Series: The Midwest Series
Volume: 3/4Publisher: Two Peninsulas Press (self-published)
Genre/s: Contemporary M/M Romance, Bisexual Romance, Sports Romance
Length: 101 817 words
Read in: English
Review copy format: epub
Rate:✮✮✮✮✮✮
Micah follows his dreams of playing in the big leagues. Unfortunately, hiding who he really is is becoming more and more difficult for him, because as a healthy young man he has some needs that sometimes are really hard to control. However, ignoring Justin, a physical therapist whom Micah meets every day turns out to be the most difficult test of his self-control. Over time, purely professional acquaintance turns into an intimate one, and the closer Micah and Justin get to each other, the more difficult it is to remain professional and neutral when a serious injury comes into play.
The third volume in "The Midwest Series", "Touch & Go", tells us a story about love life of the character who we may consider the most controversial, because his problem is not the fact that he's in the closet, but that he sometimes openly attacks homosexual people to hide his own sexual orientation. In short, it's about Micah. On the one hand, he is a character who at first is hard to like, as his behavior often puts us off. On the other, we know what his problem is, we understand him and that is why we give him a chance to win us over. However, the most important quality of this character is the fact that throughout the entire series, and particularly in this volume, he's the one who changed the most. His path to internal and external transformation is the most difficult and at the same time the most significant. This makes Micah the character who we admire at some point, because we see his great sacrifice, courage and strength required to make life-changing decisions and choices.
Another significant advantage of "Touch & Go" is the fact that the novel gives us insight into the relationship that the characters are forced to hide. Thanks to this fact, the reader immediately sees how great is the difference between our idea of such a relationship and the reality, as we are somehow part of this relationship, because we follow the characters almost step by step. In her novel, Brigham Vaughn shows the pain and very difficult challenges that the characters have to face to hide their relationship. At the same time, it is juxtaposed with the joy of having someone to love and simply being together. It seems to me that such a direct way of showing a hidden relationship appeals to the reader the most, especially as it makes the characters realize how much they have to sacrifice because of the homophobia of society that dominates the sport. To hide one's feelings it is not enough to just avoid closeness of the person that makes someone happy, sometimes people who love each other are forced to ignore each other or even be hostile.
Another topic raised in this novel that I love very much is the problem of ambition vs. injury when being a professional athlete. It doesn't really matter which sport we are talking about, because this problem applies to all kinds of increased physical activity, as it is simply universal. In "Touch & Go" the fact that we see this issue is significant because it entails many other important topics. One of them is professionalism, which is disturbed by emotions and feelings. I think that thanks to showing the internal dilemmas that inherent in making dreams come true, being ambitious and consequences of injury this really good novel is even better. Equally important is the fact the author doesn't make all those problems one-sided, but allows them to touch both main characters of this novel, both emotionally and professionally. Thus, everything in this novel is multiplied – problems, emotions, joys and sorrows, difficult choices.
Speaking of emotions, "Touch & Go" is a novel we can't just read and move on, because the huge number of emotions that are shown in this book touches our hearts and makes us extremely engaged in this novel. I think we can say that we live and breathe this story. The fact that the author shows in her book so many different problems, feelings and universal themes is the reason the reader is constantly stimulated emotionally. Our initial opinion of Micah also influences our great attachment to the characters and their story, at least in my case. What's more, reading "Touch & Go" we are deeply interested in the events presented in the novel, the development of the characters and we feel like being part of this story as if it concerned people who are very close to us. I think all that largely explains my love for this book.
In summary, "Touch & Go" is a wonderful installment in the really good series, as well as a brilliant novel in itself. The story holds us in suspense, touches and moves us deeply, and makes us think. I really recommend you this book because it is one of those novels that we remember for years.
Headcanon: There are days when Micah gives Justin little gifts, because thanks to them he also feels better.
Fanfiction idea: When Micah unexpectedly gives Justin a gift for the first time, Justin is afraid that Micah is cheating on him, because the day before he had read an article about the behaviors of men who feel guilty about cheating on their wives.
