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Southampton Stories #2
Hard Tail
"Finding love can be a bumpy ride. "
His job: downsized out of existence. His marriage: on the rocks. It doesn t take a lot of arm twisting for Tim Knight to agree to get out of London and take over his injured brother s mountain bike shop for a while. A few weeks in Southampton is a welcome break from the wreck his life has become, even though he feels like a fish out of water in this brave new world of outdoor sports and unfamiliar technical jargon.
The young man who falls literally through the door of the shop brings everything into sharp, unexpected focus. Tim barely accepts he s even "in" the closet until his attraction to Matt Berridge pulls him close enough to touch the doorknob.
There s only one problem with the loveable klutz: his bullying boyfriend. Tim is convinced Steve is the cause of the bruises that Matt blows off as part of his risky sport. But rising to the defense of the man he s beginning to love means coming to terms with who he is in public in a battle not even his black belt prepared him to fight. Until now.
Warning: Contains an out-and-proud klutz, a closeted, karate-loving accountant and a cat who thinks it s all about him. Watch for a cameo appearance from the "Pricks and Pragmatism" lovers. May inspire yearnings for fresh air, exercise, and a fit, tanned bike mechanic of your very own. "
His job: downsized out of existence. His marriage: on the rocks. It doesn t take a lot of arm twisting for Tim Knight to agree to get out of London and take over his injured brother s mountain bike shop for a while. A few weeks in Southampton is a welcome break from the wreck his life has become, even though he feels like a fish out of water in this brave new world of outdoor sports and unfamiliar technical jargon.
The young man who falls literally through the door of the shop brings everything into sharp, unexpected focus. Tim barely accepts he s even "in" the closet until his attraction to Matt Berridge pulls him close enough to touch the doorknob.
There s only one problem with the loveable klutz: his bullying boyfriend. Tim is convinced Steve is the cause of the bruises that Matt blows off as part of his risky sport. But rising to the defense of the man he s beginning to love means coming to terms with who he is in public in a battle not even his black belt prepared him to fight. Until now.
Warning: Contains an out-and-proud klutz, a closeted, karate-loving accountant and a cat who thinks it s all about him. Watch for a cameo appearance from the "Pricks and Pragmatism" lovers. May inspire yearnings for fresh air, exercise, and a fit, tanned bike mechanic of your very own. "
248 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 8, 2012
29 people are currently reading
1106 people want to read
About the author
J.L. Merrow
145 books1,324 followersJL Merrow is that rare beast, an English person who refuses to drink tea. She read Natural Sciences at Cambridge, where she learned many things, chief amongst which was that she never wanted to see the inside of a lab ever again. Her one regret is that she never mastered the ability of punting one-handed whilst holding a glass of champagne.
She writes across genres, with a preference for contemporary gay romance and the paranormal, and is frequently accused of humour. Her novella Muscling Through was a 2013 EPIC Award finalist, and her novel Slam! won the 2013 Rainbow Award for Best LGBT Romantic Comedy. Her novel Relief Valve is a finalist in the 2015 EPIC Awards.
JL Merrow is a member of the UK GLBTQ Fiction Meet organising team.
Find JL Merrow online at: www.jlmerrow.com, on Twitter as @jlmerrow, and on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/jl.merrow
She writes across genres, with a preference for contemporary gay romance and the paranormal, and is frequently accused of humour. Her novella Muscling Through was a 2013 EPIC Award finalist, and her novel Slam! won the 2013 Rainbow Award for Best LGBT Romantic Comedy. Her novel Relief Valve is a finalist in the 2015 EPIC Awards.
JL Merrow is a member of the UK GLBTQ Fiction Meet organising team.
Find JL Merrow online at: www.jlmerrow.com, on Twitter as @jlmerrow, and on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/jl.merrow
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 309 reviews
May 8, 2012
Wonderful story with all the qualities I love in an m/m romance. When we meet Tim he is newly separated, lost his job and about to move to a small English town to take over his injured brother's bicycle shop. The only other employee is Matt, a lovable bike-repairer with a frightening secret. Gradually, small town life and Matt's charms set Tim on a new path, albeit with a few obstacles on the way.
Engaging characters, intelligent and funny dialogue, great sense of place, and a very satisfying slow-burn romance. I find that the British authors have a writing style that really appeals to me. Highly recommended for contemporary romance fans.
Brilliant cover!!
Engaging characters, intelligent and funny dialogue, great sense of place, and a very satisfying slow-burn romance. I find that the British authors have a writing style that really appeals to me. Highly recommended for contemporary romance fans.
Brilliant cover!!
May 13, 2014
*3.5 stars*
Fluffy, British cuteness alert!
What a nice easy read. This was just what I needed. A closeted, gangly gay-virgin with a crush on a bike-loving boy... sounds like heaven!
Though this story was for sure on the lighter side, there were some more serious plot points surrounding Matt's asshat boyfriend, Steve. I wanted to pull out my old field hockey stick and bang Steve in the nads, he was that big of a suckfest. Despite the Steve issue, this book managed to stay humorous, light, and fully engaging.
My only real complaint is that they jumped to "love" too quickly and that the relationship between Matt and Tim, once it got going, moved lightening fast. Too much too soon for my taste. However, I'll forgive this book almost any fault because... you know... virgin.
Fluffy, British cuteness alert!
What a nice easy read. This was just what I needed. A closeted, gangly gay-virgin with a crush on a bike-loving boy... sounds like heaven!
Though this story was for sure on the lighter side, there were some more serious plot points surrounding Matt's asshat boyfriend, Steve. I wanted to pull out my old field hockey stick and bang Steve in the nads, he was that big of a suckfest. Despite the Steve issue, this book managed to stay humorous, light, and fully engaging.
My only real complaint is that they jumped to "love" too quickly and that the relationship between Matt and Tim, once it got going, moved lightening fast. Too much too soon for my taste. However, I'll forgive this book almost any fault because... you know... virgin.
