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By Surprise
Sex that's twice as good, love that's three times stronger.
When Jodi returned to Burlington after a nasty divorce, broke and without a much needed place to sculpt, she never expected to bump into Paxton, her best friend from growing up. With her unresolved feelings for him still smoldering, it was a shock to find him married—to a great guy. But when Paxton and Nicholas offer her a room for rent in their too-big, too-expensive Victorian, complete with a turret to use as her art studio, it seems like the perfect solution for everyone. Until Jodi overhears Nicholas and Paxton making love—and finds herself burning hotter than she ever imagined.
Nicholas always knew his husband Paxton was bi-sexual, but finding his forgotten stash of cheerleader DVDs makes him wonder if Paxton's been tamping down his old desires. As strong as their love is, he knows there are things he just can't give Paxton...or can he? He decides to get Paxton a very special birthday present—a night with a woman—a no-strings arrangement to grant him the fantasies Nicholas isn't equipped to fulfill. But when he meets Paxton's best friend Jodi, Nicholas finds himself facing new feelings of his own. If only he could stop imagining Jodi's body wedged between Paxton and him and figure out what to do...
When Jodi returned to Burlington after a nasty divorce, broke and without a much needed place to sculpt, she never expected to bump into Paxton, her best friend from growing up. With her unresolved feelings for him still smoldering, it was a shock to find him married—to a great guy. But when Paxton and Nicholas offer her a room for rent in their too-big, too-expensive Victorian, complete with a turret to use as her art studio, it seems like the perfect solution for everyone. Until Jodi overhears Nicholas and Paxton making love—and finds herself burning hotter than she ever imagined.
Nicholas always knew his husband Paxton was bi-sexual, but finding his forgotten stash of cheerleader DVDs makes him wonder if Paxton's been tamping down his old desires. As strong as their love is, he knows there are things he just can't give Paxton...or can he? He decides to get Paxton a very special birthday present—a night with a woman—a no-strings arrangement to grant him the fantasies Nicholas isn't equipped to fulfill. But when he meets Paxton's best friend Jodi, Nicholas finds himself facing new feelings of his own. If only he could stop imagining Jodi's body wedged between Paxton and him and figure out what to do...
94 pages, ebook
First published February 29, 2012
86 people are currently reading
464 people want to read
About the author
Alyssa Turner
31 books580 followersAlyssa Turner is every woman and like no other. The one who stares into space while standing in sensible shoes at the supermarket, and you wonder what she might be thinking. Few things make her smile like the rush of creativity—she’s addicted. When she isn’t writing, she’s cooking dinner or washing clothes…or dreaming up her next delicious scene. She enjoys writing in several sub-genres, including ménage and sci-fi and has several full-length epublications currently available. Her debut publication was a short in Best Women's Erotica 2011, edited by Violet Blue. More shorts appear in print anthologies from Xcite Books and Cleis Press, with the illustrious editors, Miranda Forbes and Rachel Kramer Bussel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
July 30, 2021
Beautiful and Fantastic
4.5 stars - This novella packs quite a punch of heat and strength within the pages. It's beautiful and a fantastic read or listen. In this case, I listened to an author copy of the audio book. The narrators, Erin Bateman and Adam Riley, did a really good job.
I have enjoyed every Alyssa Turner book that I have read or listened to and this was no different. Nicholas wants to give Paxton a special gift for his birthday. Unbeknownst to them both, the expectations change when Jodi, a childhood friend of Paxton's, is invited to stay with them for a while. It is a sizzling union. The kind of birthday gift I'd be happy to receive. 😘🔥💚
Story: 4.5 stars
Narration: 3.5 stars
4.5 stars - This novella packs quite a punch of heat and strength within the pages. It's beautiful and a fantastic read or listen. In this case, I listened to an author copy of the audio book. The narrators, Erin Bateman and Adam Riley, did a really good job.
I have enjoyed every Alyssa Turner book that I have read or listened to and this was no different. Nicholas wants to give Paxton a special gift for his birthday. Unbeknownst to them both, the expectations change when Jodi, a childhood friend of Paxton's, is invited to stay with them for a while. It is a sizzling union. The kind of birthday gift I'd be happy to receive. 😘🔥💚
Story: 4.5 stars
Narration: 3.5 stars
March 27, 2014
4 starsmenage, m/m/f, romance, erotica
"Love doesn't make the world go round. Love is what makes the ride worthwhile." - Franklin P. Jones
Summary:
A male gay couple is living in their dream-house when one of them looses his job. Solution comes in the for of a childhood friend that needs a big room to stay.
They all fall in love with each other. Their journey is unexpected and sweet.
cover 4 stars
I can see it's a contemporary menage. It's not really really hot, but that's not what this book is about.
I wished they had kept the leaves out, so the title would have been in the bottom not on top of the people.