AU idea: Fantasy!AU, Micah is a dragon shifter who attacks kingdoms. One day a brave knight, Justin, wants to fight him. The knight catches Micah's eye, so he kidnaps him and tries to court him.
Here's some more about:
BOOK 1
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The Midwest Series by Brigham Vaughn
It was more than a decision, it was serendipity.
A former college hockey stars decision to come out of the closet and reunite with his high school boyfriend does more than change the direction of their lives.
It sets into motion events that will lead to their respective best friends, a former hockey player and a psychology major, being stuck on a summer road trip together.
They cross paths with another old friend, an injured pro baseball player whose been forced to move in with his physical therapist. Old hurts are healed and the six become close friends.
When a night out for the guys leads to their meeting an Olympic hopeful swimmer who is fascinated by a drag queen it’s clear that none of their lives will ever be the same.
They are standalone stories featuring four different couples. Reading in order is helpful but not required.
Overall Heat Rating for the series: 4 flames: Detailed love scenes, graphic description of anatomy and of sexual acts.
It was more than a decision, it was serendipity.
A former college hockey stars decision to come out of the closet and reunite with his high school boyfriend does more than change the direction of their lives.
It sets into motion events that will lead to their respective best friends, a former hockey player and a psychology major, being stuck on a summer road trip together.
They cross paths with another old friend, an injured pro baseball player whose been forced to move in with his physical therapist. Old hurts are healed and the six become close friends.
When a night out for the guys leads to their meeting an Olympic hopeful swimmer who is fascinated by a drag queen it’s clear that none of their lives will ever be the same.
They are standalone stories featuring four different couples. Reading in order is helpful but not required.
Overall Heat Rating for the series: 4 flames: Detailed love scenes, graphic description of anatomy and of sexual acts.
BOOK 3
Book Title: Touch & Go
Author: Brigham Vaughn
Cover Artist: Brigham Vaughn
Length: 101 817 words/ 410 pages
Release Date: September 27, 2019
Trope/s: Opposites attract, hurt comfort
Themes: Redemption, pride, coming out
It is a standalone story.
It was supposed to be a secret fling.
Blurb
Blurb
Micah Warner spent his whole life dreaming of pitching in the big leagues. Signing with a minor-league team near Chicago puts him one step closer to making that a reality. But there are no out players in pro ball, so any involvement with a man must be discreet.
Physical therapist Justin Lamb loves his job with the Cougars. A romantic at heart, he wants to find lasting love—with a man or woman—but traveling with the team makes it difficult to maintain a long-term relationship.
Micah offers Justin a no-strings-attached way to blow off some steam, and Justin reluctantly agrees. It doesn’t take long before they’re both in over their heads but falling in love will risk everything.
With their careers and relationship hanging in the balance, they have one last play to make.
It’s time to take a swing for real and lasting love.
Physical therapist Justin Lamb loves his job with the Cougars. A romantic at heart, he wants to find lasting love—with a man or woman—but traveling with the team makes it difficult to maintain a long-term relationship.
Micah offers Justin a no-strings-attached way to blow off some steam, and Justin reluctantly agrees. It doesn’t take long before they’re both in over their heads but falling in love will risk everything.
With their careers and relationship hanging in the balance, they have one last play to make.
It’s time to take a swing for real and lasting love.
BOOK 1
Book Title: Bully & Exit
Author: Brigham Vaughn
Cover Artist: Brigham Vaughn
Length: 78 986 words/ 264 pages
Release Date: First edition – July 9, 2015 Second edition – June 30, 2020
Trope/s: Jock/geek, opposites attract, second chance
Themes: Coming out, forgiveness
It is a standalone story.
It's time to leave college and the closet behind.
Blurb
Blurb
Nathan Rhodes has put hockey first for most of his life, but as graduation looms, he has a different goal in mind. He needs to come out and reclaim his first love. If only Caleb will believe him...
