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Seizing It #1
Seizing It
Veterinary receptionist Kit Hall doesn’t get close to people, and for good reasons: his epilepsy makes him feel like a freak, and his ex was an abusive jerk. But that doesn’t always deter people from wanting to get close to Kit. When a Good Samaritan saves him from his wannabe boyfriend in a parking lot, he doesn’t expect to find the guy so attractive. He definitely doesn’t expect his savior to turn out to be his new boss.
Dale Miller, veterinarian and old-fashioned guy, sees right through Kit’s prickly facade. He likes what he sees, but convincing Kit to give a relationship a shot isn’t going to be a walk in the park. Of course, for Kit, resisting Dale isn’t going to be easy either.
Dale Miller, veterinarian and old-fashioned guy, sees right through Kit’s prickly facade. He likes what he sees, but convincing Kit to give a relationship a shot isn’t going to be a walk in the park. Of course, for Kit, resisting Dale isn’t going to be easy either.
202 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 4, 2012
5 people are currently reading
295 people want to read
About the author
Chris T. Kat
26 books208 followersChris T. Kat lives in the middle of Europe, together with her husband of many years and their two children. She stumbled upon the M/M genre by luck and was swiftly drawn into it. She divides her time between work, her family—which includes chasing after escaping horses and lugging around huge instruments such as a harp—and writing. She enjoys a variety of genres, such as mystery/suspense, paranormal, and romance. If there's any spare time, she happily reads for hours, listens to audiobooks, or crafts.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
May 10, 2012
2.5*
I liked Kit, I could understand him and his actions most of the time, being treated as incapable and a child would make anyone lash out more often than necessary.
Although, I understand the family's motivation he is 28 yrs old, give the man some respect please.
Then there is Dale, I think he was supposed to be the 'good guy', patient and understanding. I didn't like him, I thought he was a jerk, and he pulled the 'I'm your boss/employer' card when he wanted to, but turns around and flirts and jerks Kit around at others. And Kit's constant need to apologize grated on me!
Just an example, when they went to the park and Dale wanted to go in and get the food to 'woo' Kit, why not just say, 'I want to treat you and surprise you with lunch, hold the seat for us' , no even though Dale knows how Kit is, he practically orders him to sit and wait!
The employee/ employer issue was never addressed, ( well except I'm your boss, do this and don't talk to me like that) but starting a sexual relationship with each other, but not at least bring that up? Not smart, or realistic!
I've got other niggles but don't feel like getting into them all.
So, this one just wasn't for me!
I liked Kit, I could understand him and his actions most of the time, being treated as incapable and a child would make anyone lash out more often than necessary.
Although, I understand the family's motivation he is 28 yrs old, give the man some respect please.
Then there is Dale, I think he was supposed to be the 'good guy', patient and understanding. I didn't like him, I thought he was a jerk, and he pulled the 'I'm your boss/employer' card when he wanted to, but turns around and flirts and jerks Kit around at others. And Kit's constant need to apologize grated on me!
Just an example, when they went to the park and Dale wanted to go in and get the food to 'woo' Kit, why not just say, 'I want to treat you and surprise you with lunch, hold the seat for us' , no even though Dale knows how Kit is, he practically orders him to sit and wait!
The employee/ employer issue was never addressed, ( well except I'm your boss, do this and don't talk to me like that) but starting a sexual relationship with each other, but not at least bring that up? Not smart, or realistic!
I've got other niggles but don't feel like getting into them all.
So, this one just wasn't for me!
February 16, 2018
~FORGETTING IT~
PROJECT LET RANDOM.ORG CHOOSE MY BOOK FROM ALL THE BOOKS I OWN AND READ IT REGARDLESS OF IF I WANT TO OR NOT!
Book 5
All the nope for this one! Random you did me dirty this time, you did me so dirty.
I did not like this book, I did not like the MC Kit. Talk about an annoying brat, whose so quick to temper and is impossibly rude.
Like I get it, he’s been through some shit but his attitude was just rude and I couldn’t find anything likeable about him. He’s epileptic and people are worried, but you would think judging by his attitude that they were just out to get him.
The love story: 😑 I don’t know how and why Dale would put up with his rude attitude. He’s not sassy, he’s not charismatic, he was just a rude ass brat.
The only thing I really liked was the dog. Jackson wins!!
PROJECT LET RANDOM.ORG CHOOSE MY BOOK FROM ALL THE BOOKS I OWN AND READ IT REGARDLESS OF IF I WANT TO OR NOT!
Book 5
All the nope for this one! Random you did me dirty this time, you did me so dirty.
I did not like this book, I did not like the MC Kit. Talk about an annoying brat, whose so quick to temper and is impossibly rude.
Like I get it, he’s been through some shit but his attitude was just rude and I couldn’t find anything likeable about him. He’s epileptic and people are worried, but you would think judging by his attitude that they were just out to get him.
The love story: 😑 I don’t know how and why Dale would put up with his rude attitude. He’s not sassy, he’s not charismatic, he was just a rude ass brat.
The only thing I really liked was the dog. Jackson wins!!
April 8, 2012
I'm not really sure how I feel about this book. At first I was a bit creeped out with it because not only is my first name the MC's name (spelled the Russian way) but my last name is used in the book as well as the exact age, breed and name of my dog. Creepy. More than that, one minute I was liking the book, the next I was frustrated and annoyed.
It revolves around Nikita, a.k.a Kit, getting attacked by a stalker in the grocery store parking lot. Dale Miller, a big strapping bear of a man, saves Kit. Unwelcome feelings for Dale make Kit act in unnecessary ways because Kit is a broken, damaged young man with epilepsy who needs control and a set schedule to control his disability and Dale threatens that control. However, Dale isn't just a passing stranger, he turns out to be Kit's new boss. Dale proves to be someone who won't allow Kit to ignore or avoid the important stuff and that might possibly be too much for fragile Kit.
Kit was hard for me to like. One minute he's feisty and intense, the next he's meek and apologetic. He's snappish, snarky and sarcastic but also kind and sweet. He has a knack for jumping to conclusions then blowing up over the conclusions he jumps to. In a way, Dale is prefect for Kit because Dale is calm, collected and patient while Kit is damaged, insecure and irrational. I liked Dale, though, because of the way he handled Kit in a gentle manner.
I had a few problems with this story. While I believe the plot was interesting, I did enjoy the boss/employee aspect as well as Kit having epilepsy, the writing style didn't quite suit me. I kept getting distracted by constantly repetitive words as well as repetitive statements by Kit (who is the only voice we read). Beyond that, I didn't like the way a lot of people handled Kit and his disability. It's like they were talking down to him, scolding him like a child (even though he was very irrational). It got aggravating because this was a grown man being essentially told he was being childish and to get over it even though he's just had a rather horrible few days. Then again, Kit's constant need to apologize after blowing up on someone got very annoying. He didn't need to apologize. He had every right to act the way he wanted if that's what he wanted. And it grew tiresome reading about the back and forth attitude.
In the end, I liked some things about this story but didn't enjoy others. I liked the relationship that blossomed between Dale and Kit (although readers should know this is insta-love). I liked that Dale centers Kit in some way and allows Kit to finally deal with his past but I didn't like Kit's constant apologizing or how characters handled Kit. It is ultimately a good plot but it wasn't handled in a way I would have liked it too. My advice, however, is to give it a try if the blurb still interests you.
It revolves around Nikita, a.k.a Kit, getting attacked by a stalker in the grocery store parking lot. Dale Miller, a big strapping bear of a man, saves Kit. Unwelcome feelings for Dale make Kit act in unnecessary ways because Kit is a broken, damaged young man with epilepsy who needs control and a set schedule to control his disability and Dale threatens that control. However, Dale isn't just a passing stranger, he turns out to be Kit's new boss. Dale proves to be someone who won't allow Kit to ignore or avoid the important stuff and that might possibly be too much for fragile Kit.
