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Burner Account
Isaiah Cole escapes his everyday life as a schoolteacher by debating—and trash talking—online under a fake name. For the past four years, his internet persona has been getting closer and closer to another user. They’re friends, and there’s even a little flirtation now and then… but the guy doesn’t know Isaiah’s real name, and they’ve never seen each other’s faces.
Until now.
Of all the men who could be behind his friend’s avatar, Isaiah is stunned to learn he’s been chatting with Tanner Jeffries, a jaw-droppingly gorgeous forward from his favorite hockey team.
As soon as they’re face-to-face, the chemistry is off the charts. They’re as inseparable in person as they are online, and their only regret is not doing this sooner.
But eventually, the novelty is going to wear off. And when it does…
How much can a broke, overweight average Joe actually offer a hot, rich, younger athlete?
Burner Account is an approximately 80,000-word standalone M/M hockey romance.
CW: discussions of school shootings/active shooter drills
Until now.
Of all the men who could be behind his friend’s avatar, Isaiah is stunned to learn he’s been chatting with Tanner Jeffries, a jaw-droppingly gorgeous forward from his favorite hockey team.
As soon as they’re face-to-face, the chemistry is off the charts. They’re as inseparable in person as they are online, and their only regret is not doing this sooner.
But eventually, the novelty is going to wear off. And when it does…
How much can a broke, overweight average Joe actually offer a hot, rich, younger athlete?
Burner Account is an approximately 80,000-word standalone M/M hockey romance.
CW: discussions of school shootings/active shooter drills
328 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 1, 2023
About the author
L.A. Witt
205 books2,581 followersL.A. Witt and her husband have been exiled from Spain and sent to live in Maine because rhymes are fun. She now divides her time between writing, assuring people she is aware that Maine is cold, wondering where to put her next tattoo, and trying to reason with a surly Maine coon. Rumor has it her arch nemesis, Lauren Gallagher, is also somewhere in the wilds of New England, which is why L.A. is also spending a portion of her time training a team of spec ops lobsters.
Authors Ann Gallagher and Lori A. Witt have been asked to assist in lobster training, but they "have books to write" and "need to focus on our careers" and "don't you think this rivalry has gotten a little out of hand?" They're probably just helping Lauren raise her army of squirrels trained to ride moose into battle.
Visit her website at http://www.gallagherwitt.com/.
Authors Ann Gallagher and Lori A. Witt have been asked to assist in lobster training, but they "have books to write" and "need to focus on our careers" and "don't you think this rivalry has gotten a little out of hand?" They're probably just helping Lauren raise her army of squirrels trained to ride moose into battle.
Visit her website at http://www.gallagherwitt.com/.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
Shelved as 'dnf'
November 14, 2023dnf @38%
The part of the story that I find the most interesting – when the MCs meet for the 'first time' and realize who they are - happens early on, so what comes next feels boring and repetitive and the relationship development is rushed. Also, why do they talk about fighting in hockey as something fun and hot?
The part of the story that I find the most interesting – when the MCs meet for the 'first time' and realize who they are - happens early on, so what comes next feels boring and repetitive and the relationship development is rushed. Also, why do they talk about fighting in hockey as something fun and hot?
November 7, 2023
This was cute but for me it took far too long for Isaiah to accept that Tanner actually wanted to be in a relationship for him, and then the book was over.
I understood Isaiah was insecure in his looks and what he could offer, but this plot device always really annoys me! If Tanner's career didn't demand that he be in peak physical condition, he more than likely wouldn't look the same as he does now. He also more than likely wouldn't be in such a different financial situation to a teacher if he wasn't a hockey player. These are things that no one except Tanner and Isaiah's best friend seemed to understand and that baffled me.
It also bothered me that this entire book was devoted to Isaiah and his thoughts and feelings, and Tanner was almost an afterthought because he's the young, rich and 'attractive' hockey player who can't possibly have any issues himself because he lives a charmed life... We don't get to meet Tanner's family at all, and I feel like that would have balanced the book much more. We also find out basically nothing about Tanner except that he plays hockey and loves Isaiah - but fuck knows why because Isaiah was so self-absorbed! Everything was about him - how would people look at him, judge him, treat him. Not once did he think about what his constant questioning of Tanner's motivations would do to Tanner's mental health and neither did the author seemingly!
I didn't like Isaiah's character at all and I actually did feel like he wasn't good enough for Tanner by the end of the book, because he was selfish and only ever thinking about himself! Maybe that's harsh, but I actually felt sorry for Tanner because his feelings were never considered at all.
I understood Isaiah was insecure in his looks and what he could offer, but this plot device always really annoys me! If Tanner's career didn't demand that he be in peak physical condition, he more than likely wouldn't look the same as he does now. He also more than likely wouldn't be in such a different financial situation to a teacher if he wasn't a hockey player. These are things that no one except Tanner and Isaiah's best friend seemed to understand and that baffled me.
It also bothered me that this entire book was devoted to Isaiah and his thoughts and feelings, and Tanner was almost an afterthought because he's the young, rich and 'attractive' hockey player who can't possibly have any issues himself because he lives a charmed life... We don't get to meet Tanner's family at all, and I feel like that would have balanced the book much more. We also find out basically nothing about Tanner except that he plays hockey and loves Isaiah - but fuck knows why because Isaiah was so self-absorbed! Everything was about him - how would people look at him, judge him, treat him. Not once did he think about what his constant questioning of Tanner's motivations would do to Tanner's mental health and neither did the author seemingly!
I didn't like Isaiah's character at all and I actually did feel like he wasn't good enough for Tanner by the end of the book, because he was selfish and only ever thinking about himself! Maybe that's harsh, but I actually felt sorry for Tanner because his feelings were never considered at all.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 17, 2024
Nick and Ian had been online buddies for years chatting and posting every chance they got. They never shared photos or met. It wasn’t that long ago they realised they lived in the same city. They both had their reasons for concealing their real names.
Their own friends kept encouraging them to meet seeing as they got on so well on line. Eventually ‘Ian’ was the one to raise the matter with ‘Nick’ and they set a time and place.
And OMG, what a meet up!!! ‘Nick’ practically fell in love at first sight, and ‘Ian’ was too shocked, because he recognised the gorgeous man immediately. He couldn’t believe his idol stood there in front of him, Tanner Jeffries, star Ice Hockey player on his local team. ‘ Ian’ gave his real name, Isiah.
I was floating along on cloud nine reading these two guy’s story until Isiah’s issues from his past relationship started to come to the surface again. Plus, his own family didn’t help, I was so angry with his sister and mother. I had to step back and take a break.
Isiah is 35, a school teacher, Tanner is 26, they are perfect together, but not in some other eyes. Tanner, less experienced relationship wise, turns out to be the most levelheaded of the pair when Isiah starts to meltdown.
I’ve read a few of this Authors books and they always generate strong emotional response in me. That’s how I measure my enjoyment of story and characters.
‘Burner Account’ concept certainly drew me in from the get-go and kept me rooting for Isiah to ‘get a grip’ and listen to Tanner, not anyone else.
Their own friends kept encouraging them to meet seeing as they got on so well on line. Eventually ‘Ian’ was the one to raise the matter with ‘Nick’ and they set a time and place.
And OMG, what a meet up!!! ‘Nick’ practically fell in love at first sight, and ‘Ian’ was too shocked, because he recognised the gorgeous man immediately. He couldn’t believe his idol stood there in front of him, Tanner Jeffries, star Ice Hockey player on his local team. ‘ Ian’ gave his real name, Isiah.
