The Backup Boyfriend

Boyfriend Chronicles Series, Book 1

By: River Jaymes

Narrated by: Marc Bachmann

Professionally, Dr. Alec Johnson has almost reached his goals. As this year's recipient of a humanitarian award with his ex, Dr. Tyler Hall, Alec's work with the homeless is about to be recognized. Unfortunately, his personal life sucks because now he has to attend several events alongside Tyler - with his ex's new boyfriend in tow. In an attempt to lift his mood and break out of his rut, Alec purchases a motorcycle he has no idea how to start. Dylan Booth doesn't have time for Dr. Clueless and his fickle 1964 Harley, but the cocky mechanic can't say no to the request for help.

Having spent his teen years on the streets, and losing his best friend to HIV, Dylan decides teaching the do-gooder how to ride is the least he can do. But watching Alec flounder in his ex's company throws Dylan into protector mode, and the confirmed hetero introduces himself as Alec's new boyfriend. But Dylan's a master bullshitter, and the phony PDA soon turns ultra-hot. Alec can't afford to get attached, and Dylan's learned everyone eventually leaves. Unfortunately, playing the backup boyfriend is starting to feel way too real....

Contains mature themes.

©2013 River Jaymes (P)2015 Tantor

Great!

The Backup Boyfriend is one of my favorite M/M books. I've read the book twice. I love the story and the characters. I was so excited to see it available on Audible. I've never listened to a book narrated by Mark Bachmann, so I was pleasantly surprised by the job he did. Good narration, fantastic story, I would highly recommend to anyone who enjoys gay romances.

Really liked the two main characters…

…Alec and Dylan are equal parts frustrating and endearing. Dylan, struggling to define (or not) himself and Alec, willingly submitting to hurtful (verbal) dismissiveness from his “partner” over and over again. But, their coming together is inevitable and it was satisfying when it finally happened. Very satisfying book—it gives hope and love and, ultimately, acceptance. Respectfully, i was a little turned off by the narration. Just a little. It felt like the narrator was reading rather than performing—not fully embodying the characters. Small quibble, but it made it more difficult for me to get under the characters’ skins. Good read, nonetheless. And the sex was also very steamy.

Like the book but not the right narrator

What made the experience of listening to The Backup Boyfriend the most enjoyable?

Good story line

What didn’t you like about Marc Bachmann’s performance?

The narrator has a great voice and excellent diction but is not quite suited for this book.

Great story

The writer pulls you into the story and has you actually caring about the characters.
The pace of the story builds you up to what's going to happen next.

Not finishing because horrible narration

I absolutely love this book and have read it 3 times so I was so excited to find the audio book. However, the voice used for Dylan seems identical to John Wayne or another swaggering cowboy and I cannot stand to finish listening - even to hear a favorite book.

I have listened to around 100 books and this is the first I haven't finished... so beware.