*1.5 stars*

It's rare that I actually give a book 1-star, but I hated this book so much that I actually DNFed at 90%. AT 90%!!! I simply couldn't read another word.

Really, I'm shocked at how much this book bothered me considering I LOVED Erin McLellan's debut, Controlled Burn. In fact, I gave Controlled Burn a rare 5-stars, something I only do a handful of times a year.

I sort of enjoyed the first 10% of Life on Pause, but then things quickly devolved. I really and truly hated Niles, like really hated him, and I wished for nothing more than for Rusty to find another man. Niles was self-absorbed with self-esteem so low that he was constantly calling himself a loser, and he hurt Rusty every time he felt threatened, even a little bit. What's worse is that he didn't seem to be that remorseful about his crappy behavior and even shifted the blame to Rusty most of the time.

The chemistry was really not there for me, mostly because I wanted Niles to fall into a ditch. Niles was moany, whiny, and just not likable. Sure, I don't mind a character with low self-esteem who learns to love themselves and all that jazz, but Niles made me roll my eyes so hard I thought they'd be stuck in the top of my head.

The drama was artificial, and I could see it coming a mile away. It was miscommunication and overreaction (by Niles, of course) time and time again. I just couldn't stand so see Niles' mixed messages any longer. I really hated the last 50%, so much so that I didn't even care to see their HEA.

The only reason I even gave an extra 1/2 a star was because of the secondary characters. I would read a book with Todd as the MC in a heartbeat, and I enjoyed Rusty's family as well. I just wish I liked the romance in this book, even a little bit.

I know Erin McLellan is capable of better, and I look forward to seeing more from her in the future.

*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*

This is the second book that I've read from this author and I enjoyed it a lot. I liked that the characters in this story weren't perfect and that gave more of a real feel to the story; well every character except Margo. She was so sweet. The only thing that did bother me a little at times was how low Niles self-esteem was. Yes, it isn't easy being judged, ridiculed, name called, etc. but I wished he had somehow found more strength within himself. Rusty had his doubts but I loved how he wasn't afraid to show his love. He may have withheld his feelings for silly reasons but when he loved he loved with everything. Jackie, Margo and Victor brought love, support and laughs into the story and Todd was an interesting character, even more so when Victor was around. The ending was sweet and well worth it. I truly hope Victor gets a book because I'm sure it will be another good story, especially if Todd somehow makes his way into it. I definitely look forward to reading more books from this author in the future and I definitely recommend this book if you are looking for a great m/m small town romance read.