Canaan is a breath of fresh air to me. He has no filter. Renzo was burned once before and he protects his heart because of it. But, he is not match for Canaan’s resolve to make Renzo his.

A fab book!

I wasn't a very big fan of Canaan in the last book though to be honest it wasn't really his fault- more the problems he stood for. Still, I was a bit worried how I would deal with a book about him. 

Turns out, I love the guy :) He's really lovable and he changes a lot in the course of this book. Lots of that is thanks to Renzo of course who we've also know for part of this series. These two are so cute together and I could have read about their banter and first get togethers forever. 

I have read somewhere that this is the last book of the series. If that's really true it at least ends with a really good one so we get to say goodbye on a more than happy note.

📚I received an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) from NetGalley and Harlequin-Carina Press as the publisher in exchange for an honest review📚

Book title : Rough Terrain

Author : Annabeth Albert

Release Date : 14 January 2019

“Why does sex have to be so freaking complicated?”

“It’s not. Or at least doesn’t have to be. I mean, I’ll be the first one to admit that emotions can be a bitch and they can complicate sex, sure. But sex itself? Not complicated. Two or more bodies doing what bodies do best. It’s fucking glorious.”

Forget those romance with CEO, millionaire and billionaire thing for a while! Let’s go for a story which is more exhilarating…unique and sweet!  

Meet Canaan Finley and Renzo “Rooster” Bianchi in Annabeth Albert’s last series of the Out of Uniform “Rough Terrain.” The book is a MM novel which offers sweet romance between a Navy SEAL sexy hunky and a former drummer in a popular band who is now in school to become a nurse while working as a smoothie barista. Canaan is one who almost had a threesome with Ben and Maddox in On Point. He is so flirty in nature and so fun. Renzo is more serious and it is probably because he is oppressed by his family to be the best SEAL ever! Yet he is very devoted to his works.

Renzo and Canaan meets and feels the immediate attraction. They decide to have a little bit of fun but their sexual attraction leads them to a friendship and later also leads them to something more emotional…more engaging. However, as Renzo carries a burden from his family’s expectation, he feels insecure and has trust issues when it comes to a relationship.

“Trust. Such a powerful word. His chest felt heavy and full, as if the fear of disappointing Renzo was a palpable thing. For the first time, he wanted more than just to show Renzo a good time – he wanted to earn that trust, wanted to give Renzo a reason to wan a repeat. Wanted this to maybe be the start.”

He later also tries to put off any relationship and to get away from Canaan by willingly being mutated elsewhere. In my personal opinion, Annabeth is so brilliant in writing the farewell plot as this is a problem that most gay couple’s often face in the real life. They decide to run away from their love because of the oppression from family and society or simply feeling insecure about themselves. And this is my favourite part of the story tho!

“Well, I’m going to remember you forever. Remember that you made me want to take that chance. And remember that I did the right thing, letting you be free to have your best future.”

“Ren,” he begged. “Don’t do this.”

“Let me. Please.” Renzo gave him a soft, fleeting kiss. “Let me love you enough to let you go. Please.”

I cannot even find any flaws in this book except for the conflict that is written shortly. It is simply because Annabeth’s story seems like portraying the real life of a gay couple out there. I can simply relate myself to the feeling, the love-denial, and the burden that this couple has to go through. What makes it different from the real life gay couple’s story (which often ends up tragically), Annabeth offers me with a sweet fairy tale of Renzo and Canaan here

“I love you because of everything you are – everything. And the military is a huge part of that. I am not gonna waste my time trying to wish that part of you away, not when it makes up the guy I love too fast. I know my heart, I am not ready to let you go either. Maybe not ever!”

Those highlights should be a reminder that one should read this cute story to sweeten their romance. Ah, could I have this couple, Annabeth? Like for ever and after?

Full review is available at https://literatureisliving.wordpress.com/2018/12/01/rough-terrain-by-annabeth-albert/

I enjoyed this latest installment of the Out of Uniform series. We've met both of the MC's in previous books albeit briefly. Renzo (aka Rooster) is on Bacon's team and Caanan was the guy who had the threesome kind of thing with Ben and Maddox in their book. (and I might be a little jealous of Caanan for that)

The overall plot was entertaining and I really liked Caanan. His grandfather was also awesome. Renzo on the other hand got on my nerves. He was always worrying and fretting and kind of a downer. I also didn't like his mother at all and I struggled with his devotion to his family (which probably makes me a terrible person). His issues with sex were interesting though and a unique plotline that I haven't read before. I love that about this author. You never know what you're going to get in her books.

Overall I enjoyed this but it seemed a bit long and drug in places. This was not one of my favorites in the series but also not one of my least favorites (I'm looking at you Apollo). Just a nice middle of the road story.


