell was and Dex was going to make him very wealthy.
8 years later and David/Dex is essentially running Johnnies, spending as much time behind the camera now as in front of it. He’s the go-to guy, the fix it guy, the guy with the plan especially when the owner has a nose full of blow. Dex has finally admitted to himself that he’s gay after having his heart broken by another Johnnies model and is lonely. He needs a friend, someone else in his beautiful empty house and that’s how he finds Kane.
Carlos “Kane” is young, hung, gorgeous, living in the moment and needing a place to crash. He also likes sex, I mean that’s how he ended up doing porn (might as well get paid for it right) who cares if it’s with a man if it feels good. Kane is also a nice guy to a fault, paying for his nieces hospital bills with what his sister dubs his “dirty” porn money and even giving her his apartment so she can avoid an abusive boyfriend. (I really wanted to slap the sister)
“Dex laughed a little. “Aren’t you supposed to be straight? He asked, but his body relaxed into Kane’s, and that made Kane happy. “I am straight”, Kane mumbled. “Except when I’m fucking guys, “I’m plenty straight. Now shut up and sleep. And don’t feel bad. That was amazing.”
So Kane and Dex are playing house, sleeping in the same bed while Kane’s pets take the spare bedroom. I mean they’ve done it at work so they might as well take comfort in each other here too. What starts out as friends with benefits quickly changes into something else though and it’s interesting how Lane manages to make the sex scenes in front of the camera so different from the ones behind closed doors. She also creates a real sense of family within the Johnnies staff and all the obstacles that life throws at them. The HEA here is awesome although if I’m honest a little far-fetched. I mean as nice as it was and as much as I wanted “that” to happen there’s just no way the powers that be would let it. 333jb4
“God made me gay. Dex made me realize it wasn’t a bad thing” *sigh*
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October 7, 2012
3.5 Stars
Loved the first half, getting to know Dex and Kane: their pasts, the problems in their current lives, but mostly just how they came together and how their lives blended together so seamlessly. Then midway through the book there appeared to be a realisation that there wasn't the usual amount of drama and we ended up with unending accumulation of it . It all made me felt like I was reading a rehash of Keeping Promise Rock or The Locker Room, and to a lesser extent nearly all her other books, again.
While this maybe expected as they have all been written by the same author. However, it was as if I was going through a check-list of frequent features in her books:
...and so on...
Still was an enjoyable read, and it was great to see the characters again, as well as seeing the events in the previous book from other characters' point of view.
Loved the first half, getting to know Dex and Kane: their pasts, the problems in their current lives, but mostly just how they came together and how their lives blended together so seamlessly. Then midway through the book there appeared to be a realisation that there wasn't the usual amount of drama and we ended up with unending accumulation of it . It all made me felt like I was reading a rehash of Keeping Promise Rock or The Locker Room, and to a lesser extent nearly all her other books, again.
While this maybe expected as they have all been written by the same author. However, it was as if I was going through a check-list of frequent features in her books:
...and so on...
Still was an enjoyable read, and it was great to see the characters again, as well as seeing the events in the previous book from other characters' point of view.
October 7, 2013
There is just nobody who does it like Amy Lane. I absolutely was shattered reading Chase in Shadow and this book, while lacking much of that internal angst of Chase, had a story every bit engaging and entrancing. The Kane/Dex combo was magnificent - I loved Kane's voice as it rang strong and true and it was just so gut wrenchingly honest you cannot help but to give in to it. In many ways Kane/Carlos is a simple man - but Dex brings a new confidence to him internally and a push to do something more, be someone slightly different in moving forward. I'm kind of glad that e-readers don't have camera's on them because I always find myself talking to my Kindle when reading an AL book and, frankly, I don't want no one seeing that LOL! This one is going on the favorites shelf!! Although I give my fair share of 5 star ratings my favorites shelf is not that big - and is truly reserved for the best of the best. Dex in Blue more than qualifies!
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