Kit was hard for me to like. One minute he's feisty and intense, the next he's meek and apologetic. He's snappish, snarky and sarcastic but also kind and sweet. He has a knack for jumping to conclusions then blowing up over the conclusions he jumps to. In a way, Dale is prefect for Kit because Dale is calm, collected and patient while Kit is damaged, insecure and irrational. I liked Dale, though, because of the way he handled Kit in a gentle manner.
I had a few problems with this story. While I believe the plot was interesting, I did enjoy the boss/employee aspect as well as Kit having epilepsy, the writing style didn't quite suit me. I kept getting distracted by constantly repetitive words as well as repetitive statements by Kit (who is the only voice we read). Beyond that, I didn't like the way a lot of people handled Kit and his disability. It's like they were talking down to him, scolding him like a child (even though he was very irrational). It got aggravating because this was a grown man being essentially told he was being childish and to get over it even though he's just had a rather horrible few days. Then again, Kit's constant need to apologize after blowing up on someone got very annoying. He didn't need to apologize. He had every right to act the way he wanted if that's what he wanted. And it grew tiresome reading about the back and forth attitude.
In the end, I liked some things about this story but didn't enjoy others. I liked the relationship that blossomed between Dale and Kit (although readers should know this is insta-love). I liked that Dale centers Kit in some way and allows Kit to finally deal with his past but I didn't like Kit's constant apologizing or how characters handled Kit. It is ultimately a good plot but it wasn't handled in a way I would have liked it too. My advice, however, is to give it a try if the blurb still interests you.
April 6, 2012
3.5 stars
Emotional roller coaster all the way Kit is hard to keep up with very unpredictable and so many mood swings he was a "headache" but an adorable messed up one. He keeps acting out as a defense mechanism pushing everyone away but he is still loved and adored because underneath all that anger he is a hurt and scared boy. He meets his match in Dale, who is determined to break through the barriers he isn't going to let Mr Prickles(Kit) get away with the lip or attitude. Its a moving story just be prepared for the head spin of Kit who I had a soft spot for. There were a few pet peeves but I overlooked those and went with the flow.
Emotional roller coaster all the way Kit is hard to keep up with very unpredictable and so many mood swings he was a "headache" but an adorable messed up one. He keeps acting out as a defense mechanism pushing everyone away but he is still loved and adored because underneath all that anger he is a hurt and scared boy. He meets his match in Dale, who is determined to break through the barriers he isn't going to let Mr Prickles(Kit) get away with the lip or attitude. Its a moving story just be prepared for the head spin of Kit who I had a soft spot for. There were a few pet peeves but I overlooked those and went with the flow.
January 25, 2015
I wasn't drawn to either character. Kit was spoiled, selfish, whiny, and way too touchy about everything. I know I was supposed to feel sorry for him because of his epilepsy and his horrible ex but he just created so much unneeded drama that I really didn't like him.
Dale wasn't much better. Granted we are reading from Kit's point of view but I think by Kit's reactions and things he said that it was fairly obvious to anyone around him that he had some major issues, one of which was fear of other men, and especially of being manhandled and immobilized. Yet Dale just bosses him around from moment one and is constantly grabbing Kit's arm and yanking him around. Immobilizing him, even when Kit tells him to let go. Always picking him up and moving him around to where Dale wants him, with no thought to what Kit might want.
Things were just sort of a mess and then everything happens in the span of a few days. Kit has spent years recovering from his last relationship and doesn't ever let anyone close, but after a day or two of knowing Dale (and being manhandled by him) Kit is suddenly ready for a full relationship and trusts Dale implicitly.
And let's not even discuss Kit's family. Honestly, I could sort of understand why he was such a brat with the way they all treated him like he was incompetent. Though it still didn't make me like his character any better.
Dale wasn't much better. Granted we are reading from Kit's point of view but I think by Kit's reactions and things he said that it was fairly obvious to anyone around him that he had some major issues, one of which was fear of other men, and especially of being manhandled and immobilized. Yet Dale just bosses him around from moment one and is constantly grabbing Kit's arm and yanking him around. Immobilizing him, even when Kit tells him to let go. Always picking him up and moving him around to where Dale wants him, with no thought to what Kit might want.
Things were just sort of a mess and then everything happens in the span of a few days. Kit has spent years recovering from his last relationship and doesn't ever let anyone close, but after a day or two of knowing Dale (and being manhandled by him) Kit is suddenly ready for a full relationship and trusts Dale implicitly.
And let's not even discuss Kit's family. Honestly, I could sort of understand why he was such a brat with the way they all treated him like he was incompetent. Though it still didn't make me like his character any better.
April 10, 2012
This was a sweet romantic story with a plot of becoming a couple. The story was rather simple, build around bad past experiences and undeveloped characters. I liked Kit and even Dale, but something was missing here. There was not one good information about Dale as a character, which was really weird. To be truthful, this story ended more or less in middle. That was really unsatisfying.
April 18, 2012
1.5 stars. So-so m/m romance about a prickly veterinary assistant who can't decide if he likes the overbearing guy who rescued him from a stalker. Everyone in this book was annoying. And I don't believe that Kit would be all better psychologically from just the love of a strong man.
December 10, 2012
I absolutely loved this book. It was one of those books that I liked. I will warn that this is insta-love so it may not be for some people. When you read this book, you may or may not like. Some things are just dependent on personal taste as a reader more than this book being good or bad. I have never read a book by Chris T. Kat before and I would definitely be interested in reading another one.
Nikita, "Kit", was the narrator of the book. He was an epileptic who had been in a few abusive relationships and had a bit of a temper problem. He was scarred both by his past and his present in the sense that he was left feeling week. It made if defensive and also quite scared of people. I could sympathies with his character. He had a rough time and it did not help him in life.
Dale, was kind of a hero for me. He was a sweet character, and he was a true gentleman. His character was polar opposite of Kit's and he was also the polar opposite of guys that Kit used to date. One of the things that did annoy me a slight bit about this book is we learned next to nothing about Dale. I mean we knew Kit had a brother, sister and father. And that his mother died when he was 4. That was a small thing though.
Kit and Dale's relationship only last's three day's in the book. The book spans just under a week, which may put some people off. Like I said its all about personal taste. I loved the way it did develop and grew within the few days it was written. Dale stood by Kit when Kit needed him and that really warmed my heart. Even if Kit was pushing Dale away from time to time.
Overall I would highly recommend this book. It was a nice read and has a somewhat sweet romance in it. There is only one sex scene but that was one of the nice things about this book. And the relationship was that and became a nicer part to a sometimes heavy story. :)
Nikita, "Kit", was the narrator of the book. He was an epileptic who had been in a few abusive relationships and had a bit of a temper problem. He was scarred both by his past and his present in the sense that he was left feeling week. It made if defensive and also quite scared of people. I could sympathies with his character. He had a rough time and it did not help him in life.
Dale, was kind of a hero for me. He was a sweet character, and he was a true gentleman. His character was polar opposite of Kit's and he was also the polar opposite of guys that Kit used to date. One of the things that did annoy me a slight bit about this book is we learned next to nothing about Dale. I mean we knew Kit had a brother, sister and father. And that his mother died when he was 4. That was a small thing though.
Kit and Dale's relationship only last's three day's in the book. The book spans just under a week, which may put some people off. Like I said its all about personal taste. I loved the way it did develop and grew within the few days it was written. Dale stood by Kit when Kit needed him and that really warmed my heart. Even if Kit was pushing Dale away from time to time.
