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In Focus #2
Focus on Me
Colin Hartman can now add college to his list of failures. On the coast-to-coast trek home from California, Colin stops at a gas station in the Nevada desert, and can’t help noticing the guy in tight jeans looking like he just stepped off a catwalk. When he realizes Catwalk is stranded, Colin offers a ride.
Riley only intended to take a short ride in Colin’s Jeep to the Grand Canyon. But one detour leads to another until they finally find themselves tumbling into bed together. However there are shadows in Riley’s eyes that hide a troubled past. And when those shadows threaten to bury the man whom Colin has fallen in love with, he vows to get Riley the help he needs. For once in his life, quitting isn’t an option…
Riley only intended to take a short ride in Colin’s Jeep to the Grand Canyon. But one detour leads to another until they finally find themselves tumbling into bed together. However there are shadows in Riley’s eyes that hide a troubled past. And when those shadows threaten to bury the man whom Colin has fallen in love with, he vows to get Riley the help he needs. For once in his life, quitting isn’t an option…
174 pages, ebook
First published July 21, 2015
About the author
Megan Erickson
48 books1,843 followersMegan Erickson is a USA Today bestselling author of romance that sizzles. Her books have a touch of nerd, a dash of humor, and always have a happily ever after. A former journalist, she switched to fiction when she decided she likes writing her own endings better.
She lives in Pennsylvania with her very own nerdy husband and two kids. Although rather fun-sized, she's been told she has a full-sized personality. When Megan isn't writing, she's either lounging with her two cats named after John Hughes characters or... thinking about writing.
For more, visit meganerickson.org
She lives in Pennsylvania with her very own nerdy husband and two kids. Although rather fun-sized, she's been told she has a full-sized personality. When Megan isn't writing, she's either lounging with her two cats named after John Hughes characters or... thinking about writing.
For more, visit meganerickson.org
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March 8, 2018Rating and review removed.
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June 11, 2015
This book was everything.
I loved, loved the first book so I knew this one was going to be good. I trusted Megan to write a good follow-up. She's such a great writer, so I went into it not even worried. Then I read this ARC. And I may have found one of those top ten favorites because this... This book floored me. (In a good way)
Colin was such an adorably charming southern guy, laid back but feeling a little insecure because, hey, he'd just realized college wasn't his thing. But I love how that was shown to be as OKAY as that totally is, and it led him back home, showed him what he really did want.
And Riley. Oh, Riley. It was cool to see this book from Colin's perspective because usually you'd be in the POV of the person going through these things, and if you've ever been a Riley it's jarring to see how your actions affect those around you and you're just too miserable to see it. It's also cool, because while you definitely feel for Riley and just want to hug the breath out of him, you really get to see how it also affects Colin and he goes thru feelings--selfish and not-- that you can completely understand and make him all the more human. We usually don't see that b/c we r too busy in the other MCs head, worrying about THEIR well-being. My face was pretty steady leaking from 65% to the epilogue, for both of them.
From the pier to the parking lot... I was done. You'll know what I mean when you read it. JFC.
Not only was their love story so strong and so great, and their good times sweet and made me FEEL, but Riley's issues were handled well. I gotta give major kudos for handling those issues--one in particular, that IDK that I want to spoil--because no one else really has in M/M. And all of it was handled realistically, even certain side effects.
This book deserves all the love, and these boys, because in the end they grew and they were strong together, for each other AND for themselves.
This series is a must-read and this book... a must. Loved seeing Landry and Justin again. They didn't overwhelm the story with their presence, and helped in a huge way that made me want to smish the fuck out of Landry. This was handled with so much class and I couldn't recommend more.
I'm going to stop gushing now. I'll just leave it at READ THIS BOOK. I'd give this more than 5 stars if I could, and I mean that seriously. A book has not gotten me in the feels like this in a long, long time. *smishes Megan Erickson so hard* Can't wait for more in this series. Can. Not. Wait.
I loved, loved the first book so I knew this one was going to be good. I trusted Megan to write a good follow-up. She's such a great writer, so I went into it not even worried. Then I read this ARC. And I may have found one of those top ten favorites because this... This book floored me. (In a good way)
Colin was such an adorably charming southern guy, laid back but feeling a little insecure because, hey, he'd just realized college wasn't his thing. But I love how that was shown to be as OKAY as that totally is, and it led him back home, showed him what he really did want.
And Riley. Oh, Riley. It was cool to see this book from Colin's perspective because usually you'd be in the POV of the person going through these things, and if you've ever been a Riley it's jarring to see how your actions affect those around you and you're just too miserable to see it. It's also cool, because while you definitely feel for Riley and just want to hug the breath out of him, you really get to see how it also affects Colin and he goes thru feelings--selfish and not-- that you can completely understand and make him all the more human. We usually don't see that b/c we r too busy in the other MCs head, worrying about THEIR well-being. My face was pretty steady leaking from 65% to the epilogue, for both of them.
From the pier to the parking lot... I was done. You'll know what I mean when you read it. JFC.
Not only was their love story so strong and so great, and their good times sweet and made me FEEL, but Riley's issues were handled well. I gotta give major kudos for handling those issues--one in particular, that IDK that I want to spoil--because no one else really has in M/M. And all of it was handled realistically, even certain side effects.
This book deserves all the love, and these boys, because in the end they grew and they were strong together, for each other AND for themselves.
This series is a must-read and this book... a must. Loved seeing Landry and Justin again. They didn't overwhelm the story with their presence, and helped in a huge way that made me want to smish the fuck out of Landry. This was handled with so much class and I couldn't recommend more.
I'm going to stop gushing now. I'll just leave it at READ THIS BOOK. I'd give this more than 5 stars if I could, and I mean that seriously. A book has not gotten me in the feels like this in a long, long time. *smishes Megan Erickson so hard* Can't wait for more in this series. Can. Not. Wait.
July 23, 2015
4 Stars!!
“Focus on Me” is book2 in “In Focus” series by Megan Erickson and like the first book the story centers on a road trip. Unlike the first book, this second book in the series deals with a tough, sensitive subject matter – mental illness – eating disorder in men. It is a common misconception that eating disorders only affect women. The reality is that eating disorders affect both men and women /boys and girls. Kudos to the author for approaching this topic in a very respectful way with care and consideration.
The story fallows Colin, a 21 years old boy, who’s on his way home to North Carolina after he dropped out of college. Colin is gay, he’s an ex-football player and he sees himself as a quitter. He’s not resentful, considering he wasted his time trying to become something he wasn’t. He accepted it and he plans to help his parents at their BBQ restaurant and of course to forget about this college experience. In Nevada he sees a boy whom he nicknames ‘Catwalk’ who desperately needs a ride. Colin offers him a ride and 'Catwalk' accepts. He can’t stop noticing how delicate and good looking this stranger is and he's ready to admit to himself how smitten he is.
Catwalk aka Riley is a mystery. While Colin shares some information about himself, his family and his family’s business, Riley shares only a part of the truth, of who he really is. Colin not only wants to know Riley better, but he wants to help him and protect him. From whom or what? He doesn’t know...yet, but he wants to be 'the one'.
As the story progresses, Colin realizes who Riley really is and he also realizes Riley is a tortured soul who needs saving, but who doesn’t know how to save himself, who needs care and also love. He’s determined to do anything to save the one who changed his life and who he is.