I would buy in a store without much thinking.
characters 4 stars
Paxton: He is ok. Yeah, he should be the one for me to love usually, because I adore a cop and he seem to be the dominant in his relationship. But then, starts my few problems with Paxton. First he is too perfect, and I adore imperfections. Second, I did not love the fact that he wasn't complete honest with his partner, maybe because I did really liked Nicholas and felt that he deserved it better. (3 stars)
Nicholas: He is adorable. Gay that has never had any interest in a woman before. He is insecure, but he takes on the things that he fears instead of hiding from them. I was a bit bother by the fact that he wasn't looking for another job, but that's my personal craziness lol.(4 stars)
Jodi: My favorite of the trio. I really liked Jodi. She had everything to be a victim, but she wasn't. She took on her ghosts straight-on and she was never afraid of taking the next step. (5 stars)
plot 4 stars
The biggest surprise of the book, and at that moment Ms. Turner won me a little bit, was that this book was a love story. It was a menage, but it was never focus on the sex between three people. It was focus in how; Jodi that has always loved Paxton, that loves Nicholas and Jodi, that starts no also love Nicholas, win the game of her life, Nicholas' heart. Really, for a short book, it was kind of emotional roller coaster of the three characters. Specially for Nicholas.
Even though the book tries to bring Jodi to the spotlight, I throughly felt that this journey belong to Nicholas most of all. It was not cheesy how a gay man start to love a not-perfect-at-all woman.
The story was easy to read, and it come as a nice surprise for me. I did end the book wanting more, and that for me was the fault of the book. It should have been a full novel and not a novella.
I wished the author had more time to give us a full account of this love journey.
sex heat 3 stars
Sex was never the focus of this book, it had a few scenes, not that hot, but endearing.
The one big scene with all three characters was equallly divided between the three, which is always good IMO.
originality 5 stars
For me it was really new. This was the first book I've read with menage that didn't explore the sex so much and that if focus more on the internal/emotional journey of the characters. It was different and unexpected for me, the reason why I gave 5 stars.
editing 5 stars
I don't remember any problems at all.
Impressions and Opinion
I was suppose to have read and reviewed this book last year. Due to personal problems I wasn't able to read until this week.
For those that loves erotica, specially the hardcore type this maybe a bit to tame.
If, you like erotica, but also venture into romantic stories like I do, you will enjoy this read, that will take you into an emotional journey.
I will keep on reading Ms. Turner's book because, what I've read so far, has really captivated me.
"Love doesn't make the world go round. Love is what makes the ride worthwhile." - Franklin P. Jones
Summary:
A male gay couple is living in their dream-house when one of them looses his job. Solution comes in the for of a childhood friend that needs a big room to stay.
They all fall in love with each other. Their journey is unexpected and sweet.
cover 4 stars
I can see it's a contemporary menage. It's not really really hot, but that's not what this book is about.
I wished they had kept the leaves out, so the title would have been in the bottom not on top of the people.
I would buy in a store without much thinking.
characters 4 stars
Paxton: He is ok. Yeah, he should be the one for me to love usually, because I adore a cop and he seem to be the dominant in his relationship. But then, starts my few problems with Paxton. First he is too perfect, and I adore imperfections. Second, I did not love the fact that he wasn't complete honest with his partner, maybe because I did really liked Nicholas and felt that he deserved it better. (3 stars)
Nicholas: He is adorable. Gay that has never had any interest in a woman before. He is insecure, but he takes on the things that he fears instead of hiding from them. I was a bit bother by the fact that he wasn't looking for another job, but that's my personal craziness lol.(4 stars)
Jodi: My favorite of the trio. I really liked Jodi. She had everything to be a victim, but she wasn't. She took on her ghosts straight-on and she was never afraid of taking the next step. (5 stars)
plot 4 stars
The biggest surprise of the book, and at that moment Ms. Turner won me a little bit, was that this book was a love story. It was a menage, but it was never focus on the sex between three people. It was focus in how; Jodi that has always loved Paxton, that loves Nicholas and Jodi, that starts no also love Nicholas, win the game of her life, Nicholas' heart. Really, for a short book, it was kind of emotional roller coaster of the three characters. Specially for Nicholas.
Even though the book tries to bring Jodi to the spotlight, I throughly felt that this journey belong to Nicholas most of all. It was not cheesy how a gay man start to love a not-perfect-at-all woman.
The story was easy to read, and it come as a nice surprise for me. I did end the book wanting more, and that for me was the fault of the book. It should have been a full novel and not a novella.
I wished the author had more time to give us a full account of this love journey.
sex heat 3 stars
Sex was never the focus of this book, it had a few scenes, not that hot, but endearing.
The one big scene with all three characters was equallly divided between the three, which is always good IMO.
originality 5 stars
For me it was really new. This was the first book I've read with menage that didn't explore the sex so much and that if focus more on the internal/emotional journey of the characters. It was different and unexpected for me, the reason why I gave 5 stars.
editing 5 stars
I don't remember any problems at all.
