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Baton Blue Daddy #1
Kieran
As the CEO and founder of one of the world’s top makeup companies, Baton Blue Cosmetics, Kieran Kingsley has enough on his plate to worry about without having to take an arranged marriage into consideration. When he finds out his parents have plotted with another prominent family to get him hitched, he immediately seeks a way to call the whole thing off before word gets out. What he isn’t expecting is for Theodore Hudson to be so…attractive.
Theodore Hudson is a popular artist who’s spent years trying to build a life for himself separate from his family and their wealth. When his mother tells him he’s been matched with Kieran, he’s certain it’s part of a ploy to ruin his latest gallery showing and get him to return home. He has every intention of telling Kieran off when they meet, yet something about the other man makes it difficult to look away.
The two of them soon realize the best way out of this is to pretend to give their families exactly what they want, with a predetermined timeline and an end goal in sight. They can both walk away from this with everything they need.
But what happens when the thing they both start to need the most, is one another?
Kieran is the first story in the Baton Blue Daddy Series. This MM romance is an arranged marriage with enemies-to-lovers vibes. It involves light daddy kink, no age play and lots of chemistry. You can expect fun banter, fake dating and a secret employee who loves to air all the juicy gossip all over the company forum. This book can be read as a standalone and has a HEA.
Theodore Hudson is a popular artist who’s spent years trying to build a life for himself separate from his family and their wealth. When his mother tells him he’s been matched with Kieran, he’s certain it’s part of a ploy to ruin his latest gallery showing and get him to return home. He has every intention of telling Kieran off when they meet, yet something about the other man makes it difficult to look away.
The two of them soon realize the best way out of this is to pretend to give their families exactly what they want, with a predetermined timeline and an end goal in sight. They can both walk away from this with everything they need.
But what happens when the thing they both start to need the most, is one another?
Kieran is the first story in the Baton Blue Daddy Series. This MM romance is an arranged marriage with enemies-to-lovers vibes. It involves light daddy kink, no age play and lots of chemistry. You can expect fun banter, fake dating and a secret employee who loves to air all the juicy gossip all over the company forum. This book can be read as a standalone and has a HEA.
281 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 4, 2022
About the author
Avery Tu
4 books35 followersAvery Tu has a degree in Creative Writing and grew up on the East Coast. She's half Chinese, enjoys visiting coffee shops and bookstores, and loves cats. She and author Kota Quinn publish under Custom Cat and can be found on Instagram.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
February 19, 2024
Tropes: arranged marriage, fake dating
Feels: 3/5
Steam*: 2/5
Kinks: daddy
Angst: low
HEA: yes, but it kind of comes off as HFN
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings: shitty ex, typos
3.5 stars
Kieran is gay, 28, runs a successful beauty company he founded. He's from a wealthy family. His college boyfriend betrayed him in an ugly way and turned him off of relationships. His loving but interfering grandmother wants to see him happy with someone.
Theo is pan, 23, a successful artist. Also from a very wealthy family. His family wants him to be more corporate, work in the family business.
Their two families decide to try to arrange a marriage between the two of them. They decide to fake a relationship and appear to go along with it to get their families off their backs. But they're attracted to each other and it becomes something between them.
This book was okay. The characters were likeable, the dynamic between them was fun. They had chemistry and they were a good match. It wasn't spectacular though. I didn't like how Theo ran away from the bathroom incident with Ivan and Kieran, it made no sense and they didn't explain why he ran away ever. That felt like a dangling plot thread, where the authors were going to go one way and changed their mind. I also didn't like that there were a bunch of typos in this book. I started keeping track once it started annoying me... At least 7 typos.
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
Feels: 3/5
Steam*: 2/5
Kinks: daddy
Angst: low
HEA: yes, but it kind of comes off as HFN
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings: shitty ex, typos
3.5 stars
Kieran is gay, 28, runs a successful beauty company he founded. He's from a wealthy family. His college boyfriend betrayed him in an ugly way and turned him off of relationships. His loving but interfering grandmother wants to see him happy with someone.
Theo is pan, 23, a successful artist. Also from a very wealthy family. His family wants him to be more corporate, work in the family business.
Their two families decide to try to arrange a marriage between the two of them. They decide to fake a relationship and appear to go along with it to get their families off their backs. But they're attracted to each other and it becomes something between them.
This book was okay. The characters were likeable, the dynamic between them was fun. They had chemistry and they were a good match. It wasn't spectacular though. I didn't like how Theo ran away from the bathroom incident with Ivan and Kieran, it made no sense and they didn't explain why he ran away ever. That felt like a dangling plot thread, where the authors were going to go one way and changed their mind. I also didn't like that there were a bunch of typos in this book. I started keeping track once it started annoying me... At least 7 typos.
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 5, 2022
What an incredible debut book from Avery Tu and Kota Quinn. Kieran was a sexy, fun, addictive read that I couldn't put down. I love the way Kieran and Theo take the arranged engagement they were forced into and turn it around. It's mutually beneficial to play the part, but it turns out, the chemistry between these two men from powerful families is off the charts. I love them together, and I love that this was lower on the angst side, with plenty of fun heat.
I highly recommend Kieran and can't wait to see what comes next!
