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Genetic Attraction #3
Deceptive Attraction
Contemporary Menage
Genetic Attraction; Previous Genetic Attraction
Caleb Martin faces a life crisis -- and he’s pretty embarrassed about it. A talented soccer star, he has the chance to sign a lucrative five-year contract and be rich and famous. Two problems -- Cal is gay and signing the contract means he has to stay in the closet, maybe for life. Plus, he’ll have to spend his years diving for soccer balls when he’d like to be helping people, like the rest of his family.
A one-night stand with a beautiful man rocks Cal, but the guy vanishes only to reappear again later where Cal is house-sitting. Too much coincidence? Totally. And then a cute tomboy throws Cal’s life choices into confusion. How could he wind up with a commitmentphobic guy and a woman, especially one dedicated to work in Africa? If that's not confusing enough, he gets a big surprise in a snowstorm. Cosmic joker strikes again.
Publisher's This book contains explicit sexual situations, graphic language, and material that some readers may find anal play/intercourse, male/male sexual practices, menage (m/m/f).
Genetic Attraction; Previous Genetic Attraction
Caleb Martin faces a life crisis -- and he’s pretty embarrassed about it. A talented soccer star, he has the chance to sign a lucrative five-year contract and be rich and famous. Two problems -- Cal is gay and signing the contract means he has to stay in the closet, maybe for life. Plus, he’ll have to spend his years diving for soccer balls when he’d like to be helping people, like the rest of his family.
A one-night stand with a beautiful man rocks Cal, but the guy vanishes only to reappear again later where Cal is house-sitting. Too much coincidence? Totally. And then a cute tomboy throws Cal’s life choices into confusion. How could he wind up with a commitmentphobic guy and a woman, especially one dedicated to work in Africa? If that's not confusing enough, he gets a big surprise in a snowstorm. Cosmic joker strikes again.
Publisher's This book contains explicit sexual situations, graphic language, and material that some readers may find anal play/intercourse, male/male sexual practices, menage (m/m/f).
242 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 1, 2011
15 people are currently reading
270 people want to read
About the author
Tara Lain
97 books1,389 followersTara Lain believes in happy ever afters - and magic. Same thing. In fact, she says, she doesn't believe, she knows. Tara shares this passion in her stories that star her unique, charismatic heroes and adventurous heroines. Quarterbacks and cops, werewolves and witches, blue collar or billionaires, Tara's characters, readers say, love deeply, resolve seemingly insurmountable differences, and ultimately live their lives authentically. After many years living in southern California, Tara, her soulmate honey and her soulmate dog decided they wanted less cars and more trees, prompting a move to Ashland, Oregon where Tara's creating new stories and loving living in a small town with big culture. Likely a Gryffindor or maybe a Ravensclaw but possessed of Parseltongue, Tara loves animals of all kinds, diversity, open minds, coconut crunch ice cream from Zoeys, and her readers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
October 29, 2013
I love this series. Tara Lain has written such endearing and believable characters that just grab your heart.
Deceptive Attraction is the 3rd book in her Genetic Attraction series and what a delightful and charming read.
Caleb is Jake’s brother,
who we first met in Genetic Attraction https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1... (which is one of my favorite m/m/f books ever!!!) is gay and in the closet. He has a one night stand with Elijah. Angel, Em’s cousin is a tomboy midwife who arrives from Africa at the house Caleb is house-sitting.
Wow…..do things hot up when the three meet up!!! It turns into an amazing and erotic mmf ménage story.
Eli is the “cuter” one in this relationship, with his blond curls.
It was a sort of twist to all those ‘gay for you' stories
I enjoyed the way Caleb and Eli resolved their personal issues and conflicts…..and hey Angel….I adored this woman. She was such an endearing and lovable character.
The interaction between them is really fantastic and it had me totally engrossed in the story from beginning to the end. Loved their connection and the deep feelings they have for each other.
Loved seeing a bit more of Jake, Roan and Em and the beginning of building a family together. In fact, one of the things I like about this series is the family dynamics.
This is a really wonderful mmf ménage story and if you enjoy this genre, you will love this series.
Deceptive Attraction is the 3rd book in her Genetic Attraction series and what a delightful and charming read.
Caleb is Jake’s brother,
who we first met in Genetic Attraction https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1... (which is one of my favorite m/m/f books ever!!!) is gay and in the closet. He has a one night stand with Elijah. Angel, Em’s cousin is a tomboy midwife who arrives from Africa at the house Caleb is house-sitting.Wow…..do things hot up when the three meet up!!! It turns into an amazing and erotic mmf ménage story.
There’s a new take on straight-for-you theme. Caleb is gay and has never been with a woman and for the first time he feels a powerful attraction to Angel…..in some way I could believe it….Angel is a tomboy and has a kind of androgynous look which turns him on.
Eli is the “cuter” one in this relationship, with his blond curls.
It was a sort of twist to all those ‘gay for you' stories
I enjoyed the way Caleb and Eli resolved their personal issues and conflicts…..and hey Angel….I adored this woman. She was such an endearing and lovable character.
The interaction between them is really fantastic and it had me totally engrossed in the story from beginning to the end. Loved their connection and the deep feelings they have for each other.