I was floating along on cloud nine reading these two guy’s story until Isiah’s issues from his past relationship started to come to the surface again. Plus, his own family didn’t help, I was so angry with his sister and mother. I had to step back and take a break.
Isiah is 35, a school teacher, Tanner is 26, they are perfect together, but not in some other eyes. Tanner, less experienced relationship wise, turns out to be the most levelheaded of the pair when Isiah starts to meltdown.
I’ve read a few of this Authors books and they always generate strong emotional response in me. That’s how I measure my enjoyment of story and characters.
‘Burner Account’ concept certainly drew me in from the get-go and kept me rooting for Isiah to ‘get a grip’ and listen to Tanner, not anyone else.
January 12, 2024
4.5⭐️
December 19, 2023
It was fine.
There was nothing really terrible about it. The characters didn’t really grab me, and Isaiah’s relentless insecurity got pretty tiring. The way the author wrote about their social media usage also felt very “greetings fellow kids.”
There was nothing really terrible about it. The characters didn’t really grab me, and Isaiah’s relentless insecurity got pretty tiring. The way the author wrote about their social media usage also felt very “greetings fellow kids.”
November 7, 2023
The second book dealing with body image issues that I’ve read from this author, I think they handle it quite well.
Read
November 6, 2023This was a whole lot of nothing. Nothing happened in this book and nothing happened between the main couple. There was no tension or conflict. LA Witt set up multiple areas of potential conflict (or one could describe them as potential areas of INTEREST) and then immediately abandoned them all on the side of the road (imagine me running behind her car, picking up dropped plot points and shoving them into my purse). When the one single conflict finally emerged, it arose and was resolved in about three pages. If you want to read a book where something happens, give this one a pass.
November 4, 2023
DNF @ 31. Way too many internal monologues slowing down the plot, for characters that didn’t really interest me. At times, I couldn’t tell which character’s POV was being described.
November 1, 2023
Burner Account
By: L.A. Witt
📚💕⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💕📚
Perfect together!
Oh my I absolutely loved this book. The way to author writes this slow burn makes believing this love story so easy! I’m already a huge fan of how the author writes but I believe she just keeps going with amazing and new ways to show true vulnerability. Men in general often aren’t allowed to be vulnerable in the real world and she opens a world of acceptance and I’m a fan of that for sure. The author writes with so much intensity and emotion pulled from each book it’s felt page after page. Some are quick witted story lines are so perfect and lets you believe you have a front row seat. So being able to read this love story didn’t disappoint. The authors ability to have two separate individuals struggling in their everyday life and try to navigate someone else’s thoughts, needs and desires was intense and gives all the fills.
Authors Blurb: Isaiah Cole escapes his everyday life as a schoolteacher by debating and trash talking online under a fake name. For the past four years, his internet persona has been getting closer and closer to another user. They’re friends, and there’s even a little flirtation now and then… but the guy doesn’t know Isaiah’s real name, and they’ve never seen each other’s faces.
Until now.
Of all the men who could be behind his friend’s avatar, Isaiah is stunned to learn he’s been chatting with Tanner Jeffries, a jaw-droppingly gorgeous forward from his favorite hockey team.
As soon as they’re face-to-face, the chemistry is off the charts. They’re as inseparable in person as they are online, and their only regret is not doing this sooner.
But eventually, the novelty is going to wear off. And when it does…
How much can a broke, overweight average Joe actually offer a hot, rich, younger athlete?
This book has everything I love in a book. Then you add that it's beautifully written and believable. It is easily a five star read. Written in dual POV my personal favorite this story flows so incredibly well that the next thing you know your 80% into the book and loving every second of it. The believable way the characters interact is perfect. Run, Hop, Jump or use your (1 click) finger to do whatever you have to do and get this amazing book. It'll break your heart, you'll want to scream with frustration and it'll let you discover that love just might conquer all. The chemistry is steamy and sweet and oh so romantic.
By: L.A. Witt
📚💕⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💕📚
Perfect together!
Oh my I absolutely loved this book. The way to author writes this slow burn makes believing this love story so easy! I’m already a huge fan of how the author writes but I believe she just keeps going with amazing and new ways to show true vulnerability. Men in general often aren’t allowed to be vulnerable in the real world and she opens a world of acceptance and I’m a fan of that for sure. The author writes with so much intensity and emotion pulled from each book it’s felt page after page. Some are quick witted story lines are so perfect and lets you believe you have a front row seat. So being able to read this love story didn’t disappoint. The authors ability to have two separate individuals struggling in their everyday life and try to navigate someone else’s thoughts, needs and desires was intense and gives all the fills.
Authors Blurb: Isaiah Cole escapes his everyday life as a schoolteacher by debating and trash talking online under a fake name. For the past four years, his internet persona has been getting closer and closer to another user. They’re friends, and there’s even a little flirtation now and then… but the guy doesn’t know Isaiah’s real name, and they’ve never seen each other’s faces.
Until now.
Of all the men who could be behind his friend’s avatar, Isaiah is stunned to learn he’s been chatting with Tanner Jeffries, a jaw-droppingly gorgeous forward from his favorite hockey team.
As soon as they’re face-to-face, the chemistry is off the charts. They’re as inseparable in person as they are online, and their only regret is not doing this sooner.
But eventually, the novelty is going to wear off. And when it does…
How much can a broke, overweight average Joe actually offer a hot, rich, younger athlete?
This book has everything I love in a book. Then you add that it's beautifully written and believable. It is easily a five star read. Written in dual POV my personal favorite this story flows so incredibly well that the next thing you know your 80% into the book and loving every second of it. The believable way the characters interact is perfect. Run, Hop, Jump or use your (1 click) finger to do whatever you have to do and get this amazing book. It'll break your heart, you'll want to scream with frustration and it'll let you discover that love just might conquer all. The chemistry is steamy and sweet and oh so romantic.
November 25, 2023
A sweet romance
This hockey romance between a hockey player and a middle school teacher is a sweet story of friends to lovers as well as a hurt/comfort story of someone whose self image has been beaten down and constantly believes he’s not worthy.
Tanner is a 26 year old hockey player for the Pittsburg NHL team and Isaiah is a 35 year old middle school history teacher. They have been friends online for four years incognito when each man is pushed into asking to meet in person by their friends. Isaiah is a huge hockey fan so it is a shock when his anonymous online pal turns out to be his favorite hockey player. There is an immediate attraction but constant insults from Isaiah’s ex fiancé still shout at him in his brain and he continually doubts his self worth and how Tanner could possibly be attracted to him. For his part, Tanner has been completely smitten since they met and he cannot understand why Isaiah doesn’t believe in himself.
There are several discussions of the fear of school shootings and of active shooter drills as well as the fear that both men have that their anonymous online profiles could somehow get revealed and cause professional problems for them due to their comments about politics, social issues, and religion. When Isaiah has a problem with a student who is failing and doesn’t want to do the work to get his grade up and avoid punishment from his father, there is this sense of foreboding about where this is heading. I was on pins and needles waiting for the shoe to drop in the form of a school shooting or a cell phone hacking incident. The tension from that made me a heck of a lot less sympathetic to Isaiah’s body image issues and after a while every time he said something I found it whiny and annoying. That took my head out of the story and made the character less sympathetic which is never a good thing in a romance book.
