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Coda #4.5
Putting Out Fires: A Coda Short Story
Part of the Coda series
Matt Richards has never given much thought to Valentine’s Day, but when his lover of almost three years, Jared Thomas, hints that he feels unappreciated, Matt realizes he needs to do something. He’s determined to make this Valentine’s Day special, but nothing is going to turn out the way Matt plans.
Matt Richards has never given much thought to Valentine’s Day, but when his lover of almost three years, Jared Thomas, hints that he feels unappreciated, Matt realizes he needs to do something. He’s determined to make this Valentine’s Day special, but nothing is going to turn out the way Matt plans.
31 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 14, 2011
4 people are currently reading
670 people want to read
About the author
Marie Sexton
55 books2,232 followersMarie Sexton lives in Colorado. She’s a fan of just about anything that involves muscular young men piling on top of each other. In particular, she loves the Denver Broncos and enjoys going to the games with her husband. Her imaginary friends often tag along. Marie has one daughter, two cats, and one dog, all of whom seem bent on destroying what remains of her sanity. She loves them anyway.
The absolute best way to stay up-to-date on my books is by joining my FB group. You can view livestreams about Oestend, Coda, and the Heretic Doms Club. I also give away books on a regular basis. NO DRAMA ALLOWED!!
Or, you might want to check out these pages:
Coda: Which book do I read first?
Find a book by trope or heat level.
Visit my website/blog at http://www.MarieSexton.net
The absolute best way to stay up-to-date on my books is by joining my FB group. You can view livestreams about Oestend, Coda, and the Heretic Doms Club. I also give away books on a regular basis. NO DRAMA ALLOWED!!
Or, you might want to check out these pages:
Coda: Which book do I read first?
Find a book by trope or heat level.
Visit my website/blog at http://www.MarieSexton.net
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 112 reviews
February 14, 2020
Matt thinks that being in a relationship with a man means he doesn’t have to put much effort into romantic things. But when Jared hints that he feels unappreciated, Matt determines to show him how much he loves and cherishes him. But things haven’t worked out as he planned.
The story borders on burlesque, still it manages to be charming and laugh-out-loud funny.
I loved Angelo’s ideas for how Matt should make their Valentine’s Day special. ;)
Recommended!
The story borders on burlesque, still it manages to be charming and laugh-out-loud funny.
I loved Angelo’s ideas for how Matt should make their Valentine’s Day special. ;)
Recommended!
February 14, 2011
FANTASTIC Marie!
OMG I was laughing out loud at work when Matt was cooking dinner and when Scooby ran past with the steak in his mouth it nearly killed me! I was in stitches.
I just love Matt & Jared, great story for Valentines Day Marie.
OMG I was laughing out loud at work when Matt was cooking dinner and when Scooby ran past with the steak in his mouth it nearly killed me! I was in stitches.
I just love Matt & Jared, great story for Valentines Day Marie.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 14, 2011
This Valentine's short story was so funny that I had tears streaming down my face AND so romantic that I got all verklempt. Even after having read hundreds of m/m stories, Marie Sexton is still my favorite author in this genre.
February 17, 2011
Cute catch up valentine related short story featuring Matt and Jared from Promises.
Romantic without being overly sappy or complete mush.
My one issue with the story would be that after 3+ years being in a gay relationship the character's narrative voice should be beyond thinking of things as straight/gay, manly/fem...emphasizing how they are too manly.
"I stopped by the liquor store Zach had mentioned and bought the wine and a corkscrew to open it with, because I was pretty sure we didn’t own one. Jared and I never drank anything but Dr Pepper and beer, but I figured the wine was worth a shot." I have a hard time believing that Matt and Jared don't entertain. It doesn't butch them up to read that they wouldn't have a cork screw because they drink beer.
"Maybe I was supposed to use a cookie sheet? Not that we owned one of those anyway" What adult with a home doesn't own a cookie sheet? Frozen pizza, fish sticks, garlic bread...they are for more than cookies.
There are a few others that I won't mention for fear of spoilers.
It was also a little odd for Matt to get romance advice from Ang. Ang who is in an open relationship and can't be tied down, talking about how guys don't get into romance and V-day... *rolls eyes*
The ending washed away any issues I had with the set-up and I really enjoyed reading it.
Fans of Promises will really enjoy this sweet bite of Matt and Jared.
Romantic without being overly sappy or complete mush.
