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The Speakeasy #4
Straight Up
Love, served straight up.
Malcolm Elliott has been keeping secrets. Helping his mom through a financial crisis has nearly emptied both his bank account and his kitchen cupboards, despite his thriving career with Corporate Equality Campaign. Malcolm is also bothered by his inability to tell the most important people in his life that he identifies as gray ace.
Stuart Morgan has a secret of his own. Though years have passed since the tattooed chef fled the Mormon Church in Utah for New York, he’s never truly come to terms with the kink that ruined that rigid but outwardly perfect life. Experience has also taught Stuart that keeping his love of lacy things under wraps is safer than telling the truth.
After Malcom’s boss, Carter, hires Stuart’s restaurant to cater a gala fundraising event, the strait-laced Malcolm is thrown together with badass biker Stuart. Despite their differences and a couple of false starts, the men discover they work well together and a friendship quickly forms.
As Malcolm’s feelings for Stuart deepen, his sexuality awakens, but he remains tight-lipped about his problems. And though Stuart grows more and more attached to Malcolm, he remains fearful of confessing his kink.
When both of their secrets are finally exposed, they find themselves at a crossroads in which they must choose between playing it safe or finally coming clean to the person they love.
Reader advisory: This book contains references to homophobia and polyamory.
General Release Date: 9th June 2020
Malcolm Elliott has been keeping secrets. Helping his mom through a financial crisis has nearly emptied both his bank account and his kitchen cupboards, despite his thriving career with Corporate Equality Campaign. Malcolm is also bothered by his inability to tell the most important people in his life that he identifies as gray ace.
Stuart Morgan has a secret of his own. Though years have passed since the tattooed chef fled the Mormon Church in Utah for New York, he’s never truly come to terms with the kink that ruined that rigid but outwardly perfect life. Experience has also taught Stuart that keeping his love of lacy things under wraps is safer than telling the truth.
After Malcom’s boss, Carter, hires Stuart’s restaurant to cater a gala fundraising event, the strait-laced Malcolm is thrown together with badass biker Stuart. Despite their differences and a couple of false starts, the men discover they work well together and a friendship quickly forms.
As Malcolm’s feelings for Stuart deepen, his sexuality awakens, but he remains tight-lipped about his problems. And though Stuart grows more and more attached to Malcolm, he remains fearful of confessing his kink.
When both of their secrets are finally exposed, they find themselves at a crossroads in which they must choose between playing it safe or finally coming clean to the person they love.
Reader advisory: This book contains references to homophobia and polyamory.
General Release Date: 9th June 2020
- GenresM M Romance
355 pages, ebook
First published June 9, 2020
About the author
K. Evan Coles
18 books246 followersK. Evan Coles is a mother and tech pirate by day and a writer by night. She is a dreamer who, with a little hard work and a lot of good coffee, coaxes words out of her head and onto paper.
K. lives in the northeast United States, where she complains bitterly about the winters, but truly loves the region and its diverse, tenacious and deceptively compassionate people. You’ll usually find K. nerding out over books, movies and television with friends and family. She’s especially proud to be raising her son as part of a new generation of unabashed geeks.
K.'s books explore LGBTQ+ romance in contemporary settings.
Newsletter signup: https://mailchi.mp/308e1be9c54a/colessignup
K. lives in the northeast United States, where she complains bitterly about the winters, but truly loves the region and its diverse, tenacious and deceptively compassionate people. You’ll usually find K. nerding out over books, movies and television with friends and family. She’s especially proud to be raising her son as part of a new generation of unabashed geeks.
K.'s books explore LGBTQ+ romance in contemporary settings.
Newsletter signup: https://mailchi.mp/308e1be9c54a/colessignup
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
June 12, 2020
Malcolm is the Social Coordinator for Corporate Equality Campaign, working for his best friends. There will be an event and Stuart Morgan will be their chef.
Stuart had been an upright Mormon citizen, unable to live that life any longer he left everything behind, everything! He started a whole new life.
They work great together and friendship between them is a fact.
Malcolm is aware he has feelings for Stuart, for Malcolm this isn’t naturally. Attraction and certainly physical attraction is rare for Malcolm. He understands finally to describe himself as gray ace.
Stuart wouldn’t mind taking of Malcolm’s clothes but when Malcolm explains how he operates, think, and feels, Stuart is determined to make this work between them.
Life isn’t simple, both have secrets, Malcolm has family issues and Stuart has a drawer full of secrets.
First, they didn’t share their preference or non-preference, when all was in the open ahhhh.
An excellently written story, the whole picture was right. Engaging personalities with their characteristics. The lgbtq+ spectrum was wonderfully woven into this narrative.
The emotions felt all plausible, the determined and tentatively relationship building was real.
There was a lot of sweetness and kindness. The Speakeasy circle of friends was present here and all still as lovable as in their own previous stories. Drank, food and support are full present here!
I love this well-written story immensely.
Stuart had been an upright Mormon citizen, unable to live that life any longer he left everything behind, everything! He started a whole new life.
They work great together and friendship between them is a fact.
Malcolm is aware he has feelings for Stuart, for Malcolm this isn’t naturally. Attraction and certainly physical attraction is rare for Malcolm. He understands finally to describe himself as gray ace.
Stuart wouldn’t mind taking of Malcolm’s clothes but when Malcolm explains how he operates, think, and feels, Stuart is determined to make this work between them.
Life isn’t simple, both have secrets, Malcolm has family issues and Stuart has a drawer full of secrets.
First, they didn’t share their preference or non-preference, when all was in the open ahhhh.
An excellently written story, the whole picture was right. Engaging personalities with their characteristics. The lgbtq+ spectrum was wonderfully woven into this narrative.
The emotions felt all plausible, the determined and tentatively relationship building was real.
There was a lot of sweetness and kindness. The Speakeasy circle of friends was present here and all still as lovable as in their own previous stories. Drank, food and support are full present here!
I love this well-written story immensely.
June 19, 2020
I always wait with anticipation for these Speakeasy books , I can't get enough ..
The characters are passionate for everything they do for themselves or others .
To have such a group of friends like these guys would be amazing ...
To have a trust and commitment these friend have is wonderful.
These guys , Stuart Morgan and Malcolm Elliot find they are attracted to each other but getting to know who you are sexually and then understanding isn't an easy ride.
This book tell of two beautiful men who find themselves not knowing who they are alone but together they can work it out in such a beautiful way , they make mistakes but they learn together, then they conquer the world.
I adore these authors ... thank you both for writing these wonderful book ..
The characters are passionate for everything they do for themselves or others .
To have such a group of friends like these guys would be amazing ...
To have a trust and commitment these friend have is wonderful.
These guys , Stuart Morgan and Malcolm Elliot find they are attracted to each other but getting to know who you are sexually and then understanding isn't an easy ride.
This book tell of two beautiful men who find themselves not knowing who they are alone but together they can work it out in such a beautiful way , they make mistakes but they learn together, then they conquer the world.
I adore these authors ... thank you both for writing these wonderful book ..
May 28, 2020
I started this series for this book but I’m curious to read the stories of this group of friends
I've enjoyed the slow development of the relationship between Stuart and Malcolm, instead of insta love
The main characters are amazing especially Stuart
The secondary characters who have had their stories in previous books reappear in this book
I can't wait to go back to the first book and follow all these men so different and with different life stories
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I've enjoyed the slow development of the relationship between Stuart and Malcolm, instead of insta love
The main characters are amazing especially Stuart
The secondary characters who have had their stories in previous books reappear in this book
I can't wait to go back to the first book and follow all these men so different and with different life stories
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 10, 2020
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
Straight Up is book four in The Speakeasy series and also ties back to the Tidal series. While Malcolm and Stuart’s relationship is new to this book, the series relies heavily on the friendships of this group of men and it would be enhanced to be familiar with the connections. There is also a special moment for Carter and Riley, the characters that started this series, and it’s great to see all of the MCs continually throughout the books.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
4 stars
Straight Up is book four in The Speakeasy series and also ties back to the Tidal series. While Malcolm and Stuart’s relationship is new to this book, the series relies heavily on the friendships of this group of men and it would be enhanced to be familiar with the connections. There is also a special moment for Carter and Riley, the characters that started this series, and it’s great to see all of the MCs continually throughout the books.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
June 7, 2020
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is the fourth book in the series, and although it relates to a completely new couple, there are inevitably lots of tie-ins with previous stories, as the Speakeasy Under is common to them all. We also get to enjoy Riley and Carter tying the knot in this one, which makes it extra special to series fans.
Malcolm is a really interesting character in this book, because he is just full of contradictions on the page. I found that confusing, but also intriguing, very intriguing. He is kind to a fault, to the extent that he is shouldering far more of the financial burdens of his mother than he should be, and almost starving himself in the process. He works for Carter, and is certainly not poorly paid, indeed he has huge responsibilities, yet allows his Mom to live in denial of her means. He has a lot of good friends, but he would never consider asking for help. He comes over as a small submissive person, yet he is tall and can command a space due to his nature. He is also confused as anything by his strong attraction to chef Stuart, when he has rarely felt any kind of interest in anyone, male or female.
