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Black Balled  By  cover art

Black Balled

By: Andrea Smith,Eva LeNoir
Narrated by: Joel Leslie
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Publisher's summary

Two dominant males, two worthy adversaries, in a business that takes no prisoners will soon learn that fate refuses to be ignored.

My name is Troy Babilonia, but I'm best known as Babu, a renowned literary critic with my own online column. I'm followed by thousands! I'm a living god in the literary world. I have no filter, and for that my flock of humble followers are forever grateful. If it weren't for me, they wouldn't know what to read. I have zero tolerance for weak-minded attention seekers, nor do I have respect for the self-proclaimed geniuses of the indie world. My advice to all indie authors is to never break the cardinal rule in this cutthroat business. Ever.

My name is L. Blackburn, and I'm an indie author. My extraordinary genius was loved and worshiped throughout the literary world until one egocentric critic tried to obliterate my career. It seems I broke some "cardinal rule", and now I'm paying the price for it. But I don't plan on going down without a fight.

©2014 Andrea Smith (P)2023 Andrea Smith
  • Unabridged Audiobook
  • Categories: LGBTQ+

What listeners say about Black Balled

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  • Overall
    4 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars
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    4 out of 5 stars

Great narration - Interesting story

Would you listen to Black Balled again? Why?

Maybe. It was interesting but so much dramatics in the way the two main characters behaved.

Who was your favorite character and why?

The neighbor lady, though I can't remember her name. She had a good sense of humor and kind of calmed the two men down.

What about Joel Leslie’s performance did you like?

He has so many accents and little variations that he creates with his voice that he gives everyone a unique sound.

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

The bonus stories at the end definitely made me laugh hard.

Any additional comments?

The narration: I have become a big fan of this narrator, Joel Leslie. He creates so many different accents and tones that it seems every character has it’s own voice. I have enjoyed several of his narrations in the past, and would definitely listen to more from him in the future.

The story: I have to admit I had reservations about listening to this book because it is at least partially based on a real life fiasco that occurred on Goodreads. There are a lot of low rated reviews, and plenty of people who shelved it as will never read because of it. The fact that I received a review copy and the need to form my own opinions made me decide to put aside my doubts and check it out for myself.

One of the things that made it easier for me to listen to was that the authors do not just villainize the reviewer but also the author as well. They even make the reviewer’s sycophants look bad. I appreciate that it wasn’t a one-sided blame game.

The story opens up on a review posted by Babu for L.(Larson) Blackburn’s newest book. The reviewer tears the book apart, questions the author’s sexuality, and hints that he hopes it is just a woman writing about things women just don’t write well and urges “her” to stick to romance and chick-lit. Babu’s followers immediately thank him for saving them time. Since many of them are women, I don’t understand how the sexist remarks don’t bother them. They are definitely portrayed as mindless suck-ups that accept the word of a popular reviewer without checking things out for themselves. While Larson appears to be victimized by this reviewer, his thoughts upon reading the review, don’t make him sound like a much better person. Apparently being called a female is the worse thing that could happen to him. Obviously he needs to prove his manhood.

Now I’ve seen drama shared on Facebook and Goodreads, where an author will have problems with a reviewer or sometimes another author. I do my best to stay out of the arguments and side-taking, because it bothers me to see people publicly bashed and to see others take sides without knowing the whole story. It all just leaves a sour taste in my mouth. It was that same feeling I had for a few chapters into this book. Babu and Larson are pretty unlikable characters, but this is not the first book I’ve read where the mc’s are kind of nasty. Though I prefer nicer personalities, the truth is, there are people on this planet that aren’t easy to like and it just makes the story more realistic. Ultimately, I couldn’t stop listening to this drama filled story because, though the subject was sort of scandalous it was also engaging. Reality shows show how addicting people behaving badly can be.