This was a touching, beautifully written story with both light and heavy moments very different from the first book in the series and also very different from what I expected. The story is told from Colin’s POV and I liked his POV, but there were some moments when I really wanted Riley’s POV.
I loved this two boys! Both of them are well developed, so different from each other, but they completed each other in a very sweet way. Colin was wonderful. He has such a big heart. He’s a caretaker. He wants to help and he’s willing to do anything for the other boy, even if he doesn’t know anything about him. I loved how patient and thoughtful he was at times with Riley. He made me swoon and I have to say I fell over heels with him.
Riley’s characterization is heart-breaking. He is a lost and lonely boy who just wanted to feel. Anything! And he also wants to not feel so empty and hopeless. I was so glad he met Colin who showed him there’s always more for everyone out there, that there’s hope and love, that he is savable and lovable. In the end, Riley found the necessary strength and I loved how brave he became. At some point, both guys are a little insecure believing they are not good for the other. I wasn’t bothered by this aspect of the story like I usually am. Maybe because I understood in some way why they felt this way.
Colin and Riley are so good together. I loved how gentle Colin was with the other guy and I loved their tenderness and I also loved their sexy times, which they were sweet, but also intense. I also enjoyed their character growth.
As for the side characters – they were great. It was good to see Landry and Justin, the main characters from book1.
Overall, a really great read!
“Focus on Me” is book2 in “In Focus” series by Megan Erickson and like the first book the story centers on a road trip. Unlike the first book, this second book in the series deals with a tough, sensitive subject matter – mental illness – eating disorder in men. It is a common misconception that eating disorders only affect women. The reality is that eating disorders affect both men and women /boys and girls. Kudos to the author for approaching this topic in a very respectful way with care and consideration.
The story fallows Colin, a 21 years old boy, who’s on his way home to North Carolina after he dropped out of college. Colin is gay, he’s an ex-football player and he sees himself as a quitter. He’s not resentful, considering he wasted his time trying to become something he wasn’t. He accepted it and he plans to help his parents at their BBQ restaurant and of course to forget about this college experience. In Nevada he sees a boy whom he nicknames ‘Catwalk’ who desperately needs a ride. Colin offers him a ride and 'Catwalk' accepts. He can’t stop noticing how delicate and good looking this stranger is and he's ready to admit to himself how smitten he is.
Catwalk aka Riley is a mystery. While Colin shares some information about himself, his family and his family’s business, Riley shares only a part of the truth, of who he really is. Colin not only wants to know Riley better, but he wants to help him and protect him. From whom or what? He doesn’t know...yet, but he wants to be 'the one'.
As the story progresses, Colin realizes who Riley really is and he also realizes Riley is a tortured soul who needs saving, but who doesn’t know how to save himself, who needs care and also love. He’s determined to do anything to save the one who changed his life and who he is.
This was a touching, beautifully written story with both light and heavy moments very different from the first book in the series and also very different from what I expected. The story is told from Colin’s POV and I liked his POV, but there were some moments when I really wanted Riley’s POV.
I loved this two boys! Both of them are well developed, so different from each other, but they completed each other in a very sweet way. Colin was wonderful. He has such a big heart. He’s a caretaker. He wants to help and he’s willing to do anything for the other boy, even if he doesn’t know anything about him. I loved how patient and thoughtful he was at times with Riley. He made me swoon and I have to say I fell over heels with him.
“What was it about him? It wasn’t just how he looked, either. I wanted him to smile. I wanted for him to be happy. And I wanted to be the person who made that happen.”
Riley’s characterization is heart-breaking. He is a lost and lonely boy who just wanted to feel. Anything! And he also wants to not feel so empty and hopeless. I was so glad he met Colin who showed him there’s always more for everyone out there, that there’s hope and love, that he is savable and lovable. In the end, Riley found the necessary strength and I loved how brave he became. At some point, both guys are a little insecure believing they are not good for the other. I wasn’t bothered by this aspect of the story like I usually am. Maybe because I understood in some way why they felt this way.
Colin and Riley are so good together. I loved how gentle Colin was with the other guy and I loved their tenderness and I also loved their sexy times, which they were sweet, but also intense. I also enjoyed their character growth.
As for the side characters – they were great. It was good to see Landry and Justin, the main characters from book1.
Overall, a really great read!
November 8, 2015
Advanced review copy of Focus on Me provided by Megan Erickson in exchange for an honest review.
Another cute-boy road trip tale from Megan Erickson! The first book in the series, Trust the Focus, was an absolute delight and I actually think I liked this one more!
Colin Hartman is a guy on his way home to North Carolina from California with his tail between his legs after flunking out of college his Junior year. Early in his cross country trip, he sees a lost looking young man he nicknames Catwalk because of his striking good looks. Catwalk seems to be at the end of his rope and needs a ride. Colin offers him that ride in his green Jeep named "Butch" and their adventure begins.
Colin's sister always told Colin that he had a "caretaker" gene and that explains why Colin makes it his mission to turn Catwalk's (real name Riley) blue mood into one filled with joy and humor. He ends up stopping with Riley at several different landmarks that Riley has on his bucket list. Colin sees a lot of sorrow in Riley and their adventure seems to be helping put a smile on Riley's face.
Since this story is told from Colin's point of view, there are a few things I will purposely leave out of this review because I feel it is important for the reader to discover things along with Colin. Things about himself and especially about Riley. Colin falls in love with Riley and things get serious between the two men pretty darn fast. Colin's caretaker gene is in overdrive and you can't help but fall in love with him. You're gonna fall in love with Riley too and want to bring him home and feed him some delicious pot roast that will stick to his ribs.
Colin and Riley are wonderful characters and it was fun watching them mature in the short time they were on their road trip. This book ended up being extremely emotional for me and was so much more than a regular M/M romance with good sex, a touch of angst and a HEA. But, of course these boys do get a HEA and it is the stuff of baby bunnies, rainbows and cotton candy. And the sex? HOT! Just perfection.
I can HIGHLY recommend Focus on Me to all M/M Romance fans. You will definitely get more than you expect from this one and the epilogue will make you want to sing with glee.
Sidenote: The way Megan Erickson linked the first and second book together is pure genius. Very original and satisfying and it was so nice to see Justin and Landry again. #JusLan
This review is also posted at Gay Book Reviews
November 15, 2015
4.5 stars
If you’ve read anything by Megan Erikson, you’re aware that this author knows how to write an entertaining story.
And…
…if you’ve read Trust the Focus by Megan Erikson, you know that this author knows how to write a heartfelt New Adult story.
But…
…let me just say, Focus On Me is a whole new level…a deeply emotional journey, a brave bit of storytelling, and a book that will stay with me in my heart for a very long time.
First for some housekeeping: though this is book #2 of the In Focus series, it can be read as a standalone. (Justin and Landry do make appearances in this book though). Also, for those that have read book #1, be forewarned that this has a very different feel and emotion…though told most definitely in the author’s voice…and is a bit darker than the first.
Now...Colin is a salt-of-the-earth college dropout who is driving cross-country back to his hometown to start anew after flunking out of school. He struggles with the fact that he’s never really finished anything, and frankly, never had anything that he’s found worth fighting for.
Riley is a familiar character to those who’ve read Trust the Focus (but I’ll let you find out from the prologue how the author introduces who he is! It’s a treat!), who’s on his own journey…crossing off his bucket list things that he hopes will drive back some of his demons.