April 30, 2012
Tim Knight used to be an ordinary middle-class accountant for a Mill Hill, London firm. He had a wife, a BMW, a mortgage on his house, and his most daring activity consisted in winning a black belt in karate. His life may be a bit unexciting, but Tim is contented with keeping a low profile. He never caused his family any sorrow. Very unlikely his older brother Jay, who from his earliest years broke his bones on a regular basis and went on a self-discovery trip to Goa before opening a bike shop in their native Southampton. However, instead of making him the black sheep of the family, Jay’s shenanigans put him at the center of attention with none left for Tim, despite his best efforts to please everybody.
The day Tim’s job falls victim to his firm’s cost cutting measures is the day on which Tim’s comfortably dull life starts coming apart. Not much later his wife leaves him – for his friend, no less – and Tim finds himself minding his brother Jay’s bike shop while Jay is in hospital yet again. He’s also supposed to mind the shop’s only employee, Matt, who is a genius with bikes but otherwise apparently rather clumsy, considering the various bruises he keeps showing up with.
Over the course of the following weeks, Tim comes to reconsider his life. He realizes he misses London, and his marriage, far less than he’d have thought. A big part of that has to do with Matt, for whom Tim starts developing feelings he had denied himself for a very long time. But Matt is in a committed relationship, and Tim suddenly finds himself with a boyfriend of his own, Adam, without really knowing how he got there. Used to always go for the soft option because he never cared much one way or another, Tim gradually becomes aware that for the first time in his life he really wants something–someone–badly enough that he’s ready to fight for him
Tim tells this story from his 1st person POV in a catchy, witty and at times deliciously self-ironic voice that pulled me along, seeing me smoothly across the unfamiliar-to-me Briticisms that gave the story such a nicely distinctive sense of place.
In the beginning Tim was so mellow he allowed everybody to just push him around. He let his wife walk out on him with his best farewell wishes, his mother and brother got to effortlessly shanghai him into unpaid shop-sitting, and Wolverine the cat had no problems bullying him into turning into a can-opener operator. Though once he figured out what he really wanted, Tim went about it with determination. He didn’t exactly turn from doormat to leadership personality, but over the course of the story, he certainly grew a pair. Even though sometimes his behavior appeared a little inconsistent, I found him believably drawn and grew to like him a lot.
Matt, on the other hand, was simply adorable right form the moment he literally stumbled onto the scene. I found him authentic as the abused part in an abusive relationship, and I liked that he found it in him to leave his violent partner of his own accord. He was no damsel in distress waiting to be rescued, he didn’t even ask Tim for sanctuary (though Tim of course ended up offering). Matt was brave, honest, and of a cheerful disposition despite everything that happened to him. I couldn’t help but taking him into my heart.
The most unsympathetic character in this book was, surprisingly, not Steve the vile boyfriend but Tim’s and Jay’s mother. Steve was merely a brainless brute (who actually remained quite sketchy outside of these denominating character traits). Now the mother? Perhaps she was meant to come across as protective in a lioness-defending-her-weakest-cub way, but to me, she was nothing but a bully if there ever was one, blatantly favoritistic (is this a word at all?) of Jay and unbearably condescending toward Tim. What she did to him throughout his youth bordered on emotional abuse, and the one-eighty she did in the end couldn’t redeem her to me. Unfortunately, she was quite realistic, too; I’ve met and despised people like her in real life.
The rest of the secondary cast were equally colorful and well-rounded, from Adam, Tim’s unlooked-for, sympathetic boyfriend down to Wolverine the squatter cat (who was an impressive character with a mind of his own, though the many references to his feline halitosis got a bit old after a while). For those who have read Pricks and Pragmatism, Luke and Russell make a guest appearance here!
This book captured me and kept me turning the pages; I almost finished it in one setting even though I really should’ve been doing other things at that time. So consider yourself warned. :-D Highly recommended!
review originally written for reviewsbyjessewave.com
The day Tim’s job falls victim to his firm’s cost cutting measures is the day on which Tim’s comfortably dull life starts coming apart. Not much later his wife leaves him – for his friend, no less – and Tim finds himself minding his brother Jay’s bike shop while Jay is in hospital yet again. He’s also supposed to mind the shop’s only employee, Matt, who is a genius with bikes but otherwise apparently rather clumsy, considering the various bruises he keeps showing up with.
Over the course of the following weeks, Tim comes to reconsider his life. He realizes he misses London, and his marriage, far less than he’d have thought. A big part of that has to do with Matt, for whom Tim starts developing feelings he had denied himself for a very long time. But Matt is in a committed relationship, and Tim suddenly finds himself with a boyfriend of his own, Adam, without really knowing how he got there. Used to always go for the soft option because he never cared much one way or another, Tim gradually becomes aware that for the first time in his life he really wants something–someone–badly enough that he’s ready to fight for him
Tim tells this story from his 1st person POV in a catchy, witty and at times deliciously self-ironic voice that pulled me along, seeing me smoothly across the unfamiliar-to-me Briticisms that gave the story such a nicely distinctive sense of place.
In the beginning Tim was so mellow he allowed everybody to just push him around. He let his wife walk out on him with his best farewell wishes, his mother and brother got to effortlessly shanghai him into unpaid shop-sitting, and Wolverine the cat had no problems bullying him into turning into a can-opener operator. Though once he figured out what he really wanted, Tim went about it with determination. He didn’t exactly turn from doormat to leadership personality, but over the course of the story, he certainly grew a pair. Even though sometimes his behavior appeared a little inconsistent, I found him believably drawn and grew to like him a lot.
Matt, on the other hand, was simply adorable right form the moment he literally stumbled onto the scene. I found him authentic as the abused part in an abusive relationship, and I liked that he found it in him to leave his violent partner of his own accord. He was no damsel in distress waiting to be rescued, he didn’t even ask Tim for sanctuary (though Tim of course ended up offering). Matt was brave, honest, and of a cheerful disposition despite everything that happened to him. I couldn’t help but taking him into my heart.