As the story continues, we do learn more about Babu and Larson that sheds light on some of the reasons they act the way they act. The other facets of their personalities begin to redeem them some. Their hateful remarks to each other becomes like foreplay. An anonymous hookup between them, and a case of mistaken identity later lead to a physical fight. But when the smoke clears, the two must admit their attraction to each other. As a pairing, I actually like them. I’d have to say they deserve each other and not all in a bad way.

Though they do become a bit more likable, I can’t say that either of them changes completely. There will always be friction because they will always be stubborn. I felt the story was a telling commentary on the way some people act in the writing and reviewing community. I think constructive criticism can be helpful, but try to stick by the saying “If you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything at all. I don’t want to discourage people from reading reviews, because I write reviews and enjoy reading others thoughts on books. I do definitely encourage people to form their own opinions on whatever is being reviewed. We are all different and can’t allow others to think for us or speak for us. If I hadn’t ignored the naysayers, I might not have had this enjoyable listening experience.

p.s. The bonus stories from the point of views of the neighbor and her cat were just hilarious. Probably my favorite part of the book because of the humor and lack of drama.

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14 people found this helpful

  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
  • Performance
    5 out of 5 stars
  • Story
    5 out of 5 stars

Review is written the Black Balled way

What made the experience of listening to Black Balled the most enjoyable?

A book that I already loved was brought to life.

What other book might you compare Black Balled to and why?

It has no comparison to anything I have ever read before.

Which character – as performed by Joel Leslie – was your favorite?

Larson aka L.Blackburn

If you could rename Black Balled, what would you call it?

I wouldn't rename.

Any additional comments?

Review is written the Black Balled way. Sit back, relax and enjoy, I'm no Babu. (Smiley face inserted here)

Jo&isalovebooks Reviews

June 13, 2016
Title: Black Balled
Author: Andrea Smith & Eva LeNoir
Genre: Gay Romance
Publisher: Self-Published
Status: Audio Version
Narrator: Joel Leslie
Jo's grade: 5 stars

The Gospel According to Jo:

Firstly let me begin by saying, high five to the narrator, Joel Leslie. You brought a book that I already loved to life. This was my first experience listening to an audio version and boy has it left me hungry for more. I only hope that my future reads or listening experience is as great as this one. The bar has certainly been set high. So thank you, Joel Leslie for your talents in making each character come to life, your story telling was exceptional and to the point, I found myself blushing and believe me when I say this rarely happens, if ever.

Indie Author's can receive some brutal reviews and all they can do is sit back and ignore. We all know what happens to an Author that comments on a bad review.
This story is about a reviewer, Babu and a writer, L. Blackburn. Babu solely destroys L. Blackburn's career as an author but unfortunately L.Blackburn does not ignore, against the better judgement of his agent, Brent.
It's a highly intense story where two very strong alpha males play a game that can only end in one or both being hurt.

Babu has a huge following and apparently his word is Gospel. You know it never ceases to amaze me that people, ie: readers never just find out for themselves whether they like the book or not. It is impossible for us all to have the same tastes in books, just like fashion and music. So although I loved this particular story, you may not. HA! If you love M/M Romance you most certainly will love this audio version. If you have already read this on ebook or paperback, I am telling you now, you have got to download the audio version. It will blow your socks off.

I have laughed my way through this book with the one liners and crude comments made by both Babu and Larson aka L. Blackburn. When you read a book for the first time and think WOW!! that was just awesome, you start recalling the best bits. In my opinion this was the case with this audio version, there was no best bits, the whole story telling was brilliant. I believe that what originally was a mind blowing book has now become even better, by being more pronounced, so whatever scenario was playing in your mind has become real as you listen to the audio.

When I read the book for the first time, there was a particular scene which I found disturbing, it was something that happen to Babu while he was child, now after listening to it it enhanced all my senses making it more emotional. The writers of this story are phenomenal and knew exactly how to connect with the reader by picking the man who has 100% told it flawlessly.