My one issue with the story would be that after 3+ years being in a gay relationship the character's narrative voice should be beyond thinking of things as straight/gay, manly/fem...emphasizing how they are too manly.
"I stopped by the liquor store Zach had mentioned and bought the wine and a corkscrew to open it with, because I was pretty sure we didn’t own one. Jared and I never drank anything but Dr Pepper and beer, but I figured the wine was worth a shot." I have a hard time believing that Matt and Jared don't entertain. It doesn't butch them up to read that they wouldn't have a cork screw because they drink beer.
"Maybe I was supposed to use a cookie sheet? Not that we owned one of those anyway" What adult with a home doesn't own a cookie sheet? Frozen pizza, fish sticks, garlic bread...they are for more than cookies.
There are a few others that I won't mention for fear of spoilers.
It was also a little odd for Matt to get romance advice from Ang. Ang who is in an open relationship and can't be tied down, talking about how guys don't get into romance and V-day... *rolls eyes*
The ending washed away any issues I had with the set-up and I really enjoyed reading it.
Fans of Promises will really enjoy this sweet bite of Matt and Jared.
February 15, 2011
The only reason this is not getting 5 stars is that it was just too short. I love Matt and Jared....they are so good together. Matt was busting me up...such a typical guy. The whole dinner fiasco was hilarious!!! Matt and Scooby fighting over the steak and Jared walking in? Loved it. Can't wait for the next book.
June 25, 2014
Sweet and very Valentiney...
Adorable little shortie.
Loved
Adorable little shortie.
Loved
June 14, 2013
Very humorous short story featuring Matt and his funny attempts at making Jared feel appreciated for Valentines Day. I laughed out loud a couple times.
January 26, 2022
Drobiazg walentynkowy, który pokazał, że Matt i gotowanie równa się katastrofa 😁
February 17, 2011
Fans of the author’s novel Promises will find this cute little Valentine’s short a must-read. It’s been three years since Matt and Jared met, and Jared’s angry comment about being appreciated along with Matt’s colleague’s marriage break-down, triggers Matt to begin a quest to make Valentine’s Day perfect for Jared and show him that he loves him and appreciates him.
Matt is a guy’s guy. He doesn’t get Valentine’s day, and Angelo and Zach from A to Z aren’t much help. Angelo thinks he’s insane to even try, and while Zach gives him a pretty good idea, it doesn’t go the way Matt intends. In fact the whole thing goes to hell, and instead of walking into the perfect Valentine’s Day celebration, Jared comes home to a disaster. However their day ends up not being all bad and Matt achieves his goal after all, of making Jared confident of his love.
This was very sweet and a fun revisit with the guys. I loved that we got to see Zach and Angelo again as well. I was shaking my head at Matt’s attempts to create the perfect Valentine’s Day experience. Boys. This is told from Matt’s first person point of view, so you are privy to his thoughts about Jared, how they met, how Jared changed his life and how much he loves him, but like many guys, he just can’t get it out, but Jared knows.
You don’t HAVE to have read the other books to enjoy this. There is enough background thrown in to explain how they met and got together for the uninitiated, however it will be especially rewarding for fans of the couple, and series, but perhaps this little taste will encourage someone to pick up Promises and truly get to know Matt and Jared a little better. Definitely a cute little addition to the series.
Matt is a guy’s guy. He doesn’t get Valentine’s day, and Angelo and Zach from A to Z aren’t much help. Angelo thinks he’s insane to even try, and while Zach gives him a pretty good idea, it doesn’t go the way Matt intends. In fact the whole thing goes to hell, and instead of walking into the perfect Valentine’s Day celebration, Jared comes home to a disaster. However their day ends up not being all bad and Matt achieves his goal after all, of making Jared confident of his love.
This was very sweet and a fun revisit with the guys. I loved that we got to see Zach and Angelo again as well. I was shaking my head at Matt’s attempts to create the perfect Valentine’s Day experience. Boys. This is told from Matt’s first person point of view, so you are privy to his thoughts about Jared, how they met, how Jared changed his life and how much he loves him, but like many guys, he just can’t get it out, but Jared knows.
You don’t HAVE to have read the other books to enjoy this. There is enough background thrown in to explain how they met and got together for the uninitiated, however it will be especially rewarding for fans of the couple, and series, but perhaps this little taste will encourage someone to pick up Promises and truly get to know Matt and Jared a little better. Definitely a cute little addition to the series.
