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Hemlock Harbor #1
Meet Me in the Blue
Meet me… in the place where the sun kisses the horizon and sinks into blue shades of you and me.
Meet me there… where everything was always perfect. You and me and the damp grass at dawn and the gray dirt in the late evening rain.
Meet me where we were ourselves and not these two people who can’t even say I love you.
Meet me there and maybe we’ll remember…
We’ll remember the us we were before them, before miles, before lost hours, and you’ll ask what color the sky is, and I’ll say blue like your eyes.
And you’ll smile, and I’ll forget I ever missed you.
****
Luka and Rook have been best friends since they were nine years old.
Five years ago, Luka threw it all away.
When his dad’s health takes a turn for the worst, Luka must come home to say his goodbyes and mend the bridges he burned all those years ago. But coming home is harder than he imagined, and after reuniting with his family, there’s only one person he needs.
Rook…
His best friend.
The one man he pushed away, the one man, no matter how hard he tried to forget, he can't stop himself from loving.
Even if loving him means breaking his heart all over again.
Meet me there… where everything was always perfect. You and me and the damp grass at dawn and the gray dirt in the late evening rain.
Meet me where we were ourselves and not these two people who can’t even say I love you.
Meet me there and maybe we’ll remember…
We’ll remember the us we were before them, before miles, before lost hours, and you’ll ask what color the sky is, and I’ll say blue like your eyes.
And you’ll smile, and I’ll forget I ever missed you.
****
Luka and Rook have been best friends since they were nine years old.
Five years ago, Luka threw it all away.
When his dad’s health takes a turn for the worst, Luka must come home to say his goodbyes and mend the bridges he burned all those years ago. But coming home is harder than he imagined, and after reuniting with his family, there’s only one person he needs.
Rook…
His best friend.
The one man he pushed away, the one man, no matter how hard he tried to forget, he can't stop himself from loving.
Even if loving him means breaking his heart all over again.
263 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 2, 2023
About the author
A.M. Johnson
32 books1,875 followersA.M. Johnson lives in Utah with her family where she works as a full-time nurse. If she’s not at the hockey rink with her kiddos, you’ll find her buried in a book or behind the keyboard. She loves romance and all things passionate. Amanda enjoys exploring all genres and bringing life to the human experience.
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March 2, 2023
“I’ve never loved anyone the way I love that man. He’s been my everything. My whole life is wrapped up in him. He knows me. Every moment I’ve breathed has belonged to him, to us, in some way or another."
Meet Me in the Blue is a sweet but emotional story of two childhood best friends who, after years of separation, resentment and anger, are brought together when one of them returns to Hemlock Harbour for his father who's terminally ill.
Luka left his best friend Rook, who he loved, behind as he went to find himself and use the space between them to move on. Rook, left behind by Luka, is filled with anger and hurt as they grow apart, and despite his dearest friend coming back home, he finds it hard to forgive. Once so close now, they're almost like strangers, both in their own way fearing to take that next step.
This book is sweet and filled with tender moments but also emotionally heavy as there is grief and the death of a beloved family and community member.
I liked that we got to see their relationship as children and teens through flashbacks. These two were soul mates from the moment they met, so seeing those moments in the past and how they came together as friends again and then as lovers was wonderful. Everyone around them knew they were meant for each other but fear and "what ifs" stopped them from seeing what was so clear. Honestly, my heart broke for these two, but I also wanted to shake them at times.
I also really loved the demi and asexuality rep in this story! Rook never felt a deep romantic connection with anyone in his life except Luka. He struggled with intimacy and often felt that his past partners would rush him before he was emotionally secure. While he dated and had girlfriends, none of his past relationships felt right. His heart already lay with Luka. He finally makes that connection with a bit of guidance from his friend Ron.
"He was the first boy I’d ever wanted, the first man I’d ever loved, and I never thought I’d get to have him like this, never thought I’d be the one to unravel him."
I think A.M. Johnson did a fantastic job writing a demisexual/asexul character that felt really authentic. Seeing Rook's sexual awakening and Luka's understanding, support, and easy acceptance was just beautiful. Love how they come together slowly as they make that transition into lovers. This book focuses on the emotional aspect of their relationship more than the sexual. Thus it is low on the steam, but the moments of intimacy we get between Rook and Luka are so beautiful.
Finally, we got to see and hear about characters from other A.M. Johnson stories! I especially liked seeing Ron the campus security guard from The Glow Up again. I absolutely can't wait for his story. I need him to have his happy ever after.
Overall, this was a beautiful story. I adored it and already can't wait for the next books in the series! If you love A.M. Johnson's wonderful writing, childhood best friends to lovers, small-town romance, MC on the Ace Spectrum, and second chances, I can't recommend Meet Me in the Blue enough.
Meet Me in the Blue is a sweet but emotional story of two childhood best friends who, after years of separation, resentment and anger, are brought together when one of them returns to Hemlock Harbour for his father who's terminally ill.
Luka left his best friend Rook, who he loved, behind as he went to find himself and use the space between them to move on. Rook, left behind by Luka, is filled with anger and hurt as they grow apart, and despite his dearest friend coming back home, he finds it hard to forgive. Once so close now, they're almost like strangers, both in their own way fearing to take that next step.
This book is sweet and filled with tender moments but also emotionally heavy as there is grief and the death of a beloved family and community member.
I liked that we got to see their relationship as children and teens through flashbacks. These two were soul mates from the moment they met, so seeing those moments in the past and how they came together as friends again and then as lovers was wonderful. Everyone around them knew they were meant for each other but fear and "what ifs" stopped them from seeing what was so clear. Honestly, my heart broke for these two, but I also wanted to shake them at times.
I also really loved the demi and asexuality rep in this story! Rook never felt a deep romantic connection with anyone in his life except Luka. He struggled with intimacy and often felt that his past partners would rush him before he was emotionally secure. While he dated and had girlfriends, none of his past relationships felt right. His heart already lay with Luka. He finally makes that connection with a bit of guidance from his friend Ron.
"He was the first boy I’d ever wanted, the first man I’d ever loved, and I never thought I’d get to have him like this, never thought I’d be the one to unravel him."
I think A.M. Johnson did a fantastic job writing a demisexual/asexul character that felt really authentic. Seeing Rook's sexual awakening and Luka's understanding, support, and easy acceptance was just beautiful. Love how they come together slowly as they make that transition into lovers. This book focuses on the emotional aspect of their relationship more than the sexual. Thus it is low on the steam, but the moments of intimacy we get between Rook and Luka are so beautiful.
"Loving Rook was effortless for me. Effortless because I’d always known. It wasn’t a maybe kind of thing, or a let’s try, it was years of hopeful smiles and subtle touches, disseminating each one and wondering if this time… just maybe… It was hours of talking in the dark shade of trees and knowing that this person, this one man, owned all of my secrets. All but one. And it was a million days of wanting to give him that secret, wanting to give him everything."
Finally, we got to see and hear about characters from other A.M. Johnson stories! I especially liked seeing Ron the campus security guard from The Glow Up again. I absolutely can't wait for his story. I need him to have his happy ever after.
Overall, this was a beautiful story. I adored it and already can't wait for the next books in the series! If you love A.M. Johnson's wonderful writing, childhood best friends to lovers, small-town romance, MC on the Ace Spectrum, and second chances, I can't recommend Meet Me in the Blue enough.
March 31, 2023
Fucking fear, it ruled me, and I was exhausted trying to fight it all the time.