I loved Stuart's get go attitude, his non-apologetic nature, and his love of life. Yet even he had a deep secret that ashamed him. Between the two men we get a lot of reminders that no-one has every part of their lives sorted or understood. Inevitably a product of a million influences and experiences. It is therefore a great pleasure to watch them recognise the friendship and attraction growing between them.
The Under gang are vital to the success of any possible relationship between these two, as they provide the glue and the friendship that they need to navigate new waters. It is very pleasurable to be along for the ride. The fun of the cocktail / food pairings is just a bonus along the way!
A fun series which is fresh in each story.
This is the fourth book in the series, and although it relates to a completely new couple, there are inevitably lots of tie-ins with previous stories, as the Speakeasy Under is common to them all. We also get to enjoy Riley and Carter tying the knot in this one, which makes it extra special to series fans.
Malcolm is a really interesting character in this book, because he is just full of contradictions on the page. I found that confusing, but also intriguing, very intriguing. He is kind to a fault, to the extent that he is shouldering far more of the financial burdens of his mother than he should be, and almost starving himself in the process. He works for Carter, and is certainly not poorly paid, indeed he has huge responsibilities, yet allows his Mom to live in denial of her means. He has a lot of good friends, but he would never consider asking for help. He comes over as a small submissive person, yet he is tall and can command a space due to his nature. He is also confused as anything by his strong attraction to chef Stuart, when he has rarely felt any kind of interest in anyone, male or female.
I loved Stuart's get go attitude, his non-apologetic nature, and his love of life. Yet even he had a deep secret that ashamed him. Between the two men we get a lot of reminders that no-one has every part of their lives sorted or understood. Inevitably a product of a million influences and experiences. It is therefore a great pleasure to watch them recognise the friendship and attraction growing between them.
The Under gang are vital to the success of any possible relationship between these two, as they provide the glue and the friendship that they need to navigate new waters. It is very pleasurable to be along for the ride. The fun of the cocktail / food pairings is just a bonus along the way!
A fun series which is fresh in each story.
Shelved as 'mm-read'
June 15, 2020
I don’t usually jump into a series midstream and...
I’m not sure what possessed me to do it with this one but something in my brain says that for some reason I was under the impression that this book could be reads as a standalone story and thankfully for the most part it can. I’m honestly not even remotely familiar with this series but the blurb for ‘Straight Up’ obviously caught my attention so from my perspective the blurb gets a solid 4++ stars, it did its job.
In general, this book lent itself to reading as a standalone quite readily. I admit I had a bit of a challenge with names and who was with who for a while but they were secondary characters and while I still don’t entirely know their background stories I was able to make the relationship connections with a minimal amount of challenge.
I’m fairly certain that Malcolm isn’t new to this series and readers of the series will know him from previous books. While Stuart is a new character, so his background was as new to everyone else as it was to me…which means that I was only 50% behind on things with these two…that’s not so bad.
What I learned really fast was that both men have secrets. Malcolm helping his mom through a financial crisis and it’s putting him into one but he’d rather go hungry that admit this to anyone even his dearest friends…The Speakeasy Gang, the MCs from the previous books that I haven’t read…yet and for the most part not even this group knows that Malcolm identifies as gray ace.
Stuart’s a tattooed, motorcycle riding chef who started life in Utah with his Mormon family and a love of silk, satin and lace undergarments should have stayed under wraps. Stuart learned long ago how much of a deal breaker his kink can be and he keeps his undergarments…under wraps now.
I enjoyed Malcolm and Stuart’s story and I’m honestly hoping to go back and find out more about this interesting collection of men. While there was enough information provided in this book to give a basic background on the secondary characters in this story, for me it was only enough to intrigue me into wanting to read the previous books (and this is how my TBR list grows).
I enjoyed seeing the relationship between Malcolm and Stuart develop. Both men were interested from the start. While Stuart seemed uncertain about how Mal felt he still remained cautiously optimistic and it was that caution…that willingness to go slow and let Malcolm set the pace that ultimately won Malcolm over and convinced him that Stuart was worth taking a chance on.
My least favorite thing about this whole story was Malcolm’s mom…seriously that anyone could be so oblivious begs the question how they managed to survive as long as they did? The only thing that redeemed her with me was that she clearly loved her children and she didn’t seem to exhibit any ulterior or questionable motives to her behavior…she truly just seemed to be clueless about the impact her behavior and lack of responsibility was having on her sons especially Malcolm.
Even though “Straight Up” wasn’t the 5 star read for me that it seemed to be for others in this case I’d definitely attribute a lot of it to the fact that I haven’t read the previous books in this series, it was however a very solid 3.5 stars and I honestly feel that if I’d read the previous stories that my rating would have definitely been higher. So, with this in mind if there’s a book 5, I’d like to read it but only if I’ve had the chance to go back and read the first 3 books. In the meantime, this was an enjoyable read and I’m glad I took a chance on it.
*************************
An ARC of “Straight Up” was graciously provided by the authors in exchange for an honest review.
I’m not sure what possessed me to do it with this one but something in my brain says that for some reason I was under the impression that this book could be reads as a standalone story and thankfully for the most part it can. I’m honestly not even remotely familiar with this series but the blurb for ‘Straight Up’ obviously caught my attention so from my perspective the blurb gets a solid 4++ stars, it did its job.
In general, this book lent itself to reading as a standalone quite readily. I admit I had a bit of a challenge with names and who was with who for a while but they were secondary characters and while I still don’t entirely know their background stories I was able to make the relationship connections with a minimal amount of challenge.
I’m fairly certain that Malcolm isn’t new to this series and readers of the series will know him from previous books. While Stuart is a new character, so his background was as new to everyone else as it was to me…which means that I was only 50% behind on things with these two…that’s not so bad.
What I learned really fast was that both men have secrets. Malcolm helping his mom through a financial crisis and it’s putting him into one but he’d rather go hungry that admit this to anyone even his dearest friends…The Speakeasy Gang, the MCs from the previous books that I haven’t read…yet and for the most part not even this group knows that Malcolm identifies as gray ace.
Stuart’s a tattooed, motorcycle riding chef who started life in Utah with his Mormon family and a love of silk, satin and lace undergarments should have stayed under wraps. Stuart learned long ago how much of a deal breaker his kink can be and he keeps his undergarments…under wraps now.
I enjoyed Malcolm and Stuart’s story and I’m honestly hoping to go back and find out more about this interesting collection of men. While there was enough information provided in this book to give a basic background on the secondary characters in this story, for me it was only enough to intrigue me into wanting to read the previous books (and this is how my TBR list grows).
I enjoyed seeing the relationship between Malcolm and Stuart develop. Both men were interested from the start. While Stuart seemed uncertain about how Mal felt he still remained cautiously optimistic and it was that caution…that willingness to go slow and let Malcolm set the pace that ultimately won Malcolm over and convinced him that Stuart was worth taking a chance on.
My least favorite thing about this whole story was Malcolm’s mom…seriously that anyone could be so oblivious begs the question how they managed to survive as long as they did? The only thing that redeemed her with me was that she clearly loved her children and she didn’t seem to exhibit any ulterior or questionable motives to her behavior…she truly just seemed to be clueless about the impact her behavior and lack of responsibility was having on her sons especially Malcolm.
Even though “Straight Up” wasn’t the 5 star read for me that it seemed to be for others in this case I’d definitely attribute a lot of it to the fact that I haven’t read the previous books in this series, it was however a very solid 3.5 stars and I honestly feel that if I’d read the previous stories that my rating would have definitely been higher. So, with this in mind if there’s a book 5, I’d like to read it but only if I’ve had the chance to go back and read the first 3 books. In the meantime, this was an enjoyable read and I’m glad I took a chance on it.
*************************
An ARC of “Straight Up” was graciously provided by the authors in exchange for an honest review.
May 10, 2020
4 Stars
Compared to the previous stories in this series, Straight Up was much less angst-filled than the others have been, which was a tad bit refreshing, and for a change, I didn’t spend the entire story with my stomach in knots. lol
Of course, that’s not to say Malcolm and Stuart didn’t come with their share of baggage, issues, and secrets. Secrets that threaten to derail their newfound relationship. I loved watching them learn to trust one another, and in turn, open up to each other. It was slow, but they found their footing eventually.
Malcolm and Stuart’s relationship progressed gradually and I loved watching them get to know one another. Their conversations, even about mundane stuff, were interesting and made for good character development.
They had great chemistry and I loved how patient Stuart was with Malcolm, letting him set the pace sexually, but it was REALLY slow, and that brings me to my one complaint, well, maybe complaint isn’t the proper word. I felt like Malcolm was too fragile. He felt too innocent, and like he’d break. This was further emphasized with the way Stuart interacted with him. He knew Malcolm was sexually attracted to him, but still handled him with kid gloves at times, even after they’d been exploring their physical feelings for one another for quite some time. With Malcolm being on the ace spectrum, this could be accurate, but I didn’t feel there was any need to continue stressing the situation, or maybe it was just be me, so take my opinion with a grain of salt.
Overall, this was an good addition to the series, and I enjoyed getting to catch up with the other Speakeasy guys, but most of all, I LOVED getting to witness Carter and Riley’s wedding, it was absolutely beautiful and I was elated to see them finally get the hea they have fought so hard for. Definitely a recommendable read!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
Compared to the previous stories in this series, Straight Up was much less angst-filled than the others have been, which was a tad bit refreshing, and for a change, I didn’t spend the entire story with my stomach in knots. lol
Of course, that’s not to say Malcolm and Stuart didn’t come with their share of baggage, issues, and secrets. Secrets that threaten to derail their newfound relationship. I loved watching them learn to trust one another, and in turn, open up to each other. It was slow, but they found their footing eventually.