*ARC provided through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

Annabeth Albert is always a must read for me as is this series. Renzo aka Rooster has been burned before by someone using him to make his ex jealous. Cannan is figuring out his life but doesn't want to face his past alone. A road trip and camping turns into to much more while both men figure out what they need going forward. Both characters were totally engaging. Renzo is so guided by guilt from his family and Cannan is guided by his fears. Watching both men grow from their relatioship with each other makes you root for them individually and as a couple. Albert always writes multi-layered complex characters with emotional language. This book is no exception. Highly recommend.

I have been a fan of this series since the beginning and it pains me to give the last book only two stars but everything in it felt too rushed. We had no established relationship between these two characters, the book needs the reader to feel that intense connection between them in order to work as a piece of storytelling and I feel like there are elements missing.
*some [mild] SPOILERS ahead*
In addition, it is my opinion that there were too many plot devices at the forefront of this story that never quite make it into a fully fleshed issue. Canaan's desire to maybe go back into playing drums is given importance at some points during the story to then be quickly dismissed. Renzo's mum essentially saying that even though she's okay with him being bi she would rather have Renzo ending up with a woman is made to be a big deal for Renzo to then be forgotten by all parties involved when the epilogue off-handedly mentions that she's now okay with it because they might have kids in the future. These elements should either be resolved in a way in which they serve the main story or not be brought up at all

Rough Terrain,is the best way for this (out of Uniform) series could end.
Not overly dramatic the drama and angst are more selff related.
inner demons,insecurities.but there is also a bit off action during a campingtrip.
I loved the guys together and apart from each other.
they make a believable couple,loved Grandpa.

Annabeth Albert is a talented author and a autobuy for me.
looking forward off more of her magic.

arc provided by carinapress

ROUGH TERRAIN by Annabeth Albert is an action packed romance. Renzo is a Navy SEAL and Canaan is the former Drummer for a popular band, now in school to become a Nurse. Both have close family ties. It's a great story, I enjoyed reading it!

This was a disappointing book for me. I have really, thoroughly, enjoyed this series so having this one just not work on so many levels was sad for me. This is the last one in the series and I'm sad that for me it ended on this book. I don't want to leave this world of sensitive, queer, tough-as-fuck SEALs and the men they fall for.

What I specifically found disappointing in this one was mostly the main character, Renzo. He has not been my favorite side character and really I probably would have skipped this if I had known this was going to be his book. He's very much the slicked hair, overly muscled kind of man that I just don't really care for. There's nothing wrong with the character it's just not for me.

The other like giant elephant in the room throughout the book was Renzo's family and they way they treat him and his very clear body dysmorphia. Renzo's family demands he be perfect and he sends them most of his money and there is just a lot of guilt based familial interactions that really rubbed me the wrong way. It's one thing to take care of your family, it's another thing to have that family refer to you as their hero and imply that without you giving over all of your money and self that you're a terrible son. And then with his body Renzo talks about how he was pudgy and then he started working out and now he watches what he eats. The reader is subjected to multiple accounts of Renzo not eating something because of the caloric intake. He's a fucking SEAL he burns enough calories. If it had been presented as he needed to eat x amount of protein and less starch or something along those lines I would have been more forgiving of it, but he's clearly got an eating disorder and no one cares.

Outside of that I can admit that the romance and the short survivalist parts are good, but they're way too short. I would have liked more of him being a badass survivalists, but he does behave in a way that is consistent in how he should have behaved (in that in the situation they were in staying put was the best thing to do) but I wanted a bit more action.

I am so saddened that this is the last book in this series :(. I loved that there was no unnecessary drama or misunderstandings in this book. The sex was by far the hottest I have read in a very long time. We have a story of two guys who are attracted to each other but are carrying some baggage. There were times that I want to smack the crap out of Renzo as he was was carrying some misplaced guilt for an unfortunate accident that was of no fault of his from years ago. And his mother just appeared to be dumping so much pressure on him that I wanted to smack her too. Canaan talks Renzo into being his fake boyfriend for a weekend as he is meeting with his old band mates. But the fake portion doesn’t last very long and they rapidly become more. Renzo has issues with sex as he is rather well endowed and has had issues in the past. Canaan shows him that there is more things to enjoy and again some of the hottest sexy scenes ensue. The epilogue was perfect and I was happy to see these two happy together. I am so glad that Ms. Albert wrote this series and she gives us a glimpse to a new series at the end of this book and I can’t wait for it.

Review

I very much enjoyed this last entry into the Out of Uniform series with the hottie smoothie guy from way back in a few books again, Canaan. and Renzo (Rooster) who we have seen around the teams.