Loved seeing a bit more of Jake, Roan and Em and the beginning of building a family together. In fact, one of the things I like about this series is the family dynamics.
This is a really wonderful mmf ménage story and if you enjoy this genre, you will love this series.
April 27, 2012
loved, loved LOVED this one. Who knew Caleb had all those layers. When I met him in The Scientist and the Supermodel, I kinda just saw him as a scared kid. What a difference a few years make! I thought that the matching of Caleb, Eli, and Angel just worked. They accentuated each others strong points and helped each others weaknesses. How perfect is that?
Although I pretty much figured out how the story was going to go, I loved reading how it was revealed. I also loved the way Caleb and Angel fought for Eli.
I'm sad that this series is ending. I have loved these characters. But most of all, I've loved Tara Lain's writing. She's going to be one of the authors I will always read because I know I'm going to get a great story that just happens to have some smokin' hot sex in it as well. :) And I can't ask for better than that!
Although I pretty much figured out how the story was going to go, I loved reading how it was revealed. I also loved the way Caleb and Angel fought for Eli.
I'm sad that this series is ending. I have loved these characters. But most of all, I've loved Tara Lain's writing. She's going to be one of the authors I will always read because I know I'm going to get a great story that just happens to have some smokin' hot sex in it as well. :) And I can't ask for better than that!
December 11, 2011
This review was originally written for The Romance Reviews and can also be found there.
Even though I don't read many ménages with one of the trio being a woman, I can say with certain confidence that this book was different from the others. Maybe because I am a fan of m/m romance and do read almost strictly that, the combination or rather the characteristics of the main characters really appealed to me.
Cal is a football player or a soccer player if you will, but I live in Europe and soccer doesn't really fly over here. He has a flourishing career ahead of him, only, he's not quite sure if that is the right road for him. You see, Cal is gay, and while he does love to play, putting his team through his coming out isn't something he's willing to do, especially because he would play all over the world, some places where being gay is just about short of a crime.
His issue is that Cal doesn't quite know what else to do and isn't willing to just give up a promising future without a backup plan. What puts him further into his moping state is a one night stand with a pretty guy who split on Cal before he could turn around but in that one night rocked his world.
Deciding to take a break before deciding what exactly he should do with his career, he house sits for the trio from the previous book and overlooks the workers there. Then Angel knocks on the door and in come the fireworks.
Angel is a tomboy midwife working in Africa who arrived to visit her cousin but instead came face to face with Cal. Her looks appeal to Cal and her personality just about knocks him off his feet. Then to make things even more interesting, Cal's one night stand turns out to be one of the workers hired to do the carpentry in the house and even Angel can't resist his pretty boy charms.
I think I liked the idea of Angel looking more like a man and Eli like a woman with his blond curls. It made things interesting and it made it easier for me to believe that Cal could find Angel attractive and want her despite considering himself gay. It was a sort of twist to all those ‘gay for you' stories I like to read and while it didn't make me laugh it certainly made for some hot scenes.
All the characters appealed to me and their interactions kept the book interesting. There are a few too many sex scenes and the plot could have been a bit more elaborate – I thought everything worked itself out too easily – but the writing style works for me and Cal, Angel and Eli certainly found a way to get under my skin.
Still standing behind my statement that this author knows how to work out a ménage, I recommend it both to those curious as well as to those who are as hooked to two-plus as I am.
Even though I don't read many ménages with one of the trio being a woman, I can say with certain confidence that this book was different from the others. Maybe because I am a fan of m/m romance and do read almost strictly that, the combination or rather the characteristics of the main characters really appealed to me.
Cal is a football player or a soccer player if you will, but I live in Europe and soccer doesn't really fly over here. He has a flourishing career ahead of him, only, he's not quite sure if that is the right road for him. You see, Cal is gay, and while he does love to play, putting his team through his coming out isn't something he's willing to do, especially because he would play all over the world, some places where being gay is just about short of a crime.
His issue is that Cal doesn't quite know what else to do and isn't willing to just give up a promising future without a backup plan. What puts him further into his moping state is a one night stand with a pretty guy who split on Cal before he could turn around but in that one night rocked his world.
Deciding to take a break before deciding what exactly he should do with his career, he house sits for the trio from the previous book and overlooks the workers there. Then Angel knocks on the door and in come the fireworks.
Angel is a tomboy midwife working in Africa who arrived to visit her cousin but instead came face to face with Cal. Her looks appeal to Cal and her personality just about knocks him off his feet. Then to make things even more interesting, Cal's one night stand turns out to be one of the workers hired to do the carpentry in the house and even Angel can't resist his pretty boy charms.
I think I liked the idea of Angel looking more like a man and Eli like a woman with his blond curls. It made things interesting and it made it easier for me to believe that Cal could find Angel attractive and want her despite considering himself gay. It was a sort of twist to all those ‘gay for you' stories I like to read and while it didn't make me laugh it certainly made for some hot scenes.
All the characters appealed to me and their interactions kept the book interesting. There are a few too many sex scenes and the plot could have been a bit more elaborate – I thought everything worked itself out too easily – but the writing style works for me and Cal, Angel and Eli certainly found a way to get under my skin.