Malcolm and Stuart’s relationship progressed gradually and I loved watching them get to know one another. Their conversations, even about mundane stuff, were interesting and made for good character development.
They had great chemistry and I loved how patient Stuart was with Malcolm, letting him set the pace sexually, but it was REALLY slow, and that brings me to my one complaint, well, maybe complaint isn’t the proper word. I felt like Malcolm was too fragile. He felt too innocent, and like he’d break. This was further emphasized with the way Stuart interacted with him. He knew Malcolm was sexually attracted to him, but still handled him with kid gloves at times, even after they’d been exploring their physical feelings for one another for quite some time. With Malcolm being on the ace spectrum, this could be accurate, but I didn’t feel there was any need to continue stressing the situation, or maybe it was just be me, so take my opinion with a grain of salt.
Overall, this was an good addition to the series, and I enjoyed getting to catch up with the other Speakeasy guys, but most of all, I LOVED getting to witness Carter and Riley’s wedding, it was absolutely beautiful and I was elated to see them finally get the hea they have fought so hard for. Definitely a recommendable read!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
June 7, 2020
Another great addition to the Speakeasy Series. Ever since his first appearence, I was intrigued by Malcolm; there was just *something* about him.... And what a story it is! This was my first book with an ace/demisexual guy, so I had no idea about what to expect. Is not something I usually read, but I decided to try this one because the authors have a very unique way to tell a story, so... let's go!
All the guys from the previous books are there, and even if you haven't read them ( You definitely should, just saying.. ) their parts and way of live are always clear and explained, so it can be a stand alone - but much fun if you read in order ;)
I'm always amazed by how careful they are with making the reader very confortable, explaining what needs to be explained and detailing what needs to be detailed (even when sometimes it feels like too much information). It's no different here: they were careful enough to explain, from Malcolm's point of view how he was dealing with the discoveries about himself and his feelings towards Stuart. I really laughed, cried, cheered for them in the best way possible. And we follow Stuart, learning things from a new perspective (about himself too), putting himself on his lover's position and making new discoveries as well.
They have an "unconventional" way to make things work, and it fits perfectly for them. It's about building trust, making yourself vulnerable and opening up to a new journey.
For the old fans - and new ones - definitely a must read! 5 stars for me ;)
All the guys from the previous books are there, and even if you haven't read them ( You definitely should, just saying.. ) their parts and way of live are always clear and explained, so it can be a stand alone - but much fun if you read in order ;)
I'm always amazed by how careful they are with making the reader very confortable, explaining what needs to be explained and detailing what needs to be detailed (even when sometimes it feels like too much information). It's no different here: they were careful enough to explain, from Malcolm's point of view how he was dealing with the discoveries about himself and his feelings towards Stuart. I really laughed, cried, cheered for them in the best way possible. And we follow Stuart, learning things from a new perspective (about himself too), putting himself on his lover's position and making new discoveries as well.
They have an "unconventional" way to make things work, and it fits perfectly for them. It's about building trust, making yourself vulnerable and opening up to a new journey.
For the old fans - and new ones - definitely a must read! 5 stars for me ;)
June 6, 2020
These two authors are incredible on their own, but when they put their heads together and write, the results are stories that never seize to tug on my heartstrings.
Straight Up was refreshing in an amazing way, thanks to the lack of initial sexual attraction between Stuart and Malcolm. The fact that later on sparks ignited every time they touched was just a steamy bonus to their strengthening emotional and mental connection.
Malcolm- gosh, I just wanted to take him home, feed him and keep him safe from any kind of hurt. He was the sweetest man, selfless and giving, mindful of others and never putting himself first. A lot of this story was his journey of self discovery...in which, of course, Stuart played a huge role. Not that I didn't love Stuart, too, because I absolutely did. He was so incredibly complex, that each new page and chapter was like peeling away a layer and discovering some surprising trait hidden under his cockiness and poise.
What I got reading Straight Up was getting to know two men who were wonderful by themselves but became stunning together. They had some adjustments to do and there's bee a bit of drama during the story, but thanks to Malcolm, Stuart and the other men I've come to love reading the other books in the series, what reached me the most was a heart-warming sense of family, friendship and support.
Loved it!
Straight Up was refreshing in an amazing way, thanks to the lack of initial sexual attraction between Stuart and Malcolm. The fact that later on sparks ignited every time they touched was just a steamy bonus to their strengthening emotional and mental connection.
Malcolm- gosh, I just wanted to take him home, feed him and keep him safe from any kind of hurt. He was the sweetest man, selfless and giving, mindful of others and never putting himself first. A lot of this story was his journey of self discovery...in which, of course, Stuart played a huge role. Not that I didn't love Stuart, too, because I absolutely did. He was so incredibly complex, that each new page and chapter was like peeling away a layer and discovering some surprising trait hidden under his cockiness and poise.
What I got reading Straight Up was getting to know two men who were wonderful by themselves but became stunning together. They had some adjustments to do and there's bee a bit of drama during the story, but thanks to Malcolm, Stuart and the other men I've come to love reading the other books in the series, what reached me the most was a heart-warming sense of family, friendship and support.
Loved it!
May 24, 2020
Beta read.
I loved the MCs, wanted to kill Malcolm's mother, and adored seeing all the friends again. This series is amazing for it's portrayal of friendship, I love all the pairings, but I love seeing the friendships so much.
I loved the MCs, wanted to kill Malcolm's mother, and adored seeing all the friends again. This series is amazing for it's portrayal of friendship, I love all the pairings, but I love seeing the friendships so much.
June 5, 2020
All of you
I adore this family, every single one. I love the connections, the openness, the trust, and how no matter what they always, always look out for each other. “You give me everything, just by being you.” Malcolm and Stuart won my heart just by being them. They may be stubborn and they may have made some mistakes along the way but they never gave up and they learned how to work through their issues together. “You’ve...showed me what love can be.” Together I think they’re beautiful and their connection is incredible. I’ve said it before but I really want to visit Under to have a drink and to hug each one of these guys. I will miss them and this amazing series.
I adore this family, every single one. I love the connections, the openness, the trust, and how no matter what they always, always look out for each other. “You give me everything, just by being you.” Malcolm and Stuart won my heart just by being them. They may be stubborn and they may have made some mistakes along the way but they never gave up and they learned how to work through their issues together. “You’ve...showed me what love can be.” Together I think they’re beautiful and their connection is incredible. I’ve said it before but I really want to visit Under to have a drink and to hug each one of these guys. I will miss them and this amazing series.
June 8, 2020
For Stuart Morgan, Malcolm Elliott is a puzzle, an equation with an indefinite result. On the one hand, he seems interested in Stuart, on the other, he doesn't respond to the flirtation and courtship in an expected way. Working together on a large, very important fundraising event gives them the opportunity to get to know each other better, thanks to which Malcolm opens up to Stuart. Slowly some deeper feelings begin to flourish on the foundation of their friendship. However, both men have some secrets that cause them problems and will put their feelings to the test.
"Straight Up" is the fourth volume of "The Speakeasy" series by K. Evan Coles and Brigham Vaughn duo. In my opinion, the previously released installments of the series are really good, but they differ quite significantly in many respects, which is the reason I like some of them more and others a little less. However, "Straight Up" is my favorite and it's definitely the best volume of the series I have read so far. This novel is simply perfect and I love everything about it. Let's start with Stuart and his story, which is really surprising, amazing, one of a kind. When Stuart tells Malcolm about himself, when he recalls his past, we gain insight into his psyche, emotions, and we see the great courage and determination he needed to get to the place where he is now. What's more, Stuart and his whole story, not just his past, but also the present we read about, emphasize the fact that people are complex creatures with many faces concealed by their appearance. To be honest, Stuart is one of the most fascinating literary characters I've ever met.
In "Straight Up" I also liked the fact that the novel raises the topic of asexuality and to some extent juxtaposes it with sexuality, which highlights some of the problems that asexual people face. In their story, K. Evan Coles and Brigham Vaughn point out that each asexual person is different and they create a character in whom we can find a bit of everything. I like that very much. What's important, Malcolm doesn't really know his limitations yet, he doesn't know what he likes and what he doesn't like because he's mostly inexperienced and doesn't have many opportunities to experiment. At least until he meets a man who wants to get to know him, wants to understand him and is patient enough to allow such experiments and doesn't mind Malcolm's pace. This shows how important it is to choose the right partner, not sexually, but emotionally, mentally, spiritually, because thanks to the other person we can get to know ourselves. In "Straight Up" the authors really presented one of the faces of asexuality in a really great way and emphasized all the things that are most important in every relationship.