Imagine what happens when Babu and Larson meet? It's explosive to say the least. First we have lust then Pheromones, followed by anger leading to violence. It is the mother of all disastrously mishandled situations. (really miss using vulgar slang in my review) LOL!! Sometimes we need those swear words to express oneself.

So my review concludes right here with: Think before the next time you write your review. Give your honest opinion while being respectful to the Author. NO Black Balling allowed on Joandisalovebooks.

Quoting Babu below with some ad-libbing (winking face inserted here)

"That's it for this week's review! As always, you are free to voice your comments, criticisms and opinions right here, and don't forget to visit our blog page if you are a member of our following and we can always chat there. We welcome your feedback and opinions, but remember, We reserve the right to tell if you are full of BS or to go away, and if necessary block you but that's the beauty of Joandisalovebooks Reviews."

PS:
Includes bonus chapters. The pussy talks, hahaha!! Enjoy.

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12 people found this helpful

  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
  • Performance
    3 out of 5 stars
  • Story
    4 out of 5 stars
  • HZ
  • 06-10-16

1st half Almost DNF, 2nd half couldn't stop!

from Amazon reviews I knew what I was getting into, but still had to FORCE myself through the first half of the book. AND since one of the majors plot points was the negative review of a book that the critic Did Not Finish... I kept going.

Once the MCs finally meet in person (stuck in an elevator while dressed as Cyrano de Bergerac and the Marquis de Sade, w/ George Sand along) things get interesting! By the last 1/3 of the story I couldn't stop listening long enough to do things like eat & sleep...

The story is set in the context of the current publishing industry and there are almost two different books here:

The first has unlikable MCs (one straight the other bi) behaving obnoxiously and insults anything/one feminine or effeminate including the evil ex wife. The narrator uses voices as annoying as the characters. This aspect of the book (mostly found in the first half) 3 stars overall, 2.5 performance, and 2 story.

The second has complex characters who have had MAJOR stuff happen to them. They are learning how to move forward in their lives. They are men wrestling with their baggage, people in their lives & on social media, and with each other. The chemistry between them is Potent and drives them to address/own their sexuality. Even the narration improves. You always know who is speaking and there are more character voices. For this aspect of the book 5 stars overall, 3-4 performance, 4-5 story.

I'm really glad I finished Blackballed, the 2nd half of the book was worth the credit.

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
  • Performance
    5 out of 5 stars
  • Story
    5 out of 5 stars

WOW, JUST WOW !!!!

If you could sum up Black Balled in three words, what would they be?

OH MY GOD!!!!

* I received a copy of Black Balled audio for an honest review*

Let me first start by saying that I have passed up on purchasing other audio books in the past as I found the narrator's accent a bit much; however, Joel Leslie was perfect.

I purchased Black Balled ebook a few months back and could not pass up the opportunity to own it once it was out on audio.

So..... I thought Black Balled ebook was hot, boy was I wrong. Black Balled audio had me squirming (and in a good way).

This story is humourous, sexy and entertaining. Did I also mention HOT!!!
I can honestly say that I really enjoyed this book. I loved the banter between the 2 M/Cs. This story is just what every MM novel wants - 2 alpha males. There is a lot of humour and journey to self discovery.

Do yourselves a favour, don't think about it, just buy Black Balled, read and enjoy - you're welcomed :)

For your reading pleasure, Guns Blazing is a spin-off from Black Balled which I also loved..

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
  • Performance
    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

LOVE!

What did you love best about Black Balled?

Great story done up by two amazing authors!! I loved the ebook, the audiobook just adds another layer to that love!

What did you like best about this story?

Great characters and heat!!

What about Joel Leslie’s performance did you like?

I could listen to this book and Joel's voice on repeat and my world would be better!

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
  • Performance
    5 out of 5 stars
  • Story
    5 out of 5 stars

WOW!!!