I highly recommend Kieran and can't wait to see what comes next!
June 4, 2022
i couldn’t connect to the characters at all.
and the characters didn’t know anything about each other. they had one real conversation in all the book.
i wouldn’t even consider this enemies to lovers, more like two idiots (not in the fun way) that are so entitled that they can’t have a serious conversation and get to know another person.
i won’t start with the half-assed daddy kink because i might not finish.
big no.
and the characters didn’t know anything about each other. they had one real conversation in all the book.
i wouldn’t even consider this enemies to lovers, more like two idiots (not in the fun way) that are so entitled that they can’t have a serious conversation and get to know another person.
i won’t start with the half-assed daddy kink because i might not finish.
big no.
June 15, 2022
RTC but I really enjoyed the premise of this one sadly the execution was a bit of a miss for me. I could see what the book tried to do and I really enjoyed all of the ideas it brought up, but sadly I just struggled connecting to the book.
I received an arc of this book and this is my honest opinion
I received an arc of this book and this is my honest opinion
February 12, 2024
So light, so fluffy~!
June 7, 2022
Kieran was such a fun read! packed to the brim with drama, sass, tension driven, swoon worthy men and absolutely hilarious one liners! Sorry Adonis "D", not sorry!
This gave me serious Gossip Girl/Bridgerton vibes and I am absolutely living for it! Not to mention the added bonus of two seriously steamy Alpha men with a side of kink. I loved how Kieran fully embraced his "Daddy" side and loved Theo's "Bratty" attitude and ass kicking ways.
Kieran was a delight to read and I just know Ira and Dorian's book will be a barrel of laughs. I literally can't wait, what a incredible debut from these two authors! These two are to watch out for!
If you love yourself a great enemies to lovers, fake dating/arranged marriage romance definitely pick this up.
This gave me serious Gossip Girl/Bridgerton vibes and I am absolutely living for it! Not to mention the added bonus of two seriously steamy Alpha men with a side of kink. I loved how Kieran fully embraced his "Daddy" side and loved Theo's "Bratty" attitude and ass kicking ways.
Kieran was a delight to read and I just know Ira and Dorian's book will be a barrel of laughs. I literally can't wait, what a incredible debut from these two authors! These two are to watch out for!
If you love yourself a great enemies to lovers, fake dating/arranged marriage romance definitely pick this up.
June 9, 2022
Kieran is the first book in a new series from two debut authors writing together. Overall I enjoyed this one, probably would go with like a 3.5-nearly 4 stars for me.
Fans of arranged marriage/fake proposal and animosity-to-lovers will enjoy this one! Kieran and Theo, thanks to their meddling families, have been thrown together in an arranged marriage proposal. However, the two decide to make things work for each other and play along - only to catch feels along the way.
For a debut, I thought that this was well done! There is just ever-so-light Daddy kink, more of just the fun of it than serious lifestyle, and when Kieran and Theo were together, I really enjoyed their energy and how they played off each other.
I do think it was a bit...wordy at times, things at times felt overly detailed and some paragraphs long. Also - and this is a personal pet peeve of mine, I'm not a fan of being told about things that happen after the fact, especially when it's moments that are important to the couple. I felt like when Kieran and Theo were first plotting their arrangement and later in the story, their texts, calls, and interactions were kinda summarized after happening. I think it would have been fun to see some of the text conversations or calls so we could really see the early feelings between the two.
And I'm looking forward to their friends' story - Dorian and Ira!
I received a review copy in exchange for an honest review.
Fans of arranged marriage/fake proposal and animosity-to-lovers will enjoy this one! Kieran and Theo, thanks to their meddling families, have been thrown together in an arranged marriage proposal. However, the two decide to make things work for each other and play along - only to catch feels along the way.
For a debut, I thought that this was well done! There is just ever-so-light Daddy kink, more of just the fun of it than serious lifestyle, and when Kieran and Theo were together, I really enjoyed their energy and how they played off each other.
I do think it was a bit...wordy at times, things at times felt overly detailed and some paragraphs long. Also - and this is a personal pet peeve of mine, I'm not a fan of being told about things that happen after the fact, especially when it's moments that are important to the couple. I felt like when Kieran and Theo were first plotting their arrangement and later in the story, their texts, calls, and interactions were kinda summarized after happening. I think it would have been fun to see some of the text conversations or calls so we could really see the early feelings between the two.
And I'm looking forward to their friends' story - Dorian and Ira!
I received a review copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 4, 2022
Undoubtedly a great start for this debut writing duo. Loved the idea of the anonymous gossip-monger - very Bridgeton-like... 👌🏻
Kieran and Theo’s story – while not anything new - certainly holds your attention cos they were both very strong and appealing characters.
The slight touch of trouble with everything regarding Kieran’s ex was the perfect amount to make this a little more exciting.
I only wish we could have seen Kieran give an explanation to Theo as to why Kieran still had that painting and his ex’s picture.
I know WE get an explanation but I still wanted Kieran to give one to Theo.
Also, while the intended marriage was certainly planned by their families, not sure this could be classified an ‘arranged marriage’ technically, since there was no actual marriage in the book at all.
But those things definitely don’t take anything away from the fact that I enjoyed this and will continue to read the next in the series…💙💙
Kieran and Theo’s story – while not anything new - certainly holds your attention cos they were both very strong and appealing characters.