When the crisis moment comes it is out of left field and its resolution reframed my view of several aspects of the storyline. Tanner’s perspective of what Isaiah is experiencing helped me rearrange my perspective and made things gel more in the story for me.
The ending is sweet and I am picturing years of happiness for these men.
This hockey romance between a hockey player and a middle school teacher is a sweet story of friends to lovers as well as a hurt/comfort story of someone whose self image has been beaten down and constantly believes he’s not worthy.
Tanner is a 26 year old hockey player for the Pittsburg NHL team and Isaiah is a 35 year old middle school history teacher. They have been friends online for four years incognito when each man is pushed into asking to meet in person by their friends. Isaiah is a huge hockey fan so it is a shock when his anonymous online pal turns out to be his favorite hockey player. There is an immediate attraction but constant insults from Isaiah’s ex fiancé still shout at him in his brain and he continually doubts his self worth and how Tanner could possibly be attracted to him. For his part, Tanner has been completely smitten since they met and he cannot understand why Isaiah doesn’t believe in himself.
There are several discussions of the fear of school shootings and of active shooter drills as well as the fear that both men have that their anonymous online profiles could somehow get revealed and cause professional problems for them due to their comments about politics, social issues, and religion. When Isaiah has a problem with a student who is failing and doesn’t want to do the work to get his grade up and avoid punishment from his father, there is this sense of foreboding about where this is heading. I was on pins and needles waiting for the shoe to drop in the form of a school shooting or a cell phone hacking incident. The tension from that made me a heck of a lot less sympathetic to Isaiah’s body image issues and after a while every time he said something I found it whiny and annoying. That took my head out of the story and made the character less sympathetic which is never a good thing in a romance book.
When the crisis moment comes it is out of left field and its resolution reframed my view of several aspects of the storyline. Tanner’s perspective of what Isaiah is experiencing helped me rearrange my perspective and made things gel more in the story for me.
The ending is sweet and I am picturing years of happiness for these men.
January 31, 2024
4.5 stars. Exactly what I was looking for, an insecure MC who finds love and acceptance. Isaiah is very insecure about his body and self-worth. His ex is a constant voice in his head telling him he's not good enough or worthy enough. Some readers will think, oh, all he does is whine. Or he's weak but when you have an insecurity like Isaiah does, it can haunt you. It's a battle and Isaiah does battle it. Tanner is a hot, rich hockey player who gets stupid over Isaiah, a maybe slightly overweight teacher and he likes it. Tanner doesn't care that Isaiah isn't a model, he doesn't want Isaiah to look or dress or be a model. He wants Isaiah. That's it. Tanner has his own insecuries but they are minor in comparison. Through loving Isaiah, Tanner helps him overcome both the negative voices inside his head and those outside from other people. No one needs to be perfect to be loved.
November 14, 2023
Burner Account is a standalone MM Contemporary Romance. HEA. Hockey. Age-Gap. Best friends to lovers. Hurt Comfort. Second Chances. Slowburn.
2POV, past tense.
This kindle edition 328 pages November 1, 2023.
I'd had to DNF the last two new ones before this that I tried by this author, whose books I mostly enjoy. Mostly I love their hockey books. There are some hits and some misses but the hockey titles are the hot rereading hits. Well, not this fall but I powered through this one anyway.
I disliked immensely a certain thing which was the presentation of fights on ice as hot and sexy fun to say it directly. I find this a very odd thing. It wasn't a singular reference either. It was referred to more than once if memory serves me right. Deducted star.
Secondly the writing wasn't its usual. It fails to entice and grab this fall. Deducted star.
Thirdly I found I apparently have a dislike for stories that revolve too much around social media or at least those I've read. And this one even started at that. Or, maybe I just didn't like this one and the way of it this time around because I wasn't aware of my dislike when I started. I don't know ... Can't be compared to Pucks and Rainbows by a longshot, is what my thoughts were.
I can't pinpoint anything else very specific except that this fall these last reads by them surprisingly none of them have been engaging. 3 in a row. For whatever reasons as readers and authors are simply human beings and all that. So, I'm pulling the plug or a good pause is in order anyway at the least, or maybe rereading some oldies will be better but I'm not feeling like it now ...
2POV, past tense.
This kindle edition 328 pages November 1, 2023.
I'd had to DNF the last two new ones before this that I tried by this author, whose books I mostly enjoy. Mostly I love their hockey books. There are some hits and some misses but the hockey titles are the hot rereading hits. Well, not this fall but I powered through this one anyway.
I disliked immensely a certain thing which was the presentation of fights on ice as hot and sexy fun to say it directly. I find this a very odd thing. It wasn't a singular reference either. It was referred to more than once if memory serves me right. Deducted star.
Secondly the writing wasn't its usual. It fails to entice and grab this fall. Deducted star.
Thirdly I found I apparently have a dislike for stories that revolve too much around social media or at least those I've read. And this one even started at that. Or, maybe I just didn't like this one and the way of it this time around because I wasn't aware of my dislike when I started. I don't know ... Can't be compared to Pucks and Rainbows by a longshot, is what my thoughts were.
I can't pinpoint anything else very specific except that this fall these last reads by them surprisingly none of them have been engaging. 3 in a row. For whatever reasons as readers and authors are simply human beings and all that. So, I'm pulling the plug or a good pause is in order anyway at the least, or maybe rereading some oldies will be better but I'm not feeling like it now ...
November 4, 2023
these two
Wow this hit me on a personal level. Isaiah’s self doubt hit hard and I cried more than once. Such a beautiful story and a little bit in love with Tanner! Who wouldn’t be he didn’t seem to care about what anyone felt but himself and how he felt about his man ughhh I love this story and can’t wait to read it again!
29 highlights 3 notes
“Tanner had blandly responded that he was unapologetically gay but could still, quote, “effortlessly satisfy your girlfriend better than your dumb ass can because I don’t believe the existence of the clitoris is a conspiracy invented by Big Pussy.””
Wow this hit me on a personal level. Isaiah’s self doubt hit hard and I cried more than once. Such a beautiful story and a little bit in love with Tanner! Who wouldn’t be he didn’t seem to care about what anyone felt but himself and how he felt about his man ughhh I love this story and can’t wait to read it again!
29 highlights 3 notes
“Tanner had blandly responded that he was unapologetically gay but could still, quote, “effortlessly satisfy your girlfriend better than your dumb ass can because I don’t believe the existence of the clitoris is a conspiracy invented by Big Pussy.””
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 3, 2023
so cute
That was sweet. I love this premise of online talking then meeting story. This story was about two people finding each other online then falling for each other in person. And realizing your worth. It’s nice to see the younger one act like an adult, the smexy in this book was absolutely hawt, and I love that there wasn’t a end of the story break up. Best friends and team family were amazing. Only complaint was it did get a little much with the self doubt. I get it I have my own, but your partner can’t fix it. And once again 2023 where is the diversity.
That was sweet. I love this premise of online talking then meeting story. This story was about two people finding each other online then falling for each other in person. And realizing your worth. It’s nice to see the younger one act like an adult, the smexy in this book was absolutely hawt, and I love that there wasn’t a end of the story break up. Best friends and team family were amazing. Only complaint was it did get a little much with the self doubt. I get it I have my own, but your partner can’t fix it. And once again 2023 where is the diversity.
November 3, 2023
I loved how real it felt to me - the self-doubt, teacher life, the online friendship through comments, and the simplicity of the story line. 🤍
Shelved as 'dnf'
November 13, 2023What's happening with this author lately that I can't seem to finish or enjoy any of their books? I couldn't connect to the writing or the characters.