The two randomly meet at an off-the-beaten-path gas station, and thus starts our road trip. The author takes us all over the country with our two MC’s and she also takes us all over the map with our emotions.
The growing attraction and flirtation between the characters is charming. But it’s laced with an uncertainty and leaves the reader guessing what’s going on beneath the surface. Most especially with Riley. As I mentioned, he has his demons. And what he’s battling with, the weight and enormity of it, is heartbreaking.
Since the story is told from Colin’s point of view, we worry and fret along with him, trying to figure out what’s going on and hoping that he (Colin) can help Riley fight back the sadness and hollowness inside. Colin’s “care-taker gene” is the gentle way of saying that he’s codependent and would do anything to try and save Riley…to make him happy…to help him find peace and healing. In fact, this is one of the best portrayals of a true codependent relationship I’ve ever read…trust me, I’ve lived it…I can recognize it immediately.
The fact that this one tore me up with familiarity speaks volumes.
Some of Colin’s efforts find success. Others of them do not. And we’re ultimately left with a pit in our stomachs wondering how this broken couple can move forward. And will there be a HEA for them by the end?
I don’t want to spoiler any of this book. But, I will say that it’s raw…it has hard edges that cut and bleed the heart. Yet it’s also kind…and honest…and hopeful. My heart felt at times alternating from full to smashed…and tears flowed freely.
Purposely being vague, I just highly recommend that you read this book and let all the layers, and the bits of information, and the growth of the characters, and the mistakes and lessons and triumphs unfold for you. This journey will be well worth it.
Meet you on the flip side at the beach…
Thank you, Megan Erikson…for what is certain to be one of my favorite reads of the year…I LOVED THIS BOOK...despite the fact that it ripped me apart, made me bleary-and-puffy eyed for days, and has laid claim to my heart...
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December 9, 2015So, this book. Well, it's my version of Mad Love, the 90s movie, but gay and with a solid happily ever after. It's sad, it's happy, it's sad again, and most of all, I like to think it's hopeful.
And yes, my loves, JusLan (from TRUST THE FOCUS) make an important cameo. Don't fear. :)
If you want to be notified when this book releases and get up-to-date news on all of my books, you can sign up for my newsletter here. You'll also have the chance to enter exclusive giveaways for my books and others. Thanks!
And yes, my loves, JusLan (from TRUST THE FOCUS) make an important cameo. Don't fear. :)
If you want to be notified when this book releases and get up-to-date news on all of my books, you can sign up for my newsletter here. You'll also have the chance to enter exclusive giveaways for my books and others. Thanks!
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March 10, 2018Rating Removed
****************************************************
5 stars
He pulled back and blinked at me. “I came back.”
I smiled. “Yeah, you did. You came back.”
“Will you . . . still take me to the ocean?”
I nodded. “Of course.”
His face relaxed and he snuggled into me tighter
This book made me smile, laugh and heartbroken….it some heavy issues like :eating disorders, depression & suicide.
Our Mc’s Colin and Riley meet at a gas station when Colin offers Riley a ride, this was a creepy serial killer setting but from there their road trip begins.
Colin was such a sweet, caring and easy-going character. I loved getting to know him, he was funny, loving and never gave up on Riley. He was also dealing with his own issues of feeling like a failure. I loved that when he realized that Riley had a problem he decided to seek help, and there was no magic dick healing.
I hated myself. I hated myself for giving in to Riley. And I hated him for making me do this.
And I hated him for pushing it, but I’d been a willing participant. I’d let Riley need me.
Riley might have punctured the hole in our ship, but I’d done nothing to stop the water coming in. We had sunk each other, in an irrevocable way. Because Riley lay broken on the bed and I wanted to claw my skin off.
Riley broke my heart, he was so sad, broken and was trying to deal with his demons and when he met Colin he tried to heal himself by depending on Colin which was a huge failure. When he finally broke down my heart was in pieces. Even though the book is written in Colin’s Pov and we only get into Riley’s head through his emails with Landry, that did not stop me from knowing Riley.
You bought me yogurt and flirted and took care of me and called me ‘baby’.” I grunted as his fingernails dug into my skin. His eyes narrowed. “And you did it all without me knowing. I didn’t know until I tried to walk away from his hotel. And every step was like trying to walk with weights tied around my ankles.
I Loved
•The writing, it sucked me in, the issues were dealt with without being preachy and there was no unnecessary miscommunication.
.The relationship development, i loved how it progressed.
•I loved the emails between Riley and Landry.
•Colin and Riley’s parents, I am glad they were supportive.
•The road trip, I would have loved to be with them in that Jeep named Butch.
•The chemistry between Colin and Riley was there from the start.
•The conversations and the banter was engaging.
I enjoyed every second of this and loved it more than book 1
“Look at me, Riley.”
He stayed frozen where he was.
“Baby, I need you to turn around and focus on me.”
****************************************************
5 stars
He pulled back and blinked at me. “I came back.”
I smiled. “Yeah, you did. You came back.”
“Will you . . . still take me to the ocean?”
I nodded. “Of course.”
His face relaxed and he snuggled into me tighter
This book made me smile, laugh and heartbroken….it some heavy issues like :eating disorders, depression & suicide.
Our Mc’s Colin and Riley meet at a gas station when Colin offers Riley a ride, this was a creepy serial killer setting but from there their road trip begins.
Colin was such a sweet, caring and easy-going character. I loved getting to know him, he was funny, loving and never gave up on Riley. He was also dealing with his own issues of feeling like a failure. I loved that when he realized that Riley had a problem he decided to seek help, and there was no magic dick healing.
I hated myself. I hated myself for giving in to Riley. And I hated him for making me do this.
And I hated him for pushing it, but I’d been a willing participant. I’d let Riley need me.
Riley might have punctured the hole in our ship, but I’d done nothing to stop the water coming in. We had sunk each other, in an irrevocable way. Because Riley lay broken on the bed and I wanted to claw my skin off.
Riley broke my heart, he was so sad, broken and was trying to deal with his demons and when he met Colin he tried to heal himself by depending on Colin which was a huge failure. When he finally broke down my heart was in pieces. Even though the book is written in Colin’s Pov and we only get into Riley’s head through his emails with Landry, that did not stop me from knowing Riley.
You bought me yogurt and flirted and took care of me and called me ‘baby’.” I grunted as his fingernails dug into my skin. His eyes narrowed. “And you did it all without me knowing. I didn’t know until I tried to walk away from his hotel. And every step was like trying to walk with weights tied around my ankles.
I Loved
•The writing, it sucked me in, the issues were dealt with without being preachy and there was no unnecessary miscommunication.
.The relationship development, i loved how it progressed.
•I loved the emails between Riley and Landry.
•Colin and Riley’s parents, I am glad they were supportive.
•The road trip, I would have loved to be with them in that Jeep named Butch.
•The chemistry between Colin and Riley was there from the start.
•The conversations and the banter was engaging.
I enjoyed every second of this and loved it more than book 1
“Look at me, Riley.”
He stayed frozen where he was.
“Baby, I need you to turn around and focus on me.”
October 8, 2015
Warning: Random thoughts ahead!
For NA, this one was good.
Problem is, I just don't think NA is for me. And I also don't care for the co-dependency angle.
