What do you think?
Rate this book
Queen City #1
Paper Planes
Photographer Stuart Grange was happy with his suburbanite life until his partner was killed in a plane hijacking. Now he’s suddenly the face of gay rights in America and trying to deal with his new responsibility while coping with his overwhelming grief. He’s got his hands full without the complications of a new love, but his heart’s not waiting for him to catch up.
Commercial pilot Dustin McDonough knows what it’s like to deal with loss. He has his own set of scars, physical and emotional. He’s trying to give Stuart the time and space he needs to be ready to move on, but he’s in love for the first time in years, and he’s determined not to lose again.
Commercial pilot Dustin McDonough knows what it’s like to deal with loss. He has his own set of scars, physical and emotional. He’s trying to give Stuart the time and space he needs to be ready to move on, but he’s in love for the first time in years, and he’s determined not to lose again.
274 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 3, 2011
7 people are currently reading
610 people want to read
About the author
M. Jules Aedin
12 books109 followersGrowing up Southern has been an interesting experience for Jules, who discovered that labels for things like gender and sexuality are, at best, approximations. When not reading or playing video games or writing (or doing all three at once!) Jules is generally trying to convincingly pretend to be a responsible adult and at least do laundry once in a while. Oh, and show up for the evil day job and finish that pesky degree that's been languishing for a while now...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 124 reviews
July 31, 2013
Well, I noticed that most my friends who rated this so high read it back in 2011/2012. I don't know if that means anything, but I thought this book was a decent read...didn't knock my socks off, but I enjoyed it enough.
Parts were a little slow and overly detailed...I mean, I'm thankful to know he picked up his camera bag, checked the positioning so the cameras wouldn't get damaged, repositioned one camera lens .05 degrees, made sure that it was locked, fixed the strap on the bag, dusted off a piece of lint...but sometimes, it's gets to be a bit much.
As far as the storyline, Paper Planes is one of the betters I've read about a lost partner, a grieving survivor, and new love blooming. I've also come to realize this isn't my favorite plot in M/M books as none of them have really stirred the kind of emotion in me that I'd expect for such heavy subject matter.
The book is decently smut-worthy and the characters (Stuart and Dustin) are likable enough. I appreciate the age/maturity (36 and 48) as you don't see that too often romance books these days.
Other than that, read it if you like the grieving-to-new-love storyline and if you want a little dose of emotion-laced-smut. Otherwise, it's a bit slow and I'd pass.
December 8, 2014
4.5 stars
This is another one of those books that sneaks up on you and lingers. I've had it on my Kindle for months, but I kept skipping past it because it sounded angsty, and I didn't want to drown in sorrow.
The "I'm so damn depressed because I lost my beloved partner" theme is not my favorite. Even when done well, it's usually heavy and unbearably sad. Consider: Breathe (dead spouse and serious melodrama), After Ben (a gorgeous book, but one where the dead partner was a very real, tangible present in the story and the rest of the series), or After the End (Swamp of Sadness, enough said).
But Paper Planes is much more about MOVING ON than grieving. It's more about HOPE than pain, the future rather than the past.
When we meet Stuart, a 34-year-old freelance professional photographer, he's still recovering from his partner's unexpected death a year before. He's lonely but seeing a therapist and living his life. One day while traveling for work, Stuart meets a sexy airline pilot. Dustin is 48 and wearing those sinful aviator glasses that totally turn Stuart on; he also freely checks out Stuart's ass and winks.
Stuart and Dustin run into each other again entirely by accident and slowly begin a long-distance relationship. When Stuart realizes he can't stop thinking about Dustin, he sends him a Facebook message. They text, email, IM, talk on the phone, and visit. This is very much a slow burn kind of book, but it's also seriously sexy with easy banter sprinkled in.
What stood out for me is the everydayness of Stuart and Dustin's relationship. They're not rock stars or spies; the homophobes aren't chasing them; they weren't abused as children. They're just two real men who found a second chance together. They may not be perfect, but they're perfect for each other.
The book is told in Stuart's first-person POV, so we see Dustin through his eyes. I sort of fell in love with Dustin. He was a little older, half-Korean, had a , and he treated Stuart with such respect and kindness. The chemistry between the men is scorching, and the love scenes are truly sensual and REAL.
The relationship wasn't rushed. There was no insta love and almost no angst.
Stuart's friend, Mariluz, cracked me up, and I also liked Stuart's brief interactions with his sister. I don't like too much family interference in my books, so I appreciated that Stuart and Dustin were on their own and not calling their mommies or siblings every few hours.
There was no epilogue, which usually makes me tetchy, but the HEA was still wonderful, and it's a HEA you see coming, like a warm glow that spreads slowly. I absolutely believed in this love and didn't need an epilogue to make me envision the happy future Stuart and Dustin will have together.
This is another one of those books that sneaks up on you and lingers. I've had it on my Kindle for months, but I kept skipping past it because it sounded angsty, and I didn't want to drown in sorrow.
The "I'm so damn depressed because I lost my beloved partner" theme is not my favorite. Even when done well, it's usually heavy and unbearably sad. Consider: Breathe (dead spouse and serious melodrama), After Ben (a gorgeous book, but one where the dead partner was a very real, tangible present in the story and the rest of the series), or After the End (Swamp of Sadness, enough said).
But Paper Planes is much more about MOVING ON than grieving. It's more about HOPE than pain, the future rather than the past.
When we meet Stuart, a 34-year-old freelance professional photographer, he's still recovering from his partner's unexpected death a year before. He's lonely but seeing a therapist and living his life. One day while traveling for work, Stuart meets a sexy airline pilot. Dustin is 48 and wearing those sinful aviator glasses that totally turn Stuart on; he also freely checks out Stuart's ass and winks.
Stuart and Dustin run into each other again entirely by accident and slowly begin a long-distance relationship. When Stuart realizes he can't stop thinking about Dustin, he sends him a Facebook message. They text, email, IM, talk on the phone, and visit. This is very much a slow burn kind of book, but it's also seriously sexy with easy banter sprinkled in.
What stood out for me is the everydayness of Stuart and Dustin's relationship. They're not rock stars or spies; the homophobes aren't chasing them; they weren't abused as children. They're just two real men who found a second chance together. They may not be perfect, but they're perfect for each other.
The book is told in Stuart's first-person POV, so we see Dustin through his eyes. I sort of fell in love with Dustin. He was a little older, half-Korean, had a , and he treated Stuart with such respect and kindness. The chemistry between the men is scorching, and the love scenes are truly sensual and REAL.
The relationship wasn't rushed. There was no insta love and almost no angst.
