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Felice Stevens
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Beyond the Surface: A Second Chance at Love Contemporary Gay Romance (The Breakfast Club Book 1) Kindle Edition

by Felice Stevens (Author) Format: Kindle Edition
4.4 out of 5 stars 906 ratings
On 9/11, firefighter Nick Fletcher’s world changed forever. He's unable to rid himself of survivor’s guilt, made worse by the secret he hides from his family and co-workers. Nick's life is centered around helping burn victims, until he is reunited with the man he’d once loved but pushed away. Now he has a second chance at a love he thought lost forever.

For fashion designer Julian Cornell, appearances mean everything. His love affairs are strictly casual, and the only thing he cares about is making his clothing line a success. A chance encounter with the man he loved long ago has Julian thinking for the first time in years there may be more to life than being seen at the best parties and what designer labels to wear.

When Julian’s world takes an unexpected turn, it's Nick who helps him regain perspective on what matters most in life. Julian, in turn, helps Nick accept who he is and understand he isn’t responsible for tragedies he couldn't prevent. Lost love found can be even sweeter the second time around and after all the years apart, both men learn to look beyond the surface to find the men they are inside.
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  1. Book 1 of 5
    The Breakfast Club
  2. Print length
    249 pages
  3. Language
    English
  4. Accessibility
    Learn more
  5. Publication date
    August 17, 2015
  6. File size
    815 KB
  7. Page Flip
    Enabled
  8. Word Wise
    Enabled
  9. Enhanced typesetting
    Enabled
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From the Publisher

Beyond the Surface
A second chance with his first love
and he will risk it all

Editorial Reviews

Review

A 2015 Rainbow Award Finalist and Honorable Mention for Best Gay Erotic Romance and a Finalist for Best Cover.

"Beautifully written with characters I not only want to be friends with but that I admire; Beyond the Surface is author Felice Stevens best work to date and a great start to a new series."-Slick-Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews

About the Author

Felice Stevens is the author of several romance novels, including the Memories series, the Breakfast Club series, and Rescued. Although she practices law, Felice daydreams of a time when she can sit by a beach and write beautiful stories of men falling in love. She lives in New York City with her husband and two children.

Marc Bachmann grew up in the Midwest, where his heart was lit up by the words of Shelley, Poe, and Byron. It is the thrill of his life to record books. Marc lives in the woods, where he records from home and enjoys reading by the fire with a glass of wine and playing with his dog, Bingo.

Product details

  • ASIN ‏ : ‎ B013JB97QY
  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Felice Stevens
  • Accessibility ‏ : ‎ Learn more
  • Publication date ‏ : ‎ August 17, 2015
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • File size ‏ : ‎ 815 KB
  • Simultaneous device usage ‏ : ‎ Unlimited
  • Screen Reader ‏ : ‎ Supported
  • Enhanced typesetting ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Word Wise ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Print length ‏ : ‎ 249 pages
  • Page Flip ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Book 1 of 5 ‏ : ‎ The Breakfast Club
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.4 out of 5 stars 906 ratings

About the author

Follow authors to get new release updates, plus improved recommendations.
Felice Stevens

Felice Stevens

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Full content visible, double tap to read brief content.

Felice Stevens writes romance because what is better than people falling in love? Her favorite part of a romance novel is that first kiss…sigh. She loves creating stories of hopes and dreams and happily ever afters. Her stories are character-driven, rich with the sights, sounds and flavors of New York City and filled with men who are sometimes deeply flawed but always real.

Felice writes M/M romance because she believes that everyone deserves a happily ever after. Having traveled all over the world, she can safely say that the universal language that unites people is love. Felice has written in a variety of sub-genres, including contemporary, paranormal and has a mystery series as well.

Felice is a two time Lambda Literary Award nominee and the Lambda Literary Award winner for Best Gay Romance for her book, The Ghost and Charlie Muir.

To keep up-to-date on all things happening, join Felice's Newsletter and get a free book!

https://tiny.one/Felicenewsletter

Follow her on BookBub: https://geni.us/FeliceBB

Customer reviews

4.4 out of 5 stars
906 global ratings

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Customers say

Customers find this romance novel to be an amazing story of love and second chances, with heartwarming elements that pull at readers' heartstrings. The writing flows well, and customers appreciate the characters and humor throughout the book. They value the pacing, with one customer noting how it helps readers overcome seemingly impossible obstacles, and they appreciate the themes of acceptance.

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52 customers mention "Story quality"50 positive2 negative

Customers love the story of this romance book, describing it as sweet and amazing, with one customer noting its heart-wrenching backstories.