That being said, this one was very well-written. The characters were great. They made me laugh at times, they made me cry at times.
There was some steam, not a lot, but enough.
I loved the road trip. Their adventures. Seeing Riley and Colin's relationship grow along the way.
I found a few things a bit non-plausible.
I didn't read book 1, but the inclusion of Landry and Justin made me want to go back and read their story.
I loved that Colin called Riley Catwalk.
Maybe it was just a bit too heavy for me. Something about it didn't make me love it. But I definitely liked it.
For NA, this one was good.
Problem is, I just don't think NA is for me. And I also don't care for the co-dependency angle.
That being said, this one was very well-written. The characters were great. They made me laugh at times, they made me cry at times.
There was some steam, not a lot, but enough.
I loved the road trip. Their adventures. Seeing Riley and Colin's relationship grow along the way.
I found a few things a bit non-plausible.
I didn't read book 1, but the inclusion of Landry and Justin made me want to go back and read their story.
I loved that Colin called Riley Catwalk.
Maybe it was just a bit too heavy for me. Something about it didn't make me love it. But I definitely liked it.
Shelved as 'nope'
March 9, 2018
5 stars!
I loved Trust the Focus. It is easily one of my favorite books ever and it also introduced me to the amazingly talented Megan Erickson. So I knew after reading that book that I would read the sequel, Focus on Me.
The wait for this book killed me. But it was so worth the wait. It was everything I wanted it to be and more, much more.
Focus on Me is not like Trust the Focus. I thought Trust the Focus was angsty and difficult to read in places, but Focus on Me was even worse, but in a good way. This book was brutal at times and it was difficult to read but beautiful at the same time.
Colin is a southern boy who’s just dropped out of college and feels like a failure, a quitter. He walks into a gas station expecting to pay for his gas and leave. What he doesn’t expect is Catwalk, aka. Riley, the gorgeous man who looking to go somewhere. He offers Riley a ride the Grand Canyon.
Riley is a former model who happens to be Landry’s pretend ex-boyfriend from the book. The prologue of this book is Landry writing to him to apologize. Riley is battling his demons and struggling in life. He agrees to let Colin drive him to the Grand Canyon and thinks he can move on then.
But these two guys can’t move on. There’s an attraction between them. There are also secrets. Lots of secrets.
I loved both these guys. Colin, who quiet everything but refused to quit Riley. And Riley who broke my heart and made me worry for him. It was hard to watch him struggling the way he did and to see it through Colin’s eyes, it was extremely difficult to read.
Megan Erickson covered something rarely seen in books, eating disorders in men. And she did an amazing job. This was only the second time I’ve read about this topic, but I loved the way she covered it.
As a couple, Colin and Riley were amazing. They had their ups and downs throughout the book. The downs were downright painful.
But the good times were so amazingly good. They left me smiling and hopeful and just ready for the two of them to catch the break they definitely earned.
I can’t say much more about this book without going on and on about how much I adored this book. I honestly cannot recommend it enough.
And if you need convincing, Justin and Landry make a guest appearance in this. Hell yes!
I loved Trust the Focus. It is easily one of my favorite books ever and it also introduced me to the amazingly talented Megan Erickson. So I knew after reading that book that I would read the sequel, Focus on Me.
The wait for this book killed me. But it was so worth the wait. It was everything I wanted it to be and more, much more.
Focus on Me is not like Trust the Focus. I thought Trust the Focus was angsty and difficult to read in places, but Focus on Me was even worse, but in a good way. This book was brutal at times and it was difficult to read but beautiful at the same time.
Colin is a southern boy who’s just dropped out of college and feels like a failure, a quitter. He walks into a gas station expecting to pay for his gas and leave. What he doesn’t expect is Catwalk, aka. Riley, the gorgeous man who looking to go somewhere. He offers Riley a ride the Grand Canyon.
My cock twitched, and I jerked my head away. No, no way. He was Catwalk and probably straight and I was Colin the fuck-up and no way was anything going to happen.
Riley is a former model who happens to be Landry’s pretend ex-boyfriend from the book. The prologue of this book is Landry writing to him to apologize. Riley is battling his demons and struggling in life. He agrees to let Colin drive him to the Grand Canyon and thinks he can move on then.
But these two guys can’t move on. There’s an attraction between them. There are also secrets. Lots of secrets.
I loved both these guys. Colin, who quiet everything but refused to quit Riley. And Riley who broke my heart and made me worry for him. It was hard to watch him struggling the way he did and to see it through Colin’s eyes, it was extremely difficult to read.
Riley sat on the floor of the tub, huddled into a ball. The water pelted him on the head, rivers running down his face. He slowly raised his head, eyelashes dripping, and stared right through me.
Megan Erickson covered something rarely seen in books, eating disorders in men. And she did an amazing job. This was only the second time I’ve read about this topic, but I loved the way she covered it.
As a couple, Colin and Riley were amazing. They had their ups and downs throughout the book. The downs were downright painful.
I hated myself. I hated myself for giving in to Riley. And I hated him for making me do this.
But the good times were so amazingly good. They left me smiling and hopeful and just ready for the two of them to catch the break they definitely earned.
I nuzzled the hair above his ear and gently removed his shirt, so my skin met his. I ran my fingernails down his neck and over his shoulders. I nipped his earlobe and I whispered “Baby,” and “I missed you,” and “I love you” in his ear over and over again. He opened his lips on the skin where my neck met my shoulder and sucked until I was sure there would be a lasting mark.
I kissed him. I kissed him so hard that our teeth clacked together. I separated on a smack, staring into his wide eyes. “Of course it’s okay. It’s perfect, you beautiful bastard. It’s fucking perfect.”
His smile was brilliant. Pure, happy, brilliant Riley. It was the best sight I’d ever seen.
He smiled.
Not just a I’m happy to see you smile. Not a I missed you smile.
This was a I can breathe again now that you’re in front of me smile.
I can’t say much more about this book without going on and on about how much I adored this book. I honestly cannot recommend it enough.
And if you need convincing, Justin and Landry make a guest appearance in this. Hell yes!
March 7, 2017
***4.25 Stars***
No sophomore series slump here!! I read this practically in one sitting.
The book deals with mental illness, which can be a tricky topic to write about...but Megan Erickson does a really good job of writing with care. And to top it off, she managed to write it in a way where the book didn't feel too heavy.
Do I wish that we had more of what was going on in Riley's head? At times. But at the end of the day, I kind of liked that we only really saw Riley through Colin's eyes. It's so easy to miss the signs, to overlook something that may not be too healthy because we're looking through the filter of our own feelings and emotions.
This was a really enjoyable read that had a little bit of everything....humor, emotion, steam...all wrapped up in two flawed, yet endearing characters. Highly recommend this!
March 11, 2018
Note (added 11/03/2018):
In light of recent events, I can no longer recommend this book to my friends (or any reader, for that matter).
However, my Goodreads review space provides me an opportunity to rate and review books, expressing how they made me think, feel, question, or react at a particular moment in time. Sometimes, I use my review space to share stories about my life or comment on the world around me, drawing comparisons between myself and the characters and plot lines that I read about. As such, they are a time capsule of sorts and the historian in me won't let me erase them from the historical record.
So I am going to leave my ratings/reviews intact, but reiterate that I can no longer recommend this book to my friends.