Still standing behind my statement that this author knows how to work out a ménage, I recommend it both to those curious as well as to those who are as hooked to two-plus as I am.
December 10, 2012
I liked the spin on gay-for-you now being straight-for-you that this book had. I am one that likes plays on sterotypes so the whole (Guy is the one that looks like a girl and the Girl actualy looked like a boy) thing worked well for me. I thought Cal and Angel's first meeting was rather funny and their trip to the gay bar was great. I loved getting to see Jake, Em, and Roan start their family in this one too.
March 3, 2020
Tara Lain, you've done it again! This fantastic, grab-you-by-the-feels, poignant, simmering, amazing, wonderful, charming, delightful, heartfelt, and totally awesome story had me hooked from beginning to end. I would recommend getting this gem immediately, and I can't wait to see what happens next.
April 23, 2016
(This is part of a series but can stand alone.)
*** Amazing M/M/F romantic ménage ! ***
6'5" big muscled athlete, Caleb,
is celebrating his game with the crowd when he spots blondish ringlets on a beautiful face that belongs to
slim, smaller, toned and fit male, Elijah.
A one night stand, and neither can forget the other. Cal is house-sitting (overseeing the remodel construction) for his brother, husband and wife, yes the trio, when a cousin shows up who will be the midwife for his brother's wife.
Angel is adorable, small, boyish and has a sweet French accent. Cal and Angel connect, have great sex, and he just knew, of all women it was only her that attracted him. But what about Eli, he wanted him, too. As it turned out, Eli is the cabinet maker, and Angel, Cal, and Eli have a thrilling, erotic, sexy ménage.
" ... he knew that there were men who were GFY - gay for you. Straight guys that fall in love with one man. He grinned again. Maybe ... (the guys) were bisexual for her... maybe the guys are "SFY - straight for you, meaning Angel. Gay men who fell in love with a women, and only that particular woman."
As it turned out, Eli is the cabinet maker, and Angel, Cal, and Eli have a thrilling, erotic, sexy ménage - M/M/F. Several things are happening, a contract needs signing, Angel has a job to go back to, and Eli has secrets.
I liked the flow, the easy language, conversations, and surprises. It is exciting to read about their discoveries and feelings, in addition to the deepness, commitments, responsibilities, and decisions. There is awesomeness in their interaction, with clever conversation that seem
natural, and honest.
A high recommendation for this story. Loved these characters. ENJOY !!!
=======================================================
*** Amazing M/M/F romantic ménage ! ***
6'5" big muscled athlete, Caleb,
is celebrating his game with the crowd when he spots blondish ringlets on a beautiful face that belongs to
slim, smaller, toned and fit male, Elijah.
A one night stand, and neither can forget the other. Cal is house-sitting (overseeing the remodel construction) for his brother, husband and wife, yes the trio, when a cousin shows up who will be the midwife for his brother's wife.
Angel is adorable, small, boyish and has a sweet French accent. Cal and Angel connect, have great sex, and he just knew, of all women it was only her that attracted him. But what about Eli, he wanted him, too. As it turned out, Eli is the cabinet maker, and Angel, Cal, and Eli have a thrilling, erotic, sexy ménage.
" ... he knew that there were men who were GFY - gay for you. Straight guys that fall in love with one man. He grinned again. Maybe ... (the guys) were bisexual for her... maybe the guys are "SFY - straight for you, meaning Angel. Gay men who fell in love with a women, and only that particular woman."
As it turned out, Eli is the cabinet maker, and Angel, Cal, and Eli have a thrilling, erotic, sexy ménage - M/M/F. Several things are happening, a contract needs signing, Angel has a job to go back to, and Eli has secrets.
I liked the flow, the easy language, conversations, and surprises. It is exciting to read about their discoveries and feelings, in addition to the deepness, commitments, responsibilities, and decisions. There is awesomeness in their interaction, with clever conversation that seem
natural, and honest.
A high recommendation for this story. Loved these characters. ENJOY !!!
=======================================================
July 25, 2012
First I have to say that I LOVE this series. I have loved Jake and Roan, then fell for Em too. That being said, this is my favorite in the series (so far)! For one, we still get a bit of Jake, Roan, and Em as Caleb goes to housesit for them, and I don't want to say too much and risk giving some awesome surprises away, but damn was their part in the story awesome.
Now to tell you more about why I loved it...where to start?! Ok, so I loved Caleb from Jake and Roan's book, and was really excited to see him get his own book. It was fun to see him so set in his ways, then find himself floundering as he realizes his sexuality may not be completely set in stone. First off, he likes to bottom more than he ever imagined *grin*.
The anticipation about the one-night stand Cal has, and how he's going to work out whether or not to sign the contract is exquisite. You never guess just how it'll work out until it's happening, so it keeps you guessing. Of course, the flip side to that is that you worry yourself over it so much you end up so emotionally invested you're crying right along with the characters!
There's a lot of family dynamics in this story, and it's so great to see everyone so accepting and loving. Plus, every book of Tara's has had a villain of some kind, whether it's a main character themselves being scared or pigheaded, a bully, a manipulating coworker, or an abusive ex, but in this one the crisis and the villain seem a little darker and crueler than any of Tara's other work. This only leads to greater investment from the reader. I really couldn't put it down!