Stuart's friend, Mariluz, cracked me up, and I also liked Stuart's brief interactions with his sister. I don't like too much family interference in my books, so I appreciated that Stuart and Dustin were on their own and not calling their mommies or siblings every few hours.
There was no epilogue, which usually makes me tetchy, but the HEA was still wonderful, and it's a HEA you see coming, like a warm glow that spreads slowly. I absolutely believed in this love and didn't need an epilogue to make me envision the happy future Stuart and Dustin will have together.
July 27, 2013
4.5 stars. This is a nice, slow, sweet story about Stuart, a photographer who is starting to heal after the death of his partner over a year before. Stuart hasn't thought about another man since losing Brendan until a comment and an appreciative glance from the pilot of his commercial flight suddenly make him feel that heat of interest. The pilot, Dustin, is the first guy who makes Stuart think he may be ready to try dating again.
I loved the fact that this story progressed slowly. Stuart doesn't fall into bed with Dustin at the first opportunity. In fact, he doesn't even kiss him. It takes time and healing, and a lot of thought about whether he feels ready, before Stuart acknowledges his interest in Dustin. Even after they reconnect, the relationship moves at a pace that feels natural and organic, growing in fits and starts, partly due to the long-distance nature of their interactions and partly to Stuart's gradual ability to move on from Brendan. The sex when it does come is hot and well-written. Stuart's grief and loss, and Dustin's own losses , are presented in real, sympathetic but not over-emotional scenes. There are no big dramas here, no crises, no deeply angst-ridden moments, just a nice growing realization of attraction, mutual interest, healing and slow-blooming love.
I loved the fact that this story progressed slowly. Stuart doesn't fall into bed with Dustin at the first opportunity. In fact, he doesn't even kiss him. It takes time and healing, and a lot of thought about whether he feels ready, before Stuart acknowledges his interest in Dustin. Even after they reconnect, the relationship moves at a pace that feels natural and organic, growing in fits and starts, partly due to the long-distance nature of their interactions and partly to Stuart's gradual ability to move on from Brendan. The sex when it does come is hot and well-written. Stuart's grief and loss, and Dustin's own losses , are presented in real, sympathetic but not over-emotional scenes. There are no big dramas here, no crises, no deeply angst-ridden moments, just a nice growing realization of attraction, mutual interest, healing and slow-blooming love.
December 7, 2014
This was not at all what I was expecting. When I read the book description and saw that Stuart’s partner had been killed in a plane crash, I was expecting a lot of grief and sadness. But that really wasn’t the case. This is more about getting a second change at love. For both Stuart and Dustin. Both have experienced love and loss. Both are trying to move forward with their lives. It was a very sweet, low angst, hopeful love story and I really enjoyed it.
Thanks Dani for picking this one for me!!
Thanks Dani for picking this one for me!!
October 7, 2011
If I had to sum this book up in one word it would be "quiet".
Reading the story of how Stuart and Dustin fall in love kind of feels like drifting down a lazy river on a hot and hazy afternoon. It's not so much about where you're going. It's about how you get to where you're going.
Stuart, the narrator, lost his partner in a plane crash and he's in that land of limbo where he's still grieving but he's also starting to move on. He meets Dustin, a pilot, and is intrigued. Stuart ends up having to stay at Dustin's apartment for a night as he waits for his flight back home. They don't have sex. They don't even kiss. They play video games, and they laugh, and they enjoy each other's company. That's when I knew that this book was a different animal than a lot of books out right now.
I enjoy a steamy book but Stuart and Dustin's story was refreshing and more fulfilling than some stories where people say "nice to meet you" by doing each other up against a wall. This couple was sexy but mostly they were sweet. This was a love story through and through.
So, what happens in this book? Well, in terms of action and adventure, nothing happens. Is there any suspense or angst? Nope. I'm not quite sure how to explain reading about how two people build the foundation for a relationship that will probably last until the day they die. They do things like play Scrabble on Facebook, send each other cute texts and have conversations where they learn about each other. Sounds mundane doesn't it? It's not because it's two people who really care about one another and that makes Scrabble exciting. It makes cute texts something to look forward to. It makes conversations awesome.
I loved this book because it's about two people who come to love each other. It's written so well that I felt like I was Stuart's friend and he was calling me up every night to tell me about all of the little things that happened between him and Dustin. I felt his gentle excitement and I was rooting for this couple all the way.
Read this book when you need to be reminded of the things that are great about love. The real things that make you love someone. The every day things that make you care. The little things that keep a relationship alive.
If you haven't guessed, I recommend this book.
Reading the story of how Stuart and Dustin fall in love kind of feels like drifting down a lazy river on a hot and hazy afternoon. It's not so much about where you're going. It's about how you get to where you're going.
Stuart, the narrator, lost his partner in a plane crash and he's in that land of limbo where he's still grieving but he's also starting to move on. He meets Dustin, a pilot, and is intrigued. Stuart ends up having to stay at Dustin's apartment for a night as he waits for his flight back home. They don't have sex. They don't even kiss. They play video games, and they laugh, and they enjoy each other's company. That's when I knew that this book was a different animal than a lot of books out right now.
I enjoy a steamy book but Stuart and Dustin's story was refreshing and more fulfilling than some stories where people say "nice to meet you" by doing each other up against a wall. This couple was sexy but mostly they were sweet. This was a love story through and through.
So, what happens in this book? Well, in terms of action and adventure, nothing happens. Is there any suspense or angst? Nope. I'm not quite sure how to explain reading about how two people build the foundation for a relationship that will probably last until the day they die. They do things like play Scrabble on Facebook, send each other cute texts and have conversations where they learn about each other. Sounds mundane doesn't it? It's not because it's two people who really care about one another and that makes Scrabble exciting. It makes cute texts something to look forward to. It makes conversations awesome.
I loved this book because it's about two people who come to love each other. It's written so well that I felt like I was Stuart's friend and he was calling me up every night to tell me about all of the little things that happened between him and Dustin. I felt his gentle excitement and I was rooting for this couple all the way.
Read this book when you need to be reminded of the things that are great about love. The real things that make you love someone. The every day things that make you care. The little things that keep a relationship alive.
If you haven't guessed, I recommend this book.
January 1, 2018
I have read quite a few heavy angst books recently and really needed a nice sweet romance to wrap my brain around. Like a warm afghan on a winter night. I love Dustin and Stuarts story.
There is sadness in the beginning but the story of two men who make a connection at a time when Stuart isn't looking or expecting one is just such great tale. You become friends with both of them as they develop that friendship long distance over a year.