Overall I would highly recommend this book. It was a nice read and has a somewhat sweet romance in it. There is only one sex scene but that was one of the nice things about this book. And the relationship was that and became a nicer part to a sometimes heavy story. :)
June 6, 2012
I wanted to like this book; the veterinary clinic setting and the main character's epilepsy were both plot elements that I hadn't come across in m/m fiction before. However, if I hadn't already read the blurb that said the epilepsy and recent abuse had made Kit prickly, I wouldn't have known why he was acting so erratically. I wished the author had woven in something about the epilepsy and abuse at the beginning of the book, so that Kit's behavior would be more understandable. Instead, he simply seemed like an immature teenager rather than a man in his late 20s.
For me, the relationship developed too fast: within twenty-four hours of Kit's rescue by a man he didn't realize was his new boss. And the couple's dynamic is skewed: Kit is very emotionally conflicted about his own feelings of attraction, and he's also messed up from prior abuse; his boss (without really knowing Kit) feels he knows what's best for him. Caressing your employee's cheek? And on the first day the new boss is in the workplace? What finally made me stop reading one-third of the way through was when the boss refused to leave Kit's home when asked because, "Remember, I'm your boss." The boss-employee power dynamic felt very inappropriate, unprofessional, and just plain icky. (I have experienced overt sexual harassment at a workplace, so perhaps I'm more sensitive to this than other readers will be.)
IMO, think this book would have been stronger if it had started a little more slowly. And the boss character--who I know is supposed to be likable, heroic, and nurturing--would have benefited from a little slowing down and from more stellar character traits (specifically, greater maturity and more professionalism).
For me, the relationship developed too fast: within twenty-four hours of Kit's rescue by a man he didn't realize was his new boss. And the couple's dynamic is skewed: Kit is very emotionally conflicted about his own feelings of attraction, and he's also messed up from prior abuse; his boss (without really knowing Kit) feels he knows what's best for him. Caressing your employee's cheek? And on the first day the new boss is in the workplace? What finally made me stop reading one-third of the way through was when the boss refused to leave Kit's home when asked because, "Remember, I'm your boss." The boss-employee power dynamic felt very inappropriate, unprofessional, and just plain icky. (I have experienced overt sexual harassment at a workplace, so perhaps I'm more sensitive to this than other readers will be.)
IMO, think this book would have been stronger if it had started a little more slowly. And the boss character--who I know is supposed to be likable, heroic, and nurturing--would have benefited from a little slowing down and from more stellar character traits (specifically, greater maturity and more professionalism).
April 26, 2014
I am sorry. I REALLY am. I wanted to like this. I mean, it's a disability book and I jump on those and love them to itty bitty pieces. Yeah, but apparently not when the MC acts like a spoiled rotten brat.
Kit is a 28 year old epileptic. He HATES it. He hates being an epileptic and basically doesn't think this should be happening to him. Sorry, Kit, but you have it, get over it. Deal with it. It's not the end of the world. So, he takes it out on everyone :( However, his family is so overbearing I probably would have moved countries just to get away from them. He has epilepsy, he's not an invalid. He can function just fine. Leave him be. Let him act like a 28 year old. If his family was so worried about him, why didn't they get him an alert dog or something? Instead he has a protection dog. That won't do him good if he has a seizure in the backyard or in his sleep.
Now let's talk about Dale. I wanted to smack him and his possessive ways. Holy hell. If I were Kit I would have run far far away from him. Yeah, I think he meant well, but he went about it the wrong way. Played the "I'm your boss" card and it was creepy. UGH.
Did I think Kit deserved Dale? No. I can not tell you how much I really do not like Kit.
Kit is a 28 year old epileptic. He HATES it. He hates being an epileptic and basically doesn't think this should be happening to him. Sorry, Kit, but you have it, get over it. Deal with it. It's not the end of the world. So, he takes it out on everyone :( However, his family is so overbearing I probably would have moved countries just to get away from them. He has epilepsy, he's not an invalid. He can function just fine. Leave him be. Let him act like a 28 year old. If his family was so worried about him, why didn't they get him an alert dog or something? Instead he has a protection dog. That won't do him good if he has a seizure in the backyard or in his sleep.
Now let's talk about Dale. I wanted to smack him and his possessive ways. Holy hell. If I were Kit I would have run far far away from him. Yeah, I think he meant well, but he went about it the wrong way. Played the "I'm your boss" card and it was creepy. UGH.
Did I think Kit deserved Dale? No. I can not tell you how much I really do not like Kit.
August 13, 2016
This in my opinion could not be rated no less than a 4 and it even hedges towards the five for me.
Kit is a breath of fresh air with his sassy, sarcastic witt, his quick and easy combacks and he's so argumentative it's hysterical. Now poor Dale is nothing but a hunky, bigger than life teddy bear who is mild-natured and tolerates Kit with a charm and patience even I wouldn't be able to uphold.
Amusing, interesting and a enjoyable read all around.
Kit is a breath of fresh air with his sassy, sarcastic witt, his quick and easy combacks and he's so argumentative it's hysterical. Now poor Dale is nothing but a hunky, bigger than life teddy bear who is mild-natured and tolerates Kit with a charm and patience even I wouldn't be able to uphold.
Amusing, interesting and a enjoyable read all around.
April 6, 2024
Kit made no choices.
Like... dub con in past but now
just goes with the flow.
Like... dub con in past but now
just goes with the flow.
June 19, 2012
I'm not really sure how I felt about this book. On the one hand, Kit was very hard to like. Sympathize with, yes, but not like. He was just SO abrasive. Also, it was clear we were supposed to see Dale as the good guy but most of the time he came across just as controlling and creepy as Hutch, minus the violence. And finally, given Kit's issues, the 5 days timeline from first meeting to love was just way too rushed.
On the other hand, I thought the pacing on how Kit's secrets were unveiled was done very well. The flashback scene showing what Hutch had done to him was truly harrowing. And though as I said before he wasn't likeable, I did feel like Kit was a fully three-dimensional character.
I think I would have liked this book a lot more if Dale had been given as much characterization as Kit and if the timeline had been extended over several months rather than a handful of days. It wasn't a bad book at all, just rough around the edges and needing some revisions.
On the other hand, I thought the pacing on how Kit's secrets were unveiled was done very well. The flashback scene showing what Hutch had done to him was truly harrowing. And though as I said before he wasn't likeable, I did feel like Kit was a fully three-dimensional character.
I think I would have liked this book a lot more if Dale had been given as much characterization as Kit and if the timeline had been extended over several months rather than a handful of days. It wasn't a bad book at all, just rough around the edges and needing some revisions.
December 7, 2014
Kit is saved from being assaulted in the local car park by Dale. Little does Kit know that Dale is his new boss.
Kit suffers from an abusive background and is epileptic as well.
I liked this book. Kit was snarky and Dale seems to be just the right man for him. If anything though it might have been a little too insta love , but still worth reading.
Kit suffers from an abusive background and is epileptic as well.
I liked this book. Kit was snarky and Dale seems to be just the right man for him. If anything though it might have been a little too insta love , but still worth reading.
January 2, 2016
I discovered I had this book when reading the latest Chris t Kat. Partly read. I realised why once I tried to read it again. I really disliked the point of view character. He's rude stupid and awful. Also an idiot. I then tried to read the first of a crime trilogy by Kat and disliked that MC as well.
I deduce that I like recent Kat and not earlier Kat.
I deduce that I like recent Kat and not earlier Kat.