A story of such sweet exploration as well as a shameless sense of self, Deceptive Attraction takes the stakes higher than ever making the connection and deep affection between the three lovers all the more gratifying. Have tissues close by when you read it!
Now to tell you more about why I loved it...where to start?! Ok, so I loved Caleb from Jake and Roan's book, and was really excited to see him get his own book. It was fun to see him so set in his ways, then find himself floundering as he realizes his sexuality may not be completely set in stone. First off, he likes to bottom more than he ever imagined *grin*.
The anticipation about the one-night stand Cal has, and how he's going to work out whether or not to sign the contract is exquisite. You never guess just how it'll work out until it's happening, so it keeps you guessing. Of course, the flip side to that is that you worry yourself over it so much you end up so emotionally invested you're crying right along with the characters!
There's a lot of family dynamics in this story, and it's so great to see everyone so accepting and loving. Plus, every book of Tara's has had a villain of some kind, whether it's a main character themselves being scared or pigheaded, a bully, a manipulating coworker, or an abusive ex, but in this one the crisis and the villain seem a little darker and crueler than any of Tara's other work. This only leads to greater investment from the reader. I really couldn't put it down!
A story of such sweet exploration as well as a shameless sense of self, Deceptive Attraction takes the stakes higher than ever making the connection and deep affection between the three lovers all the more gratifying. Have tissues close by when you read it!
December 2, 2011
I have read just about all of Tara Lain's books and have enjoyed every one of them. Deceptive Attraction is no different. I have been excited for this to come out because I read the first book Genetic Attraction and loved it. I instantly fell in love with the characters from Genetic Attraction so I was looking forward to reading all about Caleb who was introduced in the first book.
Caleb (Cal) is a professional soccer player and loves the sport but doesn't know if he loves it enough to sign a contract. He feels like he has a greater purpose to serve than to just play soccer. So when he goes out to find some companionship he is dumbfounded when he meets Eli. But is it a one night stand or something more? How does Eli feel? Ms. Lain does a fantastic job with expressing the emotions of all the characters. That's what I love best when reading any book is when an author takes each main character and tells what they are feeling from their own point of view.
Cal is watching his brother's house while he is away. Enter Angel who is a woman with a air of confidence that makes you want to be just like her. Cal never realizes that he could be attracted to a woman until he meets Angel. Their banter back and forth is amusing and flirtatious. I really enjoyed reading the scenes with them together. But Cal is still thinking of Eli and how there was just something about him.
As the story progresses, there are many twists and turns that will continually surprise you. You will not regret reading Deceptive Attraction by Tara Lain. It was truly a pleasant read. And it goes without saying that the sex scenes were mind blowing. :)
Caleb (Cal) is a professional soccer player and loves the sport but doesn't know if he loves it enough to sign a contract. He feels like he has a greater purpose to serve than to just play soccer. So when he goes out to find some companionship he is dumbfounded when he meets Eli. But is it a one night stand or something more? How does Eli feel? Ms. Lain does a fantastic job with expressing the emotions of all the characters. That's what I love best when reading any book is when an author takes each main character and tells what they are feeling from their own point of view.
Cal is watching his brother's house while he is away. Enter Angel who is a woman with a air of confidence that makes you want to be just like her. Cal never realizes that he could be attracted to a woman until he meets Angel. Their banter back and forth is amusing and flirtatious. I really enjoyed reading the scenes with them together. But Cal is still thinking of Eli and how there was just something about him.
As the story progresses, there are many twists and turns that will continually surprise you. You will not regret reading Deceptive Attraction by Tara Lain. It was truly a pleasant read. And it goes without saying that the sex scenes were mind blowing. :)
March 13, 2016
This is the story of Caleb, Jake's brother, mentioned in
, soccer star who's not out and is struggling with the deception; Angel, Emmaline's cousin; and Eli, a mysterious guy with commitment issues.
Caleb is being strong-armed into signing a new five-year contract which means that he has to continue to keep his sexuality secret plus he wants to do something meaningful with his life. He and Eli have a hot one-night stand and don't even exchange last names. Enter boyish Angel who twists up Caleb's notion that he's strictly gay.
I liked this story, and it's nice to see how Jake, Emmaline and Roan's relationship has progressed, (Angel has come to visit because she's a midwife in Africa and is there to deliver the happy threesome's first baby). Eli has his own demons to slay before he can commit and I think this relationship worked.
, soccer star who's not out and is struggling with the deception; Angel, Emmaline's cousin; and Eli, a mysterious guy with commitment issues.Caleb is being strong-armed into signing a new five-year contract which means that he has to continue to keep his sexuality secret plus he wants to do something meaningful with his life. He and Eli have a hot one-night stand and don't even exchange last names. Enter boyish Angel who twists up Caleb's notion that he's strictly gay.
I liked this story, and it's nice to see how Jake, Emmaline and Roan's relationship has progressed, (Angel has come to visit because she's a midwife in Africa and is there to deliver the happy threesome's first baby). Eli has his own demons to slay before he can commit and I think this relationship worked.
November 5, 2011
From the beginning of the book Tara Lain grabbed me and pulled me into the book of Caleb Martin, the Runt from the Genetic Attraction book. Absolutely fell in love with him and Eli get together it's steamy and I wanted more!