The great advantage of "Straight Up" is also the fact that it focuses on the ability to ask for help and accept help. What's important, this problem is presented with emphasis put on the human psyche and the difficulty of finding ourselves once we get lost. In this respect the authors really did a great job, because they honestly and openly showed us not only Malcolm's problems, but also the reasons behind them, his good intentions, which proved to have some deplorable effects, the actions because of which he was digging an ever deeper hole for himself, and the tremendous effort of accepting the help he really needed. Furthermore, K. Evan Coles and Brigham Vaughn combined the problem of help with the topic of trust in a truly amazing way. The actions of the main characters are not easy to classify as good or bad. Malcolm and Stuart make choices that have consequences, just like in real everyday life, and that's what I liked so much in this novel.
It is also worth noting that in "Straight Up" the authors explored the topic of trust taking into consideration more than the problems of one of the characters, as they also show us another face of this belief. On the one hand, we see the trust as a belief that our confessions will remain a secret, on the other, there's a trust that our secret can be revealed, understood and fully accepted by the person we've chosen. As I've mentioned in the previous paragraph, the first face of trust was shown really well in the novel. And the same can be said about the second aspect of trust, as the authors made sure that this problem awakens a large dose of emotions, not only in the characters, but also in the readers. And it's even more important as in this case the problem is not only very personal, but above all intimate. What's more, while we already know Stuart is open minded and ready to accept the other person, Malcolm is in some respects an unknown. After all, he is a mystery even to himself.
To sum up, "Straight Up" is undoubtedly the best part of "The Speakeasy" series and an excellent novel in itself. The plot is very interesting, the characters are perfectly created, and their individual stories are fascinating, marvelously presented and constitute an inseparable, essential part of the characters' building. To put it simply, "Straight Up" is a perfection.
________________________
Dla Stuarta Morgana Malcolm Elliott jest zagadką, równaniem o niepewnym wyniku. Z jednej strony wydaje się bowiem zainteresowany Stuartem, z drugiej zaś nie odpowiada na próbę flirtu i zaloty mężczyzny w sposób, w jaki można się tego spodziewać. Wspólna praca nad dużym, bardzo ważnym przedsięwzięciem daje mężczyznom możliwość lepszego poznania się, dzięki czemu Malcolm z czasem otwiera się na Stuarta. Na fundamencie przyjaźni zaczynają rozkwitać głębsze uczucia. Obaj mężczyźni mają jednak pewne sekrety, które przysparzają im problemów i które wystawią ich uczucia na próbę.
„Straight Up” to czwarty tom serii „The Speakeasy” autorstwa duetu K. Evan Coles i Brigham Vaughn. W moim odczuciu dotychczas wydane części serii są naprawdę dobre, jednak różnią się od siebie dosyć znacząco pod wieloma względami, co sprawia że niektóre podobały mi się bardziej, inne trochę mniej. „Straight Up” jest jednak moim zdecydowanym faworytem i najlepszym tomem serii, jaki dotąd czytałam. Ta powieść jest po prostu fenomenalna i kocham w niej wszystko. Zacznijmy od Stuarta i jego historii. Bądźmy szczerzy, jest naprawdę zaskakująca i niesamowita, jedyna w swoim rodzaju. Kiedy Stuart ją opowiada, kiedy wspomina przeszłość, mamy wgląd w jego psychikę, emocje, widzimy jak wielką odwagą i determinacją się wykazał, aby dojść do miejsca, w którym jest teraz. Co więcej, Stuart i całość jego historii, a więc nie tylko przeszłość, ale także teraźniejszość, którą obserwujemy, podkreślają to, jak bardzo złożonymi istotami są ludzie, jak wiele mają twarzy, jak wiele skrywa ich aparycja. Prawdę mówiąc, Stuart jest jednym z najbardziej fascynujących bohaterów literackich jakich miałam okazję poznać ostatnimi czasy.
W „Straight Up” bardzo spodobał mi się również fakt, iż powieść porusza temat aseksualizmu i w pewnym stopniu zestawia go z seksualnością, co podkreśla niektóre problemy, z jakimi stykają się takie osoby. W swojej historii K. Evan Coles i Brigham Vaughn zaznaczają, że każda osoba aseksualna jest inna i przedstawiają nam bohatera, w którym możemy znaleźć trochę wszystkiego, co bardzo mi się podoba. Co istotne, Malcolm sam nie zna jeszcze swoich ograniczeń, nie wie, co mu się podoba, a co nie z racji małego doświadczenia, niemożliwości eksperymentowania. A przynajmniej do czasu, kiedy trafia na mężczyznę, który chce go poznać, chce go zrozumieć i jest na tyle cierpliwy, że na takie eksperymenty i narzucone przez Malcolma tempo pozwala. To pokazuje, jak ważny jest odpowiedni dobór partnera, nie seksualny, ale emocjonalny, psychiczny, duchowy, jako że dzięki tej drugiej osobie możemy poznać samych siebie. W „Straight Up” autorki naprawdę doskonale pokazały jedną z twarzy aseksualizmu oraz podkreśliły to, co w każdym związku powinno być najistotniejsze.
Dużą zaletą „Straight Up” jest również fakt, iż ogromne znaczenie ma w powieści problem umiejętności proszenia o pomoc i jej przyjmowania. Co bardzo istotne, w dużej mierze temat ten został przedstawiony z położeniem nacisku na psychikę ludzką i trudność w życiowym odnalezieniu się, kiedy już raz się zgubimy. W tym temacie autorki naprawdę spisały się na medal, ponieważ szczerze i otwarcie pokazały nam nie tylko problemy Malcolma, ale także powody, dla których do nich doszło, jego dobre chęci, które okazały się mieć opłakane skutki, późniejsze kopanie coraz głębszego dołu pod samym sobą oraz ogromny wysiłek, jakim było przyjęcie pomocy, której mężczyzna naprawdę potrzebował. Co więcej, K. Evan Coles i Brigham Vaughn połączyły problem pomocy z tematem zaufania w sposób po prostu fenomenalny. Poczynania głównych bohaterów nie są bowiem łatwe do zaklasyfikowania jako dobre lub złe. Malcolm i Stuart dokonują wyborów, które mają swoje konsekwencje, zupełnie jak w realnym, codziennym życiu i właśnie to tak bardzo spodobało mi się w tej powieści.
Warto zauważyć, iż w „Straight Up” autorki rozwijają temat zaufania odnosząc go nie tylko do problemów jednego z bohaterów, ale ukazują nam także inną twarz tego pojęcia. Z jednej strony widzimy bowiem zaufanie w kontekście wiary, że nasze wyznania pozostaną tajemnicą, z drugiej zaś patrzymy na nie pod kątem ufności, że jakaś tajemnica może zostać wyjawiona i zostanie zrozumiana, przyjęta z otwartością umysłu przez wybraną osobę. Jak wspomniałam w poprzednim akapicie, pierwszy obraz zaufania został w powieści ukazany naprawdę dobrze. I podobnie jest z drugim, jako że autorki zadbały o to, by problemowi temu towarzyszyła duża dawka emocji, nie tylko ze strony bohaterów, ale także czytelników. Tym bardziej, że w tym przypadku problem dotyczy czegoś nie tylko bardzo osobistego, ale przede wszystkim intymnego. Co więcej, o ile Stuarta znamy już jako otwartego i gotowego zaakceptować drugą osobę, o tyle Malcolm pod pewnymi względami stanowi pewną niewiadomą. W końcu jest zagadką sam dla siebie.
Podsumowując, „Straight Up” bezsprzecznie jest najlepszą częścią serii „The Speakeasy” i doskonałą powieścią samą w sobie. Fabuła jest bardzo interesująca, bohaterowie doskonale tworzeni, a ich indywidualne historie są fascynujące, wspaniale przedstawione i stanowią nieodłączną, bardzo ważną część budowy postaci. Mówiąc najprościej, „Straight Up” to perfekcja.
"Straight Up" is the fourth volume of "The Speakeasy" series by K. Evan Coles and Brigham Vaughn duo. In my opinion, the previously released installments of the series are really good, but they differ quite significantly in many respects, which is the reason I like some of them more and others a little less. However, "Straight Up" is my favorite and it's definitely the best volume of the series I have read so far. This novel is simply perfect and I love everything about it. Let's start with Stuart and his story, which is really surprising, amazing, one of a kind. When Stuart tells Malcolm about himself, when he recalls his past, we gain insight into his psyche, emotions, and we see the great courage and determination he needed to get to the place where he is now. What's more, Stuart and his whole story, not just his past, but also the present we read about, emphasize the fact that people are complex creatures with many faces concealed by their appearance. To be honest, Stuart is one of the most fascinating literary characters I've ever met.
In "Straight Up" I also liked the fact that the novel raises the topic of asexuality and to some extent juxtaposes it with sexuality, which highlights some of the problems that asexual people face. In their story, K. Evan Coles and Brigham Vaughn point out that each asexual person is different and they create a character in whom we can find a bit of everything. I like that very much. What's important, Malcolm doesn't really know his limitations yet, he doesn't know what he likes and what he doesn't like because he's mostly inexperienced and doesn't have many opportunities to experiment. At least until he meets a man who wants to get to know him, wants to understand him and is patient enough to allow such experiments and doesn't mind Malcolm's pace. This shows how important it is to choose the right partner, not sexually, but emotionally, mentally, spiritually, because thanks to the other person we can get to know ourselves. In "Straight Up" the authors really presented one of the faces of asexuality in a really great way and emphasized all the things that are most important in every relationship.