Usually I hate when circumstance keeps Mc's apart I get anxious for the interactions between them but that is not the case with "Paper Planes" you can feel the developing connection and weirdly enough the distance keeping them apart.
Grab a drink and your favorite blanket and just enjoy. Perfect stress release book.
September 28, 2011
I have read many stories where, when a partner/love dies, the author spends time building the story around the dead person as 'bad' - they were cheating, drugs, lost all their money, etc. All this while the surviving MC still mourns the lost lover, but now has a 'free pass' to fall into new love. Most of the time this plot device is not needed and I think this is the way an author uses to ease the surviving MC into a new love, especially if it happens quickly after their partner's death. I have had complaints about this and I have read many reviews that have complained as well.
In Paper Planes, the story opens with a look into Stuarts life over a year after his partner dies heroically in a terrorist plane crash. Stu is a photographer who has molded his life after Brenden were he is surviving - living and breathing slowly, learning to be with out Brenden. On one fateful trip to Dallas, we get our first introduction to Dustin, who is a 48 year old pilot as he tries to flirt with Stu. So begins their love story.
This book was a slow meandering emotional walk through their story. What I loved about this book is that there was no 'insta-love', but attraction and eventually love. Second both of them were very respectful of their past loves (we learn that Dustin had a partner that died with AIDS). There was such care given to this part of their lives, that the second chance that both of them have been given is a blessing and so well deserved. We are left happy and celebrating, I even dropped a tear or two at the end (which is surprising for me). Finally, their love story was the story. There was no secondary plot line - there were no kidnappings, additional terrorists, threats, cheating..etc etc. It was just a story about two guys falling in love. How can you go wrong with that?
Beautiful story that will break your heart, warm it back up and make you fall in love again.
For another great review on this book: LA's review
In Paper Planes, the story opens with a look into Stuarts life over a year after his partner dies heroically in a terrorist plane crash. Stu is a photographer who has molded his life after Brenden were he is surviving - living and breathing slowly, learning to be with out Brenden. On one fateful trip to Dallas, we get our first introduction to Dustin, who is a 48 year old pilot as he tries to flirt with Stu. So begins their love story.
This book was a slow meandering emotional walk through their story. What I loved about this book is that there was no 'insta-love', but attraction and eventually love. Second both of them were very respectful of their past loves (we learn that Dustin had a partner that died with AIDS). There was such care given to this part of their lives, that the second chance that both of them have been given is a blessing and so well deserved. We are left happy and celebrating, I even dropped a tear or two at the end (which is surprising for me). Finally, their love story was the story. There was no secondary plot line - there were no kidnappings, additional terrorists, threats, cheating..etc etc. It was just a story about two guys falling in love. How can you go wrong with that?
Beautiful story that will break your heart, warm it back up and make you fall in love again.
For another great review on this book: LA's review
October 6, 2011
I ♥ this book!!
First off, I want to say 'Thank You' to Endless and LA for telling me to read this book. If I would have read the blurb or knew anything about it, I never would have read it because it looked like it would be so sad. So don't let the blurb turn you away from this beautiful book! After the first chapter it is not sad at all and has little-to-no angst in my opinion. Even though Stuart and Dustin have lost so much in the past, it is really about them healing and loving again.
Stuart and Dustin gave me butterflies in my tummy every time they were together...or texting...or talking on the phone. They were very, very sweet with each other and the romance between them was slowly developed and not rushed at all. It seemed so realistic to me; like I could see their story happening to real-life men. There was so much sexual tension and I loved how they didn't immediately jump in bed together and waited until the time was right for them to finally take that next step in their relationship. And...OMG...they were hot together!!!! Also, since they were older, more mature men, they weren't able to go at it like bunnies. Somehow, that made them seem all that much more real to me.
I recommend this to book EVERYONE!! It is beautiful and sweet and would be a great comfort read.
First off, I want to say 'Thank You' to Endless and LA for telling me to read this book. If I would have read the blurb or knew anything about it, I never would have read it because it looked like it would be so sad. So don't let the blurb turn you away from this beautiful book! After the first chapter it is not sad at all and has little-to-no angst in my opinion. Even though Stuart and Dustin have lost so much in the past, it is really about them healing and loving again.
Stuart and Dustin gave me butterflies in my tummy every time they were together...or texting...or talking on the phone. They were very, very sweet with each other and the romance between them was slowly developed and not rushed at all. It seemed so realistic to me; like I could see their story happening to real-life men. There was so much sexual tension and I loved how they didn't immediately jump in bed together and waited until the time was right for them to finally take that next step in their relationship. And...OMG...they were hot together!!!! Also, since they were older, more mature men, they weren't able to go at it like bunnies. Somehow, that made them seem all that much more real to me.
I recommend this to book EVERYONE!! It is beautiful and sweet and would be a great comfort read.
May 5, 2011
M. Jules Aedin has become one of my auto-buys. Her stories fit my taste to the "T". I like how she seems to take time to build the relationship and not just jump into the lovemaking.
The charm of this story comes from the narrator (Stuart) and what may start as chance encounter between him and Dustin, picks up 7 months later, turns into a long-distance relationship, then settling down in full partnership. It moves in a nice pace, the way that relationship in real life probably is ... And while it's not giving readers any BANG! but it's satisfactory nevertheless.
Stuart is the main narrator (it's a 1st person story) and I LOVE reading his thoughts. From the beginning when he explained about his feeling, losing his partner to plane hijacking, receiving that call ("I wasn’t afraid of flying, but I was terrified of my phone"), to his describing the feeling of meeting Dustin, being attracted to him, until he realizes that he falls for the pilot. Even though it is written in 1st POV, the story is long enough to make me feel connected to Dustin as well, even if anything about Dustin comes from his interaction with Stuart.
There are some funny moments (I probably think of Tetris in a new way now), tender moments, and pretty hot-sex moments. When I finish, I feel like being cuddled by a warm blanket, similar to a feeling after watching a great Hallmark movie.
The charm of this story comes from the narrator (Stuart) and what may start as chance encounter between him and Dustin, picks up 7 months later, turns into a long-distance relationship, then settling down in full partnership. It moves in a nice pace, the way that relationship in real life probably is ... And while it's not giving readers any BANG! but it's satisfactory nevertheless.
Stuart is the main narrator (it's a 1st person story) and I LOVE reading his thoughts. From the beginning when he explained about his feeling, losing his partner to plane hijacking, receiving that call ("I wasn’t afraid of flying, but I was terrified of my phone"), to his describing the feeling of meeting Dustin, being attracted to him, until he realizes that he falls for the pilot. Even though it is written in 1st POV, the story is long enough to make me feel connected to Dustin as well, even if anything about Dustin comes from his interaction with Stuart.