As always things happen and the lovers go through trials of life to have to decide what they want to do and if they love each other enough to be with their lover.
My heart went out to Cal, Angel and Eli. I wanted to slap them all at one time or another, pull them in my arms and sooth their upsets, or just sit back and watch them lovin in some hot and steamy way.
She keeps you guessing until the last pages if the lovers will all end up together, and I found myself biting my nails in angst to find out...
A most wonderful read and it will definitely go on my 'multiple reads' bookshelf for future YUMMY reading!
AJ
As always things happen and the lovers go through trials of life to have to decide what they want to do and if they love each other enough to be with their lover.
My heart went out to Cal, Angel and Eli. I wanted to slap them all at one time or another, pull them in my arms and sooth their upsets, or just sit back and watch them lovin in some hot and steamy way.
She keeps you guessing until the last pages if the lovers will all end up together, and I found myself biting my nails in angst to find out...
A most wonderful read and it will definitely go on my 'multiple reads' bookshelf for future YUMMY reading!
AJ
January 3, 2012
What a thoroughly amazing story, really loved reading it. Enjoyed how the characters were all able to grow and come together to find a place in each other's lives. Enjoyed the fact that Cal and Eli were able to stand up for what they believed in and not let anyone force them apart. And Angel is the glue that holds them together. Nice to think that the three of them are off helping others in the world. A really great story!
November 17, 2011
This is a wonderful story about Caleb Martin the younger brother of Jake Martin from the first book Genetic Attraction. The book was amazing. The connection between Cal, Angel and Eli was intense. These three have to work through several issues and stumbling blocks before they can find the happiness they all want.
I love Tara's books and hope there will be more stories in this series.
I love Tara's books and hope there will be more stories in this series.
November 4, 2011
This book is Wicked Awesome! I loved all three characters! I recommend this book as a must read!
February 12, 2013
Sorry I'm behind, I was reading this book and it was amazing. A must read.
Want to Read
November 9, 2011Love Tara's storytelling, and have her latest man fest on my wish list.
June 14, 2020
Here we go.....instalove! I don't like instalove stories and this story is a threeway instalove story. I'm going to ignore as much of that as possible because it weakens the rest of the story, in my opinion. And yes, I get that the three characters are genetically attracted.
Cal has to make a huge decision. Does he want to play soccer for the next 5 years or does he want to do something else? If he plays soccer he will have to keep his sexuality hidden from almost everyone in his life. When Cal meets Eli they share a heated evening and then Eli disappears. It hurts Cal but he decides to move on even though he can't seem to forget about Eli. When Cal agrees to house sit for his brother he meets Angel. His attraction is instantaneous but how's that possible since Angel is a woman! There are secrets and lies. There's a baby born. There's a powerful man with a ton of money. And there's a love story.
I enjoyed Cal's journey to self discovery. As a character he really grew from his introduction in the first two Genetic Attraction books. It was nice to see him go on his journey and learn some of the important decision points. I think Angel was interesting but she didn't get any real growth. Eli is a bit of a conundrum. He is a carpenter at the beginning and the end so I guess he gets to pursue his passion.
I really didn't understand why Elias is so determined to force Cal to stay on the soccer team. The reason seemed to be because he likes being in control. Ok. I didn't really like the end of the story. I won't say what happens but I'm not sure why Cal's family would be super supportive. I had figured he's do his job close to home since he's so close to his family. Whatever. What is a head scratcher is why he and his father have such a contentious relationship other than the fact Eli's gay. I understood the whole thing that his dad didn't want a gay son but that's not really an issue at the end so did Eli and his father come to terms. I just don't know.
Overall I enjoyed the story. I liked the little peak into Em having her baby. I enjoyed Cal's journey. I will certainly read more by this author because I generally like her books. I recommend this book to anyone that likes instalove, MMF stories, and stories that don't really have bad guy.
borrowed copy from Kindle Unlimited.
Cal has to make a huge decision. Does he want to play soccer for the next 5 years or does he want to do something else? If he plays soccer he will have to keep his sexuality hidden from almost everyone in his life. When Cal meets Eli they share a heated evening and then Eli disappears. It hurts Cal but he decides to move on even though he can't seem to forget about Eli. When Cal agrees to house sit for his brother he meets Angel. His attraction is instantaneous but how's that possible since Angel is a woman! There are secrets and lies. There's a baby born. There's a powerful man with a ton of money. And there's a love story.
I enjoyed Cal's journey to self discovery. As a character he really grew from his introduction in the first two Genetic Attraction books. It was nice to see him go on his journey and learn some of the important decision points. I think Angel was interesting but she didn't get any real growth. Eli is a bit of a conundrum. He is a carpenter at the beginning and the end so I guess he gets to pursue his passion.
I really didn't understand why Elias is so determined to force Cal to stay on the soccer team. The reason seemed to be because he likes being in control. Ok. I didn't really like the end of the story. I won't say what happens but I'm not sure why Cal's family would be super supportive. I had figured he's do his job close to home since he's so close to his family. Whatever. What is a head scratcher is why he and his father have such a contentious relationship other than the fact Eli's gay. I understood the whole thing that his dad didn't want a gay son but that's not really an issue at the end so did Eli and his father come to terms. I just don't know.