I was given this audible as a gift from Andrea Smith in return for an honest review. I have to say thank you Andrea for the gift. You and Eva LeNoir have done an absolutely excellent job with this story. This is the first time I have listened to an audible book and it was amazing. I love being able to hear the emotion behind the wonderful writing. The narrator did a great job in making this story come to life. I really enjoyed this audible, not just because the story is my absolute favorite, but also because the narrator helped me enjoy it even more. I do not know if I need to mention "spoiler alert" for this bit but the bonus chapters were a great addition. It was an absolute treat hearing from the characters that have such an impact in our two main characters lives.

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    5 out of 5 stars
  • Performance
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LOVED IT

Really good book from start to finish. Very entertaining main characters. Their sexual draw to each other was really hot!

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars
  • Story
    5 out of 5 stars

Be prepared to Laugh! Awesome story

Would you listen to Black Balled again? Why?

Yes! Most definetely
Do you lack a sense of humor or is your funny bone broken? If you have any one of these conditions, pick up this book for the cure. This is a parody of epic proportions. If you've ever written or attempted to write a novel, write reviews, blog or promote, reader beware if you have tender feelings because no one comes out unscathed in the funniest way. I laughed and laughed until I basically thought I'd wet the bed. If you've ever interacted with the reading community, you will have most likely been in contact with one or more of these characters. Kudos to Andrea Smith and Eva LeNoir to create these two humorous characters. But wait...they are more than the humor they are. There is a real story in here.

What other book might you compare Black Balled to and why?

Any parody lovers dream - especially if you love gay romance

Which scene was your favorite?

The elevator - enuf said

If you were to make a film of this book, what would the tag line be?

When the author and the critic can't stay away

Any additional comments?

This was a first novel for either of these authors and definitely will not be a last. As you can image with any parody, it doesn't lack in its own tales of controversy. Ignore the noise and let the story speak for itself. This is an M/M relationship so if this genre is not for you, then don't pick it up. However, if you are in the mood to read two crazy people find a HEA and LOVE parodies, pick this up. 4.5 stars out of 5

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ReadLoveReview

Where does Black Balled rank among all the audiobooks you’ve listened to so far?

Back when this book first came out it went straight to the top on my favourites list for that year. To this day it remains one of my favourite m/m stories. Now Iv never been an audio book fan. It's simply not my thing, I get frustrated with the speech speed and that the voice isn't what I gave the characters in my head. Queue today and Iv given audio another chance. Why? Because BlackBalled by Eva LeNoir and Andrea Smith was made available on audible. I though if there's going to be any book convert me it'll be this one. And I am floored. At first I was sceptical because it's a 9 and a half hour listening time story. I though wow I'm going to get board. This is not the case. I find myself so eager to get even 5 minutes to listen that I'm sending my wireless headphones flat. Not only that but of the mornings my routine is walk the kids to school, come home grab my water bottle and one of the dogs and go for a walk. I total about 1h40mins, I find myself wanting to go further so I can listen to this incredible story for longer. Nothing like the funny looks from people when I'm walking along laughing out loud at seemingly nothing. The voice behind BlackBalled is Joel Leslie, and he is perfect! The rang for the characters is distinct and consistent, his beautifully smooth voice is so very well matched for this particular story. He nails the sarcasm and ego for the alpha men and the cutesy of Ida.
Now if you love m/m then this book is worth picking up. Two very alpha cocky men virtually battling it out then the inevitable twists come into it. Things get real physical on so many levels you can't help but be left breathless. Their journey of self discovery is intriguing, how the past comes in to play with the present. When all is said and done these two men aren't so different to each other.

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
  • Performance
    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

Just Amazing

Where does Black Balled rank among all the audiobooks you’ve listened to so far?

This one is by far the best!!

What did you like best about this story?

The narrator Joel Leslie, he brought all the characters to life. I already loved this book, but he just made my love of the book that much more.

Have you listened to any of Joel Leslie’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

No, but I will be looking for more of his work.

Any additional comments?

I loved reading the ebook of Black Balled, but hearing the words come to life was an amazing experience. It brought to life all the humor, banter, and the emotions.

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