I feel as though I read this at the exact perfect time in my life. I recently finished the brilliant HBO TV drama Six Feet Under, a show focused heavily on death; and not to be too “it changed my life” about it but it did!!! And I can’t stop thinking about it!! And this book feels like a tie-in of sorts, another additional perspective on the same subject that I was meant to read right in this moment because all of my emotions were heightened whilst reading it and hit me even harder. I wept and wished I could hug these fictional people so badly. There’s so much care taken with every aspect that makes up this book. It was healing and heartbreaking all at once. Beautiful and epic. I felt instantly drawn to both characters and this was the lifelong love story I have been craving. I related a lot to Rook and his journey figuring out his sexuality. It felt deeply personal and was so special to read. Their communication was excellent (which is rare in romance!!!). And yes yes yes Luka avoided Rook because of His Secret Reason but I’m talking about in the present timeline when they would say things like, “say what you mean” in a gentle way. With kindness and understanding for whatever was said next. This book reminds me so much of one of my favorite songs, Sweet Time by Porter Robinson. 🎵 Cause, oh, the world is lucky to be your home / I know I need a next life / ‘Cause I'm not satisfied to know you just once.🎵 This was my very first A.M. Johnson book and for that I am the silliest goose (her writing is an absolute dreammmm) but catch me reading her entire backlist next.💙
I feel as though I read this at the exact perfect time in my life. I recently finished the brilliant HBO TV drama Six Feet Under, a show focused heavily on death; and not to be too “it changed my life” about it but it did!!! And I can’t stop thinking about it!! And this book feels like a tie-in of sorts, another additional perspective on the same subject that I was meant to read right in this moment because all of my emotions were heightened whilst reading it and hit me even harder. I wept and wished I could hug these fictional people so badly. There’s so much care taken with every aspect that makes up this book. It was healing and heartbreaking all at once. Beautiful and epic. I felt instantly drawn to both characters and this was the lifelong love story I have been craving. I related a lot to Rook and his journey figuring out his sexuality. It felt deeply personal and was so special to read. Their communication was excellent (which is rare in romance!!!). And yes yes yes Luka avoided Rook because of His Secret Reason but I’m talking about in the present timeline when they would say things like, “say what you mean” in a gentle way. With kindness and understanding for whatever was said next. This book reminds me so much of one of my favorite songs, Sweet Time by Porter Robinson. 🎵 Cause, oh, the world is lucky to be your home / I know I need a next life / ‘Cause I'm not satisfied to know you just once.🎵 This was my very first A.M. Johnson book and for that I am the silliest goose (her writing is an absolute dreammmm) but catch me reading her entire backlist next.💙
March 10, 2023
~3.5~
I love A.M. Johnson's writing style. There's a cadence and flow to her books that make them a pleasure to read.
Meet Me in the Blue is poetic and meaningful, but it's also unbearably sad.
The story's main focus is the death of Luka's father following a grueling cancer battle. Maybe because my husband died from the same terrible disease, I was drowning in sorrow while reading this book.
I remember feeling like Luka: How dare people laugh and play and go about their daily tasks when my husband is gone? How dare life go on without him in it?
Luka and Rook's relationship isn't easy or lighthearted. Luka has been in love with his childhood best friend for decades.
Rook is on the asexual spectrum and has never made the connection between his abiding joy when he's with Luka and romantic/sexual love.
Despite the ace/demisexual angle, there's plenty of tenderness and steam.
While the blame for the friends' estrangement is placed firmly in Luka's lap, I didn't like how Rook took no responsibility for not communicating his hurt and confusion to Luka.
Rook was fond of telling Luka to "say what you mean" but didn't exactly follow his own counsel.
I applaud the author at the restraint she showed when introducing future MCs. They were mentioned in passing but didn't overwhelm the story.
Far too many MM romance authors parade around future MCs like some kind of circus show in the first installment of a series.
The epilogue was lovely, but what happened to Luka's sister and mom? They were a big part of the story, only to disappear toward the end.
I love A.M. Johnson's writing style. There's a cadence and flow to her books that make them a pleasure to read.
Meet Me in the Blue is poetic and meaningful, but it's also unbearably sad.
The story's main focus is the death of Luka's father following a grueling cancer battle. Maybe because my husband died from the same terrible disease, I was drowning in sorrow while reading this book.
I remember feeling like Luka: How dare people laugh and play and go about their daily tasks when my husband is gone? How dare life go on without him in it?
Luka and Rook's relationship isn't easy or lighthearted. Luka has been in love with his childhood best friend for decades.
Rook is on the asexual spectrum and has never made the connection between his abiding joy when he's with Luka and romantic/sexual love.
Despite the ace/demisexual angle, there's plenty of tenderness and steam.
While the blame for the friends' estrangement is placed firmly in Luka's lap, I didn't like how Rook took no responsibility for not communicating his hurt and confusion to Luka.
Rook was fond of telling Luka to "say what you mean" but didn't exactly follow his own counsel.
I applaud the author at the restraint she showed when introducing future MCs. They were mentioned in passing but didn't overwhelm the story.
Far too many MM romance authors parade around future MCs like some kind of circus show in the first installment of a series.
The epilogue was lovely, but what happened to Luka's sister and mom? They were a big part of the story, only to disappear toward the end.
February 19, 2023
Well, it's only February and I've already broken my "no ARC requests" rule for the year. Like all of my diets, I'll start again on Monday. I just couldn't let early access to an A.M. Johnson book pass me by and I have no regrets.
I always tiptoe gently into a book claiming any kind of ace-spec representation because I'm not sure that people outside of the spectrum ever truly get it. Honestly, as a person inside of the spectrum, I rarely feel like I get it either. Sometimes I wish that I could have one full day where I experience attraction the way most people do, just so I have a base level of comparison. Instead, all I've had is confusion as to why I don't feel things the way other people do and pressure to fit into a social norm that was never meant for someone like me. And guess what? It sucks. And it's nearly impossible to explain, which is why these simple lines from this gorgeous book felt so good:
Rook and Luka met when they were 9 years old and their friendship quickly became a staple in the small town of Hemlock Harbor. They were a package deal, no one without the other, and there was no reason to think that would ever change...until it did. I loved the way we got glimpses of Rook and Luka growing up through flashbacks at the beginning of some of the chapters. It was the perfect way to infuse their history into their present and each memory fit into the theme of the chapter flawlessly. It also gave me everything I needed in order to solidify their connection, both then and now. There's a sweet spot between past and present in best friends-to-lovers romances and the author hit it in this book.
Luka's story was circular in shape. His father was dying, which brought him back to the small town he'd run away from so many years before. He was a shining example of how self-preservation can blow up in your face and came home to the realization that he had a lot of broken fences to mend and lost time to make up for. Of two things he was certain - he wanted time with his father and he wanted his best friend back, unrequited love be damned.
Rook's demi-awakening was handled really beautifully. I appreciated the attention placed on his insecurities when it came to being intimate with another person. I think this is an aspect of the ace-spec experience that is often overlooked. It's not just a matter of getting to know someone, it's about feeling comfortable with them. Trusting them. Being able to physically relax , get out of your own head and let yourself go because someone has made you feel safe enough to do so. I loved how much Luka valued Rook's consent. He wasn't perfect, but he wanted to be. I got weirdly emotional during the sex scenes in this book because I felt like I was watching someone come alive in a way he'd never thought would be accessible to him and it made me really, really happy. And a little jealous.
As per usual with this author, the writing had a soft subtlety to it that made it feel fluid and calming. The descriptions of Hemlock Harbor made me want to immediately book a trip to the Pacific Northwest, which is a corner of this country that already holds a special place in my heart. I was also warmed by the note regarding the author's personal experiences in relation to Rook's sexuality, which made me feel even better about how his character was portrayed. I'm really glad I broke my ARC rule for Luka and Rook's story and will be looking forward to Ron's book next.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
I always tiptoe gently into a book claiming any kind of ace-spec representation because I'm not sure that people outside of the spectrum ever truly get it. Honestly, as a person inside of the spectrum, I rarely feel like I get it either. Sometimes I wish that I could have one full day where I experience attraction the way most people do, just so I have a base level of comparison. Instead, all I've had is confusion as to why I don't feel things the way other people do and pressure to fit into a social norm that was never meant for someone like me. And guess what? It sucks. And it's nearly impossible to explain, which is why these simple lines from this gorgeous book felt so good:
I wished it was as easy as gay or straight. What if being alone was my happily ever after? Would that be so bad?
Rook and Luka met when they were 9 years old and their friendship quickly became a staple in the small town of Hemlock Harbor. They were a package deal, no one without the other, and there was no reason to think that would ever change...until it did. I loved the way we got glimpses of Rook and Luka growing up through flashbacks at the beginning of some of the chapters. It was the perfect way to infuse their history into their present and each memory fit into the theme of the chapter flawlessly. It also gave me everything I needed in order to solidify their connection, both then and now. There's a sweet spot between past and present in best friends-to-lovers romances and the author hit it in this book.
Luka's story was circular in shape. His father was dying, which brought him back to the small town he'd run away from so many years before. He was a shining example of how self-preservation can blow up in your face and came home to the realization that he had a lot of broken fences to mend and lost time to make up for. Of two things he was certain - he wanted time with his father and he wanted his best friend back, unrequited love be damned.