The great advantage of "Straight Up" is also the fact that it focuses on the ability to ask for help and accept help. What's important, this problem is presented with emphasis put on the human psyche and the difficulty of finding ourselves once we get lost. In this respect the authors really did a great job, because they honestly and openly showed us not only Malcolm's problems, but also the reasons behind them, his good intentions, which proved to have some deplorable effects, the actions because of which he was digging an ever deeper hole for himself, and the tremendous effort of accepting the help he really needed. Furthermore, K. Evan Coles and Brigham Vaughn combined the problem of help with the topic of trust in a truly amazing way. The actions of the main characters are not easy to classify as good or bad. Malcolm and Stuart make choices that have consequences, just like in real everyday life, and that's what I liked so much in this novel.
It is also worth noting that in "Straight Up" the authors explored the topic of trust taking into consideration more than the problems of one of the characters, as they also show us another face of this belief. On the one hand, we see the trust as a belief that our confessions will remain a secret, on the other, there's a trust that our secret can be revealed, understood and fully accepted by the person we've chosen. As I've mentioned in the previous paragraph, the first face of trust was shown really well in the novel. And the same can be said about the second aspect of trust, as the authors made sure that this problem awakens a large dose of emotions, not only in the characters, but also in the readers. And it's even more important as in this case the problem is not only very personal, but above all intimate. What's more, while we already know Stuart is open minded and ready to accept the other person, Malcolm is in some respects an unknown. After all, he is a mystery even to himself.
To sum up, "Straight Up" is undoubtedly the best part of "The Speakeasy" series and an excellent novel in itself. The plot is very interesting, the characters are perfectly created, and their individual stories are fascinating, marvelously presented and constitute an inseparable, essential part of the characters' building. To put it simply, "Straight Up" is a perfection.
________________________
Dla Stuarta Morgana Malcolm Elliott jest zagadką, równaniem o niepewnym wyniku. Z jednej strony wydaje się bowiem zainteresowany Stuartem, z drugiej zaś nie odpowiada na próbę flirtu i zaloty mężczyzny w sposób, w jaki można się tego spodziewać. Wspólna praca nad dużym, bardzo ważnym przedsięwzięciem daje mężczyznom możliwość lepszego poznania się, dzięki czemu Malcolm z czasem otwiera się na Stuarta. Na fundamencie przyjaźni zaczynają rozkwitać głębsze uczucia. Obaj mężczyźni mają jednak pewne sekrety, które przysparzają im problemów i które wystawią ich uczucia na próbę.
„Straight Up” to czwarty tom serii „The Speakeasy” autorstwa duetu K. Evan Coles i Brigham Vaughn. W moim odczuciu dotychczas wydane części serii są naprawdę dobre, jednak różnią się od siebie dosyć znacząco pod wieloma względami, co sprawia że niektóre podobały mi się bardziej, inne trochę mniej. „Straight Up” jest jednak moim zdecydowanym faworytem i najlepszym tomem serii, jaki dotąd czytałam. Ta powieść jest po prostu fenomenalna i kocham w niej wszystko. Zacznijmy od Stuarta i jego historii. Bądźmy szczerzy, jest naprawdę zaskakująca i niesamowita, jedyna w swoim rodzaju. Kiedy Stuart ją opowiada, kiedy wspomina przeszłość, mamy wgląd w jego psychikę, emocje, widzimy jak wielką odwagą i determinacją się wykazał, aby dojść do miejsca, w którym jest teraz. Co więcej, Stuart i całość jego historii, a więc nie tylko przeszłość, ale także teraźniejszość, którą obserwujemy, podkreślają to, jak bardzo złożonymi istotami są ludzie, jak wiele mają twarzy, jak wiele skrywa ich aparycja. Prawdę mówiąc, Stuart jest jednym z najbardziej fascynujących bohaterów literackich jakich miałam okazję poznać ostatnimi czasy.
W „Straight Up” bardzo spodobał mi się również fakt, iż powieść porusza temat aseksualizmu i w pewnym stopniu zestawia go z seksualnością, co podkreśla niektóre problemy, z jakimi stykają się takie osoby. W swojej historii K. Evan Coles i Brigham Vaughn zaznaczają, że każda osoba aseksualna jest inna i przedstawiają nam bohatera, w którym możemy znaleźć trochę wszystkiego, co bardzo mi się podoba. Co istotne, Malcolm sam nie zna jeszcze swoich ograniczeń, nie wie, co mu się podoba, a co nie z racji małego doświadczenia, niemożliwości eksperymentowania. A przynajmniej do czasu, kiedy trafia na mężczyznę, który chce go poznać, chce go zrozumieć i jest na tyle cierpliwy, że na takie eksperymenty i narzucone przez Malcolma tempo pozwala. To pokazuje, jak ważny jest odpowiedni dobór partnera, nie seksualny, ale emocjonalny, psychiczny, duchowy, jako że dzięki tej drugiej osobie możemy poznać samych siebie. W „Straight Up” autorki naprawdę doskonale pokazały jedną z twarzy aseksualizmu oraz podkreśliły to, co w każdym związku powinno być najistotniejsze.
Dużą zaletą „Straight Up” jest również fakt, iż ogromne znaczenie ma w powieści problem umiejętności proszenia o pomoc i jej przyjmowania. Co bardzo istotne, w dużej mierze temat ten został przedstawiony z położeniem nacisku na psychikę ludzką i trudność w życiowym odnalezieniu się, kiedy już raz się zgubimy. W tym temacie autorki naprawdę spisały się na medal, ponieważ szczerze i otwarcie pokazały nam nie tylko problemy Malcolma, ale także powody, dla których do nich doszło, jego dobre chęci, które okazały się mieć opłakane skutki, późniejsze kopanie coraz głębszego dołu pod samym sobą oraz ogromny wysiłek, jakim było przyjęcie pomocy, której mężczyzna naprawdę potrzebował. Co więcej, K. Evan Coles i Brigham Vaughn połączyły problem pomocy z tematem zaufania w sposób po prostu fenomenalny. Poczynania głównych bohaterów nie są bowiem łatwe do zaklasyfikowania jako dobre lub złe. Malcolm i Stuart dokonują wyborów, które mają swoje konsekwencje, zupełnie jak w realnym, codziennym życiu i właśnie to tak bardzo spodobało mi się w tej powieści.
Warto zauważyć, iż w „Straight Up” autorki rozwijają temat zaufania odnosząc go nie tylko do problemów jednego z bohaterów, ale ukazują nam także inną twarz tego pojęcia. Z jednej strony widzimy bowiem zaufanie w kontekście wiary, że nasze wyznania pozostaną tajemnicą, z drugiej zaś patrzymy na nie pod kątem ufności, że jakaś tajemnica może zostać wyjawiona i zostanie zrozumiana, przyjęta z otwartością umysłu przez wybraną osobę. Jak wspomniałam w poprzednim akapicie, pierwszy obraz zaufania został w powieści ukazany naprawdę dobrze. I podobnie jest z drugim, jako że autorki zadbały o to, by problemowi temu towarzyszyła duża dawka emocji, nie tylko ze strony bohaterów, ale także czytelników. Tym bardziej, że w tym przypadku problem dotyczy czegoś nie tylko bardzo osobistego, ale przede wszystkim intymnego. Co więcej, o ile Stuarta znamy już jako otwartego i gotowego zaakceptować drugą osobę, o tyle Malcolm pod pewnymi względami stanowi pewną niewiadomą. W końcu jest zagadką sam dla siebie.
Podsumowując, „Straight Up” bezsprzecznie jest najlepszą częścią serii „The Speakeasy” i doskonałą powieścią samą w sobie. Fabuła jest bardzo interesująca, bohaterowie doskonale tworzeni, a ich indywidualne historie są fascynujące, wspaniale przedstawione i stanowią nieodłączną, bardzo ważną część budowy postaci. Mówiąc najprościej, „Straight Up” to perfekcja.
June 13, 2020
I just want to jump out of the gate by saying: had I realized Straight Up was going to be the final entry in The Speakeasy series, I probably would have held off reading. Don't get me wrong, not because I didn't want to read Malcolm and Stuart's story but because I love this series and the whole universe that Coles & Vaughn created way-back-when with Tidal so much, I just never want to see it end. So had I known, I probably would've let it linger a bit by queuing up in my kindle😉😉.
Seriously though, Straight Up is . . . well . . . straight up brilliant!
I feel like I say this a lot but the main characters, Malcolm and Stuart, are just meant to be. Could they be happy with others? Perhaps. Could they reach their potential? Maybe. Could they find the freedom to be themselves and let their true selves "come out to play"? Not even close. I kind of hate to say that Malcolm and Stuart "complete" each other because I don't like to imply anyone "needs" someone to be who they are but I have always believed, be it friend, lover, family member, there is that one person who helps you be 150% comfortable so you can let your whole self shine. Well, that is exactly who Malcolm and Stuart are to each other and for me it's that part of each of them that truly makes Straight Up unforgettable.
There is enough drama in the mens' journey that I could never label it a rom-com by any means but I can honestly say for me it is the least dramatic of the whole Tidal/Speakeasy universe. Is it lighthearted? I wouldn't go that far but I didn't feel the need to have a box of kleenex handy either. I love the whole not-often-seen meshing with familiar elements of this entry, it makes the story both relaxable and not-put-it-down-able(yeah I know, not real words or phrases but sometimes a story just gives you certain feels that you just have no options but to make up your own terminology😉😉).