"Amazing story by Felice Stevens. 9/11's devastation hurt more than just those who died...." Read more

"...I love a good second chance romance and this one definitely falls into that category. Nick is a closeted gay firefighter with PTSD...." Read more

"...Great story!" Read more

"...I loved the complexity of their story and Nick trying to navigate the familial expectations as well as those of his Firefighting family...." Read more

26 customers mention "Heartwarming"26 positive0 negative

Customers find the book emotional and heartfelt, pulling at heart strings and being inspiring, with one customer specifically mentioning the touching portrayal of burn victims Jamal.

"...I really loved Julian's character. He was really sweet and had a big heart...." Read more

"...Excellent, amazing and entertaining. It was a very emotional story with amazing characters that had been through a lot in their lives...." Read more

"...Their story gave me all the feels - laughter, smiles, sadness, tears and happiness. I loved their journey together." Read more

"...This book pulls at your heart strings in all the most important ways. Nick and Jullian are zoo heartstoppingly perfect together...." Read more

12 customers mention "Character development"12 positive0 negative

Customers love the characters in the book, with one noting how the storyline is supported by good character development.

"...These deep characters are terrific, in this tale with suspense, drama, and surprises...." Read more

"...Nick is a closeted gay firefighter with PTSD. I really loved Julian's character. He was really sweet and had a big heart...." Read more

"...It was a very emotional story with amazing characters that had been through a lot in their lives...." Read more

"...heart breaking for both of these two people, and there was beautiful character growth as Julian re-evaluates his life while Nick finally accepts who..." Read more

10 customers mention "Writing quality"10 positive0 negative

Customers praise the writing quality of the book, noting that it flows well and is a fast read.

"...I thought Nick’s backstory was moving and well written (and even better: believable) and Julian’s storyline after his first fashion show was..." Read more

"...I was very impressed with Felice Stevens' writing...." Read more

"...Add to it great writing and you have a perfect mix for a wonderful Sunday read." Read more

"...I felt it was believed and the well written. The sex is over the top, but in times it brought the characters Life with dementions." Read more

9 customers mention "Humor"9 positive0 negative

Customers enjoy the book's humor, finding it entertaining and making them smile, with one customer mentioning it made their heart swell.

"Beyond the Surface: WOW! Excellent, amazing and entertaining...." Read more

"...Their story gave me all the feels - laughter, smiles, sadness, tears and happiness. I loved their journey together." Read more

"...and you have an amazing story of love, tears, laughter, strength, and triumph!..." Read more

"...There were laughs, too, and great secondary characters like Marcus and Zach I want more from...." Read more

7 customers mention "Pacing"7 positive0 negative

Customers appreciate the pacing of the book, with several noting the excellent general advice, and one customer highlighting its strong topics and well-researched content.

"...Two very strong topics that were covered very well...." Read more

"These two MC's are well researched and well developed, a feat that Felice Stevens manages to pull off in every one of her books...." Read more

"...beautiful story of love, loss, self acceptance and overcoming seemingly impossible obstacles." Read more

"...This was an amazing book for me - so healing and helpful." Read more

3 customers mention "Acceptance"3 positive0 negative

Customers appreciate the acceptance theme in the book.

"...it all Nick finds in Julian what he's always wanted, Julian's love, acceptance, and understanding...." Read more

"...I highly recommend this beautiful story of love, loss, self acceptance and overcoming seemingly impossible obstacles." Read more

"...family, physical and mental hurt and healing, but above all love and acceptance, that is all you will find in this story and much more...." Read more

Top reviews from the United States

  • D.Hart, RCIS
    5.0 out of 5 stars Great M/M drama/romance !!!
    Reviewed in the United States on August 26, 2015
    Verified Purchase
    Amazing story by Felice Stevens. 9/11's devastation hurt more than just those who died. Lonely Nick is a firefighter, was trapped under a beam, burned, rescued and spent months recovering and in therapy for survivor's guilt. He still feels guilty to be alive. In their teens, Nick and Julian loved each other, but Nick ran. Equally lonely Julian is now a world famous menswear designer, who has had his latest fashions stolen, and his business ruined. He and Nick find each other, and sparks fly. Julian's still hurt that Nick left him, and Nick is still closeted. They kiss, talk, and begin healing their relationship. Nick visits the burn center, because he wants to help kids with burns know there is hope. After all, he survived his burns. Julian goes along to visit the teens, and gets a brilliant idea. His new venture is from the heart, not the fashion industry vanity. There is bullying at the firehouse to deal with, of course Nick must tell his family he's gay, if they want a relationship that includes the ones they love. So, a lot is happening, and through it all Nick finds in Julian what he's always wanted, Julian's love, acceptance, and understanding. The acceptance by family and firefighters is a bit harder to come by. Julian has never wanted anyone but Nick, so his dream may come true. These deep characters are terrific, in this tale with suspense, drama, and surprises. Well done super hot M/M sex, and an interesting plot make this worthwhile.
    Highly recommend. E N J O Y !!!.
    7 people found this helpful
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  • Julie Maguda
    4.0 out of 5 stars Second Chance romance
    Reviewed in the United States on January 24, 2017
    Verified Purchase
    3.5 stars

    I've had this one hanging around on my Kindle for a long time, and I've been trying to tackle my TBR/Backlist, so I tried out this one. This is the first book in The Breakfast Club series. All of the books in the series can be read as a stand alone. I actually already read the 2nd book in the series, so I decided to grab this one because I was curious about these two characters. While these books are stand alones, there are 3 best friends and each gets their one book for their love story.