June 2, 2014
OMG!!! Cutest thing in the world! Also one of the funniest shorts ive ever had the pleasure of reading, I just totally loved this!
Apparently, you weren’t supposed to put the steaks right on the rack. Maybe I was supposed to use a cookie sheet? Not that we owned one of those anyway.
A Coda Valentine's story, Matt doesnt really give much thought to the romantic holiday, but when Jared hints at feeling unappreciated Matt jumps at the chance to do something that makes his partner feel more than simply appreciated. But his determination only ends up in disaster. Oh but what a wonderful one.
Ill just grab this moment to fan girl over Ang and Zach...
Zach looked up from his computer. “What?”
“You know today’s Valentine’s Day?”
Zach stared at us blankly for a second, looking completely shell-shocked. “No.”
“Did you buy me anything?”
Zach’s cheeks actually started to turn red. He didn’t blush often, but Angelo’s question obviously made him uncomfortable. “Um… no.”
“Good. I didn’t get you anything either.”
The relief on Zach’s face was almost laughable. “Thank God,” he said as he turned back to his computer. “Jesus, Ang, don’t scare me like that.”
I turned the gas up all the way, alternately hitting the button and trying to light the grill with the Bic. Nothing worked. It occurred to me that if there had actually been
propane in the tank, I would probably have blown myself up by now. I should probably have been thankful for small favors. Somehow though, I wasn’t.
Apparently, you weren’t supposed to put the steaks right on the rack. Maybe I was supposed to use a cookie sheet? Not that we owned one of those anyway.
A Coda Valentine's story, Matt doesnt really give much thought to the romantic holiday, but when Jared hints at feeling unappreciated Matt jumps at the chance to do something that makes his partner feel more than simply appreciated. But his determination only ends up in disaster. Oh but what a wonderful one.
Ill just grab this moment to fan girl over Ang and Zach...
Zach looked up from his computer. “What?”
“You know today’s Valentine’s Day?”
Zach stared at us blankly for a second, looking completely shell-shocked. “No.”
“Did you buy me anything?”
Zach’s cheeks actually started to turn red. He didn’t blush often, but Angelo’s question obviously made him uncomfortable. “Um… no.”
“Good. I didn’t get you anything either.”
The relief on Zach’s face was almost laughable. “Thank God,” he said as he turned back to his computer. “Jesus, Ang, don’t scare me like that.”
I turned the gas up all the way, alternately hitting the button and trying to light the grill with the Bic. Nothing worked. It occurred to me that if there had actually been
propane in the tank, I would probably have blown myself up by now. I should probably have been thankful for small favors. Somehow though, I wasn’t.
July 15, 2014
I hate to write anything negative about something relating to this couple because they are honestly at the top of my favorite MM couples list. This short Valentine story wasn’t bad, it was just ok – which is the disappointing part because first of all $2.99 for 36 pages is just crazy! And secondly – and more importantly – only about 25% of it had Matt & Jared together. This story was mostly Matt thinking, worrying, and getting all worked up about Jared not feeling appreciated and Matt trying to make Jared feel appreciated and loved. And although it was funny, entertaining, and we love seeing anything with these two guys anyway, there was very little romance and story. This is really more like an extended epilogue that comes at the end of the book or a free short story. I actually loved the free short, The Promise, more because that to me had more romance.
The good thing about this book though is that it reminds us of the first time the two guys met and that they are still going strong and they really are perfect for each other. They have settled into their relationship and their lives but we can sense that there are still sparks between them. I also love the reminder that Valentines is such a female holiday and that these guys remind us of their definition of the day: Mobster movies, beer, and wings. LOL! Actually that sounds better than flowers and chocolate to me, though I would prefer to watch The Notebook over Goodfellas. LOL!
In summary, for the price..I would say you can skip this book unless you’re able to read this on a loan. I remain a fan of this series and author, though you if you are hankering for some Matt/Jared love, I would suggest a re-read of Promises over this.
The good thing about this book though is that it reminds us of the first time the two guys met and that they are still going strong and they really are perfect for each other. They have settled into their relationship and their lives but we can sense that there are still sparks between them. I also love the reminder that Valentines is such a female holiday and that these guys remind us of their definition of the day: Mobster movies, beer, and wings. LOL! Actually that sounds better than flowers and chocolate to me, though I would prefer to watch The Notebook over Goodfellas. LOL!
In summary, for the price..I would say you can skip this book unless you’re able to read this on a loan. I remain a fan of this series and author, though you if you are hankering for some Matt/Jared love, I would suggest a re-read of Promises over this.
