Reviewed by Stephen K
TITLE: Balancing Act
SERIES: Jocks and Geeks #2
AUTHOR: Andrew Grey
PUBLISHER: Andrew Grey Books
LENGTH: 74 Pages
RELEASE DATE: August 3rd 2021
BLURB:
Freelance computer genius Trent Marcus took a web development job he wishes he hadn’t, and now he’s in a world of hurt. With his safety threatened, he needs someone who can protect him from his client, who responds to “no” with threats and intimidation.
Personal trainer and silver fox Collin Fitzpatrick gave part of his leg for his country, and now his ex is selling his home, so he needs a place to live quickly. He hears from mutual friends that Trent has a room he can use and needs Collin’s help. Neither Trent nor Collin is looking for a relationship, but attraction ignites for Trent, and it’s returned, to Trent’s surprise.
The last thing Collin expects is for his protective instincts to blossom into something much more. Trent’s care and genuineness combine to heal the heart his ex left shattered. As the task of keeping Trent safe becomes more paramount, so does the realization that failing could cost both of them everything
REVIEW:
While this is the second in a series, it’s really a stand-alone novella. It shares a locale with the Book 1 and several of Book 1’s characters make cameos here, but one needs know none of that to enjoy this tale.
This is partly a jock meets nerd tale, partly an age-gap tale, and partly an action tale. It works on all those levels without really falling strictly into any one category. Both main characters are likable and they seem made for each other with a bit of an instant mutual attraction to leaven the story.
Andrew Grey has written over 100 m/m tales. Clearly he can develop captivating scenarios, create interesting characters and deliver the workman like prose necessary to make satisfying, if not extraordinary tales. The page turning prose and the HEA ending here makes this a fast, fun M/M romantic read.
Trent is spunkier than your average nerd and Collin, having lost a foot in the military, is not your typical jock. Both understandably are somewhat unsure of their appeal, and yet both are charming. Seeing them come together and triumph over a common adversary should give any romantic “the feels.”
If you’re looking for a sweet bon-bon of a book this is great choice. However, if you’re looking for the next “Great American Novel,” you’ll find this one a bit disappointing. The technical details are a bit shallow, and the sex scenes are satisfying if a bit generic. It’s not the kind of tale that will expand your consciousness or alter your world view. But then, not every book needs to. My advice, if you’re an Andrew Grey fan, read and enjoy. If you’ve never read any of his work, start with one of his more classic tales.
RATING: 
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