There are some funny moments (I probably think of Tetris in a new way now), tender moments, and pretty hot-sex moments. When I finish, I feel like being cuddled by a warm blanket, similar to a feeling after watching a great Hallmark movie.
March 1, 2014
3.5--Moving On--Stars!!!
Such a sweet story. A really great read for those MM newbies out there. The chracters were older, 35 and 48, and there wasn't a lot of un-necessary drama and angst. Just two people who experienced loss in their lives and got a second chance at love.
Stuart is trying to move on from the loss of his partner, when he meets Dustin on a flight home. They exchange a few flirtatious looks but both go their separate ways. Only for them to meet up again months later at a speaking engagement in Dallas.
The loss of Stuart's partner, Brenden is still fresh for him and Stuart struggles with his attraction for Dustin.
After Stuart's flight gets delayed they spend an awkward (intimate free) night together only to once again go their separate ways. The story is told from Stuart's POV and throughout all of these months, Dustin has always been on his mind.
After another near run-in at a rally in DC, Stuart take a leap of faith and tries to find Dustin....on Facebook.
They start sexting and flirting and from there, they're relationship grows. But due to their jobs, Dustin is a pilot and Stuart is a photographer, they only get stolen moments here and there. Very, very hot stolen moments.
Dustin had experienced a loss similar to Stuart's....so he knew what Stuart had been through and how difficult it could be to move on. Evetually, both Stuart and Dustin tire of the stolen moments here and there and want more.
There was virtually no angst in this book. There were a few cheesy bits, but not enough to take away from the story itself. Overall, it was an enjoyable read....definitely on the steamy side for all of my fellow smut lovers! :)
Such a sweet story. A really great read for those MM newbies out there. The chracters were older, 35 and 48, and there wasn't a lot of un-necessary drama and angst. Just two people who experienced loss in their lives and got a second chance at love.
Stuart is trying to move on from the loss of his partner, when he meets Dustin on a flight home. They exchange a few flirtatious looks but both go their separate ways. Only for them to meet up again months later at a speaking engagement in Dallas.
The loss of Stuart's partner, Brenden is still fresh for him and Stuart struggles with his attraction for Dustin.
After Stuart's flight gets delayed they spend an awkward (intimate free) night together only to once again go their separate ways. The story is told from Stuart's POV and throughout all of these months, Dustin has always been on his mind.
After another near run-in at a rally in DC, Stuart take a leap of faith and tries to find Dustin....on Facebook.
They start sexting and flirting and from there, they're relationship grows. But due to their jobs, Dustin is a pilot and Stuart is a photographer, they only get stolen moments here and there. Very, very hot stolen moments.
Dustin had experienced a loss similar to Stuart's....so he knew what Stuart had been through and how difficult it could be to move on. Evetually, both Stuart and Dustin tire of the stolen moments here and there and want more.
There was virtually no angst in this book. There were a few cheesy bits, but not enough to take away from the story itself. Overall, it was an enjoyable read....definitely on the steamy side for all of my fellow smut lovers! :)
May 1, 2012
FURTHER EDIT, May 2012: Once I got over the fact that the book does not match the blurb, and re-read, I loved it. This is a sweet, funny, realistic, and charming book, with great characters and an awesome slow-burn love story. Definitely recommended.
Original review below:
I have to think about the rating for this one for a good long while, because this was not the story I thought I'd be getting.
The blurb says that Dustin is trying to give Stuart the time and space he needs to be ready to move on, but he’s in love for the first time in years, and he’s determined not to lose again.
But that's not the plot. Colour me confused?! There's no one person chasing the other. If anything, Stuart is persuing Dustin. Basically this is just a standard novel about two guys meeting and slowly getting to know each other and falling in love. With a lot of sex. And very little plot.
So as a standard romance, with no determined persuit of one MC by the other MC, I was still really disappointed because there was no impediment to love. It should go boy meets boy, boys almost loses boy, boys loves boy forever, right? So throughout the book I kept waiting for the boy almost loses boy part.
But nothing ever happens. I guess I expected something a bit more like Diving in Deep or Strawberries for Dessert, where the conflict comes from one MC wanting to redefine the relationship and the other MC resisting.
Plus, three-quarters of the way in, the sex gets all D/s for a moment. That was unexpected, and I thought it was weirdly out of character.
EDIT: On the plus side, the relationship is developed really well, and the guys are sweet and lovely together. Dustin after penetrative sex the first time was overwhelmingly adorable, and also heartbreaking. It's like he can't believe that Stuart likes him. I do completely believe in the MCs. And it's not often you see physical challenges dealt with in a way that is matter-of-fact, normalised, and way sexy, all at the same time.
Arrgh: change that blurb, publishers!
September 27, 2011
Gosh I loved this, its so wonderful, a slow burn and beautiful love story. The best part for me, was how the relationship developed over time, a long distance affair, phone calls and online chats. Dustin and Stuart are careful before committing to each other, they both want to make sure this is it. I loved how it all evolved without drama, angst or misunderstandings, they deserve all the good and happy they can get. Gorgeous, emotionally fulfilling and sexy as ever together, a passion tempered with love. The very best ending, loved, adored it, recommended.
October 1, 2011
This - Book - Is - A - TREASURE!!!
The romance in this book was like smouldering embers of a fire that keeps you warm and cozy all night long in the winters, complete with it's occasional sparks of some really hot sex! :D
This was such a wonderful ride on so many levels that it went past being ridiculously good...There is tragedy but the author took such care not to overdo it with overbearing angst. Instead there was genuine emotion, genuine situations with genuine characters who have busy lives who have loved and lost in their pasts. But the way both characters deal with everything Not to mention the sparkling humor that had me in splits and slapping my knee saying "oh my god! this is sooooooo good!!!"...
As LA said this book was JUST RIGHT! The right amount of love, professional lives, family interaction...and just the right amount of kink to give it a bit of spice! So playful...so joyful...so AMAZING!!! And that ending...the author totally redeems the title of this book. The way Aedin dealt with the subject matter was purely Masterful in it's execution! I'm left enthralled and so completely sated and yet still craving for more! ;P
I will hold this book close to my heart...because it is just that good!
My gratitude and congratulations to the author for writing such a successful, fulfilling piece of work! Absolutely Fantastic!
A must read!
The romance in this book was like smouldering embers of a fire that keeps you warm and cozy all night long in the winters, complete with it's occasional sparks of some really hot sex! :D
This was such a wonderful ride on so many levels that it went past being ridiculously good...There is tragedy but the author took such care not to overdo it with overbearing angst. Instead there was genuine emotion, genuine situations with genuine characters who have busy lives who have loved and lost in their pasts. But the way both characters deal with everything Not to mention the sparkling humor that had me in splits and slapping my knee saying "oh my god! this is sooooooo good!!!"...