Impressions and Opinion
I was suppose to have read and reviewed this book last year. Due to personal problems I wasn't able to read until this week.
For those that loves erotica, specially the hardcore type this maybe a bit to tame.
If, you like erotica, but also venture into romantic stories like I do, you will enjoy this read, that will take you into an emotional journey.
I will keep on reading Ms. Turner's book because, what I've read so far, has really captivated me.
April 20, 2012
This is the second book that I have read by this author and she continues to surprise and please me. I loved this book. The characters were well thought out and their getting together was very realistic.
The interaction between the men, Paxton and Nicholas is hot. They are a couple and married to one another. They know that they want to be together forever. Though Nicholas can sense that Paxton is holding back the need to be with a woman. So why not give Paxton the ultimate gift for his birthday? A woman.
What Nicholas doesn't count on is that it will be an old friend from Paxton's life who will slowly infiltrate their tight bond and fill that role. Enter Jodi. Who has issues of her own and her one main issue is the love she has had for Paxton. Nicholas knows Paxton is Bi. What Nicholas realizes he has to come to terms with is his own feelings about Jodi.
This is a sexy MMF polyamory menage that is a must read! I could not put it down, did not want to put it down and was sad when I was done. It would definitely be a plus if there is a sequel to this. Would love to see what happens later on in the lives of Paxton, Nicholas and Jodi. So how about it Alyssa Turner?
Review also on Amazon.com and http://Epicallyromanticbyebonydreams....
The interaction between the men, Paxton and Nicholas is hot. They are a couple and married to one another. They know that they want to be together forever. Though Nicholas can sense that Paxton is holding back the need to be with a woman. So why not give Paxton the ultimate gift for his birthday? A woman.
What Nicholas doesn't count on is that it will be an old friend from Paxton's life who will slowly infiltrate their tight bond and fill that role. Enter Jodi. Who has issues of her own and her one main issue is the love she has had for Paxton. Nicholas knows Paxton is Bi. What Nicholas realizes he has to come to terms with is his own feelings about Jodi.
This is a sexy MMF polyamory menage that is a must read! I could not put it down, did not want to put it down and was sad when I was done. It would definitely be a plus if there is a sequel to this. Would love to see what happens later on in the lives of Paxton, Nicholas and Jodi. So how about it Alyssa Turner?
Review also on Amazon.com and http://Epicallyromanticbyebonydreams....
May 15, 2021
Received in an audiobook giveaway in one of my book club. My first by author, Alyssa Turner and this type of genre. I typically don't read menage but wanted to give this novel a try.
For me it was okay but not my cup of tea. Not giving up on the author as there may be another book I might enjoy.
For me it was okay but not my cup of tea. Not giving up on the author as there may be another book I might enjoy.
May 30, 2012
By Surprise by Alyssa Turner really took me by surprise. I was expecting a scorching hot ménage erotica and instead I got a wonderfully moving and emotional love story (which of course had some very hot scenes).
I was truly amazed what a well rounded story Alyssa Turner managed to create in such a short novella of only 94 pages. Not only was there a developed plot (nope, this is no smut without plot story), the characters were fell fleshed out and, which is not a small feat once again considering the length limitations.
By Surprise is a ménage story in the sense that there are three people discovering and trying to define their relationship to the other two. Paxton and Nicholas are a happily married gay couple whose everyday life is rocked when Paxton's childhood best friend Jodi enters the picture and stirs up both their feelings and their peace of mind. Paxton has always had a crush on Jodi and considers himself a bi, but the shock of his attraction and emergence of feelings for her astonishes Nicholas who never liked women.
By Suprise is rather a discovery of each of the characters' feelings and their coming to grips with their emotions and attraction. Although there is sexual discovery what gets the center stage in By Surprise is rather how they deal with the situation emotionally, and Alyssa Turner didn't take the easy way out since she introduced the third player into a well established, harmonious and loving relationship. I was curious to see how one person of a devoted couple could deal with sharing that person with someone else and not feel jealous or possessive, but the way Nicholas reacted was both realistic and believable:
"He continued, "I'm not jealous, though. I’m grateful, I think. Getting to know you feels like getting to know a part of Paxton I wouldn’t have been able to without you.""
I found it wonderful how sensible he was and the fact of seeing Jodi make his beloved husband happy didn't make him jealous but grateful. And witnessing how he developed feelings and a connection with Jodi on his own made their unusual arrangement logical and credible.
"...the anticipation tightened his balls, raised goose bumps on his skin. It wasn’t just the virginal aspect of pressing into a woman for the very first time, something he suddenly saw as an unbelievably exotic thrill. He was hard with the idea of sharing the woman that Paxton cherished as the only other important person in his life. He wanted to be inside her, to claim her too. Sharing her sealed the circle. To make her theirs, together…to be hers, together—he couldn’t wait to know what that felt like."