The most unsympathetic character in this book was, surprisingly, not Steve the vile boyfriend but Tim’s and Jay’s mother. Steve was merely a brainless brute (who actually remained quite sketchy outside of these denominating character traits). Now the mother? Perhaps she was meant to come across as protective in a lioness-defending-her-weakest-cub way, but to me, she was nothing but a bully if there ever was one, blatantly favoritistic (is this a word at all?) of Jay and unbearably condescending toward Tim. What she did to him throughout his youth bordered on emotional abuse, and the one-eighty she did in the end couldn’t redeem her to me. Unfortunately, she was quite realistic, too; I’ve met and despised people like her in real life.
The rest of the secondary cast were equally colorful and well-rounded, from Adam, Tim’s unlooked-for, sympathetic boyfriend down to Wolverine the squatter cat (who was an impressive character with a mind of his own, though the many references to his feline halitosis got a bit old after a while). For those who have read Pricks and Pragmatism, Luke and Russell make a guest appearance here!
This book captured me and kept me turning the pages; I almost finished it in one setting even though I really should’ve been doing other things at that time. So consider yourself warned. :-D Highly recommended!
review originally written for reviewsbyjessewave.com
May 17, 2012
EDIT
There's been a debate going on since last night between 3 and 4 Stars. Neither side is willing to give in, stubborn stars! I'm going to let them continue to battle it out and see who comes out on top.
UPDATE
Well, it seems after two days of getting nowhere, Wolverine became impatient and irritated and decided to take matters into his own paws. 3 Stars has been stomped on and flicked into the corner to keep 5 Stars company, they are now tending each others wounds. It wasn't pretty but 4 Stars won with some major assistance from Wolverine. I'm not foolish enough to question the fairness of this victory. I am fond of my vital organs.
There's been a debate going on since last night between 3 and 4 Stars. Neither side is willing to give in, stubborn stars! I'm going to let them continue to battle it out and see who comes out on top.
UPDATE
Well, it seems after two days of getting nowhere, Wolverine became impatient and irritated and decided to take matters into his own paws. 3 Stars has been stomped on and flicked into the corner to keep 5 Stars company, they are now tending each others wounds. It wasn't pretty but 4 Stars won with some major assistance from Wolverine. I'm not foolish enough to question the fairness of this victory. I am fond of my vital organs.
May 9, 2012
4,5 stars
Fabulous review from Feliz here.
There`s not much left to be said...
Loved this funny coming-out-late story with likeable MCs and a lively cast of secondary characters with two and four legs.
I especially liked that the funniness wasn`t overbearing and slapstick-y but left enough breathing space for more serious undertones.
The romance was a slow burner thanks to Tim`s indecisive sandbag-personality and that made me itchy to the point I went searching for a needle to speed things up but it wasn`t necessary - just had to leave that little problem to Wolverine`s capable claws...
The involuntary "threesome" with Wolverine will get a special place on my personal m/m walk of fame. 24 hours since I finished the book but just one look at one of my cats and the laughter bubbles up again...
100 extra points for the gorgeous cover!
Great story - recommended!
Note: After several funny misunderstandings...Wolverine is a cat!
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Fabulous review from Feliz here.
There`s not much left to be said...
Loved this funny coming-out-late story with likeable MCs and a lively cast of secondary characters with two and four legs.
I especially liked that the funniness wasn`t overbearing and slapstick-y but left enough breathing space for more serious undertones.
The romance was a slow burner thanks to Tim`s indecisive sandbag-personality and that made me itchy to the point I went searching for a needle to speed things up but it wasn`t necessary - just had to leave that little problem to Wolverine`s capable claws...
The involuntary "threesome" with Wolverine will get a special place on my personal m/m walk of fame. 24 hours since I finished the book but just one look at one of my cats and the laughter bubbles up again...
100 extra points for the gorgeous cover!
Great story - recommended!
Note: After several funny misunderstandings...Wolverine is a cat!
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May 8, 2012
4.5 stars
Stunning Cover!!
I'm not up to a full review right now, but I really enjoyed this story that was smooth reading. The characters were great, the antagonist in all his glory didn't spin over the top into incredulity (unlike many books I've read lately, where somehow a skirmish always becomes a war and a feminine man is always the flamiest flaming queen ever seen). It's really a simple story about coming to terms with your sexuality and domestic abuse, but what makes it special are the characters, and an at-heart simple story made special by soaring characters wins any day in my book. And there are loads of great characters in this one, from Wolverine the mutinous mystery cat to long-armed Adam, who lives with his mom, consistently sounds as if his vocabulary was found at the bottom of a bottle, but has his own special brand of charm. Tim's family dynamics were at times hilarious and at others quite frustrating. The brotherly dynamic was very interesting and quite true to life. Yes, the interconnecting relationships are what makes this book shine.
Stunning Cover!!
I'm not up to a full review right now, but I really enjoyed this story that was smooth reading. The characters were great, the antagonist in all his glory didn't spin over the top into incredulity (unlike many books I've read lately, where somehow a skirmish always becomes a war and a feminine man is always the flamiest flaming queen ever seen). It's really a simple story about coming to terms with your sexuality and domestic abuse, but what makes it special are the characters, and an at-heart simple story made special by soaring characters wins any day in my book. And there are loads of great characters in this one, from Wolverine the mutinous mystery cat to long-armed Adam, who lives with his mom, consistently sounds as if his vocabulary was found at the bottom of a bottle, but has his own special brand of charm. Tim's family dynamics were at times hilarious and at others quite frustrating. The brotherly dynamic was very interesting and quite true to life. Yes, the interconnecting relationships are what makes this book shine.
July 10, 2013
Good-hearted, and very, very Anglo.
Lenore's review sums up my thoughts perfectly, especially as relates to the dodgy particulars of the MC's sexuality, and the timidity of the sex scenes.
I had my doubts about this one, no mistake. But before long artfully juxtaposed characters grew on me, even if the plot didn't, and by the end I found myself smirking and tut-tutting like an old lady.
This was my first Merrow book. Her ability to craft a credible and appealing narrative voice is really very special. Hard Tail is a fun and easy read, and I'm looking forward to more from her.
Lenore's review sums up my thoughts perfectly, especially as relates to the dodgy particulars of the MC's sexuality, and the timidity of the sex scenes.