Rook's demi-awakening was handled really beautifully. I appreciated the attention placed on his insecurities when it came to being intimate with another person. I think this is an aspect of the ace-spec experience that is often overlooked. It's not just a matter of getting to know someone, it's about feeling comfortable with them. Trusting them. Being able to physically relax , get out of your own head and let yourself go because someone has made you feel safe enough to do so. I loved how much Luka valued Rook's consent. He wasn't perfect, but he wanted to be. I got weirdly emotional during the sex scenes in this book because I felt like I was watching someone come alive in a way he'd never thought would be accessible to him and it made me really, really happy. And a little jealous.
As per usual with this author, the writing had a soft subtlety to it that made it feel fluid and calming. The descriptions of Hemlock Harbor made me want to immediately book a trip to the Pacific Northwest, which is a corner of this country that already holds a special place in my heart. I was also warmed by the note regarding the author's personal experiences in relation to Rook's sexuality, which made me feel even better about how his character was portrayed. I'm really glad I broke my ARC rule for Luka and Rook's story and will be looking forward to Ron's book next.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
March 2, 2023
3.5 ⭐️
First thought: I want love like this.
This was sad, gloomy and heartbreaking. The delivery of best friends to lovers, second chance and small town was amazing. I cried a couple times, both of them been through a lot and the author managed to destroy me with all of those guilty moments. It was intense and it hurts.
These kind of relationships felt so real to me because complications are real and feelings are not easy to deal with. What they’ve been through, the time lost between them was real and I adore how it was portrayed in their life. It felt silly and real, it’s scary. One of the best friends to lovers I’ve read. Real connection, real love. They are such sweethearts.
I love the way they communicate. Sometimes direct and blunt, because both of them were scared and lonely, but they always made sure that they get each other. They communicate really well and full of love.
I’m not ace or demi, but this book had the best demi rep I could find so far. It was explained discreetly, but it was there, clear to me. I love authors trying to breach through diversity in their writings. Especially queer ones. It means a lot to me and my community.
That all lasted before the 70% hit.
I have a couple issues that just didn’t sit so well to me that made me drop it from 4 to 3.5. Frustration is not even it.
1. I am against the idea of sex as a form of comfort so I didn’t exactly fancy what happened in chapter 14.
2. I truly don’t get Rook’s attachment to his town. Yes, he grew up there but I just can’t comprehend the thought of not wanting to leave at all. Maybe because I live in a shitty surrounding and my biggest dream has always been to get away, but I really really really don’t get him. He was so mad Luca left him when they both “should” have stayed. What’s so wrong about leaving anyway. And this all goes back to my point: The Last Chapter. It definitely didn’t make me feel good for what Luca have chosen. Even if he wanted to, I needed more convincing and solid reasons on why. But the story already rushed to the epilogue :’) I hate that.
3. After they got together, something shifted in the air. Idk what was wrong, but I wanted more. Something else. Anything else than sex. Not only that, the whole story became different, and all the happiness from before just faded away that I was detached from every character there. What the ever loving fuck happened?
I enjoyed this, I did. This book had everything you could asked, but not everything will give you THE feelings. The first half was way better for me. Wish I stopped after 50%. They were perfect.
First thought: I want love like this.
This was sad, gloomy and heartbreaking. The delivery of best friends to lovers, second chance and small town was amazing. I cried a couple times, both of them been through a lot and the author managed to destroy me with all of those guilty moments. It was intense and it hurts.
These kind of relationships felt so real to me because complications are real and feelings are not easy to deal with. What they’ve been through, the time lost between them was real and I adore how it was portrayed in their life. It felt silly and real, it’s scary. One of the best friends to lovers I’ve read. Real connection, real love. They are such sweethearts.
I love the way they communicate. Sometimes direct and blunt, because both of them were scared and lonely, but they always made sure that they get each other. They communicate really well and full of love.
I’m not ace or demi, but this book had the best demi rep I could find so far. It was explained discreetly, but it was there, clear to me. I love authors trying to breach through diversity in their writings. Especially queer ones. It means a lot to me and my community.
That all lasted before the 70% hit.
I have a couple issues that just didn’t sit so well to me that made me drop it from 4 to 3.5. Frustration is not even it.
1. I am against the idea of sex as a form of comfort so I didn’t exactly fancy what happened in chapter 14.
2. I truly don’t get Rook’s attachment to his town. Yes, he grew up there but I just can’t comprehend the thought of not wanting to leave at all. Maybe because I live in a shitty surrounding and my biggest dream has always been to get away, but I really really really don’t get him. He was so mad Luca left him when they both “should” have stayed. What’s so wrong about leaving anyway. And this all goes back to my point: The Last Chapter. It definitely didn’t make me feel good for what Luca have chosen. Even if he wanted to, I needed more convincing and solid reasons on why. But the story already rushed to the epilogue :’) I hate that.
3. After they got together, something shifted in the air. Idk what was wrong, but I wanted more. Something else. Anything else than sex. Not only that, the whole story became different, and all the happiness from before just faded away that I was detached from every character there. What the ever loving fuck happened?
I enjoyed this, I did. This book had everything you could asked, but not everything will give you THE feelings. The first half was way better for me. Wish I stopped after 50%. They were perfect.
February 27, 2023
An astonishingly tender book. Amanda writes all of her books with so much love and feeling. I always feel a little lost when I finish one of her books and it’s no different for me after finishing this one.
Childhood friends to lovers is probably my least favorite trope. It’s just never really been a favorite of mine. But, I loved this. Probably because of the angst and pining through the first half of the book.
Luka and Rook are instant friends when they meet as children. Their fathers became partners at a medical practice so their lives were thrown together. Seeing their friendship through flashbacks while the angst of them growing apart for the past five years… it was so sweet but also hurt because what went wrong? Plus the grief of Luka’s father slowly dying… I welled up many times. Luka returns him when his father is on his deathbed after spending years in LA trying to make it as a photographer. Where him and Rook slowly fell apart, and you learn why early on. While this book is tender and sweet it’s also very emotional. Emotional in regards to death of a parent, grief, and admitting you’re in love with your best friend. Because well… you could lose that best friend and you can’t lose anymore right? That’s exactly what Luka and Rook go through for much of this novel. The push and pull and the fear… but at the same time it was so tender. That’s just the only word I can think for it.
Luka and I were good at being us. We’d perfected our dance over the years. He’d run, and I’d pretend like it didn’t hurt getting dropped into the dust storm he’d left behind.
I loved how once they finally admitted their feelings for each other… they came together so slowly. Mostly because Rook is demisexual, just having realized that about himself, and realizing what sexual attraction can mean for him when he’s safe and has an emotional connection with his partner. This kind of love story is always one of my favorites. Sometimes authors get demisexuality so very wrong but Amanda got it so very right. The way she wrote Rook’s ~awakening was soft and gentle and written with a lot of love. And while this is a low spice book, in my opinion, the sex scenes included were emotional and beautiful. They both wanted each other so very much no matter how that looked for them. Luka was so patient and willing to take whatever Rook was willing to give him. Just so much love.
This heat I had, this constant pilot light burning inside me when I looked at Luka, when his lips were on mine, it wasn’t something I recognized. It was different and real, and I wanted it to become a part of our history as well as our future. He was made for me. And I was his too. I knew that now, knew it as well as I knew my own way through my house with the lights off. The way I knew he had changed, but he was still my home.
I fell in love with the entire town of Hemlock Harbor. Every side character was sweet and essential to the story. I loved seeing Nora again, from Not So Sincerely, Yours and even though they didn’t make an appearance it was great to at least hear of Anders and Ethan. The guys in Rook’s little magic the gathering game night… love them all and hope they each get their own story. Very glad to see Ron again from The Glow Up. Ron was such a good friend to Rook. Caring, sweet, and understanding. I know his story is going to be great.
Anyway, I really recommend this! Although make sure you’re in the right mindset to read it because it’s very hard to read at parts. Especially if you’ve lost a loved one to cancer. The epilogue was very sweet though and I can’t wait to read more about this town. Hopefully see pieces of Luka and Rook through the other characters stories.
I received an arc from Foreword PR and this is my honest review.
Childhood friends to lovers is probably my least favorite trope. It’s just never really been a favorite of mine. But, I loved this. Probably because of the angst and pining through the first half of the book.