Verdict: I thoroughly enjoyed By Surprise despite the sometimes not fluent and a bit brusque narrative, as I was swept up in the story and more importantly in the characters' emotions. I wouldn't really categorize By Surprise as an erotica novella as the only graphic sex scene takes place at the very end, it is more an erotic romance as the focus is more on the emotional development of the bond between the characters. All in all By Surprise was a most delightful surprise, I would recommend it as initiation to those who are curious to discover erotica, ménage and m/m stories, I'm sure you'll like it!
Plot: 8/10
Characters: 8/10
Writing: 7/10
Ending: 8/10
Cover: 9/10
I was truly amazed what a well rounded story Alyssa Turner managed to create in such a short novella of only 94 pages. Not only was there a developed plot (nope, this is no smut without plot story), the characters were fell fleshed out and, which is not a small feat once again considering the length limitations.
By Surprise is a ménage story in the sense that there are three people discovering and trying to define their relationship to the other two. Paxton and Nicholas are a happily married gay couple whose everyday life is rocked when Paxton's childhood best friend Jodi enters the picture and stirs up both their feelings and their peace of mind. Paxton has always had a crush on Jodi and considers himself a bi, but the shock of his attraction and emergence of feelings for her astonishes Nicholas who never liked women.
By Suprise is rather a discovery of each of the characters' feelings and their coming to grips with their emotions and attraction. Although there is sexual discovery what gets the center stage in By Surprise is rather how they deal with the situation emotionally, and Alyssa Turner didn't take the easy way out since she introduced the third player into a well established, harmonious and loving relationship. I was curious to see how one person of a devoted couple could deal with sharing that person with someone else and not feel jealous or possessive, but the way Nicholas reacted was both realistic and believable:
"He continued, "I'm not jealous, though. I’m grateful, I think. Getting to know you feels like getting to know a part of Paxton I wouldn’t have been able to without you.""
I found it wonderful how sensible he was and the fact of seeing Jodi make his beloved husband happy didn't make him jealous but grateful. And witnessing how he developed feelings and a connection with Jodi on his own made their unusual arrangement logical and credible.
"...the anticipation tightened his balls, raised goose bumps on his skin. It wasn’t just the virginal aspect of pressing into a woman for the very first time, something he suddenly saw as an unbelievably exotic thrill. He was hard with the idea of sharing the woman that Paxton cherished as the only other important person in his life. He wanted to be inside her, to claim her too. Sharing her sealed the circle. To make her theirs, together…to be hers, together—he couldn’t wait to know what that felt like."
Verdict: I thoroughly enjoyed By Surprise despite the sometimes not fluent and a bit brusque narrative, as I was swept up in the story and more importantly in the characters' emotions. I wouldn't really categorize By Surprise as an erotica novella as the only graphic sex scene takes place at the very end, it is more an erotic romance as the focus is more on the emotional development of the bond between the characters. All in all By Surprise was a most delightful surprise, I would recommend it as initiation to those who are curious to discover erotica, ménage and m/m stories, I'm sure you'll like it!
Plot: 8/10
Characters: 8/10
Writing: 7/10
Ending: 8/10
Cover: 9/10
August 23, 2012
Paxton and Nicholas have been in a committed relationship for six years, and legally married for two. They have a very strong relationship, Paxton always knowing exactly what Nicholas needs and vice versa. Nicholas knows Paxton used to date women and considers himself bi-sexual but in the years he has been with him, the issue of women has never come up. That is until Nicholas finds a box of cheerleader porn stashed away. Nicholas doesn’t feel threatened by this, rather he wants Paxton to explore whatever sexual desires he has. If that means bringing a woman into the mix for a threesome, than so be it and Nicholas hopes to find someone for Paxton’s birthday next month.
By chance, Paxton runs into his childhood best friend, Jodi at the store. Jodi ran off with who she thought was the man of her dreams, but he turned out to be an abusive jerk. Now divorced, she is back in her hometown ready to start her life over. Nicholas has recently been laid off, and Jodi is very short on money herself. Since Nicholas and Paxton live in a large Victorian house, after some discussion they invite Jodi to become their roommate for awhile until everyone’s money issues can be dealt with. This also gives Jodi and Paxton a chance to catch up…and well, we all know what this leads to.
As I read this book I felt like everything was not fleshed out as well as it could be and the events are very predictable. Paxton and Nicholas have a very nice relationship and I liked reading about them. I think my issues come into play when Jodi enters the picture. I think adding a woman to a very established gay relationship would have a lot of issues..or a lot of bumps along the way. And while there is some brief conflict, it all works out very methodically. Jodi runs into Paxton. Then she moves in. Then she gets turned on when she hears the two of them having sex. Then she becomes closer with Nicholas (who she didn’t know previously). Then there is a small fight, and then they all have sex and live happily ever after. We never dive into the nitty gritty of literally adding someone else to a marriage, which is a very big deal. The outline of a good story is here, but I needed more depth.