I had my doubts about this one, no mistake. But before long artfully juxtaposed characters grew on me, even if the plot didn't, and by the end I found myself smirking and tut-tutting like an old lady.
This was my first Merrow book. Her ability to craft a credible and appealing narrative voice is really very special. Hard Tail is a fun and easy read, and I'm looking forward to more from her.
July 1, 2012
Ye gods and little fishes! This was so refreshing!
It's first person POV but I loved Tim's voice. It was funny and witty with the right amount of self-sarcasm. And so damn British. He had me literally at fist page; when he said Matt went "well-shaped arse over tit".
Matt was an OK character. A little thin on substance but OK. Adam though? What a show-stealer! I caught myself wanting to read more about him and less about Tim and Matt.
The remaining characters, Kate, Jay, Olivia (I liked her!), Tim's parents (that Mother of his, typical British and very Maggie Smith), Steve, were all interesting enough, kept me entertained throughout the book.
The naughty parts weren't, well, very naughty, they were rather rudimentary, but it was one of those rare times I could have done entirely without them and still be happy about the story (last time this happened was with Tigers and Devils).
The things I wasn't entirely happy with were the issue of Tim's sexuality (how he himself handled it and how he let the reader know about it), the whole issue with Matt's necklace (way too much fuss, if you ask me) and the way Matt left Steve (it could have been a little more elaborated upon and was directly connected with the way abuse is portrayed in the story).
Some suspension of disbelief was also required. Mostly about the typical "I love you and I want to spend the rest of my life with you" issue (especially since Tim had been deep in the closet until very recently and hadn't even experimented with men), but also because he felt he was boyfriends with someone just because they'd fooled around a little and had gone out on a date once. You don't call someone your "ex" just because of that.
But hey, it's fiction and it's romance and it's meant to make you smile and feel good. I had a great time reading this book and that's what matters most.
I'll definitely be reading more by this author.
It's first person POV but I loved Tim's voice. It was funny and witty with the right amount of self-sarcasm. And so damn British. He had me literally at fist page; when he said Matt went "well-shaped arse over tit".
Matt was an OK character. A little thin on substance but OK. Adam though? What a show-stealer! I caught myself wanting to read more about him and less about Tim and Matt.
The remaining characters, Kate, Jay, Olivia (I liked her!), Tim's parents (that Mother of his, typical British and very Maggie Smith), Steve, were all interesting enough, kept me entertained throughout the book.
The naughty parts weren't, well, very naughty, they were rather rudimentary, but it was one of those rare times I could have done entirely without them and still be happy about the story (last time this happened was with Tigers and Devils).
The things I wasn't entirely happy with were the issue of Tim's sexuality (how he himself handled it and how he let the reader know about it), the whole issue with Matt's necklace (way too much fuss, if you ask me) and the way Matt left Steve (it could have been a little more elaborated upon and was directly connected with the way abuse is portrayed in the story).
Some suspension of disbelief was also required. Mostly about the typical "I love you and I want to spend the rest of my life with you" issue (especially since Tim had been deep in the closet until very recently and hadn't even experimented with men), but also because he felt he was boyfriends with someone just because they'd fooled around a little and had gone out on a date once. You don't call someone your "ex" just because of that.
But hey, it's fiction and it's romance and it's meant to make you smile and feel good. I had a great time reading this book and that's what matters most.
I'll definitely be reading more by this author.
May 30, 2013
Sometimes we need to completely step out of our comfortable surroundings and day to day routines to really see ourselves again. To see what we are missing in life.
Confession time. It was the accent that got me. Haha…That ‘ole British charm swept me right off my feet! The language, country side, foods, and more yanked me right into this world from page one. Every lad, silly sod or bloke who was rubbish at this or that, went arse over tit, or had a bit of a barney with his mate brought a smile to my face. Language and expressions that wrapped around my tongue and heart. Hell…the whole kit and caboodle charmed me to the core—the pubs, shops, and gardens created such a warm, welcoming feeling that made this visit with Merrow a true delight.
Tim Knight guides us through this story. A story of coming out filled with fumbling, bumbling, courage, and adorableness. After losing his job and wife, Tim sets off for the countryside to watch over his brother’s bike shop. A bumpy ride at first, but one that may reveal his heart’s desire.
”Matt answered my smile with one of his own, and my heart stuttered, my whole body filling with warmth that had nothing to do with the sunshine.”
I fell for both Tim and Matt at first sight and tumble. Matt’s shaggy curls and freckles were too adorable to resist, but it was the way his whole face glowed with excitement whenever he talked about bikes and riding that made me “aww” all over the place. Such a sweetie! And Tim with all his clueless, posh, sweet, Sherlock shirt wearing ways filled this story with just the right amount of humor and stupidity. :D His self-deprecating, lonely voice just slipped right into my heart. Simply put. I liked these guys.
Add in hilarious side characters and a vicious attack cat you get one fun filled world. Every character added a layer of laughter and love here for me. From Adam’s mumblings to Wolverine’s claws! They all helped this story come alive on the page.
Hard Tail was a joy to read. Made me smile.
Just one of my favorite quotes…
”Most people seemed to rate the discovery of America pretty highly; I’d have to say that, for me, it paled into insignificance beside the discovery of my prostate.”
May 11, 2012
4.5 stars.
Great reviews from Sims and Feliz not much more I can add.....
Wolverine is the best feline character ever! Tim's personal bodyguard with claws ready at the most opportune moment what perfect timing, I was cheering Wolverine on to victory with that most brilliant and hilarious act it was pure gold! Wonderful, lovable lead characters in Tim and Matt who were both endearing and sweet I was desperate for them to admit their feelings for each other and get on with the loving. It has a slow paced feel which flows gently along I was not bored for a second just impatient at times. A big plus for the gorgeous cover!
Great reviews from Sims and Feliz not much more I can add.....
Wolverine is the best feline character ever! Tim's personal bodyguard with claws ready at the most opportune moment what perfect timing, I was cheering Wolverine on to victory with that most brilliant and hilarious act it was pure gold! Wonderful, lovable lead characters in Tim and Matt who were both endearing and sweet I was desperate for them to admit their feelings for each other and get on with the loving. It has a slow paced feel which flows gently along I was not bored for a second just impatient at times. A big plus for the gorgeous cover!