Originally rating and/or review:
Ack! This book! It made me feel all of the things. It also made me sob like a little baby (which, I've come to realize, is pretty much a requirement in order for me to give a book a 5-star rating). I've no doubts that this one will make my Favourites of 2016 list by the end of the year.
In light of recent events, I can no longer recommend this book to my friends (or any reader, for that matter).
However, my Goodreads review space provides me an opportunity to rate and review books, expressing how they made me think, feel, question, or react at a particular moment in time. Sometimes, I use my review space to share stories about my life or comment on the world around me, drawing comparisons between myself and the characters and plot lines that I read about. As such, they are a time capsule of sorts and the historian in me won't let me erase them from the historical record.
So I am going to leave my ratings/reviews intact, but reiterate that I can no longer recommend this book to my friends.
Originally rating and/or review:
Ack! This book! It made me feel all of the things. It also made me sob like a little baby (which, I've come to realize, is pretty much a requirement in order for me to give a book a 5-star rating). I've no doubts that this one will make my Favourites of 2016 list by the end of the year.
June 1, 2015
The follow up to Trust the Focus is, in some ways, a much more grown up book. Riley, aka "catwalk" has some pretty intense stuff going on that makes this roadtrip feel darker and rougher than the one taken by Justin and Landry. Megan's writing is, as always, engaging and smooth, with a deft touch for both humor and darkness.
I found the story emotional, very moving, and sweetly sensual. recommend!
I found the story emotional, very moving, and sweetly sensual. recommend!
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March 6, 2018Review removed.
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March 9, 2018Rating & review removed
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August 5, 2015
Earlier this year I read Trust the Focus, a m/m road trip romance and adored it. When I heard that Megan Erickson planned more books in this series, with a focus on road trip romance, it made me very happy. Focus on Me features two new characters who travel across the country, fall in love but also have to deal with a serious issue – depression.
Colin comes from a very close-knit family in North Carolina. His family owns a barbecue restaurant and were very supportive when he told them he was gay. A star football player, he heads out to California for college to play ball and go to school. But school is not for him, and after three dismal years, he fails out and decides it’s time to go home and work in the family business. He gets in his car for the cross-country trip home. Stopping at a gas station on the way, he notices a very attractive guy in front of him in line. With model features and clothes, Colin nicknames him “Catwalk” in his head. Colin has what his family calls the “Savior” gene – he loves to help everyone in need. When he overhears Catwalk aka Riley talking to the cashier that he needs a cab or a bus to take him home – but he is too far out in the country for any help from public transit – Colin offers Riley a ride. Riley hesitantly accepts.
Riley is very quiet, moody, and a bit jumpy. Colin finally wrangles out of him that he has a bucket list of sorts – Riley wants to see the Grand Canyon, Dallas and eventually the Atlantic Ocean. Since Colin is headed to North Carolina from California, he figures why not make a trip out of it and obliges Riley with his bucket list. With much prodding and patience, Colin eventually gets Riley to open up, they realize they are both gay and a romance slowly develops. What Colin comes to learn this summer is that Riley greatly struggles with depression, and no matter how much you love someone, depression is a beast that is hard to beat.
Why do I love road trip romances so much? I’m not sure if it’s the close quarters in the car and low-budget motels, or the different destinations featured throughout the book, but I just love this theme. While the first book was cutesy and adorable and just overall sweet, this one has a little bit of a darker tone. While the reader isn’t fully aware of the extent of Riley’s depression, you know it hangs over him like a dark cloud. Nervous and jumpy by nature, Riley is so cautious with showing affection. Modeling became too much for him and he also sees his family and friends more as enemies, constantly nagging him to get help. He falls hard for Colin, but is so scared to let that emotion come out. His ups and downs are portrayed really well. Colin’s love and devotion towards Riley is evident, but what I liked even more is how his frustration plays out. Colin has to go through his own process of understanding depression and the combination of his fear of what’s happening to Riley and wanting to strangle him at some points plays out well. For as much of a journey Riley goes on, Colin’s experience is heart-felt and difficult too.
They are both 21, but to me, Colin read much older. I kept picturing him in his mid-30’s. Not that that is necessarily a bad thing, but he didn’t read as a 21-year-old. He seemed so much more mature, and worldly and just more prepared for life than a 21 would seem. Other than that, I adored Colin. Told in his point of view, he leads a pretty stable life. Even with failing out of school, it’s not the end of the world for him. His family is happy to have him home and glad he tried college.
And this author writes the best sexual tension and sex scenes. It takes a little while for Riley to open himself up but once he does…it’s so sexy. They have great chemistry and the romance is both sweet and intense. I think the great care is taken with the end as well. Depression is never magically cured but hopefully managed.
Highly recommend both of these books and hope there are more.
Grade: A-
Colin comes from a very close-knit family in North Carolina. His family owns a barbecue restaurant and were very supportive when he told them he was gay. A star football player, he heads out to California for college to play ball and go to school. But school is not for him, and after three dismal years, he fails out and decides it’s time to go home and work in the family business. He gets in his car for the cross-country trip home. Stopping at a gas station on the way, he notices a very attractive guy in front of him in line. With model features and clothes, Colin nicknames him “Catwalk” in his head. Colin has what his family calls the “Savior” gene – he loves to help everyone in need. When he overhears Catwalk aka Riley talking to the cashier that he needs a cab or a bus to take him home – but he is too far out in the country for any help from public transit – Colin offers Riley a ride. Riley hesitantly accepts.
Riley is very quiet, moody, and a bit jumpy. Colin finally wrangles out of him that he has a bucket list of sorts – Riley wants to see the Grand Canyon, Dallas and eventually the Atlantic Ocean. Since Colin is headed to North Carolina from California, he figures why not make a trip out of it and obliges Riley with his bucket list. With much prodding and patience, Colin eventually gets Riley to open up, they realize they are both gay and a romance slowly develops. What Colin comes to learn this summer is that Riley greatly struggles with depression, and no matter how much you love someone, depression is a beast that is hard to beat.
Why do I love road trip romances so much? I’m not sure if it’s the close quarters in the car and low-budget motels, or the different destinations featured throughout the book, but I just love this theme. While the first book was cutesy and adorable and just overall sweet, this one has a little bit of a darker tone. While the reader isn’t fully aware of the extent of Riley’s depression, you know it hangs over him like a dark cloud. Nervous and jumpy by nature, Riley is so cautious with showing affection. Modeling became too much for him and he also sees his family and friends more as enemies, constantly nagging him to get help. He falls hard for Colin, but is so scared to let that emotion come out. His ups and downs are portrayed really well. Colin’s love and devotion towards Riley is evident, but what I liked even more is how his frustration plays out. Colin has to go through his own process of understanding depression and the combination of his fear of what’s happening to Riley and wanting to strangle him at some points plays out well. For as much of a journey Riley goes on, Colin’s experience is heart-felt and difficult too.
They are both 21, but to me, Colin read much older. I kept picturing him in his mid-30’s. Not that that is necessarily a bad thing, but he didn’t read as a 21-year-old. He seemed so much more mature, and worldly and just more prepared for life than a 21 would seem. Other than that, I adored Colin. Told in his point of view, he leads a pretty stable life. Even with failing out of school, it’s not the end of the world for him. His family is happy to have him home and glad he tried college.