You in no way need to have read the other books in the series to enjoy this one but we do get fun cameos from the other couples in the series.

Renzo's and Canaan's love story is a mix of a great survival there when they get stuck in a flash flood, the joy that is a pretend relationship plot with a crush, and the much more realistic notes of finding new dreams, being in love with someone on active duty in the military, and being bisexual

I really liked each element of the story even if at times the tone was erratic and I liked the heros. My favorite parts were the respect and kindness they found in each other and also the achey parts about the compromises and possibilities of an adult life with adult responsibilities and the cleaving unto one another while maintaining existing family ties. Good stuff!

I was given this book for my honest review. So, there you have it!

Fanatic addition to this series. I’ve been waiting for “Rooster” (who I can no longer think of as Rooster) since he was previously mentioned. Canaan has also been previously mentioned so it was a real treat to read. It has all the “usual suspects” of this series; SEAL aspects, family foundation, and of course sexy times!
I find it impossible to read other SEAL stories bc they don’t compare to her authenticity!
Bravo!

A definite 3.5 stars...!!!

The Out of Uniform series has been so much fun to read, especially considering the unique challenges that the characters face due to being part of the lgbtq+ community while also being from the armed forces. This book is obviously bittersweet because it’s the end of the series, but I was so happy to have been able to get the review copy.

Canaan is a nursing student working as a smoothie barista and also a former drummer. Despite missing his bandmates, he doesn’t really miss touring anymore and is very confident about his chosen path. He also enjoys ogling at the SEALS and it took some time for me to figure out out that he is the one who had an almost threesome with Ben and Maddox in On Point. I particularly liked his flirty nature and very open communication.

Renzo carries a lot of guilt from a childhood incident and also feels burdened by the expectations of his family. He is also very insecure about sex and certain bad experiences have put him off any relationships. However, he is wonderful at his job and also very devoted towards his fitness regimen; it was actually quite interesting to see a character who is sort of a social media fitness icon.

The attraction between Canaan and Renzo was almost immediate but I loved the development of their friendship first. They have such open and honest conversations, especially about Ren’s sexual hangups and it was very refreshing to read. There are lot of very sexy and sweet moments and it was a delight to see the progression of their love. Even when they are threatened by separation due to the nature of the job, each of them only thinks what’s best for the other and they made me cry a bit. I absolutely loved the resolution and the HEA.

There was a lot of importance given to family bonding in the book and I think it was done really well. Despite both of them having to make life changing decisions due to family issues, they are never resentful and their relationships are depicted beautifully. There are a few good friendships too but we don’t see them developed a lot, except Canaan’s ex who is definitely a douche. And that little awkward cameo of Ben and Maddox was a wonderful surprise.

Even though the first two books in this series will always be special, this book is definitely a nice addition and I liked that the author decided to end it on such a sweet note. Definitely recommend if you like Annabeth Albert’s adorable love stories.

3.5 stars

After two years, Annabeth Albert’s Out of Uniform is ending with book seven, Rough Terrain, featuring Canaan Finley and Navy SEAL Renzo Bianchi.

The main conflict of this book can be summed up to this: Renzo doesn’t trust Canaan enough – Canaan is a bit of a player before meeting Renzo, plus there’s joke that Canaan is a SEAL chaser. On top of that, Renzo is planning to get a permanent change of station to East Coast, closer to his family. Therefore, having perpetual relationship with Canaan is out of the question…

In between that, there’s this Renzo’s ‘issue’ with sex – apparently, his dick is monster size, so sex has not always been an enjoyable one.

I’m afraid that the numerous sex scenes bored me. Renzo’s issue is interesting at first, but in the end, it wasn’t something I particularly have interest with. Thus, Renzo keep having doubts and Canaan trying to convince him that sex with Canaan can be fun becomes repetitive after a while, and I ended up skimming.

My favorite times of this book is the one that has nothing to do with sex talks – like when Renzo and Canaan are trapped after flash flood during their camping trip and Renzo talks about his family and his reason for joining Navy. Or when Renzo’s family is visiting and Canaan making good connection with them. Or when Renzo meeting Canaan’s grandfather. THOSE are the highlights of this book for me, and I feel like I understand them better because of it.

I liked Canaan better than Renzo, though. I think his uninhibited attitude towards sex is positive. I adore Canaan’s relationship with his grandfather. Plus, Canaan is the one making Renzo sees that there’s more to their relationship. Renzo … well, he’s kind of needing that slap on the hand, in my opinion.

It's still a good one to end the series, not my top favorite (that will be Ben and Maddox's story, On Point) but not a complete let down. I did wish to see more cameos from previous couples, though.

