The Time of My Life by Nora Phoenix

Amazon

Blurb:
Denver is determined to realize his lifelong dream of becoming a singer. That's why entering in The Right Note TV contest is the biggest opportunity he'll ever get. After everything he's been through with the boyfriend (now ex) from hell, he will not risk losing himself ever again, especially over a guy.

Judah has almost hit rock bottom. His dream to make it as a singer and musician is all but dead. Added to that, he's broke and he's about to outwear his welcome with his friends. Taking part in The Right Note is his last chance, but he cannot afford to show who he really is at the risk of permanently alienating his conservative family.

Denver doesn't want to be drawn to Judah, 'cause the guy spells trouble in every way. But the heart wants what it wants, and Denver seems unable to say no, even when Judah keeps switching from hot to cold on him.

When Judah meets Denver, he knows he's in deep, deep trouble. He fights the attraction with everything he's got, but Denver draws him in like the sun. Being with him comes at a price, however, and it's not just jeopardizing winning the contest. When Denver's ex stirs up trouble, Judah has to make a decision. Is Denver worth putting everything on the line for?

The Time of My Life is a steamy stand-alone MM romance with a sweet HEA. Please note trigger warnings for domestic abuse and rape.

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REVIEW:

I love this book. From the cover, to the last page, I love every second I spent with The Time of My Life.

The story takes place within the premise of a singing reality show competition.  Denver and Judah meet when they are both auditioning for the show.  

I love these boys.

Judah, poor, poor Judah. My heart breaks for him. He is homeless after being kicked out by his parents when they find out he is gay. It is a perfect portrayal of a overly religious family casting out their child because he/she is gay. Sickening. Realistic. And absolutely heart-breaking. A couple of times I found myself taking a break from the story just to relax. I had to remember it is fiction.

Judah finds himself attracted to Denver. He wants to fight this attraction. He prefers to focus on the competition instead of spending any time or effort on someone else. But he finds it very difficult to avoid carving a spot in his life for Denvir.

Judah and Denvir are two men who are so good together. They both carry their share of baggage, but they are able to help each other. They give each other strength and help each other to learn to live again. Both men are well written. They are likeable, relatable, and engaging. Their characters are well developed and captivating. The love they share is touching and beautiful.

Ultimately, they both need to decide what their top priority is - winning the contest or their relationship. Their journey to happiness will not be an easy one, but it will be well worth it. 

Nora Phoenix does a fantastic job with this story.  She manages to write a wonderful romance within the interesting setting of a reality show. The details of the show process are well written and the premise is something I enjoy a lot. She manages to add the perfect amount of angst.

I highly recommend The Time of My Life.