Is this the last we'll see of the Tidal/Speakeasy crowd? Maybe, but the characters involved are just too boisterous to not have more to tell so maybe if we're lucky and super-duper-uber nice they'll let K Evan Coles and Brigham Vaughn in on their holiday plans down the road😉😉. However, if this truly is the end of their sharing then they will always live on in our hearts and our kindles. I for one can't wait to see what Coles and Vaughn, both individually and collaboratively, have in mind next.
One final note: if you are wondering about reading order, I highly recommend doing so in series order. The Tidal duology is definitely a need to read in order but Speakeasy is different pairs so in a way they are standalones but as previous characters are popping in and out, personally, I find it flows better read in released order and can't imagine doing otherwise. BUT, you won't be lost if you start with Straight Up.
Seriously though, Straight Up is . . . well . . . straight up brilliant!
I feel like I say this a lot but the main characters, Malcolm and Stuart, are just meant to be. Could they be happy with others? Perhaps. Could they reach their potential? Maybe. Could they find the freedom to be themselves and let their true selves "come out to play"? Not even close. I kind of hate to say that Malcolm and Stuart "complete" each other because I don't like to imply anyone "needs" someone to be who they are but I have always believed, be it friend, lover, family member, there is that one person who helps you be 150% comfortable so you can let your whole self shine. Well, that is exactly who Malcolm and Stuart are to each other and for me it's that part of each of them that truly makes Straight Up unforgettable.
There is enough drama in the mens' journey that I could never label it a rom-com by any means but I can honestly say for me it is the least dramatic of the whole Tidal/Speakeasy universe. Is it lighthearted? I wouldn't go that far but I didn't feel the need to have a box of kleenex handy either. I love the whole not-often-seen meshing with familiar elements of this entry, it makes the story both relaxable and not-put-it-down-able(yeah I know, not real words or phrases but sometimes a story just gives you certain feels that you just have no options but to make up your own terminology😉😉).
Is this the last we'll see of the Tidal/Speakeasy crowd? Maybe, but the characters involved are just too boisterous to not have more to tell so maybe if we're lucky and super-duper-uber nice they'll let K Evan Coles and Brigham Vaughn in on their holiday plans down the road😉😉. However, if this truly is the end of their sharing then they will always live on in our hearts and our kindles. I for one can't wait to see what Coles and Vaughn, both individually and collaboratively, have in mind next.
One final note: if you are wondering about reading order, I highly recommend doing so in series order. The Tidal duology is definitely a need to read in order but Speakeasy is different pairs so in a way they are standalones but as previous characters are popping in and out, personally, I find it flows better read in released order and can't imagine doing otherwise. BUT, you won't be lost if you start with Straight Up.
May 8, 2020
Another delicious installment in the Speakeasy Series: Straight Up by K. Evan Coles and Brigham Vaughn. As I've read along in this series I have really become invested in the crew of friends that inhabit the Speakeasy. Each character is unique and likable in their own way. It's been a pleasure getting to know them all.
In "Straight Up" the authors are telling us a bit more about Malcolm. Malcolm is one of the quieter characters in this book - bless him for his perseverance hah. He works hard and is happy with the time that he spends with his friends but the day he meets Stuart things begin to change.
Stuart is a Chef and brought into the speakeasy after a last-minute cancellation by a caterer. Stuart is immediately attracted to Malcolm but he can't seem to get a read on Malcolm's sexual orientation.
It turns out that's something Malcolm himself is dealing with. In his trademark thoughtful way, Malcolm is trying to understand his feelings. He has had sexual relationships with women but has never felt as though sex was a priority or even something he thought about on a regular basis. Eventually, Malcolm comes to the conclusion that he is on the Asexual spectrum.
What I really enjoyed about this novel was the way the authors addressed Malcolm's sexuality. In a variety of ways, the authors illustrate the people on the spectrum can have a variety of different wants and desires. As Malcolm explores his own sexuality with Stuart, the two men often have lovely discussions about it. I also appreciated that the authors included a note at the end of the book reflecting their understanding that the experiences of people who identify as asexual may be different from Malcolm's.
Stuart has his own demons to battle. He was excommunicated from the Mormon church after coming to the realization that he is gay. He hasn't seen his family in years and it's likely he won't see them again. He finds the speakeasy crew a bit overwhelming when he is first explored to them. And let's face it, who wouldn't? They are a found-family of independent, unusual, lovely, and gregarious people.
The love story between Malcolm and Stuart is sensual and emotional. I really enjoyed their struggle with trust and taking leaps of faith. That's what it's really about when you have things you haven't revealed to a partner. Both Stuart and Malcolm have things they haven't revealed and I'm not revealing much of that so you can find out when you read!
I have really enjoyed this series! Great character development and lovely banter. The characters are all unique from one another and I loved getting to know them.
In "Straight Up" the authors are telling us a bit more about Malcolm. Malcolm is one of the quieter characters in this book - bless him for his perseverance hah. He works hard and is happy with the time that he spends with his friends but the day he meets Stuart things begin to change.
Stuart is a Chef and brought into the speakeasy after a last-minute cancellation by a caterer. Stuart is immediately attracted to Malcolm but he can't seem to get a read on Malcolm's sexual orientation.
It turns out that's something Malcolm himself is dealing with. In his trademark thoughtful way, Malcolm is trying to understand his feelings. He has had sexual relationships with women but has never felt as though sex was a priority or even something he thought about on a regular basis. Eventually, Malcolm comes to the conclusion that he is on the Asexual spectrum.
What I really enjoyed about this novel was the way the authors addressed Malcolm's sexuality. In a variety of ways, the authors illustrate the people on the spectrum can have a variety of different wants and desires. As Malcolm explores his own sexuality with Stuart, the two men often have lovely discussions about it. I also appreciated that the authors included a note at the end of the book reflecting their understanding that the experiences of people who identify as asexual may be different from Malcolm's.
Stuart has his own demons to battle. He was excommunicated from the Mormon church after coming to the realization that he is gay. He hasn't seen his family in years and it's likely he won't see them again. He finds the speakeasy crew a bit overwhelming when he is first explored to them. And let's face it, who wouldn't? They are a found-family of independent, unusual, lovely, and gregarious people.
The love story between Malcolm and Stuart is sensual and emotional. I really enjoyed their struggle with trust and taking leaps of faith. That's what it's really about when you have things you haven't revealed to a partner. Both Stuart and Malcolm have things they haven't revealed and I'm not revealing much of that so you can find out when you read!
I have really enjoyed this series! Great character development and lovely banter. The characters are all unique from one another and I loved getting to know them.
June 9, 2020
Authors Coles and Vaughn have created a community of love in the Speakeasy series, part of what makes the fourth installment, Straight Up, truly enjoyable. For fans, there are lots of references to couples from the first three books; yet it was entirely accessible to me, just entering the series now. And yes, I plan to go back and read all I missed in the first three episodes!
We are introduced to Malcolm, who has supportive friendships among the guys at bar/restaurant/ speakeasy Under Lock & Key as well as a great job – Social Coordinator for Corporate Equality Campaign. But he’s treading water. His mother’s overspending leaves him without meals while he helps her. Plus, he’s an outsider, the only single man in his group. What really sets him apart, however, is that he doesn’t care. It was a relief when he put a name to his separation, “gray asexual.”
Malcolm can’t fathom what attracts people to each other, so it’s shocking to discover he has tingles when he makes contact with CCE’s new caterer. Stuart has earned the respect and affection of his boss and co-workers as chef of a prestigious restaurant. But since he ran from the condemnation of his Utah Mormon wife and relatives, who discovered his kink for lingerie, he has given up on the possibility of true acceptance. Can two sidelined men center themselves in each other?
K. Evan Coles and Brigham Vaughn write with an easy-reading vibe. There’s conflict without great angst – just enough to motivate Malcolm and Stuart to re-examine their assumptions. It makes for gentle reading for times when heavy emotions are just too much to bear.
Malcolm and Stuart’s characters ring true. I love how confused and intrigued Stuart is when Malcolm’s doesn’t respond to flirtation. Equally interesting is Malcolm’s own shock at his reactions as sensuality surfaces. And through his eyes, readers can discover what it is to genuinely experience touch for the first time… sublime! ‘ Straight Up’ is one novel where the slow progression towards friendship and intimacy makes everything exciting and the ultimate intimacy is truly more… intimate. After all, this is more than two men who are discovering each other. They are meeting themselves!
Stuart and Malcolm’s extensive discussions are the best element of Straight Up, the way they check in with each other and talk problems through. Even when they are less than honest, it becomes fodder for greater self-awareness. If you want to see what good communication looks like, Straight Up could serve as a primer.
We are introduced to Malcolm, who has supportive friendships among the guys at bar/restaurant/ speakeasy Under Lock & Key as well as a great job – Social Coordinator for Corporate Equality Campaign. But he’s treading water. His mother’s overspending leaves him without meals while he helps her. Plus, he’s an outsider, the only single man in his group. What really sets him apart, however, is that he doesn’t care. It was a relief when he put a name to his separation, “gray asexual.”