April 14, 2012
Dang, Chris! You nailed it! Speaking as someone who has epilepsy it can be terrifying to open yourself up to someone for fear of rejection and the dread of seeing that "look" in their eye when they see you go thru it for the first time. May all of us find our Dale's (I know I've found mine).
April 8, 2012
Hmmmm im not sure how i feel about this one :(
Check out N's Review!! http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/...
Check out N's Review!! http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/...
August 2, 2012
After seeing the mixed reviews, I was hesitant to read >Seizing It<, but decided to give it a try anyway. Although I ended up giving it 3/5 stars, I don't regret my decision; although it's flawed, it was a fun, quick read and I wouldn't mind seeing more from this author in the future, especially if she improves from this first novel.
>Seizing It< is the story of Kit--Nikita Hall--a 28-year-old ginger with some serious issues--who narrates the tale. A lot of reviewers found fault with him, and I don't entirely disagree. Although I did come to like him and he had me sympathetic for him in the end, especially in the beginning I had difficulty with how incredibly childish and impudent he was. As you come to know Kit, you can understand and excuse his behavior a bit, but it does make for a rough start. I honestly think it would have worked a lot better if Kit had been younger--instead of in his late 20s, if he were in his early 20s--as the reader could excuse his immaturity a bit more if that were the case.
Part of the reason Kit is so insecure is he has epilepsy--Janz syndrome-- which normally causes morning myoclonic jerks in his arms and shoulders, but that can also lead to absence- and even gran mal seizures. For the past two-and-a-half years, though, his epilepsy has been well controlled and he hasn't had any seizures, meaning he's finally been able to get his driver's license and a car, which is a big deal for him and gives him new independence, even if he still chooses to walk most places with his dog Jackson in tow.
Part of keeping his epilepsy in check comes down to keeping a regular schedule--eating well, getting enough sleep, not getting stressed, and taking his medication (Dapakene, aka Valproic acid) on time each morning and evening. Because he keeps such a regular schedule, it's easy for people to keep track of his whereabouts, and that's how the novel begins.
Kit is assaulted by a man who has been stalking him (apparently for a while) named Nigel. Kit isn't the biggest or strongest guy, and is quickly overpowered. Panicking, he screams for help and is rescued by a "bear of a man," Dr. Dale Miller. Kit acts like a spoiled little kid, petulant and ungrateful and annoyed when his sister arrives to make sure he's OK and isn't going to seize.
However, part of the reason for Kit's sulky behavior is due to the fact that he feels an instant, intense attraction to Dale, and isn't even sure if the other man is gay. He's also convinced that there's no way a man as beefy and attractive as Dale would be interested in him, either.
Of course, Kit soon discovers that Dale is his new boss--he'll be taking over the vet clinic where Kit works as a receptionist--so there's no way for them to avoid each other. His anxiety is quickly relieved, however, when he realizes that Dale is not only gay, but equally attracted to him. Considering himself a "gentleman," he insists on courting Kit the old-fashioned way and not jumping into bed together immediately, something Kit finds both endearing and frustrating. Still, Kit is paranoid that Dale will learn the truth about his past and of his epilepsy, and that will drive him away.
The overall story is interesting and it works, for the most part; Dale is the sweet, protective guy that Kit needs to finally realize he can trust again and that having someone to take care of you isn't necessarily a bad thing. However, Seizing It is still flawed.
For example, one of Kit's major conflicts is his, as he puts it, "issues" with his epilepsy. Although it's clear the author either is personally familiar with the disease, knows someone well who does, or did her research very thoroughly, it still feels as if Ms. Kat has fallen into a bit of a trap here that often plagues books with characters with disabilities. Namely, Kit seems to be a little too obsessed with his epilepsy.
I acknowledge that it is something that is a significant part of his life, and he does have to structure his day accordingly, never certain if today will be the day his seizure-free span ends, but it just seemed to be a bit TOO much. A complex, almost. From my personal experience and from the experience of talking with other individuals with chronic conditions you need to manage regularly (especially if it's something you've had a long time), routine becomes just that--routine. Because it's assumed Kit has been epileptic at least since high school (it's never made clear)--which would mean about 15 years at least--you would think that doing what he has to do to ward off seizures would simply be "normal" for him. I'm not saying he can't complain about it--sure, it can suck some times if you can't do something you want or whatever because of your disability/illness--but it's one thing to grumble occasionally and another to be brooding. Kit struck me more of someone who had recently acquired epilepsy--and in fact, I thought until he said otherwise that it was the case--rather than someone who has been living with the condition for years. This was another area in which I think making Kit younger may have helped. If he were college age, for example, it would make more sense that he would feel frustrated about not being able to stay out late like his friends without having seizures.
What I don't have a problem with, and which made him a bit more sympathetic as a character, was his fear of Dale learning the truth about his epilepsy, because no one he's ever dated has been able to accept it. Either they freak out and run away--or worse--they make him feel as if it's his fault and that he should do a better job of managing it. This makes his accomplishment of being seizure-free for the past nearly three years all the bigger, and I really liked the kind of "ticking time bomb" aspect that it added to the conflict. You knew he was going to have a seizure, it was inevitable, it was just a matter of when, where, and how Dale would react to it.
Related to this, though, I thought the author really dropped the ball with Jackson, Kit's dog. He's such a huge part of the story that I honestly expected Jackson to sense Kit's impending seizure. I realize he's not a seizure dog--although as supposedly concerned his family is I would have thought they might have invested in one since Kit lives alone--it's true that many dogs can sense seizures before their humans are even aware of them. At the very least, that they would be nervous and anxious. I expected this, even if Kit had dismissed it, and thought it was a missed opportunity.
The other major conflict in Kit's life relates to his last relationship. I'll try not to spoil anything, but basically it was extremely unhealthy and abusive; it's suggested (partially from the opening with yet another man assaulting him) that Kit is somehow drawn to these unhealthy relationships. While the after effects of the bad boyfriend color Kit's life in the present of the story, I felt the author dropped the ball here a bit, too. It would have been nice to have a little more about why exactly Kit is drawn to these type of men--is it because of his insecurity? I also thought it would have been a stronger conflict if the ex-boyfriend was still a possible threat. What if he had been locked in jail and now he's getting out?
This felt like it should have been the final part of the story; in other words, the novel felt like it was only 75% complete. It wasn't a dissatisfying ending, but it didn't feel like the true ending. I also would have liked to have seen how Kit resolved the issue with Nigel, something that is left hanging since the story ends on Sunday and he planned to call the police about him on "Monday."
I was also a bit disappointed that Dale was such a vacuous character. It's suggested that he has his own insecurities and issues, but these are never really explored. It seemed strange to me that Dale was so forward so quickly with his relationship with Kit--especially since they're going to be working together, and I think seeing more of his character may have helped.
In general, this wasn't a bad novella; but it would have been a better novel, fleshed out and better developed. I think the author needs to realize that showing is better than telling and not be afraid to explore further.
>Seizing It< is the story of Kit--Nikita Hall--a 28-year-old ginger with some serious issues--who narrates the tale. A lot of reviewers found fault with him, and I don't entirely disagree. Although I did come to like him and he had me sympathetic for him in the end, especially in the beginning I had difficulty with how incredibly childish and impudent he was. As you come to know Kit, you can understand and excuse his behavior a bit, but it does make for a rough start. I honestly think it would have worked a lot better if Kit had been younger--instead of in his late 20s, if he were in his early 20s--as the reader could excuse his immaturity a bit more if that were the case.
