Review: A very enjoyable read.
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 05 6, 2013
4.5 starsLiz Borino is back with Steve and Zack from her Mine series, this time collaborating with Michelle Stevens and delivering a sexy, hot read with the addition of more complex characters, a captivating storyline and emotions galore.What ensues within this story is the merging of two families learning to adjust to each other and a new city while struggling with their own individual issues.On one hand we have Steve and Zack adjusting to the new dynamic of their relationship, the challenges that arise with having Sunni and strangers living with them, a new job and the threat of an old enemy. Fears and insecurities arise accompanied with feelings of eagerness at trying out new things and contentment at finally settling down into a 'normal' life away from the hustle and bustle of Hollywood.On the other hand we have Drew and his kids. A man who has have to endured much heartache to be with his family where they are now, Drew still struggles with the repercussions his last relationship had on his personality and his kids while adjusting to his new environment. All the while fighting his doubts that he deserves the second chance at love that Alex offers him. He hesitates. He questions. In the end, he gives himself to this new beginning only to have his past rear its ugly head.Liz Borino and Michelle Stevens did a great job collaborating in this story. Having read Liz's previous work but unfamiliar with Michelle's work, I enjoyed how the author's styles blended and even found it difficult to tell them apart at times and when I did it was only because the difference in writing styles helped to add more to the story.I was glad to see that Steve and Zack stayed true to themselves in this new journey in their lives. They were consistent in regards to their relationship - their behavior towards each other, the easy manner in which they resolved their problems. But while they were consistent, they also grew as a couple and as individuals, which I loved. I liked seeing them take new roles and experimenting with new things.I found that the new characters introduced into Steve and Zack's life added to the story. I especially enjoyed reading Drew's story. Having met Drew at the end of That's a Wrap, I found it easier to connect to him. However, having the authors inform me of his past and the reasons for the move to New York gave me the insight I needed to relate to him fully. Especially since he was so easy going and a great father.As for Alex, at first I was confused. It seemed like he was THERE all of a sudden. To be honest, it kind of threw me a little bit. But I'm crazy about him. He had this vibe to him that I loved - dominant but caring and very honest. I enjoyed getting to know him and I appreciated that he was understanding of Drew and determined to keep him. That really did it for me.Although a bit confusing at first with having different point of views thrown at me, I found that one I paid more attention at the transitions I could follow the story nicely. I don't think I would have gotten the full scope of the story otherwise since each character added to the story in his own right. For me, it would have been a shame to have to wonder about this or that characters felt or thought.Behind the Scenes can be read as a stand alone. However, if you ARE a new reader, I encourage you to read Mine, because it will help complete the experience of Steve and Zack's journey to where they are now.