Overall I enjoyed the story. I liked the little peak into Em having her baby. I enjoyed Cal's journey. I will certainly read more by this author because I generally like her books. I recommend this book to anyone that likes instalove, MMF stories, and stories that don't really have bad guy.
borrowed copy from Kindle Unlimited.
March 8, 2020
3.5 stars
While trying to decide what to do about his career Caleb finds himself with another dilemma. Caleb has found an attraction to not one but two people. Can he have what he longs for or will he let it slip away because of his fears?
I enjoyed this sweet story and was happy to see Caleb find his way to happiness. He works through a lot and it was nice to see him fight for what and who he cares about. The attraction between Angel, Caleb and Eli was strong and they clicked nicely in and out of the bedroom. Their story is a nice addition to this series. The author weaves a good story along with hot romance.
While trying to decide what to do about his career Caleb finds himself with another dilemma. Caleb has found an attraction to not one but two people. Can he have what he longs for or will he let it slip away because of his fears?
I enjoyed this sweet story and was happy to see Caleb find his way to happiness. He works through a lot and it was nice to see him fight for what and who he cares about. The attraction between Angel, Caleb and Eli was strong and they clicked nicely in and out of the bedroom. Their story is a nice addition to this series. The author weaves a good story along with hot romance.
March 15, 2020
I really like this one! It went a bit more smoothly than the others before it, due I believe, to the fact that Cal, Eli, & Angel had 2 examples of happy threesomes to show the way. Of course they still had all of the angst going on about Cal needing to make a life/career decision, and Eli's fathers meddling. I also liked that Angel is an androgynous, "tomboy" female, often mistaken as a male, and Eli pretty enough to be mistaken as a girl! Such contrast!
The snowstorm "surprise" was absolutely wonderful!
It DOES have just as much angst from all 3 lovers, as the previous books did with their lovers. But it all came together at the end for a great HEA!
The snowstorm "surprise" was absolutely wonderful!
It DOES have just as much angst from all 3 lovers, as the previous books did with their lovers. But it all came together at the end for a great HEA!
November 22, 2012
More 3.5. I think there's always a danger in reading a series back-to-back. But I don't think this series suffers from basically the same thing happening. My issue is the insta-love. I don't get the "I can't live without you" or "I love you so much" after an extremely short period of time, which is what seems to happen in this series.
In this one, instead of everyone trying to run from who they were, there seemed to be real reasons that might keep everyone apart. Caleb is a professional soccer player, and he's been the backup goalie, but since the first-stringer was injured, he's been playing really well. His team wants to sign him to a big, lengthy contract. Caleb is looking for something more meaningful. Plus, there's the fact that he's gay and trying to keep that out of the media since soccer is a worldwide sport, and many countries aren't as tolerant as the US.
After Caleb's last game of the season, he hits up his favorite gay bar. The men are all atwitter about some guy who says he's waiting for someone. When Caleb attempts to figure out who it is and Elijah turns around and sees him, he's immediately attracted, and it's a good way for Elijah to escape the men who have gathered around him, so Elijah pretends he's been waiting for Caleb. They go dance and then have sex in a hotel room. By morning, Elijah is gone and Caleb doesn't even know his last name...
So a week later or so, he's going to house-sit for his brother Jake and Jake's significant others, Roan & Em. Em is very pregnant, so they're taking one last trip before the baby comes. Em has arranged with her cousin, who works for a charitable organization in Senegal, to mid-wife the birth. Angel turns up during Caleb's house-sitting. Caleb initially mistakes Angel for a boy, but quickly figures out (by walking in on her in the shower) that she's all girl. Still, he's strangely attracted. He just doesn't get attracted to women.
Elijah ends up coming back into the picture. Turns out a lot of things have been manipulated, and things get rough emotion wise. Ultimately, it's an HEA, but like I said, insta-love. It was sweet, steamy, sexy... just didn't like the insta-love. I suspect I'm going to get more of that in #4, but I'm reading it anyway. :-)
In this one, instead of everyone trying to run from who they were, there seemed to be real reasons that might keep everyone apart. Caleb is a professional soccer player, and he's been the backup goalie, but since the first-stringer was injured, he's been playing really well. His team wants to sign him to a big, lengthy contract. Caleb is looking for something more meaningful. Plus, there's the fact that he's gay and trying to keep that out of the media since soccer is a worldwide sport, and many countries aren't as tolerant as the US.
After Caleb's last game of the season, he hits up his favorite gay bar. The men are all atwitter about some guy who says he's waiting for someone. When Caleb attempts to figure out who it is and Elijah turns around and sees him, he's immediately attracted, and it's a good way for Elijah to escape the men who have gathered around him, so Elijah pretends he's been waiting for Caleb. They go dance and then have sex in a hotel room. By morning, Elijah is gone and Caleb doesn't even know his last name...
So a week later or so, he's going to house-sit for his brother Jake and Jake's significant others, Roan & Em. Em is very pregnant, so they're taking one last trip before the baby comes. Em has arranged with her cousin, who works for a charitable organization in Senegal, to mid-wife the birth. Angel turns up during Caleb's house-sitting. Caleb initially mistakes Angel for a boy, but quickly figures out (by walking in on her in the shower) that she's all girl. Still, he's strangely attracted. He just doesn't get attracted to women.