Part of the reason Kit is so insecure is he has epilepsy--Janz syndrome-- which normally causes morning myoclonic jerks in his arms and shoulders, but that can also lead to absence- and even gran mal seizures. For the past two-and-a-half years, though, his epilepsy has been well controlled and he hasn't had any seizures, meaning he's finally been able to get his driver's license and a car, which is a big deal for him and gives him new independence, even if he still chooses to walk most places with his dog Jackson in tow.
Part of keeping his epilepsy in check comes down to keeping a regular schedule--eating well, getting enough sleep, not getting stressed, and taking his medication (Dapakene, aka Valproic acid) on time each morning and evening. Because he keeps such a regular schedule, it's easy for people to keep track of his whereabouts, and that's how the novel begins.
Kit is assaulted by a man who has been stalking him (apparently for a while) named Nigel. Kit isn't the biggest or strongest guy, and is quickly overpowered. Panicking, he screams for help and is rescued by a "bear of a man," Dr. Dale Miller. Kit acts like a spoiled little kid, petulant and ungrateful and annoyed when his sister arrives to make sure he's OK and isn't going to seize.
However, part of the reason for Kit's sulky behavior is due to the fact that he feels an instant, intense attraction to Dale, and isn't even sure if the other man is gay. He's also convinced that there's no way a man as beefy and attractive as Dale would be interested in him, either.
Of course, Kit soon discovers that Dale is his new boss--he'll be taking over the vet clinic where Kit works as a receptionist--so there's no way for them to avoid each other. His anxiety is quickly relieved, however, when he realizes that Dale is not only gay, but equally attracted to him. Considering himself a "gentleman," he insists on courting Kit the old-fashioned way and not jumping into bed together immediately, something Kit finds both endearing and frustrating. Still, Kit is paranoid that Dale will learn the truth about his past and of his epilepsy, and that will drive him away.
The overall story is interesting and it works, for the most part; Dale is the sweet, protective guy that Kit needs to finally realize he can trust again and that having someone to take care of you isn't necessarily a bad thing. However, Seizing It is still flawed.
For example, one of Kit's major conflicts is his, as he puts it, "issues" with his epilepsy. Although it's clear the author either is personally familiar with the disease, knows someone well who does, or did her research very thoroughly, it still feels as if Ms. Kat has fallen into a bit of a trap here that often plagues books with characters with disabilities. Namely, Kit seems to be a little too obsessed with his epilepsy.
I acknowledge that it is something that is a significant part of his life, and he does have to structure his day accordingly, never certain if today will be the day his seizure-free span ends, but it just seemed to be a bit TOO much. A complex, almost. From my personal experience and from the experience of talking with other individuals with chronic conditions you need to manage regularly (especially if it's something you've had a long time), routine becomes just that--routine. Because it's assumed Kit has been epileptic at least since high school (it's never made clear)--which would mean about 15 years at least--you would think that doing what he has to do to ward off seizures would simply be "normal" for him. I'm not saying he can't complain about it--sure, it can suck some times if you can't do something you want or whatever because of your disability/illness--but it's one thing to grumble occasionally and another to be brooding. Kit struck me more of someone who had recently acquired epilepsy--and in fact, I thought until he said otherwise that it was the case--rather than someone who has been living with the condition for years. This was another area in which I think making Kit younger may have helped. If he were college age, for example, it would make more sense that he would feel frustrated about not being able to stay out late like his friends without having seizures.
What I don't have a problem with, and which made him a bit more sympathetic as a character, was his fear of Dale learning the truth about his epilepsy, because no one he's ever dated has been able to accept it. Either they freak out and run away--or worse--they make him feel as if it's his fault and that he should do a better job of managing it. This makes his accomplishment of being seizure-free for the past nearly three years all the bigger, and I really liked the kind of "ticking time bomb" aspect that it added to the conflict. You knew he was going to have a seizure, it was inevitable, it was just a matter of when, where, and how Dale would react to it.
Related to this, though, I thought the author really dropped the ball with Jackson, Kit's dog. He's such a huge part of the story that I honestly expected Jackson to sense Kit's impending seizure. I realize he's not a seizure dog--although as supposedly concerned his family is I would have thought they might have invested in one since Kit lives alone--it's true that many dogs can sense seizures before their humans are even aware of them. At the very least, that they would be nervous and anxious. I expected this, even if Kit had dismissed it, and thought it was a missed opportunity.
The other major conflict in Kit's life relates to his last relationship. I'll try not to spoil anything, but basically it was extremely unhealthy and abusive; it's suggested (partially from the opening with yet another man assaulting him) that Kit is somehow drawn to these unhealthy relationships. While the after effects of the bad boyfriend color Kit's life in the present of the story, I felt the author dropped the ball here a bit, too. It would have been nice to have a little more about why exactly Kit is drawn to these type of men--is it because of his insecurity? I also thought it would have been a stronger conflict if the ex-boyfriend was still a possible threat. What if he had been locked in jail and now he's getting out?
This felt like it should have been the final part of the story; in other words, the novel felt like it was only 75% complete. It wasn't a dissatisfying ending, but it didn't feel like the true ending. I also would have liked to have seen how Kit resolved the issue with Nigel, something that is left hanging since the story ends on Sunday and he planned to call the police about him on "Monday."
I was also a bit disappointed that Dale was such a vacuous character. It's suggested that he has his own insecurities and issues, but these are never really explored. It seemed strange to me that Dale was so forward so quickly with his relationship with Kit--especially since they're going to be working together, and I think seeing more of his character may have helped.
In general, this wasn't a bad novella; but it would have been a better novel, fleshed out and better developed. I think the author needs to realize that showing is better than telling and not be afraid to explore further.
February 13, 2019
Loved this book. Great characters and enjoyable story. Kit is prickly, but he has good reason. I am glad there is a book two, because I would have like to see another 100 pages in this book. More development of the relationship between Kit & Dale as well as Kits family. We also do not know much about Dale. Hopefully book two sheds some light on him. Enjoyed this author - just found her. Seems she hasn't written anything in a few years or I haven't found it yet. If it is true that is a shame.
June 5, 2012
Reviewed for Joyfully Jay.
Rating: 3 stars
Kit Hall, veterinary assistant, leads a life of strict routine that his epilepsy and physician requires of him. Kit has also isolated himself by choice from others, with the exception of his sister and the veterinarian he works for. A victim of domestic abuse from his ex, Kit finds himself unwilling to trust others to the extent that he has walled himself off from most personal interactions. When Kit is attacked outside his home by a crazed admirer, his sister and a good looking stranger come to his aid. The attack puts him off balance. When he learns that Alan, his friend/boss, is moving and someone else is taking over the clinic, Kit becomes even more unsettled. The next day at the clinic Kit is horrified to find out that his new boss is none other than his rescuer from the day before.
Dale Miller is on his way to his new veterinary clinic when he chances upon a young man being attacked. He intervenes, restraining the attacker until the police arrive. He is not the only one surprised when he meets the young man again at the clinic he is taking over. It turns out his assistant, Kit Hall, and the victim are one and the same. A fact that Kit is clearly not happy about. But Dale finds Kit attractive and becomes determined to be the one to make Kit lower his defenses and take one more chance at love.
Several days later and this book still has me confused about my feelings towards it. Mostly they are of the "not so good" type. Add to that column, "flashes of talent," "great idea,""kind of creepy," and "downright annoying," and I think you all will begin to get my drift. The author had a great idea for a protagonist here but never brought the main character up to snuff. I was really looking forward to a thoughtful exploration of a life lived with epilepsy, the proscribed limits, and how a full life could still be achieved within them. That is not what I got in any way, starting with that title. Seizing It? Really? Should I say it had me fit to be tied? *that was sarcastic, people - shakes head*
In addition to epilepsy, the author has burdened Kit with being a victim of a shattering domestic abuse attack from his controlling and mentally ill ex, a temper that should see him in anger management classes, and a family that treats him as though he is twelve (and sometimes rightfully so). I think we are supposed to find him one of those endearing prickly main characters, slight in stature, with a shock of red hair and green eyes. I generally like those characters. I didn't like Kit Hall. Mostly I wanted to send him off to intensive therapy sessions which he clearly needed, not to be seen again. The author endowed Kit with a temper which as victimized as he is I could understand, but apparently he has always had a temper that he directs at all close to him while acknowledging that he may be a brat. This got very old as it would in real life and Kit comes across as a bit of an abuser and bully himself.