Read
December 2, 2023TOO long and too many filler conversations. The message conversations in the start were a bit stilled and could have been more fun but overall it was a decent albeit a bit dry read
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 30, 2024
It had so many things I like. But damn all that insecurity was exhausting to read about. And nothing really happened in the story. I just wanted it to be so much better.
December 7, 2023
Not a fan of “I don’t deserve you” trope
November 30, 2023
I like L.A. Witt but this is fucking bullshit. Right off the bat, a couple pages in, the author wants to bring politics and political stances to make real life statements into her book. First there's the priming--Isiah makes a burner account so he can be vocally political. Then comes the self-victimization--Poor Isiah has to do this, because as a liberal he is shut down and criticized and called a child groomer and it's the only way he can speak up. in my experience, CONSERVATIVES are the ones scared to speak up--no one loses their job for being a liberal, they lose it for being conservative. No one is scared to speak up if they have liberal views, they're scared if they disagree with liberals. So right off the bat not only is Witt alienating half her fan base by making social statements pertaining to real life in her book, she's also trying to either convince readers that liberals are innocent victims or else enable the liberals reading her books that feel like victims.
The last thing she does is bring up WHY liberals are poor innocent misunderstood victims not trying to hurt anybody. First, Isiah just mentions that he would get called a child groomer. the actual quote is "a a leftist trying to indoctrinate our children" followed by the sentence "innocuous rainbow decoration interpreted as queer grooming" as if by heading these accusations off at the pass, they can be crippled.
Because our two characters talk politics boldly behind avatars, let's get in the spirit and talk too! liberals aren't child groomers because they have view points they are vocal about. And you can't 100% any groups individuals, there will always be outliers (although here Witt wants to use a maybe unreliable narrator, because if one person is innocent of being a groomer, they all have to be right??). Liberals are called groomers because rainbows in schools are NOT innocuous. INNOCUOUS is using rainbows as decorations because rainbows are beautiful. NOT as flags, NOT as supporting any cause, not filling entire schools with rainbows and creating an environment where taking down a rainbow is hate speech and not supporting rainbows gets you suspended. THAT is only the TIP of why rainbows in schools are NOT innocuous--because they ARENT just used for the sake of a rainbow. FURTHERMORE-- drag shows for CHILDREN? Drag queens reading to kids? Most of them dressed inappropriately or with fake appendages? (Yes, there are videos.) Why don't drag queens ever read to old folks? Why are kids allowed to go to "Pride" parades, where naked men are also allowed to exist, near these kids, and not get arrested?? (also photos). Then you find the nutty teachers L.A. Witt wants to pretend doesn't exist because Isiah has to "BEG kids to finish assigned reading and use properly formatted citations". Never mind all the teachers LITERALLY posting to TikTok and other sites how straight people are bad, rainbows fill the classroom, they're done to support the gay cause (this is statements ON CAMERA). THEN you gotta also think about how many Youth uses the internet--which is FILLED with ads "5 reasons + 1 you might be gay" "Take this quiz to find out how gay you are-it might surprise you!" "Everyone's a little bit gay!" THAT was what our Youth (18 and younger but also everyone cause it's there for all to see) are consuming. and VERY FEW of these teachers are losing jobs. A KID is more likely to be expelled for SPEAKING UP AND DISAGREEING OR REFUSING. Does it sound healthy when a kid is SUSPENDED for REFUSING to participate? No, that's grooming. And if you support that, you might wanna look in the mirror. Also, L.A. Witt conveniently won't mention all the LIBERALS in the Queer Community who SPEAK OUT against all this as well because they see it and they don't like it either. It shouldn't come down to political parties it should come down to PROTECTING OUR CHILDREN.
Since when should CHILDREN be worried about GENDER OR SEXUALITY? LEAVE THE CHILDREN FUCKING OUT OF IT. Let children explore themselves WITHOUT putting expectation of gender norms, including towards objects and clothes, on them. The parents who refuse to gender their kids because they claim it gives the kid more freedom to explore are ALSO part of the problem, because if they TRULY didn't place gender value on objects they wouldn't be afraid to let their kid have their gender and find the strength to wear whatever they wanted, play whatever they wanted, have whatever job they wanted, regardless of their gender. The ONLY THING that would have an affect on their gender is LITERALLY the reproductive parts they were born with/were meant to have at their healthiest. (band PLEASE if you're reading this, DONT bring intersex into this argument, because that's disrespectful to them and all the atrocities they have faced until you wanna bring them out to prove something they aren't even part of, and then shelve them again.) But a world in which we were our gender and social norms that constrained us surrounding our gender would be too healthy, because our kids and ourselves would be confident, well adjusted, and limitless. There would be no billion genders for every little faucet of feeling. Guys could wear dresses and heels, women could scratch their privates and be respected on fishing ships and garages, masculine and feminine traits wouldn't mean shit except that's just who the person was--and they wouldnt have to poison their bodies and cut their fertility just to justify it.
Instead we have people like Witt, who if I read further would probably talk about the atrocity of suicides among trans individuals, never noting that most occurred AFTER transitioning, and how detransitioners who were given next to no oversight and actual consueling before their decisions, are now criminalized and silenced because "they should have known better" by the very same people who fast forwarded them as a collective into this mess. Or how if you talk to young people, no matter what their political leanings, they're afraid to be straight because everyone around them including the internet says straight people are bad and bigots and besides, everyone's a little bit gay. NO ONE is safe from indoctrination, even those kids Isiah can't get to focus in school. But Isiah won't talk about the TikTok teachers. Or the photographs of kids in front of naked men at parades. Just that he isn't a groomer so by extension Witt hopes to convince readers that NO TEACHER can be a groomer. That no school puts too much force into trying to push gay-friendly agendas and PUNISHES kids that don't want a part of it.
And the sad truth is there are MULTIPLE videos of parents at school board meetings reading not only 50 Shades of Grey but also FULL ON SEX INCEST RAPE SCENES of kids (there's one book with blue in the title somewhere? idk but that's what it's about) and they're SHUT DOWN AND SILENCED because what they're reading ISNT APPROPRIATE. But when they ask THEN WHY IS IT ON OUR KIDS SHELVES they ALL throughout MULTIPLE VIDEOS get the return "we don't have the authority you have to go through a process". Which is utter BS, because if it's not allowed at a school board meeting, the rules should be that it's pulled immediately. And notice, these examples (but not all; one was a teacher or someone reading a pro-gay book and demanding immediate response to letting it stay so there's your double standard and proof that liberals aren't the persecuted victims they pretend to be) that I gave are all MF--but child grooming isn't 100% sexuality focused either. That's just a piece.
But what is real are stories of counties trying to pass laws that schools can transition kids without parent knowledge or approval, stories of parents being ripped from their kids for being a danger all because they won't Yes Man their kid to be transgender and that's apparently a danger (pls remember, all the detransitioners with no pushback and the fact that 100% of these kids aren't exposed to opposing viewpoints to help them really know what's right for them, any opposition is bigotry. We aren't allowed to speak in opposition to the movement, even so our children can really consider and have options and all the information---and that's not healthy)
So yes, thank you L.A. Witt for opening the door to these issues. maybe you're doing some good after all, but I do not support an author using blatant manipulation and one sided victim tactics to get net sympathy for her character. furthermore that's lazy and I expect better from you. I read Static and I loved it. This pales and it's not even subtle. 3 pages in and you're so determined to make some points you lost any immersion into the book, natural flow, subtitly, AND you alienated who knows how many of your readers while making shallow points that belong in the real world and not in fiction. You have turned Isiah into an overt tool and an unsympathetic character, because he is a broad stroke liberal characature. I won't say he's completely unrealistic, because piss-poor victim-mentality rationalizations are liberal specialty. but I don't read books for this kind of bullshit. And if I was somehow wrong, you were trying to give Isiah actual motivation as a character to start his anonymous chat profile, and weren't trying to make any big political statements (because I admit this was more clumsy footed than Static) than you failed because it felt 2D flat.