Rating: C
By chance, Paxton runs into his childhood best friend, Jodi at the store. Jodi ran off with who she thought was the man of her dreams, but he turned out to be an abusive jerk. Now divorced, she is back in her hometown ready to start her life over. Nicholas has recently been laid off, and Jodi is very short on money herself. Since Nicholas and Paxton live in a large Victorian house, after some discussion they invite Jodi to become their roommate for awhile until everyone’s money issues can be dealt with. This also gives Jodi and Paxton a chance to catch up…and well, we all know what this leads to.
As I read this book I felt like everything was not fleshed out as well as it could be and the events are very predictable. Paxton and Nicholas have a very nice relationship and I liked reading about them. I think my issues come into play when Jodi enters the picture. I think adding a woman to a very established gay relationship would have a lot of issues..or a lot of bumps along the way. And while there is some brief conflict, it all works out very methodically. Jodi runs into Paxton. Then she moves in. Then she gets turned on when she hears the two of them having sex. Then she becomes closer with Nicholas (who she didn’t know previously). Then there is a small fight, and then they all have sex and live happily ever after. We never dive into the nitty gritty of literally adding someone else to a marriage, which is a very big deal. The outline of a good story is here, but I needed more depth.
Rating: C
January 5, 2013
Do you enjoy a great surprise? I enjoy them under the right conditions. A surprise is something that remains in the heart of the recipient for many years to come.
The author, Alyssa Turner, an author of several steamy erotic menage romances, does it again by writing a precious read I believe you will enjoy.
Ms. Turner enchants her audience with an easy flowing and energetic writing style. Her characters, settings and other key writing elements are balanced and realistic. Ms. Turner taps all of the neurons of the brain that respond to emotions, sensuality and the warmth of being in a loving relationship.
By Surprise is a short sizzler capable of enveloping you in the warmth and wonderment of love. Ms. Turner stimulates the imagination while placing a smile on the face of her audience.
Paxton, Nicholas and Jodi are the major players in this steamy romance. The three characters reside in Vermont where Paxton and Nicholas work for the government. Vermont's government employees are entrenched in budget cuts which set Nicholas' nerves on end. Paxton and Jodi share a history that date back to the preteen age.
Paxton Tremont and Jodi Tate are sexy, intelligent, and easy on the eyes. They have creative minds and active imaginations with a bit of optimistic energy. Nicholas, Paxton's life partner is a bit of a worrier.
Ms. Turner weaves a web for these three magnetic personalities. The story spirals in such an electrifying manner the reader can visualize the spiral's origin to its ending. Ms. Turner's manufactured events between Paxton, Nicholas and Jodi are easy for adult readers to identify with and may have encountered in the job market arena as well as in loving relationships. Such spirals often result into delightful, unexpected outcomes.
By Surprise is a short, provocative, tantalizing narrative; one may savor with a glass of wine or cup of coffee. But with a lover within shouting distance expect a response to the seductive, carnal invitation ignited by Ms. Turner vivid narrative.
I enjoyed this book as well as other books by Alyssa Turner. I trust you to will be delighted with her work.
The author, Alyssa Turner, an author of several steamy erotic menage romances, does it again by writing a precious read I believe you will enjoy.
Ms. Turner enchants her audience with an easy flowing and energetic writing style. Her characters, settings and other key writing elements are balanced and realistic. Ms. Turner taps all of the neurons of the brain that respond to emotions, sensuality and the warmth of being in a loving relationship.
By Surprise is a short sizzler capable of enveloping you in the warmth and wonderment of love. Ms. Turner stimulates the imagination while placing a smile on the face of her audience.
Paxton, Nicholas and Jodi are the major players in this steamy romance. The three characters reside in Vermont where Paxton and Nicholas work for the government. Vermont's government employees are entrenched in budget cuts which set Nicholas' nerves on end. Paxton and Jodi share a history that date back to the preteen age.
Paxton Tremont and Jodi Tate are sexy, intelligent, and easy on the eyes. They have creative minds and active imaginations with a bit of optimistic energy. Nicholas, Paxton's life partner is a bit of a worrier.
Ms. Turner weaves a web for these three magnetic personalities. The story spirals in such an electrifying manner the reader can visualize the spiral's origin to its ending. Ms. Turner's manufactured events between Paxton, Nicholas and Jodi are easy for adult readers to identify with and may have encountered in the job market arena as well as in loving relationships. Such spirals often result into delightful, unexpected outcomes.
By Surprise is a short, provocative, tantalizing narrative; one may savor with a glass of wine or cup of coffee. But with a lover within shouting distance expect a response to the seductive, carnal invitation ignited by Ms. Turner vivid narrative.
I enjoyed this book as well as other books by Alyssa Turner. I trust you to will be delighted with her work.