Further complicating the story is the other main character, Dale Miller. He is older, finds Kit incredibly attractive, and wants to rescue Kit from himself. In one section when Kit is freaking out over Dale restraining him (???) during an argument, I started to get that squicked out feeling. I remember seeing adult handlers forcibly restraining out of control children (mentally and physically challenged) in the same manner until they calmed down. To see it used here between "potential" lovers hit quite a few wrong notes. Especially when Dale then picks up Kit and put him in his lap. Am I the only one thinking child abuser not lover here? And then Kit falls in love with him immediately in a couple of days? Never has a case of "instant love" seemed so wrong.
What I did find realistic is that Kit is ashamed he is epileptic and doesn't tell Dale about his condition until a Grand Mal seizure forces him to. I had a childhood friend who felt the same way. He moved away in elementary school so I never knew how the adult Tim dealt with it. The author does a good job talking about stress being a trigger, as well as how Kit uses medication and a regulated life style to control his epilepsy. I wish she had done as well with the issue of domestic abuse which loomed as a larger subject here. Male victims of domestic abuse represent a huge sector of people for whom it is unreported and unaccounted. Kit's issues that stemmed from his years of living with a domestic abuser are never really dealt with in the same manner his epilepsy is. A missed opportunity the book never recovers from in my opinion.
I won't even get into his father issues and a family determined not to let a 28-year-old grow up and make his own decisions. Let's leave that one alone. It's overshadowed anyway by all the problems I have already remarked on. Seizing It is the only book I have read by Chris T. Kat so I don't know if this story is typical of the author's work or not. I hope not. There are some good ideas here but in the end raises far more questions about her protagonists and their relationship then is resolved in the book.
Cover: The artist is Anne Cain who I love but where are the dogs? Another missed opportunity as one main character is a vet, and the other is his assistant with a dog who is also a main character within the story. It remains a beautiful cover of two men in a fall setting.
Rating: 3 stars
Kit Hall, veterinary assistant, leads a life of strict routine that his epilepsy and physician requires of him. Kit has also isolated himself by choice from others, with the exception of his sister and the veterinarian he works for. A victim of domestic abuse from his ex, Kit finds himself unwilling to trust others to the extent that he has walled himself off from most personal interactions. When Kit is attacked outside his home by a crazed admirer, his sister and a good looking stranger come to his aid. The attack puts him off balance. When he learns that Alan, his friend/boss, is moving and someone else is taking over the clinic, Kit becomes even more unsettled. The next day at the clinic Kit is horrified to find out that his new boss is none other than his rescuer from the day before.
Dale Miller is on his way to his new veterinary clinic when he chances upon a young man being attacked. He intervenes, restraining the attacker until the police arrive. He is not the only one surprised when he meets the young man again at the clinic he is taking over. It turns out his assistant, Kit Hall, and the victim are one and the same. A fact that Kit is clearly not happy about. But Dale finds Kit attractive and becomes determined to be the one to make Kit lower his defenses and take one more chance at love.
Several days later and this book still has me confused about my feelings towards it. Mostly they are of the "not so good" type. Add to that column, "flashes of talent," "great idea,""kind of creepy," and "downright annoying," and I think you all will begin to get my drift. The author had a great idea for a protagonist here but never brought the main character up to snuff. I was really looking forward to a thoughtful exploration of a life lived with epilepsy, the proscribed limits, and how a full life could still be achieved within them. That is not what I got in any way, starting with that title. Seizing It? Really? Should I say it had me fit to be tied? *that was sarcastic, people - shakes head*
In addition to epilepsy, the author has burdened Kit with being a victim of a shattering domestic abuse attack from his controlling and mentally ill ex, a temper that should see him in anger management classes, and a family that treats him as though he is twelve (and sometimes rightfully so). I think we are supposed to find him one of those endearing prickly main characters, slight in stature, with a shock of red hair and green eyes. I generally like those characters. I didn't like Kit Hall. Mostly I wanted to send him off to intensive therapy sessions which he clearly needed, not to be seen again. The author endowed Kit with a temper which as victimized as he is I could understand, but apparently he has always had a temper that he directs at all close to him while acknowledging that he may be a brat. This got very old as it would in real life and Kit comes across as a bit of an abuser and bully himself.
Further complicating the story is the other main character, Dale Miller. He is older, finds Kit incredibly attractive, and wants to rescue Kit from himself. In one section when Kit is freaking out over Dale restraining him (???) during an argument, I started to get that squicked out feeling. I remember seeing adult handlers forcibly restraining out of control children (mentally and physically challenged) in the same manner until they calmed down. To see it used here between "potential" lovers hit quite a few wrong notes. Especially when Dale then picks up Kit and put him in his lap. Am I the only one thinking child abuser not lover here? And then Kit falls in love with him immediately in a couple of days? Never has a case of "instant love" seemed so wrong.
What I did find realistic is that Kit is ashamed he is epileptic and doesn't tell Dale about his condition until a Grand Mal seizure forces him to. I had a childhood friend who felt the same way. He moved away in elementary school so I never knew how the adult Tim dealt with it. The author does a good job talking about stress being a trigger, as well as how Kit uses medication and a regulated life style to control his epilepsy. I wish she had done as well with the issue of domestic abuse which loomed as a larger subject here. Male victims of domestic abuse represent a huge sector of people for whom it is unreported and unaccounted. Kit's issues that stemmed from his years of living with a domestic abuser are never really dealt with in the same manner his epilepsy is. A missed opportunity the book never recovers from in my opinion.
I won't even get into his father issues and a family determined not to let a 28-year-old grow up and make his own decisions. Let's leave that one alone. It's overshadowed anyway by all the problems I have already remarked on. Seizing It is the only book I have read by Chris T. Kat so I don't know if this story is typical of the author's work or not. I hope not. There are some good ideas here but in the end raises far more questions about her protagonists and their relationship then is resolved in the book.
Cover: The artist is Anne Cain who I love but where are the dogs? Another missed opportunity as one main character is a vet, and the other is his assistant with a dog who is also a main character within the story. It remains a beautiful cover of two men in a fall setting.
dnf
February 19, 2017DNF after 25%. Could't like any character in this story. Riayl, Karen and Candice said it all. There is nothing else to add.
January 5, 2019
** 3.5 Stars **
October 10, 2020
really sweet, love at first sight, quick read - I really enjoyed it
October 22, 2020
I know a few reviews show they can't connect with the MC, but I thoroughly enjoy this book. It has soft angst and I can empathise with the MC. This is one of the books (and series) I like to re-read occasionally and if it was offered in physical form, it would be sitting in my bookcase.
May 12, 2012
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Kit Hall has epilepsy and for the past year he’s kept the disease under control with medication, and doing what he can to keep as much stress as possible out of his life. Because he’s been seizure-free, Kit’s enjoyed having more freedom in his life, and this freedom is something Kit is almost desperate to hold onto. One day, Kit is attacked in a parking lot by a man who hopes to be an important person in Kit’s life. Even though, Kit is stronger than he once was, he still is unable to fend off his attacker, so he is relieved and even a little embarrassed with this handsome, bear of a man comes to his rescue.