And this author writes the best sexual tension and sex scenes. It takes a little while for Riley to open himself up but once he does…it’s so sexy. They have great chemistry and the romance is both sweet and intense. I think the great care is taken with the end as well. Depression is never magically cured but hopefully managed.
Highly recommend both of these books and hope there are more.
Grade: A-
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March 9, 2018Review removed
August 5, 2015
So, I liked this one but I didn't love it, and that's because of a few reasons.
Rant
First of all, I feel as if this book really needed one last content editing session as well as another read through for grammatical errors and typos, because there were wayyy too many.
(A kindly fellow Goodreader set me straight on the folowing in the comments)
There was a part where Riley manages to randomly find and enter Colin's hotel room in a big city like Dallas, even though Colin wasn't in the room at the time, even though they hadn't previously discussed his whereabouts. Now, unless Riley is psychic or had posted a GPS on Colin there's no possible way he could have known where he'd be. This sort of thing happening in books without an explanation really drives me crazy.
This should've been taken care of by a good editor, which is why I'm side eyeing InterMix right now. I don't like to pay good money for books riddled with mistakesand minor plotholes, so please get your shit together. This sort of thing is why ebook publishers are not considered major players in the publishing world.
End rant
Anyway, back to what I thought about the rest of the book: I enjoyed it, but I would have enjoyed it a lot more if I didn't keep getting pulled out of the book by the constant mistakes. I liked the way that Riley which is not something you find very often in this genre. I liked that Riley ended up wanting to better himself for himself and not for Colin. I also really liked their characters in general, but I did think that their situation was a bit too insta love-ish for me.
I think that even though this author seems to primarily be an M/F author, her male characters don't seem like women with male names, which is a good thing. I also think that with more practice (and a better editor) she could very well become a major player in the M/M world.
Rant
First of all, I feel as if this book really needed one last content editing session as well as another read through for grammatical errors and typos, because there were wayyy too many.
(A kindly fellow Goodreader set me straight on the folowing in the comments)
This should've been taken care of by a good editor, which is why I'm side eyeing InterMix right now. I don't like to pay good money for books riddled with mistakes
End rant
Anyway, back to what I thought about the rest of the book: I enjoyed it, but I would have enjoyed it a lot more if I didn't keep getting pulled out of the book by the constant mistakes. I liked the way that Riley which is not something you find very often in this genre. I liked that Riley ended up wanting to better himself for himself and not for Colin. I also really liked their characters in general, but I did think that their situation was a bit too insta love-ish for me.
I think that even though this author seems to primarily be an M/F author, her male characters don't seem like women with male names, which is a good thing. I also think that with more practice (and a better editor) she could very well become a major player in the M/M world.
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May 23, 2021Rating removed
*************************************
Original review:
This was another impressively well written offering from Megan Erickson.
This story hurt so good. As demented as it may sound, if a book can emotionally compromise me the way this one did then I know it's a winner. And I'll be honest, I spent a huge chunk of this read feeling anxious and sad and a bunch of other not-so-happy feelings that resulted in a lot of tears on my end, but I can't help but deeply respect and admire the way Erickson was able to elicit such powerful emotions. She created a story that was honest and raw, which dealt with some serious health issues that should not, and were not, taken lightly. Nothing was sugar-coated and there was no magical cure, yet the story still remained hopeful and ultimately ended on a positive life-affirming note, which I appreciated greatly.
*************************************
Original review:
This was another impressively well written offering from Megan Erickson.
This story hurt so good. As demented as it may sound, if a book can emotionally compromise me the way this one did then I know it's a winner. And I'll be honest, I spent a huge chunk of this read feeling anxious and sad and a bunch of other not-so-happy feelings that resulted in a lot of tears on my end, but I can't help but deeply respect and admire the way Erickson was able to elicit such powerful emotions. She created a story that was honest and raw, which dealt with some serious health issues that should not, and were not, taken lightly. Nothing was sugar-coated and there was no magical cure, yet the story still remained hopeful and ultimately ended on a positive life-affirming note, which I appreciated greatly.
March 8, 2018
Review removed because the author may have supported/encouraged another author who may have misrepresented themselves as ownvoices and accepted cash gifts from fans under potentially false pretenses.”
July 30, 2015
Absolute perfection, just as I expected. I went into this book expecting a rollercoaster of feels and that's exactly what I got.
Colin and Riley are both fantastic. Their relationship is flirty and adorable and uncertain and insecure. It took a little bit of time for the reveal, but I had an idea. It wasn't exactly what I thought, but it was handled so so so well. Megan took a painful and dark subject and sheds a bright and loving light on it.
I feel like it's safe to say that there will be a HEA. That's part of Megan's MO and even though the trip to the ending is filled with bumps, it just makes it all the sweeter. And I haven't even mentioned the JusLan scenes...but I'll let you find those on your own.
If you haven't started reading Megan's words, you really need to.
**Huge thanks to Penguin/Berkeley and NetGalley for providing the arc in exchange for an honest review**
Colin and Riley are both fantastic. Their relationship is flirty and adorable and uncertain and insecure. It took a little bit of time for the reveal, but I had an idea. It wasn't exactly what I thought, but it was handled so so so well. Megan took a painful and dark subject and sheds a bright and loving light on it.
I feel like it's safe to say that there will be a HEA. That's part of Megan's MO and even though the trip to the ending is filled with bumps, it just makes it all the sweeter. And I haven't even mentioned the JusLan scenes...but I'll let you find those on your own.
If you haven't started reading Megan's words, you really need to.
**Huge thanks to Penguin/Berkeley and NetGalley for providing the arc in exchange for an honest review**
May 30, 2015
I loved this book. LOVED it. It was sweet, sexy, and heartbreaking. Riley and Colin's story will stick with me for a long time. I fell in love with both characters, and Megan did a great job letting me into Riley's head, even though the story isn't told from his POV. This was an emotional journey and I loved going on it with these characters.
July 23, 2015
5 STARS
Oh god, this story. This story was everything. I remembered loving the first book and this was no difference. I felt like this was more intense than the first one but it was fine. I really loved it. I teared up a little. This was so beautiful and I was so happy that I was not disappointed.
We finally read the story about Landry's fake boyfriend, Riley, in the first book. I was kind of shocked this was not on his point of view but that was fine because I loved reading what was in Colin's head.
I thought Colin was an amazing character. From start to finish, I felt like I would have loved him too if he was a real person. He was always quitting and failing at everything he tries but with Riley he was determined to. Colin did not waste his time in this book by trying to prove to himself that he could succeed on something. Also, the way he took care of Riley was amazing. It was not insta-love but you could see how he was curious about Riley. Colin's interest on Riley grew every chapter and it progressed realistically.
Riley was very mysterious and the only point of view we got from him in this book was the e-mails he sent to Landry. It was few but it was everything. It was like a sneak peek to what Landry was thinking and it kept the mystery for us on what Colin was trying to figure out too.
I fell in love with the road trip. I fell in love with the struggles. I fell in love with how they handled their situation. I really couldn't type anything more because I just loved every second of it. They were assholes sometimes and there was no excuse. Broken or not, they were assholes when they wanted to be. Thank God they finally realized to stop it.
Speechless. The ending? That was perfect. It felt so calming and so reassuring for what's more to come for Colin and Riley. Also, I loved how involved Landry and Justin were. They weren't scarce nor overtaking the book.
Okay, I feel like I want to say more but I can't. I have so much emotions right now.