Luka and Rook are instant friends when they meet as children. Their fathers became partners at a medical practice so their lives were thrown together. Seeing their friendship through flashbacks while the angst of them growing apart for the past five years… it was so sweet but also hurt because what went wrong? Plus the grief of Luka’s father slowly dying… I welled up many times. Luka returns him when his father is on his deathbed after spending years in LA trying to make it as a photographer. Where him and Rook slowly fell apart, and you learn why early on. While this book is tender and sweet it’s also very emotional. Emotional in regards to death of a parent, grief, and admitting you’re in love with your best friend. Because well… you could lose that best friend and you can’t lose anymore right? That’s exactly what Luka and Rook go through for much of this novel. The push and pull and the fear… but at the same time it was so tender. That’s just the only word I can think for it.
Luka and I were good at being us. We’d perfected our dance over the years. He’d run, and I’d pretend like it didn’t hurt getting dropped into the dust storm he’d left behind.
I loved how once they finally admitted their feelings for each other… they came together so slowly. Mostly because Rook is demisexual, just having realized that about himself, and realizing what sexual attraction can mean for him when he’s safe and has an emotional connection with his partner. This kind of love story is always one of my favorites. Sometimes authors get demisexuality so very wrong but Amanda got it so very right. The way she wrote Rook’s ~awakening was soft and gentle and written with a lot of love. And while this is a low spice book, in my opinion, the sex scenes included were emotional and beautiful. They both wanted each other so very much no matter how that looked for them. Luka was so patient and willing to take whatever Rook was willing to give him. Just so much love.
This heat I had, this constant pilot light burning inside me when I looked at Luka, when his lips were on mine, it wasn’t something I recognized. It was different and real, and I wanted it to become a part of our history as well as our future. He was made for me. And I was his too. I knew that now, knew it as well as I knew my own way through my house with the lights off. The way I knew he had changed, but he was still my home.
I fell in love with the entire town of Hemlock Harbor. Every side character was sweet and essential to the story. I loved seeing Nora again, from Not So Sincerely, Yours and even though they didn’t make an appearance it was great to at least hear of Anders and Ethan. The guys in Rook’s little magic the gathering game night… love them all and hope they each get their own story. Very glad to see Ron again from The Glow Up. Ron was such a good friend to Rook. Caring, sweet, and understanding. I know his story is going to be great.
Anyway, I really recommend this! Although make sure you’re in the right mindset to read it because it’s very hard to read at parts. Especially if you’ve lost a loved one to cancer. The epilogue was very sweet though and I can’t wait to read more about this town. Hopefully see pieces of Luka and Rook through the other characters stories.
I received an arc from Foreword PR and this is my honest review.
March 4, 2023
This book gave me everything I’ve come to expect from an A.M. Johnson book: beautiful, lyrical writing, lovable and real life characters, and lots of feelings. It’s mostly her writing that pulls me in from page one. There’s just something about it that few authors have-it’s the use of words, how she builds her sentences and weaves them into a beautiful, captivating romance. She does it every time again and that shows just how talented she is.
This is a beautifully written second chance, small town romance. It’s Rook’s and Luka’s story. They met when they were still kids, but they were a package deal ever since. Until the day they weren’t. When Luka left to find out if life had more in store for him than unrequited love. He loved Rook more than just a friend, but he’s sure Rook is straight, and that it would never lead to anything, so Luka decided it was better to leave. See who he could be without his best friend.
Turned out that he was miserable. He didn’t achieve what he set out to do, and life in general hadn’t made him all that happy.
When the terminal illness of his father finally forces him to go home after five years, Rook isn’t instantly forgiving him for leaving him without an explanation.
It was beautiful to witness how they slowly found their way back to each other. In flashbacks we learn a lot about how deeply their friendship went before Luka left. It makes things clear, and it makes you understand how these two were meant to be, how they’d been soulmates from the first day on.
There are a lot of emotions in this story-the loss of a loved family member and a respected community member in this small town. The grief it puts everyone through in their own way. Also how Rook learns more about his sexuality. It’s very delicately handled, yet very realistic. I think A.M. Johnson did a fabulous job writing an ace character.
So, yes, this book ticked many of my boxes. Yet, it wasn’t a 5⭐️ read. I can’t really put my finger on the why it wasn’t, and maybe that’s not very important to analyse. I still loved the book, still had a great time spending it with Rook and Luka, their family and friends, and I’m truly looking forward to the next book in this series.
I kindly received an advanced copy from the author, this is my honest, unbiased review
This is a beautifully written second chance, small town romance. It’s Rook’s and Luka’s story. They met when they were still kids, but they were a package deal ever since. Until the day they weren’t. When Luka left to find out if life had more in store for him than unrequited love. He loved Rook more than just a friend, but he’s sure Rook is straight, and that it would never lead to anything, so Luka decided it was better to leave. See who he could be without his best friend.
Turned out that he was miserable. He didn’t achieve what he set out to do, and life in general hadn’t made him all that happy.
When the terminal illness of his father finally forces him to go home after five years, Rook isn’t instantly forgiving him for leaving him without an explanation.
It was beautiful to witness how they slowly found their way back to each other. In flashbacks we learn a lot about how deeply their friendship went before Luka left. It makes things clear, and it makes you understand how these two were meant to be, how they’d been soulmates from the first day on.
There are a lot of emotions in this story-the loss of a loved family member and a respected community member in this small town. The grief it puts everyone through in their own way. Also how Rook learns more about his sexuality. It’s very delicately handled, yet very realistic. I think A.M. Johnson did a fabulous job writing an ace character.
So, yes, this book ticked many of my boxes. Yet, it wasn’t a 5⭐️ read. I can’t really put my finger on the why it wasn’t, and maybe that’s not very important to analyse. I still loved the book, still had a great time spending it with Rook and Luka, their family and friends, and I’m truly looking forward to the next book in this series.
I kindly received an advanced copy from the author, this is my honest, unbiased review
March 14, 2023
4.5 ⭐️ This was such a lovely romantic read. Childhood best friends to lovers. Sexuality discovery. Soulmates. Adorable small town. Loving families. Grief.
I loved everything about this. Except the last minute twist. It didn’t add anything interesting to the story, and it was very Hallmark movie. 🤷♀️
I loved everything about this. Except the last minute twist. It didn’t add anything interesting to the story, and it was very Hallmark movie. 🤷♀️
March 29, 2023
I'm not sure anything could have prepared me for the emotional rollercoaster ride that was Meet Me in the Blue. From the very first chapters, my heart was completely broken, but slowly, through the rest of the novel, it was put back together again. This was a relatively short book, but regardless, I devoured it in one sitting. As soon as I started, there was no way I could put it back down again.
Anyone who knows me well knows that I am a sucker for a good friends to lovers story, and oh my god was this a good one. When the tags said this was going to be hurt/comfort, it was not kidding, haha. I don't usually like a lot of angst, but the way it was balanced between soft and quiet moments, as well as the loud and boisterous ones with their families, was perfect.
Lucha and Rook became fast friends when they were kids, only to grow apart when Lucha went off to college. Now that Lucha's back in town, though, the two can't deny their past and the deep connection they've always shared. From the moment these two reconnected, I could feel the immense ties between them. Their longing and their hurt was evident, but neither was entirely sure how they could move on from their past and start something new.
The inclusion of flashbacks to their past as kids at the beginning of several chapters really strengthened not only their relationship, but also the story as a whole. I loved that each flashback somehow tied into situations they were facing in the present. It felt very circle of life. I do think even without the flashbacks, Lucha and Rook's relationship would have still been believable, but with those added glimpses into their past, we were able to understand where all of their feelings were coming from, and why they approached certain situations certain ways.
Additionally, I absolutely loved the demisexual rep we got to see with Rook. Meet Me in the Blue was not only a book about his relationship with Lucha, but also one of self-discovery and healing. All his life, Rook had felt as if things never quite clicked for him the way it did for others in relationships. When he finally realizes the extent of his feelings for Lucha, why he feels the way he does, and what that means for him personally, we get a fantastic look at him coming to terms with his sexuality and realizing that yes, he is normal, and yes, all of his feelings are valid.
Lucha is also completely supportive of Rook's sexuality, and even though he doesn't always understand, he's willing to do whatever he can to make Rook feel more comfortable. The way the two of them complimented each other, not just in that aspect but in everything, was perfect. They are the definition of soulmates.
Meet Me in the Blue has got to be one of my favorite friends to lovers stories ever.
