Awakening Series by Jaclyn Osborn

One moment. That's all it takes for life as you once knew it to change irrevocably. For Michael Kingston, that moment was when he first laid eyes on Gabriel. In his life, Michael had only known darkness, leaving behind a broken shell of a man. No one had ever shown him love; therefore, he believed he was unworthy of it. And then everything changed. Gabriel Greyson had always been different... moreOne moment. That's all it takes for life as you once knew it to change irrevocably. For Michael Kingston, that moment was when he first laid eyes on Gabriel. In his life, Michael had only known darkness, leaving behind a broken shell of a man. No one had ever shown him love; therefore, he believed he was unworthy of it. And then everything changed. Gabriel Greyson had always been different. Growing up in a small, Bible thumping town, his preferences for men, make-up, and fashion made him an outcast. But with the support and love of his family, he overcame obstacles that were thrown his way and rose above the intolerance. Working as a beautician, he had a job he adored and felt everything was perfect in his life. Everything except for true love. When these two unlikely men meet, sparks fly. For the first time in Michael's life, he feels he can overcome the darkness. Gabriel gives him hope and slowly brings him out of the shadows, showing him that even the darkest of souls can be redeemed. But there are secrets Michael keeps locked away. His fear is that Gabriel will turn away from him when he discovers the truth. After all, who could ever love a beast? *Trigger warning: this book discusses past trauma and abuse.* less

Fear. Zack Greyson had never known the true meaning of the word until he suspected he might be gay—which wasn’t an option for the personal trainer and ex-football star. He’s tried to convince himself that his attraction to men is nothing more than just a mere curiosity, but when Jackson Parker walks into his life, that façade comes shattering down. Jackson Parker is used to rejection because secrets never stay hidden forever... moreFear. Zack Greyson had never known the true meaning of the word until he suspected he might be gay—which wasn’t an option for the personal trainer and ex-football star. He’s tried to convince himself that his attraction to men is nothing more than just a mere curiosity, but when Jackson Parker walks into his life, that façade comes shattering down. Jackson Parker is used to rejection because secrets never stay hidden forever. Left slightly broken and with no sense of belonging after his family’s rejection, he’s sought love in all the wrong places before. But meeting Zack, the hazel-eyed jock with killer dimples, Jackson steps out of his comfort zone and fights one last time for the happiness he knows he deserves. Falling for a supposed straight guy was crazy, but for once, Jackson feels like his luck has changed, and he’s finally found someone who won’t throw him away. However, Zack struggles to discover who he is and who he wants to be. When his fear of coming out drives a wedge between him and Jackson, only one question remains: Which is stronger: love or fear? less