May 9, 2014
My Review:
I was recently requested to review Polished by Alyssa Turner. I enjoyed it so much, I decided to pick up one of her other m/m/f menage books and this is the one that captured my attention. I liked it. It was an interesting dynamic since the guys are married to each other. One of them, Paxton, is bisexual and the other, Nicholas, is gay. Nicholas worries that Paxton is missing something from their relationship and thinks that maybe a menage will help prevent that possibility. They're guys. They've had menages in the past with other men. For them, they can separate sex from emotion so it's not that big of a deal...at least in theory because the third would be a one-night, no emotions involved, type of thing.
And then Jodi enters their lives. Jodi and Paxton were best friends ten years ago. There were unresolved emotions there and when she comes back to town, they reconnect. She's struggling. Nicholas just lost his job. So the obvious solution is that she come into their home and rent from them. The menage plan never is even on the table with her, but they're all living together. Emotions become entangled. And surprise of surprises...Nicholas and Jodi become really good friends and he begins to develop some sexual interest in her.
This is the first time I think I've ever read this twist in sexuality. Gay-for-you is a common theme in m/m books, but this is the first time I've ever read a hetero-for-you story and I liked it. It was such a great and believable twist. At first, I wasn't sure, but if I can believe the gay-for-you stories then it makes complete sense that it can go the other direction too.
It was a great premise and a hot little story. It's not very long, but I found it to be a very entertaining read.
I was recently requested to review Polished by Alyssa Turner. I enjoyed it so much, I decided to pick up one of her other m/m/f menage books and this is the one that captured my attention. I liked it. It was an interesting dynamic since the guys are married to each other. One of them, Paxton, is bisexual and the other, Nicholas, is gay. Nicholas worries that Paxton is missing something from their relationship and thinks that maybe a menage will help prevent that possibility. They're guys. They've had menages in the past with other men. For them, they can separate sex from emotion so it's not that big of a deal...at least in theory because the third would be a one-night, no emotions involved, type of thing.
And then Jodi enters their lives. Jodi and Paxton were best friends ten years ago. There were unresolved emotions there and when she comes back to town, they reconnect. She's struggling. Nicholas just lost his job. So the obvious solution is that she come into their home and rent from them. The menage plan never is even on the table with her, but they're all living together. Emotions become entangled. And surprise of surprises...Nicholas and Jodi become really good friends and he begins to develop some sexual interest in her.
This is the first time I think I've ever read this twist in sexuality. Gay-for-you is a common theme in m/m books, but this is the first time I've ever read a hetero-for-you story and I liked it. It was such a great and believable twist. At first, I wasn't sure, but if I can believe the gay-for-you stories then it makes complete sense that it can go the other direction too.
It was a great premise and a hot little story. It's not very long, but I found it to be a very entertaining read.
May 17, 2021
I feel like this was just starting
Basically right as they cross the line the book ends. One night does not make a relationship. It feels like this book should have been longer and allowed the reader to settle in and believe in this trio but that isn't the case and I'm left highly disappointed.
Basically right as they cross the line the book ends. One night does not make a relationship. It feels like this book should have been longer and allowed the reader to settle in and believe in this trio but that isn't the case and I'm left highly disappointed.
April 8, 2012
What a wonderful menage MMF story!
It was sweet and lovely. If you are not into hard core erotic, then this book is just for you!
read my full review: http://marywhispers.blog.com/?p=854
It was sweet and lovely. If you are not into hard core erotic, then this book is just for you!
read my full review: http://marywhispers.blog.com/?p=854
July 14, 2012
While short this book was surprisingly good. The emotions where all there and the sex was hot.
March 2, 2017
The perfect combination of sweet and hot. Alyssa Turner really has a way with menage stories.
April 30, 2021
Won in an audiobook giveaway. My first time in this genre. It's okay but I don't think this is my kind of book.
September 4, 2022
3.5⭐️’s rounded down…. Bc it was WAY too short of a book… but good nonetheless.
September 16, 2020
Cute
It was a very pleasing short story, a quick read to find two people that are married and wanting to share the another. WOW
It was a very pleasing short story, a quick read to find two people that are married and wanting to share the another. WOW
May 16, 2020
3.5 stars
I’ve got this book for free through Bookfunnel.
I liked the blurb and the story is okay but it missed depth and issues like jealousy and straight/gay/bi sexuality aren’t really addressed. That might be too much asked for a short (free) story but I still think it’s a missed opportunity.
I’ve got this book for free through Bookfunnel.
I liked the blurb and the story is okay but it missed depth and issues like jealousy and straight/gay/bi sexuality aren’t really addressed. That might be too much asked for a short (free) story but I still think it’s a missed opportunity.
November 25, 2019
3.5 just barely rounded up. Too short and a little general.
June 4, 2020
Amazing
It was amazing in so many ways. it drew you and wanting to read more and more knowing what was going to happen towards the end was amazing.
It was amazing in so many ways. it drew you and wanting to read more and more knowing what was going to happen towards the end was amazing.
June 14, 2020
Sexy and hot a bit short and generally too quick.
August 29, 2020
4 nice easy read, with decent MCs.