Even though Kit is grateful to his rescuer, Dale Miller, he’s humiliated and a little more than angry at being overpowered by his attacker. Because of this, he says some not-so-nice things and ends up embarrassing himself even more. The next day when Kit goes to work, he’s mortified when he realizes his rescuer, Dale, is now his new boss. To make matters worse, Kit is beginning to feel like both his life and health are starting to spin out of control. Will Kit be able to keep his life and disease under control and will Kit allow the sweet and thoughtful Dale to break down the walls Kit has built around his heart?
I really liked this book. I thought Kit was an interesting and somewhat unique hero. He’s stronger than what he realizes and because he’s been smothered by concerned friends and family members, he has a tendency to rebel against anyone who offers to help him. Kit has a snarky, sarcastic humor that I really liked. But he constantly fights to be seen as something more than an epileptic, and because of this, he has a chip on his shoulder and won’t accept help without immediately assuming it’s because others see him as weak. It’s because of this, that more than once, Kit has a tendency to jump to conclusions instead of finding out the facts and this gets him into trouble throughout the book.
There were times I wanted to grab Kit and tell him to chill out some. He’s on the defensive (a lot) and even though I understood why he’s leery of allowing people to help or to be close to him, I wanted him to sometimes just be gracious and accept the love and friendship that others try to give him. Kit is usually contrite after he blows up, as he should be, but it would have been nice to see him not be so prickly all the time. What I did like was Kit’s determination to live his life as normally as possible. His sheer stubbornness and refusal to give up makes him a strong and formidable hero in my eyes.
Dale is a wonderful man. Where Kit is high-maintenance (I’m not referring to Kit’s epilepsy) Dale is calm and thoughtful. Because Kit and Dale are opposite in many ways, they really fit together and I truly liked them as a couple. I liked Dale’s kindness and determination to be more in Kit’s life than just his boss, and it’s because of Dale’s stubbornness, he’s able to tear down the wall of ice Kit has built around his heart…brick by brick. Because the book is told in first person, with Kit telling the story, we don’t get to learn a lot about Dale. He remains more of a mystery than I would have liked, but I still cared for him and enjoyed watching him worm his way into Kit’s life and heart.
Even though I really liked these characters and their story, I wish this book had been longer. There were a few unanswered questions and, in my opinion, I’m hoping this is because the author plans on writing more about Kit and Dale in the future. If you are looking for a fast-paced book with interesting characters, Seizing it, is definitely for you.
Kit Hall has epilepsy and for the past year he’s kept the disease under control with medication, and doing what he can to keep as much stress as possible out of his life. Because he’s been seizure-free, Kit’s enjoyed having more freedom in his life, and this freedom is something Kit is almost desperate to hold onto. One day, Kit is attacked in a parking lot by a man who hopes to be an important person in Kit’s life. Even though, Kit is stronger than he once was, he still is unable to fend off his attacker, so he is relieved and even a little embarrassed with this handsome, bear of a man comes to his rescue.
Even though Kit is grateful to his rescuer, Dale Miller, he’s humiliated and a little more than angry at being overpowered by his attacker. Because of this, he says some not-so-nice things and ends up embarrassing himself even more. The next day when Kit goes to work, he’s mortified when he realizes his rescuer, Dale, is now his new boss. To make matters worse, Kit is beginning to feel like both his life and health are starting to spin out of control. Will Kit be able to keep his life and disease under control and will Kit allow the sweet and thoughtful Dale to break down the walls Kit has built around his heart?
I really liked this book. I thought Kit was an interesting and somewhat unique hero. He’s stronger than what he realizes and because he’s been smothered by concerned friends and family members, he has a tendency to rebel against anyone who offers to help him. Kit has a snarky, sarcastic humor that I really liked. But he constantly fights to be seen as something more than an epileptic, and because of this, he has a chip on his shoulder and won’t accept help without immediately assuming it’s because others see him as weak. It’s because of this, that more than once, Kit has a tendency to jump to conclusions instead of finding out the facts and this gets him into trouble throughout the book.
There were times I wanted to grab Kit and tell him to chill out some. He’s on the defensive (a lot) and even though I understood why he’s leery of allowing people to help or to be close to him, I wanted him to sometimes just be gracious and accept the love and friendship that others try to give him. Kit is usually contrite after he blows up, as he should be, but it would have been nice to see him not be so prickly all the time. What I did like was Kit’s determination to live his life as normally as possible. His sheer stubbornness and refusal to give up makes him a strong and formidable hero in my eyes.
Dale is a wonderful man. Where Kit is high-maintenance (I’m not referring to Kit’s epilepsy) Dale is calm and thoughtful. Because Kit and Dale are opposite in many ways, they really fit together and I truly liked them as a couple. I liked Dale’s kindness and determination to be more in Kit’s life than just his boss, and it’s because of Dale’s stubbornness, he’s able to tear down the wall of ice Kit has built around his heart…brick by brick. Because the book is told in first person, with Kit telling the story, we don’t get to learn a lot about Dale. He remains more of a mystery than I would have liked, but I still cared for him and enjoyed watching him worm his way into Kit’s life and heart.
Even though I really liked these characters and their story, I wish this book had been longer. There were a few unanswered questions and, in my opinion, I’m hoping this is because the author plans on writing more about Kit and Dale in the future. If you are looking for a fast-paced book with interesting characters, Seizing it, is definitely for you.
February 14, 2013
I tried. I did. I like the premise, I liked the writing, I even liked Kit.
The problem is, I hated everybody else.
- Overbearing friends/family. They kept scolding Kit as if he were a child, and their lack of true empathy for him (or lack of understanding as to the cause of his outbursts) really grated on my nerves. But they were also overprotective, constantly worrying about Kit's safety. If it had just been his family, fine, understandable, but when his boss's wife does that? No.
- Matchmaking friends/family. One of the other romance novel tropes I have no tolerance for. Every single person seems to decide that the two main characters are just ~perfect~ for each other, and they go out of their way to set them up. They also scold the reluctant party (Kit, in this case) for not properly giving the other guy a chance.
- The dog seemed to be dead set on playing matchmaker too. "Oh man my dog loves you that means you must be a good person!" Not to mention the dog's magical ways of forcing the two together.
- Dream sequences. Dream sequences are lazy, and the fact that all of Kit's backstory is packed into one made me gnash my teeth. Same with the sex scene at the beginning of the novel (which I instantly pinged as a dream sequence because of the lack of context). Both of those parts would have been much stronger (and more realistic) if they'd been woven into the story without a cheap dream sequence.
- Dale. I hated him so much. He saves Kit from a stalker, and suddenly he decides that gives him the right to openly flirt with Kit, stroke his cheek, call him out on being upset? Another reviewer already said it, but he definitely . The moment he brought up his status as Kit's boss, I was done with him.
I would have enjoyed a drawn out story about Kit learning to deal with all of his issues. Was he abrasive? Yes, but given his situation, it was understandable. Him learning to let go of his anger and slowly learning to trust would have made for a great read. Unfortunately, what we actually get is insta-love that brushes aside almost everything. The narrative paints Kit as being wrong, but I really just wanted to strangle all the other characters for how they treated him.
The problem is, I hated everybody else.
- Overbearing friends/family. They kept scolding Kit as if he were a child, and their lack of true empathy for him (or lack of understanding as to the cause of his outbursts) really grated on my nerves. But they were also overprotective, constantly worrying about Kit's safety. If it had just been his family, fine, understandable, but when his boss's wife does that? No.