    I love a good second chance romance and this one definitely falls into that category. Nick is a closeted gay firefighter with PTSD. I really loved Julian's character. He was really sweet and had a big heart. I thought the chemistry developed a little weird between the two of them but once they really decided to give it a go, it was great. They had some great steamy moments.

    There were a couple things that bothered me, like: how everything was just a little TOO neat and happy at the end. The homophobe magically has a change of heart and apologizes, alone with Julian's nemesis. Also, Nick's dad gets over his issues with his son being gay almost instantly. I DID like how things ended in the book with Nick and Julian. It was super cute.

    I also have book #3 in this series, so I'm really excited to read about Marcus' story!
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  • Katyjane
    5.0 out of 5 stars Second Chance!
    Reviewed in the United States on February 28, 2022
    Verified Purchase
    Beyond the Surface: WOW! Excellent, amazing and entertaining. It was a very emotional story with amazing characters that had been through a lot in their lives. Felice Stevens did an excellent job of writing this story of stuggles with LGBQT and loosing friends in 9/11. Two very strong topics that were covered very well. I liked that Nick and Julian were two very opposites when it came to their jobs but they care about the same thing in life. Great story!
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  • H. Spanarella
    5.0 out of 5 stars Fantastic
    Reviewed in the United States on January 18, 2019
    Verified Purchase
    I really love this series and when the narration became available I had to listen too! I loved Nick and Julian’s story at a second chance for their happy ever after. At one point childhood sweethearts, Nick broke Julian’s heart by being determined to do what was expected of him - meet a woman and raise a family. While Nick followed in his Dad’s footsteps of becoming an NYC Firefighter, Julian pursued his dream of becoming a fashion designer. When Nick and Julian found each other again, the same feelings and old hurts resurfaced. I loved the complexity of their story and Nick trying to navigate the familial expectations as well as those of his Firefighting family. I loved Julian’s patience with Nick as he found himself and his support of the new Nick post 9/11. Their story gave me all the feels - laughter, smiles, sadness, tears and happiness. I loved their journey together.
    One person found this helpful
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  • Golden Child
    4.0 out of 5 stars Nick & Julian
    Reviewed in the United States on May 28, 2023
    Verified Purchase
    Second chances for more than just love. Together in high school, Nick walked away because of what he thought was a mistake, he couldn’t live his life as a gay man. They found their second chance together years later. But each had another chance to live as themselves, be people they could be proud of. Nick accepting who he was, fully in all aspects of his life, home, work, love life and especially finally accepting he couldn’t have changed the events of 9/11 but could only accept he needed to live fully to honor those that died. Julian got his chance with Nick and make a difference in lives that were profoundly changed by fire. By doing what he loved but it had so much more purpose than the shallow world that is fashion. Wonderfully told story.
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  • ewake
    3.0 out of 5 stars Meh..
    Reviewed in the United States on August 24, 2015
    Verified Purchase
    This was a sweet story. I liked the premise.. Ish. Firefighters are always good. But there was a lot here that wasn't for me. For one, I couldn't really connect with the characters. Maybe it's just a personal taste thing, but they didn't seem unique. It felt like they could've jumped off the pages of any book, and often times their voices kind of blended into each other. There was a lot of repetition. There were several moments, particularly in the dialogue, where I actually said, "Oh come on!" aloud.

    So yeah, I didn't love this, but I didn't hate it. It's a nice story if you're looking for a feel good read, but it felt pretty generic. If you haven't read much m/m romance, you might like this better than I did. I'm still willing to give the author another read though.
    4 people found this helpful
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Top reviews from other countries