As LA said this book was JUST RIGHT! The right amount of love, professional lives, family interaction...and just the right amount of kink to give it a bit of spice! So playful...so joyful...so AMAZING!!! And that ending...the author totally redeems the title of this book. The way Aedin dealt with the subject matter was purely Masterful in it's execution! I'm left enthralled and so completely sated and yet still craving for more! ;P
I will hold this book close to my heart...because it is just that good!
My gratitude and congratulations to the author for writing such a successful, fulfilling piece of work! Absolutely Fantastic!
A must read!
March 14, 2016
I was all of 4% into this book and there were tears, big, grab the kleenex tears of heartache. This was a fabulous read. The story was well paced, the details were given out as part of the story rather than a big info dump. The relationship between the MC's was not insta-love there was a strong attraction which one would assume was there or really why bother pursuing a long distance relationship? I loved the time and effort that these two men put into building this relationship, that the author gave us a solid friendship as well as the requisite physical attraction for these two men to grow something more lasting and permanent from.
I really don't even know how to explain it, this story just really, really worked for me. I liked both of the MC's and together...together ...oh my god!!! They were so freaking hot. The sex was amazing!!!! There was a level of intimacy between Stuart and Dustin that isn't always communicated effectively in a story. But I really felt it in this one.
Maybe it was just my frame of mind, the mood I was in, the weather, the time of day. I don't know. I just know this worked and for me it worked wonderfully well and I enjoyed it immensely.
Paper Planes left me a very happy reader and ready to dive into the next book.
I really don't even know how to explain it, this story just really, really worked for me. I liked both of the MC's and together...together ...oh my god!!! They were so freaking hot. The sex was amazing!!!! There was a level of intimacy between Stuart and Dustin that isn't always communicated effectively in a story. But I really felt it in this one.
Maybe it was just my frame of mind, the mood I was in, the weather, the time of day. I don't know. I just know this worked and for me it worked wonderfully well and I enjoyed it immensely.
Paper Planes left me a very happy reader and ready to dive into the next book.
didnt-finish
October 5, 2011i read to chapter ten about 49% of the book. first half bored me so much and was just a waste of pages I don't have any desire to see how the last half is.
I was like the first three chapters ok but after the 7 month time jump i never got back into it. Seemed like after that i was just reading the same thing over and over again in a different setting. so many scenes just the MC having the same thoughts it was wordy and boring.
Also when they finally start to reconnect after the nine or ten months it has been it is all online. I don't use facebook or their scrabble game so endless pages of them playing scrabble or browsing photos is pointless to a book. Even if i did use facebook i don't think i would be interested in reading about people playing on there.
I was like the first three chapters ok but after the 7 month time jump i never got back into it. Seemed like after that i was just reading the same thing over and over again in a different setting. so many scenes just the MC having the same thoughts it was wordy and boring.
Also when they finally start to reconnect after the nine or ten months it has been it is all online. I don't use facebook or their scrabble game so endless pages of them playing scrabble or browsing photos is pointless to a book. Even if i did use facebook i don't think i would be interested in reading about people playing on there.
March 13, 2013
M. Jules Aedin's writing style is slow and easy. The blurb for this book was really misleading, but what I got ended up more enjoyable than what I expected.
The two MC's had both lost a loved one, but hadn't shut off their hearts. The relationship wasn't rushed, and it felt very realistic.
The beginning was sad, and I will admit to a few tears, but mostly this book made me smile, and the ending was truly beautiful.
There is no big drama's or angst in this story, and I enjoyed that.
I would of liked just a short epilogue, but that is mainly me. I hate when story's come to an end.
I would definitely read more by this author.
The two MC's had both lost a loved one, but hadn't shut off their hearts. The relationship wasn't rushed, and it felt very realistic.
The beginning was sad, and I will admit to a few tears, but mostly this book made me smile, and the ending was truly beautiful.
There is no big drama's or angst in this story, and I enjoyed that.
I would of liked just a short epilogue, but that is mainly me. I hate when story's come to an end.
I would definitely read more by this author.
July 10, 2014
Another wonderful BR with Mishyjo and Catherine!!
I love reading books where the characters are so likeable that no real angst or drama is needed to spice up the story.
Dustin...does that man have a way with words or what? I loved his texts, I loved what he would say to Stuart in bed, I just loved everything about him.
Stuart was also easy to love. A very caring and genuine individual. I wouldn't mind reading a back story about his relationship with Brendan. I bet it would be great!
This was just a fun story to read and it definitely had some super hot moments! Tetris anyone?
Again, thanks to Catherine and Mishyjo for the fun commentary while reading :)
I love reading books where the characters are so likeable that no real angst or drama is needed to spice up the story.
Dustin...does that man have a way with words or what? I loved his texts, I loved what he would say to Stuart in bed, I just loved everything about him.
Stuart was also easy to love. A very caring and genuine individual. I wouldn't mind reading a back story about his relationship with Brendan. I bet it would be great!
This was just a fun story to read and it definitely had some super hot moments! Tetris anyone?
Again, thanks to Catherine and Mishyjo for the fun commentary while reading :)
December 3, 2011
4.5 stars. Very good m/m romance about a photographer whose partner died in a plane crash a year ago and who isn't really moving past that until after he becomes friend with an older pilot. I particularly liked that this book didn't go in for quick fixes - recovering from a significant loss takes time - and that one of the main characters had a disability. Perfect main characters get boring!
October 8, 2011
I Loved This Book!!
When I finished reading about Stewart and Dustin I just wanted more!!
I ♥ ♡ ♥ This book so much :)
Everything about it was beautiful :)
This is Re reading material, Every one who loves a HEA and a great feeling book with lovable characters you should try this book..
When I finished reading about Stewart and Dustin I just wanted more!!
I ♥ ♡ ♥ This book so much :)
Everything about it was beautiful :)
This is Re reading material, Every one who loves a HEA and a great feeling book with lovable characters you should try this book..
July 12, 2016
3.5. - Moving On - Stars
How do you move on from the love of your life? At what point is it okay to date someone new? What do you do when your partner dies in a tragedy and you get placed as a spokesperson for the LGBT community with your identity connected to his? These are some of the struggles Stuart is dealing with. His partner, Brendan, was killed in a plane hijacking. He of course misses him very much.