April 16, 2012
4.5
I wasn’t sure what to expect of Hard Tail by J.L. Merrow, but as I like several other books by this author, I decided to give it a shot. I am very happy I did! As always with this English author, the main characters are lovable and quirky and the secondary characters are compelling and push the story forward.
This story is told from Tim’s point of view. For most of his life Tim’s been in the closet because it was just easier to be “normal” than make waves. Tim’s world collapses around him at the age of twenty-eight and his brother breaks his leg, so Tim finds himself running his brother’s bike shop, much closer to his Mum and Dad, and he has no idea what he’s doing in either arena. Enter the shop’s only employee, Matt, the loveable klutz who seems to know all about bikes and how to fix them.
Tim struggles with the pull he feels toward Matt, but Matt is taken and as was stated earlier, Tim really hates making waves. But the story progresses and Tim finds himself disturbingly attached and protective of Matt who may not be as clumsy as he lets everyone belive. The secondary characters are fun and eccentric and I look forward to perhaps getting a book about Adam, Matt’s best mate.
If you like not quite so mid-life crisis stories in which the main characters learn to accept who they really are and find that family might not be such a bad thing, then this book’s for you. Also, there is a rather large ginger cat who believes he belongs in the story, but perhaps not. The truth is Wolverine may just steal a few scenes and keep one of the main characters out of trouble!
I wasn’t sure what to expect of Hard Tail by J.L. Merrow, but as I like several other books by this author, I decided to give it a shot. I am very happy I did! As always with this English author, the main characters are lovable and quirky and the secondary characters are compelling and push the story forward.
This story is told from Tim’s point of view. For most of his life Tim’s been in the closet because it was just easier to be “normal” than make waves. Tim’s world collapses around him at the age of twenty-eight and his brother breaks his leg, so Tim finds himself running his brother’s bike shop, much closer to his Mum and Dad, and he has no idea what he’s doing in either arena. Enter the shop’s only employee, Matt, the loveable klutz who seems to know all about bikes and how to fix them.
Tim struggles with the pull he feels toward Matt, but Matt is taken and as was stated earlier, Tim really hates making waves. But the story progresses and Tim finds himself disturbingly attached and protective of Matt who may not be as clumsy as he lets everyone belive. The secondary characters are fun and eccentric and I look forward to perhaps getting a book about Adam, Matt’s best mate.
If you like not quite so mid-life crisis stories in which the main characters learn to accept who they really are and find that family might not be such a bad thing, then this book’s for you. Also, there is a rather large ginger cat who believes he belongs in the story, but perhaps not. The truth is Wolverine may just steal a few scenes and keep one of the main characters out of trouble!
May 15, 2012
This was a cute, funny read. I enjoyed it a lot.
Tim is the type of guy that is so deeply in the closet people think he's homophobic because he gets flustered and snappish over the simplest of words hinting at homosexuals. It's cute in a way. I enjoyed the struggle Tim went through after his life gets pretty much turned upside down and he starts to get uncontrollable feelings for a friend of his brother's. I loved, loved, loved how much of an adorable klutz Matt was. Every time Matt was in a scene I couldn't help but smile because he's so cute and seems so innocent when he's not. I really liked the way Matt and Tim's relationship developed from not knowing one another to becoming friends to finally becoming lovers.
While I really loved the story, I had some trouble with it. The beginning was confusing for me. I couldn't understand what was going on. After that, I really hated Tim's mother so much I just couldn't get passed her behavior or forgive her for the way she acted all of Tim's life (not even with the ending). Based on those two facts, I'd have given this five stars but I can't because of Adam and Tim. There are some things I just hate and what happens between them (even though they only got close and didn't actually succeed) I cannot get over. And because of that, I'm lowering my rating. I'm unreasonable when it comes to some things, even if some people think it's 'justifiable' but I don't.
In the end, I loved the book, I honestly did even if some things weren't exactly to my tastes. The story is sweet with a lot of funny lines (Wolverine was hysterical). I know I'll be re-reading this someday (and skipping a few certain scenes) because it was just that good. Definitely recommended for everyone and anyone looking for something that is light-hearted with just a touch of angst.
Also, you don't need to read Pricks and Pragmatism to read this story.
Tim is the type of guy that is so deeply in the closet people think he's homophobic because he gets flustered and snappish over the simplest of words hinting at homosexuals. It's cute in a way. I enjoyed the struggle Tim went through after his life gets pretty much turned upside down and he starts to get uncontrollable feelings for a friend of his brother's. I loved, loved, loved how much of an adorable klutz Matt was. Every time Matt was in a scene I couldn't help but smile because he's so cute and seems so innocent when he's not. I really liked the way Matt and Tim's relationship developed from not knowing one another to becoming friends to finally becoming lovers.
While I really loved the story, I had some trouble with it. The beginning was confusing for me. I couldn't understand what was going on. After that, I really hated Tim's mother so much I just couldn't get passed her behavior or forgive her for the way she acted all of Tim's life (not even with the ending). Based on those two facts, I'd have given this five stars but I can't because of Adam and Tim. There are some things I just hate and what happens between them (even though they only got close and didn't actually succeed) I cannot get over. And because of that, I'm lowering my rating. I'm unreasonable when it comes to some things, even if some people think it's 'justifiable' but I don't.
In the end, I loved the book, I honestly did even if some things weren't exactly to my tastes. The story is sweet with a lot of funny lines (Wolverine was hysterical). I know I'll be re-reading this someday (and skipping a few certain scenes) because it was just that good. Definitely recommended for everyone and anyone looking for something that is light-hearted with just a touch of angst.
Also, you don't need to read Pricks and Pragmatism to read this story.
May 10, 2012
3.5 stars
Many have said their piece about this story, so I don't have a lot to add.