The slight touch of trouble with everything regarding Kieran’s ex was the perfect amount to make this a little more exciting.
I only wish we could have seen Kieran give an explanation to Theo as to why Kieran still had that painting and his ex’s picture.
I know WE get an explanation but I still wanted Kieran to give one to Theo.
Also, while the intended marriage was certainly planned by their families, not sure this could be classified an ‘arranged marriage’ technically, since there was no actual marriage in the book at all.
But those things definitely don’t take anything away from the fact that I enjoyed this and will continue to read the next in the series…💙💙
July 14, 2022
Kieran is the CEO of a makeup company and is part of a very prominent family. To his grandmother's doing, he has been set up in an arranged marriage with another prominent family's son Theo. Theo is a few years younger and a bit of a bad boy. He's also an artist. Theo's family want him to take their business seriously and even offer him one as an engagement gift if he goes through with the marriage. Both don't want to get married, for different reasons, but they strike up a deal and agree to fake engagement. The thing is they are both sexually attracted to each other and are finding it hard not to catch feels. They do anyway.
May 28, 2022
If arranged marriage, fake dating, enemies to lovers to vibes, and a touch of daddy kink is your thing, this book is where it's at!
From the fun blog interactions with Aquamarine (who is it!?) to the extra hot chemistry between Kieran and Theo this book had me hooked from page one!
I can't wait to see what comes next from this new duo!
From the fun blog interactions with Aquamarine (who is it!?) to the extra hot chemistry between Kieran and Theo this book had me hooked from page one!
I can't wait to see what comes next from this new duo!
May 28, 2022
⭐️⭐️ARC Review⭐️⭐️
Occasionally I have authors who I become great friends with. They'll trust me enough to let me review their books! @customcatpublishing did that! Kota Quinn and Avery Tu graced me with an ARC of Kieran!
Kieran is enemies to lovers, fake dating, arranged marriage, and a touch of daddy kink.
Kieran isn't interested in relationships after a past one did him dirty. His family (Grandmother) desperately just wants to see him happy.
Theo is a bit of a wild child. His family wants him to calm down and take over part of the family business. In order to do that, he must agree to marry Kieran.
These two were hot together as they initially fought their attraction. When they give in 🔥🔥🔥 yikes! Melt my kindle!
This was an amazing debut for these two authors and I can't wait to see what else is in store for them!
Occasionally I have authors who I become great friends with. They'll trust me enough to let me review their books! @customcatpublishing did that! Kota Quinn and Avery Tu graced me with an ARC of Kieran!
Kieran is enemies to lovers, fake dating, arranged marriage, and a touch of daddy kink.
Kieran isn't interested in relationships after a past one did him dirty. His family (Grandmother) desperately just wants to see him happy.
Theo is a bit of a wild child. His family wants him to calm down and take over part of the family business. In order to do that, he must agree to marry Kieran.
These two were hot together as they initially fought their attraction. When they give in 🔥🔥🔥 yikes! Melt my kindle!
This was an amazing debut for these two authors and I can't wait to see what else is in store for them!
August 1, 2022
I was granted this ARC in exchange for an honest review so here goes...
This for one was a fun and quick read. Not too complicated, cliche enough to feel familiar and close to my heart but not so much that I feel annoyed or irritated or that it's monotonous. I love the simplicity of the fake dating trope and how it was executed here. The trust and understanding the characters developed for each other made me happy to no end. There were no unnecessary misunderstandings and I think that's what did it for me(in a good way of course). There were a few grammatical/spelling errors so if the writer could do a more thorough proofreading, I think this book would have all five stars.
This for one was a fun and quick read. Not too complicated, cliche enough to feel familiar and close to my heart but not so much that I feel annoyed or irritated or that it's monotonous. I love the simplicity of the fake dating trope and how it was executed here. The trust and understanding the characters developed for each other made me happy to no end. There were no unnecessary misunderstandings and I think that's what did it for me(in a good way of course). There were a few grammatical/spelling errors so if the writer could do a more thorough proofreading, I think this book would have all five stars.
June 14, 2022
Oh wow, what an incredible book! This seems to be a debut story for both of these authors, and I can't wait for more! It was extremely well written and had me hooked immediately. I read it straight through, and my only negative is that there isn't another book by them for me to read (yet, hopefully.) This is a can't miss book!
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily gave my honest review.
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily gave my honest review.
June 4, 2022
This is the first time I have read a book written by these two authors and I was pleasantly surprised at how well this MM romance was written. The plot was interesting & easy to read with a mild “enemies to lovers/arranged marriage” undertone. The characters are realistically flawed to a certain extent and develop have good chemistry between them although they are inclined to be a bit confrontational but stand together when outside forces interfere, in particular I like the way the relationship developed between the corporate CEO (Kieran) & a talented artist (Theodore) The secondary characters play good supporting roles.
There is: a despicable ex (Ivan), drama, intrigue, family meddling, supportive friends, manipulations, well-meaning deceit, determination, strange attractions, disagreements, vulnerability, insecurities, mild daddy kink, some steamy scenes & a delightfully sweet, happy conclusion.
