Beta Test by Annabeth Albert
Review by Lauren
source: copy from Netgalley; all opinions are my own
Official Summary: Brilliant graphic designer Ravi Tandel is ahead of the gameβhe’s just been asked to present a top secret project at a huge conference in Seattle. All systems are go…until he learns his buttoned-up office nemesis is coming along for the ride.
Review: Beta Test is the second book in the #gaymers series (which I have to say, is a very accurate, yet unique series title!) I read and reviewed Status Update, the first book, late last year and really loved it so I was excited to see what and who the second book would be about. Status Update involved a fairly long road trip, and Beta Test is the same. Except this time, Ravi and Tristan know each other beforehand; they just don’t particularly know what to think of each other. Ravi is out and proud, no matter what people think. He does have issues with his family, though, so he understands that worry and fear. As for Tristan, he’s kept his sexuality not exactly a secret, but private. Nobody knows he’s gay at his new job, until his anger at Ravi lets it spill one evening.
Cue the road trip! These two are paired up to bring an exhibit from their video game company to a comic convention. It doesn’t take too long for the two to warm up to each other. Ravi is more extroverted, but he understands and even starts to crave some alone or quiet time, like Tristan needs. Being on the road together, and even having to stay at hotels on the way, means the two open up about things in their past – family issues and past relationships. While there is definitely an attraction, none of them really want to disrupt their work life, especially if they get together and it doesn’t work out. This leads to a “road relationship and nothing else” type of deal. Of course, who really thinks their connection/attraction can just go away after the convention?
That’s what I thought…
Overall, this was a good read! I can’t really say if I preferred one over the other – Status Update or Beta Test. They do have similar “type” of characters, but I still liked the differences! I’ll be curious to see if there is more to come! I think I know who the next book might focus on…
It always amuses me when characters think they can just switch off their feelings if they just hook up. When has that ever worked?!
it's great to see that the second book is really good too
Totally enjoyed Status Update more than Beta Test. I don't know, there was some inherent connection with the characters that was missing in this one. I'm glad you enjoyed it, though! Happy Memorial Day. π
I haven't even read the first book yet, but I really loved her other books and I know I'm going to enjoy this too. I'm glad you liked it as much as you did.
Glad you are loving this genre so much!
I dont read LGBT books but glad to know that your loving the genre! π
Haniya
http://booknauthors.blogspot.com/
I remember your review for the first book and I think it is on my wishlist. Glad to see you enjoyed this one too! Great review!!
I do love a road trip!
Sounds like it was a good read. I like that they are thrust together on a road trip!!
I love the title of the series! Super idea for a series, too! I can totally picture them actually having to take the exhibit to PAXWest or something like that! Works for me! Plus working together and road trip? What else could she fit in the story π ??? Great review!!!