Elijah ends up coming back into the picture. Turns out a lot of things have been manipulated, and things get rough emotion wise. Ultimately, it's an HEA, but like I said, insta-love. It was sweet, steamy, sexy... just didn't like the insta-love. I suspect I'm going to get more of that in #4, but I'm reading it anyway. :-)
November 4, 2012
Originally Reviewed for The Book Vixen
Wowsa is this an erotic MMF ménage story! The leads are likable and the family setting makes me want to read the previous books in the series. The plot was charming enough to make up for its predictability.
Wow can this author write erotica! I’m not a shy reader but I flushed a few times at the descriptive sex scenes between the tomboy and her two gay men. Interestingly, I’ve never read a straight-for-you story but that’s exactly what this book is. Cal especially isn’t normally attracted to women but Angel just does it for him. Angel’s acceptance of this, along with Eli’s eroticism, makes for a sexually intimate novel that MMF ménage fans will gobble up.
Cal meets Angel and reunites with Eli at his brother’s house. His brother, Jake, is partnered with Roan and Em in a MMF ménage and I almost liked their relationship better than the lead threesome. They have a delightful dynamic and I’m going to go back and read their story since they were so yummy in this one.
I loathed Cal and Eli’s nickname for Angel: critter. WTF? Critter? Like’s she’s a rodent or something? I suppose this is a play on the British endearment “pet” but critter isn’t cutesy to me; it was demeaning.
I should also mention that I could see the plot conclusion coming from the initial set up. The resolution to Cal’s soccer contract isn’t going to surprise anyone but it was done charmingly. I’d make the argument that this is romance so of course it’s all going to have a HEA.
This is a super erotic MMF ménage romance that anyone loving the genre will enjoy as I did.
Wowsa is this an erotic MMF ménage story! The leads are likable and the family setting makes me want to read the previous books in the series. The plot was charming enough to make up for its predictability.
Wow can this author write erotica! I’m not a shy reader but I flushed a few times at the descriptive sex scenes between the tomboy and her two gay men. Interestingly, I’ve never read a straight-for-you story but that’s exactly what this book is. Cal especially isn’t normally attracted to women but Angel just does it for him. Angel’s acceptance of this, along with Eli’s eroticism, makes for a sexually intimate novel that MMF ménage fans will gobble up.
Cal meets Angel and reunites with Eli at his brother’s house. His brother, Jake, is partnered with Roan and Em in a MMF ménage and I almost liked their relationship better than the lead threesome. They have a delightful dynamic and I’m going to go back and read their story since they were so yummy in this one.
I loathed Cal and Eli’s nickname for Angel: critter. WTF? Critter? Like’s she’s a rodent or something? I suppose this is a play on the British endearment “pet” but critter isn’t cutesy to me; it was demeaning.
I should also mention that I could see the plot conclusion coming from the initial set up. The resolution to Cal’s soccer contract isn’t going to surprise anyone but it was done charmingly. I’d make the argument that this is romance so of course it’s all going to have a HEA.
This is a super erotic MMF ménage romance that anyone loving the genre will enjoy as I did.
February 18, 2015
Good addition to the series I love. We spend a quite a bit of time with characters from the previous books given that Em's cousin, Angel, is back from work over in Senegal to deliver Em's baby and Eli has been hired to finish the carpentry in their guest house before the baby comes.
Is there hot MMF? Yes, but for a book that I liked so much there was an awful lot that annoyed the crap out of me.
Caleb is a wannabe do-gooder, deciding between a multi-million dollar soccer career and wanting to devote his life to something that will "help people." Barf.
Angel is a full time do-gooder, living in mud huts with no hot water, devoting her life to midwifery in poorest Africa. Barf.
Eli is the gifted carpenter who only wants to live his life out from under the thumb of his evil megalomaniac dad, who just happens to own the soccer team that wants Caleb's contract. Grow a pair and barf.
Angel looks like a boy (seriously) and Eli looks like a girl (again, seriously) and Caleb looks like an all american sports dude. He's been gay all his life, but for some reason is now ALSO hot and bothered over Angel as, mysteriously, is Eli. Go Figure! Not that I'm complaining about MMF. Not this little reader, and I do love Tara Lain's writing. However, the level of altruism in this book was nigh on suffocating.
The midwife anti-obstetrician snobbery was typical. Yes, women have been having babies out of hospitals for thousands of years. Now, want discuss the infant and mother mortality rates? No? I thought not.
I guess I liked the book, but not the setting? The characters, but not their raison d'être? Will I read more Tara Lain? Most definitely.
Is there hot MMF? Yes, but for a book that I liked so much there was an awful lot that annoyed the crap out of me.
Caleb is a wannabe do-gooder, deciding between a multi-million dollar soccer career and wanting to devote his life to something that will "help people." Barf.
Angel is a full time do-gooder, living in mud huts with no hot water, devoting her life to midwifery in poorest Africa. Barf.
Eli is the gifted carpenter who only wants to live his life out from under the thumb of his evil megalomaniac dad, who just happens to own the soccer team that wants Caleb's contract. Grow a pair and barf.