However! Don't go into this expecting something light and fun. This is not light and it is not fun lol. I absolutely loved it, don't get me wrong, but it deals with some heavy topics, one of which is a parent dying from cancer and how that affects their loved ones. This part of the story was devastating and hit me in the feelings so many times. It's been a while since I've cried while reading a book, but I definitely cried here.
The book isn't all doom and gloom though. There are a lot of sweet and tender moments between Rook and Lucha that will have your heart melting. In addition, the family dynamics are wonderful, too.
Overall, Meet Me in the Blue was absolutely wonderful and amazing, and a complete emotional rollercoaster. I can't recommend this one enough.
Thank you to Gay Romance Reviews for the digital ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
Anyone who knows me well knows that I am a sucker for a good friends to lovers story, and oh my god was this a good one. When the tags said this was going to be hurt/comfort, it was not kidding, haha. I don't usually like a lot of angst, but the way it was balanced between soft and quiet moments, as well as the loud and boisterous ones with their families, was perfect.
Lucha and Rook became fast friends when they were kids, only to grow apart when Lucha went off to college. Now that Lucha's back in town, though, the two can't deny their past and the deep connection they've always shared. From the moment these two reconnected, I could feel the immense ties between them. Their longing and their hurt was evident, but neither was entirely sure how they could move on from their past and start something new.
The inclusion of flashbacks to their past as kids at the beginning of several chapters really strengthened not only their relationship, but also the story as a whole. I loved that each flashback somehow tied into situations they were facing in the present. It felt very circle of life. I do think even without the flashbacks, Lucha and Rook's relationship would have still been believable, but with those added glimpses into their past, we were able to understand where all of their feelings were coming from, and why they approached certain situations certain ways.
Additionally, I absolutely loved the demisexual rep we got to see with Rook. Meet Me in the Blue was not only a book about his relationship with Lucha, but also one of self-discovery and healing. All his life, Rook had felt as if things never quite clicked for him the way it did for others in relationships. When he finally realizes the extent of his feelings for Lucha, why he feels the way he does, and what that means for him personally, we get a fantastic look at him coming to terms with his sexuality and realizing that yes, he is normal, and yes, all of his feelings are valid.
Lucha is also completely supportive of Rook's sexuality, and even though he doesn't always understand, he's willing to do whatever he can to make Rook feel more comfortable. The way the two of them complimented each other, not just in that aspect but in everything, was perfect. They are the definition of soulmates.
Meet Me in the Blue has got to be one of my favorite friends to lovers stories ever.
However! Don't go into this expecting something light and fun. This is not light and it is not fun lol. I absolutely loved it, don't get me wrong, but it deals with some heavy topics, one of which is a parent dying from cancer and how that affects their loved ones. This part of the story was devastating and hit me in the feelings so many times. It's been a while since I've cried while reading a book, but I definitely cried here.
The book isn't all doom and gloom though. There are a lot of sweet and tender moments between Rook and Lucha that will have your heart melting. In addition, the family dynamics are wonderful, too.
Overall, Meet Me in the Blue was absolutely wonderful and amazing, and a complete emotional rollercoaster. I can't recommend this one enough.
Thank you to Gay Romance Reviews for the digital ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
May 17, 2023
I'm not crying, you are!
May 25, 2023
Rating: 4.5 Stars
Meet Me In The Blue by A.M. Johnson is book one of the Hemlock Harbor series. This is the first book I’ve read by this author but I will be reading more of her work.
This quickly had my attention and I just breezed right through it. I was drawn in from the beginning and I read it straight through without stopping.
Luka and Rook were soulmates from the moment they meet as children. It was such a sweet and innocent love, you could feel their chemistry burning off the pages. This was more about being open, honest, supportive, present in the moment and the connection the two main characters head. It was also about the intimacy of just being together and knowing the other person loved and accepted you. It didn’t have to go further than that, it was beautiful. This is not full of smutty scenes, I believe their was only three intimate ones. In this case, a little goes a long way. I know I just want more of Luka and Rook.
This quickly became one of my favorite MM romances and if anyone has some similar ones please leave me some recommendations.
Excited for when the next installment is going to be released because this series is chefs kiss already 🤌
CW/TW:
Death of parents
Meet Me In The Blue by A.M. Johnson is book one of the Hemlock Harbor series. This is the first book I’ve read by this author but I will be reading more of her work.
This quickly had my attention and I just breezed right through it. I was drawn in from the beginning and I read it straight through without stopping.
Luka and Rook were soulmates from the moment they meet as children. It was such a sweet and innocent love, you could feel their chemistry burning off the pages. This was more about being open, honest, supportive, present in the moment and the connection the two main characters head. It was also about the intimacy of just being together and knowing the other person loved and accepted you. It didn’t have to go further than that, it was beautiful. This is not full of smutty scenes, I believe their was only three intimate ones. In this case, a little goes a long way. I know I just want more of Luka and Rook.
This quickly became one of my favorite MM romances and if anyone has some similar ones please leave me some recommendations.
Excited for when the next installment is going to be released because this series is chefs kiss already 🤌
CW/TW:
Death of parents
March 26, 2023
Lovely writing. This book was like a warm blanket.
April 2, 2023
3.5 ✨
February 24, 2023
"This will be our blue hour, Rook. This will always be our time."
Star Rating: 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
POV: Dual, First Person
HEA: Yes
Spice Rating: 3/5 🔥🔥🔥
"You give me what I need every time I look at you. By simply... existing."
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review
Overall Opinion
I cannot put into words the way this book carved my heart up. It was so emotional and deep, in a way that I have rarely seen done before. Rook and Luka took my heart, tore it clean in half and sewed it back together, but not after sending it through the ringer. A combination of past and present scenes, we catch glimpses into their past together and wonder what will happen in their future. A true love story at its heart, we see a friendship grow and wane as the years go by, a tale of losing and rediscovering one another, through grief and pain. A.M. Johnson has a unique way with words that weave their way into your soul and grip you for in their hold and refuse to ever let you go. Overall this was a beautiful story that left me feeling absolutely everything and I cannot wait for their friends to get their stories as well!
Read if you like:
❣️ MM Romance
❣️ Second Chances
❣️ Small Town
❣️ Slow Burn
❣️ Friends-to-Lovers
❣️ Demi Rep
Trigger and Content Warnings: Grief, death of a parent.
Star Rating: 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
POV: Dual, First Person
HEA: Yes
Spice Rating: 3/5 🔥🔥🔥
"You give me what I need every time I look at you. By simply... existing."
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review
Overall Opinion
I cannot put into words the way this book carved my heart up. It was so emotional and deep, in a way that I have rarely seen done before. Rook and Luka took my heart, tore it clean in half and sewed it back together, but not after sending it through the ringer. A combination of past and present scenes, we catch glimpses into their past together and wonder what will happen in their future. A true love story at its heart, we see a friendship grow and wane as the years go by, a tale of losing and rediscovering one another, through grief and pain. A.M. Johnson has a unique way with words that weave their way into your soul and grip you for in their hold and refuse to ever let you go. Overall this was a beautiful story that left me feeling absolutely everything and I cannot wait for their friends to get their stories as well!
Read if you like:
❣️ MM Romance
❣️ Second Chances
❣️ Small Town
❣️ Slow Burn
❣️ Friends-to-Lovers
❣️ Demi Rep
Trigger and Content Warnings: Grief, death of a parent.
March 17, 2023
4.0 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Oh Amanda…your books are truly little melancholy pieces of heaven. When I read her books I feel like I’m stepping into a dream. A dream where you experience a pure, all consuming love that isn’t riddled with OTT sugary sweetness but rooted in a reality you feel grateful to live in. This book also felt special in that she also shared a piece of herself as someone on the Ace spectrum.
Rook and Luka are longtime childhood friends who have drifted apart in the last 5 years. Luka comes home to deal with a family tragedy and is forced to come face-to-face with the best friend he both left behind and pushed away. Rook is slowly discovering things about himself and his sexuality, as well as sorting through his feelings towards Luka. Both our MCs were fully fleshed out people that you couldn’t help but be drawn to.
Was the plot perfect? Honestly no, and there were pieces that in hindsight were jumbled and/or forgotten about. I’ve seen critiques on the demisexuality portrayal in this but as (1) someone not on the Ace spectrum and (2) someone not wanting to comment on someone’s own personal experience (re: Amanda’s) I don’t have much to add there.