Written from Tim's perspective, it is his "journey" from a guy whose job just made redundant and a wife who left him for another man, to accepting his "gay" nature and finding love along the way. The romance is (very) slowly built, because Tim's love interest, Matt, is in a relationship when this story starts, and Tim still struggles to acknowledge his feeling for Matt. In fact, their first approach doesn't happen until around 80% of the book ... so you MUST be patient :)
I find myself loving Matt immediately, even if his character is shown from Tim's perspective. Matt is involved in an abusive relationship. However, unlike some of the m/m romances I read previously, Matt takes the matter by himself. He left his boyfriend before finally seals the deal with Tim. So Tim is not Matt's knight in shining armor, which could be a cliché theme if done so.
The secondary characters are great ... and I don't find Tim's mother as that annoying. Maybe because her character is quite similar to some English mothers I found in chic-lit books such as Bridget Jones's Diary.
All in all, it's a nice read.
Many have said their piece about this story, so I don't have a lot to add.
Written from Tim's perspective, it is his "journey" from a guy whose job just made redundant and a wife who left him for another man, to accepting his "gay" nature and finding love along the way. The romance is (very) slowly built, because Tim's love interest, Matt, is in a relationship when this story starts, and Tim still struggles to acknowledge his feeling for Matt. In fact, their first approach doesn't happen until around 80% of the book ... so you MUST be patient :)
I find myself loving Matt immediately, even if his character is shown from Tim's perspective. Matt is involved in an abusive relationship. However, unlike some of the m/m romances I read previously, Matt takes the matter by himself. He left his boyfriend before finally seals the deal with Tim. So Tim is not Matt's knight in shining armor, which could be a cliché theme if done so.
The secondary characters are great ... and I don't find Tim's mother as that annoying. Maybe because her character is quite similar to some English mothers I found in chic-lit books such as Bridget Jones's Diary.
All in all, it's a nice read.
August 15, 2015
As usual with this author, I quickly fell in love with all characters, human as well as feline, and it was a pleasure to read. Not too light, but it did not get super-angsty. It was really a feel-good read that I will return to in times of need:-)
Occasionally I had the feeling that I missed reading some chapters, since things between
I was also a bit confused about how long Tim was actually running Jay’s shop, but maybe I just missed that somehow while reading in the summer heat.
Anyone with mother like Tim’s will feel especially strong about this book…Grr.
Occasionally I had the feeling that I missed reading some chapters, since things between
I was also a bit confused about how long Tim was actually running Jay’s shop, but maybe I just missed that somehow while reading in the summer heat.
Anyone with mother like Tim’s will feel especially strong about this book…Grr.
April 4, 2013
3.5 Stars! J.L Merrow always makes me smile; her stories are fun, witty, credible and very British.
She is one of only a handful of author's I know that can get away the first person present tense POV, and that says a lot because I usually toss this format over my shoulder and run for the hills. Somehow she makes it work every time.
Tim Knight is the very English voice of the story and he’s a likable guy; he is middle class, passive, kind of vulnerable (?), witty and pretty chilled out really, especially considering that he’s been made redundant, his wife has left him for a friend and his mother and brother browbeat him into shop-sitting Jay's bike shop.
Now Tim’s response isn't what you would think; to his wife he offers a “there, there” pat on the back, off you go dear, and a total capitulation (again) to his mother and brother.
It's easy to see Tim as a bit of a dweeby doormat at first, but it doesn’t take him long to find a reason to grow a pair. As soon as Matt falls arse over tit into his life, everything changes for Tim.
There are some classic comedy moments and some really dumb arse moments, where Tim comes across as a clueless twit <-- irritating.
Matt: Vegetarian, hippy type dude, clumsy and adorable. He’s a satisfactory character and could have benefited from a bit more …development, background , oomf … just something.
Wolverine:
The arrogant–interloping-bad arse-puss-cat- with attitude. Ha! This cat ! What a character!
Tim’s Mum: I considered worse than Steve (knuckle head-bully-boy-abuser and hypocritical dip shit) Her nepotism for Jay and consequent indifference, neglect and emotional abuse toward Tim is cruel and hideous. Sadly, she is a believable character, I know people like this and it disgusts me, she disgusts me. Urghh…*extends middle finger to dear ole Mum*
This wasn’t my favourite Merrow book, I can’t help but measure it with Muscling Through < – this will always be an all-time fave of mine.
At times I wanted to shoo things along here when the progress bar was inching toward the end and nothing was happening. Still I couldn't seem to put it down, was The sex is A-OK (when it happens) but hindered by the slow moving romance.
There are a few really cheesy moments and Tim acting like a horny teenager had me rolling my eyes, but overall it’s a sweet read with some pretty entertaining characters and I would certainly recommend it for some light reading.
She is one of only a handful of author's I know that can get away the first person present tense POV, and that says a lot because I usually toss this format over my shoulder and run for the hills. Somehow she makes it work every time.
Tim Knight is the very English voice of the story and he’s a likable guy; he is middle class, passive, kind of vulnerable (?), witty and pretty chilled out really, especially considering that he’s been made redundant, his wife has left him for a friend and his mother and brother browbeat him into shop-sitting Jay's bike shop.
Now Tim’s response isn't what you would think; to his wife he offers a “there, there” pat on the back, off you go dear, and a total capitulation (again) to his mother and brother.
It's easy to see Tim as a bit of a dweeby doormat at first, but it doesn’t take him long to find a reason to grow a pair. As soon as Matt falls arse over tit into his life, everything changes for Tim.
There are some classic comedy moments and some really dumb arse moments, where Tim comes across as a clueless twit <-- irritating.
Matt: Vegetarian, hippy type dude, clumsy and adorable. He’s a satisfactory character and could have benefited from a bit more …
Wolverine:
The arrogant–interloping-bad arse-puss-cat- with attitude. Ha! This cat ! What a character!
Tim’s Mum: I considered worse than Steve (knuckle head-bully-boy-abuser and hypocritical dip shit) Her nepotism for Jay and consequent indifference, neglect and emotional abuse toward Tim is cruel and hideous. Sadly, she is a believable character, I know people like this and it disgusts me, she disgusts me. Urghh…*extends middle finger to dear ole Mum*
This wasn’t my favourite Merrow book, I can’t help but measure it with Muscling Through < – this will always be an all-time fave of mine.