There is: a despicable ex (Ivan), drama, intrigue, family meddling, supportive friends, manipulations, well-meaning deceit, determination, strange attractions, disagreements, vulnerability, insecurities, mild daddy kink, some steamy scenes & a delightfully sweet, happy conclusion.
July 8, 2024
Kieran felt his eyes narrow. "Obviously neither of us wants to be here-"
"Glad we're in agreement."
"You shouldn't interrupt people when they're speaking."
I'm not a fan of fast-paced books but I am a fan of MLM romance with lots of spice and fake dating.
overall the book isn't bad, I wasn't expecting anything mind-blowing that's why I was able to enjoy it. it's a great 18+ book to read in one sitting if you won't expect a fantastic love story. the chemistry between both MCs is good and I was easily pulled into the story because of the sexual tension.
"It may be fake, but even if you're only mine on paper, that still makes you mine."
the only thing that bothered me was the fake daddy kink that was put there probably just to fit the series' name because it didn't feel natural. in my opinion "Baton Blue Baby" would work better for the series name.
rating: 4* - ★★★★ great! enjoyed this one a lot, did not blow me away but would recommend it.
thanks to BookSirens and Custom Cat Publishing for the e-arc in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
"Glad we're in agreement."
"You shouldn't interrupt people when they're speaking."
I'm not a fan of fast-paced books but I am a fan of MLM romance with lots of spice and fake dating.
overall the book isn't bad, I wasn't expecting anything mind-blowing that's why I was able to enjoy it. it's a great 18+ book to read in one sitting if you won't expect a fantastic love story. the chemistry between both MCs is good and I was easily pulled into the story because of the sexual tension.
"It may be fake, but even if you're only mine on paper, that still makes you mine."
the only thing that bothered me was the fake daddy kink that was put there probably just to fit the series' name because it didn't feel natural. in my opinion "Baton Blue Baby" would work better for the series name.
rating: 4* - ★★★★ great! enjoyed this one a lot, did not blow me away but would recommend it.
thanks to BookSirens and Custom Cat Publishing for the e-arc in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 9, 2022
This was promising until about 2/3rd of the way through. I just couldn't get over the completely inaccurate spice scenes (fun fact: dudes need lube) and the MCs have a pretty big miscommunication that should have been a turning point in the book and then they just sort of forget it and brush over what happened
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 10, 2022
It was something like a k-drama , the plot was so familiare for me that i couldn't even get excited to see how they progress , kieran was 28 , but the book describing him like he was 48 and daddy kink between 28 yrs old guy & 23 yrs one was so off for me , that even didn't suit their characters
July 6, 2024
What I loved
- How respectful Kieran was 😭 omfg Kieran the man that you are
- daddy kink done right ✅✅ did not come across as predatory or disrespectful at all, and instead was mutually pleasurable for both mcs!
- smut. Oh my godddddd so well done! (Kieran tops Theo btw)
- Theo being a witty bad bitch. The way he humbled Kieran’s ex?? Amazing
- the sexual tension… omgggg
- the chemistry and banter between them!
- HFN ending
- how possessive they were of each other, without it being toxic ✅
- they were so good for each other omg
- I finished reading this story and feel giddy— in a good way— so I know I enjoyed this read
What could have been better
- sigh, again with the corny cover… 😞
- Needed to see more of Ira! Especially since the next book in this series focuses on his love story! I feel like we got to see a lot of Dorian, but definitely not enough of Ira. All I learned about him was that he was an artistic hoe who bottomed for a dude awhile ago and couldn’t forget about his monster dick! Wish we had gotten ACTUALLY learn more about what he was like as a person, not just about his sexual experiences!
- Wish Kieran had explained to Theo EXACTLY WHY he got so mad when he snooped around his room and saw the picture of him and his ex Ivan. He explained it to Dorian, and his feelings were completely valid, but I just wish he had repeated that explanation to Theo as well. I know some other reviews also point this out, sooo
- The reason why Theo runs away from the engagement party is never actually explained?? It’s kind thrown aside and never bought up. Like I thought it was bcs of a misunderstanding that he ran from Kieran without even listening to an explanation, but he knew exactly what the situation was. I just didn’t understand why he ran, it didn’t make sense for his character. If Theo saw Kieran’s toxic ex forcefully kiss Kieran, instead of running away he would have beat Ivan’s ass. But no, for some reason that didn’t happen?? I was so confused 😭
- tbh the ending wasn’t as satisfying as I wanted it to be. Booooo
- we got a lot of smut, which don’t get me wrong, it was really good! But I just wish we had more romance. Actually reading about them going on fun dates together would made the book a lot better imo. Like sure, we get told that they spent a lot of time together, grabbing coffees and dining out, but that’s always mentioned in past tense and we never get to actually SEE IT HAPPEN.
- How respectful Kieran was 😭 omfg Kieran the man that you are
- daddy kink done right ✅✅ did not come across as predatory or disrespectful at all, and instead was mutually pleasurable for both mcs!
- smut. Oh my godddddd so well done! (Kieran tops Theo btw)
- Theo being a witty bad bitch. The way he humbled Kieran’s ex?? Amazing
- the sexual tension… omgggg
- the chemistry and banter between them!