The last thing she does is bring up WHY liberals are poor innocent misunderstood victims not trying to hurt anybody. First, Isiah just mentions that he would get called a child groomer. the actual quote is "a a leftist trying to indoctrinate our children" followed by the sentence "innocuous rainbow decoration interpreted as queer grooming" as if by heading these accusations off at the pass, they can be crippled.
Because our two characters talk politics boldly behind avatars, let's get in the spirit and talk too! liberals aren't child groomers because they have view points they are vocal about. And you can't 100% any groups individuals, there will always be outliers (although here Witt wants to use a maybe unreliable narrator, because if one person is innocent of being a groomer, they all have to be right??). Liberals are called groomers because rainbows in schools are NOT innocuous. INNOCUOUS is using rainbows as decorations because rainbows are beautiful. NOT as flags, NOT as supporting any cause, not filling entire schools with rainbows and creating an environment where taking down a rainbow is hate speech and not supporting rainbows gets you suspended. THAT is only the TIP of why rainbows in schools are NOT innocuous--because they ARENT just used for the sake of a rainbow. FURTHERMORE-- drag shows for CHILDREN? Drag queens reading to kids? Most of them dressed inappropriately or with fake appendages? (Yes, there are videos.) Why don't drag queens ever read to old folks? Why are kids allowed to go to "Pride" parades, where naked men are also allowed to exist, near these kids, and not get arrested?? (also photos). Then you find the nutty teachers L.A. Witt wants to pretend doesn't exist because Isiah has to "BEG kids to finish assigned reading and use properly formatted citations". Never mind all the teachers LITERALLY posting to TikTok and other sites how straight people are bad, rainbows fill the classroom, they're done to support the gay cause (this is statements ON CAMERA). THEN you gotta also think about how many Youth uses the internet--which is FILLED with ads "5 reasons + 1 you might be gay" "Take this quiz to find out how gay you are-it might surprise you!" "Everyone's a little bit gay!" THAT was what our Youth (18 and younger but also everyone cause it's there for all to see) are consuming. and VERY FEW of these teachers are losing jobs. A KID is more likely to be expelled for SPEAKING UP AND DISAGREEING OR REFUSING. Does it sound healthy when a kid is SUSPENDED for REFUSING to participate? No, that's grooming. And if you support that, you might wanna look in the mirror. Also, L.A. Witt conveniently won't mention all the LIBERALS in the Queer Community who SPEAK OUT against all this as well because they see it and they don't like it either. It shouldn't come down to political parties it should come down to PROTECTING OUR CHILDREN.
Since when should CHILDREN be worried about GENDER OR SEXUALITY? LEAVE THE CHILDREN FUCKING OUT OF IT. Let children explore themselves WITHOUT putting expectation of gender norms, including towards objects and clothes, on them. The parents who refuse to gender their kids because they claim it gives the kid more freedom to explore are ALSO part of the problem, because if they TRULY didn't place gender value on objects they wouldn't be afraid to let their kid have their gender and find the strength to wear whatever they wanted, play whatever they wanted, have whatever job they wanted, regardless of their gender. The ONLY THING that would have an affect on their gender is LITERALLY the reproductive parts they were born with/were meant to have at their healthiest. (band PLEASE if you're reading this, DONT bring intersex into this argument, because that's disrespectful to them and all the atrocities they have faced until you wanna bring them out to prove something they aren't even part of, and then shelve them again.) But a world in which we were our gender and social norms that constrained us surrounding our gender would be too healthy, because our kids and ourselves would be confident, well adjusted, and limitless. There would be no billion genders for every little faucet of feeling. Guys could wear dresses and heels, women could scratch their privates and be respected on fishing ships and garages, masculine and feminine traits wouldn't mean shit except that's just who the person was--and they wouldnt have to poison their bodies and cut their fertility just to justify it.
Instead we have people like Witt, who if I read further would probably talk about the atrocity of suicides among trans individuals, never noting that most occurred AFTER transitioning, and how detransitioners who were given next to no oversight and actual consueling before their decisions, are now criminalized and silenced because "they should have known better" by the very same people who fast forwarded them as a collective into this mess. Or how if you talk to young people, no matter what their political leanings, they're afraid to be straight because everyone around them including the internet says straight people are bad and bigots and besides, everyone's a little bit gay. NO ONE is safe from indoctrination, even those kids Isiah can't get to focus in school. But Isiah won't talk about the TikTok teachers. Or the photographs of kids in front of naked men at parades. Just that he isn't a groomer so by extension Witt hopes to convince readers that NO TEACHER can be a groomer. That no school puts too much force into trying to push gay-friendly agendas and PUNISHES kids that don't want a part of it.
And the sad truth is there are MULTIPLE videos of parents at school board meetings reading not only 50 Shades of Grey but also FULL ON SEX INCEST RAPE SCENES of kids (there's one book with blue in the title somewhere? idk but that's what it's about) and they're SHUT DOWN AND SILENCED because what they're reading ISNT APPROPRIATE. But when they ask THEN WHY IS IT ON OUR KIDS SHELVES they ALL throughout MULTIPLE VIDEOS get the return "we don't have the authority you have to go through a process". Which is utter BS, because if it's not allowed at a school board meeting, the rules should be that it's pulled immediately. And notice, these examples (but not all; one was a teacher or someone reading a pro-gay book and demanding immediate response to letting it stay so there's your double standard and proof that liberals aren't the persecuted victims they pretend to be) that I gave are all MF--but child grooming isn't 100% sexuality focused either. That's just a piece.
But what is real are stories of counties trying to pass laws that schools can transition kids without parent knowledge or approval, stories of parents being ripped from their kids for being a danger all because they won't Yes Man their kid to be transgender and that's apparently a danger (pls remember, all the detransitioners with no pushback and the fact that 100% of these kids aren't exposed to opposing viewpoints to help them really know what's right for them, any opposition is bigotry. We aren't allowed to speak in opposition to the movement, even so our children can really consider and have options and all the information---and that's not healthy)
So yes, thank you L.A. Witt for opening the door to these issues. maybe you're doing some good after all, but I do not support an author using blatant manipulation and one sided victim tactics to get net sympathy for her character. furthermore that's lazy and I expect better from you. I read Static and I loved it. This pales and it's not even subtle. 3 pages in and you're so determined to make some points you lost any immersion into the book, natural flow, subtitly, AND you alienated who knows how many of your readers while making shallow points that belong in the real world and not in fiction. You have turned Isiah into an overt tool and an unsympathetic character, because he is a broad stroke liberal characature. I won't say he's completely unrealistic, because piss-poor victim-mentality rationalizations are liberal specialty. but I don't read books for this kind of bullshit. And if I was somehow wrong, you were trying to give Isiah actual motivation as a character to start his anonymous chat profile, and weren't trying to make any big political statements (because I admit this was more clumsy footed than Static) than you failed because it felt 2D flat.