January 28, 2013
Lovable & Foolish. Jealous & uncertain. Unnecessary fears.
One would think three years into a relationship would solidify confidence in your bond. That maybe, just maybe you would know what your spouse, lover and best friend thinks and feels. Matt is an exception to this, for he is obviously still clueless.
My first thought, ‘Poor Jared’. However, in reality there is no poor Jared. Jared loves his jealous, insecure and oblivious partner. He loves him with every bit of his heart, and Matt loves him just as fiercely. They truly are a perfect pair.
This brief peek into their lives shows us Matt struggling to express his love and appreciation to Jared on Valentine’s Day. It is hilarious, silly and snort out loud humor. I enjoyed it immensely. I just can’t get enough of these two.
*4.5 comical stars*
One would think three years into a relationship would solidify confidence in your bond. That maybe, just maybe you would know what your spouse, lover and best friend thinks and feels. Matt is an exception to this, for he is obviously still clueless.
My first thought, ‘Poor Jared’. However, in reality there is no poor Jared. Jared loves his jealous, insecure and oblivious partner. He loves him with every bit of his heart, and Matt loves him just as fiercely. They truly are a perfect pair.
This brief peek into their lives shows us Matt struggling to express his love and appreciation to Jared on Valentine’s Day. It is hilarious, silly and snort out loud humor. I enjoyed it immensely. I just can’t get enough of these two.
*4.5 comical stars*
March 12, 2011
When I think about the Coda books, Matt and Jared are the first thing that come to mind-they are my favorite couple in the series-so I was a little disappointed that the story was so short. BUT, what it lacks in length it makes up in pure sweet comedy at Matt's expense (sorry Matt!) as he tries to (1) come up with something special for his sweetie on Valentine's, and (2)-to actually go about doing it when he has no idea how!
A hilarious and romantic short, and great addition to the Coda series. :D
A hilarious and romantic short, and great addition to the Coda series. :D
October 24, 2011
This short story about Matt trying to do a Valentine's Day for Jared was amusing. I liked seeing him scramble around and end up doing what Angelo originally recommended. It's hard not to empathize with Matt. This story did hit home that I may take my DH for granted and I should do something romantic for him and make him feel special. A sweet romantic story - recommended for the romantic readers.
April 5, 2011
It was a short but cute moment from Matt and Jared's life. I couldn't stop laughing at all the blunders Matt made trying to organise a perfect Valentine's day.
But like Angelo said, Matt and Jared's relationship doesn't rely on romantic gestures but on the love between them and the way they prove that.
Quite a nice read!
But like Angelo said, Matt and Jared's relationship doesn't rely on romantic gestures but on the love between them and the way they prove that.
Quite a nice read!
February 20, 2011
I did enjoy this short (there was quite a bit of giggling), but...I've come to the realization that I don't like shorts. I wanted...like Oliver...more. Here's hoping Marie Sexton writes another Coda book.
February 14, 2011
God I love these two!!!
Matt and Jared Rock!!
Marie I love you!!!
I laughed so much, and when it ended i just wanted more!!!
I wanted to give it 5 stars, but it was so short!!! :(
Matt and Jared are so addictive!!!!
Love Love Love It!!!
Matt and Jared Rock!!
Marie I love you!!!
I laughed so much, and when it ended i just wanted more!!!
I wanted to give it 5 stars, but it was so short!!! :(
Matt and Jared are so addictive!!!!
Love Love Love It!!!
February 14, 2011
Sweet, funny, romantic and one of my favourite couples of all time - there was nothing here that I didn't love. I'd really missed Jared and Matt and this was just the perfect story to see them again. :)
February 25, 2011
This was hilarious! And sweet too
February 14, 2011
Man do I love these two!!
February 16, 2011
Another "Coda" delight! Loved this one,...the kitchen scene had me in stitches! And a perfect ending to this Matt & Jared story ! Thanks, Marie!!
February 15, 2011
So sweet! I love this series. I wish it had been longer because I love Matt and Jared, but really it couldn't have been. It was a perfect short story for Valentine's Day!
February 20, 2026
I’ll give Putting Out FiresPutting Out Fires: A Coda Short Story four stars. For a short story, it delivers exactly what it promises: a warm, funny, and quietly insightful return to Matt and Jared’s world. Seeing them again is a genuine pleasure, and the story captures the easy rhythm of a couple who know how to bicker without ever truly hurting each other. It’s a lovely reminder that “fighting” in a long‑term relationship often means quibbling, not conflict.