He gets hit on while exiting the airplane at an event. The pilot, a hot Asian guy is checking out his ass and he feels a spark with this guy. But with this spark also comes the guilt.
Dustin McDonough, is a pilot who has lived his own share of tragedy. His partner died from Aids and he unfortunately lost one of his legs in an accident. He does not let that stop him from fulfilling his dream of becoming a pilot though.
During a delay, they decide to go get a meal together in Dallas. The conversation flows and they wind up waiting too long and Stuart misses his flight. Fortunately, he is able to get one for the next day. And Dustin offers to let him stay at his place....
They have a good time playing Tetris and hanging out....No really...No nookie action happened then. You could tell they both wanted it to!
(Sidenote: Reading this made me want to get an old school nintendo and play Tetris too! I loved that game!)
Anyways Stuart goes on his way and months later he's still thinking about Dustin. What does he do? He looks him up on Facebook! They start conversing after this and plan to meet up again.
Needless to say over time and some sexting a relationship develops. And the have some hot hookups..!
Overall it was a really sweet story and I thoroughly enjoyed it. So glad they got their happy ending!
How do you move on from the love of your life? At what point is it okay to date someone new? What do you do when your partner dies in a tragedy and you get placed as a spokesperson for the LGBT community with your identity connected to his? These are some of the struggles Stuart is dealing with. His partner, Brendan, was killed in a plane hijacking. He of course misses him very much.
He gets hit on while exiting the airplane at an event. The pilot, a hot Asian guy is checking out his ass and he feels a spark with this guy. But with this spark also comes the guilt.
Dustin McDonough, is a pilot who has lived his own share of tragedy. His partner died from Aids and he unfortunately lost one of his legs in an accident. He does not let that stop him from fulfilling his dream of becoming a pilot though.
During a delay, they decide to go get a meal together in Dallas. The conversation flows and they wind up waiting too long and Stuart misses his flight. Fortunately, he is able to get one for the next day. And Dustin offers to let him stay at his place....
They have a good time playing Tetris and hanging out....No really...No nookie action happened then. You could tell they both wanted it to!
(Sidenote: Reading this made me want to get an old school nintendo and play Tetris too! I loved that game!)
Anyways Stuart goes on his way and months later he's still thinking about Dustin. What does he do? He looks him up on Facebook! They start conversing after this and plan to meet up again.
Needless to say over time and some sexting a relationship develops. And the have some hot hookups..!
Overall it was a really sweet story and I thoroughly enjoyed it. So glad they got their happy ending!
March 11, 2014
I picked this book up with the notion that it’d be another story about “a woeful MC who loses his partner in a tragedy and then fights against love for 150 pages” - but there was none of that here. What we get here instead is a story about people taking chances and moving forward.
I’ll tell you what I liked most about this story: It was the care that was taken in writing the character who cares for someone with a disability. I think I’m a pretty compassionate person and I like to think that I don’t discriminate against people with any form of disability, but Paper Planes, or rather, Aedin (author) had me rethinking my reaction/response/behaviour towards people with disabilities. For example, there’s a shower scene which is pulled off beautifully, with respect, eroticism, care, sensitivity and grace. Who would have thought we’d get that in this little book?
Also, the MCs are mature, sexy, intelligent 36 and 48 year old men. I loved that! Don’t we need more of that in the M/M genre?
Aside from that, Paper Planes isn’t going to change anybody’s life. What it will do, is give you a nice smutty, easy read with a couple of characters who banter and deliver double entendres like they’re going out of fashion. And that’s fine by me.
I’ll tell you what I liked most about this story: It was the care that was taken in writing the character who cares for someone with a disability. I think I’m a pretty compassionate person and I like to think that I don’t discriminate against people with any form of disability, but Paper Planes, or rather, Aedin (author) had me rethinking my reaction/response/behaviour towards people with disabilities. For example, there’s a shower scene which is pulled off beautifully, with respect, eroticism, care, sensitivity and grace. Who would have thought we’d get that in this little book?
Also, the MCs are mature, sexy, intelligent 36 and 48 year old men. I loved that! Don’t we need more of that in the M/M genre?
Aside from that, Paper Planes isn’t going to change anybody’s life. What it will do, is give you a nice smutty, easy read with a couple of characters who banter and deliver double entendres like they’re going out of fashion. And that’s fine by me.
October 28, 2017
I think my eyes leaked through almost all of this book. I wasn't a full on snotty mess but I didn't need a few tissues. And I absolutely loved it! These guys! They weren't perfect, physically or otherwise but they were kind of just right for each other. I wouldn't say it was a slow moving romance but they didn't hop into bed right off. Probably because they rarely saw each other seeing as they lived in different states and all. There was no big fight or crazy drama, just a straight up romance. Very nice!
August 19, 2020
It was very low drama. Just a ride through the life of two interesting guys with sad background. Not earth shattering but nice.
July 28, 2012
This is a wonderful read. I smiled a lot when I read this book.
Stuart is a photographer and his partner Brendan was killed in a plane hijacking. After his death, Stuart goes around the country giving talks to LGBT chapters focusing on Brendan's heroism. While some people think this a bid for fame it's more a theraputic move on Stuart's part but he's feeling the need for it come to an end. It's during his last trip that he meets a pilot, Dustin. There's attraction on both sides, too soon for Stuart though and it begins a long separation but also a slow burn.
I love slow burn romances.
This story is from Stuart's POV but I didn't feel cheated when it came to Dustin's character. There's a lot of long distance romancing going on here and as Stuart learns more about Dustin so does the reader and like that. He still has secrets but he never feels like a mystery to me.
When these two do finally get together it's explosive but it's also quietly romantic. I was really rooting for these two men and I love books that bring that out in me. There aren't a lot of big happenings here, this is a story about two men finding each other and then trying to make things work so that they can keep each other. It's sweet, it's hot, it's funny, and it's touching.
This is a comfort read at its finest and something I'll go back to again. If you enjoy a book that focuses on a relationship I think you'll really love this one, I know I did.
Stuart is a photographer and his partner Brendan was killed in a plane hijacking. After his death, Stuart goes around the country giving talks to LGBT chapters focusing on Brendan's heroism. While some people think this a bid for fame it's more a theraputic move on Stuart's part but he's feeling the need for it come to an end. It's during his last trip that he meets a pilot, Dustin. There's attraction on both sides, too soon for Stuart though and it begins a long separation but also a slow burn.
I love slow burn romances.
This story is from Stuart's POV but I didn't feel cheated when it came to Dustin's character. There's a lot of long distance romancing going on here and as Stuart learns more about Dustin so does the reader and like that. He still has secrets but he never feels like a mystery to me.