November 1, 2023
"Burner Account" is yet another excellent and well-written book by L.A.Witt, which will keep your attention from the first page to the last. It is a story that not only stirs your emotions but also makes you laugh and feel warm and cozy.
1. Recommended for: This book is ideal for anyone searching for a dynamic, captivating, and emotionally resonant read intertwined with just the right amount of drama.
2. Plot: The storyline is straightforward yet dynamic, exploring a "friends-to-lovers" and "opposites-attract" theme.
3. Narrative Style: The book employs a first-person narrative. The inner monologues, which are emotionally rich and laced with wit, contribute to a deeper understanding of the motivations and emotions driving the characters of Isaiah and Tanner.
4. Writing and Storytelling: The author's exceptional writing skills and the intriguing dynamics between two contrasting characters result in a book that is captivating, fulfilling, and worthy of reading.
5. Characters: Both main characters are well-delineated, warm, witty, and likable despite being opposites. Their well-crafted personas make it impossible not to root for them as they navigate both their evolving relationship and their challenges.
6. Ending: The book concludes with a Happily Ever After (HEA).
Storyline:
The author has skillfully transformed a straightforward plot into a read that is captivating, compelling, and emotionally resonant. Told in a manner that is both emotionally charged and humorously witty, the book stands as an intriguing read. Isaiah and Tanner, who met online, developed an emotional connection and friendship over the years without ever meeting in person. Isaiah is a reserved, slightly introverted history teacher with a traumatic relationship in the past. At the same time, Tanner is an outgoing, warm, confident, successful hockey player.
When they finally decide to meet in person after four years of online friendship, the chemistry is immediate. Their relationship transitions seamlessly from friendship to intense physical attraction and to love. However, Isaiah grapples with insecurities and a lack of self-worth, even in the face of Tanner's unequivocal love and support.
Pros:
1. The book is emotionally resonant, entertaining, and compelling from start to finish.
2. The incorporation of online chat into the plot adds a refreshing dynamic, keeping the reader engaged from beginning to end through compelling and eloquent writing.
3. The clever use of rich, often humorous internal monologues makes Isaiah and Tanner relatable and endearing. Such insight into their inner world is essential for understanding the dynamics of their relationship and Isaiah's insecurities stemming from a past relationship.
4. Intimate scenes are skillfully interwoven into the storyline without overshadowing the narrative.
5. A unique blend of feel-good elements, angst, passion, and witty humor results in an engaging, dynamic, and captivating read.
6. Skillful pacing, coupled with compelling, eloquent, and engaging writing, keeps the reader in suspense from start to finish.
Cons:
None. Thus warranting a 5-star rating.
Disclaimer: This review is an independent and genuine reflection of my thoughts on the book, which I received as an Advance Reader Copy (ARC).
1. Recommended for: This book is ideal for anyone searching for a dynamic, captivating, and emotionally resonant read intertwined with just the right amount of drama.
2. Plot: The storyline is straightforward yet dynamic, exploring a "friends-to-lovers" and "opposites-attract" theme.
3. Narrative Style: The book employs a first-person narrative. The inner monologues, which are emotionally rich and laced with wit, contribute to a deeper understanding of the motivations and emotions driving the characters of Isaiah and Tanner.
4. Writing and Storytelling: The author's exceptional writing skills and the intriguing dynamics between two contrasting characters result in a book that is captivating, fulfilling, and worthy of reading.
5. Characters: Both main characters are well-delineated, warm, witty, and likable despite being opposites. Their well-crafted personas make it impossible not to root for them as they navigate both their evolving relationship and their challenges.
6. Ending: The book concludes with a Happily Ever After (HEA).
Storyline:
The author has skillfully transformed a straightforward plot into a read that is captivating, compelling, and emotionally resonant. Told in a manner that is both emotionally charged and humorously witty, the book stands as an intriguing read. Isaiah and Tanner, who met online, developed an emotional connection and friendship over the years without ever meeting in person. Isaiah is a reserved, slightly introverted history teacher with a traumatic relationship in the past. At the same time, Tanner is an outgoing, warm, confident, successful hockey player.
When they finally decide to meet in person after four years of online friendship, the chemistry is immediate. Their relationship transitions seamlessly from friendship to intense physical attraction and to love. However, Isaiah grapples with insecurities and a lack of self-worth, even in the face of Tanner's unequivocal love and support.
Pros:
1. The book is emotionally resonant, entertaining, and compelling from start to finish.
2. The incorporation of online chat into the plot adds a refreshing dynamic, keeping the reader engaged from beginning to end through compelling and eloquent writing.
3. The clever use of rich, often humorous internal monologues makes Isaiah and Tanner relatable and endearing. Such insight into their inner world is essential for understanding the dynamics of their relationship and Isaiah's insecurities stemming from a past relationship.
4. Intimate scenes are skillfully interwoven into the storyline without overshadowing the narrative.
5. A unique blend of feel-good elements, angst, passion, and witty humor results in an engaging, dynamic, and captivating read.
6. Skillful pacing, coupled with compelling, eloquent, and engaging writing, keeps the reader in suspense from start to finish.
Cons:
None. Thus warranting a 5-star rating.
Disclaimer: This review is an independent and genuine reflection of my thoughts on the book, which I received as an Advance Reader Copy (ARC).
November 9, 2023
Featuring clingy, sugary sweetness, Burner Account is a tale with realistic characters working through a realistic issue and falling utterly in love with each other along the way. It's a book I could both relate to and aspire to, overcoming past traumas, and letting a new, healthy relationship slowly clear the way with just enough burn to get my mouth watering.
While I found the only theme of angst in this book - Isaiah's self-image issues - to be monotonous, I do understand on a logical level anyone would suffer these issues after having toxic, traumatic verbal abuse and body shaming in the past, and they wouldn't be that easy to overcome. While it felt like this plot dragged a little, the growth of Isaiah's and Tanner's relationship was necessary to reach a crescendo and this issue to finally bubble to the surface. And, honestly, Witt did an excellent job including everything necessary AND everything toe-curling without too much excess. The relationship between our MC's moves right along without lingering more than I wanted it to, which is ideal for a good contemporary romance, especially one of this length.
Tanner and Isaiah make this book special. At its core, this is a warm, spicy latte of friends-to-lovers romance with pining and insta-love tropes all simmered together. There's a lot of delicious longing, and the spice, when it finally happens, is explosive. These two are absolutely meant for each other, and the chemistry flies off the pages.
Burner Account is a super fluffy story that was a cozy interlude from my usual more intense reads. I loved Tanner and Isaiah's burgeoning relationship, and I so appreciate the body positivity Tanner absolutely exuded. Honestly an adorable, heartwarming book.
Burner Account ***Trigger Warnings***
~Internalized fatphobia isn't exactly right but is as close as I can describe. It's directed at himself and no one else.
~Past verbal abuse
~Past cheating (not by the MC's)
~Past gaslighting
~Unsupportive family members
While I found the only theme of angst in this book - Isaiah's self-image issues - to be monotonous, I do understand on a logical level anyone would suffer these issues after having toxic, traumatic verbal abuse and body shaming in the past, and they wouldn't be that easy to overcome. While it felt like this plot dragged a little, the growth of Isaiah's and Tanner's relationship was necessary to reach a crescendo and this issue to finally bubble to the surface. And, honestly, Witt did an excellent job including everything necessary AND everything toe-curling without too much excess. The relationship between our MC's moves right along without lingering more than I wanted it to, which is ideal for a good contemporary romance, especially one of this length.