Malcolm can’t fathom what attracts people to each other, so it’s shocking to discover he has tingles when he makes contact with CCE’s new caterer. Stuart has earned the respect and affection of his boss and co-workers as chef of a prestigious restaurant. But since he ran from the condemnation of his Utah Mormon wife and relatives, who discovered his kink for lingerie, he has given up on the possibility of true acceptance. Can two sidelined men center themselves in each other?
K. Evan Coles and Brigham Vaughn write with an easy-reading vibe. There’s conflict without great angst – just enough to motivate Malcolm and Stuart to re-examine their assumptions. It makes for gentle reading for times when heavy emotions are just too much to bear.
Malcolm and Stuart’s characters ring true. I love how confused and intrigued Stuart is when Malcolm’s doesn’t respond to flirtation. Equally interesting is Malcolm’s own shock at his reactions as sensuality surfaces. And through his eyes, readers can discover what it is to genuinely experience touch for the first time… sublime! ‘ Straight Up’ is one novel where the slow progression towards friendship and intimacy makes everything exciting and the ultimate intimacy is truly more… intimate. After all, this is more than two men who are discovering each other. They are meeting themselves!
Stuart and Malcolm’s extensive discussions are the best element of Straight Up, the way they check in with each other and talk problems through. Even when they are less than honest, it becomes fodder for greater self-awareness. If you want to see what good communication looks like, Straight Up could serve as a primer.
June 6, 2020
I have been a huge fan of the Speakeasy series overall. These books have amazing character developments and friendships. In this book, the relationship between Malcolm and Stewart explored some interesting themes. Malcolm is a man who has had relationships with women but never really felt a strong sexual desire. He meets Stuart, who has some trauma in his past for a fetish for lacy underthings. This was not my favorite book in the series, but I still really enjoyed it. Malcolm and Stuart's relationship was a very slow burn, and although the story has some conflict to keep it moving along, it was overall a low-angst read.
Malcolm and Stuart meet as a result of Stuart getting a job as a chef. Malcolm is willing to pursue his growing attraction to Stuart and much of the book is focused on Malcolm coming to terms with his asexuality. This was a refreshing look at the spectrum of asexuality. Stuart is also working through his feelings about the fact that he likes to wear lacy underthings. He has been judged for this in the past, and it is difficult for him to get people to understand that this does not mean his is a man who wants to be more feminine, he simply likes the way he feels when he wears sexy things.
One of the things I liked most about this book is that it focused a lot on the communication between the characters. Malcolm is honest with Stuart about the fact that he is not sue how he will respond to Stuart's kink, and Stuart is very patient when it comes to taking things slow while Malcolm explores his sexuality.
This series is amazing because every pair is really well developed and has a unique relationship challenge to overcome.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Malcolm and Stuart meet as a result of Stuart getting a job as a chef. Malcolm is willing to pursue his growing attraction to Stuart and much of the book is focused on Malcolm coming to terms with his asexuality. This was a refreshing look at the spectrum of asexuality. Stuart is also working through his feelings about the fact that he likes to wear lacy underthings. He has been judged for this in the past, and it is difficult for him to get people to understand that this does not mean his is a man who wants to be more feminine, he simply likes the way he feels when he wears sexy things.
One of the things I liked most about this book is that it focused a lot on the communication between the characters. Malcolm is honest with Stuart about the fact that he is not sue how he will respond to Stuart's kink, and Stuart is very patient when it comes to taking things slow while Malcolm explores his sexuality.
This series is amazing because every pair is really well developed and has a unique relationship challenge to overcome.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 16, 2020
The beauty of this story lies in the countless elements and layers that make up this complex yet so simple relationship. Two men apparently far apart on the scale of sexual drive allow themselves to open up to the other and this helps them to come to terms with their own secrets and uncertainties that were part of the issue hindering them to fully be themselves. The most incredible transformation is Malcom’s while Stuart just had to find the right partner to fully accept his kink and consequently to finally stop feeling ashamed for who he is.
It could have been a very slow burn story, but once Malcolm started to realise that he could indeed experience strong emotions, nothing could stop him, and the small steps became giant leaps right into Stuart arms and bed. And I loved the fact that Stuart didn’t give up on Malcolm but invested in their friendship first.
All the members of the Speakeasy crew have minor or major roles in this story and I really liked to read about the development of their relationships. But if you have not read the previous books it is not an issue; this book is a standalone but like Stuart, you will end up needing a diagram to understand the apparently inconceivable and sometimes outrageous personal connections and lifestyles of the different couples, that however perfectly function and make all concerned men happy despite the outside world and thanks to their strong friendship.
It could have been a very slow burn story, but once Malcolm started to realise that he could indeed experience strong emotions, nothing could stop him, and the small steps became giant leaps right into Stuart arms and bed. And I loved the fact that Stuart didn’t give up on Malcolm but invested in their friendship first.
All the members of the Speakeasy crew have minor or major roles in this story and I really liked to read about the development of their relationships. But if you have not read the previous books it is not an issue; this book is a standalone but like Stuart, you will end up needing a diagram to understand the apparently inconceivable and sometimes outrageous personal connections and lifestyles of the different couples, that however perfectly function and make all concerned men happy despite the outside world and thanks to their strong friendship.
June 6, 2020
Love, Love, Love! From the first few pages, I knew I would love and adore Malcolm and Stuart.
I adored Malcolm so much. He has such a beautiful heart and soul. He was comfortable exploring who he is with Stuart and who Stuart can be with him. Stuart not only gave him confidence but the love and adoration he deserves.
I loved Stuart! He is sweet, kind, loving, caring, and on fire! He was patient and understanding as Malcolm was exploring the aspects of his gray-asexuality. His tenderness make my heart soar.
I fucking LOVE this Speakeasy Crew! All of them together are this amazing family that will pull at your heartstrings (Carter), make you laugh (Jesse), and fill you with cheer (Kyle). Carter and Riley’s wedding made me cry with happiness and love! Ironically, I read their wedding on the same day Wake was first published. Seriously, so wild!
This book is a stand alone book and you can easily read it that way. I am definitely going to suggest reading the other books in the series as well. Starting with the Tidal series where it all began with Carter and Riley.
I loved going down this journey with this gorgeous family. Learning who they were, what made each of them tick, and seeing all of these beautiful souls happy and in love. The ending is perfect and so Speakeasy. ❤️❤️❤️
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I adored Malcolm so much. He has such a beautiful heart and soul. He was comfortable exploring who he is with Stuart and who Stuart can be with him. Stuart not only gave him confidence but the love and adoration he deserves.
I loved Stuart! He is sweet, kind, loving, caring, and on fire! He was patient and understanding as Malcolm was exploring the aspects of his gray-asexuality. His tenderness make my heart soar.
I fucking LOVE this Speakeasy Crew! All of them together are this amazing family that will pull at your heartstrings (Carter), make you laugh (Jesse), and fill you with cheer (Kyle). Carter and Riley’s wedding made me cry with happiness and love! Ironically, I read their wedding on the same day Wake was first published. Seriously, so wild!
This book is a stand alone book and you can easily read it that way. I am definitely going to suggest reading the other books in the series as well. Starting with the Tidal series where it all began with Carter and Riley.
I loved going down this journey with this gorgeous family. Learning who they were, what made each of them tick, and seeing all of these beautiful souls happy and in love. The ending is perfect and so Speakeasy. ❤️❤️❤️
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 5, 2020
One of the things I love about The Speakeasy series is the information I learn while reading it. It makes me aware of the different spectrum that a person’s sexuality can be base on. It makes me look into myself and understand “me”better.
The other thing I love is how the authors have written such beautiful stories about characters who can literally be me and you. Malcolm and Stuart are such characters. They are relatable. Also, as we can all read throughout the series, and personally, I believe that friendship is a strong foundation for a relationship, whatever kind of relationship would that turn out to be, just friends or more. Whatever that may turn out to be, you have a friend by your side who knows and understand you.
Accepting one’s sexuality on our own is something that is sometimes hard to do, add to that the pressure you think others exact or impose on you. It’s akin to the fact that one needs to be honest with oneself in order to be accepting. Talking it out with someone can sometimes ease the burden. Asking for help or knowing when to ask for help is also something friends do for each other. This amazing story encompasses all that and so much more. It shows us understanding, friendship, compassion, relationships, and acceptance.
The other thing I love is how the authors have written such beautiful stories about characters who can literally be me and you. Malcolm and Stuart are such characters. They are relatable. Also, as we can all read throughout the series, and personally, I believe that friendship is a strong foundation for a relationship, whatever kind of relationship would that turn out to be, just friends or more. Whatever that may turn out to be, you have a friend by your side who knows and understand you.
Accepting one’s sexuality on our own is something that is sometimes hard to do, add to that the pressure you think others exact or impose on you. It’s akin to the fact that one needs to be honest with oneself in order to be accepting. Talking it out with someone can sometimes ease the burden. Asking for help or knowing when to ask for help is also something friends do for each other. This amazing story encompasses all that and so much more. It shows us understanding, friendship, compassion, relationships, and acceptance.
June 12, 2020
Straight Up is the fourth book in The Speakeasy series and while it certainly contains crossover characters and couples, I was able to read the story as a standalone. That said, after meeting the myriad of friends from the Lock and Key Speakeasy crowd, I definitely plan to check out the rest of the books.