When these two do finally get together it's explosive but it's also quietly romantic. I was really rooting for these two men and I love books that bring that out in me. There aren't a lot of big happenings here, this is a story about two men finding each other and then trying to make things work so that they can keep each other. It's sweet, it's hot, it's funny, and it's touching.
This is a comfort read at its finest and something I'll go back to again. If you enjoy a book that focuses on a relationship I think you'll really love this one, I know I did.
October 10, 2011
Such a sweet, simple story, and yet so much content! Two men who each have lost a lover to an untimely death in the past meet, get to know each other and finally get together. This book moves slow and calm, as does the protagonist's relationship, There isn't much action, and there isn't even much character development aside from Stuart coping and finally coming to terms with the loss of his beloved boyfriend. It fits that both heroes are older, it fits that Dustin has a disability with which he has made his peace a long time ago, simply everything fits, including the dancing around each other of two people who can't forget each other after a cance meeting. Don't look for action and don't look for drama here, both men are reasonable and mature enough to talk things through - and still juvenile enough to while away hours playing Tetris and getting butterflies in their stomachs over each other.
My only niggle was the BDSM part; although it somewhat fit into the context, it appeared a little out of character for both of them. I simply couldn't see how their lovemaking suddenly turned into a ritualistic scene. I felt their relationship was new enough that they didn't need the spicing up yet - but to each their own. All in all, a wonderful, heartwarming, quiet lovestory which I finished with a smile.
My only niggle was the BDSM part; although it somewhat fit into the context, it appeared a little out of character for both of them. I simply couldn't see how their lovemaking suddenly turned into a ritualistic scene. I felt their relationship was new enough that they didn't need the spicing up yet - but to each their own. All in all, a wonderful, heartwarming, quiet lovestory which I finished with a smile.
June 14, 2011
I enjoyed reading this book!
Can't say that I was mesmerized by it but it did leave me with a happy feeling and a smile on my face. Even though halfway through the book, I figured there wasn't going to be a burst of action and adrenaline in the story, the writing sometimes suggested... and I kept expecting some sudden turn of events or something bad to happen. Luckily, this is a HEA story.
The first person POV was nicely done and I liked that the story was only from Stuart's perspective. I mean, it would have been nice to read Dustin's inner musings but it gave the story a more intimate feel just seeing things one way. Both men came together bringing a past full of memories and life altering events but the way they came together was romantic and enjoyable. It felt all to real when reading about their doubts, about the hardships of a long distance relationship, about being at peace with who you are but unable to share that with all of your family, being able to overcome the loss of a loved one and find the courage to move on and love again.
Everything was well put together. It seems like a success, in terms of what I like and expect of a book. Definitely a 4.5 star rating.
Can't say that I was mesmerized by it but it did leave me with a happy feeling and a smile on my face. Even though halfway through the book, I figured there wasn't going to be a burst of action and adrenaline in the story, the writing sometimes suggested... and I kept expecting some sudden turn of events or something bad to happen. Luckily, this is a HEA story.
The first person POV was nicely done and I liked that the story was only from Stuart's perspective. I mean, it would have been nice to read Dustin's inner musings but it gave the story a more intimate feel just seeing things one way. Both men came together bringing a past full of memories and life altering events but the way they came together was romantic and enjoyable. It felt all to real when reading about their doubts, about the hardships of a long distance relationship, about being at peace with who you are but unable to share that with all of your family, being able to overcome the loss of a loved one and find the courage to move on and love again.
Everything was well put together. It seems like a success, in terms of what I like and expect of a book. Definitely a 4.5 star rating.
October 1, 2011
This was a sweet straight forward love story. I really enjoyed the depth and patience that went into developing strong, thoughtful characters. I must admit that I kept waiting for the other shoe to drop during the story and was happily pleased that I didn't need to worry (too much angst lately, has obviously made me twitchy). When you are in the mood for watching love happen beautifully, Paper Planes is the book for you.
March 15, 2014
This book was equal parts poignant, deliciously filthy, and unexpectedly funny - I loved it!
December 3, 2011
This review was originally published on my blog Joyfully Jay.
I picked this book up after reading a review on another blog. I wasn't familiar with the author, but the book combined two of my favorite elements: an interracial couple and a hero with a physical disability. Ethnic and physical diversity are so often lacking in romance novels that finding both at once, along with a great sounding plot, inspired me to check it out. And I am really glad that I did!
Stuart Grange lost his partner Brendan Miller in a plane crash. Not only that, but Brendan was killed trying to stop a terrorist attack, similar to Flight 93 on 9/11. As the surviving partner in a gay relationship, Stuart has become nationally known and is in high demand as a speaker at various public events.
One night after a speaking engagement in Texas, Stuart runs into Dustin McDonough, the pilot from his flight earlier in the day. The men had a made a brief connection when Stuart was exiting the plane (including Dustin checking out his ass), and when Stuart has time before his flight, the men have dinner together. Stuart ends up missing his plane and spends the night at Dustin's house, but nothing physical happens as Stuart is not ready for that step.
The men then go months without contact, although Stuart continues to think about Dustin. After a chance encounter at another rally, Stuart finally works up the nerve to track Dustin down and the men begin a flirtatious relationship over text, IM, and Facebook. Things develop slowly as the men must work out how to connect in person due to their distance and busy work schedules. And Stuart is still emotionally working through moving on to someone else after Brendan's death.
The best way I can describe this book is quiet. The romance builds slowly and sweetly and there is no major upheaval. The conflicts the men face -- distance apart and moving past the loss of a partner -- exist at the beginning of the story and they work through them over the course of the book. There is no third act crisis or crazy plot twists, just sweet (and very hot) romance and two men falling in love.
I really loved this story and adored both characters. Dustin is strong and confident with loads of enthusiasm. He is older than Stuart at 48, and had lost a partner of his own many years before to AIDS. Around the same time, he lost his leg in a car accident and now wears a prosthetic from mid-thigh down. I thought that the issue of Dustin's leg was dealt with really well here. There is a really fine line in terms of how much it should be mentioned and I think Aedin handles it well. Too much focus and Dustin's character becomes nothing but "man with prosthetic leg" and too little and it is just window dressing with no substance. But I think the book strikes just the right balance. Dustin's leg is occasionally mentioned casually when he is tired and needs to sit down or remove it, or sometimes when he brushes his leg against Stuart or the book describes the position he is in. And there are a few more detailed sections when he is taking the prosthetic off or putting it on where it is more of a focus.