Tanner and Isaiah make this book special. At its core, this is a warm, spicy latte of friends-to-lovers romance with pining and insta-love tropes all simmered together. There's a lot of delicious longing, and the spice, when it finally happens, is explosive. These two are absolutely meant for each other, and the chemistry flies off the pages.
Burner Account is a super fluffy story that was a cozy interlude from my usual more intense reads. I loved Tanner and Isaiah's burgeoning relationship, and I so appreciate the body positivity Tanner absolutely exuded. Honestly an adorable, heartwarming book.
Burner Account ***Trigger Warnings***
~Internalized fatphobia isn't exactly right but is as close as I can describe. It's directed at himself and no one else.
~Past verbal abuse
~Past cheating (not by the MC's)
~Past gaslighting
~Unsupportive family members
October 30, 2023
Isaiah moonlights as Ian on-line for some trash talking. He has to protect his teaching career so he can't use his real name. He's found a kindred soul in Nick. They have so much in common and enjoy putting people in their place. When Nick suggests meeting up with Ian, Isaiah isn't so sure it's a good idea, but what's the worse that can happen?
Tanner moonlights as Nick on-line for some trash talking of his own. He has to protect his hockey career so he can't use his real name either. He feels like he's found his best friend in Ian and wants to meet up but he's worried. His buddy Bens encourages him to ask Ian to meet and he does just that. Now he's hoping that they have just as much chemistry in person as on line.
This is a well written book that hooked me from page one. It's a realistic portrayal of how someone can get their confidence beaten down and struggle with self-esteem. Isaiah has been put down by too many people and Tanner is ready to help him get through it. I really liked that the author didn't have the ex show back up to make Isaiah doubt himself even more. It's bad enough when we put ourselves through the ringer, we don't need the jerks from our past coming back to make it worse. Isaiah's sister and to an extent his mother are definitely not people I would waste time with. They were both mean in the I'm only looking out for you BS way. I liked the growth that Isaiah has throughout the book and that's largely due to Tanner's constant support. Some people would've given up on him but not Tanner. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I definitely recommend it to anyone who likes a realistic book on two men navigating a new relationship around their love of hockey.
Tanner moonlights as Nick on-line for some trash talking of his own. He has to protect his hockey career so he can't use his real name either. He feels like he's found his best friend in Ian and wants to meet up but he's worried. His buddy Bens encourages him to ask Ian to meet and he does just that. Now he's hoping that they have just as much chemistry in person as on line.
This is a well written book that hooked me from page one. It's a realistic portrayal of how someone can get their confidence beaten down and struggle with self-esteem. Isaiah has been put down by too many people and Tanner is ready to help him get through it. I really liked that the author didn't have the ex show back up to make Isaiah doubt himself even more. It's bad enough when we put ourselves through the ringer, we don't need the jerks from our past coming back to make it worse. Isaiah's sister and to an extent his mother are definitely not people I would waste time with. They were both mean in the I'm only looking out for you BS way. I liked the growth that Isaiah has throughout the book and that's largely due to Tanner's constant support. Some people would've given up on him but not Tanner. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I definitely recommend it to anyone who likes a realistic book on two men navigating a new relationship around their love of hockey.
November 3, 2023
Sweet and Hot!
It's been too long since I've read or listened to a book by L.A. Witt so I was very happy to receive an ARC of Burner Account. It's like this, I think I own nearly every book she's written but I don't always make time to read them – but – if I get an ARC I will make time to read it and I loved Burner Account.
I think L.A. Witt's books are usually a bit more angsty than this one but I love all kinds of MM romance, low or high angst, sweet or scorchingly hot; there are very few tropes I won't read.
Isaiah hasn't had very good luck with boyfriends; his last one really did a number on his self-confidence. When he finds out that his online friend is an NHL hockey player – and one of his favorites – he is stunned. He also can't believe that Tanner really wants to spend time with him.
I loved reading this story. I admit that I was waiting for a big gotcha to come but I was also relieved that it never really happened. This was a very tender love story between an insecure teacher and the hockey player who is nine-years his junior.
What I hated – but was totally necessary for the story – was the way his mother and sister said and did things to reinforce the negative image that Isaiah already had of himself because of how his former fiancé treated him. These people supposedly loved him but they couldn't seem to see the damage they were inflicting on him. In the end, Tanner was finally able to convince Isaiah that he was the right man for him and that their age, salary or body-type didn't make him any less worthy of Tanner's love.
I say this a lot: epilogues are often my favorite part of a story and the one for Tanner and Isaiah one didn't disappoint me at all. 😊
It's been too long since I've read or listened to a book by L.A. Witt so I was very happy to receive an ARC of Burner Account. It's like this, I think I own nearly every book she's written but I don't always make time to read them – but – if I get an ARC I will make time to read it and I loved Burner Account.
I think L.A. Witt's books are usually a bit more angsty than this one but I love all kinds of MM romance, low or high angst, sweet or scorchingly hot; there are very few tropes I won't read.
Isaiah hasn't had very good luck with boyfriends; his last one really did a number on his self-confidence. When he finds out that his online friend is an NHL hockey player – and one of his favorites – he is stunned. He also can't believe that Tanner really wants to spend time with him.
I loved reading this story. I admit that I was waiting for a big gotcha to come but I was also relieved that it never really happened. This was a very tender love story between an insecure teacher and the hockey player who is nine-years his junior.
What I hated – but was totally necessary for the story – was the way his mother and sister said and did things to reinforce the negative image that Isaiah already had of himself because of how his former fiancé treated him. These people supposedly loved him but they couldn't seem to see the damage they were inflicting on him. In the end, Tanner was finally able to convince Isaiah that he was the right man for him and that their age, salary or body-type didn't make him any less worthy of Tanner's love.
I say this a lot: epilogues are often my favorite part of a story and the one for Tanner and Isaiah one didn't disappoint me at all. 😊
October 26, 2023
This book is great! I'm such an LA Witt fan but haven't read one for a little while, I'd forgotten how much I adore her style and her writing. As always, it sucked me in right away and I was constantly looking forward to getting to read some more. And a hockey romance, wow. LA and hockey is just next level yummy.
This is a gorgeous character-driven romance, a real relationship and character deep-dive of the type that LA does so well. I identified so much with both of the MCs and they are so loving and supportive of each other. And my word, the chemistry was off the charts. Again, it had been a while, but this author can write the hell out of a sex scene.
I was delighted to see a real push for diversity and inclusion in this one. The author has been championing characters with regular bodies and average-sized dicks for some time, and it was fantastic to see more of this, and also highlight how incredibly damaging body-image issues can be. I think we can all identify with this, and it was great to see it not only reflected in a romance novel but starting to see the negativity broken down. I'm normally suspicious of books with these kind of themes, but I finished this one feeling incredibly happy and positive.
As if all of that wasn't enough, this book is HILARIOUS. I was laughing from the very first page, and it continued throughout. I loved how Isaiah and Tanner met, and their online accounts were beyond hilarious. Definitely a fantastic feel-good book. Highly recommended to everyone.
This is a gorgeous character-driven romance, a real relationship and character deep-dive of the type that LA does so well. I identified so much with both of the MCs and they are so loving and supportive of each other. And my word, the chemistry was off the charts. Again, it had been a while, but this author can write the hell out of a sex scene.