In conclusion all I can say is this was beautifully somber and romantic and I can’t wait to continue this series ✨
Oh Amanda…your books are truly little melancholy pieces of heaven. When I read her books I feel like I’m stepping into a dream. A dream where you experience a pure, all consuming love that isn’t riddled with OTT sugary sweetness but rooted in a reality you feel grateful to live in. This book also felt special in that she also shared a piece of herself as someone on the Ace spectrum.
Rook and Luka are longtime childhood friends who have drifted apart in the last 5 years. Luka comes home to deal with a family tragedy and is forced to come face-to-face with the best friend he both left behind and pushed away. Rook is slowly discovering things about himself and his sexuality, as well as sorting through his feelings towards Luka. Both our MCs were fully fleshed out people that you couldn’t help but be drawn to.
Was the plot perfect? Honestly no, and there were pieces that in hindsight were jumbled and/or forgotten about. I’ve seen critiques on the demisexuality portrayal in this but as (1) someone not on the Ace spectrum and (2) someone not wanting to comment on someone’s own personal experience (re: Amanda’s) I don’t have much to add there.
In conclusion all I can say is this was beautifully somber and romantic and I can’t wait to continue this series ✨
March 18, 2023
Rich, beautiful words and emotions.
Strong feelings that brought tears to my eyes.
And the romance. My heart burst from it.
Was it heavy? Yes.
Was it sad? Yes.
Heed the CW's
For the largest portion of this book I was wrapped up in it all. But when the inevitable happened and the dust settled, it sort of lost its sparkle.
Don't get me wrong. I finally got the HEA I'd been rooting for and Luka and Rook get to live the life they are meant to all along., but I think it could've ended shortly after without the job stuff and it would have still been meaningful and beautiful.
I did love the epilogue. It was well earned. They were truly soul mates. ❤️
"No matter how mad I thought I should be, Luka was broken. And I wanted to hold all his pieces together, and I wanted him to hold mine."
Strong feelings that brought tears to my eyes.
"Death had a way of making anger feel petty. What was five years of misunderstanding to a lifetime ready to be buried?"
And the romance. My heart burst from it.
"I was in my head now, with every I love you, every touch and kiss Luka and I had shared since he’d come home, and there wasn’t a fiber in my body that didn’t yearn for it. Yearn for him and a future I couldn’t fathom without him."
Was it heavy? Yes.
Was it sad? Yes.
Heed the CW's
For the largest portion of this book I was wrapped up in it all. But when the inevitable happened and the dust settled, it sort of lost its sparkle.
Don't get me wrong. I finally got the HEA I'd been rooting for and Luka and Rook get to live the life they are meant to all along., but I think it could've ended shortly after without the job stuff and it would have still been meaningful and beautiful.
I did love the epilogue. It was well earned. They were truly soul mates. ❤️
March 4, 2023
4.75 stars RTC
February 28, 2023
"I guess sometimes it's hard to let go... when you've loved someone your whole life...Even when it hurts you over and over again."
Holy hell this book hurt. It's been a long time since I read a book that made me tear up for the majority of the story. Every time I thought we'd finally finished with the tearjerker moments another one followed. It wasn't just moments between the MCs either. Truthfully it was mostly the family moments surrounding Luka's dying father. It was very reminiscent of losing my grandfather, whom was the man who helped raise me when my own biological father wouldn't. It brought up memories of him lying in a similar hospital bed in our living room, making us all cringe yet still smile with his morbid death humor. And just like Luka and his family, we all came home at the end to spend the time he had left together. The difference is I didn't have to come home to face the man I'd spent my life in love with, yet left behind for 5 years.
"I hadn't asked him to come. But then again, I hadn't ever had to ask before. Rook used to know when I needed him. He didn't anymore."
So many emotions to wade through in this read. You have Luka, who believed he'd never stop loving his best friend Rook, even though he could never love him back. Then there's Rook, who doesn't know if he's even capable of loving anyone in relationship setting. Since he's demisexual, he doesn't feel attraction without a strong connection first and none of the women he's dated have lasted long enough for it to spark. Rooks sexuality has always been confusing to him and it takes a good friend of his, one who may be familiar to readers, to finally point him in the right direction. Imagine his surprise when he looks back on his life and realizes his best friend might just feel the same.
"This man had dotted every moment of my life with memories I never wanted to forget."
It was a long road for Luka and Rook, but eventually these two got it right. I loved how supportive their families were, even if there may have been a few "I told you so's." The epilogue was lovely and it truly solidified their hard won HEA. I'm ecstatic book 2 is going to be Ron's. If you've read The Glow Up, then you know Ron as the friendly security guard from campus. It seems he also left a best friend for whom he harbors feelings for behind when he up and moved away from Hemlock Harbor and I cannot wait for him to get his HEA as well!
Holy hell this book hurt. It's been a long time since I read a book that made me tear up for the majority of the story. Every time I thought we'd finally finished with the tearjerker moments another one followed. It wasn't just moments between the MCs either. Truthfully it was mostly the family moments surrounding Luka's dying father. It was very reminiscent of losing my grandfather, whom was the man who helped raise me when my own biological father wouldn't. It brought up memories of him lying in a similar hospital bed in our living room, making us all cringe yet still smile with his morbid death humor. And just like Luka and his family, we all came home at the end to spend the time he had left together. The difference is I didn't have to come home to face the man I'd spent my life in love with, yet left behind for 5 years.
"I hadn't asked him to come. But then again, I hadn't ever had to ask before. Rook used to know when I needed him. He didn't anymore."
So many emotions to wade through in this read. You have Luka, who believed he'd never stop loving his best friend Rook, even though he could never love him back. Then there's Rook, who doesn't know if he's even capable of loving anyone in relationship setting. Since he's demisexual, he doesn't feel attraction without a strong connection first and none of the women he's dated have lasted long enough for it to spark. Rooks sexuality has always been confusing to him and it takes a good friend of his, one who may be familiar to readers, to finally point him in the right direction. Imagine his surprise when he looks back on his life and realizes his best friend might just feel the same.
"This man had dotted every moment of my life with memories I never wanted to forget."
It was a long road for Luka and Rook, but eventually these two got it right. I loved how supportive their families were, even if there may have been a few "I told you so's." The epilogue was lovely and it truly solidified their hard won HEA. I'm ecstatic book 2 is going to be Ron's. If you've read The Glow Up, then you know Ron as the friendly security guard from campus. It seems he also left a best friend for whom he harbors feelings for behind when he up and moved away from Hemlock Harbor and I cannot wait for him to get his HEA as well!
March 15, 2023
I couldn't pass up the chance to review a book by this author and it did not disappoint. Meet Me in the Blue is the story of childhood friends Luka and Rook who meet as neighbours when Luka moves to the small town of Hemlock Harbor. Unhappy to be away from the big city, he nonetheless is befriended by Rook and the two are quite inseparable until Luka moves away for college and doesn't come back until his father is dying.
In flashback format at the beginning of each chapter (not my favourite but done well) we see the evolution of their friendship and the beginning of Luka's love for Rook. Though Rook loves Luka, its not in a way Luka sees as romantic and this becomes his reason for leaving and staying away. Unfortunately for Rook, Luka has never shared those feelings so whilst he knows Luka is gay, he has no idea about Luka's feelings and is just deeply, deeply wounded by Luka leaving.
As the two reconnect and some honest conversations are had, Rook begins to realise that he does love Luka and he begins to understand his own sexuality.
I wished it was as easy as gay or straight. What if being alone was my happily ever after? Would that be so bad?
Rook's exploration of his own sexuality (in the ace spectrum and ultimately demi I guess) was so soft, sweet and humbling. This beautiful man had thought he would always be alone because he could never connect sexually with another person. The act of sex always seemed too soon, too disappointing, too nothing for him to get anything meaningful from it. His first kiss with Luka, Luka's understanding and doing everything at a pace Rook was comfortable with was perfection.
CW - death of a parent is strong here. I shed a few tears and the emotional impact of this on the MCs shouldn't be underestimated. But it was handled well. Not belaboured nor glossed over.
A tender and sweet story.
ARC provided for my honest review
In flashback format at the beginning of each chapter (not my favourite but done well) we see the evolution of their friendship and the beginning of Luka's love for Rook. Though Rook loves Luka, its not in a way Luka sees as romantic and this becomes his reason for leaving and staying away. Unfortunately for Rook, Luka has never shared those feelings so whilst he knows Luka is gay, he has no idea about Luka's feelings and is just deeply, deeply wounded by Luka leaving.