Theater geek Caleb Stockwell gave up on love when his boyfriend chose the closet over being with an openly bisexual guy. Now, he hides his heartbreak behind a string of casual hookups. He loves the drama on stage, but he’s done with the drama of Nathan Rhodes. For good.
Nathan is determined to right the wrongs of four years ago, but the clock is ticking.
One month until he and Caleb go their separate ways. One month to take a final shot at winning Caleb's heart back.
Win or lose, everything is on the line.
Theater geek Caleb Stockwell gave up on love when his boyfriend chose the closet over being with an openly bisexual guy. Now, he hides his heartbreak behind a string of casual hookups. He loves the drama on stage, but he’s done with the drama of Nathan Rhodes. For good.
Nathan is determined to right the wrongs of four years ago, but the clock is ticking.
One month until he and Caleb go their separate ways. One month to take a final shot at winning Caleb's heart back.
Win or lose, everything is on the line.
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BOOK 2
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Book Title: Push & Pull
Author: Brigham Vaughn
Cover Artist: Brigham Vaughn
Length: 91 467 words/ 316 pages
Release Date: October 24, 2018
Trope/s: Opposites attract, enemies to lovers, road trip
Themes: Coming out, acceptance
It is a standalone story.
Add on Goodreads
It was just supposed to be a road trip.
Blurb
Blurb
Former hockey player Brent Cameron has a plan now that he's out of the closet. He'll take a summer road trip, find a job, and settle down with a fellow jock. Lowell Prescott is not part of that plan, but when Brent’s travel companion bails, he’s the only option.
Out and proud, Lowell has a love of sports, a flair of fashion, and a disdain for anything conventional. Burned by past relationships, he’s wary of jocks who want to change him—and that includes Brent Cameron.
Tempers flare and sparks fly as the miles disappear behind them. Just as it seems they might be on a journey to something more than Lake Superior, Brent receives a phone call that could change everything.
Will Brent stay with Lowell and ignore a friend in need, or go sit by the bedside of the man who broke Lowell's heart?
The stakes are high when you play for keeps.
Out and proud, Lowell has a love of sports, a flair of fashion, and a disdain for anything conventional. Burned by past relationships, he’s wary of jocks who want to change him—and that includes Brent Cameron.
Tempers flare and sparks fly as the miles disappear behind them. Just as it seems they might be on a journey to something more than Lake Superior, Brent receives a phone call that could change everything.
Will Brent stay with Lowell and ignore a friend in need, or go sit by the bedside of the man who broke Lowell's heart?
The stakes are high when you play for keeps.
Buy Links - Available on Kindle Unlimited
BOOK 4
Book Title: Advance & Retreat
Author: Brigham Vaughn
Cover Artist: Brigham Vaughn
Length: 105 980 words/368 pages
Release Date: July 14, 2020
Trope/s: Opposites attract, age gap
Themes: Acceptance, coming out
It is a standalone story.
Olympic-size dreams come at a price.
Blurb
Blurb
Openly gay college swimmer Ian Harrington feels like he's fighting against a current of tragedy. He's grieving the loss of his parents and best friend, and now he's dealing with a toxic coach and judgmental brother. But he won't let that stop him from chasing his dream: Olympic gold.
Ricky Chavez has just about everything he wants in life: a great career, a supportive family, and a side gig as drag queen Rosie Riveting. The only thing he's missing is a partner to share it all with.
When the two men connect after Rosie’s performance, they're immediately drawn to one another. But it's never that simple. Ricky isn't the type of man to hide, and with Ian's coach breathing down his neck, he can't openly love a drag queen without making waves.
They'll have to brave deep waters to make it to the finish line.
Ricky Chavez has just about everything he wants in life: a great career, a supportive family, and a side gig as drag queen Rosie Riveting. The only thing he's missing is a partner to share it all with.