- HFN ending
- how possessive they were of each other, without it being toxic ✅
- they were so good for each other omg
- I finished reading this story and feel giddy— in a good way— so I know I enjoyed this read
What could have been better
- sigh, again with the corny cover… 😞
- Needed to see more of Ira! Especially since the next book in this series focuses on his love story! I feel like we got to see a lot of Dorian, but definitely not enough of Ira. All I learned about him was that he was an artistic hoe who bottomed for a dude awhile ago and couldn’t forget about his monster dick! Wish we had gotten ACTUALLY learn more about what he was like as a person, not just about his sexual experiences!
- Wish Kieran had explained to Theo EXACTLY WHY he got so mad when he snooped around his room and saw the picture of him and his ex Ivan. He explained it to Dorian, and his feelings were completely valid, but I just wish he had repeated that explanation to Theo as well. I know some other reviews also point this out, sooo
- The reason why Theo runs away from the engagement party is never actually explained?? It’s kind thrown aside and never bought up. Like I thought it was bcs of a misunderstanding that he ran from Kieran without even listening to an explanation, but he knew exactly what the situation was. I just didn’t understand why he ran, it didn’t make sense for his character. If Theo saw Kieran’s toxic ex forcefully kiss Kieran, instead of running away he would have beat Ivan’s ass. But no, for some reason that didn’t happen?? I was so confused 😭
- tbh the ending wasn’t as satisfying as I wanted it to be. Booooo
- we got a lot of smut, which don’t get me wrong, it was really good! But I just wish we had more romance. Actually reading about them going on fun dates together would made the book a lot better imo. Like sure, we get told that they spent a lot of time together, grabbing coffees and dining out, but that’s always mentioned in past tense and we never get to actually SEE IT HAPPEN.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 16, 2022
Fake engagement but no marriage yet
There were things that I liked and things that I didn't. My main complaint was that it needed proofreading because there were typos, completely wrong words used and most of all, so many incorrect possessive apostrophes that drove me completely nuts. I read an ARC so I hope that maybe a final draft was published that had been improved.
I loved Theo's art and his exhibition at the gallery. I felt as though the authors were describing an actual exhibition that they had seen, and I wanted to see it too. Ira's art also intrigued and I'm looking forward to seeing that in more detail (!!) in his book next, which you'll understand if you read this book.
I wanted to know more about Kieran's company too but we got no real details other than being told about their new makeup line that was Dorian's baby. Maybe we'll learn more when he appears with Ira in the next book.
The arranged marriage turned out to really be just a fake engagement but I'm sure a real marriage will take place at some point in the future. I liked both Kieran and Theo as characters, and together they found a real connection that grew from their first meeting, when they were both interested despite being forced together by their families, to texting and talking and forging a friendship. It was great seeing Kieran come back to life because of Theo and I loved how he made Theo feel important and special by taking a real and genuine interest in him and his art, unlike Theo's family who were completely unsupportive.
The villain of the piece was a nice addition but I wanted him to suffer many more consequences for what he had done, and what he was going to do, than it appeared he did but at least Theo gave him a pasting!
Lucky was a marvellous character too who made me laugh more than once, and I understood and applauded her determination and need to see her grandson find happiness after all that he'd been through.
I'm not sure why the authors felt the need to call this series Baton Blue Daddy because this was definitely not a Daddy kink book. Theo called Kieran 'Daddy' maybe half a dozen times, and Kieran called him 'baby' and 'good boy' about the same, and that was the extent of the Daddy kink. We know that Dorian is a bit more of a Daddy than that from what has been said so perhaps his and Ira's story will include more Daddy-ing, but who knows?
For a first book, the authors came up with a good story and good characters and I will be reading the next book as I want to see Ira and 'A.D.' together, and hope that the spelling and grammar is better.
There were things that I liked and things that I didn't. My main complaint was that it needed proofreading because there were typos, completely wrong words used and most of all, so many incorrect possessive apostrophes that drove me completely nuts. I read an ARC so I hope that maybe a final draft was published that had been improved.
I loved Theo's art and his exhibition at the gallery. I felt as though the authors were describing an actual exhibition that they had seen, and I wanted to see it too. Ira's art also intrigued and I'm looking forward to seeing that in more detail (!!) in his book next, which you'll understand if you read this book.
I wanted to know more about Kieran's company too but we got no real details other than being told about their new makeup line that was Dorian's baby. Maybe we'll learn more when he appears with Ira in the next book.
The arranged marriage turned out to really be just a fake engagement but I'm sure a real marriage will take place at some point in the future. I liked both Kieran and Theo as characters, and together they found a real connection that grew from their first meeting, when they were both interested despite being forced together by their families, to texting and talking and forging a friendship. It was great seeing Kieran come back to life because of Theo and I loved how he made Theo feel important and special by taking a real and genuine interest in him and his art, unlike Theo's family who were completely unsupportive.
The villain of the piece was a nice addition but I wanted him to suffer many more consequences for what he had done, and what he was going to do, than it appeared he did but at least Theo gave him a pasting!
Lucky was a marvellous character too who made me laugh more than once, and I understood and applauded her determination and need to see her grandson find happiness after all that he'd been through.