The more I read romance, the more I find myself craving variety in characters and backgrounds and exceptional stories over those that center on the sexy moments. I loved that Straight Up featured a grey ace main character and paired him with someone who typically sought out one night stands. The dynamic between Malcolm and Stuart was different and I really liked the gradual build of their relationship. It felt natural and unhurried, allowing the characters room to grow and develop on page. I also really loved the secondary characters in Straight Up. The comradery within the group was great and left me eager to spend more time among the men.
Overall, I found Straight Up to be an enjoyable slow burn with good characters, a steady pace, and polished writing and flow. I’d definitely recommend it to readers looking for a story that’s a bit different and focuses on the build rather than the destination.
*eARC received via author distribution.*
The more I read romance, the more I find myself craving variety in characters and backgrounds and exceptional stories over those that center on the sexy moments. I loved that Straight Up featured a grey ace main character and paired him with someone who typically sought out one night stands. The dynamic between Malcolm and Stuart was different and I really liked the gradual build of their relationship. It felt natural and unhurried, allowing the characters room to grow and develop on page. I also really loved the secondary characters in Straight Up. The comradery within the group was great and left me eager to spend more time among the men.
Overall, I found Straight Up to be an enjoyable slow burn with good characters, a steady pace, and polished writing and flow. I’d definitely recommend it to readers looking for a story that’s a bit different and focuses on the build rather than the destination.
*eARC received via author distribution.*
June 5, 2020
I have loved all the books in this series. All of the characters are so different, but work so well together. Malcolm was always one of the quieter characters and it was so great to read his story.
While this book was less angstier than the previous books, the family situations were relatable and it was so interesting to learn about what Malcolm was going through himself with his identity. Then add in Staurt and his background. Staurt also had such a difficult time finding who he was and being okay with it. Malcolm and Staurt are so perfect for each other and I loved reading their love story.
One of the best things about this book and all the others in the series is how different the characters are, but with all their differences they still have strong friendships. Along with the relationships, this series always encourages how important it is to find who you are and know that you are enough.
This was a great story that everyone should read as well as the other books in the series.
While this book was less angstier than the previous books, the family situations were relatable and it was so interesting to learn about what Malcolm was going through himself with his identity. Then add in Staurt and his background. Staurt also had such a difficult time finding who he was and being okay with it. Malcolm and Staurt are so perfect for each other and I loved reading their love story.
One of the best things about this book and all the others in the series is how different the characters are, but with all their differences they still have strong friendships. Along with the relationships, this series always encourages how important it is to find who you are and know that you are enough.
This was a great story that everyone should read as well as the other books in the series.
June 6, 2020
DEEP! This is one of those stories that forced me to take off and put away a pair of my judgment specs. What amazing authors! I am now compelled to read the other stories. The characters, the friendships the choices are absolutely amazing. The friendships, the conflicts all draw the reader in. The themes, the deep dive into self analysis and self awareness is absolutely enjoyable. This is a cereberal romance with a bit of kink to keep things interesting. The life choices Malcolm and Stuart made, all led to the men they became in the book. They handled each choice in a way that enhanced both of them. The concept of the Lock & Key, Under and the Over Under is delightful. Kim, Malcolm's mom was my bump in the story. How did she not know what she was doing to Malcolm and Jack? Kudos to Stuart for his patience and Malcolm for his self aware courage. I absolutely loved this story. I received an ARC from Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 11, 2020
This is book 4 of the Speakeasy series, and in this book you'll meet again the friends that we met in previous books. It also makes reference to things that happened in previous books, but they are well explained, and you do not need to have read the previous books to enjoy this one. Our main characters here are Malcolm and Stuart. They are attracted to each other from the moment they met, but Malcolm has two problems that might derail their relationship: financial and sexual. This means 1) he's broke and 2) he has an uncommon sexual identity (gray asexual/demisexual). Then on Stuart's side, he has a hidden kink that he's afraid to reveal to Malcolm for fear that he will be repulsed and will reject him. As the story progresses, we see how they navigate through the discoveries of these secrets, the lies, omission of facts, and misunderstandings, and how with mutual love and patience, they manage to accept to each other's special quirks, and reach their HEA.
June 11, 2020
Wow, Straight Up just hit me with all the feels. The fourth book in The Speakeasy Series by K Evan Coles and Brigham Vaughn is a beautiful slow burn romance.
The beginning is a little slow, but soon I found myself hooked.
Stuart, oh how I wanted to hug Stuart. His backstory is painful and just so damn unnecessary. As for his asexuality, it's well written and explored. His hesitancy and unsureness is entertaining for sure.
Malcolm's issue with his mother just made me mad. He is way too generous and it definitely annoyed me.
The writing style is great, which is no surprise, as I loved the other books in the series. And once again, the storyline and characters are an absolute delight. Past characters continue to be a large part of the story, adding to the fun.
Overall, Straight Up is a fantastic addition to The Speakeasy Series. K Evan Coles and Brigham Vaughn continue to delight with this series.
June 6, 2020
I loved this book and the series!! I've loved Malcolm and his journey isn't an easy one! Defining who he is, the struggles with his mom(oh boy) and his relationship with Stuart.
I loved Stuart too!! With his bad boy looks and omgosh food related tattoos! Not to mention he knows how to run a kitchen! Some of the food**sighs** I wanted to be a taste tester or be at the event they were for! Omgosh Kyle stole it for me with his special drinks! I mean tequila with blueberries, honey, and some kind of syrup? Yes please!!
I loved how these guys interacted and the secrets they both had, and the trust they had to share to get their HEA.
I love love love this series and im so happy I got to read them!!
I loved Stuart too!! With his bad boy looks and omgosh food related tattoos! Not to mention he knows how to run a kitchen! Some of the food**sighs** I wanted to be a taste tester or be at the event they were for! Omgosh Kyle stole it for me with his special drinks! I mean tequila with blueberries, honey, and some kind of syrup? Yes please!!
I loved how these guys interacted and the secrets they both had, and the trust they had to share to get their HEA.
I love love love this series and im so happy I got to read them!!
June 2, 2020
I loved Straight Up. Both Malcolm and Stuart were complex, interesting and engaging MCs. I totally enjoyed reading the whole story and I love that all the other characters from the Speakeasy series were a prominent part of this story too. I liked that they weren’t perfect, made mistakes but found their way through it.
I liked it set in New York City, I’ve never been but it’s one of my bucket list cities and I loved that neither Malcolm and Stuart didn’t live in crazy big lavish homes, but in much smaller places. I love books that have chefs so that was another great bonus. I just loved all the parts of the book and I most definitely recommend it.
I liked it set in New York City, I’ve never been but it’s one of my bucket list cities and I loved that neither Malcolm and Stuart didn’t live in crazy big lavish homes, but in much smaller places. I love books that have chefs so that was another great bonus. I just loved all the parts of the book and I most definitely recommend it.
June 7, 2020
Malcolm and Stuart both have things to get over before starting a romance with each other. This book touched me personally and I can identify with Malcolm and the way he feels about his sexually. Knowing you are not alone and that you can still find true love is a blessing. Stuart little kink to me is just plain sexy and the feel on satin and lace turns a lot of people on if they just admit it, lol I love how we learn in-dept about these two men and nothing is left unanswered. Now I have to get the other books in the series just to catch up with my boys! Love this volume and I know you will too!
June 13, 2020
I couldn't wait to get my hands on this book and it was as satisfying as I hoped it would be. I felt an instant connection with Stuart and his biker lifestyle because my husband and I are bikers ourselves, so I felt his pain when he had to hide who he really was.
Malcolm has his own issues, not all of them of his doing *Shakes fist at his Mom* and they weigh deeply on him. His growing attraction to Stuart, and his refusal to admit to anyone that he is gray ace only add to his problems at first.
I don't want to spoil the book by revealing anything else, so I will just say Bravo, K. Evan and Brigham, for bringing these characters to life along with the rest of the Speakeasy crew!
Malcolm has his own issues, not all of them of his doing *Shakes fist at his Mom* and they weigh deeply on him. His growing attraction to Stuart, and his refusal to admit to anyone that he is gray ace only add to his problems at first.
I don't want to spoil the book by revealing anything else, so I will just say Bravo, K. Evan and Brigham, for bringing these characters to life along with the rest of the Speakeasy crew!
June 5, 2020
This was such a sweet, grab-you-by-the-feels, fantastic, quirky, slow burning, unconventional, poignant, emotionally charged, engaging, off-the-wall, delightfully different, charming, a little bit angsty, beautiful, heartfelt, tug-at-your-heartstrings, and totally awesome story. It had me hooked from beginning to end, and I would definitely recommend getting this marvelous gem immediately.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 10, 2020
Straight Up (Speakeasy) by K. Evan Coles and Brigham Vaughn is Malcolm Elliott and Stuart Morgan’s story.
Malcolm and Stuart meet through a work event. These two are totally opposites but they seemed to be drawn to each other. Is it friendship or something more? Will their secrets prevent them from having more? I love how the Speakeasy group are there for each other.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Malcolm and Stuart meet through a work event. These two are totally opposites but they seemed to be drawn to each other. Is it friendship or something more? Will their secrets prevent them from having more? I love how the Speakeasy group are there for each other.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
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