When the two men connect after Rosie’s performance, they're immediately drawn to one another. But it's never that simple. Ricky isn't the type of man to hide, and with Ian's coach breathing down his neck, he can't openly love a drag queen without making waves.
They'll have to brave deep waters to make it to the finish line.
Buy Links - Available on Kindle Unlimited
Excerpt from Bully & Exit
Nathan’s voice was soft when he spoke, gentle like it’d always been. “Caleb Stockwell. I’ve been looking for you.”
Caleb cleared his throat and ignored him, tipping the bottle up for another long drink. He licked the spiciness from his lips as he debated making another run for it. There was a shrub blocking his way in one direction and a hockey player in the other. Even if he hadn’t been drinking, the odds weren’t in his favor. “Nathan Rhodes,” he managed.
“Damn I can’t believe it’s you!” Nathan leaned in and Caleb pulled back, uncomfortable with him being so close.
Caleb laughed bitterly. “It’s me. Now that you’ve satisfied your curiosity, you can run along.” He motioned with his hand, encouraging Nathan to leave.
“It’s really good to see you,” Nathan said, ignoring him. He took a seat on the pile of discarded construction materials, his knees brushing Caleb’s as he lowered himself down. Caleb pulled away as if scorched.
“Yeah? Too bad I can’t say the same,” he muttered, his head swimming as the alcohol began to hit him. He eyed Nathan’s long, long legs and the way he was pinned in by them, remembering the way they’d felt tangled with his as they came, panting shallowly against each other’s skin. It brought it all back; the scent of Nathan’s cologne, the taste of his skin, the way Caleb’s heart raced in his chest when Nathan held him close. It brought back the memories the ones he’d worked so hard to run from. The good and the bad. The sharp, intense happiness of falling for Nathan. The aching, crushing hurt that paralyzed Caleb for months after Nathan was no longer in his life. Everything he’d buried four years ago and vowed never to touch again.
He caught the first glimpse of doubt on Nathan’s face. “Are you okay, Caleb?”
“Oh, I’m mother fucking peachy,” he snarked and took another long drink. “I’ve made it through four fucking years trying to ignore the fact we’re on the same campus and with barely a month left in my senior year, I thought maybe I’d managed to pull it off. But nooo, Lowell had to drag me to this goddamn party, and of course you showed up too. Just my fucking luck.”
He raised the bottle again, but Nathan wrapped a hand around the neck and tugged. He was stronger than Caleb, so Caleb let go, afraid he’d end up getting pulled into Nathan’s lap if he didn’t. Nathan took a drink and passed the bottle back, licking the taste of rum off his lips before he spoke. “You’re so angry at me.”
“Ya think?” Caleb snarled. “Didn’t it ever occur to you I would be? What the hell makes you think you can waltz in here and pretend like all the shit that went down between us didn’t happen?” He tried to stand, but Nathan’s dark denim-clad knees were on either side of his, pinning him in place. He pried the bottle from Caleb’s suddenly limp fingers and set it aside.
“I don’t think that,” Nathan protested. “I was just glad to see you and I … I wanted a chance to apologize. I didn’t … I wanted …”
Caleb’s lips parted in surprise as cool fingers framed his face and for the first time in four long years, Nathan’s lips were pressed to his again. Involuntarily, Caleb closed his eyes, feeling a rush of heat wash over him, taking him right back to the first time. Before Nathan broke his heart.
About the Author
Brigham Vaughn is on the adventure of a lifetime as a full-time author. She devours books at an alarming rate and hasn’t let her short arms and long torso stop her from doing yoga. She makes a killer key lime pie, hates green peppers, and loves wine tasting tours. A collector of vintage Nancy Drew books and green glassware, she enjoys poking around in antique shops and refinishing thrift store furniture. An avid photographer, she dreams of traveling the world and she can’t wait to discover everything else life has to offer her.
Her books range from short stories to novellas to novels. They explore gay, bisexual, lesbian, and polyamorous romance in contemporary settings.
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