~4.5~

Canaan works at a smoothie shop on a military base, but he has life goals. He's taking care of his grandfather and studying to be a nurse. Canaan used to be the drummer for a band that made it big (or at least bigger) after he left.

But Canaan doesn't regret his decision, nor does he regret ogling the navy SEALs, or one SEAL in particular, who come into the smoothie shop to load up on protein.

Renzo (Rooster to his navy friends) enjoys flirting with Canaan more than he wants to admit. It's not that Renzo isn't out. His colleagues and family know he's bi, but his time in San Diego may be limited and relationships require time, something that's in short supply for a dedicated SEAL.

When Canaan offers trouble, Renzo can't say no, and so begins a relationship built on adventure and kisses. Renzo goes camping with Canaan and Canaan's former band mates (including Canaan's douchey ex), posing as Canaan's boyfriend.

When the men get trapped on a trail during a deluge, their flirting moves to another level. Canaan credits Renzo with saving his life and doesn't want to let Renzo go.

Renzo and Canaan's relationship is strong from the start. Canaan is big on talking things out and realizes quickly that Renzo is a perfectionist, especially when it comes to sex.

Renzo has a rather, uh, BIG problem. But Canaan assures him he can take it (really, it's no hardship!) and there are other ways to have fun. Renzo and Canaan burn up the sheets. This book has some of the hottest frotting scenes I've ever read. I loved all the sexy in this story!

There's also a strong sense of family. Both men want to do right by the people who raised them. Canaan adores his grandpa, who takes a liking to Renzo, especially when Renzo proves he can cook.

Renzo's family, especially his mom, puts him on a pedestal; the hero worship makes Renzo feel like he'll never be enough. His brother needs constant care, and Renzo still feels guilty for an accident that wasn't his fault.

Rough Terrainn is well paced and tender, with overtones of hurt/comfort. There is some mild relationship angst toward the end, but it's resolved without undue drama.

I really loved this couple and was thrilled with their wonderful HEA. These two will fly high and land together. Always.

P.S. We've met Canaan before in a previous Out of Uniform story, but it took me nearly two-thirds of the book to have an a-ha moment.

We are deep into Annabeth Albert's series about Navy SEALs, and it's beginning to show. This couple, Renzo and Caanan, is charming but not perfect. They have career and family obligations that challenge their relationship, just like the rest of Albert's SEAL couples, but they never put the relationship in peril. Overall, Rough Terrain is very enjoyable, but without the sharpness of emotion that is so powerful in Albert's best work.

3.5 stars rounded up for mature conversations to balance out the angst!

I actually enjoyed this much more than I thought. Both main characters were a bit young (26 and 28)and angst-ridden for my taste, but the way they actually worked through their issues through open communication and worked hard at their relationship made me enjoy this a lot! It was such a turbulent journey for two guys who were so different and yet somehow worked perfectly together. They had adorable bickering, strong and supportive families and friends, and were just fun to spend time with! I absolutely adored this book, and it seems like the perfect note on which to end a series I seriously need to catch up on.

I adored this book! Probably favorite of the whole series.

Rough Terrain follows Renzo, a SEAL who is a fitness Instagram star and wants to be a jumpmaster, and Canaan, a former rock star working on his nursing degree. Canaan works at the smoothie place on base where Renzo often goes, and when Canaan hears Renzo’s teammates discussing him bringing a man as his date to friend’s wedding, he flirts seriously and offers “trouble.” They go on a date after which Canaan offers to bring Renzo along with his former band-mates on a camping trip.

I loved the progression of the relationship and how close Canaan is to his grandfather. There’s some tension with Renzo’s family between them being Catholic and him being bi and him having guilt and pressure to be the hero. Despite the tension and pressure, it’s so easy to see they love him and want him to be happy.

There is a definite element of insta-attraction but there’s still a great slowness to the emotional development. I also like the blunt discussions around sex and sexual wants and needs. Renzo has some insecurities and I like that Canaan respects those and doesn’t shame them, discussing them clearly to help him gain confidence and security.

I really just adored this book. It was a great read and I adored the ending. Things weren’t the easiest for Canaan and Renzo, but they work together to reach the future they both want, together.

*~~*ARC kindly provided by the author to me in exchange for an honest review *~~*

- Review to come

<a href="">Review</a> originally posted on my blog with added content <a href="https://mikkuchan.wordpress.com/">Mikku-chan / A world full of words</a>

Rough Terrain, is one of my favourite books from the Out of Uniform series, definitely in the top three. Renzo and Canaan are honestly one of the sweetest couples; they're fun with the perfect amount of angst. I also really loved the cameos of past characters. This book is such a high note to finish of an excellent series.