Ty Golden and Vic Black are done with dating, determined to take control of their own lives, and completely unprepared when love finds them.With an independent, makeup-wearing, younger twink and a mature, protective, cardigan-wearing man, Hearts Afire is a steamy, slow-burn, age-gap, gay romance.This is the second book in the Forged in the City series.
Wonderful Story & Narration A Heartfelt Delight!
Hearts Afire
Forged in the City, Book 2
By: A.D. Ellis
Narrated by: Bob Brill
A.D. Ellis pens another wonderful novel in her “Forged in the City” series and I loved every everything about it. This book is well written with interesting storylines that are captivating from start to end. The characters are realistic, easy to relate to and connect with. I adored the two leads, Tyler “Ty” Golden and Victor “Vic” Black, each had their own issues and baggage, neither one is looking for a relationship. Ty is an independent, hard-working young man, he is set on finishing school to get his cosmetology license with hopes to work with big celebrities and/or Disney in his future. He is working several jobs including working as escort for companionship only, the company he works for has strict rules and vets all clients, plus the pay is very good. Vic, a man in his forties, was burned by his last relationship, it left him with major trust issues. He likes to crochet and occasionally works at Ty’s Uncle Rhys’s art studio. Ty works there as well and live in the apartment above the studio. Vic is taken by Ty but thinks he is too young for him, when he goes to get his hair done with him he loves how his hands feel on him. They travel in the same circle so get to hang out more and the two really hit it off. I loved the chemistry between the two, I thought they were perfect for each other and great together. This book is beautifully plotted, it contains the right amount of drama, low angst, a thrilling and suspenseful moment, lots of heartfelt and emotional moments and a wonderful, slow burn romance. A.D. Ellis thank you for another beautiful story, I love the characters, their camaraderie and the small town charm.
I listened to the Audible edition, Bob Brill does an awesome job bringing these characters to life, he gives each their own unique voice and personality. His portrayal of the characters is spot on, sounding just as I picture them to sound. You could hear how much heart he puts into his work as he captures the characters emotions and projects them into his performance. He is an entertaining storyteller and talented voice artist. Thank you for another fabulous listen
What is there to say about Ty and Vic. I love that Ty is so out and being himself. He is determined to be independent and depend on himself. While going to school and working at the school he also works two other jobs on the outside. Vic is able to follow his dreams and life a laid back life. Each of them have been burned in the department of love. It was so great to see them each overcome their demons and be able to show one another their love. They both were so real and great with one another allowing each of them to flourish and grow under the love they felt for one another. As usual I loved the other characters making appearances.
Loved! Loved! Loved! I am blown away with this spin-off of the Silver in the City series. This is the second book in this series, and the fact that the entire crew of the original series keep visiting regularly, is, in my books, a definite plus. Ms. Ellis continues to be creative in her plots, and her characters are awesome. Each one brings a new entity to the books, yet blends in brilliantly with the existing crew. I love the fact that each one has a touching story to tell, some more tragic than others, but their story regardless. And lets not forget the wonderful women, Millie and Ginny, as well as the new additions of close and protective sisters. These women are strong, both in mind and will, and endearing. They are protective of all the men and children in their lives, and bring a special warmth to the table. In this episode, we are given the wonderful pleasure of meeting Ty and Vic, as they find their way to healing past pains through each other. We are able to watch as their friendship turns to more, and feel the love growing. So beautifully written, it is bound to sweep you away. Another awesome read from this talented author. Now I am patiently waiting to read Gabe and Danny’s story.
I was gifted a copy of this book and am voluntarily giving my honest opinion.
10/22/20 Edited to add my comments on the audiobook:
Audio Review:
Overall – 5
Performance – 4
Story – 5
This is the second book I’ve listened to performed by Bob Brill and I enjoyed his performance a lot. Like book one, he didn’t use a lot of different voices but that didn’t bother me with this story. I’m guessing that might have something to do with how the book was written. In any case, I didn’t have any trouble keeping track of who was speaking while listening to the story.
A complimentary copy of this audiobook was provided to me but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author and/or narrator.
Nice slow-burn, age-gap story.
Hearts Afire is the second book in the Forged in the City series but you can easily read it as a standalone. If you are like me though, and like to read series in order, you might want to start with the Silver in the City series and then read Hearts Ablaze, book one of this series. Characters from the Silver in the City series appear in this series as side characters but like I said, each book really does read well on its own.
Hearts Afire is the kind of age-gap story that I like. It doesn’t beat you to death with “oh, we shouldn’t, I’m too old for you” dialogue. The age difference is acknowledged, of course, but then they move on. I loved Ty and his fierce independent streak. He comes from a wealthy background but wants to make it on his own.
Vic was cheated on and that seriously colors his outlook on a lot of things. Including how he reacts when he finds out what one of Ty’s 3 jobs is. Nope, I’m not telling what that job is. Vic has to do some serious thinking and groveling if he is to get back in Ty’s good graces.
These two take their time with each other but once things heat up, they don’t fool around – or maybe they do?
Hearts Afire is another great story from A.D. Ellis and I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
A copy of this book was provided to me but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com***
Loved it! Just like book 1, this story brings a pair of awesome, complicated characters! The whole found family concept in the background adds a great layer of comfort to the whole picture and the plot itself is very enjoyable!
Butterflies
Ty and Vic remind me of butterflies. They both have demons from their past they have to emerge from in order to embrace the beauty of love. “But you gave me something I thought I’d never get to have.” I found their journey to be brave and beautiful. Watching learn to trust not just themselves but each other was amazing. The longing and heat between these two was real, shared and tangible, and the funny crochet humor was a definite bonus. Looming forward to Danny and Gabe’s books as they both have secrets I want to learn.
I loved this book so much. This whole series is just wonderful.
This was a well written story. I am definitely curious as to what is to come in the next book for sure.
There was just enough drama throughout without being too much.
I still love Ginny. She is one of my faves!
Definitely on my to re read list.