I'm not sure why the authors felt the need to call this series Baton Blue Daddy because this was definitely not a Daddy kink book. Theo called Kieran 'Daddy' maybe half a dozen times, and Kieran called him 'baby' and 'good boy' about the same, and that was the extent of the Daddy kink. We know that Dorian is a bit more of a Daddy than that from what has been said so perhaps his and Ira's story will include more Daddy-ing, but who knows?
For a first book, the authors came up with a good story and good characters and I will be reading the next book as I want to see Ira and 'A.D.' together, and hope that the spelling and grammar is better.
June 1, 2022
4.5
This was pretty amazing.
I have weakness for a good ol' arranged marriage trope, so I already knew I was going to INHALE this novel. Arranged marriage, plus opposites attract and daddy kink? Yes, inject it into my veins, thank you. "Keiran" was an utterly fantastic story. I fell in love from the very start!
I adored the premise and the very Bridgerton-esque ruse of "let's pretend to be engaged so we can both achieve our own goals, but whoops, we accidentally fell in love for real": the story was engaging from the start, and there were a couple of sub-plots (including my absolute guilty pleasure trope, the-evil-ex-causes-problems-but-karma-is-a-b*tch, and a proper XO XO, Gossip Girl called Aquamarine, a mysterious and chaotic figure wrecking havoc in the workplace!) I absolutely loved.
The main characters were utterly fantastic: both of them are vulnerable and insecure in different and distinct ways, they're both complex and flawed and extremely easy to love, and I adored them to death. Individually they're fantastic, but together? Now, THAT'S how you do chemistry and that's how you do properly delicious daddy kink, although, admittedly, it's a bit on the lighter side (which I think I might actually prefer!). I love that particular kink, but I haven't had much luck with it lately: I've read books with daddy kink where I ended up cringing for half of the steamier scenes, but these two authors manage to portray it very nicely and in a very, very (very) sexy way. So yes, double kudos for that.
I also completely adored all the side characters and I'd literally sell my soul for the next book in this series: I have an inkling it will be about two certain side characters, who I already love, and I can't wait to see them on page together. I'm also SO curious to see what will happen next with the whole Aquamarine thing.
This was a fantastic debut, with an addicting story, fabulous writing and flawed but lovable characters: I can't wait for more.
Thank you GRR for the ARC. I received it in exchange for an honest review.
This was pretty amazing.
I have weakness for a good ol' arranged marriage trope, so I already knew I was going to INHALE this novel. Arranged marriage, plus opposites attract and daddy kink? Yes, inject it into my veins, thank you. "Keiran" was an utterly fantastic story. I fell in love from the very start!
I adored the premise and the very Bridgerton-esque ruse of "let's pretend to be engaged so we can both achieve our own goals, but whoops, we accidentally fell in love for real": the story was engaging from the start, and there were a couple of sub-plots (including my absolute guilty pleasure trope, the-evil-ex-causes-problems-but-karma-is-a-b*tch, and a proper XO XO, Gossip Girl called Aquamarine, a mysterious and chaotic figure wrecking havoc in the workplace!) I absolutely loved.
The main characters were utterly fantastic: both of them are vulnerable and insecure in different and distinct ways, they're both complex and flawed and extremely easy to love, and I adored them to death. Individually they're fantastic, but together? Now, THAT'S how you do chemistry and that's how you do properly delicious daddy kink, although, admittedly, it's a bit on the lighter side (which I think I might actually prefer!). I love that particular kink, but I haven't had much luck with it lately: I've read books with daddy kink where I ended up cringing for half of the steamier scenes, but these two authors manage to portray it very nicely and in a very, very (very) sexy way. So yes, double kudos for that.
I also completely adored all the side characters and I'd literally sell my soul for the next book in this series: I have an inkling it will be about two certain side characters, who I already love, and I can't wait to see them on page together. I'm also SO curious to see what will happen next with the whole Aquamarine thing.
This was a fantastic debut, with an addicting story, fabulous writing and flawed but lovable characters: I can't wait for more.
Thank you GRR for the ARC. I received it in exchange for an honest review.
October 26, 2022
Being the debut book of Avery Tu and Kota Quinn, I have to say that it is quite good.
I liked the plot, it puts a different spin on the topic of arranged marriages. I mean, it's a common theme between men and women that has given rise to numerous books, but little seen (or almost nothing) between men.
These two men, despite belonging to very wealthy families that move in almost the same circles, and have crossed paths at different events, do not really know each other. That changes when a nosy grandmother and mother decide to fix their marriage, something they both don't even want to give a thought to. Kieran has been burned before by an ex-lover, leaving him with deep trust issues, and Theo... Theo just wants to be free to live his life without being weighed down by family duties.
At first they both feel a deep distaste for the other, although a current of desire and attraction runs through both of them, and they decide to cut to the chase. But after giving that arrangement some thought, they both meet again and decide to pretend to accept the agreement, making it beneficial for both of them.
From then on, the lines between fiction and reality begin to blur.
One thing I loved, was Kieran's company gossip site. Aquamarine was really fun, and kind of original.
And just so you know, there really isn't a daddy/boy dynamic, they just play for fun, and because Kieran does have a bit of a dominant or controlling side (I reckon more because of his trust issues) but not really because of being immersed in that lifestyle.