Angel looks like a boy (seriously) and Eli looks like a girl (again, seriously) and Caleb looks like an all american sports dude. He's been gay all his life, but for some reason is now ALSO hot and bothered over Angel as, mysteriously, is Eli. Go Figure! Not that I'm complaining about MMF. Not this little reader, and I do love Tara Lain's writing. However, the level of altruism in this book was nigh on suffocating.
The midwife anti-obstetrician snobbery was typical. Yes, women have been having babies out of hospitals for thousands of years. Now, want discuss the infant and mother mortality rates? No? I thought not.
I guess I liked the book, but not the setting? The characters, but not their raison d'être? Will I read more Tara Lain? Most definitely.
April 5, 2014
Somehow I missed this third book in the series. Instead of Em, Roan and Jake, it's focused on Jake's brother Caleb who is a hot soccer athlete. The problem? He's gay. This is not a good thing for most athletes. For soccer guys, I think it's worse because they do travel world wide (or they can) and many of those countries hate gays. This is always so frustrating to me when someone's sexual orientation or their personal preferences impact their job. It's no one's fucking business and I just don't get it.
Ranting about people's small mindedness aside, the story here is fabulous. I really enjoyed it. I loved Caleb, Eli and Angel. The way the conflict was set up had my stomach in knots. I didn't know how Ms. Lain would be able to write her way out of it. It resolved in an awesome and believable manner.
The sex in this story is HAWT! Smoking sexy hawt with two slightly androgynous characters and studly submissive soccer player. Ms. Lain pens a delicious menage with all sorts of sexy interaction. Score! I really liked how each one of them fell in love with each other and it's a true triad. It works better for my romantic heart. In addition, I loved the m/m show for Angel. Lastly, I really liked the twist on the "gay for you" to be "straight for you" although it's more bisexual than straight.
Lovely story and recommended for menage lovers who enjoy a bit of soul searching with their erotica.
Ranting about people's small mindedness aside, the story here is fabulous. I really enjoyed it. I loved Caleb, Eli and Angel. The way the conflict was set up had my stomach in knots. I didn't know how Ms. Lain would be able to write her way out of it. It resolved in an awesome and believable manner.
The sex in this story is HAWT! Smoking sexy hawt with two slightly androgynous characters and studly submissive soccer player. Ms. Lain pens a delicious menage with all sorts of sexy interaction. Score! I really liked how each one of them fell in love with each other and it's a true triad. It works better for my romantic heart. In addition, I loved the m/m show for Angel. Lastly, I really liked the twist on the "gay for you" to be "straight for you" although it's more bisexual than straight.
Lovely story and recommended for menage lovers who enjoy a bit of soul searching with their erotica.
December 31, 2020
The Pretty Boy and The Tomboy by Tara Lain was given to me in exchange for an honest review. Cal Martin is house sitting for his brothers Jake and Roan and their wife Em. The vacation is what he definitely needs to finally make a decision on what to do with the rest of his life. Sign a contract to play soccer and hide in the closet or do something socially important. Elias, likes his privacy and not willing to commit to a relationship, he meets Cal and has a one night stand, leaving was hard but it was best for both of them. Angel, took the first flight home from Africa to help Em deliver her baby. When all three meet and are instantly attracted to one another can they find happiness with a commitaphobe and a confused Cal who is more gay than not. Cal is so cute and self conscious on what to do with his life but meeting Angel and Eli was life changing too. He just hopes he can make the right choices for everyone. I really enjoyed this installment of the series. All of the characters were wonderful, funny and thoughtful. Can not wait for the last book.
July 2, 2013
Having read many Tara Lain books in the past I was delighted to have won this one even though I had not read the previous books in the series. That said I had no problems getting straight into the story. I loved Caleb and the way he was so confused over the two love interests in his life. Tara Lain has a way of making a menage seem normal and interesting enough that I feel deprived at only having one man in my life :D Angel and Eli came close seconds to Caleb as my favourite characters in the book but I also loved the protagonist as he was depicted in such a way that you just knew he would get his comeuppance in the end.
August 12, 2013
A menage with a woman found its way into my mostly mm romance pile. This one was actually a good one.
I liked the fact that the romance actually was balanced across all three main characters, and didn't fall on just the woman being the submissive part. No, the author actually managed to create a believable relationship.
Throw together a soccer goalie who wants to do something more than be a jock, a tomboy midwife and a feminine model-beautiful carpenter and you get an interesting mess.
I liked the characters, but had a few problems with the plot.
January 11, 2014
Really enjoyed Caleb's book and so glad he found the happiness his big brother did! I love that we got to meet Shakti 'in person' in this book! Also Jake and Caleb's older brother Sean! All the family gathered at the end of the book and I loved the interactions between them all! Loved Angel and Eli too! Now we just need their sister to find her HEA and the family will be set!
January 23, 2012
3.5 * - although I was looking forward to Cal's story, the first two books in this series about Jake, Roan and Em were more interesting and drew me into action.
August 24, 2012
Again love this series of books. The evil character was an a** and eli's character was not my favorite but it all ended up good in the end.
February 7, 2013
This book almost brought me to tears!
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