December 3, 2020
NOLA504NERDS BLOG
Thank you, Alyssa Turner, for this gifted audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
Paxton, a detective, and Nicholas, a social worker, have been married for 2 years. Nicholas is gay but Paxton is bisexual. For his 30th birthday, Nicholas wants to gift Paxton a menage with a woman. Queue Paxton running into his childhood bff Jodi. Jodi is freshly divorced and just moved back to town. Paxton and Nicholas invite Jodi to live with them. Nicholas and Jodi quickly form a bond as she and Paxton rekindle theirs and are reminded of their childhood crushes on each other. It doesn’t take long for the bond and attraction between these 3 to rise, resulting in an unforgettable night. It doesn’t say so in the book, but you do get the impression that these 3 have found their HEA together with each other.
"You are like a key, Jodi. You unlock a part of Paxton that I wanted a part of. At the same time, you reveal a part of myself that I didn't even know existed."
This book was so incredibly sweet! I could not stop listening! It’s a short listen at just under 2 hours. I thought it was well written and had great character and plot development. Though it was short, Alyssa wrote it in such a way that you feel a connection to all 3 of them. This was such a cute love story. It was the perfect combination of sweet and sexy. I did not want it to end!
The narration was done in true duet form which I absolutely love. Adam Riley is definitely getting added to my list of favorite narrators. His voice was very manly and sexy, and his tone was perfect for each male character. I must admit, I was not as impressed with Erin’s narration for Jodi. She wasn’t bad though; I think this is more of a personal preference for me.
4 SWEET STARS!
NOLA504NERDS BLOG
Thank you, Alyssa Turner, for this gifted audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
Paxton, a detective, and Nicholas, a social worker, have been married for 2 years. Nicholas is gay but Paxton is bisexual. For his 30th birthday, Nicholas wants to gift Paxton a menage with a woman. Queue Paxton running into his childhood bff Jodi. Jodi is freshly divorced and just moved back to town. Paxton and Nicholas invite Jodi to live with them. Nicholas and Jodi quickly form a bond as she and Paxton rekindle theirs and are reminded of their childhood crushes on each other. It doesn’t take long for the bond and attraction between these 3 to rise, resulting in an unforgettable night. It doesn’t say so in the book, but you do get the impression that these 3 have found their HEA together with each other.
"You are like a key, Jodi. You unlock a part of Paxton that I wanted a part of. At the same time, you reveal a part of myself that I didn't even know existed."
This book was so incredibly sweet! I could not stop listening! It’s a short listen at just under 2 hours. I thought it was well written and had great character and plot development. Though it was short, Alyssa wrote it in such a way that you feel a connection to all 3 of them. This was such a cute love story. It was the perfect combination of sweet and sexy. I did not want it to end!
The narration was done in true duet form which I absolutely love. Adam Riley is definitely getting added to my list of favorite narrators. His voice was very manly and sexy, and his tone was perfect for each male character. I must admit, I was not as impressed with Erin’s narration for Jodi. She wasn’t bad though; I think this is more of a personal preference for me.
4 SWEET STARS!
NOLA504NERDS BLOG
July 31, 2020
Great friends to lovers second chance romance
Nicholas, a social worker, and Paxton, a police detective. They have been together for 6 years, married for 2. While Nicholas identifies as gay, Paxton is bi. For his 30 birthday he wants to give Paxton a night with him and a woman.
Paxton runs into his childhood best friend Jodi at the grocery store. Newly divorced she has only been back in town for a few months. He invited her to dinner and to meet his husband. They invite her to live with them. Giving her a place to live and sculpt.
Jodi and Paxton have been in love with each other for years. Neither were ever brave enough to confess. Time spent together on makes their feelings stronger. The last thing Jodi wants to do is come between Paxton and Nicholas. Paxton loves his husband and doesn't want to hurt him.
Paxton 's birthday is the catalyst. Jodi takes a chance and makes her move on both men.
A sweet and steamy friends to lovers second chance romance, MM, MMF. Needs a
Little epilogue to wrap their story up.
Nicholas, a social worker, and Paxton, a police detective. They have been together for 6 years, married for 2. While Nicholas identifies as gay, Paxton is bi. For his 30 birthday he wants to give Paxton a night with him and a woman.
Paxton runs into his childhood best friend Jodi at the grocery store. Newly divorced she has only been back in town for a few months. He invited her to dinner and to meet his husband. They invite her to live with them. Giving her a place to live and sculpt.
Jodi and Paxton have been in love with each other for years. Neither were ever brave enough to confess. Time spent together on makes their feelings stronger. The last thing Jodi wants to do is come between Paxton and Nicholas. Paxton loves his husband and doesn't want to hurt him.
Paxton 's birthday is the catalyst. Jodi takes a chance and makes her move on both men.
A sweet and steamy friends to lovers second chance romance, MM, MMF. Needs a
Little epilogue to wrap their story up.