Overall, it was an entertaining book, with some hot scenes, some funny moments, and a couple of low angst scenes.
I was given an advanced copy and voluntarily wrote a review.
I liked the plot, it puts a different spin on the topic of arranged marriages. I mean, it's a common theme between men and women that has given rise to numerous books, but little seen (or almost nothing) between men.
These two men, despite belonging to very wealthy families that move in almost the same circles, and have crossed paths at different events, do not really know each other. That changes when a nosy grandmother and mother decide to fix their marriage, something they both don't even want to give a thought to. Kieran has been burned before by an ex-lover, leaving him with deep trust issues, and Theo... Theo just wants to be free to live his life without being weighed down by family duties.
At first they both feel a deep distaste for the other, although a current of desire and attraction runs through both of them, and they decide to cut to the chase. But after giving that arrangement some thought, they both meet again and decide to pretend to accept the agreement, making it beneficial for both of them.
From then on, the lines between fiction and reality begin to blur.
One thing I loved, was Kieran's company gossip site. Aquamarine was really fun, and kind of original.
And just so you know, there really isn't a daddy/boy dynamic, they just play for fun, and because Kieran does have a bit of a dominant or controlling side (I reckon more because of his trust issues) but not really because of being immersed in that lifestyle.
Overall, it was an entertaining book, with some hot scenes, some funny moments, and a couple of low angst scenes.
I was given an advanced copy and voluntarily wrote a review.
June 14, 2022
Definitely an interesting read. There are some little issues with formatting and it could use a bit more proofreading, but it is pretty great for a debut novel. Nice job authors! :)
There was enough humor, action and steam to keep it going and it wasn't too dragged out. While it does have some daddy/boy vibes, it is very light on kink and I think it worked for the characters. The characters are not overly deep, but there is enough of tension and personality development to spice things up. Overall a very nice, entertaining read.
**I was provided an ARC of this book from the GRR for an honest review**
Some of the funniest or most obvious typos and inconsistencies:
There was enough humor, action and steam to keep it going and it wasn't too dragged out. While it does have some daddy/boy vibes, it is very light on kink and I think it worked for the characters. The characters are not overly deep, but there is enough of tension and personality development to spice things up. Overall a very nice, entertaining read.
**I was provided an ARC of this book from the GRR for an honest review**
Some of the funniest or most obvious typos and inconsistencies:
June 14, 2022
Both Kieran and Theo come from wealthy and important families. Neither one of them went into the family business. Kieran started his own make-up company called Baton Blue and turned it into a huge success. Theo has become a very successful artist. Their families want them married off. Kieran's grandmother wants him to open his heart again before she dies. Theo's family wants to give Theo one of the family business to run but wants him paired up with a business man to help him out. At first glance, Theo and Kieran are a total mismatch. At their first meeting Kieran wore a suit while Theo wore leather jacket and a t-shirt. The meeting lasted 7 minutes, where both men stated that they had no intention on going through with arranged marriage. Then the families turned up the pressure. Theo's parents offered him a business right away if they get engaged. Kieran's mother really turned on the guilt. Now Kieran and Theo are going to appear to cooperate. They will fake date long enough to please their families and even get engaged. They plan to break up before the wedding. However their fake dates bring them closer together. Maybe their families picked the right one for them.
August 25, 2022
4.5*
I went into this book knowing absolutely nothing besides the fact that it had a fake dating trope and I ended up pleasantly surprised!
The romance between the 2 characters can be in a way considered insta-love although it's not that obvious. The characters feel instant physical attraction but they don't accept each other's BS just because they are hot. They still have their differences throughout the book and they learn how to accept them and move their relationship forward, even though it's mainly fueled by passion.
I loved the fact that they are adult men and that they don't leave everything behind just for sex. They consider people's feelings and work hard to understand each other in order to work the situation out.
The jealous ex-boyfriend trope was also so interesting and exciting! It gave some action to the story but also showed that they really trust each other and it's not just a fling. Their relationship is matura and I actually felt my heart swell!!!
The narration was fluid and I finished this book in a day! Definitely picking up the next volume cause their friends are just a whole vibe!!!
This book was provided for free by BookSirens in exchange for an honest review.
I went into this book knowing absolutely nothing besides the fact that it had a fake dating trope and I ended up pleasantly surprised!
The romance between the 2 characters can be in a way considered insta-love although it's not that obvious. The characters feel instant physical attraction but they don't accept each other's BS just because they are hot. They still have their differences throughout the book and they learn how to accept them and move their relationship forward, even though it's mainly fueled by passion.
I loved the fact that they are adult men and that they don't leave everything behind just for sex. They consider people's feelings and work hard to understand each other in order to work the situation out.
The jealous ex-boyfriend trope was also so interesting and exciting! It gave some action to the story but also showed that they really trust each other and it's not just a fling. Their relationship is matura and I actually felt my heart swell!!!
The narration was fluid and I finished this book in a day! Definitely picking up the next volume cause their friends are just a whole vibe!!!
This book was provided for free by BookSirens in exchange for an honest review.