One of things I really liked about the book is the way it showed Dustin and Stuart at two different spots on the healing spectrum. Dustin has faced his challenges and overcome them by the time he meets Stuart and is able to really understand and support Stuart as he navigates his first relationship since Brendan's death. Stuart is in his early 30's and his loss is more fresh (although if I did the math right Brendan's death is about 9 months prior to Stuart meeting Dustin and around a year and a half before they first get together physically). He is struggling with being in the spotlight after Brendan's death and still feeling his way along. What was most interesting to me is the way Dustin's leg really serves to show how Dustin has already dealt with his grief and loss and come out other side, while Stuart is still working through it. It highlights those stages of recovery in a really interesting way.
I only had two small criticisms. First, early in the story Stuart faces hostility from some members of the gay community angry that he is being held up as a representative or role model when he and Brendan were never activists or outspoken for gay rights before his death. There is some vandalism of a presentation and some heckling and other issues. Although Stuart eventually decides he no longer wants to do public speaking and to instead move forward with other things (which means that these criticisms stop), I still feel like this issue was brought up and then never really went anywhere or was fully resolved. Second, the pacing could have been picked up a bit through the middle. I was never bored (in fact I found their cyber flirting adorable) but I think things could have been tightened up a bit.
Overall though I really loved this book. I loved the way the two men showed the progression of getting over loss and trauma and how Dustin was able to help and support Stuart throughout the story. And I think Aedin did a great job of handling a difficult topic without the characters descending into crazy angst. They were mature and dealt with their issues and talked to one another and at the same time were totally loveable and sexy and super hot together. Definitely a recommended read.
I picked this book up after reading a review on another blog. I wasn't familiar with the author, but the book combined two of my favorite elements: an interracial couple and a hero with a physical disability. Ethnic and physical diversity are so often lacking in romance novels that finding both at once, along with a great sounding plot, inspired me to check it out. And I am really glad that I did!
Stuart Grange lost his partner Brendan Miller in a plane crash. Not only that, but Brendan was killed trying to stop a terrorist attack, similar to Flight 93 on 9/11. As the surviving partner in a gay relationship, Stuart has become nationally known and is in high demand as a speaker at various public events.
One night after a speaking engagement in Texas, Stuart runs into Dustin McDonough, the pilot from his flight earlier in the day. The men had a made a brief connection when Stuart was exiting the plane (including Dustin checking out his ass), and when Stuart has time before his flight, the men have dinner together. Stuart ends up missing his plane and spends the night at Dustin's house, but nothing physical happens as Stuart is not ready for that step.
The men then go months without contact, although Stuart continues to think about Dustin. After a chance encounter at another rally, Stuart finally works up the nerve to track Dustin down and the men begin a flirtatious relationship over text, IM, and Facebook. Things develop slowly as the men must work out how to connect in person due to their distance and busy work schedules. And Stuart is still emotionally working through moving on to someone else after Brendan's death.
The best way I can describe this book is quiet. The romance builds slowly and sweetly and there is no major upheaval. The conflicts the men face -- distance apart and moving past the loss of a partner -- exist at the beginning of the story and they work through them over the course of the book. There is no third act crisis or crazy plot twists, just sweet (and very hot) romance and two men falling in love.
I really loved this story and adored both characters. Dustin is strong and confident with loads of enthusiasm. He is older than Stuart at 48, and had lost a partner of his own many years before to AIDS. Around the same time, he lost his leg in a car accident and now wears a prosthetic from mid-thigh down. I thought that the issue of Dustin's leg was dealt with really well here. There is a really fine line in terms of how much it should be mentioned and I think Aedin handles it well. Too much focus and Dustin's character becomes nothing but "man with prosthetic leg" and too little and it is just window dressing with no substance. But I think the book strikes just the right balance. Dustin's leg is occasionally mentioned casually when he is tired and needs to sit down or remove it, or sometimes when he brushes his leg against Stuart or the book describes the position he is in. And there are a few more detailed sections when he is taking the prosthetic off or putting it on where it is more of a focus.
One of things I really liked about the book is the way it showed Dustin and Stuart at two different spots on the healing spectrum. Dustin has faced his challenges and overcome them by the time he meets Stuart and is able to really understand and support Stuart as he navigates his first relationship since Brendan's death. Stuart is in his early 30's and his loss is more fresh (although if I did the math right Brendan's death is about 9 months prior to Stuart meeting Dustin and around a year and a half before they first get together physically). He is struggling with being in the spotlight after Brendan's death and still feeling his way along. What was most interesting to me is the way Dustin's leg really serves to show how Dustin has already dealt with his grief and loss and come out other side, while Stuart is still working through it. It highlights those stages of recovery in a really interesting way.
I only had two small criticisms. First, early in the story Stuart faces hostility from some members of the gay community angry that he is being held up as a representative or role model when he and Brendan were never activists or outspoken for gay rights before his death. There is some vandalism of a presentation and some heckling and other issues. Although Stuart eventually decides he no longer wants to do public speaking and to instead move forward with other things (which means that these criticisms stop), I still feel like this issue was brought up and then never really went anywhere or was fully resolved. Second, the pacing could have been picked up a bit through the middle. I was never bored (in fact I found their cyber flirting adorable) but I think things could have been tightened up a bit.
Overall though I really loved this book. I loved the way the two men showed the progression of getting over loss and trauma and how Dustin was able to help and support Stuart throughout the story. And I think Aedin did a great job of handling a difficult topic without the characters descending into crazy angst. They were mature and dealt with their issues and talked to one another and at the same time were totally loveable and sexy and super hot together. Definitely a recommended read.
August 14, 2011
Photographer Stuart spends much of his time speaking at GLBT events, about his lover who died during a plane hijacking. It's been nearly a year but while landing in Dallas, the captain of the flight, flirts with him. By chance Dustin is also at the rally and offers to get him to the airport, however they get talking and he misses his flight so stays with Dustin. He's not ready for a relationship but starts thinking about Dustin more and more and finally after much mulling and talking with his therapist gets in touch. They eventually start a long-distance relationship. This is just a nice story about two guys who have both suffered losses (Dustin's lover died of AIDS) who are getting to know each other and watching Stuart move on from his grief over the death of his partner. It was a bit sad and some funny and sweet and sexy. Interestingly, Dustin is 48, half-Korean and an amputee having lost his leg in a car accident. It was nice to see it treated as "normal" and not made a big deal. Also the reality of Dustin being 48 and not able to have 15 orgasms in a night was smoothly slipped in without making something of it. I was kind of sad when the story ended, not because I didn't want them to get their HEA and I did want them to move in together, but just because I was enjoying them so much I kind of hoped it would be longer. A perfect read when you're not looking for an angst fest or just a sex-filled read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 124 reviews