I was delighted to see a real push for diversity and inclusion in this one. The author has been championing characters with regular bodies and average-sized dicks for some time, and it was fantastic to see more of this, and also highlight how incredibly damaging body-image issues can be. I think we can all identify with this, and it was great to see it not only reflected in a romance novel but starting to see the negativity broken down. I'm normally suspicious of books with these kind of themes, but I finished this one feeling incredibly happy and positive.
As if all of that wasn't enough, this book is HILARIOUS. I was laughing from the very first page, and it continued throughout. I loved how Isaiah and Tanner met, and their online accounts were beyond hilarious. Definitely a fantastic feel-good book. Highly recommended to everyone.
October 31, 2023
Four and a half stars
BURNER ACCOUNT by LA Witt is standalone m/m hockey romance. Isaiah Cole and Tanner Jeffries have been friends for years. But they've never met in person. They don't even know each other's real names. When they finally agree to meet, their connection is just as incredible as it's been online, just BETTER. Their friendship is as solid as ever, they enjoy time together no matter what they're doing, and on top of that? The chemistry they feel is as mutual as it can get.
LA Witt's story is engaging from the start, and Isaiah and Tanner and their friends and families are an important part of their lives. Their voices feel authentic, and the way they grapple with their concerns also feels very genuine. Their conversations and banter with friends is hilarious. And the on-ice action is intense and entertaining too!
Burner Account is very much character driven, and it is painful at times to see the lasting harm Isaiah's toxic ex has done. On the other hand, Tanner is a swoon-worthy character, and it's satisfying to see him and Isaiah grow to trust each other even more as their relationship develops. An excellent read.
m/m hockey romance, famous person/"regular" person, secret identities, self-image issues
BURNER ACCOUNT by LA Witt is standalone m/m hockey romance. Isaiah Cole and Tanner Jeffries have been friends for years. But they've never met in person. They don't even know each other's real names. When they finally agree to meet, their connection is just as incredible as it's been online, just BETTER. Their friendship is as solid as ever, they enjoy time together no matter what they're doing, and on top of that? The chemistry they feel is as mutual as it can get.
LA Witt's story is engaging from the start, and Isaiah and Tanner and their friends and families are an important part of their lives. Their voices feel authentic, and the way they grapple with their concerns also feels very genuine. Their conversations and banter with friends is hilarious. And the on-ice action is intense and entertaining too!
Burner Account is very much character driven, and it is painful at times to see the lasting harm Isaiah's toxic ex has done. On the other hand, Tanner is a swoon-worthy character, and it's satisfying to see him and Isaiah grow to trust each other even more as their relationship develops. An excellent read.
m/m hockey romance, famous person/"regular" person, secret identities, self-image issues
November 2, 2023
Tanner, a pro hockey player, and Isaiah, a middle school teacher, have been corresponding online through burner (ie fake name) profiles for almost four years when they finally decide to meet IRL (in real life). Of course they worry it will be a big mistake, of course they hope that their online friendship won't be ruined, and, of course, because this is LA Witt, their relationship is terrifically fun to watch grow, and full of page-turning scenes. I was pleasantly surprised that this proved to be a low-angst book, and even the late-in-the-book tension and resolution we so often expect in romances wasn't predictable. Note: if you have issues with your own body image or with loved ones pushing you to keep your own expectations low/running you down, be warned. The behavior of some of the secondary characters made me pretty angry (which means their behavior rang super-true, obviously). That said, I didn't find I couldn't keep reading, just that I was suitably frustrated on behalf of the main characters. And Tanner and Isaiah are super easy to like, root for, and be happy for as they find their way to a happily-ever-after. I received a copy in advance and this is my own opinion.
November 18, 2023
First book from this author and it didn’t disappoint. Great story, great flow, wonderful MCs. I loved this! I was swooning 18% of the way in (I made a comment to a friend about it) all the way to the end. It had the HEA I crave and it was done perfectly. I loved loved loved both Tanner and Isaiah. Both were such sweet men who saw the best in each other and fought to make their relationship work, despite Isiah’s inner dialogue and some nasty remarks from his mom and sister. There are a couple of grammar errors in the book, the wrong word being used like if instead of it for example but nothing to derail my feelings for the story or the flow. Super quick read that was a total page tuner. It was both swoony and spicy. Loved it and love a hockey book.
To the folks who complained in their reviews that the fells talked about hockey….may I remind you that Tanner was a pro player and significant others or even just friends talk about work? Do not let that stop you from reading the story.
Friends to lovers is one of my fave troupes and this was done well and sweet and practically perfect!
To the folks who complained in their reviews that the fells talked about hockey….may I remind you that Tanner was a pro player and significant others or even just friends talk about work? Do not let that stop you from reading the story.
Friends to lovers is one of my fave troupes and this was done well and sweet and practically perfect!
November 4, 2023
Another one that was not working for me. I'm on a streak, it seems. The premise is awesome and the editing is good, but everything else not so much.
So these guys were talking for four years and they know a lot about each other. Can that make you be in love the first time you see someone? I don't think so. But I don't believe in love at first sight so maybe that's on me.
Calling someone else baby makes me gag.
While in theory they can talk about anything we actually only see them talking about hokey or sex. Isaiah wants to know everything about Tanner's hokey life, but it doesn't seem to be reciprocated.
Isaiah's hang up about his self esteem could have been relatable, but repeating it over and over has the exact opposite effect.
One of my greatest issue is how into fighting and violence they both are. Tanner having a fight during a game is sexy? Really? Agression is supposed to be sexy? Again, maybe it's my issue.
It's possible all of the above has to do with me and not the book, but it doesn't change the fact that I just won't finish this one.
So these guys were talking for four years and they know a lot about each other. Can that make you be in love the first time you see someone? I don't think so. But I don't believe in love at first sight so maybe that's on me.
Calling someone else baby makes me gag.
While in theory they can talk about anything we actually only see them talking about hokey or sex. Isaiah wants to know everything about Tanner's hokey life, but it doesn't seem to be reciprocated.
Isaiah's hang up about his self esteem could have been relatable, but repeating it over and over has the exact opposite effect.
One of my greatest issue is how into fighting and violence they both are. Tanner having a fight during a game is sexy? Really? Agression is supposed to be sexy? Again, maybe it's my issue.
It's possible all of the above has to do with me and not the book, but it doesn't change the fact that I just won't finish this one.
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May 29, 2024This mini-review is part of a list titled "Men with Soft Bellies" that can be read in full at The Smut Report
Isaiah and Tanner have bonded on the socials using fake names. They’ve basically been best friends who flirt sometimes for years, but they have no idea of the other’s real identity. And both of their real life best friends are like, “This guy sounds perfect for you, what are you waiting for?” But when a real life older, overweight school teacher and a sexy, young professional hockey player get together, Isaiah isn’t convinced it’s going to be something that lasts. Tanner has to prove that he’s all in. This is pure, low-angst, romantic charm at its finest.
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Isaiah and Tanner have bonded on the socials using fake names. They’ve basically been best friends who flirt sometimes for years, but they have no idea of the other’s real identity. And both of their real life best friends are like, “This guy sounds perfect for you, what are you waiting for?” But when a real life older, overweight school teacher and a sexy, young professional hockey player get together, Isaiah isn’t convinced it’s going to be something that lasts. Tanner has to prove that he’s all in. This is pure, low-angst, romantic charm at its finest.
Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram
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