As the two reconnect and some honest conversations are had, Rook begins to realise that he does love Luka and he begins to understand his own sexuality.
I wished it was as easy as gay or straight. What if being alone was my happily ever after? Would that be so bad?
Rook's exploration of his own sexuality (in the ace spectrum and ultimately demi I guess) was so soft, sweet and humbling. This beautiful man had thought he would always be alone because he could never connect sexually with another person. The act of sex always seemed too soon, too disappointing, too nothing for him to get anything meaningful from it. His first kiss with Luka, Luka's understanding and doing everything at a pace Rook was comfortable with was perfection.
CW - death of a parent is strong here. I shed a few tears and the emotional impact of this on the MCs shouldn't be underestimated. But it was handled well. Not belaboured nor glossed over.
A tender and sweet story.
ARC provided for my honest review
March 3, 2023
Once again, Amanda has crafted a beautiful, dreamy world with life-changing characters and stories.
This might be the fluffiest of all of Amanda’s work; however, it never ventures into corny or cheesy. Luka and Rook are on such an emotional journey together—you’ll be rooting for them from the start.
I’ll always be obsessed with Amanda’s writing—her passion and her love for writing will always shine through and keep you hooked.
MEET ME IN THE BLUE is such a special book, which explores the ace spectrum in a very enlightening and helpful way!
I just adored this book and am SO stoked for the rest of the series!
This might be the fluffiest of all of Amanda’s work; however, it never ventures into corny or cheesy. Luka and Rook are on such an emotional journey together—you’ll be rooting for them from the start.
I’ll always be obsessed with Amanda’s writing—her passion and her love for writing will always shine through and keep you hooked.
MEET ME IN THE BLUE is such a special book, which explores the ace spectrum in a very enlightening and helpful way!
I just adored this book and am SO stoked for the rest of the series!
March 2, 2023
4,25-4,5/5 ♥️
J'avais si hâte de découvrir le nouveau roman de A.M. Johnson ! J'adore cet auteur et j'attends chacune de ses parutions avec grande impatience. Il me tardait de découvrir ce premier tome d'une toute nouvelle série et donc un tout autre univers.
Dans "Meet me in the blue", A.M Johnson nous offre l'histoire de Rook et de Luka, deux meilleurs amis, une histoire qui démarre alors qu'ils sont encore tout jeunes. Entre eux, c'est une évidence, un coup de foudre amical on va dire, la rencontre de deux belles âmes. Rook et Luka grandissent, vieillissent, et leurs chemins vont se séparer pendant cinq ans. Les retrouvailles après toutes ces années sont difficiles, beaucoup d'incompréhensions, de douleurs aussi...
A travers leurs deux points de vue, mais aussi des moments du passé, l'auteur nous permet de voir, de comprendre cette magnifique complicité qui existe entre ces deux amis.
J'ai tellement aimé ces personnages. Luka est un enfant, un jeune homme, un homme si gentil. Il est si prévenant envers son ami Rook. Rapidement, ses sentiments amicaux vont changer vers des sentiments plutôt amoureux. Rapidement, il va aussi prendre peur, peur de perdre cette amitié si précieuse. Cette peur va le pousser à fuir, malheureusement, ce qui entraînera incompréhensions du côté de Rook.
J'ai tellement aimé aussi le personnage de Rook, et par-dessus tout, la façon dont l'auteur a traité ses sentiments, tout timide, sa sexualité aussi. C'était plein de délicatesse. Délicatesse aussi pour traduire la relation entre ces deux hommes.
Deux hommes intelligents aussi, car malgré les questionnements et une certaine rancœur, ils vont la mettre de côté afin d'avancer, afin de préserver aussi Luka, qui vit une terrible épreuve, son père étant gravement malade.
J'adore l'écriture de A.M. Johnson, sa façon de créer de si jolis personnages, de développer leurs relations, leurs sentiments. La magie a encore une fois opéré pour cette nouvelle série, qui a lieu, comme son nom l'indique à Hemlock Harbor. Par l'intermédiaire des personnages secondaires, nous avons un aperçu de tout le cercle d'amis dont il sera question, j'ai hâte de découvrir l'histoire de Carter et Ron dans le tome suivant d'ailleurs.
C'est un très joli friends-to-lovers, comme je les aime. La relation entre Rook et Luka est si belle et délicate.
Un roman aussi où l'auteur aborde des sujets assez sensibles, car il est question aussi de maladie, celle du père de Luka, qui se bat contre un cancer.
Un roman où la famille a une place très importante, celle des liens du sang et au-delà. La complicité entre la famille de Rook et de Luka est si belle à lire.
Comme je le disais, la façon dont l'auteur a abordé la sexualité de Rook est très intéressante, bien écrite, délicate (oui là aussi, quand je disais que ce mot qualifiait bien ce livre ^^) et réaliste aussi je trouve.
La romance façon slow burn est, là aussi, comme je l'aime... Elle ne pouvait être autrement je pense, et leurs moments partagés sont si sensuels.
"Meet me in the blue" est une jolie histoire d'amitié et d’amour, de seconde chance, de découverte et redécouverte de soi. J'ai vraiment été touchée par ce roman en fait, j'ai tellement aimé ces personnages... Merci à l'auteur pour ce si joli moment de lecture !
J'avais si hâte de découvrir le nouveau roman de A.M. Johnson ! J'adore cet auteur et j'attends chacune de ses parutions avec grande impatience. Il me tardait de découvrir ce premier tome d'une toute nouvelle série et donc un tout autre univers.
Dans "Meet me in the blue", A.M Johnson nous offre l'histoire de Rook et de Luka, deux meilleurs amis, une histoire qui démarre alors qu'ils sont encore tout jeunes. Entre eux, c'est une évidence, un coup de foudre amical on va dire, la rencontre de deux belles âmes. Rook et Luka grandissent, vieillissent, et leurs chemins vont se séparer pendant cinq ans. Les retrouvailles après toutes ces années sont difficiles, beaucoup d'incompréhensions, de douleurs aussi...
A travers leurs deux points de vue, mais aussi des moments du passé, l'auteur nous permet de voir, de comprendre cette magnifique complicité qui existe entre ces deux amis.
J'ai tellement aimé ces personnages. Luka est un enfant, un jeune homme, un homme si gentil. Il est si prévenant envers son ami Rook. Rapidement, ses sentiments amicaux vont changer vers des sentiments plutôt amoureux. Rapidement, il va aussi prendre peur, peur de perdre cette amitié si précieuse. Cette peur va le pousser à fuir, malheureusement, ce qui entraînera incompréhensions du côté de Rook.
J'ai tellement aimé aussi le personnage de Rook, et par-dessus tout, la façon dont l'auteur a traité ses sentiments, tout timide, sa sexualité aussi. C'était plein de délicatesse. Délicatesse aussi pour traduire la relation entre ces deux hommes.
Deux hommes intelligents aussi, car malgré les questionnements et une certaine rancœur, ils vont la mettre de côté afin d'avancer, afin de préserver aussi Luka, qui vit une terrible épreuve, son père étant gravement malade.
J'adore l'écriture de A.M. Johnson, sa façon de créer de si jolis personnages, de développer leurs relations, leurs sentiments. La magie a encore une fois opéré pour cette nouvelle série, qui a lieu, comme son nom l'indique à Hemlock Harbor. Par l'intermédiaire des personnages secondaires, nous avons un aperçu de tout le cercle d'amis dont il sera question, j'ai hâte de découvrir l'histoire de Carter et Ron dans le tome suivant d'ailleurs.
C'est un très joli friends-to-lovers, comme je les aime. La relation entre Rook et Luka est si belle et délicate.
Un roman aussi où l'auteur aborde des sujets assez sensibles, car il est question aussi de maladie, celle du père de Luka, qui se bat contre un cancer.
Un roman où la famille a une place très importante, celle des liens du sang et au-delà. La complicité entre la famille de Rook et de Luka est si belle à lire.
Comme je le disais, la façon dont l'auteur a abordé la sexualité de Rook est très intéressante, bien écrite, délicate (oui là aussi, quand je disais que ce mot qualifiait bien ce livre ^^) et réaliste aussi je trouve.