Overall, an amazing read and I recommend everyone to read this series.
"Look at me, Riley."
He stayed frozen where he was.
"Baby, I need you to turn around and focus on me"
Oh god, this story. This story was everything. I remembered loving the first book and this was no difference. I felt like this was more intense than the first one but it was fine. I really loved it. I teared up a little. This was so beautiful and I was so happy that I was not disappointed.
We finally read the story about Landry's fake boyfriend, Riley, in the first book. I was kind of shocked this was not on his point of view but that was fine because I loved reading what was in Colin's head.
I thought Colin was an amazing character. From start to finish, I felt like I would have loved him too if he was a real person. He was always quitting and failing at everything he tries but with Riley he was determined to. Colin did not waste his time in this book by trying to prove to himself that he could succeed on something. Also, the way he took care of Riley was amazing. It was not insta-love but you could see how he was curious about Riley. Colin's interest on Riley grew every chapter and it progressed realistically.
Riley was very mysterious and the only point of view we got from him in this book was the e-mails he sent to Landry. It was few but it was everything. It was like a sneak peek to what Landry was thinking and it kept the mystery for us on what Colin was trying to figure out too.
I fell in love with the road trip. I fell in love with the struggles. I fell in love with how they handled their situation. I really couldn't type anything more because I just loved every second of it. They were assholes sometimes and there was no excuse. Broken or not, they were assholes when they wanted to be. Thank God they finally realized to stop it.
Speechless. The ending? That was perfect. It felt so calming and so reassuring for what's more to come for Colin and Riley. Also, I loved how involved Landry and Justin were. They weren't scarce nor overtaking the book.
Okay, I feel like I want to say more but I can't. I have so much emotions right now.
Overall, an amazing read and I recommend everyone to read this series.
"...And this is what we are, right? This team. We each matter and we're each worthy." He took a deep breath. "So I focus on that, and when I do, everything seems brighter."
August 27, 2015
Quickie review before I forget I read this!
Once again Megan Erickson has written a completely enjoyable road trip book. In the end this had a more serious tone to it than Trust the Focus, but again, two very likable MC's who are both a bit lost in different ways. My heart broke for Riley aka Catwalk and Colin is a sweetheart. I loved the way she integrated Justin and Landry into the story. Some steam, a lot of ups and downs, a few tears and a sweet happy ending. With two books now, Megan Erickson is a new auto-buy for me.
Once again Megan Erickson has written a completely enjoyable road trip book. In the end this had a more serious tone to it than Trust the Focus, but again, two very likable MC's who are both a bit lost in different ways. My heart broke for Riley aka Catwalk and Colin is a sweetheart. I loved the way she integrated Justin and Landry into the story. Some steam, a lot of ups and downs, a few tears and a sweet happy ending. With two books now, Megan Erickson is a new auto-buy for me.
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March 9, 2018Rating and review removed.
March 10, 2018
author with no integrity, bullied readers and reviewers for the financial gain of another
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 1, 2017
3.5-4 stars
So Focus on Me was not an easy read! My eyes were definitely leaking. It tackles sensitive subjects such as depression and anorexia, and how love can be there for you to fall back on but it's not the cure. My heart was hurting for these characters so badly, which only goes to show how much Megan Erickson made me care about them. I wanted them to find happiness - especially with each other - and I knew they would (hey, this is a romance), but the road there was messy and painful. There are a lot of really sad parts, and I just ached. But then Megan brings it all back around again, and it's like my heart was full to bursting. So, basically, all the emotions in this book, but the love felt earned.
The book is mostly from Colin's perspective; he's a college drop-out on his way home to North Carolina to work for his family's business. Though usually this a very bad thing in the lives of characters - and at times Colin does feel embarrassed by it - it's anything but a failure. It's what he truly wants to do, and like how it is for many people, college just wasn't for him. I loved this. Being a "new adult" is so much more than just college. I also like that once again (as in Trust The Focus) we are back on the road, which is where Colin meets Riley, a good-looking but reserved stranger who's looking for a ride to the Grand Canyon. Colin agrees to take him, and along the way feelings develop. The two share a very unexpected but real bond, but it's clear that Riley is struggling with his own demons. About halfway through the book things start taking a shaky turn, and I could do nothing but keep reading. I was in pain for Riley and for Colin - both have doubts about their self-worth, though it has manifested in different ways, Riley's in a much more physical and harmful pattern. His depression, anxiety, and unhealthy eating habits aren't glossed over in the least; there were scenes that had me tearing up and that were almost unbearable. I wanted more than anything for him to seek the help he needed.
Normally, I shy away from these more angst-driven books, but I knew Megan wouldn't leave my heart hanging. And she really does a fantastic job with the Colin and Riley's relationship. The progression is sexy, emotional, and heartfelt, while at times uneasy. I'm glad that Colin wouldn't allow Riley to use their love and desire as his crutch; Riley needs to be healthy for himself, and Megan gets this message across beautifully at the end. Of course, this is still very much a romance, and Colin and Riley really do make a sweet pair. Colin especially won my heart, with his country drawl and laid-back attitude paired with a deeply caring heart.
I'm not sure if there are any more books planned for the In Focus series, but I sure hope so. We also get to meet back up with Landry and Justin (some of the chapters were actually emails Riley was sending to Landry, which I thought was adorable), and I'd love to see both of these couples again. These books have pretty much been my first m/m romances, and I think I've fallen in love. My fingers are definitely crossed for another one.
***Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for approving my request in exchange for an honest review.***
This review can also be found at Love at First Page.
So Focus on Me was not an easy read! My eyes were definitely leaking. It tackles sensitive subjects such as depression and anorexia, and how love can be there for you to fall back on but it's not the cure. My heart was hurting for these characters so badly, which only goes to show how much Megan Erickson made me care about them. I wanted them to find happiness - especially with each other - and I knew they would (hey, this is a romance), but the road there was messy and painful. There are a lot of really sad parts, and I just ached. But then Megan brings it all back around again, and it's like my heart was full to bursting. So, basically, all the emotions in this book, but the love felt earned.
The book is mostly from Colin's perspective; he's a college drop-out on his way home to North Carolina to work for his family's business. Though usually this a very bad thing in the lives of characters - and at times Colin does feel embarrassed by it - it's anything but a failure. It's what he truly wants to do, and like how it is for many people, college just wasn't for him. I loved this. Being a "new adult" is so much more than just college. I also like that once again (as in Trust The Focus) we are back on the road, which is where Colin meets Riley, a good-looking but reserved stranger who's looking for a ride to the Grand Canyon. Colin agrees to take him, and along the way feelings develop. The two share a very unexpected but real bond, but it's clear that Riley is struggling with his own demons. About halfway through the book things start taking a shaky turn, and I could do nothing but keep reading. I was in pain for Riley and for Colin - both have doubts about their self-worth, though it has manifested in different ways, Riley's in a much more physical and harmful pattern. His depression, anxiety, and unhealthy eating habits aren't glossed over in the least; there were scenes that had me tearing up and that were almost unbearable. I wanted more than anything for him to seek the help he needed.