June 14, 2022
Well, this gets complicated, fast! Kieran, CEO of a top cosmetics company is being bullied by his family and another prominent family to enter into an arranged marriage. Theodore is an independent, popular artist who keeps himself separate from his wealthy family and their shenanigans. Theo, is ready to show his Mom his more rebellious side. Then he meets Kieran. When they finally meet, they feel instant attractions. They plot to fake compliance with family plans while looking for an exit strategy so they can happily live their own lives. They not only have their families to contend with, there are others who are not so relationship friendly. Can these two keep their feet on the ground? Do they get their families settled? They are a good fit, who knew families could matchmake? Good flow. Good story, fun ups and downs. Interesting dilemmas. Do they find their balance? I look forward to reading more. Delicious story, well done. I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 4, 2022
What a fantastic story!
This book is awesome and I loved it! The story of Kieran and Theo is one of two men forced into a not quite ideal situation by their families and the issues they face because of it. Neither wants to get married but that is exactly what their families have in mind. Deciding to go with it just until both men can get what they want, it’s a plan that just doesn’t last. Things start feeling too real but neither will admit it and it’s a bit of a bumpy ride. Someone from Kieran’s past will show up and try to ruin everything but the feelings these two have developed for each other will get them through the tough times and give them a chance to start again, with their true feelings out in the open.
I read an ARC copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
This book is awesome and I loved it! The story of Kieran and Theo is one of two men forced into a not quite ideal situation by their families and the issues they face because of it. Neither wants to get married but that is exactly what their families have in mind. Deciding to go with it just until both men can get what they want, it’s a plan that just doesn’t last. Things start feeling too real but neither will admit it and it’s a bit of a bumpy ride. Someone from Kieran’s past will show up and try to ruin everything but the feelings these two have developed for each other will get them through the tough times and give them a chance to start again, with their true feelings out in the open.
I read an ARC copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
August 13, 2022
"Kieran" is a sweet and sexy gay romance. Kieran and Theo are set up by their families, both of which are rich. Theo is an artist and provocateur. Kieran runs a self-made cosmetics company. They meet, are attracted, and refuse the fake engagement because they feel something. Typical men! Throughout the book, we learn the reasons and come to love them, their friends and some of their family members, especially Lucky! There are some noticeable writing problems for the authors, which I hope are fixed before publication. These two men have much more in common than they think and fit together perfectly sexually. It is nice to see gay characters who are sure of their identities; too many M/M books have one person who is not so sure or demi-sexual.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 5, 2022
Kieran is an interesting start to a new series and there are several things that I really liked about it but also a few that I didn't. I like the characters, I enjoyed how the relationship between Kieran and Theo developed, the storyline is intriguing and there are several secondary characters that added a lot to the story. More background information about the MC's would have helped round out the story as would an actual marriage with the ensuing mayhem that both interfering but well meaning families would have caused. Overall this is a sweet story and I am looking forward to reading the next book in this new series.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
June 20, 2022
What a Debut!
.
➳ These debut authors really lit up the page. We have all of my favorite tropes. A little arranged marriage/fake proposal and some enemies to lovers. We also have a little light Daddy-kink to top it off. Kieran and Theo both have reasons not to be in a relationship. But their families want to see them settle down. Some drama from an ex and a bit of family meddling take their fake proposal on a wild ride. The new series has a lot of potential and I am excited to read about the other characters. These authors bring these characters to life on the page.
.
➳ What I Loved…
🔥The Families!
🔥The Chemistry, the Tension, The Build-Up
🔥LUCKY
.
➳ Stay K!nky, Y’all. XOXO.
.
Instagram @LaceandLit
.
➳ These debut authors really lit up the page. We have all of my favorite tropes. A little arranged marriage/fake proposal and some enemies to lovers. We also have a little light Daddy-kink to top it off. Kieran and Theo both have reasons not to be in a relationship. But their families want to see them settle down. Some drama from an ex and a bit of family meddling take their fake proposal on a wild ride. The new series has a lot of potential and I am excited to read about the other characters. These authors bring these characters to life on the page.
.
➳ What I Loved…
🔥The Families!
🔥The Chemistry, the Tension, The Build-Up
🔥LUCKY
.
➳ Stay K!nky, Y’all. XOXO.
.
Instagram @LaceandLit
August 13, 2022
3.5
Kieran and Theo are both been thrown together due to their families. They both attempt to ward off their families with a fake marriage. These two have built their own careers but they have underestimated each other. Theo is an artist and Kieran is a boss at his cosmetics company. They each have a lot of depth and layers that over the course of their fake relationship these layers end up peeling away. I enjoyed the sexual tension between these two and at times they did have great banter. I felt like we could had seen their relationship develop a little deeper. The side characters were enjoyable. There is a bit of obstacles to hurdle for these two to try to get a HEA . Overall it was a nice read.
Recieved a ARC for a honest review
Kieran and Theo are both been thrown together due to their families. They both attempt to ward off their families with a fake marriage. These two have built their own careers but they have underestimated each other. Theo is an artist and Kieran is a boss at his cosmetics company. They each have a lot of depth and layers that over the course of their fake relationship these layers end up peeling away. I enjoyed the sexual tension between these two and at times they did have great banter. I felt like we could had seen their relationship develop a little deeper. The side characters were enjoyable. There is a bit of obstacles to hurdle for these two to try to get a HEA . Overall it was a nice read.
Recieved a ARC for a honest review
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