March 10, 2021
Nicholas is devistated when he loses his job but he is still determined to give Paxton the birthday gift of a threesome that he promised him. When Paxton's old high school friend rents a room from them Nicholas soon realizes his plan may prove easier than expected. But how will Pax react when he finds out Nicholas also has developed feelings for Jodi?
Jodi Tate hasn't seen Paxton in ten years and it's great to meet his husband Nicholas, but Jodi never told Paxton how she really felt about him and now it was obviously too late. Yet, as she grows to know Nicholas more and sees the love Paxton has for him she realizes her own love for Pax has now extended to Nicholas as well. But nothing can come of these feelings, because she would never hurt Paxton.
Jodi Tate hasn't seen Paxton in ten years and it's great to meet his husband Nicholas, but Jodi never told Paxton how she really felt about him and now it was obviously too late. Yet, as she grows to know Nicholas more and sees the love Paxton has for him she realizes her own love for Pax has now extended to Nicholas as well. But nothing can come of these feelings, because she would never hurt Paxton.
July 7, 2022
This book was a pleasant surprise!! Like it wasn't mindblowing, and it had a few problems, but it was a solid three stars, especially past the early stages. First, I think it definitely benefits from being a novella, and the author really gets the pacing right, and in a small amount of time gets to establish the relationships - the past and new dynamics building!!!
Now I was a bit uncertain and uncomfortable with a few bi stereotypes/misconceptions coming into play in the beginning, but then the actual polyamorous rep was good - the interest in a relationship and the balance and attraction was really good, and how they were all figuring out news things for each other.
Now I was a bit uncertain and uncomfortable with a few bi stereotypes/misconceptions coming into play in the beginning, but then the actual polyamorous rep was good - the interest in a relationship and the balance and attraction was really good, and how they were all figuring out news things for each other.
June 23, 2025
I found it hard to believe the guys needed Jodi. Nicholas was obviously hesitant about her at the beggining and was even somewhat jealous of her. Paxon claimed to have been in love with Jodi since forever but barely spent any time with her. Majority of the time he wanted alone time with Nicholas. This doesn't scream we need and want her especially considering the fact that they had initially discussed adding a third person to the mix at the beggining of the story. Seemed like neither of the men were that eager to add their third.
January 19, 2017
A lovely sexy, hot read!
By Surprise is a great short menage story from Alyssa Turner. When Jodi moves back to her hometown after her divorce she bumps into her old friend Paxton whom she's secretly been in love with for years, only for him to invite her to his place for dinner and to meet his husband Nicolas. Before she knows what's happening she's moved into the guest room and fallen for Nicolas too! A lovely sexy hot read.
By Surprise is a great short menage story from Alyssa Turner. When Jodi moves back to her hometown after her divorce she bumps into her old friend Paxton whom she's secretly been in love with for years, only for him to invite her to his place for dinner and to meet his husband Nicolas. Before she knows what's happening she's moved into the guest room and fallen for Nicolas too! A lovely sexy hot read.
June 1, 2021
I listened to this audiobook on Authors Direct. It has two narrators. I enjoyed the male voice very much. The female's voice was more abrasive and just didn't match up with the male voice in my opinion. The story itself was short and sweet, sexy and loving. Lots of deep feelings shared by all three characters. Wondeeful characters. Very enjoyable.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
July 14, 2021
Terrific Story, Fantastic Listen
I read this book ages ago, but when it was on sale on audio, I snapped it up. Duet narration, to me, really enhances romance reads that already have two voices written. This story has three voices; Nicholas and Paxton are a married couple who invite Jodi to move in with them. The chemistry between all three of them smoulder so deliciously and it was so yummy to listen to. A great book and a terrific listen.
I read this book ages ago, but when it was on sale on audio, I snapped it up. Duet narration, to me, really enhances romance reads that already have two voices written. This story has three voices; Nicholas and Paxton are a married couple who invite Jodi to move in with them. The chemistry between all three of them smoulder so deliciously and it was so yummy to listen to. A great book and a terrific listen.
May 12, 2023
Great short story. Jody, Paxton and Nicholas. Pax and Nicky are married and Jody comes back in Paxton's life after quite some time away. Pax is bisexual but became a one man's man and is married to Nicholas. True love, fierce and strong. Nick wants to give him a great gift for his birthday, to be with a woman. In comes Jody and their lives change forever, especially Nick, who falls in love with Jody as well. All in love, one happy family.
May 15, 2020
providing a review after I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author via book funnel
m/f/m
gay couple invite a women to join in on their relationship
was only ok for me.
have read other m/f/m books that I enjoyed much more then this one.
didn't really like her back story, was not much chemistry between the female and male characters.
would not reread
m/f/m
gay couple invite a women to join in on their relationship
was only ok for me.
have read other m/f/m books that I enjoyed much more then this one.
didn't really like her back story, was not much chemistry between the female and male characters.
would not reread
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