At times I wanted to shoo things along here when the progress bar was inching toward the end and nothing was happening. Still I couldn't seem to put it down, was The sex is A-OK (when it happens) but hindered by the slow moving romance.
There are a few really cheesy moments and Tim acting like a horny teenager had me rolling my eyes, but overall it’s a sweet read with some pretty entertaining characters and I would certainly recommend it for some light reading.
November 23, 2019
JL Merrow is undoubtedly one of my favorite authors. Her book “Muscling through” is possibly one of my all time favorites. ❤️ But ... you knew there’s a but coming .. right? 😅 I have very mixed feelings about this book. This book is very much JL Merrow but somehow didn’t seem like hers. Let’s crack this review!
Tim is separated with his wife after a stale marriage and now working as a manager for a bike shop for his older brother who’s in the hospital because of an accident. He thought London was his home but he found himself heaving completely charmed with the cozy, slow-paced south Hampton loveliness. And oh, did I forgot to mention that he’s in the closet for his whole life? He thought he could pray the gay away but when the temptation is so close that they literally work together in a shop, Tim found himself very difficult to resist adorably clumsy and beautiful Matt. However Matt has a boyfriend. Our hero Tim believes Matt belongs with him. Now let’s see how this story will unfold.
This is written in the same story sense of muscling through but honestly, the execution fell a bit short. The main issue for me with this book is that the lack of romance. It only happens almost at the end of this book. The whole book is about Tim’s flustered musing and usually I’m all for that but I feel like something was lacking. 😢 I loved the ending and how it was nicely polished but I truly wish there’s more romance in this story. The saving grace for me with this book is the narration of Philip Rose. 🥰 He’s a new to me narrator but I think he did British accent exceptionally well. He also did Tim’s inner musings justice because I found myself chuckling quite often. All in all, if you are looking for a really slow-burn romance with awkward and flustered MCs, I think you should check out this one.
3.75 Adventure and love go together so well stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️🌟
Audio rating
Story - 3.25 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
Narration - 4.5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Performance - 4.5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Overall - 3.75 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️🌟
Disclaimer: An audio copy of this book was provided by the narrator for an honest and unbiased review.
Tim is separated with his wife after a stale marriage and now working as a manager for a bike shop for his older brother who’s in the hospital because of an accident. He thought London was his home but he found himself heaving completely charmed with the cozy, slow-paced south Hampton loveliness. And oh, did I forgot to mention that he’s in the closet for his whole life? He thought he could pray the gay away but when the temptation is so close that they literally work together in a shop, Tim found himself very difficult to resist adorably clumsy and beautiful Matt. However Matt has a boyfriend. Our hero Tim believes Matt belongs with him. Now let’s see how this story will unfold.
This is written in the same story sense of muscling through but honestly, the execution fell a bit short. The main issue for me with this book is that the lack of romance. It only happens almost at the end of this book. The whole book is about Tim’s flustered musing and usually I’m all for that but I feel like something was lacking. 😢 I loved the ending and how it was nicely polished but I truly wish there’s more romance in this story. The saving grace for me with this book is the narration of Philip Rose. 🥰 He’s a new to me narrator but I think he did British accent exceptionally well. He also did Tim’s inner musings justice because I found myself chuckling quite often. All in all, if you are looking for a really slow-burn romance with awkward and flustered MCs, I think you should check out this one.
3.75 Adventure and love go together so well stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️🌟
Audio rating
Story - 3.25 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
Narration - 4.5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Performance - 4.5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Overall - 3.75 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️🌟
Disclaimer: An audio copy of this book was provided by the narrator for an honest and unbiased review.
November 26, 2012
With a few exceptions I loved this story. It was cute and funny with just a hint of angst. The development of Matt and Tim’s relationship was slow which made it perfect. While the story is told with Tim’s POV it was Matt that had me enthralled, right from his first klutzy entrance into the bike shop I knew he would be the character I would end up loving the most. I figured out early on what the drama in his life was I couldn’t help but want to be there for him. I liked Tim’s character when he was pining over Matt or interacting with Wolverine(the cat) but I found him lacking something when he was on his own and his mother Olivia, gah! why must we always have that type of mother in stories, where are the loving, supporting mothers that I know are out there in real life. *sigh* The only other exception was the short relationship, if you can call it that, between Tim and Adam, you can’t help but laugh at them but at the same time I also couldn’t help feeling something was missing, that something that makes you want to know them and their situation better, unfortunately Adam was just a name on the page.
Even with these few exceptions I would recommend this book, it’s a nice easy read with an HEA and I absolutely can’t forget to mention a wonderfully hilarious cat!
May 12, 2012
4.5 stars. A very engaging story about a man whose marriage has come to an end and who finds he feels mostly relief. Then he encounters the bike-mechanic at his brother's shop, and realizes that he has found a reason to acknowledge his sexuality and maybe come out of his closet. The fact that the mechanic already has a boyfriend with whom he lives complicates the process.
I enjoyed following the narrator, Tim, as he describes his tentative journey towards the man he was meant to be, and Matt is a darling. I had a little bit of concern that some of the stumbling blocks in these men's way might be a cause for overwrought drama, but Merrow managed to write a very admirable line between too easy and too angsty. Nicely done. And Wolverine the cat deserves honorable mention in the list of characters (or maybe even first billing.)
I enjoyed following the narrator, Tim, as he describes his tentative journey towards the man he was meant to be, and Matt is a darling. I had a little bit of concern that some of the stumbling blocks in these men's way might be a cause for overwrought drama, but Merrow managed to write a very admirable line between too easy and too angsty. Nicely done. And Wolverine the cat deserves honorable mention in the list of characters (or maybe even first billing.)
May 27, 2012
I enjoyed this book. It was a sweet romance and I really like those. I've always enjoyed Merrow's voice, really natural and great characterizations.
I liked Tim's journey a lot and how he found his place full circle.
He has an interesting family and a kickass cat in Wolverine. I love, love, loved Matt. Sweet, klutzy, vegetarian Matt. How could he not fall for this guy?