The humor is excellent—light, well‑timed, and never over the top—and the emotional beats land with surprising clarity for a story that’s only about thirty pages long. It’s a fast read, but it still feels complete, offering a small but satisfying glimpse into the everyday lives of two characters who continue to resonate.
It's a heartwarming, funny, and well‑crafted short that adds a charming little spark to the Coda universe.
The humor is excellent—light, well‑timed, and never over the top—and the emotional beats land with surprising clarity for a story that’s only about thirty pages long. It’s a fast read, but it still feels complete, offering a small but satisfying glimpse into the everyday lives of two characters who continue to resonate.
It's a heartwarming, funny, and well‑crafted short that adds a charming little spark to the Coda universe.
September 10, 2025
Fires can spread quickly in the heat of the moment or of love
When a special Valentine's Day dinner made by Matt for Jerrod becomes more challenging then expected as the meal plans go up to the smoke detectors and the food does not cook as desired or burns into charcoal. The oven broiled steaks, part char and part raw, become dog food. The potatoes intended to be mashed barely begin to cook. Fires consume the broccoli, a dishtowel, grease in the oven, a shatter a glass lid. Jarrod is very surprised by the dinner results, including the flowers used to bear out some of the flames. But at least the wine has been allowed to breathe in the smoky kitchen. So grabbing wine and glasses, Jerrod and Matt head to the hills for a chance to unwind with the wine and scenery.
When a special Valentine's Day dinner made by Matt for Jerrod becomes more challenging then expected as the meal plans go up to the smoke detectors and the food does not cook as desired or burns into charcoal. The oven broiled steaks, part char and part raw, become dog food. The potatoes intended to be mashed barely begin to cook. Fires consume the broccoli, a dishtowel, grease in the oven, a shatter a glass lid. Jarrod is very surprised by the dinner results, including the flowers used to bear out some of the flames. But at least the wine has been allowed to breathe in the smoky kitchen. So grabbing wine and glasses, Jerrod and Matt head to the hills for a chance to unwind with the wine and scenery.
November 14, 2022
Soooo funny
I laughed a lot esp when he started putting the fire with the roses. Epic.
It is always nice to have extra readings to books that are I am reading one after the other. This is the beauty of series. Sometimes the authors are more generous and it is so cool when this happens.
The laughter that this book got out of me was soooooo refreshing. I loved it, and I strongly suggest that readers read the books in order to be able to understand what is happening.
I laughed a lot esp when he started putting the fire with the roses. Epic.
It is always nice to have extra readings to books that are I am reading one after the other. This is the beauty of series. Sometimes the authors are more generous and it is so cool when this happens.
The laughter that this book got out of me was soooooo refreshing. I loved it, and I strongly suggest that readers read the books in order to be able to understand what is happening.
October 20, 2025
He stopped at the Jeep. It was the same Jeep we’d driven up here the day we’d met. The one I’d bought from his sister-in-law the very next day. He stared at it for a moment before turning to look at me, although in the dark I couldn’t read the look on his face. He seemed to hesitate, and then he walked over to me. He put his arms around my waist and looked up at me. “I’m really glad you wanted the Jeep.”
March 15, 2017
OMW! I laughed till my eyes were overflowing as the scene in the kitchen progressed and then I sighed with much contentment as they sat on the rock being just Matt and Jared! Yes, this was a wonderful little peep into the lives of two of my favorite Marie Sexton characters! This series has been straight-across-the-board 4-star reads for me and I look forward to getting to the rest of them!
April 16, 2022
A sweet M/M (very short) novella about Matt and Jared from Promises.
It is written from Matt’s POV as he tries to plan a Valentines for Jared after a misunderstanding.
But it is quite dry as there are no sex scenes.
It is written from Matt’s POV as he tries to plan a Valentines for Jared after a misunderstanding.
But it is quite dry as there are no sex scenes.
January 7, 2024
I’ve read this author before. This is a mm contemporary romance set in the USA. It is set around Valentine’s Day with the main characters Matt and Jared an established couple trying to find their spark again. After a disastrous attempt at cooking, Matt discovered their spark never went away.
January 9, 2018
Loved this little snippet of Matt and Jared's life together and OMG, Matt and Valentine's Day do not mix well. Lol!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 112 reviews