La romance façon slow burn est, là aussi, comme je l'aime... Elle ne pouvait être autrement je pense, et leurs moments partagés sont si sensuels.
"Meet me in the blue" est une jolie histoire d'amitié et d’amour, de seconde chance, de découverte et redécouverte de soi. J'ai vraiment été touchée par ce roman en fait, j'ai tellement aimé ces personnages... Merci à l'auteur pour ce si joli moment de lecture !
January 7, 2024
✰4 stars✰
This was teeth achingly sweet and oh so beautiful.
Do you ever just read a book and find quote after quote that just makes you say, “damn”? Because this was one of those for me.
It did at times feel like it lacked plot progression, but it still kept my interest and the story of these two pulled me through until the end.
A well deserved happy ever after!
This was teeth achingly sweet and oh so beautiful.
Do you ever just read a book and find quote after quote that just makes you say, “damn”? Because this was one of those for me.
It did at times feel like it lacked plot progression, but it still kept my interest and the story of these two pulled me through until the end.
A well deserved happy ever after!
March 8, 2023
A sweet childhood friends to lovers story. After about 5 years of separation and no real contact, Luka returns home and returns to Rook, the boy he's loved since he was 9. I thought the flashbacks worked well and helped move the present-day story forward, understanding how the two felt about each other even when they couldn't say it back then. The small town plays a third main character here. Rook is very attached to the place and Luka is trying to imagine a new life there after being away.
There was no real angst, any of the slight drama that occurred felt natural to the relationship as Rook is working out his sexuality and both are dealing with Luka's return home. I didn't get as hit in the feels as I had hoped, but I did enjoy the story and look forward to the next one.
There was no real angst, any of the slight drama that occurred felt natural to the relationship as Rook is working out his sexuality and both are dealing with Luka's return home. I didn't get as hit in the feels as I had hoped, but I did enjoy the story and look forward to the next one.
February 19, 2023
This was everything I hoped it would be. Friends to lovers is a top favorite trope of mine and this one reaffirmed why. It was so beautifully written and emotionally powerful. It gives so much more depth and history!
Luka finally came home after being away for 5 years. Unfortunately, it was due to the impending death of his father. He left behind close to nothing in LA but coming home had him feeling like a failure and scared to see his former best friend, Rook. He’d been in love with Rook as long as he understood what that meant. By staying away he thought he could move on.
Rook had opted to stay in their small hometown. It was all he ever wanted. But he thought he’d do that with Luka. So once Luka returned, the feelings of hurt and bitterness came to the surface. Rook had always felt different around everyone else, except Luka. He could be exactly who he was with Luka. That’s why his absence hurt so much.
However, their feelings ran deep and they needed each other in ways no one else could provide. Rook could be completely himself and Luka had a strong shoulder to lean on during his family’s loss. They just fit - they were whole when they were together.
While this was a slow burn and not super spicy, the intimacy was all consuming and life altering for these men. It deepened and strengthened their bond. Their friendship turned romance was a natural progression and gave them a sense of safety and peace. Divine!!
Luka finally came home after being away for 5 years. Unfortunately, it was due to the impending death of his father. He left behind close to nothing in LA but coming home had him feeling like a failure and scared to see his former best friend, Rook. He’d been in love with Rook as long as he understood what that meant. By staying away he thought he could move on.
Rook had opted to stay in their small hometown. It was all he ever wanted. But he thought he’d do that with Luka. So once Luka returned, the feelings of hurt and bitterness came to the surface. Rook had always felt different around everyone else, except Luka. He could be exactly who he was with Luka. That’s why his absence hurt so much.
However, their feelings ran deep and they needed each other in ways no one else could provide. Rook could be completely himself and Luka had a strong shoulder to lean on during his family’s loss. They just fit - they were whole when they were together.
While this was a slow burn and not super spicy, the intimacy was all consuming and life altering for these men. It deepened and strengthened their bond. Their friendship turned romance was a natural progression and gave them a sense of safety and peace. Divine!!
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January 5, 2023
Foreword PR is delighted to be working with A.M. Johnson for her release of Meet Me in the Blue! Meet Me in the Blue is a stand-alone, best friends to lovers, second chance, demi-awakening, MM romance, with a whole lot of small-town heart, meddling moms, gossiping townies, self-discovery, a friendship forged of forts, Dungeons and Dragons, and a love that will stand the test of time. Visit here to find out how you can read early: Meet Me in the Blue
April 2, 2023
I am clearly in the minority here but I was fighting for my life trying to finish this book. There’s nothing really wrong with it. It’s well-written and everything but I was exhausted trying to get through this. I was absolutely drowning in the grief and I never really felt the romance. I also had trouble distinguishing between the two characters’ voices when I put the book down and came back to it.
I also kind of felt like this was a “chicks with dicks” book but I can’t quite put my finger on why.
POC and demisexual rep was great, although some reviewers pointed out that how the demi character acted regarding sex wasn’t necessarily true to the group.
I also kind of felt like this was a “chicks with dicks” book but I can’t quite put my finger on why.
POC and demisexual rep was great, although some reviewers pointed out that how the demi character acted regarding sex wasn’t necessarily true to the group.
December 7, 2023
A.M. Johnson has such an impactful way of conveying emotions. I adore her writing and her books. This one is no exception and second chance stories can be so raw and poignant when approached correctly.
I loved this.
I loved this.
March 26, 2023
2.5
I read to 50% and skimmed a lot of the rest. I really don’t enjoy poor communication - in books and real life - and this book suffered from a LOT of it.
I read to 50% and skimmed a lot of the rest. I really don’t enjoy poor communication - in books and real life - and this book suffered from a LOT of it.
March 6, 2023
I've been sitting on this review for days because I didn't know how to write one. AM Johnson's words to me feel like a balm on the soul. The writing in Meet Me in the Blue is beautiful and took my breath away. At times, I would put my kindle down after reading a passage, look up, absorb, take a deep breath, and highlight.
If you love:
Best friends to lovers
Small town
FEELS
Angst
Family
Dual POVs
Pining
Ace/Demi
A gorgeous epilogue
I have to add- I'm typically not a fan of flashbacks, but it added an intricate layer to Rook and Luka's love story. It allowed us readers to feel their connection.
Loved it!
+Heed trigger warnings.
May 17, 2023
This book gutted me. There's a lot of grief mixed in with pain and heartbreak and missed opportunities. But there is a HEA, so that's good!!
I loved both characters so much, but especially Luka because I saw so much of myself in him.
He is a very sensitive guy, he feels too much, he's a bit overwhelmed by what's happening around him. He detaches himself from things, because he is afraid of failure and all the hurt that stems from difficult situations.
Luka's dad dying was a huge part of the story, and I feel it overtook the book at some point, that's why I only gave it 4 stars. It was a bit much at times, to witness all the grief and the toll it took on the family.
And then Rook, what a wonderful character. The way his sexuality is layed out was one of the highlights of this book. His journey of self discovery was a beautiful thing to witness.
I absolutely loved their friendship, those little flashbacks offered a lot of depth to it. The bond these guys had was amazing, how comfortable they were around each other, how beautifully they grew up and cultivated their friendship.
I hated that even though they tried to communicate their feelings for each other, they still ended up not understanding what the other one was actually feeling. So basically they were in a huge miscommunication situation, but listen, I love angst and pining, so it really worked for me. 😂😅
I loved this. The writing is beautiful.
I loved both characters so much, but especially Luka because I saw so much of myself in him.
He is a very sensitive guy, he feels too much, he's a bit overwhelmed by what's happening around him. He detaches himself from things, because he is afraid of failure and all the hurt that stems from difficult situations.
Luka's dad dying was a huge part of the story, and I feel it overtook the book at some point, that's why I only gave it 4 stars. It was a bit much at times, to witness all the grief and the toll it took on the family.
And then Rook, what a wonderful character. The way his sexuality is layed out was one of the highlights of this book. His journey of self discovery was a beautiful thing to witness.
I absolutely loved their friendship, those little flashbacks offered a lot of depth to it. The bond these guys had was amazing, how comfortable they were around each other, how beautifully they grew up and cultivated their friendship.
I hated that even though they tried to communicate their feelings for each other, they still ended up not understanding what the other one was actually feeling. So basically they were in a huge miscommunication situation, but listen, I love angst and pining, so it really worked for me. 😂😅
I loved this. The writing is beautiful.
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