If I could say anything it would be that I wish we could see more of them as a couple. There was sweet tension throughout the book and the payoff was great but it just a few scenes. Wonderful scenes but short.
I liked Tim's journey a lot and how he found his place full circle.
He has an interesting family and a kickass cat in Wolverine. I love, love, loved Matt. Sweet, klutzy, vegetarian Matt. How could he not fall for this guy?
If I could say anything it would be that I wish we could see more of them as a couple. There was sweet tension throughout the book and the payoff was great but it just a few scenes. Wonderful scenes but short.
May 12, 2012
While I thought that the story started out slow in the beginning, it seemed to pick up the pace later on for me. I found the characters in this story quirky in their own way, but with a uniqueness that made me enjoy them for the most part. Especially loved Wolverine and strangely look forward to wanting to read more about him. While I did find the story a bit predictable, it was still an enjoyable read.
May 14, 2012
3.5*
Enjoyable story that started off slow and stayed that way for a while. I was glad when it finally moved along a bit.
I liked the mother/Olivia turnaround, and Wolverine is the best!
Matt and Tim are nice guys and despite the storyline it wasn't too angsty or drama infested, thank goodness.
All in all I enjoyed this nicely flowing story.
Enjoyable story that started off slow and stayed that way for a while. I was glad when it finally moved along a bit.
I liked the mother/Olivia turnaround, and Wolverine is the best!
Matt and Tim are nice guys and despite the storyline it wasn't too angsty or drama infested, thank goodness.
All in all I enjoyed this nicely flowing story.
May 13, 2012
An enjoyable, if predictable, piece of fluff. Nothing like as good as Muscling Through or even Pricks and Pragmatism
July 8, 2012
I really liked the build up to the romance the author provided. My favorite character? Wolverine the cat. Just hilarious. It was the right amount of angst, drama and hilarity. I definitely recommend to anyone who's a fan of really good 'gay-for-you'
June 9, 2019
I loved it.
This was just what I was in the mood for, and the cat was great fun!
This was just what I was in the mood for, and the cat was great fun!
February 13, 2017
This was a very funny one. It was a bit light on the story content (except the bit with Matt's boyfriend) and Jay but it was a fun to read.
It was a nice filler book in anticipation of two back to back Buddy Reads with my TPAM Group lovelies... :)
It was a nice filler book in anticipation of two back to back Buddy Reads with my TPAM Group lovelies... :)
October 15, 2012
Great page turner that had me staying up super late so I could finish it all in one sitting sleep be damned.
This book gets 5 stars not only for its entertaining story and characters but also for the great reference to the show "Sherlock" and the "purple shirt of sex." Really, if you want me to love your book just let me know that the main character resembles Sherlock in this hot outfit.
Told for 1st person POV, Tim's voice is witty, funny and adorably self-deprecating. You will love Matt from the first time you meet him. Also, great supporting characters.
This book gets 5 stars not only for its entertaining story and characters but also for the great reference to the show "Sherlock" and the "purple shirt of sex." Really, if you want me to love your book just let me know that the main character resembles Sherlock in this hot outfit.
Told for 1st person POV, Tim's voice is witty, funny and adorably self-deprecating. You will love Matt from the first time you meet him. Also, great supporting characters.
July 7, 2012
Another winner from J L Merrow.
Tim is such a wonderful character, both entertaining with a hint of vunerability. His thought process kept me chuckling out loud.
Matt was wonderfully insecure at times but totally adorable and as for Wolverine, he deserves every scrap of tuna LOL.
Definitely going on my favorites. A well rounded story with great characters, and humour.
Tim is such a wonderful character, both entertaining with a hint of vunerability. His thought process kept me chuckling out loud.
Matt was wonderfully insecure at times but totally adorable and as for Wolverine, he deserves every scrap of tuna LOL.
Definitely going on my favorites. A well rounded story with great characters, and humour.
November 10, 2012
Interesting and humorous journey out of the closet.
May 1, 2013
It was the lovely cover and suggestive title that initially drew me to this story. Two very good bits of marketing. However, ‘Hard Tail’ turned out to be just an ok read for me. While some would call this a gently unfolding romance, it was too slow moving, especially in the first half which felt a bit like watching paint dry.
There were some funny moments and the British colloquialisms and bike talk added color:
“Oh, it was just bad luck. I was trying to do an Ollie over a park bench, and it went a bit tits-up.”
“I escaped upstairs and sluiced off the grime of the day with a certain amount of relief—after all that sparring, I was humming a bit myself.” (he didn’t mean singing)
“...it’s harder work uphill, and when you go downhill your legs are going round like buggery...”
“Time to stop faffing about and get in there.”
The thing is, in that problematic first half there was a lack of story dynamic and I didn’t feel that important spark between the two romantic leads. Tim has a sexual identity problem and comes off as a bit of a sad sack (cheating ex-wife and hen-pecky mother) and Matt is klutzy and given to fading into the woodwork or the back of the bike shop. We get hints that there is something wrong going on with Matt. He often sports bruises that really can’t be attributed to clumsiness and is reluctant to talk about his angry and repressed boyfriend. The inclusion of dealing with domestic violence is to be commended even if the solution is a bit facile. You have to have a soft spot for Matt, you want good things for him. It’s a relief when the action finally picks up a bit in the last half of the book. I’m glad to get to the guy’s HEA but this read would have been greatly improved with better pacing in the first half.
January 26, 2013
Great characters and storyline. I enjoyed Tim's voice - he was funny, sarcastic, but with a great heart. Matt was adorable and my heart went to him immediately. I liked that they didn't get together right away and that after all his doubt Tim went ahead and came out mailny because he didn't want to hide his relationship with Matt.
The interactions between Tim and Matt were entertaining and helped me believe their relationship would be great once it started. I would have liked to know more about what Matt was thinking and feeling, but I do understand this was Tim's story so I overlooked it in the end.
A funny, enjoyable read.
The interactions between Tim and Matt were entertaining and helped me believe their relationship would be great once it started. I would have liked to know more about what Matt was thinking and feeling, but I do understand this was Tim's story so I overlooked it in the end.
A funny, enjoyable read.
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