  • Johanna
    3.0 out of 5 stars a bit too easy, too sweet at the end, but all in all a pleasant read
    Reviewed in Germany on February 15, 2016
    Verified Purchase
    3,5 stars.
    I read this in one sitting which shows that it grabbed me enough to keep me going. Julian and Nick are nice characters, and the plot is fine, I really rooted for the fire fighter meets fashion designer. But...I can't help that there are a few things not ringing true for me.
    Nick has had year long issues, including survivor's guilt and being deeply closeted, not to mention his self-doubts and fears of coming out and living a 'normal' life. Yet, a few weeks with Julian and he declares himself 'healed' to his psychologist? And four months later the guy stands in front of his family, his work mates, and the media to declare his love and life story on a stage via a microphone? For me, it was too much, and too unrealistic. As was the all over sugar coated ending. Even Jensen came to apologize? And everyone loved and accepted them? Maybe this is me, but life isn't usually like that. I felt that Nick's issues were resolved too quickly and with any major hick-ups (well even Brian conceded to Nick's confession after a couple of glares of his wife)
    Another thing that bugged me were the long intersections of thought thrown into conversations. It took me out off the discourse and I had to go back a few times to reread what a person had actually said before I could continue. As for the actual words - some things the characters said felt more like lectures than things real people would say, particularly towards the end of the book.
    Please don't get me wrong - this is a nice enough book, but there is something about the way that Nick and Julian talk to each other which doesn't feel authentic, Maybe a touch stilted is the right description? Or it is because there is a lot of telling rather than showing?
    Still, this is a pleasant read, and I'm keen to find out about Zach in the next book.
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  • Federica Lemme
    5.0 out of 5 stars I fell in love immediately with this book.
    Reviewed in Italy on December 21, 2015
    Verified Purchase
    Julian, Zach and Marcus have been friends since college and even though that they now have their own lives, they still meet at least once a month for breakfast.
    Though they are the protagonists of this beautiful new series, they are all very different characters.
    The first book of the “Breakfast Club” series is about Julian’s love story with Nick Fletcher.
    Nick and Julian were friends at school and fell in love, but Nick couldn’t shake off his fear for this different love he felt, so he fled leaving Julian without an explanation.
    18 years later they meet again at a charity event organised by Marcus, where Nick is attending with his sister.
    Julian Cornell is now a fashion designer who has just experienced the worst day of his career. The show that was to mark his greatest achievement, was a complete failure! And now he have to figure out how to recover and cope with his mounting economic problems.
    Nick Fletcher is now a firefighter who experienced one of the most horrific days of our world’s history – the attack on the Twin Towers. In trying to save lives, he suffered very physical and psychological wounds.
    Though not an American myself, I remember that day like it was yesterday, the horror and utter helplessness and that’s why reading this story was so involving, it was utter heart wrenching.
    Their meeting after so a long time is not the most pleasant to say the least. Their wounds are deep and not easy to shrug off.
    Throughout the book, however, they keep on meeting and slowly begin to rebuild their lives and relationship.
    Felice Sevens is the Queen of HEA’s and she doesn’t disappoint on this one, although I would suggest you keep a box of tissues handy, you are going to need them!
    I fell in love immediately with this book.
    First of all, the cover is fantastic, but it is Dante Reese – so it could not be anything else.
    The story itself is deep and engaging. I will admit that I have a weakness for firefighters, but this is so much more than a sexy man in uniform.
    The author deals with very delicate issues, the trauma of the loss that never heals and physical wounds that fire victims carry with them for the rest of their lives.
    If I have to be the devil’s advocate the only part that has not convinced me, was the meeting of Julian with his antagonist Devon Chambers at the end of the book, for me it didn’t add anything to a story, that was perfect the way it is .
    A really very good start for a new series that I can’t wait to see how it will continue.

    Marcus and Zach are very interesting characters and I’m sure that in future books they will bringing lots of surprises.
    [ ... ]
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  • sarah mitcham
    5.0 out of 5 stars An Unexpected Meeting Reunites Them.
    Reviewed in the United Kingdom on February 14, 2022
    Verified Purchase
    MM, Second Chance, Contemporary, Romance. An easy to read page-turner with great characters who have not seen each other for many years. A fast paced story with action, drama, angst and heat throughout, I thoroughly enjoyed reading their story which covered some difficult subjects but did so exceptionally well. The book is the first in the series and I think it's started the series brilliantly. Guaranteed HEA.
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  • Sean Alexander
    5.0 out of 5 stars I really enjoyed Beyond the Surface – a love story with such ...
    Reviewed in Canada on September 4, 2015
    Verified Purchase
    I really enjoyed Beyond the Surface – a love story with such a positive ending. The two main characters are Nick, a hunky fireman, dealing with the physical and emotional scars of 9/11 and Julian, a fashion designer that Nick rejected at 16 because he couldn’t admit he’s gay. They come back together in a positive way to help kids battling the aftermath of fire and finding their love for each other in the process. Great story!
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  • Vania
    5.0 out of 5 stars A great second chances romance!
    Reviewed in Italy on October 8, 2019
    Verified Purchase
    Felice Stevens is great as usual as bringing out all the feelings in tjis awesome second chances story! Nick finding his way back to life and to accepting himself after meeting Julian again and Julian finding his purpose in life and in his job.
    I loved it! Charlie David did a great job!
    Report

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