Normally, I shy away from these more angst-driven books, but I knew Megan wouldn't leave my heart hanging. And she really does a fantastic job with the Colin and Riley's relationship. The progression is sexy, emotional, and heartfelt, while at times uneasy. I'm glad that Colin wouldn't allow Riley to use their love and desire as his crutch; Riley needs to be healthy for himself, and Megan gets this message across beautifully at the end. Of course, this is still very much a romance, and Colin and Riley really do make a sweet pair. Colin especially won my heart, with his country drawl and laid-back attitude paired with a deeply caring heart.
I'm not sure if there are any more books planned for the In Focus series, but I sure hope so. We also get to meet back up with Landry and Justin (some of the chapters were actually emails Riley was sending to Landry, which I thought was adorable), and I'd love to see both of these couples again. These books have pretty much been my first m/m romances, and I think I've fallen in love. My fingers are definitely crossed for another one.
***Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for approving my request in exchange for an honest review.***
This review can also be found at Love at First Page.
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May 1, 2015Focus on Me is not for the faint of heart, let me tell you. A little something about myself? I’m usually have the emotional capacity of a stone when it comes to reading and I bawled while reading about Colin and Riley. Seriously, big, fat ugly tears. I think my husband looked at me like I was crazy, but that’s okay. Focus on Me touched me in a way that few books do and I loved every minute of it.
Colin and Riley are such wonderful characters. They are everything I would want from this story and maybe even more than I thought I’d get. I found myself falling for them, their journey and everything because of Megan’s wonderful writing. She created such a vibrant world for these two that it felt like you were in that beat up Jeep and hotel rooms with them.
Colin is very relatable in the fact that he’s on his way home from dropping out of college. He’s not terribly upset that it didn’t work out, but he is upset that it’s just another failure in his life of failures. He’s more than content to go home and work in the family restaurant but feels like he should have done something more with his life. When he meets Catwalk he sees someone who he is instantly drawn to. As Riley joins him on his drive home the two become close and Colin begins to see there’s much more to Riley than he lets on.
Riley is a successful model but gave it up at the peak of his popularity. He needs something more out of life. Hell, he just needs something, to feel something. His life has always been one dark patch after another and it has taken its toll. When he meets Colin he finds that he can try and let go and start feeling. But it doesn’t work and in the end, Colin isn’t always going to be enough.
In Focus on Me Megan Erickson touches on mental health and how it effects not only that person but the people around them. I don’t want to get too much into it because it’ll become a slippery slope into spoilers, but needless to say, Megan wrote it with grace and dignity and that’s something I cannot be more thankful of. Mental health awareness is something I’m very passionate about and this book will go a long way in spreading that awareness. Thank you Megan.
If you read the previous novel, Trust The Focus, and you should if you haven’t, you’ll be happy to know that both Justin and Landry make cameos in Focus on Me. It was great and I loved every minute they were there. They are two of my favorite Megan characters, and one of my favorite NA couples overall.
Focus on Me is not an easy book, but it is an important one. It’s a slow burn, getting from the instant attraction between Colin and Riley to them acting on it to the climax of the story, but it’s so worth it. These two will always be a part of me. I just hope their story, Riley’s story, touches someone out there who needs to read it and changes them for the better.
**As an aside, I cannot rate this book. It’s just one of those that a star rating, for me, will never do justice. This book, this story is too important to me to try and categorize it in a subjective way.**
Colin and Riley are such wonderful characters. They are everything I would want from this story and maybe even more than I thought I’d get. I found myself falling for them, their journey and everything because of Megan’s wonderful writing. She created such a vibrant world for these two that it felt like you were in that beat up Jeep and hotel rooms with them.
Colin is very relatable in the fact that he’s on his way home from dropping out of college. He’s not terribly upset that it didn’t work out, but he is upset that it’s just another failure in his life of failures. He’s more than content to go home and work in the family restaurant but feels like he should have done something more with his life. When he meets Catwalk he sees someone who he is instantly drawn to. As Riley joins him on his drive home the two become close and Colin begins to see there’s much more to Riley than he lets on.
Riley is a successful model but gave it up at the peak of his popularity. He needs something more out of life. Hell, he just needs something, to feel something. His life has always been one dark patch after another and it has taken its toll. When he meets Colin he finds that he can try and let go and start feeling. But it doesn’t work and in the end, Colin isn’t always going to be enough.
In Focus on Me Megan Erickson touches on mental health and how it effects not only that person but the people around them. I don’t want to get too much into it because it’ll become a slippery slope into spoilers, but needless to say, Megan wrote it with grace and dignity and that’s something I cannot be more thankful of. Mental health awareness is something I’m very passionate about and this book will go a long way in spreading that awareness. Thank you Megan.
If you read the previous novel, Trust The Focus, and you should if you haven’t, you’ll be happy to know that both Justin and Landry make cameos in Focus on Me. It was great and I loved every minute they were there. They are two of my favorite Megan characters, and one of my favorite NA couples overall.
Focus on Me is not an easy book, but it is an important one. It’s a slow burn, getting from the instant attraction between Colin and Riley to them acting on it to the climax of the story, but it’s so worth it. These two will always be a part of me. I just hope their story, Riley’s story, touches someone out there who needs to read it and changes them for the better.
**As an aside, I cannot rate this book. It’s just one of those that a star rating, for me, will never do justice. This book, this story is too important to me to try and categorize it in a subjective way.**
February 17, 2017
4 Stars
A chance meet. Impromptu destinations. Feels never felt before.
Colin comes across Riley, and he can’t not help this guy out. Hot, mysterious, a lot sad, with what seems like the weight of the world on his shoulders, Colin’s protective instincts kick in. He’s intrigued and compelled to help him out in any which way he can. It doesn’t hurt much that Riley is also stirring up other things as well.
However as much as Riley may reciprocate similar sentiments, he has some serious problems that won’t easily go away, despite how hard he wishes they would do so. He wants to be better, he wants change, but of course, that’s easier said than done. Despite Colin being the best distraction, sometimes the best of intentions can’t do a world of good.
As always, the writing here is superb. I appreciated this rare look into Riley’s problems. It was different, it was interesting, and it was portrayed very well. Add in the natural progression of how these two fall for each other, how they mature and grow and realize the truths about themselves was perfect. Erickson brings the feels, the gravitas, the fun and sexy - consistently and enjoyably in everything I’ve read of hers so far. I now pretty much know what to expect from a book by this author, and I’m definitely coming back for more.
A chance meet. Impromptu destinations. Feels never felt before.
Colin comes across Riley, and he can’t not help this guy out. Hot, mysterious, a lot sad, with what seems like the weight of the world on his shoulders, Colin’s protective instincts kick in. He’s intrigued and compelled to help him out in any which way he can. It doesn’t hurt much that Riley is also stirring up other things as well.
However as much as Riley may reciprocate similar sentiments, he has some serious problems that won’t easily go away, despite how hard he wishes they would do so. He wants to be better, he wants change, but of course, that’s easier said than done. Despite Colin being the best distraction, sometimes the best of intentions can’t do a world of good.
As always, the writing here is superb. I appreciated this rare look into Riley’s problems. It was different, it was interesting, and it was portrayed very well. Add in the natural progression of how these two fall for each other, how they mature and grow and realize the truths about themselves was perfect. Erickson brings the feels, the gravitas, the fun and sexy - consistently and enjoyably in everything I’ve read of hers so far. I now pretty much know what to expect from a book by this author, and I’m definitely coming back for more.
July 24, 2015
Wow.
I need to sit with this for a while before I review.
I need to sit with this for a while before I review.
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