- Matchmaking friends/family. One of the other romance novel tropes I have no tolerance for. Every single person seems to decide that the two main characters are just ~perfect~ for each other, and they go out of their way to set them up. They also scold the reluctant party (Kit, in this case) for not properly giving the other guy a chance.
- The dog seemed to be dead set on playing matchmaker too. "Oh man my dog loves you that means you must be a good person!" Not to mention the dog's magical ways of forcing the two together.
- Dream sequences. Dream sequences are lazy, and the fact that all of Kit's backstory is packed into one made me gnash my teeth. Same with the sex scene at the beginning of the novel (which I instantly pinged as a dream sequence because of the lack of context). Both of those parts would have been much stronger (and more realistic) if they'd been woven into the story without a cheap dream sequence.
- Dale. I hated him so much. He saves Kit from a stalker, and suddenly he decides that gives him the right to openly flirt with Kit, stroke his cheek, call him out on being upset? Another reviewer already said it, but he definitely . The moment he brought up his status as Kit's boss, I was done with him.
I would have enjoyed a drawn out story about Kit learning to deal with all of his issues. Was he abrasive? Yes, but given his situation, it was understandable. Him learning to let go of his anger and slowly learning to trust would have made for a great read. Unfortunately, what we actually get is insta-love that brushes aside almost everything. The narrative paints Kit as being wrong, but I really just wanted to strangle all the other characters for how they treated him.
April 6, 2012
3.5 stars
I had contrasting feelings while reading this book: one moment I liked it, one moment I was annoyed at some things, especially the main character.
Kit is a young guy with epilepsy and a difficult past of abuse. These two things made him retreat behind a protective wall, which very few people can get behind. One of these is his new boss, Dale. From the moment they two meet, Kit goes from being attracted to him and wanting to let him in, to try to shut him out because of his fears. It's a back and forth that keeps happenening throughout the entire book, so at times it gets annoying to see Kit going from one extreme to the other, but I feel it is realistic. Kit wants to be loved again, he craves it, but he's afraid of being left because of his disability and he's also scared of entering another abusive relationship. This makes his behaviour of moving back and forth frustrating but also very realistic and understandable, in my opinion.
There was a bit of instant love, since Kit and Dale meet and fall in love in the span of a few days. Usually I don't like this and I think the story would have gained from a slower development of the relationship between the main characters, but still it worked for me here.
Dale is a very nice character, very understanding of Kit's fears and needs and he is there whenever Kit needs him, bringing him out of his shell and helping him get over his fears. We don't know very much about him though, since the story is told from Kit's point of view, and I would have liked instead to have a better knowledge of him.
Overall, the story worked for me and I did like it. It seems this is the first book by this author and I think for being a first, it's not perfect but pretty good.
I had contrasting feelings while reading this book: one moment I liked it, one moment I was annoyed at some things, especially the main character.
Kit is a young guy with epilepsy and a difficult past of abuse. These two things made him retreat behind a protective wall, which very few people can get behind. One of these is his new boss, Dale. From the moment they two meet, Kit goes from being attracted to him and wanting to let him in, to try to shut him out because of his fears. It's a back and forth that keeps happenening throughout the entire book, so at times it gets annoying to see Kit going from one extreme to the other, but I feel it is realistic. Kit wants to be loved again, he craves it, but he's afraid of being left because of his disability and he's also scared of entering another abusive relationship. This makes his behaviour of moving back and forth frustrating but also very realistic and understandable, in my opinion.
There was a bit of instant love, since Kit and Dale meet and fall in love in the span of a few days. Usually I don't like this and I think the story would have gained from a slower development of the relationship between the main characters, but still it worked for me here.
Dale is a very nice character, very understanding of Kit's fears and needs and he is there whenever Kit needs him, bringing him out of his shell and helping him get over his fears. We don't know very much about him though, since the story is told from Kit's point of view, and I would have liked instead to have a better knowledge of him.
Overall, the story worked for me and I did like it. It seems this is the first book by this author and I think for being a first, it's not perfect but pretty good.
March 6, 2013
This book deals with some pretty heavy subjects - abuse, trauma, a serious illness, but it's not a heavy book by any means. The protagonist Kit is trying his best to come to terms with a abusive relationship that ended in a horrific way. He's terrified of love...and of anyone touching him unexpectedly.
He's struggled with illness for most of his life and it's made him fiercely independent and with major issues about being seen as weak.
When he is 'saved' from a stalker, far from being grateful to his knight in shining armour, he's angry and resentful that he needed to be rescued and that the bear of a man who rescued him makes him feel so... safe.
When the bear turns out to be his new boss, Kit is determined not to like him let alone fall in love with him but destiny has a funny way of getting under your defenses and taking you places you really don't want to go.
I totally fell in love with Kit and Jackson his faithful, if somewhat traitorous, dog. If I have any complaint it's that I found it difficult to warm to Dale. I found him somewhat patronizing and judgmental, and if I had been Kit I wouldn't have put up with nearly as much of his crap. He comes into Kit's life and makes demands right away. There are places where he treats Kit like a child and I felt I wanted to slap him. On reflection that probably wasn't a complaint but the mark of good character development.
He's struggled with illness for most of his life and it's made him fiercely independent and with major issues about being seen as weak.
When he is 'saved' from a stalker, far from being grateful to his knight in shining armour, he's angry and resentful that he needed to be rescued and that the bear of a man who rescued him makes him feel so... safe.
When the bear turns out to be his new boss, Kit is determined not to like him let alone fall in love with him but destiny has a funny way of getting under your defenses and taking you places you really don't want to go.
I totally fell in love with Kit and Jackson his faithful, if somewhat traitorous, dog. If I have any complaint it's that I found it difficult to warm to Dale. I found him somewhat patronizing and judgmental, and if I had been Kit I wouldn't have put up with nearly as much of his crap. He comes into Kit's life and makes demands right away. There are places where he treats Kit like a child and I felt I wanted to slap him. On reflection that probably wasn't a complaint but the mark of good character development.
January 12, 2013
I read this ebook after having it for a while. While I really enjoyed this, giving it a solid 3.5, I did have a few things that distracted me during the story. I felt that Kit's personality quirks were to be expected-based on his coddling from his family. The constant bouncing from horny/shy to snarky pissed off could have tapered off a bit more during the story sooner than it did. My favorite scene in the book, oddly enough, was the lunch with his existing boss and his wife; it felt the most 'real'.
Overall, the plot was good. It can be hard to create a modern romance novella and not have it be insta-love, unless you give the characters an existing relationship before the readers meet them. That would have helped with the abrupt connection between Kit and Dale, and to extend the plotline. However, I felt that the amount of events, in the week or so shown in the story, was paced well once I put the insta-love aside. The drama was dramatic, without being unrealistic. (Not sharing more, no spoilers!)
The best part of this story was Chris' writing skills. I was never distracted by the writing from the story, and while I might have ached to slap both Kit and Dale at times, if they weren't vivid characters I would never have felt that strongly about them. Overall, a quick and fun read, with some funny sniping and a heated romance.
Overall, the plot was good. It can be hard to create a modern romance novella and not have it be insta-love, unless you give the characters an existing relationship before the readers meet them. That would have helped with the abrupt connection between Kit and Dale, and to extend the plotline. However, I felt that the amount of events, in the week or so shown in the story, was paced well once I put the insta-love aside. The drama was dramatic, without being unrealistic. (Not sharing more, no spoilers!)
The best part of this story was Chris' writing skills. I was never distracted by the writing from the story, and while I might have ached to slap both Kit and Dale at times, if they weren't vivid characters I would never have felt that strongly about them. Overall, a quick and fun read, with some funny sniping and a heated romance.
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